5 Things I Never Do on a Cruise

There’s a well-worn saying among cruisers that the beauty of cruising is being able to do as little or as much as you like on your holiday.

But after 61 cruises, here are five things I never do on a cruise. And I mean NEVER!

1. Buy jewellery at sea

I’m like most girls who love sparkly, colourful, pretty things. Those sparkling displays and promises of incredible bargains can certainly be tempting. But you won’t catch me splashing my holiday money on onboard jewellery. The quality can be questionable, and the mark-ups can be absolutely eye-watering. Just because it’s advertised as a cruise special doesn’t mean it’s a bargain.

Handbags and perfume? Well, that’s a different story…

2. Attend an art auction

I know what I like when it comes to art, but ask me about artists, paintings or auctions and you’ll get a blank look. I wouldn’t know a masterpiece from a pretty picture, so you won’t find me waving a bidding paddle or splashing my holiday budget on artwork.

If art auctions are your thing, go for it. A friend of mine once spent $65,000 buying art on a cruise. Whatever floats your boat, I guess! I’ll be somewhere else enjoying a masterpiece I can appreciate without the price tag: the ocean view, cocktail in hand.

3. Go to the gym

I admire cruisers who make a beeline for the gym every morning. Honestly, good on you! I’m quietly envious of your dedication.

But when I’m on holiday, a treadmill is not high on my priority list. I get plenty of walking in while exploring ports, and I’m happy to take the stairs when it suits me.

If I have to choose between a workout and a leisurely breakfast followed by some poolside relaxation, you can guess which one wins.

4. Attend health and wellness seminars

From anti-ageing treatments and skincare demonstrations to seminars promising to improve your health, cruise ships offer plenty of opportunities to learn about wellbeing.

Some presentations might be informative, but I find many turn into sales pitches for expensive products or treatments.

I’m on holiday to relax, not to be convinced I need a miracle cream, supplement or wellness package. I’ll make my own decisions about what I buy and what works for me.

And if I’m ever going to get Botox, it won’t be at sea!

5. Feel obliged to do everything

Cruise ships are packed with activities, from trivia and dance classes to cooking demonstrations, pool games and nightly entertainment.

I love having choices, but unlike my first 20 or so cruises, when I suffered from dreaded FOMO, I no longer treat the daily program like a checklist I must complete before disembarkation.

Sometimes I’ll join in. Other times, I’ll happily skip the lot and find a quiet spot to watch the world sail by.

I’ve discovered that one of the greatest luxuries of cruising is the freedom to do exactly what you want, when you want.

And if that means spending an afternoon doing absolutely nothing, or even having a second nap, I consider that time very well spent.

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