If you think the entertainment options on cruise ships are limited, think again. Modern vessels are packed full of new and exciting rides and shows for all the family to enjoy.
From ziplining 82 feet above deck to taking the driving seat in a virtual F1 racing car, every cruise line has its own exclusive entertainment and attractions on offer. Whether you’re a thrill seeker in search of an adrenaline-fueled cruise or you prefer to sit back and relax as the show takes place around you, there really is something to suit every age group and taste.
Ready to have some fun? Keep reading to discover some of the most unique and unusual entertainment options currently available on some of the world’s leading cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Cunard, MSC and Norwegian.
Aqua Theater
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas both feature the spectacular Aqua Theater – a revolutionary performance space that boasts the largest and deepest freshwater pool at sea. Spectators are treated to mesmerizing high-diving and aerial performances, with the cast making the most of the 30-foot diving platforms to entertain up to 600 people at a time.
Cirque Dreams and Dinner
The Cirque Dreams and Dinner experience onboard Norwegian Epic offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become immersed in a European-style circus extravaganza. The fast-paced show features acrobats, clowns, aerialists, and contortionists, all of whom perform amongst seated diners in the Spiegel Tent – the first big top at sea! A truly unforgettable experience.
FlowRider Surf Simulator
Want to experience the thrill of the surf without having to venture into the ocean? Royal Caribbean’s Quantum, Oasis and Freedom class ships each feature the incredible FlowRider surf simulator, where adrenaline junkies can get a feel for what it’s really like to surf on the ocean waves. If you’re not a surfer, no problem, you can still enjoy FlowRider. Riders can choose between the traditional standing surfing position and a seated boogie board position.
Planetarium
Take a journey into space with Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, the only cruise ship with an onboard planetarium. Spectators can lean back on the specially designed reclining seats in the luxury surroundings of the Illuminations Theater and take a virtual journey to the stars. Guest speakers and noted astronomers from the Royal Astronomical Society regularly present guest lectures onboard too, giving devoted stargazers the opportunity to learn from the leading minds in the field. An opportunity not to be missed.
Formula 1 Simulator
A must for adrenaline junkies. The amazing Formula 1 simulator from MSC Cruises lets guests experience the thrill of driving one of the most powerful racing vehicles on the planet. You’ll be able to choose from a selection of virtual tracks and gain an better understanding of exactly how much energy, brainpower and determination it takes to pull off the perfect lap. So realistic is the handling and movement of the simulator, you might even forget that you’re onboard a ship in the middle of the ocean.
Tangled: The Musical
Travel onboard Disney’s Magic cruise ship and you’ll be treated to an exclusive live production show of Tangled: The Musical. The show is a lively adaptation of Disney’s popular animated film Tangled. The live action show was created by an award-winning creative team and features three original songs by Alan Menken, the composer behind the music for Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. With sing-alongs, picture-perfect costumes and awe-inspiring performances, musicals don’t get much more magical than this.
Zip Wire
Do you have an adventurous spirit and a head for heights? If so you’ll love the zipline on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas and her fleetmates Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. This activity certainly isn’t for the faint hearted. Hovering 82 feet up in the air, the zip wire travels over the Boardwalk area far below, giving you amazing views as you zoom at lighting speed over your fellow passengers. Be warned: queues can build up quickly, so get to the launch site early to avoid disappointment.
The North Star
The North Star observation pod onboard Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas has been specially designed to give passengers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views over the ship and sea. The glass pod, which has room for 14 passengers at a time, will whisk you up to more than 300 feet above sea level on a gentle 15-minute ride. Where better to take your holiday selfies than in a floating pod with unparalleled views of the surrounding ocean?
Sky Diving
If you’ve always dreamed of skydiving but haven’t quite managed to sum up the courage to throw yourself out of a plane thousands of feet up in the air, you’re in luck. Royal Caribbean are offering guests aboard their Quantum-class ships the opportunity to try out skydiving without the need to get anywhere near a plane. The RipCord by iFLY is the world’s first ever skydiving simulator at sea. We challenge you to keep your face straight when you’re floating 23 feet up in the air with panoramic views of the ocean around you.
Dr Seuss Waterworks
The world’s first ever Dr Seuss-themed waterpark is set to take centre stage when Carnival Cruise Line’s latest ship, Carnival Horizon, sets sail on its debut voyage in April 2018. The colourful water park will feature fun-filled water attractions, including a 150-gallon tipping bucket and two exhilarating slides. The Cat in the Hat raft slide will take riders on an exciting 450-feet descent of twists and turns, while the Fun Things slide, which has been designed to suit all ages, will include special lighting effects.
Are you ready to have some fun aboard one of these spectacular ships? Cruise1st have some incredible cruise deals on offer from some of the world’s leading cruise lines. Start your search online today or give our experienced cruise specialists a call today on 1300 857 345.
Image Credits: Wilson Hul, Sam Howzit
