Cruise Into Wellness
APR 8, 2025
Our team at Marketing For Wellness has enjoyed sailing on a number of cruise ships while brainstorming new ideas for the brands we represent. Along the way, we discovered that cruising is no longer just about indulgence — it can also be a powerful opportunity to embrace wellness, reset routines, and nourish the mind and body.
You can turn your cruise vacation or office ant sea into a rejuvenating, intentional experience
You can turn your cruise vacation or office ant sea into a rejuvenating, intentional experience
NUTRITION AT SEA
How to Eat Clean and Stay Energized
Buffets & Restaurants
Most ships now offer buffet items labeled gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian. Indian and Asian cuisines often feature lentils, legumes, and curries that are naturally gluten- and dairy-free. At restaurants, speak to your waiter early. Many cruise lines — including MSC Cruises (following Italian tradition with its hospitality), Celebrity Cruises, and Holland America — can prepare steamed vegetables, clean proteins, and custom dishes upon request.
Wellness Cafés Near the Spa
These often offer smoothies, juices, protein shakes, and healthy snacks. Be specific:
- Ask for no dairy or added sugars
- Choose fruits with a lower glycemic index (like blueberries or green apples)
- Ask if greens like kale or spinach are organic
- Avoid banana-heavy blends if you’re watching sugar
Smart Breakfasts
Start your day with warm lemon water, clean protein, and whole foods. Skip sugary pastries, processed meats, and heavy breakfasts that may leave you sluggish or inflamed.
Hydration Tips
Some ships don’t stock bulk water in rooms. Ask your steward or bar team to deliver a case of bottled water. Staying hydrated is key to avoiding inflammation, fatigue, and headaches.
Planning Ahead
If you follow a strict regimen, you can work with a concierge pre-cruise to arrange meal preferences. You’ll likely find helpful accommodations for clean proteins, steamed or grilled vegetables, and sugar-conscious desserts.
FITNESS & MOVEMENT ONBOARD
How to Start or Maintain a Wellness Routine
Jogging & Walking on Deck
Most ships have jogging tracks or walking loops. Jogging at sea — surrounded by fresh ocean air rich in negative ions — can improve mood, reduce stress, and boost oxygen absorption.
Modern Fitness Centers
Ships now feature gyms equipped with:
- Cardio equipment
- Weight training machines
- Free weights
- Stretch zones
Group Classes & Personal Training
Participate in daily yoga, Pilates, HIIT, or spinning classes. Many cruises also offer personal training sessions or complimentary fitness assessments to help tailor a program to your needs.
Swim & Move in the Water
Many ships have pools with filtered seawater. Swimming is a great low-impact full-body workout. Water aerobics classes are also common on wellness-focused ships.
Offshore Adventures
Choose excursions that move your body and lift your spirit:
- Dominican Republic: Hike to waterfalls or ride horses in the jungle
- Tulum, Mexico: Explore yoga studios, ancient ruins, or attend a mindfulness class
- Cozumel: Snorkel, scuba dive, or book an aquatic body therapy treatment
- Costa Rica: Soak in volcanic hot springs or hike through nature reserves
SPA & THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
Healing Treatments at Sea
Expanded Spa Menus
Cruise lines like Celebrity (especially its Beyond ship), MSC, and Holland America offer spa services that go beyond massages. Look for:
- Acupuncture and herbal consultations
- Nutritional and wellness coaching
- IV vitamin therapy and oxygen bars
- Lymphatic drainage and detox treatments
Medical Aesthetics at Sea
Today’s cruise spas often include services typically offered in med spas:
- Dermal fillers (e.g. Juvederm)
- Collagen-boosting treatments
- Non-invasive facial toning and lifting
- Light and oxygen therapies
Thermal Suites
Enjoy saunas, steam rooms, heated loungers, and hydrotherapy pools for detoxification and deep relaxation.
WELLNESS BEYOND
THE SHIP
THE SHIP
Integrate Mindful Experiences on Shore
Every destination offers a new way to deepen your wellness journey. Some highlights:
- Tulum, Mexico: Yoga classes, sacred ceremonies, and plant-based restaurants
- St. Lucia: Mud baths, jungle trails, and natural spa experiences
- Bahamas: Sunrise beach walks or beachside boot camps
- Costa Rica: Forest bathing, hot springs, or yoga in the jungle
CRUISING INTO
A HEALTHIER FUTURE
A HEALTHIER FUTURE
Cruise ships have come a long way from smoky casinos and late-night buffets. Today, many cruise lines embrace wellness and offer an environment where health-focused travelers can thrive.
But the opportunity for innovation is still huge — from curated wellness retreats to personalized meal planning and fitness regimens.
At Marketing For Wellness, we help brands create and communicate wellness experiences that turn services into impact and products into purpose.
We believe that when you love your customers — and understand how their well-being supports your business success — your brand thrives. If you’d like help creating wellness programs, campaigns, or offerings for your travel, food, or lifestyle brand, we’d be happy to connect.
At Marketing For Wellness, we help brands create and communicate wellness experiences that turn services into impact and products into purpose.
We believe that when you love your customers — and understand how their well-being supports your business success — your brand thrives. If you’d like help creating wellness programs, campaigns, or offerings for your travel, food, or lifestyle brand, we’d be happy to connect.