An outstanding cruise vacation has many components. Among them are exotic destinations around the world, unforgettable shore excursions, delicious food and drinks, all kinds of onboard activities, and of course the ever-energetic cruise nightlife. Tying it all together is great music, an essential component of a fun time at sea. Carnival’s cruise music, whether it’s rousing piano renditions of classic sing-along songs, pounding beats provided by world-class DJs at the nightclub, or live music played by a band, offers a remarkable soundtrack to your sojourn.
The Best Bars, Clubs and Parties
Start your cruise by listening to great music at the Sailaway Party, a lively kick-off designed to transform new passengers from “land people” to “sea people.” You’ll soon get your sea legs while dancing under the stars and can relive the fun once again at a Mega Deck Party, where a DJ, your cruise director and talented entertainment staff get the crowd going on the moonlit Lido Deck. All ages are welcome to enjoy the party and participate in games, giveaways and more.
It’s a different scene in the 21-and-up Piano Bar, a unique setting where you can sit, drink in hand, at a piano key-inspired circular bar wrapped around a live pianist’s podium. Request a favorite song and sing along if you wish, or just tap your feet and take in the atmosphere that arises when classic tunes and classic cocktails mingle at night. Live music is often featured at other onboard bars too, including tropical-tinged island rock that has you swaying your hips at RedFrog Pub and the poolside RedFrog Rum Bar.
Every onboard nightclub (for guests 18 and over) has a top DJ trained at the award-winning DJ IRIE’s Spin’iversity. These music masters know just how to get the crowds dancing until last call with the latest club hits and old school tracks alike. Look out for themed parties at the nightclub for even more fun.
Teens aged 15 to 17 can head to a nightclub of their own, Club 02, where pop hits and karaoke jam sessions are just part of the fun, along with movies, sports and video games. Teens’ Party Time, for guests aged 12 to 17, arranges parties with themes ranging from Red Carpet to Mexican Fiesta, all with endless music to accompany the fun times. Great music also gets the dance parties going at Circle C, a cool hangout spot for 12 to 14 year olds.
Spectacular Shows
Playlist Productions is the epitome of onboard music offerings. These show-stopping musical productions transform your favorite songs onstage with incredible live performances by a cast of professional singers and dancers. A wide variety of productions, including Latin Nights, The Brits, Epic Rock, 80s Pop to the Max and more, mean there’s something to suit all musical tastes. Stage Shows provide another opportunity to witness great live musicians, singers and dancers, all dressed up on stage in glitzy costumes. All manner of entertainers, including fellow guests who want to show off their talents, also take to the stage at the Limelight Lounge on Promenade Deck.
Exciting Audience Participation
The live performers, DJs and entertainment staff on board your cruise are the best in the business, but talented and enthusiastic guests can attempt to give them a run for their money at events encouraging audience participation.
For a slightly more low-key way to show off your talents, participate in live-action karaoke, available on every ship. This isn’t a run-of-the-mill karaoke night at your local bar — you can sing your own version of any song you can possibly imagine, covering all eras and all genres of music. Guests of all ages are welcome to step into the spotlight.
A Great Cruise Means Great Music
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or week-long adventure, your cruise experience is made all the more memorable by the great music offerings on board. You’ll never forget the catchy tunes that get stuck in your head after a night sipping cool drinks at a poolside bar or the Broadway-worthy song-and-dance performances your family witnessed on stage. From the sounds of the Sailaway Party that defined your first day at sea to the biggest pop hit of the summer that your kids couldn’t stop singing, music and happy memories often become inseparable.
(Note: All Carnival cruises feature great music, but onboard activities and amenities do vary by ship.)
