Hey there, sea lovers! It’s Shelly 🐢🛳️ and nothing makes me smile like a day with nothing but blue ocean all around. No ports, no land, just ocean. So what do you actually do on a sea day? Here are my cruise sea day tips to help you pick a sailing with the right mix of ports and sea days, and enjoy every one of them.
Watch the video
Prefer to watch? Here’s the short video on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=XoQNwCBijBE.
What are cruise sea days really like?
Sea days are usually the busiest days on board. Pools and loungers fill up fast, because everyone is on the ship at the same time.
Shelly tip: head up early or find a pool at the back of the ship. It’s often quieter!
Plan your sea day with the cruise line’s app
Check your cruise line’s app the night before. You’ll often find trivia, cooking demos, art classes and live music all day long.
Shelly tip: circle two or three things you love, and keep the rest of the day easy.
Book the spa, dining and shows early
Sea days are a great day to treat yourself, but spas, specialty restaurants and shows can book up fast. Book them early in the cruise. Wondering which dinners cost extra? See Cruise Specialty Dining Cost: Free Dining or Paid Specialty Dining?, and for the other extras to budget for, read 6 Hidden Cruise Costs Most Cruisers Forget.
Sometimes the best plan is no plan
Grab a book, find some shade and just watch the waves. Sea days are your time to slow down and recharge.
Choosing a cruise with the right number of sea days
Some cruisers love lots of sea days, others want a new port every morning. When you compare sailings, look at the itinerary and count the sea days so the trip fits your style. Thinking about a scenic route? Alaska 2028 Cruises: Compare Major Lines, Pick Your Departure City and Plan Excursions covers departure cities and excursions.
Ready to sail? Find cruise deals
Tap Find Cruise Deals at cruisingwithshelly.com to compare current cruise deals and itineraries.
FAQ
What is a sea day on a cruise?
A sea day is a day when the ship doesn’t stop at a port, so you spend the whole day on board.
How do I get a pool lounger on a sea day?
Head up early or try a pool at the back of the ship, which is often quieter.
What should I book before a sea day?
Spa treatments, specialty restaurants and shows can fill up fast on sea days, so book them early in the cruise.
Busy sea day or lazy sea day? Tell me in the comments on the video! 🐢🛳️
Follow Shelly 🐢🛳️ for more cruise tips on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X.
Activities, venues and policies vary by cruise line and ship. Check your cruise line’s app and current details before you sail.
