I recently read a comment from a new cruiser who said, “unless you like trivia or the casino, there’s nothing to do on sea days.”

What? If I didn’t love the beach so much, I would love having all sea days.

Sea days on a cruise ship are packed with activities, entertainment, and opportunities to relax or socialize. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically available on most major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, and others:

Daytime Activities

Poolside Fun

• Pools & hot tubs
• Water slides (on many ships)
• Poolside games (belly flop contests, trivia, ice carving)

Sports & Fitness

• Mini-golf
• Basketball/volleyball courts
• Rock climbing walls (Royal Caribbean)
• Fitness center & classes (yoga, spin, Zumba)

Games & Competitions

• Trivia contests
• Bingo (usually with a fee)
• Scavenger hunts
• Deck parties or line dancing classes

Enrichment Activities

• Guest speaker talks or destination lectures
• Cooking demos or mixology classes
• Art auctions & galleries
• Craft classes (e.g., scrapbooking, jewelry making)

Food Experiences

• Sea day brunch (Carnival)
• Specialty dining events (teas, chef’s tables, sushi demos)
• Free food 24/7 (buffet, pizza, soft-serve, snacks)
• Afternoon tea or themed treats

Entertainment

• Main theater matinees (comedy, magic, musicals)
• Live music at various lounges
• Game shows (like Family Feud or Deal or No Deal)
• Movies on the big screen (poolside or indoor theaters)

Relaxation & Wellness

• Spa treatments (massages, facials, thermal suites)
• Quiet areas like the Serenity adults-only deck (Carnival)
• Reading or napping in a lounger
• Thermal suites or salt rooms (available on some ships)

Shopping & Promos

• Jewelry, watches, and duty-free sales
• Free giveaways or raffles
• Liquor tastings (rum, whiskey, etc.)

Kids & Teens

• Kids’ clubs with age-appropriate activities
• Teen lounges and social events
• Family scavenger hunts or craft time

Nightlife on Sea Days

• Production shows or comedy acts
• Live music and dancing
• Piano bars, karaoke, silent discos
• Nightclubs or themed parties (white night, 80s night)
• Casino tournaments or gaming

We typically cruise with family or friends. Sea days gives us a chance to play games and hang out with each other. Each family usually brings a game we can all play. LCR is a big hit with the grandkids because we play for wrapped candies. Phase 10, Bank, Five Crowns, Farkle are enjoyed by everyone.
Someone always challenges others into one-on-one basketball, cornhole, foosball and ping pong. A little competition never hurt anyone! It’s a great time to bond with each other.

I also enjoy going to afternoon tea but it seems like we are always so busy that I rarely get a chance to enjoy this complimentary treat onboard.

I love reading. I always take a book and my Kindle when I cruise. I do this just in case I get a few moments on my balcony or in a quiet spot on the ship.

Adults can enjoy a few hours on the Serenity Deck while the kids hang out at kids camp. There’s so many options for spending a day at sea. Be lazy. Be active. Make new friends. Renew relationships with loved ones. To me, there’s no way I find sea days boring!

Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgment with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors