Fancy rock-climbing but never had the nerve? Always dreamed of learning to surf? What about ice-skating, scuba diving or kick-boxing?

New ships are packed with every facility imaginable, so choose the right cruise and all these activities and more will be at your disposal, along with professional instructors to help you learn. And with most onboard activities included in the booking price, there’s never been a better time for adventure on the high seas.

Generally speaking, the younger the clientele and the newer the ship, the greater the range of onboard activities. Big modern resort ships have the best facilities but almost all cruises cater to more adventurous travellers – even if they’d rather go to an art auction than a trapeze show. Golf enthusiasts will find some ships have miniature courses, driving ranges and pros onboard. And with vast spas, fitness centres and organised activities, there’s endless scope to try something new.

Adventure isn’t just limited to the ships either – cruise lines lay on a fantastic range of land excursions for all levels of energy and ability. In Costa Rica you can zip-wire through the jungle, go kayaking or white-water rafting; you can hike up glaciers in Alaska, tour vineyards or Roman ruins in Europe or go snorkelling with mantas in the South Pacific. Some ships keep bicycles onboard so you can strike out independently.

Of course, many destinations are adventures in themselves, and expedition cruises operate to some of the most far-flung corners of the world such as Alaska, Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands. And with many itineraries packing in the ports of call, you could be waking up to a new adventure every day.

Ask your ACE travel agent for details.