Let’s compare what it’s like to stay at an all inclusive resort and sail on a cruise. The level of luxury will always be dependent on which resort you choose and which cruise you choose. So let’s assume both are at the same level.
Many all inclusive resorts (though obviously not all) are located in areas where you usually stay at the resort for your stay. You can go on group excursions, but typically you’re not going to wander around off property on your own. If it’s safe to wander off property, you should consider staying at a resort which is not all inclusive. Your days consist of lounging by the pool or gazing at the Caribbean water from the beach with your intermittent dips in the water. You can grab meals at your leisure, drinks are plentiful, and activities are there if you choose to participate. You have a nice suite to retire to when you’re ready. Your view is of the palm trees, beach, pool, etc. There is a spa, planned activities for most ages, and plenty of shopping.
Cruise
Let’s imagine you’re staying in a balcony cabin, because if budget allows, that’s the way to go! Every morning you wake up to a new destination – whether it be somewhere you’re anxious to explore or a port where you’re not so excited to see but plan to enjoy activities on board with a less crowded ship, – the same with “at sea” days. You can grab a buffet breakfast or dinner in the dining room and contemplate your day. You can go ashore and explore with an excursion or on your own, depending where you are. If you’re at sea or planning to stay on board, you can lounge by the pool, though much smaller, or visit the spa for some revitalization. If at sea, you can visit the shops on board and check out the duty free specials. Don’t forget the casino.
You’ll need to purchase the specialty beverage package to get that “all inclusive” coverage which can add a lot to your budget depending on the promotion of the cruise line. Cabins are notorious for their small size but it should be thought of as a place to sleep. You’re not supposed to hang out in your cabin all day.
Key differences
ROOM SPACE – The resort room can be the size of 4 cabins put together. The bathroom amenities and counterspace will all be much larger in a resort than on a ship. Even though they build the ships larger and larger, the rooms remain small so they can fit more cabins on board.
POOL – The pool(s) at a resort would be considered enormous in comparison to the ship’s pool(s). There isn’t much room to spread out around the pool on a ship and there is no beach to go to unless you trek there while you are in port.
BEACH – At a resort the beach is always there, every day. On a cruise, you can go to different beaches which is fun, but you most likely have to find your way to the beach via an excursion or taxi service.
TIME – They don’t call it “Island Time” for nothing. At your island resort you are on your own schedule. You can do as you please – stay on the beach until the sun goes down. There is a sense of tranquility that you don’t really feel on a cruise. You can relax without worrying about what comes next. On a cruise, you plan your day around activities and entertainment. In port you’ll need to pay attention to the time so you can be back on board long before they pull in the ropes and gangway.
CROWDS – A ship can feel more crowded. There are less deck chairs, tables in restaurants, crowded hallways and elevators.
EXPERIENCING THE DESTINATION – At a resort you can immerse yourself in that destination and take your time soaking it all in. On a cruise, you have an advantage of seeing multiple destinations but for limited hours. You’re not going to get bored of the island which can happen if you are the type of person who needs to be on the go.
Final Thoughts
So in conclusion, staying at an all inclusive and sailing on a cruise are two very different types of vacations. If you prefer to enjoy a relaxed pace with a lot of space then an all inclusive is for you. If you are ready to be on the go exploring somewhere new every day and just use your cabin as a space to store your things and to lay your head at night then a cruise is best. One is not “better” than the other, they are just different so when you plan your next vacation, think about the experience you want and then let me know how I can help! ~Laurie
Laurie at Five Star Travel Group 
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