Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin Summer cruises appeal, but they can be crowded and expensive. getty Dreaming of a summer vacation on the open seas? Endless sunshine, sparkling waters, and the promise of exotic destinations sound appealing, yet there are reasons to pause. While cruising during the summer months might seem like a no-brainer, the reality can be far less idyllic.
The truth is, peak season comes with its own set of challenges—some of which might make you think twice about setting sail during this popular time of year. 1. Ships Operate Beyond Capacity Cruise ship capacities are based on double occupancy of staterooms.
However, the actual number of guests on board can vastly exceed that number. How? This is possible because children are allowed to share the room with their parents, enabling cruise lines to accommodate far more passengers than their official capacity suggests. Newer ships have more staterooms designed to accommodate third and fourth guests, so families and groups can easily book cabins that house more people.
While this may seem like a great way to save money and keep everyone together, it also means that the public areas of the ship can feel incredibly crowded. More passengers translate to longer lines at buffets, crowded pools, and a higher demand for everything from dining reservations to sun loungers. The strain of operating beyond capacity doesn't just affect your comfort—it can also impact the quality of service.
Queues.