by Suzanne Rose

Created on: January 11, 2010

A delightful journey awaits you as you set sail on a majestic floating city.  Cruises are a water-lovers delight, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience rich in culture and beauty.  Like with most things, certain stereotypes regarding cruising have emerged, some swathed in truth, yet others pure fiction.  The following are some common myths about cruises.

1. Absolutely everything is included in the price.

Were this only true, you would have many happier – and richer – cruisers.  While many features and amenities are indeed included in the price of cruises, many items do cost additional funds.  Like those on Wall Street and Main Street, the cruise companies that journey the ocean’s waters are facing financial obstacles in today’s economy.  They must make up for it in some ways.  Of course, there is still much that you do not have to pay for, such as much of the food and the entertainment.  Although it varies from cruise line to cruise line and even from ship to ship, many cruises charge extra for certain eateries, some shows and other services.  Of course, you will almost always pay more to go on excursions.  The cost for these extras may be small or significant, depending on what you get, but even small costs can add up over the course of a cruise.  In addition, when you see a quote for a cruise in an advertisement, the actual cost is often far greater because of port fees, taxes and other surcharges.  Make certain that you take all of these extra costs into consideration when planning your vacation.

2. You will gain weight on a cruise.

Many fear cruises and their sumptuous buffets as unavoidable villains that will sabotage their diets and best intentions.  Although many do put on a few pounds in the presence of feast after feast, you can prevent this by being careful.  If you resist the urge to wolf down every savory morsel before you, you may be able to stave off the pounds. Also, in addition to providing the opportunity to eat, cruises also offer a wide variety of physical activity options such as spacious gyms and lively exercise classes.  Many of the excursions also offer fun activities that provide both amusement and calorie-burning physical exertion.  If you are careful, it is possible to leave with the scale reading the same number as it did upon your arrival.

3. If you do not gamble, there will be nothing to do.

Gambling is a great source of income

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