I worked with some people who sailed, and we did the Moorings 42 Catamaran rentals and sailed in the Abacos (yes, we did go to Nippers, much to my fun...and regret!) the Grenadines, the Virgin Islands,and...OMG.
Best. Vacations. Ever.
One of the guys who sailed knew all the little dinky out-of-the-way places to moor, the greasy spoon (and high end) places for dinner, etc. We had eight of us, all co-workers and spouses, it was the best.
Now a cruise ship...I have done that twice, and had fun, but...having also been on an aircraft carrier that pulled into port with 5000+ horny and thirsty sailors, well...I like the smaller approach better!
Oh, that (catamaran) would be galaxies different than a cruise ship. As different as it would be possible to be. I don’t put down the cruise ship thing at all. I think they do a great job, it’s pretty cheap, but it is that way because they have done everything they do a billion times so it’s a bit corny and formulaic in its way. But it’s no more expensive than a medium-high end hotel and there’s nothing wrong with going on a few cruises. You can really shut your brain off and that has a certain appeal.
As long as you fiendishly wash your hands often, REALLY often, it’s fine.