By Cherie DeLory

Activities Ahoy on Holland America’s msVolendam while cruising the waters off the coast of New Zealand and Australia.

The food, yes, it’s very good. There’s lots of it, and on the elegant, spacious lido deck you’ll be greeted by cheerful dining staff, some who sing, and some who even remember your name. What’s not to like? If you’re a wink like me, you’ll auto pilot to the dessert section before checking out the main course options. Merely the thought of the triple crème brulee or Grand Marnier chocolate Volcano cake has me contemplating my next cruise.

Cruises are addictive. There are several ship designs, cruise themes and ports of call to consider, and if you’ve been on one ship, you certainly haven’t been on them all.

One thing is for certain, you’ll never be bored. Avid cruise goers know that there is more to a cruise than gazing out at the deep blue sea, while travelling at speeds of 23 knots. It’s your time to pamper, relax, eat well, exercise, sightsee, be educated, be entertained, and meet new people. You’ll look forward to your sea days because it gives you an opportunity to enjoy the wondrous scenery, sink into a good book, or participate in the enticing array of on-board activities. Put it this way, anything you can do on the ground, you can pretty much do on a ship, within reason. Prepare to be overwhelmed!

Just because you’re in the middle of the ocean there’s no excuse not to be physically active. If working out in the gym or dipping into the pool is not your style, why not breathe in the fresh, sea air and walk some laps around the ship’s deck. On the ms Volendam, 3.5 laps is one mile. Challenge yourself to do eleven laps by participating in the On Deck for the Cure to raise money for cancer research. There’s also ping pong, badminton, volleyball, golf and basketball to keep you limber. Fitness junkies need not worry. There’s a workout room with all the amenities, including regular aerobics, spinning, yoga and pilates classes. Need a personal trainer to help you get motivated? No problem.

If exercising your brain muscles is in order, try the daily Mega Trivia Challenge, hosted by the cruise director. It’s a great way to meet new people, as you organize into teams of 4 to 5 persons.

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