In cruising circles, it’s often assumed that bigger is better. A large ship means more amenities: from shops to water slides, bars to dodgem cars.
And in many cases it’s true. The mega ships often have a lot more when it comes to onboard distractions, including signature restaurants and popular Broadway shows.
I like the bigger ships because I travel solo and the bigger the ship, the more passengers, the better chance I will meet somebody that I can get along with. And I almost always do.
But smaller ships have their attractions, too. Some cruise passengers enjoy the more intimate feel. Some couples, I’m told, especially like the smaller vessels because of their comfort, sense of romance and the greater attention to detail (and the passengers).
Smaller ships are also able to navigate their way into ports that are inaccessible to the mighty liners.
But, at the end of the day, it isn’t about the passengers. It’s about what’s viable for the cruise operators in the market segment they serve.
So, the news that Norwegian Cruise Lines has ordered some mid-sized ships that will carry about 3,300 passengers — as opposed to the industry behemoths at Royal Caribbean that can handle almost 7,000 people (including crew) — says something about the market they are targetting.
An NCL media release says it has “reached an agreement with Fincantieri S.p.A. [an Italian shipbuilder] to construct the next generation of extraordinary ships for its Norwegian Cruise Line brand. Four ships are on order for delivery in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, with an option for two additional ships to be delivered in 2026 and 2027.
“The four 140,000 gross ton ships will each accommodate approximately 3,300 guests. The new class of ships will build upon the highly successful offering of freedom and flexibility found on the brand’s most recent Breakaway-Plus Class ships and feature a host of innovative designs that will further elevate its already award-winning guest experience.
“A priority of the prototype design is energy efficiency, with the aim of optimizing fuel consumption and reducing the impact on the environment.”
So, good news all round? Or do you prefer something bigger — or smaller?
