For travelers yearning for adventure on the high seas without the overwhelming scale of mega-ships, a medium size cruise is the perfect fit. These medium ships strike a sweet balance, offering ample amenities, personalized service, and itineraries that explore bucket-list destinations. If you’re curious about why these mid-sized vessels consistently charm cruisers, read on! We’ll highlight some of the standout medium ship cruises and what makes them a hit among travelers.
The allure of a medium size cruise ship
One of the biggest smiles-inducing perks of a medium ship is how easy it is to get everywhere. With fewer guests aboard than larger vessels, medium size cruises feel relaxed yet vibrant. They cater perfectly to cruisers who want the roomy facilities of larger liners, but without the sprawling quarters or long waits. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Radiance-class ships are the epitome of sleek design, with panoramic elevators and sprawling glass walls offering uninterrupted ocean views.
Medium ships also have the charm of intimate experiences. Crew members frequently get to know guests by name, ensuring a welcoming, personal touch throughout the trip. Plus, these ships travel to ports that mega-ships simply can’t, often including hidden gems like the enchanting Kotor in Montenegro or the secluded Eden-like beaches of Bora Bora.
Dining and activity options on a medium size cruise
Move over crowded buffet lines! Medium ships mix enticing flavors with convenience and variety. Holland America Line, famed for its culinary experiences, spoils guests with venues like the intimate Pinnacle Grill or the Mediterranean-inspired Canaletto. Even on a more laid-back Carnival medium ship, cruisers have quirky options like Guy’s Burger Joint and the sumptuous Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse.
When it comes to entertainment, medium ships deliver with curated activities fit to their scale. Norwegian Cruise Line’s medium vessels focus on fun, such as onboard go-kart tracks and nightly Broadway-quality shows. Alternatively, Princess Cruises takes a more laid-back approach with Movies Under the Stars, offering cozy deck screenings under starlit skies. Whether your ideal evening is action-packed or a tranquil sunset watch, there’s something for every style of cruiser.
Must-visit ports exclusive to medium size cruise ships
Medium ships shine brightly on itineraries that prioritize unique ports. Take Celebrity Cruises, whose medium-sized Celebrity Silhouette can seamlessly dock in ports like Valletta, Malta. This ancient city wows with its golden limestone streets and old-world charm.
Another favorite stop on medium ships is Dubrovnik in Croatia, accessible on Holland America Line and others. Its towering medieval walls and crystal-clear waters make this a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By contrast, mega-ships would struggle to dock so elegantly in these charming harbors. Adorable towns and quaint island escapes like Zadar, Hvar, and Mykonos are the kind of off-the-map marvels that passengers rave about returning to, and medium ships are champions at finding unparalleled access to them.
Facilities tailored to relaxation and discovery
Medium size cruises delight passengers by blending the best of large-ship amenities with carefully chosen upgrades. For instance, many Carnival mid-sized ships host serene adults-only retreats like the Serenity Area, alongside family-friendly venues such as water slides and kid zones. Similarly, the Explorer of the Seas by Royal Caribbean balances sophisticated lounges with thrilling FlowRider surfing simulators.
Meanwhile, Princess Cruises’ mid-sized ships are known for The Sanctuary, an adults-only haven offering plush loungers, refreshing drinks, and unobstructed sea views. This perfect mixture of tranquility and excitement ensures that medium ships fit every vacation mood.
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Related: Large Cruise Ships vs Small Cruise Ships: Which One is Right for You?