Top 5 Reasons to Cruise & 5 Myths

A lot of my friends seem to have really mixed views about cruising. Most of those who have been on a cruise absolutely love it. While many who have never even tried cruising seem to be able to spout several reasons why cruising is not for them. I am of the mindset of, “Don’t knock it until you try it.” So, here are my top 5 reasons to cruise along with a few myth-busters for those who are reluctant to set sail.

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Cruising Offers Great Value for Your Vacation $

When you first glance at cruise prices, you may get a little sticker shock. But you must consider everything that is included. The price is inclusive of your lodging, meals, transportation between destinations, and tons of on-board entertainment. Value for your vacation dollar is one of the top reasons to cruise.

I regularly see cruises for well under $100 a night per person. Two people sharing a stateroom will cruise for less than they would often pay for hotel alone. It is difficult to find a greater value. Looking at a luxury cruise line? Well yes, the price goes up, but so do the amenities. Luxury lines often include beverages (even beer and wine at meals for those who imbibe), as well as some shore excursions and other amenities.

Now, this is not to say that cruises are cheap. Yes, they can be. But the price goes up with larger staterooms, balconies, suites, fancy meals, and drink packages. But honestly, if you need a suite with a balcony and upgraded restaurants plus drinks packages on board, then you will probably select more expensive hotels and restaurants on a land tour as well. So it really is a wash!

It’s Like a Floating Hotel

My very top reason to cruise is the ease of visiting multiple destinations without packing, lugging, and then unpacking my luggage over again. I love to make the most of every trip and include as many destinations as possible. That said, I hate changing hotels. I am an unpacker and the frenzied rush of unpacking every day or two is not fun for me. Not to mention lugging my suitcase to the car and airport over and over again.

I know that the journey is as important as the destination. And when on a road (or train) trip, I would agree. But I do not derive that much joy from spending 20% of my vacation in transit. For this reason, cruises are absolutely magical! Instead of spending hours in an airport or on a plane, you literally wake up at a new destination almost every day.

And when it does take more than overnight to arrive, you get to enjoy a magical day at sea! I love sea days! These are glorious days of soaking up the sun, catching an ice-skating performance, losing myself in a good book, and just letting myself be still. For those who can’t tolerate stillness, then there are more activities than you will ever imagine available. Perhaps you could participate in the belly flop contest?

Ships Offer Something for Everyone

While I love being a bit lazy on a day at sea, that is not everyone’s idea of a good time. And that is OK because today’s cruise ships are “decked out” with all sorts of things to do. Your cruise line will provide you a daily itinerary of all the activities on offer. You can take a computer class, attend a destination presentation, or learn to dance, cook, paint etc. You can climb a rock wall, play mini golf, play basketball, or even go surfing at the back of the ship!

Watch a movie, go ice skating, listen to live music, or play bingo! Dine in style and then watch a musical, a comedian, or a musician. Night owls can dance the night away or hit the casino. And shopaholics will find bargains galore at the shops onboard! This listing doesn’t even tip the iceberg of activities on a larger ship. If you like to keep moving between ports, be sure to check out everything offered onboard your cruise ship.

That said, if you really prefer to catch some Zs at the pool, then cruising is definitely for you! But if your travel partner needs more action, then let them have at it. To each his own!

Cruises are Perfect for Families & Group Travel

Cruises are fun for all age groups. Most ships have special kid’s areas, teens have their own cool places to hang, and there are family friendly areas for the whole crew. There are also several adult only areas for those who don’t’ want to hang out with the young ones.

Large group travel doesn’t come any easier than cruising. Whether it is a professional conference (yes, they have special meeting rooms on board), a large group of friends, or an expanded family reunion, cruising is a great choice. A cruise will offer a lot of options for every generation and interest group while still letting the group gather for meals and other activities.

The ability for large groups to travel together, yet separately, is definitely one of the top reasons to cruise.

Easy to Plan and Easy to Do

Cruises are the easiest vacations to plan and book. Pick your destination, date, ship, cabin, and air to the port (if needed) and you are all set! You don’t have to study multiple hotels or coordinate transportation between cities. A little closer to time you can peruse the shore excursions to pick the one that strikes your fancy but that just serves to ramp up your excitement.

Book your cruise through your favorite Travel Advisor (okay, me) to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. Yes, anyone can book for themselves online, but a travel agent often has access to perks that add a lot of value to your journey. Agents are also well trained on various destinations and can share this expertise to better prepare you for your trip.

A European River Cruise is a great way to visit multiple European cities in one trip. This is a great way for first time travelers to Europe to learn the ropes. Heck, not just Europe! This trick works for cruises through Asia, Egypt, and other destinations as well. Cruising is also a great way to mitigate any language barriers. Just take a cruise and tours with English speaking guides and you are home free.

5 Myths About Cruising

Here are a few of the most common reasons people give for not wanting to cruise:

I will get seasick

Surprisingly few people ever really get seasick and those who do can control it. Even those who suffer from motion sickness on land tend to be OK on the stabilized ships of today. But if you do tend to get a little off kilter, then Non-Drowsy Dramamine will take care of it on the spot.

I will be claustrophobic on board

Your ship will literally be a floating city. If you are really afraid of feeling claustrophobic, get a room with a view or a balcony. But honestly, you will only be in the room to sleep and dress so claustrophobia is unlikely to be an issue. Especially with so many great venues just outside the stateroom door.

I can’t be out of touch that long

To me, getting away from the world is the whole point of travel. That said, I do like to touch base with my family each day. This is no problem! You will totally have access to WI-FI, cell service, and satellite TV, if you want it.

I don’t want to dress up for dinner

Some people love to dress to the 9s for the evening meal. Others prefer to keep it casual while on vacation. Either way is fine. Cruises have become more and more relaxed in recent years. And while some still break out the evening gown for formal night, just as many arrive in a simple sundress or slacks. Those who want to stay in their shorts and t-shirt still have many options available for dinner each night.

I don’t want to dine with strangers every night

If you prefer to dine with just your group, then you are totally free to do so! I have friends who recently went on a river cruise and made six new friends. I, on the other hand, was never more grateful than when cruise lines stopped forcing introverts such as myself to chit chat with random strangers over a four-course meal each evening. free-style dining allows you to have dinner when you wish and with whom you wish. Even if that is a table for one!

What Are Your Top Reasons to Cruise?

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