Cruise ships are jam-packed with fun activities and amenities, ensuring that all passengers (regardless of age) have a fantastic time. But do cruise ships have gyms? The last thing you want to do is be in the middle of the ocean while the gains you worked so hard to achieve slowly dissipate amid the deck-side tan sessions and all-you-can-eat buffets.
So, if you enjoy starting your day with a heart-pounding workout, you’ll be glad to know that most cruise ships are equipped with gyms! Of course, not all cruise ship gyms are equal.
Read on to discover learn what exercise opportunities are typically available on a cruise.
Things to Know About Gyms on Cruise Ships
Before booking a cruise, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with your chosen cruise ship’s onboard activities, amenities, and rules. This is especially true for guests who plan to enjoy multiple workouts throughout their cruise.
Some of the most crucial factors to consider include:
- Gym age limits
- Fitness classes
- Shower availability
Gym Age Limits
Many cruise ships impose age limits on their gyms. Commonly, guests under the age of 16 or 18 aren’t allowed into these gyms.
If you’re thinking of going on a cruise with family and your teen or little one is looking to burn off some excess energy or enjoy an onboard workout, you might need to explore alternative activities outside the gym.
Fortunately, nearly all major cruise ships have swimming pools, jogging tracks, and some version of a sports area, as well as other activities that can help younger guests enjoy heart-pounding exercise while having tons of fun.
Fitness Classes
Gym access is almost always included with the price of your cruise reservation. Consequently, you’ll be able to go to the gym for an enjoyable workout without paying an additional fee.
But fitness classes hosted inside the cruise ship gym are rarely free. So, if you’re considering taking a pilates class, yoga tutorial, or learning some new dance moves, be prepared to pay extra for these activities.
If you’re uncertain just how much these classes cost, don’t hesitate to reach out to your chosen cruise company for clarification. Doing so is a smart way to budget for your upcoming cruise trip! This can also be a great way to introduce yourself or a family member to the fitness life as having a trainer might make easing into the lifestyle a little more manageable.
Personal Hygiene
Having to walk all the way back to your cabin just to shower after a workout can be frustrating (and potentially embarrassing). That’s why it’s essential to find out whether your chosen cruise ship offers showers near or in the gym.
For example, the gym showers on the Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships are spacious, often roomier than those in private cabins.
However, gym showers are only standard on some ships. So, contact your chosen cruise company and inquire about the availability of gym-side showers before booking your trip. This is always a great step to keep in mind for any potential issues. If there is a critical part of your daily routine that you may miss out on the sea, you should double check with your cruise line.
Exercise Opportunities Outside of the Gym
While breaking a sweat in the cruise ship gym is an excellent way to stay fit while enjoying your vacation, there are other ways to get in some exercise while aboard.
Alternative exercise opportunities vary depending on the specific ship. But many cruises offer guests a wealth of amenities and activities that can improve their fitness, including:
- Access to full-size basketball courts
- Multiple swimming pools and waterslides
- Roller-skating rinks
- Running tracks
- Rock-climbing walls
These activities could help you vary your exercise routine while making the most of your cruise! Remember: fitness is about activity, and you don’t necessarily need a traditional gym with weights and treadmills to get your heart rate up.
Closing Thoughts
Self-care can play a key role in your vacation. Now that we’ve answered “do cruise ships have gyms?” you can try to stay on top of your routine while traveling.
You may also be interested in 15 Things You’ll Really Want To Know About The Cruise Spa, so you can treat yourself after that workout!
David Chapman
Contributor
