Planning a cruise should be an exciting experience, but as a plus-size cruiser, it’s natural to have concerns. You might worry about a cramped cabin, tight shower space, or getting in and out of the pool. Add the usual stress of packing, cruise insurance, and booking shore excursions, and it can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, these worries can turn a relaxing getaway into a stress-filled event.
But here’s the good news: many full-figured travelers enjoy smooth sailing on cruise ships. You can do the same with a bit of preparation and the right mindset.
I never realized the issues fuller-bodied travelers face until I spoke to a few fellow passengers. They told me about anxieties over airplane seats, sitting in dining venues, getting in and out of tender boats, and clothing availability.
So I’ve decided to dig deeper and find out about issues plus-size cruisers face. I’ve researched countless cruise forums, talked to experienced plus-size cruisers, and gathered the best advice to help you navigate these challenges.
I hope this guide is your compass for a stress-free, joyful cruise experience. Whether looking for the right cabin, feeling comfortable at the dining table, or handling tricky social situations, this article has you covered. Pull up your anchor of worries, set course, and embark on an enjoyable voyage to exotic destinations.
Pre-Cruise Preparations for Plus-Size Cruisers
Insights from seasoned plus-size cruisers in forums and blogs show that careful planning before your trip is crucial. Many recommend researching cruise line cabin space, choosing airline seats with extra room, and packing smart. By taking these steps, you can avoid common cruise mistakes and enjoy a smooth voyage.
Let’s look at solutions to some issues larger travelers may face before stepping on board.
Challenges getting to the port
Flights
Regardless of size, most cruise passengers must take a flight to the departure port. Of course, the size of airplane seats can be an issue for heavier travelers. Unfortunately, if you’re restricted to budget airlines, there’s not much legroom, regardless of where you sit.
However, you can check airlines that have upgraded seats with extra legroom. On budget flights, the rows over the wing tend to have more space between seats.
Getting around the airport
Many plus-size travelers say their issues with cruise traveling start at the airport. Common concerns are the following:
- Long distances between terminals
- Narrow seating in waiting areas
- Tight spaces at security checkpoints
- Limited availability of accessible bathrooms
The best solution for navigating the airport is to request assistance, which is usually free of charge. Some suggestions I found on forums include opting for early boarding, using priority lines, or using the TSA PreCheck system.
Booking the right cabin
Seasoned cruisers will tell you that not all cruise cabins are created equal. The cheapest cabins can cause issues for curvy travelers. Apart from little space around the bed, you’ll find that bathrooms are tight spaces, and showering can be challenging. Of course, the more you spend, the more spacious the accommodations.
The best solution is to avoid inside cabins, which tend to be the smallest. When booking, see if the bathrooms have a shower cubicle with a curtain. If you can afford it, book a stateroom or suite and go for newer ships, as they tend to be more accessible.
Packing the essentials
Knowing what to pack is always challenging for first-time cruise passengers and even more tricky for plus-size passengers. The biggest mistake is usually taking too many outfits. Therefore, it’s best to focus on versatile clothing items you can mix and match for different occasions.
Here are a few pieces of advice from large-bodied travelers who’ve been on several cruises:
- Choose light layers made from breathable fabrics.
- Coverups, sundresses, shorts, shawls, cardigans, and light jackets are ideal.
- Take two swimsuits so one is always dry.
- Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and sandals or flip-flops for the ship.
- Check the dress code for formal evenings.
- Use packing cubes to organize your clothing effectively.
It’s also good to know your body. One plus-size cruiser said that she tends to sweat more due to size. So, she needs two to three outfits per day. Her solution was to pack mix-and-match options, one formal dress, and use packing cubes.
Onboard Challenges for Cruisers with Fuller Figures
Modern cruise ships are more accessible and cater to various body types. However, chatting with some plus-size cruisers revealed that narrow shower cubicles, armchairs, and navigating pool decks remain problematic.
Here are some solutions to common issues many plus-size travelers have.
Accommodation issues
Many cabins and balcony cabins on older ships can feel cramped and have limited bathroom space. Even regular-sized travelers can feel there’s little space to move around. Of course, much depends on whether you book a cabin, stateroom, or suite.
Here are some challenges and solutions to making your time on board enjoyable.
Bathrooms
Regarding plus-size cruising, most discussions seem to revolve around bathrooms and shower cubicles. Here are some top tips from various blogs and forums I found to ensure private time on board is as comfortable as possible:
- Consider using the ships accessible bathrooms and spa showers, which tend to be more spacious
- If the door doesn’t close, request more towels if the floor gets wet after showering
From what I found on forums, it’s a myth that heavy people risk breaking the wall-mounted toilets. So, the consensus is not to worry about attending “calls of nature” on cruise ships.
Beds
Most cabins on cruise ships have twin beds that can be combined to form a queen-size bed. However, if you’re looking for more space and a potentially more comfortable sleep, you can request the beds to remain as separate twin beds. This setup provides more room to move around, easier access to both sides of the bed, and prevents the discomfort of feeling crowded. For plus-size cruisers, the extra space and individualized sleeping area can lead to a better night’s sleep.
If you have a bunk bed, you should check the weight limit, so the lighter guest should use the top one. If changing rooms is impossible, put the bunk mattress on the floor to sleep there. For extra comfort, you can request a mattress topper and extra pillows.
Chairs
Many plus-size cruisers complain that chairs in public areas, dining venues, and balconies often have armrests that make sitting restrictive and uncomfortable. I’ve also noticed that balcony chairs typically have arms and tend to be narrow. The good news is that most cruise ships have armless chairs. So, a quick call to Guest Services should resolve the issue.
Getting around the ship
Getting from a stateroom to entertainment venues, restaurants, the pool, and other activities can be challenging. In some cases, passengers can walk several miles each day. Also, the wait for elevators can be horrendous, and they typically arrive jam-packed at peak times. These issues can present challenges if you’re a plus-size passenger.
Of course, daily exercise is necessary. But getting from A to B on a cruise ship is challenging. Here’s the best tip I found from other big guys or gals about getting around the ship:
- Plan ahead so you don’t need to make unnecessary trips or use elevators at peak times.
It’s good to note that major cruise lines accept mobility scooters onboard. You could explore the possibility of hiring one for the cruise duration. You may even qualify for early boarding. Check with your cruise line about this possibility if you think mobility will be an issue.
Dining venues
Plus-size cruise passengers face the same problems at onboard dining venues as on shore. Issues like armrests, booth-style seating, and cramped spaces can make enjoying a meal challenging.
As a solution, many larger-sized passengers scout out the dining areas on their first day to assess seating arrangements.
Here are some ideas about improving the mealtime experience.
Seating
Most cruise ships I’ve been on have various seating options, and staff are always happy to help. If necessary, request a chair without armrests. Or get to the restaurant before it becomes busy to secure the best seats.
Standing in line
Waiting in line for buffet service or to be seated in specialty restaurants can be uncomfortable. Usually, long lines also mean there’s limited space to move during peak times. One solution is to plan meal times during quieter times. All you have to do is enquire when the restaurant is less busy.
Tendency to overindulge
People love cruises because of the opportunities to try new cuisines. And for plus-sized passengers, the temptation to overeat is just as strong as for anyone else. There is also the worry of being judged for eating unhealthy food. However, most cruisers on forums say that being shamed is rarely—if ever—an issue.
Here are some top tips about eating well on board:
- Take smaller portions to savor a variety of dishes
- Incorporate healthy choices like salads and fruits
- Balance rich foods with lighter options
Entertainment and activities
After dining, onboard entertainment is one of the highlights of cruise evenings. And there’s no reason to miss out just because of your size. It seems from many comments on travel forums that cruise lines are improving accessibility for people of all shapes and sizes.
Let’s look at common issues and solutions plus-size passengers talk about.
Seating
Narrow seats in the theater and non-moveable armrests can make sitting uncomfortable. Here are some excellent tips about seating in theaters and entertainment venues:
- Asking staff for standalone chairs
- Get to the venue early to find the best seats for your size
- Visit the theater when it’s quiet to test a selection of chairs
Pools
Many plus-size cruisers are concerned about mobility in and around the pool. Swimming is an excellent exercise for heavier people because it’s friendly for the joints. However, the thought of climbing the pool ladders could cause stress.
Here are some tips to make lounging at the pool enjoyable:
- Most cruise ships have stepped access at one end, so check out the pool layouts before your cruise
- Some plus-size cruisers don’t use the loungers but the chairs, as they find it easier to get in and out of them
- Some cruisers report that there are usually many oversize passengers in the pool and they all were having a great time without any judgment
Waterslides and attractions
Unfortunately, many onboard attractions and water slides have weight restrictions. So, you’ll probably have to sit out activities like zip lining, water slides, bumper cars, and rock climbing. Instead, consider seeking alternative activities you enjoy without worrying about stepping on scales.
Excursions and off-ship activities
Exploring new destinations makes cruising a thrilling adventure. Yet plus-size travelers face challenges with shore excursions. Comments I’ve read on forum discussions talk about tight tender boats, weight limits, and poor accessibility in some destinations.
With proper preparation and strategic choices, most cruise passengers can enjoy destinations while ensuring comfort and safety.
Let’s look at some problems and solutions for enjoying shore excursions.
Tender boats
Tender boats take passengers ashore when the cruise ship anchors offshore. Thankfully, they are rarely an issue for passengers with larger bodies. Most tenders have bench-style seating, and plenty of assistance is available to board and disembark.
Weight limits for activities
Like onboard activities, certain shore excursions have weight restrictions for passenger safety. Finding suitable onshore activities can be challenging because little information about restrictions is provided. Also, consider the level of activity—some excursions involve a lot of strenuous walking.
Some curvy cruise passengers recommend booking excursions through independent operators as getting more information is easier. I learned that 250 to 300 lbs. (113 to 136 kg) is the typical weight limit.
Here’s a list of shore excursions that usually have weight restrictions:
- ATV tours
- Ziplining
- Kayaking
- Horse riding
- Helicopter rides
- Caving or spelunking
- Rock climbing
- Parasailing
- White-water rafting
- Bungee jumping
Suggestions for activities on a cruise without weight worries include snorkeling, walking, lounging at the beach, guided tours, or beach resort days.
Minibus seat size
From talking to plus-size cruise passengers, excursion transport can be a hit or a miss. Modern minibusses are more accessible; however, seat size is always tight. The best advice is to get as much information as possible before disembarking for your tour.
Getting around
Navigating through busy and unfamiliar areas during shore excursions can be difficult. Many port cities in Caribbean and Mediterranean cruise destinations have narrow streets, crowded markets, tiny sidewalks, and steep inclines. So, good preparation is essential to assess your physical condition for walking.
Here are some tips I’ve found on blogs and forum discussions for getting around port cities on a cruise:
- Choose guided tours with transportation options
- Bring a portable, foldable chair or stool
- Check the terrain on Google Maps to get an idea of the streets
- Reach out to other plus-size cruisers on cruise forums
Other Challenges Larger-Bodied Cruiser Face
Cruising should be a carefree adventure. Unfortunately, if you’re a larger-bodied traveler, you probably face unique challenges beyond physical comfort. Social stigmas and self-consciousness can dampen the joy of cruising. Also, you may have unexpected weight surcharges on specific excursions.
Most cruisers I’ve spoken to say that understanding these challenges and finding solutions helps to maximize the cruise experience.
Social stigmas and attitudes
From chatting with fellow cruisers, they tell me they sometimes face judgmental looks or insensitive comments from others on board. This can lead to discomfort and anxiety, making it hard to relax and enjoy the cruise as you deserve. So, how do some cope?
Thankfully, most people focus on their own vacations without worrying about others. So, try to seek out positive, supportive interactions. It’s also vital to plan activities that bring you joy. Many plus-size travelers join cruising groups before the trip to get support and meet up with fellow cruisers.
Self-consciousness
Feeling self-conscious about body shape and size is common among people with more body mass. This often occurs when swimming, dancing, or at the gym. What can you do to enjoy the entire cruise experience and the joy of being at sea?
One of the best comments I read on the Cruise Critic board was that cruising is not the “Love Boat.” You’ll also be around curvier folk than “Barbie”-type people. Also, you’ll never see anyone again, so who cares what they think?
Some suggestions for what to wear at the pool include flowing dresses and swim dresses for bigger gals and loose-fitting linen for bigger guys.
Weight surcharges for certain excursions
Some shore excursions may impose weight surcharges or have strict weight limits. These trips tend to involve small aircraft, helicopters, or horseback riding.
The best advice is to be upfront about your weight and research excursions well in advance.
A Takeaway
As a plus-size traveler, you may face unique challenges on your cruise. However, these should never overshadow the joy and adventure that await you.
The best advice is to plan ahead, embrace your experience, and focus on what truly matters—relaxation, exploration, and making memories. Remember, cruising is about freedom and fun for everyone. And your comfort and happiness are just as important as anyone else’s on board.
So set sail confidently, knowing you’re prepared to handle any obstacle. Safe travels and smooth sailing.
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