norwegian cruise christmas decorations

When Do Major Cruise Lines Decorate Their Ships For Christmas? Find Out Here!

by Judith Eve | Nov 10, 2023 | Cruise Planning & Cruiser Lifestyle

As the holiday season approaches, many major cruise lines start to decorate their ships with festive decor to spread the holiday cheer among their passengers. Christmas decorations, including trees, lights, wreaths, and garlands, can be seen throughout the ships, creating a magical atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

Carnival Cruise Line is one such company that decorates its ships for Christmas. Each year, the company's ships are adorned with beautiful decorations, including a Christmas tree and a menorah in the atrium area. Letters to Santa boxes are also placed in the same area, allowing children to send their letters to the North Pole. Other Christmas decorations are scattered throughout the ship, including garlands, lights, and mistletoe.

Other major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, also decorate their ships for Christmas. These companies feature a variety of decorations, including Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands. Some ships even have visits from Santa Claus, who hands out presents to children on board. Overall, the festive decor on these ships creates a warm and welcoming environment for guests to enjoy during the holiday season .

When Do Cruise Lines Start Decorating

The holiday season is a magical time to go on a cruise, and many major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, decorate their ships to get passengers in the festive spirit.

Carnival Cruise Line typically starts decorating their ships for Christmas around the end of November, with the first vessels decorated as early as Friday, November 25, 2022, according to a recent announcement. The decorations will remain on board until the New Year, creating a festive atmosphere for passengers to enjoy.

Other major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, also decorate their ships for the holiday season. Royal Caribbean's ships usually start to get decorated in early December, while Norwegian Cruise Line begins decorating their ships in mid-November.

It's worth noting that the exact timing of when a ship gets decorated may vary from year to year, and even from ship to ship within a cruise line. Passengers can check with their specific cruise line or ship for more information on when decorations will be put up.

Overall, for those looking to enjoy a Christmas cruise, it's recommended to book a voyage in late November or early December to fully experience the holiday decorations and festivities on board. And for those looking to celebrate the New Year on a cruise, Carnival's ships will remain fully decorated until January 1, 2024, creating a fun and festive atmosphere for passengers to ring in the new year.

Decorations Used by Major Cruise Lines

Major cruise lines decorate their ships with a variety of Christmas decorations to bring the holiday spirit to their guests. Here are some of the most common decorations used by major cruise lines:

Christmas Trees and Garlands

One of the most iconic Christmas decorations is the Christmas tree, and major cruise lines spare no expense in bringing this symbol of the holiday spirit onboard. Christmas trees can be found in various sizes and styles, from traditional green trees to colorful and whimsical ones. Garlands made of ivy, holly, and other festive materials are also used to decorate the ship's atrium and other public areas.

Santa and Other Characters

Santa Claus is a beloved symbol of Christmas, and many major cruise lines have him onboard to spread holiday cheer. Guests can take pictures with Santa and his helpers, wear Santa hats, and even participate in activities like cookie decorating with Santa. Other characters like the Grinch and his Whoville friends can also be found onboard some ships.

Menorah and Hanukkah Decor

In addition to Christmas decorations, major cruise lines also recognize the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Menorahs are lit onboard, and other Hanukkah decorations like dreidels and gelt can be found in various areas of the ship.

Letters to Santa Box and Christmas Village

Guests of all ages can write letters to Santa and drop them off in a special mailbox onboard. Some ships even have a Christmas village set up, complete with miniature houses, trees, and other festive decorations.

Overall, major cruise lines spare no expense in decorating their ships for the holiday season. With a variety of decorations and activities, guests can experience the magic and spirit of Christmas while at sea.

Specific Cruise Lines and Their Decorations

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its festive decorations during the holiday season. Each year, the fleet of Carnival ships is decorated with Christmas trees, garlands, and other holiday decorations. The decorations are typically put up in November or December, just in time for the holiday sailings.

Some of the Carnival ships that are decorated for the holidays include the Carnival Celebration, Carnival Dream, Carnival Glory, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Vista. Other ships that are decorated include the Carnival Elation, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Sunrise, and Carnival Valor.

During the festive season, Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of Christmas offerings onboard. There is usually a main Holiday Show during each sailing, as well as Letters to Santa boxes in the atrium area. Guests can also participate in holiday-themed activities, such as cookie decorating and gingerbread house making.

Princess Cruise Line

Princess Cruise Line is also known for its holiday decorations. During the Christmas season, the ships are adorned with Christmas trees, garlands, and other festive decorations. The decorations are typically put up in November or December, just in time for the holiday sailings.

Princess Cruise Line offers a range of Christmas and Hanukkah activities onboard. Guests can participate in a holiday-themed party, as well as a guest choir. Santa Claus also visits the ships on Christmas Day, and guests receive a small stocking with candy on the bedside table at turndown.

Overall, the holiday sailings on both Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruise Line are worth it for those who enjoy festive decorations, holiday-themed activities, and delicious food.

Festivities and Activities During Christmas Cruise

When cruising during the festive season, passengers can expect a variety of activities and events to get them in the holiday spirit. Here are some of the festivities and activities that passengers can look forward to on a Christmas cruise.

Dining and Christmas Menu

Cruise lines typically offer special holiday-themed menus in their dining rooms and specialty restaurants during the Christmas season. Passengers can expect to indulge in traditional holiday dishes such as roasted turkey, honey glazed ham, and Christmas pudding. Some cruise lines also offer Hanukkah menus for passengers celebrating the festival of lights.

Shows and Performances

Passengers can enjoy a variety of shows and performances during their Christmas cruise. Cruise directors typically put on a special holiday-themed show on Christmas Day featuring singers, dancers, and a choir. Some cruise lines also offer holiday-themed productions throughout the sailing.

Family Activities

Christmas cruises are a great way for families to spend quality time together during the holidays. Many cruise lines offer family-friendly activities such as holiday crafts, gingerbread house decorating, and Letters to Santa programs. Passengers can also expect to see festive decorations throughout the ship, including Christmas trees, snowflakes, and holiday hats.

Overall, cruising during the Christmas season is worth it for passengers who want to celebrate the holidays in a unique way. Whether it's dining on a Christmas menu, watching a holiday show, or participating in family activities, there's something for everyone on a Christmas cruise.

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.

Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.

Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.

Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.

Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Christmas decorations on NCL ships

By Treacher1 , November 25, 2023 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Does anyone know when NCL starts to decorate their ships for Christmas?  Sailing December 1 - hoping to see some - cruising till the 15th, so some should be displayed by then??

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ChiefMateJRK

Great question!  DD read somewhere that they are appearing now.  We'll find out next week.  😎

www3traveler

The decorating usually begins shortly after midnight Thanksgiving evening.

Hopefully by the 15th of December all of the elaborate Gingerbread Village Displays should up.  Very interesting to watch how the individual displays come together.  Lots of planning, preparing all the pieces and gallons of white frosting for glue and snow.

breadandbutter

Personally I think they should be ashamed of that gingerbread village, 10 yr olds could decorate better.

4 minutes ago, breadandbutter said: Personally I think they should be ashamed of that gingerbread village, 10 yr olds could decorate better.

Ebenezer?  Is that you?? 🎄

35 minutes ago, breadandbutter said: Personally I think they should be ashamed of that gingerbread village, 10 yr olds could decorate better.

Show us yours.

Palmetto Pilot

How long to they typically stay up? Will we see them on a NYE cruise?

4 hours ago, www3traveler said: The decorating usually begins shortly after midnight Thanksgiving evening.   Hopefully by the 15th of December all of the elaborate Gingerbread Village Displays should up.  Very interesting to watch how the individual displays come together.  Lots of planning, preparing all the pieces and gallons of white frosting for glue and snow.   ENJOY

I hope they are putting it together during my TA starting next week in the Gem.

BirdTravels

5 hours ago, www3traveler said: The decorating usually begins shortly after midnight Thanksgiving evening.

They usually don’t decorate until the week after Thanksgiving. So, that would be next week. 

14 minutes ago, BirdTravels said: They usually don’t decorate until the week after Thanksgiving. So, that would be next week. 

The last two Thanksgiving cruises I have done both on the Getaway, the beginnings of Christmas decorations were up by the time I went to coffee at 6:00 A.M. Friday morning (day after Thanksgiving).  May depend on the desires of the General Manager.

I'm honestly trying to comprehend cruising during the holidays. I can't possibly imagine a worse scenario for a large family get together. What a cluster that must be.  😎   We'll travel off-season, thank you.

28 minutes ago, IAcruising said: I'm honestly trying to comprehend cruising during the holidays. I can't possibly imagine a worse scenario for a large family get together. What a cluster that must be.  😎   We'll travel off-season, thank you.  

My opinion is that any planned large family get together on a cruise ship would wind up a cluster regardless of season.  Subtract the cruise, and there is still a high probability that a large planned family get together will wind up a cluster.  How many threads do we read where Mom and Dad try to arrange for adult kids to join them and it winds up a cluster (even with Mom and Dad paying the bills)?  We have a very entertaining one going on right now.  🤣

That said, I am looking forward to being on the ship in the next several weeks with (hopefully) some Christmas decorations and other such fun. 🎄 🎄

1 hour ago, Palmetto Pilot said: How long to they typically stay up? Will we see them on a NYE cruise?

Yes. We did NYE last year on the Getaway and they were still up.

debenson0723

1 hour ago, IAcruising said: I'm honestly trying to comprehend cruising during the holidays. I can't possibly imagine a worse scenario for a large family get together. What a cluster that must be.  😎   We'll travel off-season, thank you.  

Not everyone has large family get togethers for the holidays. 

1 hour ago, debenson0723 said: Not everyone has large family get togethers for the holidays. 

No, of course not. But I prefer not to be where those might happen to be.

3 minutes ago, IAcruising said:   No, of course not. But I prefer not to be where those might happen to be.  

But think of the entertainment value of watching other families. I love watching it come apart at the seams especially when alcohol is involved. I prefer to cruise while kids are in school though for now. If it weren’t for avoiding sugar overloaded children a Christmas cruise away from family drama sounds fantastic.

12 minutes ago, SoloAlaska said: But think of the entertainment value of watching other families. I love watching it come apart at the seams especially when alcohol is involved.

Ok. There is nothing I can say that will top that.  😆

Sand and Seas

We were on a mid- December cruise about ten years ago and the ship was decorated beautifully. 

We really enjoyed an atrium event one evening watching  children listening to a Christmas story being read.  Then they served everyone warm cookies and milk 😊

On the Bliss now and have not seen any decorations yet, not even a piece of gingerbread.

8 minutes ago, bssc said: On the Bliss now and have not seen any decorations yet, not even a piece of gingerbread.

I have it from a good source that they're waiting for the 10-year-olds to decorate it.

We were on the Bliss 2 years ago, mid Dec. for a 7 day MR cruise. When we embarked on Dec 12, holiday decorations were not yet in place, by the next morning the ship had been transformed into a wonderful Christmas village! Trees, poinsettias and other decor in all public venues, Polar Express village on deck 6, etc. It was so fun, and beautifully done. Everywhere. 

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Christmas Decorations

By TyRoan , September 29, 2011 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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We are on the Gem thanksgiving week. Does anyone know if it will be decorated for the Christmas at that time?

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patseacruiser

I have sailed quite a few times the Saturday after Thanksgiving and they were just starting to put out the decorations so just based on MY experience alone it seems after Thanksgiving.

thank u so much for answering my question

MiamiSpartan

Hard to say...we sailed Carnival once the first weekend in November, and they already had quite a lot of decorations up all over the ship....

Warm Breezes

They were up on the NCL Jewel when we sailed over Thanksgiving.

electricron

They will continue to add decorations week by week up to the Christmas cruise.

There will be some up by Thanksgiving, there will be more up by Christmas.

Don't forget to bring decorations to do up your cabin door! :D The room stewards love it as they spend most of their time in those hallways and don't get to enjoy the decorations on the general decks.

The ships look beautiful decorated for Christmas. The decorations and Christmas music were still in effect for our New Year's Eve cruise, which left the day after Christmas. We were told that the decorations go up the day after Thanksgiving. Hopefully, you will be able to enjoy the decorations as it adds excitement to the ship.

We were on the Epic during Christmas week. There were decorations everywhere. There were also lots of santa hats that kept us warm in the ICE BAR. We decorated our cabin with a small plastic electric Christmas tree. We even put decorations on our solarium

Here is a touching story about Christmas decorations and the staff at NCL. Our butler was from the Phillippines and the last morning of our cruise we were packing and throwing things away. We had a bunch of Chirstmas decorations such as a small tree, window deocrations, electric candles, etc. I asked the butler if she would like to take them to celebrate xmas that night. She took all of them and said since she did not get to spend Christmas with her family, she would take the decorations back to the Phillippines and celebrate Christmas with her family in July when she got her break on the ship.

I was very touched by this and it moved us, especially on Christmas morning. Just goes to show you the sacrafice cruise ship workers make for the passengers every day.

We were on the Epic during Christmas week. There were decorations everywhere. There were also lots of santa hats that kept us warm in the ICE BAR. We decorated our cabin with a small plastic electric Christmas tree. We even put decorations on our solarium Here is a touching story about Christmas decorations and the staff at NCL. Our butler was from the Phillippines and the last morning of our cruise we were packing and throwing things away. We had a bunch of Chirstmas decorations such as a small tree, window deocrations, electric candles, etc. I asked the butler if she would like to take them to celebrate xmas that night. She took all of them and said since she did not get to spend Christmas with her family, she would take the decorations back to the Phillippines and celebrate Christmas with her family in July when she got her break on the ship. I was very touched by this and it moved us, especially on Christmas morning. Just goes to show you the sacrafice cruise ship workers make for the passengers every day.

Great story David and so true! We cruise nearly every December the last few years and always decorate. We give the decorations to the room steward and they are always so excited! They miss their families as we would miss our own!

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Creative Cruise Door Decorations & Ideas: A Complete Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Are you embarking on a cruise adventure soon? Amp up the excitement by adding a personal touch to your stateroom door!

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a proud graduation moment, cruise door decorations are a fantastic way to celebrate these milestones at sea. It’s not just about making your door look fabulous—it’s about creating memories that stick long after the cruise has docked back home.

Table of Contents

Why Decorate Your Cruise Cabin Door?

Walking around the cruise ship, you’ll find many passengers who have taken the time to decorate their stateroom doors.

There are many reasons to decorate your cabin door, not the least of which makes it easier to find your room.

1. Show Your Personality

Your cruise stateroom door is the perfect canvas to express who you are. Think of it as the front porch of your temporary sea home.

You have a vast ocean to explore, but your door is your personal stamp.

Show off your interests , whether you’re a fan of tropical paradises, a Disney enthusiast, or love nautical themes. Your door decoration can be a fantastic icebreaker and give others a peek into your world.

2. Easy to Identify Your Room

Cruise ships are so big that it’s common for passengers to get lost on board. Even the most experienced cruisers can have difficulty locating their cabin door in the long corridor of identical staterooms.

A unique door decoration makes spotting your room a breeze . Apart from being practical for you, it’s also beneficial for others in your group. You won’t be that person awkwardly trying their key card on multiple doors before finding their own.

3. Start Conversations with Other Passengers

One popular door decoration is a magnetic whiteboard .

Attaching a magnetic whiteboard to your stateroom door is a great way to leave messages for other passengers. You can write words of wisdom, inspirational quotes , or fun jokes for fellow cruisers to read and enjoy.

A whiteboard is a great way to communicate with your travel companions while traveling in a large group. You could leave a note letting your friends and family know where they can find you or when you will return to your cabin.

4. Celebrate A Special Occasion

Cruise ships are celebration-friendly zones, and what better way to honor a special occasion than with a well-adorned door? Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or graduation , your door can reflect the joy and significance of the milestone.

Plus, other guests and crew will join in the festivities by offering their well wishes as they pass by.

4. Fun for the Kids

For little sailors, a decorated door is like a treasure map’s ‘X’ marking the spot. It’s a beacon of excitement and a signal that fun lies behind the door . It can feature their favorite characters, colors, or themes.

With every return to the room, their decorated door reminds them that this trip is an adventure made just for them.

Before your cruise, having your kids create their own door decorations is a great idea. Getting your kids to design cabin door decorations can keep them occupied for hours or days and excite them about their upcoming cruise vacation.

5. Send a Secret Message

Sometimes, your door decor can be more than just decoration; it can carry a secret message . Maybe it’s an inside joke among friends or the secret upside-down pineapple . The door becomes a conversation starter, a mystery for others to ponder, and a fun way for you to communicate a playful or romantic gesture.

Does Every Cruise Line Let You Decorate Your Cabin Door?

Door decorations on family-friendly cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line and Carnival are trendy. But you’ll find passengers decorating their cabin doors on plenty of other cruise lines.

Only one of the mainstream cruise lines has banned cabin door decorations. In August 2019, Norwegian Cruise Line banned all cruise cabin door decorations , citing fire safety concerns.

Some general rules apply to all cruise lines. They are:

• Decorations must not leave a mark or damage doors. If they do, you may receive a fine. Avoid tape and adhesives of all types.
• Decorations must not be offensive, vulgar, or otherwise inappropriate.
• Decorations must not extend beyond the door. The corridors on a cruise ship are narrow, and your decorations should not block service carts or passengers.

Carnival Cruise Door Decoration Rules

According to Carnival’s website , the following rules apply for cruise cabin door decorations:

• Decorations may consist only of fire-retardant materials. Please note that items sprayed with fire retardant spray are not acceptable.
• Decorations may only be placed on the stateroom door, not the surrounding frame, walls, or railings.
• You may use magnets or Command Strips but no adhesives like tape or glue.
• Over-the-door hanging organizers must hang inside the stateroom, must also be of fire retardant material, and cannot damage the door.
• No decorations of any kind are allowed on balconies.
• No decorations or items may be placed over light fittings or fixtures. This may restrict the airflow and cause the item to ignite.
• No string lights of any kind are allowed.

Disney Cruise Line Door Decorations Rule

Guests on Disney Cruise Line are encouraged to decorate their stateroom doors. According to Disney’s website , the following rules apply:

• You are welcome to place magnetic signs on your stateroom door. Please note that Concierge staterooms on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have wooden doors.
• You may not affix items to your stateroom doors using tape or any adhesive, including removable gel adhesives, as this can damage the doors’ finish.
• Over-the-door hanging organizers are prohibited, as they can scratch and/or disfigure stateroom doors and trim.
• Guests who damage doors violating these guidelines will be assessed a $100 fee per incident to cover the cost of repairs.
• Light bulb strings are not permitted.

Royal Caribbean Door Decorating Rules

Door decorations are a common sight on Royal Caribbean cruises. Royal Caribbean encourages guests to decorate their cabin doors, even selling magnetic decorations on their website.

Royal Caribbean’s guest code of conduct  states, “Inappropriate or abusive behavior is not permitted. This includes…placing materials (including signs, banners, decorations, etc.) anywhere on the exterior of the ship, placing materials anywhere on the interior of the ship (including stateroom doors, along corridors, etc.) without the express permission of ship management or  which may be deemed by ship management as inappropriate …”

Celebrity Cruises

Door decorating isn’t as common on Celebrity Cruises. But the cruise line does allow guests to decorate cabin doors.

Celebrity Cruises guest code of conduct states , “Inappropriate or abusive behavior is not permitted. This includes…placing signs, banners, decorations, or other materials anywhere on the exterior of the ship; placing materials on stateroom doors, along corridors, or anywhere else on the interior of the ship without the express permission of ship management…” 

Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Holland America Line

Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Holland America Line don’t provide specific rules for door decorating. While door decorations are allowed on these cruise lines, they’re not as common as on other cruise operators.

Norwegian Cruise Line Door Decorating Rules

In August 2019, Norwegian Cruise Line updated their policy prohibiting cruise door decorations of any kind.

The announcement stated, “As per safety requirements, stateroom door decorations are strictly prohibited. Your stateroom steward has been instructed to remove and place all decorations inside the room. Thank you for your understanding and compliance with this safety policy.”

The cruise line cited fire safety concerns as the reason for the decision. Cabin stewards are instructed to remove all decorations and place them inside the room.

Tips for Decorating Your Cruise Cabin Door

Here are some general tips for decorating your cabin door:

• Never decorate the door frame, wall, railings, or light fixtures. Only stick door decorations on the stateroom door itself.
• Only attach decorations using magnets or command strips to avoid damaging the door. Avoid tape and adhesives of all types.
• Only use decorations made of flame-retardant materials.
• Cruise lines DO NOT allow string lights on your door or in the hallway.

How to Attach Cruise Door Decorations

Attaching cruise door decorations requires secure and non-damaging methods to the door.

Most cruise ship doors are made of metal, making magnets the perfect way to attach decorations. You can use magnetic strips or hooks to hang lightweight items. Ensure the magnets are strong enough to hold your decorations securely.

Sometimes, the doors are covered with a non-metallic finish, so you need stronger magnets.

Avoid using glue, tape, or other adhesives which can damage the door.

Editor’s Tip

If you’re on a Disney cruise, it’s essential to remember that the Concierge staterooms have a wooden veneer. The extra-thick surface requires extra-strong neodymium magnets to attach your decorations.

5 Fun Cruise Cabin Door Decoration Ideas

Personalized drink package magnet.

This magnet is a lot of fun. Whether or not you got the drink package , this decoration will surely make your fellow passengers smile.

Of course, you can even personalize it with your last name.

Check on Amazon: Personalized Drink Package Magnet

Royal Caribbean Personalized Door Magnet

If you’re a Royal Caribbean fan, this adorable magnet is a great way to celebrate your time on a Royal Caribbean cruise. You can even collect them – one for every cruise you take.

Check on Amazon: Royal Caribbean Personalized Door Magnet

Personalized Carnival Funnel Magnet

Like the above anchor magnet, this item is a great gift idea for Carnival cruise fans. They make a great addition to stateroom doors, and you can have them personalized.

Check on Amazon: Personalized Carnival Funnel Magnet

Our First Cruise Magnet

If you are a first-time cruiser , you are undoubtedly excited about your first cruise vacation. This door magnet is perfect for sharing your excitement with other travelers.

Check on Amazon: Our First Cruise Magnet

Disney Fish Extender

If you’re going on a Disney cruise, you’ve probably heard of the traditional “Secret Santa” type fish exchange. You can decorate your cabin door with a fish extender and personalize the pockets so other travelers know who they are gifting to.

Check on Amazon: Disney Fish Extender

FAQs About Cruise Door Decorations

Can i decorate my cruise ship door.

Yes, you can decorate a cruise ship cabin door , and it’s a popular activity among many cruisers. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only cruise line that prohibits door decorating.

Can I Decorate My Cabin Door on Norwegian Cruise Line?

You cannot decorate your cabin door on Norwegian Cruise Line. In August 2019, NCL updated its policy to prohibit door decorations, citing fire safety as the reason for their decision.

Crew members are instructed to remove door decorations and place them in your cabin.

What is a Fish Extender?

A fish extender on a Disney cruise is the “fish” or “seahorse” shaped mailbox outside your stateroom doors. Disney cruise ships have a tradition where passengers leave gifts in the mailbox of other passengers as a type of “Secret Santa.”

A fish extender is a hanger that allows passengers to get more space for the fish mailbox.

Passengers typically fill the pockets of other guests’ fish extenders with small gifts, treats, or souvenirs as a way to add extra magic and community spirit to the cruise experience.

Can I Bring Balloons on a Cruise?

Balloons and other inflatable items are prohibited on cruise ships due to safety and environmental concerns.

However, as an alternative, some cruise lines provide a service where you can purchase balloons directly from the ship . Crew members deliver the balloons to your stateroom to mark your special occasion, ensuring both compliance with cruise policies and a festive atmosphere.

Do Cruise Ships Decorate For Christmas?

Most cruise ships decorate their ships for Christmas. Typical decorations include a giant Christmas tree, garland, and smaller trees around the vessel.

Marcello De Lio

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We’ll be sailing on the Wonder of the Seas this coming May. I love being creative and understand that I’ll be limited to decorating our cabin door. We’ll be in a ocean view, would you happen to know what the surface door is made of? Metal, wood, etc. This will help me decide what I have to bring. Thank you.

The doors are most likely be made of metal, similar to the other Oasis-class ships. You shouldn’t have any issues using magnets to hang your decorations. However, it’s impossible to know for certain as the ship hasn’t debuted yet.

P.S. I would love to hear about your experience on the new ship! Feel free to comment on our Wonder of the Seas post when you get back from your vacation and share your experience.

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Holiday Cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line

This holiday season, give your family the gift of a fun-filled cruise vacation without leaving tradition behind. Norwegian Cruise Line's holiday cruises feature many of your favorite holiday experiences without the hustle, bustle and stress of putting on a holiday celebration at home. When you book your holiday cruise with The Cruise Web, our expert consultants will ensure that your holidays are fun and stress-free for the whole family.

Christmas Cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line

Get into the holiday spirit by sailing one of Norwegian Cruise Line's Christmas itineraries. Enjoy your favorite yule-time activities, experiences and cuisine onboard while making memories that will last a lifetime.

Christmas Activities on Norwegian Cruise Line

• Enjoy Christmas caroling sessions with various crew members at the piano bar or an atrium or lounge venue.
• Test your holiday know-how with Christmas trivia!
• Express your artistic side through seasonal arts and crafts.
• Kid's Crew may even receive a special gift from Santa himself*... assuming they have been good (*usually, but depends on itinerary)!

Christmas Experiences on Norwegian Cruise Line

• Enjoy eggnog by the pool!
• See Santa Claus out and about roaming the ship.
• Marvel at the giant gingerbread house crafted by onboard chefs, located in the atrium or in a main dining room, not to mention all the other Christmas decorations "decking" out the ship!
• Church services to be scheduled every day, with specific Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, and morning or afternoon services on Christmas Day (depending on itinerary).
• Be on the lookout for strolling musicians and performers wandering about the ship as well!

Christmas Cuisine aboard Norwegian Cruise Line

• Avoid the hassle of planning and cooking Christmas dinner. Onboard holiday menus include items like butternut squash & pumpkin soup, roasted Maryland turkey, baked country ham, fruit cake, pumpkin souffle and chocolate Yule Log!

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Thanksgiving Cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line

How better to give thanks to your loved ones than taking them on a Norwegian Cruise Line Thanksgiving cruise!

Thanksgiving Experience aboard Norwegian Cruise Line

• No need to wake up early to cook and organize hectic Thanksgiving plans. Instead, enjoy a relaxing breakfast and spend the day at the pool!
• Watch the NFL's Thanksgiving Day games on a two-story screen in the atrium, conveniently located next to O'Sheehan's Bar and Grill on more than half the ships in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet!
• Go holiday shopping for specialty items not usually sold onboard without fighting Black Friday crowds.

Thanksgiving Dinner and Cuisine on Norwegian Cruise Line

• Traditional Thanksgiving cuisine is offered in the main dining rooms on Thanksgiving Day.
• If you're not in the mood for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, specialty restaurants remain open and feature Italian, French, Chinese and many other cuisines.
• Enjoy several bars and lounges, all serving traditional drinks as well as Thanksgiving-themed cocktails, like the Pumpkin Pie Martini!

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New Year's Cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line

Ring in the New Year in an awe-inspiring fashion because this ship-wide party makes for a New Year's celebration like no other!

• Avoid the hassle and surge expenses of Uber without being stuck in one club or house the entire time on this crazy night; party-hop seamlessly when celebrating with Norwegian Cruise Line!
• Enjoy attractions for all attires; break out your fancy clothes or dress it down.
• Kids' programs are available where younger children can have fun while parents enjoy the 21+ festivities!

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Ready for Your Holiday Cruise with Norwegian?

For more information on holiday cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line, call The Cruise Web today at 1-800-377-9383 and speak with one of our expert consultants!

* Onboard amenities, experiences, features and prices are subject to change without notice. Activities and availability vary by season and sail date. Information accurate at time of publication, but subject to change. Call 1-800-377-9383 to confirm current holiday experiences, pricing and availability.

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12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .