Intimacy and style aboard a small ship

Melanie Chambers
Published: July 16, 2008

Small ships offer the opportunity to explore the world from a uniquely personal perspective. The combination of out-of-the-way destinations and the relatively small number of passengers means that the lucky few on board experience the world as though it was theirs alone to discover.

You can stay in the USA and journey aboard American Cruise Lines’ four small ships. They provide a friendly informal ambiance while traveling the length of the East Coast during the summer time. On the West Coast you could sail with Majestic America Line and Cruise West on their Columbia River and Alaska itineraries. And in Mid-America RiverBarge Excursions Lines and Majestic America Line ply the waters of the mighty Mississippi. If you prefer to see the Northeast by ship you might try the St. Lawrence Cruise Line in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River, or the Windjammer Barefoot Cruises for exploring the small islands and secluded bays of Maine.

New, is a trip in Atlantic Canada aboard the sailing ship Caledonia, called “Fjords, Bays and Tickles - Sailing Expedition.” You will visit Newfoundland and Labrador, lands like no others, with thousands of islands, coves, and bays that exude a strange and startling beauty. Tread a remote pebble beach, explore a sea cave, bike, walk, kayak and travel alongside pods of humpback whales. This sojourn is for the well-traveled and truly adventurous person.

Would you rather spread your wings and soar to more exotic destinations, or far-flung lands? Consider, then, Hurtigruten, formerly Norwegian Coastal Voyage, with its journeys along the coast of Norway, and on the Gota Canal between Stockholm and Gothenburg. Witness the spectacular beauty of the Norwegian fjords, meet the people in small villages, cross the Arctic Circle, and view the awe inspiring Northern Lights.

Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts carrying less than 315 passengers and visiting 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. Windstar’s resort casual ambiance appeals to young executives, the “country club group”, and honeymooners. For a more casual sailing experience choose the Star Clipper Line in Europe, the Caribbean and Asia. Want to sail in shorts and bare feet? The Windjammer cruises in the Northeast and in the Caribbean are for you.

The most personal way to sail is to charter a yacht and chart your own course, almost anywhere in the world. You’re off with intimate friends and family to explore tiny islands, hidden coves and sunken ships.

Your captain/chef will see that the boat is stocked with your favorite foods and beverages and will see to your every whim. You are free to do whatever you wish at any time of the day or night. Total adventure that caters to the free spirit we all harbor!

Making your dreams come true is only limited by your imagination! We have the knowledge and resources to see that your dreams do come true. Select a vacation that fits your dreams and life-style, or challenge yourself by stepping outside the box and choose a new adventure! Start now to build your life-long memories.

Melanie Chambers, CTC, is a travel consultant for Battlefield Travel in downtown Culpeper. She can be reached at 825-1393 or .