Cruising is one of the most unique ways to travel, combining the convenience of an all-inclusive resort with the adventure of exploring multiple destinations in one trip. But is it the right kind of vacation for you? Before booking that dream voyage, it’s important to cut through the noise from cruise superfans and skeptics alike and make an honest assessment of whether this style of travel fits your preferences.
To help you decide, consider these seven key questions that reveal what cruising is all about — and whether it matches your vacation goals.
1. Do You Prefer Structured Travel or Spontaneity?
Cruises are typically very structured. Your itinerary is planned well in advance, and once the ship sets sail, you’re committed to a schedule — usually spending a set number of hours in each port before the ship departs for the next destination. If you love knowing exactly where you’ll be and when, cruising is ideal. But if your dream trip involves wandering a city with no agenda, or extending your stay on a whim, cruising might feel too restrictive.
2. Do You Enjoy Staying in a Self-Contained Resort Environment?
While cruise ships travel from place to place, much of your vacation will revolve around the ship itself. In many ways, a cruise ship operates like a floating resort, with restaurants, entertainment, pools, and activities all included. If you like the idea of having everything you need within reach — like you would at a Sandals resort or Walt Disney World — cruising could be a perfect fit. But if you prefer to spend most of your time immersed in the local culture of your destination, you may feel limited.
3. Are You Comfortable in Crowds?
Cruise ships range in size, but the majority of modern vessels are large — sometimes very large. Mega-ships like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas can carry over 6,000 passengers, not counting crew. Even with multiple decks and diverse venues to spread people out, peak times can feel busy. If being around lots of people doesn’t appeal to you, look into small-ship lines like Windstar or Ponant, or consider a land-based getaway instead.
4. Are You OK Touring in Groups?
Cruise excursions often involve group tours, especially on river or expedition cruises where activities are included. Ocean cruises generally offer more flexibility, allowing you to book private excursions or explore independently. However, many organized shore excursions involve motor coaches and group sightseeing, which can feel a bit like a guided bus tour. If group travel isn’t your thing, you’ll need to put in extra effort (and sometimes extra money) to go off on your own.
5. Is Experiencing Local Cuisine a Top Priority?
Food is a big part of travel — and for many cruisers, it’s a highlight. That said, most cruise ship dining leans toward international or familiar fare rather than local specialties. While you may get the chance to try regional dishes during lunch onshore, ships usually depart ports before dinner, limiting your opportunity to enjoy authentic local meals in the evening. If eating like a local is essential to your travel experience, consider how that priority fits into a cruise itinerary.
6. Do You Value Personalized Service and Being Pampered?
Cruise ships are known for attentive service. Even on lower-cost ships, cabin stewards will likely know your name and preferences, and waitstaff in the dining room often go the extra mile to remember your favorite drink or dessert. Luxury lines take this to an even higher level, offering white-glove service, personal butlers, and spa-like experiences. If being pampered is important to you, a cruise can provide exceptional value for the level of service offered — often outpacing comparable hotels.
7. Do You Prefer Knowing Your Total Vacation Costs Upfront?
Cruises appeal to travelers who want a clear, upfront cost for most vacation expenses. Your fare usually includes accommodations, meals, onboard entertainment, and some activities. While extras like specialty dining, drinks, gratuities, and excursions can add up, many cruise lines offer bundled packages or promotional deals that include these perks. If budgeting is important to you — or you simply like knowing you’ve paid for most things in advance — cruising offers great peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Cruising isn’t one-size-fits-all — and that’s OK. While millions of people fall in love with this style of travel every year, it’s not the ideal vacation for everyone. By asking yourself the questions above, you can better understand whether a cruise aligns with your travel style, comfort level, and expectations.
If you find yourself saying “yes” to most of these questions, you may be ready to board and join the cruising community. If not, there are countless other amazing ways to explore the world — by land, air, or rail.
