Will my cruise ship have a gym?
Nearly all cruise ships have fitness centers onboard, often as part of the spa complex, and they are always free to use. The exceptions would be riverboats and small expedition ships that might have a few pieces of workout equipment. Many cruise lines position gyms on high decks with panoramic views, though others may be on lower decks.
What kind of equipment will I find in the gym?
Most cruise ship gyms contain various pieces of cardio equipment (treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes, etc.), resistance training machines, free weights and mats, and group class space. Generally, the newer the ship, the more high-tech options you'll find available.
Gym amenities vary by cruise line, but most will have water coolers and towels to use, as well as individual TVs on cardio machines.
Will my cruise ship offer any group exercise classes?
Cruise ships offer a variety of group fitness classes; some are free, while others incur a fee, often about $12 to $20 per class. Classes might include stretching and abs workouts, yoga, Pilates, spinning or other group cycling, or more trendy options like Kinesis, Zumba, TRX suspension training and Tour de Spin. Class space is limited, so you might need to sign up in advance. Multi-day packages are available on some lines.
Personal training, where available, runs $80 to $115 for hour-long sessions.
Are there locker rooms, or do I need to change in my room?
Changing rooms are usually shared with the spa and offer lockers, robes, towels, bathrooms and showers, as well as dispensers of shampoo and body wash. Some gyms might also have saunas or steam rooms in the changing areas, which passengers can use free of charge.
When is the best time of day to use the gym?
Cruise ship fitness centers are usually the busiest in the mornings and on sea days; work out at mealtimes or just before dinner to avoid the crowds. If you exercise while the ship is moving, prepare for the roll of the ship to impact your workout and make balance a bit trickier.
What if I prefer to run or play basketball? Are there any options for me besides the gym?
Other fitness options -- such as a running track, basketball/volleyball court or rock-climbing wall -- might be available on your ship. These are usually found on a top deck and not as part of the fitness center itself. Daytime dance classes are usually offered in a show lounge.
How can I learn more about fitness on cruise ships?
You might like the following articles:
The What to Expect on a Cruise series, written by Cruise Critic's editorial staff, is a resource guide, where we answer the most common questions about cruise ship life -- including cruise food, cabins, drinks and onboard fun -- as well as money matters before and during your cruise and visiting ports of call on your cruise.
FAQs
On most cruise ships you can expect to find what is essentially in a gym; changing areas, cardio areas, weights, plus soft mats for yoga and areas for exercise classes. Some classes may be of an additional charge.
Do cruise ship gyms have free weights? ›
What equipment is available at the gym/fitness center? Our fitness center has all the equipment and facilities that major sports clubs do: weight machines, free weights, stationary spin bikes, stair steppers, treadmills, sauna, whirlpool, steam room, and thermal suites. Plus sweeping ocean views that extend for miles.
Are gyms busy on cruise ships? ›
Cruise ship fitness centers are usually the busiest in the mornings and on sea days; work out at mealtimes or just before dinner to avoid the crowds. If you exercise while the ship is moving, prepare for the roll of the ship to impact your workout and make balance a bit trickier.
Do you have to pay to use the gym on a cruise ship? ›
Free to use relaxation room and saunas. Free to use equipment and machines, and for yoga, Pilates, spinning, and core classes. Prices vary for other classes.
Do cruise ship gyms have squat racks? ›
The only thing that you won't find. most likely is a squat rack or Olympic bars, but if you're lucky, you might find a Smith machine. They're always equipped with some fruit, water and fresh towels, so that's great. And one of my favorite things in this case, that you can even have a little sneak peek.
Can you wear gym shorts on a cruise? ›
For women, the dress code may ask for sundresses, skirts and blouses, dress shorts and capri pants are acceptable. Don't wear sleeveless shirts (for men), cut-off jeans, T-shirts or gym shorts. If you want to attend a “cruise elegant” evening, bring a fancier, more formal outfit.
What time does the gym open on a cruise ship? ›
The gym is typically open daily from 8:00am until 8:00pm. Note: opening hours will vary on embarkation/disembarkation days. Question Can I bring my child to the cruise ship spa or gym?
What is the weight limit on a cruise ship? ›
On cruises of 6 days or longer, no more than two bags, per person. Each checked bag and carry-on bag should not weigh more than 50 pounds and, when lying flat, bags must not exceed 16 inches high, by 24 inches wide (the length of the bag is not a factor). For security screening purposes, all luggage should be unlocked.
Do cruise ship gyms have showers? ›
Cruise ship gyms will usually have changing rooms which means that you don't have to get changed in your room and walk across the ship in your gym wear, although this would be okay. There will also be showers and lockers for you to leave your things.
How do you not get bored on a cruise ship? ›
Take Advantage of the Programming
Since cruise lines don't want you to be bored any more than you do, they fill up days at sea with a variety of activities from trivia sessions and lectures to arts and crafts and dance lessons. The more you participate, the faster your days pass.
It happens, but it's against the rules for cruise ship staff to fraternize with passengers in that way. Here's the breakdown: It does occur: Some passengers and crew members do form romantic connections. Online forums and anecdotes suggest it's not uncommon [1].
Do you feel a lot of movement on a cruise ship? ›
It is slight enough you may not even notice it most of the time. Larger ships tend to have less movement overall, and the closer to the center of gravity, the less movement is felt. Rooms on higher decks and towards either the front or back will feel more motion than a room lower down near the center of the ship.
What comes free on a cruise ship? ›
You also may have a few questions about what is included on a cruise. It helps to think of it this way: Your cruise fare is mostly all-inclusive — your stateroom, dining in a variety of locations, onboard entertainment and access to pools, hot tubs and other amenities and activities are typically included on a cruise.
Is laundry free in cruise ship? ›
Some but not all cruise ships have self-service laundry rooms. The ones that do may charge per load and for use of detergent and dryer sheets. On some ships, you'll need to swipe your keycard to pay for laundry; others require quarters.
Are spas free on cruises? ›
The spas on certain cruise lines have a basic sauna that's complimentary; it's often found in the changing room. Sometimes, if you attend a seminar about spa treatments, such as reflexology, you'll be given a free 10-minute treatment. But overall, the spas are there to make the cruise ships money.
Do cruise ships have personal trainers? ›
Job Duties and Responsibilities of a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer Who Works on a Cruise Ship. Fitness centers are a common feature on many cruise ships, and they typically offer a variety of exercise equipment and classes for passengers to stay active while at sea.
