Which is better and which should you choose? A simple question with a complicated answer. Everyone has their own opinion on which is better, so which is it? It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. Hopefully, these few ideas can help you decide and get you traveling!
Cost
The cost is generally the main concern when deciding between the two. For good reason too. Vacations aren’t fun if they empty your wallet.
Cruise: When comparing similar vacations, cruise lines tend to have lower prices. There are endless options departing from all over the world with affordable ranges. Be aware, however, while it’s certainly possible to stay at the initial price, cruise lines work hard to upsell their customers. For most cruises, once you’ve paid, you’ll still need to pay for tips, certain activities, Wi-Fi if desired, drink packages, and even some restaurants. Drinks can be expensive, so we saw many aboard our ship bring their own sodas to cut back on prices.
Resorts: While often costing more upfront, resorts are less likely to upsell their customers throughout the trip. They have their typical encounters where they encourage you to schedule your next stay, but overall they leave you alone to do your thing. They often include more in their definition of “All-Inclusive” as well. You’ll typically not have to pay more for sodas or restaurants and there are fewer hidden fees and fine print extras.
Conclusion: While both can vary drastically, cruises tend to be the cheaper option. And while resorts might cost more, they generally include everything in the upfront price and have fewer hidden fees.
The Experience
This is why you chose to go on vacation, isn’t it? While both revolve around all-inclusive systems, they can be extremely different in the way you spend your time relaxing or playing. You choose!
Cruise: A cruise is a paradise at sea. You get the sun, the ocean, and small beautiful islands as far as the eye. Cruises are full of so much to do and the best thing can be the daily schedule that keeps you up to date and informed about everything that’s going on the ship. With so much going on you’ll never be bored and the fun never stops!
Resorts: While resorts often have similar activities and amenities, they’re more focused on relaxation. You’re able to spread out and relax in your own areas of the resort. There’s less going on and it’s a lot more at your own pace. While cruises are limited in space, resorts are able to have larger features such as multiple pools and beach sections, as well as large golf courses and water parks. A big perk of resorts is that they are often split between family and adults and there are plenty of adult-only options. As a side note, if you have a beachfront resort, you are bound to run into hagglers along the shore.
Conclusion: If you like to mingle, have multiple options, party all night long, and spend time doing many different things, then a cruise is probably right up your alley. If you’d rather relax and do things at your own pace and in your own space, then an All-Inclusive might be the next vacation for you. Both can vary drastically so make sure to do your research ahead of time.
Our cruise to Sint. Maarten, the U.S Virgin Islands, and Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
People
Do you like people, or do you like space?
Cruise: While larger boats have fewer people per space, cruises are always going to be more crowded. It’s extremely evident when boarding and leaving. There are a lot of people and not a lot of space, but if that’s what you like, it can make for a better experience.
Resort: They are much larger and more spread out, so you won’t deal with nearly as many people in one place. You also don’t have to worry about arriving and departing at the same times as 3000 other people.
Conclusion: If you like people and want to meet others, then a cruise is definitely for you. If you want space and fewer people, then a resort may be more your style. Either way, know ahead of time and you’ll be in great shape for whichever you choose.
Food and Drink
While maybe not the biggest concern on your list, it’s certainly worth the consideration. Especially if you’re a foodie and you travel to experience the flavors.
Cruise: Cruises are all about their “all you can eat”, and it truly is all you can eat. There is typically something to eat or drink at any time of the day or night. There are limitations that exist on a boat, however. The food is brought on board at the starting point and they have to keep it throughout the trip. It’s not a huge deal, but it does limit freshness and potentially the quality. They have simple menus every night, but there are fun and new options to try each day. One of the big upsides to cruise dining is that you get pampered and treated extremely well while on board, and as I said, it’s unlimited at all times of the trip.
Resorts: All-Inclusives aren’t limited in the same way that boats are. They can have fresher ingredients as well as serve local cuisine. The food and drink are typically limitless, but you’re less likely to have as many restaurants and snack stops as on a cruise ship. With fewer people in one spot, resorts are typically quieter at night and you may not have the same food availability as you would on a boat.
Conclusion: Your level of fanciness may be the deciding factor, but you can’t go wrong either way. If you want great service, lots of options, and food all night, then a cruise might be for you. If you prefer quieter dining and local cuisine, then a resort might be better. If you’re like me, then food is food and you won’t be disappointed. In both situations, it’s important to remember that you often pay for what you get as far as quality and quantity.
Our trip to an All-Inclusive in the Dominican Republic.
Accomodations
The accommodation you get will vary between the two. If where you sleep is a big factor, then the differences will certainly play into your final decision.
Cruise: Cruises are compact and busy and the rooms are not the main focus. Base rates will likely have you staying in the depths of the boat, in a small room, with no windows. This isn’t a huge deal as the entertainment and activities are elsewhere on the boat. The rooms are small, and you won’t be there often as there is so much going on elsewhere.
Resorts: Resorts have far more space so the rooms are bigger and they’re easier to relax in. They will have windows and often tropical views. If you’re more interested in relaxing and doing your thing, it may be better to have a larger room where you can have your own space. You also have a far greater range of room types and room experiences.
Conclusion: Boats have tiny rooms with not much luxury. Resorts have bigger rooms with better options. If you’re there for the room then a cruise isn’t for you. If you’re there for everything else, then a cruise is perfect. Both have upgrade options, and both have what you need. Know ahead of time how it works, and you’ll have no issues.
Location
While both are amazing, you’ll have to choose between one location or multiple.
Cruises: Naturally, a cruise will get you to more places. There are so many different destinations, and whatever route you choose, you’ll be able to visit multiple islands or countries. The stops are often short, but it’s a great way to experience different cultures and locations.
Resorts: Obviously resorts don’t move, so you’re restricted to the location of the resort. Being in one spot allows you to experience more of one culture and to get a better taste of that part of the world. This can be a great experience if you want to get out and find adventure.
Conclusion: This decision is pretty black and white. If you want multiple places then go on a cruise. If you want to stay in one spot and more fully appreciate a specific location, then go to a resort and get a true feel for the country or island.
Conclusion
Cruise or All-Inclusive? Everyone has their own opinions on which is better, but it’s ultimately up to you. There are all kinds of factors that may alter your opinion, but both are amazing, and you won’t regret it. Pick an option and go for it!
What do you think? What are your thoughts and which do you prefer?
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