Enjoy the Mediterranean with Pickleball in Paradise at Sea!
Embark on the ultimate voyage of leisure and competition with our “Pickleball at Sea” Pickleball Cruise to the Mediterranean aboard the luxurious Odyssey of the Seas. Picture yourself gliding through azure waters by day and perfecting your pickleball skills on world-class courts by night, all while visiting iconic Mediterranean destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this cruise promises a blend of excitement and relaxation, with thrilling tournaments, expert coaching, and breathtaking shore excursions. On sea days, the morning begins with two hours of pickleball on 3 indoor courts reserved exclusively for our group, which will include both open play and clinics. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of the game with the magic of Mediterranean exploration!
Meet Your Pros
Coach Matty and Coach Meishen
Coach Matty and Coach Meishen have been teaching Pickleball for nine years. Both instructors are IPTPA and PPR Certified, with Coach Matty having achieved IPTPA level two certification and a PPR Teaching Pro status. These instructors have a wealth of experience and have taught over 33,000+ students in more than 850 Clinics in 38 states. This will be the 7th pickleball cruise they have coached. Both instructors have a strong passion for teaching Pickleball and improving your game!
Included in Your Stay
- Ocean View Balcony Cabin
- Two hours of pickleball exclusively for our group on sea days
- Additional court time for all passengers based on the discretion of the cruise director.
- Multiple restaurants
- Beverages: Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, Iced Tea, Lemonade, Milk, Juice, and tap water.
- Pools, hot tubs, fitness center.
- Daily activities such as North Star®, RipCord® by iFLY®, FlowRider®.
- Nightly entertainment including comedy shows; live music at the Music Hall; Playmaker’s Sports Bar and more!
NOT Included in Your Stay
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Gratuities
- Specialty Restaurants
- Excursions
- Alcohol, soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, specialty drinks.
- Internet Access
Accommodations
Get ready for the ultimate pickleball experience on board the Odyssey of the Sea cruise ship by the Royal Caribbean! Get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking Mediterranean destinations, including Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Crete.
When you’re not playing pickleball, enjoy all that this luxurious ship has to offer such as mouth-watering dining options, thrilling entertainment experiences, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Plus with stops in three incredible port cities, there’s plenty of time to explore new cultures and soak up sun-kissed beaches.
Price: $4952/oceanview balcony cabin ($2041)
All taxes, fees, and port charges are included.
Cruise Itinerary
Oct 1st – Oct 10th, 2024
Day 1
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Departs at 5:00 pm
Boarding
Day 2
Naples (Capri), Italy
7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Docked
Day 3
Day at Sea
–
Cruising
Day 4
Mykonos, Greece
8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Tendered
Day 5
Santorini, Greece
7:00 am – 8:00 pm
Tendered
Day 6
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Docked
Day 7
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Docked
Day 8
Chania, Crete
7:00 am – 3:00 pm
Docked
Day 9
Day at Sea
–
Cruising
Day 10
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
5:00 am
Departure
Cruise Port Destinations
Naples, Italy
The Port of Naples, or Porto di Napoli, is one of the most important seaports in Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. Located on the west coast of Italy, it is a bustling hub full of activity, linking numerous destinations across Europe and beyond. Surrounded by the iconic scenery of Mount Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri, the Port of Naples offers breathtaking views. Historic landmarks such as the Castel Nuovo and the Royal Palace are easily accessible from the port area, and the vibrant city of Naples with its atmospheric streets, beautiful churches, and world-famous pizzerias, is just a short stroll away. It also serves as a popular starting point for exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum or catching a ferry to the enchanting islands of Capri and Ischia. The port itself is a bustling hub offering a mix of commercial, passenger, and recreational services, making it a highlight of any visit to Naples.
Mykonos, Greece
The Port of Mykonos, nestled in the heart of the Cyclades Islands in Greece, is a vibrant hub attracting visitors from around the globe. Known for its radiant white buildings and crystal-clear waters, the port serves as a gateway to the charming and lively Mykonos Town. Here, visitors can explore winding cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and iconic windmills. The nearby area of Little Venice is famous for its beautiful waterfront and vivid sunset views. The port also offers ferry connections to other Cycladic islands and the mainland, making it a popular stop for those island hopping in the Aegean Sea. As the night falls, the port area transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene, renowned for its energetic clubs and parties. The Port of Mykonos perfectly encapsulates the island’s combination of picturesque charm and dynamic energy.
Santorini, Greece
The Port of Santorini, also known as Athinios Port, serves as a gateway to this picturesque island in the Aegean Sea. Nestled at the foot of soaring cliffs, the port offers unforgettable panoramic views of the white-washed architectural marvels precariously perched high above. Ferries and cruise ships arriving here connect travelers to the wider Cyclades and mainland Greece. From the Port of Santorini, visitors can take a winding road up to Fira, the island’s vibrant capital, created from volcanic cliffs. Exploring further, you’ll find the spellbinding sunsets of Oia, ancient archaeological sites like Akrotiri, and the unique volcanic beaches of Perissa and Kamari. The local cuisine offered in countless tavernas and wineries is another highlight, with Santorini’s volcanic soil imparting a unique flavor to wine and produce alike. Even the journey from the port to town, whether by cable car, donkey ride, or on foot, is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of the caldera and the deep blue sea.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
The Port of Kusadasi in Turkey is the primary access point for visitors to the ancient city of Ephesus. Kusadasi is a vibrant port city that offers beautiful beaches, bustling bazaars, and an array of restaurants featuring local and international cuisine. However, the main draw for visitors arriving at this port is undoubtedly the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus, located approximately 30 minutes away. This remarkably well-preserved Roman city was once a bustling metropolis and a significant center of early Christianity. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Terrace Houses, the Temple of Artemis, and the Great Theater. Along with Ephesus, Kusadasi serves as a convenient base to explore other notable regional attractions like the House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, and the charming village of Şirince. The combination of leisure, shopping, and historical richness makes the Port of Kusadasi an alluring gateway to Turkey’s Aegean region.
Chania, Crete
The Port of Chania, located on the Island of Crete in Greece, is a charming and historical destination. The old venetian harbor, dating back to the 14th century, is the focal point and a true delight, with its splendid lighthouse offering a beacon of beauty that few can resist. The port is surrounded by a maze of narrow, winding streets, filled with quaint houses, art shops, local tavernas, and cozy cafes. The district’s rich history can be explored further by visiting Chania’s Maritime Museum and the Byzantine and Venetian Walls. Also, nearby is the bustling Municipal Market of Chania, a cross-shaped marketplace offering local products and exotic goods. Additionally, short excursions from the port can lead you to some of Crete’s most stunning beaches, such as Balos, Elafonisi, and Falassarna. Beautiful, historic, and buzzing with life, the Port of Chania captures the enchanting essence of Crete.
Rome, Italy
The Port of Civitavecchia, often referred to as the Port of Rome, serves as a crucial gateway to Italy’s captivating capital and the treasures of the Mediterranean. The port itself is a bustling hub, complete with various amenities and a nearby fortress, Forte Michelangelo, that provides a glimpse into its centuries-old history. While the port town has its own charm, most passengers are drawn to the eternal city of Rome, located roughly 80 kilometers away. Rome is saturated with monumental sights, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps. No trip would be complete without experiencing Vatican City’s iconic St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The delicious Roman cuisine and fashion-forward shopping districts are also irresistible. Besides Rome, Civitavecchia also presents an opportunity to visit other stunning locations in Italy, like the picturesque countryside of Tuscany and the ancient archaeological site of Ostia Antica.
Pickleball Cruise FAQ’s
No. The automatic service gratuity of $16.00 USD per person, per day for guests in non-suite staterooms, or $18.50 USD per person, per day for guests in Suites, will be applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis. The gratuity applies to individual guests of all ages and stateroom categories. Gratuities are shared among dining, bar & culinary services staff, stateroom attendants, and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes to enhance the cruise experience.
In the unlikely event that a guest onboard being charged the daily automatic gratuity does not receive satisfactory service, the guest may request to modify the daily amount at their discretion by visiting Guest Services onboard and will be able to do so until the morning of their departure.
Although a passport is not 100% necessary on cruises for U.S. citizens who sail from U.S. ports on a closed loop, it is highly recommended that you have one, as it may be necessary in the event of an emergency. However, if you choose not to bring a passport, an official U.S. state-issued Birth Certificate is also accepted. Guests aged 16 and older that present an official U.S. state-issued Birth Certificate will also need to provide a valid Driver’s License or picture ID issued by the government. A passport is required for sailings that depart from non-U.S. ports and also for some excursions, such as a Yukon tour in Alaska.
No! Vaccination requirements have been lifted for all of our current destinations.
Pickle on! We only sail on ships that have the SeaPlex, an indoor sports complex that has three lined indoor pickleball courts.
No. Our private court time is in the morning on each sea day. Following our private court time, the courts are usually available for open play to all passengers. It is at the discretion of the cruise director on which days additional open play will be available.
It is possible that your booking may be able to be transferred to our group. Please contact us and we will evaluate the bookings on a case-by-case basis. Only bookings which are transferred to our group will be able to participate in our private court time.
No. You will not be able to join our private court time unless you are booked into our group. Due to the limited court space available, we need to keep close track of the number of players so that everyone gets sufficient court time.
The maximum number of players is 24. On three courts, this allows a 4 on, 4 off rotation during open play. After speaking with numerous groups who have played on the 3 indoor courts in the SeaPlex, everyone was in agreement that this was a satisfactory arrangement.
Players of all levels are welcome!
After you make your deposit, contact Elizabeth Higginbottom at [email protected] and she will help you with cabin choices.
Yes! Based upon availability at the time of your booking, you will have a choice of Early Dining 5:30 pm; Late Dining 8:00 pm, or My Time Dining.
We highly encourage you to purchase travel insurance. After you have made your deposit and completed your client tasks on our portal, we send you travel insurance quotes from Allianz, a highly respected agency. If you would like to purchase insurance through these quotes, simply click on the link provided in your quote.
Yes! A cruise vacation caters to anyone who is looking for relaxation, adventure or just some fun in the sun. There is so much to do on a cruise. Your non-playing spouse/friend can easily fill their days without stepping foot on the pickleball court.
Discounts are not offered to non-players. Our cruises are already priced at or below the current online rates.
A deposit of $500 is required to secure your cabin for your Royal Caribbean Pickleball in Paradise cruise. $300 is refundable up until the final payment date. After the final payment date, all payments are non-refundable.
VIP Extras Included with Every Pickleball in Paradise Cruise Trip
- Discounted group rate for a luxury cruise vacation
- Stress-free planning at no cost to you (when you book through Pickleball in Paradise we take care of every detail and you get discounted group rates that are cheaper than if you would have booked the trip online.)
- Meet & Greet with the Pros on the first evening of your trip
- PIP Welcome Bag with a PIP t-shirt, lanyard and assorted goodies.
- Private reception for our group with beer, wine, soft drinks and hor d’oeuvres.
- Sail-Away Party Meet and Greet on the pool deck. Meet the Pros and your fellow players!
- Early Booking Bonus: $50 OBC for those who book by June 1, 2023.
- Two hours of pickleball exclusively for our group on sea days.
