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[Updated] Cruise Ships With the Best/Worst Space to Guest Ratio: 8 Cruise Lines Compared

by Celebrity Cruises

I compared 141 cruise ships from 8 major cruise lines to see which offered the most space based on passenger capacity and ship volume.

*This post has been updated from its original writing and reflects the latest cruise ships to enter the market, including cruise ships that will debut in the next year.

While many factors can have an impact on how crowded a ship may feel, there is a simple formula for figuring out the passenger space ratio.  Additionally, this allows us to compare different ships by the same metric and see how it compares with out experience on the ship.

Related: What is the best cruise line for you?

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How the passenger space ratio was calculated on our chart

The formula for the passenger space ratio is simply the gross tonnage (GT) of a cruise ship divided by the passenger capacity of that vessel  (Gross Tonnage ÷ passenger capacity).  In our list we used the standard double-capacity for each ship.  

It’s important to understand that some lines may more commonly exceed the double-capacity figures especially if it’s more usual for families to travel with that line.  Likewise, since the exact number of passengers on a cruise at any given time will be different it’s important to note that this part of the equation should be somewhat flexible.

Related: Cruise ships with the best passenger to cruise ratio (mainstream lines)

Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise ships in Cozumel, Mexico
Photo credit: Cruise Fever

What is gross tonnage anyway?

A common misconception is that the gross tonnage of a cruise ship is a measurement of weight.  However, it has nothing to do with weight at all.  In fact, gross tonnage is a unitless measurement of the volume or space of a cruise ship and includes all of the enclosed spaces of the vessel.  This is an important factor, as some areas of a ship’s open-air decks will not be included in the figure.

How else is gross tonnage used?

Ever wonder why some ship’s have bigger fees than others?  Well, the gross tonnage plays a factor.  The overall GT of a ship determines things like registration fees, regulations, safety rules and port dues, depending on each individual port.

Some of the largest cruise ships in the world belong to Royal Caribbean Cruises and have a gross tonnage of over 200,000. In fact, Utopia of the Seas will have a massive GT of 236,860.

Read more: The true cost difference between a balcony cabin and interior stateroom

Other important factors

While using the passenger space ratio can be a simple way to compare ships and how crowded they may feel, it’s not a perfect measurement.  Factors like the overall flow of a ship’s design, how the programs are spaced out, the times in which various events take place, and the demographic of a ship all play a greater role in the feeling of being crowded on a cruise ship.

Additionally, depending on what you like to do on a cruise you might have a vastly different experience than someone else on the very same cruise simply based on what times you took part in different programs, shows, and meals.

So, this list is just a fun way to compare ships based on space and capacity.

I have sorted each cruise line separately so you can compare ships within a specific line, which I think personally is a more accurate way to compare how crowded a cruise ship may or may not feel.  This is simply because each cruise line handles passenger flow differently. 

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At the end of the page I have also listed all 141 cruise ships in a chart so you can compare all of them at the same time.  The lists below include the following cruise lines: Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Holland America Cruises.

The larger the number in the right hand column the more spacious a ship may feel. At least that’s the idea. A number in the 20’s would feel crowded and cramped while a number in the high 40’s and above may feel spacious.

 The cruise ships below are sorted by the space/passenger ratio. The higher the number the more space per passenger is available on the ship.

Carnival Cruise Line: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
Carnival Venezia 135,225 4,090 33.06
Carnival Horizon 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Panorama 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Vista 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Radiance 101,509 2,984 34
Carnival Sunrise 101,509 2,984 34
Mardi Gras 180,000 5,282 34.08
Carnival Jubilee 183,900 5,374 34.22
Carnival Sunshine 102,853 3,002 34.27
Carnival Elation 70,367 2,052 34.3
Carnival Paradise 70,367 2,052 34.3
Carnival Celebration 181,808 5,282 34.42
Carnival Breeze 130,000 3,690 35.23
Carnival Magic 130,000 3,690 35.23
Carnival Dream 130,000 3,646 35.66
Carnival Conquest 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Freedom 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Glory 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Liberty 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Valor 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Splendor 113,300 3,012 37.62
Carnival Luminosa 92,600 2,260 40.97
Carnival Legend 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Miracle 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Pride 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Spirit 88,500 2,124 41.67

See our list of every Carnival cruise ship currently in service in order of newest to oldest here.

Royal Caribbean Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
Enchantment of the Seas 82,910 2,252 36.82
Grandeur of the Seas 73,817 1,992 37.06
Vision of the Seas 78,717 2,050 38.4
Rhapsody of the Seas 78,878 1,998 39.48
Spectrum of the Seas 169,379 4,246 39.89
Odyssey of the Seas 167,704 4,200 39.93
Anthem of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Ovation of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Quantum of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Allure of the Seas 225,282 5,492 41.02
Liberty of the Seas 155,889 3,798 41.14
Harmony of the Seas 226,963 5,497 41.29
Wonder of the Seas 236,857 5,734 41.31
Freedom of the Seas 156,271 3,782 41.32
Symphony of the Seas 228,081 5,518 41.33
Navigator of the Seas 139,999 3,376 41.47
Utopia of the Seas 236,860 5,668 41.79
Serenade of the Seas 90,090 2,146 41.98
Oasis of the Seas 226,838 5,400 42
Radiance of the Seas 90,090 2,143 42.04
Brilliance of the Seas 90,090 2,142 42.06
Jewel of the Seas 90,090 2,112 42.66
Independence of the Seas 155,889 3,634 42.9
Icon of the Seas 248,663 5,610 44.32
Adventure of the Seas 138,193 3,114 44.38
Explorer of the Seas 138,194 3,114 44.38
Voyager of the Seas 138,194 3,114 44.38
Mariner of the Seas 139,863 3,114 44.91

Royal Caribbean cruise ships in order from newest to oldest.

Norwegian Cruise Line: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
Norwegian Getaway 145,655 3,963 36.75
Norwegian Breakaway 145,655 3,959 36.79
Pride of America 80,439 2,186 36.8
Norwegian Spirit 75,904 2,032 37.35
Norwegian Epic 155,873 4,100 38
Norwegian Sky 77,104 2,004 38.48
Norwegian Escape 164,998 4,266 38.68
Norwegian Jade 93,558 2,402 38.95
Norwegian Gem 93,530 2,394 39
Norwegian Pearl 93,530 2,394 39.07
Norwegian Star 91,740 2,348 39.07
Norwegian Jewel 93,502 2,376 39.35
Norwegian Dawn 92,250 2,340 39.42
Norwegian Sun 78,309 1,936 40.45
Norwegian Bliss 168,028 4,004 41.97
Norwegian Encore 169,116 3,998 42.3
Norwegian Joy 167,725 3,804 44.09
Norwegian Viva 143,535 3,219 44.59
Norwegian Prima 143,535 3,099 46.32

See every Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ship in service from newest to oldest here.

MSC Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ships Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
MSC Sinfonia 65,542 2,546 26
MSC Armonia 65,542 2,160 30.34
MSC Opera 65,591 2,160 30.37
MSC Lirica 65,591 1,984 33.06
MSC Preziosa 139,072 3,959 35.13
MSC Musica 89,600 2,550 35.14
MSC Orchestra 92,400 2,550 36.23
MSC Poesia 92,627 2,550 36.32
MSC Seaside 153,516 4,132 37.15
MSC Seaview 153,516 4,132 37.15
MSC Grandiosa 181,000 4,842 37.38
MSC Virtuosa 181,541 4,842 37.49
MSC Seascape 170,400 4,540 37.53
MSC Seashore 170,412 4,540 37.54
MSC Seashore 170,412 4,540 37.54
MSC Magnifica 95,128 2,518 37.78
MSC Euribia 184,011 4,838 38.03
MSC Bellissima 171,598 4,500 38.13
MSC Meraviglia 171,598 4,488 38.23
MSC Divina 139,072 3,502 39.71
MSC World Europa 215,863 5,200 41.51
MSC Fantasia 137,936 3,274 42.13
MSC Splendida 137,936 3,274 42.13

See all MSC Cruises cruise ships in order from newest to oldest.

Disney Cruise Line ships by passenger space ratio

Note: There are two different numbers for capacity on Disney. The first number is for double capacity and the second is for maximum capacity. I thought it was important to have both since many Disney cruises have families with more than 2 occupants in a cabin.

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Capacity (Double/Max) Space/Pass Ratio
Disney Magic 83,338 1,750 / 2,700 47.62 / 30.87
Disney Wonder 84,130 1,750 / 2,700 48.07 / 31.16
Disney Dream 129,690 2,500 / 4,000 51.88 / 32.42
Disney Fantasy 129,690 2,500 / 4,000 51.88 / 32.42
Disney Treasure 144,000 2,508 / 4000 57.42 / 36
Disney Wish 144,000 2,500 / 4,000 57.6 / 36

Princess Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
Caribbean Princess 112,894 3,142 35.93
Crown Princess 113,561 3,080 36.87
Emerald Princess 113,561 3,080 37.87
Ruby Princess 113,561 3,080 36.87
Enchanted Princess 141,000 3,660 38.52
Discovery Princess 141,000 3,660 38.52
Sky Princess 143,700 3,660 39.26
Royal Princess 141,000 3,560 39.61
Regal Princess 142,229 3,560 39.95
Majestic Princess 143,700 3,560 40.37
Sun Princess 175,000 4,300 40.81
Grand Princess 107,517 2,600 41.35
Island Princess 92,822 2,200 42.19
Diamond Princess 115,875 2,670 43.4
Sapphire Princess 115,875 2,670 43.4
Coral Princess 91,627 2,000 45

See all Princess Cruises ships from newest to oldest.

Celebrity Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/pass ratio
Celebrity Millennium 90,940 2,218 41
Celebrity Summit 90,940 2,218 41
Celebrity Reflection 126,000 3,046 41.37
Celebrity Constellation 90,940 2,184 41.64
Celebrity Infinity 91,000 2,170 41.93
Celebrity Silhouette 122,400 2,902 42.18
Celebrity Solstice 122,000 2,852 42.78
Celebrity Equinox 122,000 2,852 42.78
Celebrity Eclipse 122,000 2,852 42.78
Celebrity Beyond 140,600 3,260 43.13
Celebrity Ascent 141,420 3,260 43.38
Celebrity Edge 129,500 2,918 44.38
Celebrity Apex 129,500 2,910 44.5

 

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Holland America Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
MS Rotterdam 99,935 2,668 37.46
MS Nieuw Statendam 99,902 2,666 37.47
MS Koningsdam 99,868 2,650 37.69
MS Eurodam 86,273 2,104 41
MS Nieuw Amsterdam 86,700 2,106 41.17
MS Oosterdam 82,305 1,964 41.91
MS Westerdam 82,500 1,964 42
MS Volendam 60,906 1,432 43
MS Zaandam 61,396 1,432 42.87
MS Zuiderdam 82,305 1,916 42.96
MS Noordam 82,500 1,916 43.06

The below section is a list of all the above ships in one table. These are again listed in order from least spacious to most spacious based on our passenger space ratio formula.

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All 141 Cruise ships by passenger space ratio: sorted least to greatest

Cruise Line Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Space/Pass Ratio
MSC MSC Sinfonia 65,542 2,546 26
MSC MSC Armonia 65,542 2,160 30.34
MSC MSC Opera 65,591 2,160 30.37
Carnival Carnival Venezia 135,225 4,208 32.16
MSC MSC Lirica 65,591 1,984 33.06
Carnival Carnival Horizon 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Carnival Panorama 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Carnival Vista 133,500 3,934 33.93
Carnival Carnival Radiance 101,509 2,984 34
Carnival Carnival Sunrise 101,509 2,984 34
Carnival Mardi Gras 180,000 5,282 34.08
Carnival Carnival Jubilee 183,900 5,374 34.22
Carnival Carnival Sunshine 102,853 3,002 34.27
Carnival Carnival Elation 70,367 2,052 34.3
Carnival Carnival Paradise 70,367 2,052 34.3
Carnival Carnival Celebration 181,808 5,282 34.42
MSC MSC Preziosa 139,072 3,959 35.13
MSC MSC Musica 89,600 2,550 35.14
Carnival Carnival Breeze 130,000 3,690 35.23
Carnival Carnival Magic 130,000 3,690 35.23
Carnival Carnival Dream 130,000 3,646 35.66
Princess Caribbean Princess 112,894 3,142 35.93
MSC MSC Orchestra 92,400 2,550 36.23
MSC MSC Poesia 92,627 2,550 36.32
Norwegian Norwegian Getaway 145,655 3,963 36.75
Norwegian Norwegian Breakaway 145,655 3,959 36.79
Norwegian Pride of America 80,439 2,186 36.8
Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas 82,910 2,252 36.82
Princess Crown Princess 113,561 3,080 36.87
Princess Emeral Princess 113,561 3,080 36.87
Princess Ruby Princess 113,561 3,080 36.87
Carnival Carnival Conquest 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Carnival Freedom 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Carnival Glory 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Carnival Liberty 110,000 2,980 36.91
Carnival Carnival Valor 110,000 2,980 36.91
Royal Caribbean Grandeur of the Seas 73,817 1,992 37.06
MSC MSC Seaside 153,516 4,132 37.15
MSC MSC Seaview 153,516 4,132 37.15
Norwegian Norwegian Spirit 75,904 2,032 37.35
MSC MSC Grandiosa 181,000 4,842 37.38
Holland America MS Rotterdam 99,935 2,668 37.46
Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam 99,902 2,666 37.47
MSC MSC Virtuosa 181,541 4,842 37.49
MSC MSC Seascape 170,400 4,540 37.53
MSC MSC Seashore 170,412 4,540 37.54
Carnival Carnival Splendor 113,300 3,012 37.62
Holland America MS Koningsdam 99,868 2,650 37.69
MSC MSC Magnifica 95,128 2,518 37.78
Norwegian Norwegian Epic 155,873 4,100 38
MSC MSC Euribia 184,011 4,838 38.03
MSC MSC Bellissima 171,598 4,500 38.13
MSC MSC Meraviglia 171,598 4,488 38.23
Royal Caribbean Vision of the Seas 78,717 2,050 38.4
Norwegian Norwegian Sky 77,104 2,004 38.48
Princess Enchanted Princess 141,000 3,660 38.52
Princess Discovery Princess 141,000 3,660 38.52
Norwegian Norwegian Escape 164,998 4,266 38.68
Norwegian Norwegian Jade 93,558 2,402 38.95
Norwegian Norwegian Gem 93,530 2,394 39
Norwegian Norwegian Pearl 93,530 2,394 39.07
Norwegian Norwegian Star 91,740 2,348 39.07
Princess Sky Princess 143,700 3,660 39.26
Norwegian Norwegian Jewel 93,502 2,376 39.35
Norwegian Norwegian Dawn 92,250 2,340 39.42
Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas 78,878 1,998 39.48
Princess Royal Princess 141,000 3,560 39.61
MSC MSC Divina 139,072 3,502 39.71
Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas 169,379 4,246 39.89
Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas 167,704 4,200 39.93
Princess Regal Princess 142,229 3,560 39.95
Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas 168,666 4,180 40.35
Princess Majestic Princess 143,700 3,560 40.37
Norwegian Norwegian Sun 78,309 1,936 40.45
Princess Sun Princess 175,500 4,300 40.81
Carnival Carnival Luminosa 92,600 2,260 40.97
Holland America MS Eurodam 86,273 2,104 41
Celebrity Celebrity Millennium 90,940 2,218 41
Celebrity Celebrity Summit 90,940 2,218 41
Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas 225,282 5,492 41.02
Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas 155,889 3,798 41.14
Holland America MS Nieuw Amsterdam 86,700 2,106 41.17
Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas 226,963 5,497 41.29
Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas 236,857 5,734 41.31
Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas 156,271 3,782 41.32
Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 228,081 5,518 41.33
Princess Grand Princess 107,517 2,600 41.35
Celebrity Celebrity Reflection 126,000 3,046 41.37
Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas 139,999 3,376 41.47
MSC World Europa 215,863 5,200 41.51
Celebrity Celebrity Constellation 90,940 2,184 41.64
Carnival Carnival Legend 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Carnival Miracle 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Carnival Pride 88,500 2,124 41.67
Carnival Carnival Spirit 88,500 2,124 41.67
Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas 236,860 5,668 41.79
Holland America MS Oosterdam 82,305 1,964 41.91
Celebrity Celebrity Infinity 91,000 2,170 41.93
Norwegian Norwegian Bliss 168,028 4,004 41.97
Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas 90,090 2,146 41.98
Holland America MS Westerdam 82,500 1,964 42
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas 226,838 5,400 42
Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas 90,090 2,143 42.04
Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas 90,090 2,142 42.06
MSC MSC Fantasia 137,936 3,274 42.13
MSC MSC Splendida 137,936 3,274 42.13
Celebrity Celebrity Silhouette 122,400 2,902 42.18
Princess Island Princess 92,822 2,200 42.19
Norwegian Norwegian Encore 169,116 3,998 42.3
Holland America MS Volendam 60,906 1,432 42.53
Royal Caribbean Jewel of the Seas 90,090 2,112 42.66
Celebrity Celebrity Solstice 122,000 2,852 42.78
Celebrity Celebrity Equinox 122,000 2,852 42.78
Celebrity Celebrity Eclipse 122,000 2,852 42.78
Holland America MS Zaandam 61,396 1,432 42.87
Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas 155,889 3,634 42.9
Holland America MS Zuiderdam 82,305 1,916 42.96
Holland America MS Noordam 82,500 1,916 43.06
Celebrity Celebrity Beyond 140,600 3,260 43.13
Celebrity Celebrity Ascent 141,420 3,260 43.38
Princess Diamond Princess 115,875 2,670 43.4
Princess Sapphire Princess 115,875 2,670 43.4
Norwegian Norwegian Joy 167,725 3,804 44.09
Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas 248,663 5,610 44.32
Celebrity Celebrity Edge 129,500 2,918 44.38
Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas 138,193 3,114 44.38
Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas 138,194 3,114 44.38
Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas 138,194 3,114 44.38
Celebrity Celebrity Apex 129,500 2,910 44.5
Norwegian Norwegian Viva 143,535 3,219 44.59
Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas 139,863 3,114 44.91
Princess Coral Princess 91,627 2,000 45
Norwegian Norwegian Prima 143,535 3,099 46.32
Disney Disney Magic 83,338 1,750 / 2,700 47.62 / 30.87
Disney Disney Wonder 84,130 1,750 / 2,700 48.07 / 31.16
Disney Disney Dream 129,690 2,500 / 4,000 51.88 / 32.42
Disney Disney Fantasy 129,690 2,500 / 4,000 51.88 / 32.42
Disney Disney Treasure 144,000 2508 / 4000 57.42 / 36
Disney Disney Wish 144,000 2,500 / 4,000 57.6 / 36
Disney has 2 groups of numbers under capacity. The first is double capacity and the second is maximum capacity. Since Disney typically has a lot of families with children on the ships I wanted to include both numbers.

Read more: How to avoid crowds on a cruise ship (best tips)

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3 Tips to Avoid Getting “Bumped” off Your Ship and Why It Happens

by Celebrity Cruises

There’s almost a 0% chance you’ll be “bumped” from your cruise.    And even if a cruise line does overbook your cruise, leaving you behind, the likely compensation should definitely ease the pain.

Image of cruise ship Celebrity Equinox sailing out of Port Everglades
Don’t let your cruise ship sail away without you. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever

Many people didn’t think this was even possible before news reports out of Brisbane, Australia started circulating last November.

Headlines were made when Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas set sail from Brisbane, leaving behind several passengers with confirmed bookings.  At least 11 cabins that had been booked by potential passengers were given to other cruisers.

The affected customers received a letter from the cruise line outlining their options due to the oversold ship. One option was to wait on standby for a possible stateroom assignment. A couple of waiting families or groups were ultimately allowed to board, but when the ship reached capacity, these 11 remaining parties were left to make other arrangements.

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The impacted guests were ultimately offered a full refund, in addition to future cruise credit equivalent to their original cruise fare.  They even received an included beverage package – not a bad consolation prize.

How is a cruise ship overbooked?

Because of the high demand the cruise industry has seen in 2023 and well into 2024, cruise lines allow for a few extra bookings on a ship, knowing that some last-minute cancellations will open up staterooms.

The reality is it’s a high priority for these cruise lines to sail at full capacity, getting the most out of every sailing.

Often a cruise ship will sail at 105% or greater capacity.  This simply means that all of the cabins are occupied, and some have more than two guests in a stateroom, since double-capacity figures are used to reach that 100% figure.

While not common, incidents like the one on Quantum of the Seas are not exclusive to Royal Caribbean. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your risk of being affected by overbooking:

Read more: 7 biggest cruise cabin booking mistakes

cruise ship crew to passenger ratio

How to avoid getting bumped on an overbooked cruise?

The Royal Caribbean customers who were bumped from their ship in November of 2023 had something in common.  They had booked staterooms with a “guaranteed fare”.

Cruise lines will offer these guaranteed prices at a lower rate if you allow them to assign you a cabin at a later time.  You get to choose a cabin category at a lower price, and you’re “guaranteed” that category.

Keep in mind that these are the “leftover” cabins after all the other passengers have chosen their own staterooms.

Most know the risk is getting a location that’s less than ideal, but very few know it could also mean they could get bumped off an oversold ship because of it.    Although again, this is a very rare occurrence.

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Avoid guaranteed fares

Choosing your own stateroom can keep this from happening to you.  It really shouldn’t happen in the first place, and some cruise lines are trying to address the issue as demand for cruising continues to heat up.

But if you have picked out and paid for your specific stateroom rather than a guaranteed cabin category, you won’t have to worry about being bumped off the list.

Check in early

If you do decide to book a cruise with a guaranteed fare, you should take care of check-in as early as possible.  I always set a reminder on my calendar on the exact date that I can check in online.

The exact number of days before a sailing that you can check in varies by different cruise lines.

With Royal Caribbean you can check in 45 days before a cruise and with Carnival it’s 14 days.  But double-check with your particular cruise line.

The check-in process will expedite the cabin selection process and you will be less likely to get the dreaded cruise bump.

Related: 19 things you should do on cruise embarkation day

Get some travel insurance

And thirdly, always pay the extra money for travel insurance.   It might seem like a waste of money or excess spending at the time, but one incident like this will make it all worth it.

Even though those bumped cruise travelers were given a refund and future cruise credit, they still incurred other travel costs that they were not anticipating.

In addition to trip interruption coverage, cruise travel insurance can give you peace of mind if something comes up at the last minute and you need to cancel your cruise.

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Read more:  Cruise travel insurance and why you need it

What to do if you do get bumped

It’s unlikely this will ever happen to you, but if it does here are a few pointers.

  • Stay calm, be polite and talk it out – While it’s no fun to miss your cruise, keeping your cool and having a friendly conversation with the cruise line can really help. Just tell them clearly what you’d like (maybe a refund, or sailing on another day) and see what they can do. You might be surprised.
  • Understand your options – Whether it’s a full refund, future cruise credit, or a rebooking, make sure you know all of your options first.
  • Negotiate – While the cruise line will present initial options, you have the right to discuss additional possibilities. Politely present alternative sailings you find suitable or inquire about compensation for non-refundable travel arrangements impacted by the overbooking.

Related:  5 reasons you don’t need a travel agent for your cruise and one big reason you do

Final Thoughts

While overbooking is rare it can happen.  Embracing early booking, strategic cabin selection, and awareness of cruise line policies.  This way you can minimize the risk and maximize your chances of a worry-free cruise.

If these kinds of incidences happened more regularly, it would only incentivize trying to get bumped in order to enjoy some of the make-goods that are often offered by cruise lines.   But with cruise lines trying to take advantage of the strong demand for cruising, it’s likely this could happen again in 2024.

Read more: Skipping ports: 8 reasons your cruise ship might not visit your planned ports of call

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Cruise Line Adds Visits to Lesser Known Ports on New Cruises

by Celebrity Cruises

A cruise line has added visits to ports that aren’t seldomly visited by cruise ships on new itineraries in 2024 and 2025.

Oceania Cruises, a premium cruise line from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, has announced new cruise itineraries that will visit seldom visited ports in Africa and Asia over the next two years.

These new cruises include a 59 day voyage that visits off-the-beaten path ports. The cruise will take place on Riviera departing from Barcelona, Spain. After a visit to the Canary Islands, the cruise ship will head down the coast of Western Africa visiting ports in Senegal, Gambia, Ghana and Namibia.

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After an overnight stay in Cape Town, the ship will head to Madagascar, Tanzania, the Maldives, Thailand, and Malaysia before arriving in Singapore.

These new cruises will range from 27 to 59 nights in length visiting Europe, Asia, and Africa.

All guests sailing on these new cruises benefit from Oceania Cruises’ simply MORE offering. It includes:

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  • Shore excursion credit of up to $2,600 per stateroom
  • Free roundtrip airfare
  • Free airport transfers
  • free Champagne, wine and more during lunch and dinner
  • Free soft drinks and specialty teas and coffees
  • Free gourmet specialty dining
  • Free unlimited WiFi

Frank A Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, gave the following statement about the new cruises: “These longer, destination-immersive voyages offer curious, well-traveled guests the chance to explore some of the most off-the-beaten-path ports in the world, all from the elegant surroundings of Riviera. Sailing from Europe to Asia, via both coasts of Africa, is a true bucket list journey, combining iconic cities and unknown gems, with our incredible onboard service and the best value in luxury cruising, these voyages are hard to resist”.

All cabins on Riviera have been reimagined and standard staterooms measure 291 square feet.

Oceania Cruises is one of the world’s leading destination and culinary focused cruise lines.

The cruise line has eight ships in their fleet, with the largest carrying just 1,250 guests.

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Royal Caribbean’s Newest Cruise Ship Arriving in Miami This Week for the First Time

by Celebrity Cruises

Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, will arrive in the U.S. for the first time this week. The vessel is the largest cruise ship ever built and is scheduled to arrive in Miami on Wednesday, a few weeks ahead of its inaugural cruise.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean will be hosting an Icon arrival party at 7 a.m. on Wednesday at PortMiami. There will be games, breakfast bites, live music and giveaways every 15 minutes. The event will take place at the Perez Art Museum Miami.

Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship ever built and the first ever to be over 250,000 gross tons in size. The ship has more than 40 dining and beverage venues and the cruise line is calling it the ultimate vacation.

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Icon of the Seas will sail its inaugural cruise from Miami on January 27, a week long cruise to the Eastern Caribbean. The ship will first host a couple three night preview sailings for media and travel agents so they can get a first hand look at the world’s largest cruise ship.

Icon of the Seas will be christened in Miami on January 23 by soccer legend Lionel Messi.

The cruise ship is divided up into eight neighborhoods including a new one that is just for families.

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Icon of the Seas has everything from record breaking waterslides to the largest swimming pool at sea. There are more than 28 cabin types to choose from, something for everyone.

One of the most unique features on the cruise ship will be the AquaDome, located on the top front. The AquaDome will feature incredible diving shows in the AquaTheater that will have everything from robots to skateboarders. It also contains the cruise line’s first food hall.

Entertainment is promising to be unlike anything we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. Icon of the Seas will be the first to feature The Wizard of Oz that will be one of four signature stage shows.

The ship’s next level AquaDome will feature 75 world class performers. There’s also an ice skating rink and 50 live musicians will perform around the ship.

Royal Caribbean took the best of all their cruise ships and put them into Icon of the Seas.

The cruise line took delivery of the ship in late November and has spent the past month and half preparing the vessel for its inaugural sailings.

Icon of the Seas will homeport in Miami for at least the next two years. The ship will rotate between week long cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. All of the ship’s cruises from Miami will visit CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s insanely popular private island in The Bahamas. View Cruises Offered on Icon of the Seas

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Where 13 Brand New Cruise Ships Will Be Sailing in 2024

by Celebrity Cruises

Following a year of new debuts in 2023, cruise lines are gearing up for another wave of vessels in 2024.

At least 13 brand new cruise ships are set to embark on their maiden voyages this year, offering various itineraries and homeports.

If you want to explore a certain destination on a brand new ship, this list has you covered.

The list below details these ships, grouped by where they will begin sailing in 2024.

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You can also see the highlights of the hottest ships of 2024 here.

Cruise ships coming in 2024 to the Caribbean and Bahamas
Icon of the Seas Utopia of the Seas, Brilliant Lady, and Disney Treasure.

Caribbean & Bahamas

Icon of the Seas

While Icon of the Seas was just delivered to Royal Caribbean International at the end of last year, it will officially enter service for the cruise line on January 27th of this year.

It is the largest cruise ship in the world, beating out the previous title holder, Wonder of the Seas.  The 250,000+ gross ton ship will homeport at PortMiami, offering 7-night sailings to the Caribbean, including Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Utopia of the Seas

The last of the Oasis-class vessels with Royal Caribbean, Utopia of the Seas will enjoy its inaugural cruise on July 22nd of 2024.

With the addition of Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas in 2024, Royal Caribbean will increase their passenger capacity by 11,278 (at double capacity).

Utopia of the Seas will sail out of Port Canaveral, offering 3- and 4-night sailings to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Disney Treasure

Sister ship to Disney Wish, Disney Treasure is set to enter service on December 21st, 2024.  The ship will offer 7-night sailings out of Port Canaveral.  Disney Treasure’s maiden voyage will be in St. Thomas on Christmas Day.

Brilliant Lady

After being delayed on its delivery in 2023, Virgin Voyage’s Brilliant Lady has still postponed bookings for 2024.  Itineraries that were set for sailings out of San Juan have been removed from the cruise line’s website, and it’s unclear if and when they will open again.  Read more on this here.

Cruise ships coming to the Mediteranean Sea in 2024
Silver Ray, Ilma, Explora II,Viking Vela, and Sun Princess — All ships starting their maiden season in the Mediterranean in 2024.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean will have the most new ships added to its waters with the new class of 2024, with 5 ships being sent to the popular destination.

Sun Princess

The largest ship Princess Cruises has ever built, the 175,000 gross ton Sun Princess, is set to debut on February 8th, 2024.

The vessel will sail from Barcelona to Rome on a 10-night inaugural cruise and will offer various itineraries throughout the Mediterranean Sea that are 10 – 31 nights in duration.

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In the Fall of 2024, Sun Princess will then reposition to Port Everglades with cruises to the Caribbean.

We recently had the chance to visit Sun Princess in the shipyard as it was being built.  You can check out some pictures we took while on the tour here.

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Silver Ray

Debuting on June 3rd, 2024, Silversea’s eco-conscious Silver Ray, sister to the 2023 Silver Nova, sets sail with one of the industry’s greenest profiles. Its inaugural season unfolds in the Mediterranean, offering 728 guests all-suite luxury and immersive exploration, powered by clean LNG.

Silver Ray will offer 7, 12, and 23 night sailings throughout the Mediterranean.  Sailings will start in ports that include Southampton, Lisbon, Rome, Venice and Athens.

Explora II

The luxury line owned by MSC Group will be debuting a second ship with Explora Journeys in 2024.  Explora II will offer its first cruise on August 11, 2024, starting in Barcelona and finalizing in Rome (Civitavecchia).

The 922-capacity luxury cruise ship will offer 6- to 30-night sailings in 2024, with a 39-night sailing in February of 2025 that starts and ends at PortMiami.

Ilma

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will christen Ilma in 2024. The 224-suite superyacht, boasting the highest guest-to-space ratio at sea, embarks on its inaugural Mediterranean season in September.

Ilma, which means “water” in Maltese, begins offering sailings in the Mediterranean.  It will then sail on a Transatlantic from Lisbon to San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 1st, 2024, offering sailings in the Caribbean.

Viking Vela

Viking Vela will be the 10th ocean ship to debut with Viking, when it enters service on December 12th, 2024.    The 988-guest capacity ship will sail from Rome to Barcelona on a 7-night journey.

Shortly after, in January of 2025, Viking Vela will begin offering sailings to Northern Europe, with ports of call in Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, and Iceland.

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Mein Schiff 7 - Meyer Turku
Mein Schiff 7 – Photo Credit: Meyer Turku

Northern Europe

Mein Schiff 7

TUI Cruises, a cruise line based in Germany, will be adding a 7th cruise ship to their fleet with Mein Schiff 7 in June of 2024.

The 2,900-guest capacity 110-gross-ton vessel will sail its maiden season in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea before being repositioned to the Canary Islands for the winter cruise season.

 

American Legend - American Cruise Lines
Photo courtesy of American Cruise Lines

United States

American Liberty

Built for sailing rivers and waterways,  the 109-guest capacity American Liberty built for American Cruise Lines will be offering sailings to New England starting on June 27th, 2024.  The ship will homeport in Boston, Massachusetts, providing 7-night cruises to Plymouth, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newport.

In August, American Liberty will sail out of Providence, where it will offer 7-night sailings before repositioning to Charleston where the ship will offer sailings along the coastlines of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.

American Legend

The American Legend, a new 109-guest cruise ship built in the US for American Cruise Lines, sets sail in 2024 on its inaugural cruise. Following its sister ship, the American Glory, it will offer intimate cruises along the Florida Gulf Coast & Keys and Chesapeake Bay.

 

Multiple Destinations

Queen Anne

Cunard Line will be debuting a brand new ship for the first time in 10 years with the introduction of Queen Anne.

The 113,000 gross ton cruise ship will offer sailings starting on January 11th of 2024. Homeporting in Southampton, the 3,000-guest vessel will visit the Canary Islands, and also offer Mediterranean cruises, transatlantic crossings, and even Caribbean ports of call.

Queen Anne is the cruise line’s 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag.

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Carnival Cruise Line Offering a Bonus Perk on Cruises

by Celebrity Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line is currently offering a “No One Does Bonus Savings Like Carnival” promotion that adds in a bonus perk to go along with 35% off cruises and other special savings.
Carnival cruise ship

Carnival Cruise Line offers cruises from more homeports in the U.S. than any other line. To kick of 2024, Carnival is offering a combination of four deals in one that includes a bonus 4-category upgrade when sailing on one of their ships. This “No One Does Bonus Savings Like Carnival” includes the following:

Up to 35% off cruises
Deposits reduced to as low as $50 per person
Up to $150 in onboard credit
Bonus: Up to a 4-category upgrade
Good on Carnival cruises through April 2026
Sale ends on January 6, 2024
View Best Prices on Carnival Cruises

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Onboard Credit offer is provided as a credit to your Sail & Sign account of $12.50 per person up to $25 per stateroom on 2-5 day sailings, $25 per person up to $50 per stateroom on 6+ day sailings, and up to $75 per person up to $150 per stateroom on select sailings.

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$50 per person deposit is applicable to 2-9 day cruises (Excluding all Alaska, Europe, Celebration, Mardi Gras, and Jubilee sailings).

Cabin upgrades are automatically assigned at the time of booking. They are based on availability in like-to-like categories only (interior to interior, ocean-view to ocean-view, and balcony to balcony).

Offer is applicable on Carnival cruises through April 2026, where Early Saver is available. Request rate code OJS.

For complete terms and details of this latest sale from Carnival Cruise Line, visit Carnival.com or contact your preferred travel professional.

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9 Places on a Cruise Ship Most People Don’t Know Exist

by Celebrity Cruises

Cruise ships are often compared to small cities and the newest vessels are so large, there is often too much to uncover in just a week’s time.

However, even the world’s most seasoned cruisers may not be aware of some hidden features onboard these ships.

Close up of Royal Caribbean
Photo credit: Cruise Fever

There are numerous secrets cruise lines won’t tell you, so no matter how many times you set sail on the high seas, you may never uncover them. There are, however, hidden places onboard you never knew existed, cruise lines aren’t advertising, but aren’t exactly keeping secret either.

To really be in the know, we’ve complied a thoughtful list of the 9 places on a cruise ship you never knew existed. Think jail cells, and morgues (yes, you read that correctly!), to private areas for crew members no passenger would ever enter, and more.

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Here are the places no passenger would ever embark upon, and until now, would probably never have thought existed.

Read more: 7 cruise cabin booking mistakes that will cost you time and money

1. The Brig (AKA: Jail)

Brig or jail on cruise ship
Photo 48101440 © Mystock88photo | Dreamstime.com

That’s right – you have the ability to be arrested and jailed at sea. Though, it isn’t as commonplace as you might think, so don’t panic yet.

Certainly, most people don’t go on vacation with the thought or even the intention of getting arrested, but unfortunately, it happens, and cruise ships need to be prepared. These cells, or ‘the brig’ as it’s referred to in nautical terms, are located on one of the most bottom decks of the vessel near the security office.

Passengers can find themselves in the brig if they commit a serious offense, such as being belligerent, or violent – minor offenses will not land you here. Should you find yourself in the brig, you can expect to be forcibly removed at the next port of call where you’ll deal with local authorities. Finding your way back home will be up to you.

2. A Morgue

Morgue on cruise ship

It may come as a (disturbing) surprise to learn that all oceangoing cruise ships are legally required to have a morgue and to carry body bags on board. Most morgues are small with rooms for three to six bodies, depending on the overall size of the vessel.

Cruise lines are in the business of being proactive and this is one of the many ways they go about exercising that protocol. While nobody has a desire to discuss death, especially while on vacation, it is a necessary reality to be prepared for under all circumstances.

Due to the mean demographics of cruise passengers being the elderly, the possibility of death during a cruise is a real potential. Therefore, it is imperative that cruise lines be prepared under these considerations.

3. Hidden Pools

bow pool for crew on cruise ship
Photo 120028223 | Cruise © Viktor Hladchenko | Dreamstime.com

The pool decks are grossly advertised by the cruising industry, as this is where most passengers spend a majority of their cruise vacation. However, there are hidden pools in areas where guests will never experience, as they were never intended to.

Crew members are forbidden from mingling in areas where passengers dwell, so cruise lines had to get creative when carving out spaces just for them. Crew members are often onboard for months at a time, and enjoy similar pleasures like swimming as guests do, which is where hidden swimming pools entered the picture.

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Surprisingly, there are actually several decks on the lowest levels of the vessel designated just for crew members that guests would never have access to.

Related: 10 things to NEVER do on the pool deck of a cruise ship

4. Hidden Decks

Hidden decks for crew on cruise ship
Hallway of a corridor used by the crew of a cruise ship.  Photo 253068639 | Cruise © Aclicks | Dreamstime.com

Speaking of these hidden decks, you’ll find a lot more than rows of interior cabins for crew members. As stated, the crew is typically working onboard for months on end and therefore, cruise lines had to provide accommodations.

You’ll often find (online that is, as passengers aren’t permitted in these areas) bars, restaurants, recreation and lounge areas in addition to the aforementioned hidden pools. The crew members refe5r to their bar as the “OB” meaning, “Officer’s Bar”. Rumor is drinks are a lot cheaper below deck.

Next time you’re onboard and see a “Crew Only” sign displayed, you may have a faint idea of what’s behind it.

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5. Ultra-Luxe Suites

Disney Wish Tower Suite
Disney Wish Tower Suite. Renderings courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Have you ever wondered where the rich and famous stay when they cruise? Most cruise lines don’t exactly advertise these rooms to the general public, but they’re definitely on board and often in plain sight.

For example, on Disney Cruise Line’s newest vessel the Wish, there is a Wish Tower suite. You won’t find this room available on the Disney Cruise Line reservations website, but it’s available to make your cruise more magical – and more luxurious.

This mega suite is a nearly 2,000 square foot (so, basically the size of a single-family home) two floor, four bedroom accommodation with Moana theming throughout. If you want to access this room, you’ll have to take the private elevator on the 10th and 11th floors, which are purposely hidden.

Read more: See the 10 largest cruise ship suites in the world

6. Access to the Bow

Cruise ship with people at bow
Photo 19851140 | Cruise © José Lledó | Dreamstime.com

On most vessels, accessing the bow will be a no-go, as it’s a restricted area for guests, however, this isn’t always the case. Though hidden, some ships do have entrances to the bow for passengers to safely access and utilize throughout the duration of their cruise.

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Princess Cruises is a mainstream cruise line that allows guests to freely roam the bow and enjoy the breathtaking views while the ship is sailing. The best times to do so are when sailing away from different ports, and during sunrise, or sunset.

For ships that do not allow bow access, the TV in your cabin will most likely come equipped with a bow cam. This will give you real time views of the ocean from the comfort of your stateroom.

7. Larger Staterooms in the Same Category (And the Same Price)

Celebrity silhouette from back in port
Photo credit: Cruise Fever

All the seasoned cruisers will know the best ways to go about securing a larger stateroom within the same category to avoid paying an upcharge. So, how could two rooms within the same category be different sizes? We’ll give you all the details cruise lines never wanted you to know.

When booking your next cruise, the best way to secure a larger balcony stateroom without digging deeper into your pockets is to look for a ‘hump room.’ These rooms are located in the middle of the ship where the vessel curves and the hull jets out. This means you will secure a larger balcony with panoramic views and therefore, a larger cabin.

Keeping in mind that these rooms sell out quickly, this tip will most likely only come in handy if you’re booking early.

Related: Cabin rules: 10 things you should never do in your stateroom

8. Ways to Save on Your Next Cruise

If you’re onboard and know you’re going to be cruising again, cruise experts recommend booking your next one before disembarking. Why? For the discounts you can only secure onboard.

Cruise ships often have a sales desk located on the main hub level where all the action is. Making a stop here can make all the difference between what you’ll pay for your next cruise by purchasing onboard in advance. The sales offered here are stated to be top-tier and not available anywhere else, to anyone else.

Plus, what a better way to get over the post-cruise blues than by booking another cruise?

Read more: Cruising on a budget: 12 money saving tips

9. Folding Machines

Laundry rooms and folding machines on a cruise ship
Photo 26402557 | Cruise © Karen Foley | Dreamstime.com

With so many passengers on board (think: thousands) it is imperative that the laundry facilities be paramount to keep up with the influx of dirty linens.

On the lowest decks, there are industrial-sized folding machines that work automatically day and night to press and fold sheets, towels, tablecloths and more!

While it’s not surprising to learn of the efficiency of the laundry system on board, as cruise ships are known to be organized and efficient, it is cool to think of how these operations work behind the scenes.

Final Thoughts

Next time you take a cruise vacation, you’ll likely be overwhelmed at all of the seemingly endless array of things to see, do, eat and experience. When considering all of your options, it’s impossible to consider what’s going on behind the scenes, or below deck.

Now that you’re aware of some of the places on a cruise ship you never knew existed, you can surprise some of your fellow passengers while on board!

Read more: 35 genius cruise items on Amazon for under $15

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Viking Offering $25 Deposits and Free Airfare on All Cruises

by Celebrity Cruises

Viking, one of the world’s leading river and ocean cruise lines, is offering a special “Discover More” sale this month on all of their cruises.

From now through January 31, 2024, Viking is offering discounted cruise fares, up to free airfare, and $25 deposits on all itineraries. This sale includes river, ocean, and expedition cruises.

Viking offers cruises to all seven continents and each year they visit more than 500 ports in 85 countries. Their ships spend more time in port than most cruise lines. This allows you to explore new destinations without being rushed. They also include one free shore excursion in every port of call.

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Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking, gave the following statement: “For more than 26 years, we have invited curious travelers to explore the world in comfort. We focus on the destination, and we design travel experiences for the thinking person. This approach has always allowed our guests to discover more history, science and culture when they travel with us. As this new year begins, we look forward to welcoming returning guests back on board, as well as introducing new travelers to the Viking way of exploration.”

Viking’s Discover More sale is available to North American residents to both new and returning guests.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Hosting Taylor Swift Fan Cruise in June 2024

by Celebrity Cruises

A Taylor Swift fan cruise will depart on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship this summer for a five night cruise to the Western Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean

The Summer Era Cruise will take place on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas and will depart from Galveston, Texas on June 15, 2024. The cruise is being hosted by Quality Travel and there are limited cabins left on this unique sailing.

Prices start at $863 per person for an interior cabin and go up to $1,426 per person for a balcony stateroom (based on double occupancy). The cruise will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and will also have two sea days.

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The Summer Era Cruise is a fan sponsored event and since it’s not affiliated with Taylor Swift, she will not be on the cruise.

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The group has reserved event space on the ship for specialty activities. Those booked with the group will enjoy Swiftie Surprises; Swiftie Sips, goody bags, trivia, bingo, theme nights, tours, karaoke, bracelet exchanges, dance parties, PJ party, prizes, door decorating contests etc.

Parker Landry, a co-host for the cruise, gave the following statement: “I’ve always adored Taylor. I mean how could you not? My goal is to spread her name and music by creating genuine, enjoyable activities that represent all her music stands for and the things she has done like the Eras tour. We won’t just have a dance party; each activity will be based on a piece of her work or music, like Mirrorball, Lover, or bracelet making. I will incorporate activities that genuinely represent Taylor’s kindness and heart. I’m extremely thankful that girls like me have a role model like Taylor to look up to, and I will carry on her culture and vibes throughout the cruise.”

For more information on this Taylor Swift fan cruise, you can visit their website here.

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10 Cruise Ship Foods These Cruisers Say to Avoid

by Celebrity Cruises

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas cruise ship in port
Photo credit: Cruise Fever

The dining experience on a cruise ship is one of the biggest reasons regular cruisers love to book a vacation at sea.

In fact, a few months ago we ran a poll to see what factors mattered most when booking a cruise, and “food” was listed as one of the main reasons a certain cruise line or ship was selected.

Over the course of my 40+ cruises in the past I’m still amazed at the food quality and selection on almost every cruise I take.  Some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life was on a cruise ship!

But not every food item on a cruise ship was held with the same regard when we took this question to our audience.

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We recently asked our readers on Facebook, “What is one food you will not eat when on a cruise?”.

After reading through and sorting over 600 comments, these are the most mentioned answers to that question.

Cruise ship dining on Royal Caribbean Oasis class
Photo 122218601 | Cruise © Solarisys13 | Dreamstime.com

10 cruise foods avoided by our readers

It was clear from the start of this poll that seafood and fish would be among the most disliked foods.   But even some foods that are staples of cruise food and loved by many veteran cruisers were mentioned on the list as well.  Even that beloved cruise ship pizza and soft serve ice cream were not so popular with some of these cruisers.

Before we dive into the top 10 list here is a summary of some of the replies:

  • Top dislikes: Escargot, Sushi, Frog legs
  • Common foods mentioned: Seafood (general), Eggs, Buffet food, Lobster, Pizza, Soft serve ice cream
  • Potential concerns: Oysters, Sardines, Salad, Liver, Salmon
  • Veggie aversions: Asparagus, Brussels sprout, Celery, Broccoli
  • Specific Tastes: Guy’s Burgers, Ceviche, Hot dogs, Chicken, Tofu
  • A few mentions: Spinach, Cold Soup, Bread, Green Beans, Mushrooms, Calamari, Cereal, Duck, Coleslaw, Caviar, Grits, Lamb, Octopus

Related: 12 biggest dining room mistakes to avoid on your cruise

1.     Escargot

22% of all replies to this question mentioned escargot as the one food they would not eat on a cruise.   While some consider snail a delicacy, others preferred to avoid the edible mollusk entirely.  For many people, their first taste of escargot will happen on a cruise.  After all, most of the time it’s already been included in the cost so why not try the slimy little treat, right?  Well, it’s not for everyone, apparently.

 

2.     Sushi

Sushi was mentioned almost as many times as escargot.  I was surprised to see this, as many cruise ships have sushi restaurants that are very popular and with reservations that fill up quickly.  But again, it’s one of those foods that carries a stigma, and the quality of sushi can vary depending on the cruise line and restaurant.

 

3.     Frog legs

Frog legs were the 3rd most mentioned food that our audience says they avoid on a cruise ship.    The texture and taste of frog legs is not for everyone.  Some will eat it as a dare and others just because it’s something new to try.  In fact, in Carnival Cruise Line’s main dining room menu you will often find frog legs under “Rare Finds: food you always wanted to try but haven’t yet dared…”

 

4.     Eggs

I wasn’t surprised to see scrambled eggs mentioned so many times in the comments.  Often the scrambled eggs at the buffet are runny and more of a powdered egg texture.  One commenter stated, “Scrambled eggs! That is some powder mixed mess.  Only order over easy or boiled”.

For this reason many prefer the omelet station as well, where you can order a fresh made-to-order egg breakfast.

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5.     Buffet food

Buffet food in general was not the dining option of choice for many who replied to this question.  Freshness and cleanliness were some of the biggest reasons given for this answer.  And there was also the hustle and bustle of standing in lines or bumping into other cruisers at the “trough”.    I will mention that many new ships have transformed the buffet area and how food is served, and the industry has seen vast improvements over the years.

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6.     Lobster

Lobster is often an extra charge on some mainstream cruise lines these days, and some cruisers would avoid it anyway.  Some mentioned being able to get better lobster back home and others said that sometimes it’s overcooked.   For me, Surf and Turf is one of my favorite meals to get on a cruise ship.

 

7.     Pizza

As popular as the pizza stations on cruise ships can be, there are some who prefer to avoid them.  This comes down to preference as well.  While you can order different types of pizza, the crust, thickness, and texture of the pizza will be the same, which is usually thin crust.  I’ve had some fantastic pizza on cruise ships and still prefer the pizza from Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises.    I just don’t enjoy the lines typically associated with the pizza stations when they are just coming out of the oven.

 

8.     Oysters

Another seafood item made the top 10 with oysters.   This is one of those foods that can make people wary.  After all, you don’t want to risk any kind of stomach issues when on vacation at sea.

 

9.     Salad

The reasons given for listing “salad” as a food to avoid cracked me up.  It wasn’t so much that people didn’t like salad.  It was more the mentality of, “I’m on a cruise.  Why would I eat a salad when I can fill my belly with prime rib and chocolate melting cake?”  The same was said for avoiding bread on a cruise.

 

10.   Anything I can get at home

This was my favorite answer by far and it was mentioned by several cruisers.  A cruise vacation is the best time to try new foods that you either can’t get or can rarely get back home.  You’ve already paid for the food in most cases so why not splurge and let your adventurous side meet your hungry side?

Carnival Celebration in port at Mahogany Bay
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever

Some other foods that made the list

Other foods that cruisers avoided on a cruise ship included vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprout, and spinach.  The inclusion of these responses could be based on a general dislike for veggies or some lack luster experiences with these food items on ships though.

Soft serve ice cream was mentioned mostly because of the numerous children who line up to use the machines and can cause a bit of a mess.

Guy’s Burger Joint was also brought up, which was a surprise to me as it was voted the most popular eating venue on a cruise ship when we asked about it on social media.  Apparently, not everyone is a fan of this free dining venue on Carnival.

Another response I found of note was “anything healthy”.  After all, when on a cruise you’re taking a break.  And some like to use that time to let their eating inhibitions let loose a little.

Food plate on a cruise ship with pool in background
Photo 26281465 | Cruise © Pavel Losevsky | Dreamstime.com

Final Thoughts

This is a very subjective topic, so take this list with a grain of salt — or a whole saltshaker if you have to.

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Being on a cruise is all about trying new things, and that includes new foods.  You may find you actually like frog legs, escargot, or sushi.

Don’t let someone else’s food phobia steal your opportunity to give your pallet an enjoyable experience.

You don’t have to like everything, right?  You can always find some incredibly tasty food on a cruise ship, and there’s more than enough to keep you full and happy.

Read more: 12 biggest dining room mistakes to avoid on your cruise

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