10/09/2026
The Value of Cruising — Episode Two
Is Cruising Still a Great Value?
I say a resounding YES!
Now, I know some will say cruising isn't what it used to be. And you know what? They're absolutely right. I agree!
Gone are those leisurely mornings sipping bouillon on the enclosed promenade deck. The traditional two-seating dinner service and lavish midnight buffets have largely given way to flexible dining arrangements, specialty restaurants, and an almost endless variety of culinary choices. We no longer see many of those wonderful old gentlemen's smoking rooms, indoor swimming pools, or those oddly configured L-shaped cabins with their tiny portholes.
And yes, I sometimes miss those simpler days when our biggest decisions involved what time to eat next, whether to place a bet on the wooden horses racing around the pool, or perhaps squeeze in a competitive game of shuffleboard. Ahhh, those were the good old days, for sure!
But here's where I might surprise you. In my humble opinion, cruising today is better than it's ever been! As the industry has matured, cruise ships have evolved into extraordinary floating resorts, offering experiences that rival—and in some cases surpass—many of the finest hotels and resorts around the world.
Just think about how much we're now forced to endure! Celebrity-chef restaurants, spectacular multi-level suites, private balconies, water parks, roller coasters, ice-skating shows, Broadway-style productions, elaborate aquatic theaters, luxurious spas, and upscale boutiques. Oh, the sacrifices we make!
And for those who prefer the more traditional cruising experience, there are still plenty of beautiful, smaller ships offering gracious service, elegant dining, quiet lounges, and that wonderful feeling of being at sea.
But let's talk about VALUE. Because this is where cruising really shines. Think about what goes into planning a traditional hotel or resort vacation. First, there's the cost of your accommodations. Then come the meals—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and perhaps a snack or two. Add entertainment, transportation between destinations, and whatever activities you choose along the way.
And if you're planning to visit several different cities or islands, you may also be looking at additional flights, rental cars, transfers, and the inconvenience of packing and unpacking at every stop. Those expenses can add up pretty quickly! Now consider what a cruise vacation offers.
Your accommodations travel with you. Your transportation between destinations is part of the experience. A remarkable variety of meals and snacks is included in the fare, along with entertainment ranging from live music and production shows to comedy, games, and countless activities throughout the day.
You can visit several wonderful destinations, enjoy the pleasures of a resort vacation, and return each evening to the same comfortable stateroom. And you only unpack ONCE! Now, I certainly recognize that not everything aboard a cruise ship is included. Specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, gratuities, and other extras can increase the final cost, depending on the cruise line and fare you've selected. But even when we factor in those additional expenses, I believe the overall value proposition remains pretty remarkable.
And there's another important ingredient that sometimes gets overlooked. SERVICE!
Cruising has long been associated with attentive, personalized service. From your stateroom attendant to the dining room staff, there's something special about being welcomed aboard and having so many people dedicated to making your vacation enjoyable. On many ships, you'll still find those little touches that remind us of cruising's more gracious traditions—perhaps evening turndown service, afternoon tea, or a waiter who remembers exactly how you like your morning coffee.
Of course, you can find exceptional service at many of the world's finest hotels and resorts. Some offer truly extraordinary experiences. But that level of service often comes with an equally extraordinary price tag! What impresses me most is that even many of today's mainstream cruise lines continue to provide comfortable accommodations, an abundance of dining choices, excellent entertainment, and attentive service at prices that can be surprisingly affordable.
And here's something else worth considering. A hotel is generally your destination, or perhaps your home base while you explore the surrounding area. A cruise ship is your hotel, your restaurant, your entertainment venue, your transportation, AND part of the destination itself!
There's a certain magic to waking up in a different port, enjoying a leisurely day ashore, and returning to a familiar ship where dinner and an evening of entertainment are waiting. And then, while you're sleeping, your floating resort quietly carries you toward another adventure. Try getting your hotel to do THAT!
Now, don't misunderstand me. I love a wonderful hotel or resort vacation, and there are certainly times when staying in one place is exactly the right choice. Every type of vacation has its own advantages. But after nearly 40 years in the travel industry, and more cruises than I can easily remember, I remain convinced that cruising offers one of the most complete and enjoyable vacation experiences available.
And when you consider everything that's included, I still believe cruising delivers some of the very best bang for your vacation buck!
So yes, cruising has changed. Some of those wonderful old traditions have disappeared, and I certainly miss them. But look at everything we've gained! The ships are more remarkable, the choices are greater, the destinations are as exciting as ever, and the overall experience continues to evolve.
And for this old cruise enthusiast, that's something worth celebrating! Let's go cruising, folks! 🚢⚓
Bill Emerson, MCC
Emerson's Cruises & Tours
Guiding You to Extraordinary Journeys Since 1987
