Imagine: you are preparing for your next trip, excitement is at its peak, but one question is nagging you… should you take the plane or the boat? 🤔 Each has its advantages and disadvantages, but which is the most suited for your journey and your values?
In this ultra-comprehensive guide, I help you weigh the pros and cons without beating around the bush! Budget, environmental impact, speed, comfort, travel experience… we scrutinize everything! 🔥
🚀 Why flying is often the first choice
✈️ 1. Unbeatable speed
The plane is, without a doubt, the champion of time-saving. 💨 When it comes to covering thousands of kilometers, no other means of transport can compete.
- Paris – New York? About 8 hours by plane versus 7 days by boat.
- Marseille – Ajaccio? 1h30 by plane versus 12 hours by ferry.
📌 Good to know: Over long distances, flying is almost always the most logical choice… but it’s not necessarily the best for everyone!
💺 2. Comfort that depends on your budget
Traveling by plane is nice, if you’re in business or first class. For long-haul flights, the space in economy class can be a true nightmare (farewell legs 😭).
🔹 Tip: Some airlines offer seat upgrades to get more space at a low price.
💶 3. Ultra variable prices
Flying can be very affordable if you book in advance. But during peak season, prices skyrocket.
🔹 Quick comparison:
| Destination | Round trip plane price | Round trip boat price |
|---|---|---|
| Marseille – Corsica | €100 | €50 |
| Paris – New York | €500 | €3,000 (cruise) |
| Barcelona – Ibiza | €80 | €40 |
🎯 If you’re looking for a low-cost trip, flying can be a good choice, but watch out for hidden fees (baggage, meals, etc.).
🌊 Why the boat is an underrated alternative
🚢 1. A unique experience
Traveling by boat is experiencing the journey as part of the trip. Unlike the plane where you are confined, on a boat:
✔️ You can enjoy the landscapes 🌅
✔️ You can move around freely 🏃♂️
✔️ The atmosphere is often more friendly 🎉
📌 Good to know: For those who love slow travel, the boat is a fantastic alternative.
🌍 2. Often a lower ecological impact
The plane is the most polluting transport 🚨. On average, a passenger emits:
- 285 g CO₂/km by plane
- 60 g CO₂/km by ferry
✅ If you care about the environment, the boat is a much greener option!
💸 3. Often a more competitive price
Over short distances, the boat is often much more economical than the plane, especially with a vehicle 🚗.
Example:
- Marseille – Ajaccio: €50 by boat VS €100 by plane 💰
- Barcelona – Ibiza: €40 by boat VS €80 by plane
➡️ If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or a vehicle, the boat is clearly the most cost-effective option.
📌 How to make the right choice?
| Criterion | Plane | Boat |
|---|---|---|
| 🚀 Speed | ✅ Very fast | ❌ Long |
| 💺 Comfort | ❌ Little space in economy | ✅ Free, more pleasant |
| 💶 Price | ⚠️ Variable | ✅ Cheaper over short distances |
| 🌍 Ecology | ❌ Very polluting | ✅ Less impactful |
| 🏖 Experience | ❌ Okay | ✅ Immersive and enjoyable |
🤔 So, what do you choose?
➡️ If you’re in a hurry and want to optimize your time → Plane
➡️ If you want to travel differently, enjoy the journey → Boat
➡️ If your main criterion is budget → It depends on the destinations!
💬 And you, are you team plane or team boat? Let me know in the comments! 👇
Julie Lambert – Travel & News Blogger
Passionate about discoveries and current events, I share my adventures around the world along with insights on key societal issues. From travel stories to news analysis, join me in exploring and understanding the world!
