Cruises might not be the first thing that come to mind when you think about gamer-friendly holidays. After all, you picture ships, sunshine, and swimming pools – not Wi-Fi speeds, arcades, and esports. But the truth is, modern cruise ships have become floating entertainment hubs, and they’re surprisingly well-equipped for travellers who don’t want to leave their love of games behind.
Staying connected at sea
One of the big questions gamers ask when it comes to travel is: “What’s the Wi-Fi like?” Internet at sea used to be expensive and patchy, but ships have really improved their tech in recent years. Many now use satellite connections that give you fast enough speeds to check in on your favourite games, chat with friends back home, and keep up with the latest gaming news.
It’s not going to rival fibre broadband, but for casual multiplayer, mobile games, and keeping your library updated, it’s more than enough. Perfect if you want to keep up with your dailies in your favourite RPG or log into your Switch Online account while chilling on deck.
Onboard arcades and gaming zones
A lot of cruise ships also come with their own gaming spaces. We’re not just talking about a couple of old machines tucked away in a corner – though there’s plenty of retro fun to be had too. Many modern ships have full-on arcades, VR experiences, and even esports lounges where you can play competitively.
For gamers travelling with family, this is a great way to share your hobby. You can introduce younger players to retro cabinets, or let teens enjoy time with friends in supervised gaming zones. It’s a nice mix of nostalgia and modern tech, and it makes downtime on the ship even more fun.
Travel-friendly tech to pack
Of course, most gamers like to bring a bit of tech with them. Handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or even your mobile loaded with indie titles are ideal for sea days when you just want to relax in your cabin or sit by the pool. Noise-cancelling headphones are also a must – they’ll make a huge difference if you want to focus on a game in a busy environment.
Don’t forget portable chargers too. With long days exploring ports, it’s handy to keep your devices topped up so you can snap photos, check maps, and sneak in some gaming time on the go.
More than just gaming
Even if you’re mainly into games, it’s worth remembering that cruise ships are packed with entertainment beyond screens. Think cinemas, live shows, themed restaurants, and endless chances to explore new destinations. For gamers who usually travel for conventions or expos, a cruise can feel like the best of both worlds: a tech-friendly base and a constantly changing set of backdrops to enjoy.
Where to find your perfect ship
If the idea of mixing gaming with travel sounds appealing, it’s worth checking out the latest cruise deals. From short European trips to longer adventures, there’s a lot of choice, and Odysia makes it easy to see what’s available. Some ships are better suited to tech lovers than others, so having a browse is a good way to match your travel style with the right cruise.
Final thoughts
Cruises might not have been designed with gamers in mind originally, but the way ships have adapted means they’re now a great option if you don’t want to put down the controller while on holiday. With better Wi-Fi, arcades, and plenty of travel-friendly tech options, you can keep gaming while also exploring amazing destinations.
So whether you’re looking to grind levels on your Switch, try out VR on board, or just enjoy a mix of gaming and travel, a cruise holiday could be a lot more gamer-friendly than you’d expect.
