cruise ship passenger crew ratio

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Cruise Ship Passenger Capacity

View cruise ship ratings and learn what is average/normal and max cruise ship passenger capacity. Cruise ships capacity (passengers and crew/hotel staff) and space ratios of the world's most famous ships are sorted alphabetically by the names of their owners (companies, lines, and operators) according to the official cruise ship data.

Most online travel media publish ship ratings based on onboard amenities (dining/entertainment), itineraries/destinations, special/unique facilities, and experiences. Some ratings are based on website visitors' feedbacks and conducted polls. However, while the latter ratings could by easily manipulated, "expert review" based ratings could be only suggestive as top-rated will be always the largest liners and the  newest vessels .

Cruise Ship Capacity

The "full" cruise ship passenger capacity is based on double occupancy (2 guests per cabin). The cabin's capacity varies according to stateroom's type, category, and also by line and ship. A standard passenger ship cabin usually accommodates 2 or 3 guests, but there are some "smaller" and "bigger" exceptions.

Our survey also includes smaller ships (under 500 passengers), and some ships are intentionally omitted from the big table to be included in the small one (about passenger capacity of top luxury cruise ships, with emphasis made on their highest guests-to-crew ratio. If searching for a particular vessel, use the Ctrl+F key combination and type the name in the search box. Good to know things:

• Ships will sail at varying capacities depending on itinerary and season.
• The average cruise ship passenger capacity is around 3,000 guests for ocean liners and around 150 guests for bigger river cruise ships.
• The largest cruise ship passenger capacity is 5,412 (at double occupancy) and 6,318 max capacity if all berths are occupied. And, of course, these big numbers are part of the specifications of the first in the  list of the biggest cruise ships in the world  - the Oasis ship of Royal Caribbean International.
• Single cruise cabins (called also "studios", or "solo cabins"), though rarely available, offer some of the cheapest rates for solo travelers by avoiding the double occupancy policy of all the major cruise ship companies, with the range of single supplement rates being between 50 and 100% (depending on line and ship).
• Family suite cruise accommodations generally have the biggest passenger capacity (up to 6 guests) and are some of the most expensive cabin categories (again, not available on all ships). Cheap suites are available on most Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Costa ships.

Max (largest) passenger capacity of a cruise ship would signify this ideal financial situation, when all the berths, plus all upper and lower bunks, "Pullman" beds and single and double sofa beds (available in types and numbers according to the ship's cabin grades) are all occupied by the most numerous crowd the ship can ever gather on board. However, on most of the sailings, even the full-ship capacity (at double occupancy level) is not reached. This automatically opens the "big ships doors" for great deals, like kids sail for free, buy one get one free, free cabin upgrades, bonus amenities, and also huge price discounts on luxury cruise deals. For more info, you can read our survey on unsold cruise cabins/cheap cruise upgrades .

Cruise passengers-to-space ratio

The ship's "space ratio" (by definition) is the enclosed space (measured in ft3/cubic feet) per passenger. A ship of 45,000 GT (gross tonnage) with capacity 1,000 passengers will have a space ratio 45 (or 45ft3=45000/1000). So if your ship has generally smaller cabins but very large public spaces, she will have a higher space ratio, and the higher the space ratio number, the more guests will enjoy a sense of spaciousness on board.

Average/max cruise passenger capacity

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For boats that are dead and forgotten see at CruiseMapper's Scrapped Cruise Ships hub.

Cruise Ship Ratings

0 (or no Stars) doesn't mean the ship is the worst ever, but not yet rated.

"Specialty" means usually a smaller ship offering deals on adventure or expedition cruises. Emphasis on itinerary/destination and unique experiences rather than onboard services/amenities/activities. Cabins are modest (as size and amenities), but also comfortable.

3 Stars mean "Contemporary" and big resort-like experiences on bigger ships with a multi-generational clientele, a huge variety of family and kids programs, at least 2 swimming pools, huge fitness/spa centers, distinct nightlife (clubs, a casino, deck parties), several dining options. Cabins range from cozy Inside to large family suites and many connecting/adjoining rooms. Itineraries from 3 to 7-night in length (repeating, round-trip) leaving from big and popular ports.

4 Stars mean a "Premium" product, medium-sized ships with higher guest-to-crew ratios compared to similar-sized mainstream ships. The onboard experience - fewer kids, larger than average cabins with upgraded (luxurious) amenities, high-level of service, dining, and entertainment, extensive enrichment programs, a luxury spa, longer itineraries (from 7 to 14 and even 21-night in length).

5 Stars mean a "Deluxe" product, from medium-size to small cruise ships with deluxe staterooms, bedding and cabin amenities, impeccable service, multiple specialties (gourmet) dining options, also less entertainment and onboard activities. The itinerary is mostly port-intensive, and longer than 10 nights, with deals on back-to-back cruises .

6 Stars mean "Best Luxury" on small ships, intimate cruising experiences, highest guest-to-crew ratios (fewer guests). These are mostly ships with all-inclusive cruise deals - gratuities and beverages (often alcohol) and gourmet (specialty restaurant) dining are all included in the fares (often with shore excursions and tours), spacious staterooms and public spaces, the highest level of service. Many of these are all-suite ships (with different category suites). Port-intensive itineraries and exotic destinations, often offering deals on Around the World Cruises .

All cruise ship ratings are based on CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) categorizations, and reviews from "WMPH Vacations" (iCruise, AlaskaCruises, EuropeCruises, HawaiiCruiseOutlet, RegentCruises, and CruiseCheap) specialists and advisors. Cruise ratings also may vary on the ship's age, size, cabins/venues/amenities, passenger feedback, etc. Besides CLIA and WMPH, other cruise vessel rating sources are Berlitz Guide, Fieldings Guide, Sterns Guide, CruiseCritic, CruiseReviews, and CruiseMates.

Cruise ship star ratings meaning

5,5 stars rating - a top luxury cruising, impeccable and highly personalized service, finest quality food & amenities; attention to detail, perfect maintenance, spacious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, the highest level of service, authentic furnishings, top of the line fitness & spa facilities.

5 stars rating - the highest level of food/service in a premium cruising market, high-quality meals, attentive service, well-equipped staterooms (not necessarily large), list of cabin amenities include bathrobes; butler service, public spaces are with beautiful decors.

4,5 stars rating - friendly decor, good maintenance, full range of onboard activities.

4 stars rating - best overall experience, above-average food & service, satisfactory entertainment.

3,5 stars rating - an average overall experience, very small to large accommodations, good service, delicious food, kids facilities without dedicated areas, mediocre entertainment.

3 stars rating - modest experience on an older cruise ship, may not have balcony cabins, mediocre food & lack of proper service, expect interesting destinations/itineraries.

2 stars rating - the ship is comparable to a low-budget hotel, a major refurbishment needed for refit and renovation of public areas and staterooms, lousy service (the staff will only supply the most basic service), itineraries with little or no popular (cheap charging) ports of call.

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

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?

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)

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. 

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

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

Royal Caribbean cruise ships in order from newest to oldest.

Norwegian Cruise Line: ships by passenger space ratio

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

MSC Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

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.

Princess Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

See all Princess Cruises ships from newest to oldest.

Celebrity Cruises: ships by passenger space ratio

Holland america cruises: ships by passenger space ratio.

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.

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

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

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List: Every Cruise Ship Ranked By Space Per Passenger (Find Your Ship)

Which cruise ships have the most space per passenger?

Head to any cruise line website or look at any brochure, and you’re sure to see people having fun on the ship… but noticeably absent are any other passengers. Anyone that’s sailed before knows the reality is far different.

Today’s modern ships can carry upwards of 5,000 people at double occupancy (two passengers to every cabin) and even more when completely full.

And while not everywhere on the ship is packed — there are still plenty of places to get away from the crowd — many spots will have plenty of people.

So what if you want to sail with the most space possible?

Calculating the Most Space Per Passenger for More Than 100+ Cruise Ships

There’s no arguing that over the past decade or two cruise ships have become significantly larger. About 20 years ago, a “large” cruise ship might come in at 70,000-90,000 gross tons (a measurement of a ship’s size).

Today, the bigger ships start around 140,000 gross tons.

The number of passengers continues to increase as well. An older ship might carry “just” 2,000 to 3,000 passengers. Numbers today are double that.

But just because a ship carries more passengers doesn’t mean it’s more crowded. Remember, the overall size has gone up as well meaning more space on the ship.

Still there are definitely some ships that carry more or fewer passengers than other ships of their size. The result? You can sail a ship that offers more (sometimes considerably) more space per passenger. If you’re a fan of having a little more elbow room on your cruise, selecting those ships with a larger “space ratio” — the ratio between a ship’s tonnage compared to the number of passengers — can be a smart move.

That’s why we calculated this ratio for more than 100 cruise ships across multiple lines. This will give you a better idea of which ships may feel more relaxed and which may feel more crowded. The higher the ratio, the greater the size of the ship on a per-passenger basis . Conversely, the smaller ratios mean that the ship is smaller per passenger.

You can search the table below to rank the ships based on size, passengers, or space ratio, and even search for specific ships. 

There are a couple of things you should know about this table. First, just like any resort, every cruise ship has its own design style. Some are built to be wide open, which can help them feel more spacious even if they are the same size and carry the same number of passengers as another ship.

Others look to be more cozy with smaller open spaces, which despite ample size per passenger overall, can make them feel more crowded.

In other words, more goes into the "feel" of the spaciousness of a cruise ship than just its overall tonnage compared to number of passengers. Design matters too.

Second, this ratio is calculated based on the double occupancy figures for the ship . Many ships, however, sail at more than double occupancy (meaning some rooms have 3+ passengers), so the ratio on your specific cruise may be slightly different than what's shown above.

The 10 Cruise Ships With the Most Size Per Passenger

Looking for the most room per passenger on your next cruise? Ships that have a space ratio of 40 or more are a good place to start. However, if you want the best of the best, then we suggest looking at those with a ratio above 43.

In our list of more than 100 ships, only 16 (around 15%) of ships meet this benchmark. The ships at the top of the list include Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ships -- Prima and Viva -- which come in at 142,500 gross tons and carry 3,100 passengers at double occupancy. That equates to a space ratio of 46.

But the overall winners are Disney ships, like the new Disney Wish. They top out with space ratios in the high 40s to high 50s. What you need to know here is that Disney's ship designs are a little different than other ships, which increases the space ratio.

While most ships are built with two passengers in mind for the cabin, Disney is obviously much more focused on families. That means ships are designed with more passengers in mind per cabin, reducing the double occupancy rate (which is just the number of cabins times two people).

With a lower double occupancy rate, the space ratio increases sharply. However, it's likely that you'll have significantly more passengers on the ship.

Here are the 10 cruise ships with the most space per passenger based on our calculations:

• Disney Wish (57.4)
• Disney Fantasy (52.0)
• Disney Dream (52.0)
• Disney Wonder (48.0)
• Disney Magic (48.0)
• Norwegian Prima (46.0)
• Norwegian Viva (46.0)
• Coral Princess (45.8)
• Icon of the Seas (44.7)
• Celebrity Apex (44.5)

The 10 Cruise Ships With the Least Size Per Passenger

When it comes to the ships with the least amount of size per passenger, one cruise line leads the list -- Carnival. In fact, all of the ships on our list with the smallest space ratios come from the cruise line.

In general, the space ratio for Carnival ships runs about 33-37 on average, including the lowest-ranking ship, Carnival Elation. That ship has a gross tonnage of nearly 72,000 and carries 2,190 passengers. That equals a space ratio of 32.8.

It also goes to show that newer, larger ships with more people don't automatically mean more crowded. Elation started sailing in 1998 and many larger ships built more recently have higher ratios.

Here are the 10 cruise ships with the least size per passenger based on our calculations:

• Carnival Elation (32.8)
• Carnival Firenze (32.8)
• Carnival Venezia (33.1)
• Carnival Panorama (33.3)
• Carnival Horizon (33.7)
• Carnival Paradise (33.9)
• Carnival Vista (33.9)
• Carnival Radiance (34.0)
• Carnival Sunrise (34.0)
• Carnival Celebration (34.1)

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Article Title is wrong. Not ‘EVERY CRUISE SHIP’ is included in the article.

Try looking at lines such as Seabourn or Silversea. These figures are really only mainstream and leave out some of the luxury lines.

Space Ratio’s are fake numbers! Gross Tonnage includes ALL the interior volume of the ship .. crew only areas, engines rooms, the works .. space that a passenger would never have access to.

What about the Cunard Queen Elizabeth ? At 90 400 tons and passenger count of 2116 , it’s space ratio is 42.7 thereby landing at 20th . Doesn’t Cunard count ?

In your space ratio list, you left out Holland America and Viking.

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Understanding the Crew to Passenger Ratio

Feb 1, 2020 | CRUISE TIPS | 0 comments

The Importance of the Crew to Passenger Ratio

How do you know what level of service to expect on your next cruise? To get a good feel for the likely service you will receive onboard your cruise ship, consider taking a look at the Crew-to-Passenger ratio .

This is a ratio calculated by diving the number of passengers by the number of crew members using the following formula:

Crew to Passenger Ratio = Number of Passengers divided by the number of Crew

The resulting ratio shows the number of passengers each crew member is expected to look after. The ultimate ratio is 1:1 or better. This means as a passenger you should expect exceptional service. In theory, the more attractive the ratio (i.e. the fewer passengers each crew member must look after, the better the service. It stands to reason that luxury cruise ships would have the most attractive crew-to-passenger ratios, followed by premium category ships and then mass-market ships.

Other Factors Affecting the Ratio

But crew-to-passenger ratios don’t tell the whole story when trying to understand the level of service you might expect to receive. New technology and automation make ship operations more efficient, requiring fewer crew members to perform tasks. Good examples of this can be found in restaurants and other food outlets onboard where digital technology has largely replaced paper-based systems.

Onboard Apps being developed by the cruise lines enables passengers to order, track and organise more activities online. Booking Shore Excursions, Spa treatments, Transfers and Gifts can all be ordered online before your cruise thus reducing the number of crew members needed. Some companies are leading the way with digital technology to improve the passenger experience, whilst others a being left behind.

Crew to Passenger Ratio Matrix.

Our online matrix of Cruise Lines and their Cruise Ships which you can Sort and Search and show important ratios for a range of our favourite Luxury Cruise ships. This list is continually being updated.

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Ships by Passenger Crew Ratio

How many crew members for one passenger? The  passenger crew ratio is telling you just that. The following list is sorted by the best ratio first, i.e. you will see which ship has the most crew available per passenger.

Generally speaking, ships with more crew per passenger can offer a better, more personalized service. Crew is expensive so that the top of this list is dominated by luxury cruise ships.

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Silver Ray cruise ship review: A modern yet classic luxury ship for foodies and explorers

Editor's Note

Silver Ray is a cruise ship designed to appeal to both classic and modern luxury travelers. Whether you love it or not will depend on your definition of luxury at sea and whether you can find your happy place on board.

On the old-school side of things, the ship still embraces Silversea Cruises ' commitment to fine dining, all-inclusive beverages, a tuxedoed butler in every suite (all cabins are suites) and attentive-yet-formal service. Silver Ray's design aesthetic is understated luxury. In most public areas and suites, the decor is elegant and rich but not cutting-edge or designed to wow. (There are a few exceptions.)

On the modern side, the ship has traded formal afternoon tea and a classic-style pool deck for restaurant menus that reflect today's culinary trends in Italy and France, a resort-inspired sun deck with an offset pool facing the ocean and a craft cocktail bar outside a high-tech demonstration kitchen. The ship's physical layout, which embraces light-filled spaces by placing venues and elevators along the sides of the ship rather than in the center, is revolutionary but won't be everyone's cup of tea.

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I was on board for five days during a preview sailing before the ship set sail on its maiden voyage, so I could not ask any actual Silversea guests how they felt about Silver Ray, though it is identical to the 2023-debuted Silver Nova . While guest demographics will vary — a weeklong summer Mediterranean cruise will always attract a different crowd from a 70-night South America voyage — my take is that the ship's amenities can appeal to both the retiree crowd and middle-aged and even millennial affluent travelers.

You just need to know which menus to choose and which spaces to make your own.

Overview of Silver Ray

The 728-passenger, 54,700-ton Silver Ray is small by today's megaship standards, but it's packed with 10 restaurants and eight bars and lounges, a demonstration kitchen for cooking classes, a spa and fitness center, and two levels of sun deck with a pool and hot tub.

Fares are all-inclusive , so all drinks, most restaurants, standard Wi-Fi and crew gratuities are included in the price of your cruise. Certain fares also include airfare and port transfers; you can pick how inclusive you want to go.

The luxury cruise ship has an especially high space-to-passenger ratio. Silver Ray is about 34% bigger than Silversea's previous class of ships — Silver Muse, Silver Moon and Silver Dawn — but it holds only about 22% more passengers. Executives claim that if every passenger during a sold-out cruise were on the pool deck, they'd still have plenty of space to themselves. Even the smallest suites are large, with huge bathrooms, walk-in closets, full living areas and plenty of space to walk around.

With 544 crew members, the ship also has a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1:1.3, which leads to a high level of service on board. Crew members make a point to learn your name and preference, and every suite is attended to by a formal butler .

What sets this ship (and its sister Silver Nova) apart from other luxury ships is what the line refers to as its asymmetrical design. That means that many key elements of the ship are offset from the center. For example, instead of putting the standard elevators in the middle of the ship with corridors to the left and right, Silver Ray has two all-glass elevator banks on the exterior of the ship, with one on the port side and the other on the starboard side. The pool is not in the middle of the sun deck, but placed on the starboard side; the infinity-style hot tub, one deck up, is on the port side. So is the ship's smokestack — it's not centered as it would be on every other ship you've sailed. All of the deck chairs are oriented toward the sides of the ship rather than facing in toward a central pool.

Combine these elements with the ship's extensive use of glass windows, and the result is an abundance of spaces with sea views. When you're in the pool, you're looking out to sea or at the port where you're docked. When you're riding the elevator, you're staring at the world beyond your ship.

These design changes follow from Silversea's commitment to delivering an immersive destination experience for its passengers. Instead of cocooning in a shipboard world (like you might on some of sister cruise line Royal Caribbean's attraction-laden cruise ships), Silver Ray encourages guests to explore the world beyond the vessel. The aim is to accomplish this predominantly with food through the line's Sea And Land Taste program. S.A.L.T. has many elements, including hands-on cooking classes at S.A.L.T. Lab, regionally inspired meals and craft cocktails at S.A.L.T. Kitchen and S.A.L.T. Bar, and shore excursions that introduce participants not only to local flavors but to the people who produce them.

The ship was also built to be more energy efficient. Its snub-nose hull design alone reduces fuel needs by 15%. It's a hybrid vehicle which uses liquefied natural gas power but also has batteries built in. The ship has also eliminated most single-use plastics. You won't find disposable water bottles on board, but you will find reusable ones in your cabin, as well as bottle-filling stations throughout the ship.

Silversea executives hope that Silver Ray's modern style will attract younger guests, but Silversea passengers are generally affluent retirees. Children are welcome, but there are no spaces dedicated to them. However, if a higher-than-normal number of kids are sailing, the ship's activities staff will transform a small room off the tender-boarding area on Deck 2 into a play space and lead the young cruisers in games and age-appropriate activities.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

What I loved about Silver Ray

I stayed in the smallest suite — and it was still huge.

My Deluxe Veranda Suite was not the lowest-category room, but only because of its central location. It was still the smallest-sized suite on board. Even so, it was enormous, with a whopping 357 square feet of space, including the 56-square-foot balcony. Consider that many megaship balcony cabins are around 200 square feet, and mine was nearly double that size.

The extra space was especially appreciated in the bathroom, with its wide glassed-in shower (I didn't bang my elbows against the wall once!) and generous floor space that could easily accommodate two people getting ready at once. Both the desk and the sofa were full-sized, with plenty of space to sit or store items. A walk-in closet had all the drawer, shelving and hanging space I could need, and a separate vanity area meant I did not have to put on makeup on top of my laptop.

The ship's design brings light into every space

I appreciated Silversea's use of glass everywhere to bring views and light into spaces that don't always have them. The sauna and spa pool in the Otium Spa have floor-to-ceiling windows for sea or port views while you relax. Thanks to an entire back wall of windows, I could watch the sunset during my Chef's Table dinner at the S.A.L.T. Lab cooking class and dining space. Even waiting for an elevator is pleasant because you can look outside through the glass exterior walls.

I loved the views for days I could get on the pool deck. The way the pool bar is oriented, you can see through to the sea beyond no matter which side you're sitting on. And, of course, it's lovely to gaze out to sea when you're floating in the pool or sitting in the hot tub. (If I come back on vacation, I would take my Kindle to the Orangerie, curl up on a plush, oversized patio chair and face the ocean while I read.) I also loved the alfresco dining and drinking spaces of the Marquee Restaurant and Dusk Bar. I didn't want to be anywhere else when the weather was nice.

Related: 7 extremely decadent things you can do on a luxury cruise vacation

What I didn't love about Silver Ray

Navigating the ship is harder than it should be.

The asymmetric design has unintended consequences. It makes the ship more difficult to navigate than I'd expected.

The ship has a frustrating number of dead ends; often, I'd go one way around a stairwell and end up at a wall. I could never figure out which way was forward or aft, and often would walk through a bar or lounge only to realize I was going the wrong way and have to retrace my steps. (Lest you think I just have a bad sense of direction, I can tell you that I mastered the world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, in just a few days.)

I was completely mystified about which way to turn toward my suite when I exited the elevator banks. It should have been easy because there were large photographs at each entrance, but I got confused because no matter which photo I was at, my cabin was to the right. It took a few days for me to realize that the two elevator banks are on opposite sides of the ship, not the same side as it would be in a symmetrical design with two corridors, not one, of rooms on each deck. The positioning of the elevator banks made me confused about forward and aft on other decks, as well.

Not related to the ship design but also unnecessarily confusing in cabin hallways is that the room numbers are misaligned. They do go up by twos if you're just looking at the odd or even side of the corridor. But because numbers aren't skipped when there's a suite on one side of the hallway and not on the other, the cabins across from each other don't match. For example, I was in cabin 8022 and the cabin across the hall was not 8021 but 8039. If I wasn't paying attention and was looking at the odd-numbered side, it was easy to walk right by my cabin.

To top it all off, you can't find deck plans on your in-cabin TV or informational tablet, nor does Silversea hand out little cards with the decks marked. You can find the layout of each floor on the wall by the elevators, but that doesn't help you know whether you're at the correct elevator bank for your destination on another deck.

Service was uneven

Service is never 100% up to speed on a shakedown cruise, but its unevenness was especially noticeable because attentive service is a hallmark of Silversea.

Every suite has a butler, and I've never gotten a great one on Silversea. My interactions with my butler on Silver Ray were always awkward. One morning, we had agreed he was going to set up the Otium shower experience (with candles and scented shower bombs), but I called twice to request it and he never picked up or called me back. Another time, when I was running late and asked him to pick up my laundry from the launderette, his response was passive-aggressive; first, he said he couldn't do that for me, then said he would make an exception just this once, leaving me uncertain as to whether I'd put him on the spot somehow.

But also, I never saw him in the hallway (my room stewards on Carnival — a much less pricey line — have always been more friendly, attentive and present), whereas butlers for my friends' suites would materialize out of nowhere to open their doors for them whenever they returned to their suite.

In addition, the reception desk staff not only did not know the answers to most of my questions but also had trouble understanding what I was asking. I imagine this would be a liability when you have demanding, paying passengers on board who will get frustrated and impatient easily.

On the other hand, sometimes the service was simply too much. At the buffet, there was always someone hovering at my elbow, asking to take my plate or escort me to my seat. Yet it took a long time for them to bring me tea or notice that my water needed refilling.

I realized that Silversea's formal style of service might simply not be my cup of tea. I prefer the friendliness of Viking or Carnival crew members, even if they don't provide all the services Silversea's crew does (or is supposed to). Still, I found the service lacking compared to its reputation, and I hope the staff will be able to work the kinks out after a few more sailings.

Silver Ray cabins and suites

Every cabin on Silver Ray is a spacious suite with a private balcony, palatial bathroom, walk-in closet and separate sleeping and living areas. Given that the smallest suite is a generous 357 square feet (megaship cabins are commonly smaller than 200 square feet), you won't feel cramped in any suite on the ship. That said, I toured some of the larger suites, including the top Otium suite, and while they are sizable, they don't have the wow factor of a Royal Caribbean Loft Suite or Regent Seven Seas Cruises Regent Suite .

Unlike older Silversea ships, where there are suites on nearly every deck, Silver Ray consolidates all its guest rooms on decks 6 through 9.

I stayed in a Deluxe Veranda Suite, which is different from the Classic, Superior and Premium Veranda Suites mainly by location. The Deluxe Veranda Suites are centrally located, while the Classic and Superior are farther forward and back. The Premium suites are either midship or at the very back of the ship with wake-facing balconies.

The layout of my balcony suite is the standard cruise ship one. The bathroom is just to one side as you enter, backed up to the closet, with a sleeping area then a living area then the balcony. But Silversea enhances that basic design with its own luxury touches.

The first thing I noticed when I stepped inside was how spacious the room was. It didn't have that tight, everything-squeezed-together feeling you sometimes get when you first enter a cruise ship cabin. The corridor from the door into the sleeping area is wide, with enough room for a mirrored vanity across from the bathroom door. Don't get so distracted by your gorgeous face in the full-length mirror behind the vanity that you miss the mirrored doors that hide a narrow cupboard with useful shelving and a pull-out laundry hamper.

All suites on Silver Ray have a walk-in closet with both half- and full-height hanging closets, large open shelves and drawer space. In the Veranda Suites, the entrance is angled to give more space between the closet and the bed. In the closet, you'll find thick Italian cotton terry cloth robes and slippers, an umbrella, a soft throw blanket, sewing kit, shoe mitt and lint brush. The safe is hidden in a drawer; I searched and searched for the number pad to set a code, only to discover that it lights up only when you touch the "enter" button on the lid of the safe.

The queen-sized bed, which can be split into twins, has cool soft sheets and a duvet that feels silky on my skin every time I slide into bed. Apparently, the mattresses are custom-made for Silversea.

Ask your butler to show you the pillow menu, which is not a piece of paper but a box of mini pillows; you can choose from a selection of five down, hypoallergenic and memory foam pillow options. (Honestly, they were all nice and I'm not sure I could tell the difference.) You can even ask for an extra-soft mattress to replace the standard one.

The bed is flanked by marble-topped nightstands with three open shelves, bedside lamps and reading lights, and a U.S. 110-volt, European 220-volt, USB-A and USB-C plug on each side. A phone is set on one of the nightstands.

The living area is separated from the sleeping area by a curtain you can pull across should you have a third guest sleeping on a sofabed. The sofa can fit at least three people and has a movable ottoman to seat a fourth or to prop your feet on. A marble-topped table is wide enough for in-room dining and is set with real orchids and a basket of fresh fruit.

Across from the sofa, the desk area, also marble-topped, is wide. Here, you'll find a phone, more outlets (U.S., European and USB) and a tablet with ship information and settings for your suite's lighting. My butler would leave the tablet on my bed at night to indicate tomorrow's schedule was now available; call me old school but I miss the paper newsletters.

The desk has four drawers, one with divided sections and another with leather padding to protect your delicate belongings. A minifridge is stocked with soda, beer and water, and you can request to have your favorite drinks added. (You could also ask for a bottle of complimentary liquor or wine from your butler, but it won't be set up for you when you arrive.)

Above the desk is a large TV that can swivel to orient toward the bed or toward the couch. In addition to live TV and a large movie selection, it has interactive elements for viewing your onboard bill, dinner and shore excursion reservations, messages and other ship information. Additional shelving includes a cabinet with a bottle opener-corkscrew and glassware.

My 56-square-foot balcony had two upright metal-and-mesh chairs and a small round drinks table that didn't strike me as overly luxurious.

My bathroom was huge; it was bigger than my master bathroom at home (which, notably, is small). It has a spacious glassed-in shower with a rain showerhead and wand; select Veranda Suites across categories come with bathtubs. The bench in the shower is a nice touch for storing toiletries, or for shaving or washing while seated.

In the shower, you'll find a clothesline and full-size bottles of Silversea's own Otium brand of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. I have curly hair and never use cruise ship-provided hair products, but know that you can request high-end Bulgari or allergen-free Sebamed toiletries from your butler if you prefer those brands.

The long marble-topped bathroom vanity has a wide sink with two faucets (instead of two separate sinks), two deep drawers with sliding dividers (one contains the hair dryer) and four glass shelves. The bathroom is stocked with bar soap, Otium body lotion and liquid soap, makeup remover pads and wipes, cotton buds, a loofah bath pad and shower cap. The outlet in the bathroom is for shavers only. Two hooks and a full-length mirror are set on the back of the door, so if you hang your towel up, you can no longer check your reflection.

As I said, all suites come with a butler to service them, as well as a room attendant who will clean your cabin daily. Butlers can help you unpack and bring you special treats like truffle popcorn when you want to watch an in-room movie, hot chocolate to enjoy on the balcony, or a shower bomb for an aromatherapy shower without trekking to the spa. A friend even asked her butler to bring her Champagne and caviar daily at 5 p.m., and this request was happily fulfilled.

As I mentioned previously, I didn't feel that having a butler enhanced my cruise when he mostly brought me room service. I could have asked him to make dinner reservations or shore excursion changes for me. But those desks never had long queues, so it was simpler to talk to those folks directly than explain a complicated request to my butler. Call me a control freak, but I like to unpack and pack my suitcase myself — another job my butler would have happily undertaken.

If you want even more space in your suite, you have several options, ranging from 528-square-foot Medallion Suites (essentially a wider version of the Veranda Suite with extra lounge space and actual walls to divide up the room) to the two 1,326-square-foot Otium Suites. These top suites are located at the aft corners of Deck 6 and 7 and feature an in-suite library, spacious living and dining areas, a huge marbled master bathroom, and two balconies, one with a Jacuzzi tub and padded outdoor lounge furniture.

For family groups, Silver Ray offers connecting cabins, both between like-category cabins and between larger and smaller suites.

Only Veranda and Silver Suites come in wheelchair-accessible versions. Accessible cabins mainly have showers, but a few also have tubs. They feature wider doors and floor space to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. All areas of the suite are accessible without a need for ramps.

Related: 7 compelling reasons to book a luxury cruise

Silver Ray restaurants and bars

Book a long cruise if you wish to try all of Silver Ray's restaurants because the ship certainly has more options than I could try in a five-night trip. With Silver Ray's debut, Silversea has updated the menus of longtime favorites, La Dame (French) and La Terrazza (Italian), to include more modern dishes, as well as old standards. In addition, the line's S.A.L.T. program (which stands for Sea And Land Taste) brings the culinary experience from your cruise region on board with two dining options tailored to the ports of call, a bar and cooking classes and lectures.

Cruisers familiar with other luxury lines might be surprised to find that several of Silver Ray's restaurants come with hefty cover charges. Never fear — you'll still get a high-end dining experience with the included venues.

Restaurants

Silver Ray's two main complimentary dining rooms are located side by side on Deck 3. Atlantide is the more traditional restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, while S.A.L.T. Kitchen offers regionally inspired menus for dinner only. These restaurants are where you'll want to go for that classic three-course cruise ship meal. Unfortunately, I was unable to eat in these venues on my sailing, other than a christening dinner in Atlantide with a special one-time menu.

If you're in the mood for a leisurely, waiter-served breakfast, Atlantide will serve you all the eggs and omelets, pancakes, waffles, pastries, cereal, yogurt and fruit you can eat. Hours are limited, so check the schedule before you go.

For lunch, Atlantide offers a small menu of starters, entrees and desserts. You might start with a Nicoise salad or scallop ceviche, enjoy beef tenderloin medallions or a vegetable biryani for your main course and indulge in a chocolate mille feuille or fruity meringue for dessert.

The dinner menu is more robust, with starters followed by vegetarian, fish and meat options for your main courses and a dessert menu that includes a cheese course, gluten- and sugar-free desserts, ice cream and sorbet, as well as a selection of tarts, pastries and other treats.

The S.A.L.T. Kitchen menu is divided into two sections. Part of the menu showcases dishes from your cruise region and stays the same the entire voyage. The other part changes daily to reflect the cuisine of that day's port of call. For example, the day we were docked in Cadiz, Spain, the menu featured Spanish dishes such as tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters), pollo a la canilla (chicken with rosemary potatoes and garlic mushrooms) and baked figs made with locally produced sherry.

Aft on Deck 4 is La Terrazza, the restaurant you'll likely frequent the most. It serves as the ship's buffet venue for breakfast and lunch with indoor and outdoor seating.

Breakfast features all the standards: a bread and pastry counter; hot dishes like pancakes, eggs and breakfast meat; fruit, yogurt and muesli; even a congee station. You can also request eggs cooked to order from your server.

At lunch, you'll find a make-your-own salad bar plus premade salads, meats and cheeses, and a selection of breads. Hot dishes range from fine meat-based entrees (lamb chops, lobster tails, filet mignon, herb-crusted chicken) to vegetarian dishes such as a vegetable stew or Indian aloo gobi. You'll also find a carving station, pizza and an impressive spread of seafood and sushi. Your waiter will inform you about the pasta of the day. The large dessert spread includes a pudding (or other scoopable option), small cakes and pastries, and five flavors of ice cream and sorbet.

Gluten-free dishes are marked.

I enjoyed the one breakfast and lunch I ate at La Terrazza, though service at breakfast was slow and I had to wait longer than expected for my tea and my eggs, given how few guests were dining at the same time. The servers and I also had different ideas about how to approach a buffet; I wanted to make a plate and then find a seat, but they preferred to escort me to a table, which I then had to leave to get my meal.

In the evening, La Terrazza becomes a sit-down Italian restaurant with a two-part menu. The Quintessence Menu features the restaurant's historically most popular dishes, such as gnocchi with Parma ham, fresh pasta with tomato sauce and fried eggplants and stuffed calamari. The Adventure Menu showcases modern Italian cuisine, including a leek and goat cheese risotto and a grilled sea bass with stuffed cabbage and anchovy prosecco sauce. You can mix and match dishes from both venues.

Desserts include the fan favorite affogato (gelato with an espresso pour-over), a cheese plate, tiramisu and a gelato and sorbet menu.

Forward of La Terrazza is Kaiseki, Silver Ray's Japanese restaurant. Come for lunch and you can gorge yourself on sushi and sashimi (as well as beef bao buns and two types of ramen) for free. In the evening, you'll pay $80 per person for a six-course Omakase menu or a la carte dining. The menu includes a tempura shrimp and vegetable platter, enoki mushroom soup, wagyu beef steak served with a grilled lobster tail and chicken katsu.

Silversea's longstanding date night restaurant, the French La Dame, received a menu update in time for Silver Ray's debut. The regular menu highlights traditional French dishes made with expensive ingredients. For $160 per person, you can indulge in foie gras terrine, leek and potato soup with truffle shavings and caviar, lobster and cognac bisque, pan-fried dover sole, filet of grass-fed Limousin beef and a salted caramel souffle.

If that sounds too rich for your liking, you can opt for the new signature degustation menu, created in partnership with chef Jean-Luc Rabanel, who specializes in plant-forward "green cuisine." The menu is not vegetarian but it emphasizes quality produce as the star of most dishes.

The seven-course meal will leave you feeling more than satisfied because you consumed a lot of food and wine, not because the dishes are exceptionally rich. You can taste reasonably sized portions of a mille-feuille of mushrooms with seared duck foie gras, seabass cooked with artichokes and fennel, rack of lamb with creamy polenta and Provencal vegetables, and a pavlova with goat cheese and watermelon and tamarind jam. Each course is paired with wine, either from the complimentary menu or from the premium menu for an upcharge of $90 (wine) to $140 (Champagne) per person.

My degustation meal was delicious, especially since I'm always searching for more vegetables in cruise ship dishes. However, for $160 a head, you'll get more bang for your buck ordering all the lobster and caviar dishes from the regular menu.

When you need a break from formal dining and heavy multicourse menus, Silver Note on Deck 5 is your antidote. The intimate supper club is one of the few onboard restaurants with a bar in it because it's half meal, half entertainment. A pianist and jazz singer entertain while you dine on Mediterranean small plates. The dishes are innovatively styled and presented and appeal to more curious palates. If you prefer a plate of meat with a side of veg, stick to Atlantide.

The Silver Note menu is divided into six sections with music-themed names, but there aren't obvious starters and mains. Pick and choose three to four of your favorites — plus dessert! — and request them to be served in any order you like. I giggled when the tuna ceviche I ordered arrived in a sardine can and my chocolate Black Swan dessert came styled like a swan with chocolate neck and wings. Do not miss the beef tenderloin tournedos, which were soft and buttery, unlike my more chewy lamb.

The new venue on this class of ships (it debuted on Silver Nova), Marquee is the place to be when the weather is warm and sunny. The open-air restaurant is located on the pool deck, Deck 10, and is gorgeous, with blossoming trees sprouting from the seating areas and a lattice-style covering above your head. Sea views abound.

Marquee changes its menu personality based on the time of day. In the morning, it serves lighter fare, such as an acai bowl, pumpkin pancake, avocado on sourdough toast and the more adorable "rainbow mosaic" of five sweet and savory bites on whole wheat brioche (think peaches and cream cheese and prosciutto with fig chutney).

At lunch, you have a choice of two menus. Spaccanapoli serves Neopolitan-style pizza, and the ship has the proper pizza oven to satisfy all the Italians on board. The Grill menu has all your lunchtime favorites: burgers, hot dogs, steak sandwiches and fish-and-chips among them. But you'll also find poke bowls, pumpkin and chickpea salad, falafel wraps, and a grilled fish of the day. Go as heavy or light as you like. I split a pizza with a friend, and we each ordered a salad starter; it was the perfect alfresco lunch.

Marquee was my favorite of all the restaurants on board due to the beautiful alfresco location and wide-ranging menu of both hearty and light dishes.

In the evening, Marquee transforms again to serve its signature "hot rocks" meals. Pick your favorite high-quality protein — prawns, filet mignon, prime rib-eye steak, New York Strip steak, lamb chops — and you'll receive it raw ... with a hot stone to cook it on. You can also order a signature pizza or cooked-for-you items from the grill. Most passengers enjoy the novelty of the cooking experience at this fan-favorite restaurant, but you can also ask your server to handle the meat for you so you don't over or undercook your dinner.

Also new on Silver Ray is an expansion of the S.A.L.T. dining experience with the Chef's Table, which takes place in the S.A.L.T. Lab on Deck 10. The cooking stations are transformed into 18 place settings for an 11-course meal, with cocktail and wine pairings, again celebrating the cruise region of your sailing.

A chef emcees your meal, explaining the highlighted ingredients and their relevance to your cruise region's food culture. Our chef, German, was funny and engaging and added a lighthearted spirit to a lengthy three-hour meal. The Chef's Table is a great choice for meeting your fellow food enthusiasts, though the U-shaped seating area means you can only really converse with folks to your immediate left and right. It's an intriguing dinner option for cruisers looking for a meal that's modern and inventive; traditional cruise diners should splurge on La Dame instead.

Reservations are only taken on board and the cost is $180 per person, making it the most expensive dining experience on the ship.

You do not need reservations for Atlantide, Chef's Table, lunch at Kaiseki, or breakfast and lunch at Marquee and La Terrazza. You will want to make reservations for La Dame, Silver Note, the Chef's Table and dinner at Kaiseki, Marquee and La Terrazza.

Silversea takes in-room dining to new heights, with both an extensive room service menu and special Otium in-suite dining experiences. Order a meal to your room, and you won't be eating off a tray. If you're not in a suite with a dining table, your butler will place a special table-topper on your coffee table to expand it into a larger dining surface, spread it with a white tablecloth and lay out place settings as if you were eating in a restaurant. Allow 40 minutes for orders to arrive.

The breakfast menu is a full one, with all your breakfast breads and pastries, yogurts and fruit, but also eggs, meats, pancakes and other hot items.

The all-day menu features starters (vegetarian spring rolls, Caesar salad, beef empanadas), wraps and sandwiches (club sandwich, tuna wrap, tandoori vegetable roti), mains (pasta, burgers, butter chicken) and dessert (creme brulee, fruit plate). You'll even find a children's room service menu with chicken nuggets, fish fingers, spaghetti with meat sauce, hot dogs, pizza and ice cream sundaes among the offerings.

Of course, you can order Champagne and caviar to your room at any time. However, you cannot order off the Atlantide menu for in-suite dining; you must stick to the official room service menus.

The options continue with the Otium nibbles and comfort food that your butler can also deliver to your cabin, perhaps to enjoy on your balcony. The nibbles include a selection of chocolates or macarons and truffle popcorn (perfect for a relaxing movie night) and special hot chocolates and Otium cocktails (both alcoholic and non). The comfort food menu is only available from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and is decadent; you could indulge in foie gras mousse, lobster ravioli, truffled potato croquette and a salted caramel mousse.

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 10 best meals you can have at sea

All but the most premium of drinks are included on Silver Ray, so the ship has a convivial culture centered around its many bars. Each has its own menu of signature drinks, though, of course, you can order your favorites around the ship. Look to the last page of each menu for interesting nonalcoholic cocktails.

In the evenings, many of the bars play host to the ship's musicians. On my cruise, a pianist, violinist and saxophone player made the rounds.

You might not notice Deck 3's The Shelter on your first day on board because this Champagne bar is tucked away in a corner that you won't pass through if you aren't trying to find it. However, it's the closest bar to the main restaurants, Atlantide and S.A.L.T. Kitchen, so is ideal for a pre- or post-dinner drink. You can taste a variety of fine Champagnes by the glass here.

The hub of the ship is the Deck 4 Arts Cafe, the coffee bar situated midship along a major thoroughfare and next to the Reception and Shore Excursions desks. It was one of my favorite spots to grab a quick bite. You'll find not only coffee and tea drinks but healthy infused waters, smoothies, parfaits and pastries at breakfast and small sandwiches, scones and small desserts in the afternoon. A small business area with two computer stations and a printer is also in this area.

Fans of Silversea's waiter-served afternoon tea on its older ships might be disappointed to learn that it is not offered on Silver Ray (or sister Silver Nova). Instead, you can order tea, scones and treats every afternoon at the Arts Cafe, but you won't get white-glove service or an artful presentation of goodies.

Immediately above the Arts Cafe on Deck 5, Dolce Vita is a popular spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks and a menu of classic drinks. A waiter might even stop by with pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres.

All the way forward on Deck 5 is the Panorama Lounge, with indoor and outdoor seating. It's open from the afternoon into the evening, and there's always something going on here, whether midday bingo, cocktail hour music or a late-night DJ. It's got a fun drink menu, as well.

The Connoisseur's Corner cigar lounge is next door if you need a drink and a smoke; an outdoor cigar smoking area is adjacent. A DIY bar features complimentary drinks, but you can also order premium whiskeys, cognacs and cigars for an extra fee.

Restaurant Silver Note, also on Deck 5, has a small bar where guests who are not dining there can enjoy a beverage and live music. The cocktail menu here leans into the 1920s prohibition-era vibe. Between the dinner crowd and the live music, Silver Note is loud; it's not the bar for easy conversation.

The drinks are flowing on Deck 10 with four bars. The pool bar has all your refreshing sunny day drinks, like pina coladas, but the Dusk Bar is a lovely spot to enjoy a sundowner or aperitif and gorgeous wake views. Just note that one corner is the smoking area. Personally, I loved the vibe of the Dusk Bar and wished I could spend each evening there.

The Observation Lounge loses some of its impressiveness on a ship with tons of glass and sea views everywhere, but it does double duty with a collection of games and a self-serve coffee and tea bar. It's a lovely spot to while away a sea day afternoon when the weather is cool or rainy.

If you want something stronger than coffee, you'll need to meander over to the adjacent S.A.L.T. bar just outside the S.A.L.T. lab. It specializes in craft cocktails inspired by the ports of call on your itinerary, which means the drink menu here might change a few times during the course of your cruise. If you like trendy drinks made with the most current cocktail techniques and a more intimate vibe than a large lounge, the S.A.L.T. bar will be your go-to spot.

Silver Ray activities

My preview cruise on Silver Ray did not have a typical schedule, but you can expect activities like trivia, arts and crafts, guest lectures, and shuffleboard or golf putting competitions on deck.

Silver Ray's signature space is the resort-inspired pool area on decks 10 and 11. The ship's asymmetrical design is most evident here, where the ship's only pool is off to one side of the ship rather than in the center. It's surrounded by loungers, all oriented to face the sea rather than the pool. An infinity-style hot tub is above on Deck 11 port side.

You might be surprised at how light and airy the pool deck feels but not know why. It's because the only thing above the pool is the sky, rather than an oval deck above closing in the space. The deck 11 lounge area runs down the middle of the deck, over the pool bar, instead.

Adding to that resort feel are some shady outdoor lounge areas where you can read or chat in the fresh air, even when a splash and a tan aren't your top priorities. I especially loved the Orangerie area, forward of the pool deck, with a faux orange tree surrounded by cushy seating and double day beds.

A jogging track circles half of Deck 10 between the pool and the Dusk Bar. (The glass elevators mean no wraparound promenade on Deck 4.) Mixed in with the sunbathing areas are a series of games (golf putting, giant chess and tic-tac-toe) at the very front of Deck 11.

The Otium Spa on Deck 5 forward keeps the ship's sea-view theme going with floor-to-ceiling windows in the two-room fitness center, salon and thermal areas. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, wrap or scrub. The Otium experiences are the ultimate treat; let someone massage you into bliss for 100 minutes, though expect to pay hundreds of dollars for these top-end treatments.

To counteract that splurge, you can enjoy the ship's thermal areas for free. Both the men's and women's dressing rooms have complimentary steam rooms and dry saunas; in between is a shared spa pool. Both the pool and the sauna have windows, so you can watch the world go by. Complimentary scrubs are available; rub them on your body before you get into the steam room, then enjoy your super-soft skin once you've showered off.

The fitness center is impressive for a small ship, with plenty of treadmills, elliptical machines and stationary bikes; a collection of free weights and resistance machines; and a room for exercise classes, with both in-person and digital options on a large-screen TV. You won't find bottles of water, but you will find a water bottle filling station.

The Venetian Lounge on decks 4 and 5 is a full two-story theater, unlike the one-deck, cabaret-style show lounges you'll find on older Silversea ships. Entertainment will be a mix of song-and-dance shows by the ship's onboard performers, guest entertainers and local acts brought on board when the ship stays late in port. Other lectures and events also take place here.

If you haven't parted with enough money yet, you can go on a shopping spree at the ship's boutiques on decks 4 and 5 adjacent to the Venetian Lounge. The shop on Deck 4 sells sundries, Silversea logowear, some regional items and children's gifts, while the Deck 5 boutiques sell high-end perfumes, purses, resortwear and jewelry. The lifelike mannequins posed around the shops might cause you to do a double-take when you first glimpse them — you're not the only person to have that reaction.

A tiny casino across from the Deck 5 shops is easy to miss, but you can also get rid of excess cash (or perhaps win some shopping money) at the few gaming tables and slots open when the ship is at sea.

On the other end of Deck 5, an adorable little library has the cutest Instagrammable reading nooks. Below it, on Deck 4, just outside of Kaiseki is a photo gallery of art by renowned photographer Steve McCurry, who partners with Silversea. You'll find his photographs in other corridors, as well.

Like libraries? There's a hidden one within the Observation Lounge on Deck 10. Look for the door on your lefthand side as you round the corner toward the back of the ship. Inside is a gorgeous wood-paneled room with comfortable seating and a ceiling lit to resemble a starry sky.

A Silversea beverage manager told me that the library will soon feature a mystery cocktail experience. Hidden within the regular books you can borrow will be special hollow books with an empty glass and a mini cocktail menu inside. You'll bring the book back to the adjacent S.A.L.T. bar to get your drink made.

Silver Ray's culinary focus and S.A.L.T. program extend to onboard activities as well. Deck's 10 S.A.L.T. Lab is a demonstration kitchen with 12 work stations that can be shared by two people and gorgeous prep spaces and flat-screen TVs to watch the chefs work. An onboard chef will lead hourlong cooking classes that introduce guests to recipes of the cruise region. We made Portuguese tarts and a trifle with egg custard, and our chef instructor was sassy and fun. Classes are complimentary but you must sign up in advance.

Take your treats out the glass doors of the lab to some alfresco dining tables just behind.

In addition, passengers can attend S.A.L.T. food-and-wine-oriented talks by onboard and guest lecturers to learn more about the culinary culture of the places they're visiting on vacation.

Silver Ray does not have a kids club, though its activity staff will put on kids programming on itineraries with a higher-than-usual number of children. They use out-of-the-way spaces on the ship, such as a little room off the tender boarding area on Deck 2 or the forward sun deck area on Deck 11 with the outdoor games.

The ship might not always cater to young cruisers, but it does employ gentleman hosts on longer sailings to accompany single ladies to dinner and dancing in the evenings. The line clearly knows and understands its core demographic.

Related: 5 best Silversea Cruises destinations

Silver Ray itineraries and pricing

Silver Ray will spend its summers in the Mediterranean and its winters in the Americas. The ship debuts in Europe and will sail five- to 12-night Eastern and Western Mediterranean cruises through the fall. It will then cross the Atlantic and sail around South America, including an epic 71-day round-South America cruise from late January to early April 2025.

The ship will return to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2025, crossing back to Fort Lauderdale at the end of November 2025. In winter 2025-2026, Silver Ray will explore the Caribbean and Central America before returning to Europe in early April 2026.

Fares start at $4,800 per person, based on double occupancy, for port-to-port fares (no flights) or $6,700 for door-to-door fares (flights and transfers included) for a six-night Mediterranean cruise in 2025 in a Classic Veranda Suite.

A seven-night South America cruise starts at $4,300 (port-to-port) in a Deluxe Veranda Suite in January 2025. (Door-to-door fares are not available for this cruise, and lower-category cabins are waitlisted.)

An 11-night Caribbean cruise in December 2025 starts at $5,800 per person (port-to-port) or $7,000 per person (door-to-door) in a Classic Veranda Suite.

What to know before you go

Required documents

Most of Silver Ray's itineraries depart from overseas ports, so guests will need a valid passport to travel. It's your responsibility to check if the countries you're visiting require an additional visa or that your passport is valid for three to six months beyond your visit.

You will also need to fill out preboarding documents online before your cruise.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares cover all crew gratuities, and tipping is neither expected nor required. The only exception on board is spa treatments, where an 18% gratuity is baked into the price and you are not asked to tip extra.

You should also bring cash to tip luggage porters and tour guides in port.

All passengers can access the ship's Wi-Fi for free. Passengers in Veranda Suites receive unlimited standard internet (basic browsing, messaging and emailing) on one device and passengers in higher-category suites get unlimited premium internet access (streaming and video calling) on multiple devices. You can upgrade one device for $29 a day, or you can purchase a package at a discount. On my five-night sailing, I paid $145 to upgrade from standard Wi-Fi on one device to premium Wi-Fi on four for the duration of the cruise.

Silversea cautions that it might restrict certain sites for bandwidth reasons.

Carry-on drinks policy

All drinks are complimentary on Silver Ray, with the exception of the most expensive wines and liquors. However, if you are particular to certain brands, you can bring on board an unlimited amount of wine and liquor, both on embarkation day and in ports of call, and you do not have to pay a corkage fee.

Smoking policy

Smoking is only permitted in select locations on Silver Ray. Guests may not smoke in public areas, suites or private balconies. The only locations on Silver Ray where passengers may light up are in the Connoisseur's Corner cigar lounge and the outdoor space adjacent to it, and on the port side of the outdoor Dusk Bar. Cigar and pipe use is only permitted in the Connoisseur's Corner.

You have two options for doing laundry on Silver Ray. You can take the lazy vacation option and pay for the ship's laundry team to wash, press or wet clean your clothes. Leave your dirty clothes for the butler who will whisk it away and return your items impeccably folded.

Or, you can take the economical, self-service route and do your own washing and ironing in the ship's complimentary launderettes, found in suite corridors near the forward stairwells on decks 6, 8 and 9, and aft on Deck 7. Detergent is available, as are ironing boards and a utility sink. Don't believe the time the machine tells you your wash will take; it was off by a factor of two when I did laundry on board.

Passengers in the higher-category suites (Medallion and up), as well as select Venetian Society loyalty program members, receive complimentary laundry service.

Electrical outlets

Suites feature 110-volt (U.S.), 220-volt (European), USB-A and USB-C outlets both by the beds and by the desk.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar regardless of where Silver Ray is in the world. The ship operates on a cashless system. You will use your cruise keycard to pay for all purchases, and then receive a final bill at the end of the cruise. You can pay that bill with a credit card (Visa, Mastercard or American Express) that you've registered with the ship or with cash.

You can request a cash advance on board, but will be charged a 2% fee on the amount.

Drinking age

The minimum drinking age on Silver Ray is 21. The ship's crew can also refuse to serve alcohol to anyone they deem excessively inebriated or a danger to others on board.

Pack for your cruise like you would for a stay at a high-end resort. During the day, you'll want casual outfits suitable for the day's weather and activities, including appropriate cover-ups for swimwear and comfortable shoes for walking. Guests tend to be stylish and elegant even when dressed casually.

In the evening, after 6 p.m., guests should adhere to Silver Ray's posted dress code, though casual attire is permitted in outdoor venues. The dress code falls into two categories:

Elegant Casual: Think date-night dress. Women will want to pack casual dresses or blouses to pair with skirts or nice trousers. Men should wear slacks and open-collared shirts; jackets are optional.

Formal Optional: On these nights, passengers can stick with Elegant Casual attire or take their attire up a notch; however, men are expected to wear a jacket indoors. Ladies may wish to don cocktail dresses, evening gowns or dressy pants suits, while men should consider a tuxedo or dark suit with a tie.

When dining in La Dame, men are required to wear a jacket, regardless of the evening's dress code. Also, after 6 p.m., passengers should refrain from wearing jeans, shorts, sneakers or flip-flops indoors.

Crew members will enforce the dress code. If you do not feel like dressing up, you can order complimentary room service or dine in the ship's outdoor restaurant, Marquee.

Bottom line

Silver Ray is a ship with the potential to appeal to a wide swath of luxury travelers. Older travelers who prefer the classic cruise dining experience, formal service and an evening spent chatting over drinks with a pianist or violinist playing in the background will find all of that on board. Younger (or young-at-heart) explorers will gravitate toward the more edgy dining venues and modern menus, craft cocktails at the S.A.L.T. Bar and the resort-style pool deck. Anyone looking for a high-end cruise experience will appreciate Silver Ray's spacious cabins and views for days as they travel the globe.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Best Cruise Ships for You

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Find Cruises

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with a cruise advisor

Celebrity Beyond

Launched in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in the cruise line's Edge Series, capable of holding up to 3,260 passengers and 1,400 crew members. On board, guests have their pick of 32 food and beverage venues serving everything from Greek to French to Italian cuisine; there are also several cocktail bars and lounges where guests can grab a drink.

One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. There is also no shortage of unique entertainment options; these range from acrobatic shows to juggling mixologist performances. To enjoy stunning water views, enjoy Celebrity's "Magic Carpet," a large platform that hangs off the edge of the ship and moves from deck to deck.

Staterooms offer amenities like plush bathrobes, comfortable Cashmere mattresses and flat-screen TVs; many also come with private verandas. For a one-of-a-kind experience, splurge on a room in The Retreat. This resort-within-a-resort features villas and suites with added luxuries like plunge pools, hot tubs and butlers. Plus, guests of The Retreat have exclusive access to a private sundeck, restaurant and lounge, along with an onboard credit that can be used however you see fit.

Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of popular Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, including the French Riviera, Italy, Mexico and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Celebrity Beyond, if you're lucky, your drink might be poured by Captain Kate McCue herself during the nightly flair bartender show at the Grand Plaza Martini Bar. Make sure to follow her behind-the-scenes adventures on Instagram. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Celebrity Edge

Debuted in December 2018, the 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge stands out for its modernity. The Edge is dressed to the nines in contemporary designs and features a diverse array of technologies, amenities, activities and dining venues on board. Passengers can delight in the ship's rooftop garden, take a dip in one of many ocean-facing pools, work up a sweat on the jogging track or relax at the on-site spa.

You'll find plenty of evening entertainment options, too, including themed bars and lounges, a club and a theater showcasing a variety of productions. The Edge was the first Celebrity ship fitted with the Magic Carpet – the line's cantilevered venue at sea that travels 13 stories. The open-air venue can be repositioned alongside several decks, allowing it to transform from a live music venue to a bar to an exclusive specialty restaurant, depending on its location.

For dining, passengers have 29 options to choose from. These include four main restaurants and specialty options serving a range of cuisines, from sashimi to French bistro classics. After a bite to eat, take a break and relax in your modern stateroom or suite. Every room offers technology that allows guests to control temperature, service and lighting with a touch screen. What's more, with a roughly 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, service across the ship will be spot on.

Celebrity Edge makes sailings across Europe, Asia, Australia and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Edge Series ships, park yourself at the Sunset Bar with a spicy margarita every evening – it’s the best spot on the ship to watch for the fabled green flash. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Viking Venus

Launched in May 2021 from Portsmouth, England, Viking Venus features modern amenities and a contemporary design. The ship can hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Amenities include multiple pools and shops, as well as a cinema, a live performance theater, a jazz lounge, a spa, a fitness center and a salon. Plus, you can attend a lecture or discussion with the onboard historian, who helps educate passengers on the cultural aspects of each destination. An onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table, also allows guests to learn about each destination's unique cuisine. 

Cruisers can enjoy daily updated food options at The Restaurant, diverse cuisine at the World Café, expertly paired tasting menus at The Chef's Table and Italian favorites at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. There are eight dining venues on board in total, in addition to the ship's cooking school at The Kitchen Table and 24/7 room service.

When it's time to rest, there are six types of accommodations to choose from – all with private verandas. The standard Veranda Staterooms measure 270 square feet and feature plush beds, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Higher-tier rooms come with extras like priority shore excursion reservations, priority spa reservations, in-room coffee and free laundry services. Plus, travelers in these cabins will have more space: Rooms reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining areas.

The Viking Venus sails to popular European destinations like Barcelona , Athens , Bangkok , Istanbul , Rome , London , Sydney and Stockholm .

Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated. 

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Seven Seas Splendor

Debuted in September 2021, the 746-passenger, 548-crew member Seven Seas Splendor is the newest ship within the Regent fleet. Seven Seas Splendor – along with most of the line's other ships – takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. Other standard in-room amenities include interactive flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath products, bathrobes and slippers, signature queen-size beds and dining tables for two. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). 

Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. At night, enjoy one of five shows at the onboard theater. 

When it comes to food, Seven Seas Splendor offers eight eateries ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy your breakfast alfresco at La Veranda and grub down for lunch at the Pool Grill buffet. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship.

Seven Seas Splendor visits a variety of European and Mediterranean destinations, as well as ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and South America.

Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex – which made its inaugural sailing in June 2021 – can hold up to 2,910 passengers and 1,320 crew members. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). Specialty restaurants include a steakhouse and a raw bar, while main dining options feature Mediterranean, Italian and French cuisines. There are also meeting spaces and multipurpose areas on board, as well as upscale shops. 

Visit the spa or adults-only Solarium pool to stay relaxed throughout your stay at sea. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship – such as a Camp at Sea. However, the ship is geared more toward adult clientele (or families with older children) looking for a relaxing escape.

The ship's staterooms, which start at 181 square feet, offer smart TVs, customizable air conditioning and plenty of storage space. Many rooms also offer private verandas. If you're willing to splurge, consider booking a room in The Retreat. This exclusive section of the ship features luxury accommodations as well as access to a private restaurant, sun deck and lounge. Plus, rooms in The Retreat offer more space, measuring up to 1,892 square feet.

The Celebrity Apex sails to European destinations like Greece, Italy, Croatia and Portugal, as well as to Caribbean hot spots like St. Thomas , Puerto Rico , Belize and Grand Cayman . 

Viking Saturn

Debuted in May 2023, the adults-only Viking Saturn has the capacity to hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Travelers love the ship's clean Scandinavian design and compact size, which allows it to dock in smaller ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

On board, travelers have access to a slew of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, a library, a state-of-the-art theater, a hair salon, an infinity pool and more. A resident historian is also on board to offer lectures and educational programming about upcoming port destinations. When hunger strikes, Viking Saturn offers an array of dining options, from fresh seafood at World Café to afternoon tea service at Wintergarden to traditional Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's. Or, learn how to prepare regional dishes from your itinerary at the onboard cooking school.

Starting at 270 square feet, standard staterooms come equipped with king-size mattresses (which can be converted into two twin beds), flat-screen TVs, full-size verandas and bathrooms with heated floors. What's more, each accommodation includes 24-hour room service. Travelers who opt to stay in one of the ship's upgraded suites (which reach up to 1,448 square feet) have access to additional perks such as separate living areas and dining rooms, complimentary laundry services and a welcome bottle of Champagne, among other luxuries.

Viking Saturn sails to a variety of destinations in northern Europe (such as Bergen, Norway; London  and Stockholm ) and the Mediterranean (think: Barcelona, Spain ; Rome ; Athens, Greece ; and Istanbul ).

The 930-passenger Viking Sky – which debuted in February 2017 – receives rave reviews from past cruisers for its port-heavy itineraries (fares include one complimentary excursion per port) and luxurious, comfortable staterooms. Cabins offer between 270 and 1,448 square feet of space and include balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with heated floors, among other amenities. Those who opt for an upgraded stateroom or suite are treated to additional perks, like priority reservations at the spa and specialty restaurants.

Viking Sky's activities include classes at the fitness center, treatments at the spa and destination-focused lectures. The ship also offers two pools and two whirlpools, including an infinity pool on the stern of the ship. In the evenings, passengers can enjoy live performances in the theater or watch destination-related movies in one of two cinemas.

Guests also have their choice of cuisine, from alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace to Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. With 550 crew members on board, the ship maintains a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio.

Viking Sky sails to the Mediterranean, Europe, Central America and more. The ship also offers world voyages.

Viking Mars

Viking's newest ship, the Viking Mars accommodates 930 passengers and, since it's a smaller vessel, it can dock in many ports where some of the larger ocean-faring cruise ships can't reach. The all-veranda accommodations on this ship, which debuted in May 2022, range in size from around 270 square feet to 1,448 square feet. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars filled with drinks and snacks, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service.

Visitors will find a relaxing spa, a hair salon, a yoga area and a well-equipped indoor fitness center (plus an outdoor fitness center) aboard the ship. Those looking to unwind with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other should snag a cozy spot in The Living Room. Like other Viking ships, the Viking Mars offers educational programming, lectures, cooking classes and more on board.

Cruisers can also enjoy amenities like the main pool and hot tub, the infinity pool, the cinema, the theater, a jazz lounge and various bars. Dining options on this ship include Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, World Café, The Chef's Table and The Kitchen Table.

Viking Mars receives rave reviews from recent cruisers. The variety of excursions, the delectable onboard dining and the comfortable cabins are a few things previous guests highlighted as superb. However, the staff received mixed reviews: Some experienced attentive and friendly employees, while a few noted they were expecting better service across the board for the price point.

Upcoming itineraries on the Viking Mars include cruises with ports of call in Iceland, Norway, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent Seven Seas Explorer debuted in 2016. It's one of the largest vessels in the fleet, welcoming up to 746 passengers. The ship makes service a top priority, with 548 crew members on board. According to past cruisers, the staff was friendly and attentive.

Travelers were even more impressed by the all-suite accommodations, which are some of the largest offered among ocean liners. All 373 suites include spacious balconies, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, interactive flat-screen TVs and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Another high point: the cuisine. Explorer offers eight dining areas that range from the casual Pool Grill to Asian creations at Pacific Rim. As part of the 'Regent Experience,' all specialty dining is included in the cruise fare.

Outside the cabins, guests can spend their days participating in cooking demonstrations, lounging by the pool or relaxing in the library. At night, entertainment options include casino games, cocktail lounges and shows in the Constellation Theater. Complaints about this ship are few and far between, though some reviewers felt the entertainment could be more impressive. 

The best perk, according to recent passengers? All shore excursions are included. Seven Seas Explorer sails to destinations in Alaska, Asia, Australia and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pacific Rim is a favorite dining venue among cruisers, with its Asian-inspired cocktails and cuisine offering a selection of dishes from Thailand, Korea, China, Vietnam and Japan. Spin the bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel as you enter the restaurant and be sure to sample the miso black cod. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Top 100 Cruise Ships

Cruise ship rankings recalculated weekly, about our rating.

The weekly recalculated rating of cruise ships is made on the basis of dozens of objective parameters, such as rating of passengers, age of the cruise ship, ratio of space per passenger, number of crew.

For the first time, the rating takes into account such parameters as the attractiveness of ports in the routes of ships and even the mention of the ship in the news.

The rating is updated once a week on Wednesday night.

Top 20 Cruise Ships

Updated Jul 3, 2024

[Silversea Cruises]

Year built: 2023

Length: 801 ft / 244 m

Passengers: 728

Overall Rating: 4.79

Attractiveness of ports: 2.00

Passengers Rating: 3.89

[Regent Seven Seas Cruises]

Year built: 2021

Length: 732 ft / 223 m

Passengers: 754

Overall Rating: 4.60

Passengers Rating: 5.82

[Royal Caribbean]

Year built: 2022

Length: 1188 ft / 362 m

Passengers: 5734

Overall Rating: 4.57

Passengers Rating: 5.43

[Viking Ocean Cruises]

Year built: 2019

Length: 745 ft / 227 m

Passengers: 928

Overall Rating: 4.55

Passengers Rating: 9.83

[P&O Cruises]

Length: 1132 ft / 345 m

Passengers: 5206

Overall Rating: 4.50

Passengers Rating: 6.76

Year built: 2024

Passengers: 5634

Passengers Rating: 4.51

Overall Rating: 4.47

Passengers Rating: 3.78

Length: 1197 ft / 365 m

Passengers: 5610

Passengers Rating: 4.16

[Disney Cruise Line]

Length: 1119 ft / 341 m

Passengers: 2476

Overall Rating: 4.44

Passengers Rating: 4.21

[TUI Cruises]

Length: 1037 ft / 316 m

Passengers: 2534

Overall Rating: 4.35

Passengers Rating: 5.28

Overall Rating: 4.32

Passengers Rating: 6.93

[Celebrity Cruises]

Length: 1004 ft / 306 m

Passengers: 2918

Overall Rating: 4.29

Passengers Rating: 6.24

Overall Rating: 4.26

Passengers Rating: 6.12

Year built: 2016

Passengers: 5497

Overall Rating: 4.23

Passengers Rating: 6.05

Passengers: 930

Passengers Rating: 6.95

Length: 735 ft / 224 m

Overall Rating: 4.22

Passengers Rating: 5.58

[Princess Cruises]

Passengers: 4320

Overall Rating: 4.21

Passengers Rating: 2.97

Length: 1060 ft / 323 m

Passengers: 2794

Overall Rating: 4.20

Passengers Rating: 3.47

Length: 1138 ft / 347 m

Passengers: 3844

Overall Rating: 4.16

Passengers Rating: 5.19

Length: 699 ft / 213 m

Passengers: 576

Overall Rating: 4.15

Passengers Rating: 4.33

Full List of Cruise Ships Top 100 Rating

• SHIPS RATING
• PORTS RATING
• PORTS BUSIEST
• PORTS WEBCAMS
• CRUISE NEWS

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Cruise Ship Rankings 2020

What cruise ship has the best food? How to get the best passenger and crew ratio? What are the best ships for kids? Which Carnival cruise ship is best? Which cruise ships have the best cabins? You deserve to have all the information you need to make the best decisions when organizing your future cruise travel. 

You could analyze all existing vessels to make your own choice, but we thought we would assist by ranking the best cruise ships for you by category. We will be updating our cruise ship ratings with more content. Jump to your preferred category to find the cruise rankings of the top cruise ships per category.

Best cruise ship rankings per category

• Top 20 popular Big Cruise Ships
• Highest Cruise Ship Passenger-crew Ratio

We also wrote a piece to help you find which cruise ship is best for you . For more information about your preferred ships, check out our cruise ships overview page. Also take a peek at our improved Cruise Ship Tracker to find the exact position of a cruise ship in port or at sea.

Take a peek at these cruise ships advice

The best way to travel to your cruise ship, which cruise ship is best for you, how to choose the right cruise ship cabin, how to choose the best cruise ship size.

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How Many People Can Fit on a Cruise Ship?

Cruise ships have long fascinated people, not just for their luxury and the exotic destinations they sail to, but also for their sheer size. As floating cities equipped with everything from fine dining to swimming pools, the scale of these ships is something to behold. The central question that often comes up is, how many people can fit on a cruise ship? It’s not a simple answer, as it varies from one cruise ship size to another and depends on a myriad of factors.

In this article, we’ll delve into the passenger capacity of various cruise lines, from Royal Caribbean to Norwegian Cruise Line. We’ll also discuss the factors that contribute to a ship’s capacity, such as double occupancy and gross tonnage, to give you a comprehensive understanding of just how many people these modern cruise ships can accommodate.

Understanding Cruise Ship Capacity: The Basics

When it comes to deciphering how many people can fit on a cruise ship, it’s essential to differentiate between two types of capacities: Guest Capacity and Total Capacity . Guest Capacity refers to the number of passengers that can be accommodated in the ship’s cabins. This is typically estimated using a double occupancy model, which assumes two guests sharing each room. On the other hand, Total Capacity includes not just the passengers, but also the crew members who operate the ship.

Calculating these capacities for the largest cruise ships involves several factors, such as the number of cabins and the maximum capacity of public spaces like dining halls and entertainment venues. Gross tonnage , a measure of the ship’s overall internal volume, also plays a role in determining how many people a cruise ship can hold. From Royal Caribbean’s largest ships to Norwegian Cruise Line’s more intimate vessels, these numbers can vary significantly. Understanding these terms can help you get a more complete picture of the cruise line you’re considering for your next voyage.

Factors Affecting Capacity

Navigating the high seas of cruise vacation planning includes understanding ship capacity. In this section, we’ll explore various factors that influence how many passengers a cruise ship can accommodate.

Ship Design

The design of the cruise ship plays a crucial role in determining its passenger capacity . Ships with more decks usually have a higher capacity for guests. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and other large ships in their fleet often have multiple decks dedicated solely to accommodations, increasing the number of people who can sail on the ship.

The variety of room types on a cruise ship also influences its passenger capacity . Ships offer an array of rooms from single cabins for solo travelers to double rooms based on double occupancy . Family rooms and suites, which can accommodate more people, also contribute to the overall capacity. Lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line offer flexible room options, increasing the number of passengers they can accommodate.

Amenities and Public Areas

A cruise ship’s amenities and public areas like pools, dining halls, and entertainment venues are also a part of the capacity equation. While these spaces don’t add to the official guest capacity , they do affect the overall experience and comfort level of passengers. Modern amenities can attract more passengers, but they also require space—sometimes reducing the number of cabins and thereby affecting the total capacity . Ships in the cruise industry find a balance by offering attractive amenities without compromising too much on accommodation space.

When it comes to passenger capacity , cruise ships can vary greatly depending on their size and design. Generally, they are categorized into small ships, medium, and large ships, each offering a unique experience.

Small Cruise Ships

Small cruise ships are often associated with luxury and intimate settings. One example of a luxury cruise ships that stands out is the Celebrity Xploration , which is currently the world’s smallest cruise ship. This cozy vessel accommodates just 16 guests and offers itineraries focused on exotic destinations like the Galapagos Islands. With a length of just 98.3 fee t and a tonnage of 3,195, it offers an ultra-luxury experience at a premium price, starting at approximately $5,799 per person for a week-long journey.

Other examples of smaller vessels include Seabourn’s ships, which can hold about 450 guests, and Viking Cruises, whose ocean-going vessels have a capacity for up to 930 passengers . These smaller ships may not be as affordable as their larger counterparts, but they do offer a more personalized and luxury-focused experience.

Medium-Sized Cruise Ships

When we move into the realm of medium-sized cruise ships, the passenger capacity typically ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 guests. These ships offer a balanced blend of amenities, dining options, and activities without being overwhelmingly large. Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, has several ships that fit into this category, as do other major players like Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Carnival Cruises.

These ships usually measure around 1,000 feet in length and provide a range of options that cater to a wider audience. You can find a variety of dining venues, multiple swimming pools, and entertainment options suitable for all age groups. They’re a good choice for those who want a comprehensive cruise experience without the intimidating size of the largest ships in the industry.

Large Cruise Ships

Stepping into the world of large cruise ships, prepare to be awestruck by their sheer size and offerings. At present, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas holds the distinction of being the world’s largest cruise ship. Measuring over 1,180 feet in length, this behemoth can accommodate nearly 7,000 passengers at full capacity . Apart from its size, what sets it apart are the eight unique neighborhoods, including a luxurious Suite Neighborhood, making the ship a floating city of sorts.

But it’s not just about size; the ship also offers an extraordinary range of amenities. You can dine in one of its 21 venues or enjoy a drink in one of its 14 bars and lounges. For the adventure seekers, the ship is packed with activities from zip-lining across the ship, multi-story waterslides, Flowrider surfing, ice skating shows to aqua-theater performances. And if you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, you can book a 7-night cruise starting at approximately $1,832 for two people , sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Both medium and large cruise ships offer a wide array of experiences, but the scale of what’s available amplifies as the even larger cruise ships get larger.

World Record Holders: The Biggest Cruise Ships

The cruise industry is a competitive arena where size often matters, and there’s a constant race to build the next biggest thing on water. The current champion is Icon of the Seas , boasting a jaw-dropping gross tonnage of 250,800 GT. This maritime marvel stretches over 1,198 feet and can accommodate 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members. Before Icon of the Seas claimed the title, it was Wonder of the Seas and then Symphony of the Seas that wore the crown, each setting remarkable benchmarks in terms of size and amenities.

Symphony of the Seas: An Example

Symphony of the Seas was a pioneer of its time. Launched in June 2017, this Oasis-class vessel has a gross tonnage of 228,081 GT . The ship set a standard for what a high-capacity, floating city could look like, replete with an extraordinary variety of dining venues, entertainment zones, and cutting-edge technology. Though no longer the world’s largest, Symphony of the Seas remains an epitome of luxury and innovation in the cruise industry.

Harmony of the Seas: A Unique Case

Interestingly, when it comes to the length of the ship, Harmony of the Seas takes the cake. Though not the world’s biggest cruise ship in terms of gross tonnage, Harmony has a length of 1,188.1 feet, outstripping its close rival, Wonder of the Seas, by a mere four inches. This makes it an example worth noting, especially for those intrigued by the different dimensions that contribute to a ship’s “size.”

Such record-holding ships symbolize the epitome of luxury, innovation, and engineering marvels in the cruising world. They reflect the industry’s growth and its ever-increasing capability to provide opulent experiences on the high seas.

How Many People Actually Travel on Cruise Ships?

Hey, let’s clear up a common misconception: just because a cruise ship has a “maximum” capacity, doesn’t mean it’s always sailing at full throttle. You know, it’s like when a restaurant has enough tables to serve 100 people, but you rarely see it jam-packed except maybe during the holiday season. Multiple elements come into play when figuring out the precise number of passengers on a cruise ship.

Factors Affecting Actual Numbers

Seasonality: Just like your favorite beach spot, cruise ships have peak and off-peak seasons. You’re more likely to see ships nearing their max capacity during summer breaks or holiday seasons. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a quieter experience, booking during the off-peak months can be a smart move.

Special Events: Think med cruises or cruises tied to specific events like a jazz festival. These cruises may have limited availability because they cater to a particular audience. This can impact the total number of passengers aboard.

Economic Factors: Let’s face it, cruising is a bit of a luxury, and global economic conditions can be a party pooper. The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark example; passenger numbers plummeted in 2021 to below five million but started recovering in 2022 to just above 20 million. It shows how external events can dramatically affect how many people actually set sail.

The Average Scenario

To give you a ballpark idea, medium-sized cruise ships usually have the capacity to hold about 3,000 guests. Major players in the cruise industry typically operate ships that can accommodate between 2,000 to 4,000 guests. But remember, these numbers are more like speed limits rather than the actual speed of the car if you catch my drift.

So, there you go! The next time someone quotes the “maximum capacity” of a cruise ship, you’ll know that the real story is a bit more nuanced.

Importance of Crew Passenger Ratio

Let’s talk numbers, but not the ones you might expect. When it comes to cruising, there’s a little-known ratio that can make or break your experience—the crew-to-passenger ratio. It’s not as flashy as the number of pools or dining options, but trust me, it can be a game-changer.

The golden standard? A 1:1 ratio , or even better. Imagine going to a café where there’s a barista for every customer. Your coffee would be perfect, right? In the same vein, a 1:1 ratio on a cruise ship means exceptional, personalized service. The fewer passengers each crew member is responsible for, the more time and attention you’re likely to receive. In essence, a favorable ratio is a good indicator that you won’t be waving down a waiter for ten minutes to get another piña colada.

A good crew-to-passenger ratio ensures that the onboard staff can promptly and adequately respond to your needs, from the concierge helping with shore excursions to room service delivering that midnight snack you suddenly crave. It can make a world of difference in your overall experience, transforming a good vacation into an unforgettable one.

If you’re eyeing a luxury cruise experience, you’ll often find the ratio tends to skew closer to 1:1 . That’s one of the reasons why these cruises are pricier—it’s like opting for the VIP experience at a concert. On larger ships with higher capacities, the ratio might not be as favorable, which could mean less personalized service . But hey, some people are fine with that, especially if they’re more about the activities and amenities than one-on-one service.

So next time you’re diving into cruise brochures or scrolling through websites, don’t just gloss over the crew-to-passenger ratio. It’s a small detail that can set the stage for the entire vibe of your voyage.

What Is the Maximum Size of Cruise Ships?

Ever looked at a massive cruise ship and wondered, “Just how big can these floating cities get?” Well, there’s no simple answer. The maximum size of a cruise ship isn’t just determined by how much steel and innovation you can throw at it. There are several regulations and safety protocols in place that dictate the upper limits of a cruise ship’s size.

Safety Regulations and Protocols

When it comes to cruise ships, bigger isn’t always better, especially if it compromises safety. Various maritime regulations outline the safety features a ship must have, like lifeboats, fire suppression systems, and the maneuverability to evacuate passengers safely. These rules implicitly limit how large a cruise ship can be. For example, the vessel is required to have a sufficient number of lifeboats to hold all passengers and crew members onboard. Similarly, the navigational systems must be sophisticated enough to handle the ship’s sheer size and weight, especially in emergency situations.

In summary, the world of cruise ships is a fascinating blend of luxury, innovation, and strict regulations—all aimed at giving you a vacation you won’t forget. While the size and capacities of these ships can be awe-inspiring, they are carefully calibrated factors, shaped by design considerations, safety protocols, and even global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Going forward, the industry is in a constant state of evolution, placing an increased emphasis on health and safety. Whether you’re boarding a boutique ship with just a handful of cabins or stepping onto a floating city with thousands of fellow explorers, it’s essential to understand these dynamics. So the next time you’re sipping a cocktail on the deck, you’ll appreciate the intricate world that keeps these nautical marvels afloat.

How many people fit on the largest cruise ship?

The world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, has a staggering capacity to carry 7,600 passengers along with 2,350 crew members. It’s a floating city with amenities to match, offering an expansive travel experience like no other.

Can a 5 person family go on a cruise?

Absolutely, a 5-person family can enjoy a cruise vacation together. Many ships offer family-friendly rooms and suites designed to accommodate larger groups. Moreover, cruise operators frequently offer activities and facilities geared toward families to ensure that everyone stays engaged.

What is the average capacity of a cruise ship?

The average cruise ship has a passenger capacity of about 3,000 guests. This can vary significantly depending on the size and type of the ship, ranging from small luxury vessels with fewer than 500 passengers to enormous liners that can accommodate over 6,000 people.

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I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

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Cruise Ships with Best Crew to Passenger Ratio: Major Cruise Lines Compared

Customer service is one of the most important factors of your cruise vacation.  No one wants to wait in long lines at the customer service desk or walk around trying to find a crew member to help with something.  The more crew members available for each passenger the smoother a cruise will be.

So, we compared the biggest cruise lines in the world and looked at the number of crew members compared to the double capacity of guests on each cruise ship.

Over 100 cruise ships were compared to see how many passengers per crew member were on each ship.

Using the number of every crew member on a ship is not a perfect metric. After all, cruise passengers only interact with certain crew members that are in public spaces on a ship. But still this figure gives an idea of the kind of service you can expect.

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This list does not compare luxury cruise lines like Seaborn Cruise Line, Azamara, Viking Ocean Cruises,  Regent Seven Sea Cruises, etc.   These lines are in a different tier, and you can expect a passenger-crew ratio closer to 1:1.

Related: A Better Crew Makes for a Better Cruise

How did we calculate the passenger to crew ratio in this list?

To come up with the figures below we took the double-capacity of a cruise ship and divided that by the number of crew members.   We then sorted the ships of each major cruise line by this ratio from worst to best in terms of more crew members per guest.

Also, a key variable that can change from trip to trip is the actual number of guests on a voyage, but using a standard double-capacity figure keeps that variable static in our calculations.

I also realize that the crew numbers can fluctuate, but I did try to get the latest numbers based on the data available.

Each cruise line is compared separately, and then an average passenger to crew ratio number is given.

Remember, the lower the number the better the ratio.   So a 2.25 means there are an average of 2.25 passengers for each crew member on the ship. This may also be represented as 1:2.25.

I recently compared cruise ships by their space to guest ratio as well. This was an imperfect but interesting way to examine how crowded a ship may feel.  But an even bigger factor in your cruise experience is customer service and how accessible the crew is to each guest.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Carnival Cruise Line ships is 2.54 .

Check latest price drops on Carnival Cruises here.

Royal Caribbean Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Royal Caribbean Cruises ships is 2.63 .

Check latest cruise deals on Royal Caribbean cruise ships here.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 2.29 .

Check the latest cruise deals on Norwegian Cruise Line ships here.

MSC Cruise Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on MSC Cruises ships is 2.75 .

Check out the latest deals on MSC cruise ships here.

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Celebrity Cruises ships is 2.25 .

See the latest deals on Celebrity cruise ships here.

Princess Cruises Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Princess Cruises ships is 2.54 .

Check latest cruise deals on Princess Cruises here.

Holland America Cruise Ships by Passenger to Crew Ratio

Average Passenger to Crew ratio on Holland America Line ships is 2.39 .

Check latest prices on Holland America cruises here.

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How Many Passengers On Regent Cruise Ships

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jessamyn Cottrell

• Travel Guide

Introduction

Embarking on a cruise vacation is an extraordinary experience that offers the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure. For travelers seeking an exceptional travel experience, Regent Cruise Ships are a top choice. Regent Cruise Line has gained a reputation for providing unparalleled service, exquisite dining, and carefully curated itineraries to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

Before embarking on a Regent Cruise, one common question that may arise is, “How many passengers can these ships accommodate?” Understanding the passenger capacity of Regent Cruise Ships is essential for planning your trip and ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable voyage.

In this article, we will delve into the details of Regent Cruise Ships’ passenger capacity, exploring the factors that influence the number of passengers these luxurious vessels can accommodate. We will also take a closer look at the accommodations, facilities, and amenities that make a Regent Cruise experience truly unforgettable.

Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, join us as we explore the world of Regent Cruises and uncover the answer to the question, “How many passengers can these extraordinary ships accommodate?”

Regent Cruise Ships Overview

Regent Cruise Line is renowned for its fleet of luxurious ships that offer an unrivaled experience at sea. The cruise line takes pride in providing an intimate and personalized journey for each passenger, ensuring a high level of service and attention to detail.

At present, Regent Cruise Line operates a fleet of five ships: Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, and Seven Seas Splendor. Each ship showcases elegant interiors, state-of-the-art amenities, and a variety of entertainment options designed to cater to the diverse interests and preferences of passengers.

Regent Cruise Ships are designed with both comfort and style in mind, boasting spacious staterooms and suites that provide a luxurious retreat for travelers to relax and rejuvenate. The ships feature a range of accommodations, from cozy interior cabins to expansive suites with private balconies, ensuring there is an option suitable for every budget and preference.

Whether you are venturing to Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, or any other captivating destination, Regent Cruise Ships offer a multitude of itineraries to suit your wanderlust. With their commitment to providing unique and immersive experiences, Regent Cruise Line allows passengers to explore iconic landmarks, experience diverse cultures, and create lasting memories.

Regent Cruise Line takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. From energy-efficient technologies to waste management systems, the cruise line strives to protect the delicate ecosystems it visits and promote responsible cruising.

With a focus on exceptional service, extraordinary destinations, and exquisite comfort, Regent Cruise Ships offer a world-class cruising experience that exceeds expectations. Now, let’s delve into the passenger capacity of these remarkable vessels to discover just how many travelers can embark on this unforgettable journey.

Passenger Capacity of Regent Cruise Ships

The passenger capacity of Regent Cruise Ships varies depending on the specific vessel. Let’s take a closer look at each ship’s capacity:

• Seven Seas Explorer: With a maximum capacity of approximately 750 passengers, the Seven Seas Explorer is one of the largest ships in the Regent Cruise Line fleet. This luxurious vessel offers an intimate and spacious environment for guests to enjoy their voyage.
• Seven Seas Voyager: The Seven Seas Voyager has a similar passenger capacity to the Seven Seas Explorer, accommodating around 700 passengers. This ship boasts a variety of sensational amenities and elegant accommodations to ensure a memorable journey.
• Seven Seas Mariner: With a capacity of approximately 700 passengers, the Seven Seas Mariner offers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. This all-suite ship provides passengers with spacious accommodations and a range of luxurious amenities.
• Seven Seas Navigator: The Seven Seas Navigator has a maximum capacity of around 500 passengers, creating a cozy and intimate ambiance. This smaller ship allows for a more personalized experience, allowing guests to connect with fellow travelers and crew members.
• Seven Seas Splendor: The newest addition to the Regent Cruise Line fleet, the Seven Seas Splendor, has an estimated capacity of approximately 750 passengers. This magnificent ship sets new standards for luxury cruising, providing guests with unparalleled comfort and opulence.

It is important to note that these passenger capacity figures are subject to change, and it is recommended to verify the most up-to-date information when booking your cruise.

Understanding the passenger capacity of Regent Cruise Ships is crucial for selecting the ship and itinerary that best suits your preferences. Whether you prefer a larger, bustling ship or a more intimate and serene atmosphere, Regent Cruise Line offers options to cater to every traveler’s desires.

Next, we will explore the factors that can influence the number of passengers on board a Regent Cruise Ship, providing insight into the different aspects of the cruising experience that contribute to the overall passenger capacity.

Factors Affecting Passenger Count

The passenger count on a Regent Cruise Ship is influenced by several factors that contribute to the overall capacity. Understanding these factors can help you gauge the atmosphere and experience on board. Here are some key considerations:

• Vessel Size: The size of the ship plays a significant role in determining passenger count. Larger vessels, such as the Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor, can accommodate a higher number of passengers, while smaller ships like the Seven Seas Navigator have a more limited capacity. The ship’s size impacts the availability of amenities and the overall level of personal space for passengers.
• Crew-to-Passenger Ratio: The crew-to-passenger ratio varies across different ships and can influence the overall passenger count. Ships with a higher crew-to-passenger ratio typically offer a more personalized and attentive service, ensuring that each guest’s needs are met.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Health and safety regulations, especially in light of recent global events, can also impact passenger count. These regulations may require ships to limit the number of passengers on board to ensure compliance with safety protocols and social distancing guidelines.
• Itinerary and Destination: The specific itinerary and destination of a cruise can influence the passenger count. Popular destinations or unique itineraries may attract a higher number of travelers, while less frequented regions or specialty voyages may have a more limited number of passengers.
• Type of Accommodations: The type of accommodations available on board can affect the passenger count. Ships with a higher number of suites or larger staterooms may have a lower overall capacity compared to vessels with a larger number of interior cabins.

It is important to consider these factors when selecting a Regent Cruise, as they can greatly impact the overall atmosphere and experience on board. Whether you prefer a bustling ship with ample amenities or a more intimate and relaxed ambiance, understanding the factors affecting passenger count can help you make an informed decision and choose the cruise experience that aligns with your preferences.

Now that we have explored the factors influencing passenger count, let us delve into the accommodations and stateroom categories available on Regent Cruise Ships, providing insight into the range of options for passengers to choose from.

Accommodations and Stateroom Categories

Regent Cruise Ships offer a variety of accommodations and stateroom categories to cater to every traveler’s needs and preferences. Whether you seek a cozy interior cabin or a lavish suite with a private balcony, there is an option to suit your desires. Let’s explore the different stateroom categories available:

• Interior Cabins: Interior cabins are the most affordable option and do not have windows or balconies. Despite the lack of a view, these cabins provide a comfortable and cozy retreat for passengers.
• Ocean View Cabins: Ocean view cabins feature a window or porthole, allowing guests to enjoy views of the ocean and natural sunlight.
• Balcony Cabins: Balcony cabins are highly sought after, as they offer the luxury of a private outdoor space. Passengers can relax on their balcony and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and destinations visited.
• Suites: Suites provide a spacious and opulent living space, often including a separate bedroom, living area, and an expansive private balcony. These luxurious accommodations offer a truly indulgent experience.

Regardless of the stateroom category chosen, Regent Cruise Ships prioritize comfort and elegance in their cabin designs. The accommodations feature modern amenities, plush furnishings, and upscale finishes, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere for passengers.

Furthermore, regardless of the chosen stateroom category, all guests on Regent Cruise Ships enjoy a range of exclusive amenities and services. These can include personalized room service, a dedicated concierge, luxurious bathroom amenities, and a nightly turndown service.

When booking your Regent Cruise, consider your preferences, desired level of luxury, and budget to select the stateroom category that best suits your needs and enhances your overall cruise experience.

Now that we have explored the various accommodations available on Regent Cruise Ships, let’s move on to discover the onboard facilities and amenities that contribute to an exceptional and enriching voyage.

Onboard Facilities and Amenities

Regent Cruise Ships are renowned for their exceptional onboard facilities and amenities that cater to the diverse interests and preferences of passengers. From rejuvenating spa retreats to thrilling entertainment options, these ships offer a wide range of features designed to enhance your cruise experience. Here are some highlights of the onboard facilities and amenities:

• Spa and Wellness: Step into a world of relaxation and rejuvenation at the onboard spa and wellness centers. Indulge in a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Take advantage of fitness classes and state-of-the-art fitness equipment to maintain your health and wellness throughout your voyage.
• Swimming Pools and Jacuzzis: Cool off and soak up the sun in the ship’s swimming pools and jacuzzis. Whether you want to take a leisurely swim or unwind in the warm bubbles, these refreshing amenities provide a delightful respite while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
• Restaurants and Dining Venues: Regent Cruise Ships are known for their exceptional dining experiences. From elegant main dining rooms serving gourmet cuisine to specialty restaurants offering a diverse range of flavors, passengers can indulge in a culinary journey. Enjoy a variety of cuisines, including international dishes, local specialties, and expertly crafted vegetarian and vegan options.
• Bars and Lounges: Relax with a refreshing cocktail or a glass of fine wine at the ship’s bars and lounges. These intimate and stylish spaces provide the perfect setting to socialize with fellow passengers, enjoy live music, or simply unwind after a day of exploring.
• Theater and Entertainment: Be dazzled by captivating performances in the ship’s theater. From Broadway-style shows to live music and comedy acts, the entertainment options onboard Regent Cruise Ships cater to a variety of tastes. Enjoy an evening of enchanting performances that will leave you entertained and inspired.
• Casino: Try your luck at the ship’s casino, where you can find a variety of games and slot machines. Enjoy an evening of excitement and entertainment as you challenge yourself and seek that lucky winning streak.
• Boutiques and Shops: Explore the onboard boutiques and shops, offering a selection of duty-free items, luxury brands, jewelry, and designer clothing. Indulge in a shopping spree or browse for unique gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your cruise experience.

These are just a few examples of the many facilities and amenities available on Regent Cruise Ships. Immerse yourself in a world of luxury and enjoyment as you cruise to breathtaking destinations, knowing that every moment onboard is designed to leave you with cherished memories.

Next, we will explore the dining options offered on Regent Cruise Ships, showcasing the culinary excellence that awaits passengers on their voyage.

Dining Options

Regent Cruise Ships are renowned for their exceptional dining options, offering a diverse array of culinary experiences to satisfy even the most discerning palates. From gourmet main dining rooms to specialty restaurants, passengers can indulge in a gastronomic journey throughout their cruise. Here are some of the dining venues you can expect to find onboard:

• Main Dining Rooms: The main dining rooms on Regent Cruise Ships provide a sophisticated setting for enjoying exquisite cuisine. Here, passengers can savor a variety of flavors and dishes prepared by skilled chefs, with menus that change daily to offer a diverse selection.
• Specialty Restaurants: Regent Cruise Ships offer a range of specialty restaurants, each showcasing its own unique theme and culinary style. From elegant steakhouses to authentic Italian trattorias and Asian fusion establishments, these restaurants provide a memorable dining experience that caters to different tastes.
• Casual Dining Options: For those seeking a more relaxed dining atmosphere, there are casual dining options available onboard. These venues offer a variety of quick bites, light meals, and international cuisines to satisfy your cravings at any time of the day.
• Room Service: Passengers can also enjoy the convenience of in-room dining with 24-hour room service. Whether you prefer a leisurely breakfast in bed or a late-night snack, the room service menu provides a selection of delicious options to be enjoyed in the comfort of your own accommodation.
• Special Dietary Needs: Regent Cruise Line understands the importance of catering to various dietary preferences and needs. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring that every passenger can enjoy their dining experience to the fullest.

Regent Cruise Line is committed to culinary excellence, using the finest ingredients and innovative cooking techniques to create extraordinary dining experiences. The talented chefs onboard take pride in their craft, presenting flavorful dishes that showcase regional specialties and international delicacies.

Moreover, the open-seating policy on Regent Cruise Ships allows passengers to dine where and with whom they choose, enhancing the flexibility and social aspect of the dining experience. Whether you prefer an intimate dinner for two or a lively meal with newfound friends, the choice is yours.

With the range of dining options available, Regent Cruise Ships promise to delight food enthusiasts and satisfy the most discerning palates. Whether you have a taste for fine dining or crave casual flavors, the culinary journey awaits you on your incredible voyage.

Next, let us explore the entertainment and activities available on Regent Cruise Ships, ensuring there is never a dull moment during your cruise experience.

Entertainment and Activities

Regent Cruise Ships offer a wide range of entertainment and activities to ensure there is never a dull moment during your voyage. From captivating performances to engaging enrichment programs, there is something to suit every interest and preference. Here are some of the entertainment and activities you can expect to enjoy onboard:

• Live Shows and Performances: Prepare to be dazzled by the world-class entertainment options available on Regent Cruise Ships. From Broadway-style shows to live music performances, talented artists take the stage to captivate audiences with their talent and skill.
• Enrichment Programs: Regent Cruise Line offers enriching programs that allow passengers to expand their horizons and engage in new experiences. From guest lectures by esteemed experts to culinary demonstrations and art workshops, these programs provide educational and interactive opportunities for guests to enjoy.
• Fitness and Wellness Activities: Stay active and energized with the fitness and wellness activities available onboard. Participate in yoga or Pilates classes, enjoy a workout session at the state-of-the-art fitness center, or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pools. These activities cater to both the mind and body, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
• Casino and Gaming: For those seeking a bit of excitement, the onboard casino offers a variety of games, including blackjack, roulette, and slot machines. Try your luck and enjoy a thrilling evening of gaming.
• Cooking Classes and Wine Tastings: Delve into the world of culinary arts with cooking classes and wine tastings hosted by experienced chefs and sommeliers. Learn new techniques, sample exquisite flavors, and gain insights into the world of gastronomy.
• Social Gatherings: Join social gatherings and themed parties onboard to connect with fellow passengers and create lasting memories. These events provide opportunities to mingle, dance, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of cruise life.
• Outdoor Recreation: Take advantage of the outdoor recreation facilities on the ship, which may include jogging tracks, sports courts, and golf putting greens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or engage in friendly competitions with your fellow passengers.

These are just some examples of the entertainment and activities you can expect to experience onboard Regent Cruise Ships. The cruise line aims to provide an engaging and diverse range of options to ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you prefer to relax and be entertained or participate in invigorating activities, Regent Cruise Ships offer a dynamic and fulfilling onboard experience that will keep you engaged throughout your voyage.

Now that we have explored the various entertainment and activities available, let’s take a closer look at the crew-to-passenger ratio, which contributes to the exceptional service and personalized attention on Regent Cruise Ships.

Crew-to-Passenger Ratio

One of the defining features of Regent Cruise Ships is their commitment to providing exceptional service and personalized attention to each passenger. A crucial factor in achieving this is the crew-to-passenger ratio. Regent Cruise Line ensures that there are an ample number of dedicated crew members onboard to attend to the needs and preferences of every guest.

The crew-to-passenger ratio on Regent Cruise Ships varies depending on the vessel and its capacity. However, on average, you can expect a high level of personalized service due to the relatively low number of passengers compared to the number of crew members available to serve them.

This commitment to maintaining a favorable crew-to-passenger ratio allows the crew members to provide attentive service and anticipate the needs of passengers. From the moment you step onboard, the staff is dedicated to making your cruise experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Whether it is providing personalized recommendations, assisting with special requests, or ensuring your comfort and satisfaction, the crew members go above and beyond to exceed your expectations.

The crew on Regent Cruise Ships undergoes extensive training to provide excellent service and create a warm and welcoming environment for all guests. They are knowledgeable about the ship’s facilities and activities, ensuring that passengers have all the information they need to make the most of their cruise experience.

In addition to their attentive service, the crew members also play a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of passengers. They undergo rigorous safety training to handle emergency situations and are always available to provide assistance and support whenever needed.

The crew-to-passenger ratio on Regent Cruise Ships is designed to ensure that you feel cared for and attended to throughout your journey. This commitment to exceptional service sets Regent Cruise Line apart and contributes to the overall satisfaction and enjoyment of every passenger.

Now, let’s wrap up our discussion with a recap of the key points we have covered and the remarkable benefits of embarking on a Regent Cruise.

A Regent Cruise offers a truly exceptional and unforgettable experience, providing a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation on the high seas. In this article, we have explored the passenger capacity of Regent Cruise Ships, delving into the factors that influence the number of passengers and the accommodations available to suit different preferences and budgets.

Regent Cruise Ships boast an impressive array of onboard facilities and amenities that cater to every interest and desire. From rejuvenating spa retreats and exquisite dining options to captivating entertainment and enriching activities, there is something to indulge and engage every passenger.

With a commitment to exceptional service and a favorable crew-to-passenger ratio, Regent Cruise Line ensures that each guest receives personalized attention and enjoys a memorable journey.

Embarking on a Regent Cruise is an opportunity to discover breathtaking destinations in comfort and style. Whether you’re exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska or basking in the tropical paradise of the Caribbean, Regent Cruise’s carefully curated itineraries offer enriching experiences that will create lasting memories.

As you plan your next cruise adventure, consider the elegance, world-class amenities, and personalized service that come with choosing Regent Cruise Line. From the moment you step onboard, you will be immersed in a world of luxury, surrounded by stunning ocean views, and attended by a dedicated crew who will ensure that your every need is met.

So, whether you are a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, set sail on a Regent Cruise and prepare for an extraordinary journey that surpasses all expectations. Discover the wonders of the world, create lifelong memories, and indulge in the pinnacle of luxury cruising.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Crew to passenger ratio

By gfranzen , January 16, 2010 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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With many comments on marginal service resulting from overwhelmed staff, does anyone know if the crew/passenger ratio has changed?

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Dolebludger

There used to be a site that showed Crew/passenger ratio for most all cruise ships, including RSSC's. This site also showed space/passenger ratio. I lost my reference to this site when my old computer broke down and I got another. If any of you know the web address to this site, or another like it, it would be helpful if you posted it on this thread (providing that such is allowed by board rules).

All the crew/passenger info I've seen in the past assumed that the ship was at full double occupancy of each room/suite. Obviously, the ratio will change on sailings with "third person in the suite" promotions. And, a cruise ship is a "business" and all businesses have some absenteeism of employees, and this would change the ratio.

But this info was generally helpful to me, and I wish I could find it again.

ILoveMyDogs

We just returned from Voyager's Panama Canal Crossing. All 6 in our family agreed that we had 16 days of excellent service. Our only complaint was the slow and disorganized check-in process at the pier in Ft Lauderdale.

Threechicks

On Regent's website click on Ships, pick you ship, click Details and then Ship Information. You will find what you are looking for there.

The real question is if Regent has increased the ratio as they manage expenses. The web site probably states historical data.

There used to be a site that showed Crew/passenger ratio for most all cruise ships, including RSSC's. This site also showed space/passenger ratio. I lost my reference to this site when my old computer broke down and I got another. If any of you know the web address to this site, or another like it, it would be helpful if you posted it on this thread (providing that such is allowed by board rules).   All the crew/passenger info I've seen in the past assumed that the ship was at full double occupancy of each room/suite. Obviously, the ratio will change on sailings with "third person in the suite" promotions. And, a cruise ship is a "business" and all businesses have some absenteeism of employees, and this would change the ratio.   But this info was generally helpful to me, and I wish I could find it again.

Is this it?

http://travel.travelocity.com/ecruise/ShipFinder.do

I am not sure how up-to-date it is as it does not show the "refurbished" indication by the Navigator. If you click on the ship name you can see the Passenger/Crew ratio (on this page the calender is up-to-date).

The Berlitz guide shows this:

Mariner Total Crew 445

(lower berth/all berth) 708/752

Crew/Passenger Ratio 1.6/1.7

Voyager is oddly not quite the same ratio, but the first two numbers are the same. That ratio is 1.65/1.6. I think this must be a misprint.

Navigator Total Crew 325

(Lower berth/all berth) 490/530

Crew Passenger Ratio 1.5/1.6

This is the explantion of the numbers (this is for all ships) on

Passenger -"The number of passengers is based on :

Two per cabin, plus all cabins single occupancy/ all available berths filled...(Note: This figure may not always be accurate as cruise lines often make changes by addiing or taking away third/fourth berths according to demand.)"

on Ratio: "Achieved by dividing the number of passengers by the number of crew" both passenger numbers.

However, none of this gives us an accurate number if the crew has actually been cut.

Wendy The Wanderer

That travelocity website states such a wide range of pax/staff as to make it fairly useless, so those Berlitz numbers are great to have, but as you say who knows how recent they are.

What struck me on the travelocity site was the space ratios--Regent surpasses all the rest by a wide margin there. Wonder why they don't include Silversea or Seabourn?

On another board World Cruiser Larry stated that there are

418 pax and 449 crew on board at this time. I thought that I had read another poster state 618 & 449...but I can;t find the post and perhaps it was a typo or my recall that's faulty. Either way/number, it sounds like a great ratio!

Re: current numbers on Voyager WC...if I said 418 pax, I apologize...put it down to rushing and spotty dropped connections, so I wasn't reviewing close enough prior to posting.

The Voyager currently has 618 pax and a crew of 449 on the first segment of the WC. One can not assume that since the cruise is "sold out" that the balance between 618 and 700 means there are 82 single berths. The complement of lecturers, some entertainers, hosts, staff, etc., use pax cabins, but are counted in the crew total.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Where Is Amy Lynn Bradley, Who Disappeared on a Cruise Ship 26 Years Ago?

On the night Amy went missing, she was at the cruise ship's disco with her brother, other passengers and crew members, according to the FBI

On March 24, 1998, 23-year-old Amy Lynn Bradley went missing while on a cruise ship with her family. For more than 25 years, her disappearance has puzzled investigators who are still trying to solve the cold case.

On Saturday, March 21 of that year,  the Royal Caribbean International Cruise Line’s ship Rhapsody of the Seas left San Juan, Puerto Rico, for Aruba. Two days later, on March 23, the ship left Aruba and headed to Curaçao. Amy went missing in the early morning hours of March 24 while the ship was between the two destinations, according to the FBI.

On that night, according to FBI Special Agent Erin Sheridan, Amy was at the cruise ship's disco with her brother, other passengers and crew members. The next morning, Amy's brother and parents couldn't locate her.

"Myself and my parents have had to endure a lot of sadness, but the last thing that I ever said to Amy was, 'I love you,' before I went to sleep that night," Amy's brother Brad said in a video shared by the FBI. "Knowing that's the last thing I said to her has always been very comforting to me."

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According to a 2005 NBC News report, numerous rumors surrounded Amy's disappearance. Some passengers claimed to see a woman, who was not confirmed to be Amy, heading to the top deck of the ship in the early morning hours while others claimed she was with an unidentified ship employee. Others also claimed to see Amy on Curaçao in the years after her disappearance, but these sightings remain unconfirmed.

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After stopping in Curaçao, the ship made two additional stops during the cruise and returned to Puerto Rico on March 28 as planned.

According to a missing persons poster , Amy has four tattoos that could be used to help identify her: A Tasmanian Devil on her shoulder, the sun on her lower back, a Chinese symbol on her right ankle, and a gecko on her stomach.  A $25,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the solving of the case.

Anyone with information on Amy's disappearance is asked to contact their local FBI office.

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Fire breaks out on world’s largest cruise ship just months after it first set sail

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