Do you like the idea of cruising, but worry that you might get bored? There is plenty to do on a cruise if you choose the right itinerary and ship; however, being prepared for a little downtime will help allay your fears. Discover how to avoid cabin fever and get the most out of your seafaring holiday.
Choose the right ship
One of the best ways to avoid getting bored on a cruise is to pick a really big ship. Some vessels are so large that they almost have neighbourhoods within their decks. On some of the largest ships you can rock climb, play miniature golf, surf, take cooking classes, visit a spa, work out in the gym, lie by the ‘beach’ or in a hot tub, go zip-lining, go ice-skating, watch live entertainment, learn to scuba dive, go shopping, visit the bar and try karaoke – all on the one ship. If this isn’t enough to keep you entertained, you might also like to take a book.
Plan your port stops
On most cruises you will spend at least half of the days in port. Spend your cruising time researching your next destination – using a combination of guide books, the internet and advice from the ship’s staff – so you can make the most of your time ashore. This will help you to pass the time and become excited about the sights you are soon to see and experience.
Take lots of books
Or take your tablet. How often do you get the space to just sit and read, or to watch your favourite television show on your tablet, uninterrupted? A cruise can be a great way to enjoy ‘enforced’ relaxation time – that is, you don’t have to be up and doing something every moment of every day. Find a nice shady spot on the deck, sit by the pool or enjoy sprawling out on your private balcony, and settle in with your favourite form of quiet entertainment. If you are travelling with a friend, you might like to consider playing a game of cards or challenging them to a game of chess.
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Learn a new skill
If you’ve been planning to learn how to crochet, or keep putting off the Spanish lessons you downloaded as an app all those months ago, a cruise can be a great chance to just sit down and get stuck into learning a new skill.
Indulge yourself
Set aside an entire day for pampering yourself. Think of all those little beauty tasks for which you rarely find time. Start with a hair mask, then give yourself a facial, a mud body mask, and a manicure and pedicure. You could also learn how to dry body brush, go for a massage and finish with a relaxing spa. The options are endless. Men: FYI, a manicure doesn’t have to include nail polish. Manicures can be manly as well, and well-kept hands with neatly trimmed nails are definitely more attractive than rough skin and chewed hangnails.
Acknowledge that cruising might not be for you
Cruising is not for everyone. Your friends might think that it’s the bees knees, but if the thought of a cruise makes you shudder and start packing a full library, then perhaps it’s not the way you enjoy holidaying. If you are unsure, try a weekend-long cruise, instead of locking yourself in ‘boredom-central’ for weeks on end. It’s important to try everything once, but you don’t have to like it (or ever do it again).
