Are you traveling with children? Larger ships have more activities for children; If traveling with young children (6-36 months old) check for things like a nursery.

How much does the itinerary matter to you? Larger ships are sometimes limited in port options due to their size. Smaller ships can visit less frequented smaller ports.

Will you be eating at specialty restaurants? Most ships have at least one, but larger ships have more options.

What value do you place on entertainment? All ships have great entertainment but larger ships have more options.

What do you like to do on board? Smaller ships tend to have a "slower" more relaxed vibe while larger ships have things like waterslides, ice rinks, rock walls, and multiple pools/hot tubs.

How far is the port from where you live? Do you want to fly or drive? Driving can allow you to bring more but flying opens more departure ports.

What will the weather be like? Some ships offer more indoor space for colder or inclement weather.