So I saw THIS Atlantic article linked on Bluesky and I found myself conflicted, nodding in agreement with almost everything the author wrote, yet simultaneously thinking he sounded exhausting and pretentious himself.
It made me think though, that while this absolutely jibes with everything I've thought after hearing from my acquaintances who have gone on them -- and from extrapolating based on my own understanding of their personalities -- I've never really asked "peers" what they think. Have you been? How was it? Why would you agree to be trapped inside a compacted hotel where you will literally die if you leave at the wrong time?
Of the 21, 15 liked it, and 6 didn't (some answers were a bit ambivalent, so I made a judgment call)
Of the 7, 5 didn't think they'd like it and 2 implied they might in very specific circumstances. I guess technically I could make 3, but I don't really want to "camp" on a personal family history reenactment.
So, of those who have been, the vast majority saw value in it. The people who haven't been either know themselves or have some serious sour grapes; I choose to believe it's the former, for completely scientifically objective reasons.
I love them. I would reply more on why but hate typing on my phone. But I've been on six of them between 7 and 14 days. They give you the ability to get a taste of different areas and the entertainment on the ship is usually good. I've never felt "trapped" on a ship as they are very big. I have another cruise booked later this year and looking forward to it. I'm an introvert too. I know some people like the interaction with other people but that really isn't my thing but I do like cruising.