Cruising is a great way to travel to many places without having to plan all of the vacation by yourself. Just sit back, relax, and let your captain take you through dreamy Caribbean islands, exotic stops in Asia and Australia, and even around majestic glaciers of Alaska. When you’re not ashore exploring, your ship offers everything you need to live comfortably: bustling casinos, a wide variety of entertainment, delectable eats, and even unlimited free drinks on select sailings. It is no wonder with all this indulgence, the average amount of weight gained on a cruise ship can range anywhere between 5-10lbs! If you’re battling the belly bulge, or worry you’ll have to put your “on the go” lifestyle on hold, fear no more, here are 10 ways to stay active on your cruise vacation!

1. EATING HEALTHY WHILE TRAVELING

Even though this one is kind of a given, sometimes it’s easier said than done. This is your vacation so don’t think you need to deprive yourself of that creamy shrimp fettuccine, succulent BBQ ribs, or the mouthwatering chocolate fondue you’re craving. At the same time don’t forget about our healthier alternatives! Swap out a rich meal every once in a while with some fresh seafood from Ocean Blue, lean cuts of meat in Cagney’s Steakhouse, and the always abundant crisp garden salads and fresh fruit in the buffets.

2. TAKE THE STAIRS

Leave the stair master behind and take actual stairs! With so many activities happening throughout the ship and decks upon decks to explore, taking the stairs can give you a serious workout. Not only is it great for your health, you’ll also get to skip the elevator wait.

3. GYM AND FITNESS CLASSES

When you want to get your heart pumping, our state of the art gyms and energizing fitness classes will have you feeling the burn. If you’re working out solo, try getting there early or late in the evening to skip the rush. If you like fitness classes, try outdoor yoga, Pilates, spin, Zumba, or body sculpt boot camp to name a few. Times for fitness classes will be listed in your Freestyle Daily.

4. FITNESS SEMINARS

Fitness seminars are a great way to fill the space between your lounge by the pool and dinner reservations. Small to medium sized groups are led by motivating and thoughtful trainers who will take you under their wing without pressuring you to buy something like most land seminars often do. Take away helpful tips from seminars like “increasing your metabolism” or “reducing toxicity in your body” and apply those teachings while on board. Check your Freestyle Daily to see what is offered on your sailing.

5. RUNNING TRACK

Nothing beats a refreshing outdoor run except if it’s accompanied by breathtaking ocean views and fresh sea breezes. Step out onto our running track where you can run, jog, or just take a relaxing walk.

6. THE WATERFRONT

The running track is not the only place where you can be active. One of the best places to take in all the views is along The Waterfront. A quarter-mile oceanfront promenade connects you to the sea as well as to dining, bars, and shopping! You can even reward yourself with a little gelato at Dolce Gelato.

7. WHITE HOT PARTY

Besides being the hottest party on the high seas, the White Hot Party is also a high calorie burner! Featuring some of the best DJs to pump up the music, it’s a fun way to work up a sweat while showing off some of your best dance moves. Check your freestyle daily for other events like Glow Party, Norwegians Night Out, Sail Away Party, and even Salsa classes.

8. SPORTS COMPLEX

Conquer new heights at our Sports Complex. Complete with a basketball court, multi-story Ropes Course, Mini Golf area, and my personal favorite, The Plank (where you can step 8 feet off the side of our ship). The Sports Complex is a great way to get the body moving.

9. WATER SLIDES AT THE AQUA PARK

While this one may not be a high calorie burner, the adrenaline kick and all those steps to the top will get your blood flowing. If you’re a thrill seeker, try Free Fall onboard our Breakaway and Breakaway Plus class ships. Dubbed the fastest waterslide at sea, it will drop you vertically with 4g forces.

10. SHORE EXCURSIONS

Take your active lifestyle off the ship and onto land. Shore Excursions are a great way to explore our ports and get you moving at the same time. Off road ATV Adventure, horseback riding on the beach, walking tours of treasured cities, snorkeling with stingrays, the possibilities are endless on your next cruise vacation.