Why cruise when there are so many other family vacation options? For the ease of it all, says Sherri Eisenberg, cruise editor at Travel & Leisure magazine. "You get to see a variety of destinations," she says, "without schlepping your bags onto planes or trains or taxis, or checking in and out of hotels." Here are nine other reasons to give some serious thought to sailing the high seas this season:
1. Value
Cruising has become more inexpensive as the inventory of new ships and the demand to fill both older and newer vessels have increased. There are packages now for every budget, and perks aplenty, like ship credits redeemable at on-board spas, casinos, or specialty restaurants. And then there are early-bird and last-minute discounts. Compare the numbers with air-and-land-based vacations, and you’ll often find cruising is the more wallet-friendly choice.
2. Convenience
Call it one-stop shopping, but there’s nothing better than having your room, meals, activities, and entertainment all under one roof.
3. Relaxation
Does your dream vacation include a beach chair and a juicy novel? Cruising is the way to go. Want to keep your dress clothes in the closet back home? There are ships that emphasize the fne art of being casual.
4. Fun
There are so many activities on most ships that the hardest part is often choosing your must-dos and not overloading your day. From art auctions, bingo, and lectures to over-the-top carousel rides and water slides to Broadway- or Vegas-style revues, there are 24 hours of fun at your fingertips.
5. Education
Always wanted to learn French? Or discover advanced photography techniques? Lines like Princess and Royal Caribbean offer on-board educational programs covering subjects from science to ceramics.
6. Variety
Voyages that stop at several ports let you rest your head in one country and awake in a new one without having to make airport transfers. It’s a great way to sample destinations you might want to revisit on a future vacation.
7. Adventure
Whether it’s kayaking in the Caribbean or hiking in Halifax, shore excursions offered by cruise lines put families in exploration-and-discovery mode. You’ll create lifetime memories with experiences you can’t reproduce at home.
8. Togetherness
No worries about being separated on board — family-friendly rooms are more convenient than ever. Some Disney cruise cabins sleep as many as six people and have split bathrooms.
9. Flexibility
Smaller ships are able to meander through otherwise inaccessible locales, often docking right in town and allowing you ample time in port. Other small ships custom-tailor itineraries based on guest demand.
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