The Pros And Cons Of Traveling By Boat

Thinking of booking a cruise? Or maybe even chartering a private boat? Cruises are some of my favorite vacations and I always love having the opportunity to take a private boat around SoCal. Traveling by boat can be a unique and memorable experience - but it isn’t for everyone. To determine whether a boat expedition is right for you, it could be worth weighing up some of the pros and cons. Below are just some of the biggest benefits and drawbacks of traveling by boat.

The Pros

It offers unique views and sights

Seeing the world by water can offer a unique perspective that no other mode of transport can. From arctic glaciers to tropical reefs, traveling by boat can allow you to get up close to all kinds of unique natural sights. You can also explore multiple cities in one trip via a cruise, or catch sight of rare wildlife like turtles and whales. 

It can be an affordable option

While there are many luxurious ways to travel by boat, there are also many budget-friendly options. This includes cheap ferries and affordable cruises. Even buying a boat isn’t as expensive as many people assume. As sites like Premierboating.com showcase, it’s possible to buy pontoons and tritoons for cheaper prices than an RV. Obviously, a yacht will cost you a lot more.

It can be a low-stress way to travel

While many modes of transport require you to be confined to a seat, boats allow you to get up and walk around. Many boats are optimized for relaxation and have restaurants and bars. Cruise ships even have amenities such as gyms, spas, pools and theaters. 

It’s also suitable for thrillseekers

Boat travel can also be suitable for thrillseekers. Speed boats and bowriders can provide the option to practise watersports like waterskiing and wakeboarding, while other boat tours can take you to places where you can snorkel or dive. 

The Cons

You might get seasick

Some people find the rocking sensation of a boat relaxing, while others find it nauseating. Unless you’ve taken a boat before, you may not know whether you’re prone to seasickness or not. It’s a good idea to take motion sickness pills with you just in case. 

It can be a slow option

If you want to travel somewhere quickly, a boat may not always be the best solution. While there are some instances where a boat is the fastest option, there are many other instances where you’re better off taking another mode of transport (for example, a boat ride across the Atlantic can take 8 days, whereas a plane can do it in 8 hours). 

You’re limited to destinations accessible by water

Traveling by boat restricts you as to what destinations you can see. For example, a European cruise may allow you to see port cities like Lisbon, Barcelona and Venice, but you won’t be able to explore inland cities like Paris, Berlin and Madrid (although river cruises can take you to some inland destinations).

You’re at the mercy of the elements

A storm can quickly turn a boat ride into a scary situation. On land, you may be able to more easily shelter from a storm, but at sea you’re at the mercy of the waves. Fortunately, most ships are well prepared for storms and will delay journeys or change routes if one is expected.

Is boat travel right for you?

Boat travel can be an exciting, affordable, low stress option for those that want unique sights and views. It is not recommended if you get seasick or get scared of the open water, or if you want to travel somewhere fast or somewhere inland.