All-Inclusive Cruises: How To Find One – and What ‘All-Inclusive’ Really Means
The idea of an all-inclusive cruise is intoxicating. Seeing the world and having everything you want already paid for – it sounds too good to be true.
That’s because, unlike all-inclusive resorts, a true all-inclusive cruise is a rare bird indeed.
You can prove it to yourself by searching “all-inclusive cruise,” clicking on cruise lines’ pages, and diving into the fine print about what’s not included in their all-inclusive.
Alcoholic beverages outside of meal hours. Alcoholic beverages, period. Upscale dining areas. Room service. Excursions. Equipment rentals.
And all the service fees that cruise lines pile on top of your quoted price.
Okay, so your all-inclusive cruise is really a mostly inclusive cruise and may induce sticker shock. Even so, there are some awfully nice, mostly inclusive cruises out there.
Here’s how to choose the right one for you.
River vs. Ocean
River cruises generally come closer to being all-inclusive than ocean cruises. In addition, more rooms have more room (if you’ve ever had an inside cabin on an ocean cruise, you’ll understand), and the excursions tend to have more substance.
On the other hand, there are no rollercoasters on river cruises, and there hasn’t been a river cruise ship yet that can pull up to a private island in the Bahamas.
Finally, ocean cruises tend to visit more sun-'n'-fun locations, whereas river cruise destinations are often more culturally enriching because they can get into the nooks and crannies that large ocean liners can’t.
Both types of cruises can be grand vacations, but each has its own tempo and style, so in addition to checking the amenities, ask yourself which appeals to you more. And be honest.
Adventure vs. Leisure
Some adventure cruises also come closer to the all-inclusive ideal, but the playing field is vastly different. Think of free zodiac rides and bandages as opposed to all-day mimosas and lobster buffets.
Also, you don’t tend to find rollercoasters on Antarctic cruises. The sea takes care of that naturally.
Cruises to rugged destinations like the Galapagos and the polar regions appeal to a special sort of traveler – and they’re not cheap.
However, they can be all-inclusive – sort of.
Young vs. Old
Some of the hottest mostly inclusive cruises are aimed at travelers under 40 and over 50.
The cruises for those under 40 can offer lively activities and an energetic nightlife (though unlimited alcoholic beverages are typically not included). The over-50 cruises promise a more relaxed and refined ambiance.
If you fall into one of these age categories, consider these cruises and whether they align with your interests and lifestyle.
Destinations
Unless your dream destination is Kansas, chances are some sort of boat trip can take you close to where you want to go. Where it gets interesting is when you layer inclusivity over that.
As mentioned earlier, many river cruises approach the all-inclusive ideal, so if Prague, Vienna, Germany, or Amsterdam are on your destination list, you can have it your way.
In addition, many high-end cruise lines prowl the Mediterranean, providing a high level of amenities at an equally high price.
South Seas cruise lines are similar in their approach. They’re more off the beaten path for American and European travelers, and distances are great between islands, so they pamper their passengers while they’re on board. You pay for the pampering, though.
If you’re looking way south or north, adventure cruises often have you covered with their upscale Russian-trawler brand of all-inclusivity.
Finally, Caribbean cruises are the ultimate smorgasbord, and since they’re the choice of most American cruisers, they’re where you need to pay the most attention to included amenities and added fees.
For any of these destinations, if cruise lines don’t give you the price transparency you crave, check reviews and consult a travel professional.
Luxury vs. Comfort
The ocean cruises that come closest to achieving true all-inclusivity are defined as “luxury” cruises. That means high-end everything.
You deserve the finer things in life. And sure, a vacation should be an escape from the humdrum day-to-day. But don’t let that concept of luxury invade your concept of comfort.
Face it: The only thing that keeps many cruises from being called truly all-inclusive is free access to alcoholic beverages whenever you want them. If you don’t need that, you can have an amazing vacation that you’ll love at a level of luxury that’s comfortable for you.
Also read: From Spas To Safaris, Find Your Luxury Travel Style
Budget
The decision of luxury vs. comfort may be decided for you by your budget. Assuming you have a travel budget, working with a travel advisor to get the right mix of amenities and destinations for a price is definitely the way to go.
That’s because ultimately the defining measure of inclusivity with a cruise is whether it includes you. And fortunately, the cruise universe is expansive enough to have a place – the right place – for you.
No matter how inclusive your cruise, it should be covered with travel protection from Generali Global Assistance. We’ve been covering cruises for decades with robust travel protection plans that include 24/7 Travel Assistance.
Get a quote today for your next cruise.
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