11 Reasons I Love Cruising (And You Will Too)
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If you’re ready to set sail on an exciting adventure, look no further than a cruise vacation. I’ve been sailing for over 20 years and have fallen deeper in love with cruising every time I sail.
Cruise ships transport you to a world of luxury, convenience, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, excitement, or cultural exploration, cruises offer something for everyone.
The best part?
You get to explore multiple destinations while only unpacking once.
In this blog post, I’ll dive into the 11 reasons I love cruising. And why you’ll love it too.
Visiting Multiple Destinations
One of the most incredible things about cruising is the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip. And the best part is that you only have to unpack once.
A cruise ship is a floating hotel that transports you to a new and exciting place every day.
Imagine waking up in a different country or island each morning. One day, you could stroll through the colorful streets of Havana, Cuba, and the next, you’d be snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Saint Martin.
What I love most about visiting multiple destinations on a cruise is the variety of experiences. One day, I’m exploring the ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico, and the next, I’m zip-line through the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. Each port of call offers a unique adventure, allowing you to create lasting memories and cross items off your travel bucket list.
Cruising also lets you choose how you spend your time at each destination. You can opt for guided shore excursions organized by the cruise line, venture out alone, or spend a day on the ship.
Staying on the ship during a port of call is a relaxing experience, as you basically have the entire vessel to yourself. Most activities are closed during port stays, as few passengers are on board, but you can enjoy a day on the cruise ship without the crowds.
Value and Inclusive Pricing
One of my favorite aspects of cruising is its value and inclusive pricing. Cruise lines offer an incredibly cost-effective way to travel, allowing you to visit multiple destinations and enjoy a wide range of amenities and activities without breaking the bank.
Cruise fares are relatively cheap compared to other vacation options and include nearly everything you need, like your accommodation, meals, entertainment, and onboard activities.
The inclusive pricing means you can relax and enjoy your vacation without constantly worrying about additional expenses.
However, most cruises are not all cruises are all-inclusive.
You’ll still need to pay extra for shore excursions, alcohol, WiFi, specialty dining, and some onboard activities. It’s best to check with the cruise line before booking to find out the extra costs.
There is a Cruise Ship for Everyone to Love
One of the things I love most about cruising is that there’s a cruise line for every type of traveler. The variety of cruise lines, ship sizes, amenities, and itineraries means you’ll find the perfect cruise, no matter your interests or preferences.
Smaller cruise ships offer a more laidback, intimate experience. These vessels carry fewer passengers, allowing for more personalized service and the opportunity to forge strong connections with other cruisers. Small ships can also access smaller ports and offer more exotic itineraries.
If you’re the type of traveler who thrives on non-stop excitement and entertainment, larger mega-ships might be more your style. These floating cities offer everything from water parks and rock-climbing walls to Broadway-style shows and Vegas-style casinos. You’ll find countless dining options, bars, and activity areas, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Family-friendly cruise lines cater specifically to multi-generational travel. These ships offer kid-friendly amenities, supervised youth programs, and activities for all ages.
Couples seeking a romantic getaway can find solace on adult-only cruise ships or designated kid-free ship areas. Kid-free cruises are an excellent choice for those looking to rekindle romance. You can indulge in amenities tailored to your needs, such as couple’s massages, wine tastings, and intimate dining experiences.
The options don’t stop there. Whether you’re a foodie seeking culinary adventures, an adventure seeker drawn to adrenaline-pumping shore excursions, or a wellness enthusiast seeking rejuvenation, there’s a cruise ship that caters to your interests and passions.
There are countless themed cruises, nude cruises, and swinger cruises to meet people with similar interests.
With so many choices available, cruising truly offers something for everyone.
Incredible Food and Drinks
Cruise ships offer an incredible selection of food and drinks. From gourmet dining experiences to casual cafes and everything in between, cruise ships offer upscale experiences for your taste buds
The main dining rooms offer multi-course menus featuring dishes crafted by world-class chefs. You’ll find menus with cuisines from around the globe, like steak, sushi, burgers, pizza, and chicken cordon bleu, creating mouthwatering dishes that transport your taste buds to different corners of the world with each bite.
Cruise ships also offer many casual options, such as poolside grills, 24-hour buffets, grab-and-go cafes, and late-night snack spots. You’ll find something to satisfy your appetite no matter your craving or time of day (or night).
Many cruise ships boast specialty restaurants that offer specialty dining experiences. These venues charge an additional fee but offer an upscale culinary experience.
My Thoughts
I don’t often pay for specialty dining restaurants. I find that the complimentary food options more than meet my needs. But occasionally I like to treat myself with a trip to a specialty restaurant.
And let’s not forget about the drinks!
Cruise ships offer an impressive array of drinks. From classic martinis and tropical favorites to signature drinks inspired by the ship’s destinations, there’s no shortage of libations to tantalize your taste buds.
Many ships also feature wine bars, cocktail lounges, and even craft breweries, allowing you to sip and savor the finest vintages and brews while relaxing with ocean views.
The sheer variety and convenience truly sets cruise ship dining apart.
With so many options and seemingly endless food, you can indulge 24/7. And with most meals and select beverages included in your cruise fare, you can dine to your heart’s content without worrying about racking up a hefty bill.
So, whether you’re a foodie seeking culinary adventures or simply someone who appreciates good food and drinks, cruising offers an incredible array of options to satisfy your taste buds.
The Exciting Onboard Experience
Cruising offers exciting onboard experiences full of adventure and thrills. From heart-racing activities to world-class entertainment, you’re bound to create unforgettable memories.
One of the most common worries I hear from first-time cruisers is the fear of getting bored.
But that couldn’t be further from reality.
Today’s cruise ships offer an incredible mix of adrenaline-pumping activities. You’ll find zip lines, rock climbing walls, go-cart tracks, water slides, surf simulators, and skydiving.
There are also slower-paced activities to help you unwind and rejuvenate.
Cruise ships offer many leisure activities for those seeking a more relaxed pace. Indulge in a day at the spa, soak up the sun by the pool, or lose yourself in a good book. Many cruise lines offer enrichment programs like wine tastings, art auctions, or cooking demonstrations.
But the onboard experience isn’t just about activities. You’ll be amazed at the ship’s world-class entertainment. Cruise ships offer Broadway-style productions, live music, comedy shows, and live game shows, which allow you to participate and win.
Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping thrills, relaxation, or entertainment, cruise ships offer a range of onboard activities for every type of traveler.
The Social Atmosphere
Cruise ships provide an incredible social atmosphere to meet new people from around the world. It’s a place that cultivates lasting connections and friendships.
I’ve always been more introverted. But there’s something about cruise ships that makes connecting and talking with fellow travelers easy. In fact, I look forward to meeting to meeting new people and learning about different cultures.
One of the beautiful things about the social atmosphere on cruise ships is that it naturally fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among passengers. People are always excited to discuss cruise ship activities, shows, ports of call, and shore excursions.
Of course, everyone on a cruise loves to talk about their past cruises. It’s a great chance to swap travel stories and get insights to help you plan your future cruise vacations.
Cruise lines understand the importance of fostering social connections, so many offer organized events and activities to bring passengers together. Interactive experiences like trivia nights, dance lessons, karaoke sessions, and themed parties provide the perfect icebreakers. While pools, buffet lines, and shows provide a close setting for a conversation.
So, if you thrive on meeting new people and cultivating meaningful relationships, a cruise vacation promises to be a truly rewarding experience.
Exceptional Service
One of my favorite parts of cruising is the exceptional service the dedicated crew members provide. I’ve always found the cruise line staff friendly and attentive across all the cruise lines I’ve sailed with.
The service on cruise ships is truly unparalleled, and it’s one of the main reasons I’ve fallen in love with this style of travel.
Crew members come from all over the world. Their smiles, kindness and unwavering commitment to excellence create a relaxing and welcoming environment.
Whether you’re dining in one of the ship’s exquisite restaurants, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a thrilling show in the theater, the crew is always attentive to your needs. They go above and beyond to ensure every request is made promptly and gracefully.
The exceptional service makes you feel valued and pampered throughout your journey.
What truly sets cruise ship service apart is the personal touch that crew members bring to every interaction. They take the time to learn your name and preferences, making you feel cherished, not just another passenger.
I’ve had countless experiences where crew members have gone out of their way to make my cruise truly special. The waitstaff remembers your dietary preferences, asks about the shore excursion you talked about the previous night, and surprises you with birthday gifts.
This level of personalized service is a testament to the crew’s dedication and genuine love for their work.
It’s Fun For All Ages
One of the reasons cruise vacations are so beloved is their ability to provide endless fun and excitement for all ages. Cruising offers a fun vacation for all ages, making it the perfect choice for families, couples, retirees, and solo travelers.
Cruise ships offer the little ones an adventure full of wonder and discovery.
Most cruise lines offer complimentary kids’ clubs, where children can engage in age-appropriate activities, make new friends, and embark on thrilling adventures. Trained professionals run the programs so you can enjoy your time on the ship or at port, knowing your children receive excellent care.
Activities include arts and crafts sessions, scavenger hunts, and themed parties. Cruise line kid’s clubs provide a safe and stimulating environment, keeping your kids entertained throughout the voyage.
In addition, cruise lines offer self-guided teen clubs with dedicated lounges, arcades, and other fun activities. It’s an excellent opportunity for older kids to make new friends.
But the fun doesn’t stop there.
Modern cruise ships offer high-thrill activities for the adrenaline junkies in the family. Picture yourself soaring on a zip line, conquering a rock-climbing wall, hanging ten on a surf simulator, or plunging down a heart-pounding waterslide.
The high-thrill activities are for kids and adults. They allow you to embrace new experiences and let loose.
Cruise ships offer plenty of quiet spots for those seeking a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere. You can visit the ship’s spa or enjoy some quiet time in the child-free zone.
Most mainstream cruise lines feature exclusive adult-only sun decks. The kid-free sections provide a haven of peace and relaxation amidst the lively energy of the ship.
I prefer relaxing on the ship’s adult-only sundeck. I find that the pools are much quieter and less crowded than the main pool deck.
When the sun sets, the ship comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene catering to diverse tastes. Adults can sip on handcrafted cocktails at chic lounges, dance the night away at pulsating nightclubs, or try their luck at the onboard casino.
My favorite part of the night is visiting the main theater. Each night features a music performance, comedy show, or Broadway-style production. The nightly entertainment is truly top-notch. And I try not to miss any shows.
The beauty of cruising is that it offers something for everyone. You’ll always find something to love regardless of your age or interests.
It’s a chance to disconnect from everyday stresses and immerse yourself in adventure, relaxation, and joy. Whether you’re a child discovering the world, an adult seeking escape, or a family looking to bond, a cruise ship is the perfect setting for an unforgettable vacation that celebrates life and the magic of sharing special moments with loved ones.
The Sleep
As someone who struggles to get a good night’s sleep, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the ease of sleeping on a cruise ship. The gentle ocean rocking cradles are incredibly calming and encourage deep and restful sleep.
I typically book an interior cabin and find that the lack of an ocean view and total darkness helps me reach deeper levels of sleep.
The rhythm of the waves and pitch black cabin help me drift off faster and sleep more soundly than I ever do on land.
Cruise cabins are also designed with comfort in mind. Your cabin offers plush bedding, high-quality linens, and a climate-controlled environment. You can tailor your cabin for the perfect sleep.
Combining these elements – rhythmic rocking, pitch-black cabins, comfortable bedding, climate control, and fresh air – creates an environment where sleep comes naturally.
So, if you’re like me and find that elusive good night’s sleep hard to come by, a cruise might be the remedy you’ve been searching for. Let the ocean’s embrace rock you into a deep sleep so you awaken each day feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world – or at least the next exciting port of call.
Disconnecting
In today’s hyper-connected world, finding time to disconnect and step away from the constant buzz of technology is challenging. However, one of the aspects of cruising that I cherish the most is the opportunity it provides to unplug from the digital world.
Cruising invites you to break free from the shackles of your phone, email, and social media notifications. While cruiseWiFis offers fast WiFi connectivity, there’s something about cruising that makes me not feel the need to check my phone.
I find it easy to leave my phone in the cabin while I relax on the pool deck or explore a port of call.
This digital detox allows for a mental reset. It allows you to unwind, reflect, and engage in activities you might not usually have time for. You can lose yourself in a good book, participate in an onboard workshop, or simply unwind on the pool deck.
Moreover, disconnecting allows you to reconnect with nature.
Cruising offers the unique opportunity to witness some of the most spectacular natural wonders – from majestic glaciers and tropical sunsets to star-filled night skies – without the urge to view them through the lens of a camera or smartphone. These moments become personal memories rather than just another post on social media.
Editor’s Tip
I’ve never seen as many stars as on a cruise ship. There’s no light pollution out in the middle of the ocean, except for the ship. Find a dark spot on the top deck or helicopter pad to glimpse the night sky. The helicopter pad on Freedom of the Seas is the only time I’ve been able to see a shooting star. A memory I’ll never forget.
A Safe Vacation
Safety is a top priority for many travelers, especially for families. One of the reasons I’m so drawn to cruising is the industry’s strong commitment to passenger safety. It’s comforting to know that cruise lines prioritize passenger safety.
Cruise lines go to great lengths to ensure that their vessels are secure environments. Before the ship leaves the dock, passengers participate in a mandatory safety drill, which familiarizes passengers with the location of lifeboats, muster stations, and safety procedures in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Modern cruise ships use the latest maritime safety technologies to ensure safe travel. Regular maintenance and strict adherence to international maritime regulations ensure these vessels are luxurious and secure environments for cruisers.
Onboard security is taken just as seriously, with robust surveillance systems, professional security personnel, and controlled access to the ship.
The availability of medical facilities and healthcare professionals ensures you have access to medical care whenever necessary. These measures and enhanced cleaning protocols provide a safe and healthy cruise experience.
Highly trained captains and crew are ready to respond to any emergency. Crew members often participate in training drills while docked at ports of call, which ensures they stay sharply prepared for all kinds of emergencies.
The safety measures allow you to relax and enjoy the voyage fully. The industry’s dedication to passenger safety makes cruising a secure and enjoyable travel option, giving travelers the confidence to set sail on memorable adventures at sea.
