Cruise Ship Types

The ship shapes your vacation as much as the destination. Here are the main types of cruise vessel and what to expect aboard each.

Mega-ships (4,000+ guests)

Floating resorts with water parks, Broadway-style shows, dozens of restaurants and neighborhoods. Great for families and groups; can feel busy.

Mid-size ships (1,000–3,000)

Classic cruising: a good balance of facilities and calm. Typical of premium lines.

Small ships & yachts (under 1,000)

Intimate luxury and boutique ships that reach smaller ports, with a more personal atmosphere.

River ships

Long, low vessels built for rivers and locks; in Europe most carry under 200 guests. A new town nearly every day.

Expedition ships

Ice-strengthened small ships with Zodiacs and naturalists for Antarctica, the Arctic and the Galápagos.

Sailing ships

Masted ships under sail or motor-sail: romantic, small and relaxed.