Tauck’s 2026 Ocean Cruising Plans: Immerse Yourself in Japan, Korea, and the Arctic

If you’re after an ocean journey that’s as intimate as it is immersive, Tauck’s 2026 small-ship ocean cruising plans are sure to pique your interest. With a “small is big” philosophy that promises deeper connections and more meaningful experiences, Tauck is set to launch 133 departures across 20 carefully designed itineraries on 20 elegant small ships. Among these, two new sailings are turning heads: the Sakura Seas: Japan & South Korea itinerary and the Arctic Days & Northern Lights adventure. Let’s dive into what makes these voyages so special.

Sakura Seas: Japan & South Korea – A Journey of Culture and Culinary Delights

Tauck is unveiling its first-ever itinerary featuring Seoul, inviting guests to explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and tantalising cuisine of South Korea and Japan. This 14-day expedition kicks off in Seoul, where you’ll enjoy an initial three-night stay at your choice of the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul, Conrad Seoul, or Four Seasons Seoul. Wander through history with guided visits to the stunning 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace and the poignant Korean War Memorial Museum, and take in the charm of a traditional Hanok village and bustling local markets.

After soaking up the capital’s energy, you’ll hop on a high-speed bullet train to Busan before boarding Ponant’s elegant 184-passenger vessel, Le Soléal. The adventure continues with an eight-night cruise through some of Japan’s most captivating stops:

• Sakaiminato: Choose from a variety of activities in this lively fishing port.
• Hagi and Beppu: Discover the remnants of samurai-era homes, castle ruins, and world-famous pottery, or indulge in the rejuvenating hot springs and scenic geothermal sites.
• Uwajima: Enjoy excursions to a pearl farm or a traditional garden complete with calligraphy demonstrations and tea ceremonies.
• Miyajima Island: Marvel at the iconic floating torii gate before moving on to Hiroshima, where visits to the Peace Memorial and Atomic Bomb Museum offer profound historical insights.
• Tamano and Kobe: From cycling tours to art explorations and local city trips, each port is designed for a rich cultural engagement.
• Tokyo: Conclude your journey with two nights in the capital, featuring guided city tours that include stops at the Meiji Shrine, Edo Museum, and even a farewell dinner complete with a sumo wrestling demonstration.

Tauck is offering three departures for the Sakura Seas itinerary next year—two eastbound (Seoul-to-Tokyo) on April 10 and 26, and one westbound (Tokyo-to-Seoul) on April 19. And here’s the best part: the price includes all shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages (for all ages), airport transfers, plus all taxes and fees. It’s a truly thorough package for anyone keen to explore the best of East Asia in comfort.

Arctic Days & Northern Lights – A Spellbinding Arctic Adventure

Craving a dash of dramatic natural beauty? Set against the breathtaking backdrop of northern Norway’s Arctic landscape, Tauck’s new Arctic Days & Northern Lights itinerary is a 12-day journey designed to marvel at one of nature’s most spectacular shows—the Aurora Borealis.

Departing from Tromsø, Norway’s vibrant Arctic hub, you’ll sail aboard Ponant’s Explorer-class ship Le Lapérouse along Norway’s rugged Arctic coast. Every carefully curated stop offers unique opportunities to:

• Connect with indigenous cultures,
• Explore historic sites, and
• Witness the celestial dance of the northern lights against dramatic, glacier-carved landscapes.

Due to exceptional demand, all 2026 sailings of Arctic Days & Northern Lights have already sold out, with a waitlist available for keen travellers eager to secure a spot on this unforgettable voyage.

Small Ships, Big Adventures

Tauck’s “Small is Big” approach is all about enhancing your travel experience. By travelling on smaller vessels, you gain access to hidden gems and intimate harbours that larger ships just can’t reach—ensuring that you’re not merely visiting a destination, but truly immersing yourself in its culture, history, and natural beauty. As Tauck CEO Jennifer Tombaugh puts it:

“Our guests are seeking memorable, life-enhancing experiences in fascinating destinations where they can forge meaningful bonds with local cultures and their fellow travellers.”

With record sales already nearly 20% ahead of 2025, it’s clear that travellers are craving these deeper, more personalised adventure experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant charm of East Asia or the raw, enchanting beauty of the Arctic, Tauck’s 2026 ocean cruise programmes offer something uniquely captivating.

Ready to Set Sail?

If you’re after an ocean voyage that blends adventure, cultural immersion, and luxury in equal measure, consider Tauck’s 2026 small-ship ocean cruising plans. With itineraries like Sakura Seas and Arctic Days & Northern Lights, you’ll be in the perfect position to create life-long memories and forge genuine connections with both the places you visit and your fellow travellers.

So why not take the plunge and discover where small can really be big? Whether it’s exploring the bustling streets of Seoul or gazing up at the shimmering northern lights, your next extraordinary journey awaits—ready to turn your travel dreams into cherished experiences.