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What to Do on a Cruise? 70 Fun Things to Do on the Ship

If it’s your first time taking a cruise, you might be wondering exactly what there is to do on the ship.

First things first, there’s a lot more things to do on a cruise ship than most people realize. In the past, it might have been that the majority of your time would be hanging out on the pool deck and having a drink. These days there is no end to the fun you can have on a cruise, and there are activities nearly around the clock.

Whether you want to relax and do the bare minimum, or have a thrill a minute, modern cruise ships have no end to how you can have fun. To give you just an idea of how you can spend your time while sailing, we’ve offered up a massive list of 70 things to do on a cruise ship.

Create Your Own Bar Crawl Across the Ship

Alcohol flows freely on a cruise ship. It’s normal for a ship to have a dozen or more bars, and you can get a drink whether you are hanging poolside, watching a show in the theater, or trying your luck in the casino.

Just like restaurants, these bars all have different themes and menus. There are fun poolside bars, classy lounge bars, and even trendy hip bars with “mixologists.” Check them out and take a look at the menu to see what sort of cocktail speaks to you. Nowhere can we think of do you have the opportunity to try as many different drinks all in one place than on a cruise.

Take Part in the Poolside Competitions (Or Just Watch for Laughs!)

A belly-flop contest? Sexiest legs competition (for men only)? These are classic poolside events that are must-sees.

They typically take place in the afternoon on sea days, and all the contestants are sourced from your fellow passengers. It’s a riot with people packed around the pool to see. If you want to participate, get in on the action by heading down to the host. If you plan to just watch, we suggest getting there early. With hundreds — if not thousands — of people watching, great spots to get a view can fill up fast.

Find “Your” Spot on the Ship

Over the course of a cruise, something surprising happens. Since people are creatures of habit, we tend to find a spot that we really like and find ourselves going back again and again.

For some people it’s a special spot near the pool. For others it’s a bar that they just love. Still others find the most secluded spot they can because it’s perfect for reading a book.

During the course of your cruise, it’s always fun to spend some time exploring and find what “your” spot is on the ship.

Stock Up Your Liquor Cabinet With Duty-Free Shopping

Like airports, cruise ships are able to sell items duty-free. This means you can save cash since taxes and duty aren’t included in the price.

Every ship will have a store onboard that sells items normally subject to these fees like alcohol and cigarettes. Take advantage to stock up on what you might be missing back home and save a few bucks while you’re at it. Just keep in mind there are limits to how much you can bring home.

Also, you can’t buy bottles in these stores to enjoy on your cruise. They will be packaged and delivered to you at the end of the trip.

Try Out a Specialty Restaurant for Different Flavors

If you’ve never taken a cruise, you should know that not all food on the ship is free. There are many spots to eat, including the main dining room and the buffet, that are included with your fare. Many other restaurants on cruise ships now carry a charge.

It might be off-putting to have to shell out more money for a restaurant when you’ve already paid for the cruise and there are free options available. Don’t automatically discount these options, however.

Most specialty restaurants serve food you can’t find elsewhere on the ship, and if you like higher-end dining, it’s your best bet for a meal that you’ll love.

Take Advantage of the Kid’s Area

If you are a family going on a cruise, your kids will probably want to go check out the dedicated kids area on the ship. Parents are typically happy to oblige.

Major cruise ships have spaces made just for children that are staffed by the cruise line. They are split into different age groups with areas and activities that are interesting to each age. This way a 14-year-old doesn’t have to do the same things as a 5-year-old.

The kid’s areas are free and a big hit. Kids love having something they want to do while parents enjoy some time to relax without having young ones in tow.

Try Your Hand at Shuffleboard

There’s nothing more classic than playing shuffleboard on a cruise. It’s a reminder back to the older days of sailing, but the game is surprisingly fun. Each player takes turn sliding a disc onto a numbered board. While you are trying to score points by sliding the disc on a numbered spot, you are also trying to knock your opponent’s discs off the board.

It’s relaxing to play and a fun way to get a little competition while on the ship. Best of all, it’s free to play; sticks and discs are normally kept right by the boards on the ship.

Work on Your Tan

It’s hard to think of anything that’s more synonymous with cruising than sunshine. That’s why it’s no wonder that getting some sun and working on your tan is one of the most popular things to do on the ship.

The top deck on a cruise ship will feature tons of chairs, although those closest to the pool get picked first.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sun can be strong at lower latitudes in the Caribbean. Use plenty of sunscreen and keep track of your time in the sun. You don’t want to get burned early in your trip and not be able to enjoy yourself the rest of the cruise.

Hit the Hot Tub

There’s no better way to relax than by some time in the hot tub. On today’s cruise ships hot tubs dot the entire top deck. While there are usually multiple whirlpools around the main pool, other hot tubs are found around the ship, including adults-only areas. So while a ship might have a couple of pools, it could have 8-10 hot tubs.

These spots are especially popular in the evenings or during the winter months when the ship is sailing in cooler weather. There’s not much better than keeping warm on a cool night in a whirlpool.

Take a Dip in the Pool

Of course, most people go on a cruise to get warm, but sometimes you need to cool off. The classic way to chill out it to take a dip in the pool. Modern ships will have two or even three pools, sometimes including one in a covered solarium that can stay warm year round.

One thing to keep in mind is that swimming pools on a cruise ship might be smaller than you imagine. Remember that water is heavy, so having too large a pool up on the top of the ship could cause problems. Still, pools are large enough for dozens of bathers at once.

Try Your Luck in the Casino

Nearly every cruise ship you sail will have a casino; it’s a point of emphasis. Casinos are almost always centrally located on the ship, usually near the main promenade deck where there is lots of foot traffic.

Casinos are open when the ship is at sea, but closed in port. So most of your play will either be on sea days or in the evening as the ship is heading from port to port. Games include all your favorites including roulette, blackjack, craps, and slots. There are also some unique games you won’t find in most land-based casinos like coin-pusher machines that play for real money.

Careful, the payouts on a cruise ship are normally pretty stingy compared to many land-based casinos.

Get Your Mile in on the Jogging Track

A popular thing to do in the mornings, just about every major cruise ship will include a jogging track around the top deck. Only a couple of lanes wide, you might have to dodge a few people walking and a couple of deck chairs. That said, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better view than the open sea while on a jogging track.

We’d suggest going early in the morning as more people come out as the day goes on. This causes lots of traffic on the track and makes it harder to jog. Running before about 9 a.m. should be feasible, but going for an afternoon jog is impossible.

Relax on Your Balcony

If you’re fortunate enough to have booked a cabin with a balcony, then take advantage! There’s nothing better than spending some time just relaxing while watching the ocean roll by. Given how fast-paced most of our lives are these days, it’s the ultimate luxury to just be able to sit still in your own private space without having to do anything at all.

Balconies usually aren’t that large; it’s just enough space for a couple of chairs and a small side table. Still, they are big enough to get some fresh air and take in the view. Sitting out here in the evening as the sun sets is one of our favorite things to do on a cruise.

Pamper Yourself at the Ship’s Spa

All the major cruise ships have a spa where you can get tons of different treatments. Whether you want a massage, or manicure, teeth whitening, or any other thing under the sun, it’s likely the staff on the ship can accommodate.

Rates will vary across lines, but you can expect the cost of an hour-long massage to run about $100-150. Most spas will also give you a free tour so you can get a look before committing. We highly recommend you take advantage of the tours as you will be amazed at some of the facilities on a modern ship. We’ve even seen one spa with a “snow” room that has literal snow in it to help improve circulation in the cold air.

Tip: You can also usually purchase a day pass to hang out in the spa for much cheaper than a massage.

Watch a Movie on the Pool Deck Under the Stars

In the evening the pool deck crowd thins out considerably. To still utilize this space, the cruise lines often show feature films on the big screen that overlooks the deck. You can grab a pool chair or hang out in a hot tub and watch a flick.

In our experience the films are family-friendly, with them often being one of the newest superhero films. One more thing — sometimes the cruise line even serves free popcorn to movie-goers. It’s definitely one of the more unique places to watch a flick.

Enjoy Some Live Music Around the Ship

Are you a live music fan? In the evenings you’ll find live music being played at locations around the ship.

Styles vary, and the lineup will be mentioned in your ship’s daily planner. It’s almost always something easy to listen to (don’t expect any heavy metal), and usually the bands play covers ranging from classic hits to new favorites.

Find a musician you like, grab a drink, and settle in while you enjoy the evening.

Let the Kids Splash at the Waterpark

As cruise ships get larger, that means more space for things to do. One popular addition is a waterpark for kids. They aren’t on every ship, but if you are sailing a vessel that’s been built or updated in the past several years, it’s likely to have one.

These waterparks won’t be confused with anything you might find on land, but for a cruise ship they can be impressive, including waterslides, splash pads, and more. One of our favorites is Splashaway Bay on Royal Caribbean ships (shown above).

This waterpark features tons of features that will soak any kid who plays. It also has a reserved area for kids who aren’t yet potty-trained so that they can enjoy as well (typically kids not yet potty-trained aren’t allowed in pools or water features for health reasons).

Spend Some Time (and Money) in the Arcade

If you have kids (or you’re a kid at heart), don’t miss spending some time in the arcade on the ship. They feature games ranging from air hockey to racing to shooting genres, and you can play them all with a swipe of your keycard.

Arcades can vary widely on cruise ships. We’ve seen large ones with dozens of games, and others that have been relatively small. Games are usually higher priced — expect it to cost $1-2 to play anything. We have been on cruises where there is a “Happy Hour” where arcade games are discounted 50% for a short period. Take advantage if you see this sort of deal. It’s a great way to spend an hour that the kids will love.

Grab a Bite to Eat… Around the Clock

Cruise ships and food go together like peanut butter and jelly. Every ship will have lots of places to eat around the ship, ranging from the buffet to the high-end steakhouse. But whether you just want a snack or a full-blown meal, you’ll always be in luck.

These days food is served somewhere on the ship around the clock. Of course the most restaurants are open during meal times. However, ships will usually have a 24-hour restaurant you can visit or at least a buffet that’s open extended hours.

So no matter when you get an urge, you can grab a bite to eat.

Watch the Game in the Middle of the Ocean

Is there a big sporting event happening while you’re on your cruise? It doesn’t mean you have to miss it just because you are at sea.

Cruise lines offer feeds of popular sporting events, such as NFL games, during the trip. And while not every ship has a sports bar, many do, making it the perfect place to watch. No matter, you’ll be able to find games being broadcast somewhere on the ship to enjoy while you sail.

Take in the Evening Entertainment

What do you do if you’re a cruise line and need to keep hundreds of people entertained at once? Put on a show!

These days most cruise lines have moved beyond the typical song and dance routines. Evening shows on cruise ships look more like Broadway. For instance, Norwegian has productions of Footloose and Kinky Boots aboard its newer ships.

No matter which line you sail, you’ll be impressed with the talent and production of these programs. Evening shows typically run twice a night, with a rotating lineup during the cruise so that you have something different each day of your cruise.

Get Your Workout in While Setting Sail

When it comes to things to do on a cruise, not too many people consider working out. That’s a shame because cruise ships offer some of the best gym facilities you’ll find.

First, there is a wide variety of equipment in gyms; it’s not at all what you’d find at a chain hotel. From aerobic machines (treadmills, bikes, etc.) to weight lifting machines and dumbbells, there’s something for everyone. As well, gyms on cruise ships are usually spacious with plenty of room.

But what always wows new cruisers are the views. Gyms are usually high up on the ship with massive windows that look out over the water. It is one of the most breathtaking views you can imagine while getting a workout.

Catch Up on Netflix

There’s so many things to do on the ship, it might seem silly to talk about Netflix. We know, however, that some people’s favorite thing to do is catch up on all those shows they want to watch. And it’s your vacation; do what you want!

We personally love watching a show after coming in from a long day in port. After being in the sun all day, it’s nice to relax in the cool cabin. If you feel the same, bring along your tablet, phone or computer with your Netflix account.

We suggest that you download the shows at home beforehand. That way you don’t have to stream over the ship’s wi-fi, which can be choppy and expensive. Many ships also won’t let you stream over their connection.

Order Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or a Midnight Snack from Room Service

One of the guilty pleasures on a cruise is that you can order room service and eat in your pajamas. Every cruise line offers room service.

Most of the time breakfast is free, but there is normally a small charge for lunch, dinner, or late-night meals. Rates are usually around $8 per trip, but you can order whatever you want. Other lines do charge ala carte, so your bill can rise or fall with how much you order.

One thing to remember is that it’s customary to tip the staff that brings your meal a few bucks.

Book an Excursion For Your Day in Port

While there’s a lot to do on the ship, there’s also a lot to do in port. The best way to explore the area is on an excursion. You can always just plan your own day, but it’s much easier to pick from a menu of options and have your day planned for you. Excursions do exactly that.

Every ship has an “Excursions Desk” that you can visit to learn more about all your options, ask questions, and book your spot.

While these day trips can get pricey, we suggest that passengers book at least one excursion during their trip. They can offer some of the most memorable moments of your entire cruise and an opportunity to do something that you would never be able to experience back home.

Enjoy Some Quiet Time in the Library

Cruise ships have libraries, and compared to other parts of the ship, they are barely used. Inside you’ll find plenty of books covering all genres from poolside paperbacks to serious historical volumes.

What some folks may like is that the libraries are a nice quiet spot out of the way. If the pool is too loud and you simply want to get away from some of the crowds, head to the library for some peace and quiet.

Play a Board Game or Some Cards

Usually near the library you can find a game room on a lot of cruise ships. If you want some time out of the sun, head here to see what they offer. The board games are basic — checkers and chess — and there are usually decks of cards.

While there will be tables in the game room, don’t think you are stuck playing there. Take the games with you to find a spot to play (you’ll often see people playing near the pool in the fresh air), just be sure to return the games when you are done so that other passengers can enjoy them.

You can also bring your own favorites and play whenever you want.

Get Online to Send a Selfie Home

Want to show off what you’re doing on your vacation? You can, even if you are in the middle of the sea.

Cruise ships all have Internet service. While it can be expensive (expect to spend $20-30 per day), there are often “social media” packages available for cheaper. If you’re online, then snap a few poolside selfies to post to Facebook, Instagram, or send back home to let everyone know you’re enjoying your vacation.

In addition, online access gives you the chance to check in back home, catch up on emails, and keep up with the news even while you’re in the middle of the ocean.

Learn a New Game in the Casino

Have you always wanted to play blackjack but have been too intimidated? Or maybe you want to try craps but are scared of losing money?

If you’ve ever wanted to try a new game, a cruise ship casino is a great place to start. Ships will have beginner lessons on all sorts of games. Best of all, they are free to play while learning. You’ll see the times listed in your ship’s daily schedule, but classes are usually in the morning when the ship is as sea.

Simply show up and the staff will walk you through the games and let you play some practice rounds to get you up to speed.

Play in a Slot Tournament on the Ship

Slot tournaments are simple — get the highest score at the end of a certain time and you are the winner. Ships often have tournaments during the day in casinos and they can cost little to enter — about $20 or so.

Prizes vary, but even if you don’t win, it’s a fun way to spend some time in the casino without having to spend a fortune.

Bid on a New Piece of Art

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might be surprised at how heavily the art auctions are promoted on the ship. You’ll receive lots of flyers, and you’ll see the artwork for sale as you walk around.

Styles range the gamut, so just about everyone can find something that they would like to bring home. If a piece catches your eye, talk to the clerk to see what it costs. They can get you all set up to bid on the piece and help you get it home.

Play a Round of Putt-Putt

Putt-putt has become a favorite on a cruise. Most ships have a course that you can play 24 hours a day. Simply walk up, grab a club and ball, and start swinging.

What’s nice is that it’s an easy go-to when you have kids as they seem to love to play. It’s also an easy-going activity and only takes about 20-30 minutes to play a round. So when you’re bored or have a few minutes to kill before dinner, you can get a round in as easy entertainment.

And did we mention that it’s free to play?

Go Shopping… In the Middle of the Ocean

These days some sections of new cruise ships look more like a mall than a ship. Shopping is a big draw, with a number of stores offering everything from souvenir keychains to high-end expensive watches.

Even if you aren’t in the market for anything, going window-shopping is a fun thing to do on a cruise. One thing to note is that cruise lines will often have sales in their stores. We’d suggest scoping things out early on the cruise. If there is something you like, give it some time during your trip to see if it goes on sale before you buy.

Grab an Ice Cream Cone by the Pool

What’s better than ice cream on a warm day? Not much. That’s why cruise ships often have ice cream stations located near the pool. Sometimes it’s free soft-serve, other ships might have gelato that costs a few bucks.

If you’re out at the pool, grab a cone to help you cool off.

Play Ping-Pong to See Who Is Better

Ping-pong is such a simple game, but for some reason it brings out the competitive spirit. Maybe that’s why everyone seems to love to play.

On a cruise ship you are in luck. Ships have spots dedicated to the game, often with multiple tables in a place outside, but with minimal wind so that you can play even when it’s breezy. (Tables are normally located on the pool deck, tucked in a corner.) Just head up and pick up a couple of paddles (which are provided) to play.

Score Big in a Blackjack Tournament

Similar to the slot tournament mentioned above, casinos often offer blackjack tournaments as well. Pay the entry fee and do your best to come out in the lead at the end of the time. Be the big winner and you could go home with some cash or prizes.

It’s also a good way to get the hang of the mechanics of the game if you’re a beginner, without risking a lot of money.

Hit the Comedy Show For Belly Laughs

Think that the entertainment on the cruise ship is going to all be PG-rated? Most is, but the comedians that perform during the trip can get a little dirtier… and a lot funnier.

Many ships have comedy clubs while others simply have a lounge or theater where the comedian performs a set. As well, there is usually a “clean” routine earlier in the night and then a more adult routine late at night.

The comedians brought onboard may not be the biggest names, but they are often well-accomplished, including appearances on TV shows and specials.

Belt Out a Tune During Karaoke

Love to be the center of attention? Check out the karaoke on the ship. It’s may not be on your specific cruise, but some ships offer karaoke times where you can go listen to others sing their favorite songs… or try your own favorite tune.

Don’t be intimidated — everyone is there to have a good time, whether good or bad — but we have been to some shows where the singers are top-notch.

Buy Your Next Cruise

Did you know that you can book your next cruise… while still on your current cruise? There’s a big push to get you to book again, and the cruise like will offer perks to entice you. That can include discounts and onboard credit.

During your cruise you can stop by the booking desk to talk to an agent. They will explain all the options and help you find the perfect cruise to match your schedule and budget. Best of all, having an agent there can help you with any questions you might have about the trip.

Dress to the Nines for Formal Night

Part of the tradition of cruising is getting dressed up for dinner. These days there are usually two formal nights on a 7-day cruise and one formal night on shorter trips.

Formal nights give you a chance to glamour up and have a “date night” with your significant other.

You don’t have to get dressed up on these nights (if you aren’t dining in the main dining room, then casual wear is fine), but it’s a fun thing to do during your trip. And don’t think you have to get dressed in a formal gown or a tuxedo. Just getting a little dressier is fine. You will want to leave the t-shirt and jeans in the cabin.

Test Your Brain with Daily Trivia

The library on your ship will have a sheet of daily trivia and puzzles that you can pick up each morning. It’s a simple sheet with maybe a crossword puzzle, Sudoku, and some trivia questions. Lots of people like to work this into their daily routine as a fun way to get their day started.

There are also trivia contests later in the day where you can compete against other passengers for bragging rights… and maybe a small trophy.

Meet the Ship’s Captain

While there is an entire team of people who handle the navigation and maneuvering of a cruise ship, there’s one person that’s in charge above everyone else — the ship’s captain. And while you might think the captain is some far-away person who the passengers will never see, you usually get a chance to meet him or her during your cruise.

The captain often hosts a welcome party or some other get-together on the ship where you can meet and get a picture. Note that the pandemic has changed this some as cruise lines don’t want the captain to get sick!

Try Your Luck at Bingo (And Possibly Win Some Dough)

While it might seem old-fashioned, bingo is big on cruises. Best of all, you can win some cash playing. Cards are for sale before the games begin and usually cost around $10 each. Games are normally played on days at sea.

Get a bingo on your card and you could sail home just a little bit richer as there are cash prizes often given to the winners.

Dance All Evening (’80s, White Parties, Disco Themes)

Dance parties are a popular thing to do on a cruise in the evenings and late-nights. There are clubs that play music, but the big events are the themed parties that usually take place on the pool deck at night.

The theme will differ among cruise lines, but some of the popular themed dance parties are the ’80s (everyone dresses like a flashback to the 1980s), white parties (dress in all-white), and disco themes.

Don’t worry if you don’t have anything that matches the theme. While it’s nice to dress up, you won’t be shunned if you don’t. Just be sure to have a good time!

Try to Win a Sports Tournament

Volleyball, soccer, free-throws, ping-pong… if you think you’re good enough then enter one of the tournaments that the cruise line hosts.

These games usually aren’t too competitive, but a fun way to to pass the time while at sea. They are normally hosted on sea days; just check your daily planner for the schedule. Sign up, and you could take home bragging rights as the best ping-pong player on your cruise. You might even get a medal or a trophy to prove it.

Get Away From the Kids in the Adults-Only Area

Not every ship has it, but many have an area on the pool deck that’s reserved only for adults, such as the Serenity area on Carnival.

What we find is that often not only are the spots kid-free, but they are just less crowded in general. If you’re looking for a spot to get away, it’s a great choice. You’ll often find a dedicated pool or hot tubs, seating, and a bar, meaning you have everything you need to enjoy the day, just without as much noise or as many people.

This is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy a space that’s a little quieter.

Get a Professional Photo Taken

From the moment you board the the ship, you’ll see the ship’s photographers out to take souvenir photos for your cruise. As well, they are prominent on formal night when many people are dressed up for the evening.

If you’d like a great photo, then take a couple of minutes to pose for the photographer. They feature professional lighting and backdrop and can work with you to get the perfect picture. Best of all, it’s free to take the pictures. You only pay if you decide to purchase the photo in the ship’s gallery.

Try Your Luck With Scratch-Off Tickets

We mentioned that the ship’s casino has some games you don’t normally find on land. That includes the coin-pusher machines that use actual coins and even electronic “skill” games where you normally win a prize but win cash instead.

One unique thing we’ve seen on some ships are their own scratch-off lottery tickets. You can buy a ticket, and if it wins, you cash in.

Get Romantic With the Ocean Air

Maybe it’s the relaxed mood that comes with being on vacation. Or maybe it’s that everyone is dressed in a little less around the pool. Or maybe it’s that there’s plenty of adult beverages around. No matter the reason, cruises definitely spark romance between couples.

If you have a balcony cabin, then you have an opportunity to open up that door and let in the wonderful ocean air and the sunshine to the cabin while you enjoy each other’s company. Just know that balconies aren’t completely private (sounds can travel and there are usually gaps around dividers) if you do decide to get frisky, so keep it in the room.

Take a Nap!

Is a nap a little boring for a vacation? Sure. But can it be one of the best things ever? Absolutely.

Remember, your time on the cruise ship is yours. While there is no shortage of things to do, don’t think you have to go 100 miles per hour the entire cruise. Sleep in, take a nap, just relax. Spend your cruise doing what you want to do.

Do Some Major People Watching

There’s hardly a better place to do some good old-fashioned people watching than on a cruise. We’re not talking about staring at folks as they go about their vacation. We’re talking about just simply sitting in a spot, watching people pass.

Major areas like the pool deck and the main promenade see nearly everyone on the ship pass by at one point or another, and they have lots of seating. It’s relaxing to sit down, have a drink, and just watch as everyone on the ship eventually passes by.

Try New Foods

Cruise ships are one of the best spots ever to try new foods. Whether you are a foodie or simply want to expand your palette, take advantage.

First, there are a number of restaurants within a close proximity so you don’t have to go far to try something unique. Literally within steps of each other can be an Asian restaurant and an Italian restaurant.

Second, while not every restaurant is free, many are. That means you can try new things without worrying about if you will like it or not. After all, if you get something and don’t like it at a free restaurant, you aren’t out any money.

Ship-Specific Things to Do on a Cruise

So far the items we’ve covered apply to most, if not all cruises. But every cruise ship is different. Below, we cover some things to do that are available only on some ships or cruise lines.

Get Racing in a Go-Kart

One of the most unique things you can do at sea is to race go-karts . Norwegian Cruise Lines allows you to do just that on several of their newer ships.

The speedways on these ships feature tracks that twist and turn, and even span multiple decks. You’ll be in control of your own electric car as you race against other passengers around the course. Now it does cost money, but it’s a sure way to get your adrenaline pumping while at sea.

Ride on a Roller Coaster

Carnival is making waves with its new ships like Mardi Gras and Celebration. Not only are they completely different ships compared to the rest of Carnival’s fleet, but they also feature the only roller coasters at sea.

Strap in and hang on as the ride takes you all around the top deck of the ship. It’s a ride that just a few years ago wouldn’t even be imagined, but the cruise line has made it a reality — and one of the more memorable things you can do on a cruise ship.

Practice Surfing on a Standing Wave

Many Royal Caribbean ships have a water feature on the top deck that’s called the Flowrider. This ride is free, and spits out a thin layer of fast-moving water. With some practice you can ride a boogie-board or a special surfboard over the water, carving back and forth.

What if you fall down? Don’t worry, everything is padded. All that should be hurt is your pride (lots of people like to hang out and watch the surfers try their luck).

Ride a Zipline… Across the Ship

How big are cruise ships these days? So big that you can zipline across them. Several ships, including those from Royal Caribbean and MSC have zipline rides that will sail from one end of the ship to the other. So you can sail over the ship as it cruises over the water. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Just be sure before you strap in that you aren’t afraid of heights!

Take a Turn on a Waterslide

While older ships might not have them, most newer ships come with waterslides onboard. And before you think these are simple slides that make a turn or two and let you out… that’s normally not the case.

For example, Norwegian has the Ocean Loops (pictured above) — an extreme slide that juts out over the side of the ship. After a nearly vertical drop, you’ll go out over the side of the ship before doing a sharp turn back. And did we mention the clear tube so you can see the water below?

Go Ice Skating at Sea

We can’t think of anything that seems more unlikely than ice skating while sailing the Caribbean. Yet many Royal Caribbean ships have an ice rink. While it’s used for performances put on by the entertainment staff, there is also a chance for passengers to skate as well.

Look at your daily calendar for the times. Most of what you need — including skates — are provided for you. Be sure to bring long pants and socks. You’ll need them to skate.

Have Some Fun in Bumper Cars

Another Royal Caribbean activity on some ships is the chance to ride bumper cars while at sea. Passengers need to be at least five years old to ride tandem, but eight years old and above can drive their own car.

Don’t worry, you won’t go fast enough to get hurt, but the bumps can come suddenly enough that you might not stop laughing while you drive around.

Take a Class You’ve Always Wanted to Learn

On many higher-end cruise lines, classes are a big draw. Whether it’s learning more about the history of a country or port you’re visiting or learning some new cooking skills under the leadership of a chef, it’s a fun way to get something more “cultural” out of your cruise.

Classes often have a fee associated. You’ll be able to find out more once you are on your cruise.

Listen to The Beatles Play (Or at Least a Cover of Them)

The Cavern Club in Liverpool is where The Beatles got their start. The Cavern Club on Norwegian Cruise Lines is a re-creation of the famous club on some of the ships.

Walk into the dimly-lit joint and you can get a drink, hang out, and in the evenings there is a recreated Fab Four that plays covers of the band. If you’re a fan, it’s a must see. Even if you aren’t, it’s a fun thing to check out while on the ship.

Pour Your Own Beer

Want to get a cheap beer? Suds on a cruise can cost a bit. It’s normal to pay between $6-8 for a beer.

But some cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean are putting in self-serve taps. You swipe your card, pour your beer, and you are charged by the ounce. Best of all? You don’t have to wait on a bartender for a beer, and it’s also among the cheapest options on the ships. We’ve found beers for about $5 a glass.

Get Your Drink Made by a Robot

One of the more unique things you’ll find a cruise, some Royal Caribbean ships have the “Bionic Bar.” What makes this special is that it’s a robotic arm that grabs all the ingredients and makes your entire drink without human interaction (you even order from an electronic pad). While it might not replace the traditional bar anytime soon, it is something unique to try on your cruise.

See How Fast You Are on an F1 Simulator

If you love to race, you already know some ships have go-kart tracks. But what if you want to go faster? Some ships, including those from Norwegian and MSC have F1 simulators. This includes a full-sized car replica that you sit in and wide screens to make you feel like you really are driving around the course.

Jump 10 Feet in the Air with the Sky Pad

Royal Caribbean has a feature on some ships — a huge sphere that sits high atop the ship. The massive ball contains the Sky Pad. It’s a thrill where you are attached to bungee cords via a harness and then start jumping on a trampoline.

What’s surprising is how high this can make you jump. You can choose to free jump, or there are also virtual reality headsets that allow you to play games as you jump (such as blocking virtual soccer balls). Either way, it’s unique to be jumping so high while you are on top of a cruise ship.

Get a Taste of Virtual Reality

Norwegian has a place called the Galaxy Pavilion on some of its newer cruise ships. If you have kids, they will likely beg you to go.

The area features a ton of virtual reality games. From a Jeep ride that moves as the virtual reality headset takes you on a run from chasing dinosaurs to walking a balance beam high above a city to rescue a kitten, the experience can make you feel like you are really there.

The Galaxy Pavilion does cost extra, but it’s a pretty memorable thing to do on a cruise and the entire family will have fun.

No Shortage of Things to Do on a Cruise

The good news is that whether you like it quiet and relaxing, or you love to be on the go your entire vacation, there’s something for everyone on a cruise. There are dozens — if not hundreds of things for you to do. But the most important thing is to remember that your time is your own on vacation. Spend it how you want without worrying about if you’re making the “most” of your trip.  

Related Articles:

• 25+ Fun Things for Kids to Do on a Cruise
• 21+ Best Cruise Cabin Tips, Secrets, & Things to Know (Read Before Sailing)
• 44 Things NEVER to Do on a Cruise Ship

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How to Smoke Marijuana (Legally!) While On a Cruise

61 questions about cruising answered (everything you wanted to know), easy ways to get to port everglades in fort lauderdale for a cruise (port transportation), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO

Vacation with the family.

Trying to plan the ultimate family vacation? Royal Caribbean offers thrills for everyone onboard

Pulling off the perfect family vacation isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to cater to different ages and preferences. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean is known for delivering great family getaways designed to wow guests across multiple generations. Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is packed with palate-pleasing dining options, incredible entertainment, and unforgettable activities for all ages included in your cruise fare — not to mention itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most adventure-filled shores. The best part? All the planning has been taking care of for you, so you can focus on bonding with your loved ones while doing as much or as little as you like. 

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

Your next family getaway is a click away — where will you wander next?

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BOLDER FAMILY BONDING STARTS HERE

Family-friendly vacation destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

cococay getaway

Kick family bonding up a notch at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas — voted Best Private Island Experience by Travel Weekly readers. Turn up the thrills, like conquering Daredevil’s Peak®, the tallest waterslide in North America. Or unplug and chill along Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

EXPLORE OUR PRIVATE ISLAND

TROPIC TREKS

Sun-kissed shores are yours to explore. Build epic castles on the pink sand beaches of Barbados . Splash into the turquoise waters of Curaçao. Or wander through legendary forts in Puerto Rico . No one does kid-friendly cruises better than Royal Caribbean® — the cruise line voted Best Overall for 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers.

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

WILDEST WEEK EVER

Discover the magic of Alaska, where snowcapped mountains, towering forests and misty fjords dare you to deny their majesty. Spot bears hunting for salmon in Tongass National Forest. Listen to the thunderous roar of Hubbard Glacier . And cross once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list together — on one unforgettable journey.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

WEST COAST WANDER

Nothing fuels bolder bonding like an epic adventure with your squad. Set out from L.A. on the family vacation you’ve been waiting for onboard the best cruises for kids. From whale-watching in Ensenada to post-card pretty shores in Puerto Vallarta and lounging on Cabo’s world-famous beaches — make memories that last a lifetime.

EXPLORE THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

SET SAIL ABOARD THE BEST SHIPS FOR FAMILIES

Cruise Planner is the place to get the most out of your adventure. Securing reservations and purchasing packages before you sail lets you score the best savings available anywhere. Add peace of mind to the mix — and you’re ready for big adventure. 

OF THE SEAS

CUE THE MEMORY MAKING

From record breaking rides — like the tallest slide at sea — to dining that offers a taste of every culture and shows that will leave you in awe, being onboard a Royal Caribbean ship makes the journey as bold as the destinations you’ll visit.

SUN-SOAKED FUN

Each ship offers endless ways for families to fill their sea days. Think epic experiences like a plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, and glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles that are bound to boost your adrenaline. Sun-soaked pool parties and hang ten sessions on the FlowRider®* surf simulator. A round of Mini Golf with a side of sea views and a rushing zip line ride ten stories above deck — and that’s barely scratching the surface.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR DINNER

With so many delicious dining options onboard, everyone in your family will find something to satisfy their cravings in between adventures. From the endless selection of complimentary flavors at Windjammer Café and family-friendly feasting with My Family Time Dining at the Main Dining Room, to specialty restaurants that take you from the Far East to Italy to Wonderland, there’s something to please every taste onboard.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

NEXT LEVEL SHOWS

Every night is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some of the best entertainment at sea. Dazzling original productions and fan favorites straight from Broadway, deck-defying high dives and aerial stunts at the AquaTheater, and the coolest moves you’ve ever seen on ice at the skating rink — you’ll quickly discover that on these ships, every performance is a show-stopper.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

room for everyone

Finding your crew’s just-right stay-place is easy, with spacious rooms designed with families in mind. Choose from rooms with endless ocean views or suites with wrap-around balconies. And if you’re craving next-level luxury, the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse on  Icon of the Seas℠ maxes the memories with three tiers of unbelievable amenities and direct access to the Surfside℠ neighborhood from your private patio.

EXPLORE ACCOMODATIONS

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO DATE NIGHT RIGHT

Who says a family vacation has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world class specialty restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theater, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

KID APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grownup time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programs provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children ages 3-11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favorite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

FAMILY VACAY MODE ON

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Don’t sweat the details — they’re all taken care of so you can focus on making lifelong family memories.

Family vacations should be stress-free, and Royal Caribbean makes it easy to fuel your wanderlust without worry. You can book unforgettable  shore excursions , onboard activities and shows online before you board, making the planning process a breeze. Once you’re on deck, you’ll enjoy award winning service by dedicated staff members that strive to meet every request, whether you’re traveling with special needs or just looking for ways to celebrate a special occasion onboard.

You can even get started customizing every aspect of your vacation from the moment you book. Browse and save big on onshore experiences, beverage and specialty dining packages, spa treatments and more when you reserve in advance online through  Cruise Planner . That way, you can go straight to enjoying your vacation as soon as you come aboard the ship.

Perfect Summer Getaways for the Best Family Vacations

Celebrate Family on a Summer Vacation Cruise Getaway...

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How to pack for a Family Cruise

A Mom's Foolproof Packing Tips for a Family Cruise....

Many of the attractions onboard require closed-toed shoes and socks, so pack accordingly.

Even if you’re on a summer sailing to the tropics, pack a sweater if you plan to use the ice skating rink.

Luggage might not arrive in your stateroom until later. Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can dive into adventure early.

BEYOND BRAGWORTHY

Fill every minute with everything you love, anytime you want. Indulge in gourmet globetrotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment, and take on fleet favorites like rock climbing and the FlowRider®* surf simulator, plus so much more!

H2O ZONE WATERPARK

ESCAPE ROOM

VIRTUAL ADVENTURE ZONE

THE PERFECT STORM

ADVENTURE OCEAN

IZUMI HIBACHI & SUSHI

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The Most Fun Cruise Ship: A Comprehensive Guide to Ultimate Entertainment at Sea

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure at sea? With the growing popularity of cruise vacations, it’s no wonder people are hunting for the most fun cruise ship experience.

But how do you choose the perfect vessel to guarantee a rollicking good time? Well, that’s where we come in! With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be on your way to the vacation of a lifetime, full of entertainment, excitement, and non-stop fun.

Most Fun Cruise Ship Introduction

Cruising is no longer just a means of travel; it’s a way to make memories that last a lifetime. The correct cruise ship is the key to unlocking a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. So, without further ado, let’s dip in and explore the wonders that await you!

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Most Fun Cruise Ship

Before we set sail on this journey, let’s consider some crucial factors that’ll help you pick the most fun cruise ship for your vacation:

1. Age Group and Demographics

Who said age is just a number? When it comes to cruising, age matters! The most fun cruise ship for a group of twenty-somethings may be a snooze-fest for a family with young kids. Keep your travel companions in mind and choose a ship that caters to your age group and interests.

2. Types of Onboard Entertainment and Activities

The perfect cruise ship should have enough onboard entertainment and activities to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset (and beyond!). Research what’s offered and ensure it aligns with your idea of fun.

3. Ship Size and Capacity

Are you fan of big ships with endless amenities or small, intimate ships with a cozy atmosphere? The size and capacity of a ship can significantly impact your experience, so choose wisely.

4. Itinerary and Destinations

Last but not least, consider your dream destinations. Your choice of the most fun cruise ship should also view the itinerary and the ports of call you’re dying to explore.

Top Cruise Lines and Their Most Fun Cruise Ships

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s dive into the main course! Here are the top cruise lines and their most fun cruise ships, known for offering exceptional entertainment experiences:

Royal Caribbean International

• Symphony of the Seas

Meet the reigning queen of fun: Symphony of the Seas! This colossal ship has thrilling activities, like a 10-story slide, a zip line, and an ice-skating rink. There’s never a dull moment aboard Symphony, making her a top contender for the most fun cruise ship title.

• Harmony of the Seas

A close second in the Royal Caribbean fleet, Harmony of the Seas boasts an impressive array of entertainment options, including a surf simulator, a water park, and jaw-dropping acrobatic performances. With so much to do, boredom isn’t even in Harmony’s vocabulary.

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Joy is all about living up to its name. This ship is designed for pure, unadulterated fun, with a two-level race track, laser tag, and a virtual reality gaming area. Trust us; you’ll never want to leave this floating paradise.

• Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore is the younger sibling of Norwegian Joy, and it’s got all the bells and whistles you could hope for. Encore promises endless fun for all ages, from Broadway-caliber musicals to a sprawling water park.

Carnival Cruise Line

• Carnival Mardi Gras

Get ready to party like it’s Mardi Gras aboard Carnival’s namesake ship all year round! Mardi Gras offers a fun-filled atmosphere with an onboard roller coaster, Sky Zone trampoline park, and themed nights with you dancing until the wee hours.

• Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama is another ship that knows how to keep the fun going. With a massive water park, SkyRide (a pedal-powered “bike” that zips you around the ship), and many live shows, Panorama guarantees non-stop entertainment.

Disney Cruise Line

• Disney Dream

Disney Dream is a fantasy come true for young and young-at-heart Disney enthusiasts. With character meet-and-greets, magical stage shows, and a fireworks display at sea, this ship brings the magic of Disney to the high seas.

• Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy is the perfect combination of enchantment and excitement. The ship offers exceptional Disney experiences, thrilling water slides, interactive games, and even a Star Wars-themed day at sea. It’s a dream vacation for the entire family!

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

Now that you’re acquainted with the top contenders for the most fun cruise ship let’s delve into the fantastic onboard entertainment and activities that make these ships genuinely unforgettable:

Unique Features and Attractions

• Water Parks

From towering water slides to splash zones for the little ones, these cruise ships boast some of the most impressive water parks at sea, perfect for making a splash on a sunny day.

• Zip-Lining and Rock Climbing

For adrenaline junkies, zip-lining and rock climbing are the perfect ways to get your heart racing while soaking in stunning ocean views.

• Escape Rooms and Interactive Games

Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test with escape rooms and interactive games that’ll challenge your mind and keep you entertained for hours.

Theatrical Performances and Live Shows

From Broadway-style productions to mesmerizing acrobatic performances, these ships offer top-notch entertainment that rivals any land-based theater.

• Nightlife and Parties

When the sun goes down, the party heats up! With themed parties, nightclubs, and live music, these ships know how to keep the fun going well into the night.

Looking for a kid-free vacation? Check out these cruise lines offer adults-only escapes and unforgettable experiences.

• Children and Family-Friendly Activities

Cruising with kids? Don’t worry! These ships offer many family-friendly activities, from kids’ clubs to character meet-and-greets, ensuring everyone has a blast.

Exclusive Dining and Culinary Experiences

A fun cruise ship experience would only be complete with tantalizing your taste buds. Here’s what you can expect in terms of exclusive dining and culinary experiences:

Celebrity Chef Restaurants

Feast like royalty at restaurants helmed by world-renowned chefs, where every dish is a work of art.

Themed Dining

Immerse yourself in a unique dining atmosphere where the decor, menu, and staff transport you to another world.

Interactive Culinary Experiences

Get hands-on with cooking classes, mixology workshops, and other interactive culinary experiences that’ll have you whipping up gourmet dishes quickly.

Food Festivals and Tasting Events

Celebrate your love for food with onboard food festivals and tasting events, where you can sample a variety of cuisines and discover new favorites.

Tips for Getting the Most Fun Out of Your Cruise Ship Experience

To wrap up this ultimate guide, here are some tips to help you get the most fun out of your cruise ship experience:

1. Participate in Onboard Activities and Events

Don’t be shy! Dive into the action and join the fun by participating in onboard activities and events.

2. Make Friends with Fellow Passengers

One of the best parts of cruising is the people you meet along the way. Strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers, and who knows? You might make friends for life!

3. Plan Your Shore Excursions

Maximize your fun on and off the ship by planning exciting shore excursions at each port of call. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.

4. Take Advantage of Exclusive Offers and Promotions

Watch for exclusive offers and promotions to make your cruise ship experience more enjoyable. From spa discounts to drink packages, these deals can add a tinge of luxury to your vacation.

There you have it, folks! The most fun cruise ships and their offerings are no longer a mystery. It’s time to set sail on your next unforgettable adventure. So, do your research, book your dream vacation, and prepare for the time of your life. Anchors aweigh!

Christian Petzold is a successful touristic entrepreneur, experiential traveller and round-the-world backpacker. He holds an academic degree in tourism management.

His touristic expertise has been covered in radio, newspaper and television.

Read more on him here…

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• Cruise Ships
• Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream ®

• Dining & Activities
• Past Guest Photos
• Sails From:

It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

• 130,000 Gross Tonnage
• 3646 Guest Capacity
• 1004 Length In Feet
• 1367 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Cloud 9 spa interior.

Amenities exclusive to Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms and suites:

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites, plus scrub kit
• Unlimited use of Hydrotherapy Pool
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior Upper/Lower (Porthole)

Interior upper/lower, cloud 9 spa ocean view (walkway view).

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom, and this one fits the bill, providing comfy accommodations and convenient, priority access to treatments and services at the Cloud 9 Spa. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Deluxe Ocean View

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five cruisers.

Deluxe Ocean View (Obstructed View)

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are great for families. These rooms feature a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Premium Vista Balcony

Premium Vista Balcony staterooms were designed to wrap around the aft corners of Carnival Dream, giving you a unique vantage point from which to enjoy luxuriously panoramic views of the sky and the sea — and yes, take in even more of that sunshine.

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space; not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Dream's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Balcony (Large Balcony)

We designed Carnival Dream Balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony. Enjoy the extra outdoor space, along with all the standard Carnival stateroom amenities.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Dream. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Cove Balcony

Love the sea? Carnival Dream's Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea — these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and seafoam as the ship cruises along.

Grand Suite

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Dream features even more space than the standard suite — plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area with vanity.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 Am
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Cloud 9 Spa Suite

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in both stateroom and spa accommodations. There's room for you and your things — with a large room and balcony — and a walk-in closet. The soothing in-room whirlpool tub will help you stay relaxed after your relaxing spa treatment. And like all suites, a Cloud 9 Spa Suite features VIP check-in, which lets you easily get right up to your amazing stateroom.

Plus, all suites include:

Ocean Suite

A Carnival Dream suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub.

Junior Suite (Obstructed View)

As you step into a Junior Suite aboard Carnival Dream, you can't help but feel that you're stepping into full-size luxury in a smaller package. Featuring a standard-size balcony, in a Carnival Dream Junior Suite you'll find everything else there is to love about a suite, including VIP check-in, a walk-in closet; and even a whirlpool tub for relaxing. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard dining, where to for you.

This ship is always visiting great vacation spots. Where will your next vacation take you?

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

TAG & THEY'RE IT!

39 Things To Do on a Cruise for Endless Fun

Updated : January 16, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Enjoy a Spa Treatment
• Participate in a Wellness Activity
• Relax in Yoga or Meditation Sessions
• Watch the Sunset
• People Watch on Deck
• Attend a Live Musical Performance
• Dance the Night Away
• Laugh at a Comedy Show
• Lounge by the Pool and Soak Up Some Sun
• Be Amazed at a Magic Show
• Get on Stage at a Karaoke or Talent Night
• Try Your Luck at the Ship’s Casino
• Hit the Arcade
• Experience a Themed Dining Night
• Try Some Rare Cuisine
• Attend a Cooking Demonstration or Class
• Enjoy a Wine Tasting or Mixology Class
• Eat Breakfast in Bed
• Take a Guided Tour of a Port
• Soak Up Local Culture on a Guided Excursion
• Get an Adrenaline Rush
• Snorkel With Aquatic Wildlife
• Discover Local History
• Enjoy Authentic Flavors
• Stay Active in the Onboard Gym
• Take Part in Water Sports
• Join a Group Fitness Challenge
• Soothe Your Muscles
• Enroll Kids in a Supervised Kids’ Club
• Send Teens to the Teen Lounge
• Have a Family Game Night
• Take a Photography or Painting Workshop
• Challenge Yourself at Trivia Night
• Explore the Ship on a Scavenger Hunt
• Learn a Language
• Celebrate Your Honeymoon or Anniversary
• Arrange a Romantic Dinner
• Schedule a Professional Photography Session

Book Your Cruise With AAA

For many of us, planning fun in the sun means booking a cruise vacation — and finding what to do! Luckily, there's an assortment of fun cruise ship activities and amenities. Your journey could start with a thrilling cruise ship scavenger hunt, offering a fun and interactive way to explore the ship's amenities. You could then lounge by the pool, participate in a yoga class or attend exciting destination seminars. At night, plan on attending the onboard entertainment shows or simply savoring a delicious meal under the stars. In short, there's no shortage of things to do on a cruise.

Now, if this is your first cruise, don't sweat it. Y ou probably have many cruising questions about what cruise line to choose and cruise ship perks. Fortunately, many ships have amenities that rival your favorite resort, so there are plenty of things to do on a cruise even when the ship isn’t docked in port.

Sure, booking a cruise can feel a bit daunting, but once you know about all these top picks, you'll be ready to set sail in no time with AAA. We’ve pulled plenty of things to do — 39 cruise ideas, in fact — so that you know what to expect. These floating resorts are packed with activities.

1. Enjoy a Spa Treatment

Recognizing that adults want pampering while they cruise, many ships have a spa on board. Get a massage shortly after boarding to shake off the last remnants of real-world stress, or get a facial before you arrive in port for a just-vacationed glow that’ll make all your friends jealous. 

Before you go to the spa, call and find out if you need appointments on your ship’s app. Some ships’ spas book up quickly and require you to make an appointment, while others welcome walk-ins. And make sure you take your wallet — most spa treatments are not included even on “all-inclusive” cruises.

2. Participate in a Wellness Activity

While many people skip workouts guilt-free while on vacation, many cruise ships offer exciting wellness activities to keep passengers’ heart rates pumping. Specific offerings vary by ship, but you can find anything from aerobics to Zumba. Most cruise ships have a fitness center where you can work out independently or join a structured class and make a few new friends while you sweat.

Here are a few popular wellness activities you may find onboard:

• Rock climbing
• Water aerobics

3. Relax in Yoga or Meditation Sessions

Need help to find your vacation Zen? Participate in a yoga or meditation session. Many cruise lines offer sunrise yoga classes on deck so you can practice your Vinyasa in peace as the sunrises over the horizon. It’s a great way to start your day on the right foot. Cruises can overwhelm some people. There’s a lot of activity and many people on board, so take a midday meditation break to reset and recharge for the rest of your day. Learn to enjoy the benefits of doing nothing .

4. Watch the Sunset

Sunsets on cruise ships are gorgeous whether you’re in the middle of the ocean, cruising down a river or docked in port. Head to the ship’s top deck for gorgeous panoramic views, but don’t get discouraged if they’re crowded — any deck will do! You can also request a table near a window at one of the ship’s restaurants to enjoy your meal in the golden light of sunset.

For the most colorful sunsets, go out on an evening with some cloud cover. 

5. People Watch on Deck

Cruise ships are like airports in that there are many people from all walks of life in a confined space. If you just need a break but don’t want to sit in your room, grab a chair on deck somewhere and spend some time people-watching. Watch families play in the pool or check out the fashions (especially in the evening when people get dressed up for dinner). Create stories about who everyone is and why they’re on the ship. 

6. Attend a Live Musical Performance

No matter what cruise ship you’re on, there will be some live musical performance every night. Most ships have a live band that plays in the evenings, or you can check out a musical revue performance at one of the restaurants for dinner. Disney Cruise Line ships often have full-blown musical performances daily, just like what you’d see in Disney World or Disneyland .

7. Dance the Night Away

Depending on your cruise ship, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to dance. No matter your style — disco, swing, line, salsa or freestyle — your cruise ship probably has a space or time dedicated to it. There may even be opportunities for private lessons or a class with other passengers to help you learn the basics or brush up on your skills before you hit the dance floor.

8. Laugh at a Comedy Show

Head to the ship’s comedy show to get your funny bone tickled after a long relaxation. Some shows may be a one-night-only offering, or in the case of Norwegian Cruise Lines, there may be a dedicated comedy club onboard with a rotating list of performers. 

Some ships have adult-only comedy performances, while others may have more family-friendly options. When in doubt, ask a crew member!

9. Lounge by the Pool and Soak Up Some Sun

Even though you’re on a ship in the middle of an ocean or river, it’s not like you can jump off the deck into the water. Instead, spend a day on the Lido Deck, where you can enjoy outdoor recreation, such as pools or hot tubs. While the pool situation varies based on your specific cruise ship, other cruise lines have more than one pool and one of them may be adult-only, so you can get away from kids splashing around playing Marco Polo.

Swim a few laps or dip your toes in the cool water before stretching out on a louge chair with your favorite book or magazine. 

10. Be Amazed at a Magic Show

For some family-friendly fun, take in a magic show. Sitting in the cool, dark theater will be a relief after a long day in the sun, and the tricks will bring out a sense of wonder in everyone in your group. Magic shows don’t run every night on a ship, so check the ship’s entertainment schedule.

11. Get on Stage at a Karaoke or Talent Night

While plenty of professional entertainers are on every cruise ship, sometimes it’s also fun to check out the amateurs. Listen to everyone do their best Whitney Houston impression at karaoke, or watch someone showcase their juggling skills at karaoke and talent nights. If you dare, get up and show off your unique skills!

12. Try Your Luck at the Ship’s Casino

Vegas isn’t the only place with gambling! Many mainstream cruise ships that travel international waters have a casino, but they’ll be closed on river cruises or whenever the ship docks in a port. Rules about age depend on the cruise line, but most ships require you to be 18 to gamble.

The cruise ship casino will have a mix of table games and slot machines. Like dryland casinos, you’ll have the chance to win (or lose) money, so make sure to bring some cash. But don’t expect free drinks like you’d get in a land casino unless you are a cruise line member and have earned enough points. 

13. Hit the Arcade

Kids and adults will love the chance to hit up the ship’s arcade, a fun option for a rare rainy afternoon or when you need a break from the sun. Play classic arcade games, work on your putt in a round of mini-golf or challenge the family to a friendly game of laser tag. 

14. Experience a Themed Dining Night

One of the perks of a cruise is taking advantage of all the unique dining options available. Your cruise ship may have a themed restaurant like Tiana’s Place Restaurant on the Disney Wonder, which serves southern-style food in a restaurant decked out like a French Quarter support club, complete with live jazz and blues music and character visits. 

Other ships may offer a themed dining experience at one of its restaurants requiring audience participation, whether dressing up in costume or participating in a murder mystery dinner. 

15. Try Some Rare Cuisine

If you’re cruising with kids , it might be tempting to find a place and eat there for every meal if you have picky eaters. But cruising is a great time to expand your palate with new-to-you cuisine. Whether you try every restaurant on the ship or get off in a port city, step outside your comfort zone and try something you couldn’t get at home. 

16. Attend a Cooking Demonstration or Class

Many people try to avoid cooking while on vacation, but consider attending a cooking demonstration or class while at sea. Most ships have professional chefs on staff offering cooking classes or even private lessons. You’ll go home with more than just wonderful memories; you can whip up a new dish whenever you want a taste of your trip.

17. Enjoy a Wine Tasting or Mixology Class

If cooking isn’t your forte, consider attending a wine tasting or enrolling in a mixology class with one of the ship’s many bartenders. For those who don’t drink wine, your ship may even offer tastings for other types of alcohol, like beer or scotch. Either way, you’ll learn something new about what you drink while trying new flavors. 

18. Eat Breakfast in Bed

A cruise is still a vacation, so it’s OK to take it slow. Instead of jumping out of bed with a jam-packed schedule, take it slow one day with no agenda. Start on the right foot with a luxurious breakfast in bed, and take your time to sip your coffee or mimosa with a good book or your favorite comfort TV show. 

19. Take a Guided Tour of a Port 

Whenever your cruise ship docks, take a guided tour of the port. You’ll learn about local history and culture without worrying about getting lost in an unfamiliar place. It’s a great way to get a quick rundown before you explore the port on your own.

20. Soak Up Local Culture on a Guided Excursion

Many ships offer excursions as part of your ticket, or you may add an excursion to your trip for a fee. Possible excursions include: a tour of local cuisine, an outing to a local cultural attraction or a day trip to the beach. Whatever you’re interested in, there’s a chance your cruise line will be able to set it up for you, whether through them or a travel agency they’re familiar with in the port. 

21. Get an Adrenaline Rush 

If being on a ship is starting to feel boring, leave for some adrenaline-producing activities when you’re in port! Many ports recognize that passengers want to escape the cruise ship, and they cater to thrill-seekers with activities like zip lining or rock climbing. Talk to your travel guide or explore the ship’s app to find out all available options.

22. Snorkel With Aquatic Wildlife

Whenever you’re in port, you may be able to do something you can’t do on a cruise ship — get in the ocean. Many places offer you a chance to snorkel with their native aquatic wildlife so you can swim with dolphins or explore a beautiful reef ecosystem. It’s a nice change from the ship’s pool, and you’ll be able to create some fantastic memories

23. Discover Local History

Trade helped establish many port cities as commercial centers of the area, which means they’re full of historical landmarks and museums where you can learn a lot about local history. Your ship’s app or travel agent can help you find these local gems, where you can take a guided tour with a local guide or a self-paced tour to help you get everything you can from the experience.

24. Enjoy Authentic Flavors

Sure, most cruise lines boast about their food, but when you have a chance to get authentic cuisine in a port, you should take it. Explore a local market, buy some local fruit to snack on and eat local street food. Just be careful if you have any allergies — learn the words for the foods you’re allergic to to communicate with local vendors. 

25. Stay Active in the Onboard Gym

If you want to stay active while on your cruise, the ship’s onboard gym is the place to do it. Gyms vary by cruise ship, but you can expect to find whatever you might find in a hotel fitness center:

• Stationary bikes
• Ellipticals
• Free weights
• Resistance training machines

Some cruise ships may also offer classes or have a running track if you want to get your steps in without fighting the crowds on deck.

26. Take Part in Water Sports

Depending on your ship, you may be able to participate in some water sports during your cruise. Some have organized pool activities like volleyball or take advantage of wakeboarding or surfing pools, or you can simply compete with friends in the lap pool or the diving board. 

Some ships have retractable platforms that allow you to access windsurfing, paddleboarding or kayaking straight from the ship. The vessels with this feature often restrict its use to when anchored so you aren’t overwhelmed by the ship’s wake. 

27. Join a Group Fitness Challenge

Find like-minded fitness buffs on board with a group fitness challenge. These are popular on weight-loss and fitness cruises, but you may find them on mainstream cruises. They’ll vary based on the nature of the challenge, but you can track time spent in the gym or classes, steps taken (you’ll take a lot while you’re on board!) or pounds lost. 

If there isn’t a formal fitness challenge on your ship, create your own with your travel party. 

28. Soothe Your Muscles

With all the walking and physical activity, your muscles may tire. Soothe them with some time in a relaxing sauna, steam room or hot tub. Some ships may charge a small fee to use a sauna or steam room, and they may be co-ed or limited by gender. Many also have age restrictions, so check your ship’s policy before letting your teen hit the steam room.

29. Enroll Kids in a Supervised Kids’ Club

Family-friendly cruise lines often offer a supervised kids’ club. You can drop your kids off with the staff, who will keep them entertained while you and your partner get a spa treatment or enjoy a romantic dinner. These clubs may offer kids a chance to play with one another or have organized activities like games, arts and crafts or movies.

If traveling with kids, look for a cruise line with age-specific kids’ clubs so that activities are age-appropriate.

30. Send Teens to the Teen Lounge

Traveling with teens is tough — you want them to have a good time and understand that it may require some independence, but they aren’t ready to be fully independent. Onboard teen lounges and teen clubs are the perfect way to ensure everyone has a good time.

Many cruise ships have specific areas reserved for teens with gaming systems, arcades, movies and more. Some even convert teen spaces into teens-only nightclubs so they can dance with their new friends and enjoy the music they love while still being chaperoned.

31. Have a Family Game Night

Use your time on the cruise ship to get closer as a family with a family game night. Bring your own favorite board game from home, or check them out from the cruise ship’s library, or play games in the ship’s game room. If board games aren’t your style, the ship may offer tournaments for popular gaming systems in their arcade.

32. Take a Photography or Painting Workshop

Some cruise lines offer various art workshops covering various art media. Spectacular views on board may inspire you to get in touch with your inner artist, so learn how to take better photos or paint a sunset so you can bring them home with you as more than just memories.

If you are an artist, there are art immersion cruises you can book that include onboard art experts who will teach you throughout the cruise.

33. Challenge Yourself at Trivia Night 

Trivia sessions are a daily occurrence on modern cruise ships, and they can be based on a specific theme (such as sports trivia) or general knowledge. They’re a great way to bond with your friends or make new friends by teaming up with other passengers to improve your team. 

Be warned — trivia is a serious business on a cruise ship. Everyone is welcome, but some people take trivia contests very seriously, scheduling their days around them. 

34. Explore the Ship on a Scavenger Hunt

One of the best things to do when you first settle in is to tour the ship so you know where everything is. You could just walk around decks with a ship map, but it’s more fun if you turn it into a game.

Before you board, print off a free ship scavenger hunt from the internet or see if the ship’s app has a predesigned one. Then divide into teams and start exploring!

35. Get Crafty

If you enjoy crafting, bring your cross-stitch threads or knitting needles to fill your spare time (just make sure you pack them appropriately in your luggage if you are traveling on a plane). If you aren’t crafty yet, many cruise ships offer craft activities ranging from scrapbooking to jewelry-making as part of their programming. 

36. Learn a Language

Cruise ships often offer you a chance to learn a language on board so you can talk to locals when you disembark while the ship is in port. Languages taught on board may be limited to languages spoken wherever you travel, but you can always lounge by the pool with your favorite language app and learn any language you want!

37. Celebrate Your Honeymoon or Anniversary

Many cruise lines cater to couples , offering adults-only cruise options and specializing in romance.

If you’re celebrating your anniversary or honeymoon onboard the ship, let your travel agent know when you book the trip. They can communicate that during the booking process to get you a few extras, like Champagne on arrival to your stateroom or flower petals on your bed. You can also look for couples-only activities on the ship’s app. 

38. Arrange a Romantic Dinner

If you’re traveling with your partner, reserve one night for a special romantic dinner. Book a reservation at a nice restaurant or sushi bar, request a table with a view, get dressed up and send the kids to a kids or teen club for the evening. Enjoy your favorite beverages and delicious "grown-up" food that doesn’t include chicken nuggets and fries, and dance the night away.

39. Schedule a Professional Photography Session

In most families, one person takes all the photos, so when you get home, you don’t have a shot of the entire family. Fortunately, cruise ships often come with a professional photographer so you can capture the whole family. Like Disney World, many professional photographers are set up at key points on the ship to take your photo for free, and you’ll only pay if you decide to purchase a print.

Some cruise lines also allow you to book a session with a professional photographer, which can involve taking photos in front of a backdrop in an onboard studio, on the ship’s deck or on dry land when the ship docks in port. 

Planning a cruise on your own can be overwhelming, especially with all the fun things to do on a cruise. Visit your local AAA Travel Agent today or book online with our AAA cruise partners to take advantage of members-only pricing.

AAA Travel Editors are AAA Travel Experts.

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101 Amazing Cruise Activities for Every Cruiser

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If you’re thinking of going on a cruise, you might be wondering what there is to do on a cruise ship? Will there be enough interesting and fun cruise ship activities that you’ll enjoy?

I get it, because before my first cruise, my husband wondered the same thing. Even though we had friends who loved cruising, was it for us?

Of course, we loved it! However, more importantly, through our years of cruising, we’ve discovered that on a cruise there truly is something for everyone .

In this post, you’ll find more than 100 amazing things to do on a cruise. Whether you prefer to be active or to relax, this extensive list of cruise ship activities will help you to discover all there is to do on a cruise.

What Can You Do on a Cruise? The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Ship Activities

From the moment you get on your cruise ship on embarkation day , you’ll have access to a plethora of activities and amenities. But how can you know what there is to do?

Most cruise lines now have an app, where you’ll be able to see a list of daily activities available. This daily planner, is often available in a paper format as well. It will list the starting and ending time of a scheduled activity (like pool volleyball), as well as the opening and closing hours of some of the onboard attractions and venues (like the fitness centre, race cars or ice skating).

Something to note is that each cruise line and cruise ship is different, a bit like resorts. Choose wisely before you book so that you have the perfect cruise ship for the type of vacation you like best.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Exciting Cruise Ship Activities

Cruise ships can feel like an exciting playground at sea, for both children and adults. While years ago, the most exciting activity might be shuffleboard and some pool volleyball – these days, there is a LOT to do on a cruise!

1. Waterslides & Aquaparks

Waterslides and aquaparks can be found on many family friendly cruise ships. If you’re cruising on a newer Royal Caribbean, Carnival, NCL, or even MSC cruise ship, you have to check out the incredible waterslides!

2. Roller Coaster at Sea

On Carnival’s newest cruise ships, Carnival Mardi Gras & Celebration, you’ll find a Sea Coaster, the world’s first roller coaster at sea . How cool is that?

3. Flowrider Surf Pools

Have you ever wanted to learn to surf? The surf simulator on several Royal Caribbean cruise ships is a great way to have fun and practice!

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class cruise ships are some of the coolest cruise ships at sea! On these 220,000 ton mega ships, you’ll find some incredible activities and attractions, including a zip line that rises 14 decks over the cruise ship’s boardwalk neighborhood.

5. Indoor Skydiving

People who’ve experienced IFly by RipCord, and indoor skydiving activity of some Royal Caribbean ships, have great memories and cool photos to show how exciting cruising can actually be.

6. Ropes Course (& Walk the Plank)

Carnival and Norwegian Cruise line both have ropes courses available on some of their cruise ships. If you really want to take up the thrills, you can “walk the plank”, which literally shoots out several feet from the cruise ship. It’s not for me, but will make a great photo and memory!

7. Race Cars

Check out the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy for a chance to drive an electric race car at sea!

8. Bumper Cars

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships have an interior entertainment area, called the SeaPlex. One of the fun activities is bumper cars, but there are so many others as well.

9. Laser Tag

Check your cruise ship to see if it has a laser tag game. Some newer as well as refurbished cruise ships on family friendly cruise lines offer this.

10. Ice Skate

Some Royal Caribbean cruise ships have small indoor ice skating rinks where you can see an incredible show, as well as rent ice skates for “free skating”. If you don’t have a chance to ice skate where you live, why not give this fun activity a try?

Free Activities on a Cruise

Most cruise ships will have daily trivia available with the cruise ship entertainment staff. Check your cruise planner for times and show up early for this popular free cruise activity .

12. Fitness Center

Gyms on cruise ships are modern and beautiful, with an incredible sea view! You can use the equipment free of charge and some classes will be free as well. Others may have an additional fee , so do check as you sign up.

Avoid cruise ship weight gain by joining free activities like a Zumba class on the sports deck or cruise ship atrium .

14. Dance class

Learn ballroom dances including salsa and meringue and then impress yourselves dancing later in the cruise to the live band.

15. Mini Golf

This might be a traditional cruise ship activity, but it’s still fun and pretty popular.

16. Painting class

Try water color painting and take home a beautiful work of art you’ve made on a cruise.

17. Napkin Folding Class

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to fold napkins like in fancy restaurants, join a class and demonstration and pick up a new skill.

18. Ice Carving Demonstration

Did you know that ice carving is an art and a skill that takes substantial training? It’s amazing to see the cruise ship Ice Carvers complete a beautiful ice sculpture before your eyes. Check you cruise planner for this demonstration, often done on a sea day by the main pool

19. Cruise Ship Planetarium

Did you know that the QM2 has a real planetarium where you can view the stars from indoors?

Read next: More FREE Things to do on a Cruise

Things for Kids to Do on a Cruise

Cruising with Kids ? Here are just a few of the cruise ship activities planned specifically for young children and teens.

20. Kid’s Camp

Most cruise line’s have an a Kid’s Club with excellent supervision and fun activities. However, family friendly cruise lines like Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC and Princess Cruises have some of the best kid’s camps at sea .

21. Scavenger Hunts

Taking your tweens or teens on a cruise? Scavenger hunts around the ship are just one of the fun cruise activities they’ll enjoy with their new friends.

22. Arts & Crafts

If your son or daughter enjoys crafts like making bracelets, gimp, painting or coloring, they’ll have a blast in the kid’s club. There are so many materials and fun projects that they can create during their cruise vacation.

23. Lego & More

Young children will have so much fun with lego and other fun toys in an amazing Kid’s Club. Make sure to visit the kid’s camp and register as soon as possible after board your cruise .

24. Xbox competitions

Cruise kid’s and teen clubs have awesome video game consoles and opportunities to hang out playing the most popular video games. In some cases, there will be planned Xbox competitions on the big screen!

25. Pirate Parades

I’ve got great memories of my boys dressing up and joining a group pirate parade through the centre of the cruise ship. They are older now, but we did several fabulous family cruises and they have great memories of those times!

26. Movie Nights

Kid’s can hang out and chill while watching a movie.

27. Group Dinners

A couple times during your cruise, optional group dinners may be planned. While this is usually in the buffet, there may be a special “make your own pizza” dinner or other planned activity.

28. Pyjama Parties

Mom and Dad can stay out late while the kids hang out at fun pyjama parties.

29. Hot Tub Parties

Teens will often have a hot tub located near the teen club on a cruise. Expect a few hot tub parties on a cruise.

30. Disco and Dance Parties

Kids and teens will have events planned in the cruise ship night club. Often, young children will have dance parties or even play games of tag in the disco during the day, while teens may have a special evening in the evening.

If you and/or your kids like an old school arcade, with air hockey and some classic games, you’ll have a great time playing in this often under-utilized area.

Related posts:   20 Amazing Ways to Save Money on Your Family Cruise

10 Cruise Experts Share Their Best Tips for Cruising with Kids

Things to Do for Couples on a Cruise

Cruises make great romantic getaways for couples. Here are some of the best cruise activities for couples to enjoy .

32. Balcony breakfast

Order room service and enjoy a cup of coffee and some breakfast, while enjoying your own private balcony in the morning. While continental room service is often free on a cruise, you may want to splurge for an extra special romantic experience.

33. Movies Under the Stars

Most cruise ships have a big screen movie screen showing movies during the evening on a cruise. On Princess Cruises you’ll get a blush blanket and some popcorn and it’s like a cozy drive in under the stars!

34. Exciting Shore Excursions

On shore adventures can be romantic! Plan a shore excursion to the beach, snorkeling or zip-lining for a special and fun day with your love.

35. Vow Renewal

Why not participate in either a group vow renewal ceremony, or plan a private vow renewal and celebration on your cruise? You can invite friends and family, or keep it a very private.

36. Get Married at Sea

Did you know that you can get married by the Captain on many cruise ships? Check this out before your cruise, to make all the arrangements.

37. Dinner for 2

Have a romantic dinner for 2 in the main dining room or one of the wonderful specialty restaurants. Celebrity’s Tuscan Grill offers a very special dinner and experience.

38. Stargaze

The sky is so clear at night while out to sea. Sit out on your private balcony or head to the top deck to enjoy the most spectacular view of the stars.

39. Couples Massage

Cruise ship spas are some of the best in the world. Combine a massage with an ocean view and the one you love – perfect!

Related post:   10 Romantic Things to Do When Cruising Together

Rainy Day Activities

Unfortunately not every day on a cruise will be sunshine and blue skies. However there’s still so much to do on rainy days on a cruise .

40. Art Auction

You don’t need to wait for a rainy day to attend an art auction, but if you are looking for something to do, why not give it a try? Art auctions are about more than the purchase. If you enjoy art and learning about the history of some well known and up and coming artists, you might be pleasantly surprised.

41. Port Lecture

Port talks happen on sea days, rain or shine. If you are new to a cruise port of call and would like to know what to expect, port lectures can be informative.

42. Matinee Show or Movie

Rainy days are perfect days to attend an afternoon showing of a popular production show or even a movie in the ship’s theatre or one of the lounges.

43. Board Games

On rainy days, or even hot days on a cruise, there will often be people playing cards and a variety of board games around the cruise ship. While you can actually borrow some on a cruise, I’d consider bringing your own.

Here are more great ideas: 37 Things to Do on a Cruise When it Rains

Popular Cruise Ship Activities

The entertainment on cruise ships often rivals Las Vegas. From production shows to guest entertainers, you’ll find tons of things to do in the evening on your cruise.

44. Welcome Show

If this is your first cruise, make sure to attend the Welcome Show the first evening of your cruise vacation. This is a fun and informative glimpse into the activities and entertainment planned over the next few days.

45. Audience Participation Gameshows

One of the most fun and unpredictable events on a cruise are the live audience participation game shows. Games like “Love & Marriage” and “Battle of the Sexes” are often hilarious, because you just never know what the participants will actually say.

If you decide to join, there are often prizes and you’ll be “famous” during your cruise vacation!

46. Production Shows

Expect at least a couple amazing production shows performed by the cruise ship’s singers and dancers.

47. Comedy Shows

Each cruise you’ll get a chance to see some very talented and often hilarious comedians. Some cruise lines even often an “adult” show late into the night.

48. Illusionists & More

Guest entertainers are brought onto the cruise ship each sailing to entertain the passengers. You may get a chance to see illusionists, hypnotists, impersonators and more.

49. Piano Bar

One of the most popular venues on many cruise ships is the Piano Bar. Enjoy a martini or favorite drink and join in on the fun.

50. Live Bands

Whether you want to dance, or hang out and take in a show, the live bands on cruises are fabulous. Make sure to go to the lounge or club early to get some seats.

If you love to gamble and play at the Casino, you’ll enjoy this energetic environment on your cruise. The Casino is open on sea days and late into the night.

52. Champagne Art Auction

A pretty popular cruise ship activity is the champagne art auction. It’s exactly as it sounds – attend an art auction and get a free glass of sparkling wine at the same time.

53. Past Passenger Events

One of the very popular events on a cruise is a past passenger party. There will actually be more than one, depending on your loyalty level. The Captain and officers will often be there to greet you and you may be offered free drinks as well.

54. Afternoon Tea

If you’re a foodie and enjoy food experiences, make sure to go to the “afternoon tea” offered in the main dining room on many traditional cruise lines.

Read next:  How NOT to Gain Weight on a Cruise, Even When You’re a Foodie!

Sea Day Activities

There’s so much to do (or not do) on sea days, that these are often some of the best times on a cruise. While I could list off a lot, here are just a few sea day activities to look forward to.

More fun things to do on a sea day can be found in this post .

55. Pool time

If you’re on a Caribbean cruise, one of the favorite hangouts on the cruise ship will be the pools and hot tubs. Most large cruise ships, have 3-4 pools, or more.

Some pools areas will be quieter and more relaxing, while other pools are meant for activities and a more “party-like” atmosphere.

56. Get a Massage

Sea days can be the perfect time to indulge in some self-care at the spa. Book a massage or other rejuvenating treatment and enjoy!

Cruise tip: Spa treatments will often be on promotion if you book on embarkation day . Check more money saving cruise tips in this post:  27 Hacks to Save Money on a Cruise

57. The Sanctuary

Hang out in the exclusive Sanctuary, Princess Cruises ‘ adults only refuge at the front of the cruise ship. Enjoy a special menu of spa type foods, and healthy fare delivered right to your plush lounger.

58. The Vibe

Norwegian Cruise Line offers an adult only place to chill which is perfect on sea days. Check with your cruise line for similar venues.

Bingo is one of the most popular things to do on a cruise ship, for many ages. There are often great cash prizes as well as a grand prize of a free cruise!

60. Work Remotely

While this isn’t for everyone, cruise ship internet is improving and some cruise line’s are making it easy and affordable to work remotely. On recent cruises, we found Princess Cruises’ MedallionNet to be fast and efficient.

61. Frozen Drinks

Have a cruise beverage package ? Whether you have one or not, having a frozen cocktail on the Lido deck is a pretty awesome way to pass some time on your cruise!

Related posts:  Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

Princess Cruises Drink Packages (with bar menus and drink photos)

Celebrity Cruises Always Included; Everything You Need to Know

62. Bar Crawl

Why not try out the drinks and atmosphere at many of the bars on your ship? From the martini bar to the sports bar, you can create your own pub crawl.

63. Specialty Restaurant

The food on cruise ships is great, but specialty restaurants take it up a notch. Sea days can be a great time to have lunch in a specialty restaurant for a reduced price as well.

Adult Only Activities on a Cruise

Often, even on family friendly cruise ships there will be activities adults or those 18+. Many of these may be during evenings on a cruise.

64. 18+ Comedy Shows

Adult topics and cursey words come out late at night at 18+ comedy shows.

65. The Quest

Some cruise lines have an adult only game show called The Quest. It’s a very fun scavenger hunt that can get a bit inappropriate for kids.

66. The Solarium

Most cruise ships have an adult only Solarium or pool area. If you’re looking for a quiet place away from kids or even louder pool games and activities. this is the place to be.

67. Night Club

Kids aren’t allowed in the night club or disco after a certain hour. Check the cruise planner for the hours of operation and activities.

68. Wine Tasting Event

While there’s an additional charge for a wine tasting, it’s a great chance to sample different wines and learn, all while on a cruise.

Related post: 37 Interesting Cruise Ship Facts that Will Surprise You

Traditional Fun Cruise Ship Activities

There’s just so much to do on a cruise, and some of it is simple fun.

69. Table Tennis

Play a game of ping pong with new or old friends.

70. Bean Bag Toss

Often, on a sea day there may be a bean bag toss and other games set up near the pool.

71. Shuffle board

Shuffle board can be found on the promenade deck and sometimes on the sports deck of the cruise ship.

72. Giant Checkers Game

Giant chess or checkers games can often be found near the kid’s club, pool or on the promenade deck.

73. Deck Parties

There’s something about being on a Caribbean cruise and dancing as the live band plays under the stars during a deck party!

74. Chocolate Buffet

While in the past midnight buffets were common, these days you can often find a decadent chocolate buffet being served.

75. Line Dancing

Do the Cha-Cha slide and other line dances on a cruise by the pool at Sailaway or at other times and venues during your cruise.

More Things to Do on a Cruise

There are so many great things to do on a cruise, from planned activities and events to simple and enjoyable ways to pass the time. Here a few more ideas to get you dreaming of your next cruise vacation !

76. Cooking Demonstration

Learn to make one of your favorite cruise ship dishes by attending a cooking demonstration.

77. Galley Tour

Often a free galley tour is offered where you can see the behind the scenes of where and how the cruise ship food is prepared for thousands of cruisers.

78. Catch a Sunset on the Magic Carpet

The Celebrity Edge, Apex and Beyond all have the incredible Magic Carpet. In the evening, make sure to check out the sunset for a most unique cruise experience.

79. Go on a Shore Excursion

Plan shore excursions for your port days. It’s a great way to visit and have a taste of a destination.

80. Musical Tributes

See Beatlemania or other musical tributes on a cruise.

81. Guest Speakers

When we think of cruise activities, many of us think of waterslides and belly flop contests. However, many cruise ships have more cerebral activities available.

On many cruise ships, you’ll find a broad range of interesting guest speakers. You may encounter authors, actors, astronauts, race car drivers and more.

82. Poolside Activities

On many cruise ships, you’ll be able to participate or watch pool games and antics. Water volleyball, sexy leg contests, belly flop contests and more may just on schedule at the main pool. Keep in mind that different cruise lines offer different activities and a different experience.

If you do need advice on the best cruise line for you, read this next:  Best Way to Book a Cruise: Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line

83. Rock climbing

Rock climbing on a cruise ship? Why not?

84. Karaoke

If you love karaoke, make sure to sign up for awesome Karaoke contests. It’s fun to watch too if you’e looking for something different to do in the evening on your cruise.

85. Go to a Robot Bar

As crazy as it sounds, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean both have ships with robot bartenders.

86. Walk on the Promenade Deck

The promenade deck wraps around the entire cruise ship and is the best place to get a 360 degree ocean view!

87. Shop on Board

You can enjoy a little retail therapy by shopping in the duty free shops . You’ll find perfume and make up, jewelry and watches, clothing and cruise wear, souvenir items and more.

88. Watch Shows in your Cabin

If you’re tired and don’t make it to the shows in the evening, many will be shown on your stateroom TV and you can view them at another time.

89. Order Room Service

Breakfast, snacks or a meal – you may enjoy ordering room service to your cabin.

Cruise tip: Check with your cruise line to see if and when there are additional charges. Room service may or may not be included in your cruise .

90. Learn a New Skill

Origami, napkin folding, water color painting, cake decorating… the list goes on and on. While you’re on a cruise, you can sign up to learn new and interesting skills.

91. Drink Making Classes

Are you interested in learning more about scotch, wine or even bartending and making certain drinks? On many cruise ships, you can participate in tastings as well as workshops, so you can learn how to make the perfect cocktail. Of course, a little sampling of the concoctions is part of the experience.

91. Get Acupuncture

Most cruise lines have an acupuncturist on board. You can often do a ship tour on the first day of your cruise, and get more information. Often, there will be specials and promotions, so keep an eye on this.

92. Go to the Chiropractor

While not all cruise lines have a Chiropractor on board, Cunard’s Canyon Ranch SpaClub on Queen Mary 2 enjoys a great reputation. As with other services and treatments, it’s a good idea to research what is offered before you go on your cruise.

93. Get Cosmetic and “Medi-Spa” Treatments

Cruise lines have specialists who can do a wide variety of cosmetic treatments, from teeth whitening to botox and dermal fillers. Check your cruise line’s spa services before you go, to see what treatments are offered.

94. Basketball

The sports courts on many newer ships are amazing. Check the daily planner for when you can join a scheduled game, or shoot some hoops on your own.

95. Captain’s Night

As much as cruise ships have incredible and innovative activities onboard, their are certain cruise traditions that are maintained on many cruise lines. Unless you’re cruising on NCL, you can expect an elegant Captain’s Night or Formal Night.

While not obligatory, if you participate in formal night, expect to dress up more than other evenings and enjoy lobster, surf and turf or another special meal in the main dining room.

96. White Party

Some cruise lines might have a White Hot Party or a Glow Party, so plan on bringing one white outfit just in case. If you’re cruising on Norwegian, this has been the case for years. You can see suggestions of what to wear on a Freestyle cruise here .

97. Take Photos

Take photos on your own or get a professional photo or package with the ship’s photographers. You’ll have amazing photos and great memories!

98. Sleep In

You might just find that you have the best sleep ever on a cruise. Whether it’s the luxury beds or the lull of the cruise ship, many cruisers say they just love sleeping on a cruise!

99. Cruise Food

Whether you want to eat healthy or indulge in some of the most decadent foods, eating is an activity unto itself on a cruise!

100. Bridge Tour

While this isn’t included with your cruise fare, if you’re interested in what happens on the cruise ship bridge you won’t be disappointed with this behind the scenes cruise ship tour.

101. Book Another Cruise

Don’t head home on debarkation day without having another cruise to look forward to. Booking your next cruise onboard, or simply placing a deposit on a future cruise with date unknown is a great way to save money . Plus, you’ll avoid some of the inevitable post-cruise blues .

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Final Thoughts: 101 Awesome Things to Do on a Cruise

If you’ve been wondering what to do on your cruise vacation, I hope this list of more than 100 cruise ship activities has given you some good ideas. Cruise vacations really do have something for everyone. Whether you’re cruising with kids and need a lot of fun activities, or planning a romantic cruise and are looking for a luxurious spa experience, you can have it on a cruise!

What type of cruise ship activities do you like best? Please let me know your favorite things to do on a cruise in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

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The 9 best party cruises for 2024.

The best party cruises have something fun for everyone.

The Best Party Cruises

Getty Images

You won't be bored on a party cruise.

The magic of a cruise vacation is created with culinary delights, exotic ports of call, comfortable accommodations, carefully curated spaces and, of course, parties. These onboard celebrations can take many forms: large dance parties and quiet lounges, family-friendly and adults-only, adrenaline-pumping and relaxing activities, elegant and come-as-you-are events, and entire ships transformed into themed cruises .

Prepare for fun times on the following ships hosting the best party cruises at sea.

Royal Caribbean: Oasis of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Explore the eastern and western Caribbean aboard Oasis of the Seas , one of the largest cruise ships in the world. On this 6,771-passenger vessel, 18 decks of fun and 2,109 crew members await your next voyage.

• Bionic Bar: For late-night parties where "mixology meets technology," order cocktails from unexpected bartenders: robots! These two specialized tech creations are well-versed in classic alcoholic and nonalcoholic cocktails, and they can also mix a bespoke drink designed by you.
• Adrenaline-pumping amenities: Get ready for day and night thrills at four separate venues. Ripcord by iFly is billed as the only skydiving simulator at sea; North Star allows cruisers to snap stunning photos from the tallest viewing deck found on any cruise ship; Sky Pad provides a virtual reality experience while patrons jump on a bungee trampoline; and the Ultimate Abyss, named the tallest slide at sea, plunges 10 stories down.
• Surprise events: Scattered throughout the ship are several surprise activities that pop up among the scheduled itinerary of events. Join a toga party; boogie at a disco brigade; dress for a masquerade party; or transport back in time at an '80s-inspired extravaganza.

Book a  Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival: Liberty

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Cruise for two to 14 days through the Caribbean, Bahamas or Panama Canal on the 2,974-passenger Carnival Liberty . In addition to decks of party fun, cruisers can dine at eateries designed by famous chefs, watch live sports and movies under the stars, and enjoy activities with the kids.

• Sailaway Party/Mega Deck Party: Get the party started on launch day at the Sailaway Party, where all passengers can gather for music, dancing, drinks and smiles. Then, see everyone again at the open-air Mega Deck Party under the stars on the Lido Deck, complete with more dancing, games and giveaways.
• RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar: Taste the flavors of the tropics at these two popular venues for drinks, music and good times. Choose from a chill menu of cocktails and specialty beer while you stay cool by the pool.
• Fun and games: If parties with your friends include spirited competition, this is your ship. In addition to showing off your skills on the basketball court and obstacle-filled mini golf course, play cornhole, sign up for the scavenger hunt and compete in art games. Then, try your luck gambling in the casino, playing bingo, and joining the "Deal or No Deal" onboard game show.

Find a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages: Scarlet Lady

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Bring your fabulous self aboard Scarlet Lady , the inaugural ship of Virgin Voyages , an adults-only cruise line . Fares include all food, essential drinks, Wi-Fi access, tips, group fitness classes, entertainment and more than 50 onboard events and activities for 2,770 sailors.

• Drag brunch and dance party: Join the ladies in the Razzle Dazzle restaurant for an early meal seasoned with glitz, glam, humor and style. Then, spend an evening in The Red Room, where drag queens bring the party to life with dances and banter.
• Scarlet Night Party: Wear your best scarlet attire and immerse yourself in the saga of a "mysterious goddess of the sea and the sailor who won her heart." The whole vessel becomes part of the story with games, tales, live music, pop-up performances, a red pool and a late-night dance party.
• The Manor: Bring your dancing shoes and enter this two-level nightclub through a hall of glittery mirrors. Inside are drinks, music and the Festival Stage Acts – a collection of rotating comedy acts that change every few weeks.
• Studio 72: Dance to the beats of the '70s and early '80s at this high-energy venue. Live music, light shows and surprises await.

Explore Virgin Voyages deals on GoToSea.

MSC Cruises: Divina

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

This 4,345-passenger ship combines modern comfort with eco-friendly tech in an atmosphere of Golden Age glamour. You'll enjoy lots of party venues on Divina 's two- and three-night cruises in the Caribbean.

• Bars and lounges: Spend time with friends in your choice of 17 themed spaces, including a cigar bar, a jazz bar, a sports bar, indoor/outdoor/poolside bars, Italian lounges and the casino. Then, try your talents at karaoke (available in multiple languages).
• High-tech spaces: A stocked video arcade, cyber cafe and full-size Formula 1 racecar simulator await.
• Get Together parties: Gather with likeminded cruisers from across the world during special events like the Veterans Get Together, Solo Guests Cocktail Party and LGBTQIAP+ Get Together.
• Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve: Book a cruise that includes a stop at this exclusive private island in The Bahamas. Step off the ship and head to the sand for a day of sun, fun and exploration with your shipmates. Scuba dive, climb the lighthouse, rent a cabana, have a spa treatment or sip your favorite beverage by the sea.

Compare MSC Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Breakaway

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Take a transatlantic voyage or book a cruise in the Caribbean or Mediterranean on this 3,963-passenger ship. Refurbished in 2020, Breakaway offers a quarter-mile oceanfront promenade, unique entertainment venues, and a host of complimentary and specialty dining options.

• Spice H20: Pool party by day; dance party by night. This transformative space, inspired by Ibiza's beach parties, offers cruisers a refreshing dip in the pool, hot tubs and a waterfall when the sun is high. Return after dark to enjoy the venue's dance floor and large video screen.
• Skyy Vodka Ice Bar: Escape the heat in the coolest spot on the ship – a frozen bar. Sip specialty drinks in this adults-only spot inspired by Scandinavian ice hotels. The bar, tables, decor, seats and glasses are all made of ice.
• Syd Norman's Pour House: Step back in time at this classic rock 'n' roll venue built to look like the intimate, gritty clubs of days gone by. Performers bring to life all the top tunes of the '60s, '70s and '80s while the crowd sings along.
• Bliss Ultra Lounge: Stay out on the dance floor all night long at this high energy lounge. The distinctly nightclub vibe is created by DJs spinning up-tempo music, ultraviolet lights, plasma screens and a delicious selection of cocktails.

Book a  Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Celebrity Cruises: Apex

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Elevate your celebrations of important life events aboard the sleek Celebrity Apex . Work with a specialist to plan a luxury wedding, vow renewal or engagement party on a sailing through Europe or the Caribbean. Itineraries include the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean, the Cayman Islands , the Bahamas and more.

• Magic Carpet: Gather with friends and family at this unique venue. The cantilevered, floating platform is perched out over the ocean on the starboard side and can move to different decks during the voyage. Room for 100 guests, a full bar, live music and views up to 13 stories above sea level create a memorable experience.
• Resort Deck: Enjoy multiple locations throughout this architecturally pleasing space decorated with various art installations. Intimate cabanas sit near the swimming pool, bar and two-story martini hot tubs, while the covered adults-only Solarium is a luxurious spot to unwind. Additionally, the Rooftop Garden offers cocktails, dining, comfy seating, live performances and games. This venue can accommodate up to 270 guests for day and night fun.
• Eden: Choose this glass-wrapped, three-story, 11,800-square-foot space for your next party. This popular venue features tranquil gardens, constantly shifting views, cozy seating, fresh air and an array of nightly events.

Find a Celebrity Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wish

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Make memories on a multigenerational cruise packed with parties for all the ages aboard the 4,000-passenger Disney Wish . Discover a host of family-friendly sights and sounds to delight everyone on this new Disney Cruise Line ship.

• Oceaneer Club: Entertain cruisers ages 3 to 12 at five Disney-themed spaces: Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck, Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The fun includes training as a super hero recruit; an interactive creature challenge; nautical-themed games; hands-on activities; and arts and crafts.
• Edge/Vibe/The Hideaway: Hang out with friends at these three popular clubs for tweens and teens . Counselor-led activities and photo wall backdrops in the chic loft are perfect for cruisers ages 11 to 14. A funky, Parisian art loft awaits those ages 14 to 17, while young adults ages 18 to 20 can plan private parties at The Hideaway.
• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge/Keg & Compass: Enjoy some adults-only time at two venues created for grown-up gatherings. At night, the ship's Star Wars-themed lounge becomes a destination for signature cocktail tastings. Or, grab a craft beer and cheer on your favorite sports team in the pub space inspired by Viking ships.
• Pirate Night: Dress as your favorite buccaneer for a swashbuckling good time with the whole family. Shows, trivia, dancing with Disney characters, special effects and fireworks with Captain Jack Sparrow create a night to remember.

Explore Disney Cruise Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean: Themed Cruises

Sailing on a themed cruise with Royal Caribbean International is a nonstop party. Pick your favorite pastime, hobby or passion and book an immersive experience on a ship full of fun folks who share your interests.

• Star Trek: The Cruise VII, Mariner of the Seas : Explore the Caribbean alongside an impressive list of stars from STNG, DS9, Voyager and more. Hang out in the Star Lounge, Studio B, pubs, bars and night clubs with your fellow Trekkies.
• The '80s Cruise, Mariner of the Seas: Step back in time and get ready to sing and dance on this seven-day, all-inclusive cruise . More than 50 concerts are planned for this voyage, including '80s music star performances by 38 Special, Debbie Gibson, Ray Parker Jr., Wang Chung, Sheena Easton and many more.
• The Old School Cruise 2024, Navigator of the Seas : Rock with the old school bands of the '60s, '70s and '80s on this cruise sailing from California. Kool & the Gang, Club Nouveau, Midnight Star and more provide the music for this retro dance party.
• Super Legends 2024, Navigator of the Seas: Take an epic musical cruise with the timeless legends of old school, Latin soul, freestyle and Tejano, all on one voyage. This three-night concert at sea sails roundtrip from Los Angeles.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara: Journey

Revel in elegant merriment aboard this mid-sized luxury ship. If stylish celebrations are what you seek, the 690-passenger Azamara Journey is the perfect setting.

• Club Crooner: Enjoy the musical stylings of the great crooners from the past and present at this swanky onboard nightclub. Talented performers channel their inner Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Michael Bublé, Natalie Cole and others for an evening of songs and cocktails.
• And the Beat Goes On: Join in the songs and dances from the greatest hits through time via a musical journey across genres. Set lists include famous tunes by Madonna, Ricky Martin, Katy Perry, Journey and many more.
• Six Strings: Watch the singers and dancers at this venue of classic rock with an acoustic vibe. Reminisce with tunes from The Beatles, Pat Benatar, Aerosmith, Queen, The Rolling Stones and others.
• Onboard fun: For daytime fun, challenge your shipmates to tournaments in darts, table tennis and trivia. In the evenings, enjoy the tunes of pianists, a quartet, a five-piece band and a DJ spinning dance music – or make your own music with a night of karaoke. Be sure to bring white attire to wear at the signature White Night festivities, which include special food and drinks, live music, and dancing on the pool deck.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Angela Minor fell in love with cruising during her first voyage as a teenager aboard the SS Emerald Seas where she performed on the ship. Her voyages have taken her into the Caribbean, the Atlantic, the Pacific and Alaska, where she once lived on an island. Minor used her extensive travel knowledge and research skills to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• The Most Festive Christmas Cruises
• The Top Gay Cruises
• The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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This premium cruise line is for adults who want to be kids again. Spoiler alert: It's not Disney

If Virgin Voyages were a place, it would be Neverland. It is, without a doubt, the best cruise line for adults who like to have a great time.

Evoking a sense of nostalgia around every turn, it caters to a playfulness many adults feel they lost long ago when they entered a world of stress and responsibility. It's not just about going on a cruise and trying something fun like a zip line or a surf simulator; it's about doing something fun that brings back a fond memory or reconnects you with your younger self.

The only time I've come close to this feeling on a cruise ship is on Disney Cruise Line. But with Disney, you're limited to playing like a kid beside actual kids. Meanwhile, Virgin has created an experience exclusively for adults that mixes youthful fun with grown-up themes.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's how this new cruise line creates a wonderland for adults not found anywhere else at sea.

Why Virgin Voyages is great for adults who are big kids

The thing about Virgin products is that they've always been about fun — but fun that's luxurious, rather than tacky or largely meant for kids. The brand has extended this ethos to its cruise line by making its four nearly identical ships adults-only and outfitting them with a mix of youthful pleasures and high-quality, modern adult entertainment.

This approach takes away the stigma of being playful or silly and grants permission for grown-ups to find their inner children. After all, when a cruise line puts carousel-style sea creatures, free ice cream and candy, and dozens of children's board games on ships that don't allow kids, those things are clearly meant for adults.

The kid stuff

If you're looking for simple fun, you'll find it on a Virgin Voyages ship. There are seesaws and swings on the open decks, right next to a Twister board that's painted onto the floor. You can snag ice cream and candy — Swedish fish, gummy bears, Red Vines and saltwater taffy — for free nearly 24 hours a day. You can stuff yourself silly with kid-favorite vacation food like pizza, hot dogs and soft pretzels.

Daily activities include dodgeball tournaments, '80s-themed workouts, '90s boy band dance classes and summer camp arts and crafts. Cruisers can play dozens of kid-favorite board games like Candy Land, Mouse Trap and Hungry Hungry Hippos. There's also a small arcade on board, along with dedicated karaoke rooms that you can reserve for free.

Want some "this brings back memories" fun outdoors? All balcony cabins are equipped with hammocks that remind passengers what it's like to be rocked gently to sleep. Plus, at The Beach Club at Bimini, the line's private beach club in the Bahamas, you can borrow pool floaties in the shapes of mythical creatures like unicorns and mermaid tails.

The right mix

In addition to allowing adults to act like kids, Virgin has harnessed the most playful aspects of adulthood and set them afloat — but with a twist.

Pile a waffle cone high with as much ice cream as you'd like, and then snap a selfie with your snack in front of the name of the venue, "Lick Me Till ... Ice Cream" — a cheeky play on words that no child would understand. Or, grab a bucket of popcorn that's actually an alcoholic beverage.

Want a late-night milkshake from the onboard diner, just like when you were on a date in high school? Done! Except this time, you can order it spiked. Or, visit Lola's Library. It might sound studious, but what you'll find is evening entertainment that's a cross between burlesque and S&M between the stacks after hours.

Grown-up fun

Although you might enjoy returning to aspects of your childhood, there are times when you might prefer more adult fun. Check out the Grog Walk bar crawl, wear your skimpiest outfit for each sailing's red-themed Scarlet Night pool party, or watch a metaphorical threesome during a dinner theater show.

Virgin Voyages' entertainment includes rave-style pool parties, casino play, drag queen performances and shows that employ top-notch singing and dancing, flashy costumes and enough sexual innuendo to make a porn star blush. Bar options abound for those who require a big-kid drink (or several); you can even shake your phone to have Champagne delivered to wherever you are on the ship. For a lasting memory, head to the onboard tattoo parlor ; just don't drink and ink.

You can still eat yourself silly on a Virgin Voyages cruise, but instead of a main dining room and extra-charge dining venues, you'll find five complimentary restaurants plus a pizza joint, mezze lounge, food court and dinner theater. Instead of tired old bingo, Virgin's version is led by a drag queen. The atrium on every ship has a DJ booth to keep the party going.

In addition to exuding a sense of playfulness, Virgin has sourced the best of everything, from food and entertainment to decor. Virgin Voyages doesn't just deliver fun; its mission is to provide upscale fun.

That means partnerships with brands like Brooklyn-based House of Yes, known for its trendy nightclub and art spaces, and Weiner Entertainment Group, whose owner is responsible for the New York rendition of the popular experiential performance "Sleep No More." The ship's shows ooze with an air of New York City chic that's worthy of a "Gossip Girl" cameo.

Unlike most other cruise lines, Virgin didn't say, "Here's a ship; let's adapt our dining and entertainment to fit on board." Instead, it ventured out to find the most delicious food, noteworthy drinks and amazing entertainment, and it built ships to house everything.

Savvy travelers appreciate that Virgin hasn't cut corners. Brad Farmerie of the restaurant Public, Sohui Kim of Insa and The Good Fork, and Matt Lambert of The Musket Room, all in New York, are three well-known chefs, among a slew of others, who have joined Virgin Voyages to create menus for the ships' onboard dining. Cuisines run the gamut from Italian and Mexican to Korean and veggie-forward new American.

The line has also partnered with famed production companies to custom-make shows that keep passengers' attention. In fact, one of them — "Duel Reality," a modern take on "Romeo and Juliet" featuring acrobatics and other jaw-dropping feats — is so amazing that it will be touring on land, starting in August.

How Virgin Voyages compares to Disney Cruise Line

The cruise line that comes closest to matching Virgin's sense of fun, wonder and commitment to top-notch entertainment is Disney Cruise Line . When I first cruised with Disney as a child-free adult, I experienced a sense of wonder and pure glee that came with having Mickey waffles for breakfast and re-watching movies — "Aladdin," "Beauty and the Beast," "The Little Mermaid" — that I loved as a kid. I never felt that way on other cruise lines, even when zooming down waterslides or riding an onboard roller coaster .

However, grown-ups who aren't die-hard Disney fans but are looking to recapture some of their youth without feeling immature, embarrassed or judged will find those voyages lacking.

After all, when you're meeting princesses or wearing Minnie Mouse ears while standing next to a group of kids, you're reminded that you are still an adult. Every " Disney adult " has felt resentment or ridicule from others who don't understand why some grown-ups like Disney as much as they do.

Plus, many fun-loving grown-ups enjoy cutting loose, but that doesn't necessarily mean they want to wear mouse ears, trade pins or pose for photos with Chip and Dale.

What's key to Virgin Voyages' success is that children aren't allowed, meaning all the fun is meant just for adults.

"The biggest thing is that, because Virgin doesn't [permit] kids, it allows ... your inner child to play out," said Michael Kuzma, an avid cruiser who, after nearly 20 sailings with Virgin, is likely to become the first to hit 100 days with the line. "When you're vacationing with family, and you have your kids with you, at some point you have to return to being the adult. On Virgin, that all goes out the window. You can just come on and be yourself."

Also a Disney Cruise Line regular, Kuzma has completed 68 sailings with The Mouse over a 25-year period. He told me during a chat on Resilient Lady that, although he still cruises with Disney, it's definitely for a particular type of audience.

"There's a time and a place," Kuzma said. "They're two totally different products, and you need each product for a different reason. A family cruise with Disney has that caliber of entertainment, but Virgin is offering the same thing to [cruisers] without children ... and it's a totally different experience."

The math works out. For the same price you'd pay to dodge other people's kids on a Disney ship for three days in the Bahamas, you could spend a week on a Virgin vessel sailing the Caribbean, Mediterranean or the Greek isles . Instead of standing in line for Donald Duck's autograph or relegating yourself to the adults-only areas of ships largely geared toward families, you could be sipping cocktails from disco balls, munching on endless free pizza and candy, and partying with a giant inflatable octopus into the wee hours of the morning.

Bottom line

A Virgin Voyages cruise is the perfect way to blend the carefree, mischievous fun of being a kid with the sense of freedom that comes with being an adult. It allows your inner voice a platform to say, "Yes, I like eating my weight in ice cream and staying up past my bedtime listening to off-color jokes. And I'm going to do both because I'm an adult, and I'm allowed."

Ultimately, the line has found success by challenging norms and asking, "Why?" Why aren't adults allowed to act like children when they're on vacation? Why can't something be both over the top and classy?

By offering a plethora of enticing onboard diversions, phenomenal food and drinks, edgy entertainment and an atmosphere of fun that makes you want to be a kid again, Virgin Voyages has firmly cemented itself as the best cruise line for fun-loving adults.

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• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
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THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

• Boat Rentals
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Water Sports
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Speed Boats Tours
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
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• Good for Big Groups
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• Budget-friendly
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• Hidden Gems
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• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Flotilla Radisson Royal

2. Moscow River Boat Tours

3. Sup-Club

4. Akvanavt Diving Centre

5. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

6. CheapRussia Tours

7. Kite School Kiteclass

8. SUP Center

9. Erwin. Reka

11. Easy Russia Tour Guide

12. Lovely Russia Tours

13. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

14. Alfa Centr

15. Diving Club Divers

16. Sup Outdoor

17. MORE MOSCOW

19. Soho Sailing Style

20. Mosparokhodstvo

21. Dive-Project

22. Diving Center Crocodile

24. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

25. Kayak Moscow

26. DIVECLUB CHE

27. FLOW Moscow

28. Moswake

29. Morskiye Volki

30. S-cruises

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The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

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Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

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Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long “water coaster” to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It’s one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn’t have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That’s the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it’s now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today’s biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival’s ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line’s 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you’ll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you’ll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you’ll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line’s relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line’s big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn’t just one giant waterslide; it’s a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you’ll find anywhere on the world’s oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there’s also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It’ll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you “down the drain” into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you’ll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it’s completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it’s the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it’s a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it’s what’s known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you’ll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you’ll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney’s two Dream-class ships. But don’t expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it’s designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you’re lounging up top, it’s hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey’s Pool. Dubbed Mickey’s Slide, it’s held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo’s Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney’s newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you’ll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there’s now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there’s now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You’ll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you’ll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you’ll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that’s packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children’s play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There’s also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

A handful of ships even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises’ 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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At long last, a cruise ship designed for people who hate cruises

Maybe we should call it a ‘floatel.’ the ritz-carlton’s posh yacht is part of the first generation of hotel brands making the leap from land to sea..

G USTAVIA, St. Barts — While admiring the sleek Ritz-Carlton Evrima sitting in Gustavia Harbor, I concluded that the vessel is a new category of cruising and should have a name that reflects as much.

At its heart, the Evrima is more of a hotel or resort on water than a cruise ship, so maybe it should be called a floatel. How about a boatique hotel? Would you settle for a barge and breakfast? No matter what it’s called — the Ritz-Carlton refers to the ship as a yacht — spending a few days on the Evrima was an experience unlike any I’d previously had on a cruise ship.

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Ritz-Carlton launched its entry into the world of cruising in 2022 after years of false starts and COVID-related delays. I read about its progress carefully because it seemed that while every other ship was getting bigger and more elaborate, Ritz-Carlton, owned by Marriott, was bucking the trend by making theirs smaller and more minimal. It’s also intent on calling its ships yachts. The definition of a yacht is fuzzy enough that the Ritz-Carlton can get away with it, but clearly, it’s about status. And if you’re paying $5,000 for a cruise (my Caribbean cruise was $5,300), telling your friends that you’re yachting seems appropriate.

During my Caribbean jaunt, there were a few times when I heard the crew slip and say “ship” before correcting themselves and saying “yacht.” I couldn’t help but chuckle. The staff of the Evrima did not know a travel writer was on board, and the Globe received no freebies or special treatment. I wanted to experience the Evrima like any other Jane Dough or Milburn Pennybags on the ship — I mean yacht.

No matter what it’s called, the Evrima is a wholly different species from other ships, beginning with the passenger count. It can hold 298 passengers (most small luxury ships carry between 700 to 2,000). My cruise was full, but the ship never felt crowded, and I often wondered if it was really sold out. I never had a problem finding a lounge chair at the pool or getting a table for dinner.

The most striking difference I found between Evrima and other ships was the onboard culture. There were no water slides, casinos, buffets, or Broadway shows. The Evrima is akin to a chic boutique hotel where you’d go to unwind without distractions. It’s designed for Ritz-Carlton loyalists, or folks who want to be in a posh hotel that happens to sail into different ports.

There’s a small infinity pool and hot tubs rather than a giant central swimming pool on the 624-foot yacht. There are even tucked-away areas on outside decks that you can seek out for a bit of privacy. Common areas, such as a main gathering called the Living Room, still felt intimate.

There are excursions off the ship, but when you’re on board, no cruise directors are dragging you to limbo contests or haranguing passengers over the PA about upcoming bingo games. It’s very much a place to escape rather than be pulled into the candy-colored machinations of a big cruise ship.

There’s a fair amount of chatter about the Evrima in online cruise forums, and the biggest complaints are from those who book expecting a full, traditional cruise experience. This will sound odd, but if you’re a regular cruiser who enjoys the flash and action of a ship, or you like your days jammed with nonstop activities planned by others, I’d say to steer clear of the Evrima. There are activities such as wine tastings, gourmet cooking challenges, and mixology classes, but no mini golf or pickleball.

What it lacks in conventional activities, it more than makes up for in an area called the Marina. When the yacht is anchored, the back deck on level three becomes a place to relax in the sun, jump into the water, snorkle, or kayak. It’s unlike any other cruise ship because you’re in relatively shallow water and you have full access to the ocean (depending on conditions). One day when the ship was in a lackluster port, I stayed onboard and hung out at the Marina. I went kayaking and snorkeling right off the back of the ship. It was the most yacht-like experience of the cruise.

I don’t mean to paint the environment on the Evrima as staid or anti-social. I was pulled into multiple birthday celebrations by complete strangers who became close friends by the end of the trip. Several of these celebrations lasted late into the night in the Observation Lounge, which was the venue on the 10th deck that stayed open past midnight. I suppose it didn’t hurt that the staff poured Moët & Chandon champagne like it was water. There’s no upcharge for alcohol (unless you have a taste for $2,500 spirits). There’s also no extra charges for internet or gratuities.

The Evrima is made up entirely of suites, all of them with balconies, that range in size from 300 square feet to 1,091 square feet. Most of the suites, aside from the entry-level Terrace suite, have bathtubs. These are cruise ship rooms that feel like hotel rooms, down to the king beds. Many of those who work in service on the ship come from the hotel world rather than other cruise ships, and their demeanor was just as friendly and professional.

Ritz-Carlton Evrima

• Small, easy-to-navigate ship
• Gourmet food
• Laidback, relaxing atmosphere
• Large suites with beautiful interiors
• Limited onboard activities
• Limited laundry facilities for guests
• Not ideal for families with small children

But people come on ships for the cuisine, and, as you may expect, the food on the Evrima is sophisticated. There are five restaurants (six if you count the bakery at the espresso bar), plus 24-hour room service. As a reporter, it was my duty to try them all. Even at the casual, all-day restaurant, the Pool House, you could get ceviche or a salmon poke bowl. They didn’t just serve burgers, there was a build-your-own-burger.

The Mediterranean-influenced restaurant Mistral offered options such as lobster linguine, several cuts of steak, and grilled octopus. Most passengers I chatted with spent the majority of their dining time at Mistral or Talaat Nam, the sushi restaurant. (I fell deeply in love with the mango sticky rice at Talaat Nam.) The all-purpose restaurant, called the Evrima Room, served breakfast and dinner. I mostly had breakfast here, and primarily for the orange juice, which was freshly squeezed.

The only restaurant on board with an extra charge is called S.E.A. It features a tasting menu and wine pairing created by three-Michelin-star chef Sven Elverfeld. For an additional $289, I enjoyed eight courses (maybe it was nine, it got blurry with the wine). Most were petite portions packed with flavor, such as raw and marinated yellowfin tuna and Japanese wagyu. I felt as if I was eating art for a night.

On the last night of my Caribbean cruise, I decided to ask other passengers their take on the ship. Did they think they had gotten their money’s worth? I went to the Observation Lounge where all the evening’s revelry was taking place, but clearly I was too late for serious answers. Jane, one of the many birthday celebrants, had pulled everyone onto the dance floor. I tried asking: “Was it worth it?” The reply was a champagne-scented chorus of “You are the dancing queen, young and sweet, only 17.”

I took that as a yes.

Christopher Muther can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @Chris_Muther and Instagram @chris_muther.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Jail Cells? Morgues? Your Cruise Ship Has Some Surprises for You.

Here are five unexpected features on ships, some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Cruise ships have hidden features that many passengers, particularly first-timers, don’t know about. Some ships are as big as small cities, and while it’s relatively easy to familiarize yourself with a seemingly endless number of amenities — water parks, tattoo parlors, multiple restaurants — there is also an entire ecosystem, often below passenger decks, that is shrouded in mystery.

Here are five things that cruisers may not know about cruise ships:

There’s a morgue …

Cruise ships carry millions of passengers each year, and it is not uncommon for deaths to occur on board. Most vessels are required to have a morgue and additional body bags in the event of an emergency.

The morgue, usually a small stainless steel refrigerated room on the ship’s lowest deck, accommodates between two to 10 bodies, depending on the size of the vessel. When a passenger or crew member dies, officials on the ship will notify the authorities on shore and a medical team will assess the body and move it to the morgue, where it is kept until arrangements are made for repatriation. In most cases, the body will be removed at the next port of call, but sometimes will remain on board until the end of the voyage.

…and a jail

There are no police officers on cruise ships, but most vessels have small jails known as the brig, and unruly passengers could find themselves locked up if the ship’s security team determines that they have violated the cruise line’s code of conduct.

The brig, usually a bare-bones room with a bed and bathroom facilities, does not have iron bars like a traditional jail cell. It is used to detain guests who commit serious crimes like assault or possession of illegal substances. Drunk and disorderly passengers may be put under “cabin arrest,” meaning they cannot leave their cabin without a security escort.

Depending on the circumstances, most passengers put in the brig will stay there until they can be handed over to law enforcement officials.

Many ships don’t have a Deck 13

Many cruise ships do not have a Deck 13 because of the widespread superstition in Western culture that the number is unlucky. Ships with a Deck 13 typically use it for public areas, not cabins.

Some ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class vessels, have a Deck 13 because the vessels are used mainly for the company’s market in Asia, where the number is not considered unlucky. MSC ships also have a Deck 13, but not a Deck 17, because the cruise line’s founder is Italian and 17 is considered unlucky in Italy.

Cruise lines entertain other superstitions, like appointing godmothers to bless new vessels and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. They also hold naming ceremonies in which a bottle of champagne is smashed against the hull of a new ship for good luck. If the bottle fails to break, the vessel will, according to superstition, have bad luck. These days, cruise lines use mechanical devices to ensure that does not happen.

Hidden pools and facilities for the crew

There are typically more than 1,000 crew members on board large cruise ships, and while they spend most of their time serving passengers, there are several areas on the lower decks designated for them to unwind.

The facilities vary from ship to ship, but there are usually small pools in the ship’s bow exclusively for crew members, as well as restaurants, bars and recreational areas like game rooms and gyms. The designated bar, a central social hub for employees after they have finished their shifts, often hosts live music and events in the evening.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, has an entire “neighborhood” dedicated to its 2,300 crew members, with a clubhouse that has massage chairs and virtual balconies — large screens that show real-time views from outside — as well as a restaurant with portholes looking out to the ocean.

Most ships host A.A. meetings

With all-inclusive beverage packages and countless bars, cruise ships can be a tough environment for guests in recovery. Many cruise lines offer daily Alcoholics Anonymous meetings that are usually scheduled as “Friends of Bill W.,” a reference to William Wilson, who co-founded the A.A. program in 1935.

The meetings are usually held in a quiet place like the library, where guests can feel comfortable and maintain their anonymity. They are also open to other support group members, like Women for Sobriety and Narcotics Anonymous.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

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A rip current statement in effect for coastal volusia region, carnival freedom catches fire near bahamas; 2 future cruises from port canaveral canceled, march 25 and 29 freedom cruises have been canceled.

Jacob Langston , Digital Journalist

A fire broke out in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom cruise ship near the Bahamas on Saturday, according to a news release.

Officials said the fire was quickly extinguished, but the damage is worse than originally anticipated. As a result, the cruise line announced the March 25 and 29 Freedom cruises from Port Canaveral have been canceled.

According to the release, witnesses reported seeing a lightning strike, but the the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

“The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs,” the release read in part. “We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both cancelled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us.”

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This is the second time in the past two years that a fire broke out on the Freedom. In May of 2022, the ship was docked in Grand Turk when flames erupted from the exhaust funnel.

The Carnival Freedom is back at Port Canaveral after its exhaust funnel caught fire this weekend. https://t.co/Tr8v8lGlTz pic.twitter.com/bP99dESaVR — Mark Lehman (@MarkLehman6) March 25, 2024

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Jacob joined ClickOrlando.com in 2022. He spent 19 years at the Orlando Sentinel, mostly as a photojournalist and video journalist, before joining Spectrum News 13 as a web editor and digital journalist in 2021.

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An ultra-luxury cruise line wants travelers to live on its cruise ship for 4.5 months while it sails to 40 countries — for up to $1.7 million a suite

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 140-night 2027 world cruise would sail to 71 destinations across 40 countries.
• Fares range from $91,500 to $840,000 per person, the latter a record for the company.
• The ultra-luxury cruise line's annual around-the-world voyages often sell out fast.

What would you do with $91,500? If your answer is incredibly niche and something like "move onto a ship for four months while it sails to six continents," Regent Seven Seas Cruises has you covered.

Like other luxury cruise lines, Regent Seven Seas operates annual monthslong world cruises , many of which have sold out. If you've missed the opportunity to book its previous around-the-world voyages, here's your next shot: On Wednesday, the ultra-premium cruise line announced its newest global itinerary , a 2027 cruise to 71 destinations.

The 140-night sailing, known as the "World of Splendor," is an achievement in its own right. But not for any reasons you might expect: The most expensive cabin rings in at $840,000 per person, a record for the cruise line.

The Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brand’s 2027 plan isn’t exactly affordable compared to other comparable itineraries.

Luxury Crystal and premium Oceania Cruises revealed their 2026 world cruises this month. The sailings start at $84,000 and $59,700 per person, respectively.

The cheapest cabin on Regent Seven Seas' 2027 itinerary is $92,500 per person.

At least the fare also includes more than 486 excursion options, first-class flights, WiFi, and alcohol, as is typical with the all-inclusive cruise line .

To some travelers, the World of Splendor could be worth its cost.

After all, not everyone can set aside 4 ½ months of their life to traverse 35,668 nautical miles and six continents on a high-end ship.

At the start of 2027, the then-seven-year-old Seven Seas Splendor will depart Miami on the 40-country voyage.

From Florida, the ship would sail to South and Central American destinations, including through the Panama Canal, before heading to Los Angeles, according to a map of the itinerary.

On its way to Australia, the Splendor plans to dock at ports in Hawaii and French Polynesia.

After a few stops in cities like Sydney and Cairns, Australia, the vessel would continue east into Southeast and South Asia, bringing travelers to the likes of Indonesia and Thailand.

From there, the globetrotting guests will be off to the Middle East and Europe.

After a transatlantic crossing, the ship plans to dock in Bermuda before sailing north to New York, concluding the 140-day journey.

This is the first time the company has tapped its 746-guest Seven Seas Splendor for the global trip.

The Seven Seas Splendor is one of the cruise line's largest ships — bigger than the one it's using for its 2023, 2024, and 2025 world cruises.

A floating resort of Splendor's size has become a necessity for the company's extended voyages: Demand is high. And its around-the-world cruises tend to sell out — fast.

Splendor's initiation would also mark the first time a world cruise guest could book one of the cruise line's plushest 4,443-square-foot Regent Suite.

This is no dinky interior cabin. The Regent Suite has its own spa, a $200,000 Hastens mattress, original artwork from Pablo Picasso, and a private butler.

These luxuries make it the most expensive option on the ship: The cabin is $840,000 per person — about $1.7 million for two guests.

Don't worry, the 4 ½ months at sea would still be plenty lavish for all the other guests.

Travelers could spend their 140 days at sea gaping at the ship's $5 million art collection or luxuriating under its more than 500 crystal chandeliers.

Dinners would be just as extravagant: The Seven Seas Splendor's five restaurants serve high-end bites like lobster tempura, steak tartare with caviar, and ravioli with a Parmesan and truffle sauce.

Regent Seven Seas says the Splendor will be stocked with 13,000 pounds of lobster, 14,000 pounds of filet mignon, and 150 pounds of caviar to accommodate these meals.

Booze is included in the fare, which means the ship would also carry 200 varieties and 58,000 bottles of wine.

Despite their relatively hefty prices, the ultra-luxury cruise line has had no problem filling its previous around-the-world sailings.

Andrea DeMarco, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, told Business Insider that the company is expecting "unprecedented interest" in the 2027 world cruise.

It wouldn't be unheard of. In the past four years, Regent Seven Seas' world cruises have continuously sold out in "record time" as the company, like many other cruise lines, has continued to see growing interest in extended cruises.

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Travel | Royal Caribbean cruise ship rerouting…

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Travel | royal caribbean cruise ship rerouting operations to norfolk from baltimore.

Nauticus will host a Royal Caribbean cruise ship’s calls in April that were originally planned for Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Vision of the Seas , a 2,500-passenger vessel, was scheduled to return to Baltimore on April 4, but will instead debark its guests in Norfolk, according to a Nauticus news release. Many passengers will take buses back to their vehicles in Baltimore.

The ship will depart for two additional cruises from Norfolk on April 4 and April 12, returning a final time April 19.

Vision of the Seas will join another Baltimore-based cruise ship, Carnival Legend, in rerouting its operations to Norfolk after the bridge collapse curtailed ship traffic to and from the Port of Baltimore.

The bridge collapsed Tuesday, killing six people on a construction crew working on the span, after the cargo ship Dali hit one of its supports.

As cruise ships reroute to Nauticus, the Port of Virginia is ready to receive diverted cargo traffic from the Port of Baltimore. The collapsed bridge blocks the only channel in and out of the port on the Patapsco River. The port will be unable to receive shipping traffic until the channel is cleared , and stands to lose an estimated $15 million per day in economic activity.

Cianna Morales, 757-957-1304, [email protected]

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