Size isn’t everything—experts reveal 9 tips to find your perfect cruise

▲ A Princess Cruises ship sailing in Alaska. (Photo provided by Princess Cruises)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong, Taipei

On September 2 and 3, Asia’s largest cruise ship, Quantum of the Seas, arrived in Taiwan from mainland China, docking at Taichung Port and Keelung Port respectively. With a gross tonnage of 167,000, the Quantum of the Seas measures 348 meters in length and 41 meters in width, accommodating approximately 4,180 passengers and equipped with a variety of high-tech entertainment facilities, earning it the title of a next-generation smart cruise ship.

With the arrival of the Quantum of the Seas in Taiwan, many people have developed an interest in large cruise ships. However, when choosing a cruise, there are many key details beyond just “ship size.” Zhao Zhiquan, manager of Bestway Travel Agency, which specializes in cruise tourism, noted that besides size, factors such as destination, departure port, cruise line brand, and personal budget can be carefully considered. Huang Zhengyao, manager of the Themed Travel Department at Lion Travel, added that travelers can also consider the nature of fellow passengers and the travel season to choose a suitable itinerary, making it easier to find the right cruise experience.

▲ The largest cruise ship in Asia, Quantum of the Seas, arriving at Taichung Port. (Photo authorized by BirdGraphy; unauthorized reproduction is prohibited to avoid copyright infringement.)

1. Ship Size
The larger the cruise ship, the more entertainment facilities it can accommodate, making onboard activities more diverse. However, bigger ships also mean more passengers, which can reduce access to entertainment and dining venues and even extend boarding and disembarking times. Therefore, passengers can assess not only the ship’s size but also use ratios like “passengers per square meter” and “passengers per crew member” to evaluate overall quality. For top-tier cruise brands, ships often range from 60,000 to 90,000 tons, or even as small as 30,000 tons, but maintain a high passenger-to-crew ratio of 1:1 to 1:1.5, offering more personalized service for premium guests.

2. Travel Destination
Different destinations offer unique experiences. Mediterranean and Nordic itineraries often focus on the cultural charm of coastal cities, while Alaska routes highlight natural scenery. In the calm waters of the Caribbean, the emphasis is usually on the entertainment facilities aboard large ships, each with its own appeal. In recent years, the Asian cruise market has grown, making ports in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan popular destinations and helping to lower prices.

▲ Different travel destinations offer varied activities after disembarkation. (Photo by Tsai Wenjun)

3. Nature of Fellow Passengers
Cruises are family-friendly, but different age groups may prefer different routes. For example, Disney Cruises, with their array of cartoon-themed elements, are especially suitable for children. Passengers can choose cruises based on the age and preferences of their travel companions, as well as the destinations and onboard facilities offered.

4. Choosing the Right Travel Season
Like other travel options, cruises have peak and off-peak seasons. For example, the prime time for Alaska and Nordic cruises is from May to September, while the Mediterranean season runs from May to November. In Asia, natural factors like typhoon season and the northeast monsoon should also be considered.

▲ The innovative cantilever glass capsule on Quantum of the Seas. (Photo from the Royal Caribbean International fan page)

5. Onboard Facilities
Beyond basic entertainment, each ship offers unique features. For example, Quantum of the Seas boasts the first cantilever glass capsule and a skydiving simulator at sea; Golden Princess features a stargazing cinema and adult-only lounges; Star Cruises has introduced kid-friendly elements like Little Navigators and a 3D maritime gallery. Dining options and cabin designs are also worth considering.

6. Land Itinerary Planning
In addition to life on board, cruise lines vary in their destination activities and costs, ranging from shopping and sightseeing to glacier tours, town explorations, and even rail journeys. Travelers can plan comprehensively based on their chosen destination.

▲ Princess Cruises offers adult-only lounge areas. (Photo by Tsai Wenjun)

7. Embarkation Port
Traveling to the Mediterranean or Alaska often requires flying to a nearby port, which, while offering exotic scenery, involves additional airfare and travel time. A significant recent development for Taiwanese cruisers is the ability to depart directly from Keelung Port on international cruise ships to various Asian cities, saving on international airfare and making transportation, luggage handling, and time zone adjustments more convenient.

▲ Star Cruises introduces a 3D gallery on board to enhance passenger interaction. (Photo by reporter Chen Ruizhong)

8. Cruise Line Brand
Current cruise lines operating in Taiwan, such as Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Star Cruises, each have their strengths. Some offer a wide range of itineraries, others are budget-friendly, and some feature ultra-large ships. Passengers can choose based on their needs. For those seeking premium international cruises, brands like Silversea, Seabourn, Crystal, and Regent Seven Seas are also available through Taiwanese travel agencies.

9. Personal Budget
Cruises were once seen as a “luxury” option, but as cruise companies expand in Asia, more affordable experiences are available from Taiwan. Prices can range from a few thousand to over a million dollars, depending on ship class, itinerary, and duration, so travelers should assess their financial capacity.