Cruise Or Resort: The Pros And Cons

A cruise and a resort holiday each have their pros and cons, but one will be a much better fit for your needs. As part of our ongoing ‘Everything you need to know about cruising‘ series we do the research to help you find your next holiday.

It might not be the toughest decision you’ll ever have to make, but with precious little annual leave up your sleeve, the question must be asked: how best to please your inner lounge lizard – book a cruise, or lock in a week at an all-inclusive resort?

To compare apples with apples, we not only take a look at the difference between mid-range all-inclusive resorts and standard cruises where the fare covers accommodation, meals in the main restaurants and activities, but stand-alone ‘pay for everything you eat/see/use’ resorts.

an aerial view of True North ship — Hop on a cruise with True North Adventure Cruises.

A cruising holiday

It’s not the plenitude of restaurants or cacophony of activities like bumper cars, wave riding, indoor sky diving et al that are the clear advantages of cruising (although they are up there); easily the biggest advantage of booking a cruise holiday is the promise of visiting multiple destinations and only ever having to unpack once, as well as not having to manage a complex itinerary of connections and transfers, says Deb Long, former owner of Weston Cruise & Travel .

“Rather than having to worry about logistics of transport, destinations on the itinerary all come to you and you can experience a wide variety of new places and cultures just by getting out of bed in the morning," she says, adding that ships can also seek out the best weather for their passengers.

“Captains will alter the ship’s route if they’re headed towards unpleasant weather, but if you book a resort you can’t escape the weather."

the rooftop garden onboard Celebrity Edge — Relax in the vibrant oasis onboard Celebrity Edge.

What can you do onboard a cruise?

Not only do you have a huge range of cruise lines and cruising styles (ocean, river, expedition) to choose from to fit your personality type, but modern-day ships are jam-packed with onboard activities, from water parks and bumper cars to zip lining to circus schools and indoor skydiving, and daily schedules are filled with wine tastings, Vegas-style shows and educational programming.

an aerial view of the twister waterslide at Carnival Cruise — Thrill seekers will love Carnival’s waterslides.

Zero in on the right ship for your group (check out our dummy’s guide to cruise lines for help) and there will always be a new activity for each individual member of your group to enjoy, says Carl Frier, managing director of Australasia, Cruise 1st .

“Cruises are a particularly great option when there are members within the one group or family with wildly conflicting interests," he explains. “One person can read around the pool, another can lock in back-to-back kids’ activities onboard, while a third heads off to investigate the destination itself and everyone remains happy with their holiday."

The Golden Mickeys live performance at the Disney Wonder — Catch The Golden Mickeys’ live show onboard Disney Wonder.

What are the dining options on a cruise?

Dining options on large cruise ships tend to be more varied, often covering a wide range of cultures so you can easily have Japanese for lunch, Italian for dinner and French for snacks, with food available 24 hours a day, and when it comes to service – well, it’s usually faultless.

This is in stark contrast to the greatest problem of resorts: that the restaurant menus in the two or three (if you are lucky) eateries remain more or less identical throughout your stay.

Viking Ocean Ship Aquavit Terrace — Viking’s Aquavit Terrace is perfect for alfresco dining.

What is the service like on a cruise?

“I’ve never had a bad experience on a cruise and sadly, I can’t say the same about resort holidays," reveals Emma Mumford, former marketing and communications manager, Cruiseco . “Staff onboard go that extra mile to learn your name and your preferences, basically becoming like family for the duration of the trip."

the lounge area at Princess Hollywood Conservatory — Sit back and relax in the majestic Princess Hollywood Conservatory.

What are the costs involved on a cruise?

Cruise fares are incredible daily value for all the inclusions, but you do need to budget for onboard spend on things like alcoholic drinks, wi-fi, meals in the ship’s specialty restaurants, shore excursions, commemorative photos and the odd cappuccino or two. Although these days most cruise lines throw in ample onboard credit, it still pays to be prepared and budget for these extra items – as well as daily gratuities charges.

the iconic suite facing the sea onboard Celebrity Edge — Take in panoramic views of the sea from the Celebrity Edge Iconic Suite.

What are the cons of a cruise?

Occasionally crowded pools and itinerary changes, plus small rooms if you haven’t done your homework, round out the list of possible downers.

the vibrant interior of Carnival Luminosa's Altair Nightclub — Dance to retro jams at Carnival Luminosa’s Altair Nightclub.

Cruise holiday verdict

A great option if you want to visit multiple destinations in a fun, activity-heavy environment and can budget appropriately for the onboard extras.

Seabourn Odyssey in Australia — Choose Seabourn Odyssey for a super ultra-luxury premium cruise.

A resort holiday

Fighting in the resort’s corner is the fact that travellers are never restricted by port hours. Rather than having to rush back to the ship lest it sails off without them, holidaymakers can take their time both in and around the resort. Sunset walks by the ocean, entire days relaxing on the beach (which is likely to be less crowded than those close to ports) and long stretches on the golf course are all infinitely possible.

Also a plus is space within the resort itself: with most properties (particularly in Asia and around the South Pacific) boasting rooms larger than cruise cabins, and swimming pools that tend to be larger than on a ship.

Soak up staggering views from the infinity pool at qualia Beach House. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

What are the costs involved at a resort?

While budget control does appear to also be in the corner of the resort-style holiday, the included alcohol and coffee may just not cut it for you. Being forced to drink the ‘included’ beverages or meals can be somewhat painful if they are not to your taste. So, the budget can be blown by not doing your homework on inclusions.

At a bulk standard resort, costs can quickly add up. A captive audience can often mean eye-watering prices in the resort’s restaurants, bars, activity centres and pretty much anywhere else you have to give the lovely chap or lady behind the desk your room number.

Soak up the sun on the waterfront boardwalk at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.

What can you do at a resort?

Depending on the resort’s location, travellers may find they are limited to its immediate area – a problem if you’re keen to check out the nearest town or learn about the local culture or way of life.

Unless you’re keen on repacking and making another trip, settling on a resort also often means you’re committed to only one destination and the type of holiday experience that can be negative if you check in and discover you’re not all that enthralled with either the destination or the property itself.

a couple enjoying at the pool of Peppers Beach Club & Spa — Frolic in the pool at Peppers Beach Club & Spa. (Image: Tourism Events Queensland)

What are the dining options at a resort?

More so than cruising, dining options and service at resorts can be hit and miss and you may have to rely on personal recommendations from friends and family as well as online travel reviews to find a resort that will tie in nicely with your expectations.

Resort holiday verdict

Resort holidays tend to be good for those who desire a truly relaxing holiday with zero time constraints or demands.

A great fit for those happy to do a deep dive into a single destination as well as those keen to spend a lot of time enjoying water sports and other activities: these tend to be complimentary at all-inclusive resorts, whereas they’re often an extra charge on standard cruises and at regular resorts.

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort exterior — Resort holidays are the go for those who desire a truly relaxing holiday with zero time constraints or demands.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

Cruise vs Resort: the pros and cons of the different holidays