15 Hidden Gem Cruise Ships That Deserve the Spotlight (and Why Cruisers Love Them)

Why Smaller Ships Deserve the Spotlight

I’ve cruised more than 30 times on everything from newer ships with bumper cars and ice bars to some of the most underrated older ships sailing today. And honestly? Some of my all-time favorite cruises happened on ships that don’t get nearly enough love.

I island-hopped through Greece and the Mediterranean on the Norwegian Spirit, soaking in bucket-list ports and stress-free sea days. I’ve also sailed multiple times through the Southern Caribbean on the Norwegian Dawn—where the crew quickly learned our favorite drinks and made every evening feel like coming home.

While the mega-ships are fun (hello, robot bartenders and virtual reality), there’s something incredibly rewarding about smaller, less-hyped ships. They’re often easier to navigate, more relaxing overall, and let’s be honest—a whole lot more affordable when you look at the per-day price.

If you’re after meaningful moments, unique ports, and a cruise experience that feels more connected and less crowded, then you’re going to love this list of hidden gem cruise ships. (And if you're not quite sure which size cruise ship fits your vibe best, check out Mid-Size vs. Mega Cruise Ships and this comparison chart that breaks it all down.)

Why 15 Hidden Gems?

I originally thought I’d do a “Top 10” list, but once I started talking to friends and digging into cruisers’ favorite smaller ships, then seeing polls in my Facebook cruise groups like Life Well Cruised—I realized there were just too many standout options to stop at ten. These ships consistently came up as fan favorites for their size, unique itineraries, and exceptional service.

So instead of cutting a couple of worthy contenders, I’m giving you all 15 of the most loved, best-kept-secret cruise ships that truly punch above their weight.

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How This List Was Created

This list was compiled using a mix of firsthand experience (I’ve sailed on several of these ships myself), feedback from seasoned cruisers in Facebook groups like CruiseTipsTV , conversations with friends and family members who have cruised recently, and verified guest reviews from Cruise Critic and other trusted cruise forums.

Every ship on this list was chosen because it consistently stands out for value, experience, and charm—even if it flies under the radar for many travelers.

Quick List of Hidden Gem Ships

P.S. Don’t miss the bonus ship at the end: Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady, debuting September 2025!

🎉 Bonus Ship: Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady — Launching September 5, 2025
Why it’s exciting: Virgin Voyages is expanding its adults-only fleet with the launch of Brilliant Lady—fitted for the Panama Canal and ready to explore new, longer itineraries. She’ll bring all the signature VV flair: elevated dining, no buffets, fun nightlife, and inclusive pricing.

Top 15 Hidden Gem Cruise Ships ( Bougie on a Budget Picks Included)

1. Celebrity Constellation

Celebrity Constellation– A Mediterranean darling with just the right amount of sparkle and sophistication.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.2/5
“A smaller Celebrity ship with an intimate feel.” – Past Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: Known as the “Connie,” this Millennium-class ship offers Celebrity’s upscale experience in a cozier package—great for Mediterranean itineraries.

2. Norwegian Dawn

Norwegian Dawn- That friendly neighborhood ship where the bartender knows your name by day two.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.2/5
“A reliable favorite with friendly crew.” – Frequent NCL Guest
Why it’s a gem: I’ve personally cruised on Dawn multiple times in the Southern Caribbean. She’s easy to navigate and feels like home by day three.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: One of the most comfortable and consistent ships I’ve sailed—with great pricing on Southern Caribbean routes.

3. Norwegian Gem

Norwegian Gem- Like your favorite cozy sweater—reliable, comfy, and always a good idea.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.0/5
“Comfortable, unpretentious, and a great value.” – First-Time Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: A beloved Jewel-class ship that hits many Caribbean ports, often at fantastic prices.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: Caribbean cruising that’s laid-back, budget-friendly, and fun.

4. Grandeur of the Seas

Grandeur of the Seas– A throwback to classic cruising with charm in every hallway.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.0/5
“A charming, easy-to-navigate Royal Caribbean ship.” – Frequent Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: Affectionately called “Lady G,” she offers a traditional cruising experience with fewer crowds and a super friendly crew.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: A classic ship with loyal fans—and often very reasonable pricing.

5. Island Princess

Island Princess- Built for the Panama Canal but perfect for slow sips and scenic views.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
“One of the few ships that does full Panama Canal transits.” – Cruise Critic
Why it’s a gem: Built for the Panama Canal, Island Princess is a favorite among seasoned cruisers for its long itineraries and peaceful vibe.

6. Margaritaville Islander

Margaritaville Islander- A floating beach party with flip-flops encouraged and stress checked at the gangway.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 3.7/5
“Budget-friendly and quirky in all the right ways.” – Bahama Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: For an affordable 2-night cruise with a Jimmy Buffet vibe, this ship offers a no-fuss escape with plenty of charm.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: Perfect for a spontaneous, low-cost getaway with island flair.

7. Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend- A laid-back Alaskan explorer with just enough quirky flair to keep things fun.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
“Cozy ship with great Alaskan itineraries.” – Traveler Review
Why it’s a gem: One of Carnival’s Spirit-class ships, the Legend can squeeze into ports larger ships can’t. Expect a laid-back vibe and surprise hits like the Punchliner Comedy Club.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: Alaska on a budget, with a ship that feels more personal and less overwhelming.

8. Disney Magic

Disney Magic- The OG Disney ship with all the nostalgia and none of the crowds.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.3/5
“A classic Disney experience, just scaled down.” – Family Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: Perfect for families who want Disney magic without the mega-crowds. Plus, it often sails unique European itineraries not found on Disney’s bigger ships.

9. Mariner of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas- A short-cruise superhero that packs big thrills into bite-sized adventures.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.3/5
“A great short-cruise ship with surprising features.” – Reviewer
Why it’s a gem: A Voyager-class ship that’s been refurbished with FlowRider, escape rooms, and more. Feels like a mega-ship in a mid-size package.

10. MSC Poesia

MSC Poesia– A hidden European gem with espresso, elegance, and unbeatable value.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 3.9/5
“Simple, clean, and great for European itineraries.” – Budget Traveler
Why it’s a gem: One of MSC’s smaller ships, the Poesia often features unique routes and lower fares—especially in Europe.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: Chic Euro-vibes and balcony cabins that won’t break the bank.

11. Azamara Quest

Azamara Quest- A globe-trotting boutique hotel that just happens to float.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.4/5
“Smaller, elegant, and destination-focused.” – Cruise Critic Review
Why it’s a gem: Boutique luxury without the stuffiness. With under 700 guests and late-night or overnight port calls, this ship is all about immersive travel and meaningful connection.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: A luxury experience at a lower price point compared to ultra-luxury lines.

12. Scarlet Lady

Scarlet Lady- Saucy, stylish, and sailing strictly kid-free—it’s a floating adults-only playground.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.5/5
“Adults-only heaven with killer food.” – Virgin Voyages Fan
Why it’s a gem: Mid-sized and adults-only, Scarlet Lady feels refreshingly different—no buffets, no kids, and tons of cool spaces like The Manor nightclub.

13. Carnival Spirit

Carnival Spirit- The fun cousin from Down Under, always ready for a good time and a long cruise.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.0/5
“A favorite for Hawaii and Australia routes.” – Cruise Critic
Why it’s a gem: The Spirit has a loyal fan base in Australia and for repositioning cruises. It's ideal if you’re looking to sail longer or more exotic itineraries at a lower price point.
🛍️ Bougie on a Budget Pick: Unique routes without the ultra-premium price tag.

14. Norwegian Spirit

Norwegian Spirit- A world traveler with fresh looks and a flair for exotic ports.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.3/5
“Recently refurbished and perfect for exotic itineraries.” – Seasoned Cruiser
Why it’s a gem: My Greek Islands trip on the Spirit remains one of my favorites. With fewer than 2,000 guests and a beautiful redesign, it’s a standout.

15. Holland America Zaandam

Zaandam- Music-loving and mellow, this one’s got soul (and saxophones) in her sails.
⭐ Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
“Old-school cruising with modern flair.” – Holland America Guest
Why it’s a gem: A great pick for Panama Canal or Canada/New England cruises, this smaller HAL ship has music-themed decor and a loyal fan base.

Pros & Cons of Choosing a Hidden Gem Cruise Ship

Pros:
✅ Lower per-day cost per person
✅ Easier to navigate (less walking, simpler layout)
✅ More personal service, better crew-to-passenger ratio
✅ Can access smaller ports and less-traveled itineraries
✅ Often has a more relaxed, grown-up vibe

Cons:
🚫 Fewer dining and entertainment venues
🚫 Less likely to have kid-focused amenities
🚫 Older ships may have fewer balcony cabins
🚫 Motion sickness may be more noticeable on smaller ships
🚫 Smaller ships can feel “too quiet” for thrill-seekers

Who Are These Hidden Gem Cruise Ships Best For?

These underrated cruise ships shine for a variety of travelers—but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Here's how to know if one of these smaller ships is the right fit for your next sailing:

👩‍❤️‍👨 Couples
If you're planning a romantic getaway without the chaos of a floating theme park, these ships deliver. With their quiet sun decks and intimate venues, you can have the peaceful moments at sea. (Just know that if you’re chasing waterslides and dance parties ‘til dawn, you might prefer something larger. Compare ship sizes right here.)

🧳 Solo Cruisers
Smaller ships often make it easier to meet people—because you often see the same people daily. So you can connect over trivia, dinner, or in a cozy lounge. Some even offer solo cabins or meetups. Want to feel more confident connecting with others onboard? Don’t miss my list of 76 Simple Questions to Make Friends on a Cruise.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Multi-Generational Groups
These ships tend to have easy layouts and more budget-friendly cabin options, which can simplify the planning process. But remember: not all of them have splash pads, arcades, or kids' clubs—so if you’re sailing with little ones, check the amenities carefully.

👨‍👩‍👦 Families
Smaller ships like Disney Magic and Mariner of the Seas still pack plenty of fun into a more compact setting. You won’t find go-kart tracks or zip lines, but you will find character meet-and-greets, pool time, and creative kids' programming (depending on the line).

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Many of these ships offer lower per-day pricing without sacrificing the cruise experience. To get the best value, be sure to know why WHO matters when cruise shopping. Trust me, matching the right ship to your travel crew makes all the difference.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Gem Cruise Ships

Are smaller cruise ships less safe than mega ships?
Nope! All cruise ships—regardless of size—must meet the same international safety regulations.

Will I get bored on a smaller ship?
That depends on your cruise style. If you’re looking for robot bartenders and waterslides, these might feel too quiet. But if you’re into relaxing sea days, trivia nights, and quality time, these are perfect.

Are hidden gem cruise ships cheaper?
Often, yes! Many of these ships offer lower per-person, per-day pricing and have more last-minute deals, especially for longer itineraries.

Do smaller ships go to different ports?
Yes! Smaller ships can access more unique and off-the-beaten-path ports that the mega ships can’t squeeze into.

Is the food as good on these ships?
In many cases—yes! Lines like Virgin Voyages, Azamara, and Celebrity Cruises offer top-tier dining experiences on their smaller or mid-sized ships. (Curious? Here are some awesome things to do on Virgin Voyages including their elevated restaurants.)

Are these ships good for solo cruisers?
Definitely. Smaller ships make it easier to meet people and connect. Some even offer solo cabins or social meetups. If you're hoping to break the ice with fellow cruisers, here are 76 Simple Questions to Make Friends Fast on a Cruise.

Are these ships good for first-time cruisers?
Yes! With easier navigation, friendlier crews, and less overwhelm, they can be a fantastic introduction to cruising.

Will there be entertainment onboard?
Yep—just usually on a smaller scale. Think live music, comedy shows, theme nights, and local performers versus Broadway-style productions.

Are these ships kid-friendly?
Some are! Ships like Disney Magic and Mariner of the Seas are smaller but still packed with family-friendly activities. Others lean more adult-focused, so choose based on your travel crew.

How do I find out if a ship is a hidden gem?
Your best bet? Check consistent positive reviews on sites like Cruise Critic, Reddit threads, or in cruise-specific Facebook groups. These ships may not always be the flashiest—but they’re often the most loved.

🌟 Ready to Book a Hidden Gem?

Whether you’re craving a peaceful balcony sunset, a port-intensive itinerary, or just a budget-friendly escape without the chaos of the mega-ships, these hidden gems prove you don’t need the flashiest vessel to have an unforgettable cruise. Sometimes less really is more—especially when it comes to charm, connection, and value at sea.

I’ve personally sailed on several of the ships on this list—and the others come highly recommended by my fellow cruise-loving friends, family, and online communities. From quiet cocktail lounges to off-the-beaten-path ports, there’s just something about these underrated ships that feels… special.

✨ Quick note for the cruise enthusiasts: While most of the ships featured in this list technically fall into the mid-size category (1,500–3,500 passengers), I’ve used the term small cruise ships throughout because that’s how many travelers (and Google searchers!) describe ships that aren’t megaships. Think of it as small in experience, not necessarily in stats.

To make your decision even easier, I’ve included “Bougie on a Budget Pick” callouts throughout the list—highlighting ships that deliver elevated experiences at wallet-friendly prices. You’ll also find plenty of value-for-money insights in the pros and cons section (scroll up ⬆️), where I break down things like motion sickness, entertainment options, and whether these ships are right for solo travelers, couples, or multigenerational groups.

If you’re still torn between ship sizes, I’ve got you covered there too. Check out my Mid-Size vs. Mega Cruise Ships guide or skip straight to this comparison chart to see how they stack up.

And if you’re wondering who you should cruise with (because that seriously matters!), take a peek at Why Who Matters When Cruise Shopping before you book.

So, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by cruise shopping—or worried that a smaller ship might mean missing out—this list is your gentle nudge to consider the ones quietly sailing under the radar. Because your perfect cruise isn’t always the one in the spotlight.

🌊 Happy sailing—and remember, we're with you from Shore To Cruise!