Time commitments are concerns of the past as many cruise lines now offer itineraries as short as two nights. These cruises often cost less than a downtown hotel stay. Plus a short cruise practically guarantees a welcome dose of sun, sustenance and snooze.

Carnival Cruise Lines calls them “Cruises to Nowhere,” jaunts into the open sea that begin and end on the same weekend. Considering Carnival’s reputation for onboard hi jinks, you’ll likely return with more than 48 hours of stories to tell – that is if you want to share your secrets…

Royal Caribbean International offers numerous 3-4 day itineraries that can be booked in a heartbeat. With getaways lasting only three nights, you can easily grab some relaxation ‘to go’ while you sail to the Bahamas, tour Baja, Mexico or sample the western Caribbean.

Disney Cruise Line features 3-night Bahamian cruises from Thursday afternoon to Sunday morning. These family-focused itineraries include a day at Castaway Cay, Disney’s legendary private island. It’s not just about the kids, however, as a day and evening in Nassau gives parents a chance to play.

So let someone else plan next weekend’s getaway. We hear they’ll even do the driving.