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No matter your age, there are plenty of fun things to do at night on a cruise.
I can’t tell you how often I get asked what there is to do at night after the ship has set sail from port. So many people think they’ll feel trapped once the ship is out to sea—like they’re stuck on a floating prison. Other people think cruises are for “old people” who want to turn in as soon as the sun sets. But rest assured, that’s simply not the case.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet night of good conversation among friends or to dance the night away, there are tons of great ways to spend your nights on a cruise ship. Young or old, it’s impossible not to have a good time every evening of your cruise.
Here is a glimpse at just a handful of the fun things to do at night on a cruise.
Live entertainment
All of the major cruise lines pride themselves on their live entertainment. Most ships have an entire team of singers and dancers dedicated to bringing you amazing Broadway-style shows every other day. But it doesn’t end there, each ship also flies in special guest performers for the evenings the staff entertainers are taking a break. Their diverse talents range from magic to comedy to acrobatics and more.
But live entertainment on a cruise ship is about more than just stage shows. Each cruise has several singers, bands, or DJs that perform in the bars, lounges, foyers, and other popular spots around the ship. And there is almost always a piano bar where you can request your favorite song and sing along.
Specialty dining
In addition to the usual dining rooms and buffets, most cruise ships also have alternative dining options. For a small fee, you can enjoy a unique dining experience away from the hustle and bustle. Specialty restaurants might include Japanese teppanyaki, a steakhouse, or an Italian pizzeria. Make a reservation and share an intimate evening with your better half or share a bottle of wine—or two—with new friends.
Games
Cruise ships are notorious for their over-the-top renditions of popular TV game shows. Newlywed games, scavenger hunts, quiz shows are just a few of the common games you might find throughout the evening. You’ll get a good chuckle watching fellow cruisers take part in ridiculous competitions. And if you’re up for it, you may even volunteer to be part of the action.
Pro Tip: Bingo is a big deal on cruise ships. In fact, you can find one or more sessions per day. Jackpots are usually pretty lofty, so it attracts a broad range of ages.
Movies
Most cruise ships have a massive screen above one or more of their swimming pools. Each evening, they show popular movies on the big screen, which you can watch from a nearby lounger or while floating in the pool. Some ships even offer free bags of popcorn, and if the weather is brisk, they just might bring you a blanket to wrap up in. If your ship doesn’t have an outdoor cinema, there will likely be an indoor equivalent in one of the theaters.
Pro Tip: When a Disney movie premieres on land, it also debuts on the ship. You can see a brand new movie at sea.
Dancing
If you really want to pain the town—ship—red, put on your dancing shoes and head to one of the many dance spots. Most ships have at least one nightclub with a rocking DJ. Most nights there will be a late-night dance party in the club or under the moonlit sky on the Lido deck. There will likely be dancing in the main foyer and other live music clubs around the ship. If dancing is what you like to do, you won’t be disappointed.
Pro Tip: On most ships, the cruise staff host a 30-minute dance class highlighting a popular line dance or ballroom dance. It usually aligns with the theme of the evening dance party so you can put it into practice later that night.
So, still don’t think there are any fun things to do at night on a cruise? Didn’t think so. Want to share your ideas? Post them on the Wanderlust Wayfarer Facebook group.