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47 Funny Cruise Ship Memes – Best for 2024

If you’re looking for a good laugh, then look no further than these funny cruise ship memes. From the silly to the downright absurd, these memes will have you chuckling in no time.

We’ve scoured the internet for some of the funniest cruise memes out there, and we’re sure you’ll get a good laugh out of them or at least raise a smile.

I’ve tried to capture every funny side of cruising, including memes about needing a cruise through to cruise day, the onboard buffet food, and many more.

But first in case you didn’t already know.

So what’s a cruise ship meme?

A cruise ship meme is any funny or relatable image or video that’s been shared online, typically with a caption added. And when it comes to cruise ship memes, there’s no shortage of funny cruise ship pics.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or someone who’s thinking about taking their first cruise, these memes will definitely resonate.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the funniest cruise ship memes out there.

Funny Cruise Memes

In case you are looking for a specific type of cruise meme relating to a specific cruise line or situation such as being a cruise addict or overindulging in the buffet we have split the memes into humor categories below.

Near the end, we group a random selection of the best and funniest cruise memes for you to enjoy before ending with memes that represent the feelings of disembarkation day.

Carnival Cruise Memes

Carnival Cruises are the best and some passengers are very loyal.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cruise Industry Expert (@seadaytravel)

Disney Cruise Memes

Disney-inspired cruise memes are always popular.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cruise Memes (@cruise.memes)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kingdom Konsultant Travel (@kingdomkonsultants)

Booze Cruise Memes

For some cruisers, it’s all about the boozing and the drinks package, cocktails, and having a very merry time on vacation.

I like this feeling:

Cruise Food and Buffet Memes

We all know how good and how much food is on offer onboard the cruise ship.

No matter what your intentions are before embarking, it usually doesn’t last long.

Its actually quite surprising how much weight can be put on in 7 days!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Steve Jones (@stevejonesvacations)

Know this feeling, especially on the first visit to the buffet. The joy and excitement is real.

Let’s get fat together.

Withdrawal symptoms from the buffet start to set in.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by richard (@cruisewithrichard)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by GangwayEveryday (@gangwayeveryday)

Haha, when you get home.

It was only 7 days, made the most of it though.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Prof Cruise (@profcruise)

I Need a Cruise Memes

We spend a lot of time waiting for the next cruise.

Do you get this excited when booking a cruise is mentioned?

My kind of house in between cruises (I wish).

This is a great idea for the yard.

Funny and cute!

What kind of friend are they anyway if they go without you?

The days are long while waiting.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cruise Pics and Tips (@cruisepicsandtips)

When the wait is too long and you’ve reached breaking point!

It’s all about prioritizing for the cruise budget.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗕𝗲 (@cruisebe)

Packing Cruise Memes

It’s all about the packing

How do you distinguish your luggage?

Anyone else do this? (I do!)

It’s Cruise Day Memes

You know that crazy happy feeling!

Love this one, watch the kid’s food fly! (Poor kid but at least smiling)

Going on a Cruise Memes

When the cruise is booked nothing can stop the smile when that happy feeling has set in.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hajózásról Őszintén (@thecruisepics)

The cruise is booked, all is good.

Every time, never gets old.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cruisin’ & Schmoozin’ w/Tony (@tonycarnival)

Screw everything and everyone.

So exciting.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rick Stover (@rickstover1)

Size 7 day Cruise Memes

When it comes to happy birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s and Father’s day, some people only want to wear a size 7 day cruise!

What do you want to wear for Christmas?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bolsover Cruise Club (@bolsovercruise)

Another one but this time for Disney:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Let’s Talk Dis (@letstalkdispodcast)

Cruise Addict Memes

Are you a cruise addict?

This is the dream:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lido Lizard (@lido_lizard)

Best Random Funny Cruise Memes

Can you see it? 🙂

Is this you? Where am I exactly?

Cruise towels.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Helloworld Travel Naracoorte (@helloworldnaracoorte)

Yes, it’s a cruise cabin!

Is this you whenever you hear the word cruise.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dave & Brandy’s Excursions (@daveandbrandys_excursions)

Love cruising meme.

Disembarkation Day Cruise Memes

All good things must come to end (until the next cruise).

No rush to leave the ship, or even the cabin.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by More Precious Than Gold (@morepreciousthangoldta)

Do you think we’d ever get away with it? Hide.

Know this feeling. Hard times.

Back home to chores.

More Funny Memes

If you are still looking for more funny cruising memes or image you might find some at these sources which our updated regularly:

Cruise Memes Facebook Groups – a great source and no wonder it has over 75,000 followers. They also post many of their memes on their Instagram page .

I hope these cruise memes made you laugh or gave you a few reasons to smile.

Which one was your favorite? Feel free to let me know.

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Fun Cruise Photo Ideas For Your Next Trip

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Do you feel your cruise photos are boring? Uninspired? If you are looking for ways to improve your photo-taking on your cruises, we have some cruise photo ideas for you!

Cruise photography is a lot of fun for me. As a result, I have taken thousands and thousands of photos on cruise ships. To make it simpler to give you ideas, I will focus on photo-taking onboard the ship only, not excursions. Along the way, I will include a few photos from our cruises to show you what I mean.

Good Cruise Photos

Everyone takes many of the same photos of certain things on cruise ships; it’s just what we do. When we are new to cruising, we get onboard, all excited, and pull out our phones or cameras to snap quick photos of everything in sight. Half of them end up in the virtual trashcan, but some are definitely worth keeping.

Here are some of the most common cruise photos that I see on social media, a good start to creating memories of your cruise through photographs.

• A ship’s life preserver
• Your feet as you sit in a lounge chair, facing the ocean
• The view from your balcony
• You holding a cocktail at every bar on the ship
• Sailaway selfie
• Titanic pose
• Dressed up for a formal night
• Towel animals
• Sitting by the pool, cocktail in hand
• Your dinner/lunch/breakfast plate
• Posing with the captain
• Photo of the pilot boat
• Sunrise/sunset/moon over the ocean
• Suitcases left in the hallway on the last night
• Standing at the railing on the deck, looking at the ocean
• Photo of the ship while docked
• Sitting in a hot tub, sipping a frozen drink
• On the pier with the ship in the background
• The wake of the ship

Better Cruise Photos

If you want to up your game a little, you will have to get a little more creative. Try to tell a story with your photos, or take an interest in small details. Wait for a good moment.

Here are some better cruise photo ideas:

• Photos of details of your cabin or architectural details on the ship such as grand atriums
• Photos taken from above or at an extreme angle of your meal
• Photo of the ship taken from a tender boat
• Selfie with your new port in the background
• Selfie with a performer in costume after a performance
• Selfie while sweaty and red-faced from having fun
• The view framed by a porthole
• A view of your port, taken from above on your balcony
• A selfie in the mirror while getting your hair done at the spa
• A shot of the length of a buffet station, taken from an angle in Portrait mode on an iPhone
• A shot of a crew member posing for you
• You with your favorite waiter, bartender, stateroom attendant or other crew member, being silly
• Photos with you and your new friends you met onboard
• Take a pic of somewhere dramatic on the ship at night
• When you have an overnight in port, take a pic of the ship from the pier at night

Action Cruise Photos

Capture a moment, a memory, on your cruise while doing or watching something fun. Find a fun activity on the deck, give it a try, and have your partner take photos. Then switch!

• Lining up a putt on the mini-golf course
• Climbing a rock wall
• Navigating an obstacle course
• Crew members in action
• Crew-versus-passengers pool volleyball game
• The water stirred by the ship’s azipods
• Cavorting under falling water in the kids’ splash zone
• Try to get a photo of a whale or porpoise
• Yourself or someone else going down a water slide

Artistic Cruise Photos

Artistic photos take more time, sometimes a little setup, and a bit of imagination. You have to think outside the box. Try some of these cruise photo ideas:

• Looking out a porthole window, taken from behind
• Breakfast on the balcony with the sunrise in the background
• Pretending to hold up the setting sun, taken from behind
• Toasting with champagne, hands only, in front of a sunset
• Look up and take photos of small details
• A lineup of colorful beach chairs on the deck
• The atrium ceiling, taken while centered below
• Get up before dawn and take photos while the ship is entering port
• A pensive photo of your partner, taking in the scenery from your balcony or the deck
• A tableau photo while dining
• Tell a story with your photo

Brand-Specific Photos

Some photos can only be taken on certain cruise lines’ ships. For instance, a selfie with the funnel on Carnival. Since we primarily cruise on Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line and they are what I know best, here are some brand-specific cruise photo ideas to try when sailing with them.

Celebrity Cruise Photos

Celebrity Cruises is known for its extensive art collection, scattered throughout its fleet, and its entertaining Martini Bar. Consider taking pics such as:

• Posing in front of the iconic statue on the pool deck
• At Eden, a photo of the chef while plating
• The bartenders’ show at the Martini Bar, especially tossing bottles and shakers
• Posing with fun ship art
• Take a selfie with the X on the smokestack in the background
• Have a picnic on the Lawn Club and take selfies
• Have someone take a photo of you in one of the fun, wacky chairs aboard
• Have someone take a photo of you in one of the hammocks in the solarium

NCL Cruise Photos

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its massive atrium chandeliers, its theme parties, and its topside activities loved by kids and adults alike. Take photos that tell the viewer without words exactly where you are, such as:

• Silent disco photos
• Atrium chandeliers
• Atrium staircases
• Zipping around the track in a go-kart
• Pose on the atrium staircase on a formal night
• Bowling a game in the bowling alley

Tips For Taking Better Photos Onboard

If you love taking photos, you probably want to get better at it. I know I do. Here are some general suggestions for getting better photos on your cruises.

Golden Hour Magic : Make the most of the soft, warm light during the “golden hour,” which occurs shortly after sunrise and before sunset. This light can add a touch of magic to your photos, especially when capturing outdoor scenes or portraits.

Rule of Thirds : Divide your photo into a grid of nine equal sections (like a tic-tac-toe board) by imagining two horizontal and two vertical lines. Position key elements along these lines or at their intersections to create a visually pleasing composition.

Foreground Interest : Incorporate interesting foreground elements to add depth and dimension to your shots. This could be a railing, a glass of a beverage, or even a decorative feature on the ship.

Leading Lines : Use natural lines on the ship’s deck, railings, or architecture to guide the viewer’s eye through the photo. These lines can create a sense of movement and draw attention to focal points.

Candid Moments : Capture genuine moments of joy and interaction among guests and crew members. Candid shots can showcase the authentic experiences that guests have on the cruise.

Reflections : Take advantage of reflective surfaces like glass windows, mirrors, or even water to capture intriguing reflections that can add a unique twist to your photos.

Experiment with Angles : Don’t limit yourself to eye-level shots. Try shooting from different angles—high above, down low, or even from unusual vantage points—to create dynamic and interesting compositions.

Symmetry and Patterns : Look for symmetrical compositions or repeating patterns in the ship’s architecture or design. These can create visually pleasing and harmonious images.

Details Matter : Zoom in on the intricate details that make the cruise ship special. These could be ornate decorations, fine textures, or even the little touches in the cabins.

Utilize Negative Space : Sometimes, giving your subject some breathing room within the frame can create a sense of elegance and sophistication. Negative space can also help direct the viewer’s attention to the main subject.

Capture Emotions : Focus on capturing emotions and expressions. Whether it’s a guest’s excitement, wonder, or relaxation, these shots can add a human touch to your image.

Editing Enhancement : After capturing your shots, consider using photo editing tools to enhance the colors, contrast, and overall look of your images. Just remember to maintain a natural and authentic feel.

Be Patient : Sometimes the perfect shot requires patience. Wait for the right moment to capture that perfect sunset, a playful interaction, or an interesting composition.

Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new techniques. Over time, you’ll develop your own style and a keen eye for capturing the essence of cruising.

Final Thoughts On Fun Cruise Photo Ideas For Your Next Trip

I have been on a few cruises where I sat back and took very few photos, trying to be in the moment instead, and I have since regretted it. Photos are our way of preserving memories, an instant in time we want to hold on to.

So, take those pictures! And on your next cruise, try to go further with your photography. But most of all, have fun with it.

Happy cruising!

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What to Do on a Cruise? 70 Fun Things to Do on the Ship

If it’s your first time taking a cruise, you might be wondering exactly what there is to do on the ship.

First things first, there’s a lot more things to do on a cruise ship than most people realize. In the past, it might have been that the majority of your time would be hanging out on the pool deck and having a drink. These days there is no end to the fun you can have on a cruise, and there are activities nearly around the clock.

Whether you want to relax and do the bare minimum, or have a thrill a minute, modern cruise ships have no end to how you can have fun. To give you just an idea of how you can spend your time while sailing, we’ve offered up a massive list of 70 things to do on a cruise ship.

Create Your Own Bar Crawl Across the Ship

Alcohol flows freely on a cruise ship. It’s normal for a ship to have a dozen or more bars, and you can get a drink whether you are hanging poolside, watching a show in the theater, or trying your luck in the casino.

Just like restaurants, these bars all have different themes and menus. There are fun poolside bars, classy lounge bars, and even trendy hip bars with “mixologists.” Check them out and take a look at the menu to see what sort of cocktail speaks to you. Nowhere can we think of do you have the opportunity to try as many different drinks all in one place than on a cruise.

Take Part in the Poolside Competitions (Or Just Watch for Laughs!)

A belly-flop contest? Sexiest legs competition (for men only)? These are classic poolside events that are must-sees.

They typically take place in the afternoon on sea days, and all the contestants are sourced from your fellow passengers. It’s a riot with people packed around the pool to see. If you want to participate, get in on the action by heading down to the host. If you plan to just watch, we suggest getting there early. With hundreds — if not thousands — of people watching, great spots to get a view can fill up fast.

Find “Your” Spot on the Ship

Over the course of a cruise, something surprising happens. Since people are creatures of habit, we tend to find a spot that we really like and find ourselves going back again and again.

For some people it’s a special spot near the pool. For others it’s a bar that they just love. Still others find the most secluded spot they can because it’s perfect for reading a book.

During the course of your cruise, it’s always fun to spend some time exploring and find what “your” spot is on the ship.

Stock Up Your Liquor Cabinet With Duty-Free Shopping

Like airports, cruise ships are able to sell items duty-free. This means you can save cash since taxes and duty aren’t included in the price.

Every ship will have a store onboard that sells items normally subject to these fees like alcohol and cigarettes. Take advantage to stock up on what you might be missing back home and save a few bucks while you’re at it. Just keep in mind there are limits to how much you can bring home.

Also, you can’t buy bottles in these stores to enjoy on your cruise. They will be packaged and delivered to you at the end of the trip.

Try Out a Specialty Restaurant for Different Flavors

If you’ve never taken a cruise, you should know that not all food on the ship is free. There are many spots to eat, including the main dining room and the buffet, that are included with your fare. Many other restaurants on cruise ships now carry a charge.

It might be off-putting to have to shell out more money for a restaurant when you’ve already paid for the cruise and there are free options available. Don’t automatically discount these options, however.

Most specialty restaurants serve food you can’t find elsewhere on the ship, and if you like higher-end dining, it’s your best bet for a meal that you’ll love.

Take Advantage of the Kid’s Area

If you are a family going on a cruise, your kids will probably want to go check out the dedicated kids area on the ship. Parents are typically happy to oblige.

Major cruise ships have spaces made just for children that are staffed by the cruise line. They are split into different age groups with areas and activities that are interesting to each age. This way a 14-year-old doesn’t have to do the same things as a 5-year-old.

The kid’s areas are free and a big hit. Kids love having something they want to do while parents enjoy some time to relax without having young ones in tow.

Try Your Hand at Shuffleboard

There’s nothing more classic than playing shuffleboard on a cruise. It’s a reminder back to the older days of sailing, but the game is surprisingly fun. Each player takes turn sliding a disc onto a numbered board. While you are trying to score points by sliding the disc on a numbered spot, you are also trying to knock your opponent’s discs off the board.

It’s relaxing to play and a fun way to get a little competition while on the ship. Best of all, it’s free to play; sticks and discs are normally kept right by the boards on the ship.

Work on Your Tan

It’s hard to think of anything that’s more synonymous with cruising than sunshine. That’s why it’s no wonder that getting some sun and working on your tan is one of the most popular things to do on the ship.

The top deck on a cruise ship will feature tons of chairs, although those closest to the pool get picked first.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sun can be strong at lower latitudes in the Caribbean. Use plenty of sunscreen and keep track of your time in the sun. You don’t want to get burned early in your trip and not be able to enjoy yourself the rest of the cruise.

Hit the Hot Tub

There’s no better way to relax than by some time in the hot tub. On today’s cruise ships hot tubs dot the entire top deck. While there are usually multiple whirlpools around the main pool, other hot tubs are found around the ship, including adults-only areas. So while a ship might have a couple of pools, it could have 8-10 hot tubs.

These spots are especially popular in the evenings or during the winter months when the ship is sailing in cooler weather. There’s not much better than keeping warm on a cool night in a whirlpool.

Take a Dip in the Pool

Of course, most people go on a cruise to get warm, but sometimes you need to cool off. The classic way to chill out it to take a dip in the pool. Modern ships will have two or even three pools, sometimes including one in a covered solarium that can stay warm year round.

One thing to keep in mind is that swimming pools on a cruise ship might be smaller than you imagine. Remember that water is heavy, so having too large a pool up on the top of the ship could cause problems. Still, pools are large enough for dozens of bathers at once.

Try Your Luck in the Casino

Nearly every cruise ship you sail will have a casino; it’s a point of emphasis. Casinos are almost always centrally located on the ship, usually near the main promenade deck where there is lots of foot traffic.

Casinos are open when the ship is at sea, but closed in port. So most of your play will either be on sea days or in the evening as the ship is heading from port to port. Games include all your favorites including roulette, blackjack, craps, and slots. There are also some unique games you won’t find in most land-based casinos like coin-pusher machines that play for real money.

Careful, the payouts on a cruise ship are normally pretty stingy compared to many land-based casinos.

Get Your Mile in on the Jogging Track

A popular thing to do in the mornings, just about every major cruise ship will include a jogging track around the top deck. Only a couple of lanes wide, you might have to dodge a few people walking and a couple of deck chairs. That said, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better view than the open sea while on a jogging track.

We’d suggest going early in the morning as more people come out as the day goes on. This causes lots of traffic on the track and makes it harder to jog. Running before about 9 a.m. should be feasible, but going for an afternoon jog is impossible.

Relax on Your Balcony

If you’re fortunate enough to have booked a cabin with a balcony, then take advantage! There’s nothing better than spending some time just relaxing while watching the ocean roll by. Given how fast-paced most of our lives are these days, it’s the ultimate luxury to just be able to sit still in your own private space without having to do anything at all.

Balconies usually aren’t that large; it’s just enough space for a couple of chairs and a small side table. Still, they are big enough to get some fresh air and take in the view. Sitting out here in the evening as the sun sets is one of our favorite things to do on a cruise.

Pamper Yourself at the Ship’s Spa

All the major cruise ships have a spa where you can get tons of different treatments. Whether you want a massage, or manicure, teeth whitening, or any other thing under the sun, it’s likely the staff on the ship can accommodate.

Rates will vary across lines, but you can expect the cost of an hour-long massage to run about $100-150. Most spas will also give you a free tour so you can get a look before committing. We highly recommend you take advantage of the tours as you will be amazed at some of the facilities on a modern ship. We’ve even seen one spa with a “snow” room that has literal snow in it to help improve circulation in the cold air.

Tip: You can also usually purchase a day pass to hang out in the spa for much cheaper than a massage.

Watch a Movie on the Pool Deck Under the Stars

In the evening the pool deck crowd thins out considerably. To still utilize this space, the cruise lines often show feature films on the big screen that overlooks the deck. You can grab a pool chair or hang out in a hot tub and watch a flick.

In our experience the films are family-friendly, with them often being one of the newest superhero films. One more thing — sometimes the cruise line even serves free popcorn to movie-goers. It’s definitely one of the more unique places to watch a flick.

Enjoy Some Live Music Around the Ship

Are you a live music fan? In the evenings you’ll find live music being played at locations around the ship.

Styles vary, and the lineup will be mentioned in your ship’s daily planner. It’s almost always something easy to listen to (don’t expect any heavy metal), and usually the bands play covers ranging from classic hits to new favorites.

Find a musician you like, grab a drink, and settle in while you enjoy the evening.

Let the Kids Splash at the Waterpark

As cruise ships get larger, that means more space for things to do. One popular addition is a waterpark for kids. They aren’t on every ship, but if you are sailing a vessel that’s been built or updated in the past several years, it’s likely to have one.

These waterparks won’t be confused with anything you might find on land, but for a cruise ship they can be impressive, including waterslides, splash pads, and more. One of our favorites is Splashaway Bay on Royal Caribbean ships (shown above).

This waterpark features tons of features that will soak any kid who plays. It also has a reserved area for kids who aren’t yet potty-trained so that they can enjoy as well (typically kids not yet potty-trained aren’t allowed in pools or water features for health reasons).

Spend Some Time (and Money) in the Arcade

If you have kids (or you’re a kid at heart), don’t miss spending some time in the arcade on the ship. They feature games ranging from air hockey to racing to shooting genres, and you can play them all with a swipe of your keycard.

Arcades can vary widely on cruise ships. We’ve seen large ones with dozens of games, and others that have been relatively small. Games are usually higher priced — expect it to cost $1-2 to play anything. We have been on cruises where there is a “Happy Hour” where arcade games are discounted 50% for a short period. Take advantage if you see this sort of deal. It’s a great way to spend an hour that the kids will love.

Grab a Bite to Eat… Around the Clock

Cruise ships and food go together like peanut butter and jelly. Every ship will have lots of places to eat around the ship, ranging from the buffet to the high-end steakhouse. But whether you just want a snack or a full-blown meal, you’ll always be in luck.

These days food is served somewhere on the ship around the clock. Of course the most restaurants are open during meal times. However, ships will usually have a 24-hour restaurant you can visit or at least a buffet that’s open extended hours.

So no matter when you get an urge, you can grab a bite to eat.

Watch the Game in the Middle of the Ocean

Is there a big sporting event happening while you’re on your cruise? It doesn’t mean you have to miss it just because you are at sea.

Cruise lines offer feeds of popular sporting events, such as NFL games, during the trip. And while not every ship has a sports bar, many do, making it the perfect place to watch. No matter, you’ll be able to find games being broadcast somewhere on the ship to enjoy while you sail.

Take in the Evening Entertainment

What do you do if you’re a cruise line and need to keep hundreds of people entertained at once? Put on a show!

These days most cruise lines have moved beyond the typical song and dance routines. Evening shows on cruise ships look more like Broadway. For instance, Norwegian has productions of Footloose and Kinky Boots aboard its newer ships.

No matter which line you sail, you’ll be impressed with the talent and production of these programs. Evening shows typically run twice a night, with a rotating lineup during the cruise so that you have something different each day of your cruise.

Get Your Workout in While Setting Sail

When it comes to things to do on a cruise, not too many people consider working out. That’s a shame because cruise ships offer some of the best gym facilities you’ll find.

First, there is a wide variety of equipment in gyms; it’s not at all what you’d find at a chain hotel. From aerobic machines (treadmills, bikes, etc.) to weight lifting machines and dumbbells, there’s something for everyone. As well, gyms on cruise ships are usually spacious with plenty of room.

But what always wows new cruisers are the views. Gyms are usually high up on the ship with massive windows that look out over the water. It is one of the most breathtaking views you can imagine while getting a workout.

Catch Up on Netflix

There’s so many things to do on the ship, it might seem silly to talk about Netflix. We know, however, that some people’s favorite thing to do is catch up on all those shows they want to watch. And it’s your vacation; do what you want!

We personally love watching a show after coming in from a long day in port. After being in the sun all day, it’s nice to relax in the cool cabin. If you feel the same, bring along your tablet, phone or computer with your Netflix account.

We suggest that you download the shows at home beforehand. That way you don’t have to stream over the ship’s wi-fi, which can be choppy and expensive. Many ships also won’t let you stream over their connection.

Order Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or a Midnight Snack from Room Service

One of the guilty pleasures on a cruise is that you can order room service and eat in your pajamas. Every cruise line offers room service.

Most of the time breakfast is free, but there is normally a small charge for lunch, dinner, or late-night meals. Rates are usually around $8 per trip, but you can order whatever you want. Other lines do charge ala carte, so your bill can rise or fall with how much you order.

One thing to remember is that it’s customary to tip the staff that brings your meal a few bucks.

Book an Excursion For Your Day in Port

While there’s a lot to do on the ship, there’s also a lot to do in port. The best way to explore the area is on an excursion. You can always just plan your own day, but it’s much easier to pick from a menu of options and have your day planned for you. Excursions do exactly that.

Every ship has an “Excursions Desk” that you can visit to learn more about all your options, ask questions, and book your spot.

While these day trips can get pricey, we suggest that passengers book at least one excursion during their trip. They can offer some of the most memorable moments of your entire cruise and an opportunity to do something that you would never be able to experience back home.

Enjoy Some Quiet Time in the Library

Cruise ships have libraries, and compared to other parts of the ship, they are barely used. Inside you’ll find plenty of books covering all genres from poolside paperbacks to serious historical volumes.

What some folks may like is that the libraries are a nice quiet spot out of the way. If the pool is too loud and you simply want to get away from some of the crowds, head to the library for some peace and quiet.

Play a Board Game or Some Cards

Usually near the library you can find a game room on a lot of cruise ships. If you want some time out of the sun, head here to see what they offer. The board games are basic — checkers and chess — and there are usually decks of cards.

While there will be tables in the game room, don’t think you are stuck playing there. Take the games with you to find a spot to play (you’ll often see people playing near the pool in the fresh air), just be sure to return the games when you are done so that other passengers can enjoy them.

You can also bring your own favorites and play whenever you want.

Get Online to Send a Selfie Home

Want to show off what you’re doing on your vacation? You can, even if you are in the middle of the sea.

Cruise ships all have Internet service. While it can be expensive (expect to spend $20-30 per day), there are often “social media” packages available for cheaper. If you’re online, then snap a few poolside selfies to post to Facebook, Instagram, or send back home to let everyone know you’re enjoying your vacation.

In addition, online access gives you the chance to check in back home, catch up on emails, and keep up with the news even while you’re in the middle of the ocean.

Learn a New Game in the Casino

Have you always wanted to play blackjack but have been too intimidated? Or maybe you want to try craps but are scared of losing money?

If you’ve ever wanted to try a new game, a cruise ship casino is a great place to start. Ships will have beginner lessons on all sorts of games. Best of all, they are free to play while learning. You’ll see the times listed in your ship’s daily schedule, but classes are usually in the morning when the ship is as sea.

Simply show up and the staff will walk you through the games and let you play some practice rounds to get you up to speed.

Play in a Slot Tournament on the Ship

Slot tournaments are simple — get the highest score at the end of a certain time and you are the winner. Ships often have tournaments during the day in casinos and they can cost little to enter — about $20 or so.

Prizes vary, but even if you don’t win, it’s a fun way to spend some time in the casino without having to spend a fortune.

Bid on a New Piece of Art

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might be surprised at how heavily the art auctions are promoted on the ship. You’ll receive lots of flyers, and you’ll see the artwork for sale as you walk around.

Styles range the gamut, so just about everyone can find something that they would like to bring home. If a piece catches your eye, talk to the clerk to see what it costs. They can get you all set up to bid on the piece and help you get it home.

Play a Round of Putt-Putt

Putt-putt has become a favorite on a cruise. Most ships have a course that you can play 24 hours a day. Simply walk up, grab a club and ball, and start swinging.

What’s nice is that it’s an easy go-to when you have kids as they seem to love to play. It’s also an easy-going activity and only takes about 20-30 minutes to play a round. So when you’re bored or have a few minutes to kill before dinner, you can get a round in as easy entertainment.

And did we mention that it’s free to play?

Go Shopping… In the Middle of the Ocean

These days some sections of new cruise ships look more like a mall than a ship. Shopping is a big draw, with a number of stores offering everything from souvenir keychains to high-end expensive watches.

Even if you aren’t in the market for anything, going window-shopping is a fun thing to do on a cruise. One thing to note is that cruise lines will often have sales in their stores. We’d suggest scoping things out early on the cruise. If there is something you like, give it some time during your trip to see if it goes on sale before you buy.

Grab an Ice Cream Cone by the Pool

What’s better than ice cream on a warm day? Not much. That’s why cruise ships often have ice cream stations located near the pool. Sometimes it’s free soft-serve, other ships might have gelato that costs a few bucks.

If you’re out at the pool, grab a cone to help you cool off.

Play Ping-Pong to See Who Is Better

Ping-pong is such a simple game, but for some reason it brings out the competitive spirit. Maybe that’s why everyone seems to love to play.

On a cruise ship you are in luck. Ships have spots dedicated to the game, often with multiple tables in a place outside, but with minimal wind so that you can play even when it’s breezy. (Tables are normally located on the pool deck, tucked in a corner.) Just head up and pick up a couple of paddles (which are provided) to play.

Score Big in a Blackjack Tournament

Similar to the slot tournament mentioned above, casinos often offer blackjack tournaments as well. Pay the entry fee and do your best to come out in the lead at the end of the time. Be the big winner and you could go home with some cash or prizes.

It’s also a good way to get the hang of the mechanics of the game if you’re a beginner, without risking a lot of money.

Hit the Comedy Show For Belly Laughs

Think that the entertainment on the cruise ship is going to all be PG-rated? Most is, but the comedians that perform during the trip can get a little dirtier… and a lot funnier.

Many ships have comedy clubs while others simply have a lounge or theater where the comedian performs a set. As well, there is usually a “clean” routine earlier in the night and then a more adult routine late at night.

The comedians brought onboard may not be the biggest names, but they are often well-accomplished, including appearances on TV shows and specials.

Belt Out a Tune During Karaoke

Love to be the center of attention? Check out the karaoke on the ship. It’s may not be on your specific cruise, but some ships offer karaoke times where you can go listen to others sing their favorite songs… or try your own favorite tune.

Don’t be intimidated — everyone is there to have a good time, whether good or bad — but we have been to some shows where the singers are top-notch.

Buy Your Next Cruise

Did you know that you can book your next cruise… while still on your current cruise? There’s a big push to get you to book again, and the cruise like will offer perks to entice you. That can include discounts and onboard credit.

During your cruise you can stop by the booking desk to talk to an agent. They will explain all the options and help you find the perfect cruise to match your schedule and budget. Best of all, having an agent there can help you with any questions you might have about the trip.

Dress to the Nines for Formal Night

Part of the tradition of cruising is getting dressed up for dinner. These days there are usually two formal nights on a 7-day cruise and one formal night on shorter trips.

Formal nights give you a chance to glamour up and have a “date night” with your significant other.

You don’t have to get dressed up on these nights (if you aren’t dining in the main dining room, then casual wear is fine), but it’s a fun thing to do during your trip. And don’t think you have to get dressed in a formal gown or a tuxedo. Just getting a little dressier is fine. You will want to leave the t-shirt and jeans in the cabin.

Test Your Brain with Daily Trivia

The library on your ship will have a sheet of daily trivia and puzzles that you can pick up each morning. It’s a simple sheet with maybe a crossword puzzle, Sudoku, and some trivia questions. Lots of people like to work this into their daily routine as a fun way to get their day started.

There are also trivia contests later in the day where you can compete against other passengers for bragging rights… and maybe a small trophy.

Meet the Ship’s Captain

While there is an entire team of people who handle the navigation and maneuvering of a cruise ship, there’s one person that’s in charge above everyone else — the ship’s captain. And while you might think the captain is some far-away person who the passengers will never see, you usually get a chance to meet him or her during your cruise.

The captain often hosts a welcome party or some other get-together on the ship where you can meet and get a picture. Note that the pandemic has changed this some as cruise lines don’t want the captain to get sick!

Try Your Luck at Bingo (And Possibly Win Some Dough)

While it might seem old-fashioned, bingo is big on cruises. Best of all, you can win some cash playing. Cards are for sale before the games begin and usually cost around $10 each. Games are normally played on days at sea.

Get a bingo on your card and you could sail home just a little bit richer as there are cash prizes often given to the winners.

Dance All Evening (’80s, White Parties, Disco Themes)

Dance parties are a popular thing to do on a cruise in the evenings and late-nights. There are clubs that play music, but the big events are the themed parties that usually take place on the pool deck at night.

The theme will differ among cruise lines, but some of the popular themed dance parties are the ’80s (everyone dresses like a flashback to the 1980s), white parties (dress in all-white), and disco themes.

Don’t worry if you don’t have anything that matches the theme. While it’s nice to dress up, you won’t be shunned if you don’t. Just be sure to have a good time!

Try to Win a Sports Tournament

Volleyball, soccer, free-throws, ping-pong… if you think you’re good enough then enter one of the tournaments that the cruise line hosts.

These games usually aren’t too competitive, but a fun way to to pass the time while at sea. They are normally hosted on sea days; just check your daily planner for the schedule. Sign up, and you could take home bragging rights as the best ping-pong player on your cruise. You might even get a medal or a trophy to prove it.

Get Away From the Kids in the Adults-Only Area

Not every ship has it, but many have an area on the pool deck that’s reserved only for adults, such as the Serenity area on Carnival.

What we find is that often not only are the spots kid-free, but they are just less crowded in general. If you’re looking for a spot to get away, it’s a great choice. You’ll often find a dedicated pool or hot tubs, seating, and a bar, meaning you have everything you need to enjoy the day, just without as much noise or as many people.

This is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy a space that’s a little quieter.

Get a Professional Photo Taken

From the moment you board the the ship, you’ll see the ship’s photographers out to take souvenir photos for your cruise. As well, they are prominent on formal night when many people are dressed up for the evening.

If you’d like a great photo, then take a couple of minutes to pose for the photographer. They feature professional lighting and backdrop and can work with you to get the perfect picture. Best of all, it’s free to take the pictures. You only pay if you decide to purchase the photo in the ship’s gallery.

Try Your Luck With Scratch-Off Tickets

We mentioned that the ship’s casino has some games you don’t normally find on land. That includes the coin-pusher machines that use actual coins and even electronic “skill” games where you normally win a prize but win cash instead.

One unique thing we’ve seen on some ships are their own scratch-off lottery tickets. You can buy a ticket, and if it wins, you cash in.

Get Romantic With the Ocean Air

Maybe it’s the relaxed mood that comes with being on vacation. Or maybe it’s that everyone is dressed in a little less around the pool. Or maybe it’s that there’s plenty of adult beverages around. No matter the reason, cruises definitely spark romance between couples.

If you have a balcony cabin, then you have an opportunity to open up that door and let in the wonderful ocean air and the sunshine to the cabin while you enjoy each other’s company. Just know that balconies aren’t completely private (sounds can travel and there are usually gaps around dividers) if you do decide to get frisky, so keep it in the room.

Take a Nap!

Is a nap a little boring for a vacation? Sure. But can it be one of the best things ever? Absolutely.

Remember, your time on the cruise ship is yours. While there is no shortage of things to do, don’t think you have to go 100 miles per hour the entire cruise. Sleep in, take a nap, just relax. Spend your cruise doing what you want to do.

Do Some Major People Watching

There’s hardly a better place to do some good old-fashioned people watching than on a cruise. We’re not talking about staring at folks as they go about their vacation. We’re talking about just simply sitting in a spot, watching people pass.

Major areas like the pool deck and the main promenade see nearly everyone on the ship pass by at one point or another, and they have lots of seating. It’s relaxing to sit down, have a drink, and just watch as everyone on the ship eventually passes by.

Try New Foods

Cruise ships are one of the best spots ever to try new foods. Whether you are a foodie or simply want to expand your palette, take advantage.

First, there are a number of restaurants within a close proximity so you don’t have to go far to try something unique. Literally within steps of each other can be an Asian restaurant and an Italian restaurant.

Second, while not every restaurant is free, many are. That means you can try new things without worrying about if you will like it or not. After all, if you get something and don’t like it at a free restaurant, you aren’t out any money.

Ship-Specific Things to Do on a Cruise

So far the items we’ve covered apply to most, if not all cruises. But every cruise ship is different. Below, we cover some things to do that are available only on some ships or cruise lines.

Get Racing in a Go-Kart

One of the most unique things you can do at sea is to race go-karts . Norwegian Cruise Lines allows you to do just that on several of their newer ships.

The speedways on these ships feature tracks that twist and turn, and even span multiple decks. You’ll be in control of your own electric car as you race against other passengers around the course. Now it does cost money, but it’s a sure way to get your adrenaline pumping while at sea.

Ride on a Roller Coaster

Carnival is making waves with its new ships like Mardi Gras and Celebration. Not only are they completely different ships compared to the rest of Carnival’s fleet, but they also feature the only roller coasters at sea.

Strap in and hang on as the ride takes you all around the top deck of the ship. It’s a ride that just a few years ago wouldn’t even be imagined, but the cruise line has made it a reality — and one of the more memorable things you can do on a cruise ship.

Practice Surfing on a Standing Wave

Many Royal Caribbean ships have a water feature on the top deck that’s called the Flowrider. This ride is free, and spits out a thin layer of fast-moving water. With some practice you can ride a boogie-board or a special surfboard over the water, carving back and forth.

What if you fall down? Don’t worry, everything is padded. All that should be hurt is your pride (lots of people like to hang out and watch the surfers try their luck).

Ride a Zipline… Across the Ship

How big are cruise ships these days? So big that you can zipline across them. Several ships, including those from Royal Caribbean and MSC have zipline rides that will sail from one end of the ship to the other. So you can sail over the ship as it cruises over the water. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Just be sure before you strap in that you aren’t afraid of heights!

Take a Turn on a Waterslide

While older ships might not have them, most newer ships come with waterslides onboard. And before you think these are simple slides that make a turn or two and let you out… that’s normally not the case.

For example, Norwegian has the Ocean Loops (pictured above) — an extreme slide that juts out over the side of the ship. After a nearly vertical drop, you’ll go out over the side of the ship before doing a sharp turn back. And did we mention the clear tube so you can see the water below?

Go Ice Skating at Sea

We can’t think of anything that seems more unlikely than ice skating while sailing the Caribbean. Yet many Royal Caribbean ships have an ice rink. While it’s used for performances put on by the entertainment staff, there is also a chance for passengers to skate as well.

Look at your daily calendar for the times. Most of what you need — including skates — are provided for you. Be sure to bring long pants and socks. You’ll need them to skate.

Have Some Fun in Bumper Cars

Another Royal Caribbean activity on some ships is the chance to ride bumper cars while at sea. Passengers need to be at least five years old to ride tandem, but eight years old and above can drive their own car.

Don’t worry, you won’t go fast enough to get hurt, but the bumps can come suddenly enough that you might not stop laughing while you drive around.

Take a Class You’ve Always Wanted to Learn

On many higher-end cruise lines, classes are a big draw. Whether it’s learning more about the history of a country or port you’re visiting or learning some new cooking skills under the leadership of a chef, it’s a fun way to get something more “cultural” out of your cruise.

Classes often have a fee associated. You’ll be able to find out more once you are on your cruise.

Listen to The Beatles Play (Or at Least a Cover of Them)

The Cavern Club in Liverpool is where The Beatles got their start. The Cavern Club on Norwegian Cruise Lines is a re-creation of the famous club on some of the ships.

Walk into the dimly-lit joint and you can get a drink, hang out, and in the evenings there is a recreated Fab Four that plays covers of the band. If you’re a fan, it’s a must see. Even if you aren’t, it’s a fun thing to check out while on the ship.

Pour Your Own Beer

Want to get a cheap beer? Suds on a cruise can cost a bit. It’s normal to pay between $6-8 for a beer.

But some cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean are putting in self-serve taps. You swipe your card, pour your beer, and you are charged by the ounce. Best of all? You don’t have to wait on a bartender for a beer, and it’s also among the cheapest options on the ships. We’ve found beers for about $5 a glass.

Get Your Drink Made by a Robot

One of the more unique things you’ll find a cruise, some Royal Caribbean ships have the “Bionic Bar.” What makes this special is that it’s a robotic arm that grabs all the ingredients and makes your entire drink without human interaction (you even order from an electronic pad). While it might not replace the traditional bar anytime soon, it is something unique to try on your cruise.

See How Fast You Are on an F1 Simulator

If you love to race, you already know some ships have go-kart tracks. But what if you want to go faster? Some ships, including those from Norwegian and MSC have F1 simulators. This includes a full-sized car replica that you sit in and wide screens to make you feel like you really are driving around the course.

Jump 10 Feet in the Air with the Sky Pad

Royal Caribbean has a feature on some ships — a huge sphere that sits high atop the ship. The massive ball contains the Sky Pad. It’s a thrill where you are attached to bungee cords via a harness and then start jumping on a trampoline.

What’s surprising is how high this can make you jump. You can choose to free jump, or there are also virtual reality headsets that allow you to play games as you jump (such as blocking virtual soccer balls). Either way, it’s unique to be jumping so high while you are on top of a cruise ship.

Get a Taste of Virtual Reality

Norwegian has a place called the Galaxy Pavilion on some of its newer cruise ships. If you have kids, they will likely beg you to go.

The area features a ton of virtual reality games. From a Jeep ride that moves as the virtual reality headset takes you on a run from chasing dinosaurs to walking a balance beam high above a city to rescue a kitten, the experience can make you feel like you are really there.

The Galaxy Pavilion does cost extra, but it’s a pretty memorable thing to do on a cruise and the entire family will have fun.

No Shortage of Things to Do on a Cruise

The good news is that whether you like it quiet and relaxing, or you love to be on the go your entire vacation, there’s something for everyone on a cruise. There are dozens — if not hundreds of things for you to do. But the most important thing is to remember that your time is your own on vacation. Spend it how you want without worrying about if you’re making the “most” of your trip.  

Related Articles:

• 25+ Fun Things for Kids to Do on a Cruise
• 21+ Best Cruise Cabin Tips, Secrets, & Things to Know (Read Before Sailing)
• 44 Things NEVER to Do on a Cruise Ship

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Cruise Ship cartoons and comics

Ahoy there! Get on board with our collection of cruise ship cartoons! From hilarious captain mishaps to wacky passenger antics, these cartoons are perfect for travel websites, brochures, and social media. Sail away with laughter now at CartoonStock.com!

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"Have you been tested?"

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"I have serious doubts about the theory of evolution."

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Cruise ship cartoon #4.

Cruise ship called "S.S. Diarrhea"

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Cruise ship cartoon #6.

"I'm starting to think humans don't even like winning free cruises."

Cruise ship cartoon #7.

Caution Wet Floor

Cruise ship cartoon #8.

"How was your cruise?"

Cruise ship cartoon #9.

A cruise ship parks as part of birthday cake.

Cruise ship cartoon #10.

"That should attract every over 60s cruise ship, in the area."

Cruise ship cartoon #11.

Viking River Raids

Cruise ship cartoon #12.

Immigrants 'R Us

Cruise ship cartoon #13.

Captain leaves sinking ship.

Cruise ship cartoon #14.

"It's like 'Family Circus' meets 'The Wire,' but on a cruise ship."

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'It was rated on all the travel websits, best economy cruise.'

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'I was thinking of booking a Florida cruise...'

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Santa Cruise

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'Going anywhere nice?'

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Stranded couple looks on as oceanliner sails through their desert island.

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The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

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Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

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Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long “water coaster” to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It’s one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn’t have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That’s the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it’s now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today’s biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival’s ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line’s 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you’ll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you’ll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you’ll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line’s relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line’s big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn’t just one giant waterslide; it’s a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you’ll find anywhere on the world’s oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there’s also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It’ll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you “down the drain” into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you’ll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it’s completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it’s the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it’s a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it’s what’s known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you’ll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you’ll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney’s two Dream-class ships. But don’t expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it’s designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you’re lounging up top, it’s hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey’s Pool. Dubbed Mickey’s Slide, it’s held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo’s Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney’s newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you’ll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there’s now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there’s now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You’ll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you’ll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you’ll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that’s packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children’s play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There’s also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

A handful of ships even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises’ 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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My 12-day cruise cost me about $109 a day. See inside my 160-square-foot cabin, the most economical option on the ship.

• I went on a 12-day Holland America Line cruise and paid a little over $1,300 for my interior cabin.
• The cabin was an incredible value and I especially liked the storage and spacious shower.
• I'd book this room again — my cruise was so fun and busy that I barely spent time in it anyway. 

In a time of high inflation and stretched budgets, cruises reign supreme . Since most packages are pretty all-inclusive, you can pay for a week or more on a ship and then not spend another dime until you return.

I definitely had value in mind when I booked my recent 12-day cruise on the Holland America Line Rotterdam from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to the Panama Canal. I selected an interior cabin , the most economical option on the ship.

I booked directly with Holland America Line and paid $849 plus $460 for taxes, fees, and port charges — about $109 a day. The rate came with a $25 onboard credit and didn't include gratuities or add-ons like drink packages , specialty dining, WiFi, or excursions.

Overall, my room was one of the best values of the trip. Here's what it was like.

I booked an interior room on deck seven.

On this ship, interior rooms can range from 143 to 225 square feet. I chose a cabin on deck seven that was 160 square feet.

The location of my stateroom was convenient and quiet. My cabin was a quick two decks up to the areas I frequented most, the spa and its thermal suite, and the fitness center.

My cabin was generously sized.

The stateroom featured a small hallway with a bathroom on the right, and two wardrobes and a cabinet on the left.

The main area of my room contained the bed.

The hallway opened to a small rectangular space with a queen bed on the right flanked by two small nightstands, each with two drawers and a tall bottom shelf.

I had a vanity that could also be used as a desk.

To the right of the bed was a large desk/vanity with an ottoman that doubled as a seat and storage space for the bed's decorative throw pillows.

This area had even more storage: The desk had three spacious drawers.

My bed was across from a mounted TV and bar area.

At the foot of the bed was a wall-mounted interactive television with on-demand movies, programming, and multi-channel music.

Next to it, I had a fully stocked minibar area, including a cabinet with things like red wine, white wine, rocks glasses, a stainless steel ice bucket, and tongs.

There was so much storage space in the room.

The full-height wardrobe had 26 hangers, including 13 pant and 13 skirt hangers, two bottom shelves, and a full-length mirror on one door.

The second half-height wardrobe closet had 12 hangers, including four pant and eight skirt hangers, four bottom shelves, and a tie rack.

One closet contained a mini fridge.

The cabinet featured three compartments: the top where robes, beach towels, and a safe were stowed, the middle with the mini fridge, and the bottom with three deep drawers.

The safe was roomy, accommodating my 13.6-inch MacBook Air plus all of my other valuables and important travel documents.

The bathroom felt spacious and well-designed.

The bathroom layout was thoughtfully designed with three glass shelves for toiletries and a large-size vanity with an underneath storage ledge.

A roomy shower was the highlight of the bathroom.

The walk-in shower was complete with a shaving foot bar, a retractable clothesline, Elemis bath products, and an adjustable handheld shower.

There were also two grab bars for stepping into and out of the shower.

There were plenty of electrical outlets in the room, too.

The room had an abundance of power outlets where I could charge my gear.

On both sides of the bed were a type-B plug, mainly used in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and a USB port. The desk had a USB port, three type-B plugs, and two type-C plugs, mainly used in Europe, South America, and Asia.

The bathroom had one electrical outlet that could accommodate a US or European two-pronged plug.

The room service was impeccable, too.

There were two cabin stewards assigned to my room. They worked together to fully service my stateroom twice daily.

On embarkation day, I was able to request extra pillows and towels plus other preferences like turn-down service, which included a towel animal and Astor Chocolates on most nights.

Weddings? Burials at sea? Unexpected things you can do on a cruise ship besides cruising

When thinking of a cruise , we generally imagine sailing away for a relaxing vacation of sun and fun. Lots of food, perhaps a drink with an umbrella in it and the magnificent ocean.

We're lucky in Florida, home to some of the world's busiest cruise ports including PortMiami, Port Canaveral , Port Everglades, Port Tampa Bay, JAXPORT, and Port of Palm Beach. There is also a port in Key West, but this is mainly used for cruise ship calls rather than a homeport.

Most people know cruises offer a great value and are nearly all-inclusive with good food , accommodations and entertainment. Add to that exotic ports of call and shore excursions that strike all fancies, from beach bums to adrenaline junkies.

But there are some lesser-known accommodations available on most cruise ships .

From joyous occasions to celebrations of life, here are some extraordinary services cruise ships offer.

You can get married on a cruise ship

Want to say "I do" onboard a majestic ship or at an exotic location?

You can do that on a cruise ship and be on your honeymoon at the same time.

Many cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Lines , Carnival and Royal Caribbean , offer weddings and wedding renewals aboard the ship or at scenic tropical locations.

Your guests don't even have to cruise with you.

For example, 50 non-sailing guests can take part in weddings aboard Carnival Cruise Line ships before the cruise sails from the port of embarkation.

Royal Caribbean allows for 75 of 150 wedding guests to be non-sailing. NCL permits up to 10 non-sailing guests free of charge, but a reception must be booked if you have up to 50 guests who are not sailing.

Check with your cruise line for availability and details.

Burial at sea: Scattering a loved one's ashes from a cruise ship

A loved one's remains can be buried at sea during a cruise.

Several cruise lines allow for the scattering of cremated remains from their ships, provided the guest can produce the decedent's death and cremation certificates.

The remains are generally required to be in a biodegradable urn and some cruise lines require the entire urn to be tossed into the sea.

Cruise lines work with guests to determine burial time and place. Guests are usually taken to a more secluded part of the ship and given privacy for scattering the remains.

Contact your cruise line before boarding for availability and policies.

Cruise ships have jails. Can you get arrested on a cruise ship?

While there are a lot of perks for traveling via cruise ship, there are some facilities available on most cruise ships that may surprise you.

For example, many cruise ships have a small jail, called a brig. The brig is generally located on one of the bottom decks.

Misbehavior or breaking the law on a cruise ship can see you confined to your cabin or locked up in the brig.

Do cruise ships have hospitals?

Most cruise ships sailing from U.S. ports have medical facilities, including a doctor, on board to treat minor illnesses and injuries, and to stabilize patients with more serious health issues until they can be transferred to land-based facilities.

While available, medical care on a cruise ship is not free . Your land-based health insurance is generally not accepted on board and medical service fees are charged to your sailing account.

Your health insurance may not cover you while you're on the ship and out of the country. Check with your provider before boarding and look into travel health insurance for concerns over recouping any out-of-pocket costs.

Is there a morgue on cruise ships?

Morbidly, yes, there's a morgue on board. It's legally required , according to Readers Digest .

In case of a death, the body is stored in the morgue until it can be transferred off the ship.

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