Set Sail with Style

Our Guide to Theme Cruises and How to Choose the Right One for You

February 2023

Are you tired of the same old cruise experience? Why not spice things up with a theme cruise? From music and comedy to food and wine, theme cruises offer a unique and exciting way to enjoy your vacation. In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know about theme cruises and how to choose the right one for you.


1. What are theme cruises?

Theme cruises are cruises that cater to a specific interest or hobby. They typically feature special activities, events, and entertainment related to the theme, such as concerts, workshops, tastings, and more. Some popular themes include music, food and wine, sports, comedy, and wellness.


2. How to choose the right theme cruise

When choosing a theme cruise, it's important to consider your interests and preferences. Do you want to learn about wine tasting or attend a music festival? Do you prefer a more laid-back or active cruise experience? You'll also want to research the cruise line and ship to make sure they have the amenities and services you want.


3. Popular theme cruises

There are countless theme cruises to choose from, but some of the most popular include: 


- Music cruises: These cruises feature live music performances from popular artists and bands, such as the Rock Legends Cruise and the Country Music Cruise. EDM cruises like Groove Cruise are very popular for those who want to dance the night away with your  favorite DJs from around the world. 


- Food and wine cruises: These cruises offer culinary experiences, such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and gourmet dining. Examples include the Food & Wine Classic Cruise and the Culinary Cruise.


- Sports cruises: These cruises cater to sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as golfing, surfing, and fishing. The Super Bowl Cruise and the Baseball Greats Cruise are two examples.


- Comedy cruises: These cruises feature stand-up comedians and comedy shows, such as the Punchliner Comedy Club on Carnival Cruise Line and the Second City Comedy Troupe on Norwegian Cruise Line.


4. What to expect on a theme cruise

On a theme cruise, you can expect to immerse yourself in the theme through activities, events, and entertainment. For example, on a music cruise, you might attend concerts, meet and greets with artists, and music workshops. On a food and wine cruise, you might participate in wine tastings, cooking classes, and gourmet dining experiences.


5. Tips for a successful theme cruise

To make the most of your theme cruise experience, here are some tips:

- Research the theme and cruise line before booking.

- Pack accordingly for the theme, such as comfortable shoes for a sports cruise or a nice outfit for a food and wine cruise.

- Plan your activities in advance and book any reservations or tickets as soon as possible.

- Participate in as many theme-related activities as you can, but also take time to relax and enjoy the cruise experience.


In conclusion, theme cruises offer a unique and exciting way to enjoy your vacation. With a little research and planning, you can find the perfect theme cruise for your interests and preferences. Whether you're a music lover, foodie, sports enthusiast, or comedy fan, there's a theme cruise out there for you. Bon voyage!

Top Themed Cruises for 2023

  • 01.

    Groove Cruise: EDM fans and artists will converge on the Celebrity Summit departing from Miami on January 19, 2023, for a four-night voyage. The event will feature a variety of performances and immersive experiences. The Groove Cruise is a music-themed cruise that features live performances by popular electronic dance music (EDM) artists and DJs. The cruise originated in 2004 and has since become one of the most popular music cruises in the world.

    The Groove Cruise typically takes place over a period of four to five days and includes stops at various ports of call, as well as onboard activities and events. Passengers on the cruise can expect to enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in EDM, as well as themed parties, poolside activities, and other forms of entertainment.

  • 02.

    Aventura Dance Cruise: Join Victor Manuelle, Hector Acosta "El Torito", and La Maxima 79 for a celebration of Latin music on Jewel of the Seas from Miami from February 3 to 7, 2023.

  • 03.

    Rock Legends Cruise: Roger Daltrey, Dee Purple, George Thorogood and the Destroyers, Randy Bachman, and other rock stars will take the stage on Liberty of the Seas from Miami from February 13 to 17, 2023.

  • 04.

    Big Nude Boat 2023: The Carnival Pride will be setting sail from Tampa on February 12-26, 2023. This unique mid-winter voyage offers multiple days at sea and exciting port stops throughout the Caribbean. Clothing-optional fun awaits!

  • 05.

    Star Trek - The Cruise: Embark on the ultimate immersive Star Trek adventure with Star Trek - The Cruise! From February 24 to March 3, 2023, fans and a star-studded crew will sail on Navigator of the Seas from Los Angeles. Experience nightly shows, costume parties, and panels, all tailored to delight and engage fellow Trekkies. Live long and prosper!

  • 06.

    Grand Prix of Monaco Cruise: Looking to satisfy your need for speed or just enjoy watching world-class Formula One drivers maneuver through a Grand Prix course? Join the Grand Prix of Monaco Cruise and experience one of the most famous races held each May in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Windstar Cruises’ Wind Surf will be your luxurious home away from home for a 7-night itinerary departing from Barcelona, Spain. The cruise will take you to stunning Mediterranean ports of call including Palamos, Spain; Sanury-sur-Mer, France; Cannes, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Portoferraio, Italy; and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. As a guest, you'll have exclusive access to special Windstar private Prix du Monde events and two days of Formula One time trials and racing. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate combination of luxury cruising and world-renowned sporting events!

  • 07.

    The Sci-Fi Sea Cruise: Get ready to embark on an out-of-this-world adventure with The Sci-Fi Sea Cruise, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the beloved British cult-TV franchise, Doctor Who. Join at least one doctor and other cast members and crew aboard the world's largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, on October 22-29, 2023. Departing from Port Canaveral, FL, the itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; Puerta Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Passengers will have the opportunity to participate in story readings, mini video episodes, and interactive audio adventures. Plus, you'll get to meet and interact with the cast and crew, including Frazer Hines, Sylvester McCoy, Eric Roberts, Eliza Roberts, and Sophia Myles. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this incredible Sci-Fi experience at sea!

  • 08.

    Perry Golf Cruises Aboard Azamara: Attention all golf enthusiasts! If you're looking for the ultimate way to combine your love for golf with a luxury boutique cruise experience, look no further than Perry Golf Cruises aboard Azamara. In partnership with Azamara, Perry Golf will be hosting dozens of golf-themed cruises in 2023, 2024, and 2025, all onboard Azamara's fleet of 700-passenger cruise ships. With itineraries that span the globe, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the world's most breathtaking destinations while playing 4 to 6 rounds of golf at top courses in each location. Departure ports and itineraries vary, including destinations such as Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand & Australia, Scotland, Japan, South America, Iberian Peninsula, and Mediterranean Islands. Don't miss out on this unique and unforgettable golf and cruise experience!

  • 09.

    Halloween on the High Seas: Looking for some spooky family fun this fall? Look no further than Disney Cruise Line's "Halloween on the High Seas" cruises! Available on multiple ships, including the Disney Dream, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wonder, and Disney Wish, these 3-to-14 night cruises offer a perfect combination of Disney's usual magic and festive Halloween fun. With departure ports including Miami, Port Canaveral, San Diego, and New York, and itineraries that range from the Bahamas and Bermuda to the Caribbean, Mexico, and New England, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Activities onboard include Halloween costume parties on deck, character meet-and-greets, creepy craft-making, live shows and entertainment, and of course, spooky desserts. Don't miss out on the chance to celebrate Halloween with all your favorite Disney characters!

  • 10.

    The 80's Cruise: The 80's Cruise promises an awesome voyage for fans of 80's music. With performances by Devo, Brett Michaels, The Church, Kim Wilde, and more, passengers can relive the totally tubular sounds of the decade. This bodacious journey sets sail from Los Angeles on March 3-10, 2023, aboard Navigator of the Seas.