Why I Enjoy Cruising

It is the start of another new year. Like clockwork, many have already written lists saluting the top movies, worst political scandals, best diet plans, and so on.

With that, here’s my contribution: Five reasons why I enjoy cruising.

The ocean

I grew up in Staten Island, New York. Among my fondest memories was P.S. 5′s annual school picnic at Wolfe’s Pond Park. I loved looking out at the water, watching it lap against the shore – such a peaceful, calming sound – and I loved the smell of the ocean. (No, not the smell of New York. The ocean!)

On a cruise, I get to enjoy that same calming effect at all hours: on my balcony traveling at 19 knots, waves crashing below … or in port, listening to the rhythm of water hitting the docks. The sights and sounds of the open sea never fail to change my perspective.

The floating hotel concept

Free room service, casinos, entertainment, a variety of restaurants, spas, gymnasiums – even on the smallest of cruise ships – are the norm these days. Everything is within reasonable walking distance, and all the outside views are panoramic. Cruise ships have everything a hotel has, and then some. 

Children’s programs

Most ships offer a kid’s area on-board. Since age three, they have never failed to keep my now eight year-old son completely entertained. (I realize this depends on each family but it’s my list, my reasons!) The counselors always promote respectful behavior, cooperation, keeping everyone very safe (like a fortress!), happy, and busy.

Sometimes we take advantage of late night supervision but, most of the time, he only needs to visit a few hours each day. It’s just enough to give my husband and I some alone time while he has a blast playing with a bunch of kids around his age and making new friends.

Granted, some ships are better suited to different age ranges, but overall cruise lines do a wonderful job. The kid’s area is a valuable offering for younger travelers … and their parents!

Learning about other cultures

I am someone who craves learning how others live, so I opt for shore excursions that immerse me in a new culture. I want to try their food, see how they work, speak with the locals, appreciate their customs and way of life. Learning about other cultures makes you a more informed, more tolerant world citizen.

I love getting a good deal

During bad financial times or a prosperous year, cruising has always offered a good vacation at a good rate. True, some time frames are more expensive than others but, dollar for dollar, it’s hard to beat the all-inclusive price of a cruise. Service, food, entertainment and basic drinks are all included. On some cruise lines, that even includes alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

One piece of advice to keep your costs down on a cruise: Control your onboard spending. (Do you really need that Tanzanite?)

There you have it: Five reasons why I enjoy cruising. It is an economic, educational, fun, all-inclusive vacation – on the beauty of the ocean!

Your turn: Why do you enjoy cruising?