Boat Travel & Cruises

Cruises have notorious reputations for many things - fun, adventure, interesting ports of call and, of course . . . food. The wide variety and constant availability of delectably prepared indulgences is part of what makes cruising a legendary experience. Abundance and excess define the ultimate cruise experience. It's hard to conceive of being on a diet while on a cruise.

If you leave your worries and responsibilities behind you the moment to board your cruise ship, you may find yourself leaving your inhibitions and self-control behind as well. The end result, when you return home, could be several uninvited pounds when you step on the scale. While many people will tell you the extra weight is an unavoidable consequence of enjoying your cruise to the fullest, there are ways to minimize the damage.

1) Maintain the same basic eating schedule as you follow at home. This is probably three meals plus one or two snacks. Yes, of course you will want to indulge in some of the delicious desserts and gourmet meals you will see in front of you. Try to keep your eating within the same scheduled parameters; don't graze all day long.

2) Cruises provide some of the best opportunities you will find for site-seeing, exercising and trying out new activities and sports. Take advantage of everything you can. Sign up for shore excursions and tours. Keep moving as much as possible to burn off the added calories from the hot fudge lava cake and the Alfredo sauce you enjoyed for lunch.

3) Watch your alcohol consumption. All those pretty drinks with the umbrellas and fancy liquors come packed with calories, fat and sugar. You will consume far more than you could ever imagine if you don't pay attention. During social events onboard, consider alternating your drinks, one pretty umbrella special followed by one glass of water with a twist of lime. This will cut your consumption in half without diminishing your fun.

4) Check out the onboard gym. Most cruise ships have wonderful workout areas with the latest equipment. Don't look at this as punishment for your over-indulgence; look at it as an opportunity to try out some new exercise options.

5) Similarly, take advantage of onboard classes in tango, karate or yoga. If your idea of an enjoyable cruise is sitting on a lounge chair, reading a trashy novel and sipping pina coladas all afternoon, you can expect to gain weight. Balance your relaxation time with a few hours of activity each day to keep your heart racing and your metabolism metabolizing.

6) Share those fine meals with your traveling companion. Order one entrée and divide it between the two of you. This way you can enjoy everything the cruise has to offer in the way of fine dining without going overboard.

Ultimately, you set out on your cruise experience to have the time of your life. Don't be too hard on yourself. If, when you return home, you do happen to find a few extra pounds in all the wrong places, take time to regroup and get back into your daily routine. With a bit of hard work you should be able to reclaim your pre-cruise weight in a relatively short amount of time.