Are you planning a cruise but can’t decide between a long or short one? Long cruises are itineraries longer than 7 days, while short cruises are 3-5 day cruises. Both options have distinct advantages and drawbacks, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule. Let’s go over the pros and cons of long versus short cruises.
Mature Crowd
Longer cruises tend to attract a more mature crowd. That’s because these retirees will usually have more time to take longer cruises. As a result, you won’t see as many families with young children on longer cruises.
Party Cruise
Shorter cruises tend to have a party atmosphere. That’s because these shorter cruises are cheaper and more accessible to the younger crowd. As a result, the pool deck and public areas won’t be as relaxing as a longer cruise.
More Relaxing
Longer cruises are more relaxing. There will be more sea days, and you won’t feel rushed to try everything on the cruise ship. You’ll have plenty of time to lounge by the pool, enjoy the unlimited food, and take part in the cruise onboard activities.
Feel Rushed
You will feel rushed when you go on short cruises. It will feel like you didn’t get to explore the cruise ship and enjoy all the amenities and onboard activities. It will make you wish you were on a longer cruise.
More Kids
Shorter cruises tend to attract families because the parents typically can’t take too long off work. As a result, you will be on a cruise ship with more kids onboard. You will be sharing the hot tub with kids. The pool deck will be busier with kids and not as relaxing. Check out 15 Random but Useful Things to Pack to Survive Cruising with Kids
Cruise Fare Cheaper per Day
Longer cruises tend to be cheaper per day, while the daily rate of shorter cruises are typically more expensive. However, the overall cost of your cruise vacation is higher on longer cruises because you will spend more on shore excursions, drinks, and other cruise add-ons.
While shorter cruises may be more expensive per day, but the overall cost of your vacation is typically lower. For example, consider a cruise beverage package priced at $100 per day. On a 3-day cruise, this would amount to $300 per person, whereas on a 14-day cruise, the cost would soar to $1,400 per person. Check out 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise
Fatigue
One of the drawbacks of longer cruises is that you can get tired of it. You might end up getting tired of the food and onboard entertainment. This is especially true if you go on back-to-back cruises where the itinerary repeats. You might get tired of visiting the same cruise port twice! Check out Is Back to Back Cruise Right For Your? Pros and Cons
First Time Cruisers
Shorter cruises can be better for first-timers who are unsure if they will like cruising. This will give them a taste of what to expect and also give them an idea of whether they will get seasick on the cruise ship. Check out 15 Things I Wished I had Known as a First Time Cruiser
Immersive Experience
If you want a more immersive cruise experience, take longer cruises. With longer cruises, you will really get to know your cruise ship and all the onboard amenities and activities. And depending on the itinerary, it might allow you to explore multiple cruise destinations in-depth. Some port visits are longer and your ship will dock overnight at the cruise port. Check out 13 Safety Tips at Cruise Ports You Need to Know About
Quick Escape
One advantage of short cruises is that they allow you to take a short vacation. Short cruises are perfect if you are limited on time and need a quick break. If you live near one of the cruise ports, then it’s just a matter of taking a car ride to the cruise port. Once you embark on the ship, your vacation has started! So easy! Check out The Worst Months to Go on a Cruise
Meet People
One of the advantages of longer cruises is the opportunity to build stronger connections with both the staff and fellow passengers. Over time, you’ll start to recognize familiar faces and make friends with cruise passengers. The cruise staff will also get to know you better, creating a more personalized and welcoming experience. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people. Check out I’ve Been on Over 25 Cruises, Here is How Much Extra Gratuity I Give to the Cruise Staff