Truths about cruises that made us rethink our vacation plans

Under My Umbrella, Ella, Ella

A bit of sunbathing on deck sounds delightful—until you realize your view is mostly a sea of umbrellas. Sure, they save you from sunburn, but they also turn the deck into a crowded sidewalk cafe with a pool.

Yeah, you won’t fry like a piece of bacon—but that expansive ocean view you were hoping for? Not so much. Don’t expect your sunbathing spot to be particularly picturesque.