What Is the Difference Between a Cruise Ship and a Yacht?

By Michael Ferguson

A cruise ship and a yacht are two very different vessels, each with their own unique characteristics and uses. A cruise ship is a large vessel designed to carry hundreds, if not thousands of passengers on extended voyages.

Cruise ships typically have multiple decks and amenities such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, theaters, and casinos. They are also equipped with lifeboats, medical facilities, and staff quarters.

Yachts on the other hand are smaller vessels designed for luxury recreational use. Yachts typically have one or two decks and amenities such as luxurious cabins, galleys, salons, and sundecks.

They are usually equipped with smaller engines than cruise ships allowing them to maneuver more easily in shallow waters. Yachts usually carry smaller crews than cruise ships.

Size

The biggest difference between a cruise ship and a yacht is size. Cruise ships dwarf yachts in comparison; they can be up to 900 feet long while the average yacht is only around 75 feet long. The size of the cruise ship allows it to accommodate more passengers than a yacht could ever hope to hold.

Purpose

Cruise ships are designed for passenger transport while yachts are designed for recreational use by their owners or charterers. Cruise ships offer amenities that cater to passengers’ needs during their voyage while yachts provide more luxurious accommodations for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

Cost

The cost of owning or chartering either type of vessel is drastically different. A larger cruise ship can cost anywhere from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars whereas a yacht can cost anywhere from hundreds of thousands to millions depending on its size and amenities.

Conclusion

Ultimately the difference between a cruise ship and a yacht lies in their size, purpose, and cost; however, both offer unique experiences for those who choose to travel on them. Cruise ships are perfect for extended journeys with lots of people while yachts provide luxury accommodations on shorter trips.