Thanks to those who messaged me on Facebook to let me know what you’re interested in reading when it comes to cruising, this post compares small ships to big ships and looks at the pros and cons of both.
I think I must be ambidextrous. I like big and small ships, having sailed on both on several occasions. They both have their pros – and their cons.
I have been on at least a dozen cruises now so have put together lots of tips for first time cruisers. You might like to read my easy cruise packing list to ensure you don’t leave anything vital at home.
Plus this is a hugely popular post : 17 things NOT to do on a cruise. It is filled with practical advice to ensure your cruise goes as smoothly as possible and you don’t end up wasting time or money.
So to help you decide which ship is right for you, read on to see what to expect.
Size matters!
The size of ship affects many aspects of your cruise: the number of passengers you’ll be holidaying with, the amount of activities onboard, the amount of restaurants and therefore food choices available, the price, the ports you’ll call at and the ambience.
So let’s go…
What are Big Ships like?
Firstly there are big ships and there are mega ships. Depending on what you’re after, you can voyage with 3500 or under 2000 and still be in the big ship category.
Pros of big ship cruising:
- You have a huge amount of choice when it comes to onboard activities. There will likely be a veritable theme park of water fun. From slides that twist and turn – some even over the side of the ship, to pools (plural) and watery games in designated kids areas.
- Carnival ships are known for their pools and outdoor activities like cinema under the stars.
- There will be a well-kitted out gym, a cinema, a theatre for daily and nightly shows, a casino, a library, an IT centre.
- On Holland America Line ships there is a Culinary Kitchen where free demonstration and hands-on classes are held with pro and celebrity chefs.
- Kids clubs are extremely well organised and cater for all ages up to about 17 years. You can also often use a crèche or sitter if you’d like a romantic meal away from your tots.
- Cuisine choices are vast with several restaurants, some for private dining, some all in together, plus kiosks by the pool serving snacks 24/7.
Cons of big ship cruising:
- If you’re anything like me you’ll get lost. Fortunately there are maps on the walls, but even then I get myself all turned around and can’t tell my aft from my bow. On one large ship I tied a ribbon to my cabin door handle.
- If you don’t book a balcony cabin you’ll need to bags your deck chair early.
- The entry level price is usually for an interior cabin – that means no windows.
What are Small Ships like?
Pros of small ship cruising:
- There are less people to hog the sun loungers.
- It’s much easier to meet people, many of whom are fascinating and fun (for some that might be a ‘con’, but I’ve met some fabulous people on cruises).
- The ships are usually more luxurious and that flows through to your cabin where things like iPod docks are pretty standard. The bathrooms are generous. The beds are sumptuous and if you’re on a Ponant ship you’ll be slathering yourself in Bulgari bathroom products.
- Smaller ships can access smaller ports so your itinerary will seldom run into multi-thousands of other cruisers.
- Dining is going to be gourmet rather than burgers and pizza.
- Most (I would say all, but need to cover myself) cabins will have a private balcony.
Cons of small ship cruising:
- Less onboard activities will mean you’ll have to load up your Kindle or take some books. There is likely to be a gym however and sun loungers.
- Kids are probably not going to enjoy a smaller ship as much to be honest. Unless they are huge bookworms! Some small ships do not allow children either.
- There are less dining options, but the chef will never repeat a menu.
- The price is going to reflect the boutique/luxury experience, so don’t expect a bargain.
Read 21 things to know about cruising post Covid covering new protocols, changes in dining, boarding and excursions.