Cruise vs. All-Inclusive: Which Vacation is Right for You?
- Ivy Fritsche
- Jul 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Can’t decide between setting sail on the open seas or kicking back at a resort with unlimited piña coladas? You’re not alone! Cruises and all-inclusive resorts both offer amazing ways to relax, unwind, and make memories, but they’re very different experiences. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect fit for your next getaway!

🛳️ Why Choose a Cruise?
What’s Included in the Cost: Your stateroom, main dining, buffets, extra eateries, and tons of entertainment are covered. Many cruise lines include free kids’ clubs, too — but keep in mind extras like drink packages, excursions, specialty dining, room service, Wi-Fi, and gratuities are often added costs.
Multiple Ports of Call: Want to see more than one destination? Cruises let you wake up in a new port almost every day — you only have to unpack once but get to see multiple places! One trip — multiple adventures!
Variety of Activities: Modern ships are basically floating resorts with endless things to do: pools, hot tubs, water slides, rock climbing walls, mini golf, roller coasters — and more, depending on the ship!
Avoid the Weather: Worried about storms ruining your fun? Cruise ships have advanced tech to dodge bad weather, so you won’t get stuck like you might at a resort during a rainy week.

🏖️ Why Choose an All-Inclusive Resort?
What’s Included in the Cost: At an all-inclusive, you get meals, snacks, drinks (including alcohol!), water activities, nightly entertainment — and at some resorts, even golf or scuba diving. Many brands have sister properties, so you can hop between them and enjoy extra perks.
No Seasickness: If you’re prone to motion sickness, staying on land might be a safer bet — no rocking waves here!
Larger Rooms: Resort rooms are usually bigger than a typical cruise cabin. Many resorts offer unique suites with swim-up pools, private terraces, or ocean views.
Experience Local Culture: Cruises only give you a few hours in port — but staying at a resort lets you really soak up the destination, explore local sights, and get to know the culture at your own pace.
So, Which Should You Pick?
There’s no wrong choice, just the one that best fits you!
👉 Want to visit multiple places in one trip? Cruise!
👉 Want to park yourself at a beautiful beach with a drink in hand? All-Inclusive!
👉 Traveling with kids? Both can be amazing — it depends if your family loves adventure or prefers to chill in one spot.
👉 Budget? Both can be super affordable or extra luxurious, depending on where you go and what you add.
Ready to book your own cruise or all-inclusive resort? Let us help you plan your dream vacation tailored to you! Visit www.thepixieplanner.com/blog1 or reach out to your favorite Pixie Planner to request your free quote today!
It is SO hard to choose when both are so amazing!