Waterslides, laser tag mazes, and virtual reality gaming aren’t for everyone. Some folks prefer a more subtle approach to entertainment, such as those that favor human interaction. This can include everything from science demos to pop culture attractions. 

Fortunately, several ships offer a more traditional take in ambiance and entertainment. For example, the five Royal Class ships in the Princess fleet live up to their pedigree: They are gracious, elegant, outfitted with stunning décor that sparkles in all the right places (namely the glittering Piazza and enchanting dancing fountains). Passengers can also enjoy poolside movie screenings, Discovery at SEA science activities, on-board singing competitions, and decadent "Chocolate Journeys" tastings and pairings.

Embrace the party vibe by lounging poolside sipping frozen cocktails by day, followed by drinking, dancing, and bar-hopping by night. The cruise industry’s largest and newest mega-ships satisfy both requirements — and offer options for every party personality.

Social butterflies aboard Norwegian's newest mega-ships (Breakaway, Getaway, Escape, Bliss, Joy, and Encore) can spread their wings and let loose at dozens of bars and lounges. These include The District Brewhouse, The Cellars, Bliss Ultra Lounge, and the Beatles-themed Cavern Club. There are several whiskey, mojito, and martini bars, as well. Meanwhile, don't miss the themed Glow Parties out on the pool deck. 

Travel’s other superpower is its ability to educate and enrich. And, with a new port to explore each day, cruising is an excellent option for anyone looking to sample a region’s top cultural offerings — from the medieval old towns and fortresses of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Baltic to the ancient temples and monasteries of Southeast Asia — plus museums and archaeological sites galore.

Oceania's six ships are sure to delight culture vultures. The Oceania Marina and Oceania Riviera vessels, which hold 1,250 passengers each, sail to some of the world's top cultural locales (think: Northern Europe, the Middle East, and Greek Isles). They also feature multimillion-dollar art collections and recent refurbishments. Meanwhile, the cruise line's more intimate vessels, Insignia, Nautica, and Regatta, offer itineraries throughout Asia and South America. 

If sampling authentic local cuisine is a priority — whether strolling through a Mediterranean or Asian food market or partaking in cooking classes focused on fresh, local ingredients — cruising offers an excellent opportunity to do so. And, if you're sailing aboard a small luxury ship, the local culinary immersion and programming can be all the more rewarding.

Foodies will appreciate Windstar’s partnership with the James Beard Foundation, which offers guests a decadent taste of all the local flavors. Additionally, each of the line’s six vessels — Wind Star, Wind Spirit, Wind Surf, Star Breeze, Star Pride, and Star Legend — offer culinary-themed shore excursions. These include hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market strolls, as well as winery, brewery, and distillery tours.

Whether luxury is part of your everyday lifestyle or a special something that you reward yourself with following a milestone birthday, anniversary, or accomplishment, cruising aboard one of the world’s most sophisticated ships is a special indulgence, combining the finest in interior design, food and wine, service, wellness, and sightseeing.

Regent’s newest ships, Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor, both feature spacious all-balcony suites, five-star service, and six dining venues. Plus, the cruise line's all-inclusive pricing (which includes airfare, shore excursions, top-shelf beverages, and staff gratuities) makes sailings the ultimate indulgence.  

Entertainment abounds on most cruise ships, from piano bars and nightclubs to theatrical productions and live cover bands. However, one cruise line has created a dedicated space that ensures that "the rhythm is gonna get you" — whether you like classical, pop, blues, or rock 'n roll.

The three newest Holland America ships — Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam — feature the largest incarnation of the line's Music Walk entertainment area. Here, you'll find The Rolling Stone Rock Room, B.B. King's Blues Club, Lincoln Center Stage, and Billboard Onboard. Each offers a roster of live performances, from rock 'n roll and classical string quartets to Memphis R&B to chart-topping pop.

Whether it’s icebergs and wildlife spotting in Antarctica or volcanoes views and fjords in Scandinavia, remote adventures await board your next sailing. Enjoy luxurious staterooms, fine dining, awe-inspiring activities, and more — all from the comfort of your ship.

Newcomer Atlas Ocean Voyages (which made its debut in 2021 with its first Explorer Class ship, the 200-passenger World Navigator) offers all the amenities of a boutique luxury hotel — including three gourmet dining venues, the first L’Occitane spa at sea, a heated pool, and two hot tubs — plus all the adventure of a polar-class expedition ship sailing to remote locales.

Some people just love the adrenaline rush that comes with action-packed adventures. Fortunately, over the past 20 years, cruise ships have risen to the challenge by outfitting their vessels with waterslides, zip lines, virtual-reality gaming, and more — plus live entertainment offerings and other thrill-seeking activities.

The newest ships in the MSC fleet (MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, and MSC Meraviglia) offer a wide range of activities for passengers of all ages. Thrill-seekers can race along the longest zip lines at sea and race down the waterslides located on the top-deck Adventure (or the Polar AquaPark on Meraviglia). You'll also find Formula 1 racing simulators and two bowling alleys.