The Ship Less Travelled

🌹 Roses are nice.🍫 Chocolates are fine.🚢 But have you ever thought a cruisemight be the ultimate Valentine?Welcome to our Valentine’s Day episode of The Ship Less Travelled, where love is in the air, the sea is calling, and we’re talking all things cruising with heart.In this episode, we share when we each fell in love with cruises and spoiler alert, it didn’t happen at the same time. Lorraine was a quick convert and was smitten early on. Dave, on the other hand, needed to work through a few long-held misconceptions about the cruise industry before the romance really took hold.We talk about cruise lines we genuinely love, we dish a few names, and we get honest about why cruising really is like a box of chocolates. There truly is something out there for everyone. Big ships, small ships, expedition ships, river cruises, and those intimate small ships that just hit differently.Of course, we couldn’t do a Valentine’s episode without asking the important questions. Have we ever experienced a romantic tingle on board? A quiet, lovely moment at sea? A memory that still makes us smile? We dish it all, because cruising has a way of creating moments you don’t expect and never forget.What we know for sure is this. Small ships offer endless ways to experience connection, romance, and love. Love for travel. Love for adventure. Love for the people you share it with. And sometimes, love for the journey itself.So whether you’re cruising with a partner, dreaming of a future voyage, or just a little bit in love with travel, this episode is for you.Happy Valentine’s Day from The Ship Less Travelled.Now go ahead… book the cruise 💕

Balcony people, this episode is for you.In this episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we’re talking about balconies and why, for some of us, they’ve crossed the line from “nice to have” to absolute must.There’s just something about stepping out onto your own private slice of sea. Watching the ship glide into port. Standing still while the world slowly arrives around you. Listening to the rhythm of the ocean. Catching sunrise in your pajamas. Moonlight dancing on the water long after dinner is done.We talk polar cruising and why a balcony in the Arctic or Antarctica is not just about luxury but about access to the moment. Wildlife sightings. Ice. Light. Silence. It hits differently when you can experience it privately, in real time.We also dig into balconies on Transatlantic crossings, where sea days stretch long and wide and that personal outdoor space becomes part of your daily ritual.And then there’s river cruising. Lorraine makes a compelling case for French balconies. Even though you can’t step outside, she explains why they offer something truly special. Light. Connection to the river. A front row seat to villages, vineyards, and daily life gliding past your window. It's a vibe you want on your river cruise experience. She makes such a strong case that she actually convinces Dave.Balconies on a small ship cruise? We agree they’re a bit like flying business class. Once you’ve experienced the difference, it’s very hard to go back. Fair warning. It may spoil you forever.If you’ve ever debated whether a balcony is worth it, this episode might settle it.Subscribe for more honest conversations about cruises, small ships, and thoughtful travel. And let us know in the comments. Are you team balcony, or still on the fence?

The Ship Less Travelled | Antarctica Recap Part 2 ❄️🚢Antarctica, continued.In Part 2 of his Antarctica recap, Dave's unpacking the questions everyone really asks after a trip to the bottom of the world. Would he do it again? What was the polar plunge actually like? And what is the Drake Passage really like when you’re crossing it for real? He would know, he's been across it going there and coming back. We also talk about what embarkation looks like on the way to Antarctica, how seriously biosecurity is handled before you ever set foot on the White Continent, and why protecting Antarctica is non-negotiable. This place is raw, powerful, and unlike anywhere else on Earth, and it deserves our respect.Plus:• Why Lorraine will never be doing a polar plunge (the only splash in the ocean she’s interested in is Bermuda)• Whether there are any words that truly do Antarctica justice• What makes this destination so important to keep pristine• And the secret ingredient Lorraine adds to her hot cocoa for a little extra kick ☕😉If you’ve ever wondered what an expedition to Antarctica is really like, or if it’s worth the journey across the Drake, this episode is for you.👇 Drop your questions in the comments, and let me know if Antarctica is on your bucket list.Subscribe for more episodes of The Ship Less Travelled, where we talk small ships, expedition travel, and journeys that are anything but ordinary.

So… was Antarctica really worth it?In our very first episode of 2026, Dave is freshly back from the bottom of the world and finally spilling the tea on Antarctica.This episode of The Ship Less Travelled tackles the big questions people actually ask about Antarctica travel. Was it mind blowing or wildly overrated? What were the true highlights and were there any lowlights? What do you actually do down there? Are there ports of call, people, or is it just penguins and ice as far as the eye can see?Dave shares what surprised him most, what challenged him, and what moments genuinely stopped him in his tracks. From unforgettable excursions to the realities of daily life on a small expedition ship, this is an honest look at what Antarctica is really like, not the brochure version.And yes, there was a hottest moment in Antarctica. No spoilers here, but it involved sailing somewhere very few travellers ever see. You will want to hear this one.Whether Antarctica is on your bucket list, your maybe list, or your never list, this episode will give you a clearer sense of whether it is actually worth the journey.🎧 Tune in, subscribe, and join us as we explore the ships, stories, and destinations less travelled.📍 Hosted by Dave of DestinationWhatever.com and Loraine of bespokecruiseholidays.co.uk🚢 The Ship Less Travelled podcast

Ask us anything… seriously, anything.On this episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we tackle questions we never expected to hear, and have a little fun along the way. Lorraine shares a recent moment where someone genuinely had no idea what a river cruise even was. How did she respond? How can river cruising be misunderstood? And what might people still not know about this style of travel? We also get personal: Lorraine reflects on how being a travel agent in Nova Scotia compares to working in the UK, sharing stories that are equal parts insight and nostalgia.Speaking of nostalgia, since it’s the holiday season, we divulge our favourite festive cocktails (cheers!) and make some cheeky commentary on the sadly declining quality of a box of Quality Street.Grab a drink, settle in, and join us for laughter, travel truths, and a few surprises along the way. We have a passion to share with you for small ship cruising!

Dave is heading to ANTARCTICA… and Lorraine wants ALL the details.Season 2 continues with a very personal pre-departure chat as Dave gets ready to go south to the White Continent. How does our resident Ice Queen prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition? What’s he packing, is he nervous about anything, and yes… what exactly is the underwear and moisturizer strategy for surviving the driest, coldest place on Earth? Lorraine asks him all the questions you need to know. In fact, Lorraine is in full tabloid-interviewer mode and absolutely refuses to hold back. As per usual of course! • Will Dave freeze… or flourish?• Is Lorraine’s time living in Canada the closest she’ll ever get to Antarctica?• What’s Dave hoping to learn down there?• And what philosophy does he want to share with listeners before he disappears into the ice?Stay tuned to the end for Dave’s heartfelt message about adventure, intention, and stepping into the unknown.The Ship Less Travelled is back with honest conversations, questionable questions, and the kind of candour only two travel agents on opposite sides of the Atlantic could bring.Subscribe, settle in, and come along for the journey before Dave goes off-grid at the bottom of the world.

Season 2 is HERE — and we're coming in hot. 🔥Welcome back to The Ship Less Travelled, the show where two travel agents (one in the UK, one in Canada) talk small-ship cruising with zero fluff, zero fuss, and absolutely no holds barred. We never set out to be content creators… but look at us now. Season 2, new look, new energy, new direction; the same honest voices with two accents for your listening pleasure!So what have we been up to during our little break?🇬🇧 Lorraine sailed with Azamara and brings all the deep dish on what’s new, what’s fabulous, and what needs talking about.🇨🇦 Dave went full ship-nerd in Dubai and explored the legendary QE2, now reborn as a floating hotel — and yes, he has thoughts.We’re also diving into a big question:Why is Cunard an honorary member of The Ship Less Travelled?(Here’s your spoiler: it’s not as stuffy as you think.)Are any of these cruise brands actually snobby?We’re unpacking the myths, the reputations, and the real-world experience. Conversational, candid, and completely unfiltered.And because nostalgia is a powerful thing… we take a spin back to the 1980s, chatting about what travel was like then, including another icon herself, Concorde.If you’re into small ships, big opinions, and cruising with personality, welcome aboard Season 2. Let’s get going.

Welcome back to our behind-the-scenes series! In this episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we dive deeper into what really goes on when working as a travel agent.Why do we ask so many questions? Why do budget expectations matter so much? And what happens if the trip you’ve imagined isn’t available—or doesn’t quite fit your budget?We’ll walk through real scenarios that travellers face all the time, like:What if the cabin you wanted is already sold out?What if your dream trip runs too long for your schedule?How do we balance honesty, realism, and excitement when planning?We’re also tackling three big questions every travel agent should be able to answer:✅ What do we love to book?✅ What are we willing to book?✅ What are we not looking to book?At the end of the day, travel planning is all about matching styles, expectations, and personalities—making sure the journey feels right for you. Our goal? To help you book with knowledge, confidence, and joy.

✨ Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Travel Agent ✨Ever wondered what a travel agent does or how travel agents work? In this episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we’re pulling back the curtain to show you exactly what goes into a day in the life of a travel advisor. From serving clients, answering their travel questions, and planning dream vacations—to finding new clients through referrals (and sometimes even while out walking the dog 🐾)—we reveal it all.We’re more than just trip bookers. Think of us as your partners in travel planning, strategy, and inspiration. Whether you’re just starting to explore travel for the first time or looking ahead to bucket-list adventures, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.You’ll learn:✔️ What a travel agent does for clients✔️ The questions you should ask your travel advisor✔️ The questions we like to ask clients ✔️ What information your travel planner needs from you✔️ How referrals, networking, and community connections (yes—even dog walking!) help clients find usIf you’ve ever wondered about the benefits of using a travel agent or wanted an inside look at how travel advisors help people, this is the episode for you. Let’s talk travel, plan smarter, and maybe even spark your next great adventure. 🌍✨This podcast is part 1 of 2, so stay tuned for even more on the topic as we spill the tea most travel agents won't talk about.

This episode might ruffle a few feathers—but it’s a conversation worth having. 🚢✈️Travel agents seem to be popping up on every street corner (or, more accurately, every Facebook feed). Many of them are hobbyists or part-timers dipping their toes into the industry. And while there’s nothing wrong with new people joining the travel world, here’s the question every traveller should ask:👉 Who do you want handling your trip?Someone dabbling on the side, or someone who has invested in training, product certifications, and real-world travel experience? Someone who might vanish when things go wrong, or someone for whom this is a full-time career and passion?We dive into the red flags you should watch out for, the right questions to ask when choosing an agent, and why working with a professional can make all the difference—especially when your money, time, and peace of mind are on the line.Because yes, you can book online. You can cut your own hair, sell your own house, or do your own legal work. But would you really want to? When the stakes are high, you trust the pros.✨ If you’re the kind of traveller who values candid communication, direct advice, and knowledgeable support—you’ve come to the right place.🇨🇦 For Canadian consumers, contact Dave Wentworth at www.destinationwhatever.com. 🇬🇧 For UK consumers, contact Lorraine McCowatt at https://bespokecruiseholidays.com/🔔 Subscribe to The Ship Less Travelled for more honest conversations about travel, cruises, and how to explore smarter.👍 Like this episode if you value working with true professionals.💬 Comment below: What do YOU think about the rise of hobby travel agents?#TravelAgent #CruiseTips #TravelPlanning #TravelAdvisor #TheShipLessTravelled #DestinationWhatever #BookWithAPro #TravelTips #SmallGroupTravel #ExpeditionCruise

In this episode, we're heading Down Under… way down — to the wild, rugged, jaw-droppingly beautiful Kimberley region of Western Australia! 🇦🇺Think ancient Aboriginal rock art (yep, we’re talking 40,000 years of culture), dramatic red cliffs, wandering wallabies, and waterfalls that just won’t quit. It's like the Outback turned the drama dial all the way up!Dave fondly remembers Aussie penpals from his school days, Lorraine’s recalls Aussie soap operas, as Commonwealth nations we've all been exposed to Australia one way or the other. Together we’re diving into what makes Australia such a magnetic destination — even for those who’ve already been.🎒 Never been to Australia? You need to go. But you know that already. 🌄 Already been? You'll want to go again — and do it differently.These small ship expedition cruises take you into the real Australia — wild, remote, and wonderfully weird. Plus, they pair perfectly with iconic rail journeys like The Ghan or city stays in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, or Queensland.Whether you’re dreaming of Crocodile Dundee adventures or a more glam Priscilla, Queen of the Desert realness, The Kimberley is calling — and it's anything but ordinary.🦘 No worries, no dingoes eating babies. Just unforgettable experiences, curated with care.📩 Trip inquiries:🌎 Canada & USA– Contact Dave Wentworth at DestinationWhatever.com🇬🇧 UK – Contact Lorraine McCowatt at bespokecruiseholidays.com

❄️Who wins the worst winter award—snowbound Canadians or rain-soaked Brits? Honestly, does it matter: a winter escape for all is the only right answer. In this week’s episode, we’re diving into emerging small ship cruise trends for Winter 2026. Whether you're dreaming of palm trees or plotting your next great migration from grey skies, now’s the time to start planning—these itineraries are hot, and availability won’t last.🚢 What’s on deck this episode?➡️ Longstay Cruises (30+ days): cross oceans, see continents, and trade that static apartment view for ever-changing horizons.➡️ Exotic River Cruises: including a brand new river sailing in South America you’ve probably never heard of.➡️ A river journey that comes with a potential White Lotus-inspired twist (just, you know, with fewer scandals).➡️ Lorraine’s latest inspiration—born from a local meal that led to a big travel dream. Can you guess where?✨ Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or simply dreaming of ditching your parka, this episode’s full of ideas to make your winter 2026 way more exciting.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more cruise inspiration and unexpected travel gems.#SmallShipCruising #Winter2026 #TheShipLessTravelled #LongstayCruises #RiverCruises #TravelTrends #CruiseLife #SlowTravel

🎄✨ Christmas in July? Absolutely. ✨🎄This week on The Ship Less Travelled, we're unwrapping a topic that's merrier than Aunt Mary after a few hot toddies – Christmas Market Cruises.Whether you've been naughty or nice, there’s something for everyone:🛍️ Why settle for one market when you can visit several?Cruising Europe’s rivers lets you hop from village to village, soaking up centuries of tradition. It sure beats fighting for parking at the mall.🍽️ What do we personally love about the holidays?Festive lights, mulled wine, gingerbread hearts, roast chestnuts… and yes, all the food we can handle. Because calories don’t count at Christmas, right?🌊 Where do these cruises go?Think the Danube, the Rhine, the Main, and beyond – each with their own market magic, from Vienna’s elegant stalls to Strasbourg’s storybook charm.📅 When to go?Markets typically run late November to Christmas Eve – book now for the best cabins and flight options.🧳 What about solo travellers?These cruises are perfect if you’re going solo, with festive onboard camaraderie and shore excursions that let you explore at your own pace (and sample ALL the treats).🏠 Want to be away for the holidays?Many cruises run over Christmas itself – for those looking to swap peeling potatoes at home for sipping glühwein under twinkling lights in Europe.Because no matter what brings you to a Christmas Market Cruise, they’re warm, cozy, and comforting – just what we all crave at the holidays.And let’s face it… these markets sure beat sitting around eating disappointing Quality Street chocolates that just aren’t what they used to be. 😏🎁✨🛳️ What are you waiting for – Christmas?

🇫🇷✨ Vive la France! ✨🇫🇷This week on The Ship Less Travelled, we’re raising a glass (of Bordeaux, naturally) to celebrate Bastille Day with a love letter to France. 💙🤍❤️Sunflower fields, lavender fields… what’s not to adore? France is a feast for the senses – from the scent of fresh baguettes wafting out of a boulangerie, to the zing of pungent of roquefort on your tastebuds, to the feeling of Provençal sun warming your skin. And oh la la, the beauty your eyes will drink in.But did you know you can experience France in a whole new way – by river? Lorraine spills some tea – or should we say wine 🍷 – about her Rhône river cruise, and we dive into other waterways you can sail to unlock that famous joie de vivre. From the Seine to the Saône, France’s rivers are calling.🇫🇷 Where should you go beyond the river?🇫🇷 When to go?🇫🇷 And how has the City of Light changed for travellers today?This is the class on France your French teacher never told you about. Tune in and celebrate one of the most glorious nations on earth.🎧 Listen now and fall in love with France all over again. Vive la France, vive la République! 🇫🇷🥐🍷

🇫🇷 Bonjour, Comment Allez-Vous? 🇫🇷We’re celebrating our 10th episode in style! 🥳⚓Join us as Lorraine shares her incredible experience recently sailing with Star Clippers aboard the Royal Clipper, departing from Cannes and circling the stunning island of Corsica, with a stop in Portofino for a splash of prosecco 🏖️⛵🥂✨ Pardon our French, but it was incroyable! ✨Discover what it feels like to sail away on this majestic tall ship – imagine the emotional swell of music as the sails rise and your journey begins… it’s pure goosebumps. 💙🎶 Want to know:What’s a sail away like with Star Clippers?What are the cabins really like?What immersive sailing experiences await on board?Lorraine tells all about life aboard the Royal Clipper as she explored this Millionaire’s Playground and lived out a dreamy small ship adventure.👉 Listen now and celebrate our tenth episode with us. Because life is better under sail, n'est pas?#TheShipLessTravelled #SmallShipCruising #StarClippers #RoyalClipper #Corsica #Cannes #TravelPodcast #SailingDreams #Episode10 #Incroyable #SailAway #TravelGoals

Are last-minute bookings on small ship cruises all they’re cracked up to be? 🤔This week on The Ship Less Travelled, we dive into the reality behind those tempting last-minute deals. 🛳️💸✅ Why smaller ships (including river cruises) often don’t have true last-minute bargains✅ Why being flexible is your biggest asset✅ Why an unsold cabin might not be the hidden gem you think✅ The sweet spot timing for booking: 90 days, 60 days… or much sooner?✅ How solo travellers fit into the last-minute puzzleSometimes you can snag an amazing opportunity, but other times… well, let’s just say it’s good to know what you’re signing up for. 😉As Lorraine says, “We’re here for you, the whole way through.”🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode now and get the inside scoop

🛳️ Ready to take your cruising experience to the next level? In this week’s episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we’re diving into the world of intensive cruising — a lesser-known but totally game-changing way to explore a destination.What is an intensive cruise, you ask? It's a style of cruising that focuses on in-depth exploration of a single country or region, often with more port stops, longer stays, and even overnight calls in iconic cities. This isn’t your typical “touch and go” cruise. It’s about immersing yourself in a place — its culture, cuisine, landscapes, and local life.🌸 In this episode:👉 Lorraine shares her firsthand experience on an intensive cruise through Croatia, hopping along the stunning Dalmatian Coast with overnight stays that allowed for relaxed dinners, sunsets, and deeper local connection.👉 Dave reflects on his trip to Japan and how it might have looked different as an intensive cruise, especially when the voyage is perfectly timed for cherry blossom season.👉 Dave spills the green tea with tips on pre- and post-cruise travel in Japan — don't miss iconic places like Kyoto, Tokyo or Mount Fuji. 👉 Hear where Lorraine is heading next on her upcoming intensive cruise !🌍 Why consider an intensive cruise?-More immersive travel experiences-Deeper connection with a country’s culture and people-Less time at sea, more time exploring-Ideal for travellers who want to go beyond the brochureWhether you're dreaming of Ireland’s rugged coastlines, Italy’s art-filled cities, Greece’s sun-soaked islands, or New Zealand’s natural wonders — there’s likely an intensive cruise that’ll get you closer to the heart of the destination.These are just a few of the destinations on offer. 💡 If you're new to cruising or looking to shake up your travel style, this episode is for you. We break down what makes intensive cruising so special, who it’s for, and how to plan one that fits your travel goals.🎥 WATCH NOW to see if an intensive cruise should be your next great adventure.

 The Ship Less Travelled: Amazon Edition In this week’s wildest episode yet, Dave apes out in the Amazon!  He went on an epic river cruise—on a small, purpose-built ship with just 28 guests—and he's spilling all the jungle juice.From skiff rides into the heart of the rainforest to up-close encounters with the creatures (and characters!) that call it home, this is a trip like no other. Find out:• Why river cruising is the best way to explore the Amazon• What a skiff is—and why it’s your new favourite word• How responsible tourism supports riverside communities• And meet the incredible women of the Amazon—shamans, artists, and guardians of the forest.And because two heads are better than one, Dave and Lorraine bring their combined cruise wisdom—one Canuck, one Brit—to make sure your next cruise is worth every loonie or pound, every halfpenny and halfpence.  Listen now—your armchair adventure awaits!#TheShipLessTravelled #AmazonRiverCruise #ResponsibleTravel #SmallShipBigAdventure #CruiseTips #WomenOfTheAmazon #DaveAndLorraine #JungleVibes

Welcome aboard The Ship Less Travelled, your guide to rare routes, remarkable destinations, and refined adventures by sea. In Episode 6, we're diving deep into one of the cruise industry’s most fascinating—and misunderstood—secrets: Repositioning Cruises.👉 What is a repositioning cruise?👉 Why are they one of the smartest ways to explore places few others ever reach?👉 And how can these seasonal sailings turn into the adventure of a lifetime?In this episode, hosts Dave Wentworth (Canada) and Lorraine McCowatt (UK) explore how repositioning cruises can take you off the tourist track—and into story-worthy, soul-stirring destinations.💡 Real Story: Sable Island, Nova ScotiaDave recounts how a repositioning cruise allowed his clients to step ashore on Sable Island—a windswept crescent in the North Atlantic known for wild horses, shifting sands, and shipwrecks. This remote and protected Canadian national park is almost impossible to reach… unless you know the right kind of cruise.🌍 Fantasy Routes: From Lorraine’s Dream Cruise to Dave’s Obsession with St. HelenaWhat would be the perfect repositioning cruise for Lorraine, our UK-based cruise expert and connoisseur of fine itineraries? Meanwhile, Dave imagines tracing the western coast of Africa—stopping in Dakar, Cape Verde, and of course… St. Helena. (Yes, he’s still obsessed. Yes, it’s contagious.)🎙️ ABOUT THE SHOWThe Ship Less Travelled is a podcast for curious cruisers, seasoned travellers, and anyone craving authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. Each episode explores uncommon cruise routes, expedition adventures, and one-of-a-kind ports of call—with a focus on storytelling, real client experiences, and expert travel planning tips.If you're ready to travel smarter, deeper, and with more intention—especially by sea—you're in the right place.✨ WHO THIS VIDEO IS FOR:Educated and affluent travellers seeking premium or luxury small ship cruisesExpedition cruise fans and adventurersCurious cruisers looking for new travel ideasCanadians and UK travellers eager to discover rare and beautiful destinationsArmchair travellers and trip planners dreaming of their next bucket-list journey🌊 FEATURED DESTINATIONS & INSPIRATION IN THIS EPISODE:Sable Island National Park Reserve, CanadaRepositioning cruises across the Atlantic and PacificWestern Africa coastal cruisesSt. Helena, South Atlantic OceanCape Verde, Canary Islands, DakarHidden gems accessible by small ship and expedition vessel🧭 THINGS YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:How repositioning cruises work and when to book themWhy these cruises are often more affordable and less crowdedHow to find itineraries that include hard-to-reach destinationsTips for choosing the right small ship cruise lineWhat makes a cruise premium vs. luxury—and why it matters🚢 READY TO PLAN YOUR OWN CRUISE?🔹 In Canada? Work with Dave Wentworth at DestinationWhatever.com, a travel advisor with over 15 years of experience helping travellers explore the world through small group tours, ocean and river cruises, and expedition sailings.🔹 In the UK? Reach out to Lorraine McCowatt, your trusted specialist in luxury and bespoke cruise holidays. Start your journey at BespokeCruiseHolidays.com/luxurycruiseholidays🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more:If you enjoy exploring unusual destinations, remote islands, expedition ships, and off-the-beaten-path travel by sea, be sure to like, comment, and subscribe. New episodes drop regularly!👍 Like this video🗨️ Comment with your dream repositioning cruise🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications📢 Share this episode with a travel buddy

In this episode, we're setting sail into the wonderful world of European river cruising—a style of travel that's become increasingly popular with curious, culturally-minded travellers from Canada and the UK.Wondering where most first-time river cruisers start? We reveal the two most popular rivers that offer the perfect mix of scenery, history, and ease. (Spoiler: one of them might just rhyme with “man-you.” 😉)🎤 Lorraine takes you along on her river cruise down the Danube, sharing:What life is really like onboard a river shipThe kinds of excursions and activities you can enjoy each dayHer personal highlights and insights about the river cruiseDebunking some myths you might have about river cruising Whether you're a seasoned ocean cruiser curious about smaller ships and slower travel, a repeat river cruiser, or you're completely new to cruising but love immersive cultural experiences, this episode is for YOU.✨ River cruises are a great fit for so many people. If you’ve ever been intrigued by the idea of floating past castles, vineyards, and historic towns—without having to repack your suitcase—this is your sign to explore further.👀 For those who already love river cruises, you know the magic. And for those who are curious… you’re curious for a reason.We’re here to help match you with the perfect river cruise—and it all starts with hearing what’s possible.📌 Subscribe for more episodes about unique cruising experiences, expert tips, and stories from sailings all around the world. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share if this episode inspires your next adventure!#TheShipLessTravelled #RiverCruising #DanubeCruise #TravelPodcast #EuropeanCruise #FirstTimeCruisers #RiverCruiseTips #CruiseCurious #CruiseFromCanada #CruiseFromUK

Welcome to Episode 4 of The Ship Less Travelled: Go North – Arctic Adventures by Small Ship!Dreaming of wide open tundra, glittering glaciers, polar bears, and the magic of the midnight sun? In this episode, we set a course for the Arctic and dive deep into why small ships are the secret to unlocking the polar regions in ways big ships simply can't.🧭 Why Go North on a Small Ship?We discuss the incredible advantages of small ship travel in the Arctic. Their nimble size lets them glide into remote fjords, hidden coves, and ice-filled bays where larger vessels simply can’t reach. It's not just about going further—it's about going deeper, slower, and more respectfully.Small ships are more than vessels—they're stewards of the places they visit. They are built for sustainability, with a lighter footprint and a mission to uphold the pillars of responsible tourism. That means working closely with local communities, respecting wildlife, and actively contributing to the protection of fragile Arctic ecosystems.🌿 Responsible Travel: Culture, Cuisine & ConnectionWhat sets these voyages apart is not just the scenery—it's the stories, flavours, and people. We highlight how small ships support Inuit communities and cultural keepers, working with local guides, artisans, performers, and storytellers who share their rich traditions.One standout initiative we discuss is Tundra to Table, a program that brings the local culinary landscape onboard. Arctic char, muskox, and other locally harvested ingredients are prepared by Inuit chefs, offering guests a true taste of the place. This isn’t cruise ship buffet food—it’s authentic, sustainable, and soul-satisfying cuisine that honours the people, the land and sea.☀️ When to Go? Let the Midnight Sun Guide You think the Arctic is nothing but snowstorms and frostbite? Think again. We bust a few myths about Arctic weather and explain why small ship cruising in this region can be comfortable, enriching, and even luxurious. Whether you're traveling for polar wildlife, birdwatching, or photography, there’s an ideal moment for every interest—and yes, if experiencing the midnight sun is on your bucket list, we’ll tell you exactly when and where to go to catch it in all its surreal glory.🌍 A Quick Arctic Geography LessonThe Arctic isn’t just “up there.” It’s a vast and varied region made up of unique destinations, each with its own culture, landscape, and legends. We break it down for you:📍 Svalbard, Norway – One of the world’s northernmost inhabited areas, and as close to the North Pole as most travellers will ever get. Think polar bears, walrus colonies, and massive glaciers.📍 Iceland & Greenland – With new airport upgrades in Nuuk, Greenland has become more accessible than ever. We talk about how small ships get you to these two North Atlantic island neighbours.📍 Canadian Arctic – Remote and wild, this region includes the legendary Northwest Passage, a route steeped in exploration history and Indigenous knowledge. This part of the Arctic is a dream destination for curious minds and adventurous spirits.🧊 Who Is This For? (Hint: Everyone)Whether you're a first-time cruiser, a seasoned traveller, or someone who never thought “Arctic” and “vacation” belonged in the same sentence, this episode is here to change your mind. Small ship polar cruising is for the curious, the conscious, and the cold-weather curious—and we’re here to start the conversation and tell you why it matters, and what makes it so unforgettable.📽️ So grab a cozy blanket, pour a cup of something warm, and hit play. Let’s go north together.✨ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell so you don’t miss future episodes of The Ship Less Travelled. New destinations, unique experiences, and small ship magic await.💬 Have a question about Arctic small ship cruises? We’d love to hear from you.

🚢 Grab a deck chair—this episode is a voyage and a half! In Episode 3 of The Ship Less Travelled, we're crossing the ocean—literally and figuratively—as we explore the allure, history, and modern-day magic of the Transatlantic cruise.Lorraine shares her personal experience aboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 during its 200th Transatlantic crossing. As the last true ocean liner still in service today, the QM2 isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s a floating piece of history, purpose-built for the North Atlantic with a reinforced hull and a top speed that leaves most modern ships in her wake. Find out what it’s really like to spend seven luxurious days at sea with no land in sight, sailing from New York to Southampton in timeless style.Meanwhile, Dave dreams about taking that same iconic route in reverse and sailing under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge during daybreak—a moment that marks the dramatic end to an unforgettable journey. But before we get too cozy in Cunard country, Dave stirs things up with a surprise: a wild, bucket-list-worthy repositioning cruise that takes the “Transatlantic” idea to the extreme. Think less New York glamour, more volcanic islands in the South Atlantic.We’re talking about a cruise that stops in Tristan da Cunha and St. Helena—two of the most remote inhabited places on Earth, both UK overseas territories, and rarely visited by anyone who doesn’t arrive by ship. Let’s just say Lorraine wasn’t expecting that twist.🧳 Whether you're curious about classic crossings, plotting your own grand voyage, or just here for some seaworthy surprises, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.🎙️ In this episode:• Life aboard Queen Mary 2 – elegance, entertainment, and endless ocean views• The emotional impact of a Transatlantic crossing• The thrill of sailing under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge• A Transatlantic cruise like no other: Tristan da Cunha & St. Helena, anyone?• How these voyages stir the soul and awaken the wanderlust📺 Hit subscribe and join us each week as we explore rare routes, unusual itineraries, and stories from the ship less travelled.

Ready to chase the shadow of the moon in style? In this episode of The Ship Less Travelled, we’re casting our gaze skyward—and seawards—as we explore three extraordinary cruise itineraries that put you in the path of the total solar eclipse happening in August 2026.🛳️ From the icy edges of Greenland to the misty shores of Ireland, and the sun-drenched coast of Spain, we spotlight rare and remarkable cruises that let you witness this celestial spectacle from the deck of a ship.👗✨ Plus, we ask the big questions—like what does one even wear to a solar eclipse at sea? (Spoiler: it maybe involves a touch of sparkle.)If you’re into rare travel moments, astronomy at sea, and cruises that are truly once-in-a-lifetime, this episode is for you.🎥 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share—because moments like these are better when they’re shared with fellow star-chasers.#SolarEclipse2026 #CruiseTravel #EclipseCruise #ShipLessTravelled #GreenlandCruise #IrelandCruise #SpainCruise #TotalEclipseAtSea #BucketListTravel #RareCruises #ExpeditionCruise

In our very first episode, we’re introducing ourselves and sharing how we each found our way aboard the world of small ships. We'll chat about what makes this kind of cruising so different: Fewer crowds,  More authentic experiences, Up-close access to incredible destination,  and a community of curious, like-minded travellers