A growing number of Australians are searching for small-ship cruising experiences, signalling a major shift in how holidaymakers want to explore the world by sea.
New research from Unforgettable Croatia, in partnership with digital travel agency Adido, reveals that search interest in small-ship and luxury cruising has soared over the past four years. The analysis, which tracked Australian search activity between 2022 and 2025, shows a 64 percent rise in demand for 19 leading small-ship and luxury cruise brands carrying fewer than 250 passengers. Between 2024 and 2025 alone, search traffic for these brands climbed a further 22 percent.
Generic search terms such as “small ship cruises”, “luxury small ship cruises”, “yacht cruises” and “expedition cruising” have all seen dramatic growth. Combined, these categories recorded a 56 percent increase over the past two years, with searches for “small ship cruises” doubling since 2022. Interest in “expedition cruising” has been especially strong, with search volumes quadrupling over the four-year period.
According to Graham Carter, co-founder of Unforgettable Croatia, the appeal of small-ship cruising lies in its intimacy and authenticity. “Small-ship cruising has moved firmly into the mainstream for Australian travellers,” he said.
“Guests are increasingly drawn to ships that feel more personal, itineraries focused on culture and nature, and experiences that offer a real sense of connection.”
Carter added that sailing the Croatian coast is a prime example of what makes small-ship travel so special.
“Smaller vessels can reach hidden coves, islands and ports inaccessible to larger ships, offering a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion. For today’s luxury traveller, this blend of comfort, local flavour and freedom is hard to beat.”
Adido’s CEO Andy Headington said the data suggests more informed and enthusiastic cruise consumers. “We’re seeing significant growth around small-ship and expedition cruising terms, alongside sustained gains in brand interest,” he noted. “That typically signals a traveller who’s ready to take the next step—from research to booking—which is an encouraging sign for specialist operators.”
For 2026, Unforgettable Croatia is set to operate 145 guaranteed cruise departures, running from May to October across eight ships, each with a maximum of 19 cabins. Every voyage includes seven nights onboard a luxury yacht with daily breakfast, a three-course lunch, complimentary drinks and water sports, guided excursions, and plenty of time ashore to explore Croatia’s coastal towns and cuisine at leisure.
For further details, visit www.unforgettablecroatia.com or call +612 3805 9846.
