Do you find cruising cringy?

One of your friends throws in the group chat, “Let’s go on a cruise! 🚢”

What is your first reaction to that? Are you picturing a chill vacation with your people, kicking back and enjoying not having to make any major decisions for a while? Or do you start to get overwhelmed thinking about how claustrophobic you’ll get, trapped on a ship with a few thousand strangers, being blindsided by upcharges and having limited access to activities?

Your past experiences inform what that response looks like. If I may be so bold, however, I bet you don’t know all the options that an on-the-water vacation might include.

You have your megaships, sure. I’ve talked a lot about Disney Cruise Line here; I’m certainly a fan. But what about yachting? River cruising? Expedition cruising?

Let me lay a little groundwork for you so we’re on the same page.

Ocean Cruising

I confess, my thoughts go straight to massive vessels when I think about ocean cruising. Larger and larger ships are making headlines, but that’s not necessarily representative of the industry.

When it comes to the size of an ocean liner, the smaller the vessel, the more elevated of an experience. That’s a broad statement with exceptions and nuances, but let me give you a few examples going from large to small:

• Royal Caribbean: Their largest ships carry up to 7,600 passengers. With zip lines, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows, this is great if you want endless options and high-energy fun.
  
• Celebrity Cruises: A touch smaller, with modern design, excellent dining, and a more refined atmosphere. Ships typically range between 2,000–3,500 guests.
  
• Oceania Cruises: Around 1,200 passengers on their larger ships. Think upscale dining (their claim to fame), longer itineraries, and routes where the ports shine.
  
• Regent Seven Seas or Seabourn: These are ultra-luxury lines, often under 1,000 passengers, where nearly everything is included—gourmet dining, excursions, and most alcoholic beverages.
  

Ocean cruising gives you a wide spectrum of choices. If you’re someone who gets nervous about crowds, you don’t have to write off ocean cruising—you just need the right-sized ship.

Yachting

Now, let’s shrink things down even further. Yachting cruises are the boutique hotels of the sea. With ships carrying fewer than 300 passengers, the vibe is intimate and relaxed. These itineraries are winners, anchoring you in ports too small for the big ships—think tucked-away Mediterranean towns or smaller Caribbean islands.

Lines like SeaDream Yacht Club or Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection focus on casual luxury. Picture dining alfresco under the stars, knowing the staff by name, and slipping off the ship straight into the water for a swim or paddle. If big ships feel impersonal and crowded, this is the option for you.

Expedition Cruising

For the adventurous at heart, expedition cruising takes you to the ends of the earth. Literally. I’m talking Antarctica, the Galápagos, Greenland, etc.

Ships are small—usually 200 passengers or fewer—but they’re built for exploration. Instead of Broadway shows, your “entertainment” is a team of naturalists, scientists, and guides who lead you on Zodiac boat rides to spot penguins or give lectures on glaciology. Lines like Quark Expeditions, National Geographic-Lindblad, or HX Expeditions specialize in these life-changing journeys.

Let’s not confuse expedition cruising as being primitive, though. You’ll still have access to comfortable amenities like saunas, libraries, and next-level dining. Plus, many of the expeditions have programs curated for younger travellers. Your kids can really live their education in a way they will never forget on these voyages. 

If you’re craving an experience that feels once-in-a-lifetime, this is where you’ll find it. (But if you want to go back next year, I won’t stop you!)

River Cruising

Last but not least, river cruising swaps the vast oceans for winding waterways. With only 100–200 passengers onboard, the experience is relaxed, intimate, and highly destination-focused.

Instead of “sea days,” you’ll find yourself pulling into a new city or village daily—whether it’s sipping wine in Bordeaux, gliding past castles on the Rhine, or exploring the Mekong in Southeast Asia.

Concerned about sea-sickness on your cruise? You won’t experience any of that on the rivers.

Lines like AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Tauck are leaders here, with itineraries that prioritize immersion and are culturally rich. If you’re familiar with river cruising, you’ve probably heard of their European routes. Don’t miss out on their Asian, North African, and South American options if you want an even more off-the-beaten path experience.

So, Which Cruise is Right for You?

That depends on your travel personality. Do you thrive on endless entertainment and lots of energy? A big ocean ship might be perfect. Prefer quiet luxury with gourmet meals? A smaller ocean or yacht cruise may suit you better. Craving adventure and discovery? Expedition is the answer. Love the idea of unpacking once but seeing a different place every day? River cruising could be your sweet spot.

Contrary to (un)popular belief, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cruising—and that’s a good thing. The world of on-the-water travel is vast, diverse, and more customizable than most people realize.

So the next time someone drops “Let’s go on a cruise!” in your group chat, you’ll know there’s more than one way to set sail. Enjoy bonding with your people in a way that’s perfect for your group. And when you’re ready, I’ll help you find that Goldilocks voyage.

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