Disappointing photos show what cruise ships actually look like
Disappointing photos show what cruise ships look like in real life
Mar. 16, 2018, 10:22 AM

- Promotional photos of cruise ships don’t show the crowds.
- The accommodations might be smaller and more cramped than you thought you were getting.
- The ports aren’t always glamorous, either.
Cruises can be a blissful escape for travelers of all ages. From glamorous cruises of a bygone era to ship itineraries that include volunteer opportunities, aspiring seafarers have no shortage of options.
Cruises can also be the worst for a whole host of reasons.
Here are disappointing photos that show how cruise ship expectations don’t always match the reality.
Boarding a cruise ship is where the fun begins.

There are many ways to decide what kind of cruise to take, including based on yourzodiac sign.
But sometimes you end up waiting in a crowded line in the hot sun for hours.

The last thing you want to deal with on a cruise is lots of annoying passengers.
The pool deck of a cruise ship can be the perfect place to relax and work on your tan.

Some people use masking tape to get the perfect tan lines.
But you might have trouble finding an open chair.

These “floating cities,” can be packed.
Sometimes, dolphins play in the wake of cruise ships, making for some spectacular sightseeing.

There are also more adventurous cruise ship activities for thrill-seekers.
But mostly you’ll be seeing a whole lot of this.

Time lapse videos of a ship’s travels can be awesome, though.
Your cruise ship accommodations might be spacious, with a sitting area washed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows.

Some people even buy second homes on cruise ships.
Or they could be dim and cramped.

Cramming too many people in a room is a common mistake that people make on cruise ships.
Some cruise ships have bathrooms that are on par with those of a luxury hotel.

There are some pretty luxurious cruise ships out there with bathrooms like this one on The World.
And then there are bathrooms that feel more like they belong on a dorm or locker room.

The crew’s bathrooms are even less glamorous. Just ask someone who worked on a cruise ship.
When it’s time to disembark, the ship might pull up next to a bright, tropical island.

Not every port is super scenic, though.

You also might not have as much time in every port as you’d like.
Docking at the beach is pretty epic.

Taking a cruise is a great way to visit some of the best beaches in the world.
Until you have to share it.

Even famous beaches don’t always live up to the hype.
Your cruise ship dining experience might rival that of a fancy restaurant under the stars.

Does it get better than outdoor seating in the middle of the ocean?
But usually it will feel more like a cafeteria.

Not all buffets are created equal.