Contrary to popular belief, guys and cruises do go together, with or without their women in tow. According to a number of industry reports, men now account for about 45 percent of all cruise guests. The fact is today’s cruise vacations offer men of all ages plenty to do.
Here are some of the most popular reasons why:
Great Food 24/7– The kitchen is always open on a cruise ship. Men can always find a meal, snack or treat to feed their appetites. In addition to a ship’s main dining room, most cruises offer other eating alternatives, including casual buffets, bistro-style cafes and reservations-only specialty restaurants, not to mention pool-side grills. Another bonus: casual attire.
Beer Tasting and Tours – There’s no shortage of bars on most cruise ships and beer aficionados lick their lips. International brewers showcase signature and specialty beers and sponsor onboard beer-tasting parties for those of drinking age. For more sophisticated types, wine-tasting opportunities abound. Many cruise ships also feature cigar bars. Another bonus: local pubs and brewer tours in port.
Teeing it Up – Men who prefer to hit the links, rather than the pool or beach, can tee it up at sea. Many cruise lines have expanded their stops at some of the world’s most picturesque and challenging golf courses. Some have even created special itineraries that visit a different course each day. Another bonus: amazingly real, on-board computerized golf simulators,
Exciting Adventure Travel – Cruise travel is ideal for men looking for adventure. How about an unforgettable cave tubing and Caribbean rain forest exploration tour? Or maybe a thrilling rain forest canopy and zip line adventure in Alaska? Cruisers who like it hot may enjoy a mesmerizing helicopter ride over Kilauea, the Earth’s most active volcano. Another bonus: driving a Formula 1 racecar in Monaco.
Fun in the Sun – For guys who prefer not to sunbathe all day, the cruise lines’ newest innovations include bowling alleys and Flowrider surfing pools. Virtually all of the major cruise ships already feature winding water slides, challenging rock-climbing walls, giant trampolines and ice skating rinks (sans hockey sticks and pucks), among other recreation amenities. Another bonus: private islands with more fun.
Games of Chance – For men who like to gamble, virtually all cruise ships feature floating casinos, with the exception of Disney Cruise Lines. Popular games, such as blackjack, roulette, poker, craps and slot machines test one’s luck while passing the time by. The casinos usually only operate when the ship is at sea. Another bonus: casinos in port.
Muscle Massaging – Times are changing and more men are enjoying the luxurious pampering and ultimate relaxation afforded visitors of the cruise ships’ spas, many of which now rival the best land-based spas. It is not uncommon to see men enjoying massages, facials and pedicures. Another bonus: herbal and seaweed wraps.
Breathtaking Shows – From Carnival’s Fiesta Latina and Far from Over: The 80s musical reviews, to Royal Caribbean’s Invitation to Dance, based on the Dancing with the Stars television show, cruise lines today are producing lavish new, multi-million dollar, special effects- laden extravaganzas. Another bonus: no sappy lounge acts.