Cruise or All Inclusive Resort? The Great Debate

So you’re ready to plan that perfect vacation, but there is an ongoing debate about which is better: a cruise or all inclusive resort vacation? We realize that with the wide range of options for both types of getaways, it may be hard to decide. We’re here to make a case for the all inclusive vacation, and here’s why.

Cruise or All Inclusive Resort?

• Cruises have extra costs that all inclusive resorts do not
• Resorts allow you to spend ample time at the destination
• Pools at all inclusive resorts are larger and more luxurious
• The accommodations at resorts are measurably better
• There are less crowds and lines at a resort
• Cruises aren’t necessarily designed to be relaxing
• You can’t get sea sick at a resort

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More information on how to choose: cruise or all inclusive resort?

1. Cruises have extra costs that all inclusive resorts do not. These costs on cruises can add up and make what once seemed like a deal become a much more expensive vacation than anticipated. For example, cruises typically do not include alcoholic drinks or soda with the cost of the trip, which can add up to a costly bill at the end. In addition, some cruises do not include port charges or tips and gratuities in the quoted price. On the other hand, all inclusive resorts add in hotel taxes, all gratuities, and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) into the quoted price.

2. Resorts allow you to spend ample time at the destination. While cruises are a great way to experience a variety of locations all in one trip, it can oftentimes be a whirlwind of a vacation that can leave you wishing you had gotten to spend more than a few hours at a particular port of call. Not so much with a resort, where you can generally experience local cuisine more often than once or twice, get to know some of the locals, and try out different excursions and see local tourist attractions and shopping spots over the course of your stay.

3. Pools at all inclusive resorts are larger and more luxurious. Let’s face it, cruise ships just don’t have the space for large pools, although some do offer water slides. These tiny pools can sometimes be little more than a place to dip in and cool off. And good luck trying to find a lounge chair (unless you’re up at the crack of done, of course).  The pool is one of the biggest attractions at an all inclusive resort, and many properties nowadays have multiple pools designated for the specific vibe (quiet pool, kids pool, activities pool, etc.)

4. The accommodations at resorts are measurably better. Literally and figuratively! Yes, we’re talking about space, but also amenities. Cruise cabins are typically rather small, unless you splurge for some of the most expensive ones. Meanwhile, even the most basic resort accommodations offer more space than the typical cruise ship cabin. And, for those that want even more space for large groups or families, it’s easy to find a resort with multiple bedrooms connecting family suites without paying an arm and a leg.

5. There are less crowds and lines at a resort. With cruising, unless you have opted for a smaller ship, you are generally surrounded by thousands of strangers, all trying to do the same thing at once, which can lead to large lines and cramped crowds. In addition, there are lines to get off and also back on when you’re at a port. Whereas resorts are generally big enough with sprawling grounds, so you don’t feel like you are jam packed in tight quarters. Oftentimes, guests don’t even realize if a resort is at maximum capacity!

6. Cruises aren’t necessarily designed to be relaxing. Between the lines, crowds and endless options of activities, it can sometimes be hard to just find some peace and quiet on a cruise ship. While nothing is mandatory on board, many ships are constantly trying to draw guests into the current activity with announcements and overly-excited staff.

7. You can’t get sea sick at a resort. Nowadays, cruise ship technology has reduced the movement of the larger ships quite a bit, but you will still feel some rocking in even the calmest of waters. After all, you are at high sea. Then, there is always the risk of bad weather creating rougher seas. So, if you’re prone to sea sickness, we recommend a land-based all inclusive vacation as a better option.

Still contemplating between cruise or all inclusive resort?

These are just a few reasons why you might want to opt for an all inclusive resort vacation vs. a cruise. If you are considering traveling to an all inclusive resort for the first time, we recommend browsing our collection of top-notch resorts to narrow down your options. Our expert travel agents will help you select the best fit for your next vacation to paradise!