More cruise insights

Ship-size
advantages
& disadvantages

Large versus small ships

Mega-sized cruise ships offer more activities, have less pitch, roll & yaw (vessel movements caused by waves), and are better suited for families and first-time cruisers. Small cruise ships have a more sophisticated clientele, a more personalized service, are more low-keyed, and visit less touristy ports of call.

Typical cruise length

The most common duration is 7 days. Next comes 4 and 3 days (popular with young and family cruisers). 10 to 14 day cruises are popular with affluent retirees, as are round-the-world itineraries, lasting 2 or more months.

There is also what is called a "Cruise to Nowhere". You sail out to sea and return the next day, without even coming close to a port of call (the focus is partying or casino gambling).

Peak periods

They usually correlate with school vacations and holidays because those are the times parents can bring their kids.

Onboard reservations

Choice times for facilities like the spa are snatched up early. Reserve your time slots soon after boarding.

Pack light

Cabin storage space is skimpy - and some of it will be taken up by your suitcases.

Special needs

Cruise lines gladly accommodate special needs (such as religious diets) if notified several weeks or more before departure.

Further reading

Click my "22 cruise lines" menu link to open a web page that has direct links to websites of major cruise lines. Their websites offer the most thorough and up-to-date information on specific cruise ships.  Those websites are, of course, marketing vehicles - and, as such, are not always going to give you unbiased critiques. For unbiased critiques, I recommend Kay Showker's book, "The Unofficial Guide to Cruising" (published by John Wiley).

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