The mere idea of cruising along the ocean on a ship, breathing in the salty air and feeling the breeze flowing through your hair is like a dream. European Cruises and Caribbean Cruises mean changes of scenery, but the dream is the same. The dream is to relax and refresh both the mind and body. The benefits of cruises go beyond the cost savings, safety, and convenience, they can even benefit your health. Few vacations offer the same health benefits that a cruise vacation does.

Let’s discuss some of the major health benefits of cruising:

1. Sunshine

Sailing on the open ocean gives people the opportunity to soak up the sun on the decks.

While it is important to use sunblock to prevent sunburn and avoid skin cancer, proper sun exposure can be healthy. The sun stimulates the production of vitamin D and can even help fight heart disease and cancer. Sun exposure can even boost serotonin levels, fight depression, and promotes better sleep. Always remember to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day.

2. Fitness

There are all sorts of activities on cruise ships and one major focus the activities is physical fitness. Cruise ships offer well-equipped fitness centers and even classes, like yoga and aerobics. There are jogging decks where you can run to your heart’s content while breathing in salty ocean air and giant swimming pools where you can swim laps or take up a water sport. The options are endless and cruises allow passengers to continue their workout routines while on vacation.

3. Rest and relaxation

An all inclusive cruise vacation helps with de-stressing because, unlike other types of vacation, everything is provided for you on a cruise. Relaxing gives the mind and heart rest, allowing your heart rate to slow, reducing blood pressure, and can decrease muscle tension.

There are warm pools with pulsing jets that can take all the stress out of one’s musculature. There are spa treatments. All of these activities in their own way not only relieve stress. They help blood flow, increase a feeling of well being and peace made possible by the release of serotonin.

4. Wining, dining, and snacking

Cruise ships are known for their delectable food options and many are offering healthier options.

There are fine dining options and the chefs can accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb diets. There is so much seafood on cruises, you’re all but guaranteed to enjoy the benefits of seafood’s omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to improve brain function and have anti-aging properties. Snacking throughout the day is also an option as many ships will have snack bars with healthy options, like fruits and vegetables, giving you extra nutrients between meals.