While cruising is highly popular, there are several "bad" things or downsides that travelers should consider, ranging from environmental impact to personal comfort. Environmental critics point to the massive carbon footprint of these vessels, as well as issues with waste disposal and the impact of thousands of tourists descending on small port communities simultaneously, often leading to "overtourism." For passengers, "hidden costs" can be a significant frustration; while the base fare is paid upfront, extra charges for gratuities, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions can nearly double the final bill. Space can also be an issue, as standard cabins are significantly smaller than hotel rooms, and popular areas like the pool deck or buffet can feel extremely crowded during "sea days." Additionally, the risk of "Norovirus" or other communicable diseases is higher in the confined social environment of a ship. Finally, the strict scheduling of a cruise can feel restrictive; you are often limited to just 6 or 8 hours in a port, which is rarely enough time to truly experience a destination's culture beyond the immediate tourist shops surrounding the pier.