Cruise Ship Size Comparisons: Is Big Always Better? [2023]

This post is all about cruise ship size comparisons.  We will tell you about the largest ship on the ocean, as well as some of the smaller vessels.  If you are less interested in the size of cruise ships and just want to read about cruising in general, then please read our Cruise Choices Post.

World’s Biggest Cruise Ship – Size Comparisons

Have you always wanted to take a cruise on a really big, or even perhaps the world’s biggest cruise ship?   If so, then read on.  We will tell you about world’s largest cruise ship, some of its competitors and even some of the smaller vessels.

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons

When it comes to deciding the size of cruise ships, we take several metrics into consideration. One of the most important factors is the number of passengers the ship can accommodate. The size of a cruise ship determines the number of passengers it can carry, the amount of activities and amenities offered onboard, the overall ambience, and the level of luxury available throughout the ship.

Categories of Ships

The category of the size of cruise ships is based typically based on passenger capacity. Here are five categories that can help you get a better feel for which ship size is right for you:

1. Mega-Ships: These are the largest and newest ships, generally offering the most restaurants, and entertainment venues. Mega ships are the largest cruise ships available and can accommodate more than 5,000 passengers. They often feature cool innovations, such as Broadway shows, enormous water slides, and expansive kids’ facilities.
2. Large Ships: These ships are similar to mega-ships but not as over the top. Large ships typically have passenger capacities ranging from 3,000 to 5,000. They still offer plenty of choices with restaurants, cabin categories, and activities. Large ships cater to families, couples, seniors, and a wide variety of vacation styles and interests.
3. Midsized Ships: These ships strike a balance between large and small vessels. Mid-size ships generally have passenger capacities ranging from 1,000 to 3,000. They offer a more intimate experience with fewer passengers onboard but still provide a range of amenities and activities.
4. Small Ships: These ships offer an intimate cruising experience with fewer passengers and a more relaxed atmosphere. Small ships typically have passenger capacities below 1,000. They often visit off-the-beaten-path destinations that larger ships cannot access.
5. Expedition Ships: Adventure travel ships are classified as expedition ships. They visit remote destinations such as the Artic, Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands. They are typically smaller in size to navigate through narrow waterways and offer specialized excursions led by expert guides.

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons – Disclaimer

Please note that the specific size ranges for each category may vary depending on different sources and cruise lines. The information provided here is a general overview. For more detailed information about specific cruise ship sizes and their features, you can refer to the information that is available on Cruise Critic.

Passenger capacity is not the only important measure. The tonnage weight (“gross tons”) of a cruise ship’s internal volume relates to the vessel’s internal volume. The tonnage weight drives registration fees, port fees, safety rules and regulations for each vessel.

Difference Between Cruise Ship and Ocean Liner

Cruise ships are large passenger ships. Their main purpose is mainly for vacationing. Unlike ocean liners, they typically embark on round-trip voyages to various ports of call. There passengers may go on tours known as “shore excursions”. They may carry thousands of passengers in a single trip. Some are the largest ships in the world by gross tonnage (GT), bigger than many cargo ships.

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons: Cruise Ship vs Ocean Liner

Often people use “cruise ship” and “ocean liner interchangeably” . However, there are significant differences between the two types of vessels. Here are some key distinctions:

• Primary Function: Cruise ships are primarily designed for leisure activities. They offer a wide range of amenities and entertainment options for passengers. In contrast, ocean liners are built for transportation purposes, carrying passengers and cargo between destinations.
• Shape: Cruise ships typically sit higher in the water and have a more rounded bow. Ocean liners, on the other hand, rest lower in the water with a pointed bow that allows them to withstand inclement weather more effectively.
• Hull Thickness: Ocean liners have thicker hulls compared to cruise ships. The extra thickness enhances their durability and enables them to carry heavier loads.
• Speed: Great speed and efficiency allows cruise ships to travel long distances across oceans. Cruise ships generally operate at a standard speed due to their focus on providing a relaxing and leisurely experience.
• Variations in Atmosphere: Ocean liners tend to have a more formal atmosphere, reflecting their historical role as transportation vessels. Cruise ships, on the other hand, offer a more casual and relaxed environment.

It’s worth noting that the distinction between cruise ships and ocean liners has become less pronounced in recent years due to changes in ship designs and the evolution of the industry.

World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Okay, so what is the World’s Largest Cruise Ship?  As of 2023, the world’s largest cruise ship is the Wonder of the Seas. It has a gross tonnage of 236,857, is 362 metres (1,188 ft) long, 64 metres (210 ft) wide, and holds up to 6,988 passengers. In 2022, Royal Carribean launchedThe Wonder of the Seas. The Wonder of the Seas can accommodate up to 7,084 guests in 2,867 staterooms and carries as many as 2,204 crew members.  However, companies continue to build new and larger ships. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check for the latest information from reputable sources. See below to see new ships scheduled to finish in 2024.

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons Compared to Famous Ships

When you think of the most famous ships what names come to mind?  Unfortunately, the RMS Titanic, but also ships like the Queen Mary.  When comparing today’s largest cruise ships to the Titanic and other famous ships like the Queen Mary, there are significant differences in various aspects.

Here’s a comparison of the Titanic and the Queen Mary:

• Length: The Queen Mary is approximately 15% longer than the Titanic, measuring 310 meters (1,017 feet) compared to the Titanic’s 269 meters (883 feet).
• Width: The Queen Mary is about 28% wider than the Titanic, with a beam width of 36 meters (118 feet) compared to the Titanic’s 28 meters (92 feet).
• Height and Decks: The Queen Mary is only 3% taller than the Titanic, measuring 55 meters (180 feet) with an additional 3 passenger deck.
• Gross Tonnage: The Queen Mary had almost double the gross tonnage of the Titanic, with 80,000 GT compared to the Titanic’s 46,000 GT.

However, it’s worth noting that modern day average cruise ship has surpassed the size of both the Titanic and the Queen Mary. For example, as previously stated, Royal Caribbean’s “Wonder of the Seas” measures approximately 362 meters (1,188 feet) in length and has 18 decks. This makes it twice as long and wider than the Titanic.

Overall, advancements in shipbuilding and design have allowed for larger and more technologically advanced cruise ships. However, it’s important to remember that size is not the only factor that determines a ship’s appeal or historical significance.

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons – By Cruise Line

Different Cruise Lines have approached cruise ship size comparisons differently. Royal Caribbean has clearly staked out the lead in the largest cruise ship size comparisons. Here are the specifics:

Royal Caribbean Oasis-Class Ships

The Wonder of the Seas is the biggest, but it is not alone in the world of Mega-Ships.  Royal Caribbean’s family of Oasis Class Ships are all pretty formidable. We sailed on the Harmony of the Seas, not quite as big, but a sister ship to the Wonder of the Seas.  Royal Caribbean International has several mega-ships, including the Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas.  

Large Cruise Ships to Be Introduced in 2024

In 2024 Wonder of the Seas will no longer be the biggest ship on the seas, but will be surpassed by two ships planning their maiden voyage in 2024: The Utopia of the Seas and The Icon of the Seas.

The Utopia of the Seas will actually have slightly less passenger capacity but will have a larger gross tonnage.  It will be the last of the Oasis-Class ships. The Oasis Class ships have been the biggest cruise ships in the world since the debut of Oasis of the Seas in 2009.  The Oasis Class has been seen as the pinnacle of cruise ship design for over ten years. These mega-ships have maximum capacities ranging from 6,680 to 6,988 guests. 

Icon Class

The Icon of the Seas will be in a new class, the Icon Class.  The Icon Class and the Oasis Class are two different classes of ships operated by Royal Caribbean. The Icon Class will become Royal Caribbean’s largest class of cruise ships and can hold up to 7,600 guests at maximum capacity. The first ship in this class, Icon of the Seas, is set to debut in January 2024. The Icon Class is known for being the first Royal Caribbean ship to feature a parabolic bow design, which aids stability and provides smoother motion.

In terms of size, the Icon-class ships are bigger than the Oasis-class ships. For example, Icon of the Seas is around 5% bigger than the biggest Oasis-class ship in terms of overall volume (gross tonnage) and around 7% larger in terms of total capacity (passengers and crew).  Following is a table of Royal Carribean’s very large mega-size cruise ships:

How Other Cruise Lines’ Ships Compare in Size to the Wonder of the Seas

Other Cruise Lines that have mega-size cruise ships in the over 6000 passenger capacity category are primary focused on non-us passengers.  The exception is Carnival, which has two ships in this super mega-ship category.

Folowing is a table of the 12 meg-size cruise ships with more than 6000 passenger capacities:

Royal Caribbean’s Competitors with Large Cruise Ships

 Royal Carribean has cleared staked out the super-sized ships as their calling card. It is interesting to note, that none of Royal Caribbean’s main competitors (Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland American, Viking and Virgin Voyages) have created a mega-size ship in the over 6000 passenger capacity category.  The main exception is Carnival which has ships in the 6000+ passenger category. The reason these cruise lines are not building the enormous ships is most likely because they are competing for a passenger looking for a different kind of service.

However, some of Royal Caribbean International’s competitors (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Viking Cruises) are competing in the 5000+ passenger mega-sized cruise ship category. These companies are also well-known cruise lines that offer a variety of experiences to their passengers. Here are some details about these cruise lines and their mega-size ships:

Cruise Ship Size Comparisons: Competitors

1. Celebrity Cruises: Is owned by Royal Caribbean and operate a fleet of stylish ships that cater to discerning travelers. The Celebrity Reflection is one of their mega-ships, with 1,523 cabins and suites. They are known for their modern luxury experience, offering upscale amenities, gourmet dining options, and personalized service. 
2. Virgin Voyages: Their first ship, the Scarlet Lady, is an adults-only, all-inclusive cruise ship with over 1,500 cabins. Viking Cruises is a company providing river and ocean cruises. They focus on offering destination-focused itineraries that immerse passengers in the local culture and history. Viking Cruises is known for its elegant ships, all-veranda staterooms, and inclusive pricing.
3. Princess Cruises: One of their mega-ships is the Enchanted Princess, which has received positive reviews for its gorgeous design and health protocols. They are known for their elegant ships and exceptional service. Princess Cruises offers a wide range of itineraries, including destinations around the world.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line: They also operate mega-ships, but specific details about their ships were not available.  They operate several cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which offers a more relaxed and flexible approach to dining and entertainment.

What Constrains the Size of a Cruise Ship?

The size of a cruise ship is determined by various factors, including economics, customer satisfaction, and amenities. While there are no specific constraints on how large a cruise ship can be, there are practical limitations to consider.

Cruise ships have a maximum length of around 1,200 feet. However, they can compensate for this limitation by increasing their height and breadth, resulting in a significant growth in internal volume. The economy of scale has shown that accommodating more passengers onboard can help maximize revenue. However, cruise lines must strike a balance between size and customer satisfaction to ensure an enjoyable experience for passengers.

Larger ships offer more amenities, such as additional restaurants, bars, lounges, event venues, and activities. Managing larger vessels has some challenges. This includes docking at ports that may not be able to accommodate them and navigating through narrow waterways.

It’s important to note that the size of cruise ships has been increasing over the years as cruise lines strive to offer unique experiences and attract more passengers. 

Advantages of a Smaller Size Cruise Ship 

Sailing on a smaller cruise ship offers several advantages compared to larger ships. Here are some reasons why you might consider cruising on a smaller ship:

1. Lower Cost: Smaller cruise ships often provide more affordable options, allowing you to find amazing bargains and deals. You can sometimes find rates as low as $50 to $60 per person per day.
2. Shorter Itineraries: If you’re looking for a quick getaway without taking an entire week off from work, smaller ships offer shorter itineraries, including 3 and 4-day options. Some larger ships typically don’t offer anything less than a 7-day cruise.
3. Easy to Navigate: Smaller cruise ships are easier to navigate due to their size and typically more sensible layout. You won’t need days to get familiar with the ship’s layout, and you’ll always know how to get to your desired location.
4. Less Walking and More Doing: On smaller ships, you’ll spend less time walking long corridors and more time enjoying the ship’s amenities and activities. You can easily reach any destination on the ship within minutes.
5. Intimate Atmosphere: Smaller ships have fewer passengers and crew members, creating a more intimate atmosphere where you have a better opportunity to get to know fellow passengers, swap stories, and make lasting friendships.
6. Quality Over Quantity: Smaller ships often prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to dining options and public spaces. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and more personalized service.
7. Unique Ports of Call: Smaller ships can access ports that larger ships cannot, allowing you to visit less frequented destinations and experience local cultures in a more authentic way.

Please note that these advantages are generalizations, and each cruise ship has its own unique features and offerings. For more information about cruising on smaller ships, you can refer to Cruise Critic.

Where Can Small and Mid-size Ships Go Where Larger Ships Can’t Go?

Smaller and mid-size ships have the advantage of being able to visit destinations that are inaccessible to larger ships. Here are some examples:

• Remote Destinations: Smaller ships can navigate narrow waterways and reach remote destinations that larger ships cannot. These include places like Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and Alaska’s Inside Passage.
• Exotic Ports: Smaller ships can dock at smaller ports and islands that are off-limits to larger cruise ships. These include destinations like Santorini in Greece, St. Barts in the Caribbean, and Portofino in Italy.
• Rivers and Canals: Smaller river cruise ships can sail along rivers and canals, offering unique experiences and access to inland destinations. Examples include the Danube River, the Mekong River, and the Panama Canal.
• Less Crowded Ports: Smaller ships can visit ports that are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience with the local culture and attractions. These ports may include lesser-known destinations in regions such as the Baltic Sea, the Adriatic Sea, and the Caribbean..

Please note that the availability of specific itineraries may vary depending on the cruise line and season. For more information about cruise destinations and itineraries, you can consult travel agencies or visit the websites of cruise lines.

Our Preference for Ship Size and Other Factors

We have sailed on Mega-sized ships (Harmony of the Seas), Large size ships (Celebrity Edge and Beyond) Medium size ships (Holland American Nieuw Amsterdam, Celebrity Millennium, and Crystal Serenity) and Small Size Ships (Windstar Star Breeze and Star Pride).  Having sailed on mega, large, medium and small sized cruise ships, we can honestly say that you can enjoy yourself on any kind of cruise ship.  

However, we have personally found that we enjoy ourselves better on the mid-size and smaller size ships.  We recognize that we will not get “Broadway-style” performances on the smaller ships.  But because of the intimacy of the smaller ships, what we will get is a better chance to meet new people and share our experiences.  Also, the smaller ships can clearly go where the big ships can’t.