Pickleball, the rapidly expanding paddle sport that combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong has made its debut on cruise lines. And is here to stay for quite some time. Because of pickleball's ability to be played with minimal impact, on smaller courts, and socially, as you cruise through the oceans you will have a great way to keep active! As the sport grows in popularity (with an estimated 40 million U.S. players by the end of 2023) cruise lines are investing in pickleball by building dedicated pickleball courts, offering pickleball clinics, and providing pickleball-themed sailings. Whether you are an experienced player or a novice, playing pickleball at sea is a combination of competition, scenery, and relaxation, whether you are playing under the stars or watching dolphins swim while chasing a pickleball.
This guide explores everything you need to know about pickleball on cruise ships, from how it works at sea to the best lines and tips. Drawing from recent industry trends, passenger reviews, and line-specific offerings, we'll help you serve up the perfect paddle-packed cruise.
What Is Pickleball, and Why Is It Taking Over Cruises?
Pickleball originated in 1965 as a family activity using a wiffle ball and ping-pong paddles on a badminton?court on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Today, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America - new?courts are appearing at an explosive rate everywhere - and cruise ships are no exception. Played with solid wooden paddles with a perforated plastic ball over a net that is 34 inches in height on a court which is 20 feet by 44 feet, pickleball has three basic rules: all serves must be made underhanded, there can be no volleying within 7 feet from the net (which is called the kitchen), and points are only scored by the serving team.
Because of its wide-ranging appeal, low physical requirements (appropriate for everyone), small-space requirements (can be played on a typical cruise ship deck), and social component (events such as pickleball mixers and tournaments), pickleball has become a very popular activity on cruise lines. It is especially popular on sea days when the pool is crowded because you can burn calories, meet new people, and enjoy the ocean view while playing pickleball. The cruise line industry has seen anywhere from 20 to 30% increases in participation in pickleball since 2024 due to the popularity of wellness trends after the pandemic and the creation of organized events. Most cruise lines provide equipment free of charge, although you may want to consider bringing your own paddle so you are comfortable using it.
How Pickleball Works on Cruise Ships
Typically located on either open sports decks for wind-tolerant play (outdoor) or indoor venues (climate controlled/for rain/heat). Sessions range from casual drop-ins to structured clinics with professionals. Expect usually anything from 30-60 minute games, most commonly doubles, for social pastime. How much? Usually no charge, but some lines will have premium lessons (between $20 and $50 per hour*) or rental of equipment (between $5 and $10*).
Types of Court: There is indoor (e.g., Royal Caribbean's Quantum-class indoor courts with sea views) and Multi-Purpose (e.g. Indoor Tennis/Courts with Sea View). New Updates: Four pickleball courts are on Private Island Half Moon Cay/Holland America (open since December 2024).
Scheduling: Morning clinics (9 AM - 11 AM), afternoon Open Play (2 PM - 4 PM), evening tournaments (7 PM - 9 PM). Schedules are available on App (Example: CruiseMapper) or Cruise Lines apps (e.g. HAL's Navigator).
Skill Levels: There are many options ranging from beginner games to competitive rallies. Many cruise lines host "Pickleball at Sea" events with professionals like those from Pickleball At Sea Group Cruises.
Pro tip: Pack non-marking court shoes and a paddle. Ships provide balls, but personal gear ensures better grip on your sport.
Best Cruise Lines for Pickleball
Over 20 lines offer pickleball, but these stand out for courts, programs, and dedicated sailings. Based on latest fleet updates and reviews, here's a comparison:
| Cruise Line | Number of Ships with Courts | Court Type & Locations | Special Features | 2025 Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holland America | All 11 ships + Half Moon Cay | Outdoor on top decks; 4 new courts on private island | Free clinics, gear rental; "Pickleball at Sea" partnerships | New Half Moon Cay courts (Dec 2024); Alaska sailings with pro-led tournaments |
| Royal Caribbean | 26 ships (Quantum-class indoor) | Indoor on Quantum/Oasis; outdoor on others | Free play, tournament; Pickleball in Paradise group sailings | Liberty of the Seas Nov 3-7 Bahamas cruise with instruction |
| Celebrity Cruises | 8 Edge-class ships | Open-air on upper decks | Complimentary courts with ocean views; mixers | Edge-class focus on wellness-integrated play |
| Princess Cruises | 10+ ships | Multi-use sports courts | Lessons, tournaments; Caribbean routes | New 2025 Caribbean sailings with dedicated hours |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 15 ships | Outdoor on sports decks | Free play; themed cruises | Free at Sea bundles include gear; 2025 Bahamas focus |
In terms of dedicated programming, Holland America has an advantage. All of its ships have basketball courts, and they’re also incorporating Half Moon Cay as a way to enhance their private island experiences. The Royal Caribbean cruise line, however, has the best indoor activities offered on board all four of their Quantum-class ships (i.e., Quantum of the Seas).
Holland America Pickleball Cruises
Holland America has become a major player in the world of pickleball by having courts on the upper decks of every ship to provide breathtaking views of the ocean. As part of their "Pickleball at Sea" program, Holland America offers complimentary clinics, tournaments, and rentals so anyone can participate regardless of skill level. Key features include:
Court access: Outdoors (weather permitting) or indoors on selected ships.
Programming: Professional instruction (Nieuw Statendam), social mixers, and themed cruises. For example, passengers sailing to Alaska on the Koningsdam will have the opportunity to participate in daily tournaments with prizes.
Playing on a private island: Holland America's new four-court complex at Half Moon Cay (available December 2024) will feature covered pavilions and breezes from the ocean. Access will be limited to HAL guests.
Reason to cruise with HAL: Less impact on older cruises and integrated into wellness (yoga/pickleball). Rates starting at $800 per person* for 7 nights of sailing/playing pickleball included in the fare.
You can also reserve your Holland America pickleball cruises in Alaska or the Caribbean on the summer sailings of the Nieuw Amsterdam when the courts are available for play.
Other Cruises with Pickleball
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean offer 26 ships featuring pickleball courts, with Quantum-class vessels having indoors for any weather conditions. Liberty of the Seas will be sailing to the Bahamas, with professional lessons available through Pickleball at Sea Group. Expected cost per passenger will range from $600-$1,000*, making this cruise an excellent option for families.
Celebrity
Celebrity allow you to play pickleball on open-air courts aboard their Edge-class vessels, such as Ascent. There are wellness-connected itinerary options in the Caribbean, with costs between $800-$1,500* for adults.
Princess
Princess have 10+ ships with multi-use outdoor/indoor courts and programming throughout the Mediterranean/Caribbean, including lessons. Costs range $700-$1,200 per person*, and the program is inclusive of all ages.
Norwegian
Norwegian also features outdoor courts on 15 vessels. If you book their Free at Sea program, you will receive pickleball gear. Popular Bahamas cruises are planned for this year. Pricing will be $500-$900 per person*
Specialized pickleball cruises like Pickleball in Paradise on Royal Caribbean (year-round) offer private court time and clinics for $1,000-2,000/person*.
Tips for Playing Pickleball on Your Cruise
- Key Items: Pack a paddle ($50 to $150*), non-marking shoes and a visor; lines have balls and nets.
- Timing: Sea days are the busiest days; clinics can be booked using the online app; early morning means cooler temperatures.
- Etiquette: Must rotate gas and keep score out loud; no overhead smashes unless you are not near the pool.
- Health Benefits: 30 minutes of playing for approximately 300 to 500 calories; and combine with Yoga for your overall well-being.
- Trends: More Tournaments (HAL's Half Moon Cay Events); Eco-Courts made from recycled materials.
FAQs on Playing Pickleball on Cruises
1. Which cruise lines offer pickleball?
Holland America (all ships & Half Moon Cay), Royal Caribbean (26 ships), Celebrity (Edge-Class), Princess (10+ Ships), and Norwegian (15 Ships).
2. How do you play pickleball on a cruise?
The sports deck has courts available for free play. Cost is between $20-$50* for clinics & tournaments. Reserve via the respective cruise app and bring a paddle.
3. What is the best pickleball cruise today?
Holland America Line's Alaska cruise with additional pickleball courts on Half Moon Cay, Royal Caribbean's The Liberty of the Seas cruise from Cape Canaveral (November Bahamas Group), and Celebrity Edge-Class sailing in the Caribbean are all great choices for pickleball cruises.
4. Is there an extra charge for pickleball on cruises?
Generally no—pickleball courts and equipment are typically free. Clinics and tournaments usually cost between $20-$50*.
5. Are there pickleball courts on Holland America?
All Holland America ships have pickleball courts after the addition of a court in Half Moon Cay. Complimentary clinics and tournaments are available for sailings to Alaska and Europe.
