Golf Cruises: A Complete Guide to Golf Vacations at Sea

Golf vacations don't have to mean staying in one resort for an entire week. For travelers who want to experience iconic courses while exploring multiple destinations, a golf cruise offers a unique way to combine two memorable vacations into one.

Whether your dream is teeing off on Scotland's legendary links, enjoying oceanfront fairways in Bermuda, or adding a round of golf to a Caribbean cruise, there are more options than ever.

Some cruises are built for golfers, with hosted tournaments, access to renowned courses, and easy transportation. Others offer golf excursions in select ports, so you can add a round without missing the rest of the cruise experience.

This guide covers everything you need to know about golf cruises, including how they work, who they're best for, where you can play, which cruise lines offer golf experiences, and what to expect when planning your trip.

What Is a Golf Cruise? 

A golf cruise is a cruise vacation that combines sailing with opportunities to play golf at destinations along your itinerary. Depending on the cruise, that can mean joining a dedicated golf-themed sailing with organized rounds at championship courses or booking individual golf excursions while visiting ports of call. 

Unlike a traditional golf vacation that requires multiple hotel stays and transportation between courses, a golf cruise allows you to unpack once while your ship takes you from one destination to the next. Many golf cruises also handle logistics such as tee times, transfers,  and equipment transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on the course. 

Today, golf cruises generally fall into two categories.

Golf-Themed Cruises 

Golf-themed cruises are specially designed for travelers who want golf to be the centerpiece of their vacation. These sailings are often offered through partnerships between cruise lines and golf travel specialists such as PerryGolf, Premier Golf or other cruise line golf programs. 

Depending on the itinerary, a golf-themed cruise often includes: 

• Reserved tee times at championship courses 
• Transportation between the ship & golf course  
• Green fees  
• Golf club handling & transportation
• Local golf experts & tour hosts  

Many of these sailings visit some of the world's most celebrated golf destinations around the world, from Bermuda and the Caribbean, Europe and the British Isles to Australia and Japan.

Tip: Because these departures are limited and some famous courses accept only a small number of players each day, golf-themed cruises often book well in advance. Contact our cruise experts for current availibility.

Traditional Cruises with Golf Excursions 

Not every golfer needs a cruise built entirely around the sport. Many cruises offer golf excursions in select ports, allowing guests to enjoy a round while still experiencing the ship's entertainment, dining and other shore excursions. 

This option is ideal for travelers who: 

• Want to golf once or twice during their cruise  
• Are traveling with family or friends who have different interests  
• Prefer more flexibility when planning their vacation  
• Want to visit destinations where golf is just one part of the experience  

Depending on the destination, golf excursions may include transportation to the course, green fees and pre-arranged tee times. Rental clubs are also available at many courses, making it easier for travelers who prefer not to bring their own equipment.

If you are unsure about which style works best for you, our experts at The Cruise Web can help match you to the best cruise option based on your preferences, budget and more! 

How Do Golf Cruises Work? 

One of the biggest advantages of a golf cruise is convenience. Instead of coordinating hotels, transportation and tee times in multiple destinations, much of the planning is handled before you ever board your ship. 

While every cruise line and golf program operates a little differently, the overall experience follows a similar process.

Before You Sail 

The planning process begins when you choose the itinerary that best matches your golfing goals. Some travelers prioritize visiting legendary courses in Scotland or Ireland, while others prefer tropical destinations like Bermuda or the Caribbean, where they can mix golf with beach time.

If you're booking a dedicated golf-themed cruise, you'll typically reserve your golf package before departure. This helps secure tee times at popular courses that may have limited availability. 

Depending on the itinerary, you may also decide whether to: 

• Bring your own golf clubs  
• Rent clubs at the destination  
• Participate in tournament play or casual rounds  
• Add golf experiences for every eligible port or only select destinations  

Planning ahead is especially important for iconic courses, where demand often exceeds available tee times.

Golf Days in Port 

On golf days, guests usually meet their golf host or excursion team before leaving the ship. Transportation is arranged to and from the course, allowing you to enjoy your round without worrying about local transportation or navigation. 

Depending on the program, your day may include: 

• Motorcoach transportation  
• Reserved tee times  
• Green fees  
• Practice facilities  
• Lunch or refreshments  
• Golf club transportation  
• Return transportation to the ship  

After your round, you'll return to the ship with plenty of time to relax before dinner or enjoy the evening's entertainment.

What's Usually Included? 

What's included varies by cruise line, itinerary and golf provider, but many golf experiences include several essential services that make planning much easier. 

*Inclusions may vary by voyage.

If you're considering a golf-themed cruise, it's worth reviewing exactly what's included before booking, as packages can vary between cruise lines and destinations.

Who Are Golf Cruises Best For? 

Golf cruises appeal to a wide variety of travelers, from lifelong golfers chasing famous courses to couples looking for a vacation that balances relaxation with active experiences. 

They're best for:

• Golf enthusiasts hoping to play bucket list courses without planning a complex land itinerary  
• Couples where one traveler golfs and the other prefers sightseeing, spa treatments or exploring local culture  
• Groups of friends planning an annual golf getaway  
• Retirees looking for a relaxed way to experience multiple destinations  
• Luxury travelers interested in curated golf programs with premium accommodations and personalized service  
• River cruise guests who want to combine Europe's historic cities with championship golf  

One of the biggest advantages is that everyone can enjoy the vacation in their own way. While golfers spend the day on the course, other guests can explore the destination, relax onboard or join a different shore excursion. When the day is over, everyone returns to the same ship to share dinner and stories from their adventures.

For travelers who aren't sure which type of golf cruise best fits their travel style, speaking with a Cruise Web consultant can help narrow the options. From choosing the right itinerary to understanding what's included in different golf programs, expert guidance can make planning a golf vacation much simpler and help ensure you spend more time enjoying the game and less time coordinating the details. 

Best Golf Destinations You Can Visit on a Cruise 

One of the biggest advantages of a golf cruise is the opportunity to play in destinations that many golfers dream of visiting. From historic links courses in Scotland to oceanfront fairways in Bermuda, cruise itineraries can take you to some of the world's most memorable golf regions while allowing you to experience new cultures, landscapes and attractions along the way. 

Not every cruise visits championship courses, and shore excursion offerings vary by itinerary and cruise line. However, these destinations are among the most popular for golfers looking to combine cruising with time on the course. The exact courses offered vary by cruise line, itinerary and departure, but these destinations are among the most popular for golf cruises.

Planning Tip: Some of the world's most iconic golf courses have extremely limited tee times that can fill months or even years in advance. If playing a specific course is on your bucket list, booking your cruise early gives you the best opportunity to secure a reservation.

Scotland, Ireland & The British Isles

For many golfers, no destination compares to Scotland, Ireland and the British Isles. Often considered the birthplace of modern golf, this region is home to legendary links courses, centuries of golfing history and breathtaking coastal scenery. Many hosted golf cruises are built around itineraries that visit ports providing access to these iconic golf destinations. 

Depending on the itinerary and golf program, guests may have opportunities to play or visit some of the world's most famous courses, including: 

• The Old Course at St Andrews (Scotland): Widely known as the "Home of Golf," this historic course has shaped the game for centuries. Tee times are extremely limited and are never guaranteed, but many golf cruises visit the St Andrews area.  
• Royal County Down Golf Club (Northern Ireland): Consistently ranked among the world's best golf courses, this stunning links layout sits beneath the Mountains of Mourne. 

Other renowned courses that may be included on select golf programs include Kingsbarns Golf Links, Ballybunion Golf Club, Lahinch Golf Club and Old Head Golf Links. 

Beyond golf, these itineraries offer opportunities to explore historic castles, whiskey distilleries, charming seaside villages and spectacular coastal landscapes. 

Tip: If playing St Andrews or another famous links course is your top priority, our cruise consultants can help you identify itineraries and golf programs that provide the best opportunity for access. 

Northern Europe

Cruises through Northern Europe combine scenic coastlines, Viking history and vibrant cities with opportunities to play golf in Scandinavia and the Baltic region. While dedicated golf departures are less common than those in the British Isles, select itineraries and shore excursions offer opportunities to experience golf alongside destinations such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. 

Many travelers choose these cruises for the unique combination of dramatic fjords, charming waterfront cities and long summer days, with golf serving as one highlight of a broader cultural journey. 

Because golf opportunities vary by itinerary, available courses are typically selected based on the cruise schedule and local accessibility. Experts at The Cruise Web can help narrow down the choices and find the perfect voyage.

European Rivers

European River cruising offers one of the most relaxed ways to enjoy championship golf in Europe. With smaller ships and centrally located ports, transfers between the ship and golf courses are often shorter, allowing guests to spend more time on the fairways and less time traveling. 

Rather than visiting one golf destination, these itineraries allow travelers to experience several countries during a single vacation, often sailing through France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland or the Netherlands. 

Golf programs are carefully curated for each departure and may include championship courses near destinations such as: 

• Paris and the Seine River
• The Rhine River through Germany
• Austria's Wachau Valley
• Bordeaux and southwestern France

Because river ships dock close to city centers, transfers are often shorter than on ocean cruises, giving golfers more time on the course and less time on the road. 

Why choose a river golf cruise? Smaller ships, immersive itineraries and carefully coordinated golf experiences make river cruising an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine championship golf with wine regions, historic cities and cultural experiences.

The Mediterranean

Mediterranean golf cruises combine beautiful coastlines with opportunities to play in some of Southern Europe's most popular golf regions. Hosted golf programs and select shore excursions often focus on destinations where golf can easily be paired with sightseeing, local cuisine and historic landmarks. 

Depending on the itinerary, golf experiences may be available near: 

• Portugal's Algarve  
• Spain's Costa del Sol
• Barcelona
• Sicily
• Rome

While the specific courses vary from sailing to sailing, Mediterranean golf cruises appeal to travelers looking for a relaxed blend of golf, history, beaches and world-renowned food. Whether you're exploring ancient Roman ruins, strolling through colorful seaside villages or enjoying regional cuisine, the Mediterranean offers an unforgettable combination of golf and cultural discovery.

Bermuda, The Caribbean & The Bahamas

For travelers looking to combine warm weather with memorable golf, Bermuda and the Caribbean offer an appealing alternative to Europe. These cruises pair tropical scenery with opportunities to enjoy oceanfront courses during your time ashore. 

Bermuda is one of the most popular golf cruise destinations thanks to overnight and multi-day port calls that provide enough time to enjoy a full round. Depending on the golf program or shore excursion, travelers may have opportunities to play Port Royal Golf Course, Bermuda's premier public course known for its dramatic oceanfront setting. 

Throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas, golf opportunities vary by itinerary and may be available near destinations such as Nassau, San Juan, Montego Bay, Barbados and Aruba. Some longer itineraries visiting the Dominican Republic may also provide access to the renowned Teeth of the Dog course at Casa de Campo.

Australia 

Golf cruises to Australia combine spectacular coastal scenery with vibrant cities and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to travelers seeking a longer vacation. While golf programs vary by itinerary, select cruises visiting Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania may offer opportunities to play in some of Australia's premier golfing regions. 

These itineraries also allow travelers to experience Australia's renowned wine regions, wildlife and iconic landmarks between rounds of golf. Australia is an excellent choice for travelers looking to combine golf with a longer cruise featuring vibrant cities, wine regions and unforgettable natural landscapes.

Japan

Japan has quickly become one of the most exciting destinations in modern cruising, offering travelers a unique blend of ancient traditions, modern cities and beautiful natural landscapes. While dedicated golf cruises remain limited, some itineraries provide opportunities to enjoy golf alongside visits to destinations such as Tokyo, Kobe and other major ports. 

Japan's deep golfing tradition, meticulous course conditions and exceptional hospitality make it an increasingly attractive destination for golfers looking to experience the game in a new cultural setting. 

Need help choosing the right golf cruise? Whether you're dreaming of walking the historic links of Scotland, exploring Europe's rivers or enjoying a round in Bermuda, a Cruise Web consultant can help you find the itinerary that best fits your travel style, golfing goals and budget.

River Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises for Golf

Both ocean and river cruises offer exceptional golf experiences, but each provides a different style of vacation. The right choice depends on the destinations you want to visit, the pace of travel you enjoy and how central golf is to your trip. 

Neither option is better than the other. Ocean cruises provide access to a wider variety of destinations and golf regions around the world, while river cruises offer an immersive way to experience Europe's historic landscapes with thoughtfully planned golf experiences.

Ocean Cruises for Golf Lovers

Ocean cruises offer golfers the opportunity to play in some of the world's most celebrated coastal destinations while enjoying all the amenities of a traditional cruise vacation. Depending on the itinerary, you may have the chance to tee off in destinations like Scotland, Ireland, Bermuda, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, then return to your ship to enjoy world-class dining, entertainment and relaxation.

Golf experiences on ocean cruises generally fall into two categories:

• Hosted golf cruises: These specialty sailings are designed specifically for golfers and are often offered through partnerships with experienced golf travel companies. They typically include pre-arranged tee times, transportation, golf club handling and carefully selected championship courses.
• Golf shore excursions: Many traditional cruise itineraries offer golf as an optional shore excursion in select ports. This allows travelers to add a round or two during their vacation without committing to a golf-focused itinerary.

Hosted golf cruises are ideal for avid golfers who want to play multiple courses throughout their journey, while golf shore excursions are a great option for travelers who simply want to enjoy a memorable round in one or two destinations.

Tip: If golf is the main reason for your vacation, ask one of our cruise consultants about hosted golf departures. If you're interested in playing just once or twice, they can help identify traditional itineraries that offer golf excursions in your preferred destinations.

River Cruises for Golf Lovers

River cruises offer a different kind of golf vacation. Rather than sailing between large cruise ports, river ships travel directly through the heart of Europe, giving travelers convenient access to historic cities, charming villages and renowned golf regions.

Golf-themed river cruises are currently offered on select departures by cruise lines including AmaWaterways and Uniworld. These itineraries pair luxury river cruising with organized golf experiences that are coordinated alongside the sailing schedule.

Because river ships dock closer to city centers, transfers between the ship and many golf courses are often shorter than on ocean cruises. The smaller number of guests also creates a more intimate atmosphere both onboard and during golf outings.

River golf cruises appeal to travelers who enjoy balancing championship golf with cultural experiences, regional cuisine, wine tastings and sightseeing throughout Europe.

Which Cruise Lines Offer Golf-Themed Cruises?

Several cruise lines offer golf experiences, but they do so in different ways. Some feature dedicated golf-themed departures in partnership with golf travel specialists, while others offer golf shore excursions on select itineraries. 

The right choice depends on whether golf is the primary focus of your vacation or simply one part of the experience. 

Azamara

Azamara has long been known for destination-focused voyages with longer stays in port, making her itineraries a natural fit for golf travelers. 

Through her partnership with Premier Golf, Azamara offers select golf-themed cruises featuring carefully planned itineraries, access to renowned courses and coordinated golf experiences. These sailings are designed for travelers who want to spend as much time enjoying destinations as they do on the course. 

Want to learn more about Azamara's golf program? Check out What's Included on an Azamara Golf Cruise.

Silversea 

Silversea partners with PerryGolf to offer select hosted golf voyages aboard their luxury ships. 

These sailings combine personalized service with opportunities to play prestigious courses while visiting destinations throughout Europe and beyond. Hosted golf programs often include transportation, reserved tee times and coordinated logistics, allowing guests to focus on the experience rather than the planning. 

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers dedicated golf programs on select European river cruises, allowing travelers to enjoy championship golf while sailing some of Europe's most scenic waterways. 

Golf packages are designed to simplify the experience through coordinated transportation, tee times and equipment logistics. River cruising also offers the advantage of shorter transfers between the ship and many golf courses, allowing guests to spend less time traveling and more time on the fairways. 

Tauck

Tauck offers select golf-themed river cruises in partnership with PerryGolf, combining luxury river cruising with organized rounds at championship courses across Europe.

These itineraries typically include golf logistics such as transportation, tee times and club handling, allowing guests to enjoy a seamless experience both on and off the course. Like other hosted golf programs, Tauck's golf departures are available on select sailings and may vary by year and destination.

Uniworld River Cruises 

Uniworld offers select golf-themed itineraries that combine luxury river cruising with rounds at notable European courses. 

Guests enjoy Uniworld's signature all-inclusive experience while exploring historic cities and picturesque landscapes between golf outings. Smaller ships and thoughtfully planned itineraries help create a relaxed pace that many golfers appreciate. 

How Much Do Golf Cruises Cost?

The cost of a golf-specific cruise depends on several factors, including the cruise line, itinerary, length of sailing and whether you're booking a hosted golf program or individual golf excursions. Golf-themed cruises typically cost more than a standard cruise because they include additional planning and golf-related services.

Depending on the itinerary, golf packages may include:

• Reserved tee times
• Green fees
• Transportation between the ship & course
• Golf club handling
• Local golf hosts or tour managers
• Select meals or refreshments during golf outings

Traditional cruises with optional golf excursions allow travelers to pay only for the rounds they wish to play, making them a flexible option for casual golfers or groups where not everyone plans to golf.

Because pricing varies significantly by destination and golf program, it's often helpful to compare several itineraries before making a decision.

Tip: Our cruise consultants can help you understand what's included with different golf programs so you can compare overall value rather than focusing on the cruise fare alone.

Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Cruise

With so many itineraries and golf experiences available, choosing the right cruise starts with deciding what kind of golf vacation you want to have.

Keep these tips in mind as you plan:

• Decide whether you want a dedicated golf-themed cruise or a traditional cruise with one or two golf excursions.
• Choose your destination first. Many travelers book golf cruises specifically to experience iconic regions such as Scotland, Ireland or Bermuda.
• Book early if playing famous courses is important, as tee times can be limited.
• Consider who you're traveling with. Traditional cruises often offer more activities for companions who don't plan to golf.
• Review what's included in your golf package, as transportation, green fees and equipment handling may vary by itinerary.
• Think about how much golf you want to play. Some travelers enjoy golfing in every eligible port, while others prefer to balance golf with sightseeing and relaxation.

If you're unsure where to begin, speaking with an expert at The Cruise Web can simplify the process. From selecting the right itinerary to understanding the differences between hosted golf cruises and golf excursions, expert guidance can help you find the vacation that best fits your interests and budget.

Ready to Plan Your Golf Cruise?

Whether you're dreaming of playing legendary links in Scotland, enjoying a round overlooking Bermuda's turquoise waters or combining a European river cruise with championship golf, the right itinerary can make all the difference. From choosing the best destinations to understanding what's included in hosted golf programs and shore excursions, planning a golf cruise involves more than simply picking a sailing.

Our experts can help you compare itineraries, identify golf experiences that match your interests and find the cruise that's right for your travel style and budget. Contact The Cruise Web today at 1.800.377.9383 or visit cruiseweb.com to start planning a golf vacation that combines unforgettable destinations with incredible golf.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a golf cruise?

A golf cruise combines a cruise vacation with opportunities to play golf during your trip. Some sailings are designed specifically for golfers with organized rounds at championship courses, while others offer golf shore excursions in select ports.

Are golf cruises worth it?

If you enjoy golf and travel, a golf cruise offers a convenient way to play in multiple destinations without planning hotels, transportation or tee times yourself. They're also ideal for couples and groups with different interests.

Which cruise lines offer golf cruises?

Several cruise lines offer golf experiences, including hosted golf sailings and golf shore excursions. Select departures from Azamara, Silversea, AmaWaterways and Uniworld feature dedicated golf programs, while other cruise lines may offer golf in select ports.

Can non-golfers enjoy a golf cruise?

Absolutely. While golfers spend time on the course, non-golfers can enjoy shore excursions, onboard entertainment, dining, the spa or simply relax before everyone reunites back on the ship.

Can I bring my golf clubs on a cruise?

Yes. Most cruise lines allow guests to bring golf clubs onboard, and many golf programs also offer rental clubs. Check with your Cruise Web consultant to understand your options before you travel.

What are the best destinations for a golf cruise?

Scotland, Ireland and the British Isles are top choices for legendary links courses, while Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Europe's rivers offer memorable golf experiences paired with incredible destinations. Your ideal itinerary depends on your golfing goals and travel style.