Thinking about your next holiday and wondering if cruising is the way to go?


There is lots of buzz around cruise vacations, with some people hyping them up like no tomorrow, and others avoiding them like the plague.


1. Value For Money


If you're new to the game, think of cruises like floating all-inclusive resorts. What other holiday includes the cost of your accommodation, food, travel, entertainment, and most activities in one fare?


Inclusions will vary with each cruise line and itinerary, with options to add things like drinks packages, gratuities, shore tours, onboard spending credit, and even flights in your package. Once the sum of your holiday is paid, you can jump on board and avoid paying a cent for the entire voyage.


Depending on the level of luxury you're after, it's common to see fares for less than $100 per person, per night. This is far cheaper than what would be paid on land for all-inclusive accommodation, dinner, and evening entertainment.


2. Super Easy


Most cruises come packaged up in a neat bow with the itinerary and finer details sorted before you even leave for your holiday.


All that's needed is to pick a cruise line, itinerary, and a cabin type. From there, a travel agent can assist with any flights, pre- and post-cruise accommodation, and transfers.


Once booked, you can log on to the cruising portal and book shore excursions, or just wait until you're on board and reserve them then!


3. Unpack Once


Dear Lykkers! Whether you're cruising for two nights, a week, or a few months, when you first arrive in your state room, feel free to completely unpack and make yourself comfortable. After all, it is your new home away from home!


4. Everything You Need in One Place


Mega ships are like floating cities with everything you could possibly need on board. We're talking wi-fi, satellite TV, medical centres, doctors, laundry facilities, gyms, restaurants, shops, cinemas, theatres, spas, swimming pools, and more.


Once you step onboard, forget about the real world and focus on more important things, like relaxing and spending some quality time with the people you love.


5. Experience Different Cultures


Cruise ships travel at night, meaning you can wake up each morning in a new and exciting location. Not only does this mean you avoid wasting any daylight hours on transit, but it also gives more time to explore the culture and highlights of the next port.


Cruising is a great way to see amazing destinations with ease. Depending on the itinerary, ports of call are in major cities and picturesque villages, showcasing regional highlights and must-see hotspots.


6. Foodies’ Heaven


Speaking of buffet dinners, food is always a massive highlight on cruise vacations. From poolside barbecues to five-course meals, self-service buffets, and casual eateries, foodies are well and truly spoiled for choice.


Take your pick from the likes of fragrant Indian curry and spicy oriental delights, fresh seafood, American BBQ meats, homestyle dinners, late-night pizza, and poolside tacos. Oh, and did we mention unlimited desserts? It's safe to say you won't be going hungry while on board.


7. Plenty of Onboard Activities


Worried about keeping entertained during sea days? Rest assured that most cruises offer a wide array of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Expect things like:


Swimming pools and water parks


Fitness classes and gym facilities


Kids clubs


Cooking, dancing, computer


Basketball, tennis, soccer, and a range of court sports


History and cultural talks


Spas


Casinos


Libraries


8. Entertainment Extravaganza


Every night on a cruise ship is an entertainment spectacular. Think of the ship like a floating capital city with nightclubs, movies, live music, themed parties, magic, comedy, cabaret, and Broadway-style shows.


9. Great for Group Travel


Organizing a group trip? Save yourself the hassle and let travel experts do the heavy lifting for you. Just pick a date and itinerary, and the details with the wider group will be sorted.


Cruises are great for large groups, multigenerational families, friends trips, reunions, sports groups, or more – enjoy having the day to yourself and then catching up with the crew for dinner. With something for everyone and guaranteed ocean views, cruises will keep even your most discerning family member happy on holiday.


10. Sensational Spas


As you set sail to your next destination, why not indulge in a treatment from the lavish onboard spa? With extensive treatment menus, there is nothing better than taking some time out from the hustle and bustle of the main deck for a massage or facial.


Handy hint: Keep an eye out for spa sales in the ship newsletter on larger liners.


So, how'd it do? If that hasn't convinced you that a cruise holiday is a good idea, then not sure what will.