Summer is the perfect time to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. Click here to learn why you should consider a boat cruise and take a break from it all

Have you been bitten by the travel bug?

One of the most popular ways to travel is on a boat cruise. In fact, more than 20 million people board some type of cruise ship every year.

Options for cruising are almost limitless. You can choose from week-long cruises through the Mediterranean or island-hopping in the Caribbean. Closer to home, you can enjoy a romantic dinner or overnight cruise on a lake or river.

Whether your vacation budget is large or small, there’s a boat cruise out there that’s perfect for you.

Still not convinced? Read on for six compelling reasons to take your family on a fun-filled cruise this summer.

1. Convenience

A major reason for the continued popularity is the convenience factor.

Think about it. You board the ship with all your luggage, check in to your “room,” and go to sleep in the same bed every night. And yet, every morning when you wake up, you’re in a new port, a new city, or a new island.

If you tried to visit four different Caribbean islands by plane, think of the hassle involved in getting to and from airports and sleeping in four different hotels.

With a cruise, you don’t have to worry about any of that. Simply board the ship and sit back and relax as it ferries you to your next exotic destination.

2. Easy Budgeting

Another terrific reason to take a boat cruise? You know exactly how much money you’ll spend, which make it budgeting a cinch.

We all have a tendency to overspend on vacations. But with a cruise, you’ll know exactly how much you’re going to spend before you even set foot on the boat.

Most cruise packages include your room, meals, and onboard activities. Depending on your budget, you can add on optional shore excursions to the price of your cruise.

Some cruises may include alcoholic beverages and gratuities for staff, while others do not. Be sure to read the fine print for any cruise you’re considering so you know exactly what is–and isn’t–included.

3. Fabulous Food

Gone are the days of drab cafeteria-style offerings on cruise ships.

While you’re still likely to find 24-hour buffets and bars, most cruise companies have really kicked their cuisine into high gear. Even on budget cruises, expect the option of five-star dining rooms with a delicious menu selection.

Many menus on cruises are inspired by the local cuisine of the destinations you’re visiting.

Others have paired with celebrity chefs to ensure their offerings rival any you’d find on land.

Worried you might gain weight on your cruise? You don’t have to. Wellness cruises offer seminars on active living, along with customized fitness programs and healthy meals.

4. Endless Activities

One thing is for certain: You’ll never be bored on a boat cruise.

Let’s start with the onboard activities. During the day, you can enjoy pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, or dance classes. In the evening, enjoy Broadway-style performances, live music, or magic shows.

Need some adult time? Drop off the kids for an endless array of supervised activities. They’ll have so much fun with their new friends they won’t want it to end.

And all of this is just on your days at sea. What about when the ship docks at its next destination? Depending on where your cruise takes you, there’s almost no end to the choices that await you.

In Europe, tour ancient ruins and explore hidden grottos. In the Caribbean, relax on a postcard-perfect beach or scuba dive with dolphins and sharks. If you visit Alaska or Antarctica, bundle up and get ready to trek across glaciers or watch whales breach.

What if these faraway destinations are out of your reach? That’s okay too. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy a fabulous boat cruise closer to home.

Read more here about champagne brunch, dinner, and special event cruises on Lake Minnetonka.

5. Disconnect (and Reconnect)

One of the best things about being out on the water–whether it’s the ocean, a sea, or a lake–is the chance to disconnect from the outside world.

Of course, all modern ships offer the option of connectivity. If you need to check your email or make a phone call, you certainly can.

But why not take the opportunity to unplug, not only from your daily life but from your electronics as well? Leave the cell phone in your cabin and unwind on a lounge chair beneath a beautiful sunset.

Spend some uninterrupted time with your family or friends. By disconnecting from your life onshore, you’ll have more of a chance to reconnect with nature and the people around you.

6. Do As Much (Or As Little) As You Want

When you take a boat cruise, you’ll find two types of people: those who want to do it all, and those who want to do nothing at all.

The do-it-alls sign up for every class, every shore excursion, and every show. They make the most of their vacation by cramming in as many fun activities as time allows.

The nothing-at-alls, on the other hand, spend their cruise unwinding from the stresses of life. You’ll see them relaxing by the pool all day or indulging in various spa treatments.

Which camp do you fall into? It doesn’t matter.

The point is: You can make your boat cruise whatever you want it to be!

Ready for Your Summertime Boat Cruise?

No matter where you decide to cruise–Alaska, the Caribbean, or a nearby lake–you’re sure to enjoy your time on the water.

Looking for more helpful travel advice? Check out our latest blog posts for more inspiration.