After over 20 years in the cruise industry, I decided it was time to try a large ship cruise so that I could more accurately know how it compares to the small ship cruises I adore. In many ways, the large ship experience delivered what I expected (busy buffets, lots of nickel and dime extra costs, and limited connection with the places we visited). In other ways, it surprised me. There was a wonderful art lecture onboard and a cozy pub like venue with excellent live music. I'm glad I went and even more grateful that my job allows me to advise on small ships. I wouldn't be able to promote large ships with equivalent enthusiasm and can feel confident of my place in the travel industry.