If I lived in Fort Lauderdale, had nothing going on, and could get on a Holland America cruise for $49/day, I would jump at the chance. I live in Maine. If they offered me a cruise out of Boston in August (when I am on summer vacation) for $49/day, I'd go in a heartbeat. Not only is that dirt cheap but it could be a fun adventure. Plenty of people do not want to plan their lives months or years in advance.