What Are the Different Sizes of Cruise Ships?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to cruising, the size of the ship can make a huge difference in your overall experience. From intimate river cruises to megaships with thousands of passengers, there are many different sizes of cruise ships to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore the different sizes of cruise ships and what you can expect from each.

Small Cruise Ships

Small cruise ships typically carry fewer than 250 passengers and offer a more intimate, personalized experience. These ships are often used for expedition-style cruises in remote destinations like Alaska or the Galapagos Islands. They may have basic amenities like a lounge, restaurant, and outdoor deck space, but don’t expect the same level of luxury as larger ships.

Benefits of Small Cruise Ships

  • Intimate atmosphere
  • Personalized service
  • Access to remote destinations
  • Closer wildlife encounters on expedition-style cruises

Mid-Size Cruise Ships

Mid-size cruise ships typically carry between 250 and 1,000 passengers and offer a balance between intimacy and onboard amenities. These ships often have multiple dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities like pools and spas. You’ll still get a more personalized experience than on a megaship, but with more options for things to do.

Benefits of Mid-Size Cruise Ships

  • A good balance between intimacy and onboard amenities
  • Multiple dining options
  • Entertainment venues and recreational activities like pools and spas.
  • Moderate passenger count means less crowding in public areas.

Megaships

Megaships are the largest cruise ships, typically carrying 1,000 to 5,000 passengers or more. These ships offer an overwhelming array of onboard amenities, including multiple restaurants, bars and lounges, theaters, casinos, shopping malls and even ice-skating rinks. They are like floating cities with something for everyone.

Benefits of Megaships

  • Endless onboard amenities and activities
  • Multiple dining options ranging from casual to fine dining
  • Entertainment venues including theaters and nightclubs
  • Spacious staterooms with modern furnishings and high-end amenities.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to choosing the right size cruise ship for your vacation, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and what you want out of your experience. Small cruise ships offer an intimate setting with personalized service while megaships have endless amenities to keep you entertained.

Mid-size ships offer a balance between the two. No matter what size ship you choose, there’s a cruise out there that’s perfect for you!