Cruise ships have such a wide variety of entertainment on board, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Different cruise lines offer slightly different types of entertainment. If you are looking for something specific be sure to do some research before you book your cruise. Cruise ships really are like a small city! There is no shortage of entertainment on board, it is up to you to do as many or as few of these things as you want!
- Broadway-style Shows: Enjoy professionally produced musicals and performances. There are several cruise lines that offer shows and I will admit some are better than others. Overall the shows that I have seen aboard cruise ships have always exceeded my expectations.
- Comedy Clubs: Laugh out loud with stand-up comedians and comedy shows. This will vary by ship and most comedians may only be on board for a few nights. Each of the comedians will have their own way of doing things, some work the crowds a little more and some have similar material for each show. Sometimes there will be kid friendly shows as well as adults only shows so be sure to check on your cruise app to get more details.
- Live Music: From jazz bands to rock cover bands, there’s something for everyone. The live music on board is no joke, these musicians are quite amazing and from all over the world. If you like to listen to music then be prepared to enjoy all there is to offer on your ship.
4. Dance Parties: Dance the night away with themed parties and live DJs. Ok I love to dance the night aways and I know this is not everyones thing but if you have never been to a deck party or dance party try one, even if you only stay on the side lines. The people watching can be just as fun.
5. Trivia: Test your knowledge with fun trivia competitions. Our family loves to get involved in trivia. Some times they have fun themes to specific movies or music decades or sports which is always a fun one.
6. Karaoke Nights: Belt out your favorite tunes in front of a supportive audience. A lot of ships now have a dedicated Karaoke bar which is totally fun. Even if you aren’t the best singer the crowd in the bar will totally help you out!
7. Culinary Demonstrations: Learn cooking tips and tricks from expert chefs. Some ships will offer demonstrations to learn or prepare things like sushi. Be sure to check the classes can fill up quickly and most of the time do come with an up-charge.
8. Art Auctions: Bid on unique artworks and collectibles. Purchasing art while on the cruise seems to be a love it or leave it type of thing. I personally do not have much space for tons of art work but one day I could see myself buying something from a cruise art auction. If you are interesting in a piece just be aware of the cost outside of the cruise.
9. Movie Nights: Watch blockbuster films under the stars or in a cozy indoor theater. These are so much fun, if you want to just relax and unwind after a fun day. If outdoors it can be a bit chilly don’t worry they just may have blankets that you can rent like towels so you can be cozy. They often have popcorn as well.
10. Fitness Classes: Stay active with yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and more. Some fitness classes may be included but some may charge a small fee to participate. This is a fun thing to try if you have never tried a specific type of class but have always wanted to.
11. Spa Treatments: Indulge in massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments. There are so may ways to treat yourself to some relaxation during your cruise. These will vary in price but I always recommend booking on embarkation day or port days, they tend to be a little less expensive.
12. Casino: Try your luck at blackjack, poker, roulette, and slot machines. You may love to gamble while you are cruising, for many they could spend a lot of time in the casino.
13. Poolside Games: Participate in water volleyball, poolside competitions, and more. The cruise staff can make or break this one, when the staff is excited and hyped it was make for such a fun time whether you decide to participate or not.
14. Outdoor Adventure Activities: Try rock climbing, zip-lining, or surfing on select ships. There are so many ships with such unique outdoor things now. The cruise lines just keep pushing the limits and I love them all! From roller coaster to go carts you have to check out what your ship has to offer. I will say some of them do come at a small cost so keep that in mind when booking.
15. Mini Golf: Enjoy a round of mini-golf with friends and family. We love mini golf and you can almost always find our family playing a few rounds during our cruise. Some are much more themed then others.
16.Bingo Nights: Play bingo for a chance to win exciting prizes. Who doesn’t love to yell out BINGO? Well we have played Bingo lots of times but I can say I have never had the chance to yell out BINGO, maybe one day.
17. Scavenger Hunts: Join in the fun of ship-wide scavenger hunts. If you are looking for something fun that can also show you around the ship, I love scavenger hunts! Different lines do them in different fashions but they can be a lot of fun.
18. Silent Disco: Dance to music via wireless headphones in a silent disco party. Such a strange experience to be dancing along but seeing others dance to a different beat. These fun parties are worth the try if you have never experienced the fun.
19. Stargazing Parties: Experience the magic of the night sky with guided stargazing sessions led by onboard astronomers.Ok I have to admit I haven’t been on a ship that has done this but how cool would this one be. To have someone show and point out constellations to you. Where do I sign up? If cruise farther North, you may even be able to see the Northern Light!
20. Bridge Tours: Take a guided tour of the ship’s bridge to learn about navigation and see the captain’s command center. While not all ships have tours like these and most of them cost additional this is on my bucket list to experience. To tour behind the sense and get to see everything making the ship do what it does.
21. Marine Wildlife Watching: Join naturalists on deck to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life as the ship sails. Some cruise lines will offer these special wildlife watcher and you can learn some really cool things from them.
22. Laser Tag and Escape Room Challenges: Challenge fellow passengers to thrilling laser tag battles or test your knowledge in an escape room on board. Fun for all ages to see how you can do!
23. Dance Classes with Professional Dancers: Learn various dance styles, from salsa to tango, under the guidance of professional dancers. Some cruise lines offer classes like these so you can get a taste of style if you are willing to try.
24. Towel Animal Folding Classes: Learn the art of creating adorable towel animals from the ship’s housekeeping staff. This is so fun, towel animals are such a cruise thing and they get so creative with their folding. Who wouldn’t want to figure out how it was done?
25. Cocktail Mixology Classes: Master the art of cocktail-making with hands-on mixology classes led by expert bartenders. Learning how to make those fancy drinks would be a fun time if you have never made your own drinks before.
They are always finding new entertainment to add to cruise ships! I can’t wait to see what they come up with next! There are already some very unique things to do while you are at sea! What is your don’t miss activity?
