Cruise ship activities: A break from the norm
Contrary to what one might expect, there is no shortage of activities to do on floating hotels in the middle of the ocean. That’s because cruise ship companies like MSC, Carnival, Costa, Disney, and Princess Cruise Lines make sure to furnish their floating entertainment islands in the sea with a constant schedule of entertainment options for all ages in the entire family.
Just check the daily bulletin for an all-you-can-eat buffet selection of movies; poolside and water activities like simulated surfing, giant water slides, and more; casino fare like blackjack, poker, and roulette; sports like ping-pong, shuffleboard, mini-golf, basketball, rock-climbing, and even rope course; fitness options like jogging, lifting in the weight room, or yoga, pilates, and aerobic classes; or if you prefer to go out at night, bars – usually with live music – or discotheques to dance the night away.
These are all typical fares for cruise ship lovers. But what about activities that are a bit more unusual, off the beaten track from all the hoopla? Read on as we discuss a few entertainment options you might consider joining in the next time you find yourself on Noah’s Ark of Entertainment (also known as cruise ships).
Table Games
While this might seem like a low-key option to partake in, it represents a perfect opportunity to get to know some of your fellow passengers. Take a break from your (admittedly fun and addictive) habits and join in a friendly game of spades, bridge, or yes, even real-life bingo. Who knows? You could meet your lifelong partner in geekery in a game of Star Wars-themed Monopoly, Scrabble or Stratego. This is a great way to talk in a low-key environment over a mutual hobby, so don’t discount this for one of the flashier entertainment alternatives.
Wine Tasting
Enjoy a bit of a cultural experience while part of a multimedia extravaganza in the middle of a large body of water. Who says you cannot brush up on your viticultural knowledge before you arrive in Rome? And what is stopping you from showing off a little expertise of local grapes before you tour a Dalmatian vineyard? Also meet other enthusiasts of haute couture (or snobs, as they may turn out to be) and discuss your fellow disgust for the cheap taste of Merlot.
History Lecture
Because cruise ships tend to be whirlwind affairs, it is sometimes difficult to get a good grasp for the enormity of culture and history many of the places – especially in Europe – offer. There is simply hundreds of years of information to catch up on. Perhaps that visit to Istanbul was sweet but all too brief? Learn about the Selcuk’s role in the Ottoman Empire to gain a better, broader appreciation for the day-long tour you just took of the ancient city. Alternatively, mentally prep yourself for the medieval architecture you will marvel over in parts of Barcelona before you actually take a step onto the Catalan docks. Rest assured, a grander perspective on the place you have already or will be touring will only grow your imagination and appreciation for the place.
Ice Skating Show
Some cruise ships come equipped with ice skating rinks. That’s right, as absurd as it seems to have a floating giant chunk of ice floating in the middle of the Caribbean, these cruise ship lines are serious about a wide variety of entertainment options that surprise and delight their customers. Thanks to their dedication, you can enjoy a live show the likes of which merges athletic talent from the Olympic Games with a Disney-themed characters for all the family – and especially the kiddos – to get a kick out of.
