Having done over 50 cruises from the largest cruise ship in the world to a departure in the Amazon on SeaDream that had 80 people on it, its easy to say that I think cruising is a great way to see the world.
Everyone has different tastes and many of my clients enjoy all the amenities that the big ships have to offer but I find personally that I enjoy the more intimate experience of the small ships which are less than 990 passengers.
Both Crystal and Viking are still considered small ships at 900 passengers as they can get into many ports that the bigger ships cannot.
Azamara and Oceania bought ships from Renaissance cruises and their capacity is 690 passengers (Oceania built a couple of new ships carrying 1250 guests)
Seabourn built their new ships with 600 passengers whereas their other ships carry around 450 guests. (they are building some new 250 psgr Expedition ships)
Silversea also has both Expedition ships with as low as 100 guests and classic oceanliners up to 600 guests.
Windstar is unique in that is has three sailing ships and then bought three yacht like ships (from Seabourn)
I had an amazing trip on the Windstar Wind Spirit sailing ship around the breathtaking islands of the South Pacific.
Here is the itinerary
Dreams of Tahiti itinerary
Day 1 – Papeete Tahiti
Relax on sunny beaches, sample Tahitian fare, and take in the effervescent spirit of the city. But whatever you do, save time — and luggage space — for shopping. Black pearls and colorful crafts fill the market and local treasures are so plentiful you’ll have trouble making your choices
Day 2 – Moorea
Welcome to paradise, where your stunning surroundings soak up superlatives and call for more. In our overnight stay here you’ll have plenty of time to do it all. Be sure to consider the opportunity to hone your photography talents on an optional tour of the island in the company of a professional photographer. Your choices here are endless. Hike the majestic Three Coconut Trail. Visit dolphins in their native habitat. Or spend your time swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking from Wind Spirit’s Watersports Platform as we lay at anchor in these beautiful sapphire seas.
Day 3 – Tahaa
You have just arrived in a wonderland for snorkeling and diving. A true highlight is drift snorkeling among the spectacular coral gardens, a phenomenon unique to Polynesia and perfected in this place. When you come out of the water and breathe in the fragrant air, you’ll remember that this is called the Vanilla Island
Day 4 – Raiatea
This magical island will capture you, just as it’s captured those who have come to its shores for over 1,000 years. After our leisurely overnight at anchor here, you’ll wonder how anyone ever mustered the will to leave. Once again, snorkeling is divine, whether you choose to explore the coral reef or simply splash into the aquamarine heaven from the Watersports Platform. Or just stretch out and relax in the sun — this is life in paradise.
Day 5 – Bora Bora
Your stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs — and you’ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope of blue in each frame. You’ll have lots of options for exploration, whether you prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. This is the stuff that dreams are made of.
Day 6 – Huahine
Anchor here in the place whose nickname is “Garden of Eden.” Take your time to explore the lush forests, the tropical landscapes, and the quaint villages to discover one of Polynesia’s best kept secrets. Here, at a slower pace, see a glimpse of the authentic South Pacific island lifestyle.
Day 7 – Papeete Tahiti
Relax on sunny beaches, sample Tahitian fare, and take in the effervescent spirit of the city. But whatever you do, save time — and luggage space — for shopping. Black pearls and colorful crafts fill the market and local treasures are so plentiful you’ll have trouble making your choices
The flight is non stop from Los Angeles and then spending two nights at the Intercontinental Papeete (which looks incredible – can you see their new overwater bungalows !)
