Cruising can be synonymous with indulgence—endless buffets, decadent desserts, and tropical cocktails at every turn. It’s no wonder many believe gaining weight on a cruise is inevitable. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to sacrifice your health goals to enjoy the cruise experience! With a little planning and some mindful choices, you can savor the best your cruise has to offer without worrying about the scale. These 10 proven tips will show you exactly how to strike the perfect balance between indulgence and wellness, so you can return home feeling just as fabulous as when you set sail.
While I am fortunate to be at a healthy weight, the older I get the easier it becomes to pack on a few extra pounds during the holidays. We have big holiday celebrations on both sides of the family and at the center of it all is some pretty amazing food. Can you relate?
Well, it’s a fresh start and a new year! So, I plan on getting back on track this month. But, because we cruise often, temptation is right around the corner with an upcoming cruise. While I certainly won’t deprive myself, I will put my tried and true tips into action. I have learned some things throughout my cruise experience that have helped me fight off the dreaded cruise weight gain.
Here are my top 10 tips that help YOU to NOT gain weight on a cruise.
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Take The Stairs
The reality is that on most cruise ships the elevators can be a source of frustration. First, there is typically a wait for the elevator as they seem to stop on every floor. Second, many people still do not understand the rule of exit…then reload! Finally, germs. We are more hesitant to jump in a packed elevator now – gee thanks Covid.
Because we are physically able, hubby and I have a handshake agreement on day 1 to never use the elevators during our cruise.
Check out the fitness center
I have been on 30+ cruises and have yet to sail on a ship without a fitness center. While they vary in size and offerings they likely have the essentials needed to work up a little sweat. You may find that 30 minutes on the treadmill or a brisk walk around the track each day is a small price to pay for enjoying the other 23.5 hours of relaxing on a cruise ship (and desserts!).
3. Fitness Tracker
It can be a great motivator. I have the Apple Watch and I love it! Several times on our most recent cruise Brian asked me, “Hey, what’s our count now?” He jokes that if he had a tracker, his would show a higher count because he usually grabs our first cup of coffee in the morning and brings it back to the room(at least 2-3 levels from our room).
We’ve also traveled with friends who wear Fitbits and we compare with them as well. You can make it fun!
Every step counts!
4. Walk to ports..actually walk whenever you can
Typically when the pier is especially long, buses or shuttles are available to transport you into the port center. If you are able, take this opportunity to stretch your legs. It may be a 10-minute walk, but why be in a rush? You’re on vacation.
5. Seek Active excursions
Active excursions don’t have to involve zip-lining through the jungle. It can be as simple as walking around town, a hike, snorkeling, exploring Mayan Ruins, or other historical sites. If you are physically able, avoid the all-day bus tours and get out there and explore! You’ll be surprised at your increasing step count and how much easier it can be to NOT gain weight on your cruise vacation.
6. How about a group exercise class?
Joining a Zumba class or even just a gathering to learn a new dance on the pool deck will burn some of those vacation calories. You could also create your own scavenger hunt with your travel group or a photo hunt starting with my top souvenir cruise pics. (Yes, there’s a printable for my subscribers!)
7. Monitor Your Salt Intake to NOT Gain Weight on a Cruise
Water weight gain is a big concern on cruise vacations. Buffet (bulk-prepared) meals tend to have a very high sodium content. Increasing your water intake will help but consider requesting lower sodium options in the main dining room and take advantage of the fresh fruits and vegetables available in the buffet.
Pro tip: Avoid the agony of weighing yourself the minute you get home. Give it a day or two. Water weight is a big deal and can give you quite an unnecessary scare right when you get home.
8. Stick to your favorite carb
It’s a well-known fact in my family that I LOVE french fries. I look forward to at least a small portion of fries nearly every day of our cruise. I would much rather have fries at lunch than dessert. In fact, If we eat in the buffet for lunch, I will opt for a large salad but also grab a few fries to satisfy that craving.
While I am perfectly content to skip the afternoon ice cream cone so that I can enjoy my fries, my husband thinks I’m crazy, he LOVES ice cream! If you love fries, dessert, or a few rolls at dinner, it’s ok. It’s your vacation! Just pick your favorite, or at least, your favorite for that day, and stick to just one.
For many people, it’s the breadbasket in the main dining room each night.
9. Drink water… A Lot
While it seems obvious, it may be difficult for many to stay hydrated while on a cruise. First, If you are cruising to the Caribbean where average temperatures are in the 80’s+ your body is naturally going to need more water. If you consume alcohol, it’s even more difficult to stay hydrated. Imagine, your laying out by the pool working on your tan, are you going to order a Pina Colada or a bottle of water? You’re on vacation!
Related Post: Port Day Bag Essentials.
Drinking water while onboard is also important. Fill your water bottle up before heading to the pool or exploring the ship. There will be plenty of places around the ship to grab some ice water which is perfectly safe to drink and tastes great. You don’t need to purchase bottled water unless that’s your preference. Keep it handy and you’ll drink a lot more.
Drinking enough water will also help if you are consuming more alcohol than normal.
Recommended: I love my Yeti Rambler with the water bottle lid and handle. It’s so easy to carry around the ship AND to use on port days.
10. Speaking of alcohol…
Watch the alcohol – If you enjoy your adult beverages you will get no judgment from me. I certainly indulge. But wow, those calories add up!
Try and squeeze in a full glass of water or two in between drinks. If it suits your tastebuds stick to lite beers that have few calories/carbs and cocktails with low-calorie mixers such as diet soda or club soda. My new go-to is Titos and Sprite Zero. It’s light and refreshing. Lower-calorie seltzers are a popular option, too.
I love a good Pina Colada or Mudslide, too, but if you fill your cruise vacation with frozen, sugary goodness you may find it very difficult to NOT gain weight on your cruise.
I hope these 10 Proven Tips to Avoid Weight Gain on Your Cruise Adventure.
Remember, that it’s your vacation. You should enjoy yourself. Life is not about the scale it’s about all of the experiences you build along the way. Taking your dream cruise vacation doesn’t need to limit your fun or derail your comittment to a healthy lifestyle.
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