Onboard entertainment options can be a major draw when sailing. From Broadway-style shows to karaoke and live bands, there’s something for everyone onboard.
But there are also some things that may get overlooked when planning your cruise. So if you want to make the most out of your vacation, here are some tips on how to maximize your enjoyment.
The Theatre
On a cruise ship, there is plenty to do besides just enjoying the shows and activities on board. From Broadway-worthy productions and ice-skating shows to trivia contests and cooking classes, there’s something for everyone on board – so if you’re new to cruising, make sure you know your desired activities before booking so you can pick the cruise line that best meets your requirements.
Many cruise lines feature theaters or cinemas showing recent-release movies in the morning, afternoon, and evening. A few also offer live music such as piano bars or jazz ensembles. Cruise lines like Holland America, Cunard, NCL, Oceania, and Royal Caribbean even have 1940s-style big bands playing dance tunes for an enjoyable evening of music.
The Aqua Theater
The Aqua Theater, a must-see feature on any cruise ship, provides aquatic acrobatics with high diving performances and synchronized fountain shows. To achieve its remarkable capabilities, an entire team of specialists from riggers to scuba divers, aerial trainers to set designers is employed.
Royal Caribbean has already implemented these elements on their Oasis-class ships, but will combine them in the AquaDome neighborhood of Icon of the Seas. The dome will function similarly to a Quantum class ship’s Solarium during the daytime, and at night it transforms into an Aquatheater for breathtaking entertainment.
The Casino
The Casino is one of the top entertainment choices aboard a cruise ship. Here, you can try your luck at various games like blackjack, poker or slot machines.
However, it’s essential to know that casinos can only open their doors when a cruise vessel sails within 12 miles of a country’s shoreline. Depending on the laws in that particular jurisdiction, they may close for business during port days or close permanently at night.
Guests at various lines can take part in tournaments, mainly for slots and poker, which offer them the chance to win prizes like cruises or tickets. Furthermore, many lines provide loyalty programs for their customers.
The Pool Deck
For some fun in the sun, cruise ship pool decks make ideal hangout spots. There are various deck types and options available so it’s important to decide which one best suits your needs.
Some cruise ships feature water parks, which can be a great attraction for kids. Although these aren’t always available on every ship, they’re usually found aboard larger vessels.
Another popular option is laser tag. You’ll find this game on board Royal Caribbean and MSC cruise ships.
The Night Club
The Night Club is one of the premier entertainment spots aboard cruise ships. It boasts a dance floor, live music and karaoke machines for an unforgettable night of fun!
Carnival Cruise Ship nightclubs are renowned for their spectacular entertainment. From Broadway-caliber shows to trivia contests, cooking classes and drawing lessons – there’s always something going on.
At Spotlight Karaoke, guests can sing along to their favourite show tunes, rock ballads or pop hits on the piano bar or karaoke bar. Plus they have the option to watch or join in on a performance from Spotlight Karaoke’s talented performers.
The Lounge
A lounge is an establishment created to offer passengers a relaxing and unwinding space. Commonly, these areas feature seating with sofas or arm chairs as well as an ever-changing menu.
On a cruise ship, these lounges provide passengers with numerous activities to choose from, such as watching a live production show or sipping on an indulgent cocktail.
Some lounges cater mainly to adults, while others feature children’s areas that are open to all visitors. No matter the type of lounge, most of them have their own unique theme and are beautifully decorated.