Golf on a Cruise Ship

Golf on A Cruise

Combine your passion for cruising and golfing. Meet and play with other golfers both on the ship and in ports of call.  A Travel Agent that specializes in Golf Cruises can help you choose the right cruise to fit your desires.  They can help find the cruise that has specific golf courses included in the itinerary, level of play offered, and the overall amenities and services provided on the ship.  Also additional costs such as green fees.   
 

 Tips For Golfing On A Cruise Ship

Golf is a sport enjoyed by many across the world, spending time in the great outdoors with friends as you challenge yourself with bunkers, ponds and putting.  Being on a cruise doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your tee time – in fact, most cruises offer their own twist on golf to ensure you can practice your skills.  

Golf Simulators:

For the more serious golfers, a simulator provides an excellent way to practice your shots while at sea. The simulators can be quite advanced, perfect for keeping your drives in check while cruising.

Mini-Golf

 
Most cruise ships offer mini golf courses for the fun factor – who doesn’t love a challenging round amongst tricky windmills and funky obstacles? Mini golf courses are typically nine-holes and ideal for any age to enjoy.
 

Do I Need to Pack My Clubs?

 

 
If you opt to rent equipment, it’s wise to check this is available with the golf course prior to visiting. It’s also worth noting that if you’re planning a fly-cruise, your golf clubs will come with a maximum weight and charges incurred should you go over. Some airlines even include your clubs in your checked baggage allowance, so you’re even more restricted.
 
The golf club shipping experts at Ship Sticks suggest you remove the heads where possible and use plenty of bubble wrap taped around the remaining heads before enclosing your bag and clubs in a hard or soft outer case or box to prevent damage.  As with other luggage have your contact information both inside and outside the container.
 
The other advice is to avoid schlepping your clubs at all by shipping them directly to your cruise ship.  There are multiple options for doing that.  Your travel agent can help with this.
 

Golf Excursions

 

 

 Cruise lines’ golf themed sailings are for travelers who want serious golf time on serious courses – not just hit a few balls in scenic spots.  These golf-intensive voyages can bring you to some of the best courses in the world, while you enjoy the benefit of cruising on some of the world’s premier cruise lines.  Theme cruise activities often include exclusive events for golfers on board, ranging from cocktail parties to informal chats with pros.  Fees for golf theme are on a per-person basis, so nongolfing travel partners pay only the standard price for the cruise.  And of course there are plenty of of nongolf excursions and activities available so “golf widows” don’t feel bored or alone.

With the sheer amount of golf courses around the world, even if you are on a golf themed cruise, it’s likely your cruise will venture close to a golf course or two on your sailing. Popular ports of call with golf courses nearby include:

  • Barcelona – The Real Club de Golf El Prat offers 45 holes split into four courses, with stunning Spanish landscapes to accompany you. Situated only 30 minutes drive from the port, and ranked in the European Top 100 courses, it’s certainly worth a visit for golf enthusiasts.
  • Bermuda – Bermuda’s Turtle Hill golf club is a huge hit with members, featuring 18 par-3 holes overlooking stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also winner of Golf Digest’s ‘Best Places to Play Golf’, so you’ll definitely find your sweet spot visiting here!
  • Edinburgh – Cruises which dock in Leith are close to the Silverknowes Golf Course, offer 6,281 yards of golf in the home country of the sport.
  • Monaco – Already with the Grand Prix under its belt, Monaco also offers superb golf at the Monte Carlo Golf Club, just 30 minutes from the port. 3,000 feet above sea level and with an 18-hole golf course initially designed in 1911, it’s a winning choice for playing here.

Many cruise lines offer their own shore excursions to golf-related activities. Norwegian, Royal  feature many excursions to golf courses across North America, the Caribbean and Mexico.

Conclusion

Overall golf cruises provide a unique opportunity to combine love for golf with the relaxation and luxury of a cruise vacation.  It is a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite sport while exploring different destinations.

Leave a Reply