Bigger isn’t always better. That’s something many cruisers discover after trying a small ship for the first time.
Mega ships might impress with water parks, huge theatres and endless restaurants. But small ships offer something very different. Quieter decks. Hidden destinations. Service that feels genuinely personal.
And once you experience that style of cruising, the big ships can suddenly feel very different. So what are the things small-ship cruisers really struggle with when they go back?
1. Personalised Service
Small ships excel in offering a personal touch. With a higher crew-to-guest ratio than on big ships, the service feels more attentive.
You’ll find that the crew remember your name, your dietary requirements and even your favourite drink. This makes every moment onboard feel special, unlike the anonymous feel of larger vessels.
2. Building Connections with Fellow Travellers
The intimate setting of a small ship makes it easy to form connections. You see the same people day after day, making it easy to continue the conversation about how much you’re both enjoying the cruise.
You’ll bond over shared experiences, like exploring a quaint village or watching a stunning sunset. And if you want to enjoy dinner with another couple you’ve met onboard, it’s usually easy to arrange. These connections can often lead to lasting friendships.
3. Unique Itineraries and Hidden Destinations
Small ships have the freedom to visit remote places that larger ships can’t reach. Think secluded beaches, charming villages and lesser-known ports. You’ll experience the local culture without battling the crowds, making each stop more memorable.
4. Flexibility to Adapt to Changes
Smaller ships can sometimes be more flexible with their itineraries, especially when visiting quieter ports and secluded anchorages.
Some cruise lines like SeaDream Yacht Club will even ask the guests where they would like to go on their next cruise, and can design itineraries to make your dreams come true.
Of course, changes are always subject to the weather, port regulations and the captain’s decisions. But with fewer passengers and less reliance on large cruise terminals, smaller ships can sometimes offer a little more freedom.
5. Activities Without the Queues
Forget long queues and wait times. Yachts from lines such as SeaDream, Star Clippers and Ritz-Carlton offer activities like snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding, sometimes directly from a marina platform at the back of the ship.
Not every activity is available on every ship, and watersports depend on the weather and local regulations. But when conditions are right, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the ocean without the crowds.
6. Onboard Experiences Beyond the Ordinary
Small ships often host unique activities such as cooking classes, wine tastings and intimate music performances. Whether on board or on land, these experiences add a special touch, creating memories that last far beyond the trip.
7. Everything Is Steps Away
Forgot your sunglasses? You’re always just moments away from your cabin. The same can’t be said of a megaship, where it could take ten minutes each way, should you need to go back and get something.
8. No Crowds, No Chaos
Small ships are a haven for those who want to avoid crowds. No fighting for a deck chair, no lines at the buffet, and no jostling for a spot by the pool – there’s enough space for everyone! It’s all about a peaceful, relaxed environment.
9. Nature at Your Fingertips
With smaller ships, you’re closer to nature. You might spot dolphins swimming alongside the ship, or watch a breathtaking sunrise over the bay. This adds a special dimension to the cruising experience.
10. Authentic Local Experiences
Smaller vessels often focus on immersing guests in local culture with private tours, market visits and traditional performances. You’ll get a genuine feel for the destinations you visit, far from the touristy experiences common on bigger ships.
11. Menus Can Be Adjusted to Your Needs
With thousands of mouths to feed, big ships have to prepare much of their catering in advance. While they can accommodate dietary requirements, you might need to arrange special meals ahead of time.
On smaller luxury ships, there’s often more flexibility. Some lines, such as SeaDream, prepare meals fresh to order and can adapt dishes to suit individual preferences.
As a vegan, I despise having to pre-order food the night before, especially when there’s a choice of dining venues and I don’t know where I’ll be. I’ve found this much easier on small luxury ships, where chefs can often accommodate requests without advance notice.
Suggested read: The Best Cruise Lines For Vegans
12. Shorter Embarkation and Disembarkation Times
Embarking and disembarking a large cruise ship can take ages, but small ships make it a breeze. You’ll spend more time enjoying your trip and less time waiting in lines. And when a tender boat is needed to take you ashore, you’ll usually have far fewer passengers competing for a place. You may still have to wait, but it’s often a much quicker process than getting thousands of people off a mega ship.
13. More Environmentally Conscious Options
Some small-ship cruise lines are doing interesting things to reduce their environmental impact, from using alternative propulsion systems to limiting their impact on the destinations they visit.
Star Clippers is a great example. Its traditional sailing ships use wind power whenever possible, reducing their reliance on engines.
Of course, smaller doesn’t automatically mean greener. A large cruise ship can sometimes be more fuel-efficient per passenger, so it’s worth looking at what individual cruise lines are doing rather than judging them purely on ship size.
Should You Make the Switch?
Switching from a big cruise ship to a smaller yacht or river cruise might seem like a leap, but it’s one that many never regret. Smaller ships offer more intimacy, unique destinations and personalised service to create a truly special experience.
If you’re looking for a new way to explore the seas, stepping down in size could be the upgrade you never knew you needed.
So next time you’re planning a cruise, consider going small. You might just find that less really is more!
TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!
Don’t miss these offers…
