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Ship size makes
a big difference
Each size has its positives and negatives. The right choice depends on your
priorities.
Advantages of
a small and
midsize ship
over a large one
 Your guides
- They will
likely be more
knowledgeable. And, they can spend more one-on-one time with you because the
passenger-to-guide ratio will be lower.
Landings
and onboard
activities - You get to make Zodiac rides and landings. And shipboard
activities are less regimented.
Shipmates
- If
you want to be with shipmates who are sophisticated travelers keen on learning
about Antarctica, you are more apt to find them on a small or midsize ship.
Lecturers
- The
onboard lecturers generally have better credentials and teaching skills.
Service
- You
receive a more personalized service from the ship's staff.
Destinations
- Small
and midsize ships can explore less visited areas because they can go in shallow waters where big ships cannot sail.
Special
interests - Small
and midsized ships can better cater to special interest adventure groups (such as kayakers).
Advantages of
a large ship
over a
small or midsize one
Sea
passage - You
will have a smoother sail. This is important (especially to the seasick-prone)
because the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica is notorious for
its turbulence. Moreover, it takes the average ship about two days to cross it. A large ship gets tossed around less and,
because of its greater speed, spends less time on the Drake Passage.
Sense
of safety - Larger
ships give passengers a greater sense of being safe on the high seas. This is not necessarily valid, but
it does provide a psychological benefit.
Public
space size - Passengers
feel less confined because public spaces are larger.
Cabin
size - The
typical cabin is larger.
Onboard
entertainment - There
is a wider
variety of shipboard activities.
Cost
- The
average cost per passenger is usually lower (but this is not the same as value,
which takes into account factors like the adventures you will experience).
Click these buttons
for more tips & insights
Pages specific to the
Minerva cruise ship
Antarctica cruises
in general
 
Clickable Antarctica
wonder map
My "What it's Like"
cruise ship sections
 to
view
My general
cruise ship section
Click the button below for Regent's website for Minerva itineraries with maps, a list of
cruise-specialist travel agents near you, plus other useful trip-planning
information.
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