If you’re making vacation plans sometime soon, taking a cruise could be the way to go. There’s never a bad time to take a cruise if you want a getaway that makes the entire experience as easy as possible. Whether you’re planning to vacay solo, with the fam or even with your boo thang, getting onboard should be your next move, and here’s five reasons why.

5. Family Fun

Taking a family cruise can be a great way to bring the family together. Most cruises have various activities for kids of different ages so they can do their own thing (Carnival offers Camp Ocean for kids up to age 11 and Club O2 for the teens) as well as many different activities on deck like mini-golf and basketball. If you want fun for the entire family, they also offer numerous shows throughout each day and a pretty competitive scavenger hunt. On top of all that, they also offer multiple pools and hot tubs so you can still relax — because sometimes the best part of a vacation is just getting to do nothing. 

4. The Edible Adventures 

Easily one of the best things about cruising is the food. It’s already included in your ticket price most of the time, and many cruise lines offer 24-hour dining services — so whether your kids want Fruit Loops French Toast for breakfast or a burger at midnight, they’ve got you covered. But remember, this is your vacation time — get outside your norm! Cruises are a great way to experience new and impressive dishes. There’s great options like grilled lamb chops and lobster tail as well as more adventurous options like Escargots Bourguignonne. If you really wanna reach Hallmark Movie Channel-level cheesiness for the kids, let them order cookies and milk through room service in the evening. It’s already included in your package — but they don’t have to know that part. 

3. No Housekeeping

Nothing beats coming home to a clean, made bed — except coming home to a clean, made bed that you didn’t have to make yourself. I’m not saying run around like you lost your mind, but take time to appreciate the fact that while you’re on your cruise there’s somebody cleaning up after you for a change. Not to mention, you only have to unpack once. Depending on your cruise plans, you could easily check out multiple ports in multiple countries, but you can leave your luggage on the ship while you peep the scene. Which brings me to my next point.

2. The Excursions

While there’s plenty to do onboard the cruise ship, there’s even more fun to be had once you step foot on new lands. If you plan ahead, you could be swimming with stingrays in clear bays or listening to music at the Mayan ruins — True devotion on the bluest ocean, cruisin' (BARS). When you’re planning your cruise out, look to see what sort of adventures you and your crew and get into. You may be able to save some extra cash by booking your adventure through them. I’d still recommend bringing your credit card just to be safe.

1. The Vibes

No matter where you’re cruising to, it’s really hard to mess up the vibe. Between stunning sunsets, relaxing in hot tubs, and all of the fun activities you’re surrounded with, it’s easy to take in the moment and just appreciate the experience you’ve created in your life. If you’ve never had a cocktail on your own private deck watching dolphins at sunset, have you really lived yet? Trust me, the entire experience is designed to be warm and welcoming, so kick back and take in the vibes.

BONUS: Avoid Bad Weather

Since cruise ships can move away from bad weather, there’s a strong chance that you won’t experience much bad weather when out there cruising. This is much better than being stuck in one location and having to wait out bad weather on a regular vacation.

There you have it, 5 reasons to take a cruise. From trying new foods to new adventures and everything in between, I’m betting you can see why cruising is recommended as a vacation for anyone.