Small Ship Cruising

Small ship cruising can be an excellent option for both first time and more experienced cruisers. First timers may enjoy being able to find their way around a less intimidating smaller ship and enjoy the informality and the chance to see familiar faces every day. However, smaller ships can dock into smaller ports which are cannot always be offered on the itineraries of larger ships which can appeal to experienced cruisers who have exhausted all of the major ports.

Typically, small ship cruises begin with a short stay in a hotel close to wherever you are due to board the ship. This will most often be on B&B basis and may include the opportunity to undertake an excursion or two depending on the length of your stay. On my most recent cruise with Voyages to Antiquity, we sailed from Athens and so we were able to take in the magnificent Acropolis. But on other occasions I have flown straight into Palma in Majorca for example and embarked the ship the same day.

Once on board, you will be able to familiarise yourself with small ships very quickly. You will quickly become familiar with the crew and the facilities on offer. Queues are practically non-existent when compared with a big ship both at meal times and when disembarking for excursions. Most cruise ships are full-board however some offer drinks packages which you can purchase before you sail. As regards entertainment, this will completely depend on the type of market the ship is aimed at. Voyages to Antiquity, who are marketed at the 60+ market offer on-board lectures and low-key live music and dancing. They also offered a library, a spa and a small pool on top deck. A small P&O ship however, such as the Oriana, can offer shows and variety acts every night, a wider choice of restaurants and entertainment venues. Some cruisers will enjoy the slower pace which some ships offer after a day of action-packed excursions, but the choice of wide-ranging entertainment is available if you are looking for it.

Regarding the excursions, these will obviously differ from one cruise company to the next. This can be an expensive additional cost as most trips can start from £25 per person to £100+ per person per trip. They are definitely a great way of covering the best highlights. You will usually be offered the opportunity to undertake a more informal tour with transport only allowing you additional free time and so it is worth doing your research before you go. In coastal towns, you may even have the option of walking or arranging local transport which can keep the cost down. However, a handful of companies such as Voyages to Antiquity and Silver Sea Cruises, will include all of the excursions and so it’s worth doing your research.

Personally, I find small ship cruising both relaxing and informal and therefore ideal when I’m looking to go away with my husband Matt. However, if I was looking for a family cruise, I would probably look towards the larger mainstream companies.

There are many different types of cruising to consider; formal, informal, adult only, families, active and relaxing and even river or Nile cruises. If you want more advice on which style is best for you and want inspirational do not hesitate to contact me.