When planning for the big wedding day…we all know first comes the bachelor and bachelorette parties. Often labeled “last hoorahs” or a final sendoff before single life is over, these long weekend trips are must-dos and must-do-really-well for friends of the bride and groom. That’s why we think cruises are a great bachelorette and bachelor destination. Why, you may ask? iCruise.com provides the top reasons a cruise is the best option for a bachelor/bachelorette party.

1. It’s affordable.

If you’re planning to venture far from home, the cost can add up quickly for things like flights, lodging, meals, alcohol and entertainment. For less than the cost of all of that individually, your group could organize a cruise bachelorette party or cruise bachelor party that includes accommodations, food and entertainment in one price. Additionally, if you can cruise from a port that’s within driving distance, you’ll save on airfare. Not anticipating spending much time in your cabin? You can book a less expensive interior stateroom and put the extra money toward something else. Plus, many cruise lines offer discounts for booking a certain number of rooms, meaning further savings can be had if your group is large enough. 

2. It’s flexible.

Cruises provide flexibility with room, dining and activity options at different price points, allowing just about anyone to attend, regardless of budget or interests. If you’d rather spend a day lounging by the pool and working on your tan for free while others in your group pay for massages and manicures, it’s totally possible. Want to attend afternoon tea with a couple members of the wedding party while others opt for a burger on the lido deck? Not a problem. Extras – spa treatments, onboard shopping, shore excursions, dining at alternative restaurants – are available if you want them, but they aren’t crucial to the success of the celebration. Plus, cruises are ideal for joint bachelor cruises and bachelorette cruises. Groomsmen and bridesmaids from the same wedding party can sail on the same cruise, but still completely avoid one another if desired, choosing to meet up only for select activities…or not.

3. Food (and alcohol) is included!

All cruise lines offer complimentary meals in the main dining room, which often hosts at least one formal night that will give you a chance to dress up. Additional free dining is available in the buffet, which is more casual if all you want to do is grab something quick without dressing to the nines. Most ships do offer nicer, for-fee options, as well, but if your goal is to keep costs low, you won’t go hungry while doing so. You won’t be starved for variety, either, as most major lines feature everything from steak and seafood to sushi and pizza. One set price for unlimited alcohol? It’s a comforting concept when you’re worried about your bottom line. Most cruise lines offer these packages for a per-person, per-day fee that gives you access to all but the most expensive liquors, so you can get your drink on without fear of racking up a huge tab. iCruise.com offers numerous cruise packages that include a complimentary beverage package.

4. Entertainment is free.

Magic shows, comedic performances, Broadway-style musicals, aerial acrobatics, dueling pianos, movies, games and trivia, fitness centers, ropes courses, mini-golf, pools and water slides…there’s so much to keep you busy onboard, and since nearly all of it is free, there’s no need to quibble over choosing just one or two activities or worry about how much each event will cost you.

5. Always dreamed of being famous?

Because cruises are like floating cities, you might find that you run into the same people over and over. If word gets out that you’re part of a bachelor or bachelorette party, it’s possible that you’ll be treated like a bit of a celebrity – especially if you’re the bride- or groom-to-be – with fellow passengers asking you to dance, offering to buy you drinks or chatting you up to see if you’re enjoying your trip. If you time your sailing close to “wedding season” (generally summer) and opt for a short cruise (three to five nights), it’s also possible you’ll run into other groups who are celebrating an upcoming marriage.

Learn more at wmphvacations.com or book your next cruise vacation at icruise.com.