Caribbean Cruises vs Resorts: Which Is Right for You?
🚢 A Complete Guide to Choosing Between a Caribbean Cruise and an All-Inclusive Resort
When planning a trip to the Caribbean, one of the biggest questions is: Should I book a cruise or stay at a resort? Both offer sunshine, turquoise seas, and luxury experiences, but they’re very different holidays.
Cruises let you explore multiple islands in one trip, while resorts give you the chance to unwind in one destination with everything at your fingertips. Which option is right for you depends on your travel style, budget, and what you want from your holiday.
👉 Related reading: Caribbean Holidays: The Complete Guide
What a Caribbean Cruise Offers
Caribbean cruises remain one of the most popular ways to see the region. From large ships with every amenity imaginable to smaller luxury vessels, cruises appeal to travellers who love variety.
What’s included on a Caribbean cruise:
- Accommodation onboard
- Most meals, with some specialty dining at extra cost
- Onboard entertainment (shows, live music, activities)
- Pools, gyms, and sometimes waterparks
- Stops at multiple islands
Why choose a cruise?
- Visit several destinations in one holiday
- No need to worry about transport between islands
- Great onboard entertainment for families
- Social, community feel (especially on larger ships)
- Ideal if you like to be on the move
What a Caribbean Resort Holiday Offers
All-inclusive Caribbean resorts offer a more relaxed, stay-put holiday. You can choose from luxury retreats, family resorts, or boutique hideaways depending on your style.
What’s included at a Caribbean resort:
- Accommodation
- All meals & unlimited drinks
- Resort entertainment & activities
- Non-motorised watersports (kayaks, snorkels, paddleboards)
- Kids’ clubs at family resorts
- Spa & excursions (extra cost)
Why choose a resort?
- Total relaxation — unpack once and settle in
- More space & privacy than a cruise cabin
- Ideal for honeymoons & romantic escapes
- Stronger focus on food, service, and luxury amenities
- Easier for young families (everything within the resort)
👉 Compare: All-Inclusive Caribbean Holidays: Are They Worth It?
Caribbean Cruise vs Resort: Cost Comparison
For 2025, here’s what you can expect for a 7–10 night holiday, per person:
- Caribbean Cruise: from £1,500 – £3,000 (balcony cabins, premium lines higher)
- Caribbean Resort: from £1,700 – £3,500 (all-inclusive, mid to high-end resorts)
👉 Related reading: How Much Does a Caribbean Holiday Cost?
Pros & Cons: Cruise vs Resort
Here’s a simple breakdown:
🚢 Cruises – Pros
- Multiple islands in one trip
- Entertainment & activities onboard
- Social atmosphere
- Easy to budget (most included)
- No need to arrange transfers
🚢 Cruises – Cons
- Less time on each island
- Cabins smaller than resort rooms
- Drinks packages often extra
- Can feel crowded on larger ships
🏝 Resorts – Pros
- Total relaxation & space
- Larger rooms, suites, or villas
- Stronger luxury & dining focus
- Perfect for honeymoons or families
- Easier to explore one island deeply
🏝 Resorts – Cons
- Only one island per trip
- Excursions & activities can add cost
- Can feel “samey” if you never leave the resort
👉 Explore: Luxury Caribbean Holidays: What Sets Them Apart
Who Should Choose a Cruise?
- Explorers – Want to see 4–5 islands in one holiday.
- Families with teens – Onboard activities keep everyone entertained.
- Social travellers – Enjoy meeting new people.
- First-time Caribbean visitors – Great for a “taster trip.”
Who Should Choose a Resort?
- Couples & honeymooners – Romance, privacy, and seclusion.
- Families with younger kids – Easy all-inclusive dining, kids’ clubs.
- Luxury travellers – Butler service, private villas, infinity pools.
- Repeat visitors – Already know your favourite island, want to stay longer.
👉 Inspiration:
Best Caribbean Islands for Couples & Honeymoons
👉See also:
Best Caribbean Islands for Families
When’s the Best Time to Go?
Both cruises and resorts follow the same Caribbean weather patterns:
- Dec–Apr: Peak season, best weather, highest prices.
- May–Jun, Sep–Oct: Shoulder season, fewer crowds, better deals.
- Jul–Nov: Warm, lush, with chance of tropical showers.
👉 Full guide: Best Time to Visit the Caribbean
Why Book with ItsSo Travel?
Deciding between a Caribbean cruise and a resort can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to choose alone. At ItsSo Travel, we:
- Know both the best cruise lines and the top Caribbean resorts.
- Match you with the right style based on your budget & preferences.
- Can combine both: e.g. a Caribbean cruise followed by a luxury resort stay.
- Offer ABTA, ATOL & Trust Account protection for complete peace of mind.
Conclusion
So, cruise or resort — which is best for a Caribbean holiday?
- Choose a cruise if you want variety, multiple islands, and onboard entertainment.
- Choose a resort if you want relaxation, space, and luxury in one destination.
📞 Still unsure? Call ItsSo Travel or pop into our Torquay shops — we’ll help you choose the Caribbean holiday that’s right for you.
👉 Back to: Caribbean Holidays: The Complete Guide
