Choosing the Right Ship Size and Type

The world of cruising offers great flexibility for almost every size group and type of event. Ships range from mega-sized “floating resorts” with jaw-dropping onboard experiences and plenty of choices to smaller, deluxe vessels with highly personalized service (perfectly sized for exclusive charter). Here’s a guide to each category to help you decide which is best for your group:

Mega Ships – 1,500+ sleeping rooms

These impressive ships have revolutionized the concept of cruising with innovative features like shipboard “neighborhoods” and loft suites. The mega ships offer unique recreational activities ranging from Zip Line rides suspended over nine decks and challenging ropes courses, to surf simulators and skating rinks. They boast the greatest variety of onboard dining venues and outstanding entertainment options. Planners will find dedicated conference rooms and the widest variety of meeting spaces. Because of their size, the mega ships call on the larger, more popular eastern and western Caribbean ports.

Large Ships – 800 – 1,500 sleeping rooms

These contemporary vessels feature a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues,flexible meeting space and the latest in AV equipment. Many upgraded and premium ships fall into this size category and boast well-equipped health clubs and spas, specialty restaurants, and staterooms with verandas.These seagoing resorts offer 3 to 7-night cruises to the world’s most popular destinations -the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska and the Mediterranean.

Mid-Sized Ships – 300 – 800 sleeping rooms

Mid-sized ships range from classic style to sleek and contemporary. These ships often fall in the “upper premium” category and can offer a high degree of service, more inclusions, and greater exclusivity than the larger vessels. Most have ample activities and entertainment, as well as several venues suitable for group events. They typically feature gourmet restaurants and a more subdued, intimate onboard ambiance. Ideal for cruise ship charter, these ships offer a greater variety of destinations than the larger ships and mega-liners.

Small Ships – 150 to 300 sleeping rooms

Most of these ships cater to the sophisticated, well-traveled passenger and provide the highest level of service, fine dining and deluxe amenities. Many vessels in this category are super-premium or luxury, boasting all-suite accommodations, Butler service, and a truly all-inclusive experience. They are excellent for private cruise ship charters for groups of up to 600. Because of their small size, these vessels often feature more exotic itineraries in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.

Intimate Ships – Fewer than 150 sleeping rooms