Cruise Vacations: 20 Not-So-Sunny Facts You Need to Know

Ready to set sail? Before you do, let’s talk about what cruise lines might not want you to know. These 20 surprising truths could change your mind about booking that next cruise vacation.

1. Health Risks Remain High

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Luis Molinero

Imagine being stuck at sea with a virus running rampant onboard. It’s not just COVID-19; things like norovirus are pretty common on cruise ships too. Is that a risk you want to take?

2. Environmental Impact

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / CK Foto

Cruise ships are like floating cities that dump sewage directly into our beautiful oceans. Not exactly the eco-friendly vacation you had in mind, right?

3. Crowded and Overbooked

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / penofoto

Ever feel like you can’t escape the crowds? That’s a cruise for you. Packed pools, long buffet lines, and crowded dance floors could be your daily reality.

4. Hidden Costs

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / NATNN

Think you’re paying for it all upfront? Think again. Those extra charges for drinks, special meals, excursions, and even Wi-Fi can really add up, blowing your budget out of the water.

5. Limited Interaction with Local Cultures

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / frantic00

You hop off; you hop on, and what do you really see? A few hours in port isn’t enough to truly experience local life beyond the tourist traps.

6. Underwhelming Food Quality

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Image Credit: Pexels / Nadin Sh

Those endless buffets? They’re not exactly gourmet. Expect mass-produced dishes that rarely change – you might find yourself craving a simple home-cooked meal.

7. Restricted Itineraries

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ruth Peterkin

Found a spot you love and want to explore more? Too bad. The ship’s schedule calls the shots, and often it’s back onboard long before you’re ready.

8. Over-tourism

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Shcherbyna Nataliia

Imagine descending on small towns with thousands of others all at once. It changes the place, and not for the better – it’s overwhelming for everyone involved.

9. Unpredictable Weather and Itinerary Changes

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Aree_S

Storms can reroute your entire trip. That dream destination on your itinerary? You might not even set foot there.

10. Lack of Privacy

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Virrage Images

Finding a quiet corner to yourself on a ship brimming with guests is like finding a lifeboat on the Titanic. Good luck!

11. Subpar Entertainment

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Prostock-studio

The shows might be plentiful, but they’re often a bit… well, cheesy. If you’re looking for cutting-edge entertainment, you might find yourself disappointed.

12. Inadequate Medical Facilities

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Monika Wisniewska

If you have a serious health issue on board, the ship’s small medical center might not cut it. For anything major, you’d need to wait until the next port—whenever that may be.

13. Difficulties in Social Distancing

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / TK Kurikawa

Post-pandemic, we all know the drill on keeping distance. Try doing that in a buffet line or a tiny elevator with a dozen other people.

14. Ethical Concerns with Labor Practices

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Click and Photo

Ever wonder why the crew is always working? Their shifts are long, the pay is low, and the conditions are tough. It’s a far cry from the glossy brochure images.

15. Limited Wildlife Encounters

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Image Credit: Pexels / Andrea Piacquadio

You might see the ocean, but it’s not the same as getting up close with wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s more scenic viewing than true interacting.

16. Impact on Local Communities

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / UnderhilStudio

The little money you spend onshore barely benefits the local community. Most of your dollars stay on the ship, which doesn’t help the places you visit.

17. Cabin Size and Comfort

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bignai

Cramped and cozy isn’t what everyone wants. Those tiny cabins can make a hotel room feel like a palace.

18. Lack of Authentic Experiences

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Soloviova Liudmyla

Those shore excursions? Many are just well-oiled tourist machines. You’re herded from one spot to another without experiencing what truly makes a place special.

19. Noise Levels

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kirk Fisher

Peace and quiet can be hard to come by when you’re surrounded by thousands, all enjoying their vacation at full volume.

20. Slow Internet

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / fizkes

Need to send an important email or share your holiday snaps? Prepare for slow connections and high prices to stay online.

Reconsider

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pavel L Photo and Video

So, what do you think? Still keen on that cruise, or are you starting to consider other options? Remember, there are plenty of ways to travel that can offer you more freedom, authenticity, and peace of mind. 

18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / InesBazdar

It’s time for a reality check, American travelers. As you pack your bags and head overseas, ready to stamp your passport, it’s becoming glaringly obvious that not every destination is thrilled to see you. 18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iryna Inshyna

American cities promise rich culture and unforgettable experiences, but rising crime rates can catch travelers off guard. This guide helps you stay safe while fully enjoying your adventures. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ruth Peterkin.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.

The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Tripimage 9133145 14418597

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