Cruise Ship Surprises: Honest First Impressions from Nomadic Travelers on Royal Caribbean
One day into our week-long Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise, we experienced an unexpected identity crisis. As nomadic world travelers who live out of backpacks, we thought we couldn't love cruising. We're typically slow travelers, immersing ourselves deeply in each destination's local life and customs. Yet, there we were—back in port after our first day, savoring dinner and watching the sunset from the comfort of our floating home for the week.
We Loved Life on the Cruise Ship
Except for port day trips, the ship is the heart of the experience—and we absolutely loved it. These massive vessels are engineered to fulfill every wish. Our priority was rest and relaxation, so we indulged in the fully equipped gym, complete with sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi.
If we had wanted cooking classes, basketball, or shopping, options abounded. On the Adventure of the Seas, we found a full basketball court, mini-golf, rollerblading track, pools (including a kiddie pool), multiple jacuzzis, bars, casino, outdoor rock climbing wall (pictured), library, ice skating rink (where we enjoyed a dazzling ice show and skated ourselves), games room, café, movie theater, and a 500-seat main theater—all spread across 14 decks. The sheer variety and scale of this floating city captivated us.
We Loved the Cruise Food
At each port, supplies arrived to feed 3,000 passengers via the main dining room, expansive buffet, Johnny Rockets, and casual spots. We dined once in the formal room but preferred the buffet—not for overindulging, but for its flexibility. Why adhere to fixed 9:30 p.m. seatings for similar food when the buffet offered unlimited fresh fruit, salads, soups, orange juice, and coffee? 
Many guests dressed up for the occasion, proving cruises suit all tastes.
Stability for Restless Nomads
After 100+ beds in our first year of travel, seven nights in one was luxurious stability—waking to new destinations daily. We unpacked into closets, planned meals and shows ahead. Cabins are compact but comfortable (larger than many hotels), ideal for sleeping, showering, and unwinding amid the ship's vast amenities. Hot water flowed, and beds were blissfully cozy.
Cruising: A Smart Budget Travel Option
The cruise boom—more ships, mega-capacity (up to 6,000 passengers)—has driven down prices, making it accessible. For $500 per person (double occupancy, inside cabin), a 7-day Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise includes all amenities, meals, non-alcoholic drinks, and lodging. Add airfare wisely to maximize savings.
Beyond value, it's a 'travel buffet'—sample Italy, Spain, Corsica in days. Our Corsica stop sparked return plans. Ideal for scouting unfamiliar regions without commitment.
Two Key Downsides: Upselling and Cultural Disconnect
As independent travelers, we skip pricey tours. Ship excursions often cost half the cruise fare—poor value compared to DIY. Onboard, alcohol ($8/beer, $7/Coke) and wines ($32+) felt exploitative. Port bottles were cheaper but held until cruise end.
Extras like tips could balloon bills, but we opted out and saved.
We're Not Typical Cruisers
We demand value. Royal Caribbean's model lags: opaque pricing on Wi-Fi ($55/hour!) deters users. Realistic rates would boost revenue. Newsletters pushed sales over 'hidden gems' or cultural tips—no social proof or local insights, just shopping lingo. 
Specialty Cruises for Niche Tastes
Options abound: tech, Star Trek, LGBT (singles or families). We'll seek interest-aligned cruises next.
We'll Cruise Again—We Loved It!
We're scouting deals for Asia or Caribbean sails. Who knows?
Have you cruised? Recommend lines or specialties? Worked on one? Share below!
Your thoughts on cruising? Avid fan or not? Comment below!
