We cruise often. I’ll try to clean up some of the info.
A cruise is pretty much all inclusive. Especially since you are not a drinker.
5-7 day cruises rule out a number of people. Most of the three day cruises are considered booze cruises.
Germs? No difference than being cooped up on a plane.
All inclusive resorts are nice if you want the pool and beach, which you can do with less hassle in Gulf shores or Destin.
Lots of entertainment on the cruise, and if you want to explore ports of call you can.
You can book excursions through the cruise line or independent. Same price before or during the cruise.
September is hurricane time for the Caribbean. Cheaper cruises but risk itinerary changes.
Progresso port is amazing if you do an excursion with Yucatan Cenote.
If you are a Costco member use their travel service. I don’t think there are better deals out there.
Get a oceanview or balcony room.
I said I would never do a cruise, and finally did one. After that one we have done at least two a year.
We have never had or needed an armed guard in Belize.
I do not care for Nassau. I usually avoid a cruise going there but ended up there last September due to a hurricane. We still had a blast.
I guess it is all you make of it. I would try a cruise out of New Orleans because you can goof off there before or after if you want to.