Here are our top benefits of small ship cruising.
Personalized Service
While all cruises have excellent staff to guest ratios, small ships take service to the next level. For example, on Silversea your aren’t left to find your stateroom on your own, rather you are escorted to your suite. Once you arrive your Butler will offer you a choice of pillows, this is particularly nice if you have an allergy, as there will be no delay in providing you with hypoallergenic bedding. Ever attentive your Butler will also offer to unpack your luggage, explain the entertainment control and review any food preferences with you. Have a favourite tipple? Your Butler will ensure it’s chilling in your suite’s refrigerator.
Ports of Call
One of the biggest benefits of small ship cruising is the ship’s ability to port in the smaller destinations. Not only does being able to dock right in a port eliminate the need for time-consuming tenders it also gives the cruise line more port options when they are creating their itineraries. Some destinations simply aren’t big enough to handle 4,000 passengers. The lack of tenders means guests have more time to explore and often means the ship can stay in port longer. For example, many ships visit Zagreb and Split, the two largest ports in Croatia, but only small ships visit the island of Hvar, one of Europes lesser-known treasures.
On Board Atmosphere
Vacations are time to kick back and relax and that’s why guests on board small ships love the country club casual atmosphere they offer. During the day, the vibe on board small ships is friendly and relaxed with lots of options to keep travellers entertained. During the evening, cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas offer sophisticated lounges, live music as well as full-scale musical productions in the main show lounge. Paul Gauguin Cruises, who specialize in French Polynesia are accompanied by their own troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers that bring the spirit of Polynesia to life.