What Is the Blue Voyage Trips Small Ship Cruise Concept?

Blue Voyage Trips offers an exclusive small ship cruise experience combining the comfort of premium motor sailers and mega yachts with the atmosphere of a private yacht holiday.

Unlike large cruise liners, our boutique vessels provide an intimate setting, personalized service, and access to ports and secluded bays that bigger ships cannot reach. Our itineraries blend cultural discovery, authentic local interaction, and extended port stays — often overnight — allowing guests to explore destinations deeply rather than rushing through them.

With decades of expertise in yacht-style cruising, we carefully design each itinerary to showcase both iconic highlights and hidden gems across the Mediterranean, Africa, and beyond.

Where Can I Travel with Blue Voyage Trips Small Ships?

Our luxury small ship cruises sail to exceptional destinations worldwide:

• Greece (Aegean & Ionian Islands)
• Italy & Malta
• Seychelles
• Tahiti & French Polynesia
• West Africa
• Cape Verde
• Egypt, Jordan & Israel

For unique themed departures, explore our Limited Collection Cruises.

Do I Need to Be Vaccinated?

Vaccination is not mandatory to join our cruises. However, for destinations such as West Africa or Seychelles, specific vaccinations may be recommended or required by local authorities.

We strongly advise checking official government and consulate sources before travel to ensure smooth entry procedures.

What Travel Documents Are Required?

Passengers must have:

• A valid passport (expiring at least one month after cruise completion)
• Any required visas
• Necessary health certificates (if applicable)

Requirements vary by nationality and destination. Please confirm with the relevant embassy or consulate prior to departure.

Are Children Welcome Onboard?

Blue Voyage Trips small ships do not offer recreational facilities for children.

• Children under 5 years old are not permitted.
• Parents are fully responsible for children onboard.

Our boutique cruises are primarily designed for adults seeking a relaxed and culturally immersive travel experience.

Are All Cruises LGBTQIA+ Friendly?

Yes. Blue Voyage Trips proudly promotes diversity and inclusion. All of our cruises are LGBTQIA+ friendly, and our crew respects all gender identities and backgrounds.

In destinations where local customs may differ, guests will be informed about cultural considerations for their awareness and personal responsibility.

We also offer themed sailings within our Limited Collection for guests seeking community-focused experiences.

When and Where Do I Embark and Disembark?

Embarkation

Guests must board 2 hours before departure.

Disembarkation

Disembarkation takes place after breakfast at approximately 9:00 AM.

The “All Aboard” time is 15 minutes prior to departure and is strictly observed.

Failure to return to the vessel before departure is the passenger’s responsibility.

Main Embarkation Ports

Greece: Plateia Alexandras (near Olympiacos FOC HQ, Akti Kountouriotou 1)

Seychelles: Victoria Port (Mahe), Eve Island (Praslin)

Tahiti & French Polynesia: Papeete Cruise Terminal (Dock ES 3)

Cape Verde: Palmeira Port, Sal

Jordan: Aqaba Old Port, Berth 7

Israel: Ashdod Port

West Africa: Dakar (Senegal), Banjul (The Gambia)

What Will the Weather Be Like?

Our itineraries follow favorable seasonal patterns:

• Greece, Italy & Malta: April–October
• West Africa, Cape Verde, Egypt, Jordan & Israel: November–April
• Seychelles & Tahiti: Year-round

Our vessels remain close to sheltered bays or ports for comfort and safety in changing weather conditions.

What Should I Pack?

Cabin space is limited, so we recommend soft luggage.

Suggested items:

• Light casual clothing
• Swimwear
• A light jacket or sweater
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals
• Hat & sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent

For visits to religious sites (especially in Greece), modest attire is required.

Towels and bed linens are provided onboard.

Are There Special Offers?

Yes. Please visit our Offers page for current promotions and exclusive small ship cruise deals.

Is There a Loyalty Program for Returning Guests?

Yes. After completing your first cruise, you automatically become a member of the Blue Voyage Trips Loyalty Club and enjoy exclusive repeat guest benefits.

What Is Not Included in the Cruise Fare?

Unless otherwise stated, the following are not included:

• Transfers to/from the vessel
• Shore excursions
• Alcoholic beverages & wine
• Telephone charges
• Gratuities
• Laundry services
• Personal purchases

Onboard boutique shops are available on selected vessels.

All onboard expenses are charged in EUR. USD and major credit cards are accepted (American Express not accepted).

Are Gratuities Included?

Gratuities are not included and remain at guests’ discretion.

Recommended:

€15–18 per person, per day

Tips are distributed equally among crew members.

Are Shore Excursions Offered?

Yes. Most shore excursions are optional and available at an additional cost.

Details are provided onboard and by your Cruise Coordinator. Excursions operate subject to weather and minimum participation.

What Services Are Available Onboard?

Our boutique small ships feature:

• Elegant dining areas
• Spacious sun decks
• Comfortable lounges
• Flexible seating arrangements
• Set meal times

Some vessels offer wellness treatments and massage services.

Water Activities

• Swimming directly from the ship
• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Optional diving excursions (destination dependent)

What Activities Are Provided Onboard?

• Snorkeling equipment (on most vessels)
• Kayaks
• Small onboard library
• Board games & playing cards
• Movie screenings in lounge areas

What Is the Official Currency Onboard?

The official onboard currency is the Euro (EUR).

USD and major credit cards are accepted (excluding American Express). Guests may open an onboard account and settle expenses at the end of the cruise.

What Amenities Are Included in Cabins?

All cabins include:

• Private bathroom with shower
• Air-conditioning
• Hairdryer
• Telephone (intra-ship communication)
• Safe deposit box
• Mini-fridge (on most vessels)
• TV or flat-screen TV (on most vessels)

Electric current: 220V with European-type plugs.

Where Can I Store Valuables?

Valuables may be stored in:

• Your cabin safe
• The ship’s central safe (free of charge)

Blue Voyage Trips is not responsible for unsecured valuables.

What Languages Are Spoken Onboard?

English is the official onboard language.

Other languages may be spoken by hotel staff and Cruise Coordinators depending on guest demographics.

Are Blue Voyage Trips Small Ships Wheelchair Friendly?

No. Our vessels are not suitable for guests with mobility challenges.

• No elevators
• Narrow staircases
• Gangways not compatible with most wheelchairs
• Cabin bathrooms are not adapted for disabled access

Should I Mention Health Problems or Special Needs?

Yes. Guests must inform us of:

• Physical disabilities
• Chronic medical conditions
• Pregnancy beyond the 6th month

Passengers requiring special assistance must travel with a personal escort.

Blue Voyage Trips reserves the right to deny embarkation if safety requirements are not met.

Should I Declare Special Dietary Requirements?

Yes. Special dietary needs must be submitted in writing at least 4 weeks prior to sailing. Our culinary team will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests.

Is There Medical Care Onboard?

There is no doctor onboard.

Crew members are trained in first aid. Medical facilities are available at ports of call.

In case of discomfort or emergency, contact a crew member immediately.

How Is Waste Disposal Managed?

Blue Voyage Trips is committed to sustainable cruising:

• Separation of plastic, food, and general waste
• Recycling when facilities are available
• Minimizing food waste
• Reducing single-use plastics
• Providing reusable thermos bottles instead of plastic water bottles

What Should I Know About Safety at Sea?

A mandatory emergency drill is conducted before departure covering:

• Alarm systems
• Muster stations
• Life jacket use
• Emergency procedures

Attendance is compulsory for all passengers.

Do Motor Sailers Use Their Sails?

Some vessels are motor sailers equipped with sails. However, they primarily operate via engines to ensure schedule reliability and guest comfort.

Our cruises are not marketed as sailing-only experiences.

What Type of Fuel Is Used?

Our vessels use Low Sulfur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) or Marine Gas Oil (MGO) when necessary, in compliance with international maritime regulations.

Is Smoking Allowed Onboard?

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas of the vessel.

I Am a Travel Agent. Where Can I Find More Information?

Travel professionals can visit our dedicated Travel Agent section for marketing materials, booking tools, and partnership information.

Can I Charter the Entire Ship or Book for a Large Group?

Yes. Blue Voyage Trips offers:

• Full ship charters
• Group bookings (15+ passengers)
• Corporate retreats
• Incentive travel
• Wedding celebrations
• Themed cruises