What if your fitness routine was accompanied by rolling waves and a changing horizon instead of mirrored walls? Throughout the cities, people are boarding yachts for cycling, HIIT sessions and yoga, turning a regular workout into an at-sea experience.
Race meets sea
Former national cycling champion Baqar Nasir, who runs yacht cycling sessions, believes the appeal runs deeper than just aesthetics. “The skyline and water create a sense of freedom,” he says. “Participants break away from the chaos and become more present. Today, people are drawn to experiences that feel curated. They want wellness that fits their lifestyle, not something they have to force into their schedule. Luxurious settings also create a sense of occasion, making people show up with more intention. This trend works when fitness is real and the guidance is expert. This inspires people to stay consistent and take themselves seriously.”
In fast-paced metro cities like Mumbai and Pune, these sessions offer something increasingly rare: serenity. Ridisha Palani, a spin instructor at Somewhr Wellness Center in Mumbai, captures it perfectly: “In Mumbai, where construction noise and cramped space are almost a personality trait, being in the middle of the water with the air, sun, stars and stillness feels magical.”
For businessman and fitness trainer Khyati Kanjani, who leads HIIT (high-intensity interval training) sessions on yachts, the experience allows for socializing. “It’s more fun when you’re working out with a new group of people every time!” She says.
The cost of luxury
Of course, exercising in the sea comes at a high price. Prices start from approx $$2,999 per person These sessions fall into the luxury category, making them aspirational rather than everyday.
But Redisha thinks that’s precisely the point. “These sessions are luxury in its purest form,” she says. “But that’s why luxury fitness experiences are on the rise, because in today’s world, good health is true luxury. I’ve had people cry in the middle of a session, just to release the emotions.”
However, doing burpees outside is not without its challenges. Khayati admits: “Designing an innovative workout that adapts to the movement of the yacht over the waves while ensuring that no one falls is difficult. The yacht is stable during the workout. It sways a little with the waves but the HIIT workout is designed to compensate for that. Otherwise, logistics are a challenge.”
Spinning around on a yacht was pure magic…the rhythm of the waves, the wind in my hair and the energy made it unforgettable.
Rezai Malkani, participant
Onboard exercises are ideal for:
Bachelorette celebrations
Romantic dating experiences
Fun outings with friends
The company’s team is offsite
Before boarding the yacht: Basics of yachting exercise:
Approximate cost: $2,999 per session
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Registrations are usually available online
Stay hydrated, as sun, wind and movement can cause rapid dehydration
Wear UV-protective clothing and sunscreen, as water and sand reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays.
Choose non-slip shoes to avoid slipping on wet surfaces
