Cruises, like them?

[Ashcan Bill]

Originally Posted by landhoney

things like: stuck on the ship, mediocre entertainment, mediocre food...and lots of it, unsolvable problems with the room, too many people, limited time at the destinations, extras cost extra money, etc., etc.

I took my first cruise in the late 80's, and got hooked. I still take one at least every year of so. Here's my perspective.

The cost of a cruise today is actually less than it was twenty years ago. Other than TVs and computers, I can't think of too many things you can say that about. To do this the cruise lines have had to add/increase charges for almost everything on board, as their expenses have continued to increase. Pretty much everything is now "extra", and even things that were always extra have increased in cost dramatically. Specialty restaurants are pushed. Drinks are expensive. You'll be invited to purchase photos, excursions, bingo, lotteries, sodas, and so on. Activities include art actions, on-board shopping, and casinos, all designed to separate you from your money. You're constantly hit with marketing strategies from the moment you step on board.

None of this really bothers me because I recognize it for what it is, and I can choose to opt out. I can spend as little or as much as I want. The entertainment can be very good, the food in the main restaurants more than decent (certainly better than most of us eat on a daily basis), and the service more often than not is exceptional. The entertainment, food in the main restaurants, and service won't cost you anything. It's included in the basic cost of the cruise.

While some people get on board already convinced they're going to find a million things to complain about, I walk up the gangway knowing I'm going to have a great time even though everything may not be perfect. The complainers get what they want and I get what I want. It's mainly in your expectations.

Some lines are known for on-board activities, some for food, some for entertainment, some for catering to different age groups. You need to do your homework and figure out which are which, and then choose based on your own priorities.

Originally Posted by landhoney

Part of my fear is that the travel (on the boat only) days will be boring. I'm not a "lay by the pool and catch some rays all day" guy (except at the Playboy Mansion). I like to do things, especially "soaking up the local culture", whether through food, architecture, museums, etc.

Pick a cruise that hits at least four, preferably five ports in seven days. You won't have time to get bored. Trust me.