Unforgettable Croatia and Adido research reveals growing interest in small-ship cruising, highlighting how popular the intimate style of cruising is becoming with Aussies this decades.
The study reviewed aggregated search volumes across dozens of small-ship, river and expedition cruise brands, as well as generic category search terms.
Search demand for 19 identified small-ship and luxury cruise brands, which all carry less than 250 guests, has increased by 64 per cent over the past two years, with steady year-on-year growth recorded across small-ship operators. When looking specifically at 2025 versus 2024 the collective brand searches rose by 22 per cent.
At the same time, generic searches for terms including ‘small ship cruises’, ‘luxury small ship cruises’, ‘expedition cruising’ and ‘yacht cruises’ have climbed by 56 per cent collectively over the past two years, with ‘small ship cruises’ searches doubling versus 2022 levels, and ‘expedition cruising’ quadrupling in the past four years.
“Small-ship cruising has moved firmly into the mainstream for Australian travellers, and we’re seeing that reflected directly in both enquiry levels and booking patterns,” Unforgettable Croatia co-founder Graham Carter said. “Guests are increasingly drawn to more intimate ships, destination-focused itineraries and experiences that feel more immersive and personal.
“Along the Croatian coast in particular, smaller ships allow access to ports, islands and swim spots that simply aren’t accessible to larger vessels. Combined with hand-picked excursions, local food and wine experiences and a relaxed onboard atmosphere, it creates a style of travel that really resonates with today’s luxury traveller.”
“Our latest search analysis shows that small-ship and specialist cruise brands are gaining visibility and consideration,” Adido CEO Andy Headington said. “We’re seeing particularly strong gains around expedition and small-ship terminology, alongside sustained growth in brand searches, which typically indicates a more informed and conversion-ready customer. For specialist operators and agents focused on small-ship cruising, the outlook is very positive.”
In 2026, Unforgettable Croatia is operating 145 guaranteed cruise departures, alongside private yacht charters and tailor-made land itineraries. The season runs from May to October on eight ships, each with a maximum of 19 cabins.
All Unforgettable Croatia cruises include seven nights on a luxury yacht, breakfast and a three-course lunch onboard every day; two onboard dinners; complimentary tea, coffee and water; daily swim stops and complimentary use of onboard water sports; Wi-Fi; excursions including expert-guided tours; a professional cruise director; onboard lectures and experiences; and private luxury transfers. Most evenings are spent ashore exploring local towns at leisure, offering guests the chance to taste local cuisine and soak up the atmosphere of Croatia’s picturesque coastal ports.
