Combining The Adrenaline Of The Green With Views Of The Sea
Golf Cruises
Combining the Adrenaline of the Green with the Views of the Ocean
If you’ve only got limited time off work to take a vacation this year, you may find yourself caught between following your passion for sport and your passion for travel, but why not combine the two? Golf cruises are becoming hugely popular, and they are a great way to fuse some of the best golf courses in the world with a chance to visit some amazing destinations.
South Africa as an Up-and-Coming Golf Cruise Destination
Looking at South Africa as a potential destination for the introduction of more golf cruises operated by world famous cruise lines, there are two distinct reasons why the country is considered to be a top choice for this alternative vacation method – the up-and-coming cruise industry, and the varied and challenging courses on shore.
Firstly, while South Africa may not be as well known for being a top cruise destination as the likes of the Caribbean and Mediterranean, for example, cruise tourism in South Africa has exploded in recent years. In fact, increasing numbers of cruise ships visiting South African ports is thought to have contributed to the the 8.6 percent increase in tourist arrivals in the 3 months between January and March 2013. Secondly, South Africa is considered one of the best destinations in the world for practicing your swing. Hosting high profile events such as the Limpopo Senior Open, Eastern Province Open, and the Boland Open, the courses here are both exciting and challenging.
The exhilarating opportunities provide excellent motivation for golf lovers to visit the country, and what better way than on a golf cruise. Boasting ‘Private and group tuition by PGA golf professionals’, according to Iglu Cruise, these cruises are one of the best ways to get some practice in before hitting the greens.
Onboard Golfing – What Can You Expect?
Don’t make the mistake in thinking golf facilities onboard cruise ships will be anything less than top class. Ranging from fun miniature golf cruises for the whole family to realistic golf simulators allowing passengers to try their hand at some of the most complex courses in the world from the comfort of their luxury cruise ship, there are certainly more than enough options to keep you busy during your time at sea.
Miniature Golf
If you’re looking to take a break from ‘serious’ putting and just relax and have a little fun instead, miniature golf is perfect. In fact, it’s a great way to combine your vacation with your passion, and involve the little ones in your hobby. To find the best ship, opt for a family-friendly ship that’s designed for families. Royal Caribbean boast an excellent range of family-friendly ships. Their Oasis, Freedom, Voyager, Radiance, and Vision Class ships all include a miniature golf course onboard.
Golf Nets
Golf nets allow for some simply putting practice with spectacular views. These basic yet effective nets are a great way to enhance your skill before docking in South Africa. Fred Olsen are known for their wonderful sports and relaxation facilities, which include golf nets on Balmoral, Braemar, and Boudicca.
Golf Simulators
These are the most advanced golf options onboard cruise ships, and really have to be seen to be believed. Whether you’re looking for a bit of practice or for a full-on challenge, golf simulators are ideal. Programmed with many real life courses from around the world, it feels as if you’re really standing on some of the most famous golfing greens. P&O include golf simulators on Aurora, and it is expected that the latest addition to the fleet, Britannia, will also include this much sought after facility.
Visiting Cape Town? Golf Opportunities on Shore
Cape Town is by far one of the most popular cruise destinations in South Africa, with many itineraries stopping here to allow passengers to view the majestic Table Mountain, take a trip to Robben Island, or stroll around the Victoria & Albert Waterfront. However, there is much more to do in and around Cape Town. In fact, there are world renowned golfing facilities just an hours drive from the city! If you’re looking for a course that’s a fascinating blend of challenge and beauty, then there is no finer green than the Arabella Golf Estate. With holes that have been crowned the finest and most visually stunning in the country, a trip here is a must-do for golf enthusiasts from around the world.
Source: Annie Gish
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