“When my wife suggested the idea of a cruise ship to mark our tenth wedding anniversary, I thought this is really a big and wasteful idea. I was pulled back by mere fact that a lot of money and resources are going into this. However, I gave it a second consideration and the experience was worthwhile. I experienced international cruise for the first time in the summer of 2024, and I really love to be on the ship again.”
This was the words of Richard. Richard is a high school teacher in England. According to him, resources remain the first consideration when planning a vacation or going for tourism. However, Richard was thrilled by the memorable experience he got on the ship cruise and the connections he made. If you, like Richard, prefer to evaluate costs before making a decision, then you share my approach. To be honest, the cost of going on cruise ship is not cheap especially if you are going for longer and luxury trips. According to search on the internet, the cost could start from $500- $1,500 per person for a seven day economy cruise, and this could go in excess of $ 3,500 per person on luxury cruise. This sounds “amazing” and overwhelming! Check Polar Routes Website for early offers. The benefits of going on cruise could sometimes outweigh the costs. In this article, I will walk you through the benefits of going on a cruise ship, what to expect and how to make an early preparations.
Going on a cruise offers a wide range of benefits. Below are some key advantages I have outlined for you.
1. All-Inclusive Package
The cruise ship price may cover the following expenses:
Accommodations
Food and Beverage/Entertainment
Transportation between locations
2. Multiple Destinations in a Single Trip
You have got opportunities to visit several countries and/or cities in a single trip without the hassle of arranging multiple flights and accommodations for each location. Depending on the itinerary, you can visit up to three to six countries for short or standard cruises, while long/extended/ world cruises can take you to more than fifty countries.
3. Convenience & Stress-Free Travel
Cruise staff handles the logistics and travel arrangements, making everything to be well organized, from onboard dining to shore excursions.
4. Arts & Entertainment
You will have access to varieties of activities on a cruise ship which may not be experienced if you arranged your private tour. Entertainment events can include all of the following and many more:
Live shows, casinos, pools, water parks, and sports facilities.
Many cruises offer educational programs, wellness activities, and themed events.
5. High-Quality Dining & Cuisine
Multiple restaurants offering gourmet meals, international cuisines, and buffets.
Specialty dining options.
6. Suitable for All Category of Travelers
Cruise ship is family-friendly. Luxury cruises are suitable for couples and individuals seeking a relaxing atmosphere.
Kids onboard have access to kid’s clubs, water slides and babysitting services.
7. Great Value for Money
While a cruise may seem expensive at first glance, it offers excellent value for money. Cruise lines provide competitive pricing with bundled packages, discounts, and promotions, making the experience both cost-effective and rewarding.
8. Unique Experiences at Sea
Cruise vacations provide breathtaking scenic ocean views, allowing travelers to enjoy stunning panoramas of the open sea, and offering travelers decks where they can relax and take in the beauty of nature at different times of the day. Furthermore, some itineraries include stops at exclusive private islands, wildlife encounters and marine life experiences.
Check this article on cruisecritic website for more benefits and experiences you can have on a cruise tour.
Best Time to Book a Cruise
While there is no specific time to book your tour, it is highly recommended that you plan ahead and make your booking in advance. Planning and booking within 6-12 months is highly recommended in order to ensure the best selection of cabins and itineraries, and to take advantage of discounts and promotional offers.
Other Arrangements to Consider include the following:
Flights & Accommodation (if necessary): This is necessary once your booking is confirmed, and the departure port is far from your location.
Travel Insurance: Purchase at the time of booking to cover cancellations or emergencies.
Visa & Documentation: Check Visa requirements early.
Visit Blue Horizon for next event and tours.
While cruises offer a great travel experience, there are certain risks to consider which include sea sickness and motion sickness which can lead to discomfort for tourists, and limited access to medical care on voyage. However, most ships have onboard medical facilities. Before going on a cruise tour, make sure you do not have serious medical conditions that can lead to emergencies or pregnant beyond 24 weeks as most cruise lines have restrictions for long-term pregnancies. It is also risky to be on ship during Hurricane or Typhoon Season (June–November for the Caribbean, Pacific, and Atlantic).
***This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or used for promotional purposes. Kindly seek professional advice before making any decision regarding your vacation on a cruise ship.
