A few hours spent relaxing poolside is holiday heaven for many people. If you’re going on a cruise holiday, you can expect today’s cruise ship pools to rival many of those found on land. So, if you love to dip your toes in the water, check out these cruise ship pools that are making a real splash.
Best indoor pool
Head to Royal Caribbean’s Solarium for ultimate serenity. This adult-only indoor pool retreat features swimming pools and whirlpools, as well as cascading lagoons on select ships, all cocooned under a crystal canopy with the most spectacular views out from the front of the vessel.
Ships: All Royal Caribbean ships
Best for bubbles
A hot-tub experience can feel like a luxury in itself, but step into the oversized thalassotherapy pool on Holland America’s Pinnacle-class cruise ship, Koningsdam, and you’ll enjoy a whole new level of indulgence. With body massages, a rain shower and twinkling overhead lights, all set in elegantly comfortable surroundings, the therapeutic effects of this spa feature will soon work their magic. While there, you can also soak up the benefits of the infrared sauna, steam room and cold-water bucket shower before relaxing back in their ceramic lounge to enjoy the views.
Ships: Holland America Line, Koningsdam
Best for slides
With water slides wilder and wackier than ever, these fun-filled features are not just for kids; adults love them too! For a real adrenaline rush, Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships offer five multi-storey waterslides, including two free-fall slides regarded as the fastest water slides on a cruise ship. Twisting, turning and pulling up to 4Gs, these slides each feature a big loop, meaning you’ll not only slide down but also back uphill again. There are also some colourful, family fun slides for those seeking a more leisurely pace.
Ships: Norwegian Cruise Line, Breakaway Class ships
Best for kids
The bright and zany water parks at Carnival Waterworks provide hours of fun for younger children. They’ll be shrieks of excitement as they explore the straight, twisting and side-by-side slides, kiddie spay zones with water cannons and fountains, and the giant tipping bucket. Each ship has a slightly different but equally thrilling configuration of features.
Ships: Available on all Carnival Cruise Lines’ ships, except Carnival Celebration & Jubilee, where it will be coming soon
Best for partying
Virgin Voyages know how to host the coolest of pool parties. With the Scarlet Lady transporting you to their exclusive Beach Club at Bimini in the Bahamas, the DJ-led epic tunes and irresistible cocktails will keep you dancing until dawn. But it’s not just the resort pool parties that rock with Virgin Voyages; back on board, the fun continues at their premier nightclub, The Manor.
Ships: Virgin Voyages, Scarlet Lady
Best for views
Onboard the MSC Divina, the views from the infinity pool stretch seemingly out towards the horizon while the turquoise of its waters merges harmoniously with the sea and sky. This quiet beauty offers sophistication and glamour, characteristic of MSC Cruises, providing the perfect remedy for relaxation.
Ships: MSC Cruises, Divina
Best for adults
If you’re seeking a haven to unwind and rejuvenate, The Retreat Pool on Royal Princess is the place to be. Part of the Lotus Spa, this spacious, private adult-only facility offers more seating than the pools on other Princess vessels, with Retreat Cabanas for that extra special luxury experience. Order one of the ship’s picnic baskets, packed with gourmet treats and premium wine, and you’ll want to linger even longer. And, as day turns to night, see The Retreat transform into an outdoor space, where you can enjoy drinks and music.
Ships: Princess Cruises, Royal Princess
There’s a pool to suit every mood of your cruise holiday, helping you to have fun, relax and make the best memories.
