A cruise vacation is one of the most sought-after holiday experiences. One can explore multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking and enjoy the amenities and entertainment options available onboard. They are also a fantastic choice to unwind over a weekend and hop on for shorter vacations. However, not all cruises offer the same level of experience. Check out a few types of cruises to steer clear of:
Cruise lines with poor safety records
Before booking a cruise, research the safety record and reputation of the cruise line. Cruise lines with a history of safety incidents or regulatory violations must be avoided, as these have poor passenger safety or industry standards. Research thoroughly, read reviews, and take recommendations beforehand. One must opt only for reputable, well-established cruise lines for a more enjoyable vacation experience.
Short cruises in the middle of spring break
Spring break is an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy a vacation. Although several cruises are available during this time, it also means many passengers are on board. College students, in particular, get a break from their studies and often choose these short cruises, which can make the ships crowded and lively. Those who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere and want to avoid the chaos of crowded decks and parties should avoid short cruises. Instead, one can consider Caribbean cruises during January for a more relaxed experience. If one must vacation during spring break, they can opt for cruise lines that are not typically party-centric.
First or last cruises of the season
Destinations like Alaska have lush green mountains and pleasant rainy weather, which makes it a magnetic pick for tourists who love nature. Cruises that set sail in May and September offer cheaper deals than peak season months like June, July, and August. However, travelers who aren’t used to cruises may make the mistake of booking the first or last cruises of the season. Travel during May and September can be more challenging due to the colder temperatures and increased risk. Additionally, September may experience heavy rainfalls, making it a riskier time to sail. Limited shopping options could be encountered at the beginning or end of the season due to the unavailability of new stocks or the fact that the latest trendy shopping items are sold out at the destination. Therefore, the best time for first-time travelers to book a trip is during June, July, or August when the weather is more stable.
Peak season cruises
The months between January and May are typically considered popular for cruises due to good weather and abundant flight bookings. However, this high season can often result in inflated prices and overcrowded destinations. It’s a personal decision but worth considering off-season cruises to secure better deals.
Inaugural cruises
The first image one might get in their minds about inaugural cruises is pristine interiors, untouched spaces that meet all hygienic standards. However, opting for inaugural cruises can be a mistake since new vessels are bound to have issues. For instance, the staff may not be well-equipped with operations, which could lead to potential delays, technical glitches during shows, or inadequate customer support. Also, newer ships usually spend little time on the dock to maximize their profits and recover costs early, so ongoing maintenance work may occur onboard. While not all factors hold for all inaugural cruises, it’s still best to avoid them, especially for first-timer cruise travelers, to ensure a smoother experience.
Repositioning cruises
These cruises are incredibly cheap and can be ideal if one wants to embark on a budget-friendly adventure. However, one must remember that repositioning cruises is a one-way ship that relocates from one region to another. They usually cover vast expanses of the Atlantic or Pacific oceans and do not spend much time at ports to maximize travel time. Booking these cruises, especially at the start or end of a season, means the sea can be rough and unpredictable, and there may be limited recreational activities for everyone aboard.
Cruises during the hurricane season
Hurricane season lasts from June to September, so those who opt for such ship cruises, especially those heading to the Caribbean, may face unexpected weather, delays, route changes, or even cancellations at the last minute from August to November. So, it’s best to schedule one’s cruise by considering all these factors for a memorable and hassle-free experience.
