When I say “cruise,” I can practically hear the inner groans echoing back at me! The classic cruise stigma usually sounds like a chorus of overcrowded decks, blaring tunes, and people crammed in like sardines. Naturally, the first image that pops into mind is one of those colossal mega cruise ships, designed to cater to the crowds with non-stop entertainment and a sea of fellow thrill-seekers. But if you’re anything like me, “for the masses” just isn’t your travel vibe! So, let’s dive into what makes cruises a hit and explore some alternative options that won’t have you feeling like a part of the herd.

Cruising Benefits

• Unpack only once– travel extensively, without having to shlep your luggage to several different locations? Ok, I’m listening..
• No wasted time while traveling– the journey to get to a destination can be dauting. Hours sitting on a plane or traveling in a vehicle. Yes, you can look out the window, but you could do something more efficient with that time like laying by the pool, having a gourmet meal, or getting a massage. All while traveling to your next spot! Please go on..
• Flexibility– cruises offer a multitude of options to keep you both relaxed and entertained. And you have the deciding vote on how your day plays out! My daydreaming has begun..
• Multigenerational friendly– with the variety of offers, cruises are perfect for the whole (and extended) family. Plus, when uncle bob has gotten on his soap box for the 5^th time, plenty of places to escape for some relief. Oh, Uncle Bob..
• Location Hopping– cruises are the best at getting you to a lot of different locations all within one trip. I’ve always wanted to hop around the Greek Isles..

Now that your brain is buzzing with possibilities, let’s dive into the wild world of cruise categories. There’s a little something for everyone on this ocean of opportunities!

River Cruises

a river cruise, aka your floating hotel on water! This snazzy little vessel glides through serene rivers, sparkling lakes, and winding intercoastal routes. It’s like a cozy hotel with a view that changes every day! Plus, it hops from city to city like a social butterfly, all without breaking the bank. Sure, it may not have the flashy shows of its big-ship sibling, but guess what? You can say goodbye to seasickness and hello to smooth sailing!

Luxury/Ultra Luxury Cruises

These cruises come with a crew-to-guest ratio that would make any five-star restaurant envious, guaranteeing service so good you’ll feel like royalty! Plus, these nifty little ships are smaller than the usual floating cities, allowing them to sneak into exclusive spots that bigger vessels can only dream of!

Family

With a dazzling array of activities, scrumptious dining, and comfy accommodations, family cruise ships are like floating playgrounds where relaxation meets adventure in a kid-friendly paradise.

Expedition Cruises

An expedition cruise is like a treasure hunt on the high seas, diving into off-the-beaten-path locales while soaking up the wonders of nature and local culture! Unlike your average cruise, these adventures come with a twist or two!