Five Travel Ideas for Inspiration
Sick of Bali, Fiji and Europe? Have a hankering to try out something new? You’re in the right place! Here are five travel destinations that are made possible by small ship, that you might never have heard of, but can now add to your bucket list.
ONE: THE SUB-ANTARCTICS – New Zealand/Australia
Often described as the “Galapagos of the Southern Ocean”, the Subantarctic Islands of Australia and New Zealand are one of the least-visited places on our Earth. They are preserved and protected and offer scenery and wildlife like nowhere else on the planet. You can expect to see King Penguins by the thousands, Albatross, Seals and totally unique flora and fauna on a trip to the ‘Subs’. Generally only departing in January or February each year by small ship, spaces on these expedition trips are extremely limited.
TWO: LABRADOR & NEWFOUNDLAND – Canada
From the haunting beauty of the Torngat Mountains National Park in Labrador to the pretty coloured houses of Newfoundland, this region of eastern Canada is rarely discovered by the average Australian traveller, but there’s plenty of reasons to go. Much of Northern Labrador is still inhabited by Inuit living as they have for an age with seasonal hunting and crafting on this breathtakingly harsh and beautiful land. The small communities that dot this region are remote and visitors are welcomed warmly. Wildlife abounds with polar bear, black bear, seal and seabirds. Travelling south down to the island of Newfoundland, the trees are tall and the meadows lush. It is no mistake that the signature dog of the region the “Newfoundland” is big, gentle and sweet-tempered, just like the unbelievably friendly people of the island itself. The island is known for it’s abundance of moose and whales. Spend as much time as you can here, it is just wonderful.
THREE: JEJU ISLAND, South Korea
Jeju Island, often called the “Hawaii of Korea,” is a volcanic island known for its dramatic natural scenery and serene atmosphere. Its landscape is dominated by Hallasan, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea, surrounded by lush forests, lava tubes, and unique rock formations shaped by ancient eruptions. Visitors are drawn to its pristine beaches with turquoise waters, impressive waterfalls like Jeongbang and Cheonjiyeon, and UNESCO-listed sites such as the Manjanggul Lava Tube. The island’s mild climate and rich biodiversity make it a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from busy city life.
While in Jeju, you may like to watch the haenyeo women of Jeju – skilled free-divers known for their remarkable strength, endurance, and deep cultural heritage. For generations, these women—often diving well into their 60s and 70s—have harvested seafood such as abalone, seaweed, and shellfish without the use of breathing equipment, relying only on their training and the rhythmic “sumbisori,” a whistling breath they take at the surface. Their work embodies courage and community, as they dive in groups, share their catch, and pass down traditions through family lines. Today, the haenyeo are celebrated as an iconic symbol of Jeju’s resilience and a living example of women-led culture.
Often cruises that are visiting Japan or South Korea may include this little gem of an island on their voyages. Keep an eye out when searching these destinations for an amazing highlight.
FOUR: THE CALEDONIAN CANAL, Scotland, UK
The Caledonian Canal in Scotland is a historic waterway that stretches across the Great Glen, linking the country’s east and west coasts through a chain of natural lochs and man-made channels. Completed in the 19th century under the direction of engineer Thomas Telford, the canal was originally built to provide a safer route for ships navigating the dangerous northern waters. Today, it is admired for its impressive engineering feats – including Neptune’s Staircase, one of the longest lock systems in Britain – and its stunning surroundings of mountains, forests, and shimmering lochs like Loch Ness. The canal is now a popular destination for boating, cycling, and scenic walks, offering visitors a peaceful way to experience the Highlands’ dramatic landscapes and rich history. You can visit this region with the elegant Hebridean Cruise Line.
FIVE: RAJA AMPAT – Indonesia
Made up of over 1500 islands near Sorong in West Papua, the Archipelago of Raja Ampat has recently been featured in David Attenborough’s “Our Planet” series for Netflix as an example of how good reef maintenance and fishing guidance can result in a recovery that is “surprisingly quick”. This region hosts the world’s highest marine biodiversity with a staggering 1400 fish species and more than 550 types of reef-building coral. It has thriving reefs, warm water and (usually) excellent visibility. The Raja Ampat region is also one of the least populated regions of Indonesia and has very few tourists. For those who like their birds, there are massive Blyth’s Hornbills and our very own Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Each visit to the region also helps to protect it with cruise lines paying a park fee for each guest which directly goes toward conservation and empowering local communities to become stewards. Water lovers, this one is for you.