A cruising getaway is the best because the open seas are your open home, and every port of call is always an adventure. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) said 31.7 million people cruised in 2023. The average daily cruise cost per passenger is $259.05, the ticket price is $179.01, and onboard spending is $80.05 for an 8.5-day period.

However, even on this floating paradise cruise, complaints swirl like ocean breezes, from minor inconveniences to outright frustration. According to cruise directors, the secret to a stellar cruise experience is to be prepared to manage your expectations and let the waves roll in (metaphorical and literal). Read on to discover 17 recurring issues that cruise veterans are done hearing about.

The Ship is Too Crowded

Starting a cruise can be vibrant, as popular ships have 2,000 to over 6,000 passengers on board. For example, Symphony of the Seas from Royal Caribbean can accommodate up to 5518 guests, making it one of the largest cruise ships in the world.

However, ships have multiple decks and many entertainment and dining venues to spread people out effectively.

The Buffet Lines are Too Long

We’ve all been in that line with an empty plate, eyeing that last croissant. Though, where else will you find unlimited shrimp cocktails at sea?

To escape these long queues, aim early or late or find specialty dining options while onboard.

Everything Costs Extra

Many things, such as drink packages or shore excursions, are expensive. That doesn’t mean you won’t spend money when you’re in the tropics; it’s just things you should include in your budget.

Watch for those emails for deals and bundles on many cruise lines.

The Food Isn’t Good

There are many different dining venues on cruise ships, offering various global cuisines and ways to meet dietary needs, so there’s something for everyone’s palate.

Many lines are notorious for exceptional dining, with celebrity chefs creating custom dishes for their restaurants. With that in mind, before tossing the food, see what’s available—there may suddenly be your favorite dish at sea.

Cabins are Too Small

Of course, the cabins are not the size of a hotel room, but with so many amenities, they still offer something no other ultra-luxury ship can compete with.

Who is in their room forever when there’s so much to do on board? Splurge on a balcony or suite if it’s space you’re after.

Sleeping is a Hassle

On a cruise, getting a good night’s sleep isn’t always easy, as jet lag, different time zones, and unfamiliar surroundings can work against you. Nevertheless, many ships have comfortable bedding choices and soundproof cabins to enable you to get a little rest.

Plus, the ship’s gentle motion can rock passengers to sleep.

Other Passengers are Rude

Rude people do exist everywhere – even on cruises. Don’t let them spoil your vacation. Kill them with kindness, and have a great trip!

Cruise lines also have strict policies against bad behavior.

No Cell Phone Service

Cruising is a great way to get away from technology and unwind. Unless you are surfing the web compulsively, most ships don’t have cell service, but if you need to stay connected, they have Wi-Fi packages.

You’re on vacation, so it’s ok to disconnect and lose sight of what’s in front of you.

I’m Bored on Sea Days

While there is always something to do onboard (several activities like trivia games, cooking classes, Broadway-style shows, and lounging at the pool), the same activities can feel overdone during sea days.

It’s also an opportunity to explore the ship and use its amenities. When all else fails, grab a book, take a seat on your balcony, or go to the spa and pamper yourself.

The Ship is Outdated

Some folks like the quaint charm of old ships, and some folks like all the new bells and whistles on newer vessels. Make sure you research before you book a cruise so that you’re on board a ship that lives up to what you’re looking to sail on.

Cruise lines spend money on significant fleet renovations, even on older ships, to keep passengers happy.

The Entertainment is Lame

What was once the standard song and dance shows of entertainment on cruise ships has gone a long way. Today’s cruises offer Broadway-style shows, comedy clubs, live music shows, and action theatres such as escape rooms, laser tags, etc.

Most of these activities are included in your fare, and they don’t come at an extra cost. They are there to keep you entertained.

I Keep Getting Sea Sick

In other words, about one in three people is slightly susceptible to motion sickness, a common problem among cruisers. According to the National Institutes of Health, ways to relieve motion sickness include diaphragmatic breathing, listening to favorite music, exposure to fresh air, and pleasant odors.

Other options include medication, wristbands, or natural remedies of ginger or green apple, vitamin C, and menthol.

The Excursions are Overpriced

It’s also a common refrain among cruisers, who agree that cruise line-offered shore excursions are pricey. A Cruise Market Watch report revealed that passengers spend $136 per person on shore excursions. Ship-sponsored tours are more expensive than independent tours.

The premium often paid out of this price difference is justified for many travelers, mainly due to the convenience, extra security, and experiences cruise lines offer.

There’s No Personal Space

It’s hard to find a quiet spot to relax with so many people, but there are many nooks and crannies on the ships to escape the crowds (adult-only areas, secluded decks, and libraries).

You can also get off the ship and wander during port days to see the town and get some privacy.

The Cruise is Too Expensive

While cruising may initially seem expensive, most of the expenses are included in the price: accommodations, meals, entertainment, transportation to multiple destinations, and more.

According to Cruise Galore, a 7-day cruise costs about $1,500 per passenger. When Cruise lines run promotions, they often make sales so you can choose more budget-friendly options.

The Itineraries Are Too Rushed

Cruise itineraries are created so that travelers can experience as many destinations as possible in a short amount of time, but they can also be used as a template for future vacations.

Booking a pre-or post-cruise stay can be great for people who want to spend time at certain ports. Alternatively, you can take longer cruises with fewer ports of call, which allows for more in-depth exploration.

The Cruise Ends Too Soon

Leaving a cruise is challenging when you’re just getting into the groove. Still, it is a chance to plan your next trip and calculate the remaining days before your next voyage at sea.

On top of that, with such a wide range of itineraries and destinations, there’s always a new cruise right around the corner.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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