AdventureSmith Travel Guides

198 Blog Posts

AdventureSmith’s travel blog is your go-to resource for wilderness travel and small ship cruise news and travel guides. Find interviews, expert reviews, best-of lists and how-tos.

A raft of Alaska travelers floating down the Chilkat River while on a small ship cruise in Alaska with blue skies and the Chilkat mountains in the background.

Welcome to the AdventureSmith Explorations adventure travel blog. Here we share adventure travel guides, small ship cruise news, information on planning, how-tos, traveler-written journals and expert trip reviews from our staff.

Ask questions, share your story and follow this page to stay on the cutting edge of adventure cruising and wilderness travel and learn more about our adventure trips and small ship cruises.

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Woman in blue top kneels in grass to photograph a giant tortoise on a sunny day during the best time to visit Galapagos.

Best Time to Visit Galapagos

When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Consult this month by month guide for help planning your Galapagos travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, water temperature and the benefits of each month.

Todd Smith
Todd Smith Expert Since 2003

This Year's Best Winter Cruises

While winter grips North America, other regions are alive with sunshine, wildlife migrations, and perfect cruising conditions. Discover where winter is the best season to set sail. Plus, our top ships and trips in each region.

Kelly Gorrell
Kelly Gorrell Expert Since 2018
Triple cabin with 3 twin-sized beds with white linens connected to an adjoining room aboard small ship Origin Theory.

The Best Cruise Cabins for Families

Families need extra space and amenities; these small ship cruise cabins deliver. Read about our top cabin category picks for family travel.

Lis Larson
Lis Larson Expert Since 2012
gravel air strip on King George Island, Antarctica. A white airplane is about to touchdown, surrounded by snow-covered mountain range.

8 Things I Learned Flying to Antarctica

Considering flying to Antarctica? Read firsthand tips on air cruises, from flight logistics and weather delays to what to pack and how to plan for a smoother trip.

Kelly Gorrell
Kelly Gorrell Expert Since 2018
A black back ground with yellow orange renderings of the path of the moon during a total solar eclipse.

Solar Eclipse Cruises & Tours

Experience the awe of a solar eclipse with the perfect blend of wilderness exploration and celestial wonder. Browse our selection of solar eclipse cruises that will take you to the best vantage points for a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Kelly Gorrell
Kelly Gorrell Expert Since 2018
A small yacht is seen in front of mountains in the background with a whale tail large in the foreground

The Best Small Alaska Cruises & Cruise Lines

Our experts rate the top cruises and compare cruise lines to Alaska. We detail what makes each operator special, how they differ from each other, and why you might consider cruising with them.

Kelly Gorrell
Kelly Gorrell Expert Since 2018
Expedition ship Magellan Explorer anchored in a bay in Antarctica with large sea ice floating by with mountainous terrain off in the distance

Expert Aboard: Magellan Explorer Ship Review

Step aboard the 76-guest Magellan Explorer in Antarctica. Two of our experts share firsthand insights on what makes this under-100-guest vessel so special, plus perspectives from travelers who’ve sailed aboard it.

Grace Bosco
Grace Bosco Expert Since 2024
A traveler in an orange jacket stands on the deck of an expedition ship at night taking a picture of the northern lights

Northern Lights Cruises

See our curated trips to view the northern lights, or aurora borealis. Find out how to best see the northern lights in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland and more.

Lis Larson
Lis Larson Expert Since 2012
Line of polar travelers in orange coats hikes up snowy hillside in Antarctica as small ship with blue hull sits in distance.

Best Antarctica Cruises & Cruise Lines

In this list of the best Antarctica cruises, our experts outline their top itineraries, traveler favorites and the best Antarctica cruise lines. Learn why each shines & tips for choosing between them.

Todd Smith
Todd Smith Expert Since 2003
amazon small cruise ship anchored near the jungle on a sunny day with small clouds above

How to Choose the Best Amazon Cruise or Lodge

There are more Amazon cruises and lodges than ever, and if you are confused by all the options we are here to help. Compare Amazon trips throughout Ecuador, Peru and Brazil using this Amazon guide.

Todd Smith
Todd Smith Expert Since 2003
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