16 Exciting Reasons Why 20-Somethings Should Set Sail on a Cruise

Craving a hassle-free getaway where your only job is to unwind? Hop aboard a cruise ship for a blast of excitement! With onboard waterparks, mini golf, casinos, nightclubs, gourmet dining, endless drinks, 24/7 room service, and rooftop pools, you're in for an all-out fun fest. Travel to new destinations and experience unforgettable shore excursions—maybe even tick off a few bucket list items. Bon voyage!

1. All-Inclusive Perks

Everything you could ever want for a vacation is wrapped into a single fare. Depending on the cruise line, rates can start as low as $200 per person, per night. Forget about booking a hotel, airfare, gas, or paying for meals and entertainment. Got a school break? Travel during the shoulder season, just before summer or right before fall. With fewer families and kids onboard, prices are usually even better!

2. Unlimited Gourmet Delights

Enjoy daily buffets or indulge in a world of flavors in the fine dining rooms. Feast on spicy alligator fritters, grilled red snapper, escargot in garlic butter, prime rib, braised lamb shank, and broiled Maine lobster with jumbo shrimp. It’s all you can eat—time to unleash your inner foodie!

3. Non-Stop Onboard Fun

Waterparks, casinos, pools, jacuzzis, basketball courts, comedy clubs, mini golf, ping pong, shuffleboard, bars, gyms, and spas—modern cruise ships have it all! You’ll never run out of things to do while sailing the vast ocean!

4. Pure Relaxation

Picture yourself reclining on the top deck, ice-cold cocktail in hand, effortlessly gliding through the endless ocean with panoramic 360° views all around.

5. Island Hopping Adventures

There’s no quicker or more affordable way to explore multiple islands and stunning destinations. Pack once, and you’ll visit the world’s most breathtaking spots in just days. One day in Cozumel, Mexico, the next in Belize in the Caribbean!

6. Wake Up to Breathtaking Views

With endless ocean views, the sunrises and sunsets are absolutely breathtaking. Waking up to Belize’s turquoise waters feels like a dream!

7. Breakfast Delivered to Your Bed

Why leave bed in the morning? Pre-order your breakfast with your cabin steward, and enjoy 24/7 room service without lifting a finger.

8. Indulgent Sea Day Brunch

Kick off your mornings with steak and eggs, grilled salmon, huevos rancheros, Fruit Loop French toast, fried chicken mac and cheese, and much more!

9. Unforgettable Shore Excursions

Swim with stingrays and sharks, glide through the water on an underwater scooter, zipline through the treetops, ride along the Caribbean shores on horseback, or dive over the world-renowned barrier reef (I ticked that off my bucket list!).

10. Make New Connections

I met a diverse array of people while lounging by the pools, dining in the restaurants, and on shore excursions. I encountered folks from Lithuania, Bangkok, Italy (including Captain Carlos on the Dinogo Magic!), and Austin.

11. Pizza Anytime

Forget about low-quality pizza chains. Enjoy thin crusts, melty cheese, and freshly prepared sauces and toppings. Indulge in everything from classic margherita to arugula and prosciutto pizzas—freshly baked from the oven every hour!

12. Unplug (if you choose)

Before you say, “What?! No way!” …when was the last time you sat down for a meal without checking your phone? Emails and texts can wait. Turn off your devices and savor the vacation you deserve to escape it all. Sorry boss, didn’t get your message! P.S. Wi-Fi is available on cruise ships, but it comes with an extra charge.

13. Fine Dining on the Open Seas

Depending on the cruise line, you might even be able to bring your favorite bottle aboard. Cheers to that!

14. Outdoor Movies Under the Stars

No ticket required, and you can bring all the snacks you want without sneaking them in your jacket. Take a dip in the pool, or lounge in your bathrobe while enjoying the show.

15. A Paradise for Food Lovers

Modern cruise ships are filled with specialty restaurants offering global cuisine, celebrity chefs, and cozy settings with creative menus. The grilled lamb chops, ahi tuna tartare, and broiled lobster tail were absolutely delightful (and exquisitely presented!) at Dinogo’s Steakhouse.

16. Chocolate Lovers' Delight

A chocolate lover’s paradise awaits with a buffet featuring chocolate almond cake, pear chocolate cake, orange chocolate cake, chocolate cheesecake, chocolate chip madeleines, almond biscotti, chocolate-covered donuts, chocolate-covered cake balls, marshmallows dipped in chocolate, and much more. Indulge to your heart’s content!