Everyone should take at least one cruise in their lifetime. Want to visit multiple places on one trip? Experience different cultures while living in luxury and trying something new every day? A cruise offers this and more.
Cruise lines are becoming increasingly creative in the activities and experiences they put on for their passengers – here are 12 of the most indulgent waiting for you onboard.
1. Pamper yourself in a spa
Cruises are renowned for their relaxing atmospheres, and this is reflected in the high quality of their spas. There are a mind-boggling number of treatments on offer, from hot-stone massages to facials, massages and even seaweed body wraps. Spoil yourself by booking a spa package and enjoying a day of your favourite treatments.
2. Indulge in afternoon tea
Afternoon teas are a staple of the cruise experience. The best cruise ships for afternoon tea present their customers with mouthwatering pastries, dainty sandwiches and the best scones on the high seas. Debate continues to rage about which comes first – the cream or the jam– but whichever way you take yours, your taste buds are in for a sumptuous treat.
3. Champagne tasting
What could be more romantic than sipping Champagne in the luxury of a lounge bar with your better half? Try various Champagnes from the best houses, learning more about the styles vary, or if you’re cruising with friends, why not try a bottomless brunch where the bubbles flow non-stop while you nibble on delicious food prepared by top chefs.
4. Win big in a casino
If Vegas is your thing, a visit to the casino is a must. Pop on your tuxedo or little black dress and try your luck on the slot machines. Or test out your poker face in a card tournament while drinking a Martini – shaken, not stirred…
5. Watch a show
Take your pick from live music (remember Jane McDonald?), a Broadway show or a comedy performance. Some cruises even have aqua or ice shows. Take your seat and enjoy exhilarating performances you’ll never forget.
6. Take a dance class
Fancy yourself as the next Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers? Take a dance class and master the skill of not standing on your partner’s toes with a professional dance instructor. From ballroom dancing to salsa, you’re bound to find something that suits your dance style.
7. Watch a movie under the stars
If you’re after a quieter night, snuggle up under a blanket on deck and watch the latest Hollywood has to offer on the big screen.
8. Go skydiving
Even the impossible is possible on a cruise – on some cruises you can find out what it’s like to skydive. Pull on a jumpsuit, launch yourself into a specially made air machine and feel the adrenaline rush and the wind in your face.
9. Book on a culinary class
Want to learn how to make sushi? Or maybe create the ultimate dinner-party menu for your family and friends? Then take a culinary class and learn the top tips in the trade from an experienced professional chef.
10. Attend a formal night event
The pinnacle of any cruise has to be attending a formal or gala night. Experience fabulous food, excellent entertainment and the height of cruise-ship fashion during these exceptional evenings. If you’re going to go, go big. Dust off that tux or ballgown and show your fellow travellers what you’re made of.
11. Get married
What could be more glamorous than getting married onboard a magnificent cruise ship? Appoint a wedding organiser to take the stress out of the planning and say ‘I do’ in idyllic surroundings with your friends and family. Weddings aboard cruise ships have become more popular, and all aspects of your wedding, from the cake to the photographer, will be catered for.
12. Dine at the Captain’s Table
If you want to get yourself seen, an invite to dine at the Captain’s Table is the way to go. You may have to do a bit of schmoozing with the ship’s social team to secure an invitation but once you’ve got one, put on your glad rags and enjoy a fun-filled evening with free drinks and entertaining tales from the Captain or a senior crew member.