Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resorts – Which Vacation is Right for You?
Can’t decide between setting sail on a cruise or lounging at an all-inclusive resort? Both options promise relaxation, fun, and great memories—but which one fits your travel style? Let’s break it down step-by-step to help you choose the perfect getaway.
1. Cost – What’s the Damage?
- Cruises:
- Base fare covers room, meals, and most entertainment—perfect for fun in the sun without breaking the bank upfront.
- Extra costs: specialty dining, excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and port fees. You’ll typically have a fine dining server, valet, and even a butler assigned to your room. It’s customary to tip them, either daily or at the end of your stay.
- Beverage Packages: Drinks aren’t included. Packages range from water bottles and non-alcoholic options to full drink packages covering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Heads up! If one adult buys the all-inclusive drink package, all adults 21+ in the same room must purchase it too—this added $800 per person for my husband and me!
- Hidden Fees: While the base fare may seem affordable, extras can add up quickly. Spa treatments, fitness classes, onboard shopping, and even arcade games often cost extra. Planning ahead and setting a budget for these extras can prevent surprises at checkout.
- All-Inclusive Resorts:
- Flat rate covers accommodations, food, drinks, entertainment, and some activities (Room Service not included).
- Options for included flights. Booking through a travel agent can bundle flights, taxis, and excursions, so you pay everything upfront.
- Fewer hidden fees—gratuities are often included. Tip: Bring cash for cab drivers and tour guides during off-site excursions—they rely on tips. We once had a cab driver chase us down because we forgot!
- No transportation costs once on-site (if close to the airport). Exploring beyond the resort? The valet or front desk can quickly arrange a taxi.
- Added Convenience: Many resorts include free access to activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, and yoga classes, so you don’t have to worry about paying extra for fun.
- Stress-Free Extras: If staying connected is important, most all-inclusive resorts offer free Wi-Fi. Plus, you can enjoy unlimited pina coladas and cocktails without worrying about paying as you go or carrying cash for poolside gratuities. This all-inclusive setup often ends up being the most cost-efficient option for travelers who want to kick back without worrying about hidden fees.
- Winner: Resorts often win for simplicity, but cruises can be cheaper upfront—if you skip extras.
2. Food – What’s on the Menu?
- Cruises:
- Buffets, main dining rooms, and specialty restaurants galore (for extra costs).
- Dining hours might be limited, so plan ahead. In our experience, the main buffet dining area closed for an hour or so between meals to reset. This was the only breakfast option and our go-to for lunch and dinner since we didn’t have to dress up.
- Formal dining rooms offered assigned tables and servers each night with themed dinner nights, but a dress code was required. We only tried this once since we didn’t always leave the pool in time to get ready.
- Bonus option: A pizza/snack bar was included and stayed open from 6 AM to 3 AM—perfect for late-night cravings.
- Specialty dining came at an additional cost, so we skipped it.
- All-Inclusive Resorts:
- Unlimited food and drinks—anytime, anywhere! Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal, a quick snack, or a poolside cocktail, it’s all included.
- Restaurants range from buffets and grills to fine dining options. Bonus—no reservations required at most places, so no stress if you’re not a planner.
- Room service and stocked mini-bars are part of the deal, making late-night cravings easy to satisfy.
- Drinks? Unlimited and included! Enjoy as many pina coladas as you like without worrying about carrying cash or tracking a tab. Gratuities are often built in, so you can just relax and enjoy.
- Stress-Free Dining: The best part? No budgeting for meals or drinks—just sit back and indulge.
- Winner: Resorts are perfect for foodies who want endless options and convenience without hidden costs.
3. Entertainment – How’s the Fun Factor?
- Cruises:
- Entertainment overload! From pools, watersides, rock climbing, and mini-golf to trivia games, shopping, casinos, and sports tournaments—there’s something for everyone.
- Shows are a highlight, featuring Broadway-style performances, game shows, and even ice-skating routines. Options range from family-friendly to adults-only.
- Rainy or windy day? No worries—there’s still plenty to do inside the ship. We didn’t even get to everything we wanted during our days at sea!
- All-Inclusive Resorts:
- Poolside fun is the main event. Morning yoga, beach volleyball, cornhole tournaments, and line dancing classes keep the energy up.
- Heads up—pool chairs fill fast, so claim yours early (before 9 AM) if you want a prime spot!
- Evening entertainment leans toward cultural shows—think exotic dances, fire throwers, and impersonators like Michael Jackson. Themed parties, like 80’s nights or formal attire events, are also common.
- Once the show or party ends, so does most of the action—unless you’re heading to the nightclub.
- Winner: Cruises for variety and non-stop action, resorts for laid-back poolside vibes and cultural flair.
4. Excursions – Ready for Adventure?
- Cruises:
- Multiple Destinations: Port stops let you visit multiple locations, often different countries, all in one trip.
- Easy Booking: Excursions are simple to book through the cruise line or independent operators. Tour guides usually meet you right off the boat.
- Limited Time: Most port stops last 6–8 hours, so you’ll need to plan carefully to make the most of it.
- Port Experience: Be prepared for tourist traps—locals often swarm passengers with offers for souvenirs and drinks. It can be overwhelming, so many people stick to the ship unless they book excursions.
- Exploring Safely: I recommend only leaving the port with a tour guide or after researching safe areas nearby. We once walked to a beach in Mexico and didn’t feel very safe. On the other hand, Cozumel felt fine for exploring. Just keep timing in mind—if you’re late, the ship won’t wait! Tour guides will usually help ensure you get back on time.
- All-Inclusive Resorts:
- One Destination: Staying in one spot lets you get comfortable, chat with locals, and learn about fun activities nearby.
- Flexibility: Early starts and longer day trips are easier to plan without the time constraints of a cruise schedule. We liked starting early to beat the cruise ship crowds.
- Smaller Crowds: Try scheduling excursions on days with fewer ships in port or booking them earlier in the morning before cruise passengers disembark. It’s less crowded, and you won’t feel rushed.
- Location Matters: Excursions depend on where your resort is. If you’re far from major attractions, options might be limited. However, if you are in a popular area, you may have more options than some of the smaller cruise ports.
- Stress-Free Adventures: We loved knowing we didn’t have to worry about getting back by a certain time. Whether we booked a full-day snorkeling trip or a sunset catamaran cruise, we could fully relax without the fear of missing a departure.
- Winner: Cruises for variety, resorts for flexibility and longer adventures.
5. Day-to-Day Life – Go With the Flow or Stick to a Schedule?
- Cruises:
- Structured schedules make it easy to plan your days with shows, game nights, and activities. Evenings are often busy with performances and themed events.
- Social opportunities are everywhere, from poolside chats to dinner conversations at shared tables.
- Pools can be crowded and don’t always get full sun due to deck layouts. On many ships, the top deck is designed around a walking track rather than a pool, so sunbathers often head there for better sun exposure and quieter lounging spots.
- Motion sickness can be a factor, so pack medications if you’re prone to nausea. I personally struggled with this for the first 48 hours and found that having motion sickness patches and pills made a difference.
- All-Inclusive Resorts:
- Relaxed schedules with minimal planning—perfect for lounging poolside or beachside all day.
- More sun time and pool access throughout the day, plus the freedom to explore without strict timelines.
- Evenings are quieter once the pool closes around 6 or 7 PM. After dinner and the main show or party, there isn’t much else to do.
- Winner: Resorts for a laid-back vibe, cruises for variety and packed schedules.
6. Pros and Cons Cheat Sheet
| Category | Cruises | All-Inclusive Resorts |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower upfront, but extras can add up (e.g., drink packages, excursions). | Higher upfront, but most expenses (food, drinks, activities) included. |
| Food | Great variety but limited dining hours; specialty dining costs extra. | Unlimited food and drinks at any time, usually with no extra costs. |
| Entertainment | Non-stop action with shows, activities, and themed parties. | Relaxed vibes with cultural shows, poolside fun, and evening events. |
| Excursions | Visit multiple destinations but with limited time at each port. | Explore one destination more deeply with flexible day trips. |
| Daily Schedule | Structured and busy, perfect for planners who like to stay active. | Relaxed and flexible, ideal for travelers who enjoy spontaneity. |
Conclusion – Which Should You Pick?
When it comes to choosing between a cruise and an all-inclusive resort, it depends on your travel style. Personally, my preference leans toward all-inclusive resorts. I often travel alone or with one other person, and we both enjoy spending our days in the sun, relaxing by the pool or beach without a strict schedule.
That said, cruises are a fantastic choice for those who want variety, constant entertainment, and the chance to explore multiple destinations in one trip. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a memorable vacation! So, are you team cruise or team resort? Let us know in the comments!
Sunset Chaser Travel Blog 
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