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Cruise Ship Passenger Capacity

View cruise ship ratings and learn what is average/normal and max cruise ship passenger capacity. Cruise ships capacity (passengers and crew/hotel staff) and space ratios of the world's most famous ships are sorted alphabetically by the names of their owners (companies, lines, and operators) according to the official cruise ship data.

Most online travel media publish ship ratings based on onboard amenities (dining/entertainment), itineraries/destinations, special/unique facilities, and experiences. Some ratings are based on website visitors' feedbacks and conducted polls. However, while the latter ratings could by easily manipulated, "expert review" based ratings could be only suggestive as top-rated will be always the largest liners and the  newest vessels .

Cruise Ship Capacity

The "full" cruise ship passenger capacity is based on double occupancy (2 guests per cabin). The cabin's capacity varies according to stateroom's type, category, and also by line and ship. A standard passenger ship cabin usually accommodates 2 or 3 guests, but there are some "smaller" and "bigger" exceptions.

Our survey also includes smaller ships (under 500 passengers), and some ships are intentionally omitted from the big table to be included in the small one (about passenger capacity of top luxury cruise ships, with emphasis made on their highest guests-to-crew ratio. If searching for a particular vessel, use the Ctrl+F key combination and type the name in the search box. Good to know things:

• Ships will sail at varying capacities depending on itinerary and season.
• The average cruise ship passenger capacity is around 3,000 guests for ocean liners and around 150 guests for bigger river cruise ships.
• The largest cruise ship passenger capacity is 5,412 (at double occupancy) and 6,318 max capacity if all berths are occupied. And, of course, these big numbers are part of the specifications of the first in the  list of the biggest cruise ships in the world  - the Oasis ship of Royal Caribbean International.
• Single cruise cabins (called also "studios", or "solo cabins"), though rarely available, offer some of the cheapest rates for solo travelers by avoiding the double occupancy policy of all the major cruise ship companies, with the range of single supplement rates being between 50 and 100% (depending on line and ship).
• Family suite cruise accommodations generally have the biggest passenger capacity (up to 6 guests) and are some of the most expensive cabin categories (again, not available on all ships). Cheap suites are available on most Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Costa ships.

Max (largest) passenger capacity of a cruise ship would signify this ideal financial situation, when all the berths, plus all upper and lower bunks, "Pullman" beds and single and double sofa beds (available in types and numbers according to the ship's cabin grades) are all occupied by the most numerous crowd the ship can ever gather on board. However, on most of the sailings, even the full-ship capacity (at double occupancy level) is not reached. This automatically opens the "big ships doors" for great deals, like kids sail for free, buy one get one free, free cabin upgrades, bonus amenities, and also huge price discounts on luxury cruise deals. For more info, you can read our survey on unsold cruise cabins/cheap cruise upgrades .

Cruise passengers-to-space ratio

The ship's "space ratio" (by definition) is the enclosed space (measured in ft3/cubic feet) per passenger. A ship of 45,000 GT (gross tonnage) with capacity 1,000 passengers will have a space ratio 45 (or 45ft3=45000/1000). So if your ship has generally smaller cabins but very large public spaces, she will have a higher space ratio, and the higher the space ratio number, the more guests will enjoy a sense of spaciousness on board.

Average/max cruise passenger capacity

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For boats that are dead and forgotten see at CruiseMapper's Scrapped Cruise Ships hub.

Cruise Ship Ratings

0 (or no Stars) doesn't mean the ship is the worst ever, but not yet rated.

"Specialty" means usually a smaller ship offering deals on adventure or expedition cruises. Emphasis on itinerary/destination and unique experiences rather than onboard services/amenities/activities. Cabins are modest (as size and amenities), but also comfortable.

3 Stars mean "Contemporary" and big resort-like experiences on bigger ships with a multi-generational clientele, a huge variety of family and kids programs, at least 2 swimming pools, huge fitness/spa centers, distinct nightlife (clubs, a casino, deck parties), several dining options. Cabins range from cozy Inside to large family suites and many connecting/adjoining rooms. Itineraries from 3 to 7-night in length (repeating, round-trip) leaving from big and popular ports.

4 Stars mean a "Premium" product, medium-sized ships with higher guest-to-crew ratios compared to similar-sized mainstream ships. The onboard experience - fewer kids, larger than average cabins with upgraded (luxurious) amenities, high-level of service, dining, and entertainment, extensive enrichment programs, a luxury spa, longer itineraries (from 7 to 14 and even 21-night in length).

5 Stars mean a "Deluxe" product, from medium-size to small cruise ships with deluxe staterooms, bedding and cabin amenities, impeccable service, multiple specialties (gourmet) dining options, also less entertainment and onboard activities. The itinerary is mostly port-intensive, and longer than 10 nights, with deals on back-to-back cruises .

6 Stars mean "Best Luxury" on small ships, intimate cruising experiences, highest guest-to-crew ratios (fewer guests). These are mostly ships with all-inclusive cruise deals - gratuities and beverages (often alcohol) and gourmet (specialty restaurant) dining are all included in the fares (often with shore excursions and tours), spacious staterooms and public spaces, the highest level of service. Many of these are all-suite ships (with different category suites). Port-intensive itineraries and exotic destinations, often offering deals on Around the World Cruises .

All cruise ship ratings are based on CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) categorizations, and reviews from "WMPH Vacations" (iCruise, AlaskaCruises, EuropeCruises, HawaiiCruiseOutlet, RegentCruises, and CruiseCheap) specialists and advisors. Cruise ratings also may vary on the ship's age, size, cabins/venues/amenities, passenger feedback, etc. Besides CLIA and WMPH, other cruise vessel rating sources are Berlitz Guide, Fieldings Guide, Sterns Guide, CruiseCritic, CruiseReviews, and CruiseMates.

Cruise ship star ratings meaning

5,5 stars rating - a top luxury cruising, impeccable and highly personalized service, finest quality food & amenities; attention to detail, perfect maintenance, spacious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, the highest level of service, authentic furnishings, top of the line fitness & spa facilities.

5 stars rating - the highest level of food/service in a premium cruising market, high-quality meals, attentive service, well-equipped staterooms (not necessarily large), list of cabin amenities include bathrobes; butler service, public spaces are with beautiful decors.

4,5 stars rating - friendly decor, good maintenance, full range of onboard activities.

4 stars rating - best overall experience, above-average food & service, satisfactory entertainment.

3,5 stars rating - an average overall experience, very small to large accommodations, good service, delicious food, kids facilities without dedicated areas, mediocre entertainment.

3 stars rating - modest experience on an older cruise ship, may not have balcony cabins, mediocre food & lack of proper service, expect interesting destinations/itineraries.

2 stars rating - the ship is comparable to a low-budget hotel, a major refurbishment needed for refit and renovation of public areas and staterooms, lousy service (the staff will only supply the most basic service), itineraries with little or no popular (cheap charging) ports of call.

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The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts.

The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

With every year comes bigger and grander cruise ships.

Just when you think cruise ships can't get any larger, a major cruise line unveils yet another longer, taller and grander state-of-the-art vessel – with the capacity to carry the population of a small town. To put the size of today's megaships into perspective: They often stretch three times longer than a 120-yard football field, and some feature nearly two dozen decks or measure more than 215 feet wide.

So, if you're looking for a vacation aboard a large-scale vessel, consider booking a voyage on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With cutting-edge technology and entertainment, world-class dining, and endless attractions and activities for cruisers of all ages, you may not even want to leave the ship. Here are the biggest cruise ships, arranged by gross tonnage.

• 1. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
• 2. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas
• 3. Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas
• 4. Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• 5. Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• 6. Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• 7. Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas
• 8. MSC World Europa
• 9. Costa Smeralda
• 10. Costa Toscana
• 11. P&O Cruises Arvia
• 12. AIDAcosma
• 13. P&O Cruises Iona
• 14. AIDAnova
• 15. Carnival Jubilee
• 16. Carnival Celebration
• 17. MSC Euribia
• 18. MSC Virtuosa
• 19. Carnival Mardi Gras
• 20. MSC Meraviglia
• 21. Norwegian Encore

Find your perfect cruise

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Length: 1,198 feet

Width: 213 feet

Gross tons: 250,800

Maximum number of passengers: 7,600

Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship afloat when it debuts in January 2024. The next-level megaship is Royal Caribbean 's first Icon-class vessel and the first of three ships powered by liquefied natural gas, or LNG, which is considered a more sustainable alternative to other fuel options. The ship will have 2,805 staterooms and carry up to 2,350 crew. There's no end to the fun with eight unique neighborhoods, including the new Surfside: a stay-all-day space designed specifically for families.

Other features on the ship include seven pools, nine whirlpools and six record-breaking waterslides. There are also more than 20 new dining venues, such as the swanky Empire Supper Club, which features an eight-course tasting menu; the AquaDome Market, the line's first food hall; and sushi restaurant Izumi in the Park. Cruisers will also find other international cuisine, including Japanese, Mexican and Italian fare, as well as The Lemon Post, the Surfside Eatery and Pier 7 in the Surfside neighborhood.

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 211 feet

Gross tons: 236,860

Maximum passengers: 6,788

Royal Caribbean's first LNG-powered Oasis-class ship will sail its debut voyage in July 2024. The new ship will have 2,834 staterooms and up to 2,290 crew members, as well as eight neighborhoods to keep passengers entertained. Ten complimentary dining venues include the line's new food truck concept, The Spare Tire, which serves up handheld eats on the pool deck. The ship will also feature sloping beach-entry and resort-style pools, plus three Lime & Coconut bars on the outdoor deck.

In total, there are more than 40 dining options, bars and lounges on Utopia of the Seas. Many of Royal Caribbean's specialty dining and bar favorites are returning, such as Chops Grille, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Rising Tide Bar and Vue Bar. Guests will also find familiar entertainment offerings with rock climbing walls, the AquaTheater, Splashaway Bay, laser tag, mini-golf, the Sports Court, Studio B and much more. With two casinos, five pools and a visit to private island Perfect Day at CocoCay, you'll never run out of things to do.

Read: The Top New Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Gross tons: 235,600

Maximum passengers: 7,084

Royal Caribbean's current largest ship at sea, Wonder of the Seas , first set sail in March 2022. The Oasis-class vessel has 2,867 staterooms and carries as many as 2,204 crew members. While you may get lost on this ship, you'll never be bored. Features include eight unique neighborhoods – such as Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the new Suite Class neighborhood, an exclusive space for suite guests.

Take advantage of the AquaTheater, an outdoor live entertainment venue with a 30-foot diving platform and incredible ocean views. Wonder Playscape is an underwater-themed outdoor space for kids filled with slides, climbing walls, games and more. You can also enjoy a few of Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class favorites, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, the rock climbing wall or laser tag at the Battle for Planet Z. If you dare, head into the Ultimate Abyss: Billed as the tallest waterslide at sea, it towers 150 feet above sea level and features an exhilarating 13-second ride through 10 stories of dark, winding tunnels.

When hunger strikes, dine at your pick of more than 20 complimentary and specialty restaurants, including the new Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar. If you're craving a cold beer, a cocktail or a cup of Starbucks coffee, you'll have roughly a dozen bars and lounges at your disposal.

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Width: 215.5 feet

Gross tons: 228,081

Maximum passengers: 6,680

Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas , another Oasis-class ship, debuted in April 2018. This ship features 2,759 passenger staterooms and accommodates 2,200 crew members. There are seven distinct neighborhoods, four pools, roughly 20 restaurants (about half of which are specialty venues), and about a dozen bars and lounges. The ship even boasts two robotic bartenders that whip up drinks at the Bionic Bar.

Adults can enjoy Broadway-style shows in the onboard theaters and major international sports games at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Meanwhile, kids can cool down at the Splashaway Bay water park, soar on a zip line nine decks high through the Boardwalk neighborhood, try out rock climbing or attend a show at the AquaTheater.

Read:  Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Gross tons: 226,963

Maximum passengers: 6,687

Another Oasis-class ship, Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas has been sailing since May 2016. The vessel features 2,747 staterooms and up to 2,200 crew members. Cruisers have plenty of places to dine thanks to eight complimentary venues – including the main dining room and Windjammer Marketplace, a globally inspired buffet – as well as nine specialty restaurants serving everything from burgers and shakes to Italian fare. The Boardwalk, one of the ship's seven neighborhoods, is a favorite spot for cruisers; it contains casual eateries, retail shops and carnival games.

Harmony of the Seas also has Splashaway Bay, the Ultimate Abyss waterslide and a trio of slides called The Perfect Storm. In the evening, don't miss a pre-dinner cocktail at the Rising Tide Bar, which offers a ride between the Central Park neighborhood and the Royal Promenade with dazzling skylight views. Sit back and sip your drink while the entire bar slowly floats between the decks.

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Simon Brooke | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Length: 1,187 feet

Width: 215 feet

Gross tons: 226,838

Maximum passengers: 6,771

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world when it was launched in 2009. The line's debut Oasis-class ship is nearly five times bigger than the Titanic by gross tonnage; it has 2,801 staterooms and carries 2,109 crew members.

Oasis of the Seas was reimagined in 2019, with many added amenities that are on newer Oasis-class ships, such as FlowRider simulators, the Perfect Storm waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Across the ship's seven distinct neighborhoods, you'll also find state-of-the-art technology such as VOOM, billed as the fastest internet connection on the high seas – plus exciting live performances and theater productions, laser tag, escape rooms and more.

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Gross tons: 225,282

Maximum passengers: 6,826

Embarking for the first time in 2010, Allure of the Seas was Royal Caribbean's second Oasis-class vessel. The ship underwent a refurbishment in 2015. Allure of the Seas has 2,748 staterooms and 2,054 crew. Onboard highlights include seven neighborhoods, four pools, and several whirlpools and hot tubs, plus more than 20 dining venues and too many bars and lounges to count.

There are also plenty of entertainment options for guests of all ages, including an ice skating rink, the Sports Court, a nine-deck-high zip line, two rock climbing walls and two FlowRider simulators (a Royal Caribbean favorite). Kids will especially enjoy the interactive H2O Zone Water Park. Adults on this ship will appreciate Broadway productions like "Mamma Mia!," aerial acrobatic performances in Oceanaria (an original AquaTheater production) and '70s disco dance parties. If you find yourself on board for business reasons, rest assured that the ship's conference facilities can host as many as 1,394 guests.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

MSC World Europa

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Gross tons: 215,863

Maximum passengers: 6,762

MSC World Europa was one of the most anticipated new cruise ships when it launched in December 2022 as the first vessel in the line's MSC World-class fleet. It's also the first LNG-propelled ship by MSC Cruises , reaching a maximum cruising speed of 22.7 knots.

The ship's futuristic interior and exterior design features a 341-foot-long promenade. Half the promenade is covered with the Meraviglia-class LED sky screens, while the other half is open-air and offers ocean views. MSC World Europa features 2,626 staterooms and can house 2,138 crew members. As a special touch, each passenger deck is named after an international city, including London, Paris, Lisbon and Rome.

The ship is divided into distinct areas, with a quiet zen district for adults and a family zone that has bumper cars and roller skating. At the fleet's largest onboard water park, younger cruisers will find a twisty, stainless steel tunnel slide towering 11 decks high at the center of the ship. Luna Park Arena, the ship's 300-seat multifunction entertainment venue, can accommodate almost any performance or event.

When you're exhausted from all of the action, grab a bite to eat at one of 13 restaurants or a drink at a selection of bars and cafes. Then, take time to relax and unwind with a signature treatment at the Balinese-inspired MSC Aurea Spa. For an all-inclusive VIP experience during your voyage, book stateroom accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club. This exclusive part of the ship boasts premium suites, a separate pool, a private restaurant and lounge, butler service, and other amenities.

Costa Smeralda

Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Length: 1,106 feet

Width: 138 feet

Gross tons: 185,000

Maximum passengers: 6,554

Costa Smeralda was the first of the two Excellence-class vessels in the Costa Cruises fleet. The vessel debuted in 2019 as the Italian cruise line's largest ship to date. It was also the line's first vessel to use LNG power at sea and in port. The ship has 2,612 staterooms and can carry as many as 1,678 crew members.

Cruisers will never go hungry or thirsty, thanks to the 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on Smeralda . One of the most notable dining venues on board is Archipelago, which serves innovative cuisine created by three world-renowned chefs. If you're interested in culinary pursuits, join other passengers for a cooking class at sea in the Food LAB. When it comes to entertainment, centrally located Colosseo – modeled after the piazzas across Italy – is the place to go for socializing and live performances. What's more, the ship also has 13 pools and hot tubs, an aqua park, the Beauty Spa Solemio, and the Squok Club for kids ages 3 to 11.

Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana, Costa Cruises' newest flagship and the second Excellence-class vessel in the fleet, set sail on its debut voyage in March 2022. Similar in size and passenger capacity to Costa Smeralda, Toscana is also LNG-powered. This vessel has 2,663 staterooms, and there can be up to 1,678 crew members on board.

Similar to Smeralda, Colosseo is the centerpiece of Toscana; you'll find live entertainment and themed bars in this area. There are 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on the ship. For a refreshing aperitif with a view, head to the Aperol Spritz Bar, which features special beach cocktails. Another dining highlight is Sushino at Costa, the line's new sushi bistro. After dinner, take in unparalleled views of the sea along the Volare Skywalk, the highest point of the ship, which towers more than 200 feet above sea level.

Explore Costa Cruises deals on GoToSea.

P&O Cruises Arvia

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Maximum passengers: 5,200

Arvia joined the P&O fleet as sister ship to Iona in December 2022. It is also LNG-powered, has 2,614 cabins and carries up to 1,800 crew. The family-friendly ship offers guests many firsts, including Altitude, a new activity area with an escape room, a high-ropes experience, the Splash Valley aqua zone, the Sports Arena and much more.

Arvia has 30 bars and restaurants. New dining venues include the American-inspired 6th Street Diner and Green & Co. feat. Mizuhana, which focuses on sushi and plant-based dishes. For entertainment, plan to see the line's production of "The Official Take That Musical," an adaptation of London West End musical "The Band." Guests can also head to the dome beneath the SkyDome retractable roof for live performances, aerial displays, movies on the giant SeaScreen and DJ parties under the starry skies.

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Courtesy of AIDA Cruises

Gross tons: 184,600

Maximum passengers: 6,654

The sister ship to AIDAnova, AIDAcosma set sail in early 2022. The partly LNG-powered AIDA Cruises vessel has 2,732 staterooms and the capacity for up to around 1,500 crew members. With 17 restaurants and 23 bars and cafes, AIDAcosma offers passengers a seemingly endless number of venues to dine and imbibe. Other onboard attractions include a four-deck outdoor area, complete with an infinity pool and an expansive area for sunbathing; an indoor playground with a bouldering wall and ropes course; the Body & Soul Spa; and a 360-degree stage at the Theatrium.

P&O Cruises Iona

Length: 1,129 feet

Gross tons: 184,000

P&O Cruises' Iona, which launched in spring 2021, has the distinction of being the first LNG-powered British cruise ship. The family-friendly vessel has 2,614 cabins and carries 1,800 crew members. Iona's top features include the two-story SkyDome, a gin distillery, four pools, 10 entertainment venues, and 30 restaurants and bars offering a wide variety of food and beverage options.

With selections ranging from casual eateries to gelaterias to Indian- and British-inspired cuisine at Sindhu, you won't get bored with the restaurant choices. For an especially unique meal, dine and sip wine while watching aerial performances in the Grand Atrium at The Glass House. Or, enjoy dinner at The Limelight Club, an adults-only supper club venue featuring vocal performances and other live music. After dinner, check out the entertainment around the ship, including aerial productions in the Grand Atrium, guest and crew shows in Headliners, late night dancing in The Club House, and performances in partnership with the entertainment company Creativiva in the SkyDome.

Gross tons: 183,900

When German line AIDA Cruises' first Helios-class ship, AIDAnova, debuted in December 2018, it was the first LNG-powered cruise ship in the world. The ship is equipped with 2,626 staterooms, including the two-deck Penthouse Suite, and carries around 1,500 crew members. You won't miss this ship when it's docked in port: It features the line's signature exterior design, with bold red lips at the ship's bow and blue-and-yellow eyes on the port and starboard sides.

While on board, passengers can check out 17 restaurants, along with 23 bars and lounges; party the night away at the Beach Club; and take in live performances on the 360-degree stage in the Theatrium. When it's time to relax, head to the Body & Soul Spa, where you can book a massage, spend time in one of the hot tubs or saunas, take a dip in the private pool, and chill out on the private spa sun deck.

Carnival Jubilee

Width: 137 feet

Gross tons: 183,521

Maximum passengers: 6,631

Carnival Jubilee, as sister ship to Carnival Celebration and Carnival Mardi Gras, will offer many of the same features and amenities as its two predecessors when it launches in December 2023. The new vessel will have 2,687 staterooms, 1,735 crew and six zones of fun. Currents and The Shores are new to Jubilee . Currents is inspired by the underworld of the ocean with mermaids and sea monsters; it's designed with new bars, restaurants, music venues and high-tech spaces, including a wave-shaped LED ceiling and six LED windows that virtually take guests under the sea. The Shores is all about the outdoors, inspired by beaches and boardwalks. Cruisers can grab a slice of pizza at Coastal Slice, a hot dog at Beach Buns and a cocktail at Marina Bar.

On Jubilee, you'll also find Carnival Cruise Line favorites such as BOLT, the first and fastest roller coaster at sea, as well as Waterworks, the onboard water park with twin racing slides, three spiraling slides and more. The line's "next-level fun" ship will also include familiar eateries and lounges like Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken, Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, Cucina del Capitano, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and more.

Carnival Celebration

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration sailed its inaugural cruise in November 2022. Carnival's second-newest ship at sea is LNG-powered and the second in the line's Excel class, with 2,687 staterooms and as many as 1,735 crew. Guests will find new attractions to enjoy on the ship, such as the partnership with the Kennedy Space Center at Space Cruisers: This program is designed for children ages 2 to 11 at Camp Ocean.

Adults can check out the new bar at Latitudes, which features specialty cocktails and outdoor scenery through the virtual windows. Celebration has a variety of complimentary dining venues, including Shaq's Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and Mexican favorites at BlueIguana Cantina. There is also a selection of specialty restaurants like Emeril's Bistro 1397, Rudi's Seagrill, the Steakhouse and Bonsai Teppanyaki. For action and 360-degree views of the ocean from the top of the ship, take a spin around the track on the BOLT roller coaster.

Compare Carnival Cruises on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia

Length: 1,087 feet

Width: 141 feet

Gross tons: 181,541

Maximum passengers: 6,327

MSC Euribia, the newest MSC Cruises ship, debuted in June 2023. The line's second LNG-powered vessel – and the fifth Meraviglia-class ship – has 2,419 cabins and can carry as many as 1,711 crew members. The ship's hull features Alex Flämig's artwork "#SaveTheSea" to highlight the company's dedication to preserving the marine ecosystem.

On board Euribia , guests will find five pools and 11 dining venues, offering everything from sushi and teppanyaki to Latin American street food. There are also 21 bars and lounges, the MSC Aurea Spa, the Ocean Cay Aquapark, luxury retail shopping and more. Two additional highlights are the longest – and most impressive – LED Dome at Sea, which covers the ceiling of Galleria Euribia, and the reimagined Carousel Lounge. The beautiful, updated space features floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor terraces and cozy seating to enjoy live entertainment, including performances by one of the largest big bands at sea.

MSC Virtuosa

Maximum passengers: 6,334

This vessel launched in 2021 as a sister ship to MSC Grandiosa , the line's other Meraviglia Plus-class ship. MSC Virtuosa has 2,421 staterooms and carries around 1,704 crew members. It offers cruisers 11 dining venues plus 21 bars and lounges. At the heart of the ship, Galleria Virtuosa houses the largest shopping area on a cruise ship, with more than 12,500 square feet of retail space. In this area, you'll also find entertainment venues, restaurants and cocktail bars. And don't forget to look up: An impressive LED dome, one of the longest at sea, spans the ceiling of the promenade.

Another highlight to check out during your voyage is the MSC Starship Club, which features Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender on a cruise ship. The multilingual expert mixologist even tells jokes and will show you a dance move or two. After all the indoor fun, head outside for a cool dip in one of MSC Virtuosa's five pools or take a ride on the slide at the Savannah Aquapark.

Book an MSC Cruise on GoToSea.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Gross tons: 180,000

Maximum passengers: 6,465

One of Carnival Cruise Line's newest ships, Mardi Gras , debuted in July 2021. Its name honors the line's first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, which launched in 1972. The original Mardi Gras was around 27,000 gross tons and 650 feet long – in contrast, the new Carnival Mardi Gras weighs more than six times as much and is nearly twice as long. This ship also holds the title as North America's first LNG-powered ship. It has 2,641 staterooms and holds up to 1,745 crew members.

Six themed areas each offer unique dining and entertainment experiences. For New Orleans -inspired cuisine, head to the French Quarter; there, you'll find Emeril's Bistro 1396 and The Brass Magnolia, a bar reminiscent of The Big Easy's jazz culture and Garden District. Don't miss one of the ship's top onboard attractions: the BOLT roller coaster, where riders can hit speeds of nearly 40 mph at 187 feet above sea level.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of Port Miami for MSC Cruises

Length: 1,036 feet

Gross tons: 171,598

Maximum passengers: 5,655

MSC Cruises' Meraviglia first set sail in 2017 with an impressive 2,244 staterooms and the capacity to carry 1,536 crew members. A dozen restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, including a Spanish tapas bar with dishes created by a Michelin-starred chef, Japanese teppanyaki, Italian fare, fresh seafood, steaks and more. There are also 20 bars, lounges and cafes serving everything from Champagne and cocktails to ice cream and crepes.

The central highlight of the ship is Galleria Meraviglia, a 315-foot promenade with eateries, boutiques and evening parties. Nightly entertainment includes live performances and shows in the Broadway Theatre and the Carousel Lounge. Kids will find plenty to do, as well: There's an Aquapark, an F1 simulator, a flight simulator, LEGO play areas, bowling and more. When it's time to wind down, book a signature treatment at the MSC Aurea Spa.

Norwegian Encore

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Gross tons: 169,116

Maximum passengers: 3,998 (double occupancy)

Norwegian Encore was built in 2019 as one of Norwegian Cruise Line 's Breakaway Plus-class ships. The vessel has 2,040 staterooms and carries 1,735 crew members. There are several complimentary culinary venues on board, including three main dining rooms, The Local Bar & Grill, the Garden Café buffet, and grab-and-go options. Specialty dining restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from seafood to steak to Japanese teppanyaki.

When it's time for cocktail hour, 14 bars and lounges serve up everything from cold brews to fine wine and whiskey. For a pre-dinner option, head up to the Observation Lounge for panoramic ocean views. Norwegian Encore is also home to several entertainment venues featuring award-winning live shows and performances.

You'll find the most fun on the ship's top decks. First, head to the Encore Speedway race track, which takes thrill-seekers on a heart-pumping ride through high-speed curves extending 13 feet off the side of the ship. Also at the top of the vessel you'll find The Haven: Norwegian's exclusive "ship within a ship" concept boasts luxurious suites, villas and penthouses with balconies. These luxe accommodations include perks like 24-hour butler service, a concierge and a private sun deck.

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Frequently Asked Questions

The largest cruise ship currently in service is Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, at more than 235,000 gross tons. Icon of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world at 250,000-plus gross tons after its launch, set for January 2024.

Carnival Jubilee, scheduled to debut in December 2023, and Carnival Celebration are the line's largest ships at 183,521 gross tons.

The line's largest ship is Disney Wish at about 144,000 gross tons. The vessel is 1,119 feet in length and 128 feet wide; it has 1,254 staterooms and carries up to 4,000 passengers and 1,555 crew.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top World Cruises
• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Top Gay Cruises
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• The Top Cruise Insurance

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Prepare for your cruise.

• Already Purchased your Cruise?
• Log In to My NCL Account
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• What to Bring
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• What Not to Bring
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• Onboard Terminology

What to Pack

On a Norwegian cruise, you travel from destination to remarkable destination - and only unpack once. That said, cruisers tend to pack twice as many clothes they need.

Electronics

Remember all of your tech stuff: tablets, chargers, cameras, spare memory cards, batteries and power converters

The current on board is 110 volts & 220V AC. However, some high-voltage hair dryers, electric rollers and electric razors may require a converter

Laundry & Dry Cleaning: For your convenience, we offer laundry and dry-cleaning services. Express, same-day service is also available. Just complete the order form in your stateroom and your stateroom steward will pick up your laundry and return it to you clean and folded. Please note that laundry is not self-service

Each guest is allowed two pieces of checked luggage with a 50-pound maximum each, same as airlines. Luggage should be clearly labelled with your name, address and contact number.

Bring an Additional Small Bag: It may take a few hours after embarkation for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom. Likewise, suitcases are collected on the last night of your cruise. To avoid any complications, be sure to bring a small bag such as a backpack for carrying any necessary medication, valuables, important documents and need-to-have items.

Luggage Tags

You may find and print your luggage tags on the last page of your eDocs. For your convenience, we recommend that your luggage tags be placed on your bags prior to arrival at the port.

What Not To Bring on Board

Guests are not allowed to bring on board alcoholic beverages (except for wine & champagne which is subject to a corkage fee ), firearms, weapons of any kind, ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature, nor animals of any kind, except service or guide animals.

Corkage Fee is not applicable to guest with beverage package.

Passengers should not bring the following items onboard any Norwegian Cruise Line ship:

• Drones (Game Flying Device) Guests are not permitted to bring drones onboard for safety of other guests, as well as the welfare of the vessel.
• Samsung Galaxy Note7 In light of recent safety issues with the Samsung Galaxy Note7, we are asking our guests who own this model to please avoid travelling with this mobile device. The Federal Aviation Administration has banned the Samsung Galaxy Note7 from all air travel, and until further notice, this device will be restricted from all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Fire is one of the greatest threats at sea and due to the safety concerns these devices present, if one is found in a guest's possession or unattended in a stateroom onboard, our policy instructs the crew to confiscate the device for safekeeping. The device will remain in our possession, in a safe, monitored location, for the duration of the cruise. Guests can reclaim their device at the conclusion of the cruise from the reception desk.
• Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages of any kind including water, soda and juices* For more information read our FAQ about "Can I bring water or soda on board?".
• Unsealed food items will not be allowed onboard.
• Firearms, weapons of any kind , ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature
• Irons / Ironing Boards and Steamers Guests are not permitted to bring and use their own irons or steamers onboard. Norwegian Cruise Line carries a limited number of irons and ironing boards which can be loaned to guests for a few hours at a time. They can be requested through housekeeping or Guest Services Desk. Irons and steamers would both be taken from guests at embarkation and returned at the end of the sailing.
• Animals of any kind , except service or guide animals, provided the passenger notifies Carrier prior to the cruise of his intention to bring such animal and agrees to take sole responsibility for any expense, damage, injuries or losses associated with or caused by such animal.
• Large Batteries, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), ham radios, satellite phones, transformers, lasers and laser pointers are not allowed onboard.

For a full list of items that are prohibited onboard, please CLICK HERE

Included in Your Cruise Fare

In your stateroom.

All staterooms feature a TV, safe, hair dryer and bath products as well as a mini-bar, which are pay upon consumption. Room service is available from 5 am to midnight (subject to convenience charge), and all stateroom-to-stateroom calls are free. Guests in The Haven Suites can enjoy exclusive access to The Haven Courtyard, Restaurant & Lounge, 24-hour butler service, priority restaurant reservations, Bliss Collection bedding and much more. Guests staying in Studios have access to the Studio Lounge.

Dining & Entertainment

You'll find complimentary dining throughout the ship, including two main dining rooms, a buffet, coffee bar and more. Select ships feature a third main dining room, 24-hour dining venue, outdoor buffet, and a pool bar and grill. Complimentary entertainment, from live bands to comedy acts, is available in all ships. For a nominal fee per person, you can also enjoy award-winning entertainment in many of our ships. For more information on what will be available during your sailing, login to My NCL .

Poolside & Activities

Enjoy complimentary beach towel service as you lounge poolside, go for a swim or relax in a hot tub. Or take part in any number of onboard sports activities, even work up a sweat in the fitness centre, featuring all the latest equipment.

• Accommodation
• Transportation to some of the most beautiful places on earth via cruise ship
• Dedicated Kids & Teen (ages 3-17) programming & spaces during at sea days until 10:30 pm and from departure until 10:30 pm during port days
• Meals in one of our many complimentary dining venues
• 24-hour Dining venue (on select ships)
• Room service menu items (convenience charge may apply)
• Outdoor Buffet (on select ships)
• Pool Bar and Grill (on select ships)
• Coffee Bar (regular coffee and pastries included, speciality coffees at nominal extra charge)
• Iced Tea, some juices in the buffet (for breakfast), regular coffee, tea and ice water
• All entertainment onboard (with the exception of dinner and lunch theatre entertainment)
• Art Auctions
• Poolside activities
• Access to fitness facilities
• Select onboard presentations
• Sports Court activities
• Use of outdoor pools and hot tubs
• In-stateroom TV programming (except for on-demand movies)
• Phone calls onboard the ship (stateroom to stateroom)
• Use of private Studio Lounge if staying in Studio accommodations on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Epic, Pride of America, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape
• Suite Guests receive additional amenities, based on the category of accommodation.
• Effective 7/1/2024, Norwegian Cruise Line will be incorporating applicable taxes, fees and port expenses into our advertised pricing. It will also include Hawaii GET tax where applicable. Fees associated with additional offerings such as Free at Sea dining and beverage packages are separate additional charges. For more information, refer to details about the California law below.

The following items are not included in the cruise fare:

• Service Charges
• Additional costs associated with Free at Sea optional package selections
• Meals in Speciality Restaurants
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Sodas and some other non-alcoholic beverages
• Spa and Salon Services
• Exercise classes
• Dining Entertainment
• Transfers (unless pre-purchased with air/sea packages)
• Hotel Stays pre-/post-cruise (unless pre-purchased)
• Shore Excursions
• Photography
• Internet Access
• Baby Sitting Services
• Speciality Onboard Seminars
• Art purchases
• Gift shop purchases
• Video Arcade
• Phone calls off the ship
• Wi/Fi & Satellite connection for tablets, phones/mobile devices
• Laundry Services
• Use of the Medical Centre
• Convenience Charge for Room Service (does not apply to The Haven and Norwegian Suites)

What is the new California consumer protection law?

California's Senate Bill 478 is a new consumer protection law that requires businesses to advertise a comprehensive price for any product offered for sale. To comply with this new law and to simplify the booking experience for all our guests based in the U.S. and Canada, Norwegian Cruise Line will be incorporating applicable taxes, fees and port expenses into our advertised pricing by July 1, 2024

Will this change impact your cancellation/refund policy? Also, now that your pricing is all in, how do I determine how much my refund will be?

There will be no changes to cancellation fees and refunds. Cancellation fees will be assessed on the amount of the advertised price excluding the taxes, fees and port expenses. Refunds will be provided for the taxes, fees and port expenses in the event of cancellations. Refer to your cruise confirmation for the breakdown of cruise fare vs. taxes/fees/port expenses.

Cruise FAQs

How many passengers are on the average cruise ship.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• The average passenger capacity of a cruise ship is determined by its size, cabin types, and utilization strategies.
• Larger cruise ships have higher passenger capacity and can accommodate more passengers.
• Different cabin types impact the overall capacity of the ship.
• Utilization strategies, such as pull-down beds and optimized dining spaces, are used to maximize the passenger capacity of a ship.

The Growth of the Cruise Industry

The Size Range of Cruise Ships

The average passenger capacity, the largest cruise ships in the world, factors that determine passenger capacity, amenities and facilities on cruise ships, the impact of passenger capacity on the cruise experience, trends in cruise ship design and passenger capacity, challenges of managing a large number of passengers, the future of cruise ship passenger capacity, frequently asked questions, what is the average age of passengers on a cruise ship, are there any restrictions on the number of children allowed on a cruise ship, how are the cabins allocated to passengers on a cruise ship, is there a limit to the number of crew members on a cruise ship, how does the passenger capacity of a cruise ship affect the availability of onboard activities and entertainment options.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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• Indulge in gourmet French cuisine at Chartreuse with classic dishes and impeccable service.
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These Cruise Ships Score the Highest Passenger-Crew Ratio

How many crew members are there for one passenger, and why this is important for you? This ranking will inform you about cruise ship passenger and crew capacities and help you understand how much "crew time" you can expect on which cruise ship.

Crew Passenger ratio explained the easy way

The passenger-crew ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of passengers by the total number of crew members . It is a measure of the level of service you can expect during your journey. The higher the ratio, the more time each crew member has to fulfill your wishes.

It is not to be confused with the passenger-space ratio, which is the gross tonnage of a cruise ship divided by the number of guests.

Why should you check a cruise ship's passenger to crew ratio?

If comfort and excellent quality of service is a priority for your cruise vacation, knowing this will help you choose the best cruise ship for you . Although the largest cruise ships can guarantee onboard space, getting personalized service from the cruise staff is even more crucial. Many cruise lines, especially from Carnival Cruise Line , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International or MSC Cruises are taking this more seriously.

As you will see in the below ranking, the biggest cruise ships in the world like Symphony of the Seas, Oasis Of The Seas, Quantum of the Seas or Harmony Of The Seas, all from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line don't necessarily offer the highest passenger to crew ratio.

Cruise ship passenger to crew ratio ranking

The following list will show vessels with the highest crew-passenger ratio first so you have a good idea of cruise ships that have the most crew available per guest. Moreover, getting a large crew is expensive, that's why the ranking is dominated by luxury cruise ships.

Once you have scrolled down to view the entire list, you'll never book the wrong cruise ship again. Click next on the cruise ship's name to get more information about its available sailings, average price per day and cabin type, and finally the ship's current location .

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The World’s Largest Cruise Ships Sailing For Each Line (With Photos)

Over roughly the past decade cruise ships have gotten big… real big. As one line makes a ship that’s larger, carries more passengers, and offers eye-catching activities, others then play catch-up in the “arms race” to build ships that everyone is talking about.

Large ships offer several advantages over smaller ones. For one, larger ships carrying more passengers mean that each trip can generate more revenue for the cruise line.

And it’s not just cruise fare. With larger ships also packing more onboard, there is an opportunity to increase the spending of those passengers on the ships with more restaurants and for-pay activities.

Today’s mega ships also can increase the economies of scale, creating more efficiency for the cruise line. Last but not least, rolling out a ground-breaking new ship also serves as a marketing device as the vessels get major coverage, which can lead to increased buzz and bookings.

So it’s no surprise that in recent years ships have only gotten larger. Of the major cruise lines listed below, all of their largest ships were built within the last three years. With that in mind, here are the current largest ships in each fleet, as of the time of this writing.

Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Celebration

Officially listed by Carnival Cruise Line at 183,521 gross tons, Carnival Celebration — built in 2022 — takes the crown as the largest ship in the fleet. It is just slightly larger than sister-ship Mardi Gras, which comes in at 180,800 gross tons.

So what do you get for that sort of size? Carnival Celebration measures 1,130 feet long and carries 2,687 staterooms. That gives a capacity of 6,631 passengers when at full occupancy.

Across the 15 passenger decks there are nearly 20 different places to grab a bite to eat. Activities include a complete waterpark with three slides, sport court, and even an 800′ long roller coaster that goes up to 40 mph. There are also live versions of game show classics like Deal or No Deal and Family Feud.

• Year Built: 2022
• Gross Tonnage: 183,521
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 6,631

Royal Caribbean: Wonder of the Seas

When it comes to the largest cruise ships, Royal Caribbean takes the crown. Their Oasis-class ships are currently the biggest on the planet, with all five of the largest cruise ships in the world being part of that group.

While these ships are similar, the largest of the class (and therefore the world) is Wonder of the Seas, which first began sailing in 2022. Coming in at 235,600 gross tons and measuring 1,188 feet, the ship is about 28% larger than Carnival Celebration.

As for passengers, Wonder of the Seas can carry a staggering 7,084 when completely full in all of its 2,867 cabins. And those passengers have no shortage of things to see, do, and eat. Wonder of the Seas has more than 20 places to eat, features activities like the Flowrider standing wave, multiple pools, an AquaTheater for performances utilizing high-divers, and even a zipline across the back of the ship.

Note: When Royal Caribbean debuts Icon of the Seas in late 2023, it will take the title of world’s largest cruise ship.

• Gross Tonnage: 235,600
• Length: 1,188 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 7,084

Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line is an outlier of the major cruise lines in that its newest ships are actually going smaller. The current newest ship is Norwegian Prima, which first started sailing in 2022. But the largest ship in the fleet is Norwegian Encore, which debuted in 2019.

Encore is part of the cruise line’s Breakaway-Plus class. The ship measures 169,116 gross tons, or about 70% of the tonnage of Wonder of the Seas from Royal Caribbean. The ship measures 1,094 feet and carries 3,998 at double occupancy. (Note that NCL provides a double occupancy figure, which is typically smaller than a full capacity figure.)

While the ship may not be the biggest in the world, it does stand out when it comes to amenities onboard. For one, it’s built with an outdoor focus, including The Waterfront — a quarter-mile outdoor promenade that brings you closer to the ocean.

Then there is Ocean Loops, an intense waterslide that takes you out over the edge of the ship (complete with clear tubes) before bringing you back in. Perhaps the most eye-catching feature is the Encore Speedway, an actual go-karting track at the top of the ship.

• Year Built: 2019
• Gross Tonnage: 169,116
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 3,998 (double occupancy)

Princess: Discovery Princess/Enchanted Princess

Princess is well-known for offering a more luxurious experience than mass-market lines, and that typically means smaller ships. In fact, the largest ships in the fleet are smaller than what you see from other major cruise lines but are still substantial.

In this case, Discovery Princess comes in at 145,000 gross tons, which is actually a tie with sister-ship Enchanted Princess. Discovery is 1,083 feet long and boasts 1,830 cabins. At double occupancy, the ship carries 3,660 passengers, although that figure would rise when three or more are put in a cabin.

Perhaps surprisingly, the size of Princess ships hasn’t increased as drastically as seen with other lines. While Discovery and Enchanted take the crown, they aren’t that much longer as other ships in the cruise line’s Royal class. This class of ships debuted in 2013 with Royal Princess, which is just slightly smaller at 142,229 gross tons.

That said, the cruise line will welcome a new class of ship when Sun Princess debuts in 2024. This ship will measure nearly 180,000 gross tons and carry 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

• Gross Tonnage: 145,000
• Length: 1,083 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 3,660 (double occupancy)

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Beyond

Celebrity is known for being a mix of luxury combined with still offering up a mega-ship with lots to experience. Case in point — its largest ship, Celebrity Beyond, ranks as one of the top 50 largest cruise ships on the planet.

This vessel, part of the cruise line’s Edge class, measures 140,600 gross tons according to the cruise line. It also boasts a length of 1,073 feet. Onboard, Beyond can hold 3,260 guests at double occupancy in its 1,646 cabins.

To give some sense of just how large cruise ships are today, Celebrity Beyond would have to increase in tonnage by about 67% to match Wonder of the Seas — the largest cruise ship at the moment.

• Gross Tonnage: 140,600
• Length: 1,073 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 3,260 (double occupancy)

MSC Cruises: MSC World Europa

Stateside, MSC is still making inroads, but it’s a major brand globally. And it also takes a special position in having the largest cruise ship in the world outside of Royal Caribbean.

The title of MSC’s largest ship goes to MSC World Europa. This massive vessel comes in at a staggering 215,863 gross tons and was launched in late 2022. It features 2,626 staterooms onboard across its 1,093 feet of length.

At full occupancy, World Europa can carry 6,762 passengers, putting it just shy of the 7,000 guest mark.

Of course, on a ship that large there can be no shortage of things to do. Surprisingly, the ship has “only” 13 dining venues but has a 340-foot promenade indoors, an 11-deck slide that takes passengers spinning down on a thrill ride, bumper cars, and seven different swimming pools.

• Gross Tonnage: 215,863
• Length: 1,093 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 6,762

Costa Cruises: Costa Toscana

A sister to Carnival, Costa is a popular cruise line in Europe and the Middle East. In fact, the largest ship in Costa’s fleet shares similarities with Carnival’s largest class of ships that include Celebration and Mardi Gras.

In this case, the LNG-powered Costa Toscana is roughly the same size as Costa Smeralda. The ship was built in 2021 by Meyer Werft, coming in a 185,010 gross tons. That’s roughly the same size as Carnival Celebration. 

All told the ship measures 1,105 feet (337 meters) and can carry up to 6,554 passengers when completely full. Those passengers stay in a staggering 2,612 cabins. 

• Year Built: 2021
• Gross Tonnage: 185,010 
• Length: 1,105 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 6,554

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18 decks, 20,000 plants, 9,000 passengers: Inside the world’s largest cruise ship

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This article is more than 2 years old and some information may not be up to date.

At long last, the world’s largest cruise ship is set to embark on its maiden voyage.

The Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, over the weekend and is gearing up to welcome passengers aboard its first sail to the Caribbean on Mar. 4.

At an astonishing 18-decks tall, the Wonder replaces sister ship Symphony of the Seas as the biggest ship of its kind, and also dwarfs the largest military ship in the world, the U.S. Nimitz-class aircraft carrier.

It’s been a long journey to get the Wonder ready for its big debut. According to Cruisehive.com, the Royal Caribbean Group first ordered the ship in 2016 with a sailing deadline of 2021. However, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in that plan, and delivery was delayed until this year .

The ship measures an incredible 1,188 feet, and has capacity for almost 7,000 guests and 2,300 crew. Guests have their pick of 2,867 staterooms over 16 guest decks, and can make their way through the vessel by using one of the boat’s 24 guest elevators.

The ship is divided into eight separate neighbourhoods, including a cantilevered pool bar named “The Vue” and a giant play area for kids. The “Central Park” neighbourhood features over 20,000 live plants.

The ship also boasts a water park with the “tallest slide at sea”, as well as a 10-deck-high zipline and a massive poolside movie theatre.

And if those perks aren’t enough, the “Suite Neighbourhood” offers private lounges and VIP pool areas for those guests who upgrade to a larger room.

The ship will begin offering five-to-seven night cruises from Florida to the Caribbean in March, and Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona and Rome will begin in May.

Worldwide, the cruise industry has been one of the hardest hit by delays and suspensions due to the pandemic. During times of loosened restrictions over the past two years, cruise ships have often been the sites of super-spreader events.

The Canadian government lifted a cruise ship ban in Canadian waters late last year.

Barry Penner, legal advisor to Cruise Lines International Association in Canada, told Global News last week that he’s “optimistic” about the industry’s future, especially after the Canadian government announced that they would ease some testing and quarantine requirements for returning international travellers at the end of this month.

“We recognize Transport Canada has been working hard to get us to where we are now, and we’re a lot closer to having everything resolved than we were even a few weeks ago.”

Earlier this month, the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention downgraded their public guidance on cruise ship travel from “very high” level, which asks people to avoid cruise travel, to “high” level, which urges only fully vaccinated passengers to participate.

The Canadian government has not yet changed its guidance, which continues to recommend against cruise ship travel outside of the country.

Penner said he hopes that change comes soon, noting that double-vaccination and a negative test result are requirements for virtually everyone on board cruise ships, and robust health and safety plans are in place.

— With files from Global News’ Elizabeth McSheffrey

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• World's Best

The Top 10 Small-ship Ocean Cruise Lines in 2021

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite small-ship ocean cruise lines.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The travel industry at large contended with an extraordinarily difficult year as it weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, but cruise lines were particularly hard hit . Though ships around the world were grounded, readers still recalled fun times at sea as they rated the world's top small-ship ocean cruise lines.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in five categories; small-ship ocean cruise lines have ships that can carry 249 or fewer passengers.

A few small-ship lines moved up in the World's Best Awards voting this year, as travelers sought distinctive experiences in far-flung ports — the sorts of adventures that only the smallest vessels can deliver . For example, No. 4 Lindblad moved up four spots this year, posting a better score for 2021 than 2020. Its vessels will go to Alaska and Iceland this year, and this summer should also see the inaugural cruise of the brand-new National Geographic Endurance, a 126-guest expedition ship that will sail the polar regions.

No. 5 Windstar Cruises rose five places since last year, as adventurers praised its three distinctive sailing yachts, including the Wind Spirit and Wind Star, both of which accommodate 148 guests. No. 2 Ponant also climbed five spots this year, winning over readers with an ever-expanding fleet of small ships. New on the list for 2021 is No. 10 Alaskan Dream Cruises, an Alaska Native–owned line that has a fleet of six ships, including the Kruzof Explorer, a Bering Sea crab-fishing vessel turned luxury-expedition yacht.

But one thing that didn't change this year was the top of T+L's list. No. 1 Quasar Expeditions kept its hold on first place, marking the fourth consecutive year the Galápagos Islands specialist has taken the honors. Quasar continued to impress travelers with its above-and-beyond service in a destination that's a forever favorite. One well-traveled reviewer said Quasar tops anything else in the destination: "As a 14-time Galápagos visitor, the M/Y Evolution is hands down my favorite boat in the islands. Best guides, excellent service, comfortably spacious cabins and outdoor spaces. The unique 32-passenger size is perfect for families."

Read on to see what other readers had to say — and which other companies made this year's list.

1. Quasar Expeditions

A specialist in Galápagos Islands cruises, Quasar has a two-vessel fleet that operates in the ever-compelling destination. The 32-guest M/Y Evolution and the 16-passenger M/Y Grace both get high marks from readers, who consistently score Quasar as not only one of the best cruise lines of any size but one of the top travel offerings in any World's Best Awards category. "This was our second cruise to the Galápagos because we loved our previous experience on the Evolution so much," said one reader about a trip aboard the Grace . "Quasar exceeded all our expectations yet again on a very unique and charming ship." (The Grace was named for Grace Kelly, who received the yacht as a wedding present from Aristotle Onassis when she wed Prince Rainier III in 1956 and became Princess of Monaco. Quasar has operated the historic vessel since 2007.) "The M/Y Grace is the only way to visit the Galápagos," said another traveler. "The intimate ship size and staff attention make you feel as if you're the yacht owner."

Score: 97.99 More information: quasarex.com

Score: 93.42 More information: us.ponant.com

3. Crystal Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.33 More information: crystalcruises.com

4. Lindblad Expeditions

Score: 92.97 More information: expeditions.com

5. Windstar Cruises

Score: 92.90 More information: windstarcruises.com

6. Silversea

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 92.15 More information: silversea.com

7. SeaDream Yacht Club

Score: 87.28 More information: seadream.com

8. Australis

Score: 83.72 More information: australis.com

9. Celebrity Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.69 More information: celebritycruises.com

10. Alaskan Dream Cruises

Score: 83.57 More information: alaskandreamcruises.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

Related Articles

The 8 best luxury cruise lines in the world, ranked

• Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) ranked the top luxury cruise lines of 2019.
• To do so, they created an algorithm which scored each luxury cruise line based on a series of "touch points," taking into account the overall performance of the company, rather than individual ships. 
• Seabourn topped LTI's list, scoring a 79.6% out of 100%.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) , a members-only organization which provides travel reporting for affluent voyagers, has released their list of the best luxury cruise lines of 2019. 

LTI spent the year assessing the luxury cruise industry at large, and created an algorithm which analyzes 124 touch points. The maximum score a cruise line could get was 4511, which was then translated into a percentage out of 100. 

The numerous touch points referred to the overall performance of the company, rather than each individual ship in the line. 

"Our 124 touch points relate to the overall company performance, rather than its individual ships. It's all about the cruise line's ability to deliver: its passion, commitment, ethos and values, as well as the quality of its management and staff," said Michael Crompton, founder of LTI. "Investment and how well it is executed are also major factors, particularly in new ships and the refurbishment of existing ones."

Keep reading to see which luxury cruise lines ranked the highest, according to LTI.

8. Cunard — 67.7%

Cunard is known for its ships the Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth, which have carried numerous notable guests, according to the company's website. 

Its destinations include Norway and the Northern Lights, the Baltics, and the Canary Islands.

Source:  Cunard

7. Azamara — 69.4%

Azamara is known for its small, intimate cruises. 

The company's ships travel all around the world, including places such as Cuba and the South Pacific. Azamara's ship are noteworthy for their ability to visit ports where larger cruise ships can't fit, such as those in Venice , Amalfi, and Crete. 

Source:  Azamara

6. Oceania — 71%

Oceania was founded in 2002. It offers four cruise ships which can accommodate 684 guests, and two which can hold up to 1,250 guests. Its itineraries includes trips to Australia, Africa, Europe, the South Pacific, and the Americas.

According to its website, Oceania's mission statement is to do things the "R.I.T.E. way — Respect, Integrity, Trust and Excellence are the foundation of all our actions, every day, in everything we do."

Source:  Oceania

5. Viking Ocean — 73.8%

Founded in 1997, Viking Cruises has grown to become one of the top luxury cruise companies in the world. Its ships travel to destinations in New Zealand, Africa, Scandinavia, and South America.

The company also offers lengthy globe-spanning World Cruises , including one from Auckland, New Zealand, to Vancouver, Canada, which visits 15 countries in 93 days.

Source:  Viking Cruises

4. Silversea — 75.4%

Silversea is particularly known for its excellent fine dining. It has ships ranging in size from 50 to 304 suites, offering voyagers the option of a more intimate experience as they travel the globe. 

The cruise company goes to over 900 different destinations on all seven continents. Some locations include South America, eastern Russia, Galápagos Islands, Greenland, and Antarctica. 

Source:  Silversea

3. Regent Seven Seas — 76.9%

Regent Seven Seas travels all around the world, with ships that go to nearly every continent.

The company also offers round-trip flights with various airlines, unlimited shore excursions, beverages, open bars and lounges, and unlimited WiFi as part of their packages.

Source:  Regent Seven Seas

2. Crystal — 77.8%

Crystal Cruises travels to 818 different locations and offers 2,000 different excursions. 

The cruise line also offers a butler service in each Penthouse suite, with 24-hour room service. There's also a 360-degree Promenade Deck, which, their website notes , is rare to see on cruise ships today.

Source:  Crystal Cruises

1. Seabourn — 79.6%

Seabourn , which tops LTI's inaugural cruise line ranking, travels to locations all around the world, ranging from the Panama Canal to the Amazon and even the Arctic circle.

Known for an elegant yet intimate travel experience, Seabourn is also the official cruise partner of UNESCO World Heritage . 

In 2009, the company launched the Seabourn Odyssey, which only carries 458 guests and, according to the company's website, offers the "highest ratio of space per guest in the cruise industry."

Source: Seabourn

• Main content

What are Passenger Ships?

It is an umbrella term which covers many aspects under itself, but in more or less general form passenger ships are the merchant ships generally employed for transportation of passengers or voyagers. So, these are the merchant ships which carries passengers on national or international voyages. They can be as small as yachts and as big as giant cruise ships. 

Merchant vessels that are employed to aid in the transiting of voyagers and passengers through the medium of water transportation are referred to as passenger ships. The terminology, however, covers a lot of aspects under its umbrella, thus rendering a generalised nature to its nominal citation.

The criteria for passenger vessels are governed as per stipulations set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) . These stipulations not only specify the minimum amount of surface area required for a dozen voyagers but also lay down the regulatory requirements to ensure the safety and security of passengers.

History Of Passenger Ships

Sailing is the oldest mode of transportation. Simple boats made up of tree hides were used to travel by sea. Scientists and researchers used ships for their explorations. Ships play a key role in the world’s economy. Advancement in these ships goes hand in hand with the development of mankind.

Traces were found of first known vessel, made up of animal skin or woven fabrics and belonged to Neolithic period, about 10000 years back. These vessels were not shipped in any regard but initiated transportation across water bodies. By 3000 B.C. Ancient, Mesopotamian and Egyptians were the first to make use of boats made up of wooden planks’ hull on large scale transportation across the Nile, Euphrates and Tigris.

Egyptians become proficient at making sailboats. 44m long Khufu Ship (built in 2500 B.C) revealed from the excavation in 1954 at Giza pyramid was a trademark to their skill. Later Greeks, Phoenicians and Romans also put their part in the development of modern ships.

Between 260 and 255 B.C, the first Roman Navy came into existence and developments were made in earlier developed ships. In the 5 th century Germans developed fast moving oar-driven ships, their famous ship was 22m long Gokstad ship.

Between the 12 th and 15 th century, during the reign of the Song Dynasty “The Chinese Junk” (the boat which Marco Polo used for his explorations) was developed. It was the first time when such a bulkheaded strong boat was developed which can bear Chinese typhoons easily. These were large ships and made even more than 135m length. 

In the 15 th century, the Spanish carrack was the largest European sailing ship which becomes the standard vessel of Atlantic trade and adventure in the next century. There were some difficulties in sailing this ship because of unusually high castles in bow and stern.

Related Read: The History of Ships: Ancient Maritime World

In the 16 th century, the English developed the ship galleon with a high stern and a relatively low bow. This was better than earlier. The galleon became the standard for all big ships. In 17 th – 18 th century various East India companies of England and Holland invest in magnificent ocean-going ships which were needed to have the capacity for a large amount of cargo, strong and well-armed.  These were the most magnificent ships of that time. These were 50m long and 12 m wide and could not achieve a fast speed. These ships used trade winds as assistance in the journey. In 19 th century speed of merchant ships became a factor and the age of clippers started. 

Clippers were the passenger ships with relatively high sailing speed and consist of a square rig along with three or more masts. During the “Golden Rush” production and usage of clipper was on its peak, because in the transportation of gold from one region to other clippers were extensively used. With the introduction of steamships, the demand for high-speed clippers started declining. This is due to the reason that the steamships can sail in all sort of weathers. Later in the 20 th century, construction of ships was triggered with the application of metal in ship construction. These metaled ships can bear harsh weather more efficiently and their further advancement results in present-day ships. 

As per the classification of the classification society DNV (Det Norske Veritas), passenger’s vessels are also sub-divided into broad categories on the basis of their utilisation and size.

• Passenger ships that are utilised only for the purposes of transiting voyagers
• Vessels that in addition to transiting voyagers are also utilised to transit vehicles from one destination to another.
• Passenger vessels that also carry cargo

Categorisation Of Passenger Ships

The passenger ships are broadly categorised in two classes namely: Ferry and Cruise Ships.

Apart from this distinction, there have been specified numerous types of passenger ships. Each of the vessel types can be elaborated as follows:

Ferry Ships

Ferry ships are those vessels which are used to transit voyagers on short-natured water travel routes. Ferry ships can be dual in nature that is, either they can be vessels are only used for the purposes of transporting passengers or they can be ships that can also carry the vehicular load along with the intake of voyagers.

These ships go for their voyage on a regular schedule and have fixed fares.

Ferries are also referred to as water taxis or water buses. These are the ships which sail on the same route with many intermittent stops. These ships serve the same purpose as the public transport on road or rail do. So, ferries are the smaller ships used for smaller distance voyages or rather as public transport.

T he transportation cost through ferries is much lowered as compared to bridges and tunnels. In some regions, ferries provide long distance services, Mediterranean Sea ferry service is the best example of long route ferry service. Ferry ships that are used for transporting not only passengers but also the vehicular loads, and loading and unloading to the ship is carried out through Roll-off/ Roll on systems are termed as Ro-Ro ferries.

India’s first ro-ro ferry, under Sagar Mala Project , runs between Ghogha and Dahej and started working on 22 October 2017. It connects South Gujrat and Saurashtra through only 31 km ferry run. A special type of ferry, which is used to carry passengers only, and sails on speed higher than conventional ferries is referred to High-speed ferry.

The latter kind of ferrying vessels is referred to as a Ro/Ro vessels as they make use of ‘Roll On/Roll Off’ ramping systems to enable easy loading and unloading of the vehicles.

Read more about different types of ferries

Stena Hollandica – The Biggest Ferry in the World

High-Speed Ferries are a special type of ferries with the capability of sailing at high speed and are mainly used for transiting passengers.

Cruise Ships

Large vessels equipped with all luxury and necessary amenities, used for transportation and destination vacations are referred to as Cruise Ships or generally cruises. These vessels are opted for long distance travel and bring the opportunity of international trade to the country.

The cruise ship offers a vacation full of fun and amusement. It provides a new and totally different vacation spot with a new experience for the vacationers. Being totally different from the usual vacation, a cruise offers swimming, jogging.

Cruise ships are the most famous type of merchant’s vessels which are used for transiting of passengers from one country to another for recreational trips.

These ships are also used for recreational activities, a media of social gathering and for country tourism due to availability of in-house guides and experts facility.  Only design and amenities are not the thing, safety should be a major concern. Cruise vacations and cruise transportation are more favoured than other modes due to less cost and safer, calm, pleasant and pollution free environment.

Cruise ships are further subdivided on the basis of size into:

• Large cruise ships: Large cruise ships are the ships with larger voyager carrying capacities.
• Small Cruise ships: Small cruise are the ships with smaller voyager carrying capacities.
• Liners: These are the special sort of large cruises, equipped with best facilities. These look more or less like floating cities.
• Special Cruise ships: These are the ships which are designed for a special destination. For example cruise ships for visiting Antarctica region.

Though presently cruise vessels are used for recreational transiting of passengers, these vessels were preceded by voyager vessels that aided in the transporting of voyagers for commercial purposes internationally.

Since passenger vessels’ capacitance is quantified on the basis of their GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage), vessels which have been built with higher GRTs can be called as large cruise ships, while those with smaller GRTs can be denoted as small cruise ships. The voyager carrying capacitance would also likewise vary between the likes of the larger and smaller cruise ship types.

These days, passenger’s vessels are like floating cities, having the very best luxuries and facilities for a safe and lavish voyage.   Read more about the top luxury cruise ships in the world . Moreover, some of the biggest and best ships in the world are cruise ships.

Read about some amazing cruise ships:

10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Allure of the Seas & Oasis of the Seas – The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Liners are a more traditional form of cruise ships which are used to transit passengers from one country to another, along with the best amenities.

Special Cruise Ships

Cruise ships built for visiting specific regions of the world are termed as special cruise ships. For e.g. cruise ships visiting Polar Regions (Arctic and Antarctic) are called polar cruise ships. They are specially designed and built to face the tough environment of such extreme climatic regions.

Passenger ships, both of the ferry ships and the cruise ships variances, have become extremely popular in contemporary times. Providing a sense of novelty amongst the likes of road, rail and aerial travelling options, passenger’s vessels help people to re-associate themselves with the marvel that only oceanic vistas can offer.

Market Statistics Of Passenger Ships

The interest of people travelling in cruises and passenger ships have shown a great rise, hence increasing the potential of the international passenger ship’s market. There has been an increase of more than 1.1 million passengers travelled via water ways. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) predicts that over 28.5 million People will be using waterways as the means of transport during the year 2019-2020.

Most of the passengers using the cruise /passenger ships hail from the United States, therefore the highest cruise capacity is allocated to the Caribbean, whereas the Mediterranean is the second most popular destination in the international market and non-European destinations hold the third position.

Future Of Passenger Ships

The passenger ships and their variations are in a constant state of evolution with the competition remaining fierce between the operators and owners. In this competitive era of globalisation, the following trends are observed. 

• Increasing embarkations from “close-to-home” ports 
• Greater focus on family and family travel
• Increase in river cruises
• Exotic locales and itineraries 
• Growing Variety of Ships 
• Growth in Drive Market Cruises 
• The boom in Theme Cruises
• New destinations 

These upcoming trends will not only fuel up the international market with lots of new ideas and innovation. But will also be very good for the upcoming future of the shipping industry.

Passenger ships have always played a vital role in the global shipping market and will always be.

You may also like to read – Titanic vs Modern Cruise Ship: How Ships Have Evolved

Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

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Are Aircraft Carriers Bigger Than Cruise Ships?

By Anna Duncan

If you have ever wondered whether aircraft carriers or cruise ships are bigger, you are not alone. Both of these massive vessels are commonly seen on the open sea, but which is larger? Let’s dive in and explore the size comparison between these two remarkable types of ships.

The Basics: What Are Aircraft Carriers and Cruise Ships?

Aircraft Carriers: An aircraft carrier is a type of warship that is designed to carry and deploy military aircraft. These ships are built for combat and can be used to launch air attacks against enemy Targets. They are typically operated by the navy and are heavily armed with guns, missiles, and other weapons.

Cruise Ships: A cruise ship is a passenger vessel that is designed for leisure travel. These ships offer a variety of amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, casinos, theaters, and more. They are operated by commercial companies and provide a luxurious way to travel by sea.

Length Comparison

When it comes to size comparison, length is often the most important factor to consider. The length of a ship can determine how many passengers or crew members it can accommodate as well as how much cargo or weaponry it can carry.

Aircraft Carriers: The average length of an aircraft carrier ranges from 600 to 1,100 feet (183-335 meters). The largest aircraft carrier ever built is the USS Gerald R. Ford, which measures 1,092 feet (333 meters) in length.

Cruise Ships: Cruise ships come in various sizes but generally range from 800 to 1,200 feet (244-366 meters) in length. The largest cruise ship currently in operation is Symphony of the Seas which measures 1,184 feet (361 meters) in length.

Width Comparison

The width of a ship can also affect its carrying capacity and stability on the water. Here’s how aircraft carriers and cruise ships compare in terms of width:

Aircraft Carriers: The average width of an aircraft carrier ranges from 130 to 250 feet (40-76 meters). The USS Gerald R. Ford has a width of 134 feet (41 meters).

Cruise Ships: Cruise ships are generally wider than aircraft carriers to accommodate more passengers and amenities. The average width of a cruise ship ranges from 105 to 160 feet (32-49 meters). Symphony of the Seas has a width of 215.5 feet (66 meters).

Height Comparison

The height of a ship can also be important for clearance under bridges or power lines. Let’s see how aircraft carriers and cruise ships stack up in terms of height:

Aircraft Carriers: The height of an aircraft carrier varies depending on the type of aircraft it carries. On average, the flight deck is about 60-90 feet (18-27 meters) above the waterline.

Cruise Ships: Cruise ships are generally taller than aircraft carriers to accommodate more decks and passenger cabins. The average height of a cruise ship ranges from 170 to 240 feet (52-73 meters). Symphony of the Seas has a height of 236 feet (72 meters).

So, are aircraft carriers bigger than cruise ships? It depends on how you define “bigger.”

In terms of length, both types of ships can be comparable, with some cruise ships even longer than some aircraft carriers. However, cruise ships are generally wider and taller than aircraft carriers due to their focus on passenger comfort rather than military functionality.

10 Related Question Answers Found

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© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

Disney's biggest cruise ship will carry 9,000 people on cruises in Asia

Would you travel around the world to sail on Disney Cruise Line 's biggest ship yet?

On Wednesday, Disney Cruise Line announced new details about Disney Adventure , which will become the line's biggest vessel when it debuts in Singapore in 2025. At 208,000 tons, Disney Adventure will be about 44% larger than the line's current biggest cruise ship, Disney Wish .

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Disney Adventure will also look a little different from the Disney ships you know and love. The vessel was originally ordered for Asia-based Dream Cruises, which collapsed in early 2022. Disney bought it from liquidators for the brand and plans to debut it in 2025.

As a result, the line must work with a preexisting ship layout, a whole new ballgame for Disney. The company has historically controlled the design and construction process of its resorts, both on land and sea, from ideation to completion. The 208,000-ton ship was originally designed to accommodate a whopping 9,000 passengers, plus thousands of crew members. However, Disney plans to reconfigure it to hold 6,700 guests and 2,500 crew members. Still, that could mean more than 9,000 people on board when the ship sails at full capacity.

Cruisers on Disney Adventure will be sharing the ship with far more people than on the line's previous vessels. The five ships in Disney's fleet range from 83,969 tons to 144,000 tons and hold a maximum of about 4,000 passengers. (Disney's oldest and smallest ship, Disney Magic , can accommodate, at most, 2,500 guests.) Another way to put it into perspective — the world's current largest ship, Royal Caribbean's 250,800-ton Icon of the Seas , holds 7,600 passengers.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Despite the differences in size and layout, Disney Adventure will still immerse passengers in the brand's signature style of lively, magical spaces.

The ship will feature new themed areas that showcase Disney's core pillars of storytelling — imagination, discovery, fantasy and adventure.

An open-air performance venue will feature a lush garden and elements reminiscent of an enchanted valley. Dubbed Disney Imagination Garden, the space will draw on the adventures of Disney characters like Mowgli and Moana.

Shopping and dining opportunities within the ship's Disney Discovery Reef area will feature popular aquatic and nautical characters from movies like "The Little Mermaid," "Finding Nemo" and "Lilo & Stitch."

San Fransokyo Street, a family entertainment area and street market, will offer interactive games and activities, shops and cinemas themed around the world of "Big Hero 6."

The ship's pool area, Wayfinder Bay, will feature an open-air poolside retreat with panoramic sea views amid Pacific Islands-themed environs.

Town Square will be the hub for lounges, cafes, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Here, passengers can immerse themselves in the world of Disney princesses, such as Cinderella, Snow White and Rapunzel.

Marvel Landing will host new immersive attractions that celebrate the Marvel superheroes. Passengers can also enjoy watery fun in Toy Story Place, a whimsical interactive space featuring water play areas and themed food venues.

Additionally, guests can expect Disney-level service, engaging dining options and top-notch entertainment, all hallmarks of the brand.

Disney also shared that the ship's exterior will reflect the fleet's iconic Mickey Mouse-inspired colors, complete with the line's signature red funnels.

North Americans will have to travel far to set sail on Disney Adventure. Disney's new ship will sail three- and four-night cruises departing from Singapore's Marina Bay Cruise Centre for at least the next five years in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. The line has yet to reveal specific details of the itineraries. Short cruises out of Singapore will likely draw an international crowd, with many passengers hailing from Asia.

When Disney Adventure begins service, it will be the seventh ship in the Disney fleet. The line currently operates five ships; a sixth, Disney Treasure , is due to debut in December.

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Holland America Line: The Complete Cruise Guide

Sally French is a travel rewards expert who joined NerdWallet in 2020. She previously wrote about travel and credit cards for The New York Times and its sibling site, Wirecutter.

Outside of work, she loves fitness, and she competes in both powerlifting and weightlifting (she can deadlift more than triple bodyweight). Naturally, her travels always involve a fitness component, including a week of cycling up the coastline of Vietnam and a camping trip to the Arctic Circle, where she biked over the sea ice. Other adventures have included hiking 25 miles in one day through Italy's Cinque Terre and climbing the 1,260 steps to Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi, Thailand.

She lives in San Francisco.

Giselle M. Cancio is an editor for the travel rewards team at NerdWallet. She has traveled to over 30 states and 20 countries, redeeming points and miles for almost a decade. She has over eight years of experience in journalism and content development across many topics.

She has juggled many roles in her career: writer, editor, social media manager, producer, on-camera host, videographer and photographer. She has been published in several media outlets and was selected to report from the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

She frequents national parks and is on her way to checking all 30 Major League Baseball parks off her list. When she's not on a plane or planning her next trip, she's crafting, reading, playing board games, watching sports or trying new recipes.

She is based in Miami.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Is a Holland America cruise right for you?

Holland america destinations, holland america ships, holland america: how much does it cost, is cruising with holland america worth it.

Holland America Line’s current fleet includes 11 ships, which are mostly midsize. They visit all seven continents, with stops in the Caribbean, Tahiti, the Mediterranean, Antarctica and more. Its Alaska presence is especially strong, and Holland America claims it has visited Glacier Bay National Park more than any other cruise operator.

Holland America’s parent company is Carnival Cruise Line , which acquired Holland America in 1989. But while Carnival touts offerings like the “first roller coaster at sea” on its flagship brand, Holland America is for folks with — let’s call it — more refined tastes.

Here’s your guide to Holland America, including amenities, costs and how you might save money on your next sailing.

Many ships feature a library. (Photo by Sally French)

Here are some types of people best suited for Holland America:

Travelers ready for relaxation rather than partying

Though open to travelers of any age (infants must be at least six months old to embark on most cruises), Holland America caters to the mature set.

Unlike Disney Cruises or Royal Caribbean ships, which are laden with waterslides, flashy designs and high-energy shows, Holland America is more subdued. Its most lively entertainment includes a casino, trivia nights and live music. Children or adult travelers seeking maximum stimulation might be less enthused.

But relaxed cruisers seeking peace might find it here.

Cruisers who prefer a ship that’s not too big yet not too small

The salon. (Photo by Sally French)

Every Holland America ship has a gym, portrait studio, sports courts, a spa, salon and multiple pools. On a short three-night cruise, you could eat three meals a day at a different restaurant and never hit them all. The largest ship has 10 restaurants, not including snack spots like the café and gelato shop.

Still, Holland America ships are relatively small. While Royal Caribbean’s behemoth Icon of the Seas ship has more than two dozen restaurants and a capacity for 5,610 guests, Holland America’s largest ship, Rotterdam, accommodates 2,668 guests.

Holland America covers almost 100 countries or territories and more than 470 ports, including stops in the Amazon and Antarctica.

For its 2025-26 cruise season, Holland America will operate in 11 countries in Asia alone. The primary focus is Japan, where it will dock in 24 ports around the country.

Mexico and Panama Canal cruises are also big. The 2025-26 cruise season adds a new stop at the port of Acajutla, El Salvador, on most Panama sailings. Meanwhile, two ships will offer Mexico itineraries with stops including Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

(Photo courtesy of Holland America)

The 2025-26 season brings an iconic Pacific Northwest itinerary that hasn’t been offered in decades. Dubbed the “Great Bear Rainforest,” the seven-day itinerary departs from Seattle and includes stops in Ketchikan, Alaska. Expect to see whales, eagles and potentially bears.

Explore all the current Holland America destinations .

Here’s a breakdown of all 11 Holland America ships, sorted by largest to smallest guest capacity:

Suites feature whirlpool bathtubs. (Photo by Sally French)

The smallest, two-guest rooms are about 143 square feet, though suites are easily double that. The smallest suite, the Vista Suite, ranges from 260-356 square feet. For maximum space (and service), book the Pinnacle Suite, which fills roughly 1,290 square feet. High-end suites include frills like whirlpool bathtubs, vanities, dressing rooms, decks and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Holland America also caters to solo travelers by offering single-person staterooms that are as small as 127 square feet.

Whether you choose a lavish suite or an inside stateroom, expect fairly upscale accommodations.

Holland America food

Larger ships have a dozen or more eateries. Some restaurants operate on every ship, such as Canaletto (a casual Italian restaurant) and Lido Market (which serves meals in an all-you-can-eat, cafeteria-style setting).

All you can eat

Meals at The Dining Room are included with your cruise fare — a rare exception for fine dining restaurants on Holland America. (Photo by Sally French)

Most casual restaurants are complimentary and all-you-can-eat, included in your cruise fare.

While most restaurants cost extra, the exception is The Dining Room. Its multicourse dinners feature rotating, elevated menu items (such as lamb loin). As part of a partnership with Masaharu Morimoto, The Dining Room serves dishes similar to those in Morimoto’s restaurants.

No matter your cabin class, 24-hour room service is complimentary, delivering items such as salads and sandwiches.

With beverages, the free stuff is generally limited to the basics like water, tea and coffee. Sodas, specialty coffees, mocktails and alcohol cost extra.

What food costs extra?

Aside from The Dining Room, waiter-service restaurants cost extra. Some operate an à la carte model, such as Nami Sushi. There, entrees cost about $15, while sushi rolls run about $5 each.

Others charge fixed prices. For example, dinner at Pinnacle Grill, a steakhouse, costs an additional $46 per person. Certain items also have an additional charge (caviar costs an extra $50).

Though the additional charges might be annoying, they can be considered a deal relative to dining at a steakhouse on land.

In addition to fancy restaurants, some casual dining options (including the cafés and gelato shop) incur an extra fee.

For free ice cream, head to Lido Market, where you can DIY dessert at the ice cream station.

Holland America drink packages

On Holland America, you'll need to purchase a drink package to sip from these soda machines. (Photo by Sally French)

For beverages beyond the basics, buy them individually or through a drink package.

The soda-only package entails unlimited fountain drinks for $8 per person, per day.

The Quench package costs $17.95 per person, per day and includes sodas, premium coffee (like lattes), juice, mocktails and bottled water. It’s technically not unlimited, but there's plenty to go around with a 15-drink daily limit.

For packages with alcohol, you’ll owe at least $55 per person, per day (premium spirits cost more). Again, there’s a 15-drink daily cap.

Is the food any good?

Food quality varies. Lido Market is your run-of-the-mill buffet but other restaurants are generally excellent (just note the surcharge).

For example, dinner at Canaletto costs $25 extra per person and includes pasta and gelato — both made fresh on board.

Holland America also has some food options from famous chefs. The first Morimoto By Sea opened aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, bringing the award-winning restaurant chain to sea.

A spread of items served at a Morimoto pop-up restaurant on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America activities

The art gallery on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America activities are pretty tame, such as live music and wine tasting.

A music venue. (Photo by Sally French)

Every ship features World Stage, a theater hosting entertainment like expert lecturer talks and dance performances. Ships also have at least one lounge or club, such as Rolling Stone Rock Room or B.B. King’s Blues Club.

A shuffleboard court on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Every ship has a casino, spa, fitness center and outdoor sport courts, including pickleball courts. After all, Holland America is the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association.

Holland America Kids Club

Most cruises offer a kids club with crafts, video games and scavenger hunts.

Kid-friendly offerings are extremely limited (especially compared with competitors like Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line ) so don’t expect many kids onboard. Many cruisers consider the lack of kids one of Holland America’s best features.

Which Holland America ship is best?

Because amenities are so similar on every ship, it’s hard to pick one best ship. But here are some factors to consider:

If you want the most options: Rotterdam is the largest (and has the most restaurants).

If you want the newest ship: The Rotterdam is also the newest ship, which first set sail in 2021. Newer ships often (though not always) mean better layouts and up-to-date fixtures.

If you prioritize smaller ships: Volendam and Zaandam are the smallest.

If you want to live on a ship: Two ships, Volendam and Zuiderdam, carry out the Grand Voyages and World Cruises, which sail around the world for months. Zuiderdam is slightly larger than Volendam — offering more guest rooms and entertainment venues.

The Crow's Nest offers a lounge for relaxing and panoramic views. (Photo by Sally French)

According to a NerdWallet analysis of more than 100 Holland America cruise itineraries through 2024, the average seven-night, inside stateroom starts at $646 per person. That figure assumes double occupancy (so a couple sharing a room would owe about $1,300), but doesn’t account for extra fees, including taxes and gratuities, or optional add-ons like beverages or Wi-Fi.

Suites can easily cost double that (or far more). For example, the average Vista Suite (the lowest class of suites), averaged $1,322 per person for a seven-night trip. The fanciest of the suites, the Neptune Suite, averaged $2,766 per person.

An inside stateroom on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Prices can also vary widely by region. Here were the average prices per person for seven-night journeys (assuming inside staterooms with double occupancy), broken down by major regions:

California coast: $349.

Alaska: $413.

Caribbean: $609.

Mediterranean: $909.

Northern Europe: $972.

Other costs

The dessert spread at the Morimoto pop-up restaurant on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

That’s the base fare, but anticipate other expenses, including:

Taxes, fees and port expenses: Holland America passes on fees and taxes imposed by governments or port operators. Expect a few hundred dollars added to your base rate. 

Gratuity/tip: An automatic $17 ‘Crew Appreciation’ charge is added per stateroom guest, per day. For guests in suites, it’s $19. Though automatically added, you can adjust the figure upon settling your bill at checkout.

Service charge: Add-ons like beverages, speciality meals and spa services incur an 18% service charge.

Ability to choose your stateroom: For those who want to sleep closest to the best deck on a cruise ship , there’s an additional fee to select your specific stateroom, though prices vary by cruise.

Some activities: Certain activities incur extra costs, such as spa treatments. 

Shore excursions: Upon docking, you’re free to exit the ship and roam around on your own, but Holland America sells curated shore excursions, too, that easily cost more than $100 per person. Prices vary by excursion. In Maui, you can tour a pineapple plantation for $190, while a behind-the-scenes tour of the Maui Ocean Center costs $560. Although you can book excursions through third parties, beware. Benefits of booking through Holland America include early departure and a guaranteed return.

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi starts at roughly $22 per day depending on cruise length. More robust Wi-Fi (such as streaming capabilities) costs more than $30 per day.

Specialty dining and drinks: Specialty restaurants — as well as most beverages beyond basics such as coffee, tea and water — cost extra.

Is the Have It All premium cruise package worth it?

For the latter three items — shore excursions, Wi-Fi, speciality dining and drinks — the Have It All premium cruise package may be worth it.

Packages vary depending on the cruise length. Here’s what’s included:

NerdWallet analyzed dozens of Holland America cruise fares. On average, here’s how much money you would save, depending on the cruise length:

In every data point in NerdWallet’s analysis, the Have It All package ended up cheaper than buying all of those things a la carte. But consider what you really need. If you only drink one alcoholic beverage per day, the $55 beverage package probably isn’t worth it.

How to save on a Holland America cruise

Cruise last-minute: The Last Minute Cruise Deals page lists discounted sailings within the next 60-90 days. However, don’t overlook other costs such as potentially-expensive, last-minute airfare.

Scout out promotions: Holland America’s general deals page is the spot for Black Friday cruise deals or other seasonal promotions.

Refer a friend: Holland America regularly runs a referral program where you might get a cruise credit if your friend enters your name in the referral form.

Become an AARP member: AARP members can earn up to $200 in stateroom credits. Actual amounts depend on room type and cruise length. Considering AARP membership costs $16 annually (and potentially less if you commit to more than one year), joining pays for itself based on the cruise credit alone.

Should you purchase travel insurance for a Holland America cruise?

Holland America sells a cancellation protection plan, which allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason. It’s called the Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP). Unlike traditional insurance plans that require proof (e.g., a doctor’s note confirming illness) or have tons of fine print around reasons the insurer doesn’t have to pay out, CPP is convenient because it lets you cancel for truly any reason.

Plans start at $79, but can run higher depending on coverage and trip length.

The cheapest plan, Standard, requires you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. The Platinum Plan lets you cancel any time up to departure. Neither gets you a full refund though. The Standard Plan refunds up to 80% of your total cost, and Platinum refunds up to 90%.

The Platinum Plan also covers potential costs such as emergency medical and dental care, coverage for lost or delayed bags and trip delay insurance.

Be sure to compare prices with third-party insurance providers , and don’t overlook credit card coverage. Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits on cruises purchased with that card. While credit cards likely won’t offer Cancel For Any Reason coverage, some plans are still quite comprehensive.

Is the Holland America credit card worth it?

The Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card has a $0 annual fee, so it’s hard to knock it. It earns 2 points per $1 spent on Holland America purchases and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else. There are also no foreign transaction fees.

Redemptions are somewhat complex and restricted to mostly Holland America purchases. That’s far more limiting than other credit cards which let you redeem points for cash back or for a wider range of travel .

Plus, most redemptions on the Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card are worth just 1 cent per point. Considering some points on travel credit cards can be redeemed for more than 2 cents per dollar, you’re likely better off using another travel credit card.

on Chase's website

on Bank of America's website

on Citibank's application

• 10 points per $1 on Chase Dining, hotel stays and car rentals purchased through Chase.

• 5 points per $1 on air travel purchased through Chase.

• 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining not booked with Chase.

• 1 point per $1 on other purchases.

• 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center.

• 3 points per $1 on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending on Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay.

• 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

• 10 ThankYou® points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked through the Citi Travel site.

• 3 points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases.

• 3 points per $1 on supermarkets.

• 3 points per $1 on gas stations and EV charging stations.

• 3 points per $1 on restaurants.

$300 annual travel credit .

$325 annual credit.

$100 in airline incidental statement credits.

This card does not offer a travel credit benefit.

The casino. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America offers a traditional and elegant cruise experience. The emphasis on high-quality dining makes it good for foodies — just note that the best restaurants cost extra. Crowds are mature, which is a pro or a con depending on the level of entertainment, nightlife and energy you seek.

Families or people seeking high stimulation and constant entertainment should skip it. Additionally, budget travelers might find the additional charges aggravating (though additional charges are common across pretty much any cruise line).

In short, cruisers who value sophisticated service, delicious food, and exploration may love Holland America.

(Top photo courtesy of Holland America)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

FinanceBuzz

16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the top travel credit cards and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.

Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?

Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship.

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Pack a carry-on bag

Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.

Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action.

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Verify that travel documents are in order

You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.

These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.

Check out the schedule on the cruise app

Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.

While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out:

• Where you can find lunch
• What time the muster drill will be at
• How to access your cabin
• Whether any special events are planned for the evening

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Find your cabin

Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.

Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.

Unpack your carry-on

Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.

You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later.

Find out if the internet works

If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.

If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up.

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Set your phone to airplane mode

You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.

Dress for the day’s events

If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance.

You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.

Apply sunscreen

Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn.

Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time.

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Take anti-nausea medication

Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.

If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy.

Attend the mandatory muster drill

Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.

All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.

You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.

Explore your surroundings

Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.

While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.

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Consider choosing an e-muster

Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.

Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away.

Double-check reservations — or make them in the first place

You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.

Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots.

Find the best spot to enjoy embarking

There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.

Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it.

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Unpack the rest of your bags

You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.

The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

Bottom line

Follow this simple 16-step checklist to avoid wasting money and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.

You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
• 12 legit ways to earn extra cash .
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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American teen missing in Germany after leaving cruise ship, police say

An American teenager disappeared during a cruise in Germany, police said.

Aydin Brown, 14, was last seen at 7 a.m. Thursday when he left the Caribbean Princess in Rostock-Warnemünde, a port town on the Baltic Sea, police said.

He is about 5-7, has long dark hair and was last seen wearing a dark jacket, dark pants and retro shoes, police said.

Princess Cruises said in a statement Friday that it is actively working with German police in the search for the teenager.

The boy left the vessel without an escort, the statement said.

“We understand the distress this situation has caused and will continue to provide ongoing on-site support to the family during this challenging time,” Princess Cruises said.

The teen's grandmother, whom Brown was traveling with, left the ship Thursday night and is being helped by company employees in Warnemünde. Princess Cruises also arranged for his mother to fly to Germany as the search continues, the cruise line said.

"We greatly appreciate the swift response and ongoing efforts of the local authorities in their search for the young man," the statement said. "Their dedication and expertise are invaluable in this critical situation, and we are doing everything we can to assist them."

Police are also searching for a witness who may have seen the teen about 7:30 a.m. Thursday at the train station in Warnemünde.

The witness is described by police as between 20 and 25 years old. and has been asked to urgently report to the criminal investigation department in Rostock.

Natasha Worthington, who is traveling on the cruise said that despite the teen's disappearance, “The mood on the ship is still upbeat as not a lot of people are talking about it."

She said she has little information about the situation, adding "we would like to know what’s happened as we feel extremely sorry for the family.”

Carlo Angerer is a multimedia producer and reporter based in Mainz, Germany. 

Antonio Planas is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

'A polluting form of tourism': Amsterdam slashes cruise ship traffic in half

• Amsterdam will slowly phase out cruise ships and ultimately shutter its cruise terminal.
• The city’s Passengers Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) will cap cruise ships to 100 per year starting in 2026.
• By 2035, Amsterdam's terminal will close.

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Amsterdam has announced it will slowly phase out cruise ships and ultimately shutter its cruise terminal as the popular destination cracks down on overtourism . 

Starting in 2026, the city’s Passengers Terminal Amsterdam will cap cruise ships to 100 a year. Currently, the maximum is 190. The terminal will reduce to just one berth by the following year and require cruise ships to use shore power. 

By 2035, Amsterdam's terminal – a brief 15-minute walk to the city center – will close.

“The city council wants a liveable, clean and sustainable city,” Amsterdam Deputy Mayor Alderman Hester van Buren said in a statement. “Sea cruise is a polluting form of tourism and contributes to crowds and emissions in the city.”

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What should I pack for a cruise? Here are 5 essential items to bring.

When cruise ships use shore power, they can switch off their own machinery, which cuts down on emissions and noise pollution. About 35% of cruise ships are equipped with shore power connections, according to the Cruise Lines International Association .

The proposed measures, a result of collaborative discussions between stakeholders from the industry, city, region, and national government, reflect a shared commitment to the city's future. 

In the announcement, the Dutch city acknowledges the potential economic consequences from fewer tourists spending money in shops or museums and “less tourist tax collected.” The next budget memorandum is set to include the financial consequences of the cruise ship ban.

The city also is considering possible relocation of the passengers terminal to Coenhaven, a harbor in northwest Amsterdam. This move could bring new opportunities and a breath of fresh air to the area. 

“Based on this feasibility study, the council will decide in consultation with the government, the Port Authority, and the province of North Holland whether relocation is feasible by 2035,” the announcement said. 

“The announcement is a great example of the cruise industry’s long-standing partnership with the Port of Amsterdam and the direct outcome of our collaborative discussions on the relocation of the passenger terminal outside the city centre, which started back in 2016,” a spokesperson for the international cruise lines association told USA TODAY.

“Amsterdam is and will remain a popular cruise destination, and cruise tourism will continue delivering important economic benefits to the city,” the spokesperson said, adding that cruise tourists bring about $105 million a year and make up 1% of the more than 21 million visitors a year to the city. 

The news in Amsterdam coincides with Seattle’s new order requiring all cruise ships to use shore power by 2027 to push its own cruise industry to be more sustainable. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .