How To Avoid Crowds On Even The Largest Cruise Ships

15 Jan 2025 by David Nikel · Forbes

Pool decks can be among the most crowded parts of a cruise ship, especially for sailaway parties or on sea days.getty

No matter the ship’s size, crowds are an inevitable part of cruising. Even the smallest cruise ships run by most mainstream lines tend to carry at least 1,000 guests, usually many times more.

At the other end of the scale, Royal Caribbean’s latest class of ship accommodates nearly 7,000 passengers—and with crew included, they are floating cities of nearly 10,000 people.

Whether it’s during embarkation, at the buffet, or lounging by the pool, you’re bound to encounter busy venues at some point. Yet, while the lively energy of a crowd can add to the experience, most of us crave quieter, more relaxing spots, too.

Cruise ships aren’t private yachts, but with a little planning, you can find peaceful escapes even on the world’s biggest megaships. From choosing the right stateroom to seeking out less crowded spaces, these tips will help you strike the perfect balance for an unforgettable vacation.

Avoid High Season

The tips begin far in advance of the actual cruise. In high season—notably school holidays—ships exceed their stated capacity with many children sharing the staterooms of their parents.

During school vacation periods, the increased number of children sharing staterooms results in an even more crowded experience in public areas. Expect long lines at popular venues, busier pools, and a livelier atmosphere throughout the ship.

Choosing to cruise during off-peak seasons can significantly reduce the number of passengers onboard, offering a more relaxed and peaceful experience. Even when all cabins are booked, cruise ships will not be as crowded as they are in the school vacation periods.

Not only will you encounter fewer crowds, but you’re also likely to enjoy lower cruise fares and more availability when booking popular excursions or specialty dining options.

For destinations like Alaska or Europe, shoulder seasons in early spring or late fall can offer similar advantages, often with the added bonus of cooler weather and fewer tourists in port.

Select The Right Accommodation

If avoiding crowds is a priority, investing in a balcony cabin or suite can significantly improve your cruise experience.

Suites often come with access to exclusive, suite-only areas of the ship, such as private sun decks, lounges, and restaurants. These dedicated spaces provide a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the ship, allowing you to relax in comfort and style.

Ordering room service breakfast to be enjoyed in a balcony cabin ensures a relaxing start to the day.getty

In addition to exclusivity, suites are larger than standard staterooms, offering more personal space. A spacious balcony can reduce the need to visit crowded pool decks, giving you a private spot to enjoy the ocean views.

For the ultimate in privacy and luxury, consider ships with "ship within a ship" concepts like Norwegian Cruise Line's The Haven, Celebrity Cruises' The Retreat, or MSC Cruises' Yacht Club. Guests in these areas benefit from priority embarkation and disembarkation, dedicated dining venues, and secluded lounges.

While this option is more expensive, it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking a quieter and more personalised cruising experience.

Even if a suite isn’t in your budget, a balcony stateroom still offers a comfortable escape from the hustle and bustle of the ship, especially for scenic itineraries.

Be Smart On Embarkation Day

Embarkation day sets the tone for your cruise, so making smart choices can help you avoid the initial crowds and start your vacation on a relaxing note.

Instead of heading straight to the buffet—often the busiest dining spot—check the cruise lines’ apps for other options. They will list open dining options, making it easy to find quieter venues away from the buffet crowds.

Many ships have specialty restaurants available, offering a more peaceful atmosphere and often better food.

Additionally, embarkation day is perfect for snagging spa deals. With greater availability and fewer people, you can treat yourself to a massage or facial, kicking off your cruise in the most relaxing way possible before the ship sets sail.

Make Wise Dining Choices

Making good dining choices can greatly enhance your cruise experience, especially if you prefer calmer environments.

On sea days, opting for the main dining room over the buffet for breakfast or lunch is a smart move.

While the buffet offers variety and convenience, it’s often hectic. The main dining room, on the other hand, provides a more relaxed atmosphere with table service and thoughtfully prepared dishes.

Specialty restaurants are an excellent choice despite the extra cost. When open earlier in the day, these venues typically have better availability and fewer diners, ensuring quicker service and a more intimate dining experience—perfect for a leisurely mid-day meal.

Consider Staying On The Ship In Port

If you love lounging by the pool, sea days can be a challenge with packed decks and limited sun loungers.

A quieter alternative is to stay onboard while the ship is in port. With most passengers ashore on excursions, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to amenities. Just be sure to check the daily schedule to ensure anything you hope to do is open.

You don’t have to forgo port exploration entirely. Consider taking a later tour, allowing you to enjoy the pool deck or spa in the morning when the ship is nearly empty.