Are you thinking of going on a back-to-back cruise but not sure it’s right for you? There are pros and cons to help you decide whether to go on a back-to-back cruise.
Easy Way to Extend Your Vacation
One of the pros of going on back-to-back cruises is that they are a relaxing way to extend your vacation. You can relax and not have to worry about disembarking and embarking on the cruise ship because you just stay on the ship. You will typically be given a transit ticket and asked to go to a lounge to be cleared. Once you’re clear, you can go about the ship as if it’s a sea day or explore the port. So easy!
No Hassle
One of the pros of going on a back-to-back cruise is that you don’t have to deal with travel arrangements between cruises. There is no need to deal with transportation, hotels, and the hassle of disembarking/embarking on your cruise. If you stay in the same cabin, you don’t need to pack and unpack. Back-to-back cruises are so easy because you just stay on the ship. Aside from saving you the transportation hassle, you will save a lot of money too.
Build Rapport with Cruise Staff
Another pro of going on back-to-back cruises is that the cruise staff will get to know you. You will feel like a VIP on the ship because everyone knows you. They will know your name and know what drinks you prefer! I suggest bringing lots of small bills and for tipping throughout your cruise- you will be treated like royalty!
Visit Many Cruise Ports
Back-to-back cruises will allow you to visit many cruise ports, especially if you combine cruises with different itineraries. You might even be able to explore cruise ports on different continents if you are on a back-to-back cruise that includes a repositioning cruise! Check out 16 Cruise Ports you Can Explore without Booking Shore Excursions
Loyalty Points
Another main advantage of back-to-back cruises is you will earn more loyalty points by sailing on a longer cruise. This will help you reach the higher-tier cruise loyalty perks faster. The photo here is a Celebrity Cruise loyalty party. Check out Is Celebrity Cruise Really More Upscale? Honest Review
Save on Airfare
Another advantage of doing back-to-back cruises is that you save on airfare. You only have to fly once! It’s even better if you can find a repositioning cruise that will arrive at a cruise port near your home; that way, all you need is a one-way ticket! In case you’re interested in what happens when your flight gets cancelled in the EU. Check out my article here: You Won’t Believe How Much I Got Compensated When My Flight Got Cancelled in the EU
Repeated Cruise Ports
One negative about going on back-to-back cruises with the same itinerary is that you might get bored with the cruise ports. You are essentially stopping at the same cruise ports again. Check out 13 Safety Tips at Cruise Ports You Need to Know About
Same Activities
Another negative aspect of back-to-back cruises is that you might get tired of participating in the same onboard activities, and watching the same shows. Your cruise experience starts to feel old, and there is no longer a sense of excitement. Check out 15 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise During Sea Day
Change Cabin
One negative about booking back-to-back cruises, is that if you didn’t book the same cabin, you will have to move staterooms in between cruises. It’s a hassle to have to pack and move staterooms. To avoid this, book back-to-back cruises early to secure the same cabin. Check out 10 Worst Cabins on a Cruise- You’ll Regret Booking
Same Food
A downside to back-to-back cruises is that you might feel tired of eating the same food. You might not want to eat at the buffet anymore. Even the food in the main dining room starts to lose its appeal. This is especially so if you are on a cruise with mediocre food. Check out 13 Things First Time Cruisers Find Most Surprising About Cruise Buffets