Cruise comparison 2025: AIDA versus Mein Schiff – Who will win?

Cruise comparison 2025: AIDA versus Mein Schiff – Who will win?

The search for the perfect cruise is attracting more and more holidaymakers, and the two providers AIDA Cruises and TUI Cruises (Mein Schiff) are the biggest stars in the cruise world. Loud in Franconia Both shipping companies have successfully established themselves in the market since they were founded in the 1990s and 2000s. AIDA, founded in 1996, is headquartered in Rostock and currently operates 11 ships, including the largest ship AIDAcosma, which can accommodate up to 6,600 passengers. Mein Schiff, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Hamburg, has 10 ships in the fleet, with the largest ship, Mein Schiff Relax, able to accommodate up to 4,000 passengers.

Both cruise providers offer a diverse routing portfolio that covers the world's oceans from the Baltic Sea to the Caribbean. Departure ports in Germany include Hamburg, Kiel and Bremerhaven. AIDA also offers world trips, while Mein Schiff has cruises to North America in its program, but does not offer world trips.

Tariffs and inclusive services

The tariffs of the two providers differ significantly. AIDA offers various price categories, including the basic tariffs AIDA VARIO and AIDA PREMIUM, which offer advantages such as a desired cabin or rebooking options. The all-inclusive tariffs VARIO ALL INCLUSIVE and PREMIUM ALL INCLUSIVE include a comprehensive drinks package. With AIDA, the journey, including Rail&Fly, can be booked at no extra charge in the AIDA PREMIUM tariff and at an additional charge in the VARIO tariff. In contrast, Mein Schiff offers more comprehensive premium inclusive services in the PUR, PLUS, PRO and VIP PRO tariffs, including a wide range of à la carte and buffet restaurants as well as branded drinks at no additional cost.

Both providers have shuttle services from the train station to the port, which makes getting there even easier. The cabin offerings are also different: While AIDA offers a variety of cabin types and numerous family and single cabins, Mein Schiff trumps with spacious, comfortable cabins in which an espresso machine is available in all categories.

Leisure activities and target groups

The leisure and entertainment approach is differentiated at both shipping companies. AIDA places a strong focus on an active leisure program and offers a lively evening program, while Mein Schiff offers a more relaxing and classic cruise experience with an emphasis on wellness and recovery. Travelers on AIDA tend to be younger and more active, while Mein Schiff is aimed more at couples and older single travelers.

Both ships offer a diverse culinary offering and options for booking shore excursions, although price differences vary depending on the destination and tariff. For guests looking for a quiet, relaxing holiday in a comfortable ambience, Mein Schiff will be an attractive choice, while travelers who value flexibility and a sporty, active program will be in good hands with AIDA.

To make the right choice between AIDA and Mein Schiff, it is important to take your personal preferences and expectations from a cruise into account. Both providers have their strengths, and ultimately individual preferences decide whether it should be the lively atmosphere of AIDA or the comfort of Mein Schiff.