Imagine navigating the secluded coastlines of Alaska and British Columbia—not from a massive cruise ship or even a sleek 100-passenger expedition vessel—but from a heritage ship with just 8 to 24 fellow travellers.
This is the magic of micro-cruising: a tailored, up-close experience with nature and culture that larger ships simply can’t offer.
At Maple Leaf Adventures, our boutique ships offer a front-row seat to some of the most hidden, stunning corners of the world. But it’s not just about the landscapes. On a small ship with fewer guests, wildlife roams undisturbed, culture comes to life in a personal way, and you feel a part of the nature we explore.
Photo: Simon Ager
Our flagship, Maple Leaf, anchored in a peaceful bay, providing a sense of place in the remote inlets and fjords of British Columbia.
What is Micro-Cruising?
Micro-cruising is a unique style of travel where no more than a couple dozen guests explore hard-to-reach places on small vessels, allowing for deeper connections with the environment.
Unlike larger ships that are limited to busy ports and tourist hotspots, micro-cruising takes you off the beaten path—into secluded fjords, remote inlets, and rich ecosystems.
Onboard, the experience is relaxed and personalized, allowing you to fully savour the wilderness at a slower pace. This creates a unique sense of place, where wildlife behaves more naturally and encounters feel more personal. Whether it’s quietly observing a mother grizzly bear with her cubs or kayaking alongside seals in a secluded bay, our presence feels more in tune with nature than an intrusion. The tranquility we experience—and the wildlife we see—simply wouldn’t be possible with a larger group.
Photo: Maple Leaf Adventures
Cascadia welcomes adventurers back from an afternoon kayak, offering warmth and comfort unparalled to most small ships on the coast.
The True Small Ship Adventure
While “small ship expeditions” can include vessels of up to 100 passengers, micro-cruising—with guest numbers are limited to just 8 to 24—offer a level of intimacy and access that goes beyond this.
“It’s the personalized experience,” says Maureen Gordon, co-owner of Maple Leaf Adventures. “You can only achieve that with a small group led by expert locals, where you can seamlessly connect between the vessel and the natural world.”
One of the key advantages of micro-cruising is that it allows us to visit remote, delicate ecosystems without overwhelming them. “The coast may seem vast,” Maureen explains, “but the carrying capacity of specific areas, like a feeding estuary or a hot spring, is quite small. You can’t bring 100 people in and still have an enriching experience, like watching a grizzly bear mom with her cubs.” Small groups allow us to engage with these environments without disrupting them, making the wildlife encounters more authentic and the landscapes more serene.
Photo: Simon Ager
Swell, our beautifully restored 1912 tugboat, offers a unique blend of heritage and adventure.
Unique Vessels, Unmatched Access
Each of our ships offers a distinct experience. Swell is a lovingly restored 1912 tugboat that ventures into secluded fjords and inlets that larger vessels simply can’t reach. Maple Leaf is a 92-foot schooner from 1904, embodying the romance of classic sailing, while Cascadia is a modern, 138-foot catamaran that blends luxury with access to remote locations.
“With a small vessel, you’re a balanced part of that little ecosystem,” Maureen explains, “so you feel a part of it rather than separate.” From the rich waters of Gwaii Haanas to Pack Creek in Alaska, where only small groups are permitted, the experience on a small boat is personal and profound. Here, the wildlife carries on as if we were just another part of the landscape—a guest in their home, not an intruder.
Photo: Maple Leaf Adventures
Unwind with a delightful happy hour featuring charcuterie and wine, set against a stunning coastal backdrop.
Immersive Experiences, Personalized Itineraries
Another thing that sets us apart in the world of cruising is our tailored approach to each journey. Whether cruising through the serene waters of the Salish Sea or watching glaciers calve in Alaska, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from naturalists and local guides, including leaders of Indigenous communities and scientists, who share their knowledge in a way that resonates with your curiosity.
Our itineraries are also flexible, allowing for spontaneous stops when nature calls—whether it’s spotting orcas, watching bears forage, or pausing to take in a breathtaking sunset. This approach ensures that you’re not just passing through these places; you’re fully immersed in them. Our voyages cater to travellers who crave a real connection with nature and culture, not just quick photo ops.
Photo: Maple Leaf Adventures
A few of our expert guides: Jeff Reynolds, Gajiaawa, and Marlo Shaw. All are locals of the Pacific Northwest and look forward to sharing its wonders with guests.
Why Choose Micro-Cruising?
Because it’s about more than just visiting famous landmarks—it’s about diving into secluded fjords, observing wildlife up close, and hearing only the sounds of nature. It’s about spending time in places where very few operators are allowed and doing it in the company of local experts who know these regions inside-out.
“People are amazed when they learn they can explore the Inside Passage by small, local boat,” Maureen shares. “We’re reclaiming the magic of exploring these waters in a way that’s personal, immersive, and environmentally conscious.”
Ready to set sail on a journey where you’ll not just see the wild places of Alaska and British Columbia, but experience them in a way few ever will?
Photo: Maple Leaf Adventures
Experience the awe of nature up close as you cruise at the foot of towering glaciers.
Discover the Magic of Micro-Cruising
At Maple Leaf Adventures, we’re not just about getting from point A to point B—we’re about truly connecting with the natural world. Our small group size and low-impact approach allow us to experience these regions in a way that larger vessels can only dream of.
If you’re ready to skip the crowds and get up close to the wild beauty of Alaska and British Columbia, a micro-cruise with Maple Leaf Adventures offers an adventure like no other. Whether you’re aboard Maple Leaf, Swell, or Cascadia, you’ll be part of an experience that’s authentic and unforgettable.
Ready to explore? Discover more about micro-cruises with Maple Leaf Adventures and begin your next adventure today.
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