Cruising is a popular vacation option for many people. It offers an all-in-one experience of traveling to different destinations, enjoying various cuisines, and engaging in numerous activities while onboard.
However, with so much food and drink available, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on a cruise. In this article, we’ll take a look at which cruise line is the healthiest and what you can do to maintain your health while cruising.
Which Cruise Line Is the Healthiest?
It’s essential to note that every cruise line has healthy options available on their menu. However, some cruise lines are more committed to promoting healthy living than others. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Royal Caribbean International is one of the healthiest cruise lines.
The CDC conducts regular inspections of ships that call on U.S. ports to ensure they comply with sanitation standards. The CDC assigns scores out of 100 based on various factors such as food handling, water quality, and general cleanliness. Royal Caribbean International received an average score of 99 out of 100 in 2019.
What Makes Royal Caribbean International Stand Out?
Royal Caribbean International offers many healthy dining options onboard its ships that cater to those who have specific dietary requirements or preferences. They have partnered with chefs such as Devin Alexander and Johnny Iuzzini to create nutritious dishes that still taste delicious.
Their Vitality Spa program offers various fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates, as well as state-of-the-art gym equipment for those who want to stay active while cruising. They also offer onboard sports facilities such as basketball courts, rock climbing walls, and surf simulators.
Other Healthy Cruise Lines
While Royal Caribbean International is considered one of the healthiest cruise lines overall, there are other options worth considering if you’re looking for a healthier cruising experience. These include:
- Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises has a “Lotus Spa Cuisine” menu that offers healthy dining options, and their ships have fitness centers and jogging tracks.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line has partnered with the American Heart Association to offer “Healthy Heart” meals onboard, as well as various fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates.
- Holland America Line: Holland America Line offers healthy dining options such as vegetarian and gluten-free meals, as well as onboard fitness facilities and classes.
Tips for Staying Healthy on a Cruise
Regardless of which cruise line you choose, there are several things you can do to maintain your health while cruising. Here are some tips:
- Choose healthy dining options: Look for dishes that are grilled or baked instead of fried, and opt for vegetables or salads instead of heavy pastas or creamy sauces.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the warm weather.
Avoid sugary drinks such as soda or alcohol which can dehydrate you.
- Be active: Take advantage of onboard fitness facilities or participate in exercise classes offered by the cruise line. You can also go for a walk on the ship’s deck or take part in shore excursions that involve physical activity.
- Avoid overeating: While it may be tempting to indulge in all the food available on a cruise, try not to overeat. Listen to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness, and choose smaller portions or share meals with others if possible.
The Bottom Line
While cruising may not be synonymous with healthy living, it’s still possible to maintain your health while onboard. Choose a cruise line that offers healthy dining options and fitness facilities, and follow the tips above to stay active and avoid overeating. By doing so, you can enjoy your vacation while still taking care of your health.