Health and fitness have become a popular part of many people’s holidays. Cruise lines have recognised this demand and are not only providing high-quality gyms, spas and swimming pools but are also offering an impressive range of innovative ways to keep fit and well, and unwind while onboard.
From the latest group classes to rock climbing, surfing and roller skating, there’s an abundance of ways to get active and have fun. So, if you’re hoping to return from your cruise feeling re-energised, rejuvenated and relaxed, then read on to discover which cruise lines offer the best fitness and wellness facilities.
MSC Cruises
Best for gym facilities
On a cruise holiday with MSC Cruises, workouts are high-tech, with a state-of-the-art sports centre, fully kitted out with Technogym’s cardio and resistance machines and offering personal training sessions. Spacious and well-designed with fantastic ocean views, it is an excellent place to burn off some cruise calories. Other sports facilities include mini-golf, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, and a jogging track.
Post-workout, you can relax in the spa, where you can enjoy a Balinese Massage, a specialist beauty treatment, or visit the Harmonic Relax Rooms.
Royal Caribbean
Best for finding your fun
Royal Caribbean’s creative approach to activities means you can still have a workout while enjoying plenty of family fun. There are so many fantastic experiences to choose from, including the tallest slide at sea and the FlowRider® surf simulators to the nine-deck-high Zip Line and the Trapeze School. Whirlpools and the giant drench bucket bring more water fun, while bumper cars and ice skating keep the excitement levels high on deck.
If you’re seeking a more traditional workout, Royal Caribbean offers a range of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, spinning and sculpting, and a comprehensive gym with the latest fitness equipment and personal training. Then, when it’s time to relax and recharge after all that adventure, the Vitality℠ Spa & Fitness centre offers sumptuous spa treatments for you to enjoy.
Virgin Voyages
Best for detoxing and re-energising
Whether it’s recovering and recharging from a night well-spent or working out to look wonderful, Virgin Voyages have the perfect remedy. Their excellent range of classes caters to every cruise holiday scenario, from sunrise yoga and meditation to energy-charged boxing and HIIT workouts. You’ll find the latest gym equipment in the gym, while their Bike & Burn area provides everything needed to burn some calories.
If your idea of wellness is more about spending time in the spa, then Virgin Voyages’ Redemption Spa provides every ingredient for total rejuvenation. From the mudroom and hot and cold plunge pools to a hot stone massage or seaweed wrap, you’ll be feeling renewed and ready in no time.
Cunard Cruises
Best for perfecting your dance moves
This classy cruise line provides the ultimate place to learn how to dance. Whatever your level, there are classes for the classic ballroom and Latin dances, as well as line dance. And, once you’re ready to glide around the dancefloor, the chandeliered Queens Room, complete with music from a live orchestra, offers the best possible venue.
During the day, there’s also a range of fitness classes, including Pilates, yoga, aerobics and spinning classes, and The Games Deck, where you can enjoy activities, such as bowls, deck tennis and croquet. Meanwhile, the Mareel Spa provides a place to unwind, with ocean-inspired treatments and a unique Aqua Therapy Centre.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Best for adrenaline-filled activities
If you want to add a dose of exhilaration and excitement to your holiday, Norwegian Cruise Line has some amazing, adventurous activities on offer. Manoeuvre across the largest multi-level ropes course at sea, balance 8 feet above water over the ship’s side as you walk the plank or gain a bird’s-eye view of the ship as you scale the rock-climbing wall, 20 feet above deck.
The action-packed fun continues with mini-golf, bowling and a multi-use sports deck, suitable for sports such as basketball, volleyball and soccer.
When it’s time to bring the heart rate down, the Mandara Spa® offers over 50 speciality treatments, including hot-stone massages, acupuncture and manicures, as well as the Thermal Suite with steam room and Vitality Pool.
Please remember, features and facilities can vary between the cruise line’s ships, so to avoid disappointment, check what your ship offers before booking or speak to our cruise specialists, who can help you find the perfect option for your fitness and wellbeing holiday.
