Are you looking for an alternative to your usual small-ship cruise experience, or maybe your current favourite isn’t exploring the destinations you’ve been dreaming of? Let me introduce you to my new top pick for small-ship cruising: Atlas Ocean Voyages.
With a fleet of three relatively new ships, the oldest being the World Voyager, built in 2020, Atlas Ocean Voyages offers unique adventures to locations that some competitors cannot reach. Even better, with three distinct ‘styles’ of voyages available, they promise an experience perfectly tailored to your preferences, combining exciting itineraries with boutique-style onboard luxuries.
Here are my six reasons why Atlas Ocean Voyages has quickly ascended to the top of my list of favourite small-ship cruise lines:
1. Intimate and Personalised Experience
Unlike larger cruise ships, Atlas Ocean Voyages‘ smaller yachts allow for a more intimate setting, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow cruisers. With a maximum capacity of 200 guests, the ships have fewer guests, so you can expect a more personal connection between guests and crew.
There is nearly a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, which effortlessly caters to each guest’s preferences and needs. There is also a personal butler service in suites, ready to cater to your every need whenever you want.
The custom-designed yachts, World Navigator, World Voyager and World Traveller all boast elegant decor and private balconies for most staterooms and public spaces.
2. Exceptional Destinations and Itineraries
Exploring with Atlas Ocean Voyages means discovering secluded and off-the-beaten-path destinations that larger ships can not. The emphasis on intimacy extends beyond the vessels to the unique destinations visited, providing an authentic and immersive experience.
There are three cruising styles: Epicurean for culinary journeys, Expedition for immersive exploration, or Classic Ocean for traditional adventures. These diverse itineraries explore hidden gems and iconic destinations, from the fjords of Norway to the Antarctic glaciers.
3. Luxury and Comfort on the High Seas
Accommodation
The suites on Atlas Ocean Voyages’ ships are meticulously crafted to offer a sense of relaxation and indulgence. Expect spacious and elegantly appointed rooms featuring upscale furnishings and modern design. Whether you opt for a stateroom or a suite, each accommodation is designed to provide a retreat where you can unwind in style. Plush bedding, panoramic views, and thoughtful details create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Amenities
Open bars and lounges: Enjoy unlimited complimentary beverages, spirits, craft beers and fine wines throughout the ships. Savour a sunset cocktail on the deck or unwind with a nightcap.
Gourmet dining: Choose from magnificent dining venues offering diverse culinary experiences, from seafood feats to casual poolside lunches to gourmet a la carte meals. You can also enjoy 24-hour room service, which caters for every whim.
Entertainment: Unwind in the steam room/sauna or immerse yourself in live music. There is something for everyone to do, from quiet moments in the library to active enthusiasts in the fitness centre.
4. Culinary Delights at Sea
There are open lounges and bars where you can enjoy unlimited beverages, including fine wines and spirits. Savour various gourmet experiences, from casual buffets to elegant à la carte dining. There is a gourmet experience for every mood:
- Porto is the main restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is buffet-style and inspired by the destinations visited.
- Alma is an intimate venue on selected nights, offering tasting menus by acclaimed guest chefs.
- 7AFT is the open-air chophouse where you can indulge in fresh seafood, grilled steaks and succulent roasted vegetables.
- The Dome Observation Lounge is where you can sip afternoon tea or savouring bites and cocktails.
- Paula’s Pantry Cafe to grab a quick coffee, freshly baked pasties, salad and sandwiches for a break in your days.
5. Immersive Shore Excursions
Shore excursions go beyond standard tours with curated experiences led by experts, like cultural encounters, Zodiac landings, and gourmet explorations.
These excursions feature small group sizes, exclusive access to unique sites, and a focus on off-the-beaten-path adventures. Guests can intimately connect with each port of call by exploring cultural landmarks, engaging in outdoor activities, or enjoying culinary experiences.
6. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
The yachts have the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system, which maximises fuel efficiency and consumes as little as one-fifth of fuel as conventional cruise-ship systems. Therefore, it reduces the impact on the environment.
There is also an underwater hydro-jet propulsion system that reduces the stress and aggravation to marine wildlife. This system allows the yachts to cruise silently at up to five knots for incomparable, up-close encounters while keeping sensitive ecosystems in mind. A GPS-based dynamic position system is used to avoid using anchors on the sea floor.
Atlas’s yachts have the latest and most advanced water treatment plants and waste management systems in the cruise industry. This includes storing litter that cannot be reclaimed or repurposed in a selected hold until it can be disposed of properly.
If you’ve enjoyed reading this and want to learn more, call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 or submit an enquiry for your preferred sailing via our website.
