Cruise Guest Runs 7 Marathons in 7 Consecutive Days During Princess Cruises Sailing

**Scottish Runner Completes Seven Marathons in Seven Days on Mediterranean Cruise**

Scottish trail runner Paul Manson, known online as The Random Runner, achieved an impressive feat by completing seven marathons in just one week during a recent Mediterranean cruise. His remarkable journey took place aboard Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess and covered a total distance of over 183 miles.

Manson’s challenge, aptly named “Run the Med,” kicked off on August 12. Throughout the cruise, he ran in several iconic locales including Rome, Naples, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, and Sicily, where he famously traversed the slopes of Mount Etna, returning with a coating of volcanic ash as a souvenir from his adventure. Celebrating each destination, Manson captured the beauty of his surroundings while pushing his physical limits, showcasing prominent landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain in his social media posts.

In planning his runs, Manson took advantage of modern technology, relying on Google Maps and insights from fellow runners on the popular app Strava. By getting an early start each day—often leaving the ship around 7 a.m.—Manson maximised his time onshore and avoided the midday heat. “I had never considered a cruise ship as a base for running around different destinations,” he remarked in an interview. “I was worried about cabin fever, but I didn’t appreciate how much time you would have off the ship until I saw the itinerary.”

Manson typically completes a marathon in around three and a half hours under normal conditions at home in Milngavie, near Glasgow. However, during his holiday, he took longer to finish each run, spending between five and six hours, as he documented his experiences with videos and photos. His run in Rome, in particular, took him a staggering seven hours due to its numerous sites and steps.

Upon returning to the Enchanted Princess after each marathon, Manson indulged in relaxation. “One of my favourite things to do was grab a cocktail and head to the Wakeview pool, an infinity pool at the back of the ship,” he shared. After each run, he found solace watching the scenery change as the ship departed from the places he had just explored.

Manson’s dedication and unique approach to running during his holiday did not go unnoticed. He became a bit of a celebrity among his fellow passengers, many of whom approached him to learn more about his accomplishments. “I hadn’t appreciated how interested people would be. You don’t get that type of response on land,” he commented.

Reflecting on his experience, Manson expressed enthusiasm about future cruising adventures. “I’d absolutely do it again. It’s a fantastic way to explore different areas, knowing you have a comfortable ship to return to each day,” he stated, highlighting the mix of both challenge and leisure that such a trip provides.

As Manson continues to share his story and inspire others, his journey stands as a testament to the idea that vacations can be as much about adventure as they are about relaxation. With his remarkable endeavour combined with the allure of the Mediterranean, Paul Manson has successfully set a new standard for combining travel and athleticism that may encourage others to reconsider how they approach their holiday fitness.