You’ve decided on Belize as your vacation destination, but you’re still deciding just how you want to spend your trip. A vacation on the water sounds great, but so does a languid resort holiday. So, which will it be? Let’s weigh up the pros and cons of a cruise vacation vs a resort one.

Overall costs

In general, it costs roughly as much to book a cruise as it does to arrange a stay at a resort – although with a resort you’ll have to factor in airfares. However, while most costs are included on your up-front cruise booking fee, expect to shell out extra for drinks, shows and other activities. And don’t forget to add the “cruise tax”.

On the other hand, fees for a resort will vary depending on how all-inclusive your resort is, but you’ll have more flexibility about where that money is being spent. And depending on where you’re traveling, airfares can be a bargain. Flying from the US to Belize, for example, is such a good deal that it makes more sense to travel by air than cruise ship.

Flexibility and spontaneity

If you like having the vacation planning and decision-making taken out of your hands, a cruise can be a good option. Your route is pre-planned, the activities are all arranged, and even the menus are limited to what’s available on board. This can be great for travellers who like some structure to their days – and even their meal times. Plus, cruises are by nature mobile, which means that you’ll get to take in new views every day.

However, if you’re the kind who likes being able to take control of your itinerary, a resort may be the better option. When you book a resort, you have the choice of doing as little as you desire, but you can always explore further afield with a short trip or tour if something catches your eye. If you’re traveling in a large group or with kids, or you’re a more adventurous type, a resort gives you the flexibility to rewrite your schedule. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with local culture more than you would on a cruise.

Comfort and space

If never-ending ocean views are what you’re after, a cruise will do the trick. There’s room enough to stretch your legs, particularly when you dock, and you can always hit the gym to work off those all-you-can-eat meals. Cruise ship cabins aren’t known for being huge, but if your wallet allows, you’ll be able to lay claim to a larger space.

But let’s face it, comfort is where resorts shine. Even the smallest resort room is almost certainly larger than a cruise ship cabin, and you’ll have more flexibility about the type and size of space you can book – from a suite all the way up to an entire villa. When you decide to go the resort route, you’ll also have access to amenities such as private pools, terraces and even your own kitchen. Not only that, but you won’t have to worry about sea sickness or inclement weather affecting your vacation.

Cruise vs resort: which is best?

Whether you decide to book a cruise or a resort for your Belize vacation depends on your travel style and preferences. A cruise gives you the wide-open ocean, a fully planned-out itinerary and plenty of on-board entertainment. A resort, on the other hand, offers plenty of space, tons of flexibility, and a seriously relaxing environment that’s not at the mercy of the weather.

If you’ve decided that a resort vacation is ideal for your Belize trip, get in touch with the team at Sirenian Bay. We’d be happy to help ensure that your vacation is everything you’ve been hoping for – and more.