Tauck has announced its plans for small-ship ocean cruises by 2026, and the company will expand its portfolio next year with the addition of two new itineraries: Sakura Seas: Japan and South Korea and Arctic Days and Northern Lights, which will offer guests exclusive and immersive experiences in two fascinating corners of the world.
Tauck's first itinerary to include Seoul, Sakura Seas: Japan and South Korea, will introduce travelers to the region's vibrant culture, history, and cuisine. The 14-day itinerary begins in Seoul, South Korea's dynamic capital, where an initial three-night stay offers guests a choice of three hotels: Fairmont Ambassador Seoul, Conrad Seoul, or Four Seasons Seoul.
Travelers will enjoy guided tours of iconic landmarks in and around Seoul, including the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Korean War Memorial Museum. They will also explore traditional Hanok dwellings, shop at a vibrant local market, and have free time to explore on their own. Then, they will travel by bullet train to Busan, where they will take a city tour before boarding the elegant, 184-passenger Le Soléal de Ponant.
The subsequent eight-night cruise begins with optional activities at the fishing port of Sakaiminato, followed by a visit to Hagi to discover samurai-era houses, castle ruins, and the city's renowned pottery. In Beppu, travelers can relax in hot springs, visit scenic geothermal sites, or tour the historic town of Usuki. Then, in Uwajima, excursions include a visit to a pearl farm or a traditional garden with a calligraphy demonstration and tea ceremony.
Le Soléal continues to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate, then on to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. After docking in Tamano, travelers can take a city bike tour, explore art on Naoshima Island, sample craft beer, or visit Kurashiki for a walking tour. In Kobe, there are options for a city tour or a land excursion to Kyoto's famous temples. Travelers disembark in Osaka before enjoying two nights in Tokyo, staying at a hotel of their choice, with guided city tours including Meiji Shrine and the Edo Museum, and a farewell dinner with a sumo wrestling demonstration.
Tauck will offer three Sakura Seas itineraries next year: two eastbound (Seoul to Tokyo) sailings on April 10 and 26, and one westbound (Tokyo to Seoul) sailing on April 19. Tauck's fare includes all shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), airport transfers, taxes, and more.
New Arctic and Northern Lights Itinerary
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Arctic landscapes of northern Norway, Tauck's new Arctic Days & Northern Lights offers a 12-day exploration of the region's cultural and natural wonders, highlighting prime opportunities to witness one of nature's most mesmerizing spectacles: the Northern Lights.
The cruise departs aboard Ponant's Explorer-class ship, Le Lapérouse, from Tromsø, Norway's vibrant Arctic urban center, following the country's rugged Arctic coastline. Carefully selected stops offer unique opportunities to connect with indigenous cultures, explore historical sites, and marvel at the celestial dance of the Northern Lights. Due to high demand, all 2026 Arctic Days and Northern Lights are now sold out, with a waitlist available for interested travelers.
CRUISES ON SMALL SHIPS REACH HISTORIC RECORDS
In total, Tauck will offer 133 departures on 20 different itineraries aboard 20 small ocean-going ships next year, in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and Antarctica.
“Our guests seek memorable and enriching experiences in fascinating destinations, where they can forge meaningful connections with local cultures and fellow travelers,” said Jennifer Tombaugh, CEO of Tauck. “In addition to offering a more personalized experience, our smaller-ship cruises access smaller ports and allow for those authentic cultural encounters that our travelers value so much. It’s the difference between simply visiting a destination and truly immersing yourself in its culture, history, and natural beauty.”.
Tauck’s “Small is Big” philosophy continues to shape its product strategy in 2026, delivering travel experiences that prioritize personalization, access, and connection over scale. This concept is also reflected in Tauck’s land-based travel—with the introduction of smaller and smaller group tours—and its European river cruises, where the company intentionally limits ship capacity to include more suites and more spacious common areas.
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