Cruise or All-Inclusive? Let’s Break It Down!

staceydoby
Jun 4
3 min read

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Should I book a cruise or an all-inclusive resort?”—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I get, and the answer isn’t always clear-cut. Both vacation types offer amazing experiences, but they’re different in all the right ways.

So today, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each, clear up a few common misconceptions, and help you find the perfect fit for your next getaway. (Spoiler alert: there’s no wrong answer—just great options!)

🚢 The Cruise Life: See More, Pack Once

Why people love cruises:

Multiple destinations in one trip – Wake up in a new country (or island!) without repacking your suitcase.
Endless entertainment – From Broadway-style shows to water slides, casinos, and comedy clubs—there’s something for everyone.
Dining variety – Included buffets, cafes, and main dining, plus specialty restaurants if you want to splurge.

Things to keep in mind:

Not 100% all-inclusive – While cruises include lodging, meals in the main dining venues, and most entertainment, extras like soda, specialty coffee, gratuities, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and some restaurants may cost extra.
Structured schedule – Port times are set, so while you get to explore many places, your time in each one is limited.
Motion of the ocean – Today’s ships are very stable, but some travelers prefer land-based vacations if they’re sensitive to motion.

Perfect for:Adventurous spirits, families with varied interests, and anyone who wants to explore more than one destination in a single trip.

🌴 All-Inclusive Resorts: One Destination, Pure Relaxation

Why people love all-inclusives:

One price covers almost everything – Food, drinks (yes, even cocktails!), entertainment, and sometimes activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, or yoga.
Relax at your own pace – No schedules or port calls—just beach time, spa days, and sunset dinners.
Spacious rooms & beachfront bliss – Many resorts offer luxurious suites with ocean views, swim-up access, or even private plunge pools

Things to keep in mind:

You're staying put – You’ll really get to know one destination, but you won’t be “hopping” to others.
Excursions may be extra – Off-site adventures like zip-lining or city tours usually come at an additional cost.
Entertainment varies – Resorts offer nightly shows and live music, but it’s typically less extravagant than on a cruise ship.

Perfect for:Honeymooners, couples, friend getaways, and anyone who wants to sip a margarita by the pool without lifting a finger.

✨ Busting the Biggest Myth: Cruises Aren’t Totally All-Inclusive

It’s easy to assume that cruises are just like all-inclusives—but at sea. While they’re still a great value, there are a few extras that often surprise people:

Beverage packages (alcohol, soda, specialty coffee) often cost extra.
Wi-Fi isn’t always included.
Gratuities are usually added daily (though some cruise lines let you pre-pay).
Excursions at each port are not included, unless you book a package or sail with a luxury cruise line.

But don’t worry—that’s where I come in. I’ll help you budget smart, choose the right cruise line or resort for your travel style, and make sure there are no surprises when it comes to the final price.