Walking into a gym at sea for the first time can be a little intimidating. Not only are you navigating a new space, but you’re doing it on a moving vessel with people from all over the world. While the gym facilities on MSC are world-class, they come with a specific set of “house rules”—some written in the fine print and others enforced by the collective side-eye of your fellow passengers.
The overarching goal is simple: everyone deserves a good workout. To help you blend in like a pro-cruiser and avoid any awkward ejections, here is the breakdown of MSC gym etiquette and what you need to throw in your suitcase.
The Dress Code: No Sneakers, No Service
MSC is notoriously strict about footwear. Because the gym is managed under high European safety standards, the staff is trained to spot “unsafe” shoes from across the room.
- The “No-Go” List: Flip-flops, sliders, Birkenstocks, Crocs, and even “river sandals” with straps are prohibited. Bare feet, although the rage with certain lifting groups, are also seen as a major safety violation.
- The Requirement: You must wear closed-toe, rubber-soled athletic shoes.
- Clothing: Standard athletic wear (tanks, tees, leggings, shorts) is expected. Working out in swimwear—even with a cover-up—is strictly prohibited.
Towel & Hygiene Situation
In a shared environment, hygiene is a top priority. This is the same guidance you would follow at any public gym, slightly modified for sea:
- The Gym Towel: Don’t lug your bulky blue pool towel from your cabin. MSC provides small, white hand towels at the gym entrance. Use these for sweat only.
- The Wipe Down: You will find sanitizing wipes or spray stations every few feet. It is the most important unwritten rule: wipe your machine before and after use.
- The “Quiet Space” Rule The gym is one of the few focused, quiet sanctuaries on a ship full of music and announcements. Keep it that way with your music to yourself.
- Control Your Reps: Avoid slamming weights or letting the machine stack “clang” at the bottom. Remember: on a ship, there are often guest cabins directly below or adjacent to the fitness center.
- Re-Rack Everything: The crew members are there to keep the facility clean, but they are not your personal gym staff. Always return dumbbells and plates to their racks. Because the ship moves, a stray weight on the floor isn’t just a trip hazard—it’s a rolling hazard.
Space Awareness & Photography
Cruise gyms are often more compact than land-based clubs, making space awareness vital.
- Don’t Block the Flow: Avoid setting up your yoga mat or stretching in the middle of a thoroughfare. Pick a corner or a designated stretching area that doesn’t interrupt the flow of traffic.
- Photography Etiquette: It’s tempting to snap a selfie with that ocean view, but keep it discreet. Avoid capturing other guests in your background. Many passengers value their privacy and don’t want to end up in a stranger’s social media story while they’re mid-sweat.
What to Pack: The “MSC Fitness Kit”
- Refillable Water Bottle: Fountains are available, but they are often the “push-button” type. A bottle is much easier to use while running.
- Technogym MyWellness App: Download this at home. You can “tap” your phone to the machines to save your progress instantly.
- Magnetic Hooks: A pro-tip for your cabin—hang your sweaty gym gear on these (attached to the metal walls) by the AC vent to dry them out.
- Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Ship gyms can get humid. Stick to “dry-fit” gear rather than heavy cotton.
The Bottom Line
Gym etiquette on MSC is about safety and shared respect. As long as you have the right shoes, control your weights, and wipe down your equipment, you’ll be a welcomed member of the morning rush. Enjoy those panoramic views—just remember that the person next to you is trying to enjoy them, too!