Top 9 Benefits of River Cruising and Small Ship Ocean Cruising

Are you considering a vacation but not sure which type of cruise is right for you or your group? Both river cruises and small ship ocean cruises offer a unique, intimate travel experience that’s worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of giant ocean liners.

Let’s dive into the top nine benefits of small ship cruising share—so you can decide if it’s time for you to “go small”!

1. Fewer Passengers = Reduced Lines

With fewer than 200 passengers on most river cruises and fewer than 500 on small ship ocean cruises (compared to thousands on mega-ships), you’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your vacation. No long lines for coffee, lunch at the buffet, or security checks when disembarking—just smooth sailing from start to finish.

Walking on to the Wind Surf

2. More Crew & Personalized Service

Smaller ships mean a higher crew-to-passenger ratio—often 3:1 or better! Staff get to know your name, preferences, and even your favorite drink, treating you to attentive, personalized service that makes you feel truly special.

Smiling Crew on Amadeus

3. Locally-Sourced Food

Forget generic buffets! River and small ship chefs take pride in crafting meals with local ingredients sourced just miles from your ports. Enjoy authentic regional cuisine—something you’d be hard-pressed to find on a large cruise ship.

So much great food!

4. You’re Always Near the Action

Smaller ships dock right in the heart of the action, often within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions. No need for lengthy transfers or complicated logistics—just step off the ship and start exploring! (Fun fact: Windstar, Azamara, and Scenic can still dock in Venice’s old town, while larger ships have been banned.)

Kathie from Kotor's Wall with the Wind Surf in the Background

5. Management is Always Available

With a ship this size, the hotel manager and cruise manager are always close by. They’re easy to find if you have a question or need assistance, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

AmaWaterways Cruise Manager Talk

6. Affordable Laundry Service

Pack light and travel easy! With fewer passengers, laundry services are affordable, quick, and convenient. Some ships even offer self-service laundry rooms for guests.

Laundry Service or Self-Service

7. On-Board Wi-Fi

Stay connected with friends and family back home, share your adventures in real time, or catch up on work if needed. Many small ships, including nearly all Windstar vessels, now offer high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi.

Kathie's Work Station on the Wind Surf

8. No Rush and More Rest

Small ship cruising is all about relaxation. There are no strict schedules for meals or activities, and you’ll enjoy longer port stays so you can explore at your own pace—no rushing, just pure enjoyment.

9. Luxuriously Cozy Cabins

Your cabin is your home away from home—designed to be cozy, warm, and welcoming, with luxurious bedding, a TV, and often a spacious balcony to enjoy the views in comfort.

Riverside Mozart Entry Level Cabin

Are You Ready to Enjoy the Benefits of Small Ship Cruising?

If you’re intrigued by the idea of a more intimate, personalized, and stress-free vacation, river and small ship ocean cruises might be the perfect fit for you!

What do you think? Would you give small ships a try?

Reach out or schedule a quick 15-minute chat to start planning your next unforgettable cruise adventure!