is a three day cruise worth it

3 Day Disney Cruise Review (Is it worth it?)

Are you considering booking a Disney Cruise vacation with a 3-day itinerary? Maybe you’re afraid 3-night cruises are too short.

Is a 3-day Disney cruise even worth it? Some experienced Disney cruisers will tell you that they would never cruise for less than 7 days and that a longer cruise is always the way to go. That may be true for some, but not everyone has the budget for an extensive Disney cruise vacation.

Maybe you aren’t able to take off work for a long enough period of time to enjoy a week-long cruise. Or perhaps you are worried a cruise isn’t the right type of vacation for your family, and you don’t want to commit to a long itinerary. Regardless of your reasoning for choosing a 3 day Disney cruise, it’s important to note that you will still receive the same amazing service, experience, and activities as those families sailing on Disney Cruise Line’s longer itineraries.

The post below will review my family’s time on a 3 day Disney cruise so that you can see all the reasons why we think a 3-night cruise is totally worth it! We’ll compare prices for short cruises vs long itineraries, and we will discuss the family-friendly entertainment that you’ll enjoy while cruising with Disney .

Disney 3 Day Cruise Price

Let’s be honest, a trip with Disney Cruise Line isn’t the cheapest way to travel. But like many things in travel, you get what you pay for. And the quality Disney provides makes up for the cost. If you are looking for a budget friendly way to sail on Disney cruise ships, the three-day cruises are typically cheaper than those with longer itineraries.

You can really trim down the extra costs by traveling on one of these shorter itineraries, especially if your sail dates aren’t during peak season. For example, my family’s 3-night Disney cruise on the Disney Fantasy was much more budget friendly than the longer cruises we have taken with Disney and other cruise lines.

Disney cruise ship, water slide, and toddler on beach with text overlay "Is a 3 Night Disney Cruise worth it?"

When you calculate excursions, tips, and items you buy onboard, this statement becomes even more accurate. There are several factors that go into the total price of a Disney cruise. Once you are aware of all the costs, you can possibly tweak your budget to save in some areas while maybe even splurging in others!

So, how much does a 3 day Disney cruise cost? In addition to the price you pay for booking your Disney Cruise stateroom, you will want to budget for some additional costs. We will cover these in more detail below, so you can better determine how much a 3 day Disney cruise vacation will cost you.

Port Adventures

Port Adventures (also known as shore excursions ) are those activities that you experience while you’re off the ship and while visiting ports of call. Many of Disney Cruise Line’s 3 day cruises are Bahamian cruises that visit Nassau and Castaway Cay. So, your port adventures would include the experiences you booked for those port stops.

For example, if you chose to book tickets to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas, you would include this activity in your budget for port adventures . The total cost of a Disney cruise can largely depend on the shore excursions you book. If you’re looking to save money, Castaway Cay is a great place to stop on your Disney cruise.

Since Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, you can enjoy the beaches and many activities at no additional charge to your cruise fare. In fact, this is how my family and I saved on one of our 3-night Disney cruises. We booked a 3 day cruise that was classified as a double dip to Castaway Cay . This means we visited the private island twice on our cruise!

Since we chose to spend our two days on Castaway Cay just hanging out at the beach, this port didn’t cost us any additional money. Even if you aren’t able to find a double dip cruise, a 3 day Disney cruise only has time to visit a couple of ports. Therefore, you shouldn’t need to budget a ton of more money to pay for excursions on the islands you are visiting.

Another additional cost you will want to consider when budgeting for your 3 night Disney cruise is gratuities. Guests vacationing with DCL are charged $14.50 a day per person for gratuities. So, if you are traveling as a family of four, you would spend $58 per day on gratuities alone. This means that the total amount of gratuities at the end of a 3 night cruise would be $174 for a family of four.

When you compare this to the gratuity amount after a 7-night cruise, you can really see how much money you save on shorter itineraries. The gratuities for a family of four on a seven-night cruise totals $406, which is quite a bit more than the Disney 3-day cruise tip amount. As you can see, if you extend your cruise length, that tip money can add up quickly!

Additional Purchases

The more days and nights you spend on the Disney ship, the more you may feel enticed to make additional purchases. For example, when my family and I travel with Disney Cruise Line, we often spend extra money on things like popcorn for the live shows, adult beverages, and keepsakes from the gift shops.

Port Canaveral Disney Cruise Line terminal

These little items can add up, but the final bill for them typically isn’t that extravagant after only 3 days. On the contrary, if you make these little purchases each day for seven days, your final bill may end up coming with a bit of sticker shock.

If you’re someone who likes to plan and stay organized with your vacations, you’ll love this printable Disney cruise planner I created. While planning my family’s last cruise, I designed graphic organizers and spreadsheets for each step of the planning process.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Originally, I created this printable cruise planner for my own personal use. However, I ended up making it “pretty” and deciding to share it with my readers. The 30+ page cruise planner includes organized sheets for the following:

hotel, flight, and transportation price comparisons
list of essentials for packing plus blank packing list
trip budget including many of the items discussed above
fish extender planner
planning timeline so you know what to do when

This planner also includes my daily itinerary complete with outfit planners. This REALLY helps in the packing process!

3 Day Cruise (but 4 Night Vacation)

As we discuss whether or not a 3 day Disney cruise is worth it, it’s important to point out that your vacation will (more than likely) be longer than three nights. If you are flying into the port for your cruise, I HIGHLY recommend getting there at least the day before embarkation day . Even if your travel party ends up making it to the ship, you will want to know your luggage has plenty of time to get there as well.

Flying into your departure port (at least) a day early allows for delayed flights, lost luggage, etc. This extra time allowance also extends your three-night cruise into a 4-night vacation! Similarly, you can extend your cruise vacation by adding an extra day to the end of your cruise.

Sometimes flight times and prices don’t work out to fly home immediately after you leave the ship. Instead, you may consider booking a hotel room for the day you disembark the cruise ship. This way you have more flexibility with flight times on the following day. This is an especially appealing idea if your Disney cruise sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Since Port Canaveral is less than an hour’s drive to Walt Disney World, you could get off the cruise ship and arrive at a Disney resort by late morning. It is much easier to say goodbye to your Disney cruise vacation when you know you have Disney World to look forward to!

3 Day Disney Cruise Activities

One of the reasons many families are nervous to book a 3 day cruise is that they are afraid they won’t have time to enjoy the Disney ship. From personal experience, I have to share that even though a 3-night Disney cruise is a shorter itinerary, you will still have plenty of time to experience the activities available on board. Now, don’t get me wrong. You definitely won’t get to see and do all the things that are offered on your cruise.

BUT cruisers say that very same thing about 7-night cruises! No matter how long you choose to sail, you will always feel like you missed some sort of activity or entertainment option. However, you spend so much time enjoying the activities you do get to experience that those options you missed really don’t matter in the end.

Our advice when planning a 3 day cruise is to go in super prepared. I like to look at personal navigators from prior cruises to see which activities are offered on a 3 day itinerary. From there, you can decide which activities are the most important to your family. More than likely, you won’t have a problem making time for each one.

As an example of what your schedule may look like and how much time you need for activities, I’m going to share my family’s first few hours onboard the ship for our 3-night cruise to the Bahamas. Once we embarked on the first day at around 11:30, we had time to complete all of the following activities before we even set sail:

meet Disney characters
buffet lunch at Cabanas
swim in ship pools
unpack and organize stateroom
visit guest services to request a stroller
order snacks from room service

Additionally, I want to include that Disney 3 day cruises feature the same magical experiences as longer cruises, including Pirate Night, Broadway style shows, character meet and greets, fireworks, swimming pools, and more!

Ways to Save Money

As mentioned above, many of the 3 day cruise itineraries visit the Bahamas. This means that you more than likely would be making a stop at Castaway Cay during your cruise. Being able to experience this beautiful private island in the Bahamas is reason enough to book a Disney cruise.

Since guests do not have to pay an additional fee to use the beaches and many of the activities on Castaway Cay, this island is the perfect port of call for budget conscious travelers. The buffet lunch on Castaway Cay is even included in your cruise fare!

If you’re looking for an additional way to save money on a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you can book a future cruise onboard for a discount. This way your next Disney cruise vacation can be a longer, pricier one with possibly a less expensive price tag. Disney Cruise Line offers 10% off the price of your next cruise if booked onboard, which can add up to a significant discount.

I like to scope out the upcoming cruise itineraries before sailing so I have an idea of what I would like to book once onboard. If you decide not to take the cruise you booked onboard, you can cancel it and get a refund on your deposit as long as you are inside the cancellation window. So, it’s really a win-win situation!

There are a few restrictions on this deal, including that you must sail within 24 months of the onboard booking. If you aren’t sure which cruise to book on board, you can purchase a “placeholder” for $250. This holds the onboard booking deal until you choose the cruise to apply it to.

Also, you may receive a discount on TWO staterooms as long as you put down a deposit on each. (These two staterooms must be booked on the same future cruise.) So, you can entice your family or friends to join you the next time around, and everyone can save money!

Final Review of 3 Day Disney Cruise

We hope you can tell just how much we love sailing with Disney Cruise Line. The cost and time commitments associated with longer cruises aren’t always feasible for every family. So, if you have been holding back booking a Disney 3 day cruise because you weren’t sure if it was worth it, we totally think it is!

Although we prefer a 5 night cruise or longer, my family and I would never hesitate to take a 3-night cruise with DCL. No matter which of the Disney ships you choose to book (Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, or Disney Fantasy), you will truly have the time of your lives!

After your trip, come back and give us your feedback! Do you think a 3 day Disney cruise is worth it or not? Comment below to share with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Hey, great read. I’m looking at the 2 or 3 night cruise from Sydney or Melbourne. On the 2 night cruise would it be worth it?

I’m so glad you enjoyed the article. A Disney cruise out of Australia sounds like an amazing experience! Personally, I think a 2 night cruise would be worth it for the same reasons mentioned above. Even though it’s not a long trip, you still get to enjoy the pools, shows, dining, and activities. Once onboard, you can book a second cruise for a discount and try a longer one then!

Advantages of taking a short 3 day cruise

Where can i explore on a 3 day cruise, take a seamless short cruise vacation.

At first, you might think that 3 days is not enough to enjoy all that a cruise has to offer, but you'd be extremely surprised to know that sometimes 3 days is just what you need. There can be many benefits when choosing a 3-day cruise, and here we will list a few of them:

1. A weekend getaway is extremely budget-friendly

First up, you’ll be saving a packet. It is arguably the most cost effective vacation option there is. There is plenty of cruise market competition with all the mainstream big ship lines vying for your dollars. Based on double occupancy, fares are under $100 a day on average and there are often great late deals to be had for much less. Cruise lines ensure short 3 day cruises are priced to lure new curious travelers with the promise of an exciting weekend getaway at sea. It helps to foster loyalty as a great first experience often leads to them booking a more expensive longer cruise in the future on their top-rated cruise ships. For many travelers it’s a no-brainer. Once you factor in flights and accommodations for a conventional weekend getaway, the price can run into thousands, and that’s even before meals, activities and entertainment. It’s a simple case of doing the math.

The cruise ship Jewel of the Seas from Royal Caribbean in the water at port next to the Liberty of the Seas.

2. An awesome quick getaway without losing precious vacation days

The average American only gets about two weeks of vacation time a year, so days off work are a very precious commodity. With a weekend cruise you can get by without eating into your vacation days, and be back around the office water cooler on Monday making all your colleagues envious. At worst, you need only take just one or two days off to really kick back and relax. Also a mid-semester weekend away is an awesome way for kids and college students to unwind without waiting for the school holidays when cruise fares and other travel prices skyrocket. Once you step on the ship, everything is taken care of – double occupancy accommodations, meals, entertainment and a host of immersive activities, so it’s about as worry-free a vacation as you can possibly get.

3. A mini cruise is ideal for a first taste of cruising

Dipping a toe into the world of cruising can seem a little daunting. A mini cruise over a long weekend is the ideal introduction, offering a bite-size taster of what the cruising life is really all about. Sample the cruise line hospitality, try out the amazing food, watch a live show, lounge by the pool and explore sunny shores, all in a short space of time. These short but sweet cruise vacations offer a good representation of what the cruising life is all about. It’s the perfect length of time to get a feel for the overall cruise ship experience. Before you disembark after a 3 day cruise filled with happy memories, you’ll likely already know whether the cruising life is for you.

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4. Cruise ships have great amenities for short cruises

Even the biggest, most comprehensive all-inclusive resort can’t really compare to the facilities laid on for cruisers, even on older ships which tend to operate short weekend cruises. There is little chance of boredom setting in during a long weekend cruise. Expect food for every conceivable palate – both for self-service and specialty dining, nightclubs, a casino, duty free shopping, kid-friendly pursuits, and other premium perks like pampering spa sessions. If you crave an action-packed animated vibe with an endless array of things to do, a short cruise is definitely for you.

5. And most cruise ships are perfect for a quick trip

In contrast to longer itineraries, short cruise voyages are mostly operated by a cruise line’s older ships. This is no bad thing. These ships still have all the frills, comforts and amenities you could ever need for a quick getaway. While these are still sizable ships, they are much more manageable compared to the newer mega ocean liners where you will be vacationing with 5,000 other cruisers. This is particularly pertinent for new cruisers. The largest vessels can seem overwhelming for a first timer. Test the waters with a 3 night cruise on a smaller ship and you’ll be ready to take on a longer voyage aboard one of the big vessels.

6. How about a quick getaway to a private island?

Some 3 night cruises and slightly longer sailings include stops at cruise lines’ very own private islands reserved for you and your fellow cruisemates. For many cruisers this is the big selling point of a short sailing, offering a ‘hybrid’ experience. It is basically an extension of the shipboard experience but on dry land with added space amid pristine tropical nature. These diminutive tropical islands have all the trappings of an island resort hideaway with pools, bars and lounges, beachfront cabanas, water sports and picture perfect white sands. Guests who come ashore can enjoy a day of snorkelling, kayaking or basking in the sunshine, as well as a vibrant beach BBQ and free-flowing cocktails on the sand.

The beach of a private island with palm trees in the front, white sand and clear water

7. In only 3 days, your short cruise becomes a lively floating vacation

Short cruises over the weekend differ from longer voyages in that they attract a more diverse range of guests. You’ll be rubbing shoulders with a smattering of mature couples, young families, groups and a sizable number of younger (often first-timer) cruisers keen to make the most of every moment of their limited free time. Weekend cruises tend to be more vibrant affairs with an animated social scene and action-packed activities filling up each day at sea. It is often made up of groups of young revelers with the sole purpose of having a fun time. For travelers keen to really let loose after a taxing working week, a 3 day cruise perfectly fits the bill.

8. Turn your 3 day cruise into a 3 day celebration!

The short duration means a 3 night cruise is an ideal option to gather up a group of friends or the whole family for a special celebration weekend at sea. Rather than get overwhelmed with the planning of a birthday celebration or an anniversary party at home, simply enjoy the moment hassle-free with meals and entertainment on tap. These celebrations at sea are extremely popular for both an intimate family affair, or perhaps a more lively girls’ getaway or bachelor party.

For obvious reasons a 3 night cruise is limited in the distance it can travel but there is still a variety of sunny shores and intriguing port cities to explore over the course of a long weekend. Gateway ports for short getaway cruises include Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Sunshine State ports offer by far the widest variety of 3 day itineraries , mostly to the Bahamas and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast. Slightly longer sailings depart from Galveston and New Orleans. On the West Coast Long Beach unlocks the culture and fine sandy beaches of Baja Mexico. As your time is limited during such a short time at sea, there is a tendency to skip time ashore and turn it into your own cruise to nowhere vacation. This way you can take full advantage of a much quieter ship and grab a prime sun lounger by the pool, however travel is all about new discoveries and shore excursions (even for half a day) are an essential part of the full cruise ship experience.

1. Nassau, Bahamas

Lying just 180 miles east of Miami, Nassau is the top short cruise destination and serves up a diverse array of on-land experiences for a steady stream of weekend cruisers, many of which are repeat visitors. The downtown area is dotted with Instagram-worthy remnants of its colonial past including Fort Fincastle, and browsing the wares of bustling Straw Market is a must for souvenir hunters. Nassau is the gateway to a series of fine beaches to kick back on and simply soak up the rays, or for a range of enriching ocean experiences. Take to the water with a catamaran sailing and snorkelling cruise, or get up close and personal with an organized dolphin encounter a more daring diving experience with sharks. Close by, the huge Atlantis resort is a destination in its own right. It features an epic water park complex sure to keep kids enthralled for hours.

A white bungalow at the end of a footbridge in clear blue water on Nassau in the Bahamas

2. Cozumel, Mexico

Located just off the Yucatan coastline, Cozumel is one of the region’s busiest cruise ports. It arguably offers the best bite-sized introduction to Mexican culture and modern lifestyle in a day, with a host of compelling attractions, all within easy reach of the ship. The laidback downtown waterfront is tailor-made for sampling tacos and tequila, as well as its legendary chocolate, or venture back in time at the San Gervasio Maya ruins. The island is fringed by pristine coral reefs offering excellent diving and snorkelling. For a more comprehensive full-day exploration, a short ferry crossing to the mainland opens up the upmarket resort of Playa del Carmen and world-class attractions like the Rio Secreto underground river and canyon, and the Tulum Mayan Ruins.

3. Ensenada, Baja Mexico

Once the capital of old Baja California, Ensenada exudes rich Mexican history with quintessential old world architecture, and is noted for its fabulous regional cuisine and wine growing heritage. It’s a bustling port city with an array of intriguing natural attractions with easy reach. Hemmed in by windswept beaches and rugged mountains, visitors looking for adventure will get their fix with jeep and horseback cross-country tours, kayaking and legendary surf spots. Most Ensenada short cruises also call at Catalina Island.

There is a cruise perfect for everyone, and a weekend mini cruise is well-suited to a wide range of travelers with diverse interests. Younger travelers enjoy the chance to party hard over a wild weekend, while for families it is an ideal opportunity to unwind as the kids are engaged in a host of organized activities each day. There is no other long weekend vacation option quite like it where you can enjoy perhaps a dozen different dining venues, take in a different show each night and lounge by a pool while the ship chases the ocean sunset over the horizon.

While a greater choice of dates will be available by booking ahead, last minute deals are possible if you are flexible. Be spontaneous and book a surprise short cruise for the family. In fact with eye-catching late cruise deals at as low as $60 a night, quick getaways at sea are almost as cheap as staying at home.

There is no doubt cruises are a unique style of travel. If you live close to a cruise port gateway you’ll be refreshed, relaxed and well-fed even before you reach your destination. Long airport lines and seemingly endless traffic jams virtually become a thing of the past for seasoned cruisers. Travel is all about escaping the stresses of daily life and even for a short 3 day vacation, a cruise ship does it best. It’s difficult to appreciate just how convenient, worry-free and inspiring travel really can be until you’ve sampled a short weekend getaway on the seas.

Check out these articles for more information on short cruises:

What is a Cruise to Nowhere?
The Best Ports & Destinations for Short Cruises
13 Top Tips to Master a Short Cruise

The Top 5 Short Cruises

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Are Short Cruises Worth it? (Tried and Tested, Pros and Cons)

If you’re considering taking a cruise you may be wondering if a short cruise is worth the price and if it’ll give you the true cruise experience.

I’ve been on over 50 cruises to date with a number of these being under 5 nights long.

I’ve had some brilliant short cruises – as well as some that I wouldn’t recommend.

In this post, we will be looking at what makes a short cruise worth it, or not.

Are Short Cruises Worth it?

There are many reasons why taking a short cruise is a good idea.

They’re cheap, easy, and can give you a taste of cruising. On the other hand, there are a few reasons why a short cruise may not be worth it for some passengers.

There’s less choice when it comes to shorter cruises and the onboard experience can be very different from a longer cruise.

I’ve been on short European and Caribbean itineraries and will talk about my experiences with both in this post.

I have enjoyed the majority of the short cruises that I’ve taken and there are definite benefits to short cruises – but there are a few things that you definitely need to be aware of.

What Counts as a ‘Short’ Cruise?

A cruise which is 5 nights or less would usually be classed as a short cruise.

3-night cruises are a very popular option – as are five-night cruises.

2 or 1-night cruises are occasionally available but these are less common.

Only 32% of cruises taken are five days or less. The most popular length of cruise is 7 nights.

Longer cruises are also popular – but the longer the cruise gets the less common they are, for obvious reasons.

I personally think the perfect cruise length is 10-14 days, it’s long enough to really get to know the ship and to settle into life on board, but it isn’t always crazily expensive.

Cheaper Short Cruises

One of the main reasons why people look to book short cruises is because they are cheaper than longer cruises.

While this is true it often isn’t as good a a deal as you would think. Although a ‘3-night’ cruise sounds like a lot once you take into account that the first and last day are just getting on and getting off the ship that really only leaves you with one cruising day.

This is, of course, the same for every cruise but it’s often overlooked when booking shorter cruises.

Price Per Night

The price per night on a shorter cruise is not normally as good value as on long cruises.

For a cruise line, the most difficult part of a cruise is turnaround day, where they have to get guests on board and also other guests off.

It’s much easier for the cruise line and crew to keep the same guests on board for longer.

For this reason, the price of a 14-night cruise is usually a little cheaper than two 7-night cruises. The same can be said for shorter cruises.

Shorter cruises may look like a great bargain but per night they can be more expensive. That said, if you have a limited budget a short cruise is a really good option.

Party Atmosphere Onboard/Theme Cruises

It’s often the case that a short cruise has a party atmosphere and you’ll generally find a younger crowd onboard.

I’ve taken three cruises like this, the first was a three-night cruise with Celebrity and the second and third were three-night 90s theme cruises with Marella .

Marella Themed Cruises

I’d definitely recommend a themed cruise line for people who want to have a relaxed fun weekend. The majority of guests on board haven’t been on cruises before, but many find they love the ship and the weekend.

My last short cruise was 90’s themed, and I took five first-time cruisers with me.

Find out all about that cruise here:

Marella Cruises are all-inclusive and include alcoholic and soft drinks onboard.

To find out more about why I’d recommend a Marella cruise to families and young cruisers, check out this post:

Top 7 Reasons to Take a Cruise With Marella Cruises

Non-themed Party Cruises

It isn’t just the themed cruises that tend to turn into party cruises.

If you book a cruise which is 3 nights, particularly if it’s over the weekend there is a chance that you’ll find many birthday parties and people celebrating onboard.

I took a 3-night cruise over a weekend with Celebrity Cruises to Amsterdam from the UK.

It was SO busy with people drinking in the bars on board that it was almost impossible to get a seat or get served at certain times. That said, if you book a weekend cruise this should be expected.

I really didn’t feel as though the cruise provided the true Celebrity experience but I did have a great time. I mostly booked the cruise to try the Celebrity Cruises food – and that did not disappoint!

It’s worth bearing in mind that short cruises, regardless of location or cruise line can feel like party cruises.

Celebrity are usually quite relaxed, but the weekend I spend onboard was anything but!

Our first ever cruise as a 2 night cruise to Guernsey, we already had a 14 night one booked a few months later and it felt like we were on a booze cruise, full of Hen and Stag Do’s. We vowed we’d never do a 2 night one again, weve only done 4 nights+ since then. We’re fairly young and like a good time, but it was far too much for us Emma Turner ( Facebook group member )

I did take a second cruise on Celebrity Silhouette which was VERY different from the first.

To learn how two cruises on the same cruise line, and same ship, can be so different, check out this video:

Is a Short Cruise a Good Way to Try a New Cruise Line?

A short cruise is a good way to try a new cruise line, but it’s important to remember that the experience onboard will likely not reflect a longer cruise.

It is important to remember that a short cruise on a cruise line may not provide you with a true representation of what that cruise line is usually like.

Short cruises are a great way to explore new cruise ships and try out elements like food and entertainment however some things will be different.

The 90s theme cruises I took were with Marella who included all-inclusive drinks as standard.

If the 90s cruise was the first Marella cruise that I had taken I may have thought that all Marella cruises were party cruises – because of the all-inclusive drinks. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

I took another Marella cruise straight after the Covid pandemic. There was lots of paperwork and vaccination requirements which made the organisation stressful, but once onboard we had a wonderful time and I never saw anyone drinking to excess.

Exploring The Ship

One of the best things to use a short cruise for is to explore a new cruise ship.

If you are unsure if you’d like a larger or smaller ship a short cruise can be a great way to find out. The physical ship itself remains the same regardless of the itinerary length!

If you’re trying a cruise line that is totally different from anything that you’ve cruised with before, a short cruise can be a good option.

If you’re used to American cruise lines and are considering a British line or an Italian line a short cruise can be a great way to get a taste of the major differences.

I booked a three-night Christmas Markets cruise with the British Cruiseline Ambassador in 2022. I had never sailed with them before, and was looking forward to finding out what they had to offer.

Although we made it onboard, that cruise was cancelled before we even set sail. It was a total disaster! Find out all about that “cruise that never was” here:

Short Cruises Mean You Can Pack Light

I am always pretty good at packing light, I’ve taken a two-week cruise with nothing but a carry-on cabin bag before, without too much trouble.

That said, it’s always nice not to have to pack too much. For a 3/5 night cruise, it is very easy to cruise with just a small bag, especially since shorter cruises often don’t have formal nights.

The 3 night Marella cruise I took was on board the Marella Explorer, and we actually had 16 drawers in our inside cabin – 16!

We only had 3 days’ worth of clothes so could have realistically spread out our clothes across all 16 drawers if we wanted to.. .

Packing light is not only a lot easier but it can also save you a lot of money. If you are flying to the embarkation port you may not need to pay extra for hold luggage on the plane.

Less Choice of Cruising Time

Short cruises tend to be for fixed dates and it’s not possible to choose other dates.

For the majority of cruises, the cruise will be repeated over and over so if you need to cruise a week later or a week earlier you can often do this without changing the itinerary.

A good example of this is the MSC cruise ships that cruise the Mediterranean. The ships repeat the same 7-night cruise over and over again for most of the year .

This gives you lots of flexibility to choose your cruise dates.

Mid Week/Weekend Itineraries

Short cruises tend to be less frequent. This can mean that if you want to do a cruise of a certain length you are extremely limited to only a few cruises per year.

Cruises that cruise over the weekend are incredibly sought after compared to mid-week cruises, so the prices of these are usually higher.

Short itineraries often happen between long itineraries – for example, if a cruise ship has been doing Eastern Caribbean cruises but changes to do a Western itinerary – there may be a smaller cruise in between which allows the ship to get into the new schedule.

It isn’t in the cruise line’s interest to have a ship empty for any period, so even if it is just a few days the ship will be filled and an itinerary sold.

On Occasion, There Will be no Drinks Packages or Other Offers

On some cruise lines, there are restrictions where drinks packages can only be purchased for cruises over a certain length.

On others who do offer drinks packages, these are usually more expensive per day than they would be on a longer cruise.

Some drinks packages for P&O Cruises are only available on cruises 5 days or longer in length

Drinks Packages are only available on cruises of 5 nights or longer, and while some of our Short Breaks are 5 nights, most are 4 nights and under. But it’s still great value to pay as you go. P&O Cruises

Many cruise lines are really trying to remove the party reputation of short cruises. As a result, they don’t sell drink packages on short cruises – to discourage drinking to excess.

This does depend a lot on the location of the cruise, cruises in the Caribbean tend to have a more laid-back party atmosphere than those in most of Europe.

emma cruises in olive grove restaurant on P&O's Iona

Other Perks May be Unavailable

You may find on a short cruise that other extras, found on longer cruises are missing.

These may just be small things like no snacks in the bars or lounges and no welcome drinks – but if you’re used to cruising on long itineraries the difference is noticeable.

I don’t know if it’s still the same, but a while ago we found some of the little extras, like nibbles with drinks and quite a few other things were missing. False economy as many people use these cruises to see what it’s like. There were some new people on our dining table and we’d spend a lot of the time saying “it’s not usually like this “. We sailed with P&O. Kimberly Moore.

There may also be other perks which are for cruises only over a certain length.

For example, P&O cruises offer a coach transfer with some of their fares, however, this isn’t added to cruises less than 5 nights long.

It isn’t normally a big deal but just something to be aware of and look out for.

Trying New Cabin Grades

Upgrading your cabin.

On the 3-night Celebrity cruise I took, I actually decided to book a balcony cabin. I am often in an inside cabin or outside if I am feeling lucky.

To be able to cruise in a balcony is a real treat. Due to the fact that the cruise was so cheap, it wasn’t much more expensive to upgrade to a balcony – so I did.

If you are used to inside cabins I would suggest doing the same – but be aware that it can be quite hard to convince yourself to go back to an inside cabin once you’ve had a balcony!

I have managed it since, but there is nothing quite like having a balcony to watch a sail in or sail away.

norwegian fjord cruise view from balcony emma cruises in geiranger

Downgrading Your Cabin

On the other hand, a short cruise does provide you the opportunity to cruise in a cheaper cabin than one that you would normally book.

I’ve shared an inside cabin with my brother and parents on a short cruise. I wouldn’t like to share a cabin with 3 other people for too long – but for 3/5 nights I think it’s a great option.

Many cruise lines will have discounted prices for the third or fourth passengers in a cabin, so if you share the savings equally you can all have a discounted cruise fare.

Shorter Cruises Give You More Chances to Cruise

Without taking short cruises I wouldn’t be able to cruise as much as I do.

Short cruises allow you to really make the most out of your annual leave and you can take advantage of things like public holidays.

When you use public holidays as an opportunity to cruise, it isn’t possible to cruise to exotic faraway destinations in a few days – but it’s a great break from everyday life.

The more forward planning you do the better the chance that you’ll be able to plan your cruises well and require the minimum amount of time off work.

On disembarkation day you can realistically expect to be off the ship by 9 am so in some circumstances you can actually take a half-day or head back to work!

This might not feel that great at the time but if it means you can cruise more in the future by saving your annual leave it can be a great option.

Disembarkation day is usually pretty sad anyway.

A Short Cruise Doesn’t Have to Mean Limited Ports

You may think that by taking a short cruise you will be missing out on ports that you may have otherwise visited.

It’s important to remember that longer cruises may have more sea days than shorter cruises and it is actually possible to pick a cruise that includes more than one port per day.

I took a short cruise with Celestyal Cruises. The cruise was 4 nights long and we visited a whopping 7 ports! 7 ports in 4 nights is almost unheard of within the cruise industry – but this is what Celestyal specialises in.

Celestyal are a Greek cruise line and if you are cruising to Greece I’d strongly recommend them. It’s the best way to be surrounded by Greek people, culture and food.

To learn more about a Celestyal cruise, check out my review here:

Celestyal Cruises Review and Daily Photo Diary .

One Night Cruises are Occasionally Possible

Believe it or not, it is possible to take a one-night cruise although whether this really counts as a cruise or not is up to you.

The majority of large American cruise lines don’t do one-night cruises but some small British cruise lines like Fred Olsen or Ambassador.

A one-night Fred Olsen cruise will only set you back around $150 which is a bargain when you consider that the cruise includes your accommodation and meals.

Fred Olsen does have small, old traditional ships so they may not provide the cruising experience that many are used to. These one-night cruises are also only from the UK.

I took a longer cruise with Fred Olsen “In search of the Northern Lights.” Find out all about sailing with a traditional cruise line like Fred Olsen here:

Where do You Find Short Cruises?

When on almost any cruise line or travel agent website you will be able to filter your cruise search for cruises of a short duration.

Flexibility is Key

The key to finding a good short cruise is to either be flexible with dates or be flexible with the location of your cruise.

Sometimes cruises may start in one port and finish in another, which can cause logistical problems.

On the website, you can search by number of nights and also by cruise line. If you did want to cruise at a specific time with a specific line you would have to be flexible about the itinerary.

Similarly, if you wanted to cruise to a specific place on a short cruise you would probably have to be flexible when it comes to the cruise line.

My parents took a short, five-night out-of-season cruise on MSC Seaview. This was sailing from, and returning to Marseilles in France. It cost £226 – including gratuities! They also got a free upgrade to a balcony cabin for that price .

They were in France anyway visiting friends, so it was easy to just add this quick cruise into their schedule.

The great about short cruises is they give you the opportunity to try something new!

Would I Recommend Short Cruises?

A short cruise can be a brilliant way to try out a new cruise ship or cruise line. Short cruises are often very affordable and are able to fit around the rest of your life because they are so short.

That said, any short cruise shouldn’t be taken as a representation of a longer cruise with that cruise line.

Before You Go

Find out how you can get the best cabin for your budget in the article below:

Get The Best Cabin for Your Budget! Hints, Tips and Examples of How to Save Money Without Downgrading Your Cabin Type

Is it best to book with the cruise line or use an agent to get the best cruise deals? Find out here:

Is It Best To Use a Travel Agent or Book Directly With The Cruise Line? (Money-Saving Hints and Tips For Booking, and Much More…)

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

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Pros and Cons of Taking a Short Cruise (2-5 Days)

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: May 14, 2020 - Last updated: September 30, 2020

Pros and Cons of Taking a Short Cruise (2-5 Days)

Are you considering taking a short cruise? Maybe it’s your first cruise and you just want to see if you’ll enjoy it before committing to a longer trip. Or you’re a seasoned cruiser just looking to enjoy a quick getaway. Find out why you should (or shouldn’t) take a 2-5 day cruise for your next vacation.

Although there are signs that the cruise industry will start to open back up later in 2020, some travel restrictions likely will still be in place. The future of cruising in the short term will include more options for shorter itineraries leaving from domestic ports.

But should you take a short cruise? Or is it not worth the hassle to board a ship if you’ll only be on board for a few days? Read the pros and cons of taking a short cruise to help you decide.

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my Disclosure Policy .

Pro: Short cruises can be very budget-friendly

It might be a no-brainer that a shorter cruise can cost less than a long voyage, but the cost per day for short cruises can also be less. Sometimes significantly!

Cruise lines that continuously run the same itinerary for short cruises need to fill their ships every few days, so they often offer rock-bottom pricing and free perks. We’ve taken some short Bahamas cruises where the entire cruise fare was less than the taxes and port fees.

You can do back-to-back short cruises on a budget

If you want to take a longer vacation, look for an inexpensive short cruise that repeats its itinerary. Often, you’ll be able to book two back-to-back four- or five-day cruises for less than the cost of one seven-day cruise.

Too repetitive for you? Use a free tool like Cruisemapper’s Ships’ Schedules to find out if a different itinerary is scheduled before or after your cruise.

You might also like: How to Save Money on Cruises

Pro/Con: Short cruises can have a party atmosphere

A ship full of people laughing, dancing, and drinking lots of cocktails might sound terrible to you. Or maybe that’s exactly what you’re looking for!

Regardless of what you want from your cruise, be aware that some short cruises are known for getting pretty rowdy. If you’d rather not have to deal with that, steer clear of the budget cruise lines as well as those that cater to younger adults.

Premium cruise lines like Celebrity and Princess could be a good fit for those looking for a more refined (but still fun) experience. Looking for a party? Try a mainstream cruise line like Carnival or Norwegian.

Tip: If just about everyone on the ship gets a free drink package (like with NCL’s Free at Sea ), expect a party atmosphere. Same goes for Spring Break sailings.

Pro: A short cruise can be a trial run

Never cruised before? Or, maybe you want to try a new cruise line but you’re not so sure if you’ll like their style. A short voyage can be a trial run to see what you think of the experience.

A “taster” cruise is the perfect way to see if you like cruising

Committing to a longer itinerary when you’ve never set foot on a cruise ship before might make you nervous. I can relate! I was actually terrified of the idea of cruising before I took my first one.

A short cruise is a low-stakes way to see if you’ll actually enjoy cruising, without investing too much time or money.

Try out a new cruise line

Do you usually stick with one or two favorite cruise lines, but you want to see if you might like a different one? Cruise lines can have very different “personalities”. A short voyage on a cruise line you’ve never tried before can help you figure out if you want to book a longer itinerary in the future.

Con: Short cruises don’t have as many itinerary options

Two- to five-day cruises tend to visit the most popular cruise ports that are located a shorter distance from the embarkation port. If you have your heart set on a more exotic or unusual port, odds are you’ll have to visit it on a longer cruise.

Cruise ships can’t travel very far in a few days

Forgive me if I sound like Captain Obvious, but you can’t travel very far on a short cruise. Depending on where your cruise embarks, it might be a fairly long distance to the closest cruise ports.

Also, cruise ships don’t move very fast compared to other means of transportation. The average cruise ship’s speed is only about 20-24 knots (23-28 mph/37-44 kmh).

Your itinerary may only include one or two cruise ports because of the travel time needed to get to the port(s) and back. For example, a three-day Caribbean cruise from Florida might only visit one port. But a seven-day cruise might visit five or six.

Tip: Pick an embarkation port that’s closer to your desired ports of call. You’ll usually visit more destinations in the same timeframe. Think San Juan, PR instead of Miami or Port Canaveral.

Pro: A short cruise can fit into a busy schedule

Do you feel like you never have time to fit a week-long vacation into your schedule? A short cruise, especially if it runs over a weekend or holiday, can be just the escape you need without leaving the real world for too long.

Especially if you live within driving distance of a cruise port, you can easily fit in a short cruise by tacking on just one PTO or vacation day to a long weekend.

Con: You might have to fly to the cruise port

If you live within driving distance of a port, even a smaller one, you’ll likely be able to take a short cruise without the stress and hassle of airplane travel before and after your voyage.

But if you have to fly to the port city, it might not seem worth taking a round-trip flight for a cruise that only lasts a few days.

I like to spend a few days in the port before and after a short cruise. It just makes that annoying plane travel seem worth it! If you have to fly and you have some extra time, consider extending your vacation to include a few days on land.

Tip: Even if your cruise is only a few days long, plan to get to the port at least the day before if you’re flying. Flights can be delayed or canceled, and the ship won’t wait for you!

Pro: You can pack light for a short cruise

Does packing for a long vacation stress you out? If you plan carefully, you can easily pack for a short cruise in just a small suitcase or duffel bag.

Plus, when you get back home, you won’t be faced with an enormous amount of post-vacation laundry when you unpack your suitcase!

Tip: Don’t forget to pack a well-stocked carry on bag for embarkation day so you can enjoy your first few hours on the ship. Even on a very short cruise, your room might not be ready right away and luggage can take hours to be delivered.

Pro/Con: Short cruises often include a sea day or two

Sea days: do you love them or despise them? Whatever your opinion, even short cruises often include one or two days when you’re not in port.

When your cruise only sails for a few days, this can result in a higher percentage of time at sea compared to a longer cruise to the same area.

Although the idea of more free time to relax or explore the ship’s amenities appeals to some cruisers, others might not like the idea of a day or two at sea on such a short vacation.

Chose your cruise ship carefully to ensure you’ll get the most enjoyment out of your sea days. Adventurous types might enjoy a ship that features waterslides, a rock climbing wall, or a go-kart racetrack. If you’re looking forward to utter relaxation, pick a ship with private cabana rentals, an adults-only pool, or a top-rated spa.

Pro: Drink packages can be more affordable

If you plan to indulge in some adult beverages, buying an unlimited drink package can give you the peace of mind that you won’t be seeing a huge bar tab at the end of your cruise. But a package isn’t cheap, and you can’t opt out of paying for days you won’t use it.

Unless you’re lucky enough to score a free beverage package, you’ll find yourself shelling out an extra $50-100 US per day (plus gratuity) for each day of your cruise. On a longer cruise, that can add up to some serious cash!

If you’re cruising for just a few days, the added cost of a package might be more affordable for your budget. Plus, you’re more likely to get your money’s worth from your package on a short cruise. On a longer sailing, you might take a day or two off from drinking, but you’re still charged for that day.

You might also like: Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

Con: There’s not much time to make new friends

Something I love about longer cruises is having the time to really get to know some of the other passengers and staff. But, if your cruise only lasts a few days, there’s not much time to make new friends.

Guests on a cruise are often more friendly and open to meeting new people than they would be in other settings. There’s something about the cruise atmosphere that encourages complete strangers to strike up a conversation! I know lots of cruisers who’ve made lifelong friends on longer voyages. But on a short cruise, you might only see your new buddies around the ship once or twice, not nearly enough for a lasting connection.

On a longer sailing, the crew members at your favorite bars and restaurants will usually remember your name and your preferences. Especially on budget-priced mainstream cruise lines with a higher crew-to-passenger ratio, they’re often too busy to get to know passengers who will be leaving in only a few days.

Pro: Pricing for premium stateroom categories is more affordable on a short sailing

On longer voyages, the price difference between different stateroom categories can be substantial. On a short sailing, that difference is often much less.

This could be the perfect opportunity to try a more luxurious stateroom class without breaking the bank! Even if the cost of a balcony cabin is usually out of your price range on longer cruises, you may find them far more affordable on a 2-5 day cruise.

Always wanted to try a full suite, but they’re way too expensive on a longer voyage? Treat yourself to a taste of luxury for much less on a short cruise.

Or, if you want to keep your budget as small as possible, choose an inside stateroom. They’re a good option if you know you’ll be keeping busy experiencing the ships amenities and the ports of call.

You might also like: Is an Interior Cabin Right for Your Cruise?

Pro/Con: There may not be a formal night

For cruise lines that do offer formal nights, some won’t have one on shorter itineraries. If you love dressing up and seeing your fellow passengers in their finest, choose a slightly longer cruise.

If you’re firmly anti-formalwear when you’re on vacation, a two- or three-day cruise could be a great choice for you!

Of course, no cruise line is going to force you into a cocktail dress or a suit and tie on formal night. But, you might not be allowed to enter the main dining room without wearing formal (or formal-ish) attire. You can always have dinner at the buffet, order room service, or try an alternative dining venue.

But if some of your family enjoy dressing up and some don’t, choosing a shorter cruise without a formal night can help keep the peace!

Pro/Con: Short cruises are usually on older ships

Most cruise lines reserve their newest, fanciest ships for longer cruises. If you prefer the mega ships with the newest upgrades and activities, it’s rare that they sail short voyages.

But older ships can have their charm as well! They’re often smaller, so they can be easier to navigate. Lots of cruise lines have been remodeling older ships with up-to-date décor and new restaurant and bar themes. Just because a ship is older doesn’t mean it will look shabby.

Many older ships can feel less crowded, too! As cruise lines continue to try to maximize revenue, they pack their newest ships with opportunities to make money, like fee-based restaurants and shops. Older ships often have more pools and hot tubs, and larger spaces to socialize and relax.

Pro: Short cruises are great for group travel

If you’ve ever tried to get your extended family or a large group of friends to come on a cruise with you, you know how much of a challenge that can be. Scheduling conflicts, differing budgets, and of course those people who don’t want to be “stuck on a boat” for a week can make planning a group cruise really difficult.

Shorter cruises, especially if they sail over a weekend, can be much easier to fit into everyone’s schedule and budget. Reluctant cruisers often are more willing to try a short sailing.

If your group is large enough, you may even be eligible for a group discount, or even a free cruise for the organizer! Ask your travel agent or the cruise line for details.

Con: You’ll often leave a short cruise right as you’re learning your way around

Finding your way around a cruise ship can be a bit confusing for the first few days, until you get comfortable with the layout. But if your cruise only lasts a few days, it might take you that long to find your way around. Then it’s disembarkation day!

Each ship has its own design quirks, and sometimes it’s tough to figure out how to get from point A to point B, even if you’re on the right deck.

There are plenty of ships’ maps (usually near each elevator bank), and crew members to help you if you can’t figure out how to get somewhere. But it always feels better when you can navigate a ship confidently without getting lost.

Pro/Con: So much to do, so little time

Even short cruises have tons of entertainment options, dining venues, and on board activities. The problem on a short cruise is prioritizing what you really want to do!

Thankfully, cruise lines provide each stateroom with a newsletter every evening so you can map out your must-do activities for the next day. Even with the best planning, you’ll never get to see and do everything that’s offered on board in just a few days. All the more reason to book another cruise!

Don’t forget to check out these resources when you’re planning a short cruise:

What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
The 19 Best Cruise Accessories You Need to Pack
How to Make a Cruise First Aid Kit

What do you think about short cruises? Do you love them or not so much? Let me know in the comments below!

If you liked this post, I’d love it if you’d share it on your social media channels. It really helps my blog to grow so I can keep bringing you free cruise tips, ideas, and reviews. Thanks so much for reading!

You can follow me on social media on Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

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Cruises can be a great vacation idea, especially if you’re not overly interested in trip planning.

One of the most significant benefits of a cruise is that much of the work is done for you, including the itinerary, dining and entertainment options. That convenience can sometimes come with a big price tag, so it’s normal to wonder, “Are cruises worth it?”

Let’s look at the different aspects of cruising, what’s included on a cruise and how that compares against other vacations.

What’s included on a cruise

One of the best parts about a cruise is that it's all-inclusive, at least to a certain degree.

The true extent of what’s included will depend on your cruise line and any packages that you have, but in general, here’s what's included:

Meals, including fast food, sit-down restaurants and some room service.

Other live entertainment.

Pool access and pool towels.

Water, coffee and tea.

Housekeeping.

Port taxes.

» Learn more: Smart tips for getting the best deal on your next cruise

What’s not included on a cruise

The free options are likely more than enough to keep you entertained, but if you’re interested in more, the following items typically incur additional costs:

Specialty beverages.

Specialty restaurants.

Spa treatments.

Gift shop purchases.

Excursions.

Some onboard events, such as wine tastings and cooking classes.

Gratuities.

Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited selection of alcohol onboard.

Pros and cons of a cruise

Is a cruise worth it? It can be, though you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of your cruise before deciding to book. Here are a few benefits and drawbacks to most cruise vacations:

As you can see, many of the positives of booking a cruise come from convenience. A cruise allows you to pay a single company, after which you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation.

Even if you spend more, you’re still only dealing with a single business and one point of sale. It’s simple and takes far less effort than researching all of your destinations, finding which activities are available, booking accommodations and figuring out where to eat.

But along with the convenience comes a lack of flexibility. Sure, you may be glad to stop at whatever port the cruise line chooses, but what if you’d like to stay overnight? What if you’ve already been to the location and prefer to go elsewhere?

As a guest aboard a ship, you have little control over where you’re going and how long you’ll be there.

And because most cruises aren’t totally all-inclusive , you may spend more than you planned once you're onboard. If you want to enjoy a few alcoholic drinks, dine at a specialty restaurant or take a guided onshore excursion, the additional costs can add up quickly.

» Learn more: Cruises where you don’t need a passport

Comparing a cruise to other vacations

So what does it look like when you compare a cruise with other vacations? A trip has many different aspects, including flights, accommodation, meals, activities and more.

Here’s a look at a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Carnival , which is typically a more budget-friendly cruise line.

It takes off in mid-July and makes three stops across five nights, including Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas and Carnival’s private island before returning home.

When adding in taxes, fees and port expenses, you’re looking at $2,184 for two guests — and that doesn’t include tips, Wi-Fi, port excursions or alcohol. However, you get all meals, an interior stateroom, stops in two different countries and plenty of entertainment.

In contrast, here’s a look at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach in the Bahamas:

A five-night stay here would cost $1,785 for two adults, and this beachfront resort includes all meals and drinks, even alcohol. You’ll also have access to Wi-Fi, pools, live entertainment and other activities.

Although the resort price itself is less than the cruise, this doesn’t consider the price of flights to the Bahamas, which may cost more than you’d pay when heading to Miami for a cruise.

It also doesn’t include tipping or the cost of other excursions, similar to what you’d find on a ship.

Finally, by booking with a single resort, you’re locked into one destination, which may not work for you if you’re interested in visiting more than one country.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

If you’re interested in planning a cruise

So, are cruise ships worth it? They can be, but it’s a personal decision.

Cruises aren’t right for all types of travelers, especially those who value flexibility during their vacations. However, they can present good value to guests looking for convenience, especially since so much of the effort around planning a trip is eliminated.

Before you book a cruise, compare the price of your vacation against similar options — including accommodations, transportation and meals — to decide whether it's really worth it for you.

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Carnival Cruise Lines

Are 3-4 Day Cruises worth it?

By pseudochicken , July 13, 2009 in Carnival Cruise Lines

pseudochicken

I could imagine living in Florida that the 3 or 4 night cruises to either the Bahamas are the Caribbean with one or two ports of call are great getaways. The prices are very attractive, especially in Mid-December just for the Holidays.

What's difficult for me to gauge however, is whether or not it is worth it to go on a short cruise, flying in all the way from New Jersey. I would either pick a cruise embarking from Miami, Ft. Laud., or Tampa, so fortunately I could fly there via Southwest.

But I was wondering if it actually is worth considering going on a 4-day getaway cruise? I wouldn't want to spend too much, but just enough to kick back and relax. Also, it would have to land over a weekend, as I don't want to miss too much work.

I am posting it here because it seems that Carnival has the most of these getaway type cruises with the 8 Fantasy class ships sailing almost year-round 3-5 night cruises.

RCI and Celebrity have some pretty good deals too, but not quite as good as Carnival.

I'm open to all opinions and suggestions!

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Iv seen some super deals out of Florida on RCL too, often cheaper than Carnival (but they will have smaller cabins). Too bad you cant go on a longer cruise and can only be away 3 or 4 days. We like 5 days, shorter does seem too short and you just get thru the muster drill and get started and its over.

The 3-night cruises are ridiculous. I had a friend turn 50 in Feb and she's a teacher so we had to cruise Pres. Day Week. So 5 of us went on the Majesty of the Seas, four nights, Mon-Fri. That wasn't TOO bad since we had three FULL days onboard (although EVERY day with the Majesty, unfortunately, is a port day).

However, the price to fly from JFK to MIA that particular week was pretty outrageous. Flying home the following Monday was a MUCH better deal so I ended up doing a b2b (the other four went home...my sister met me for cruise #2, which was Fri-Mon). With the drop in air for flying home Mon, plus the cost of the extra cruise, I ended up spending about $150 more than I would have had I flown home Friday...but I ended up with three extra nights onboard.

Restarting on Fri was kind of like starting anew since the other four left and my sister joined me. So I had a sense of what a 3-night cruise would be and let me tell ya, if that was ALL I had, I would've killed myself.

Not much really goes on on day 1 and you don't leave until 5pm. Sat and Sun are all day in port. Mon at 9am you're already off the ship!

Coming from NJ, I would be inclined to say no. I live in Arizona so the 2 I've done were via a flight that was under an hour. If you could get a smoking deal, I might say give it a try. But otherwise, I would say to not do one less than 5 days. I enjoyed the 4 day to Cabo because we had 2 sea days to relax but the 3 day didn't feel relaxing at all!

Well, keep in mind, those short duration cruises mainly service folks who live in the area of that particular port. So, if you like like 50 miles away, its a great getaway - so, for them, it would be worth it.

Keep in mind also, there are those who are from Montana, or Kansas or Wisconsin, or Tennesse that would have to fly much farther than you, and for them I would recommend nothing less than a 7 day.

You being from NJ, I would go for a cruise out of NY.. And me being from CA, I will be doing a 7 day caribbean, so I would have to fly all the way over to FL, would not do that for a 4 day.

I could imagine living in Florida that the 3 or 4 night cruises to either the Bahamas are the Caribbean with one or two ports of call are great getaways. The prices are very attractive, especially in Mid-December just for the Holidays. What's difficult for me to gauge however, is whether or not it is worth it to go on a short cruise, flying in all the way from New Jersey. I would either pick a cruise embarking from Miami, Ft. Laud., or Tampa, so fortunately I could fly there via Southwest. But I was wondering if it actually is worth considering going on a 4-day getaway cruise? I wouldn't want to spend too much, but just enough to kick back and relax. Also, it would have to land over a weekend, as I don't want to miss too much work. I am posting it here because it seems that Carnival has the most of these getaway type cruises with the 8 Fantasy class ships sailing almost year-round 3-5 night cruises. RCI and Celebrity have some pretty good deals too, but not quite as good as Carnival. I'm open to all opinions and suggestions!

BlueJacketsFan1

My wife and I talked about shorter cruises, and we thought that anything less than 7 days would kind of be a tease. Now, if we lived close to the pier. Than that would make a difference. That could be more like a weekend away.

We did a 5 day once. But will never do less than 7 days again. We just

did not think it was worth it.

If you can line up a 3 plus 4 day back to back to new ports may be a nice option.

we are from PA and we did a 4 days cruise and loved it, but we all agreed we need to go on a longer cruise the next time. We only did 4 day because it was our first cruise and we weren't sure what cruising was about or if we would like it. IMO it is a nice little relaxation, especially if you don't go all out when you get to your port of call.

You just need to decide if you didn't go on a cruise what else would you do and look at the money that would cost, don't forget in the price of a cruise all your food is included, some people forget that and say cruises are too expensive

GottaLuvCruising

We choose to live in Florida, in part, for easy access to cruise ship terminals. So for us, the shorter cruises ARE worth it. It's a quick get-away, escape from reality, without using our vacation time.

But if I had to fly in, between the time and expense, I don't think I'd book shorter cruises.

It is most definately worth it. We sailed on the Destiny last Oct and this past Feb and really had a good time. Health issues have come up or we would be doing another 4 day cruise this Oct. Oh well, Feb isn't that far away.:)

We have only done 4 and 5 day cruises and loved every one! We usually stay a day after the cruise in Miami or a day before which helps lengthen the vacation. We cruise 4 and 5 days for various reasons......they are cheaper for the most part........they use less vacation time (especially if they fall over a weekend)......and the kids can't get bored in four or five days! We fly from MD and have always found airfare for under 200 dollars, so for us...it is well worth it. Would I like to do a 7 or 9 day?? #$&& yeah!! Just haven't had the opportunity yet......thought about the Pride out of Baltimore but it was still waaaay cheaper to fly to Miami and take the Destiny! Luv the Destiny! 4 and 5 day cruises and affordable balconies! Good Luck!

We re in CO and did a 4-day out of Cape Canaveral a few years ago. It was our first experience on a large cruise ship. We ended up with one day before and 2 days after on the beach in Cape Canaveral. That made a perfect spring break for our then 15 and 17 kids. When I was looking for a weekend get-away for DH and myself, found this and was too inexpensive to pass up and we were able to take the kids.

BTW, DS (15) loved the teens thing and DD stayed pretty much with us most of the time.

If the port is not close to you, extending it to make a week was really nice for us.

Friday we leave for 5 days on the Triumph and we are doing the same thing - arrive day before and staying two days after the cruise.

I would love to take a longer cruise however we all take our vacation time and spread out how is best for us. I would hate to book a 7-day and have to rush back to reality as soon as we disembark.

If you are in NJ, why not take a shorter cruise out of NYC? There are 5 and 6 dayers out there...

We choose to live in Florida, in part, for easy access to cruise ship terminals. So for us, the shorter cruises ARE worth it. It's a quick get-away, escape from reality, without using our vacation time. But if I had to fly in, between the time and expense, I don't think I'd book shorter cruises.

I agree! If you have to fly in it seems like it wouldn't be worth if for the shorter cruise. I like the 7 day. But we are going on the Destiny on August 10th for 5 days for a quick getaway before school starts up again. BUT we can drive to the port.

Captain'sgirl

We live on Long Island, and just took a 4 day cruise to Canada. While it was nice, we much prefer a 7 day cruise. You no sooner get underway and there is talk about disembarkation. Too short to really enjoy!

Living in FL, I think they are a great getaway without using hardly any vacation time.

In fact, we leave on a "shortie" this Thursday!:D

If I lived farther than a days drive from the port....probably not so worth it.

I've done the 4 day Sensation twice out of Port Canaveral - coming from Toronto so we had to fly in.

First trip we stayed a few days before/after in Florida doing Disney, shopping, etc so we were actually away for just over a week.

Second time we my mom, sister and I had a girls trip and just flew in/out for the cruise. The last day was tiring spending all day travelling to get home, but it was still worth it to get away for a few days.

Both trips were AMAZING, and got me hooked on cruising for life!! So, I think the 4 days are great - that said, I am so looking forward to my upcoming 7 day Triumph cruise since the time just flies by on a shorter cruise.

I'm sure you would have a great time if you gave it a try!!

Guest TropicOne

If you live within driving distance then yes.

Our first cruise was 5 days & we thought that was too short. Seems to take a while to learn your way around the ship, then you have to leave. I don't think the quickie cruises would satisfy me unless I had been on the ship enough to have the floor plan comitted to memory & I lived really close to port.

3-4 day cruises are very different from 7 day cruises. They are worth it, IMHO, but don't expect the same typ eof experience. The 3 and 4 days are more about just having a blast rather than about relaxing for a week. They have a strong party atmosphere.

I might be less inclined to consider them if I had to fly or even drive a long way to get to them though.

We're doing a 5 day which wasn't our first choice so we're flying in 2 days early and throwing in a stop to key west to try and make up for it.

When we started cruising they were 4 and 5 day cruises. I hated to leave the ship so soon. Now we only cruise 7 days, minimum.

familyof4cruising

We can only leave our kids for 3 or 4 days ( need my mom to watch them)...so these short cruises are perfect for a quick getaway!

Last year we took them with us on Columbus day weekend and it was perfect because they did not miss school.

I only do them when I have free or almost free airfare since I live in Maryland. I schedule them around a holiday weekend or as part of a longer vacation. I prefer a longer cruise, but a 3 day is often better than nothing.

Thanks for the replies so far and the good advice.

I think I am getting the sense that a 3-4 day cruise would not be worth it if I have to fly in.

The 5 night cruises are tempting, but that means I would have to take at least 4 days off work and I might as well just do a 7 day cruise and take 5 days off.

Too bad... :(

I'll have to see what's available out of NY, Philly or Baltimore. I would consider a Bermuda cruise but they are too expensive.

I also prefer port days to sea days. I like going to new destinations, even if I end up putting my butt down on a beach and relaxing there.

My hopes & dreams seem pretty much dashed. :(

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Is a cruise right for you? Start by asking yourself these 7 questions

If you've landed on this page, you're probably thinking about taking a cruise for the first time. But you're also wondering if a cruise is really right for you.

You're now in a precarious position — one where you might be unduly influenced by friends, family or even strangers with thoughts on cruising that might not necessarily be helpful.

If you ask a cruising fan whether you should go on a cruise, the chances are she or he is going to tell you just one thing: "All cruises are stupendous. There's no way you won't love it."

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

The world of cruise fans is like that. It's a bit of a cult .

On the flip side, if you ask a non-cruiser whether you should try a cruise, you might get the opposite response: "Why would anyone want to go on a cruise?"

Non-cruisers are non-cruisers for a reason.

The truth is, neither response is what you need to make an informed decision.

The answer to whether a cruise is right for you is much more nuanced. It depends a lot on what sort of traveler you are. Do you like trips that are well planned out in advance or trips that start with no plan at all? Are you a fan of resort environments? Do you like group travel? Do you love being pampered above all else?

And, perhaps most important: What do you like to eat when you're away from home?

The answer to whether you will like a cruise depends on stuff like that — and much more.

As a travel writer who has specialized in cruising for more than two decades, I've been on a lot of cruises (more than 200 on nearly 170 distinct ships), and I've met thousands of cruisers. I've talked to many of them about what they like and don't like about cruising.

What I've learned during all these conversations is that, indeed, a cruise is not for everyone – even if it can be a wonderful experience for a lot of people.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

When people ask me personally whether they should try a cruise, I start by telling them that it depends. And then I tell them to ask themselves the seven questions below. Call it my "should-I-cruise" litmus test.

In answering such questions, you'll start to get a sense of whether you're ready to join the ever-growing cruising cult — or if you'd rather leave the high seas (and rolling rivers) behind.

Do I prefer trips that are heavily planned out in advance or left up to serendipity?

There are some people who like to head off on vacation with no idea of where they will be or what they will be doing from day to day. They like the flexibility that comes with not having too much planned ahead of time. Others like to have their travel schedules much more mapped out in advance.

Cruising is best suited to the latter group.

Sure, you will have some flexibility in what you can do on any given day of a cruise. But the broad outline of your trip is pre-planned and set in stone. As with motorcoach tours, it's an "if it's Tuesday, it must be Belgium" kind of vacation.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

If you're sailing for a week in the Western Mediterranean, for instance, you'll probably get eight hours in Rome (after docking in the nearby port of Civitavecchia). If you're so blown away by the city that you want to stay over an extra night (and we bet you will be), you're out of luck. You'll be due back at the ship by the late afternoon for the sail-away to the next port — probably Livorno, Italy (the gateway to Florence and Pisa) or Naples, Italy.

Once at that next port, you'll get another eight hours to explore before needing to be back on board for the sailing to the next destination. It's all been arranged in advance.

The advantage of such a pre-planned vacation, of course, is that it takes away a lot of the hassle that comes with traveling. Your cruise line has done all the heavy lifting of figuring out an ideal, multi-day getaway for you. The cruise line is selling you a complete package of travel needs including a room, food and entertainment, and it'll deliver you almost daily to someplace new to explore. On some cruises — particularly river cruises and so-called expedition cruises (voyages to very remote places on small, hardy ships) — the lines even pre-arrange all of your daily tours. You basically just show up.

Do I enjoy travel experiences that revolve around a single resort that offers lodging, meals and activities?

Cruise ships will take you to multiple destinations on a single trip. But at their core, what they offer is closer to what you'll find at an all-inclusive resort on land than any other sort of travel experience. At least, this is the case for the bigger cruise ships that account for the majority of all cruise travel.

Even during a very port-intensive itinerary on most ships, you likely will spend the vast majority of your vacation hours on board your vessel. Unless you book a rare overnight excursion, you will spend all of your nights on board your ship, and you'll probably eat most of your meals on the vessel, too. On most ships, all or almost all of your evening entertainment also will be ship-based.

Many people just love this sort of vacation. It's a lot like going to Disney World near Orlando or to an all-inclusive Sandals resort, where you can spend a wonderful week without ever leaving the property.

For others, it's too much vacation time devoted to a single, contained resort environment that doesn't leave enough time for exploring the outside world.

Am I OK with crowds?

There are plenty of small cruise vessels that are like boutique hotels, with just 50 or 100 rooms. But the ships that the vast majority of cruisers sail on today are far bigger than that, and they generally are packed with a lot of people.

The world's biggest cruise ships, such as the Oasis-class vessels operated by Royal Caribbean , often sail with more than 6,000 passengers apiece. And that's not including the 2,000 or so crew members that are aboard the biggest cruise vessels. If you book one of these vessels, you could be sharing your vacation with more than 8,000 other people.

These are very big ships, mind you, with lots of room to spread out. Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas — the world's largest cruise ship — has 18 passenger decks, quite a few of which are devoted to a seemingly endless array of family-friendly attractions, restaurants, lounges, bars and other venues that can absorb huge numbers of vacationers.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

But if the idea of vacationing at a resort where you are one of thousands doesn't appeal to you, you probably should stay away from most of the vessels operated by the major cruise lines. You might be better off with a land-based trip — or a sailing on one of the lines such as Windstar Cruises or Ponant that specialize in more intimate sailings on very small ships.

Am I comfortable touring as part of a group?

In some respects, cruises are very similar to group tours on land. You will be traveling for your entire voyage with one (very big) group of people, and you may find yourself in a group setting for some or all of your touring in ports.

Just how much of a group-tour feel your cruise has will depend a lot on which ship you are on and how you arrange your port activities. On river cruises and expedition cruises, in particular, off-ship activities often are generally done as a group. Group tours in ports are part of the package for which you have paid in advance. On traditional ocean-going ships, you generally have more flexibility to tour on your own in ports versus joining a group.

Related: Which cruise brand is best for you? A line-by-line guide

On traditional ocean-going ships, many ship-organized shore excursions will be group outings where you will join as many as 30 or 40 of your fellow cruisers with a guide. Often, these tours involve traveling with your group on a motorcoach to reach whatever sight or sights you are touring. In short, they often have the feel of a bus tour.

This is the case even with some upscale and luxury lines, though they sometimes put fewer people on a single motorcoach for tours.

That said, when sailing on many traditional ocean-going vessels, you can arrange for private tours with a guide in ports for just you and your family (sometimes the ship will do this for you; other times, you will have to find an outside vendor). You also can just head out into a port on your own and do your own exploring — at least in most cases.

Is 'eating local' critical to me when traveling?

For some people, eating local is a critical part of the travel experience. Whether it's the locally famous pesto over trofie pasta in the trattorias of Genoa, Italy, or the pad thai on the street corners of Bangkok, they want to savor the local flavors as often as they can. For others, having access to the familiar dishes of home when traveling is just as important — or more.

Cruise ships typically appeal more to the second category of people.

Cruise ships typically offer cuisine in their onboard restaurants that is in keeping with what their customers will find at home. You'll find American-style steakhouses on many bigger ships and often Italian restaurants, usually serving an Americanized style of Italian food. There are also American-friendly Asian eateries and main restaurants that offer a mix of classic international cuisine. Plus, there are usually fast-food options, including burgers and pizza.

Often, these eateries and the dishes they offer have little to do with the destination to which you're sailing. But they do offer a lot of things that you probably know and love.

If that sounds just right to you, a cruise is probably a good choice for a vacation. If you're such a foodie that you couldn't imagine visiting Barcelona without spending a night hopping between tapas eateries or visiting Rome without a dinner at La Pergola, a cruise might not be the best choice.

Related: The 9 best restaurants at sea

You can try out the local foods in the destinations your ship visits during port calls, of course. But the reality of cruising is that many ships only visit ports during the daytime and sail away to their next destination before dinnertime. That means that your opportunities to eat locally will be restricted on many itineraries to lunchtime outings.

When it comes to dinners — the main sit-down meal for many travelers — your options on many cruises will be limited to what's available on board your ship.

How important is being pampered on vacation to me?

Are you all about being pampered on vacation? A cruise might be a great choice. One reason that people who cruise once often get hooked, and do it again and again, is that cruise ships offer a level of pampering that you just don't often see at comparably priced land-based resorts.

Even on the most mass-market, lowest-cost cruises, you'll have a room attendant who is likely to get to know you by name and offer help with anything you need on board. She or he typically also will make up and clean your room at least once and sometimes twice every day — unless you request otherwise. There aren't many entry-level-priced land hotels anymore where that happens, as many land hotels have stopped daily room cleaning.

Cruise ship restaurants also are known for wait staff that will get to know you by name within a day or two of your arrival (if you dine at the same table every night) and make a real effort to go above and beyond to meet your every need. They'll often get to know your favorite drink or dessert and have it ready to go before you even say something.

Even on low-cost, mass-market ships, you'll probably have more than one waiter serving your table, with a third person on call just to handle your drinks. Plus, there will be a restaurant manager and often deputy managers who hover in the background to make sure everything is just right. It's like a small army of service staff there to make sure you have a perfect experience.

In short, there is a level of service on cruise ships that is relatively rare in the travel world — at least if you look at like-for-like properties and ships at similar price points. An entry-level cruise ship is likely to have a higher level of service than an entry-level hotel. A luxury cruise ship is likely to be even more over-the-top than a luxury hotel.

Do I worry a lot about costs when traveling?

A cruise is also a great option if you're the type of person who wants or needs to know how much your vacation will cost long before it occurs.

As we mentioned above, cruises are a little bit like all-inclusive resorts. Your ship will be providing a big chunk of all the services you will need on your vacation, including your room, your meals, your evening entertainment and part of your transportation (to wit, they'll get you from place to place on your trip at no extra charge). If you're traveling with kids, the ship also often will offer all-day kids programs for no extra charge.

For all of this, you pay one price far in advance of when you travel. You thus know what it's all going to cost you – and have already paid it off – long before you leave your home for the ship. That's wonderful peace of mind for many people.

Of course, not everything on your cruise will be included in the pre-paid fare. On mass-market ships, you'll pay extra for drinks with your meals, to dine at some higher-end restaurants, for shore excursions and for the automatic gratuities that many lines add to final bills. These things can add up and result in some hefty extra charges on your credit card before you leave your ship.

But the good news is that, even here, more lines are bundling things like drinks packages and gratuities into a booking package as part of promotions. You often can find a package deal from even mass-market lines where many of the "extras" on your cruise are included in the price you pay up front.

Bottom line

Cruising isn't for everyone. But there are a lot of reasons why you might like it. Before you commit to giving it a try, you should ask yourself the questions above to find out if cruising is right for you.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
15 ways cruisers waste money
12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
What to pack for your first cruise

Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024 Categories Disney Travel

By: Author Kate

My Ultimate Guide to the Pros and Cons of a Disney Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links.

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We recently returned from a 3-night Bahamas cruise aboard the Disney Dream. Our family had a blast, and it is a trip we will remember for a long time! Coming back though, I was reflecting on my Disney cruise experience and wondered, are Disney Cruises really worth the cost?

Let’s not kid ourselves, these trips are expensive! There seems to be no such thing as a discounted Disney cruise or a Disney cruise deal. I found that our trip cost easily 2-3x the cost of other cruises! I’m not sure if all the Disney extras were really worth the inflated price.

At the end of the day, my Disney Cruise advice to others is to wait until your kids are older to splurge on Disney! It seems the best age for a Disney cruise is likely between ages 5-12 when Disney mania is prime, and kids are more independent!

Although we did REALLY enjoy the awesome infant babysitting service on our cruise, I’m not sure we got out as much as we put in.

Every family is different though and every family values different things on vacation. When I was researching Disney dream cruise reviews I read a lot of blogs and I hope this review of the pros and cons will be helpful to others.

Here is my list of the pros and cons of a Disney Cruise:

Disney Cruise on Your Horizon? Get a Quote from a Disney Travel Agent now!

My Disney Cruise Experience

Pros of a disney cruise:, your kids will have a good time.

The kids will have a blast. ESPECIALLY if they like Disney Characters . My two sons were 10 months and 3 years old when we went on our cruise.

My eldest son does like Star Wars and Mickey but he wasn’t very interested in Princesses or other characters. In fact, he was mostly petrified of them.

R2D2 in the kids club was the highlight for him. He still talks about it months later! Pirate night was also great fun! (Don’t forget to bring a pirate costume!) I don’t think it’s possible for a kid to have a bad time on the Disney cruise.

The staff will certainly bend over backward to put a smile on your child’s face. Oh, and did I mention? Unlimited ice cream = guaranteed good time.

Disney Cruise Child Care

HUGE pro: They have child minding for children under age 3! This one is HUGE. This is basically the entire reason I booked the cruise and it is something we took advantage of.

Of note, this service does cost extra (for under age 3), but given the price of the cruise, it was small in comparison. The ladies at the Small World Nursery were experienced with babies and infants. I never worried at all when I dropped off my son.

When I picked up our 8-month old I got detailed reports on how he had done. The sitters were able to detail what he ate, if he slept, and what he enjoyed playing with. I felt comfortable knowing that the sitters were attentive to all of the babies needs.

My older son who was 3 was also allowed to attend the small world nursery and I much preferred the individualized attention he got there.

One nice feature is that you can use your portable cruise phone to contact the Nursery while you are away to check up on your kids. I really loved this feature and it came in handy one day when my son was grumpy!

We left our infant son at the nursery by himself when we went to Castaway Cay. Babies who like to crawl + Sand are generally a tough combo! It was nice to have some one-on-one time with our older son who loved the beach at this age!

We also booked one night at Remy and it was great to be able to have a mommy-daddy date on board.

Check out all my tips for bringing a baby on a Disney cruise here!

The staff love kids!

The staff are wonderful and cater to children. Every single staff on the Disney cruise, right down to the housekeepers are good with kids. Clearly, it’s in the job requirement.

The servers in the restaurants go out of their way to win over your little ones. Our server had jokes, paper airplanes , and other games ready for my three-year-old at every meal. This extra mile service was definitely appreciated when my son was a bit grumpy and the servers worked hard to cheer him up.

Thinking of heading to Disney World instead? Check out my ultimate guide to doing Disney for the first time!

Disney’s Remy Restaurant is the best!

The adults-only restaurants are amazing, seriously AMAZING! We booked one night at Remy and it was literally the best meal I have ever had in my entire life. We are not novice diners either. The service was exceptional, the food delicious and the wine pairings were great as well.

Again, this was another (significant) added cost, although it was worth every penny! It did make me think twice about the whole cost of the cruise.

If you have one ‘treat’ on the cruise I would absolutely recommend dinner reservations at Remy! You won’t’ be disappointed!

Wondering what to pack on vacation with little ones? Check out my ultimate packing guide for a beach vacation with a baby.

We always use a travel agent when we book a Disney vacation. A certified Disney vacation planner does not cost extra and they often know insider deals and tips! Get a Quote Now!

Cons of a Disney Cruise:

They aren’t cheap.

This is obviously the biggest drawback to the cruise. I spent more on this 3-night vacation than I would normally spend on 7 nights at an all-inclusive resort.

I have only been on one other cruise line, NCL, and I went on it without kids, so I don’t have a great comparison to other cruises. It’s worth saying that I found my NCL cruise to be of similar quality in terms of service, food, and amenities. The only thing missing was the “Disney-ness”

I haven’t been on a Royal Carribean cruise , but I’ve heard from many friends that they compare to Disney for a fraction of the cost. We may just have to try this cruise line next.

Thinking of a family cruise? Read our review of the best cruises for kids!

There are lines everywhere.

If you want to meet a character on a Disney cruise expect to get in line. This drove me CRAZY. I do not understand why they don’t have at least one meal where the characters walk around freely and come to your table. Update: As per the comments below this does happen on longer cruises, which is great!

Although getting on and off the cruise at the various ports went better than expected, I still can’t shake that feeling of being herded on a cruise.

I’m not the only one who has had concerns about lines on the Disney cruise either. This is a definite drawback of cruising in general and is probably not specific to Disney.

Wondering whether to book a Disney cruise? Read my unbiased review of our 3-night cruise aboard the Disney Dream here to help you with your planning. A list of pros and cons of a Disney Cruise. #disney #disneycruise #disneycruiseline #disneycruisebahamas #disneycruisetoddlers #disneycruisebaby #disneytips #disneycruisetips #disneydream #disneydreamreviews

The food at the main restaurants is ok.

I really wasn’t that impressed with the Disney cruise dining options . The breakfast buffet was quite good, but I found the dinners at the sit-down restaurants to be only ok.

The food felt a bit like cafeteria food. It was clearly pre-made for mass serving, as evidenced by the fact it took over 20 minutes for them to actually make the pureed food for my infant son.

Perhaps it was related to my expectations because everyone I knew RAVED about the food on the Disney cruise. It was definitely not anything special to me. I prefer a nice buffet at an all-inclusive any day!

One thing I will note, that I have heard from several of my mom friends, is that Disney does a great job with food allergies. Certainly, this attention to detail is paramount when you have a child with an allergy, so that’s a huge plus.

Check out Smart Mouse Travel’s Disney Cruise Food Allergy Guide. She has some great tips!

For the best food, I prefer a trip to Disney World itself. There are so many great options and the food at Disney World is delicious! Check out my guide to the hardest disney dining reservations for more tips.

The pool is RIDICULOUSLY crowded.

There are two small Mickey Shaped pools on the main deck. The kids are crammed into these pools like sardines. Literally. Kids who could normally swim had to wear lifejackets in the deep pool because there was no room to hold onto the edge.

Of course, the kids really didn’t seem to care. They were all having a blast!

I found it less pleasant for the adults trying to watch their little ones though. I’ve heard from some others who have read this blog that the crowds are much less on longer cruises.

So if you are looking for a quieter cruise, choose a longer cruise, and consider a destination less popular with young families like Alaska or the Panama canal.

The adults-only pool, which we lounged at when the kids were at the kids club was much more relaxing. I at least appreciated that there was a quieter place to sneak off to and escape the chaos of the main pool area.

Pros and cons of disney cruise: crowded pool

Don’t forget your floatie! Check out our guide to the best baby and toddler floaties for your next vacation

So, are they worth it?

Overall, Disney Cruises are a nice splurge, especially if your kids (and you) LOVE Disney. We are just starting to get into the Disney Movies, Walt Disney, and all the Disney Magic in our house.

When my kids are older, and will really enjoy the kids club more I may book again and take advantage of the R&R for me and my hubby. For now, I think that Disney doesn’t offer quite enough to make me convinced it’s worth the $$$ again.

Wondering how to book your next cruise vacation? Whether you want to book Disney or another cruise line, we recommend an experienced travel agent. Travel agents book your vacation at no cost to you and can help you plan a magical vacation for the entire family! Get a Quote Now!

What do you think? What did you love about your cruise? Do you have a Disney Dream review? I welcome all your comments below!

Pin for Later!

Sunday 3rd of September 2017

We leave for our 5th cruise on Friday and our first one was when my kids were 10 months and 3 years and we have gone every year since. As they get older they are mush more enjoyable, but we have done 2 Carnival cruises and they just don't have the same feel as Disney. With Carnival I felt like they were better for either college kids or retired aged people that like to gamble. Disney cruises are worth the money to me because I know my kids will have fun at the kids camps while we can do adult stuff around the ship. As far as lines, the longer cruises have characters that just walk around the ship and there aren't usually lines for them. Also, when your kids are in the camps, the characters go in and play with them which makes it much more personal than Disney World. Helping Peter Pan find his shadow, hula dancing with Stitch, or learning to be a super hero with Captain America. We have also been to Disney World 5 times and it is so much fun but not half as relaxing as the cruise.

Wednesday 6th of September 2017

Wow! Thanks for the detailed response! I think a longer cruise sounds great!!! I've heard that really helps with the lines. Glad you enjoyed your ???? cruise!!!

Thursday 31st of August 2017

Hi! Loved reading you post! We have been on 3 Disney cruises and one Carvial cruise. We have a 10 year old boy and an 11 year old girl. We purposely waited until they were 7 and 8 to try a Disney Cruise. I'm so glad we did because if not, my feelings would be identical to yours. Seriously, you'll be back in a few years and you'll enjoy it SO much more (and your kids will too)! Also, you get a little more value with the longer cruises and it's even more relaxing.

Thanks Sara! Yes I definitely think I will go back when my kids are older and can really take advantage of all things Disney! I've heard that the repositioning cruises are actually the best value, might consider that in a few years! Thanks for dropping by :)

Protect Your Trip »

Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Passports on a map showing cruise lanes.

Getty Images

A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

Passport card
State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
Government-issued birth certificate
Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

Voter registration cards
Social Security cards
Baptismal papers
Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

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This New ‘Standby’ Cruise Fare Costs Just $49 Per Day—but Is It Worth It?

By Jessica Puckett

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Would you be willing to wait at a port city with your bags packed, hoping to board a cruise at the last minute, all in order to secure one of the cheapest cruise deals out there? Holland America—with its industry-first standby fare offerings—is betting yes.

The line’s new Standby List Program allows travelers to put their names on a list of prospective passengers to be confirmed for a voyage if there are unsold rooms on the ship. Standby cruisers only pay $49 a day, but they receive as little as two days’ notice to get ready for the trip.

For flexible travelers, the scheme offers the possibility of huge savings. Here’s everything cruisers should know about sailing on standby.

How do the fares work?

To get on the standby list, travelers can select an itinerary on Holland America's list of standby-eligible voyages and call 877-724-5425 to join. (You can also have your travel advisor add you to the standby list on your behalf.)

Once you're on the list, you'll be charged $49 per person per day (not including taxes, fees and port expenses, which can cost several hundred dollars more). If you’re not selected for the cruise, you’ll receive a full refund.

When the week of the sailing arrives, the cruise line will start notifying standby passengers whether they made the cut. Guests are confirmed for their sailings in the order they were added to the standby list, so signing up early counts. Would-be passengers should expect to hear their status between seven to two days before the voyage’s departure.

Travelers who aren’t confirmed within two days of the sailing’s departure receive an immediate refund. Truly spontaneous travelers can choose to cut things even closer with a more nail-biting option: They can opt to remain on the standby list all the way up until 90 minutes before departure to see if there’s a no-show. If that doesn't work out, they’ll still get a full refund.

The deal could offer major savings to group travelers who have a bit of flexibility this summer, as the third and fourth guests in a stateroom can travel nearly for free—they would just be on the hook for taxes and fees. But young families are not eligible for cruising standby, as the fares are only available for travelers ages 21 and older. Since it would be a major gamble to travel long distances for an unconfirmed trip, the standby option makes the most sense for people who live in or near eligible ports like Vancouver , Seattle , San Diego , Fort Lauderdale , Boston , Montreal , or Quebec .

How can travelers take advantage?

In 2024, the bulk of standby fares that Holland America is offering are for Alaskan voyages departing Seattle, Whittier, and Vancouver, as well as New England and Eastern Canada voyages departing from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec City.

There are also a handful of transatlantic sailings departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, including an extended six-week sailing in November that meanders through dozens of Mediterranean ports in Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Egypt, to name a few. Most of the dates for the standby itineraries stretch from May through September, with a few options in October and November as well.

It all sounds appealing, but there are a few factors travelers should keep in mind. “With this program, you've got to be extremely flexible in all aspects of your trip,” says Tanner Callais, founder of cruise travel advice site Cruzely . “Some of these cruises sail for extended periods of time, including up to 42 days,” which is the duration of that lengthy Mediterranean sailing. “You also don't know what sort of cabin you'll receive,” he says. “If you're someone that has to have a balcony room, then this might not be for you.

The type of cabin could, in fact, be a deal breaker for certain travelers. Holland America says it charges standby guests for an interior stateroom, a space as small as 143 square feet with no windows. But travelers could be assigned any category of room ranging up to a verandah stateroom, which ranges from 228 to 405 square feet with enough outdoor space to fit two deck chairs. However, it’s all based on availability.

“Travelers who want to benefit from a standby fare should keep in mind that once confirmed, Holland America Line assigns their room,” says Rob Clabbers, founder and president of the agency Q Cruise + Travel . “While that might result in savings, it means travelers may end up in the last remaining and likely less preferred location—above a theater or night club [or] all the way forward or aft. While this may work for some, it is definitely not recommended for those who fear seasickness, have mobility issues, would like to be close to travel companions, [or] want to be near or away from elevators,” he says.

Holland America Line also notes that these deals are intended for travelers who live within driving distance of the departure ports. “Booking a last-minute airline ticket could end up being more than the cost of the cruise,” Callais says. “That said, the fares are so low that if you have the flexibility, then it might be one of the best deals you'll ever find. This is especially the case if you're a solo traveler, as the double occupancy fare doesn't apply.”

Travelers will want to run the numbers on each voyage to ensure they’re receiving the best possible deal for enduring the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Some of the sailings do offer incredible value. “However, on other sailings, the savings are not nearly as great,” Clabbers says. “If you or your travel advisor do some research, you may very well find some sailings at fares that are similar or even lower than the $49 per day standby fare—and without the restrictions.”

For instance, it’s possible to book a seven-day Alaska sailing that departs June 9 on Holland America’s website, with prices for an inside room starting at $349 per person, plus $310 in taxes, fees, and port expenses. “You even get a $50 credit to spend on board per room, but the biggest advantage is that you can confirm this several weeks before sailing, so you can fine-tune your travel plans rather than have to wait until the very last minute,” says Clabbers.

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One of the better deals would be the 42-day Mediterranean Cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale in November. Booking that sailing outright, “you would pay $5,479 plus $435 in taxes, fees, and port expenses per person based on double occupancy for an Inside room,” Clabbers says. But, if you sail the itinerary on standby and get confirmed, “you would pay a total $2,058 per person plus taxes. Obviously that would be a good deal.”

Will other cruise lines start offering standby prices?

You might be wondering why a cruise line would offer fares as low as $49 a day. At the end of the day, more guests on board means ships generate more money. “Obviously, a cruise line wants to sail with every cabin filled to maximize revenue and efficiency of scale,” says Callais. “If a room sails empty, the cruise line is still using the same amount of fuel and paying the crew and captain the same wage.”

The majority of new ships break even at 50% occupancy, while older ships need 80% occupancy to hit that benchmark, according to Tom Baker , president of Cruise Center .

Carnival Corporation, which is Holland America’s parent company, saw an average revenue of $236 per passenger each cruise day in 2023, while its direct expenses per passenger was about $156 each day, according to Callais’ analysis of the company’s earnings report . But whereas most of a line’s expenses are fixed, there’s always more room to increase revenue with more passengers, who are bound to spend more on the ship. “In other words, even if this standby rate is less than the cruise line would make at a normal rate, it's still better to earn a little money from it than zero,” Callais says.

Although Holland America is the only major cruise line currently offering the standby fare, it could catch on at other companies if it brings in enough money. “Like most industries, cruise lines are constantly looking at competitors and seeing what they are offering or doing that might benefit their business,” Callais says. “If it works, it will get picked up by others.”

Regardless, it’s likely that standby offerings will stay limited to certain lines, as well as specific ports and times of year. “If the program trains too many passengers to just wait and cruise standby, then that could actually end up hurting the bottom line,” Callais says.

But for many travelers, planning and looking forward to a trip is half the fun: "Part of the joy of travel is the anticipation of the experience," says Clabbers.

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Is a 3-day cruise worth it?

Thread starter TravelMomX3
Start date Oct 14, 2021

TravelMomX3

Earning my ears.

Oct 14, 2021

Hoping to experience a 3 day Disney Cruise next year. We're a 2 hour flight away from Florida, and would do a long weekend with 3 elementary-aged kids. Is this enough time to enjoy the cruise? Or should we go for a longer period of time.

Mouseketeer

I would go for a least a 4 day. The 3 day is really only a 2.5 day and that’s just not that much time to do everything and relax!

DIS Veteran

If you want a long weekend to avoid pulling the kids out of school too much, then the 3-night cruise is really your only choice. Compared to the 4-night option you lose a day at sea and one main restaurant menu. Currently, you would also miss the Believe show, which is... mediocre, anyway. I think it would be a nice long weekend. I don't know if I'd want to fly 2 hours each way for it, though.

HiStitch626

It will certainly give you a taste of DCL and then you can decide if cruising is the right vacation option for your family. Hopefully, things will be more normal by next year. If so, there will be a different stage show each evening and you will get to experience all three of the main dining rooms. They each have their own special touches and unique menus. A 3-night usually includes one day in Nassau and one at CC. Some people stay on the ship in Nassau or spend just a short time onshore so they have more time to explore the offerings onboard. There are lots of activities for you to do as a family, but your kids may also enjoy the club activities, while you have some adult time. If you do enjoy it, make sure and do a placeholder before you disembark. This is a $250 deposit and will get you 10% of your next cruise as long as you sail within 24 months.

3 days or 3 nights? Two different things. Be careful as to what counts for a "day". Also, add another day 'cause you're gonna wanna be at the port the evening before. So don't forget to account for that transfer, hotel night and meals. I really, really wouldn't plan to fly day of (no matter what some might tell you). All that said, for a 2-hour flight (especially with the way travel is now), I don't think it's worth it. You'll unpack one day and pack up the next. 2 hour drive, sure thing. If you've never been on DCL , yeah, it's an inexpensive way to learn about their cruising. Me - I consider anything less than 8/9 nights not worth the effort at this point so take what I say with a grain of salt.

TravelMomX3 said: Hoping to experience a 3 day Disney Cruise next year. We're a 2 hour flight away from Florida, and would do a long weekend with 3 elementary-aged kids. Is this enough time to enjoy the cruise? Or should we go for a longer period of time. Click to expand...

Chrissy-Mickey

We have our first 3-night cruise booked next month. It will be our 7th Disney cruise but first on the Fantasy. We're worried that 3-nights will feel too short, but it's not our annual vacation, it's just a quick getaway that requires us to only take one day off and was a great deal with the Florida resident rate. I hope that going into this with that mindset, we'll be able to enjoy it for what it is.

We've done a few 3Ns, and even a few 2Ns as part of a B2B. I would never do a 2N on its own. I find the 3N just a bit too short. 4N is a good place to start, but with kids the 3N may be your best option if you want to limit missed school days.

Luck favors the prepared

We just did a 3N on the Wonder that was a 1.5 hour flight away, and I was surprised that we actually got a lot out of it even with the relatively short amount of time. That said, we did not have our small children with us (so only had to pack for two adults) and we have done several cruises before so we had a rough idea of what to prioritize and what could wait for a longer cruise. I think if you're looking at it as a weekend getaway and not your big vacation for the year, the 3N could still be fun. But, if 4N wouldn't be too disruptive for your kids and is an option for you in terms of budget, time off work, etc., the extra day would certainly let you enjoy more of what there is to see and do.

We just did our first 3 night on the dream. All our other cruises were a week or longer on the fantasy. We were surprised how relaxing it was and it felt longer than 3 days. Granted, we didn’t do any activities or entertainment. Just spent our days on deck 13 or serenity bay.

Chrissy-Mickey said: We have our first 3-night cruise booked next month. It will be our 7th Disney cruise but first on the Fantasy. We're worried that 3-nights will feel too short, but it's not our annual vacation, it's just a quick getaway that requires us to only take one day off and was a great deal with the Florida resident rate. I hope that going into this with that mindset, we'll be able to enjoy it for what it is. Click to expand...

Cheburashka

ladyofthetramp

Oct 15, 2021

Our first cruise was this length. And we still do them from time to time. We are about 2.5 hours from Orlando by air. If you can fly in the day before (recommended) early, then you have the whole day to explore either in Orlando or at the port. And leave later in the day after you disembark allows you time to have lunch at a WDW resort fore you fly home (you do have to rent a car). It makes for a great and relaxing long weekend. Nothing more decadent than a short, but sweet relaxing cruise.

I have taken one 7 night, three 4 night, and one three night. The three night did seem short, but we are going on a 3 night the first weekend of November. I am a teacher and this will be my first cruise during the school year--just me and my husband. I wanted to do a Merrytime so here we are and I'm only using 2 personal days (flying out late Thursday night from Detroit). We have a sea day and CC, so our main goal other than holiday decor is just relaxing.

Four night was too short for us. We would never do anything less than a 5 night.

I did a 2 night cruise from NYC, it was fabulous. But I lived in North jersey and it was a quick drive to the port. Worth every minute.

I'm happy to dance with you!

If you want to try cruising, I think a three night would be fine.

DISdad #850

We used to do weekend cruises to the Bahamas quite a bit. Benefits of living 20 minutes from Port Everglades. I've only been on one 5 day cruise and that was just about too much for me. I've never been on a Disney cruise.

We have done a 4 night and a 5 night—both we drove in the night before in order to be sure we didn’t have any travel surprises that morning. For me, even having a 5 night instead of a 4 made a huge difference in relaxing and not feeling pressure to do everything. Both we didn’t even leave the ship in Nassau in order to have more time to enjoy the ship. The first day is really a half day and it takes us a day on a new ship to just figure out where everything is. But a 3 night can give you a taste of cruising, but a small taste in which you may not be able to do everything you initially want to do.

ruadisneyfan2

NJMermaid said: I did a 2 night cruise from NYC, it was fabulous. But I lived in North jersey and it was a quick drive to the port. Worth every minute. Click to expand...

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FinanceBuzz

16 Reasons a Cruise Vacation is Almost Always Worth the Splurge

Posted: April 27, 2023 | Last updated: August 8, 2023

<p> When you really need a vacation but are also trying to <a href="https://financebuzz.com/lazy-money-moves-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=keep+more+money+in+your+bank+account&synd_backlink_position=1&synd_slug=lazy-money-moves-55mp">keep more money in your bank account</a>, a cruise may be the perfect solution. Many would-be cruisers are still nervous about hopping aboard due to lingering anxiety around the COVID-19 pandemic. </p><p>But like the rest of the hospitality industry, cruise lines have made adjustments to keep travelers safe. Plus, when you’re looking for a full vacation package, cruises are one of the best options.</p> <p> Here are 16 reasons cruises are still almost always worth the splurge. </p> <p> <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=Compare+the+best+travel+credit+cards+for+nearly+free+travel&synd_backlink_position=2&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel</a> </p>

When you really need a vacation but are also trying to keep more money in your bank account , a cruise may be the perfect solution. Many would-be cruisers are still nervous about hopping aboard due to lingering anxiety around the COVID-19 pandemic.

But like the rest of the hospitality industry, cruise lines have made adjustments to keep travelers safe. Plus, when you’re looking for a full vacation package, cruises are one of the best options.

Here are 16 reasons cruises are still almost always worth the splurge.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Bargains are easy to find

There are amazing cruises available for travelers on all sorts of budgets. Some even offer all-inclusive packages that come out to around $100 a night per person (or less).

You’re likely to find great deals on cruises any time of year, particularly if you live near a port, so shopping around for bargains is often as simple as a quick search online.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

<p> If you’re planning to hit more than one destination on your vacation, a cruise is a great way to avoid unpacking, re-packing, and lugging a suitcase around from spot to spot. </p> <p> When you cruise, you’ll unpack your bags just once and be able to enjoy all each destination has to offer without the hassle of hotel hopping. Cruisers also have the benefit of only having to check in and check out once. </p>

Multiple destinations without hotel hopping

If you’re planning to hit more than one destination on your vacation, a cruise is a great way to avoid unpacking, re-packing, and lugging a suitcase around from spot to spot.

When you cruise, you’ll unpack your bags just once and be able to enjoy all each destination has to offer without the hassle of hotel hopping. Cruisers also have the benefit of only having to check in and check out once.

<p> From a weekend getaway to a months-long voyage around the world, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the cruise that’s right for your situation (and budget). </p> <p> The shorter, budget-friendly option may cost $200 or less, while a five-month trip around the world can be tens of thousands of dollars or even up to nearly $100,000 depending on the cruise line). </p> <p> <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-no-interest-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=4&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=Pay+no+interest+until+nearly+2025+with+these+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=4&synd_slug=top-no-interest-credit-cards">Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards</a></p> </p>

Cruise lengths for everyone

From a weekend getaway to a months-long voyage around the world, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the cruise that’s right for your situation (and budget).

The shorter, budget-friendly option may cost $200 or less, while a five-month trip around the world can be tens of thousands of dollars or even up to nearly $100,000 depending on the cruise line).

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

<p> One of the big sellers with cruise ships is that there really is something for everyone — a big perk if you don’t always see eye-to-eye on itineraries with the group you’re traveling with. </p> <p> On a cruise, you can spend the day sunbathing by a pool, climb a rock wall, choose from an array of dining options, see a show, hit the gym, then check out a karaoke bar — all in one day. </p>

An eclectic array of onboard activities

One of the big sellers with cruise ships is that there really is something for everyone — a big perk if you don’t always see eye-to-eye on itineraries with the group you’re traveling with.

On a cruise, you can spend the day sunbathing by a pool, climb a rock wall, choose from an array of dining options, see a show, hit the gym, then check out a karaoke bar — all in one day.

<p> Cruises are like an all-inclusive vacation to the extreme. Packages often include lodging, unlimited dining access, a drinks package, access to amenities, entertainment, and more. </p> <p> In addition to taking away the stress of planning all parts of a vacation, the all-inclusive nature of cruises often makes them a much cheaper option than the standard island vacation. </p>

It’s an all-in-one deal

Cruises are like an all-inclusive vacation to the extreme. Packages often include lodging, unlimited dining access, a drinks package, access to amenities, entertainment, and more.

In addition to taking away the stress of planning all parts of a vacation, the all-inclusive nature of cruises often makes them a much cheaper option than the standard island vacation.

<p> As long as you are OK with traveling to the port, you can embark on cruises that travel all over the world — and this isn’t limited to the super pricey voyages <em>around</em> the world either. </p> <p> Whether you are looking to dock at a few Caribbean islands, explore the Mediterranean, or cruise around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, you can find a package that meets your needs. </p> <p> <strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If you have to fly to the port your cruise sails from, you can <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=7&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=earn+travel+rewards&synd_backlink_position=5&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">earn travel rewards</a> from your trip with the right travel credit cards. </p>

There are cruises all over the world

As long as you are OK with traveling to the port, you can embark on cruises that travel all over the world — and this isn’t limited to the super pricey voyages around the world either.

Whether you are looking to dock at a few Caribbean islands, explore the Mediterranean, or cruise around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, you can find a package that meets your needs.

Pro Tip: If you have to fly to the port your cruise sails from, you can earn travel rewards from your trip with the right travel credit cards.

<p> Many people choose to honeymoon aboard cruises — and some even choose to get married on them. The sun, salty air, and dark, quiet nights at sea can create a delightfully romantic setting for couples.</p> <p> Plus, there’s no pressure to find a top restaurant to impress your sweetie since there will be plenty to choose from on board. </p><p class=""> <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/manage-money-retirement-with-500000?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=8&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=9+things+you+need+to+know+before+retiring+with+%24500%2C000&synd_backlink_position=6&synd_slug=manage-money-retirement-with-500000">9 things you need to know before retiring with $500,000</a></p> </p>

It can be romantic

Many people choose to honeymoon aboard cruises — and some even choose to get married on them. The sun, salty air, and dark, quiet nights at sea can create a delightfully romantic setting for couples.

Plus, there’s no pressure to find a top restaurant to impress your sweetie since there will be plenty to choose from on board.

9 things you need to know before retiring with $500,000

<p> Cruises can be great for traveling with the whole family. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages — from pools and basketball courts to arcades and kid-friendly shows and restaurants </p> <p> There’s such an eclectic array of activities, that parents whose children are old enough to hang out alone for a while may be able to sneak away for a romantic dinner or walk on the beach. </p>

It’s also great for families

Cruises can be great for traveling with the whole family. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages — from pools and basketball courts to arcades and kid-friendly shows and restaurants

There’s such an eclectic array of activities, that parents whose children are old enough to hang out alone for a while may be able to sneak away for a romantic dinner or walk on the beach.

<p> On a cruise, you’re all in it together so it’s easy to socialize and make friends to meet up with later in the trip or even at one of the bars on board for a nightcap. </p> <p> Many cruises also organize events for people looking for friends, or even dates, to link up on board. </p> <p> <p><a href="https://financebuzz.com/southwest-booking-secrets-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=10&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=7+Nearly+Secret+Things+to+Do+If+You+Fly+Southwest&synd_backlink_position=7&synd_slug=southwest-booking-secrets-55mp">7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest</a></p> </p>

Socializing is easy

On a cruise, you’re all in it together so it’s easy to socialize and make friends to meet up with later in the trip or even at one of the bars on board for a nightcap.

Many cruises also organize events for people looking for friends, or even dates, to link up on board.

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

Plenty of space to relax

Because all the basics of your vacation are taken care of on a cruise, it leaves a lot of time to simply kick back and relax.

Plus, on most cruises, there are plenty of amenities to help you find your zen no matter how you like to kick back — from hot tubs and spas to poolside bars and lounges.

<p> When you visit a new city, navigating shows and entertainment options can be a huge hassle, but on a cruise, it’s all taken care of for you. Many ships have live bands, theaters, comedians, dancers, and the like. Entertainment options really run the gamut.</p> <p>Most cruises typically also have entertainment options just for kids so parents never have to worry about the little ones getting bored. </p>

Lots of entertainment

When you visit a new city, navigating shows and entertainment options can be a huge hassle, but on a cruise, it’s all taken care of for you. Many ships have live bands, theaters, comedians, dancers, and the like. Entertainment options really run the gamut.

Most cruises typically also have entertainment options just for kids so parents never have to worry about the little ones getting bored.

<p> For an extra fee, those looking to indulge in a little me time can often schedule as many spa services as they’d like — from facials to full-body massages and even mani-pedis. </p> <p> <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-cash-back-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=13&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=Earn+up+to+5%25+cash+back+when+you+shop+with+these+leading+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=8&synd_slug=top-cash-back-credit-cards">Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards</a></p> </p>

Spa services are often available

For an extra fee, those looking to indulge in a little me time can often schedule as many spa services as they’d like — from facials to full-body massages and even mani-pedis.

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

<p> An all-you-can-eat buffet may not sound like the ideal situation for the health-conscious, but modern cruises have plenty of healthy eating options, as well as full health clubs on board. </p> <p> Royal Caribbean, for example, offers workout classes and a full gym for those who want to keep up their routines while out at sea. </p>

Healthy dining options and gyms

An all-you-can-eat buffet may not sound like the ideal situation for the health-conscious, but modern cruises have plenty of healthy eating options, as well as full health clubs on board.

Royal Caribbean, for example, offers workout classes and a full gym for those who want to keep up their routines while out at sea.

Budget options are available

There’s a cruise available for every budget — and travelers can choose to skip out or add as much as they want based on how much they’d like to spend.

Those shooting for a cheaper trip can opt out of extra services like a drinks package or spa privileges and can even request a cheaper cabin (one without a balcony, for example).

Those looking to splurge can choose from an array of add-ons or simply opt for more luxurious liners.

<p> Finding a great place to eat or a nice bar to grab a few drinks can be stressful on vacation — particularly if you’ve never visited the destination before. </p> <p> A cruise takes all the guesswork out of drinking and dining plans. The biggest decision you’ll have to make is if you want to hit the buffet or make it a steak house night. </p> <p> <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/seniors-throw-money-away-tp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=16&synd_postid=11344&synd_backlink_title=8+ways+seniors+are+throwing+away+money&synd_backlink_position=9&synd_slug=seniors-throw-money-away-tp">8 ways seniors are throwing away money</a></p> </p>

Great restaurants and bars

Finding a great place to eat or a nice bar to grab a few drinks can be stressful on vacation — particularly if you’ve never visited the destination before.

A cruise takes all the guesswork out of drinking and dining plans. The biggest decision you’ll have to make is if you want to hit the buffet or make it a steak house night.

8 ways seniors are throwing away money

<p> Many people love cruises for the same reasons they love all-inclusive resorts. The bonus of boarding a ship, however, is that you don’t have to stay in one place. </p> <p> You get all the convenience of an all-inclusive — entertainment, amenities on board, food, and nightlife. </p> <p> But you also have the advantage of traveling to a new destination or several different destinations. </p>

Convenience, convenience, convenience

Many people love cruises for the same reasons they love all-inclusive resorts. The bonus of boarding a ship, however, is that you don’t have to stay in one place.

You get all the convenience of an all-inclusive — entertainment, amenities on board, food, and nightlife.

But you also have the advantage of traveling to a new destination or several different destinations.

Bottom line

Booking a cruise vacation can be an incredible and financially-savvy option for travelers of all sorts — from large families to young couples to those planning for retirement .

Many solo travelers enjoy the convenience and endless entertainment options on cruises as well.

Before you book, consider how much money and time you want to spend on a cruise. Going in with intentions will make the (already easy) booking process that much simpler.

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Worth It? 15+ Questions & Answers About the Carnival CHEERS! Drink Package

If you’re taking a cruise aboard a Carnival ship, then chances are that you’ve seen mention of the CHEERS! beverage package. And you’re likely wondering if it’s worth the money.

Put simply, this package is an “all-you-can-drink” plan that covers alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages purchased aboard the ship. So instead of having to pay each time you get a beer or a cocktail from the bar, you simply pay one flat rate, and your drinks are included.

While the price may seem high to some (nearly $75 per day in some cases before gratuity), it easy to see that it could also offer a lot of value to those who plan to drink regularly on their cruise.

Still, there is a lot of fine print that comes along with the CHEERS! package and many people have questions about whether it’s a good deal for them. Below, we run through more than a dozen of the most important questions regarding CHEERS! and help you decide whether it is worth it for your next trip.

In This Article...

What is the Carnival CHEERS! package?

As mentioned above, the beverage package is like a buffet for drinks on the ship.

The “regular” way to purchase drinks is to buy them individually — so you pay the menu price for every beer or cocktail or soda that you drink. Given the cost of beverages on a cruise, the price can quickly add up. For some people, worrying about the cost can put a damper on the fun. Instead of enjoying their drink, they are thinking of the bar tab that awaits their account at the end of the cruise.

CHEERS! allows passengers to instead pay a flat daily fee per person to enjoy all the drinks they would like. They pay the same amount each day whether they have two beers or if they have ten cocktails. It makes it much easier to budget for the cruise and enjoy yourself without worrying about how much you’ve spent. And if you drink a lot, it can save you considerable money.

The package covers a wide variety of drinks, including everything from bottles of water to sodas to energy drinks to beer and cocktails. Basically, if you can drink it, it’s likely included in the CHEERS! package.

How much does CHEERS! cost?

The price for Carnival’s CHEERS! package varies based on the length of the cruise and when you buy.

As of this article’s publication date, the CHEERS! package aboard Carnival costs $59.95 per person, per day — if bought ahead of time. If you wait to purchase the beverage package until you board the ship, the price rises to $64.95 per day.

On top of that, the cruise line charges an 18% gratuity fee. Therefore, the actual total cost is $70.74 if bought ahead of the cruise or $76.64 per person, per day for those waiting to purchase until on the ship.

But there is another twist. Carnival recently bumped up the price of the package on shorter cruises of five days or fewer. In this case, the price is $69.95 per day (plus gratuity) if bought ahead of time or $74.95 per day (plus gratuity) if you buy on the ship.

You are charged this amount every day you are on the cruise — no matter if you are in port or at sea. It also doesn’t matter if you drink nothing on a certain day, or have 15 drinks. Each day is charged.

Is gratuity included in the price?

The “headline” price that’s advertised doesn’t include gratuity, but it will be included on your final charge.

Carnival charges an 18% gratuity automatically on the value of the package. Therefore, if you are sailing on a weeklong cruise and buy the package ahead of time, the cost is $59.95. But you’ll actually be charged $70.74 per person, each day.

Since you pay gratuity on the cost of the package, when you get a drink from the bar you are not charged an additional gratuity.

How old do you have to be to buy the CHEERS! package?

Passengers must be 21 years old to buy the package. Even though the drinking age may be lower in the ports you visit, Carnival goes by the 21 year age limit on the ship if sailing from North America.

Does everyone in the cabin have to purchase the package if one person does?

Yes. All adults over 21 in the cabin must purchase the beverage package if one person does. This requirement is likely to help stem the incentive for people to share drinks by only purchasing one package and then giving them to others in the cabin.

We’ve heard stories of Carnival relaxing this requirement if there is some sort of extenuating circumstance (such as the other person in the cabin is pregnant). However, if the other person doesn’t drink or simply doesn’t want the package, the rules say they still have to buy it if someone else in the cabin does.

Even so, it’s worth a few minutes to call before your cruise if you have a person in the cabin that doesn’t want the package.

How do I buy the CHEERS! package?

The easiest and cheapest way to purchase the package is to book it online through the Carnival Funshops after you’ve booked your cruise. You can also call Carnival and request the package be added to your account. Remember, booking the CHEERS! package ahead of time gives you a cheaper rate, so you want to book before you board.

If you wait until you board the ship, you can head to a bar and request to purchase the package. There are also tables set up the first day advertising the package.

What’s included in the package?

The good news is that most drinks served on the ship are included in the beverage package.

According to the cruise line, all “spirits, including cocktails, cognacs, whiskies and other spirits, as well as beer (including self-serve beer stations – PYOB) and wine and champagne by the glass, with a $20 USD or lower menu price per serving” are eligible. In our experience on the cruise line, that covers just about anything you could want.

In addition, you can drink the following with your package:

Virgin frozen cocktails
Sodas and juices
Specialty coffees
Energy drinks
Bottled water

There is also a 25% discount off the menu price for wine and champagne by the bottle and drinks over $20 per serving.

What’s NOT included?

While pretty much any drink from a bar is included, there are some exceptions that you will still be charged for, even if you purchase the CHEERS! Package:

Drinks in souvenir glasses
Alcohol by the bottle (except beer)
Drinks offered at the gangway (welcome beverages)
Room service alcohol or mini-bar drinks
Shareable drinks like buckets or pitchers
Fresh-squeezed orange juice served in the Havana Bar or dining room.

In other words, stick with drinks served at the bar if you want to keep from spending extra.

What if I order a drink over $20 per glass?

The Carnival CHEERS! package gives you the run of beverages from the ship’s bars for up to $20 per glass. If you order a drink that’s more than $20, the fine print says that you receive a 25% discount off the menu price. So a $30 drink would be charged at $22.50.

Truth is, you’d be hard-pressed to find a beverage above $20 unless it’s made to serve multiple people.

What about liquor rules in Texas and New York?

If you are sailing from Galveston or New York, you might have heard there are strange laws affecting alcohol sold on cruise ships. Due to state laws, Carnival can’t activate the CHEERS! package until the second day of the cruise.

If you purchase the package when sailing from one of these ports, you won’t pay for the package on the first day of the trip, but you also will have to purchase drinks instead of having them included. The package will activate at 6:00 a.m. on the second day of the cruise. For more on alcohol rules on a cruise from Texas, click here .

Can I share the package?

No. Sharing of the package is expressly prohibited. In fact, stopping passengers from sharing of the package is likely why Carnival requires all guests in a stateroom to purchase the package if one person does so.

If we’re honest, however, unless you’re being blatantly obvious in front of a bartender, it’s unlikely anyone would know that you shared a beverage bought with the package.

Do I have to buy the package for the entire cruise?

Yes. The package is sold only for the entire trip. You can’t pick and choose dates that you want to purchase nor can you purchase it halfway into the cruise.

That means you will pay for the CHEERS! package even if you are in port or don’t feel like drinking one day.

How many drinks can I buy at one time?

You can only purchase one beverage at a time. There is a five-minute waiting period between drinks.

If you want to purchase more than one drink, you can charge one to your drink package and simply pay for the others as normal on your onboard account. Or just wait five minutes to get another beverage included with the package.

Is there a daily limit to how many drinks you can have?

Yes. Carnival allows up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (6:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.). After that, the guest will not be served any additional alcoholic beverages.

There is no limit on non-alcoholic drinks, however, so drink all the bottled water and sodas that you want!

Can I order a “double”?

Want to spice up your drink with an extra shot? You can’t do it on the beverage package. According to Carnival, a double shot is the same as ordering two drinks and is prohibited.

How will the bartender know I have purchased the CHEERS! package?

When the bartender swipes your card, your account will let them know that you’ve purchased the CHEERS! package. As well, they place a sticker on your card when you activate the package at a bar once onboard that identifies you as having purchased the package.

Does the drink package work on Carnival’s private islands or in ports?

No, the package only works for beverages served on the ship. Even though Carnival has private destinations for its guests like Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays, the drink package doesn’t work there. It also doesn’t work in regular ports of call like Cozumel or Nassau.

But that doesn’t mean you are out of luck on port days. As long as you are on the ship, you can use the CHEERS! package from the ship’s bars. So if you decide to hang out on the ship during port days (or when you return to the ship after visiting), you can still get drinks, even though the ship is docked.

Is the CHEERS! drink package worth it?

If the package is worth it depends on your personal preferences.

Remember that the CHEERS! package from Carnival has to 1) be purchased for every day of the cruise and 2) be purchased by every adult member of the cabin. Including 18% gratuity, the price per day is more $70 per person at the cheapest.

Meanwhile, you can only use the package on the ship, so if you are out exploring ports of call, you’ll need to pay for drinks out of pocket.

For reference, the price of alcoholic drinks on the ship are roughly:

Beer: $6-8 per drink
Cocktails: $10-14 per drink
Wine: $8-14 per glass

So a person would have to drink about 8-10 beers per day or about 4-6 cocktails each and every day. Those figures get even bigger if sailing a cruise of five days or fewer, which sees a higher cost for the package.

How much you plan to drink will help you decide if the CHEERS! package is right for you. If you’re the sort of person who always enjoys a drink in their hand, then you could do well purchasing the package. Costs for individual drinks can quickly add up if you drink regularly.

But those that drink moderately or like to take breaks on some days may not get their money’s worth — especially on shorter cruises.

One other thing to factor is the convenience of having a set price. Some people may not come out ahead with the package based on how much they drink, but like not having to worry about what the bill will be at the end of the cruise. Drink packages allow you to better plan your costs and budget given that the cost is the same each day. It also lets you try new drinks without worrying about wasting money if you don’t like it.

To help you figure things out, we’ve put together the Drink Package Calculator to make it easier to estimate whether you should purchase the package.

Have more questions about the package? Let us know in the comments below…

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Pros and Cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation: My Honest Review

Posted by Anna | Sep 12, 2022 | Spain Bucket List , Travel | 4

There couldn’t be a better moment to discuss the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation as we are just back from our holiday tour across the Mediterranean sea with kids. It´s a travel experience many consider at some point, especially if seeking to visit more than one European country on a single trip. Based on my 3 cruise trips, let me share my honest review with all the pros and cons I found along the way.

This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read my disclosure . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Cruising: Yes or No

How cruising has become my thing.

Over the years I kept reassuring everyone that cruising was not my type of vacation. And here I am – writing this article on the 3 Mediterranean cruises we have done as a family.

I went on my 1st Mediterranean Cruise simply out of curiosity. But then, my travel dynamic has changed after having kids. We still hike a lot in Spain , set off on new road trips , and even recently went wine-tasting in La Rioja . But many of my past adventures, like driving around Iceland in 5 days or having a spontaneous weekend in Malta , would be a complete nightmare with the little ones on the road.

Plus, what is even more important – my kids are currently excited about all the holiday ideas that me and my husband used to avoid. Amusement parks, all-inclusive resorts, and cruises – these seem like top things they are never hesitant to try. I mean, it’s also understandable – exploring the Roman ruins might be educative, but a huge cruise liner with all the shows, lights, activities, and lavish decorations simply takes children’s ´s breath away.

This is basically the reason why we have already done three Mediterranean cruises. Based on my experiences, I am ready to share all the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation with those of you who consider trying it.

Useful Resources

Booking & reading reviews.

To make your own plans at every cruise stop, you can get one these guides: Rick Steves Mediterranean Cruise Ports , Lonely Planet Cruise Ports Mediterranean Europe , Mediterranean Cruise Ports Marco Polo , National Geographic Traveler: Ports of Call and Beyond , Cruise Guide to the Europe & The Mediterranean and Mediterranean By Cruise Ship, 8th Edition: The Complete Guide to Mediterranean Cruising.

To organize it all, you might find handy packing with you a beautiful journal: My Mediterranean Cruise Journal – A Travel Planner , Cruise Ship Companion: Record Your Journey at Sea , Cruise Travel Diary , Bon Voyage! My Cruise Journal , or My Cruise Journal – Notebook to Record .

As to the activities and day trip during your Mediterranean Cruise Vacation – you can book those once on board or check the local offers at any port via GetYourGuide or Viator .

Helpful & inspiring books about cruising

There are a few useful books on cruises you might be interested to read – Tips From The Cruise Addict’s Wife , Best Cruise Tips: 303 Cruise Hacks Saving You Time, Money & Frustration , CRUISING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS , and Cruise Control: A Complete Guide to Carefree Cruising .

If you need more inspiration for the upcoming trip, check these novels set on cruise ships: Dangerous Crossing , The Unsinkable Greta James , The Woman in Cabin 10 , Shipped , and Here Come the Girls .

Cruising with kids

If you plan a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation with kids – spark their wanderlust before the trip via virtual tours (you can check Spain Virtual Tours here ) , travel books, or books about Cruises (like Lonely Planet Kids How Ships Work , Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraf t, How to Draw Cool Ships and Boats , and Hey Kids! Let’s Visit a Cruise Ship ).

Get them their own Kid’s Cruise Travel Journal and Cruise Ships Coloring Book . Especially, if it’s their first time cruising: the little ones will behave so much better once they know what to expect, and how the whole cruising ship world works.

All About Our 3 Mediterranean Cruises

The 1st cruise ever (from venice|italy to santorini|greece).

My first Mediterranean cruise took place in 2012 on board of Costa Fascinosa (these days the boat is on another 14-days itinerary).

Back then cruising was simply something I have never tried in my entire life and was eager to experience.

The main stops on that 7-day Mediterranean Cruise vacation were Venice (Italy), Bari (Italy), Dubrovnik (Croatia), Katakolo (Greece), Rhodes (Greece), and Santorini (Greece).

Overall, I was so new to cruising that everything felt exciting onboard. These days almost no Mediterranean Cruises are leaving from Venice, and the company focusing on the Balkans is Seabourn . But back then I enjoyed so much that opportunity to cross the Adriatic and Ionian Seas (these have the most beautiful see-through waters).

Also, after my first Mediterranean Cruise vacation, I have completely fallen in love with Greece and the Island of Santorini has made it to my list of the most romantic travel experiences around the world .

The 2nd Cruise ( from Tarragona|Spain to Corcega and Sardegna)

Our second Mediterranean Cruise Vacation in 2019 was meant to be our first international family getaway with a 10-month-year-old baby and a 2-year-old toddler. This 11-day trip included lots of new places we have never seen before, like Savona (Italy ) (which we had missed during our romantic trip to Tuscany ), Mahon (Menorca), Ajaccio (Corcega), Elba Island (Italy), Naples (Italy), Toulon (France), and Porto Torres (Sardegna).

Also we made stops at a few familiar destinations like Tarragona/Spain and the top Spanish islands of Mallorca and Ibiza . This vacation was the most challenging one of my three Mediterranean Cruises (mainly cause my kids were so small and we couldn´t use Kids Club on board as they were under 3; plus the wholr trip lasted for 11 days). After the cruise I felt like I needed another vacation to recover.

Nevertheless, I would still have lived it all over again if given a choice. Seeing so many places in 11 days with small kids would be completely impossible on any other kind of trip.

Hitting the road with babies and toddlers has its own challenges no matter where you are heading (plus, you need to bring along so many travel essentials ). Many might say that this effort was not worth it, as children won´t even remember anything while being so small. Well, no way! – Till the present day my oldest daughter (she was only 2 y.o. back then) keeps reminding us of all the shows and experiences on board (especially how she went to party with Peppa Pig that one day lol).

Therefore, my kids made me realize that the whole cruise trip (and the huge ship itself) had a huge impact on them. We booked the trip with Costa Cruises , but these days the boat doing a similar itinerary from Tarragona is Explora Journeys .

Nevertheless, since the kids were so impressed, I felt like we would be forced to go on another Mediterranean Cruise in the nearest future.

The 3rd Cruise (From Barcelona|Spain to Rome|Italy)

And so it was. Last week we returned from our third Mediterranean Cruise vacation. This trip was the least interesting in terms of sightseeing (as we´ve already been in all the cruise-stop cities), but the best one in terms of our experience. It was on board of MSC Meraviglia (these days the ship is cruising in the US), but MSC Seaview offers a similar itinerary.

First of all, my girls have grown up (now they are 5 and 3 years old). So, being on the road with them got so much easier – we could even use the Kids club a few times.

Secondly, visiting the destinations we have already seen has dropped the pressure of not being able to enjoy a new place fully (as it happens on every Mediterranean Cruise Vacation due to a limited time at any destination, especially with kids).

For this trip, the itinerary included Cannes (France), Genova (Italy), La Spezia (Italy), Rome (Italy), Mallorca (Spain ), and Barcelona (Spain) . Both me and my husband were secretly disappointed that our kids enjoyed the cruise ship and all the shows on board more than they did with the new European cities and museums. But I guess, it was also quite predictable right from the start. At their age kids usually love shows, fun, lights, and dancing, and tend to complain about the summer heat and queues at landmarks.

You can check our room, food, and other details of this Mediterranean Cruise Vacation on my IG Highlights .

So, let me sum it all up a bit and talk more in detail about the pros and cons of a Mediterranean cruise vacation, based on our three trips.

Pros and Cons of a Mediterranean Cruise

Pros of cruising the mediterranean sea.

Going on a Mediterranean Cruise definitely has some significant perks if compared to other types of travel, otherwise, it would never be as popular as it is.

1. No packing/unpacking

On a cruise, you hit a new place every single day, but you only pack/unpack twice – after boarding and when you are leaving the ship. It is definitely convenient and time-saving for every single human being on Earth, but for those of us traveling with small kids – it is an absolute game-changer.

Those of you who are parents would know that traveling light with kids is almost a mission-impossible kind of task. Therefore minimizing packing/unpacking frees up a lot of time you can spend on smth else. You don´t need to move around overloaded with staff, you simply unpack at arrival and forget about it till the end of your Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

2. Multiple countries and destinations

Another huge plus of the Mediterranean Cruise Vacation is the variety of destinations, countries, and cultures you might briefly see in one single week. It´s never dull, unlike staying in the same place for a week might feel for many.

If you are traveling with kids, visiting different countries along the way is a great way to open up their minds. They are getting exposed to new languages, cultures, and architectural wonders across Europe every single day. So it´s quite a unique experience for the little ones.

3. Social life

Going out, dressing up, sipping cocktails, enjoying sunsets, meeting people, and making friends. Social life possibilities are unlimited on any Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

This works even for people traveling with kids. Firstly, you can always leave them at the Kids Club to enjoy a quiet child-free dinner. Secondly, you can meet other families with kids and share a few child-friendly activities altogether. Thirdly, your kids might make new friends from other countries and have their own social life going on.

Usually, there are lots of activities and events organized on board, so that even people traveling alone could meet like-minded souls.

4. The Kids Club

If you are planning to use the Kids Club a lot – do your research well as it might be one of your top criteria to pick one cruise ship or another.

Some Mediterranean Cruises might even offer a nanny service and clubs for babies on board. During our second Mediterranean Cruise vacation, this might have been such a game changer. Our ship had a few playgrounds, but no club/activities for babies. Both of my girls were under 3 and after 11 days of our Mediterranean Cruise Vacation I ended up so burned out after chasing them around all the time. Being able to have time for myself, even 20 min a day, would make things much easier.

By the way, it also helps if you are traveling with parents or friends, so you could at least have a few hours of rest in case your baby gives you a sleepless night. But if it´s just you and your partner traveling with small kids, having an opportunity to leave your child on a playground with other kids under the supervision of professional staff might be great for the whole family. Even as babies our children are always looking for company of their own age wherever they go.

5. Entertainment

While you would probably find me in a quiet place with views reading a wanderlust book , most people pick a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation because of the non-stop entertainment. The day before you usually have the next-day schedule of events. It usually includes theatre shows and performances, music concerts, parties, dance classes, yoga, etc., sale events, and so on all day long.

It is simply impossible to get bored on board as you can find something for all tastes and preferences. It´s also a great experience for kids – my girls have enjoyed musicals, different dancing and magic shows, and even a circus – all in one single week.

This one is controversial for me. On one hand, you have all the types of food and cuisines on board available 24/7 hours. Most of the cruise ships have additional restaurants, which you can visit for an extra payment. First 2-3 days I really enjoyed trying everything, but the last few days it all started tasting the same way for me. But maybe it’s just me. Most people claim the food is one of the biggest perks of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

The staff is generally friendly and willing to help. Many tourists say they got pampered on cruises. Personally, I mostly enjoyed the room service cleaning two times per day. If traveling with kids, a great cleaning service is that one small thing that ends up making a big difference. Let´s say if my kids would spill something on the sofa – I could easily press the cleaning button, go out for a dinner, and at my return, it would all be fixed.

Cons of cruising the Mediterranean

1. overcrowding.

This might not be a disadvantage for people who love the buzz and looking for busy social life. But for me, personally, this feels like one of the biggest cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

Even a room with a balcony does not guarantee privacy to enjoy a cozy book with views. As with so many neighbors around someone is always making noise. Plus, most Mediterranean Cruises have one or two days of navigation within the itinerary, meaning that every single guest will spend this day on board. This day pool is almost impossible to access, and a buffet is such a nightmare as well.

2. Limited time at any destination

Having a limited time at each destination is also not for everyone. In bigger cities, you barely get a chance to see a few of the local sights, while constantly checking up on your timing to return on time. Plus, getting out of the dock area can be more time-consuming than one could initially expect.

For some places, the whole experience of disembarking might even feel stressful.

For instance, on our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation, the ship made a stop at Civitavecchia, located only 86 km from Rome. Even though it seems close enough to make the most of your day, in fact, you will spend much more than an hour in order to get to Italy´s capital (unless you rent a car or get an organized tour).

The whole organization at this port is probably my worst cruise experience so far. The bus inside the port was taking everyone to another bus stop, where we were supposed to get another bus to the train station. Plus, the line to get tickets at the train station was huge. So the actual train ride from Civitavecchia to Rome took us 1,15h, but two buses and buying train tickets – another 1,40 h. It basically left us with a few hours in Rome and the whole day spent on the road.

3. Internet

Staying connected is almost never a part of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation. Internet onboard is slow and expensive.

While you get cell service with most European carriers at ports, during navigation, you are mostly disconnected from the rest of the world. On our 3rd Mediterranean cruise, the company had an app for agenda and internal communications, but it worked horribly. After constantly, switching on/off my phone and trying to locate each other via texts in the app, we quickly returned to the old times when people had to organize themselves without cell phones.

4. Extra charges and prices on board

Excursions, dining, SPA, photos, and almost everything you will try to buy on board will be overpriced.

Make sure to get a drinks package before your trip, because you might break the bank overwise. By and large, you need to constantly follow your ship account, to keep track of charges. On our last cruise, we put 150 on our account before the trip and they were not activated for some reason. At the reception desk, they fixed the problem (after waiting 40 min in line). But if we would not have checked it – there could have been problems and delays at disembarking.

Another small detail I did not like on our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation was that they automatically charged 1 euro per every guest for their charity foundation. You could claim the money back at the reception desk, but wasting time in line to get back one euro barely seems a wise decision.

So, by and large even with reputable cruise companies you need to keep an eye on your spendings and bills all the time.

As I´ve previously said, this one is quite controversial for me. First 2-3 days I really enjoyed trying everything, but the last few days it all started tasting the same way for me.

On the other hand, even if you enjoy the food, too much good food around 24/7 might also be a problem for those trying to stay in shape.

6. Small cabins

Cruise ship accommodations are designed to make the most of the space, so those who are used to wide spaces might not feel comfortable inside. On our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation, we had a balcony, which slightly made things better. But still, your personal space will be quite limited anyway.

7. Environment

Large cruise ships still have significant emissions, even though some of them invest in upgrading fleets. This is also a fact to consider, as the future of travel definitely lies in sustainable choices.

It would be fair to add that for me, personally, the pros overweight the cons if traveling with small children. Even living on a huge cruise liner for a week, seeing the horizon in the middle of the sea, experiencing the shows, and meeting other kids from all over the world is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the little ones. I feel like they´ve grown up so much via our Mediterranean Cruise Vacations and tried tons of new things in one single week.

I feel like our 3 Mediterranean Cruise Vacations will stay in our family memory box forever as one of the coolest experiences ever shared.

Therefore, it might end up being one of your top travel experiences as well. You should simply consider all the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation before deciding whether it’s the right holiday choice for you.

pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation pin

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About The Author

Traveling in Spain non-stop is my biggest obsession. Looking for Spanish hidden gems and local travel tips? - You are in the right place! Let me be your insider guide to Spain!

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I just did my first cruise a few weeks ago from Barcelona to Rome. I loved it; it was great not to have to keep packing and unpacking as you say, but there’s not enough time in port, plus I, too, worry about the environmental impact. I’m still in two minds whether I will cruise again – it’s definitely a love / hate thing.

The thought of cruising around the Mediterranean sounds so romantic. In reality, I think I would feel as though I didn’t have enough time to fully experience each stop along the way. Still, if given the chance, I wouldn’t turn the opportunity down.

I feel exactly the same way about cruising. I like it when I want to visit multiple places that are relatively close together (like several islands) because then I don’t have to pack/unpack. I don’t like cruising when it takes days to get to my destination. Great job explaining all the angles so people can make an informed decision.

So interesting! I’ve never been on a cruise, but lately I’ve been super interested in at least trying one.

Even though there isn’t much time at each location, I’d probably use it for inspiration on where to fly back to lol.

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My 12-day cruise cost me about $109 a day. See inside my 160-square-foot cabin, the most economical option on the ship.

I went on a 12-day Holland America Line cruise and paid a little over $1,300 for my interior cabin.
The cabin was an incredible value and I especially liked the storage and spacious shower.
I'd book this room again — my cruise was so fun and busy that I barely spent time in it anyway.

In a time of high inflation and stretched budgets, cruises reign supreme . Since most packages are pretty all-inclusive, you can pay for a week or more on a ship and then not spend another dime until you return.

I definitely had value in mind when I booked my recent 12-day cruise on the Holland America Line Rotterdam from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to the Panama Canal. I selected an interior cabin , the most economical option on the ship.

I booked directly with Holland America Line and paid $849 plus $460 for taxes, fees, and port charges — about $109 a day. The rate came with a $25 onboard credit and didn't include gratuities or add-ons like drink packages , specialty dining, WiFi, or excursions.

Overall, my room was one of the best values of the trip. Here's what it was like.

I booked an interior room on deck seven.

On this ship, interior rooms can range from 143 to 225 square feet. I chose a cabin on deck seven that was 160 square feet.

The location of my stateroom was convenient and quiet. My cabin was a quick two decks up to the areas I frequented most, the spa and its thermal suite, and the fitness center.

My cabin was generously sized.

The stateroom featured a small hallway with a bathroom on the right, and two wardrobes and a cabinet on the left.

The main area of my room contained the bed.

The hallway opened to a small rectangular space with a queen bed on the right flanked by two small nightstands, each with two drawers and a tall bottom shelf.

I had a vanity that could also be used as a desk.

To the right of the bed was a large desk/vanity with an ottoman that doubled as a seat and storage space for the bed's decorative throw pillows.

This area had even more storage: The desk had three spacious drawers.

My bed was across from a mounted TV and bar area.

At the foot of the bed was a wall-mounted interactive television with on-demand movies, programming, and multi-channel music.

Next to it, I had a fully stocked minibar area, including a cabinet with things like red wine, white wine, rocks glasses, a stainless steel ice bucket, and tongs.

There was so much storage space in the room.

The full-height wardrobe had 26 hangers, including 13 pant and 13 skirt hangers, two bottom shelves, and a full-length mirror on one door.

The second half-height wardrobe closet had 12 hangers, including four pant and eight skirt hangers, four bottom shelves, and a tie rack.

One closet contained a mini fridge.

The cabinet featured three compartments: the top where robes, beach towels, and a safe were stowed, the middle with the mini fridge, and the bottom with three deep drawers.

The safe was roomy, accommodating my 13.6-inch MacBook Air plus all of my other valuables and important travel documents.

The bathroom felt spacious and well-designed.

The bathroom layout was thoughtfully designed with three glass shelves for toiletries and a large-size vanity with an underneath storage ledge.

A roomy shower was the highlight of the bathroom.

The walk-in shower was complete with a shaving foot bar, a retractable clothesline, Elemis bath products, and an adjustable handheld shower.

There were also two grab bars for stepping into and out of the shower.

There were plenty of electrical outlets in the room, too.

The room had an abundance of power outlets where I could charge my gear.

On both sides of the bed were a type-B plug, mainly used in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and a USB port. The desk had a USB port, three type-B plugs, and two type-C plugs, mainly used in Europe, South America, and Asia.

The bathroom had one electrical outlet that could accommodate a US or European two-pronged plug.

The room service was impeccable, too.

There were two cabin stewards assigned to my room. They worked together to fully service my stateroom twice daily.

On embarkation day, I was able to request extra pillows and towels plus other preferences like turn-down service, which included a towel animal and Astor Chocolates on most nights.

Overall, I had such a fun experience on my cruise I didn't even spend much time in my stateroom.

There was so much to do on the Rotterdam that I barely spent time in my stateroom.

I spent many of my days relaxing in the expansive multiroom thermal suite, singing along at B.B. King's Blues Club, or sunbathing by the Lido Pool with a retractable roof.

The room was an excellent value, and I was glad I hadn't splurged on a balcony room or one with a window.

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Best 3 Day All-Inclusive Cruises 2024 & 2025
3-Day Cruises
Are Cruises Worth it? Pros and Cons
3 Day Carnival Cruise Review
Best 3 Day Cruises to Explore
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This adds $850 to your total cruise cost. The 3-night cruise now costs $1918, making the cost per day around $639 per room, or $319 per person. The 7-night cruise, on the other hand, now costs $2,810, making the cost per day $401 per room, or around $200 per person.
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