Have Cruise Lines Gone Too Far With NEW Mega Ships?
One of the most debated topics in the cruising world is whether ships have simply become too big. Opinions are divided with massive floating cities like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and Carnival’s Excel-class ships leading the industry. While larger ships offer many dining options, bars, activities, and cutting-edge entertainment, some cruisers believe they come at the cost of personal service, intimacy, and overall comfort. So, how do large ships stack up against smaller, more traditional vessels? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which cruising experience is right for you. We recently sailed on Navigator of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s more modest cruise ships. We'd sailed This third-class ship from Royal coming off of Icon and Oasis class. It was an opportunity to see what Royal’s smaller ships offered. Having only sailed the largest and second largest cruise ships in the world,d we wanted to investigate and see what it was like. We’ve sailed Carnival cruise lines smallest to current largest (excel class) ships for many years. The biggest difference on Carnival has been capacity, with Excel class cramming in way more passengers than the crew can handle. We’ve covered Carnival Jubilee extensively here, so check out if you want more details. Though not a Carnival Vs. Royal issue, we’ve also covered that topic (click here if you want to learn more).
Large Versus Small Cruise Ships, which is better?
The Case for Large Cruise Ships
1. Endless Activities and Entertainment If you’re someone who loves variety, large cruise ships are hard to beat. The sheer number of activities, thrills, and shows on these ships ensures there’s never a dull moment. Here are just a few perks of sailing on a mega-ship:
Dining Options Galore: From celebrity chef restaurants to global food courts and specialty dining, large ships offer a culinary experience unlike any other.
Bars and Nightlife: Themed bars, live music venues, comedy clubs, and even speakeasies allow you to drink around the ship in style.
Thrill-Seeking Activities: Think water parks, zip lines, bumper cars, skydiving simulators, and surf simulators – the innovation is endless.
Broadway-Style Entertainment: Shows on larger ships rival performances you’d see on land. Think Cats or Hairspray in a world-class theater.
For families and adventure-seekers, these floating resorts are an absolute dream. Every day brings a new experience, and boredom is virtually impossible.
2. Space and Variety On larger ships, the additional square footage translates to space and options. With neighborhoods or zones like Central Park on Royal Caribbean or Carnival’s Celebration Central, you can find pockets of calm to escape the crowds. Plus, there are endless itineraries, stateroom choices, and suite perks for those looking to splurge.
3. Cutting-Edge Tech and Design Larger ships often feature new technology that improves the guest experience. From app-based reservations to interactive screens for navigation, these ships are designed to move tens of thousands of passengers with efficiency and ease.
The Downsides of Larger Ships
However, bigger isn’t always better. Many seasoned cruisers believe larger ships come with notable drawbacks:
Crowds and Long Lines: Even with careful crowd management, the sheer number of passengers (sometimes over 6,000) can feel overwhelming during peak times, whether it’s waiting for an elevator or finding a poolside lounger.
Service May Suffer: Some argue that service feels less personal on mega-ships due to higher staff-to-guest ratios. While large ships have incredible crews, smaller ships often provide more opportunities for personalized interactions.
Port Limitations: Massive vessels can only dock at certain ports, which means you might miss out on smaller, more intimate destinations that mid-sized or small ships can access.
The Charm of Smaller Cruise Ships
1. Intimate Atmosphere Smaller ships prioritize intimacy and comfort over size and thrills. With fewer passengers onboard (sometimes under 1,000), the ship feels like a private club where you can develop real connections with fellow travelers and the crew.
2. Exceptional Service With fewer passengers to attend to, staff on smaller ships often go the extra mile. Many cruisers rave about the warm, personal service they receive, from learning your name to remembering your favorite drink.
3. Unique Ports and Itineraries Smaller ships can visit ports that mega-ships simply can’t. Think idyllic bays, hidden islands, and charming towns that provide a more immersive cultural experience.
4. Relaxed Experience If you prefer a laid-back cruise without the hustle and bustle, smaller ships provide a peaceful retreat. There are fewer lines, less crowding, and a focus on relaxation rather than action-packed thrills.
Downsides of Smaller Ships
Smaller ships, while charming, do have their limitations:
Fewer Amenities: You won’t find water parks, zip lines, or a dozen dining options on a smaller vessel.
Less Entertainment: While smaller ships may have excellent live music or shows, don’t expect Broadway-style productions or massive theaters.
Potential for Motion: Smaller ships can feel more movement, which may be a consideration for travelers prone to seasickness.
Which Ship Size is Right for You?
Choose a Large Cruise Ship If:
You love adventure, thrills, and non-stop entertainment.
You’re traveling with kids or a multigenerational group.
You want access to world-class dining, shows, and tech-forward amenities.
Crowds and walking long distances don’t bother you.
Choose a Smaller Cruise Ship If:
You value intimacy, relaxation, and personal service.
You want to visit unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
You’re a seasoned cruiser looking for a more boutique experience.
You prefer fewer crowds and a slower-paced environment.
Final Thoughts
Both large and small cruise ships offer incredible experiences – it all depends on what kind of vacation you’re looking for. If you want thrills, entertainment, and endless options, the larger ships are perfect for you. But if you crave intimacy, unique itineraries, and a personal touch, the charm of smaller ships might win you over.
The great news? There’s no wrong answer. With so many ships of varying sizes and styles in the cruising industry, there’s a perfect fit for every type of traveler.
What do you think? Have cruise ships become too big, or do you love the endless options onboard these mega-vessels? Let me know in the comments below!