THE RISE OF BOUTIQUE CRUISING: WHY SMALL SHIPS ARE MAKING BIG WAVES
- Brian Westlake
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Big ships are out, small ships are in. Australians are embracing the luxury of boutique cruising, with fewer guests and more crew, offering the chance to explore lesser-known ports without the crowds.
It’s a trend that’s redefining what it means to travel at sea, trading mass tourism for intimacy and authenticity.
Leading the charge is Unforgettable Croatia, which has been perfecting small-ship cruising for a decade.
With vessels carrying just 38 guests, it has already sold over 50% of its 2026 season, marking the strongest demand in its history.
In September 2025 alone, Australian bookings jumped 72% year-over-year.
Co-founder Graham Carter said travellers are seeking depth, not just destinations.
“People are increasingly looking for a more personalised, immersive experience, where every journey feels uniquely tailored,” he said.
New ports, new horizons
Beyond Dubrovnik and Split, smaller towns like Sibenik are stepping into the spotlight.
Unforgettable Croatia will host 36 cruises starting there in 2026, up from just 10 last year, giving guests a glimpse of authentic coastal life.
Demand for Slovenia and Montenegro add-ons is also soaring, with Slovenian bookings up a massive 286%.
Carter said, “This surge shows travellers are craving lesser-known destinations with authenticity, beautiful landscapes and a sense of escape.”
The Gulf goes global
Meanwhile, the Arabian Gulf is emerging as cruising’s newest hotspot. Celestyal will homeport both its ships there from December, boosting capacity by 211%.
New itineraries link Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Oman and Sir Bani Yas Island, a mix of souks, desert sands and serious glamour.
“The Gulf is home to a rich and exotic cultural heritage,” said Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Our cruises let guests discover its authentic spirit, from historic markets to ultra-modern cities.”
All ages aboard
Cruising’s image is shifting fast. The average Australian cruiser is now 48, down from 50 in 2019, and a third are under 40 years old.
Shorter, high-energy itineraries are drawing younger travellers, couples and families.
Unforgettable Croatia is experiencing the same trend, with multi-generational bookings increasing by 34%. “We recently had a group of 18 family members aged 30 to 80 join us,” Carter said.
“Small-ship cruising brings generations together while still delivering intimacy and authenticity.”
Whether gliding along the Adriatic or exploring the Arabian Gulf, one thing’s clear: when it comes to cruising, less really is more.
