There are many companies offering cruises around Alaska so that you can see all of the beautiful landscapes on offer in this northern state. In addition to the itinerary, location and price, you also have to decide whether to take an Alaska cruise in small ship or opt for one of the larger cruise ships. The answer largely depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of the trip. The following will help you to consider your options and come to a more educated decision.
Amenities
Those who see the cruise ship as part of the beauty of the trip might want to opt for one of the larger cruises for the amenities. Although an Alaska small ship cruiser can provide an amazing and luxurious experience as you cruise through the Alaskan waters, the amenities are a big deciding factor for some. Large cruise ships often have shows, pools, exercise facilities and other entertainment facilities to keep you occupied whenever you are on the ship. In comparison, an Alaska cruise small ship has limited space, so it tends to just have cabins, a dining room and little else. The excitement is saved for off the boat activities.
Other People
Another consideration to make is how many other people you want to share your adventure with. A large cruise ship can hold thousands of people, making it a very crowded adventure. For some people, this is part of the fun because of the chance to meet a lot of people. Alternatively, smaller ships come with fewer people. You still have the chance to meet new people, and you might even find that you create even better friendships with the people because there are fewer of you on the adventure. If you have enough family and friends who want to come with you, you might even be able to get an Alaska cruise small ship just for your group.
Smooth Waters
A big difference that matters to some people is how bumpy a ride you will have. Smaller ships are not as protected from sea waves, which can lead to really bumpy trips on the open water. This is because they do not have the stabilizers the larger ships have. However, these ships tend to not spend much time in the open water and instead travel in the Inside Passages, which are protected from waves.
Location
Another major consideration is the location of the cruise. Although they might travel similar itineraries, smaller ships are able to go into areas that the larger ships just cannot. This might be smaller ports in a city that mostly caters fishers or head off to uninhabited islands. They can also come up very closely to cliff faces, icebergs and waterfalls without fear of disasters. Their size is also less frightening to sea life, so you have the chance to get even closer to whales. Larger passengers still will see these animals and locations, but they might not get as close of a look.
Both large cruise ships and an Alaska cruise small ship have their advantages and disadvantages. Deciding which one to choose depends on what you hope to get from your adventure, as well as other factors such as time, itinerary and price.
Martin Wynn
