Myth - You must make all of your travel arrangements through the cruise company or you might miss your boat. Unless you are perpetually late and completely risk-adverse, you can make travel arrangements on your own. The cruise boat company will make it crystal clear as to what time you must be on the boat in order not to be left behind. It is up to you to ensure you are on the boat on time. The boat will not leave early. If for some reason you miss the boat, you can still embark at the next port.
Myth - You must book all excursions through the cruise company or you might miss your boat. (In my experience cruising, I have never witnessed the boat leaving late because a boat coordinated excursion was late.) On my 2nd cruise, I joined group excursions with folks from online message boards for half the cost of the same excursion through the boat. We worked with reputable professional tour companies that delivered us back to the boat on time. Some places you visit will be small enough for you to walk, and larger cities may offer public transportation. Do your research before you go.
Myth - Cruising is cheaper than booking the same vacation on your own because everything is included. First of all, everything is NOT included. There is a mandatory service charge per person per day that is charged to your credit/debit card at the end of the cruise.
Other items not included in your cruise fee:
- Alcohol and sodas
- Bingo / Gambling
- Spa treatments - Facials, massages, etc...
- Internet access / Long Distance phone calls
- Medical services. There is an infirmary on board. Their services come at a price.
- Premium Dining Restaurants
- Miscellaneous activities such as rock climbing and surfing.
Myth - A cruise boat is so large, you will not get seasick. You will not get seasick if you are not prone to motion sickness and/or if the waters are calm. I experienced 30 foot waves on my cruise and got seasick. The entertainment show was canceled and almost everyone I saw was seasick.
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