Big Ship vs. Small Ship Cruising: Why Size Definitely Matters!

Rethinking the Cruise Experience: It’s Not All Mega Ships and Buffets

When most people think of cruising, they picture the big ones—the floating cities with water slides, zip lines, and thousands of people vying for pool chairs.

But let me tell you—if that kind of vacation makes you feel more claustrophobic than carefree, you’re not alone.

Not every cruise is about packed buffets and bingo at sea. And honestly? That’s where small ship cruising (especially with a line like Viking) completely shifts the game.

Because when you’re not sharing the ship with 4,000 of your closest strangers… everything changes.

Actually—some of today’s mega ships carry nearly 8,000 people. (That’s more than the entire town my oldest son lives in!)

Small Ship Cruising: Where Boutique Meets Peace of Mind

Big ships are built for volume. Thousands of passengers, multiple restaurants, massive theaters.

For some, that’s fun. For others? It’s a lot.

If you're one of those in the "it's a lot" crowd - Viking Ocean Cruises host just 930 guests. That means no waiting in long lines, no scrambling for reservations, and no crowd fatigue by Day 2.

It feels more like a boutique hotel at sea… with a staff that actually learns your name and preferences!

✅ No kids

✅ No casinos

✅ No ship photographers chasing you for staged portraits

Just pure, peaceful, grown-up luxury. Exactly what your vacation should feel like.

For the Thinkers, Learners, and Culture-Lovers

If you’re the kind of person who loves learning, who watches documentaries or listens to TED Talks just for fun—this is your kind of cruise.

With Viking, the focus is on connection and enrichment. You can:

• Sip wine under the stars

• Join a lecture on ancient Mediterranean history

• Attend a chef-led cooking demo inspired by tomorrow’s port

It’s immersive, thoughtful travel—the kind that lingers in your memory long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase.

Oh—and every single stateroom has a private balcony. No inside cabins! That’s not an upgrade. That’s just how Viking rolls.

More Time in Port, Less Time in Transit

Big cruise ships often dock far from the city, with long bus rides or crowded transfers required just to start your shore excursion.

Viking’s small ships frequently dock in smaller, more central, and often more exclusive locations—putting you right in the heart of the destination (or much closer to it than the mega ships.)

And with smaller groups, excursions usually feel more like insider access than “herded tourist” experiences.

Think wine tastings in family-owned vineyards, guided walks with local experts, and real connection with the places you came to see.

Which Cruise Style is Right for You?

There’s no shame in loving a big ship if that’s your thing.

But if you’ve ever come home from a vacation needing another vacation to recover… it might be time to rethink what cruising can really be.

Small ship cruising—especially with Viking—is for the traveler who values:

• Peace

• Depth

• Flexibility

• Personalized service

No chaos. No staged photo ops. No kids' clubs or go-kart tracks. Just beautiful destinations, real connection, and space to breathe.

No over-peopling required.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Cruise Match?

That’s exactly what we're here to do for you!

Whether you're curious about Viking Ocean Cruises or want help comparing other small ship options, we’ll guide you to the experience that fits your vision of luxury.

You just pack and show up.

We’ll take care of the rest.

Let’s make your next voyage exactly what you’re dreaming of.

If a Cruise is on your horizon, let us help you craft the perfect journey tailored to YOU.

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How We Help:

At Hamilton Luxury Travel, we take the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

We specialize in River Cruises, Small Ship Ocean and Expedition Cruises.

With our expert knowledge, we help you find the perfect ship & itinerary just for you! We ensure every detail is tailored to your vision of luxury.

✔ Personalized Cruise Planning – We match you with the best itinerary, stateroom, and excursions based on your travel style and preferences.

✔ Exclusive Offers & Added Value – We often have access to special perks, upgrades, and amenities not available when booking direct.

✔ Hassle-Free Travel – From pre- and post-cruise stays to flights and transfers, we handle all the details so you don’t have to.

If you’re ready to experience a river cruise, small ship ocean or expedition cruise, we can help you find your perfect cruise ship & itinerary match.

📅 Let’s start planning your dream getaway today!

You can learn more about how we help by clicking here,

reaching out to us on our Contact Page,

scheduling a quick chat with us here,

or sending an email to hello@HamiltonLuxuryTravel.com.

We'd love to connect with you!

Want to learn more about Cruising? Check out our Travel Inspiration page by clicking here. 

Let's get started crafting your perfect River, Ocean or Expedition Cruise itinerary today!

Hamilton Luxury Travel...where YOUR vision our LUXURY is our passion!