Cruises are a special kind of vacation—long days at sea, packed with activities, dining reservations, shore excursions, and endless entertainment. But one of the best parts? The downtime.
While cruise ships are known for their endless onboard entertainment, sea days also give you the perfect chance to slow down, unwind, and truly relax.
If you have a free afternoon between scheduled activities or just want to soak in the ocean air, here are some great ways to enjoy your downtime on a cruise.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there’s something for everyone!
Things to Do During Your Downtime on a Cruise
Read & Relax
Pack a good book, load up your e-reader, or listen to an audiobook while curled up in a lounge chair. Whether you’re on your private balcony or by the pool, reading is a great way to escape while enjoying the ocean breeze. Many cruise ships also have cozy libraries if you’re looking for a quiet space.
Get Creative: Paint or Sketch
On our last cruise, we saw two women painting the ocean view with their watercolor sets—it was such a beautiful way to capture the trip. If you love to draw, journal, or scrapbook, downtime at sea is the perfect opportunity to get creative and document your adventure.
Take a Nap
There’s nothing like a nap at sea. The sound of the waves, the gentle rocking of the ship—it’s the ultimate relaxation. Whether it’s a 20-minute power nap or a full hour of bliss, don’t feel guilty about catching up on some rest. After all, vacations are meant for recharging!
Swim or Lounge by the Pool
Some cruise ship pools are small, but even floating around or dipping your toes in the water can be incredibly relaxing. If swimming isn’t your thing, grab a comfy lounge chair, order a cocktail, and soak up the sun while enjoying the ambiance. Bonus points if you pack a puzzle book or a travel journal!
Walk the Deck
Most cruise ships have a designated walking or jogging path that circles the ship, offering stunning ocean views. Take a stroll, stretch your legs, and enjoy the fresh sea air. Morning walks are great, but midday and evening walks tend to be quieter and more peaceful.
Hit the Gym
If you’re feeling energetic, check out the onboard fitness center. Cruise ship gyms usually have top-notch equipment and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. If the mornings are too crowded, try going in the afternoon for a more relaxed workout. Whether it’s yoga, stretching, or lifting weights, it’s a great way to feel refreshed before diving back into your scheduled activities.
Indulge in the Spa
If ultimate relaxation is the goal, book a spa treatment. Many cruise ship spas offer massages, facials, and thermal suites with saunas and steam rooms. Some even have meditation rooms for a quiet escape.
Try Knitting or Crocheting
I wish I knew how to knit because it looks so peaceful! If you love crafting, working on a knitting or crochet project while looking out at the endless ocean is the definition of cozy downtime.
Puzzle Books & Games
Sudoku, crosswords, and brain teasers are perfect for sea days. I saw so many people lounging by the pool with a puzzle book and a snack—it’s a simple yet satisfying way to unwind. Some cruise ships even have dedicated game rooms with board games and cards.
Enjoy Live Music
Many cruise ships have live music performances throughout the day at bars, restaurants, and even poolside. Grab a drink, find a cozy seat, and let the music set the mood for pure relaxation.
Order Room Service & Relax in Your Cabin
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy your downtime is to stay in. Order room service (a must-try on a cruise!), put on a movie, and just lounge in your cozy cabin. Whether it’s a quiet morning or a laid-back evening after a long day of excursions, taking time for yourself is always a good idea.
Preparing for Your Day at Sea
At the end of the day, a cruise is your vacation—so spend your downtime however you want! Yes, there are shows to see, activities to book, and incredible dining experiences to enjoy, but there’s also beauty in simply relaxing.
Whether it’s reading, napping, swimming, or just watching the ocean go by, don’t stress about filling every moment.
I hope this post gave you some inspiration for ways to make the most of your downtime at sea. Happy cruising!
XOXO,
Julia
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About the author: Hey there! I’m Julia, a passionate theme park and travel writer. My love for theme parks has fueled my obsession with sharing tips and adventures for years. Join me as I uncover the magic of cruising and beyond!
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