How would I arrange a small cruise ship for a specialized cruise?

Question

I am interested in putting together a cruise for a targeted speciality group and would like to find out the costs and details of contracting for a ship that would accommodate around 500 people for a one week cruise from the U.S. West coast.

Answer 1

500 people by no means requires a "small ship" - you're talking 250 cabins at double occupancy - and would require a ship in the 15,000 ton + category.

Unfortunately, ships of this size are not sitting around waiting for someone to charter them. One of the smallest capacity cruise ships that charters the entire ship is Oceania Cruise Line. They have three beautiful, "Upper Premium" ships that carry approximately 650 passengers. They will charter you the entire ship, but only on one of their scheduled/planned itineraries - you can't make-up your own or pick your dates.

As an alternative suggestion, and certainly an easier way to go, why not take 250 cabins on a scheduled cruise. The cruise line would bend-over-backwards to accommodate a group of that size - they'd love you. If you go this route, PLEASE make sure you use a professional travel agent who is a cruise specialist. There is no additional cost or hidden fees for their services and you'll have a name and a face to speak to. Personal service is everything.

If you insist in chartering your own ship, take a look at this website:

http://www.cruise-ship-charters.com/html/cruise_ships_for_charter.html


Good luck and bon voyage.

Answer 2

Type in the area you want to go to and the cruises will show up. Once you get that info you can contact to see which cruise lines have a ship that small. You can also check with your local AAA travel dept or travel agent. Either one will get you all the info you need.
Good Luck.