Travel Vlogger Reveals Why She’ll Never Set Foot On Another Cruise Ship Again

Picture this: sun-kissed horizons, endless buffets, dancing the night away under a sea of stars. Cruises have long been advertised as the ultimate escape — an all-inclusive paradise where worries are left on the shore. 

They make it sound like an adventure where relaxation meets exploration, and everyone comes home with a tan and a suitcase full of memories. 

But let’s take a step back from the Instagram-filtered sunsets and perfect mojitos for a second, shall we? What if, behind the seemingly perfect facade of vacation bliss, there's a darker side that no one’s talking about?

You’ve heard the pitch: visit multiple countries without the hassle of airports, no meal planning because it’s all included, and the chance to lounge around a ship like royalty. 

But before you start packing your swimsuit and flip-flops, there’s one thing you need to hear: cruises might not be as dreamy as the commercials make them out to be. In fact, they could be the very opposite.

This is the controversial truth that travel content creator Samantha Tatro revealed in a recent video. She’s had enough of the sugar-coated cruise promos, and let’s just say she’s got some hard-hitting reasons why cruises are far from paradise.

Millions are choosing the seas over the skies—but should you join them?

Andrea Piacquadio (not the actual photo)

Samantha Tatro, who once thought cruises were worth a try, is now spilling the tea on why she’ll never set foot on one again. After her two-week voyage around Australia, she realized no one was telling the whole truth about cruising, and the more she experienced, the more frustrated she became.

Sustainable Travel Practices

Travel experts increasingly advocate for sustainable tourism practices. A leading voice in this field, Dr. Mercola, points out that large cruise ships can have significant ecological impacts, from pollution to over-tourism in sensitive areas.

To promote sustainability, travelers should consider eco-friendly alternatives like small-group tours or self-guided trips that prioritize environmental responsibility. Mercola stresses that making informed choices can help protect destinations for future generations while enhancing personal enjoyment.

Two weeks on a cruise gone wrong? This unimpressed content creator spills the tea on life at sea!

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First on the chopping block? The food. Contrary to the hype of "fine dining" at sea, Samantha likened her cruise meals to "high school cafeteria food."

If you were expecting gourmet meals, you’re in for a real shocker

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The Illusion of Paradise

Dr. Atul Gawande, a renowned surgeon and author, emphasizes the importance of understanding the reality behind seemingly perfect experiences, such as cruises. He notes that while these vacations promise relaxation and adventure, they often hide underlying issues, including overcrowding and service inconsistencies.

Gawande’s insights remind us that expectations often clash with reality, leading to disappointment. Travelers should research and consider alternatives that align more closely with their preferences and comfort levels, ensuring a more satisfying experience.

The cuisine is a sad flashback to those school lunch days

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Imagine paying premium prices for what essentially tastes like bland, mass-produced grub. For someone who loves good food and adventurous travel, it was a letdown of Titanic proportions.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Shore excursions—those idyllic tours of exotic destinations—often come with jaw-dropping price tags.

Brace yourselves; the excursion prices will sink your wallet faster than the Titanic

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Samantha noted that her half-day excursion set her back $200 per person—a price she thought ridiculous, especially when she realized she could have had a far more personalized and cost-effective experience on land.

Then there's the not-so-small matter of the environmental impact. Let’s face it, massive cruise ships aren't exactly the greenest way to travel. As Samantha bluntly put it, “If you even care one iota about the planet, you would knock it on one of these ships.”

The giant ships aren’t just big—they’re leaving a massive carbon footprint on the planet

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Travel expert and author Rick Steves advocates for mindful traveling. He believes that opting for smaller, more personalized travel experiences can lead to deeper connections with cultures and communities. According to Steves, large cruise ships often detach travelers from the local experiences that enrich their journeys.

He suggests alternatives like boutique hotels or local homestays, which can offer a more authentic experience while supporting local economies. Steves emphasizes that these choices often yield more meaningful memories than the cookie-cutter experiences of a cruise.

Cruise ships produce massive amounts of carbon emissions, not to mention the waste they generate. For many eco-conscious travelers, that’s a deal-breaker.

Seasickness, anyone? Despite what seasoned cruisers may tell you, Samantha’s not buying the myth that you’ll stay steady on your feet.

Seasickness is practically a cruise rite of passage. Pro tip: Don’t forget the meds

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Whether you’re sailing calm waters or navigating choppy seas, seasickness is a real possibility. And even if you think you’ll avoid it, she warns: bring the meds just in case.

But the biggest surprise for Samantha was the sheer amount of walking. Getting around a massive cruise ship? Think of it like wandering around a floating city.

Better pack some comfy shoes because finding your way around is basically an intense form of cardio

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Elevators take forever, and unless you’re ready for a workout, you might find yourself exhausted just getting from point A to point B.

Watch the full reveal of Samantha’s unfiltered cruise experience here!

So, what exactly did Samantha enjoy about her trip? Family time. She loved the quality moments she spent with loved ones—something that, to be fair, cruises do facilitate.

Luckily, Samantha managed to dig out some positives from the underwhelming trip

GEORGE DESIPRIS (not the actual photo)

Health and Safety Concerns

Dr. Josh Axe, a leading health expert, highlights that cruises can pose unique health risks, including foodborne illnesses and viral outbreaks. He stresses the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices while traveling, especially in crowded environments like cruise ships.

To mitigate these risks, he recommends that travelers prioritize handwashing and be cautious about the food they consume. Axe advocates for choosing itineraries that allow for more land-based explorations, as this can contribute to a healthier overall travel experience.

A single cruise ship can churn out as much as 1,000 pounds of carbon dioxide daily, leaving a sizable environmental footprint with each voyage.

Mehmet Mert Mutlu (not the actual photo)

Cruises are great for crowds, but for those who like to march to the beat of their own drum? Not so much

Diego F. Parra (not the actual photo)

However, she pointed out that there are plenty of other ways to travel that provide the same quality time without the environmental damage and overpriced experiences.

Mixed reactions rolled in after Samantha’s video. While some nodded in agreement, others couldn’t stop raving about their love for cruises

Travel psychologists observe that the 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) can lead people to choose popular options like cruises, even if they aren't the best fit. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, suggests that understanding personal preferences and boundaries is key to making healthier travel choices.

She encourages individuals to reflect on what truly brings them joy in travel, whether that's adventure, culture, or relaxation. By prioritizing personal values, travelers can avoid the pitfalls of trendy but unsuitable experiences.

“No one ever says the food is good”

According to this user, the treatment of workers is terrible

Cruise ships are definitely not for this person

Financial Considerations

Jean Chatzky, a financial journalist, emphasizes the hidden costs associated with cruising that travelers may overlook. Beyond the initial price tag, expenses like excursions, tips, and onboard spending can add up quickly.

She advises potential cruisers to create a comprehensive budget before booking, detailing all expected costs to avoid unpleasant financial surprises. By being financially prepared, travelers can better enjoy their experiences without the stress of overspending.

We’re sure this user won’t be going on another cruise anytime soon

It’s a whole process getting on and off a cruise ship

Some people actually love going on cruises

Dr. Heidi Hayes Jacobs, an educational consultant, shares insights on the importance of experiential learning in travel. She argues that traveling should be about immersion, not just sightseeing, which is often lacking in cruise experiences.

Jacobs recommends choosing trips that allow for hands-on learning, such as cooking classes or cultural workshops. These opportunities foster deeper engagement with local cultures, transforming a vacation into a meaningful educational experience.

“I’ve never had a desire to go on a cruise ship..”

Maybe those who had bad experiences on their journey can try Royal Caribbean cruises

Still, cruises are loved by millions, with 31.7 million people expected to sail this year alone. The truth? Cruises might be great for some—but before you book that ticket, make sure you’re fully prepared for what you're signing up for. 

Professional Assessment & Guidance

In conclusion, while cruises may offer a glamorous facade, experts consistently highlight the importance of understanding the underlying realities and risks involved. From health concerns to sustainability issues, it's vital for travelers to prioritize personal values and preferences in their travel choices.

By seeking authentic experiences and being financially prepared, individuals can cultivate a more enriching travel journey that aligns with their interests and enhances well-being. As travel continues to evolve, embracing mindful practices will lead to more fulfilling adventures.