Feeling Bloated One of the most unpleasant cruise problems you might not be prepared for is feeling constantly bloated. With all of the eating and drinking that you're enjoying, you are intaking a lot more sodium than normal.

Experiencing bloating on a cruise is a very common phenomenon often referred to as "cruise bloat," and it is typically caused by a combination of dietary changes, inactivity, and dehydration. Cruise ship meals are notoriously high in sodium; salt is used liberally in mass-prepared foods and sauces to enhance flavor, which causes the body to retain significant amounts of water. Furthermore, the availability of "all-you-can-eat" buffets often leads to overindulgence and the consumption of gas-producing foods (like legumes, cruciferous vegetables, or rich dairy) that your body may not be used to in such large quantities. The frequent consumption of carbonated drinks and alcohol also contributes to gas buildup. Physically, the shift from a busy daily routine to a more sedentary lifestyle—lounging by the pool or sitting for long dinners—slows down your digestion. To combat this, experts recommend staying well-hydrated with plain water, taking 10-minute walks around the deck after meals, and opting for fresh, "whole" foods over processed buffet items when possible.