Unlimited food, drinks, fun and memories last a lifetime. All become a reality by taking a once in a lifetime cruise. There is nothing like taking a cruise to some of the most breathtaking and amazing destinations on the planet. Some are bigger than others, but no matter the shape or the size, each ship is special in its own way.

Brennan Allen, one of our teachers, shared, “I went on a cruise to the Bahamas with Mrs. Mason [sister]. I won a Disney Trivia event and took home the GOLD TROPHY! I recommend going with your family. It is always fun to bring a friend, but nothing beats spending time on the water with your family!”

When planning a cruise vacation, the first thing to do is decide on a specific cruise company. According to travelusnews.com, the top cruise lines are Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line. 

The biggest cruise ship in the world is the Royal Caribbean International Wonder of the Seas, which is roughly 1,187 feet and 10 inches long, weighs 236, 857 tons and can hold up to 6,988 passengers. This amazing ship has several water slides, a zip line which passengers fly over the boardwalk neighborhood, a surf simulator for boogie boarding, as well as  stand up surfing and so many more fun activities!

Claudia Amaya, a sophomore, went on a cruise vacation out of Miami, Florida and traveled to Jamaica and Haiti. 

“My favorite things about the cruise were the pool, food, and activities they had for kids like me. I would recommend going on one because I think it is a very nice experience, and you can relax and not have to worry about other things,” Amaya stated.

Cruise ships are a great choice for all vacation plans, including Spring Break! This Spring Break, I was fortunate enough to have my own experience, along with my mother and my brother, on one of these amazing ships. We sailed on Carnival Spirit’s last trip out of Jacksonville, Florida to Nassau and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. These breathtaking islands, in my opinion, are where some of the most beautiful, turquoise waters in the world are found

From the minute I stepped on board to the second I debarked, I was speechless. The service is incredible, the food leaves your mouth watering and the sights are breathtaking. Even though the separate excursions cost extra, they are 100% worth it. My family did the VIP dolphin swim where I was pushed on a boogie board by one of those amazing creatures. My favorite part about the trip was by far having such an amazing experience with a group of great new friends.

Trevor Goodrich, a sophomore, took a cruise vacation to the Bahamas and their private island, Coco Cay. 

Goodrich commented, “My favorite things about the cruise were snorkeling and zip lining. I would recommend going on a cruise vacation because it is so much fun to go to the islands and explore. The food is also good, and it is fun to party on the ship!”

Whether you have never been on one or have already been on one, I highly recommend you consider making that your next vacation. Even though it can be a little pricey, you only buy one ticket that includes everything (besides your extra excursions). Leave the everyday stress behind, grab your bathing suit and get ready to jump into another world!