Aurora Expeditions has just opened bookings for its 2027 Small Ship Cruises season, rolling out 21 one-of-a-kind itineraries that invite travellers to step into living stories, vibrant cultures, and welcoming communities. Curated for explorers who want more than a postcard view, the voyages visit 22 nations on five continents, arching through the Mediterranean and Adriatic, hugging Central America, and charting a course through Northern Europe and the UK.
The new season introduces a variety of itineraries that focus on immersive travel experiences, combining popular destinations with lesser-known gems. The intimate nature of small ships, with an average capacity of 130 passengers, allows travellers to explore destinations that larger vessels simply cannot reach. Aurora’s Chief Marketing Officer, Katie Malone, highlighted the programme’s emphasis on storytelling at sea, where Master Storytellers, historians, genealogists, and cultural experts, bring each destination to life.
Aurora’s 2027 season includes nine brand-new itineraries that provide guests with unparalleled opportunities to discover both well-known and off-the-beaten-path locations. For example, the Mediterranean Feast itinerary sails from Valletta to Barcelona, focusing on the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean. This cruise offers guests the chance to visit local markets, dine in coastal kitchens, and explore family-run vineyards.
The La Dolce Vita journey takes passengers from Nice to Rome, weaving through charming cliffside villages and Renaissance towns. One of its highlights is a visit to Prince Albert’s private car garage in Monaco, a truly unique experience for car enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Treasures of the Adriatic will sail from Malta to Zagreb, offering an exploration of Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, the iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello, and the picturesque charm of Rovinj.
For those eager to discover Central America, Costa Rica & Panama: Crossing the Canal offers a stunning exploration of lush landscapes, including a transit through the legendary Panama Canal. Other highlights include Europe’s Engineering Icons, focusing on architectural wonders from Amsterdam to Copenhagen, and Spirited Shores, which delves into European coastal traditions, from Irish whiskey to Bordeaux wines.
What sets Aurora Expeditions apart is its dedication to creating memorable, immersive travel experiences aboard its purpose-built expedition ships. These vessels, including the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, and the upcoming Douglas Mawson, are designed to navigate intimate harbours and secluded ports, making it possible for travellers to experience destinations in a way that only small ships can provide.
A key feature of the small ship cruises is the onboard culinary offering. Aurora collaborates with renowned chefs to deliver a Michelin-level dining experience, offering guests a taste of the region’s finest cuisine as they sail. In addition to this, the ships feature 4K screens, Bluetooth pairing for headphones, and sliding privacy doors to enhance comfort and privacy during the voyage.
Aurora Expeditions is committed to ensuring the environmental sustainability of its voyages while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and service. The 2027 season will continue to prioritise sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices onboard and supporting local communities at each destination. Guests will be able to enjoy seamless travel experiences in a socially responsible manner, ensuring that they can continue to enjoy these unique regions for generations to come.
The Master Storytellers onboard offer more than just a history lesson; they provide personal insights that transform a visit into an enriching experience. Each itinerary has been meticulously designed to reflect Aurora’s commitment to both luxury travel and sustainability, making it a must for discerning travellers seeking authentic, in-depth exploration.
Aurora’s small ship cruises offer exclusive perks for early bookers, with savings of up to 25% percent on select voyages. For solo travellers, the company also offers 10 solo staterooms per sailing, with no single supplement. This initiative makes it easier for solo travellers to experience Aurora’s exceptional voyages, adding a touch of luxury and convenience to their journey.
The launch of Aurora Expeditions’ 2027 Small Ship Cruises offers a unique opportunity to explore the world in an intimate, eco-conscious way. With carefully curated itineraries, unparalleled comfort, and a focus on storytelling, Aurora promises to deliver a travel experience that goes beyond just visiting a place, it’s about experiencing it in its deepest, most authentic form.
Focusing on both luxury and sustainability, these cruise experiences invite travellers to discover hidden corners of the globe that big ships can’t reach. Whether one sets sail through the sparkling Mediterranean or journey down the vibrant coast of Central America, Aurora’s intimate ships illuminate each port while making sure the planet stays healthy for generations to come.
