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Cruising has been a popular way to travel for many years, but it's still full of misconceptions. Avid cruisers know that many of these misconceptions are false. However, this is not always the case for first-time or potential cruisers.
There are tons of misconceptions about cruising, from concerns about seasickness to unfounded fears of being locked up in a prison at sea (yes, I saw that comment!). Whether you're a new or experienced cruiser, it's important to debunk these common cruising myths.
That way, you will get accurate information and be more informed about the realities of cruising.
So here are 10 outrageous facts people believe about cruising.
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10 cruise myths people get wrong
1. Fear of seasickness
Concerns about seasickness are high on a potential cruiser's list of concerns. However, modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers and advanced technology to minimize movement, making seasickness an occasional rather than common occurrence.
Additionally, many seasickness treatments help reduce the likelihood of being affected by ocean movements.
For example, when necessary, I take Bonine, an over-the-counter seasickness medication, to prevent seasickness. Natural remedies such as bonin, dramamine, and even ginger can make treating motion sickness much easier.
2. Age stereotypes
Contrary to popular belief, cruising isn't just for retirees. In fact, Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly embracing cruise travel. With a variety of cruise lines catering to different demographics, there is something for everyone, regardless of age.
Some cruise lines and ships attract more mature travelers, while others attract families or travelers under 40.
reality
During long cruise itineraries and peak season periods, you'll find an older crowd. However, if you take a cruise during the holidays or during the summer, chances are there will be a lot of younger cruisers on your cruise.
Moreover, many new cruise ships tend to attract a younger demographic. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and Carnival Cruise Line typically attract young cruisers.
3. Swimming techniques
A common misconception among potential cruisers is that you need to know how to swim before going on a cruise. But this couldn't be further from the truth.
Cruise ships adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure that swimming ability is not an issue for passengers. In fact, unless you plan on taking a dip in the pool, you don't have to swim at all during your cruise vacation!
4. Cruises are boring
I've seen common statements online where people say that cruises are boring. However, this could not be further from the truth.
Of course, some cruise lines may have less activity than others. Nonetheless, many cruise lines offer great entertainment, fun activities, and exciting attractions.
Modern cruise ships have so many great activities and it's very difficult to get bored on a cruise because there's always something to do.
I recently sailed on one of MSC's newest ships, the MSC Seascape. This boat was amazing! It had four water slides, thrill rides, sports courts, nightly shows, themed parties, and a nightclub.
I had a great time on this cruise and was never bored!
5. Cruise ships are crowded
Many potential cruisers may be concerned about crowding. But rest assured, there is always a peaceful place onboard a cruise ship where you can unwind.
For example, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas weighs 220,000 tons and can accommodate more than 6,500 passengers. If you've never been on a cruise before, you might wonder how such a large cruise ship never feels crowded.
Royal Caribbean excels at strategically placing activities, bars, dining and entertainment venues around its cruise ships, effectively preventing crowding.
Two years ago, I had the pleasure of sailing on the Oasis of the Seas. I was pleasantly surprised to find that despite its size, it never felt crowded. This is a testament to Royal Caribbean’s excellent crowd management.
That means there is a cruise line and ship for everyone. Some cruise lines have more space per passenger, so ships of any size will feel less crowded.
Related: Royal Caribbean vs MSC Cruises
6. Budget issues
Cruise travel is often perceived as expensive, but it can be as budget-friendly as you want. From promotional offers to choosing cost-effective cabin options, there are many ways to enjoy a cruise without breaking the bank.
As someone who has enjoyed cruising since I was a child, my family has always found a way to take us on a cruise. In fact, our family of four enjoyed the cruise in an indoor cabin!
Of course, fitting four people into one cabin was very tight. But it was an effective way to make cruising cheaper, which meant we could cruise more often.
Related: 7 Money-Saving Cruise Secrets You Wish You Knew Sooner
7. Dining with strangers
One common misconception is that when you go on a cruise, you have to sit at the dinner table with other cruisers you don't know. Naturally, it won't appeal to everyone.
Just a few years ago, most cruise lines had communal dining. This meant sitting at a table with other guests. However, this is no longer the case and is optional.
While some may enjoy shared meals, cruise lines now offer flexibility to allow passengers to dine however they prefer. Plus, anytime meals are standard on most cruise lines, so you can choose to eat whenever you want.
These positive changes have been implemented over the past decade and have definitely improved the overall cruise experience.
8. Cruises are too formal
Cruise's concept of a strict dress code is outdated. Although formal nights still exist, many cruise lines have relaxed their requirements over the past few years. Nowadays, formal parties and gala nights provide an opportunity to dress up, but dress codes are not strictly enforced.
There are many options for cruise ships these days. From the main dining room, specialty restaurant, buffet to a casual grill, we cater to all guests and attire choices.
This allows cruise passengers to wear comfortable clothing during their cruise vacation.
That said, I have fond memories of wearing a tuxedo to formal nights on my first cruise as a child. But on a recent cruise, I wore a suit or dress shirt and dress pants, and it was perfect for a formal night.
Related: What to Wear on a Cruise Vacation (Day, Evening, Formal Night)
9. Falling overboard
I've heard many people who have never been on a cruise say, “I don't want to go on a cruise because I'm afraid of falling overboard.” In reality, despite the publicity of these tragic events, falling off a cruise ship is neither easy nor common.
The railings on cruise ships are at least chest height. This is just one of the many safety precautions that apply to cruise ships.
Unfortunately, most overboard accidents occur when someone intentionally jumps or does something dangerous, such as climbing onto a balcony railing.
Related: 10 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship Balcony
10. Petri dish recognition
The misconception that cruise ships are breeding grounds for germs overlooks the strict hygiene measures they employ. Cruise ships prioritize the health and safety of their passengers, from regular cleaning to disease monitoring.
The cruise ship has multiple hand hygiene and hand washing stations placed near the restaurant and around the cruise ship. This is an effective way to reduce the spread of germs and disease.
When you board a cruise ship, you can see the staff constantly cleaning. Whether it's disinfecting elevators, cleaning restrooms, or cleaning restaurants, cruise ship crew members spend a lot of time keeping their ships clean.
From our experience and those of many who travel frequently on cruises, it would be hard to imagine many land holidays maintaining such high standards.
standing statue:
In addition to these top cruise myths, here are a few honorable mentions, including some misconceptions about cruises.
- There are too many “scheduled activities” (optional).
- Too many people are drunk (some drink, some don't, but this is not a widespread problem).
- You must disembark the ship at the cruise port. (No, you can choose to stay on board.)
- Titanic comparison (be careful not to hit the iceberg)
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Final Thoughts on the Ridiculous Things People Wrongly Believe About Cruises
Despite these persistent myths, cruise travel continues to attract travelers from around the world, offering enjoyable experiences and adventures on the high seas. So the next time you hear someone dismissing a cruise vacation due to a misunderstanding, set the record straight and encourage them to try a cruise vacation for themselves!
After all, if you've ever been on a cruise, you know that it's a fun, safe, and accessible travel option for everyone.
Have a nice cruise!
Ethan
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