Compare and contrast od and modern ships
Answers
New cruise ships always seem to get the spotlight, touting outrageous onboard additions that strive for the consumer "wow" factor. But what about their tried-and-true fleetmates -- a mix of vessels that have long since paid their dues and the hot new ships from a few years back? Sure, newer ships are often larger and more packed with diversions for every age and taste, but they can also be expensive and crowded, and as with anything new, there are sometimes bugs to be worked out. Older ships might show wear and tear, but cruise lines have been investing millions to keep their fleets outfitted with modern amenities and popular attractions.
To help you decide whether new is better or old is the way to go, we've compiled a list of elements to consider before making a choice, addressing key points like amenities and price. Check out the contrasts below.
Ship Size
New
As a rule, newer vessels are larger. It makes sense: As more bells and whistles are added, more space is needed to contain them. Although ship sizes vary widely across fleets, a number of vessels have launched in the last decade that can carry what amounts to the population of a small city. Harmony of the Seas, the largest ship afloat, comprises 18 decks and has room for 5,400 passengers. For purposes of comparison, Majesty of the Seas, the oldest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet, has 12 decks and holds 2,350 passengers -- less than half the capacity of Oasis-class ships like Harmony. Other lines have followed suit: Carnival's 15-deck Carnival Vista carries nearly 4,000 passengers, and those in Norwegian's 20-deck Breakaway-Plus Class accommodate 4,200 cruisers. You can easily get lost, though you are less likely to be alone.
Old
Old stalwarts, which are smaller in size and lighter on fanfare, offer more relaxing and intimate experiences. Sure, they still have plenty of glitz, but passengers don't have to feel like they're missing as many marquee activities if they choose to curl up in a lounge with a good book or veg out by the pool for half a day. Old ships are also more likely to have quieter spaces like libraries and card rooms. Smaller ships suit travelers who don't like large crowds, have trouble traversing the long decks of the biggest ships and don't want to think about which of the five different sun deck areas they should utilize. But watch out -- some cruise lines have refurbished their older ships to add more cabins, both cutting back on available public areas and squeezing more people into the space that's left.