HUATULCO, MX - SHADOW OF THE CRUISE SHIP

The cruise industry can play a tremendous role in the development of a nation and a region. A newly re-emerging economy, such as violence-torn Croatia or Guatemala or Colombia, the visit of cruise ships and their passengers' wallets can give a strong boost from a financial standpoint, as well as raising the hopes of a beaten-upon populace.

Below is a giant cruise ship tied up on the dock in the town of Huatulco, Mexico, one of many areas feeling the economic growth from tourism. Unlike airports, a cruise dock can be built relatively inexpensively, and provides a quick-shot stimulus a region can build upon.

Handled properly, it's a good thing.

Pic of the Day: Next Up, Panama Canal

Though I am not a "cruiser" per se, my wife and I do occasionally go on a cruise if there is something in the ship's itinerary that appeals to us and is something worthwhile.

Other than one weeklong cruise down the Mexican Riviera (notable for introducing us to our traveling friends and partners  from Perth Australia), our to-date four cruises have been to celebrate another friend's 40th birthday; to explore the Croatian and Italian coasts; to attend yet two other friends' wedding. As noted, the Mexican Riviera cruise brought us traveling companions, so it earns its place.

One of my NOW Life List goals is to transit the Panama Canal. In January we will do just that. It's been a desire for me since I was very young, and in the spirit of Do It NOW, we're doing it.

More updates to come, but cruise #5 promises some true adventures.

Cruise ship passenger photographing Messina, Italy

Pic of the Day: A Fire Above Sorrento

Early morning departure from cruise ships moored near Sorrento for a day trip down the Amalfi Coast. A fire burns in the hills above the city.

Pic of the Day: Venetian Overload

You may have heard the news, a couple of years ago, that Italy was going to limit the numbers and sizes of cruise ships allowed in the Venetian Lagoon. That limit has now gone into effect.

This shot, I think goes a long way to explain the need. Circa 2012.

More from the BBC

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-24831679

Pic of the Day: Cruise Ships Departing

I have, on several occasions, remarked upon the "wall of humanity" which descends from the megacruise ships into what are often small or smallish towns.

This was the departure line for three ships which were simultaneously calling on George Town, Grand Cayman Island. One of the ships, Monarch of the Seas was among the largest cruise ships at the time (2005-ish). Two other smaller ships (smaller by comparison only) were present.

While efficiently handled by the crews and locals, these sort of cattle calls run against my grain as a traveler -- and yes, we were passengers on one of the vessels, attending the wedding of our friends. One ship generally is a good size for invading a port town. Three at a time made for a somewhat crowded affair.

I am certain that these islands, which depend strongly on tourism for their income, would appreciate a slightly better scheduling program from the cruise lines. (Two Royal Caribbean ships at the same time, not only here, but following each other to Cozumel. Some 5000 passengers between them.)

Two pictures, because the scope was larger than one. (The second was taken as we finally got onto our tender -- you can see the line still stretches hundreds of people down the quay...)

Some people truly enjoy cruising on the megaships. I liken the experience to staying at a Las Vegas casino which moves. And if you stay on board during port calls, as some people do, you might as well have remained at home watching the Travel Channel.

The key here, is to find the adventures while on shore. Only then are you truly "traveling".