Did you know modern cruise ships splash out around £40 million just on their entertainment areas? These floating holiday spots have come a long way from basic boats – now they’re packed with proper entertainment hubs, including West End-quality theatres, massive nightclubs spread across multiple decks, and fancy spots for live shows.
From tucked-away jazz bars to amazing shows with performers flying through the air, cruise ship entertainment is full of surprises – and you’ll want to learn how to get the most out of your time on board.
Key Takeaways
- Big cruise ships have loads of brilliant spots for shows – you’ll find proper theatres putting on Broadway-style plays, amazing water stages, and even ice rinks with top-notch performers.
- At night, you can watch musicals at sea, have a laugh at comedy acts, join fun themed parties, or catch a film under the stars.
- For families with little ones, there are kids’ clubs with proper supervision, brilliant water parks, and fun activities like meeting favourite characters during the day.
- You can also go for something different like cocktail-making lessons, tribute bands playing your favourite tunes, or smaller, more personal shows in cosy spots like piano bars.
Main Entertainment Venues
As night settles in on modern cruise ships, you’ll be spoilt for choice with brilliant entertainment spots that suit all tastes.
- Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas AquaTheater puts on amazing acrobatic displays, while Studio B dazzles with ice skating performances. The main theatres showcase famous Broadway musicals like Hairspray and CATS.
- Virgin Voyages has The Red Room, which changes shape to suit different shows, and The Manor, their swanky two-storey nightclub.
- Holland America’s World Stage comes with a massive 270-degree LED screen for spectacular shows, whilst their Music Walk includes spots like B.B. King’s Blues Club.
- Princess Cruises mixes indoor theatre shows with their clever Movies Under the Stars setup at their poolside amphitheatre.
- Norwegian Cruise Line completes the mix with venues showing hits like “Burn the Floor” and Beatles-inspired shows at The Cavern Club.
Family-Friendly Shows and Activities
Modern cruise ships are packed with brilliant family entertainment that’ll keep everyone busy from morning till night. You’ll see fantastic West End-style shows, comedy acts, and fun events made for the whole family.
Let the kids pop into clubs for their age group where they’ll have a laugh with supervised activities like arts and crafts, treasure hunts, and themed parties.
Outside, there’s loads going on too, with water parks, sports areas, and activities like rock climbing and zip lines. Your family can join in tournaments, take part in quiz shows, or watch films under the stars.
Many ships put on special events such as LEGO-themed activities and chances to meet popular characters. If you fancy learning something new, there are brilliant programmes that mix education with fun, making your time at sea both entertaining and interesting.
Evening Shows Worth Watching
Evening entertainment on cruise ships is just as good as what you’d see in Las Vegas or Broadway.
Two70 on Quantum Class ships is something special – they mix robotics, virtual concerts and aerial acts to create amazing shows you won’t forget.
The ice skating shows and water acrobatics on some Royal Caribbean ships are brilliant, and MSC puts on fantastic singing and dancing acts.
If you fancy a laugh, pop along to Carnival’s Punchliner Comedy Club or Royal Caribbean’s stand-up nights.
For a posher evening out, Cunard’s Royal Court Theatre puts on elegant shows and brings in interesting guest speakers.
Many ships also feature tribute bands playing the hits of legends like The Beatles and Neil Diamond.
Planning Your Entertainment Schedule
Getting the best out of your cruise entertainment means clever planning ahead. Put these dates in your diary: 90 days before sailing for final payments and dining bookings, 30 days ahead for show tickets, and 48 hours before for spa slots.
When you’re on the ship, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during the day. Get active with basketball and pool games, or give the rock climbing wall and surf simulators a go.
If you prefer staying indoors, there are interesting talks, shopping, and fun demonstrations to watch.
Hidden Entertainment Gems
Beyond the regular shows and events, cruise ships have brilliant secret spots and special moments that most guests keep to themselves.
The ships come with proper cinemas playing films all day, lovely small bars, and quiet observation decks at the front.
For something different, join a mixology session to learn proper cocktail-making, or pop into the peaceful library if you fancy a quiet read.
Early morning strolls are lovely and peaceful, with gorgeous sunrises. Staying on the ship during port visits means you’ll have most facilities nearly to yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Guests Participate in Entertainment Shows or Are They Strictly Professional Performances?
Fancy getting involved? You can join in loads of fun activities on the cruise – sing your heart out at karaoke, take part in game shows, or have a go at dance classes. While the professional shows are just for the performers, there are tons of interactive bits where you’ll be right in the middle of all the entertainment.
What Happens to Outdoor Entertainment Activities During Bad Weather Conditions?
When the weather’s rubbish, outdoor activities usually move inside or get called off to keep everyone safe. Not to fret – there’s plenty to do instead, like having a splash in indoor pools, watching films, playing board games, catching indoor shows, or treating yourself to a bit of pampering at the spa.
How Early Should I Arrive for Popular Shows to Get Seats?
Want good seats at popular ship shows? Get there 30-60 minutes before it starts – just like you would for a brilliant gig. Rock up too late and you might be left standing or miss it altogether.
Are There Entertainment Options Specifically Designed for Solo Travelers?
There are lots of fun things to do when you’re travelling alone – from singles meet-ups and seasonal celebrations to special lounges just for solo guests. You can join shared dining tables, go along to wine tastings, and take part in themed evenings where you’ll naturally meet other people whilst having a good time.
Do Cruise Ships Offer Sign Language Interpreters for Their Entertainment Shows?
They don’t usually have sign language interpreters at their shows as standard, but you’ll want to get in touch with the cruise line’s special needs team before you set off. They can sort out interpreters if you ask, but it depends on which ship you’re sailing on and when you’re going.
