Cruise Myths Debunked

advice

MSC Seascape cruise ship docked with diverse passengers, debunking the myth that cruises are just for old people

I hear it all the time... "Cruises are just for old people," or "They're so expensive!" Let's take a look at five popular cruise myths and separate fact from fiction. Or rather, reality from misconception.

Myth #1: "Cruises Are Just for Old People"

This myth has been around for ages, and it's the stereotype of cruising I hear the most. Picture this: retirees lounging by the pool, slow-paced activities, long formal dinners... Sound familiar? Yes, the cruise demographic can lean older, especially on certain lines like Holland America Line (which I still love, despite their older skew). But here's the reality: cruises today are designed for everyone.

Depending on the cruise line and itinerary, you'll find families with young kids, honeymooners, solo adventurers, and even thrill-seeking teens. Most cruise lines offer something for every age group. When I cruise with my young daughter, she loves the water slides and arcade games you'll find on lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

For teens and young adults, there are options like zip lines, rock climbing walls, and even go-kart tracks. Some cruises, like Virgin Voyages, cater specifically to adults, so younger couples and solo travelers can have a high-energy, kid-free experience. Disney, on the other hand, is all about family fun.

So, no matter your age or interests, there’s a cruise for you. Cruises have evolved into vacations that fit every generation and lifestyle.

Myth #2: "Cruises Are All-Inclusive"

This one’s tricky because it’s partially true. Many people assume that when they pay for their cruise, everything is included. While cruising offers excellent value, and it's the "bang for your buck" factor that got me hooked on cruising in the first place, it's not entirely all-inclusive, which can surprise first-timers.

Your fare usually includes accommodations, meals in the main dining room and buffet, and access to most onboard entertainment and activities. But extras like drink packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, spa treatments, and even specialty coffee are generally an additional charge. And because cruises are cashless environments where you just swipe your stateroom card, it’s easy to rack up unexpected charges.

There are ways around this, though. Some cruise lines, like Holland America, offer bundled packages with Wi-Fi, a drink package, and excursion credits at a discount. Virgin Voyages is even more inclusive—they cover more extras in their base fare, making it a great value if you want to avoid additional fees.

If you really want an all-inclusive experience, luxury lines like Silver Sea and Regent have you covered, but you’ll pay a premium for it. For mainstream cruises, just remember to double-check what’s included and budget accordingly.

Myth #3: "Cruises Are Boring"

When some people hear "cruise," they think of a laid-back vacation with nothing but sunbathing and reading. If you're a thrill-seeker, this perception might steer you away. But let me tell you, modern cruise ships are floating resorts with so much to do!

Cruise ships now offer rock climbing walls, zip lines, ropes courses, and even surfing simulators on some lines. There are live shows, comedy clubs, and Broadway-style productions. Personally, I love the onboard comedy shows, parties, and even (sometimes) the club. And yes, even as someone who doesn’t usually go to clubs, I find myself dancing away on cruise nights. There’s something for every energy level, whether you want to kick back or turn up.

On port days, it’s even more exciting. You can explore new cities, try new activities, or relax on the beach. Cruises give you a unique way to experience the world, and boredom isn’t an option unless you want it to be.

These are just a few of the biggest cruise myths, and I assure you that the reality is far more exciting and diverse than the stereotypes suggest. So if you’ve been hesitant about booking a cruise, hopefully, this gives you a clearer picture of what to expect. A whole world of cruising is out there waiting for you—happy sailing!