One of the things I like best about cruising is the utter lack of airplanes involved. It's not that I mind flying, it’s all the hassle before you board. Plus, I'm an unrepentant overpacker, so those baggage fees really add up. Luckily, I live in Florida, so I've long had my pick of ports that are an easy drive away—Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Port Canaveral, even Tampa. It’s a big convenience, and a money-saver as well. Parking fees are a fraction of what you’d pay for an airline ticket, and you can take as many bags as your car will hold. Not to mention that there’s no need to worry about a missed or delayed flight. And not having to add an overnight hotel stay more than makes up for any added travel time.