When it comes to cruising everyone has an different idea of what makes the perfect vacation. In fact, most cruise travellers would agree that when it comes to cruising, there is no one size fits all.
The good thing about cruise travel is that there are many different experiences and ways to have a great time. However, what’s good for one person may not be somebody else’s cup of tea.
With that said, here are my 10 most controversial cruise opinions, that you may or may not agree with. These opinions are based on my experience, and are meant to be fun and lighthearted. If you disagree, let me know your own thoughts in the comments below.
10 Controversial Cruise Opinions
1. Bigger Is Not Always Better
One of my strongest cruise opinions is that bigger cruise ships aren’t always better! You may have more dining venues, onboard attractions, and entertainment options on a mega-ship.
However, there are many downsides to being on a giant cruise ship.
For instance, on a mega ship, there will be more people. This means there will be crowded areas, it will take long to walk from one side of the cruise ship to the other, and the embarkation and disembarkation process will be hectic.
Furthermore, mega ships tend to attract many more young kids and families. If you’re traveling with a young family, they will love a mega-ship. However, if you’re a mature cruiser or traveling as a couple, you’ll likely enjoy a more laid-back mid-sized cruise ship.
2. Sea Days Are Better Than Port Days
Although cruises are a great way to visit new destinations, I prefer sea days over port days. When I’m on a cruise vacation, there’s nothing better than relaxing by on the lido deck and having a nice cold drink.
With cruise ships having so many amazing entertainment options and activities during the day, there’s always something to do to keep you busy. Whether it’s poolside activities, bingo, or the art auction nothing beats a day at sea on a cruise ship.
3. Drink Packages Are Worth It
If you’re someone who enjoys drinking alcohol, the drink packages are worth it!
Sure, they may be pricey, but the convenience of having a beverage package improves your overall cruise experience. Furthermore, having a drink package allows you to explore different drinks.
If you go on a cruise to purchase drinks without a package, you’ll often spend more money. Plus, you’ll have to worry about how much a drink costs and how much you are spending throughout the cruise.
Another benefit of purchasing the drink package is that you can order specialty coffees, teas, juices, and, in some cases, milkshakes and smoothies!
If you enjoy these beverages, purchasing a drink package will provide good value.
Related: 13 Big Drink Package Mistakes Not to Make on a Cruise
4. Balcony Cabins Aren’t Always Worth It
Don’t get me wrong—I love a balcony cabin. However, balcony cabins aren’t always worth the price.
If you’re on a port-intensive itinerary, chances are you will only spend a little bit of time on your balcony. Furthermore, if you’re on a cruise ship with tons of onboard attractions and activity options, you may not find the time to enjoy the balcony.
An Alaska cruise itinerary is the only time I feel booking a balcony cabin is worth the money.
5. You Don’t Need to Dress Up on Formal Night
Nowadays, formal night isn’t what it once was. As someone who has been cruising for over twenty years, I remember the days when I had to wear a tuxedo to the main dining room on formal nights.
However, times have changed, and dress codes have become more relaxed. On most mainstream cruise lines, a collared shirt and a nice pair of pants are enough for a formal night.
If you prefer to wear casual clothing all the time, there’s no issue with that. You can always eat dinner at the buffet and wear the most comfortable clothing.
6. There’s No Trophy For Packing Carry-On Only
Many people in the cruise community take pride in packing carry-on only. However, I’ll be the first to say that there is no trophy for this.
Sure, packing carry-on early may be enough for some people. However, I prefer to pack more than enough clothing, so I have options on the cruise ship.
The last thing I want to worry about on a cruise vacation is not having enough or the right clothing.
7. Cruises Are Perfect for Sleeping In
A popular opinion among cruisers is that waking up early is the best way to make the most of your cruise vacation. However, I have to disagree.
Often, those who wake up early go to bed early. This means they will miss out on some of the amazing evening activities and the fun nighttime vibe on a cruise ship.
For me, the magic of a cruise vacation lies in the late-night adventures and fun and the luxury of sleeping in a bit during the next day. At the end of the day, cruise vacations are a great place to rest, recharge, and catch up on sleep.
Do you prefer waking up early or sleeping in on a cruise ship? Please let me know in the comments below.
8. You Don’t Need to Book Shore Excursions Through the Cruise Line
Although there are several benefits to booking a shore excursion through the cruise line, there are times when it’s just not worth it. By researching before your cruise, you can visit many destinations on your own.
Whether you decide to explore by foot, take a taxi, or book a shore excursion with a reputable 3rd party, there are so many ways to visit a cruise port on your own.
On a recent Bermuda cruise, we decided to visit the cruise port on our own. As we got off the ship, we went to the taxi booth and asked for recommendations.
The people working at the taxi booth were super helpful and provided us with the information we needed to explore independently. We then took a taxi to the destination recommended by the people from the taxi booth, and we had an amazing day!
9. You Don’t Need to Spend Money on Specialty Dining
Although specialty dining is a great experience and the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, spending the extra money isn’t always necessary. Often, cruises have amazing food and multiple dining options, so spending the extra money isn’t always worth it.
If you’re on a cruise that has amazing food, chances are you won’t find great value in paying extra for specialty dining. It may be better to save the money and put it towards a spa treatment or a shore excursion.
Related: 20 Cruise Specialty Dining Tips, Tricks & Secrets
10. Photo Packages Are Overrated
I never understood why cruisers purchase photo packages. With cell phones having such good cameras these days, it’s unlikely that you need to pay for professional photos.
Instead of paying for a photo package, you can just ask another cruise passenger to take a photo of you. This way, you can take a picture where you want and don’t have to worry about paying for it or printing it on the cruise ship.
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Final Thoughts on 10 Controversial Cruise Takes
Cruising is a great way to visit new destinations while only having to unpack once. However, cruises aren’t one size fits all, and everyone has their own definition of what makes a good cruise vacation.
Whether you find these opinions controversial or not, this post was meant to be light-hearted, fun, and entertaining.
What’s your controversial cruise opinion? Please let me know your questions and tips in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.