Alaska Cruise – Small Ship or Big Ship
If your idea of a cruise ship travel is with a giant ship with more than 2000 passengers and 7 to 8 stories with shopping malls, cinema houses, casinos etc, you are only partially right. There are cruise ships, which are like the above-mentioned ships. However, some small ship cruises can be easy on your pocket, as well as, offer a more memorable experience. It all depends on how much you are willing to spend. Browse through the differences in the services that small and large ships have to offer.
The Smaller ships
Smaller vessels or ships will offer a more personalized experience. You can get much closer to the shore; experience the wildlife first hand and also hook up at much smaller docks. Smaller ships even include on shore excursions in their basic charge itself. Of course, you will not have the big casinos, hotels and shopping malls in the small ships. However, if you are looking for a romantic vacation, there are many small ships that offer pretty good services on your cruise ship travel.
On your Alaskan vacation cruise, with smaller ships, you can visit some of the places that you can only dream of visiting in a big ship. Get real close to some of the aboriginal art. Smaller ships fill up real fast so make sure you book well in advance.
The Big ones
Big ships will obviously make you spend big as well. You will not get an opportunity to get very close to the wildlife. The best you can see are some Bald eagles and maybe a humpback whale. Excursions will allow you to visit areas of interest and see Alaska up close, but they cost extra. You might not notice this until the final bill comes. Take careful note of all charges. You may be surprised that small purchases have ballooned into large expenses.
Larger ships have bigger amenities and are a much grander affair. Ballrooms, casinos, discos, cinema halls, shopping malls, health clubs, massage facilities, your own private deck, private lounges, swimming pools and formal nights are just some of the basic things. Your kids will also have a great time with escorted tours, magic shows etc. However, there will be 2000 people going on the same excursion as compared to a small ship where you will have only have to cope with 100 other passengers.
Making the Choice
Choosing ship size is a matter of what your plans are. Either way, an Alaskan cruise is well worth the money. Spend a little time researching more information then book the cruise that bests suits your tastes and wallet.