But to enjoy such a multi-destination vacation, one has to face the hassle of getting the baggage through security, checking it in and waiting for flights or connecting flights in airports and hoping the baggage arrives with you at journey's end. And getting it through Customs. Then comes the hotel check-ins and the worry if the rooms are clean and spacious, and if they have good views.

So why fly? Going on a cruise holiday might just be the solution.

With new options such as thematic cruises, more people are seeing the benefits and enjoying the cruise experience in the last few years, says Robert K.S Lim, General Manager of NTUC Income Travel.

"Consumers today are well-travelled and are always on the lookout for new and exciting vacations. They have recognised cruising as a unique way to see the world, and enjoy the convenient and hassle-free holiday concept onboard a luxurious vessel," he tells AsiaOne.

Michael Goh, vice-president of sales and marketing at Star Cruises, tells AsiaOne: "A cruise's unique all-inclusive concept comprising luxurious accommodation, world-class entertainment, gourmet dinning, fun recreation and exotic itineraries is simply perfect for anyone needing a hassle-free short vacation. Holiday-makers can be transported to the many exotic destinations in the luxurious comfort of a floating resort."

Cruising these days is not just about making stops at each port of call. Cruise operators have come up with various theme cruises to make their holiday package more attractive.

Star Cruises, the world's third largest cruise operator, recently had a 'Mardi Gras@Sea' theme cruise for October and November as part of its 13th anniversary celebration onboard the SuperStar Virgo.

And during the recent school holiday period, their theme was 'Campout@Sea', which had programmes focused on kids and families.

While there has been an increased interest in cruising, it is still considered relatively new in Asia, says Mr Goh.

"For the past few years, we have seen strong growth in the regional markets. China and India, in view of their huge middle-income populations, are particularly attractive growth markets for the cruise industry. The number of inbound tourists coming to Singapore for Star Cruises holidays has grown by a compound annual rate of 16 per cent over the last five years,??? Mr Goh adds.

Singapore has also recognised the potential of its local cruise industry. In May this year, it launched a $10 million Fly-Cruise Development Fund which it hopes will encourage major international cruise companies to partner Singapore.

Costa Cruises was the first international cruise company to partner Singapore under this fund. Together with the Singapore Tourism Board, it will help to promote fly-cruise options through Singapore. The fly-cruise concept, which was developed some years back, offers holidaymakers more flexibility and time to explore the destinations where cruise ships call at.

One such fly-cruise package is the India offering by Star Cruises, which allow travellers to savour the best sights in North and South India, such as the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, as well as enjoy all the creature comforts onboard a cruise ship.

So if you are planning for your next holiday and hate to fret over travel logistics, you might want to board a cruise liner and let your floating hotel take you to exotic places.

10 reasons to go on a cruise

• No need to wait for the integrated resort opening in 2007, a cruise ship is a floating integrated resort.
  
  
• There is always a buffet spread somewhere on board.
  
  
• There's never a dull moment as you have programmes throughout the day and night to keep you entertained.
  
  
• Fun for the whole family with a whole range of activities on board for kids and adults.
  
  
• No need to plan anything, the ship's staff has arranged everything for you.
  
  
• A changing view every time you wake up.
  
  
• No need for packing and unpacking each time you move to a different destination, as you take your hotel with you.
  
  
• No crammed seats or lost luggage.
  
  
• You won't get lost on your way to the next destination, so there's no need to ask for directions.
  
  
• Live the 'Love Boat' experience with romance at sea.

All photos courtesy of Star Cruises.