Pros and Cons of Large and Small Ship Cruises

The question for many cruisers is whether a large or a small ship cruise is better. With the number of amenities offered on both types, entertainment options, and a dizzying number of activities, you don’t know which option is better. While small cruises might be more exclusive and opt for a more intimate experience, and large ships feature a more luxurious and grandeur feel, the decision can be hard. On the other hand, there are charter cruises that offer a lot of these perks as well. We’ve compiled a list of pros and cons for each cruise so you can consider them before making the decision. 

Large Ship Cruises

 

Passengers – Pros and Cons

If you are someone who doesn’t mind big crowds, the big ship is the perfect place for you. These large ships usually carry more than 5000 passengers per sailing, and it’s unlikely you’ll see the same person twice. There are a lot of lounges, bars, and nooks where you can find the spot for you.

This is an advantage for people who enjoy being with people and find meeting new people appealing. The con of sailing with such a ship is that it doesn’t feel very intimate. It can be overwhelming due to the long waiting lines at the buffet, finding a chair at the pool, etc.

Activities – Pros and Cons

One of the best things about large ships is that you can have a lot of activities like skydiving, rope courses, waterslides and many more. These will keep you busy while onboard. And since there is something to choose for everyone, it’s a great option to consider. You can play bingo with grandma, have a dinner show with the parents, etc.

The disadvantage of this has too many choices. Those people who can’t make up their minds with all of those activities will end up bored and get a head spin.

Dining – Pros and Cons

If you are bored eating in the same dining room, you can switch it up easily. You can have Italian food one night, sushi the other one, and try French cuisine the next one. You can enjoy a piece of seafood or steak afterward. The possibilities are endless; you just need to enjoy the food. And it’s great for picky eaters. Or for anyone traveling with one.

The possibilities are endless; you just need to enjoy the food. And it’s great for picky eaters. Or for anyone traveling with one. Also, fresh water is something that everyone get for granted on land, but on cruise ships you need to buy it. Large cruise ships sometimes need a specialized water delivery service at sea, so the price can be even higher than usual. And reservations can be difficult to make for more exclusive options. So if you want to visit a particular dining place, make sure you book in advance.

Entertainment – Pros and Cons

Larger ship cruises are full of entertainment activities. Dancing classes, magicians, dinner theater productions, movies, and all that will always keep you busy and entertained. You can be a witness to Broadway revues and game shows. It’s just amazing how many options you get to choose to attend to.

And since sometimes it’s difficult to decide what you want to do or where you want to go, it can be nerve-wracking. Should you watch a movie? Or attend a karaoke? Some of these events come with additional fees, so make sure you choose those of your highest interest.

Small Ship Cruises

 

Passengers – Pros and Cons

Small ship cruises carry fewer passengers than larger ones. You will likely see familiar faces on board every time you cross the dining room. And you might even end up being good friends with someone from the other part of the world.

The con of the small cruise regarding the passengers is that for someone who wants to go low profile, it can be hard to achieve it on such a cruise. Some annoying passengers can ruin your trip with some of their requests, loud proclamations, and temper.

Activities – Pros and Cons

Smaller ships do not offer a lot of activities like large ships. The sailing mainly focuses on the final destination instead of the amenities. While there are some things you can do to keep yourself entertained, it’s more exciting to visit some places and stop in particular parts of the world. Since large ships do not stop at such places, small ships can offer excursions to local places, so you can learn more about the culture and history of a certain region. And smaller ships can deck on more remote ports, unlike the large ships. One of the most exciting small-ship cruise destinations is Dubrovnik, Croatia. This charming city is full of history and culture, and exciting Dubrovnik cruises offer plenty of activities to keep passengers occupied. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining, and passengers can relax on one of the city’s many beaches. For those looking for a little adventure, there are excursions to nearby islands or kayaking trips along the coast. 

While visiting many places can be overwhelming and exciting, it’s often exhausting. You might end up feeling like you need another vacation, even if you are on vacation. Prepare to spend some days on board, relaxing and enjoying before you go on such a trip because it can get hectic.

Dining – Pros and Cons

Many small ships have limited space and thus only one dining room. This means you will have to spend your time there every day during lunchtime. Sometimes, there are only set times with set tablemates when you are allowed to eat. 

The con is that the menu can be quite poor compared to the large ships. Do not get me wrong, the food still is good, and there are a lot of options to choose from, but it’s quite slim. And there might even be a shortage of alternative restaurants. If you like variety and you want to try different foods, this may be troubling for you.

Entertainment- Pros and Cons

There are some entertainment options in the small ships as well. You can find a variety of options to choose from. You can attend magician shows, spend some time and money in the casinos, enjoy a theater show and even attend some educational events. The small ships often provide seminars on local culture, photography, and much more.

The only disadvantage of the entertainment options is in the area of interest for you. You might find the culture and the history boring or it will not interest you at all. Be prepared for everything.