Top 6 Reasons to Try a Short Cruise

Are you interested in cruising for a few days but not quite ready to commit to a week or longer voyage? Maybe you're a first-time sailor who wants to test the waters of cruising before taking a more extended trip, or a seasoned cruiser who wants to try out the ‘new world’ of short cruises. There’s never been a better time than now to try a short cruise of 6 nights or less.  

In addition, shorter-length cruises offer all the same onboard activities and amenities as longer voyages. These sailings will likely include, depending on itinerary, a stop at one or more ports. On many mainstream cruise lines, this includes a visit to the line’s private island. 

We’ve shared our top six reasons why now is the perfect time to book a short cruise. 

1. Less Time Commitment for Vacation

As you cruise for fewer days, shorter voyages require less time away from work or home responsibilities. If you are not in a position to take an extended voyage or just craving a quick tropical escape, a short 3- to 4-night cruise might be just the ticket for you. Shorter cruises can commonly be over weekends, allowing you to take a quick mini-vacation without having to do extended planning and preparations. 

2. Less Expensive Price Tag

As you cruise for fewer days, short cruises come with a smaller price tag than a week plus longer voyages. You will also likely spend less on the ship for added extras like specialty dining or activity charges. Likewise, on a shorter cruise, you will spend less time in port, which means you will spend less on excursions, port meals, souvenirs, etc. 

At Cruiseline.com, we commonly compare the rates of our cruises by the cost per night. When looking at prices for sailings, you will likely see a lower cost per night for a longer cruise. Shorter cruises cost a bit more per night, but that can vary by line and sail date. 

3. Great Way to Test Your Sea Legs

Are you a first-timer and not sure cruising will be for you? Shorter cruises are the perfect time to test those ‘sea legs’ and see if you like the experience. It’s a great way to get a feel for what it is like to actually be on a cruise ship without a major time commitment. You can get the full experience of ship activities, what it’s like to sleep in a cabin at sea, going into a port, and the dining scene, without the commitment of a longer voyage. 

If you're a seasoned sailor and curious about the ‘new world’ of cruising, a short cruise is an excellent way to test the waters. You will get the whole experience of new embarkation procedures, onboard health and safety protocol, and a sense of what it's like to cruise without a longer time commitment. 

4. Group Getaways

Looking to cruise with a group of family or friends? A short cruise is a great option to consider and can be much easier to coordinate with many people. The cruise line often offers a discounted rate or upgraded cabins for groups and special amenities. Be sure to ask what is available for the ship and the sailing date you want. The cruise lines will also offer free credits (aka tour conductor credit). Typically, for every 15 paying passengers, the 16th passenger is complimentary. These savings can be spread across the entire group or be used for specific passengers.

5. Upgrade to a Balcony Suite

Do you typically choose an inside or oceanview cabin? Are you a first-timer unsure what type of cabin to select? A short cruise is perfect for upgrading your cabin selection to a balcony or suite. A week or longer cruise can be a larger financial commitment in a balcony or suite, but these cabins are much more affordable on a short cruise. Additionally, upgrading to a balcony or suite on a short cruise is a great opportunity to experience the additional amenities and see if you are ready to commit to a longer cruise.

6. Add a Hotel Stay

A short cruise pairs nicely with a pre or post-hotel stay to create a more extended vacation. This option is very popular, with stays in Orlando for Disney and Universal Studios and roundtrip cruises from Port Canaveral. Other options are cruises from South Florida, and hotel stays in the Keys or South Beach. Basically, any homeport with a short cruise will have hotel options for extended vacations. 

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