Recent research suggests that vacations that permit people to be completely relaxed have more long-lasting positive effects. Cruises may be best at achieving complete relaxation — and may improve the love lives of tourists. There's an inherent romance to the sea, said Temple psychologist Frank Farley. The vastness of the ocean and the limited space aboard ship "bring couples together with fewer distractions and allow them to focus on one another," Farley asserted. They can bond more easily, he said, concluding that "on average, cruising is very positive."