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Revel in spectacular entertainment aboard these 10 cruise ships

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards logo

Best Cruise Ship for Entertainment (2024) February 16, 2024

Book a trip on one of these 10 cruise ships — selected by our panel of cruising experts and voted as the best by readers — and you'll be wishing for more long days at sea to explore all the myriad entertainment options on offer. From bowling or skydiving at sea to Broadway-style shows and stand-up comedy, there's never a dull moment aboard these ships.

Wonder of the Seas

No. 10: Wonder of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

Symphony of the Seas

No. 9: Symphony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

Allure of the Seas

No. 8: Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian Encore

No. 7: Norwegian Encore - Norwegian Cruise Line

Celebrity Beyond

No. 6: Celebrity Beyond - Celebrity Cruises

Regal Princess

No. 5: Regal Princess - Princess Cruises

Koningsdam

No. 4: Koningsdam - Holland America Line

Carnival Vista

No. 3: Carnival Vista - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Breeze

No. 2: Carnival Breeze - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration

No. 1: Carnival Celebration - Carnival Cruise Line

About 10best readers' choice awards.

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Ben Souza

Ben Souza is a world traveler who has visited 40+...   Read More

Ben Souza is a world traveler who has visited 40+ countries, taken over 70  cruises, and flown nearly one million miles. He serves as the editor of  Cruise Fever .

Ben Souza

Don and Heidi Bucolo

Don and Heidi Bucolo

Don and Heidi Bucolo are the husband and wife team...   Read More

Don and Heidi Bucolo are the husband and wife team behind EatSleepCruise.com . Their love for cruising began after taking their first cruise together back in 2007. Having spent over 180 days at sea on more than 30 cruises with various cruise brands, they have learned a thing or two about planning and executing the perfect cruise vacation. The couple was voted as one of Porthole Cruise 's Top 10 Cruise Influencers and is featured in the new book  Cruising Interrupted . You can find them on the web and social media sharing detailed cruise ship reviews, port guides, packing tips and planning tips to help travelers "sea the world, one port at a time."

Don and Heidi Bucolo

Doug Parker

Doug Parker

Doug Parker is the creator and executive producer...   Read More

Doug Parker is the creator and executive producer of Cruise Radio , a weekly podcast that shares cruise reviews and other cruise news.

Doug Parker

Ilana Schattauer

Ilana Schattauer

Ilana Schattauer is a cruise travel expert behind Read More

Ilana Schattauer is a cruise travel expert behind Life Well Cruised , a popular website and YouTube channel that provides valuable insights into the world of cruising. As a seasoned writer and content creator, she shares valuable cruise tips and travel guides. Her platform is dedicated to sharing cruise advice, destination tips and firsthand experiences to help travelers plan their cruises with ease.

Ilana Schattauer

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert...   Read More

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 140 sailings under his belt and a fresh, millennial perspective on the industry. He has been cruising since before he was two years old, thanks to his parents' shared passion for traveling and their desire to experience all journeys together as a family. Now, he regularly sails and writes "he said, she said" cruise columns with his wife Heidi. He is the founding editor of Popular Cruising , producer of the successful Popular Cruising YouTube channel  and Cruise Editor for TravelAge West.

Jason Leppert

John Shallo

John Shallo

John Shallo is the founder and editor of  Cruise...   Read More

John Shallo is the founder and editor of  Cruise Addicts , a premier online community for cruise travelers. His love for cruising began after his first cruise in 1989. He later established Cruise Addicts in 1999 to share his passion for cruise travel with others, and it has become an award-winning destination for self-professed Cruise Addicts looking for the latest cruise industry news, forums, ship reviews, and travel tips. You can find him on the web and social media, sharing his latest cruise ship review,  video , travel tips, and port guides. He hopes to continue sharing his experiences and inspiring others to enjoy cruise travel to its fullest. 

John Shallo

Paul Thornton

Paul Thornton

Paul’s just completed book,  The Joy of Cruising...   Read More

Paul’s just completed book,  The Joy of Cruising Again ,  is his fourth and follow-up to the fun, upbeat, award-winning Amazon bestseller  The Joy of Cruising ,   and   Cruising Interrupted .   The books are anthologies of passionate cruisers with fascinating stories and have included a TV star, Grammy winners/nominees, a Poker Hall of Famer, entrepreneurs, and global cruise personalities, but mostly “ordinary” cruisers with extraordinary stories. Readers can learn more about  The Joy of Cruising  trilogy here. Besides continuing to cruise as much as possible, Paul hosts  The Joy of Cruising Podcast , a weekly conversation with one of the dozens of passionate cruisers featured in the books as well as other global cruise personalities.  Paul is originally from Brooklyn and Long Island, New York. After serving in the US Army and simultaneously earning a bachelor's degree in business, he attained his MBA and then spent concurrently, 17 years in corporate management, and 23 years in small business ownership. After leaving corporate, he started a career in higher ed. He earned a doctorate, attained tenure as a business professor, and subsequently moved into administration in Dean or Executive Director positions before retiring in 2021. Paul lives in Mooresville, North Carolina with his wife Cheryl and considers cruising with their children and grandchildren life’s ultimate escape. Paul longs to cruise as much as the people he writes about in  The Joy of Cruising   Trilogy .

Paul Thornton

Sarah Christie and Donna Christie of Cruising Kids UK

Sarah Christie and Donna Christie of Cruising Kids UK

Sarah Christie and Donna Vallance are experienced...   Read More

Sarah Christie and Donna Vallance are experienced cruise and travel writers and cruise enthusiasts specializing in cruising. They have a passion for exploring new destinations and have dedicated themselves to sharing their knowledge and insights with fellow travelers. They provide valuable information, tips, and recommendations for all cruisers. They strive to make cruising accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their interests, budgets, or accessibility needs. Their articles and reviews are well-researched, comprehensive, and written to help readers make informed decisions and have unforgettable cruise adventures. Find them over at  Cruising For All.

Sarah Christie and Donna Christie of Cruising Kids UK

Sherry Laskin

Sherry Laskin

Sherry hasn’t set foot on an airplane in more than...   Read More

Sherry hasn’t set foot on an airplane in more than 25 years.  Instead, she relies on cruise ships, river ships, trains and road trips to travel the world.  In that time, she’s been on more cruises than she can count and includes her solo cruise and travel adventures on her website,  CruiseMaven.com .  Her articles have been published in major newspapers and magazines - in print and online.  During a year and a half of living in Alaska, Sherry has cruised and spent time at every port in the Last Frontier except for Nome.  She’s become an avid transatlantic cruiser since 2005, as that is the only way for her to get to Europe without flying. Sherry hopes to inspire and encourage her readers to travel slow and travel solo, experience new cuisines and cultures. 

Sherry Laskin

10Best Editors

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

10Best Editors

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Entertainment

Performances beckon from every corner of a princess ship.

Best Cruise Lines For Onboard Entertainment

Cruise Passenger Reader's Choice Award

We have so many ways to entertain you on board, from game shows, like The Voice of the Ocean and Deal or No Deal, to high-energy dance classes. Our Camp Discovery programs expand the imaginations of our youngest guests, while Movies Under the Stars® entertain top deck. Travel the world through the sounds of international live musicians, and laugh the night away with award-winning comedians and magicians. And nothing beats our original Broadway-style productions that dazzle with fantastic stage sets, costumes and musical scores. You’re sure to find something you love!

Get Ready to Party

Join us for an unforgettable evening at our “I Love This Party”, celebrating you and everything you love! You’ll love the live music, our incredible crew and dancing the night away with your loved ones at this Princess iconic party! Check out the JourneyView® timeline or ask a crew member for event details.

Broadway-Caliber Production Shows

Spotlight bar.

Our newest show on our newest ship! Join us at the Spotlight Bar , where this imaginative show transports guests to a vibrant bar atmosphere where they connect with local storytellers who share tales of their colorful lives through song. Come as you are to the Spotlight Bar , where a familiar, modern playlist inspires camaraderie and the urge to dance. A prominent West End creative team brings the show to life, Karen Bruce Director & Choreographer, Morgan Large Scenic, Chris Egan Music Arranger and James Whiteside for Lighting. Now available on Discovery Princess® , Enchanted Princess® , and Sky Princess® .

This one-of-a-kind production features incredible costumes inspired by glamorous avant-garde fashion with a musical soundtrack spanning classic rock, opera and musical theater, sung in English, Spanish, Latin and even American Sign Language – a Princess first! Rock Opera is brought to life by a talented cast on Sky Princess®. Rock Opera was created by director and choreographer Danny Teeson, musical producer Nelson Kole, scenic designer John Iacovelli, costume designer Jackson Lowell, lighting designer Brian Gale and sound designer Danny Fiandaca. Now available on Sky Princess® and Enchanted Princess®.

All’s fair in love. Step right up, step right up … and join us for Fiera, a fanciful production set against the backdrop of a lively fairground. Meet quirky and colorful characters in this unforgettable love story, and feel all the feels with a nonstop medley of carefully curated iconic hits, from up-tempo tracks to powerful ballads. Brought to you by a creative team that includes director and choreographer Danny Teeson; Academy Awards arranger Nelson Kole; and the late, great Emmy Award-winning scenic designer John Iacovelli. Now showing on Regal Princess® — and coming soon to Majestic Princess® !

Introducing  5-SKIES  — one of our most technologically advanced production shows yet. Meet Gamer 1, who dares to take on “ 5-SKIES ,” the greatest virtual reality game of all time. Follow him on his journey through a series of increasingly difficult levels, encountering new characters and challenges along the way. Will he master all 5 skies to unlock each level and ultimately reach the Sky Princess?

5-SKIES  was created by director and choreographer Danny Teeson, Music Producer Nelson Kole, scenic designer John Iacovelli, costume designer Jackson Lowell, media designer David Murakami, lighting designer Brian Gale and sound designer Danny Fiandaca. Now available on  Sky Princess®  and on  Enchanted Princess®.

The Secret Silk weaves a soaring world of enchantment

Watch a remarkable world come to life before your eyes as life-size puppetry from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, dance and special effects transport you to a mythical realm. Created and directed by John Tartaglia, a star of Broadway hits such as Avenue Q and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast , The Secret Silk is our third exclusive show produced with Stephen Schwartz, the Oscar®, Grammy® and Tony® award-winning composer of Wicked . Join us for a mystical evening as the secret is revealed.

Wicked composer brings his "Magic" on board

Enjoy all new original musicals created exclusively by Stephen Schwartz, the Grammy & Academy award-winning composer of  Wicked ,  Godspell , and  Pippin .

During his 40-year career, Schwartz won four Grammys, three Academy Awards for "Best Song" and "Best Score" for  Pocahontas  and "Best Song" for  The Prince of Egypt  and has been nominated for six Tony Awards. He is the only songwriter in Broadway history to ever have three shows run more than 1,900 performances.

Magic to Do casts its spell

Embark on an enchanted musical journey from the Oscar®, Grammy® and Tony® Award winning composer of  Wicked ,  Godspell  and  Pippin , Stephen Schwartz, where you’ll encounter some of history’s greatest magical illusions along the way. Magic to Do is the first of four shows to debut from the unique Princess partnership with the Broadway legend. You’ll experience many of Stephen’s greatest songs, as well a brand new number created exclusively for Princess, in this Broadway-caliber spectacular of song, dance and incredible visual effects.

Bravo unites opera with pop

When classic light opera meets popular music, the result is an extravaganza that brings the house to its feet. Dancing amid breathtaking sets, and backed by a large, 13-piece orchestra, the cast of Bravo…A Regal Celebration delights audiences with such opera classics as “Time to Say Goodbye” and “Habanera” from Carmen. Also woven seamlessly into the production are contemporary hits such as Adele’s “Skyfall.” Join a brilliant soprano, backed by talented singers and dancers for an evening of music that’s truly timeless.

Ballroom elegance takes the stage in an "Encore" performance

Welcome to a sophisticated evening of music and glamour, set amidst the romantic splendor of a beautiful Montecito garden. Inspired by Princess Cruises’ top-rated show Bravo!, and accompanied by an impressive onstage orchestra, Encore celebrates the traditions of pop, opera and musical theater. This spellbinding experience—showcasing new songs, elaborate costumes and stunning sets is directed and choreographed by Disney Channel® creative director Danny Teeson, with musical direction by Academy Awards arranger Nelson Kole and set design by Emmy® award-winner John Iacovelli.

Fantastic Journey transports you to new worlds

Embark on a whole new kind of voyage as dazzling technology, woven into live performances, amplifies the beat of chart-topping hits. Created, directed and choreographed by American Idol’s Danny Teeson,  Fantastic Journey  combines rock-concert energy and spectacular aerial performers in the most technologically innovative show ever presented by Princess Cruises. This visually stunning, multi-faceted stage production features 270-degree 3D-mapped imagery and 14 amazing, choreographed drones.

More Entertainment

Deal or no deal.

All you have to do is pick a briefcase. Easy, right? But when it comes to Deal or No Deal, one of the world’s most popular TV game shows, that’s easier said than done, especially when contents range from a penny to $1,000. Contestants must decide whether to accept the offer of “The Banker” and walk away with a sure bet or go for broke. In our version at sea, audience members can play along to win just as much cash or even a free cruise!

Experience the Voice of the Ocean

Think you have what it takes to take the stage? Princess is bringing the excitement and spectacle of TV’s hugely popular singing competition to the high seas, live and on-stage, with The Voice of the Ocean. The show comes to life throughout the cruise with blind auditions, mentor sessions, the iconic "I Want You" chairs, three charismatic coaches and ultimately a finale performance where guests choose the winner.

Live jazz & craft cocktails

Relive the roots of jazz each evening with our live musicians performing brilliant classics and telling tales of true jazz legends throughout the ages. Debuting first on board Sky Princess®, Enchanted Princess® and Discovery Princess®, Take Five comes to life showcasing vintage footage, iconic imagery and intimate conversations that transport you to the heart of the jazz era. Sip cocktail favorites from Master Mixologist, Rob Floyd as well as specialty gin cocktails crafted exclusively for Take Five.

Movies Under the Stars®

Catch Movies Under the Stars®, our giant 300-square foot poolside movie theater with a 69,000-watt sound system. Take in some of the finest cruise ship entertainment as the theater lights up the top deck day or night with feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events — including live NFL football games!

Stateroom entertainment

Sit back, relax and watch hit movies and top TV shows right from the comfort of your own stateroom. You can even keep up with your favorite teams with live sporting events.  Visit the sport24live.com page  (refer to the ‘At Sea’ section)* to view what sporting events will be featured on your voyage.

By clicking the link above, you will leave the Princess Cruises website and navigate to a 3rd party website that is not owned, operated, or controlled by Princess Cruises or any of its affiliates.

*Media schedule subject to change

World-class magicians & illusionists

Become mesmerized by renowned illusionists and magicians who will astonish you with their slight-of-hand tricks and mind-blowing acts that will have you shaking your head in disbelief.

Top headliner comedians

Grab a seat, order a cocktail and join fellow guests for some sidesplitting humor from top headliner comedians that have appeared on Comedy Central and late night television.

Street entertainers in the piazza

Enjoy live music, folkloric performances, acrobats and jugglers, even cocktail and food carving demonstrations. Plus, you'll find great shopping, gourmet treats in the International Café, bars, and more great cruise entertainment only a few steps away.

Live music abounds

Catch reggae, Top-40 and even mariachi music on deck poolside. Tap your toes to cover bands, torch singers, and even karaoke in the night clubs. You might even catch a string quartet in the Piazza or a sing-along at the piano bar.

Special Events at Sea

Themed cruises & special events.

Set a course for adventure on one of our Themed cruises from the “Love Boat” to ‘80’s and Comedy. Book now to enjoy a special themed cruise with Princess!

Holiday celebrations at sea

Revel in time-honored traditions, from Halloween pumpkin carving and a Thanksgiving turkey carving contest, to Hanukkah festivities, Christmas carolers and our famous Atrium snowfall. There's no better place to celebrate than on a Princess ship.

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What's new on board.

Take a peek at our latest offerings

Food & Dining

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Enriching Activities

Relaxing days & enriching experiences

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Get Ready for Award-Winning Entertainment that Rocks the Mic.

Cruise entertainment.

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When it comes to the award-winning entertainment on board our ships, you won't believe your eyes or even your ears. Journey from the gritty streets of New Jersey to glamour and international fame with Jersey Boys . From hit Broadway musicals to buzzworthy original shows, discover the best entertainment at sea with Norwegian.

SIX

Introducing the cultural phenomenon musical sweeping the stages and now gracing the seas aboard Norwegian Bliss and  Norwegian Breakaway — Six. From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a 75-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, Six is the sell-out award-winning musical that has not only taken the theater world by storm but also the charts. These Queens may have green sleeves, but their lipstick is rebellious red.

Available on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway.

Pull Up A Chair At THE CHOIR OF MAN

which cruise line has best entertainment

Pull up a chair at The Choir of Man and raise your glass to high energy dancing, live percussion and hit songs that flow as freely as the beer. You'll feel right at home in The Jungle, the rockin' English pub where the talented cast performs everything from classic rock hits and pub tunes to sing-along favourites. Expanding on some of the most compelling entertainment at sea, The Choir of Man , which is exclusively featured on Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Escape , is a guest favourite and is certain to make for a toast-worthy night.

Available on Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Escape.

Entertainment EVERY NIGHT OF YOUR CRUISE

  • Entertainment - Legends in Concert
  • Entertainment - Jersey Boys
  • Entertainment - Glow Party on Norwegian Getaway
  • Entertainment - Million Dollar Quartet
  • Entertainment - Howl At The Moon
  • MI.gallery-entertainment-choir-of-man-900x400 - 7
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  • Entertainment - Burn The Floor
  • Syd Norman’s Pour House

MI.Gallery.Entertainment.Donna

Scorching Shows BURN THE FLOOR

which cruise line has best entertainment

Swivelling hips. Steamy embraces. High-octane tempos. The performances of Burn the Floor are not just hot - they sizzle! This ballroom and Latin dance theatre company is renowned for its gifted dancers, selected from the most prestigious dance competitions around the globe. Together, they have travelled the world performing and astounding audiences in more than 300 cities in over 29 countries, including the Longacre Theatre on Broadway.

Available on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway & Norwegian Epic.

Feel the Vibe LIVE MUSIC

Live Music at Syd Norman’s Pour House

SYD NORMAN'S POUR HOUSE

Jam out to famous rock hits at the new Syd Norman’s Pour House where live music and an interactive cast will have you toasting the rock-and-roll legends all night long.

Available on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway & Norwegian Prima

HOWL AT THE MOON

HOWL AT THE MOON

For a big dose of feel-good, sing-along fun, nothing beats Howl at the Moon. Witness an electrifying blaze of ebony and ivory going head to head - whilst the audience instantly transforms into one giant happy wave of camaraderie. It's the World's Greatest Rock 'n' Roll Dueling Piano Show. It's contagious and unlike anything else at sea.

Available on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape.

THE CAVERN CLUB

THE CAVERN CLUB

Step into the legendary Liverpool club where the Beatles performed. Experience a vibrant rock-and-roll scene, featuring live music and even a Beatles cover band.

Available on Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy.

Non-stop Action LET US ENTERTAIN YOU

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

The Tony Award®-nominated, Broadway sensation is headed out to sea. Dance to the Disco Queen's greatest hits as you journey through the amazing life of Donna Summer. From breaking barriers to the ultimate stardom, this electric experience is a moving tribute to the voice of a generation, a true Prima Donna.

Available on Norwegian Prima.

LEGENDS IN CONCERT

LEGENDS IN CONCERT

The longest-running tribute show in entertainment history brings the world's greatest celebrity impersonators to the high seas. This live musical celebration features the world's greatest celebrity tribute artists such as Lady Gaga, Adele, Tina Turner and Michael Jackson. Every performer is a perfectionist, and every performance is a show-stopper.

Available on Norwegian Pearl.

Follow Your Mood and Mingle PARTIES GALORE

sailaway party

Sidesplitting Laughter COMEDY

Comedy

LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Tickle your funny bone at Headliners Comedy Club on Norwegian Getaway with performances by Levity Entertainment Group's roster of topnotch comedians. Employing more than 300 artists nationwide, Levity is the largest producer of live comedy in the United States, creating tours and TV specials for the biggest names in the industry, including Daniel Tosh, Amy Schumer, Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham. Are you ready for a sidesplitting good time?

Available on Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape.

Experience EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Production Shows

Production Shows

The Norwegian Production Cast takes you on a high energy, full scale production show to re-live your favourite memories and music.

Deal or No Deal

Deal or No Deal

Enjoy an exhilarating show where contestants play & deal for cash in a high-energy contest of nerves and intuition.

Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune

This NEW interactive show features three lucky contestants playing for a chance to win big by spinning the wheel and solving puzzles.

Variety Shows

Variety Shows

From standup comedy, unicycle-riding jugglers, to our world famous “Fountains” skit you're invited for an evening of laughter.

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Here's why Virgin Voyages' entertainment is now the best on any cruise

Ashley Kosciolek

"What the f*cking f*ck just happened?" flashed across a series of screens, uncensored, shortly after Persephone decided she was in love with Hades. Demeter, Persephone's mother, was not happy about the new underworld coupling.

No, it wasn't a confusing dream I had after a particularly stressful day. It was just another night in the Red Room theater on Virgin Voyages ' new Resilient Lady. The performance, dubbed "Persephone," convinced me that the line's shows are now the absolute best at sea — partly because they push boundaries with their adult language and themes and partly because they feature some of the best singers, dancers, acrobats and aerialists I've ever seen on a ship.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Resilient Lady debuted with an inaugural season of Greek Isles cruises from Athens (hence, the show's name), complete with shiny, new nighttime entertainment options. They rely as much on racy sexual references, forbidden love stories and notes of S&M and burlesque as they do the incredible talent of the cast. The show concepts are modern and captivating, and most were designed from scratch through partnerships with big-name production companies.

Here, I explore how Virgin Voyages has created, tweaked and darn near perfected its entertainment offerings.

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

Virgin Voyages' entertainment evolution

which cruise line has best entertainment

A high-energy dance and acrobatics show, an immersive nightclub activation that features three hours of burlesque in a library, and S&M-heavy dinner theater (complete with a metaphorical threesome) are just a few of the new entertainment options cruisers can experience on Resilient Lady.

The line's latest vessel is largely the same as sister ships Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady in terms of layout, food and quirkiness. However, each ship has its own entertainment, drawing tons of repeat cruisers to the new cruise line backed by business mogul Richard Branson.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Learnings from the first two ships have influenced the types of shows created for Resilient Lady, as well as how they were created. Virgin is notorious for pushing hard against the boundaries of standard cruise-ship productions. Sometimes it works; sometimes, it doesn't.

One show, "Never Sleep Alone" — a one-woman performance where a "sex therapist" asks attendees to share bits of their sexual history with strangers (no, thank you) — has been removed from the original two ships following passenger feedback. (Cruise line officials tell me it might return eventually.)

"'Never Sleep Alone' was us pushing, pushing, pushing the limits, and a lot of people loved the show," said Richard Kilman, Virgin Voyages' vice president of entertainment, during an interview with TPG. "But some people weren't sure. I think there was a perception created that wasn't really what it was. It's a comedy cabaret show."

which cruise line has best entertainment

"It also tied up a band of ours because we had a live band every time we did the show ... Now we have these five musicians — we have a trio and a duo — so we've essentially doubled the opportunity to have live music in different areas of the ship. People love live music, and it gives us more variety with live music."

On the other hand, "Duel Reality" — a modern take on "Romeo and Juliet" that's punctuated by rival "gangs" and jaw-dropping stunts like aerial acrobatics, hula-hooping and juggling — is so well-liked that it will tour on land. This marks the first time a show created specifically for a cruise vessel has gone from ship to shore.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Ultimately, all of Resilient Lady's new main shows feel like winners to me. It helps that they were created alongside well-known entities like famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes and the Weiner Entertainment Group, whose owner worked on New York's version of "Sleep No More" — an interactive "choose your own adventure" performance that splits you off from your group and allows you to wander through several floors of the old warehouse where it takes place.

In addition, a rotating roster of musicians, comedians and magicians perform on board for a few weeks at a time before switching out. Every one of them was spectacular.

"Our intention when we started this was to create entertainment experiences that people would happily pay money for if they were on land," Kilman said.

I'd say the endeavor was a success. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from each new title on Resilient Lady's proverbial marquee.

Shows you won't want to miss on Resilient Lady

Another rose.

which cruise line has best entertainment

When Virgin Voyages tapped Weiner Entertainment Group to create a new show that's a partnership between the ship's entertainment and food and beverage teams, the result was "Another Rose."

"The original launch of Scarlet Lady was intended to have 'Another Rose' on it," Kilman explained. "And so, it's been like three years in the wings waiting for that right moment ... The world changed, and it really hadn't been the right time to bring that kind of show back."

Now it's here in full force.

which cruise line has best entertainment

As Resilient Lady's only added-fee show and dining venue, "Another Rose" is dinner theater at its finest. You can sit in one of three locations: balcony, floor or premium near the stage. All tickets cost $50. When you enter The Manor — the ship's nightclub area, where the event is held — a crew member will hand you a wearable magnetic flower in a color that corresponds to your seating section.

which cruise line has best entertainment

From there, you'll walk down a mirrored hallway set aglow with thousands of white lights — the most Instagrammed location on the ship, I'm told — where servers offer you an alcoholic welcome drink. (It's the first of three adult beverages included in the price.)

After servers direct you to your section, members of the cast hand out real roses. They might also select you to move to another location in the club to partake in one of your courses — a very "Sleep No More" touch.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Dinner is a four-course set menu that offers cruisers two appetizers (sweet potato chaat with tamarind, cilantro-mint chutney, yogurt and pomegranate seeds; and a tuna bomb with avocado green goddess dressing, spicy soy and semolina puri), a main course (choice of pan-roasted sea bass with moilee sauce, basmati rice grit and roasted okra; or braised short rib with Kashmir chili-coconut sauce, basmati rice grit and scallions) and a dessert.

I left feeling just the right amount of full, although I only took one bite of the dessert — the world's tiniest piece of cheesecake — which fittingly tasted like a rose. There's also a vegetarian menu available. (I don't eat raw tuna, so I ordered the vegetarian celery apple bomb for my second appetizer, and it was fantastic.)

which cruise line has best entertainment

Alcoholic drinks are served throughout the meal. Tipples include Love Potion (gin, Cointreau, citrus and lavender), Elixir of the Poppy (Amaro Averna, jasmine tea and silver shimmer) and a glass of Champagne, which shows up in between the other two.

The show, which happens around you as you eat, is a blend of dancing, aerial acrobatics and small-group interaction with the cast. The storyline follows a princess forced to choose between two men she loves. Ultimately, she picks and marries one of them. Her husband then falls in love with the discarded suitor, and the trio ends up in a steamy throuple by the end of the performance.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Despite the wonkiness of it all, the show was captivating to watch, and the food was, hands down, the best I ate on the entire cruise. It was seasoned to perfection — not too bland, not too spicy and with just the right amount of flavor. The timing of the service was also impeccable, coinciding flawlessly with the show. There wasn't too much time between courses; instead, there was just enough for attendees to watch a bit of the performance without constantly being distracted by food.

In terms of both the show itself and the delectable cuisine, Virgin's entry into dinner theater succeeds where other lines have failed. In particular, I'm thinking of Norwegian Cruise Line, which had fantastic entertainment but terrible food when it offered a similar concept years ago.

Lola's Library

which cruise line has best entertainment

Hold on to your favorite titles because there's a book bandit on the loose.

Three-hour-long "Lola's Library" is a series of performances — a "nightclub activation," as Kilman calls it — divided into three one-hour chapters that run consecutively from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. a couple of times per voyage. The experience was created in partnership with No Ceilings Entertainment, which runs the Mayfair Supper Club at the Bellagio in Las Vegas.

Passengers can dip in and out as they please, taking in one or two parts on one night and returning again for the rest or staying for the entire performance from start to finish. Kilman said the concept was born out of a need to make the same nightclub appealing to cruisers for more than one night on a weeklong voyage.

which cruise line has best entertainment

"When people go to Vegas or New York, if you're going to go for a long weekend or a week, you're going to go to a nightclub on a night; you're not going to go to the same nightclub four nights in a row," Kilman said. "That's just not a thing. Here, we have people sailing with us for a full week, so how do we make the nightclub more appealing, where people will want to come back [and not] feel like they're doing the same thing?"

When you arrive at The Manor, you can sit wherever you'd like and settle in to meet Lola, a librarian who keeps the library open for some after-hours hanky panky.

One night, after everything shuts down, a book bandit steals several tomes, and Lola wonders how she's going to explain their absence to her boss, Mr. Dick. (Of course, that's his name.)

which cruise line has best entertainment

What begins as a burlesque-style show in the first chapter eventually takes a more S&M route, featuring a few amusing sexual tropes: The sexy librarian (Lola); the ugly-duckling nerd-turned-heartthrob, who's secretly sporting six-pack abs (Lola's assistant, Dewey); and the French maid (Mary, the cleaning lady, who isn't French and who we find out later in the show is actually an engineer).

There's also a completely random character called Jack the Stripper, a serial flasher who's a play on Jack the Ripper. He was my absolute favorite, simply for the shock value.

It ends up being more funny than raunchy when he poses as other characters before stripping down to almost nothing. It happens several times throughout the show, but imagine my utter surprise when he, with his borderline dad bod, pulls off an entire aerial routine wearing nothing but boxers with little red hearts on them.

which cruise line has best entertainment

I've never tried acid, but I imagine watching this show is similar to what would be going on in my brain if I did. Take all of the above, and swirl it around with singing, dancing, acrobatics and pole dancing to music from Blondie, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner and The Police. Sprinkle in some nods to "Star Wars," appearances by the Seven Dwarfs (who, of course, are gay) and dirty references to polishing Harry Potter's wand, and that about sums it up.

This show receives high marks from me because it kept my attention — and kept me laughing — for three hours. The unexpected twists were impressive (Jack the Stripper) and boundary-pushing (gay Seven Dwarfs).

It's also interesting to note that Celebrity Cruises once tried a similar approach to entertainment, featuring a somewhat disturbing and hard-to-follow three-hour show in the Eden lounge on its newest cruise ships. Ultimately, the show had to be pared down to 90 minutes and was eventually replaced by a series of shorter unrelated performances. Virgin's idea of splitting "Lola's Library" into three easily digestible segments makes the concept more audience-friendly.

Mind Mangler

which cruise line has best entertainment

The Mind Mangler is no ordinary magician. The concept was born from a character created by Mischief Comedy, the company responsible for "The Play That Goes Wrong" and "Magic Goes Wrong." It's one of the few shows Virgin Voyages has licensed rather than creating something new, according to Kilman.

You won't find tired illusions; instead, you'll witness a comedy routine blended with mind-reading and other unexpected twists, including an obvious audience plant who's part of the show and wears an "audience member" T-shirt. He frequently shows up to volunteer throughout the performance and pokes fun at accusations that magicians collude with people before their shows and then plant them in the audience to help them with their tricks later.

As Kilman noted, it's more about the comedy than the magic, but cruisers will receive plenty of both.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Virgin has a next-level tie-in with House of Yes, the famed Brooklyn art space and nightclub that draws crowds for its bizarre shows and themed costume events. The brand helped Virgin to conceptualize a new show, which is produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive.

To mesh with Resilient Lady's Greece itineraries, Virgin's entertainment executives worked with House of Yes and Kaleidoscope to create "Persephone," a dance showcase that also uses singing, aerialists, acrobats and pole dancers to tell the story of the goddess Persephone.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Persephone falls in love and runs away with Hades, the Greek god of the underworld. When her mother — Demeter, the Greek goddess of the harvest — discovers she's missing, she flies into a rage, and perpetual winter ensues, killing the crops.

Demons wearing horns and muzzles climb the walls, and dancers covered head to toe in mirrors pop and lock to a robotic-looking number that, in my completely unprofessional dance opinion, is the best on the entire ship.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Between dances, the singer who plays Demeter belts out popular songs with impressive vocal range, the cast members who play Persephone and Hades enter into a couple of amazing acrobatic routines, and a dance battle between the gods and goddesses lends a bit of competition to the whole experience.

The tale is a classic story most of us learned in grade school, but the level of energy, the intricate costumes and the fact that the audience feels like a part of the show are what make it a standout performance. Attendees stand the entire time, right up against the performance spaces, with cast members moving through the crowd at various intervals.

which cruise line has best entertainment

"The ability to have an event where people can stand and move around the space and be close to performers is a different experience in and of itself, but then you have all the recognizable music ... and we really went over the top production value-wise," Kilman said, referring to "Persephone" as the ship's big-spectacle show.

He also noted that it's the first time the versatile Red Room has been used to its full potential, offering three different vantage points for passengers — beside the stage, out on the floor's perimeter or one deck above on the second level, where seating is available.

To add to the intrigue, a Greek chorus of prerecorded actors appears on the stage's LED screens behind the cast. They rap about the situation to round out the plot line, even tossing out a couple of F-bombs. "F*cking teenagers," they say after Persephone makes her escape.

Festival Stage

which cruise line has best entertainment

Rather than a specific show, Festival Stage is a new Virgin Voyages concept that brings a rotating list of carefully selected talent on board to perform for a few weeks. The roster changes out to keep the entertainment fresh.

Kilman said he consistently heard from passengers who sailed the first two Virgin vessels that they wanted more comedy. The cruise line delivered.

"Now we have that element of rotating entertainment where, if you come back, there's something you're going to see that's new," Kilman said.

On my sailing, I saw:

Abandoman: Through audience participation, this Irish comedian turns cruisers' lives into hit songs through freestyle rap — right on the spot. During the hourlong show, he created several songs about a passenger who was sailing for her 80th birthday, a woman who held a grudge for decades because her mother wouldn't let her get braces and a couple arguing over whether or not to get a dog. In the end, he tied it all together flawlessly by rapping about another couple who, coincidentally, owns a pet shop.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Flute Loops: Through a combination of flute, guitar and beatbox, this talented Irish musician played well-known songs on select evenings. The music was light but caught passengers' attention because of the musician's ability to remix popular songs in ways that changed their tempo. This created a guessing game, eliciting "Oh, what is this one? It's on the tip of my tongue!" reactions from cruisers.

As for what's next, in a few weeks, Tape Face — an "America's Got Talent" finalist who does an entire comedy routine with his mouth taped shut — will join the repertoire of onboard entertainment. Additional comedy-magic hybrid shows and acapella singing group acts are also coming soon.

Returning favorites

Several favorite shows from Virgin's first two ships have returned to Resilient Lady. They include:

which cruise line has best entertainment

Miss Titty Kaka: Drag queen sensation and resident diva Miss Titty Kaka graces stages on all of Virgin's ships in a rotation. Replete with singing, dancing, fabulous costume changes and high kicks galore, her performances and witty sexual references will leave you equal parts amused and blushing. Plus, who doesn't love a good drag queen-hosted game of bingo?

which cruise line has best entertainment

Miss Behave: Land-based show "Miss Behave" was first brought to the high seas by Virgin Voyages on Valiant Lady. Led by a host dressed in a glittering gold outfit and a nerdy-looking assistant, it focuses on the idea that nothing really matters, including the points that the audience earns. Divided into two teams, attendees participate through singalongs, shout-outs and activities like standing up, sitting down, rushing the stage and texting selfies or answers to questions to a dedicated number via WhatsApp. It's all a bit chaotic, and that's just the way passengers like it.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Theme parties: One of Virgin Voyages' biggest strengths is the ability to throw incredible theme parties. Take Klub Rubiks and We Fancy, for example. The former is an '80s-themed dance party complete with a DJ spinning '80s music. Passengers are extremely zealous about dressing up. The latter is a nightclub dance party where members of the entertainment cast mingle with passengers on the dance floor. If you have anything gold, that's the time to wear it.

which cruise line has best entertainment

Scarlet Night: Absolutely no after-hours bash in the history of cruise ships can outdo Scarlet Night. The pinnacle of parties, it encourages everyone to dress in red to hear the legend of Scarlet Night. Told both in the ship's Roundabout atrium area — which is decorated with giant, inflatable octopus tentacles — by members of the crew and by a lounge singer-style performance that runs every 15 minutes in the Red Room theater, it involves a hapless sailor who falls in love with an octopus princess. Weird? Yes, but it's totally Virgin.

Cracking on with the bizarre series of Scarlet Night events, the crew in the atrium choose two passengers to "marry" one another after partaking in a live, improvised game of mad libs that describes how the two first met. Ultimately, the officiant pretend-marries everyone within earshot of the ceremony — but just for the night.

which cruise line has best entertainment

From there, members of the ship's dance crew begin popping up, flashmob style, to perform throughout the public areas as everyone makes their way to the pool deck, where the real party begins.

A giant inflatable octopus looms over the space, welcoming passengers as dancers invite everyone to jump into the pool. A DJ cranks music until midnight, when the festivities move indoors to The Manor, the ship's nightclub. In all my cruises, I have never seen a party so well attended or one that simultaneously uses so many public spaces so effectively.

Bottom line

which cruise line has best entertainment

Through stellar talent, high production value and big-name partnerships, Virgin Voyages' entertainment continues to push boundaries. Its new shows firmly cement the line's spot at the top of the cruise ship entertainment leaderboard. The cruise line has taken concepts that failed on other cruise lines, such as dinner theater and three-hour-long performances, and made them work exceptionally well.

What's great about the line is that it leans heavily into passenger feedback, tweaking some of its offerings to provide more variety and to retain all of the quirk, charm and innuendo in a less obvious (and, perhaps, less offensive) way. Plus, all but one of its brand-new shows are free.

What you can expect from the performances on any Virgin vessel — but especially Resilient Lady — are some of the most awe-inspiring singing, dancing and feats of strength you'll see anywhere, including on land.

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which cruise line has best entertainment

11 of the Best Entertainment Experiences on Cruise Ships

13th June 2016

Make sure you don’t miss out on these experiences next time you’re onboard!

When it comes to holidays, cruise lines have really got it going on with their entertainment offering. Picture any land-based holiday resort and it’s hard to imagine it featuring an acrobatic aqua display or West End shows like Grease or We Will Rock You – but with cruising this is all part of the package.

Entertainment experiences on cruise ships has become big business as cruise lines have become more and more competitive in their bid to provide the most entertaining experiences at sea. With so much now on offer, we thought we’d have a rundown of the 11 best entertainment features onboard some of the world’s most popular cruise lines. Take a look below to find out some of our favourites which we think steal the spotlight…

The Cavern Club – Norwegian Epic

The Cavern Club may well be a new addition to the Norwegian Epic , but it’s already making headlines for its impressive ambience and talented performers including Beatles tribute acts and fresh, new vocalists. The hip venue is adorned with art inspired by the Fab Four including photography of the band throughout their career and also not forgetting their famous album covers. Plush dark leather chairs and booths provide you with comfy seating to sink into, and the exposed brick work walls give this venue a true feeling of being in the original cellar cavern of the club in Liverpool.

Price: Included

Royal Caribbean Aqua Theatre

Aqua Theatre – Oasis Class Ships– Royal Caribbean

Watch in amazement as acrobats leap from dizzying heights into this small pool situated on the aft of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-Class ships. As well as keeping you on the edge of your seats with a series of death defying stunts, the Aqua Theatre also showcases synchronised swimming performances and coordinated water canon shows for some impressive aqua acrobatics. The Aqua Theatre has seating for up to 600 guests and as you prepare for the show to start you can admire the amazing ocean views. The Aqua Theatre has three main shows; Let Me Entertain You, Oasis of Dreams and Oceanaria . Whilst Oasis of Dreams and Oceanaria feature spangled costumes and mystical intrigue, Let Me Entertain You sees the arrival of some familiar faces – the cast of Madagascar including Alex the Lion and King Julian!

  Latin Nights – Carnival Cruise Line

Make sure you’ve got your dancing shoes on because trust us you’ll want to shake and shimmy your way through this entire performance. There’s an infectious sense of energy that radiates from the dancers on stage down into the crowd. As you sit enjoying the show with a rum cocktail in hand, you’ll be transported through the decades of Latin music from Carlos Santana to Ricky Martin and Pitbull in this lively and expertly produced performance.

Billboard Onboard – Holland America

Billboard Onboard is a new feature on the Holland America fleet and it’s one of the most exciting debuts to have ever been made in the cruise holiday industry. With cruise lines placing more interest and emphasis on their entertainment programmes, they’re looking outside of the box to develop new partnerships and collaborations and Billboard Onboard is one of them. The entertainment feature debuted on the new ms Koningsdam which launched in April this year. Billboard Onboard is all about providing a platform where guests can listen to a number of Billboard Chart hits that span a variety of genres and decades.

Elyria – Celebrity Cruises

  Celebrity Cruises are one of the best cruise lines for creating an environment for their theatre performances and events. Take for example their Indulgence event which is seductive and tantalising with its speak-easy styling and assortment of pop up performers, decadent desserts and free-flowing cocktails, which all add to the atmosphere. Whilst Celebrity events like Indulgence are worth noting, the theatre production of Elyria steals the spotlight. You’ll feel as though you’ve entered another world with this dreamlike performance that combines music, dance and humour to tell a powerful love story.

Planetarium – Queen Mary 2 – Cunard

The Planetarium onboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is simply spectacular. It enables you to gaze up at projections of stars, planets and illuminations that light up the ceiling of the theatre in a magical display. It’s the only Planetarium at sea and Cunard have involved a variety of guest speakers and lecturers onboard who give guests an overview of the cosmos above them as they cruise across the ocean. The Planetarium has 150 seats and offers four short programmes. Created in conjunction with New York’s American Museum of Natural history Hayden Planetarium, the programmes are narrated by the likes of Tom Hanks and Harrison Ford and each film gives perspective on the earth’s alignment and positioning in the solar system.

Price: Free – However you must obtain a ticket whilst onboard

We Will Rock You – Anthem of the Seas – Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has an enthralling entertainment schedule and We Will Rock You is just one of the many highlights. The show is an Olivier award-winning spectacle that wowed over 6.5 million people during its record breaking 12 year run at the Dominion Theatre in London. Written by legendary comedian and author Ben Elton, We Will Rock You features legendary hits like Radio Gaga, Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want to Break Free and of course Queen’s most iconic jam ‘We will Rock You’ .

Cirque Dreams and Dinner – Norwegian Breakaway – Norwegian Cruise Line

You’ll find it hard to believe that you’re on a cruise ship as you take a seat under the big top of the Spiegel Tent. The yellow and red striped ceiling gives this dining venue a definite cirque ambience. As you’re presented with a lavish three course meal you’ll find it hard to concentrate on your food with the display of contortionists, acrobats and variety of circus acts which take to the stage during your dining experience. Each course of your meal is delivered gracefully to your table by servers on roller skates – which you may not notice as you’ll transfixed by the performances on stage!

Price: $29.99 standard $39.99 premium

  Magic to Do – Princess Cruise Line

Magic to Do is the theatre show written by Oscar®, Grammy® and Tony® award-winning composer of Wicked ,  Godspell  and  Pippin – Steven Schwartz. The enchanting tale of Magic to Do is available exclusively on Princess cruise line . The show combines incredible musical performances with mesmerising onstage illusions and magical acts. With Schwartz overseeing the creative development of the show, he’s brought together a key group of Broadway talent including Jim Steinmeyer who’s been a mastermind of magic for the past 25 years, Don Frantz Associate Producer of The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast and last but by no means least Gabriel Barre who worked on the national tour of Pippin among others. Magic To Do will showcase some of Schwartz’s most famous songs including Day by Day and Defying Gravity along with a new number, A Little Magic written exclusively for Princess cruise line.

Royal Caribbean Wonderland Restaurant

Wonderland Restaurant – Anthem of the Seas –Royal Caribbean

Wonderland offers a culinary adventure that will delight all ages. From the moment you step through the door of the restaurant it’s as though you’ve entered into an imaginary and surreal environment that’s loosely associated with Alice in Wonderland. Wonderland can be found on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas and it seats 62 guests at any one time – so booking in advance is most definitely advised.  There’s ooey gooey molten chocolate cake, marvellous baked Alaska and savoury dishes like vanishing noodles and succulent vegetables presented in front of you as though they have yet to be plucked from the ground. The restaurant is spectacularly decorated with elegant mismatched chairs, whimsical clocks and mirrors and intricate touches like quirky cutlery and glassware. As if that weren’t enough to delight you, there are also some extra special surprises about dining here that we simply refuse to tell you about because we can’t spoil the surprise!

Price: $45 per person

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast –Carnival Cruise Line

Much like Royal Caribbean’s Wonderland Restaurant, the Dr Seuss Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast is a culinary adventure and a great way to start any day. With tables adorned with colourful red, blue and polka dot decorations and performances from Thing 1, Thing 2 and The Cat in the Hat – this is a dining experience that will charm the whole family. Adults and children alike will be delighted by the stacks of pancakes and waffles decorated with blue and red cream and lashings of syrup and chocolate sauce whilst those seeking a more wholesome breakfast can select made to order omelettes. When your belly is full and you simply can’t take another bite, capture the memory of the best breakfast ever with a selfie with one of your favourite Dr Seuss characters!

Price: $5 per adult, $5 per child

So there you have 11 of the best entertainment features onboard cruise ships. Have you experienced any of them on any of your cruise holidays? Or perhaps you plan to see them on a future cruise? Either way we’d love to hear your thoughts – even if you think we’ve missed out on your personal favourite entertainment feature, so let us know on Twitter , Facebook or in the comments below.

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which cruise line has best entertainment

YOUR BUCKET LIST BEGINS HERE

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT INCREDIBLE IS ON THE ITINERARY 

Whatever thrills you seek, you’ll find all sorts of ways to fill your days onboard Royal Caribbean®. Each day and night brings something new to do, see and explore. From the robot mixologists at Bionic Bar® to the FlowRider®* surf simulators, and the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, to hit Broadway musicals like Grease. And with the award-winning Adventure Ocean® youth program, kids and teens will have a blast— plus parents can get a little time of their own. The hardest part is deciding where to start.

Presents and Christmas Decorations around Vintage Car

Let's Celebrate

The only parade where every holiday is celebrated at once

Apollo 18

Royal Escape Room℠ - Mission Control: Apollo 18

Decode the mysteries of Mission Control in the latest Royal Escape Room challenge.

North Star Raised Above Rear of the Ship

North Star ®

360-degree views, 365 days a year

Performer Dancing with Projection in Two 70

Virtual Concert

Relive original performances in stunning 4K at Two70's Virtual Concert .

Salsa Dancing Classes Couple Feet

Dance Classes

Show off new moves during Dance Classes with the pros

Latin Fiesta Couple Dancing Salsa

Latin Fiesta

Get ready to shake your hips and find your Latin rhythm.

Men Playing Basketball in the Sports Court  with Tidal Wave in the Background

Tidal Wave℠

Go airborne on the only boomerang slide at sea

An appetizer at Chef's Table on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

All Access Tour

You’re the VIP (Very Important Passenger) behind the scenes

Woman Enjoying the Boardwalk View on the Zipline

See the ship over nine decks above the Boardwalk® on the Zip Line

Woman Enjoying her Flowrider Private Lesson

FlowRider ®

Score prime waves all day every day on the FlowRider® surf simulator.

SeaPlex at Sunrise

Bump up your game at SeaPlex®

Ping Pong Players, Activity

Table Tennis

Serve up stiff competition during a table tennis face off

Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Soak up the relaxation and the horizon

Colorful Wheel at the Game Show

Got game? Prove it on one of our interactive Game Shows

A dancing under the stars party onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise

Dancing Under The Stars

Party with us poolside beneath the night sky.

Friends Racing on The Perfect Storm

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Grab a friend and race down The Perfect Storm℠ twin waterslides Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠.

Learn how to speak Spanish onboard a cruise to Cuba

Spanish Classes

Brush up on your Spanish skills in an interactive onboard class.

90s party theme cruise parties nightlife

Totally Awesome 90s Street Party

Throwback to the decade that was all that and a bag of chips

Pool Deck on Liberty of the Seas

Pool Parties

Stay up late for this top deck party

Explorer of the Seas Pool Deck Night Time Outdoor Movie

Outdoor Movie Nights

The poolside screen is huge - and so is the fun

Father and Son Playing Basketball in the Sports Court

Sports Court

Play 3-on-3 with an ocean view at the Sports Court

Poster announcing the Harmony High Rock and Roll Cruise Event by Royal Caribbean

Harmony High

Jump, jive and wail at Harmony High, the most rockin’ show at sea

Girl Sliding down The Riptide on a Sunny Day

Plunge into new thrills on the only headfirst mat racer waterslide at sea, Riptide℠.

Close-Up the Skee Ball on the Boardwalk Arcade

Play the classics and modern faves at the Royal Caribbean® Arcade

Learn how to latin dance onboard a cruise to Cuba

Latin Dance Classes

By the end of this class, you’ll be dancing like the stars.

The Greatest 80's Party

The Greatest 80’s Party Ever!

Get ready for a total blast from the past at the greatest 80's party ever.

Oasis of the Seas Adventure Ocean Workshop Girl Doing Art

Adventure Ocean ®

The new Adventure Ocean® youth program is designed to ignite the imagination.

Navigator of the Seas Pool  by the Lime and Coconut

Amplified Pool Deck

It’s time to take your pool game to the next level.

The Ultimate Abyss Woman Sliding Down

Ultimate Abyss℠

Take the plunge on the tallest slide at sea - the Ultimate Abyss℠.

Colorful Fantasy Land depicted in poster for the Away We Go Cruise Show by Royal Caribbean

See what happens when you wish upon a star in Away We Go .

Young Boy Enjoying the Carousel

Family fun takes a nostalgic turn on the handcrafted carousel

iFly by Ripcord Little Girl Flying

RipCord ® by iFLY ®

Feel the freedom of freefall on the only skydiving simulator at sea — RipCord® by iFLY®

Girl Trapeze at the Circus School

Trapeze School

Make your circus dreams come true on the flying trapeze

Spectrum of the Seas Woman Fencing with Sword

Gear up, grab a foil and get ready for an introduction into the art of fencing.

Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide

The Perfect Storm℠

Soak up the thrills on all The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea.

laser tag onboard activity

Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z℠

Forces collide in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag faceoff in Battle for Planet Z℠.

Woman Focusing on Archery

Think you can get a bullseye? Take your best shot in our archery tournament.

Captain's Reception

Captain’s Welcome Aboard Reception

The Captain invites all guests to a formal night reception held in their honor. It’s a great photo op, so don’t forget your camera.

Mother and Son on The Blaster

The Blaster ®

Hang on tight for The Blaster® aqua coaster, the longest waterslide at sea.

Pool Kids Jumping

With onboard pools, you've got plenty of chances to make a splash

A 70s Disco Party onboard Royal Caribbean cruises

70s Disco Party

You’ve scored a one-way ticket to funky-town.

crystal city logo poster close up

Laser Tag: Clash for the Crystal City℠

Two clans collide in an icy new glow-inthe-dark laser tag faceoff for control of a mystical frozen city.

WN, Wonder of the Seas, family fun at Playscape, daytime, mother and daughter on stairs, one child running, dad watching daughter on ropes, blue colors, octopus statue in right background,

Wonder Playscape℠

A whole new way to explore and discover an underwater-themed world full of fun

Wonder Dunes Mother and Son Enjoying the Mini Golf Course

Enjoy mini golf with maximum fun

Buggy going Fast

Bumper Cars

Buckle up for the only bumper cars at sea at the largest indoor activity space ever to set sail.

Adventure Ocean Puzzle Break

Escape the Rubicon

The entire room is a mystery to unravel in Escape the Rubicon

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Surround yourself with the greatest entertainment at sea.

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The entertainment on board our fleet is just as revolutionary and carefully crafted as the ships themselves. In fact, we’re changing the future of entertainment at sea—or anywhere else. We believe entertainment should happen 24/7. It should be fresh and unpredictable, surrounding you and delighting you with spaces and experiences never seen before.

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Discover unexpected and award-winning experiences and cruise ship entertainment at every turn, from live music performances that perfectly complement our ships' stunning spaces to unpredictable parties sure to excite all your senses. 

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Which cruise line has the BEST entertainment

By life is to be happy , January 23, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

Recommended Posts

Cool Cruiser

life is to be happy

my family have only ever been  on royal carribean and norweigan cruises however we are open to looking at other cruise lines 

however entertainment is one of the most important aspects for us .... norweigan is the best for this as they had a great variety and loads of different entertainment every night like quizzes, shows etc however royal has ice shows which norweigan doesn't 

however wanted to put it out there to see what people think provides variety of entertainment ...  we are not really into magic shows or karaoke

thanks in advance for your responses

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Share on other sites, billslowsky.

7 minutes ago, life is to be happy said: HI there   my family have only ever been  on royal carribean and norweigan cruises however we are open to looking at other cruise lines  however entertainment is one of the most important aspects for us .... norweigan is the best for this as they had a great variety and loads of different entertainment every night like quizzes, shows etc however royal has ice shows which norweigan doesn't  however wanted to put it out there to see what people think provides variety of entertainment ...  we are not really into magic shows or karaoke   thanks in advance for your responses

I think NCL and Royal are pretty similar; Royal puts on more "known" shows like Hairspray and Cats (I got a great nap during Hairspray) while NCL's shows like Chorus of Men and the so-bad-it's-entertaining Blazing Boots are more than adequate.  Carnival has the best comedy shows by far.  And Celebrity's Silent Disco (when they offer it) is a hoot.

Like

1 minute ago, billslowsky said: I think NCL and Royal are pretty similar; Royal puts on more "known" shows like Hairspray and Cats (I got a great nap during Hairspray) while NCL's shows like Chorus of Men and the so-bad-it's-entertaining Blazing Boots are more than adequate.  Carnival has the best comedy shows by far.  And Celebrity's Silent Disco (when they offer it) is a hoot.

ill have a look at carnival to see what they have

orville99

37 minutes ago, life is to be happy said: ill have a look at carnival to see what they have

Unless anything has changed recently, one thing they lack is live bands.

CruiseBride926

CruiseBride926

For the bigger productions we prefer Royal but for smaller things like trivia and comedy we actually really liked Carnival. 

flamingos

51 minutes ago, life is to be happy said: And Celebrity's Silent Disco (when they offer it) is a hoot.

Is that anything like Hush!, the silent party?

Hutcha

I think Royal and NCL are pretty close on entertainment. I'd disagree that royal is better for the bigger productions. NCL has a lot. Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, Six, Footloose, etc. 

DCPIV

You're probably better off asking this in a general board (unless you're shotgunning it across boards).

The pool and lounge performers on Celebrity are head and shoulders better than any I've seen on any other line with only a very few exceptions. It's rare that I even go to a show on Celebrity because I can't pull myself away from the lounge acts. 

57 minutes ago, billslowsky said: And Celebrity's Silent Disco (when they offer it) is a hoot.

Liberty of the Seas had silent disco twice on our sailing last week. Silent disco has spread all over the place over the last few years or so. Yes, it can be a lot of fun to watch! 

firefly333

55 minutes ago, life is to be happy said: ill have a look at carnival to see what they have

As it said comedy shows are good. The theater shows are more like games shows, or if music singers have to dance and sing, double requirements, and have been known to be off key and my ear isnt perfect but I know off key.

Comedy is what they do best. X and G rated, they have both. 

CPT Trips

Syd Norman’s, Howl at the Moon, Comedy Club, piano bar type performer, singer guitarist and small vocal/instrumental group every evening along with Broadway shows, “pool band,” dinner show, and the typical cruise ship “headliners,” lead me to say NCL.  

Royal was close, but on our recent cruise there were dead times several evenings with no live entertainment options. 

cello56

The live music on Royal cannot be beat. Everywhere you go there are live bands and orchestras. 

The Broadway production shows - Mamma Mia/Grease/Cats/Hairspray etc. are not just typical cruise ship production shows. These are full length legit Broadway shows. When Cats was installed on Oasis, Andrew Lloyd Webber came onboard to inspect it and make sure that it was exactly the same as his land based shows. Many of the shows have had cast from London West End in them. 

1 hour ago, life is to be happy said: ill have a look at carnival to see what they have

If you enjoy drunken (beer) belly flop contests, Carnival is your ship

John&LaLa

John&LaLa

Only Royal has diving/aquatic shows 😉

3,000+ Club

Another_Critic

4 minutes ago, John&LaLa said: Only Royal has diving/aquatic shows 😉

I'm disappointed you didn't post "Royal has Cats! ... end of thread."  😄

Haha

Just now, Another_Critic said: I'm disappointed you didn't post "Royal has Cats! ... end of thread."  😄

It's been mentioned a couple times already 😉

I'll put in a different point of view here.  I know there are some who will agree, and some who will disagree.

MSC shows, because of the nature of the passengers -- many different languages  -- does shows that are not lyric-dependent, but more like Cirque du Soleil: variety shows with a theme.  They also sometimes do an abbreviated opera.  We really enjoyed them; we are tired of all the rock and broadway-theme shows on RC and others.  And we can see Cats and similar shows at home; we wouldn't choose to do that on a ship if we had an alternative.

MSC doesn't usually do comedy shows, so if that is your thing (it's not ours), that could be a negative.

Our MSC cruises also had a lot of dance parties, and live music all around the ship.

7 minutes ago, LGW59 said: If you enjoy drunken (beer) belly flop contests, Carnival is your ship

Gone. They dont have them. Lol some enjoyed competing. Naming pre covid things which might never come back... 

Liberty OTS no pool band last cruise, so it's missing things too. The big screen tv at the pool been broken since liberty resumed ... carnival big screen worked unlike rcl liberty. 

PhillyFan33579

There is no right answer to this because people have different tastes. Personally I think RCI has the best variety of shows and the best variety of live music, although Celebrity is close too. I also think RCI has the best comedians. Carnival usually has more comedy shows on a cruise than RCI, but more often than not my stomach hurts from laughing so hard listening to comedians on RCI. That rarely happened when we used to cruise on Carnival a lot. However, if you enjoy comedy where every third word is a curse word, you will like the adult comedy shows on Carnival. 

smokeybandit

5 minutes ago, PhillyFan33579 said: There is no right answer to this because people have different tastes.

Yep. You'd find 10 different answers to this

20,000+ Club

We have cruised most of the major lines , rccl entertainment keeps me returning love the aqua and ice shows. I was pleasantly surprised at MSc yacht club which had its own entertainment and you can see there big productions shows also. We discovered music charters about 5 years ago and just love them live music from early to very late , plus interviews and the chance to interact with people like America, Michael McDonald, Rita Coolidge etc , will sail on another in a few weeks . We do 70’s music but there cruises for 50’s , 60’s , 80’s , disco, country soul etc. our cruise is on celebrity summit.

Royal and NCL far above everyone else, then Carnival, MSC, Princess and HAL in that order in my opinion.

neverbeenhere

neverbeenhere

Yup… Princess has some good entertainment options.  Good and bad on all lines. Depends on what you like any particular day. 

5 minutes ago, George C said: We have cruised most of the major lines , rccl entertainment keeps me returning love the aqua and ice shows. I was pleasantly surprised at MSc yacht club which had its own entertainment and you can see there big productions shows also. We discovered music charters about 5 years ago and just love them live music from early to very late , plus interviews and the chance to interact with people like America, Michael McDonald, Rita Coolidge etc , will sail on another in a few weeks . We do 70’s music but there cruises for 50’s , 60’s , 80’s , disco, country soul etc. our cruise is on celebrity summit.

Have you ever done the Summit Jazz Cruise?  I would love to do that one, and Rita Coolidge LOVE her, that smoky voice is incredible.  

12 minutes ago, LGW59 said: Have you ever done the Summit Jazz Cruise?  I would love to do that one, and Rita Coolidge LOVE her, that smoky voice is incredible.  

Definitely would like a jazz or flower power cruise,  so far we just have done the 70’s rock and romance,  Rita Coolidge was great , her book is super interesting and she was very friendly and outgoing had a nice conversation with her two years ago. 

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The World's Largest Cruise Ship Is Coming in January—Here's What It's Like Inside

By Jessica Puckett

A Look Inside the World's Largest Cruise Ship Launching January 2024

The biggest thing to ever hit cruising is coming in January 2024, when Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas —which will be the largest cruise ship in the world —will debut to passengers for the first time.

With capacity for nearly 10,000 passengers and crew, Icon of the Seas is billed as part all-inclusive resort, part theme park, and a massive destination unto itself . Clocking in at 250,380 gross tons and measuring nearly a quarter mile long (1,198 feet to be exact), the vast ship will sport a total of 20 decks, 18 of which will be accessible to guests.

The ship will be divided into eight different “neighborhoods,” each with their own distinct atmospheres, dining options, and activities. “ Icon of the Seas is truly what we call a white paper ship,” Anna Drescher, manager of architectural design, new building and innovation for Royal Caribbean group, said in a video statement . “The reason that we call it that is we start with a blank sheet of sketch paper, so it truly is starting fresh.”

In June 2023, the ship hit a major milestone when it completed its first sea trials outside the shipyard in Turku, Finland. Next up is the colossal new ship’s first voyage, slated to depart on January 27, 2024. It will sail roundtrip from Miami to the Caribbean islands of St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and the Bahamas.

The ship's typical seven-day itineraries include three at-sea days, so passengers have time to fully enjoy the endless choices of amenities on board. “We want guests to walk up to the ship and just have this moment of: I can’t believe that’s where I’m going ,” said Jennifer Goswami, the line’s senior manager of product development.

Here's a look at the enormous scale of the new ship and what to expect on board.

exterior and top deck icon of the seas

When it begins sailing, the Icon of the Seas will offer a total of 2,805 staterooms that can hold 5,610 passengers at double occupancy, or a maximum of 7,600 guests. Passengers can choose from a whopping 28 different room types, including Sunset Suites with wraparound balconies and Family Infinite Balcony staterooms with bunkbeds fit for a family of up to six.

balconies of the ultimate family townhouse

The largest suite on board will be the three-story, 1,772-square-foot “Ultimate Family Townhouse,” which comes with its own movie theater, ping-pong table, karaoke, and a slide between floors. It can sleep up to eight people and costs approximately $75,000 per week.

central park neighborhood icon of the seas

Among the eight "neighborhoods," or sections of the ship with distinct ambiance, are Central Park, which offers greenery and sidewalk cafes, and The Hideaway, which aims for a European beach club aesthetic. There's also The Suite Neighborhood, Surfside, Thrill Island, Chill Island, The Royal Promenade, and the Aquadome.

The ship's 2,350 crew members will also get their own neighborhood, complete with amenities like a gaming room and hair salon.

thrill island waterpark icon of the seas

Another superlative for Icon will be sporting the largest waterpark at sea. The park, called Category 6, features six different record-breaking waterslides, including the tallest onboard waterslide. There will also be a free-fall slide, plus a raft-style slide for four passengers to ride together.

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royal bay pool icon of the seas

Seven pools and nine whirlpools will be located throughout the ship, including the first infinity pool on a cruise ship to be suspended in the air. The Royal Bay pool, located on the 15th deck, will break the record for largest pool at sea, holding an astounding 40,000 gallons of water.

main dining room icon of the seas

Across the towering vessel, there'll be more than 20 food venues and 15 bars and nightlife experiences, including a sweeping three-level main dining room.

Among the options for grabbing a drink will be the line's first onboard swim-up bar, a walk-up Champagne bar, and a bar specializing in coffee cocktails like espresso martinis.

aqua theater icon of the seas

On the entertainment front, Royal Caribbean has hired 75 performers to titillate guests across three cavernous theaters. The Absolute Zero ice arena will feature shows with Olympic-level skaters, while the AquaTheater will combine the talents of divers, robots, and skateboarders.

In the Royal Theater, a 16-piece orchestra (the largest one at sea), will accompany shows like the Wizard of Oz.

In smaller venues throughout the ship, like the dueling piano bar, 50 live musicians and comedians will perform each night, making it possible for every type of passenger to find something that fits their style.

INSIDER

I worked on cruise ships for 6 years. Here are the 5 best and 5 worst rooms to book for your trip.

  • When I worked on cruise ships , I learned that choosing the right cabin can make a big difference.
  • Staterooms vary in view and location, and each cruiser should select the best one for their needs.
  • Avoiding certain staterooms can minimize outside noise, extra fees, and other inconveniences.

During my six years working for two different cruise lines, I learned how much a cruiser's cabin can affect their onboard experience.

Although I ultimately ended up as an entertainment host, I started my career in guest services, where I frequently dealt with passengers' room complaints .  

Here are what I consider to be the best and worst staterooms to book on a cruise. 

BEST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE

Ocean-level cabins.

  • If you're prone to seasickness, the center of the ship, also called the midship, is the place to be. It's the closest you can get to water level, where you'll feel the least amount of rocking . 
  • The smaller the ship is, the more movement you're likely to feel, so those who feel queasy on the water may want to consider booking one of these rooms on a mega ship, which is a vessel with at least 1,500 cabins. 
  • Passengers who suffer from seasickness should avoid sailing during hurricane season, which loosely runs from June to November, or traveling on rough bodies of water, such as the Drake Passage.

Studio rooms 

  • Certain cruise lines — such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Virgin Voyages — offer single-occupancy staterooms. 
  • In the past, cruise lines expected solo cruisers to pay a single supplement , a surcharge for individuals staying in staterooms designed to accommodate more than one person. I've never seen a single supplement required for those staying in a studio or solo cabin, which are intended for one person. It's always a good idea to check for extra fees ahead of booking though.
  • Some cruise lines, like NCL , have lounges near these cabins that are only accessible to people staying in single-occupancy rooms. There, solo cruisers can mingle and enjoy social events hosted by the entertainment staff .

Port or starboard staterooms

  • You might want to consider your ship's route before booking a stateroom with a window or balcony.
  • If you're going down a scenic coastline in one direction, know which side of the ship will face it. That way, you'll know whether to choose a port room, which is on the left side of the ship, or a starboard room, which is on the right side of the ship, to get the best views.

Cabins close to popular attractions

  • If you expect to spend a lot of your time in one place — such as the spa, pool deck, or casino — you may want to book a nearby stateroom, or at least one that's on the same side of the ship.
  • As an entertainment host who was often running around the ship to host different activities, I found that it was a lot easier to move around vertically than horizontally. 
  • Having a cabin on the same side of the ship as your favorite attractions will save you a lot of time, especially on bigger vessels.

Rooms by elevators

  • Those who don't want to walk far or are physically unable to do so may want to book a room close to the elevators so they don't have to travel far to get to the ship's public areas. 
  • Even though all US-based cruises are somewhat accessible because of the US Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , travelers with disabilities should always check each specific ship's layout, features, and accessibility beforehand.
  • Potential downside: Being located near an elevator may be convenient, but the extra foot traffic in the hallway can result in noise directly outside your room.

WORST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE

Staterooms directly above or below busy areas .

  • Not every ship has noise issues, but if it does, those problems tend to originate from public areas rather than other staterooms. 
  • Look at deck plans before booking to make sure your cabin isn't above or below the casino, buffet, galley, main theater, bar, gym, or pool deck. When I worked in guest services, noise complaints often came from people staying in staterooms located near these busy areas.
  • Staterooms surrounded by other staterooms tend to be the quietest. If noise issues do arise there, guest services can send security to deal with noisy neighbors .  

Obstructed ocean-view rooms 

  • Partially obstructed ocean-view staterooms have a window that's usually at least a little blocked by a lifeboat. 
  • Although many people book these rooms because they're slightly cheaper than ocean-view rooms, the view ends up being more obstructed than expected most of the time.
  • I've heard many complaints about heavily obstructed ocean-view rooms, so I suggest saving your money with an interior stateroom or splurging on an ocean-view room to manage your expectations.

Cabins near the anchor

  • If your cruise goes to a tender port , where the ship anchors off the shore and transports guests to land on small boats, avoid rooms near the bow on the lower decks. 
  • Crew cabins are usually located there , so I'm very familiar with the loud clunking and ticking sounds the anchor makes as it's lowered, which usually happens very early in the morning. 

Adjoining rooms with other parties 

  • Some cruise ships have adjoining staterooms with an internal door separating the two neighboring cabins. This option is convenient for families or groups that are traveling together and want to feel like they're sharing one large room. 
  • If you don't know the people staying next door, the conjoining door remains locked for the duration of the cruise. However, the sound may carry through it a lot more than it would through a wall.

The wrong room for your personal preferences

  • Introverts and those who need their own space may find public areas crowded and overwhelming . They should consider booking balcony rooms, as having a private space overlooking the ocean provides a sense of calmness. 
  • Extroverts who want to spend most of their time engaging in activities and enjoying the ship's features are unlikely to spend much time in their staterooms and might as well cut costs by getting an interior cabin . The lack of natural light may also help them sleep well and recoup for the next day's activities.

This story was originally published on February 21, 2023, and most recently updated on January 30, 2024.

I worked on cruise ships for 6 years. Here are the 5 best and 5 worst rooms to book for your trip.

More From Forbes

5 independent shore excursions for cruise visitors in flåm, norway.

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Flåm village is nestled at the end of the spectacular Aurlandsfjord in the heart of Fjord Norway.

From a ride one of Europe’s most famous railway journeys that twists and turns through a lush valley from a mountain plateau to fjord, to a gentle stroll past waterfalls and picturesque farms to a historic church, Norway’s Flåm offers something for everyone as a cruise port call.

If you’re planning to visit Flåm on a Norwegian fjords cruise this summer, you certainly won't be alone. Last year, 112 cruise ships with almost 240,000 passengers called in at the small Norwegian village.

With the well-publicized ban on most cruise ships entering Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage listed fjords getting ever closer, the 2024 cruising season looks set to be one of the busiest ever in Flåm.

One issue with this popularity is the lack of availability of some cruise line excursions. Some popular organized trips, notably the Flåm Railway, often sell out in advance of the cruise setting sail. But even when cruise excursions are full, that doesn’t mean you are left without options.

Ride The Flåm Railway

Tourists worldwide travel to Flåm to enjoy the breathtaking views, tunnels, and waterfalls of the 12-5-mile-long Flåm Railway .

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Highlights include the photo stop at the spectacular Kjosfossen waterfall, which is at its most powerful in the spring and early summer. Make the most of the five minutes out on the platform as it’s a wonderful spot for photography.

The scenic railway journey from Flåm to Myrdal is a travel highlight of any visit to Flåm, Norway.

Although cruise excursions on the Flåm Railway sell out quickly, that doesn’t mean tickets are unavailable.

Tour operators reserve a number of carriages for use by cruise line excursions. They will be full, while there’s often still space in the regular train carriages. Book a specific departure in advance , or take a chance with availability on the day.

The train’s interior is dated, but large windows give everyone a good view. Try to board early and sit on the right-hand side from Flåm to Myrdal to get the best views. However, don't worry too much, as there are periods of impressive valley views on both sides.

The train station in Flåm is just a few minutes’ walk from the cruise ship dock, so there really is little added value by paying a lot more for the official cruise line excursion.

Fjord Sightseeing Cruise

It may seem unnecessary to get off a cruise ship and immediately board a sightseeing boat, but there are many reasons to do just that in Flåm.

Depending on your itinerary and dinner arrangements, you may miss the sailaway from Flåm. That would be a crying shame, for the hour’s sailing down the Aurlandsfjord is one of the best landscapes in the entire fjord region.

The sightseeing cruise of the Aurlandsfjord will allow you to enjoy these sights at the brightest part of the day, with the added bonus of sailing into the breathtaking Nærøyfjord, something no cruise ship is small enough to do.

A trip on the stylish all-electric fjord sightseeing ferry is time well spent when visiting Flåm, ... [+] Norway.

It’s also a chance to appreciate Norway’s most spectacular fjord scenery on a completely silent vessel. You’ll feel as if you’re gliding along the fjord on these stylish, all-electric sightseeing ferries.

When making an independent booking , take care to understand the timetable and the conditions of booking. There aren’t many departures, so you need to be sure of timings.

Explore The Fjord By Kayak

If you do plan on enjoying the Aurlandsfjord from the deck of your cruise ship, then how about exploring the fjord from a very different vantage point?

Suitable for beginners and families, a three-hour kayak tour of the fjord is available for independent bookings every day during the cruising season, at a cost of approximately $100 per person. Experienced kayakers may prefer to simply rent a kayak at a similar price for a full-day rental.

Self-Guided Cycling Tour

With flat terrain and spectacular sights in both directions, Flåm is ideal to explore by bicycle.

All-day rental starting at $42 allows plenty of time to explore the northern route along the shore of the Aurlandsfjord, and the southern route following the river into the Flåm valley to enjoy the waterfall Brekkefossen, old farmstead buildings, and the historic church.

For a helping hand, consider spending a little more to rent an electric-powered bicycle.

Old Flåm Village Walk

It’s not necessary to spend any money at all to enjoy some of the highlights of Flåm. Allow about 45 minutes for the walk to the historic Flåm church, a 17th-century wooden church located at the heart of the old village center.

The old village center of Flåm is an enjoyable walk from the modern cruise port.

There’s a lot to see along the way, from the well-kept houses and occasional train rumbling by to the attractive river and distant waterfall Brekkefossen.

For a closer look at the waterfall and a wonderful, elevated view of the village and valley, follow the signed trail from the village.

Flåm Cruise Port Planning Tips

A big question that will help you make the most of your time is how busy the port will be on the day of your visit. Check if yours will be the only cruise ship in dock using the cruise ship calendar maintained by Flåm Port .

If there’s more than one ship (it’s possible for two to visit if one anchors in the fjord), then booking all activities in advance will be essential to avoid disappointment.

Finally, only a few hundred people live in Flåm, so the village quickly becomes overwhelmed when even a relatively small cruise ship visits.

Opponents to cruise ships have become more vocal in recent years with grassroots campaigns growing in support. There are many locals who do support the industry and the economic benefit it brings, but if you’re visiting on a large vessel, keep this ongoing debate in mind when meeting locals.

David Nikel

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COMMENTS

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    8. Virgin Voyages: One of the Best Cruise Lines for Adults Seeking Club-Style Entertainment. Scarlet Lady Virgin N E W. Best Virgin Ships for Entertainment: Fleetwide: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady ...

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    Carnival - 3.86. 4. Princess - 3.77. 5. Disney - 3.74. You might have noticed that the order of best lines for both entertainment and onboard activities is exactly the same. This suggests that cruise entertainment and activities usually go hand in hand, and chances are if a line is good at one, it will be good at the other.

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    No. 6: Celebrity Beyond - Celebrity Cruises. It's always exciting aboard the Celebrity Beyond, where top-notch entertainment takes center stage just about everywhere. From jaw-dropping acrobatics to exclusive performances by professional musicians, this ship blends sophistication with excitement. Indulge in culinary delights at several eateries ...

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    Cruise Passenger Reader's Choice Award. We have so many ways to entertain you on board, from game shows, like The Voice of the Ocean and Deal or No Deal, to high-energy dance classes. Our Camp Discovery programs expand the imaginations of our youngest guests, while Movies Under the Stars® entertain top deck. Travel the world through the sounds ...

  9. Cruise Ship Entertainment

    Let Us Call You. When it comes to the award-winning entertainment on board our ships, you won't believe your eyes or even your ears. Journey from the gritty streets of New Jersey to glamour and international fame with Jersey Boys. From hit Broadway musicals to buzzworthy original shows, discover the best entertainment at sea with Norwegian.

  10. Virgin Voyages' entertainment is now the best on any cruise

    Its new shows firmly cement the line's spot at the top of the cruise ship entertainment leaderboard. The cruise line has taken concepts that failed on other cruise lines, such as dinner theater and three-hour-long performances, and made them work exceptionally well. ... The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up; Cruise ...

  11. 11 of the Best Entertainment Experiences on Cruise Ships

    Planetarium - Queen Mary 2 - Cunard. The Planetarium onboard Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is simply spectacular. It enables you to gaze up at projections of stars, planets and illuminations that light up the ceiling of the theatre in a magical display. It's the only Planetarium at sea and Cunard have involved a variety of guest speakers and ...

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    With so many incredible offerings, we had trouble choosing our favorites, but if you're addicted to great theater, you can't go wrong with these top 9 shows on cruise ships today. "Mamma Mia!" on ...

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    The best in cruise ship activities and entertainment to make every day and night an unforgettable vacation experience. Enjoy always onboard Royal Caribbean Cruises.

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    Guests will be able to sit and have dinner and drinks before each of these shows. Norwegian Cruise Lines has also jumped on the bandwagon by having magicians and acrobats come to perform on their ...

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    All Best Bets. Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International. Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International. Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Cruise Line. Ceri Breeze/Shutterstock ...

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    Norwegian Cruise Line Best For Entertainment. The atmosphere on Norwegian's ships is nonstop excitement and thrills, with features like the longest go-kart track at sea, an outdoor nightclub, and ...

  18. 7 Best Stage Shows at Sea

    Now, cruise lines are teaming up with the choreographers, directors, and composers behind Broadway, popular television networks, and elite entertainment companies for some of the most dazzling shows you'll find on land or sea. We've rounded up a list of seven of the best cruise ship shows you can catch on your next sailing: 1. Grease

  19. Cruise Shows: 7 Best Entertainment Acts at Sea

    Disney Cruise Line. Toy Story—The Musical. Disney ( www.disneycruiseline.com) consistently produces some of the best stage shows at sea and "Toy Story—The Musical" aboard the Disney Wonder is at the top of the heap. Based on the Disney Pixar classic, the lovable Buzz Lightyear and Woody evolve from jealous adversaries to best friends, while ...

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    Guests sailing on the new Carnival Celebration will enjoy a range of entertainment options that include large-scale production shows, aerialist acts, game shows, parties, and events. According to the cruise line, the programming has been designed to be as just much 'celebration' as a performance. "At home, when the sun goes down, normally ...

  22. Which cruise line has the BEST entertainment

    HI there my family have only ever been on royal carribean and norweigan cruises however we are open to looking at other cruise lines however entertainment is one of the most important aspects for us .... norweigan is the best for this as they had a great variety and loads of different entertainment every night like quizzes, shows etc however royal has ice shows which norweigan doesn't

  23. Which cruise line(s) have the best onboard entertainment ...

    say Princess Cruises offer the best onboard entertainment and activities (movies are the best onboard entertainment that I really enjoy the most while the evening shows come in second) I recommend trying out Disney. The pixie dust and first run movies can't be duplicated. It's been like 10 years since was on the Disney Wonder.

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    I recently took a Western Mediterranean cruise with my family, which included flight arrangements made through Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). On the morning before our scheduled departure, we tried to

  27. I worked on cruise ships for 6 years. Here are the 5 best and 5 ...

    Some cruise lines, like NCL, have lounges near these cabins that are only accessible to people staying in single-occupancy rooms. There, solo cruisers can mingle and enjoy social events hosted by ...

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    Following are the top five Norwegian Cruise Line ships in dining, staterooms, service, and onboard activities/entertainment as rated by our cruise community. Dining Best Norwegian Cruise Line Ships for Diining - Photo by Norwegian Cruise Line. Norwegian Encore - 3.947; Norwegian Joy - 3.926; Norwegian Escape - 3.918; Norwegian Spirit - 3.889 ...

  29. 5 Independent Shore Excursions For Cruise Visitors In Flåm ...

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