Long gone are the days when cruise ship entertainment simply meant after-dinner dancing to a live orchestra and passenger talent shows. Today cruises feature fantastic choices that get more thrilling every year, with offerings varying by cruise line and ship. Shipboard entertainment has been elevated with creative shows, unique performance areas and state-of-the-art productions.

High-tech light, music and water shows on the top deck are just some of the unforgettable entertainment enhancements designed to captivate you on your cruise vacation. Innovative technology also includes raising the bar on theater productions, such as a two-story stage with a 270-degree LED projection screen that adds energy and light to shows for one-of-a-kind experience.  State-of-the-art kitchens host cooking demonstrations and classes to tickle the palate of foodies.

Chic lounges provide the perfect setting for all kinds of entertainers – vocalists, comedians, musicians and  karaoke contestants. Some ships have rinks with ice-skating shows! You won’t believe you are at sea as you enjoy incredible spectaculars featuring professional skaters that will astound you with jaw-dropping jumps, lifts and spins.  Laugh until  it hurts at comedy clubs and shows.  Family-friendly performances are early and later in the evening are for adults-only.

Theaters showcase Broadway shows and  Cirque du Soleil-style performances. Water-based acrobatic shows take place at an outdoor pool-based stage area with 30-foot-high diving platforms and will delight everyone in the family.

Dance the night away at discos, many with DJ’s spinning the hottest tunes. Jam out with a variety of musicians and house bands who will perform your favorite songs from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, as well as current selections. Sway to the music until sunrise and participate in unforgettable themed parties. Fun evenings can be spent joining in sing-alongs at the always popular piano bars, where you can request your favorites.

Live music abounds on most, if not all, ships, adding an uplifting ambiance to your cruise vacation. You will be tapping your toes or dancing to a variety of styles including standards, top-40 favorites, reggae, salsa, fun poolside DJs and bands. Chill-out with live jazz and blues performances at a variety of popular venues. You will feel like you are watching the real thing when you watch talented impersonators.

Grab a mic and coax out your inner rock star or country crooner at exhilarating karaoke competitions. Of course, if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, you can relax to the soothing sounds of a string quartet or a harpist.

Movie aficionados, music lovers and sports fans will relish the over-the-top offerings. Some ships provide blockbusters, concerts and live sporting events on a gigantic screen under the stars on the top deck. Extra perks include the comfort of a toasty blanket and popcorn.

Immerse yourself in the IMAX experience taking movie-going to another level. First-run Hollywood features, recent hits and fascinating IMAX documentaries are all more exciting in IMAX.

Special 3D and 4D theaters have amazing  video affects that will make you feel part of the experience — with wind in your hair, a splash of water and seats that make you feel like you are part of the action. Not for the faint-hearted, as your spine tingles with thrills and chills.

Innovative multimedia theaters combine virtual concerts, robotics, aerial shows and video projection to provide technology-enhanced spectacles that will leave you awe-struck as dazzling acrobatic displays take place in the air above your head.

Enjoy dinner and a mystery or magic show whereby passengers are intertwined with the story as a joke-cracking cast mixes in with diners at select restaurants. Strolling musicians and a “stowaway pianist” delight guests as they sporadically appear around the ship with impromptu sing-alongs.

For many, casino games provide an exhilarating level of entertainment. Challenge Lady Luck at blackjack, poker and slots among others. Take a few spins at the roulette wheel and register for exciting tournaments.

These are among the entertainment options available that will make your family’s cruise vacation even more memorable and fun.

For more information on exciting cruise line entertainment choices and cruise deals, visit us at Cruise.com or contact one of our cruise experts at 1-888-776-0659.