Are Cruises Worth It? Pros & Cons

Some travelers swear by sailing, and others prefer more traditional vacations. Cruises are a unique way to see the world, combining luxury, convenience, and adventure in a floating space that feels like its own world. So, yes, to many travelers, cruises are well worth it!

Before you book that ticket, let's break down the pros, cons, and everything in between to help you decide if a cruise is really worth it for you.

Why People Love to Sail: Pros of Going on A Cruise

So, are cruises worth it, and what are the good things about cruising? Obviously, for each person, that will differ, but we've detailed some of the most universal positives below.

Fun for Everyone

Cruises can work for all types of travelers. Whether you are on a super dreamy romantic escape, a kid-friendly family getaway, or even a solo trip, there's a cruise for you. Most lines offer kids' clubs, teen lounges, and adults-only areas so everyone can enjoy their vacation in their own way. 

Stress-Free Vacation Planning

Hands down, one of the biggest perks of taking a cruise is that everything is planned for you. You'll have multiple food options on board, as well as plenty of stuff to do, and the ship will take you from port to port. 

This means no need to stress about finding quality hotels, transportation to the next destination on your itinerary, or locally inspired food. If you want an experience where you can simply show up, a cruise might be perfect for you.

All-Inclusive

When asking if 'are cruises worth it?' you have to understand there's a reason why 85% of travelers who have cruised will cruise again. One of the most appealing aspects of a cruise is the all-inclusive experience. Your meals, snacks, and many onboard activities are included in the price. Most ships have a range of dining options, from casual buffets to fine-dining steak and sushi houses. There are also nightly shows and dance parties, live music, and themed events. You only spend extra money on entertainment if you decide to upgrade your experience.

Multiple Destinations in One Trip

If you love to explore but hate packing and unpacking, a cruise is a great way to check off places from your travel bucket list. Instead of hopping from hotel to hotel, you get to visit multiple destinations while staying in the same room the entire time. Whether you are exploring remote islands or busy European cities, you wake up in a new place but in a familiar room and ship. This makes it easy to experience wildly different cultures, terrains, and food in a single trip.

Unique Excursions

Cruise lines partner with local tour operators to deliver excursions that work with their docking schedule. These can include swimming with dolphins, zip-lining through a rainforest, taking a local cooking class, hiking through ancient ruins, or a guided city tour... the possibilities are only limited to where you choose to sail! Excursions can be a great way to experience a destination without having to plan the details yourself since you can secure them directly through the cruise line before or after booking your sailing date.

High-Quality Food and Fun

Are cruises worth it just for food and fun alone? All the high-quality, port-inspired food and stuff to do onboard would point to 'yes.' With so much food available, there is always something new and exciting to try, even on longer sailings. If you like gourmet dining and multi-course meals (in theory or practice!), you're in for a treat. In addition, most ships will allow you to splurge on specialty restaurants for even more premium options! Entertainment-wise, you might see anything from live performances, style shows, comedy gigs, dance nights, sports games, and beyond! 

Easy to Make New Friends

If you enjoy meeting new faces, a cruise is a great place to do it. With group excursions, social events, shared dining tables, shared excursions, and hanging out at the same ports, you will have plenty of chances to connect with fellow explorers. Most cruises have, by nature, a friendly and social atmosphere.

Reasons a Cruise Might Not Be for You

Although you've probably guessed we're fans of cruises, there are some drawbacks, which we've detailed below.

Motion Sickness

If you get motion sickness easily, the idea of being on a moving ship for days might seem like a dream (or nightmare). The good news is that modern ships, especially the larger vessels, are designed to minimize rocking, and there are plenty of medications available. Over-the-counter Dramamine and sea bands to the rescue! Another tip is to book a room in the middle of the vessel, which will naturally experience less rocking than other parts of the ship. If you're still unsure, a short weekend cruise might be a good way to test your sea legs before your grand 4-week sale around the world.

Cost Can Add Up

While cruises can be a budget-friendly way to see the world, the costs can add up fast. The base price includes your room, meals, and entertainment, but extras like excursions, drink packages, tips, Wi-Fi, and premium dining can push your budget higher than expected. To save money, look for all-inclusive packages or book during off-peak seasons when prices tend to be lower.

Limited Time in Each Destination

Cruising allows you to visit multiple places, but you usually only have a few hours at each port. This can feel rushed for those who like to explore a city in depth. If you prefer to take your time in each destination, a cruise might not satisfy your adventure itch. However, you can also view cruising as a way to get a taste of different places and decide where you would like to visit again in the future!

Lack of Control Over Itinerary

When you book a cruise, you are following an itinerary set by the cruise lines. You have limited flexibility to change plans, and unexpected weather or delays can impact your agenda. Are cruises worth it if you're the type of traveler who prefers to plan your trips and explore slowly? Only you can answer this. Remember, you can always spend a day in your cabin or lounging about the ship if you feel overwhelmed.

Crowds

Cruises, especially on the bigger ships, can feel crowded at times. Popular common areas like buffets, pools, and excursions can get busy, especially during peak travel season. If you prefer quiet, laid-back vacations, you might want to choose a smaller cruise line or look for less crowded itineraries. For those who want to sail kid-free, consider an adults-only option.

Internet Limitations

Are cruises worth it if you work from home? Probably not. Wi-Fi on cruise ships is notorious for being slow and pricey unless the ship is docked near a port. If you need to work from a laptop or have a premium connection, you might have to pay extra for an upgraded internet package. Many travelers choose to disconnect and enjoy the break, but if you need access for work or personal reasons, this can be a bummer.

Travel Costs to the Departure Port

The sailing itself may be a great deal but don't overlook the cost of getting to your departure port. Flights, trains, parking your car at the departure port, plus hotels, and transportation to the cruise terminal all need to be calculated into your budget. Are cruises worth it if you have to pay double the price just to get to and from your departure port?

Final Thoughts: Are Cruises Worth it?

The answer depends on your individual travel needs and what you are looking for in a vacation. If you love the idea of an all-in-one travel experience where everything is taken care of, a cruise is a wonderful choice. You get to visit multiple destinations, enjoy amazing food and entertainment, and relax without the stress of planning every detail.

On the other hand, if you prefer longer stays in one location and more flexibility in your itinerary, a cruise may not be the best choice for you. It is important to consider what kind of experience you want and whether a cruise aligns with your travel preferences.

If you decide to go for it, take time to research different cruise lines, destinations, and amenity options. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, cruising can be a fantastic way to see the world.