Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which One Gives You The Best Value for Your Money?

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Vacation planning can be quite a hassle. For some travelers, narrowing the options down to either a cruise or an all-inclusive resort can make the planning stage much simpler.

The Differences Between a Cruise And a Resort

Before we get into some specific options, let’s take a quick look at whether a cruise or all-inclusive resort might be better for you. If you want to visit lots of places, the cruise may fit you well. You might also prefer a cruise if you don’t like to fly – since many of the all-inclusive resorts are located in places you’ll likely need to reach with the help of an airplane.

If you want to stay in one relaxing and fun place, the all-inclusive resort might be the way to go. It might also be the better choice for a romantic getaway. According to Travel + Leisure, “One other thing to consider is the fact that there are more adults-only all-inclusive resorts than there are adults-only cruises — the only adults-only cruise lines are Virgin Voyages, Viking, and Saga.”

Costs to Cruise

The costs for cruises can vary widely. Based on data from the Cruise Booking and Cruiseline websites, most people will end up spending about $1,500 to $2,000 for a seven-day cruise.

If you’re looking for deals, you can find several on Priceline. For instance, you can get a seven-night western Caribbean cruise from Carnival starting at about $700. If you’re looking for something longer, Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night Caribbean and the Americas cruise starting at about $1,000. If your cruise budget is closer to $2,000, Priceline has a Disney Cruise Line offer for a seven-night western Caribbean cruise.

For more luxury, Viking Ocean Cruises is offering, through Priceline, a seven-night western Mediterranean cruise starting around $2,800.

Prices For a Resort

On the surface, the price for a weeklong stay at an all-inclusive resort looks higher than a cruise. Typically, you’ll find the prices around $2,000 to $3,500. Again, the prices can vary widely based on location, time of year and much more.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive family option in Cancun, check out Iberostar Selection Cancún. It’s listed among the top affordable all-inclusive resorts by U.S. News & World Report. It starts about $250 a night, which would be around $1,750 for seven nights.

If you’re looking for an upscale adults-only resort, check out the Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay. This one will cost you starting around $2,500 for seven nights. 

One way to save big money is to go during off-peak times, such as in the fall. For instance, starting around $200 a night, you can stay at the Occidental at Xcaret Destination. Located just outside Playa del Carmen, Mexico, it offers family activities and spacious grounds.

The Bottom Line

You can find similar nightly rates for both cruises and all-inclusive resorts. When getting the best value for your money, it’s going to come down to what you want to do during your vacation and what you enjoy. If you want to see the sights, then a cruise may be the better value. If you’re looking to relax with drinks, an all-inclusive resort may be better for your money. Food and alcoholic beverages are typically included in the rate.

Whatever your choice, you may want to get moving. The best value for your money is likely to be found during off-peak periods, which for most vacation industries is in the winter.

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