This company's all about getting you up close to remote natural areas in its small ships (40 to 110 passengers). Experiences include seeing giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies in the Galapagos, howler monkeys and tree sloths in Costa Rica, and whales off Alaska and Baja. Take Zodiacs off for shore landings, with excellent naturalist guides leading the way (the line has an alliance with National Geographic, which has added its name to the ships). Unlike many cruise lines, there are single occupancy cabins, with the largest staterooms at 240 square feet, and all have private baths. The well-prepared food stars local ingredients—think Ecuadorean beef tenderloin and filet of Galapagos tuna.

Tip: Friends and family can follow your adventure with Daily Expedition Reports posted by the onboard naturalists on the company website.

Details: Areas of exploration include Central America and Mexico, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, Europe (including Norway), Egypt, and Antarctica. Weeklong Costa Rica cruises from $4,240 per person.

Contact: Lindblad Expeditions