Do you enjoy traveling to multiple destinations, but just hate the thought of having to unpack multiple times? Perhaps an ocean cruise is for you! With the exception of river cruises, what other type of travel allows you to visit different countries/destinations while only unpacking once? However, there are many misconceptions about ocean cruises that cause travelers to not consider embarking on one for their next vacation. Well, for today’s post we are going to bust some myths, and show you just how exciting an ocean cruise really can be. Buckle up…it’s time for MythBusters: Cruise Edition!
Myth 1: Cruises are for Old Folks
Perhaps in the earlier years of the cruising industry you would find mostly senior adults aboard a cruise. However, nowadays, that couldn’t be further from the truth! Apart from some cruises that cater to senior adults, most cruise lines are very family-friendly. Therefore, you will find passengers of all ages and endless amounts of activities for everyone in your party. Consider this myth…busted!
Myth 2: Cruise food is terrible
Think again. One of the things many cruisers enjoy most is the endless food found aboard. While some cruise lines do prepare better food than others, in general the vast culinary experience is nothing to balk about. Even the pickiest of eaters can find something they’ll enjoy aboard a cruise. So, we say this myth is oh so wrong. Oh, and we highly suggest you bring pants with a little bit of give…you’ll thank us later 😉
Myth 3: There isn’t enough to do
Remember the fun activities we briefly mentioned while debunking myth 1? They come into play here. If you cannot find something to do aboard your cruise, then you must not be looking hard enough! Whether you want to relax at the spa, enjoy some sun by the pool, play trivia games, learn to dance, enjoy quality entertainment and much, much more, there is something going on throughout the entire day – for people of all ages! You can stay as busy or as relaxed as you want aboard an ocean cruise. Bonus for the parents, most cruise lines even have dedicated “kids clubs” so you can really take “being as relaxed as you want” to heart. Myth 3…busted!
Myth 4: I will get seasick
If you are prone to getting seasick, then yes, you may want to stay away from the smaller cruise ships (or have Dramamine in your back pocket). However, you are not as susceptible to feeling much movement on larger cruise ships. What most people don’t know is your stateroom location is very important if you are prone to getting seasick. So, be sure to talk with your Adventures by Jamie travel advisor to help find the best location on board your ship that will help minimize the effects of motion sickness. We have faith that you will find your sea legs in no time. Let’s say adios to this myth…shall we?
Myth 5: Cruises are crowded
There is no denying this, particularly when talking about the mega ships. However, the various cruise lines do a good job at keeping everyone entertained and moving around to minimize the feeling of large crowds. Your travel advisor can help find the right cruise ship if large crowds aren’t your thing and we promise…it’s out there. Myth…busted!
Myth 6: Cruises are bad for the environment
Over the years, cruises have received negative publicity regarding pollution, destroying sea life, etc. However, cruise lines can no longer afford to ignore the environmental issues, and this is a good thing! From minimizing single use items such as straws and plastic bottles, to recycling, using natural fuels and other initiatives, the cruise lines are doing their part to help protect the environment. Thanks to these increased measures, you can now climb “all aboard” (see what we did there?) and enjoy a guilt free escape. Myth…busted!
Myth 7: Cruises are so expensive
Like any vacation destination, there is a cruise for every taste and every budget. For those more adventurous travelers, you can find some incredible last minute deals. While you may not be able to select your stateroom with these offers, it is a small price to pay (literally) for a great cruise vacation. Similar to airlines and hotels, cruise lines want every stateroom sold. So, they will deeply discount any unsold rooms within a couple of weeks of sailing. While you might want a nice balcony room, but your budget says otherwise, consider an oceanview (with a window) or an interior stateroom (no window). Be upfront with your travel advisor about your budget so he/she can help find the right cruise for you. Consider this myth…busted!
Most passengers who get past the misconceptions they have about cruises and sail on one, will find they had a great time and are ready to sail again. Oftentimes people find themselves preferring to take a cruise over other vacations once they have been on one. So, if you still have some reservations about ocean cruising, talk about it with your Adventures by Jamie travel advisor. You might be surprised and ready to start your vacation countdown immediately. And hey…we wouldn’t blame you 😉