A golf cruise combines the relaxation of a cruise holiday with rounds at courses in the ports you visit. Some cruise lines offer dedicated golf programmes with arranged tee times, transfers and onboard coaching; on other cruises, you arrange golf yourself through shore excursions or directly with local courses. Here's what to expect, and how to make the most of golf at sea.
How golf cruises work
Arranged golf excursions
Many cruise lines offer golf shore excursions, which typically include:
- A tee time at a local course.
- Transfers between the port and the course.
- Green fees, carts and sometimes club hire.
- A guaranteed return to the ship in time, if booked through the cruise line.
Independent golf
You can also book tee times directly with courses near the port, which may be cheaper. Allow plenty of time, and remember that the ship will not wait if you're late. Read how to book tee times.
Specialist golf cruises
Some voyages are dedicated to golf, with groups of golfers, professional coaches on board, clinics and competitions across several ports.
Golf on board
Depending on the ship, you may find:
- Golf simulators for virtual rounds. Read home golf simulator guide.
- Practice nets and hitting areas.
- Putting greens and mini golf.
- Golf clinics and lessons.
Choosing an itinerary
- Ports near good courses: check how far courses are from the cruise terminal.
- Long port stays: a round of golf plus transfers needs most of a day.
- Regions with plenty of golf: the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the British Isles, Northern Europe, Hawaii and Australia and New Zealand are popular.
Read golf in Mexico and the Caribbean and golf in Hawaii.
Taking clubs on a cruise
- Check the cruise line's policy: many allow clubs, sometimes stored centrally.
- Airline rules apply if you're flying to the ship. Read travelling with golf clubs.
- Hiring clubs at courses is often simpler, especially on cruises with few golf stops.
Costs
- Golf excursions booked through cruise lines can be expensive, but include transfers and guaranteed return.
- Independent bookings can be cheaper but carry more risk.
- Budget for green fees, transfers, club hire, carts and tips.
Practical tips
- Bring golf shoes, a glove and balls, even if hiring clubs.
- Pack a light bag or carry-bag for port days.
- Sun protection: read sun protection for golfers.
- Check dress codes at each course. Read what to wear on the golf course.
- Insurance: read golf travel insurance.
Who are golf cruises for?
They suit golfers who want a relaxed holiday with a few rounds, couples where one partner plays more than the other, and groups who like variety. Read golf trips with non-golfers and golf for couples.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play golf on a cruise?
Yes, at courses during port stops, and often on simulators or practice areas on board.
Should I take my own clubs on a cruise?
If you plan several rounds, perhaps. Otherwise, hiring clubs at each course is usually simpler.
Are golf shore excursions worth it?
They cost more, but include transfers and a guaranteed return to the ship.
Which cruise destinations are best for golf?
The Caribbean, Mediterranean, British Isles and Hawaii have plenty of courses near ports.
The bottom line
A golf cruise lets you play courses in several destinations while enjoying the comfort of a cruise. Choose an itinerary with long port stops near good courses, book golf excursions or tee times carefully, and always allow time to get back to the ship. For more trip planning, read how to plan a golf trip.