All-Inclusive vs. Cruising: Which is right for YOU?
I get asked all the time why people would choose an all-inclusive resort over taking a cruise (and vice versa) so I thought I'd share some information with you to help you see which option could be right for your family's next adventure!
(For this comparison I will be speaking of a contemporary cruise line such as Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, etc. and a beach all-inclusive resort. There are several luxury cruise lines (Such as Crystal, Seabourn and Silversea) that are more similar to a true all-inclusive experience but we won't be using those lines for this comparison because they come with a higher price tag and are more similar to 5 star luxury resorts or all-inclusives such as Grand Velas.)
While both options will give you your accommodations, meals, some drinks, pool use with loungers, kid’s programs, some entertainment, there are some significant differences in these two types of vacations. Here’s why you might choose each type of vacation:
All-Inclusive (AI) Resorts
Nearly everything's included-All drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages), all meals, snacks, non-motorized water sports (kayaking, snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, etc.), kid's club activities, and some resorts even have golf/scuba diving included! Many all-inclusive resorts also have sister resorts where you can enjoy their additional amenities.
Larger Room Size-An AI will give you a MUCH larger room -typically double the size (at least) of a cruise ship stateroom. And don’t forget the unique rooms such as a swim up suite with a pool just steps away from your bed!
Relaxing-While there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy at a resort a stay at an all-inclusive resort tends to be much more relaxing and not as hurried as a cruise. If you love lounging by the pool or like hanging out in your bathing suit all day long at the beach you will most likely want to choose an AI over the cruise.
No seasickness-If you have any issues with seasickness a land resort vacation will be ideal.
Immersion in the local culture-Stops in ports on a cruise ship will typically give you only 4-8 hours to experience the local culture whereas if you’re staying in destination you will have plenty of time to explore and get to know the area and the people.
Cruises
Typically Less Expensive-Cruise pricing tends to cost 20-30% less than an all-inclusive vacation if you just look at the cruise fare with no excursions or extras included. Keep in mind though this can be a bit deceptive since you aren't comparing apples to apples since more things are included at an all-inclusive resort compared to a contemporary cruise line. One savings would be that airfare isn’t needed for many who live close to a port or who want to drive. You do have to pay close attention to what you spend on-board so you aren’t surprised at the end of the cruise when you settle your on-board account so budgeting can be a bit of a challenge when you choose a cruise vacation.
Visit multiple destinations in 1 trip/only unpack once-A cruise will let you see so many ports/countries/cultures all in one vacation. And the bonus is your "floating resort" will travel along with you so you only have to unpack/pack once!.
Variety of activities-From rock climbing, surf simulators, laser tag, escape rooms, Broadway style shows, ice skating, water slides, casinos and so much more…you will have to try very hard to be bored on a cruise ship!
Avoid weather issues-Because the ship is mobile the captain can seek out better weather in instances such as a hurricane/bad weather versus being stuck on land with nowhere to go.
If you don’t need extras-If you drive to the port, don’t drink sodas/alcoholic beverages, choose not to partake in any excursions and don’t choose to dine at any specialty restaurants a cruise vacation could be a great choice with significant savings for you and your family.
Which type of vacation is right for you will ultimately depend on YOUR family’s specific priorities, wish list and/or interests. Because there are so many amazing all-inclusive resorts and cruise options to choose from I would LOVE to help you pick the one that is JUST RIGHT for your family’s next adventure!
