Big Ship Or Small Ship?

This might sound a silly question, after all there are many factors on why people book a particular cruise.  It could be the itinerary, price, departure date, but it can also be based on what is the ship like? What has it got to offer you?  I often get asked for my own personal views, which I am always more then happy to give – so here are some of the pros and cons of big or small!

Big Ships

Pros:

If a busy and bustling atmosphere is what you enjoy, a big ship could be the place for you. For example some  ships carry over 5000 people!

If you do ever get fed up of eating in the same restaurant night after night, larger ships provide lots of options. For example, Italian, Sushi etc the possibilities are almost endless, even if your a “picky” eater.

The entertainment on larger ships are fantastic. They have everything that could entertain you from comedy acts, big broadway shows, movies under the stars etc.

The activities on bigger ships are almost endless from water slides, rock climbing, ice skating, golf, gym, to name but a  few. If you are taking children I can guarantee they will never be bored!

Cons:

The number of passengers on large ships can be a little overwhelming. With so many people on board be prepared to queue at times.

Sometimes you may find it difficult to get booked into the speciality restaurants. My tip to overcome this would be to book before you go.

To be honest, I cant find a con for the entertainment/activities.

Now for the smaller ships.

Pros:

Smaller ships obviously carry fewer passengers. You will probably get to see the same faces over again and get to know them very well.

Some of the smaller ships will only have one restaurant, so if you like sitting down at the same time with the same people this may suit you.

The smaller ships do not have the variety of entertainment as the larger ships have. Some will bring on board local performers to entertain you. They also may hold discussions on such things as history of the area, photography etc.

Smaller ships do tend to  concentrate on the destinations they visit and focus on the culture. Another “plus” is being a small ship does mean they can call on more remote ports that simply cant accommodate the larger ships.

Cons:

Some people may be a little too loud or irritate you. In a small ship you may not always be able to avoid them!

You may find the menus are limited if you only have the one restaurant.

The entertainment can be quite limited, however if all you want is too find a cozy quiet spot this would not be a problem!

Everybody is different, big ships will suit some people and small ships will suit others.  If you are unsure which way to go have a look at our forum on our website – www.cruise.co.uk/forum. 

This is a great way to read other peoples thoughts and share some of your own.  Good luck!