2026-27 Month-by-Month Small Ship Adventure Calendar

Discover an active voyage for all seasons of the year. From polar explorations to tropical underwater oases, every month holds a reason to set sail somewhere spectacular! We’ve mapped out some of the best times to go.

The diversity and colour of the 'Coral Triangle'

January

The fertile banks of the Mekong River, Laos

Where to go in January

Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Enjoy beautiful conditions for snorkelling, kayaking and island-hopping. With hidden caves to explore and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, it's a paradise for adventure.

Ross Sea, Antarctica
Experience the rarely visited Ross Ice Shelf, which is only accessible for two months each year when the ice thaws. Visit historic huts and research stations that capture the history of the most famous explorers and adventurers, and encounter the breeding grounds for millions of Adélie and Emperor penguins.

Where to go in February

Mekong River, Vietnam & Cambodia
Drift through the serene landscapes of the Mekong Delta. Immerse in local culture, visit traditional villages and artisan workshops, and enjoy the option to explore further by bike.

Tasmania, Australia
Hike wild coastlines of Australia's most southern region. Walk, wander, and relax aboard a comfortable expedition during its sunny season.

Where to go in March

Maldives aboard a Dhoni Cruise
An ideal time for warm weather and marine spotting, enjoy island paradise on a comfortable live-aboard with more time to explore vibrant reefs and remote isles.

Antarctica for whale watching
See humpback and minke whales in their southern home, with penguin chicks and young fur seals at their most playful.

Where to go in April

Islands of Japan
Discover Japan’s during cherry blossom season. From ancient castles and tranquil gardens to opulent temples and shrines, witness Japan at an enchanting time.

Kimberley region, Australia
Uncover a treasure trove of towering red cliffs, waterfalls, and secluded white sand beaches and reefs. Best explored by expedition vessel, this trip offers the best chance to watch wildlife and connect to an ancient land. April is a great time to see waterfalls at full flow and typically has fewer crowds than peak mid-year sailings.

Desolation Sound, Canada
This coastal BC wilderness comes alive during spring with snow-capped peaks, incredible fjords and sheltered waters teeming with marine life. From playful seals to soaring bald eagles, it's the perfect time to kayak fjords, walk forested trails and island-hop before the summer rush.

Where to go in May

Komodo National Park, Indonesia
At the start of the dry season, with lush landscapes, calm seas and excellent wildlife viewing, you'll encounter Komodo dragons in their only natural habitat on Earth.

The Scottish Isles, UK
From ancient stone circles to Viking-era ruins, this remote part of Scotland is not to be missed. Discover fresh spring landscapes where wildflowers bloom and seabird colonies return.

Where to go in June

Svalbard, Arctic Norway
Sail through dramatic fjords, kayak past icebergs and spot polar bears, walrus and Arctic foxes along the coast. June’s midnight sun offers great conditions for glacier walks and zodiac cruising.

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Cycle through lavender fields and vineyards, paddle board or snorkel in hidden bays, and savour delicious local cuisine aboard your comfortable boat moored in picturesque harbours. Enjoy warm days and excellent swimming conditions as you explore Croatia at its most immersive.

Where to go in July

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
For those who appreciate close encounters with nature and the comfort of deluxe to luxury yachts, the Galapagos Islands are a must-visit. Expect cooler, drier weather and incredible wildlife encounters, including blue-footed booby mating dances, nesting seabirds, and the appearance of sea lion pups.

Greek Islands
Sail the picturesque islands of Greece on a superior catamaran. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore hidden bays and traditional villages by day, and dine in waterfront tavernas under the stars by night.

Where to go in August

Northern Lights in Greenland
Spend days kayaking, walking and zodiac cruising to explore the iceberg-filled fjords, Inuit sites and wildlife spotting. At sea, catch glimpses of the beautiful Aurora Borealis as longer nights return.

Ecuadorian Amazon
Experience one of the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Visitors have the opportunity to spot a variety of mesmerising animals, from the rare pink river dolphin and playful giant otters to turtles and an astounding array of native birds and primates. Warm days and lower rainfall make this an ideal time to experience the jungle in full flow.

Where to go in September

Northwest Passage: Canada & Greenland
Make the most of excellent opportunities to encounter beluga whales, narwhals and polar bears. Cruising past incredible glaciers and fjords with plenty of time ashore for hiking, zodiac excursions and rich cultural experiences.

Sulawesi, Indonesia
Discover a secluded tropical paradise by kayak, snorkel, and scuba dive. Swim among stingless jellyfish, trek through lush jungles teeming with exotic birdlife, and hike to the volcanic summit of Una Una for sweeping views.

Where to go in October

Palau: Micronesia's most underrated island
Explore limestone rock islands, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. Home to one of the richest marine environments on earth, Palau offers trips between October and April, when Palau experiences its dry season, but wildlife is abundant.

Melanesia: Solomon Islands & Papua New Guinea
Cruise the idyllic islands and explore isolated villages while experiencing traditional Melanesian culture, traditions and dances. Snorkel in coral gardens filled with exotic marine life, kayak tropical waters and enjoy unique bird sightings.

Where to go in November

Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes with an expert marine biologist. Snorkel, hike, visit a turtle rehabilitation centre, and connect with Indigenous culture.

Brahmaputra River Cruise, India
Journey to one of the least explored regions of India. November marks the start of the dry season on the Brahmaputra and rising chances of rhino sightings in Kaziranga National Park. Cruise past remote villages and explore by zodiac or on foot as wildlife gathers along its banks.

Where to go in December

South Georgia & Antarctica
Voyage to the wildlife-rich parts of the Antarctic aboard a purpose-built vessel as your basecamp. Enjoy all-inclusive activities, including shore landings. Make it even more memorable by having a white Christmas in the Antarctic Peninsula or revel in its beauty during New Year's.

New Zealand
The summer season is the perfect time to explore New Zealand's remote coastlines, spectacular Fiordland region and sub-Antarctic islands. Rightly famous for its birdlife, scenic walks, and incredible sounds and fjords, you'll immerse yourself deep in nature with regular shore excursions from the boat.