While traditional holidays often involve jetting off to a far-flung destination, more and more travellers are choosing to see the world by sea instead. Cruises take a lot of stress out of travelling – there’s no unpacking and repacking between destinations, no navigating unfamiliar airports every few days and no need to constantly move from one hotel to the next.
It’s perhaps no surprise that cruising continues to grow in popularity. According to the latest figures from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a record 37.2 million people took an ocean cruise worldwide in 2025, while 2.54 million holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland chose to cruise – the highest number ever recorded.
Of course, cruises are about far more than simply getting from A to B. Modern ships are packed with restaurants, entertainment, activities and places to relax, meaning there’s plenty to keep you occupied even on sea days. If you’ve never considered a cruise before, you might be surprised by just how much there is to see and do – without ever stepping ashore.
1. Watch a spectacular theatre show
Many cruise lines offer entertainment to rival London’s West End. Depending on your ship, you might find full-scale musicals, comedy performances, live music, ice skating shows, magic acts or impressive acrobatic displays – all included in the cost of your cruise.
2. Sample the onboard restaurants
Cruises are a fantastic opportunity to try a wide variety of cuisines, without even leaving the ship. Alongside the main dining room and buffet, many vessels also offer specialty restaurants serving everything from Italian and Japanese cuisine to premium steakhouses, seafood and fine dining tasting menus.
For food lovers, the culinary experiences don’t stop there. Many cruise lines now offer a range of gastronomic activities, including cookery demonstrations, hands-on cooking classes, wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses and food and wine pairing sessions. These experiences not only provide an opportunity to learn from talented chefs and sommeliers, but also offer a fun way to spend a sea day.
3. Relax by the pool
Sea days are the perfect excuse to slow down. Whether you prefer lounging with a good book, cooling off in the pool or simply watching the world drift by from a comfortable sun lounger, spending time on deck is one of cruising’s greatest pleasures.
4. Unwind in the spa
Many cruise ships house luxurious spas complete with treatment rooms, thermal suites, saunas and steam rooms. Booking a massage or facial can be a wonderful way to recharge between busy days exploring ashore.
5. Join an onboard class or activity
From fitness sessions and dance classes to quizzes, art workshops and destination talks, there’s usually something happening throughout the day. Families will also find dedicated children’s clubs, teen lounges and organised activities designed to keep younger passengers entertained, giving parents the chance to relax or enjoy some time to themselves. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with children, there’s something to suit every age and interest.
6. Visit the casino
Even if you don’t like to part with your money, many cruise ship casinos are worth exploring for the atmosphere alone. They’re often situated alongside bars and lounges, making them a lively place to enjoy a drink and watch the action unfold without even placing a bet yourself.
If you think you’ll want to sit down at blackjack or try the roulette wheel, it’s worth taking half an hour at home to play casino games online first, just to learn which games you actually enjoy and how the pace of each one feels.
Always play responsibly, and only spend what you can comfortably afford – don’t get carried away after one too many margaritas!
7. Stay active
If sitting still isn’t your thing, contemporary cruise ships offer plenty to keep you occupied. Fitness centres, jogging tracks, climbing walls, surf simulators, zip lines, sports courts and even roller coasters can all be found onboard some of today’s largest cruise liners.
8. Browse the onboard shops
From duty-free fragrances and jewellery to fashion, souvenirs and travel essentials, cruise ship shopping offers plenty to tempt passengers. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up gifts for friends and family before returning home.
9. Enjoy the sunset from the top deck
There’s something incredibly relaxing about watching the sun sink below the horizon while surrounded by open water. Grab a drink, find a comfortable spot on deck and enjoy one of the simplest yet most memorable moments of your cruise.
10. Meet new people
Cruises naturally bring people together. Whether you’re joining a quiz, taking part in an excursion, attending a wine tasting abroad or simply chatting over dinner, there are countless opportunities to meet like-minded travellers from around the world.
While it’s easy to focus on the destinations on your itinerary, don’t overlook everything your ship has to offer. From world-class dining and evening entertainment to relaxing spa treatments and unforgettable ocean views, there’s plenty to enjoy without ever stepping ashore. With so much happening onboard, you may find that your sea days become just as memorable as the destinations themselves.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a cruise? Share your favourite onboard activities and recommendations in the comments below.