Sailing offers freedom, luxury, and breathtaking views but what about your fitness routine? Many yacht owners and charter guests wonder if it’s realistic to work out at sea. The truth is, having a gym on a yacht is not only possible but increasingly popular.
Sailing and Keeping Your Gains – Is It Even Possible?
For fitness enthusiasts, one of the biggest concerns when traveling is staying consistent with workouts. But what if your travels take you to the open sea? The good news: it’s absolutely possible to bring your fitness routine aboard. More and more yacht owners are exploring ways to install gym equipment so they can stay fit while enjoying life on the water.
Read also: How does Below Deck compare to “real” charters? Our expert’s take
Why the Demand for Yacht Gyms Is Growing
Health and wellness have become a top priority, even for those who spend weeks cruising. Owners and charter guests don’t want to compromise on their training goals, and yacht gyms are becoming a standard feature on many vessels.
Another reason fitness matters onboard: life at sea can feel repetitive. Depending on the size of the yacht, daily movement often means walking in circles on deck, and unless you’re stopping for frequent shore excursions, it’s easy to feel confined. Having the option to exercise not only supports physical health but also provides a refreshing break from the routine.
Things to Consider Before Installing Gym Equipment on Your Yacht
Before you start loading up your yacht with weights and machines, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Space requirements: No matter the size of your yacht, gym equipment takes up room. You’ll need to plan carefully.
- Stability and safety: A boat moves with the waves. Equipment must be secured to prevent accidents.
- Floor protection: Yacht floors are delicate. Dropping heavy objects like dumbbells or barbells can cause costly damage, so adding shock-absorbing flooring is a must.
- Temperature control: Yachts can get hot. Your gym may need proper AC or you can set up outdoors for better airflow.
Read also: The 10 Biggest Catamarans For Charter Worldwide
Personalized Fitness Experiences Arranged by Your Broker
Beyond the equipment you bring onboard, staying active at sea can also mean enjoying personalized wellness experiences. Your yacht broker or crew can arrange private training sessions in many ports of call, from yoga classes on a secluded beach to Pilates in a luxury studio.
For the ultimate convenience, you can even invite certified fitness instructors, yoga teachers, or personal trainers to join you directly on board. This tailored approach not only keeps your workouts engaging but also elevates your yachting experience into a true wellness journey.
Best Places to Exercise and Install a Gym on a Yacht
- The deck: A versatile open-air space perfect for portable equipment, yoga mats, or resistance bands. It also offers fresh air and stunning views.
- A converted cabin: The best solution for those who want a fully equipped indoor gym with machines and weights.
The Best Gym Equipment for a Yacht
Some fitness equipment is perfectly suited for life at sea. Our top picks include:
- Multi-purpose machines or rowing machines: Ideal if you have a dedicated cabin.
- Treadmills, exercise bikes, or walking pads: Compact and relatively lightweight for onboard use.
- Dumbbells (1–25kg): Versatile for strength training and easy to store on most yachts.
- Resistance bands: Ultra-portable, space-saving, and perfect for a full-body workout.
- Yoga mats: A must-have item that works both indoors and outdoors.
Equipment That Is Hard (or Impossible) to Use on a Yacht
Not all fitness gear is yacht-friendly. Avoid:
- Heavy free weight setups: Olympic lifting, deadlifts, or anything requiring large plates can be dangerous unless secured and placed on reinforced flooring.
- Full squat racks with heavy loads: These are usually too bulky, too heavy, and unsuitable for most yachts under 50m.
Final Recommendations Based on Yacht Size
- Under 30m (100ft): Stick with portable gear like dumbbells, bands, yoga mats, and cardio machines on deck.
- 30–50m (100–180ft): You can consider a small dedicated gym with lightweight machines and more versatile options.
- Superyachts (50m+): Almost anything is possible—except equipment that risks damaging the floor or adds excessive weight.
Don’t Forget: The Sea Itself Is a Gym
Even with limited space onboard, the ocean offers natural ways to stay fit. Swimming, paddleboarding, and water sports can keep you active while you enjoy your yacht lifestyle. And when you’re spending long stretches at sea without stopping at a port, having a dedicated workout routine makes the journey more enjoyable, breaking the monotony and boosting both body and mind.
