For anyone who gravitates toward history museums, historical novels and historic films, the small-ship cruise is an insightful, immersive travel experience. Not only will you sail to new areas of the world physically, but you’ll travel through time into fascinating eras, surrounding yourself with stories and sights of what has come before.
Our favorite small-ship history-based cruises reveal ancient ruins and fortresses, significant battlegrounds, glorious palaces and cultural wonders that seem to leap right out of the pages of history books. As one might expect, there are many history-rich cruise destinations from which to choose, which is why we give you a small sampling here in the hope of spurring your curiosity. Take a peek, then reach out so we can determine where in time you’d most like to sail and the best cruise line for your travel interests and style.
Normandy
In an homage to D-Day, visit the allied landing sites near Rouen, including Omaha and Normandy beaches, the D-Day museum in Arromanches and the American Military Cemetery, then go beyond to other spots along the Seine, including Monet’s home at Giverny, Rouen, Vernon, Les Andelys and Conflans.
Norway & Beyond
If you’re a fan of Viking lore, trace the route of Viking Leif Eriksson, setting off from Bergen, Norway, to the Shetland Islands of Scotland. From here, sail on to the beautiful Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland, Newfoundland and to the shores of Quebec, all the while learning and reliving the path the Vikings took, how they lived and what traces they left behind.
Turkey
Discover Turkey’s Aegean coast and the Greek and Roman cities that once flourished here. Admire the mighty walls of Troy, visit the World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, explore Roman-era terraced houses in Ephesus (their painted walls and mosaics are breathtaking) and discover well-preserved cities such as Pergamon, Miletus and Aphrodisias. In Assos, visit the famous Doric Temple of Athena. All this historic splendor is complemented by pine forests, rugged peaks, fragrant olive groves and, always, the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Greece
Sail with a local expert at your side to discover mainland Greece’s numerous ancient attractions. Marvel at the Acropolis; take a day trip to Epidaurus, renowned throughout the ancient Greek world as a healing sanctuary; lose yourself in artifact-packed history museums; visit the incredibly well-preserved Palace of Nestro from the late Bronze Age; cruise around the Peloponnese with a transit of the Corinth Canal; and visit the ancient stadium in Olympia, as well as the temples of Zeus and Hera. Feel a heady sense of the past emanating from every pore of this storied country.
Egypt
Soak up the intriguing mystique of Egypt as you explore Cairo and beyond. Of course, spend time at the breathtaking pyramids, but take the opportunity to venture farther afield into the desert (perhaps on camelback), to the infamous Sphinx, and through bustling Egyptian markets. Cruise the Nile, visiting the Colossi of Memnon and the Valley of Kings, and delve deep into local history with Egyptologist guides.
Lisbon
Marvel at UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Lisbon, a city once ruled by Julius Caesar and still today boasting an indescribable beauty and intrigue in its colorful buildings and Old World charm. Explore the Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower, pass the Monument of Discoveries and the Presidential Palace and learn the stories of the city’s past from congenial, local guides.
Beijing
From your cruise stop at Tianjin, it’s just a short hop to Beijing, where you can see the Forbidden City, previously inaccessible to the public), or extend your stay for a trip to the Great Wall of China. Wherever you look, you’re immersed in thousands of years of history, complemented by the signs of a sleek future. Go beyond the city to the romantic Summer Palace, or stay in town and visit one of the world’s best history and art museums, the Beijing Capital Museum.
United States
Stay a bit closer to home and visit the significant historical sites of America, including the waterways of the southeastern United States, where Civil War battles played out. Visit Beaufort, South Carolina, and marvel at restored mansions of that time period, sail to Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, Georgia, where 18th-century battles raged, or visit Vicksburg National Military Park. Music history buff? Cruise the Mississippi River to Tupelo, birthplace of Elvis Presley.
And More …
Go beyond the ordinary chapters in a history book and ask about excursions to religious pilgrimage sites such as Spain’s historic Murcia region; the reconstructed town models of the Beamish Living Museum of the North in Newcastle, England; or the remains of medieval Rothenberg, Germany.
Immerse yourself in ancient ruins, impressive cultural wonders and history lessons most have never heard. If this sounds enticing, let’s chat about the fantastic range of history-themed cruises available to the world’s most savvy travelers, like you. Let’s schedule a consultation and we can chat about the many ways to explore history, in a manner that suits you! If you haven't signed up for my weekly small-ship experience newsletter, you can do so here: