Cruise Hacks for CEOs: From Wi-Fi to Workspaces
The CEO Way to Travel Smarter
When I travel, I’m not just looking for rest — I’m looking for rhythm.
There’s a difference between taking time off and creating space to think clearly, strategically, and creatively.
Cruising has become one of my favorite ways to do that. It’s where work and rest naturally meet. The Wi-Fi is better, the service is reliable, and the environment forces you to slow down — without disconnecting from what matters most.
When done right, a cruise isn’t a vacation. It’s a CEO reset — one that balances clarity, productivity, and peace of mind.
1. Reliable Wi-Fi: The Non-Negotiable
Let’s start with the essential. As much as I love a good ocean view, I also need reliable internet.
Here’s what I’ve learned from experience:
Upgrade your plan before boarding. It’s usually cheaper — and ensures access from day one.
Download what matters. I pre-load my files, Canva templates, and client notes before sailing so I can work offline when connection drops.
Use hotspots in port. When docked, your mobile hotspot often works faster and is perfect for syncing large files or posting content.
💡 Pro tip: Create a “Cruise Work” folder synced with Google Drive. That way, I can edit files offline, and everything updates automatically when Wi-Fi reconnects.
2. Design a Portable Workspace
I’ve learned that how I work affects how well I think. So even when I’m on a ship, I set up a workspace that feels intentional.
That usually means:
A quiet lounge or balcony table with good lighting
A lightweight laptop stand
Noise-canceling headphones
A morning routine that starts with coffee, deep work, and ocean air
By structuring my mornings, I can get two to three hours of meaningful work done — and still enjoy the rest of the day.
3. Use Sea Days Strategically
Sea days are where clarity happens.
When I’m between ports, the slower pace gives me space to think bigger. That’s when I focus on high-level work — strategic planning, brand development, and quarterly reflection.
When we dock, I shift into connection mode — content creation, networking, or meetings. That rhythm keeps me balanced.
Cruise Productivity Framework:
Sea Days: Deep work + planning
Port Days: Networking + creativity
Evenings: Reflection + restoration
💡 We encourage our clients to treat travel time as creative space — not just downtime. When your environment changes, so does your perspective.
4. Networking at Sea (The Natural Way)
Some of the most valuable business conversations I’ve had didn’t happen at conferences — they happened on cruise ships.
The relaxed setting breaks down barriers. You meet people from every industry: founders, consultants, investors, creatives. It’s connection without pretense.
When we travel, we keep digital business cards ready (HiHello and Popl are great options) and always follow up after the trip. A short message like “It was great meeting you at sea” goes a long way.
🌴 Pro tip: Mention your “work-from-sea” setup on social. It sparks curiosity — and naturally attracts clients who share your lifestyle or values.
5. The Tax-Smart Side of Business Travel
If you’re handling business on your cruise — client meetings, planning sessions, or professional development — parts of your trip may qualify as business deductions.
Here’s how I keep it organized:
I track Wi-Fi, meeting spaces, and business-related excursions.
I document the business purpose for each expense (notes, photos, agendas).
And I work closely with Emerald Tax & Accounting to make sure everything is compliant and optimized.
💼 We help CEOs plan travel strategically — not just for productivity, but for profitability too.
6. Systems = Sustainability
Here’s the truth: you can’t truly enjoy the view if your business collapses every time you step away.
When we build systems that run smoothly, we earn the freedom to think — not just react. That’s what travel does best: it gives you the mental distance to see your business differently.
For me, being “out of office” isn’t about stepping away completely. It’s about leading with clarity, even when I’m 200 miles from shore.
Closing Reflection
Cruising reminds me that success isn’t about how many hours we work — it’s about how well we structure them.
When we build intentional systems, create real balance, and design our businesses to thrive anywhere…
That’s when we’re truly leading — not just managing.
