Cruising’s Biggest Question: Small Cruise Ships vs Large Cruise Ships
Thinking about a cruise but overwhelmed by the options and worried about being lost in a sea of people? As a travel advisor (and self-professed small ship fan!), I hear this all the time:
“I just don’t want to cruise with thousands of people crammed together!”
It’s one of the top reasons people hesitate to book a cruise, but the reality might surprise you.
Let’s break down the differences (and the perks!) of both small ship and mega cruise experiences, so you can set sail with total confidence.
What Is a Mega Cruise Ship?
When you picture a cruise, do you imagine a floating city? You’re thinking of a mega ship, think Royal Caribbean’s record-breakers, carrying 4,000–7,000 guests and brimming with restaurants, pools, zip lines, and even ice rinks. Even Celebrity Cruises, my pick for a more “premium” big ship, offers ships with all the amenities (but usually with fewer guests and a calmer vibe, def more my vibe).
Why choose a mega ship?
- Endless choices: Dozens of dining options, Broadway-style shows, waterslides, casinos, spas, and more.
- Surprising space: Despite their size, mega cruise ships are designed to spread people out, so it rarely feels “packed”, especially if you avoid peak pool hours! It’s no different than being at an all-inclusive resort, very spread out and not crowded.
- Something for everyone: Perfect for families, groups, and multi-gen trips, with plenty of adults-only retreats and kid-free sanctuaries (hello, Solarium!).
- Great value: Often lower per-night costs with tons of included entertainment.
Crowds & Kids: The Real Talk
If you’re worried about crowds, know this: you can find quiet spaces (think spa, specialty dining, or a cozy bar), but yes, on a ship with 5,000+ guests, you’ll definitely see people everywhere, especially at the buffet or during big shows.
Love kids? Great, there’s plenty for families! Prefer peace and quiet? Consider sailing outside school holidays, booking a suite in a “ship within a ship” enclave, or sticking to adults-only areas. Even Disney Cruise Lines has a great adults-only area with bars and restaurants!
Want more on adults-only escapes? Check out my post on all-inclusive adults-only resorts.
Midsize Ships: The Goldilocks Option
Not sure you’re ready for a tiny ship, but mega-ships feel overwhelming? There’s a “just right” option in the world of midsize luxury cruises. Think of lines like Oceania Cruises (under 1,000 guests, foodie heaven!) or Azamara (about 700 guests, famous for immersive excursions, overnights in port, and even specialty golf cruises) and the brand new luxury Explora Journeys (900 guests). These lines blend the best of both worlds: luxurious touches, more space per guest, and itineraries that go far beyond the typical ports.
- Oceania Cruises: Renowned for its fine dining, country club casual vibe, and ships that carry 650–1,250 guests, never overwhelming, always refined. Tagline: Finest Cuisine at Sea
- Azamara: The queen of destination immersion! With ships around 700 guests, Azamara is beloved for longer stays in port, more overnights, unique excursions, and specialty themed sailings (like golf cruises for your bucket list).
- Explora Journeys: Luxurious yacht-like experiences that offer all-suite accomodations, exceptional dining, personalized service, and all-inclusive luxury.
What Sets Small Ships and River Cruises Apart?
Now, let’s talk small ships, my personal favorite! Windstar Cruises (my #1 pick!) sails with just 148–342 guests. Think yachting, not floating city. River cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways also fit this boutique vibe, with sleek ships built for less than 200 guests.
Why choose a small ship or river cruise?
- No crowds, ever: With fewer guests and an attentive crew, everything feels calm and uncrowded,lounges, pool, dining, even the tender boats!
- Unique ports: Small ships and river cruises dock in the heart of the world’s best towns, think tucked-away Greek islands or right in the middle of Vienna. You’ll see places the mega ships can’t reach.
- Upscale, intimate vibe: Personal service, no lines, and often more inclusive pricing (think wine with dinner, excursions, or even butler service!).
- Mostly adults: While not always “adults-only,” you’ll rarely find crowds of kids onboard. River cruises, especially, are very adult-centric; most don’t allow kids under 8, but they’ll make exceptions.
- Easy onboard life: No reservations for shows or dining, no waiting for elevators, no fighting for a pool chair.
Curious about the small ship vs river cruise experience? Dive deeper into River vs Ocean Cruising
Small Ship vs Mega Cruise vs Midsize: A Handy Comparison
| Feature | Mega Cruise Ship | Midsize Ship (Ex. Oceania/Azamara) | Small Ship / River Cruise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guest Count | 2,500–7,000+ | 700–1,250 | 100–350 (small), 100–200 (river) |
| Crowds | Can be busy at times | Rarely feels crowded | Almost never feels crowded |
| Dining | Dozens of options, variety | Fewer venues, world-class quality | Intimate, gourmet, often included |
| Entertainment | Broadway shows, waterparks, casinos, ice rinks | Enrichment, live music, themed events | Local culture, enrichment, music |
| Ports | Big cities, less “hidden” | Unique ports, more overnights, golf | Small towns, city centers, hidden gems, dock in city center, easy on and off |
| Atmosphere | Lively, energetic, family | Relaxed, country club, immersive | Boutique, adult-friendly, refined |
| Price | Great value, more extras | Premium, semi-inclusive, luxury | Premium, often more inclusive |
So, Which Cruise Is Right for You?
Choose a Mega Cruise Ship if:
- You want endless choices and a “floating city” experience.
- You’re traveling with kids or a big group.
- You love nightlife, shows, and adventure.
- You want great value for your vacation dollar.
Try a Midsize Ship if:
- You’re looking for a “Goldilocks” ship, not too big, not too small.
- You want luxury, space, and exceptional food, but still some variety.
- You want unique ports, immersive excursions, and maybe even a themed sailing (like Azamara’s golf cruises!).
Book a Small Ship or River Cruise if:
- You crave intimacy, personal service, and adult-centric relaxation.
- You want to visit hidden gems and get close to the action in each port.
- You dislike crowds and prefer a more “boutique” feel.
- You want everything included and handled,just show up and enjoy!
- You’ve “been there done that” with the mega ships and ready to try something new.
Still not sure? Don’t worry, I’m here to help! Click here to grab my “Small Ship vs Big Ship” guide and find your perfect match.
Want to Experience Both Worlds? Cruise With GG!
Curious to experience the magic of small ship cruising for yourself? Why not join me on one of my hosted group cruises! In April 2026, I’m hosting a dreamy small ship adventure to Greece, think hidden islands, stunning sunsets, and all the Windstar charm.
Or, if a fairytale holiday is more your style, sail with me on our Christmas Markets River Cruise along the Danube in December 2026. Both trips offer all the personal touches, insider tips, and fun community you expect when you cruise with GG! Want details? Click here to learn more and reserve your spot.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Crowd Myths Keep You Home!
If you’ve ever said, “Cruising isn’t for me because of the crowds and the chaos,” I promise, there’s a cruise style out there that fits you perfectly.
From the yacht life on Windstar to the immersive itineraries of Azamara, the foodie dream of Oceania, the all-adult river cruise scene, and even the family fun of Royal Caribbean, you’ve got options!
Have a large family or group of friends, I can even help you charter you own yacht in the Caribbean or Croatia!!!
Just my personal GG, your Travel Bestie’s, advice – I have loved cruising my entire life, since I was a little girl. And love the huge mega ships, but once I went on a small ship, my eyes were completely opened! It’s hard to go back once you’ve experienced the small ship feel with the incredible service, food, excursions, and more. But, I do still love Celebrity for the larger ships and Windstar for the small ships. I am here to help you choose the best one for YOU!
Ready to set sail? Let’s chat, and I’ll help you discover the cruise that feels made for you.
