Cruise holidays are an excellent way to enjoy a relaxed break discovering stunning new destinations, but for some guests, it’s the cruise ship nightlife when things really come alive.
With cruise holidays these days attracting a younger crowd, cruise lines have upped the ante when it comes to delivering the best cruises for nightlife.
In this blog, we take a look at the best places to be when the sun goes down, sharing which cruise line has the best nightlife and where you need to look for the ultimate party cruise ships.
Which are the best party cruise lines?
When it comes to the ultimate cruises for nightlife, there are a few that stand out above the rest. These cruise lines are known for their outstanding onboard entertainment, top-notch DJs, lively atmosphere and commitment to bringing the fun!
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean is renowned for its high-energy onboard experiences and varied cruise nightlife. The cruise line boasts a variety of nightclubs, bars, and lounges, all featuring different themes and music genres, making it one of the best party cruise lines.
You’ll find plenty of choices when it comes to nightlife no matter which one of its cruise ships you choose to sail on, from dancing on deck to live acoustic music in a pub. For a piano-side sing-along, visit Schooner Bar or head to On Air Club for karaoke competitions.
However, for seeing in the small hours, Club Twenty on Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas is one of the best cruise nightclubs.
Designed in a chic South Beach style, this venue has living statues and jubilant dancers moving against a backdrop of sheer white drapes and pulsing neon lights. Playing some of the hottest tunes around, Club Twenty will have you dancing for hours on end.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers an excellent variety of nightlife options for its cruise guests. With Norwegian Cruise Line’s Freestyle cruising concept, the vibe is relaxed, while its modern fleet has a range of fun-filled features that make it one of the best party cruises for young adults.
Its cruise ship, Norwegian Epic is brimming with round-the-clock entertainment, activities and bars, just perfect if you’re looking for one of the best party cruises for singles.
Amongst the 12 bars on board, you’ll find the iconic Svedka Ice Bar. In this frozen chamber, sip your super-chilled cocktails while hues of blue, green and purple light dance against the ice sculptures, mirroring the vision of the Northern Lights.
Another favourite on Norwegian Epic is the Bliss Ultra Lounge and Nightclub, which combines the cruise line’s signature bowling alley with a high-energy Las Vegas nightclub theme.
Don’t miss out on its White Hot Night, where a white wonderland is the setting for the ultimate all-night dance party. With top DJs spinning the latest tunes, music videos playing on plasma screens and an array of dancers, it is undoubtedly, one of the best cruise nightclubs at sea.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line has a reputation as the party cruise line, referring to its ships as ‘fun ships’ and its event itinerary as ‘fun times’. Therefore, it’s another favourite for those seeking the best cruise for nightlife, perfect for guests looking to let down their hair and enjoy some fantastic festivities.
Carnival Cruise Line is also known for putting on themed nights, such as the Mega Deck Party (hosted on the Lido Deck) and White Nights (all guests are encouraged to wear all white). You’ll also find 80s Rock-N-Glow, 90’s, and Motown-inspired nights.
The onboard nightclubs are unique in their style, too. For example, One Small Step on Carnival Valor was designed around the moon landing. You’ll also find Frankenstein’s Lab on Carnival Miracle and Liquid, a show lounge transforming into a nightclub, on Carnival Sunshine.
With top DJs, toe-tapping tunes and fantastic décor in all, you’ll be sure to have the best nights, whichever you choose.
Virgin Voyages
With its maiden cruise in 2021, Virgin Voyages is still relatively new to the cruise scene. Aiming to appeal to a younger demographic, it offers a different ambience to traditional cruises and offers some of the best party cruises for young adults.
As an adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages focuses on fun and relaxation. Its’ immersive entertainment has a festival-like line-up, with a rotation of comedians, musicians, magicians and speciality artists.
Its impressive two-storey, three-bar nightclub, The Manor, has a 70’s punk vibe. At night, its dance floor is soon filled with guests enjoying the live music and DJs.
However, perhaps one of Virgin Voyages’ most enticing features for party-goers is The Beach Club at Bimini, a private resort where cruise guests have exclusive access when their ship docks. Amidst the idyllic island landscapes, you’ll find pools with all-day DJs offering a relaxed, chic party vibe.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises offers a more traditional feel to its cruise nightlife. It has an outstanding variety of bars and lounges where you can start your evening chilling out with a hand-crafted cocktail or sampling a few of its many wine selections.
As the evening progresses, the retro-chic nightclub Quasar provides a stylish venue for those looking to dance the night away. With a sleek design, the club features a multicoloured light show, a bubble DJ booth and a large dance floor.
To discover some of its best cruise ship nightlife events, join one of the themed evenings throughout the cruise, such as the silent discos or 90s nights.
If you’re seeking to enjoy some fun and lively cruise nightlife, there are plenty of choices. From full-out fun party cruise lines to themed events and sophisticated, trendy nightclubs, there is something for everyone.
Whether travelling solo or with friends, these cruises offer plenty of opportunities to dance, mingle, and make lasting memories. So, pack your bags and get ready to party on the high seas!
For more information on cruise nightlife or to book a cruise holiday, please get in touch with our cruise specialists.
