Cruise holidays offer a perfect opportunity to unwind and relax, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise your fitness regime. In fact, many people are keen to know how to keep active on a cruise, especially when at sea.
The good news is that cruise lines offer plenty of great energetic options you can enjoy while on your cruise ship. And it’s not just about finding which cruise lines have the best fitness facilities; there are many other fun ways to keep moving and healthy while on your cruise holiday.
So, if you want to know how to stay active on a cruise, read on to discover our six superb ways below.
1) Take advantage of onboard gym facilities
One of the most effective ways to stay active during your cruise holiday is to hit the gym. Fortunately, most modern cruise ships have state-of-the-art fitness facilities with a range of equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and free weights.
Which cruise lines have the best gyms?
MSC Cruises are known for having some of the best gyms on a cruise. For example, on MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview, their fitness facilities in the cruise ship gym include high-tech weight machines and a full range of cardio equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals and rowers. You’ll also find plenty of exercise mats, free weights and heavy bags.
Regent Seven Seas offers excellent gym facilities, too, with Technogym strength machines, spinning bikes, dumbbells and treadmills. Meanwhile, for Peloton® fans, book with Celebrity Cruises, whose Millennium, Solstice and Edge series ships offer this on-trend cycling workout.
We also love Skyfitness on Carnival Cruise Line, found outside on the top deck. Here, you can practise your boxing skills or work your legs on the cardio bike or the elliptical trainer while enjoying the glorious views.
2) Participate in fitness classes
Most cruise ships offer a variety of fitness classes, from yoga and Pilates to Zumba. These classes are a fantastic and fun way to stay active and meet like-minded people while on board. Depending on the cruise line, some classes may be included in the price of your cruise.
Others may require an additional fee. In addition, you may need to register in advance for certain classes, so be sure to check with your cruise line’s website or app before heading to the fitness studio.
The best fitness classes on a cruise will depend on your preferred way of keeping fit. Some of our favourites include the sunrise yoga classes on Virgin Voyages, TRX training, boxing and spinning on Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises’ HIIT workouts.
3) Use the onboard sports facilities
If you are not into heading to the gym, you may be wondering what activities you can do on a cruise ship that don’t involve lifting weights. The great news is that some of the best ways to stay active on a cruise can be more creative and quite thrilling.
Many cruise ships have a variety of sports facilities for you to try out. As well as basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, mini-golf courses and croquet, some cruise lines offer more innovative ideas.
Royal Caribbean Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line are renowned for having some of the best activities on a cruise ship, especially if you want something more adrenaline-fuelled.
For example, on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class ships, there are zip lines that soar over 14 decks. On its Anthem of the Seas ship, you can experience the buzz of indoor skydiving with Ripcord by iFLY. Meanwhile, its iconic surf simulator, Flowrider, can now be found on many of its ships.
On Norwegian Bliss and Joy, you’ll find electric car racing and high-rise rope courses. Try rock climbing on Norwegian Epic, or, for something a bit bouncier, you can try the bungee trampoline on Norwegian Breakaway!
4) Walk or run on the deck
If you love to run and are wondering how to stay active on a cruise ship, you may be pleased to know that the treadmill is not your only option. Most cruise ships have designated walking or running tracks on deck that offer stunning ocean views. Depending on the ship, you may also be able to walk or jog on the promenade deck, which wraps around the vessel’s exterior.
Our top tip is to head there in the evening. At this time, it is usually quietest as many cruise guests are having dinner. You’ll also get to enjoy cooler temperatures and a beautiful starlit sky.
5) Take advantage of shore excursions
Shore excursions are a great way to explore the destinations you visit on your cruise holiday while staying active. Depending on the port of call, you may be able to participate in activities such as hiking, biking, or snorkelling. These activities will allow you to experience the local culture and scenery while also getting some exercise.
Arctic cruises have some excellent opportunities for adventurous and active cruise excursions, making them one of the best cruises for fitness. For example, many offer snowmobile safaris, dog sledding and hiking opportunities amongst the dramatic ice fields.
For something much warmer yet equally exhilarating, the Caribbean offers activities in some stunning locations. There’s snorkelling, scuba diving and surfing, or how about exploring waterfalls, caves and lush rainforests?
6) Join a dance class
A sociable way to keep active on a cruise is by joining a dance class. Most cruise lines offer a variety of dance classes. However, Cunard is perhaps the most famous for traditional dance entertainment.
Offering tuition for all levels, Cunard has classes in everything from ballroom and Latin to line dance. And once you have a few moves, you can show them off in the spectacular Queens Room beneath its sparkling chandeliers.
Princess Cruises is also known for its extensive dance program, ranging from beginner to advanced classes in everything from ballroom and salsa to Zumba. You can also get involved with dancing during their destination-themed activities, which may include Brazilian samba or Hula dancing.
Do you have to pay for activities on a cruise ship?
When cruise guests ask whether activities on a cruise ship are free, the answer is it depends on the cruise line and the activity you wish to do.
While most gym and sports facilities are free, you may have to pay for fitness classes or other specialist activities. Also, you’ll have to pay for most shore excursions unless you have some included in your package deal.
Staying active on a cruise is easier than you may think. There are plenty of fun options across most cruise ships that only add to the enjoyment of your holiday. If you’d like help booking a cruise holiday with your favourite activities, please get in touch with our cruise specialists.
