The charm of small-ship cruising is that most passengers spend the majority of their time on deck enjoying the fabulous scenery and interacting with other guests. If this sounds like the vacation you've dreamed of, then look no further; the Nantucket Clipper is for you. The ship is adequate and comfortable but by no means showy or ostentatious. This is a cruise for people who are really interested in the destination. An extensive reading list is sent well ahead of time so passengers are up to speed on many of the subjects that will be covered by the historians and naturalists during the cruise. Intellectuals love it! Even if time prohibits extensive reading before the trip, it is still a wonderful experience. The ship is more like a large yacht and motorized landing craft make it possible to get to the smallest cove or beach.