I went on an ultra-luxury cruise that sails with up to 68 passengers at a time. I loved it, but it's not for everyone.

08.11.2024 - 17:07 / insider.com / Cruises

As someone who's been on 24 cruises — including megaships, yachts, and riverboats — I always tell travelers that there's at least one perfect cruise for them.

The trick is finding the right line and ship to meet your vacation goals and lifestyle preferences, which can change from trip to trip.

I've certainly enjoyed sailing on megaships that hold upward of 7,000 other guests and are jam-packed with dozens of restaurants and lounges, around-the-clock entertainment, and a party-like atmosphere, but sometimes I crave simplicity, luxury, and calm.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours delivered just that on my recent nine-day Mekong River cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia on the Scenic Spirit.

I had an excellent experience, but I also recognize trips like this aren't for everyone. Here are a few things you should consider before booking a luxury riverboat cruise.

River cruises are luxurious, small (typically holding a few hundred passengers at most), and exclusive — and their price tag reflects that.

Prices vary by ship and season, but starter cabins on river cruises like the one I went on usually cost around $7,000 a person, whereas basic rooms on many megaships can be booked for under $2,000.

That said, basic cabins on river cruises are usually nicer since those ships don't have interior staterooms.

One of the biggest trade-offs when sailing on an ultra-luxury small ship is the limited variety of venues and amenities compared to megaships.

On the Scenic Spirit, the line's 68-passenger riverboat, for example, you won't find the dizzying array of dining options that larger cruise lines offer.

There's just one main restaurant serving high-end cuisine and a casual café in the lounge for a more grab-and-go experience. The quality of the food was impeccable and impressively varied, with a different menu daily that often featured regional dishes.

However, a smaller ship might feel restrictive if you typically gravitate toward pizza and burgers or like having different dining venues to explore.

The same can be said for other onboard facilities. My recent cruise had just one pool, one lounge for socializing over drinks, one pool bar, and far fewer areas for mingling.

If you thrive on variety and love having options at every turn, the simplicity of a small ship could feel limiting.

However, for those who enjoy a more focused, personalized experience, this pared-down approach can be part of the appeal.

Unlike large cruises, which are packed with Broadway-style shows, live bands, and 24/7 games and entertainment, small ships like the Scenic Spirit focus on more intimate and culturally enriching experiences.

In place of flashy productions in acoustically perfect theaters, expect performances reflective of the destinations