First, go through the daily paper provided by the cruise
line and note the variety of activities they are offering. After prioritizing
them to suit your interests, then consider:
·
Hang out
by the pools if warm enough.
Lay and
read, swim, use spas, water slides, etc.
·
Exercise
the body.
That may
not be your way of enjoyment, but it can sure offset some of the weight gain
you will experience on the cruise.
Use a
walking deck or fitness center with many types of equipment.
Join dance and
exercise classes.
· Exercise
the mind.
Check out a book at the library.
Take a digital device with books, games and audio.
Take or check out card and board games to play with others.
Attend
trivia and other mind game competitions.
Attend
cooking and other educational presentations.
Take
computer/photography classes.
· Adventure
activities - utilize, particularly on newer ships.
E.g.
ziplining, rope course, surfing
· Games
- participate, win prizes
· Spa treatments
- Pamper yourself
Massages,
facials, saunas, steam rooms and usually much more are available.
·
Eat,
drink and be merry.
You may be
surprised at how many options there are for eating: from main dining rooms to
specialty restaurants to buffets at or near the main pool. If you want to get
the best food for no additional cost, stick with the main dining room - for all
meals.
Drinks are,
of course, everywhere. Look for soda, beer and wine packages to ease the cost.
·
Entertainment
Attend
theatre shows - all types of performances.
Go to
lounges during daily entertainment.
·
Cabin:
retreat when you need peace and quiet.
Nap, watch
TV, use your computer, etc. Cruise channel discusses port excursions, activities.
And if you
have a balcony (recommended), sit out and enjoy the sights and water.
·
Plan for
the next port if you have time available
after shore excursions.
Ask the concierge for maps and information that can help you be more
efficient in planning where to go and what to. Arrange to join others to hire a
van/shuttle to explore.
With good planning, you may end up wishing you had
more sea days, not fewer.
Also
realize that port days can be
treated as sea days: if you have
seen a port before and
desire little at the port, take advantage of the quiet and
easy access to the pool et al
onboard.