Must-Do Cruise Ship Activities for an Unforgettable Voyage
Cruising offers more than just breathtaking ocean views and exotic destinations. Modern cruise ships are packed with must-do cruise ship activities that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top 20 must-do cruise ship activities to make your voyage unforgettable.
1. Ride a Waterslide or Surf Simulator
Cruise ships have evolved into floating water parks, offering thrilling waterslides and surf simulators. Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider lets you test your surfing skills on a continuous wave, while Carnival’s WaterWorks features twisting slides and splash zones. Whether you’re racing down a high-speed slide or catching waves, these attractions bring excitement to your sea days.
2. Experience a Skydiving Simulator
For adrenaline junkies, Royal Caribbean’s RipCord by iFly delivers the thrill of skydiving—without jumping from a plane. Step into a vertical wind tunnel and feel the rush of freefall as powerful air currents lift you into the air. It’s a unique experience that lets you defy gravity while cruising the open sea.
3. Relax in a Luxury Spa
Cruise ship spas rival those of high-end resorts, offering massages, facials, and thermal suites designed for ultimate relaxation. Indulge in a seaweed wrap, soak in a heated relaxation pool, or experience a salt therapy room. Some ships even feature snow rooms for a refreshing cool-down after a sauna session.
4. Watch a Broadway-Style Show
Cruise ship entertainment has reached new heights, with Broadway-style productions featuring professional performers, dazzling costumes, and elaborate sets. Royal Caribbean’s ships showcase full-scale musicals like Mamma Mia! and Grease, while Norwegian Cruise Line offers Tony Award-winning shows like Jersey Boys.
5. Try a Zip Line Adventure
Soar across the ship on a high-flying zip line for an unforgettable thrill. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships feature a zip line that stretches across the Boardwalk neighborhood, offering breathtaking views as you glide above the decks.
6. Indulge in Specialty Dining
Cruise ships boast world-class specialty restaurants, serving everything from gourmet steaks to sushi and Italian cuisine. Try Chops Grille for premium cuts, Giovanni’s Table for authentic Italian flavors, or Izumi for fresh sushi and hibachi-style dining. Many ships also offer chef’s table experiences, where guests enjoy multi-course meals paired with fine wines.
7. Explore the Casino
Step into the glitzy onboard casino, where you can test your luck at blackjack, poker, roulette, and slot machines. Many ships host tournaments and lessons for beginners, making it easy to join the action. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for fun, the casino adds excitement to your evenings.
8. Take a Mixology or Wine Tasting Class
Learn the art of crafting cocktails or sample fine wines with expert-led tastings. Mixology classes teach guests how to shake, stir, and garnish drinks like a pro, while wine tastings explore regional vintages from around the world.
9. Enjoy a Movie Under the Stars
Watch blockbuster films on a giant outdoor screen, surrounded by ocean breezes. Many ships offer cozy blankets and popcorn, creating the perfect setting for a starlit movie night.
10. Participate in Trivia & Game Shows
Join interactive trivia contests, game shows, and themed challenges for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights. From music trivia to TV show challenges, these events bring passengers together for friendly competition.
11. Dance the Night Away at a Club
Cruise ships feature lively nightclubs with DJs, themed parties, and dance floors. Whether it’s a silent disco, a Latin dance night, or a glow party, there’s something for everyone.
12. Go Ice Skating or Roller Skating
Some ships offer ice skating rinks or roller skating tracks, allowing guests to glide across the deck. Royal Caribbean’s Voyager-class ships feature ice skating performances and open skating sessions, while Carnival offers roller skating on select ships.
13. Try Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself on a rock climbing wall with stunning ocean views. Royal Caribbean pioneered this activity, offering climbs for all skill levels.
14. Visit an Escape Room
Solve puzzles and crack codes in an interactive escape room. These experiences test your teamwork and problem-solving skills, making them a fun challenge for groups.
15. Enjoy a Sunset at the Top Deck
Nothing beats watching the sunset from the highest deck. Grab a drink, find a quiet spot, and soak in the breathtaking views as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors.
16. Join a Cooking Class
Learn to make sushi, pasta, or desserts with expert chefs. These hands-on classes let you bring home new culinary skills while enjoying delicious creations.
17. Play Mini Golf or Laser Tag
Cruise ships offer fun activities like mini golf and laser tag, perfect for friendly competition. Some ships even feature glow-in-the-dark laser tag arenas for an extra thrill.
18. Attend a Live Music Performance
From jazz lounges to rock bands, cruise ships feature incredible live music. Enjoy performances in bars, theaters, and poolside venues, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation.
19. Take a Behind-the-Scenes Ship Tour
Ever wondered how a cruise ship operates? Join a behind-the-scenes tour to explore the bridge, galley, and crew areas, gaining insight into life at sea.
20. Try the Ultimate Thrill Ride
Some ships feature roller coasters, sky bikes, and bungee trampolines. Carnival’s BOLT roller coaster lets you zoom around the top deck at high speeds, offering a one-of-a-kind thrill.
21. Take a Scavenger Hunt or Mystery Challenge
Many cruise lines offer interactive scavenger hunts or mystery-solving games that take you all over the ship. These activities are great for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun challenge.
22. Join a Dance or Fitness Class
Stay active while having fun with dance lessons, yoga sessions, or high-energy fitness classes. Whether it’s salsa, Zumba, or sunrise yoga on the deck, these activities help you stay energized while cruising.
23. Attend a Guest Lecture or Workshop
Cruise ships often host expert-led lectures and workshops on topics like photography, astronomy, cooking, and travel. Learn something new while enjoying the ocean views.
24. Visit an Art Gallery or Attend an Auction
Many ships feature art galleries showcasing stunning pieces, and some even host live art auctions where guests can bid on unique works. It’s a great way to explore creativity while at sea.
25. Try Virtual Reality or Interactive Gaming
Modern cruise ships offer virtual reality experiences, escape rooms, and interactive gaming zones. Whether you’re exploring a VR world or competing in a high-tech gaming challenge, these activities bring excitement to your sea days.
26. Play Pool at Playmakers Sports Bar
Challenge your friends to a game of pool at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade on Royal Caribbean ships. This lively venue offers a classic sports bar atmosphere, complete with big-screen TVs, arcade games, and delicious pub-style food.
27. Ride the Merry-Go-Round on the Boardwalk
Step back into childhood nostalgia with a ride on the hand-carved carousel at Royal Caribbean’s Boardwalk neighborhood. Found on Oasis-class ships, this charming attraction adds a whimsical touch to your cruise experience.
28. Play Shuffleboard on Deck
Enjoy a classic cruise tradition by playing shuffleboard on the open deck. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, this relaxing yet competitive game is a great way to soak in the ocean views while having fun.
29. Drive Bumper Cars at SeaPlex
Royal Caribbean’s SeaPlex is home to bumper cars, bringing amusement park-style fun to the high seas. Found on Quantum-class ships, this activity lets you crash, dodge, and spin in a thrilling indoor arena.
30. Play Giant Chess on Deck
Test your strategy skills with a game of giant chess, where oversized pieces add a fun twist to the classic game. Many cruise ships feature large-scale chess boards on their outdoor decks, offering a relaxing yet mentally stimulating activity.
Final Thoughts
Cruise ships offer endless entertainment, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking thrills or unwinding with a cocktail, these must-do cruise ship activities ensure an unforgettable voyage.
