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I’ve never cruised and this article was so helpful in answering many questions that I had. I may have enjoyed this as a younger person, but not anymore. However the river cruises might be more my style. Thank you for this valuable info!
I've always had an instinct about cruises (that I wouldn't like them) veering towards the descriptions of 6, 8, and 10. those were kind of enough for me but couple the rest of the reasons you list here and I feel even stronger in my convictions now!
Laura, your husband's comment made me laugh. I'm in the same court, though I only took a Very tiny cruise (from Cancun to Havana) years ago. Even though we were only on ship one night, it was quite an ordeal, but it may have been the rather weird ship itself. Your info is really good though for possible cruisers who don't know what to expect. Take care!
Lots to think about. Thanks. Been on many cruises throughout my life and they were def more fun as a kid. That being said, the cruise line matters a lot as it relates to quality of food, etc. Don’t have recommendations per se, but have experienced drastic differences.
There ARE many different cruise experiences. This article is being specific to ocean cruises.
I have also been on a small ship (12 cabin) river cruise. And it was fabulous without most of the downsides from my article.
I do believe that the ocean cruises of today are being designed for the all-inclusive family vacations rather than for the luxury and cultural experiences they once were. Think Icon of the Seas with its waterslides, kids clubs and 7500 passengers.
And this is why big ship cruising holds no appeal for me at all. I know a lot of people love it, but I'm not a social enough person to be confined to such a small space with so many people and such a lack of flexibility. That being said, I've been on two river cruises is Europe and loved them - smaller, more peaceful, and just a beautiful experience all round.
As I mentioned in my response to Michaels comment, river cruises are a different breed altogether. Having less in terms of flashy entertainment, river cruises will attract an older crowd and are more attune to the culture of a region. With overnight stops in local towns, there are more options for experiencing new regions. Ocean cruises will have day stops, in and out in a few hours. They are very different for sure.
Never been on a cruise and it never felt inviting, for the reasons you mention. However, a couple of friends swear by being on a cruise, because of the convenience and having everything more or less at their feet. I understand that especially for those travelling alone, it offers a safety and security. Do you think cruise line companies take advantage of that as you are kind of limited once you're on there. Another great travel piece and informative one too!
The only disadvantage could be price since many cruiselines have steep supplements. However, solo discounts can be found on many cruiselines if you are patient.
Once you are on board, you are treated equal. If you do not want to eat alone, you can request to sit at a group table.
There are solo activities but are not limited to those seeking relationships. Onboard is whatever you make of it.
No, I didn't mean it as a limited thing for solo travellers. I mean they're taken advantage of as they are solo and charged more, knowing it is harder to go off and do something when you're on a cruise.
My aunt and uncle love cruises because the excursions are all planned. They almost got left behind in Venice a few years ago, though. You did a great job addressing all the potential issues with cruise ships. I'd like to try one at least once! Thanks for sharing.
Almost missing the return must have been stressful! I’m glad they made it. Surely it’s now a fun story! Excellent points: The right company and itinerary are essential.
Alaska cruises are in a slightly different category because it is more of a nature oriented cruise. Much fewer kids so ships are generally a bit smaller. A slightly older crowd as well.
I’ve never cruised and this article was so helpful in answering many questions that I had. I may have enjoyed this as a younger person, but not anymore. However the river cruises might be more my style. Thank you for this valuable info!
Thank you so much.
As I have said in this and other articles, choosing the right ship and itinerary can be a key to enjoying a cruise.
For example, I am currently on a Celebrity ship sailing to Iceland.
The added fees on restaurants and bars is crazy. But my veranda room is much bigger than my Princess balcony on previous cruise.
Food has been fantastic and entertainment is 100%.
Yes, there are still a few negatives, but overall, I'd say the cruise experience does improve with an upscale cruise brand.
I've always had an instinct about cruises (that I wouldn't like them) veering towards the descriptions of 6, 8, and 10. those were kind of enough for me but couple the rest of the reasons you list here and I feel even stronger in my convictions now!
Yes.
Cruising is quite funny.
Its a very divisive topic. Those that enjoy them, absolutely LOVE them. Others are either on the fence or are not interested completely.
Laura, your husband's comment made me laugh. I'm in the same court, though I only took a Very tiny cruise (from Cancun to Havana) years ago. Even though we were only on ship one night, it was quite an ordeal, but it may have been the rather weird ship itself. Your info is really good though for possible cruisers who don't know what to expect. Take care!
Thank you for reminding me exactly why I never want to go on a cruise. 👍👏
Thanks.
Most of the time, we see the articles portraying the wonders of the experience. But, few will tell you the downsides.
I've never really thought about taking a cruise, but this post sealed the deal.
Lots to think about. Thanks. Been on many cruises throughout my life and they were def more fun as a kid. That being said, the cruise line matters a lot as it relates to quality of food, etc. Don’t have recommendations per se, but have experienced drastic differences.
You are correct.
There ARE many different cruise experiences. This article is being specific to ocean cruises.
I have also been on a small ship (12 cabin) river cruise. And it was fabulous without most of the downsides from my article.
I do believe that the ocean cruises of today are being designed for the all-inclusive family vacations rather than for the luxury and cultural experiences they once were. Think Icon of the Seas with its waterslides, kids clubs and 7500 passengers.
I’ve only been on ocean cruises so that is what I meant, but yes, most are as you describe.
And this is why big ship cruising holds no appeal for me at all. I know a lot of people love it, but I'm not a social enough person to be confined to such a small space with so many people and such a lack of flexibility. That being said, I've been on two river cruises is Europe and loved them - smaller, more peaceful, and just a beautiful experience all round.
As I mentioned in my response to Michaels comment, river cruises are a different breed altogether. Having less in terms of flashy entertainment, river cruises will attract an older crowd and are more attune to the culture of a region. With overnight stops in local towns, there are more options for experiencing new regions. Ocean cruises will have day stops, in and out in a few hours. They are very different for sure.
Never been on a cruise and it never felt inviting, for the reasons you mention. However, a couple of friends swear by being on a cruise, because of the convenience and having everything more or less at their feet. I understand that especially for those travelling alone, it offers a safety and security. Do you think cruise line companies take advantage of that as you are kind of limited once you're on there. Another great travel piece and informative one too!
Thanks, Pilgrim.
No, I don't feel limited being solo.
The only disadvantage could be price since many cruiselines have steep supplements. However, solo discounts can be found on many cruiselines if you are patient.
Once you are on board, you are treated equal. If you do not want to eat alone, you can request to sit at a group table.
There are solo activities but are not limited to those seeking relationships. Onboard is whatever you make of it.
No, I didn't mean it as a limited thing for solo travellers. I mean they're taken advantage of as they are solo and charged more, knowing it is harder to go off and do something when you're on a cruise.
No, I don't think so.
There are so many solo these days. It's up to the individual though.
I just went to a wine and food pairing and I chose to sit with another solo. No price difference if 1 or 2. It's per person for everything.
My aunt and uncle love cruises because the excursions are all planned. They almost got left behind in Venice a few years ago, though. You did a great job addressing all the potential issues with cruise ships. I'd like to try one at least once! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much.
Yes, the fear of being left behind is always there.
My parents almost missed the return bus back to Port in Edinburgh. And they are not well travelled.
I'm a big fan of the cruiseline excursions despite the additional cost.
I think cruising is worth a shot, and picking the right ship and itinerary are key.
Almost missing the return must have been stressful! I’m glad they made it. Surely it’s now a fun story! Excellent points: The right company and itinerary are essential.
Ooh!!
Alaska cruises are in a slightly different category because it is more of a nature oriented cruise. Much fewer kids so ships are generally a bit smaller. A slightly older crowd as well.