Are Cruises Fun? Top 10 Reasons Why Cruising is Fun

Are cruises fun? This is one of the most popular questions asked by those curious about cruising for the first time. As repeat cruisers, we always answer with a resounding “Yes!”

From the moment you step onboard, the fun begins. Imagine swimming in pools, trying your luck at the casino, or enjoying a spectacular Broadway stage show—all in one place! And it doesn’t stop there. Every day is filled with new possibilities: exploring a new port each day and returning to the ship for gourmet dining and perhaps a nightcap with live music.

It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, all from the convenience of a floating resort. This is why we keep booking more cruises, and you might find yourself planning your next cruise before your first one concludes. In this article, I share reasons why cruising is fun and exciting.

1. The Joy of Port Hopping

One of the most fun parts of cruising is the thrill of waking up to a new destination each morning. Our itineraries are designed to let you effortlessly hop from one exciting port to another. This means you can stroll through vibrant city markets one day and relax on sun-drenched beaches the next—all without the hassle of packing and unpacking.

2. Dining is Fun for Foodies

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Why is dining on a cruise so much fun? It’s all about variety and the joy of trying new things that the cruise may serve that you may not try back home. Cruise lines have expanded their offerings past the MDR and buffet with specialty restaurants, onboard food trucks, food halls, and even dinner shows, like Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Royal Railway experience (some may cost extra).

As a foodie, I love diving into the diverse menus on a cruise. Every meal is a chance to try new flavors and culinary styles, turning each dining experience into its own little adventure.

3. Non-Stop Entertainment

Right when you step on board, the splashy fun of pools and water slides grabs your attention, perfect for families or anyone looking to dive right into the vacation vibe. But that’s just the beginning. Throughout the day, you can join in on trivia games that challenge your brain or join in on a game show.

As evening falls, live music sets the scene throughout the ship, from piano music to merengue, each setting a unique mood for different tastes. Head to the casino after dinner to try your luck or catch a Broadway-style show that dazzles every evening. And don’t forget the themed parties—they’re a blast and a great way to make new friends.

4. Endless Fun with Activities

The activities available on cruises vary from ship to ship, each offering its own brand of fun. On larger cruise ships, the options are vast and vibrant. You can scale rock climbing walls, zip across the ship on a zip line, ride go-karts, or try surfing on deck with state-of-the-art simulators. Some ships also typically feature water slides and sports areas with everything from basketball courts to mini-golf courses—perfect for those seeking to be more active.

Smaller ships provide a different kind of fun, more mellow but equally enjoyable. Here, you might find yourself attending a wine tasting led by expert sommeliers, participating in cooking demonstrations, or joining in on art classes. These activities offer a more relaxed pace, allowing you to unwind and engage with your surroundings and fellow passengers.

No matter the size of the ship, the variety of activities ensures that everyone can find something fun to do.

5. Pamper Yourself

I don’t know about you, but getting pampered is fun. What’s truly fun about being on a cruise is lounging by the pool with a drink in hand or pampering yourself at the spa with massages and facials. While possibly extra, these treats offer a level of relaxation that’s not the same back home. Plus, if you’re in a luxury suite, having a concierge and butler help make your vacation special makes every day feel like a personalized retreat.

6. Cheers to Fun Drinks

Enjoying the wide variety of drinks on a cruise is an adventure. There are classic cocktails, fine wines, specialty coffees, and even tastings that you can attend. Many cruise lines offer unique signature drinks you won’t find anywhere else, which is always fun.

On my last cruise with family, I had a blast introducing them to drinks they had never tried before. It was fun watching their reactions and sharing those moments. For those who love trying different beverages, drink packages can be a great way to enjoy unlimited options throughout your trip, making it easy to sample everything from tropical cocktails to elegant martinis.

7. Exploring a New Ship is Fun

One of the fun parts of cruising is exploring a new ship I’ve never been on before. Each ship has its personality and features, offering a unique experience every time. On the first day, I love to walk around all the decks and familiarize myself, make mental notes of cozy spots to return to, and things I shouldn’t miss later on.

As the cruise progresses, you’ll be surprised at how much more you discover. And as a first-time cruiser, just getting on a cruise ship and experiencing what this floating resort is about is fun in itself.

8. Shore Excursions Are So Much Fun

Along with destination hopping, the shore excursions you book at these port-of-calls add to the cruising fun. There are always plenty of options at each port, and you’ll find something piques your interest.

Some of the most fun we’ve had has been on shore excursions, from whale watching in Cabo San Lucas and eating our way through a foodie tour in Mazatlan to riding the White Pass train in Skagway, Alaska, and swimming with sharks in Bimini, to name a few. These excursions range from historical visits to adrenaline-pumping adventures, beach days, and more. Our favorites are snorkeling tours and food tours.

Read more: Tips for Booking Shore Excursions on Your Own

9. Formal Nights Can Be Fun

When do you ever get to dress up in your fancy dress and suit anymore? A formal or “chic” night on a cruise can still be fun. They are usually just 1-2 nights on a cruise when you get to dress up in your pretty dress or suit, like if you’re going to a wedding and attending dinner in the main dining room. While some people prefer freestyle cruising, many still enjoy getting all dressed up and enjoying a more sophisticated evening—an ode to the golden days of cruising.

Read more: Cruise Wear Do’s and Don’ts

10. Your Luggage Stays on the Cruise Ship From Start to Finish

If you’re still asking yourself if cruising is fun, think about this: the ability to unpack once and visit multiple destinations without the hassle of repacking and checking into different hotels.

Your vacation begins when you step on the ship, allowing you to relax and start having a good time immediately. Our last land vacation was in Italy, where we stayed in multiple places for two weeks. While we had an amazing time, we couldn’t help but discuss how much easier and more fun it is to travel on a cruise because we don’t have to drag our luggage around.