Onboard cruise ship activities & entertainment

Both adults and kids can learn a lot while on a cruise ship. Youth-friendly programs like Edutainment are a great way for youngsters to learn about the wildlife in regions where Princess sails before getting there. Pretty soon, they'll be telling their parents all about the flora and fauna of Tahiti. Children who participate in hands-on programs exploring nature, science and fun.

Older passengers looking for some brain stimulation during their time onboard can join wine tasting seminars, photography how-to's and dance lessons that will make that New Zealand cruise ten times more enriching. Many cruises also offer cooking demonstrations, destination talks and cultural presentations that give guests a deeper understanding of the regions they're visiting.

From gym facilities with the latest equipment to full-size lap pools as well as basketball and tennis courts, the amenities onboard a Princess cruise ship put most resorts to shame. Beyond the gym, ships also offer jogging tracks, mini golf and poolside games, plus multiple top-deck pools and hot tubs that make the upper decks a popular gathering spot for families. Princess has trained youth counselors on staff too, ready to take care of kids and give them a high-five as soon as they climb out of the pool.

The entire family can get in shape together at the Lotus Fitness Center, or, if passengers are looking for more time in the sun, they can splash around at one of the many top-deck pools.

Travelers looking to relax can also indulge for several hours at the Lotus Spa, which offers a full array of luxurious treatments including facials, full-body massages and slimming wraps — perfect for the day before disembarking on a Caribbean cruise shore excursion. Wellness programs often include yoga sessions, stretching classes and group fitness experiences designed to help guests recharge while at sea.

A number of world-class performers got their start on cruise ships, from vocal sirens and rock bands to gravity-defying acrobats and mystifying magicians. Almost every evening is filled with more than one type of entertainment performance every night, along with a production show so that passengers can pick and choose what they're in the mood for on a particular night. Feel like dancing? Put on some comfortable shoes and head to one of the many dance floors, where awesome DJs and live musicians will play genres ranging from hip-hop to salsa.

If travelers want to laugh until they cry, they can peruse the evening entertainment schedule for a comedy or improv show that will undoubtedly knock their socks off. That's not to mention the magic of Movies Under the Stars.

The schedule doesn't quiet down between meals. Trivia contests, bingo, themed parties and interactive game shows fill the daily program — quick, low-commitment events that double as social mixers and a great way to meet other guests. Whether you jump in for the prize, the laughs or the crowd, there's almost always something happening on a different deck.

For travelers who like to live in the moment, the casino is a few steps away.  Cross your fingers and hope that luck is on your side before sitting down at a blackjack or poker table. All Princess Cruises' casinos feature an extensive cocktail menu, so guests can sample amazing libations before tossing a pair of die onto a craps table.

From sunrise yoga to midnight comedy, your day at sea is yours to fill — and your night, too. Whatever your idea of a great vacation looks like, the daily schedule makes it easy to find the next thing to try. View Princess cruises and start planning your next adventure.

Learn all about the amazing activities available on a Princess Cruises vacation.