Island Windjammers Cruises

Come prepared to socialize; with no more than 30 passengers onboard, it's hard to be anti-social on an Island Windjammers sailing. Most cruisers are a mix of solo travelers, friends traveling together and couples. While most passengers fall into the 45- to 65-year-old age range, there usually is a sprinkling of older and younger passengers. The company also attracts families onboard, as it welcomes children 8 and up year-round, except for a few themed cruises, and offers discounted youth fares in the summer. (Given the size of the ships, families often charter an entire ship -- or part of a ship -- for a family reunion.)

No, Island Windjammers wholeheartedly embraces the concept of casual cruising. Swimsuits, cover-ups and T-shirts are typical daytime attire, and dressing for dinner usually means nothing more than putting on a clean shirt.

Not quite. Island Windjammers' cruise fares include all meals and snacks, beverages (beer, wine, rum punch, soft drinks and tonic water) and the use of snorkeling equipment.

Shore excursions and gratuities cost extra, and there is no Wi-Fi onboard.

Island Windjammers' ships are intentionally short on typical cruise ship amenities, such as fitness centers and theaters, with passengers preferring to relax or if they're feeling up to it, help to raise the sails and even take a turn at the helm.

The upper deck is a popular place to congregate; passengers use its cushioned benches to chat and nap. You can also swim and snorkel directly from the ship. The more adventurous opt for the stand-up paddle-boards or the rope swing.

The flexible Windjammer schedule leaves plenty of time to explore on land, and cruisers enjoy hiking, swimming, snorkeling and checking out the colorful smaller islands the ships visit.

Best for: Those who dream of exploring the world under sail and enjoy the company of like-minded travelers

Not for: Cruisers looking for production shows, lavish onboard amenities or to be connected 24/7