How to stay fit on a cruise – without going to the gym

According to a global survey of 27,000 travellers by booking.com, more travellers are seeking a water-centric break, with 75 per cent of respondents saying they find “instant relaxation” by the water’s edge.

Fortunately, several cruise lines – particularly boutique operators – offer a range of water- based activities so you can burn calories while immersing yourself in your destination.

A Windstar Cruises voyage to Tahiti, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, for example, gives you the chance to plunge into the warm, turquoise ocean straight from a watersport platform. You can also put your muscles to work on a kayak, or splash your way through these tropical paradises on a paddleboard.

Elsewhere, SeaDream Yacht Club’s 112- passenger SeaDream I and SeaDream II each have retractable marinas packed with sailboats, a banana boat, waterskis and snorkels.

Speed thrill

If you’ve gained a few pounds at sea, then get back on track with Speedway, the go-karting circuit aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima, Encore and Bliss.

According to VROOM magazine, a 30-minute race around the three-storey course – the first of its kind at sea – can help drivers burn up to 358 calories.

Expert tip

Ben Seal is head of environment at Paddle UK, the paddle sport organisation formerly known as British canoeing. He states: "The health benefits of kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding range from releasing the stresses of the week to working your heart a little without overdoing it.

"Paddling helps improve core strength and stability, which leads to the prevention or reduction of back pain and improved balance and mobility.

"But best of all, paddling is inclusive. It offers opportunities for people of all abilities and ages to participate with friends and family.”