Traveling at sea invokes a sense of tranquility and intrigue like no other vacation, combining the most simple pleasures of seafaring—bright sun, great weather, cool salty breeze, and deep blue ocean—with the sophisticated perks of modern day luxury.
But when it comes to health and wellness while on vacation, a cruise isn’t always the first things that comes to mind. From nutrition to relaxation to rejuvenation and everything in between, today’s passengers are seeking something very different than the days of round-the-clock buffets and resting poolside for hours.
While cruising can still be about the guilty pleasures—eating and drinking too much, and doing as little as possible—many of today’s cruisers want to finish their trip healthier than when they started.
The spa areas aboard Regent Seven Seas are stunning and serene.
Cruise lines are responding to the health living lifestyle trend in a variety of ways. Equipped with personal trainers, over-the-top spas, state-of-the-art gyms, fitness classes, cooking demonstrations, healthy menus, therapists on-staff, walking tracks, yoga studios, rock-climbing walls, and so much more, modern day ships have found the harmony between healthy living and hard-core cruising.
Here are some things the cruise lines are doing to make it easier than ever to choose exercise over excess so you can relax your mind, replenish your soul and rejuvenate your spirit while sailing the seven seas.
Spa Life
For some cruise lines, relaxation is the main theme. The Canyon Ranch brand has introduced incredible spa experiences on a variety of ships allowing you to spend the day relaxing in your very own private pool and spa terrace overlooking the peaceful ocean or enjoying a unique massage, relaxing facial or nice “steam”.
If you like spas, try these cruise lines: Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Insider Tip: While spas are usually the busiest during “days at sea”, they tend to lower their prices on their slow days - when the ship is in port! Take advantage of spa deals by booking same-day services when everyone else if off the ship.
Fitness Focus
For fitness enthusiasts, maintaining a healthy workout regimen while cruising is no longer a challenge. From yoga to swimming to cycling and so much more, today’s cruise lines offer professional trainers, premium exercise facilities and personalized fitness and nutrition plans.
If you’re into fitness, try these cruise lines: Silversea Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, and Celebrity.
Insider Tip: Walking everywhere will help keep your calories in check. Consider waking up early to walk around the ship or walk up and down the stairs (especially on larger ships) to keep your steps up in between relaxing pool days.
Healthy Dining
Cruise ships are known for their delicious and decadent dining options. With food available 24 hours a day, sometimes will power doesn’t win out. Luckily, for every not-so-healthy cheeseburger, pizza and dessert item on the menu, modern cruise ships now offer a bounty of nutritious alternatives as well: vegan alternatives, gluten-free options, raw food items, diet-friendly selections, and special ingredients.
If eating healthy is important to you, try these cruise lines: Oceania Cruises, Windstar Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Most cruise ships take onboard dining quite seriously – some even make it their specialty. Be sure to explore the different restaurants, buffets and menus available onboard and choose a meal plan that works best for you.
Insider Tip: There are a variety of voyages with menus catering specifically to vegans and/or vegetarians. Many ships even offer lectures and hands-on classes on how to prepare a variety of specialty dishes.
Personal Attention
If one-on-one attention is what makes wellness work for you, look no further than a luxury cruise. Perfect for people who want the health-retreat experience at-sea, from customized training sessions and concierge spa experiences to tailored menus and nutrition consults, there are some incredible personalized options so you can get pampered or get pumped.
If you’re seeking personal attention, try these cruise lines: Silversea Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Paul Gauguin Cruises.
Insider Tip: If you require special assistance or are looking for an experience just right for you and your needs, speak to one of our travel experts who will talk to the cruise line on your behalf so you don’t have to worry - everything will be ready for you when you walk onboard.
Cruises can be a very relaxing wellness experience no matter which one you choose. Whether you’re interested in eating healthy, being active, or calming the mind and body with yoga, a cruise vacation provides a wide range of onboard activities and options to ensure you have a well-balanced vacation filled with food, fitness and fun!
To learn more about what various cruise lines have to offer, connect with a CruiseInsider expert today at 1 (877) 734-6858.
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