10 Popular Cruise Ships With Golf Course

Many are attracted to cruise ships due to the luxurious experience, mindblowing seascapes and endless exploration options at sea. Though conventionally cruise ships are associated with poolside lounging, entertaining evenings, musical nights, shopping, and a plethora of dining options, modern cruise ships have evolved a lot and include much more to cater to the needs and growing demands of a wide and diverse audience that always seeks something new.

The quest for this has led to the introduction of golf courses on cruise ships. In the late 1900s, when the cruise industry was in its infancy, passengers onboard leisure vessels hit golf balls with no pin in sight, just for the fun of it. However, it was in 1990 that the International Maritime Organisation barred the dumping of plastic waste into oceans and seas, including the golf balls.

Cruise Lines realized they could lose tourists to land-based hotels and resorts since cruises did not offer a diverse vacationing experience at that time, and hence, many in the industry sought to look for ways to solve this issue.

Focusing specifically on golf, a vital development led to the intertwining of cruising and golfing. A San Diego-based company called Full Sing Gulf sold its first-ever golf simulator to Princess Cruises in 1997. This computerized simulator enabled people to experience the joys of golfing while being surrounded by water and scenic views of the beautiful blue ocean.

In the present time, cruise lines have actually incorporated stops at real and world-famous golf courses on land as part of itineraries that incorporate a halt at a different golf course during the entire cruise trip.

Let us embark on an insightful journey to explore the top cruise ships with golf courses that are apt for masters of the sport and novices alike.

1. Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Oasis of the Sea is a 360 m long and 47 m wide cruise ship and the first ship of her class. She has 18 decks and can accommodate a maximum of 6699 people.

She is the most loved ship of her class, thanks to the amenities and fun-filled experiences it offers for people of all ages and interests. The Pool and Sports Zone is located on decks 15 and 16 and has 4 big pools and several whirlpools. The Beach Pool has salt water and features a sloping sandy shore leading to it.

The ship also has a Mini Golf Course, which is accessible without any prior reservations and is included in the fare.

The 9-hole golf course is situated on Deck 15 of the Oasis of the Sea, close to the recreation area and the sports court. It offers stunning views. The green grass is in good shape, while the holes have tiny bumps and obstacles around them. Statues of golfers and animals are kept throughout the golf course.

Putters are usual for a golf course of this size, and the golf balls were lighter, likely because nobody wants golfers to take a full swing with a heavy ball on a cruise ship. The cups were made of metal and decreased the chances of a ball bouncing out. However, there were no scorecards or any way to know what par was for each hole.

This is a simple and relaxing course ideal for those who want to play golf for leisure and fun while enjoying the views.

2. Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Cruise Line

This breakaway plus-class cruise vessel was the first ship of the class to be delivered. She was constructed with bigger dimensions and gross tonnage than her sister ships, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway.

When it was constructed, it had the biggest water park among all the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ships, which made it an attraction.

The Norwegian Escape has a 9-hole, Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-inspired rooftop 9 miniature golf course on Deck 18. It is not included in the fare, and those wanting to enjoy the golf course have to pay an additional fee for the same.

Inspired by the hit animated series that aired on TV, it is a unique miniature golf course that has people saying ‘turtle power’ when they sink a hole in one while enjoying the company of characters like Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo and Donatello.

Norwegian Escape offers a famous cartoon channel, Nickelodeon branded entertainment, such as an opportunity for kids to meet and play with their favourite cartoon characters like Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and others, along with participating in many fun contests and interactive experiences. This is why Norwegian Escape has become a preferred choice for families having kids.

Apart from the Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy also feature golf courses.

3. Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Silhouette features an outdoor park-like area perfect for relaxing. Called the Lawn Club, it spans over 2000 m2 and is lined with living grass. It is used for trivia games, sunbathing, and also hosting live concerts on the ship.

When the ship was upgraded in 2020, the Law Club was equipped with 8 Alcoves and an outdoor movie screen, making it an even more happening place. The Alcoves are private cabanas that can be rented and can accommodate 4 guests each.

The Club room remains open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and gives equipment for all the lawn games, including the 3-hole Mini Golf Course, Lawn Bowling, Croquet and 2 Bocce courts.

Adjacent to this is the Lawn Club Shop that sells Brand Golf equipment and accessories and merchandise of the Celebrity Cruises.

4. MSC Divina, MSC Cruises

MSC Divina is the most advanced among the 3 Fantasia Class Ships of MSC Cruise Line. Major upgrades include its redesigned interiors, 100 additional cabins and new and exciting entertainment options like the Infinity Pool. Decks and restaurants have been revamped to provide more comfort and luxury to every guest.

There are 14 passenger decks, all named after ancient Greek Gods. MSC Divina can accommodate 4363 passengers in its 1751 staterooms, most of which have an ocean view and a veranda. It also has 4 different types of suites.

Public spaces on MSC Divina cover 30,000 sq m and include 7 restaurants, 20 bars and lounges, 4 swimming pools, a gymnasium and a bowling alley. The MSC Aurea Spa, which is located on deck 14, provides 21 types of massages and 8 kinds of facials.

The main entertainment venue on the ships is the Pantheon Theatre, which can accommodate 1600 guests. The MSC Sports Arena offers basketball, tennis and volleyball courts along with a 235 m jogging track. There is also a smurf-themed play area on deck 15 for children.

The mini-golf course is easily accessible and is included in the cost. One can get together with friends and family to see who becomes the king or queen of golf. Apart from MSC Divina, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, Sinfonia, Musica, Orchestra, and Poesia have golf courses.

5. Carnival Vista, Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Vista was built in the Fincantieri Shipyard of Monfalcone and was delivered in 2016. It has 15 decks and a capacity for 3936 passengers and 1450 crew members. The ship is known for its Cuban-themed staterooms and Family Harbor Staterooms. It has a Havana Bar and pool, a seafood shack and the first IMAX at sea.

The grand Carnival Vista is loaded with tons of family-friendly activities and innovative and delightful entertainment options. For adventure lovers, there is the SportSqaure with the Skyride, where one can zip around a bike course above the deck. There is a basketball court, a ropes course, a mini-bowling area, and also a mini golf course.

The miniature golf course is found on almost all Carnival Ships except the Carnival Luminosa. The golf course on Carnival Vista lies on Deck 12, is open to passengers of all ages, and has 9 holes. It is advised to wear athletic gear and sneakers on the course.

6. Regal Princess, Princess Cruises

This Royal class cruise ship of Princess Cruises is equipped with world-class facilities, including several pools, a theatre, an atrium, a lounge and entertainment areas. Regal Princess is 330 m long and 38.27 m broad and has 19 decks.

It has 1780 cabins for passengers and 751 cabins for the crew members. Most passenger cabins have a balcony to enjoy the beautiful ocean views. The ship can carry a maximum of 5600 people.

The ship’s putting green is situated at the very top of the cruise ship on the Sky Deck, which overlooks the Sports Court. Apart from putting, croquet and bocce ball also takes place here. The Greens leading to the Sports Court on Deck 18 are the vessel’s indoor golf driving range.

One can also play football, basketball and volleyball in the sports court. A separate area for table tennis and a simulator laser shooting range are also here. Near the sports court is a 2 lane outdoor jogging track that goes around the Sports Deck.

7. Queen Mary 2, Cunard Cruise Line

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is a remarkable cruise ship known for its style and elegance. It offers many dining options, gala evenings, and Cunard’s signature afternoon tea, apart from the plethora of entertainment options offered onboard.

The ship has two main pools on Decks 8 and 12. Minnows Pool and Splash Pool are mainly for families on deck 6, and there is another Splash Pool on deck 13.

For lovers of golf, Queen Mary 2 has golf simulators with 51 golf courses to pick from.

The Fairways is on deck 12, and the Sports Centre is on deck 13. The latter has a basketball court and a tennis court. Also, nautical games such as shuffleboard and deck quoits are also available here. One can challenge friends or family in a game or participate in any tournaments advertised in the Daily Programme.

8. Oceania Marina

This 66,000-tonne cruise ship is known for its appealing proportions, stylish, luxurious furnishings and excellent cuisine. It is laden with dark wood, granite, fine carpets, and soft leather, which give a sense of comfort and grandeur. If it weren’t at sea, a passenger would feel they were in a classy country club.

It has many attractive art pieces made by renowned artists. Guests are given a tour of these remarkable works of art. Oceania Marina has 625 cabins, and most have their teak-decked veranda.

Entertainment options for adults are plenty. One can play mini golf on Deck 16, which has golf cages and a paddle tennis court. There is also a ping-pong table and bridge games on Deck 12.

One can also go to ballroom dance classes, martini tastings, boutique presentations, poker tournaments and so on.

9. Azamara Journey, Azamara Club Cruises

This cruise ship has been described as a luxury boutique hotel at sea. This medium-sized cruise ship is intimate and perfect for a relaxing vacation or getaway. It has everything for modern voyagers.

This ship has a golf driving net and offers several exciting activities along with a range of entertainment options. Azamara offers a golf cruise program in collaboration with PerryGolf, an operator of international golf travel.

Azmara’s golf cruises halt at more than 25 nations every year, where guests can play on over 80 courses, including 20 of the top 100 in the world. The PerryGolf staff takes care of all arrangements so guests can enjoy the fame and socialise with like-minded people who are also passionate about golf. Green and cart fees, gratuities, on-course lunch and drinks are included.

For the non-golfing passengers, Azamara ensures that its late evening entertainments and overnight halts at the port are exciting, and every person onboard is catered to throughout the various shore excursions organised by the cruise line.

Conclusion

Golf courses on cruise ships have become a must addition nowadays, and cruise ship operators are looking to enrich the experience of their guests in multiple ways. As the cruise industry continues to grow in the coming years, we can expect more additions that will appeal to consumers of all age groups.

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About Author

Zahra is an alumna of Miranda House, University of Delhi. She is an avid writer, possessing immaculate research and editing skills. Author of several academic papers, she has also worked as a freelance writer, producing many technical, creative and marketing pieces. A true aesthete at heart, she loves books a little more than anything else.

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