Hi my lovely readers!

When cruising, I always like to opt for an itinerary with some sea days in between. Those days give you the time to explore the ship, sleep in and calm down and relax a little.

Those are the days I always look forward to and that really give me the time to recharge and get some energy back. Sometimes I am really active during those sea days and partake in activities and fun games, but often I will use this time to sit by the pool and relax.

There is plenty you can do during sea days, but here are my top 10 things that I love doing when cruising.

1. HAVING A FANCY BREAKFAST IN THE RESTAURANT

Starting the day with a special breakfast makes all the difference. I like the buffet breakfast, but sometimes I prefer to go to the main dining room or restaurant and order breakfast to the table and really take my time to eat and enjoy it. Sea days are the perfect time for this.

In the main restaurant they often have more upscale breakfast options available as well that you do not find at the buffet such as eggs benedict, which are one of my favourites or salmon bagels.

2. MINI GOLF

Most ships I have been on offer mini golf. It is one of my favourite activities on board that gets played multiple times during a cruise. It is always good fun, especially when I am winning 🙂

3. READING A GOOD BOOK OR MAGAZINE

Who has the time at home to sit in a corner for hours and hours and just read?

Well, I do not, but I do on a cruise. I love sitting on the lido deck in the sun or sometimes in a cozy corner in one of the lounges and bars and just get lost in my book.

I am actually always looking forward to a cruise to read. I find it super hard at home to read as there is always something that needs to be done first such as work, making dinner, blogging etc. But all of this does not exist during my cruise. I have no chores, only all the time in the world to do whatever I want to do.

4. SUNBATHING BY THE POOL

When in port, I get of the ship the minute the staff announces that it is okay to go ashore and get back just before the ship is ready to sail. This often means I am off the ship all day long and get back late afternoon or at night.

I do not have the time for any sunbathing during port days. Hence I make sure to soak in the sun during sea days.

5. SOAKING IN THE HOT TUB

Soaking in the hot tub is a must for me during sea days. I tend to go in the late afternoon or early evening when it is less busy.

I use the hot tub mainly for relaxation, but also for health benefits. I like to give my body some TLC and soaking in the hot tub helps to relieve back pain, neck stiffness and sore muscles.

6. GOING TO THE SAUNA

Going to the sauna and steam room when available, is another must for me. I always feel better after a sauna and steam visit.

Of course there are several health benefits associated with sauna visits that I want to make use of including stress reduction, tension relieve, removal of toxins, improved blood flow and opening up the airways for better breathing.

7. CRUISE DANCES

Cruise dances are a lot of fun and very popular. All age groups come together on the lido deck and participate. I was reserved during my first two cruises and just watched, which is fine. It can be fun just to watch rather than to participate.

However, during my third cruise I found the courage and jumped in. Now, no one can stop me! I like the Wobble on Carnival. I have seen grannies that normally go around with their walking sticks shacking their booties. Crazy Americans is all I can say, but I love it! 😉

8. TABLE TENNIS

All bigger cruise ships I have been on had table tennis. I am an active person and also a bit competitive. A friendly game of table tennis is always on my agenda and gives me the opportunity to move around a little and get of my sun lounger. Plus it is just fun.

9. GOING TO THE FITNESS CENTER AND FITNESS CLASSES

I know most people do not choose to go to the gym during their holiday, but I love working out on a cruise ship.

I sometimes attend morning classes that wake you up and include mostly some stretching, but it is a great way to start the day.

Most of the time, the gyms are empty. I have no idea why! 🙂 But I like an empty gym as I can move around freely and use all the equipment without having to wait for others. Also, the gyms always have excellent views. It is great to go on a treadmill and watch the ocean. Best workout setting ever!

And lastly, I always eat a lot during my cruise. I do not care for looking after calories etc when I am on holiday. I eat all the yummy foods that I normally do not have at home and I want to try everything. So, I might indulge a bit more than I usually would. Going to the gym balances out all that eating a little. At least that is what I am telling myself. 🙂

10. TOWEL FOLDING

Ever wandered how these cute towel animals are made that are waiting for you in your cabin every day? Simple, just go to one of the towel folding classes!

Here you can learn step by step, or better fold by fold, how a simple and boring towel is transformed into a cute animal. They are popular classes and normally very busy. Young and old take part, so it really is for everyone.

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What do you like to do during sea days?