Boarding The Ship Is Not Like A Red Carpet Walk
Boarding a cruise ship may seem as glamorous as walking the red carpet, but the reality is often quite different and can be rather overwhelming.
Imagine hundreds of passengers, each with their own luggage, converging at the same time to embark on their journey. The scene is bustling and chaotic, as everyone eagerly tries to get on board and find their cabins.
The process can be stressful, with long lines and the challenge of navigating through the crowd.
The dock looks like a great place for a photo-op, but it is not a great place to stop because everything is hectic, and people are not afraid to use their elbows.
The Hot Tub Is Not Private
After you’ve settled into your surroundings, there’s no better way to relax than heading to the deck, where you can immerse yourself in the inviting warmth of the hot tub while taking in the breathtaking view of the ocean. This serene experience is highly sought after, and it’s not uncommon for others to have the same idea. As a result, the hot tubs can quickly become crowded, with fellow travelers eager to enjoy the same soothing experience.
Despite the bustling atmosphere, the combination of the soothing water and the stunning ocean vista makes for an unforgettable experience. It is an interesting way to make some friends, but you might want to avoid the hot tub instead.
The Rooms Are Not As Spacious As They Said In On The Website
When you initially booked your cruise, you were likely filled with excitement and anticipation, envisioning the luxurious accommodations that were prominently featured on the cruise line’s website. The images of spacious, elegantly designed rooms with grand views probably captivated your imagination. However, upon boarding the ship, you were met with a stark contrast to your expectations. Instead of the opulent room you imagined, you discovered a small, windowless cabin equipped with bunk beds, leaving you feeling disappointed.
Yes, if you want to shell out tons of money, you can get a cabin with a balcony and modern features. Continue reading to find out what the bathrooms are really like in your “luxurious” cabin!
Under My Umbrella, Ella, Ella
When you’re out in the middle of the ocean, the sun’s rays can be incredibly intense. This often means that instead of gazing upon a vast, open deck with nothing obstructing the view, you are more likely to see a scene filled with umbrellas fully opened. These umbrellas provide much-needed shade for those on board, offering a respite from the sun’s powerful and relentless heat. But, depending on where you are on the boat, it can also ruin your view.
It might not look great, but hey, at least you will be protected from the harsh sun. Just don’t set your expectations too high on the pool views for your next cruise trip.
The Bathrooms Might Be A Little Cramped
When stepping into the bathroom of a cruise cabin, guests might find themselves surprised by the compact size, which is often much smaller than anticipated. Unlike the spacious, luxurious bathrooms found in high-end hotels, these facilities lack gleaming marble surfaces and high-end finishes. Instead, they offer a more modest and functional design. Despite their size, these bathrooms are equipped to meet the basic needs of travelers during their journey.
Space is limited on the cruise, so they have to keep the bathrooms small. Again, if you have a luxury room, the bathroom is much nicer than the average cabin.
Good Luck Finding A Chair To Sit In
When you browse through stunning pictures of cruise ships, the main pool area often stands out as one of the most enticing and picturesque spots on the vessel. It beckons with promises of relaxation and sun-soaked leisure. However, once you embark on your cruise journey, you quickly discover that the pool area is a magnet for all the passengers on board. This results in an overcrowded space where finding an open chair can feel like a daunting task.
It goes from a relaxing vacation to music blasting and people yelling in a matter of minutes. Also, when the ship rocks, so does the water in the pool and it becomes a dangerous wave pool without a lifeguard.
“Did Someone Say Buffet?”
If you were envisioning elegant, white-glove service for every meal during your cruise, you might find yourself surprised by the reality. Typically, most cruise ships opt for buffet-style dining throughout the day. This approach allows them to efficiently serve the thousands of guests on board without creating long wait times. While it may not be the luxurious dining experience some anticipate, it is a practical solution to ensure everyone gets fed promptly.
On luxury cruises, there are fantastic dining options that come with an additional cost. The food at the buffet is not bad; it is just not the five-star dining experience you were hoping for.
Cakes, Cakes, And More Cakes
Cruise ships are known for their extensive food and drink options, but these choices often lean towards the unhealthy side. Throughout the day, passengers have access to buffets that offer a variety of tempting yet calorie-laden foods such as burgers, fries, donuts, and cakes. These indulgent dishes are readily available, making it easy for travelers to overindulge. Additionally, the abundance of sugary cocktails adds to the unhealthy offerings, as many passengers enjoy sipping on these sweet beverages throughout their voyage.
This combination of rich foods and sugary drinks can make it challenging for health-conscious individuals to maintain a balanced diet while on board.
“Fine Dining”
If you’ve watched the film Titanic, you might anticipate that every evening aboard the ship involves passengers dressed in their finest attire, enjoying exquisite meals served on elegant china. Although there are indeed special evenings where everyone dons formal wear and indulges in a lavish five-course dinner, the reality of most nights is quite different. Typically, dining on the ship resembles the experience you would have at a popular chain restaurant, with a more casual atmosphere and menu.
This is not to say the food will be bad; it just won’t be lavish like you had pictured. Also, be prepared for a packed and loud dining room.
This Is What They Call Relaxing
While the pool is often touted as one of the main attractions on cruise ships, it frequently falls short of being the tranquil oasis one might hope for. The allure of a refreshing dip is often overshadowed by the sheer number of people who have the same idea, transforming what should be a serene escape into a bustling hub of activity. The constant need to keep a watchful eye on children adds an extra layer of stress, as crowded pools can become perilous, especially for little ones.
The noise levels can be overwhelming, with the sounds of splashing, shouting, and laughter echoing across the deck. Lounging by the poolside, you might find it difficult to unwind, as the constant commotion can make even reading a book or enjoying a quiet conversation challenging.
Where Are The Dolphins?
Many people embark on cruises with the romantic notion that they will be accompanied by playful dolphins frolicking alongside the ship, or perhaps catch sight of majestic whales breaching the surface. However, the reality is often quite different. When cruising through the vast expanse of the open ocean, the likelihood of encountering sea creatures is surprisingly low. Marine animals generally steer clear of large vessels due to the noise and vibrations they emit.
Consequently, passengers are more likely to find themselves gazing out at endless stretches of water. Don’t be disappointed though; on the open ocean, you can see some of the most beautiful sunsets.
Working On A Cruise Will Be Fun, They Said
Working as a cruise ship employee might initially appear glamorous and exciting. However, the reality is far from idyllic. The work is often grueling, with long hours and demanding tasks that leave little time for relaxation. Accommodation is typically cramped, with cabins shared by multiple crew members, offering minimal privacy and personal space. Although the idea of traveling the world while earning a salary is appealing, the actual experience involves significant challenges.
The job can be emotionally and physically exhausting, revealing that the life of a cruise ship worker is not as fabulous or fun as it may seem.
The Ports Might Not Look Like Instagram Photos
When you booked your cruise, you might have envisioned stepping off the ship and immediately being greeted by stunning beaches and postcard-perfect scenery. However, the reality is often quite different. The ports where cruise ships dock are primarily functional spaces designed for practicality rather than beauty. They are typically characterized by large cement structures and industrial facilities, with perhaps a few palm trees scattered around in an attempt to soften the stark appearance.
Once you get off the boat, there are plenty of places to see the beautiful scenery. Ports aren’t meant to be the final destination, so it shouldn’t really matter if it is pretty or not.
Your Luggage May Or May Not Be Lost
Much like the experience with airlines, the unfortunate reality is that luggage can also be misplaced or lost during a cruise. With thousands of passengers boarding the ship, each carrying multiple suitcases, the likelihood of a bag or two being left behind or lost in transit is not negligible. The bustling environment and sheer volume of luggage being handled increase the chances of such mishaps occurring. Consequently, travelers should be mindful of this possibility and take necessary precautions to safeguard their belongings.
By being aware and prepared, passengers can mitigate the inconvenience and stress that may arise from misplaced luggage on their cruise journey. Luckily, most modern cruise ships are like floating malls. If your luggage is lost, you can go shopping for a whole new wardrobe!
Try Not To Get Cabin Fever
Avoiding cabin fever is important when embarking on a winter cruise from a northern port. The initial days of your journey are likely to be chilly, making it uncomfortable to lounge by the pool. Although there are numerous activities on board, they aren’t available around the clock, so you’ll need to find ways to keep yourself entertained during downtime. Your kids might express feelings of boredom, so it’s wise to come prepared with cards and games.
This way, you can ensure your family stays engaged and avoids cabin fever throughout the trip. Planning ahead with activities can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone on board.
