scubaspider:
I'll admit that I havent throughly read this tread but just skimmed, but I would like to add my 2 cents. I am highly against cruise ships, I have never been on one but have heard they are an excellent vacation. The problem is they are destroying coral reefs by resorts allowing cruise ships to park near the resort for more business. When they do this, they crash into the reef which physically damages it on impact. Depending on the duration of the say, it scares fish and blocks sunlight for the photosynthesis process in corals, which can lead to bleaching if this consistantly occurs. Thus, if you would like to continue experiencing coral reefs first hand, please dont take a cruise, this just adds to cause of the destruction of reefs. It is predicted that in 2030, only 30% of coral reefs will be remaining in the world.
Thanks
Well scubaspider you are entitled to your opinion. These things do happen I guess, however; in my opinion I don't think the situation as you descibe it is accurate. Nor, do I think that the few accidents, etc. that may happen, outweigh the benefits to the local economy, jobs created and of course the pure joy of cruising for those that enjoy that type of vacation. I'm also quite sure that a lot more damage to the environment of the sea, reefs, etc. are done by the locals and other factors.
Many people enjoy this type of vacation, especially disabled, seniors, people who don't like to fly, etc. It can be a very relaxing vacation if you want it to be, or filled with shore excursions and adventures to include snorkling and scuba diving. I especially enjoy the fact that you only have to pack and unpack once for the trip and no hectic trips to and from airports and all that includes (Security, etc.) every other day as well as different hotels, cabs, etc.
I also enjoy the social life, food and the general shipboard life on a well run cruise ship. Of course, I also enjoy my cabin on the ship, where I can sit on my small balcony and watch the sea pass by, while enjoying a nice beverage and/or snack or if I choose kick back and lay on my bed and watch first run (free) movies on the TV.
I've been on (4) cruises now and have two already planned and purchased. I'm sure that my wife and l will continue to cruise as long as we are able to. I also try to take at least one pure SCUBA diving trip a year to a tropical destination(s) aside from any cruise trip. (My wife doesn't swim or dive.)
So, I doubt that many people who like to cruise are going to quit crusing, because of the factors you mention.
My advice to you, is to try a trip on a major cruise line, who knows you might just like it!