Cruising is one of the most exciting ways to travel. You get to visit multiple destinations, enjoy amazing onboard activities, and relax in the middle of the ocean. While many people think of massive cruise ships with thousands of passengers, there’s a special charm to Royal Caribbean Small Ships. In fact, the smallest cruise ship experiences offer a more intimate, relaxed, and personal way to explore the seas.
What Makes Small Cruise Ships Special?
Small cruise ships are different from their giant counterparts. While mega-ships like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas can carry over 7,000 passengers, small cruise ships typically carry fewer than 1,000 guests. Some even carry as few as 16! These ships are designed for travelers who want a cozy, personalized experience. Here’s why small cruise ships are so special:
- Intimate Atmosphere: With fewer passengers, you’ll feel like you’re part of a close-knit community. It’s easier to make friends, get to know the crew, and feel at home on the ship.
- Unique Destinations: Small cruise ships can visit smaller ports that big ships can’t access. In the Caribbean, this means discovering hidden islands, secluded beaches, and less crowded destinations.
- Personalized Service: With a higher crew-to-passenger ratio, the staff can focus on your needs. You’ll get top-notch service, from dining to excursions.
- Relaxed Pace: Small ships are less about flashy attractions and more about enjoying the journey. You can relax, soak in the views, and enjoy a stress-free vacation.
- Affordable Options: Smaller ships often have lower prices compared to mega-ships, making them a budget-friendly choice for many travelers.
The Smallest Cruise Ship in the World
When it comes to the smallest cruise ship in the world, the title goes to the Celebrity Xploration, operated by Celebrity Cruises, a sister brand of Royal Caribbean. This tiny vessel is a true gem, with a gross tonnage of just 320 and a capacity for only 16 passengers. That’s smaller than many private yachts! The Celebrity Xploration sails primarily in the Galapagos Islands, but its size and design make it a perfect example of what small cruise ships can offer.
The ship has just eight cabins, all with ocean views, and some even include private verandas. There is a lounge, a sun deck, and an all-inclusive experience that feels like a private getaway. While the Celebrity Xploration doesn’t sail in the Caribbean, it shows how small ships can provide a luxurious, intimate experience.
What is the Smallest Royal Caribbean Ship?
Royal Caribbean is known for its massive, record-breaking ships like Icon of the Seas, which is the largest cruise ship in the world at 250,800 gross tons. But what is the smallest Royal Caribbean ship? That honor goes to Grandeur of the Seas, a Vision Class ship that’s been sailing since 1996.
As one of the Royal Caribbean small ships, it offers a more laid-back and intimate cruising experience. Let’s take a closer look at this charming vessel.
Grandeur of the Seas: Royal Caribbean’s Smallest Ship
The Grandeur of the Seas is the smallest cruise ship in the world, with a gross tonnage of 73,817 and a passenger capacity of 1,992 at double occupancy (up to 2,440 at full capacity). Measuring 916 feet in length and spanning 12 decks (11 for guests), it’s tiny compared to Royal Caribbean’s newer ships, which can be three times its size.
Despite its age, Grandeur of the Seas has been well-maintained and underwent a $48 million refurbishment in 2012. This update added modern amenities like ship-wide Wi-Fi, new dining venues, and updated cabins. Here’s what you can expect on this small Royal Caribbean ship:
- Dining: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, including Giovanni’s Table (Italian), Chops Grille (steakhouse), Izumi (Asian cuisine), and Café Latte-tudes for coffee lovers. The main dining room offers delicious meals, and there are plenty of bars, like the Solarium Bar and R Bar, for cocktails.
- Entertainment: The Palladium Theatre hosts Broadway-style shows, comedians, and impressionists. While it doesn’t have the flashy attractions of bigger ships (like waterslides or ice skating rinks), the rock climbing wall is a fun highlight.
- Activities: Relax in the adults-only Solarium, take a dip in the main pool, or unwind in the hot tubs. The ship also offers trivia, live music, and poolside movies under the stars.
- Cabins: The cabins are cozy, with some as small as 142 square feet. They offer plenty of storage, but some older features, like clingy shower curtains, show the ship’s age. Still, they’re comfortable for short cruises.
Grandeur of the Seas is perfect for cruisers who want a more intimate experience without the crowds of larger ships. It sails to beautiful Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Puerto Plata, and Roatan, making it a great choice for small ship cruises in the Caribbean.
Why Choose Grandeur of the Seas?
Here’s why small cruise ships Caribbean is a great pick:
- Easy Navigation: With fewer decks and a smaller layout, it’s simple to get around. You won’t need to deal with long walks or crowded elevators.
- Budget-Friendly: Cruises on Grandeur of the Seas are often more affordable than those on newer, larger ships. You get the Royal Caribbean experience at a lower price.
- Intimate Vibes: The ship’s smaller size creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The crew can offer more personalized service, and you’ll feel like part of a community.
- Unique Ports: Grandeur can dock at smaller ports that mega-ships can’t, giving you access to less crowded destinations.
If you are wondering, what is Royal Caribbean’s smallest ship? and love the idea of a relaxed, budget-friendly cruise, Grandeur of the Seas is the answer.
Small Cruise Ships in the Caribbean
The Caribbean is a dream destination for cruisers, with its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant culture. While mega-ships dominate the region, small cruise ships in the Caribbean offer a unique way to explore. These vessels can visit hidden gems like the Grenadines, St. Barths, and other tiny islands that big ships can’t reach. Here are some of the best small ship cruises in the Caribbean for 2025 and 2026.
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Star Clippers: Royal Clipper and Star Flyer
Star Clippers operates beautiful tall ships that combine the romance of sailing with modern comforts. The Royal Clipper, a five-masted ship, carries just 227 passengers, while the Star Flyer, with four masts, carries 170. These ships sail from Barbados and St. Martin, visiting islands like the Grenadines, Anguilla, and the
British Virgin Islands. Watching the crew hoist the sails by hand is a sight to behold, and the intimate setting feels like a private yacht.
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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Evrima and Ilma
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection brings luxury to small ship cruising. The Evrima (298 passengers) and Ilma (456 passengers) sail from Bridgetown and San Juan, offering round-trip itineraries in the Caribbean. These sleek yachts feature spacious suites, a marina for water sports, and gourmet dining. They are perfect for travelers who want a high-end experience with a small-ship vibe.
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Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra and Sakara
Emerald Cruises’ Emerald Azzurra and Sakara each carry just 100 passengers. These yachts are designed for luxury, with a marina at the back for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the Caribbean’s turquoise waters. They visit ports like Martinique, the Grenadines, and Panama’s Bocas del Toro archipelago, offering a mix of classic and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
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Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II
Sea Cloud Cruises offers a unique sailing experience on the Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II, both carrying around 64 to 94 passengers. These elegant tall ships sail from ports like Bridgetown and Havana, visiting secluded beaches and charming islands. The small size ensures a personalized experience, with luxurious cabins and attentive service. Royal Caribbean Small Ships
Why Choose Small Ship Cruises in the Caribbean?
Smallest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is perfect for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems. Here’s why they stand out:
- Secluded Destinations: Visit islands like Bequia, Jost Van Dyke, or Dominica, where big ships can’t go. These ports offer authentic Caribbean culture and untouched beauty.
- Fewer Crowds: With fewer passengers, you’ll enjoy less crowded excursions and more space to relax onboard.
- Unique Experiences: Small ships often include unique activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or sailing under traditional sails, making your trip unforgettable.
- Luxury and Comfort: Many small ships offer high-end amenities, from gourmet dining to spacious cabins, rivaling the luxury of larger vessels.
Comparing Small and Large Cruise Ships
To understand why small cruise ships are so appealing, let’s compare them to larger ships like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis or Icon Class vessels:
- Size and Capacity: Small ships like Grandeur of the Seas (1,992 passengers) or Emerald Azzurra (100 passengers) are much smaller than Icon of the Seas (7,600 passengers). This means less crowding and a more personal experience.
- Amenities: Large ships have more attractions, like waterslides, zip lines, and ice rinks. Small ships focus on relaxation, with pools, lounges, and intimate dining venues.
- Destinations: Small ships can visit smaller ports, while large ships stick to major hubs like Nassau or Cozumel.
- Price: Small ships are often more affordable, especially for shorter cruises or older vessels like Grandeur of the Seas.
- Atmosphere: Large ships feel like floating resorts, with endless activities. Small ships offer a quieter, more serene vibe.
If you love action-packed vacations with tons of onboard thrills, a larger ship might be your pick. But if you prefer a laid-back trip with unique destinations and personalized service, small cruise ships are the way to go.
Why Small Cruise Ships Are Perfect for Families and Couples
Small ship cruises Caribbean are ideal for both families and couples. For families, the smaller size makes it easier to keep track of kids, and the relaxed pace allows for quality time together. Many small ships, like Grandeur of the Seas, offer kid-friendly activities and dining options. For couples, the intimate atmosphere and romantic destinations create the perfect setting for a getaway. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon or a family vacation, small ships offer something for everyone. Royal Caribbean Junior Suite
Set Sail on a Small Cruise Ship Adventure!
Small cruise ships offer a unique way to explore the Caribbean and beyond. From the world’s smallest cruise ship, Celebrity Xploration, to Royal Caribbean’s smallest ship, Grandeur of the Seas, these vessels provide an intimate, budget-friendly, and unforgettable experience. They are perfect for travelers who want to visit hidden ports, enjoy personalized service, and relax in a cozy atmosphere.
