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More and more Baby Boomers are retiring and heading out to sea. And because these seniors tend to be active back home, they expect to be active during cruises, too. In response, cruise line management scurries to offer senior passengers a wide variety of on-board activities.

Whether cruising the Caribbean, Alaska, the Mediterranean, or making a transatlantic crossing, discerning seniors will discover a range of activities from the sedate and familiar, to the exotic and energetic.

Here's a sampling:

1. An early morning stroll or jog around the top deck? It's the perfect way to start the day. This can be an exhilarating experience with the sea wind blowing through your hair, as you watch the world awaken to the gilded pink rays of a foreign sunrise.

2. Early morning swim? All cruise lines offer at least one, if not five, pools to their passengers. Some of the pools come with a "swim current" system; seniors can swim laps against the current without going anywhere.

3. A game of bridge or a rousing game of Bingo? Bridge games come complete with on-board instructors, and Bingo games can be great fun as the jackpots increase; all money spent on cards goes back to the players.

4. Gambling? Play blackjack or slots in the on-board casino. As long as the ship is at sea, casinos will be open and willing to help any senior lose his or her pocket cash.

5. Shuffle board on the forward deck? Nearly all cruise lines offer this old-fashioned, yet popular game.

6. Golf? Some of the larger lines have a cute miniature 9-hole golf course tucked away on one of its top decks. Hang on to your hat though; it gets quite windy up here. Golf simulator machines are also available on the larger lines.

7. Wall-climbing? Yes, some ships offer wall-climbing, too, complete with safety gear and instruction.

8. Workout session? Most of the larger ships have well-equipped workout rooms complete with treadmills, elliptical trainers, and weights. Better rise early though as the rooms are usually small and fill up quickly.

9. Spa treatments? Spa pampering can be the highlight of any cruise vacation. While on-board, you'll receive advance notice of spa specials. Book your appointment early, as these spots fill up fast, especially on days at sea.

10. Education? Most ships offer "edutainment" lectures, which are usually presented on days at sea. Seniors are welcome to attend classes on everything from digital cameras to the history of the country they are exploring.

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