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A cruise vacation is the perfect way to relax after months of hard work. But some cruise passengers say they struggle to truly relax during their vacation.
Combined with a bit of FOMO and the difficulty in de-stressing from the fast pace of everyday life, this can be difficult!
But a cruise vacation is like no other vacation. There are so many things to do on a cruise ship, from onboard attractions to a variety of activities, but there are also plenty of opportunities to relax, rejuvenate and de-stress during your cruise vacation.
17 ways to relax on a cruise
1. Relax on your balcony
If you have a balcony cabin, relaxing on your balcony is a great way to relax and de-stress. Whether you're reading a book, sipping a glass of wine, or enjoying the sound of the waves, it's hard not to feel like you're relaxing on a cruise ship balcony.
Having tried a variety of cabin types including interior, ocean view, and balcony cabins, we can confidently say that balcony cabins are the best for relaxation.
Waking up on your balcony and looking out over the waves is a unique pleasure that only a balcony cabin can offer and is one of the best aspects of a cruise vacation.
2. Accommodation on a cruise ship on a port day
This may be controversial, but staying on a cruise ship in a port of call is a great way to relax!
On port day, most cruise passengers disembark the ship. This means you will have the cruise ship to yourself, which is very comfortable.
You can enjoy the quiet Lido deck, skip the lines, and experience fast service while others explore the harbor. Yes, you may miss out on the attractions of the cruise port, but the unique benefits of staying on a cruise ship during ports of call are worth considering.
3. Relax in the adults-only space
If you're cruising for your family, consider spending time in the adults-only section. Of course, there could be more going on in the lido deck. However, the adults-only area is much quieter and more comfortable.
I admit, I don't like hearing kids yelling. That's why the adults-only section is one of my favorite parts of a cruise. Having a designated space for adults to relax in peace and quiet is a great way to unwind and relieve stress.
Related: 20 Dos and Don'ts at Sea on a Cruise
4. Watch the sunset
Watching the sunset at sea is a unique cruise experience. When you board your cruise, you will be surrounded by open sea with unobstructed views of the horizon.
The panoramic view allows you to watch the perfect sunset. Watching the sun set behind the horizon is truly calming.
Watching the sunset from your balcony, lido deck, or outdoor bar is a magical way to unwind on a cruise ship.
5. Walk (or run) on a jogging track.
Walking along a jogging track is an amazing way to relax while staying active. There is no better feeling than walking on an outdoor jogging track while taking in the beautiful ocean views all around you.
A leisurely stroll along a jogging track can be incredibly refreshing. Feel the sea breeze, hear the sound of crashing waves and admire the sea views as you walk along the track.
6. Reading a book by the sea
It's hard to beat the comfort you get from reading a book by the sea. Reading a book while feeling the ocean breeze is therapeutic and something many cruisers enjoy doing.
When I want to relax on a cruise, I like to sit on a lounge chair and read a book while looking out at the sea. This way, you can enjoy your book while fully taking in your surroundings.
7. Breakfast on the balcony
If you're lucky enough to have a balcony stateroom, consider ordering breakfast from room service and the privilege of enjoying it on your private balcony. This unique experience is one of the many perks that make a cruise vacation special.
Imagine waking up and heading out to your balcony to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Sipping a warm cup of coffee, enjoying breakfast and looking out to sea are moments of pure tranquility.
For me, breakfast on the balcony is a ritual every time I go on a cruise. The freedom to dine at my own pace, the gentle sound of the waves, and the comfort of my balcony are some of my favorite parts of a cruise vacation.
Related: 10 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship Balcony
8. Join a yoga, meditation or stretching class
Many cruise ships offer yoga, meditation, or stretching classes. Often these classes are offered in scenic locations with beautiful ocean views.
This class is a great way to stretch your body and clear your mind. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, taking this class is a unique experience and a great way to relieve stress on a cruise ship.
9. Walk along the promenade deck
If your cruise ship has a promenade deck, taking a walk after breakfast or dinner is a great way to relax and de-stress. Enjoy 360-degree ocean views and feel the gentle breeze through your hair without direct sunlight on most jogging tracks.
Even if your vessel doesn't have a full-circle promenade, you can still find a partial promenade deck complete with deck chairs where you can sit and enjoy the view.
10. Go offline
One of the best ways to truly relax on a cruise ship is to disconnect from technology. To make the most of your cruise vacation, turn off your phone and take a break from social media.
Instead of spending time on your phone, disconnect and enjoy your surroundings. This can be a great time to chat with other passengers or just relax by yourself with a good book.
Disconnecting at sea is one of the best benefits of a cruise, and you'll feel relaxed and refreshed.
11. Book a spa treatment
If you're looking for the best way to relax on your cruise ship, consider booking a spa treatment. Most cruise ships offer a variety of spa services, from massages to facials to acupuncture.
Many cruise ship spas also offer thermal suites with steam rooms, heated loungers, and saunas.
When I cruise, I like to book spa treatments. Spending an hour at the spa and getting a massage is the ultimate way to disconnect, relax and rejuvenate.
12. Listen to live music
If you're looking for a way to relax and unwind, consider listening to live music. Whether it's a live band in a pub, a pianist in a piano bar or a singer in the atrium, listening to live music is a great way to relax.
I love going to piano bars on cruise ships to listen to live music and relax with a cocktail. This is the perfect way to unwind after dinner and enjoy your cruise ship experience.
13. Take an afternoon nap
One of the great things about cruising is that your cabin is always nearby, making it easy to take a nap when you want. Taking an afternoon nap is a great way to relax, get a good night's sleep, and make the most of your cruise vacation.
One of my favorite things to do after a day in port is to return to the cruise ship and take a nap before dinner. This is a great way to de-stress, recharge and enjoy the relaxing parts of your cruise vacation.
14. Book your trip in advance
Booking your excursions before your cruise is a great way to avoid stressful situations once you board. Popular trips book up quickly, so it's best to book in advance.
If you wait until you're on the cruise to book your trip, you risk missing out on experiences you've been wanting to try. Book your trip before your cruise to avoid the stress of having to make reservations after you board the cruise!
15. Stargazing at night
After the sun sets, go up to the top deck and admire the beauty of the night sky. The stars will appear brighter because they are further away from land.
Stargazing at sea is a fantastic experience and a great way to relax.
16. Enjoy the quieter parts of the cruise
Cruise ships can accommodate thousands of passengers, but you can always find a quiet place to relax. If you want to de-stress while on a cruise, find a quiet place to relax.
Whether you prefer a sundeck, a promenade, or a café, cruise ships offer a variety of quiet spaces to unwind and de-stress.
17. Arrive early on embarkation day
Your vacation begins as soon as you board the cruise. Arriving early on your embarkation day will make the process stress-free and immediately comfortable.
If you want to relax, arrive early on your departure date, prepare your travel documents, and enjoy a smooth boarding process.
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Final thoughts on how to relax and de-stress on a cruise
Whether you decide to disconnect, book a spa treatment, or read a book by the sea, the variety of amazing ways to relax on a cruise ship is undeniable. At the end of the day, cruises are a great way to travel because they allow you to relax, reflect, and visit new destinations.
What's the best way to relax on a cruise ship? Please let us know in the comments below.
Happy cruise!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was 4 years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. Ethan, a frequent traveler of his own, shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person's perspective. Ethan also writes men's fashion, travel, and college advice for the WhatToWearMen.com website.