%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-quasar-expeditions-00-INTIMATECRUISEWB25-bc8bdf91c0bb4ca39d3937dd9c3d6b5b.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
This Is the Best Intimate-ship Cruise Line for 2025—and Travelers Say Its 16-passenger Galapagos Sailing Is 'Life-changing'
All the intimate ships in this category received high praise from readers, who enjoyed having a ship practically to themselves. In the No. 2 spot is Aqua Expeditions, with intimate ships in the Galapagos, Indonesia, and soon-to-launch in East Africa. Overseas Adventure Travel (No. 3) was cited by fans for its intimate ambience and, as one reader wrote, 'comprehensive, learning-focused tours.' Quasar Expeditions, best known for adventures in the Galapagos, landed the No. 1 spot. Rounding out the top five are expedition-favorite National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions (No. 4) and the pair of casually luxurious 56-cabin yachts of SeaDream Yacht Club.
Quasar Expeditions Interior of the Grace Kelly Suite on the Monaco Deck of Quasar Expeditions M/V Grace.
T+L readers, some first-time cruisers, praised Quasar Expeditions, with its historic 16-passenger yacht Grace and 32-passenger Evolution, as offering a vacation of a lifetime. 'Visiting the Galapagos was indeed a life-changing experience, and a significant part of that was thanks to Quasar's impeccable organization, logistics and exceptional service,' wrote one fan. Another praised the line's 'commitment to sustainability' in the Galapagos. One reader applauded the naturalists both for their overall knowledge and ability to relate to guests whether age 10 or age 80. Food was cited too, one reader specifically mentioning the fresh juices and 'morning omelets.'
Visiting the Galapagos was indeed a life-changing experience, and a significant part of that was thanks to Quasar's impeccable organization, logistics and exceptional service.
— T+L Reader
1. Quasar Expeditions
Reader Score: 98.41
2. Aqua Expeditions
Reader Score: 97.02
3. Overseas Adventure Travel
Reader Score: 96.96
4. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions
Reader Score: 93.93
5. SeaDream Yacht Club
Reader Score: 93.56
6. Windstar Cruises
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.90
7. Ponant
Reader Score: 91.82
8. Atlas Ocean Voyages
Reader Score: 91.72
9. Variety Cruises
Reader Score: 91.67
10. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Reader Score: 90.70
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