Sitting on the deck by the pool with a refreshing drink in your hand, as you sail the open seas, may seem like the ideal vacation. However, your daydream may turn into a nightmare as you envision the screaming passengers on the Titanic or the cheesy pickup lines from the Love Boat. To help you calm your fears and give you a realistic idea of what to expect on a cruise, here are the answers to 10 common cruise questions.
1. Is It Expensive to Take a Cruise?
Booking a luxurious suite and purchasing extra excursions and indulgences can be expensive. However, many cruise lines offer trips for as little as $50 per person, per day, including lodging, main meals, on-board entertainment, and children’s activities, often making it less expensive than land-based vacations.
2. Is a Cruise Considered All-Inclusive?
Cruises are not all-inclusive. Your fare includes accommodations and food, but additional costs for amenities like spa treatments, alcohol, shore excursions, and staff gratuities may apply. Some packages may include alcohol or spa treatments, but truly all-inclusive cruises are not available.
3. Is it True that All Cruise Ships are the Same?
Cruise ships vary significantly. Some are large, resembling floating cities, while others are smaller and more intimate. They cater to different demographics, including families, older adults, or singles, and offer a variety of experiences like sailboats, adventure ships, or private yachts.
4. Is Taking a Cruise Similar to Visiting a Resort or Las Vegas?
Cruises share similarities with resorts or Las Vegas, offering spa treatments, pools, entertainment, and food. However, a cruise is constantly moving, visiting different ports-of-call and offering a chance to explore various cities and cultures. Cabin sizes on ships are generally smaller than hotel rooms at resorts or in Vegas.
5. Are Cruises Just for Newlyweds and Retirees?
Cruises now appeal to a broad audience, including children and teens with specific clubs and activities, and offer cruises for singles, music genre enthusiasts, and unique experience seekers. They remain popular with honeymooners and retirees but also attract families, school groups, bachelorette parties, and class reunions.
6. What Can I Do About Getting Sick or Having Seasickness?
To avoid viruses like norovirus, regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers provided on ships are recommended. For seasickness, over-the-counter medications, prescribed patches, ginger, and acupressure wristbands can be effective. Fresh air and horizon-gazing also help.
7. Is It Safe to Take a Cruise?
Cruises are generally safe, with strict inspections by the Coast Guard and adherence to international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations covering navigation, fire safety, and security. Personal safety measures similar to those on land are advised.
8. Will I Be Bored After a Day?
A wide range of activities, from sports and cultural events to spa treatments and excursions, ensures a diverse and engaging experience. Ports of call offer additional activities like biking, bus tours, shopping, museum visits, and snorkeling.
9. Will Taking a Cruise Make Me Fat?
Wise food choices and physical activities can prevent weight gain. Healthy eating options and fitness activities like swimming, basketball, elliptical workouts, or shore excursions are available for maintaining or pursuing fitness goals.
10. Will I Be Able to Keep in Touch With the World While I Cruise?
Most ships offer Wi-Fi, television, and cable news, along with daily reports of major stories. Cell reception for calls and texts may also be available depending on your service provider.
As you can see, cruising is a fun, relaxing vacation suitable for the whole family. You can do as much or as little as you want, and truly tailor your adventure to what suits you the most. It is safe and affordable, and something you will not soon forget.