Spring break is usually full of fun and excitement, but for some, knowing exactly where to go is a tough decision.
While many leave Tallahassee by plane, car and even on Greyhound, some students are planning to flock to the docks for their spring break vacation.
As a result of shows such as, “The Real World: Semester at Sea,” cruises have become increasingly popular as a vacation choice among college students, especially for FAMU students.
“A lot of FAMU students made cruise reservations to Jamaica and Cancun this year,” said Wendy Kissane, a travel agent at Alpha Travel and Tours in Tallahassee. “The cost for a cruise vacation usually starts at $500.”
Although some may have problems with the cost of cruises, others deal with the financial hassle and look forward to a good time.
LaShae Young, a freshman biology student, said cruises are a great idea for spring break trips, despite high costs.
“I think people should go on cruises … because it’s something different to do and is not the typical walk along the beach vacation,” said the 18-year-old from Pell City, Ala. “It’s all about the experience.”
Irene Lai, public relations specialist for Carnival Cruise Line said that students may prefer a cruise vacation, because it has everything you would want.
“A cruise is like a floating city. It’s very relaxing, full of entertainment and everything that appeals.”
For Carnival, the cruise fares range from $320, for a two-day cruise to $599, for a seven-day cruise.
Some point to the college students sense of adventure as a main motivator for the surge in cruise purchases.
“The reason why students want to go on a cruise, is it’s not the norm,” said Andrew Sanborn, the regional sales manager for Studentcity.com.
The two most popular spring break destinations at Studentcity.com this year are Acapulco and Cancun, Mexico.
These vacation prices start at $600 and higher.
“Students complain about the price and end up going anyway,” Kissane said.
“It’s hard to get a cruise on value and it’s difficult to stay in a hotel for less than a $100 anymore.”
Sanborn said although it cost more, a cruise vacation is more convenient, especially for people who live in Florida.
Sanborn said many students pay for the trip on credit cards.
Contact nyerere davidson atnyejournal@hotmail.com.