A new option for tropical getaways just arrived in Baltimore, Maryland. Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas is now based year-round in this convenient Mid-Atlantic port, providing a number of appealing cruise itineraries from which to choose. This amenity-laden ship is perfect for those seeking an exciting family vacation or a romantic cruise escape.

The ship's five-night Bermuda cruise provides a quick trip on the high seas for time-crunched vacationers who need to get away. High-octane entertainment onboard the ship combines with exciting Bermuda shore excursions to make this an excellent choice for Type-A individuals. In addition, this short sailing provides first-time cruisers with a chance to test the waters before taking a longer cruise.

When planning a short cruise, it's important to pick the ship and itinerary best suited to your vacation interests. With its many innovative features and amenities, the Enchantment of the Seas fits the bill for a broad range of vacationers. I cruised on this ship at my own expense when it was stationed in the Caribbean and had the opportunity to tour it again when it moved to Baltimore.

The ship's Bermuda itinerary allows travelers to experience Bermuda without incurring the destination's high cost of meals and hotels. Using the ship as a base, couples and families can explore Bermuda's best beaches and attractions, returning to the Enchantment for meals and onboard fun.

Here are a few factors to consider in choosing the Enchantment of the Seas - or another short cruise - for your next vacation:

Homeport convenience. Short cruises depart from a number of drive-to-port cities, eliminating airfare costs and flying hassles. The Enchantment of the Seas' home port of Baltimore is an easy drive from many major cities, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and the New York City metropolitan area. In addition, the port's proximity to Washington, D.C. makes it easy to combine a short cruise with a visit to the Nation's Capital.

Itinerary. Look for an itinerary that includes one or two exciting ports of call as well as the opportunity to relax onboard the ship. For example, the Enchantment of the Seas' 5-day sailing includes two days of entertainment at sea and two days in King's Wharf, Bermuda. This itinerary provides vacationers with the time to relax and enjoy the ship's amenities and fine dining as well as two days to enjoy Bermuda's pink sand beaches, go shopping, or even take a catamaran cruise.

Shipboard amenities. The right combination of amenities, entertainment and relaxation are critical for fun days and nights at sea. Royal Caribbean's Enchantment truly delivers in this category. The ship features a beautiful waterpark area and sun deck with two pools, four whirlpools, and a colorful splash deck with 64 jets of spraying water to delight the kids. Adults can congregate in the Solarium on rainy and windy days. This spot, with its retractable glass roof and windows, is home to two large whirlpools and is an ideal place to relax in all types of weather. Adventure-seekers head for the ship's Jump Zone and rock-climbing wall while vacationers craving pampering will delight in the ship's spa. At night, teens enjoy the ship's Fuel disco while adults savor the 360-degree views in the Viking Crown Lounge atop the ship.

Dining venues. When choosing a ship, consider your dining preferences. Look for cruise lines that offer casual dining venues, flexible seating hours, as well as formal and specialty restaurants. Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas features three restaurants, including the Chops Grille specialty dining venue. The ship's My Time Dining in the main dining room is great for those who prefer more personalized dining options. In addition, the ship offers Royal Caribbean's popular My Family Time Dining, allowing kids to complete dinner within 45 minutes and join their Adventure Ocean friends, leaving parents to enjoy coffee and dessert at their leisure.

Kids and teens programs. Dedicated kids and teens spaces often make a major difference in program participation, so check into the available amenities before choosing your cruise vacation. Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas features the award-winning Adventure Ocean kids and teens program with five different age-appropriate daily activities schedules. The ship has specific Adventure Ocean areas for younger kids as well as Fuel, a dedicated teens-only hot spot where teens can hang out and meet new friends.

Updated staterooms. Newer cruise ships tend to have more balcony cabins, suites and staterooms specially designed for families. Look for a short cruise on a ship that will allow you to enjoy some of these options. Luxurious suites and family staterooms are available on Royal Caribbean ships, including the Enchantment of the Seas.

So relax and get ready to set sail. When it comes to fun, these wallet-pleasing short Bermuda cruises on Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas are definitely in the money.