AIDA vs. Mein Schiff: The ultimate cruise comparison for 2025!

AIDA vs. Mein Schiff: The ultimate cruise comparison for 2025!

The cruise industry is booming and two of the most important providers are AIDA and Mein Schiff. AIDA Cruises was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Rostock. The shipping company currently operates 11 ships, with the largest, the AIDAcosma, having a capacity of up to 6,600 passengers. Mein Schiff, on the other hand, was launched in Hamburg in 2008 and has 10 ships. The flagship, the Mein Schiff Relax, started its maiden voyage on March 2, 2025, with space for up to 4,000 passengers.

Both shipping companies offer cruises in numerous regions, including the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean, the Orient, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Departure ports in Germany are Hamburg, Kiel, Bremerhaven and Warnemünde. While AIDA has world trips in its portfolio, the shipping company does not sail to North America. My Ship, on the other hand, offers tours to North America, but no world tours.

Pricing model and travel options

AIDA offers various tariff models, including AIDA VARIO, in which the cabin is allocated within a category, and AIDA PREMIUM, where the choice of your desired cabin and other benefits are included. There are also the all-inclusive packages VARIO ALL INCLUSIVE and PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE, which include comprehensive drinks packages. Mein Schiff also has a flexible pricing model with the PUR, PLUS, PRO and VIP PRO tariffs, which guarantee premium inclusive services, including à la carte and buffet restaurants as well as access to fitness and wellness areas.

The travel options are comprehensive with both shipping companies. AIDA offers the Rail&Fly service in the PREMIUM tariff, which can be booked in the VARIO tariff for an additional charge. My ship includes this service in the PLUS, PRO and VIP PRO tariffs, while it is subject to a charge in the PUR tariff. Both providers also offer a free shuttle service from the train station to the port, with Mein Schiff also organizing bus trips from specified departure points.

Cabins and catering

Both shipping companies present an extensive range of cabins. AIDA ranges from interior cabins to penthouse suites, while Mein Schiff offers higher quality cabins and luxurious suites with exclusive lounges. AIDA follows a flexible dining concept with a selection of buffet and à la carte restaurants, while at Mein Schiff many food and drinks are included in the price, allowing for a relaxing all-inclusive experience.

The leisure activities offered by both providers also show significant differences. AIDA attaches great importance to a sporty, active leisure program, while Mein Schiff focuses on relaxation and wellness. The evening entertainment at AIDA is varied and varied, while Mein Schiff offers a quieter program.

Target groups and conclusion

In terms of target groups, AIDA and Mein Schiff are aimed at different travelers. AIDA particularly appeals to younger, more active vacationers and families, while Mein Schiff is aimed more at middle-aged and older couples and single travelers. For those who value flexibility and an active entertainment program, AIDA is ideal. For travelers who prefer comfort, peace and an all-round carefree package, Mein Schiff offers the right option.

Overall, the choice between AIDA and Mein Schiff is a matter of taste and depends on personal preferences and requirements. While AIDA impresses with a larger fleet and more passenger seats, Mein Schiff scores with higher quality cabins and a premium all-inclusive concept.

For more information on the differences between providers, visit Infranken and Cruise wave.