Entertainment

Music, dancing and shows
Like many of the cruise ships themselves, onboard entertainment is getting bigger and better with more selections. Norwegian Cruise Line has always been recognized for its entertainment and now has skits from the famous Second City comedy troupe, as well as lavish production shows. Carnival’s newest ship, Carnival Freedom, offers some exciting new production, including the premier of the show “Big Easy,” featuring more than 30 songs, dance numbers and elaborate sets, and even 12-foot-tall jester puppets. There is also “Jump, Jive and Wail!” which showcases Carnival’s best ‘40s swing shows. Guests can also get costumes and join in. Royal Caribbean is also doing exciting things, with passenger talent shows, sock hops and on some sailings, famous groups from the ‘50s and ‘60s. Of course, there is karaoke, comedians and Vegas-style shows on most ships. Discos and bars, some offering Latin music, can also be found. Often there is a piano bar and a grand piano played in the atrium. Afternoon tea may be accompanied by a harpist.

Cruising offers dancers of all levels the chance to get out on the floor and enjoy themselves. There are many dance facilities onboard, with many catering to classic ballroom dancing. There are danced themed cruises for the big-band era as well as square-dancing and line. If you have gotten a bit rusty, no problem, there are classes in ballroom, salsa, country and more. Some lines offer Gentleman Host Programs, so women who are traveling alone or whose partner doesn’t like to dance, doesn’t have to be left out.

Art Auctions and Lectures
A popular form of entertainment for many is attending onboard art auctions. It may not be Sotheby’s but it is a fun way to get something you like, and be a happy souvenir of your cruise. There are dedicated companies who handle these auctions and you can also find paintings of famous artists, even Picasso! Typically, they are held at least a few times during the cruise in a lounge, and actually have an auctioneer. While some cruisers may find them intrusive, others look forward to using their auction skills. They also discuss various artworks, so these lectures can also be a learning experience.

Children’s Programs
While most lines have something for children, there are some that are really dedicated to family cruising, with Carnival Cruise Lines as one of the best, along with Celebrity, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess and Royal Caribbean. Camp Carnival’s extensive program for children is not only free but offers day-long, non-stop activities at various times depending on if the ship is at port. Activities are determined by age. Royal Caribbean also has an excellent year-round program for children called “Adventure Ocean.” They have slumber parties and a special Adventure Ocean dinner program, offering parents a break! As one would expect, Disney Cruise Line has one of the most comprehensive programs for children, with half a deck dedicated just for them. They star with the Oceaneer Club for kids ages three to seven and goes to teens, who even have their own hang out area and disco. Parents get a beeper so they can be contacted at any time. Norwegian’s “Kids Crew” program is also a year-round program and is divided for kids by age.

Deck and special parties
There are many onboard parties, from the invitation-only Captain’s Cocktail Party to parties for singles, various groups for themed cruises on deck parties, with drinks and food served. Carnival always has these parties on each voyage, along with a ‘Welcome Aboard’ party, single parties, past passenger parties and celebrations for other groups. Some lines have the ever popular toga party, always a fun experience. 

Bridge, Bingo and More
Almost every ship has a card room, which is typically filled up with everything from bridge players to scrabble and backgammon aficionados. There are also various trivia contests, bingo and various sports competitions. Poolside games may include (yes, this is true) the best belly-flops and other silly, but fun games. If you enjoy competing for getting the most ping-pong balls in your bathing suit, these games are for you. Other onboard games include some variations of old TV favorites, such as the Newlywed Game and a Not So Newlywed spin-off. Expect American Idol-style competitions, there are already ones for karaoke.