UnCruise Adventures operates a fleet of nine small expedition ships, ranging in size from 22 to 88 passengers, all geared to adventurers who want to see the world a little differently. As with other cruise lines with small ships, their cruises are able to explore waters, nooks and bay inaccessible to larger ships.

The emphasis at UnCruise Adventures is squarely on the destinations rather than the onboard activities. You'll be able to mingle with locals, all while focused on activities and excursions that complement the wilderness, wildlife, culture and heritage of the places visited.

Whether you’re traveling by yourself, with a companion, as a family or in a group, UnCruise Adventures can help you learn while having fun. The focus is on "soft adventure": helping you get out into nature and discovering the world around you. (And don't worry, you needn't be in tip-top shape.)

Your cruise will stop at small ports and islands — the main destinations explored are Alaska, coastal Washington, British Columbia, the Columbia & Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington, the Hawaiian Islands and Mexico's Sea of Cortez. For instance, you might decide to hike, snorkel or kayak through the Hawaiian Islands with stops at Kalaupapa National Park on Molokai, Olowaku Reef on Maui and Kawaihae on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The trips are hands-on 7- to 21-night cruise explorations aboard expedition vessels, upscale yachts or a replica coastal steamer. They're pricier than, say, a splash-and-dash cruise to the Caribbean, thanks to the personalized itineraries and the tour guides that often come with each outing. 

For two first-person accounts of UnCruise sailings in Alaska, see:

• 9 incredible things I saw on my first day in Alaska with Un-Cruise
• UnCruise Adventures: Nature, up close & personal