Planning a Cruise Vacation #3: On Board Activities - What Kinds of Activities Are Available On Ship?

Me, in front of the Carnival Dream, docked at Grand Cayman Island, 2013

The wonderful thing about cruising is that you can do as little, or as much, as you would like. Different cruise lines will offer different amenities - some lines offer climbing walls, indoor skydiving, bowling alleys, zip-lining, indoor ice skating rinks...the list goes on and on. All of the day's activities will be listed in daily newsletter that is delivered to each stateroom - you can see what's going on at a glance. 

Here's an example of the front cover of the 'Fun Times' - Carnival's Daily Newsletter

There are some attractions that most cruise ships offer:

• Shopping: Once the ship is in international waters, the duty free shops open. Many great deals are to be had, especially on liquor, cigarettes, watches and jewelry. (Remember! Tax and duty free!) Cruise lines will also have souvenirs and a variety of items at any number of price points. My advice: watch for special shopping events, where selected items will be on special offer. (Example: I bought my husband a Citizen Eco-Drive Diamond Dial watch at a watch event on our first cruise. The link doesn't go to the *exact* watch, but one very similar. We paid around $100 - a pretty good deal, if I say so myself.)
• Gambling: Want to try your hand at the casino? Just like the duty-free shopping, once the ship is in international waters, the casino will be open! 
• Live Music: plenty of options to listen to live music all over the ship - just look at your list of events in your daily newsletter!
• Pools, Water Slides, Hot Tubs: Plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water
• Sunbathing: Just want to lounge in the sun? Plenty of opportunities to lounge on a sundeck.
• Spa: Want to get a massage? Need a manicure? How about a new haircut or hair color? Visit the spa!
• Bars and Nightclubs: Want to get a drink, or dance the night away? Go for it!
• Library: Need a book to read while on board? Most ships have a library. It doesn't matter if you just want a quiet space to unwind, check out the Library! (Get it? CHECK OUT the Library? LOL!)
• Shuffleboard/MiniGolf/Basketball/Walking Track: Most ships have an outdoor sports court
• EAT! Plenty of buffets and restaurants. If you're hungry on a cruise, that's your own fault.
• Work Out: Need to work off that burger you just ate? Most ships have a gym on board, and the Spa might offer yoga or spinning classes. (Check your daily newsletter for details)
• Go See a Show: Broadway style shows, complete with costumes, music, and choreography! Concerts! Comedians! 

The inside of the 'Carnival Fun Times'

Many cruise lines have groups for children and teens - most even offer babysitting services late into the evening. Additional fees may be charged for these services, but it might be worth it to know that your children are in good hands while you and your Sweetheart have Date Night. :)