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The ultimate vacation: Why a cruise is the best way to unwind and explore

Annabelle Trombley, Journalist

March 20, 2025

Taking a cruise is the perfect way to rest, relax, and enjoy yourself on vacation!

Imagine a vacation where everything is included, there are constantly fun activities all around, you get to take in many beautiful destinations, and you can tailor your experience to exactly how you want it, then you should look into taking a cruise! Cruises are the perfect one-stop-shop for a vacation! Read this article to find out why a cruise might be the perfect trip for you!

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The Trombley family took a relaxing vacation to the British Virgin Islands. (Annabelle Trombley)

Cabo San Lucas is a beautiful destination that is very popular among many different cruise lines. (Annabelle Trombley)

Simple way to see many different places- Cruises can take you to a variety of places in one short trip. You are able to explore many different destinations in one vacation without worrying about renting a car, buying plane tickets, or taking a bus or train. Taking short day trips allows you to explore new places, experience new things, and create lasting memories without having to commit to a vacation in one spot. All you have to do is make sure you get back on the ship on time after each stop!

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Broadway-style live entertainment takes place each night on board of a Disney cruise.

The food on the Disney Wish was delectable and included in the price of the cruise. (Annabelle Trombley)

Annabelle Trombley and her younger sister take full advantage of the kid’s cooking class during their time at sea. (Annabelle Trombley)

All included- A cruise is basically like a floating city! All that you will need during your vacation is right at your fingertips. You have a hotel, entertainment, fun activities for all ages, restaurants, buffets, stores, and so many other amenities at your disposal! Many of the logistics are already set in place, making for more relaxation throughout the trip.

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A Marvel themed cruise in the Caribbean was the perfect adventure to break up a cold winter! (Annabelle Trombley)

Annabelle and Lilah Trombley pose with Darth Vader during their Star Wars themed cruise. (Annabelle Trombley)

Remi the Rat is spotted in the lobby during a Pixar themed cruise. (Annabelle Trombley)

Many different styles of cruises for what you want- There is a wide variety of different cruise styles and types. You can tailor your vacation to your interests and desires. You can take a cruise on the ocean or on the river, or even through the Panama Canal. There are cruises for adults only, and some that are for families and all ages. Some cruises have themes, like a wellness cruise, food and wine cruises, or cruises themed for a specific music artist. Each cruise line has a different vibe as well. Carnival Cruises are known for their fun, party-like sailings while Disney Cruises are magical, family-friendly ships, just to name a few.

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Ocean kayaking is an action-packed way to spend your day at port during a cruise. (Annabelle Trombley)

The pool is the perfect place to relax for those in search of a tranquil get away. (Annabelle Trombley)

Make it what you want- If you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed trip, a cruise is really what you make of it. Cruises are the perfect place for a social butterfly with all of the extroverted opportunities, but introverts are also able to relax and keep to themselves. You make you cruise an adventure through trying all of the different activities on the ship and take advantage of the land-excursions. If you would rather relax, you can tailor your experience to be a slower paced trip and take advantage of the pool and the empty ship while everyone else is on shore.

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A beautiful sunset of Ensenada, Mexico was the perfect way to close out our adventure on the Baja Peninsula. (Annabelle Trombley)

The rock formations in Cabo San Lucas was a wonderful sight to have right outside of the window. (Annabelle Trombley)

The colorful sky over San Diego, California’s cruise port made for the most amazing start to the trip. (Annabelle Trombley)

Stunning views- No matter where your cruise takes you, there are bound to be beautiful views. Whether it be stunning ocean views while sitting on the balcony, a sunset over the water, or sights of your cruise port, there are stunning vistas all around you during a cruise.

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Don’t just take my word for it, here are the thoughts and opinions on cruising from students here at Sartell!

What cruise line did you go on?

Graham Huse, Junior- I did a Disney Cruise. I thought it was a very fun cruise line.

Ivy Lundell, Junior– I have some all Disney Cruises.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- We went on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Maddy Knettle, Junior- Norwegian.

What was your favorite on-board activity on your cruise?

Graham Huse, Junior- There was a drop slide.

Ivy Lundell, Junior- Getting food at Animator’s Palate.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- Watching my dad play dodgeball and he won the whole tournament. He even has a medal.

Maddy Knettle, Junior- The shows and games around the deck.

How are cruises unique from other types of trips?

Graham Huse, Junior- You can go to bed and like be at a new place [in the morning].

Ivy Lundell, Junior- All of the food is complimentary, and you can get as much you want.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- You get to figure out for yourself different activities to do on the ship. It makes you creative when you can’t go anywhere.

Maddy Knettle, Junior- It’s a different experience traveling on a ship with thousands of other people.

What was your favorite destination or excursion on your cruise?

Graham Huse, Junior- I went to Key West. We went snorkeling there. They hooked you up to a machine and you could go underwater. I think it was called snubaing.

Ivy Lundell, Junior- Probably driving a Jeep in Jamaica.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- I’m not sure exactly where it was, but the beach.

Maddy Knettle, Junior- Snorkeling in the Bahamas.

Was there free ice cream on your cruise?

Graham Huse, Junior- Yep. There was. It was glorious.

Ivy Lundell, Junior- Yes! My favorite flavor was banana.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- Yep!

Maddy Knettle, Junior- Yes.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone going on a cruise?

Graham Huse, Junior- Pack sunscreen, because you can get really burnt.

Ivy Lundell, Junior- If you get seasick, a lot bring Benadryl.

Olivia Magarian, Junior- Try not to fall off because that’s what my sister did, but she caught herself.

Maddy Knettle, Junior- Don’t miss your ship. Stay in a hotel the night before you fly out!

The LeSabre

The LeSabre

The LeSabre

The ultimate vacation: Why a cruise is the best way to unwind and explore