On the deck of Queen Victoria post refit 2017, Asset Bank ID: 202

On board with Cunard

Days on deck

From wildlife spotting and stargazing to deck games and swimming, when it comes to the great outdoors, a Cunard voyage offers countless ways to stay active and connect with nature on board.

3 min 21 Feb 2022

Cunard

Author

Whether you’re sailing in the tropical climes of the Caribbean or among Alaska’s tidewater glaciers, being outside on your ship means never having to miss a glimpse of the ocean, those once-in-a-lifetime nature encounters, or the spectacular scenery ashore.

With ample space on deck, those longing for quiet relaxation can lounge by the pool, perhaps with a cool glass of champagne, while anyone looking for a little more action can find some friendly competition among the deck games on offer.

Outdoors on board

Life outdoors on your Cunard ship is something to savour and basking in the fresh sea air is only a small part of the story. Sports and deck games, such as golf, croquet, bowls, shuffleboard, deck quoits, or paddle tennis, offer a chance to learn something new or demonstrate your skills.

Another thrilling activity is wildlife spotting. It’s often at the most unexpected moment you’ll spot an inquisitive pod of dolphins surface beside your ship, or a graceful eagle soaring overhead.

On the other hand, guests who choose a Cunard voyage for the unique sense of occasion and indulgence will find many opportunities to experience just this. Peppered throughout the open spaces on deck you’ll find inviting bars, sparkling pools, and plenty of areas in which to lounge in the sunshine.

When you’re not lost in the world of a novel or taking a short siesta, you’ll be met with unplanned special moments that can truly make your voyage. Whether it’s watching the sun rise or gazing at the stars above, these are the moments that will imprint on your memory long after you return home.

Highlight: deck shuffleboard

When it comes to deck games, a firm favourite among our guests is shuffleboard, a traditional game that has long been played on ocean liners. Said to have originated in the taverns of England in the sixteenth century, shuffleboard sits somewhere between curling and backgammon. It can be played at a table, but deck shuffleboard takes place on a larger scale, with a court measuring six feet wide by 39 feet long. Here are more shuffleboard facts to get you in the mood for a game.

Deck dimensions - Shuffleboard is often played at a table, but deck shuffleboard takes place on a larger scale, with a court measuring six feet wide by 39 feet long.

Play for points - Players propel their puck across the court onto the scoring area at the opposite end. The winning player (or team) is the one that reaches 75 points first, or whoever has the most points in the 10th round.

Shuffle on board - You can find shuffleboard on all Cunard ships, and a friendly contest is a superb way of befriending your fellow guests, or an ideal activity for a larger group travelling together.