Specializing in Small Ships & Big Experiences

The smaller the ship, the closer you sail to the soul of a place.

Hi, I'm Dawn

I work with travelers who’d rather explore the local market than follow the crowd. The ones who crave deeper connections, smaller ships, and experiences that actually feel like they belong to the place.

That means river cruises through wine country, small-ship ocean cruises to coastal gems like Croatia or Tahiti, expedition sailings to places like the Galápagos and Antarctica, and hosted group journeys where wildlife, history, and culture take center stage.

I work with clients who are looking for a different kind of experience, one that’s smaller in scale, richer in connection, and thoughtfully paced. If that sounds like your style, you’re in the right place.

What I Mean by Small-Ship Cruising

When I talk about small-ship cruising, I’m usually referring to ships that carry around 1,300 guests or fewer, with some sailing with well under 100. That includes river cruises like AmaWaterways, ocean cruises like Viking and Oceania, and expedition ships that explore remote destinations.

I also work with refined midsize lines like Holland America and Cunard, where ships carry up to 3,000 guests, but still prioritize service, culture, and more enriching itineraries. They’re a great value and an excellent way to dip your toe into cruise travel, especially if you’re not quite ready to start small.

Which Small-Ship Experience Fits You Best?

River cruises take you through the heart of a country, offering a front-row seat to vineyards, castles, and historic cities along the water’s edge.

Ocean cruises bring you to coastal towns and island gems, including ports that can only be reached on a smaller vessel. It’s a more intimate way to explore.

Expedition cruises go even further, taking you to wild, remote destinations that few travelers ever reach. Places such as Antarctica, the Galápagos, or the Amazon.

Hosted group journeys bring it all together. You’ll travel with a small group of like-minded people, make new friends, and enjoy the kind of thoughtful pacing and connection that turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.

Want to learn more?

I’d love to keep you in the loop with travel tips, updates in the world of small-ship cruising, and first-look access to my upcoming hosted journeys. My newsletter comes straight to your inbox – quick, helpful, and easy to read.

Upcoming Trips

Join Us In Alaska

Join me , and my historian daughter, Melanie,  for a hosted, small‑group journey through Alaska. This 10-day adventure includes two nights in Denali National Park, a scenic ride on the Alaska Railroad, and a Holland America Inside Passage cruise featuring Glacier Bay. Along the way, Melanie will share stories that bring Alaska’s past to life. If Alaska is on your list, this is the way to experience it.