cruise ship go cart

Cruise Ships with Go-Karts: Full list and Track Details!

March 24, 2024

The other day I was writing an article about all the fun things to do on a cruise ship.

At one point I had an epiphany because I remembered that some cruise ships even have go-kart tracks on board . What could be more fun than that?

So I thought I would write this article to help you find out which ships have go-karts (since there are not many) and what kind of tracks they have .

Table of Contents

Cruise Ships with Go-Karts

As of 2024, only 5 cruise ships have a go-kart track on board and they are all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. We are talking about:

Norwegian Joy

Norwegian bliss, norwegian encore, norwegian prima, norwegian viva.

They are among the largest in NCL’s fleet, with Norwegian Encore being the largest overall.

The first go-kart track was introduced in 2017 with Norwegian Joy , and the last one was built on Norwegian Viva in 2023.

Norwegian Joy was built in 2017 and was the first cruise ship in the world to have a fully equipped Go-Kart track.

The track was built by RiMO Supply (a company of the RiMO Group), a world leader in rental karts and tracks.

It is 790 feet (240 meters) long and has a fun zig-zag setting. The electric carts can reach up to 19 mph (30km/h) and sound identical to mini racing cars.

After receiving positive reviews, NCL has decided to add the go-kart track also on Norwegian Bliss .

It was not only the second ship with such a feature but the track was also improved and expanded .

The Norwegian Bliss track is 1,000 feet long (305 meters), and the electric carts can speed up to 30 miles per hour (48 km/h).

The go-karts on Norwegian Bliss are also designed to cater to both solo and duo riders . Therefore, this ship is perfect for those who wish to ride with a child.

Like on the previous one, the karts are electric but emit gas engine sounds to enhance the racing experience .

Norwegian Encore is NCL’s largest ship, and as a result, the go-kart track has also been lengthened .

The one on this ship reaches 1,100 feet. Moreover, the track on Encore includes a section that juts out 13 feet over the edge of the ship , offering racers a unique over-the-ocean driving sensation.

In addition, the upgrade includes a covered viewing area placed in the center of the track . It allows spectators to watch the race up close, and to be covered in case of rain.

A “gaming part” was also added to the experience. Spectators can interact with the race by using laser guns to provide boosts to their favorite drivers . I really liked this addition; it’s a fun way to involve other cruise passengers who are watching the ride.

Norwegian Prima was the first of a new class of NCL ships namely the “ Prima Class “.

With this new class of ships, the racing track has once again been improved and expanded .

It has now become a massive three-deck , 1,375-foot-long go-kart track with 14 turns, named the Prima Speedway .

The ones on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva are the largest racing tracks on cruise ships . However, the Speedway dominates a significant area of the top deck, leading to a smaller main pool and lido deck area beneath the track.

A thing that I want to highlight is that, on this ship, the track’s design also causes noticeable noise in the lido deck area from the racing action above. I’m not a huge fan of this!

Norwegian Viva is a sister ship to Norwegian Prima so the go-kart tracks are basically identical on these two ships .

The one on Norwegian Viva is also 1,375 feet long (about 420 meters) and has many descents and ascents since it extends over 3 decks .

For safety reasons, the seed is limited to 27 mph (about 44 km/h) but I can guarantee you that it’s still a very fun track .

Frequently asked questions regarding go-karts on a cruise

I’ve noticed there are a lot of questions and concerns about go-karts on cruise ships. I will try to answer some of the most frequent questions. Let me know in the comments if you still have any doubts that I can help you with.

Do you have to pay for go-karts on cruise ships and how much do they cost?

Yes, you have to pay to use go-karts on cruises. The price for a single race on NCL is 15$. Alternatively, you can purchase an Unlimited Pass for 199.95$.

How tall do you have to be to go-kart on Norwegian?

The height requirements are a minimum of 55 inches (1.40 meters) and a maximum of 82 inches (2.08 meters).

What is the weight limit for NCL go-karts?

The weight limit is set at a maximum of 265 pounds (120 kilograms). There’s no minimum weight requirement.

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Norwegian's Newest Cruise Ship Has a Go-kart Track, Infinity Pools, and an Open-air Food Hall

The Norwegian Viva is the line's newest mega-ship, slated to launch with a huge array of bells and whistles in summer 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

The newest ship from Norwegian Cruise Line will make its debut in the Mediterranean in June 2023, with room for more than 3,200 passengers, multiple infinity pools, an open-air food hall, and an outdoor go-kart track among its countless amenities.

Norwegian Viva was unveiled on Jan. 12, 2022, revealing details on summer itineraries that will take on iconic ports like Athens and Lisbon, along with gateways to Italy including Civitavecchia, near Rome, and Trieste, not far from Venice. After crossing the Atlantic in November, the Viva will home port in San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning on Dec. 15, 2023.

"We at NCL visit more ports than any other contemporary cruise line, more than Royal [Caribbean], more than Princess, certainly more than Carnival," said Norwegian Cruise Line president and CEO Harry Sommer, in an interview with T+L. "This will just add to that reputation, if you will, that we keep on going to new and exciting places."

The newly announced ship will feature many of the same over-the-top amenities found on the previously announced Norwegian Prima , a sister vessel of Viva that sets sail this summer. That's no coincidence, Sommer told T+L.

"The Prima was off the charts fantastic for us," Sommer said. "It was the first new ship design for us in a decade, and the concepts of space, service, design, experience, [those] resonated tremendously well with our guests and, as you know, it was a record-breaking launch for us."

"So, I was like, 'Oh my God, we have a hit,' so we're not gonna change too much with [ Viva ]," Sommer added. "The big focus here is on itineraries. We have some nice itineraries on Prima, you know, around Iceland, Norway, Amsterdam, London (Southampton), which are really, really being well received. But on Viva, we're gonna notch it up. We're doing, basically, a tour of all the Mediterranean: Lisbon, Ibiza, Palma, Barcelona, Florence, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Dubrovnik, Venice, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Istanbul — and that's like a third of the ports we're visiting."

Guests aboard the 3,219-passenger vessel will have a huge range of options when it comes to staterooms, with budget-friendly choices as well as splurge-worthy suites. Among the most enviable choices will be 107 luxury suites in an exclusive area of the ship known as The Haven by Norwegian , reserved only for suite guests. In addition to the spacious staterooms, The Haven also offers a private restaurant, sun deck, outdoor spa, and infinity pool.

"We've found that, for slightly more affluent guests, Haven really is the perfect balance. They can have the big-ship experience," Sommer said, "plus all the benefits of the small ship where you get butler and concierge service, upscale decor, larger cabin sizes, really it's the best of both worlds." Sommer added, with a laugh, "It sounds like such a cliche but, you know, I've personally experienced it!"

Dining choices will include the Indulge Food Hall, with 11 distinct concepts, as well as an Italian restaurant, Onda by Scarpetta, that's already a favorite aboard the Norwegian Encore . "Everything that we've done on Prima, we're announcing for Viva as well," Sommer said. "We are going to have our next big reveal for food in early March."

In all, Viva will have more than 20 dining venues, Sommer indicated. The new vessel will also have a three-level go-kart track, the Viva Speedway, which can accommodate up to 15 racers, and a series of thrill rides first seen on Prima, such as The Drop and The Rush, that will offer pulse-quickening moments.

The Viva will also come with some features that will reduce the environmental impact of the vessel. Like its sister ship, Viva will have a selective catalytic reduction system to help eliminate many sulfur and nitrogen oxides, Norwegian says, something that's in line with current International Maritime Organization standards . Viva will also have shore power capabilities, which have the potential to dramatically reduce in-port emissions by letting the ship tap into cleaner energy from the grid.

Norwegian Viva will offer eight-, nine-, and 10-day trips beginning June 15, 2023. Rates start at $2,099 per person for the ship's first departure, a nine-day trip from Lisbon to Civitavecchia, Italy, near Rome.

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A Cruise Ship With Go-Karts: Norwegian Cruise Line

When you think of cruise ships, you think of relaxation. You think of bars, lounges, shows and areas where you can spend the days with your loved ones – or alone too, if you’re traveling alone. Believe it not, there are two cruise ships that have something much more exciting and adrenaline-inducing than the usual activities or sipping a margarita overlooking the beautiful ocean – a go-kart race track! Here are some of the highlights:

• Go-karts feature speeds of up to 30 mph
• Features custom-built multi-level race track
• $15 per race or 199.95 for the Unlimited Pass
• Safety gear provided by Norwegian Cruise Line
• Amazing racing experience with an unbeatable view

Inspired by the grandkids of the company’s CEO, these karting tracks are the first of their kind on any cruise ship. It’s important to note that they are not just amusement-park karting race tracks either – they feature an authentic racing experience similar to the one you can experience at indoor go-kart racing facilities on land. 

Featuring a platform where people can sit and spectate, a covered pit lane, a system that times your laps, and even floodlights to let you race at night, this go-kart track on a cruise ship will give you an absolutely unique experience while being in the middle of the ocean! How exciting is that?

With all of this available on a cruise ship, your adventurous side will thank you for giving this thrilling activity a shot. Karting in itself is one of the most fun and challenging motorsport activities that you can experience. Doing that in the middle of an endless ocean brings this experience to a whole new level!

On What Cruise Ships Are Go-Karts Available?

At this point in time, you’re able to experience go-karting on the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy. Both of these cruise ships are part of the Norwegian Cruise Line. At sea, the Norwegian Bliss has the longest race track providing an unparalleled experience to anyone who loves motorsports.

If you’re the type who likes quiet and peace while at sea, don’t worry. The tracks are located towards the back of the ship so you’ll be able to enjoy and relax, as well as refuel your adrenaline.

What Kind of Race Tracks Are Available?

The race track featured on both cruise ships is named Encore Speedway and even for indoor karting standards, is relatively large. To be more specific, the race track is 1150 feet (350 m) long and features a track width of 18 feet (5.5 m). There are also plenty of turns and straight sections built into it that provide plenty of overtaking opportunities. The tracks are also multi-level so you can expect some inclinations at certain points to get an even better view of the ocean! How cool is that?

To add to the racing experience, the electric go-karts produce sounds of race car engines while you drive, making it feel even more authentic. And with a crowd cheering you on from the stands, you’re sure to get into the racing mood.

While the race track is 18 feet (5.5 m) wide, overtaking can be challenging in certain areas, so you’ll have to factor that in. However, this also makes the overall experience more fun and challenging. Slower drivers may also be enjoying the ocean views while racing, so you should always be mindful of that. 

But with a little bit of patience, a positive attitude and some racing skills, you’ll be able to overtake them at strategic sections of the race track. The races last for about 8 – 10 minutes, with each lap taking up around 30 seconds, depending on how fast you are. That means that if you’re standing in line for your turn, you won’t have to wait that long.  

What Type of Go-Karts Are Available?

The go-karts featured on the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy are all-electric SiNUS iONs that have been customized for corrosion-resistance, due to the saline environment. These go-karts are known to be of high-quality and are extremely fun to race with!

A lot of people on cruises are with friends or family. That’s one reason why there are two-seaters karts, as well as the standard one-seaters go-karts available. This allows you to share this amazing racing experience with someone else. Whether it’s your partner, your parent or your kid, being able to race a kart on top of a ship in the middle of an ocean is an experience not many things can beat.

Another cool thing about these go-karts is that they are fully electric. They’re extremely quiet but they do feature authentic engine sound effects to make you feel like you are going much faster than you actually are. With a top speed of up to 30 mph, you’re able to race at decent speeds, considering you’re on top of a cruise ship.

If you’re wondering who actually customized the go-karts, then you’d be happy to know that they’re custom-built for the tracks by none other than Alex Vega – a name that is sure to be recognized by car fans around the world who watch ‘The Auto Firm with Alex Vega’. If you’re interested, you should watch the episode of the show that features these exact go-karts.

To keep the karting experience safe for everyone, the staff has the ability to control the speed of the go-karts for passengers who require some assistance. At the start of the race, the speed may be throttled for a while, but eventually you’ll be able to fully control the speed yourself. This feature is also introduced for safety reasons and they will also reduce the speed of racers, if there are any incidents on the track to ensure everyone’s safety.

Does the Cruise Ship Provide Safety Gear?

Norwegian Cruise Line provides a helmet with a visor, as well as a balaclava to all racer. The helmet sock fits over your head like a ski mask and prevents the helmet from touching your bare head. Not only is this more hygenic, but it’s also much more comfortable. The helmet socks are also washed after every single use so the whole experience is very clean and sanitary.

How Much Does a Karting Session Cost?

If you want to have the experience of driving go-karts on top of a cruise ship, you can do that for $15 per race. This gets you one ride that will last for about 8 – 10 minutes. This is a great option for people who just want to try it out. If you’re into go-karting and enjoy the motorsport, the better option to go for multiple races, as you can bundle these up. 

And if you fall in love with the experience and can’t get enough of it, you can also splurge for the Unlimited Weekly Pass that costs $199.95 and allows you to go to the track whenever and however many times you want for the whole week that you’re on the cruise. You’ll also get to use a priority line, which drastically reduces your waiting time!

What Are the Requirements to Race?

One of the best things about these tracks is that there is no age limit to drive karts on them. You just need to be at least 55 inches tall. It doesn’t matter how old you are! Another requirement to go on the tracks is to have the proper attire. This is very important, as it ensures the safety of the racers. 

You shouldn’t be wearing sandals when going karting. You are required to wear closed-toe shoes, as well as clothes that are not loose. Items like an open jacket or a scarf are not allowed as they run the risk of getting stuck on the wheels which could cause potential accidents. Other than these standard karting rules that you should be following, there’s not much stopping you from being part of this amazing oceanic karting experience.

Do I Need a Reservation to Ride Go-Karts?

Do you need to get a reservation? No. But should you? Absolutely!

These tracks, as you may have assumed, are the most popular parts of these two ships so they are going to be pretty much always occupied. If you want to save yourself from the long lines, it’s best to have a reservation for a spot the moment you board the cruise. 

Otherwise, you’re going to probably end up waiting for your turn for a much longer time than the actual lap will take. Alternatively, you can always opt for the Unlimited Weekly Pass for those extra queueing perks!

Is Go-Karting on a Cruise Ship Worth It?

If you’re going on a cruise, it’s great to do whatever you can to make memories that will last a lifetime. Usually, these experiences are more relaxing in nature but having an exciting option like being able to race go-karts on a custom-built race track in the middle of the ocean is something you’ll probably only do once in your life. 

So the definitive answer is, yes! For larger families the karting experience can be a little pricey. But when you think about the fact that you’d be having this amazing experience in the middle of an ocean on one of the very first race tracks on top of a cruise ship, spending the money is worth it. Especially if you just intend to do it just for the experience.

In fact, most indoor karting arenas feature similar prices, although the length of a race may be a little longer. But who are we kidding? Of course, it will be an extremely awesome and thrilling experience. You’ll be racing on top of a cruise ship! Not only will you be able to get the thrill of racing go-karts but you’ll also have the thrill of that with the ocean right in front of you. 

It’s like having the best of both worlds – you get the adventure of karting and you get to do it with a view! So, the answer is a definitive yes! Don’t miss out on this experience.

About Gerrit

Owner, Researcher, Writer & Editor at GoKartGuide.com

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Onboard Obsession: The Thrill of Go-Karting on a Mega Cruise Ship

By Meena Thiruvengadam

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Onboard Obsession is a new series that explores the can't-miss highlights of the best-loved cruises—from the shore excursions to book to the spa treatments too relaxing to pass up.

Eighteen decks above the cold Atlantic Ocean, I pulled on a balaclava and helmet and did something I hadn’t done in decades: stepped into a go-kart. 

The last time I was behind the wheel of a go-kart was about 25 years prior, at a Six Flags amusement park. This time I was somewhere far more exciting—cruising between Iceland and Ireland on the  Norwegian Prima . 

The  Norwegian Prima takes go-karting at sea to a whole other level—literally. Instead of two decks like other Norwegian ships, the Norwegian Prima’s 1,400-foot go-kart track is spread over the ship’s top three decks. And that third deck makes a huge difference. 

The first time I accelerated up the hill to the track’s third deck, I was scared of flying off the top of the ship. Having lived in walkable cities for more than a decade, I rarely drive nowadays, let alone in miniature race cars on moving ships in the middle of the ocean.

It was the kind of cold and windy day you would expect off the coast of Iceland , and I couldn’t see anything but the ocean over the horizon. I hit the gas, hoped for the best, and breathed a sigh of relief when I made it to the top deck. It was so much more exhilarating than I remembered. It’s mind-bending to drive a go-kart on a moving cruise ship without a speck of land in sight. That alone is worth the price of admission. 

Like many things on Norwegian ships, the race track isn’t included in the cruise fare . Rides are $15 each. For an extra $5, you can have the track to yourself for three laps and drive at faster speeds. For $199, you can buy unlimited rides for your cruise.  

Norwegian Prima's go-kart track is the cruise line's biggest yet.

The cars can go up to 40 miles per hour, but Norwegian limits speeds to 27 mph during group drive times. Even with the speed limitations, the curvy track has enough sharp turns—14 of them, to be exact—to keep things exciting. And there’s no smell of gasoline. 

Norwegian’s onboard go-kart fleet is electric, though that might be hard for drivers to believe because sounds mimicking gasoline-powered cars are pumped into driver’s helmets to mimic the traditional race car experience. I didn’t notice the go-karts were electric and the sounds I was hearing were fake until after my drive. 

I was skeptical about go-karting at sea, but the eight laps, what Norwegian Cruise Line calls a “heat,” won me over. It turns out that zipping around in a miniature race car with nowhere to be and nothing but the ocean as far as you can see is ridiculous and fun. It’s also a great way to punctuate a sea day, especially if the spa is booked.  

Including the  Prima , Norwegian now has four ships with go-kart tracks. The  Norwegian Joy was the first in the company’s fleet to offer a go-kart track, and each new Norwegian ship to debut since has featured a bigger, better race track. 

The  Norwegian Prima ’s race track is 22 percent larger than the track on the  Norwegian Encore , for example. The  Norwegian Joy and  Norwegian Bliss also have their own race tracks, but neither makes quite the impression the  Prima ’s does.

Norwegian’s three-level go-kart track was the first thing I noticed each time I returned to the ship from an excursion during a special inaugural sailing last year. Spectators can watch cars whiz by from a dedicated observation area, the pool, hot tub, or sun deck. 

One ride was enough for me, but the teenage version of me would have stuck around for at least a few more heats. Next time, I’ll choose a warm weather itinerary and splurge for the private track time.

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15 Must-Know Things About Norwegian’s Go-Kart Track at Sea

When Norwegian Cruise Lines debuted the first racetrack at sea with go-karts, it made big news. Even now a few years later, the speedways continue to be one of the more popular attractions on a cruise ship. They are also a perfect example of the kind of strides that today’s ships are making in entertainment while at sea.

If you’re about to sail on a Norwegian ship with one of the tracks, then you’re likely interested in some more details about the go-kart and what you can expect. We recently tried the racetrack at sea for ourselves and here is everything you need to know…

Go-kart Tracks Are Available on the Bliss and Joy

Will your ship have the racetrack? As of now, only two ships have the tracks at sea: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy. These are NCL’s largest and newest ships. Given the popularity of the track, we could envision future ships being built with the track or older ships being refurbished to add the speedway. For now, however, only those lucky cruisers on these newer ships get to enjoy the experience.

The Laps Take About 30 Seconds

As you’d expect on a racetrack on a ship, the course isn’t that long. It only takes about 30 seconds to make a lap. That said, the layout is well-designed. In a compact space the track packs a lot in, including a ton of corners, twists and turns. It’s also a double-decker track, with a hill climb right at the start and a downhill section at the end to bring you back to the start/finish line.

One-Seaters and Two-Seaters Are Available

Want to drive with a smaller child? Or maybe you just want to share the experience with someone? You don’t have to drive alone. While most riders decide to drive a single cart, you can ride with two people in a double go-kart.

The Carts Are Electric with Gas Engine Sounds

With cruise ships trying to more “green” you might be wondering about fuel for the go-karts. They are actually electric and don’t emit exhaust as they zoom around the track. To help add to the ambiance, there are engine noises emitted by the cars to make them sounds like they are real race cars. It’s a little funny at first but really does make it feel like you are going faster.

Rides Cost $15 Per Person (Unlimited Passes Are Available)

If there is one bad thing about the racetrack on Norwegian, it’s that the activity isn’t free. In fact, it can be a bit pricey. While prices can change at anytime, as we go to press you’ll pay $15 per person for your turn on the track. Want to go three times during your trip? That’s $45. There are unlimited passes available that allow you to go the entire length of your trip. We’ve seen prices quoted around $200 for a week-long cruise.

Be Dressed for Racing

Due to safety concerns, you need to be dress appropriately to race the cars. That means closed-toe shoes. As well, you don’t want to wear anything loose or baggy that might catch on the wheels, such as a scarf or an open jacket. Also be sure to leave your bags in the room or with someone watching your race. There are no lockers available to store your bags while you drive.

There Are Height Requirements

If you want to drive alone, then you need to be at least 55 inches tall (4′ 7″). The good news is that there aren’t age requirements. As long as you are tall enough, you can drive. Note that some websites showing the minimum height of 48 inches, but on the ship it was in fact listed as 55 inches to drive alone. Smaller riders can go with larger drivers to also enjoy the track.

Reservations Are Highly Recommended

The racetrack is by far one of the most popular parts of the ship. While your cruise may be different, we’d highly suggest making some reservations for your spot the instant you get on the ship. You can reserve a spot via your stateroom television. You could also try to reserve during days in port when many people are off the ship (if the track is open during this time).

You May Not Go Fast… But It Feels Fast

We’ll be honest, you don’t go that fast in absolute terms in the carts. We’ve seen reports of up to 30-40 mph, but having raced on the ship firsthand, that’s not the case. We’d estimate you go more 10-15 mph. While that may not sound fast, given how low to the ground you drive and the number of curves, it really feels much faster. There are definite times when you have to let off the gas to make a corner cleanly. Bottom line, you won’t be disappointed with the speed.

Rides Last About 10 Minutes

The rides go by pretty quick. If you’re waiting in line, that’s a good thing. If you’re racing, you want it to last forever. We’d estimate that a turn takes about 10 minutes long. For $15, that’s not very long, but it is still a fun time. To be honest, racing any longer than that and the minimum wait would be unbearable.

A Helmet and Helmet Sock Are Provided For You

When you ride, you must wear a helmet. A helmet with a visor is provided to you, as is a helmet sock. The sock fits over your head like a thin ski mask. They are only worn once and then washed for the next person. This helps to keep things cleaner instead of people’s bare heads touching the actual helmet.

The Power Is Controlled by the Staff

You might be hoping you get a face car when you race. The speed of the cars is actually dependent on the staff. In fact, when you first start on the track you’ll be disappointed with the speed out of the gates and climbing the hill. It’s not until all the cars are on the track that the power is turned up and you can really start to drive quickly. As well, if there are any incidents on the track or when it’s time to pit at the end of the race, your speed will be cut.

The “Turbo” Button Doesn’t Do Anything

On the car’s steering wheel there is a beautiful button that says it’s a turbo boost. Don’t get your hopes up. We were told by the staff that it actually doesn’t do anything. We also tested it personally and there was no extra boost provided by it.

Getting Stuck Behind People Is an Issue

If there is one complaint about the racetrack on Norwegian, it’s that you can get stuck behind slow drivers. Given the turns and the width of the track, finding a spot to pass can be tough. If someone is going slow around the track, you could be going at a turtle’s pace behind them until things open up for passing.

Racing Is a Lot of Fun… You Should Do It at Least Once

It’s understandable if you don’t want to spend the extra money to take a ride on the carts. For instance, a family of four would spend $60 for about 10 minutes of entertainment. That’s a steep price to pay. Still, after having done the carts ourselves, we suggest that everyone take at least one turn. During our cruise it turned out to be one of the highlights of the entire trip and something we’ll remember for a long time.

Have more questions about racing on Norwegian ships? Let us know in the comments below.

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So what is the weight requirement the maximum amount of weight you could be to get on these go carts my friend couldn’t go on it, but I could

Can guests bring their own D.O.T.-approved helmets instead of those publicly-worn?

I doubt that’s ever come up. There’s no real reason to bring your own helmet that we can think of.

What is the Weight limit for this event

Don’t know of any weight limit, but you must be 55″ to drive alone.

Can you pre-pay for the unlimited week pass or do you have to do that on the ship? I heard there was a limit as to how many unlimited passes they sell??

We will admit that we’re not sure. If you know you want the unlimited pass, then we’d give the cruise line a call.

I’m all in for this!! Encore cruise coming up soon.

We recently sailed on that ship. See our thoughts here: https://cruzely.com/norwegian-encore-review-ncls-newest-ship-sets-the-bar-high/

Do you have to reserve the go-kart spot or can u just get in a line? also is there a limit to how many time you can reserve the spot?

You should reserve a time if you can. If it’s full up, or you just forget, just head there and hopefully they can work you in. Sometimes people reserve and then don’t show up.

Is there a weight limit on the go-carts?

Not that we know of. We saw height minimums, but no age or weight restrictions.

yes there is. They will weight you before you get on the cars.

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Norwegian's new Prima cruise ship will feature a 10-story slide and 3-level go-kart racetrack. Here's how the vessel will look.

• Norwegian Cruise Line 's latest ship, Prima , features several distinctive onboard amenities. 
• The vessel will include the world's first three-level go-kart track, the company said. 
• Passengers can also play mini-golf against a Vegas-style backdrop.

The newly built Norwegian Prima — the first of six ships under the cruise line's new "Prima Class" — will begin sailing in August next year.

The long-awaited ship will include eye-popping amenities like the world's first onboard three-level go-kart racetrack.

It'll also offer Tee Time, a supercharged version of mini-golf.

Adrenaline junkies will be able to experience The Drop, which is described as the world's first freefall dry slide.

Headlining acts will take center stage on the ship's multi-purpose theatre and nightclub.

Prima will also feature additional activities including "The Bull's Eye," a twist on the classic game of darts.

The Ocean Boulevard area of the ship will be an outdoor space filled with three dining venues, infinity pools, and a sculpture garden.

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Norwegian’s Newest Cruise Ship Will Have a Go-Kart Track and 10-Story Plunge Slide

The italian-designed 965-footer is due to hit the seas next year., rachel cormack.

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Norwegian Cruise Line ’s newest fleet member could turn out to be the ultimate playground for all ages.

The epic 965-footer, which is set to hit the seas in June 2023, can accommodate more than 3,200 guests and boasts a laundry list of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, restaurants, bars and even an outdoor go-kart track. Christened Norwegian Viva , the liner will built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and will mirror the upscale design of sister ship Norwegian Prima .

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In addition to the regular staterooms, Viva will be fitted with a special luxury section for well-heeled seafarers. The Haven by Norwegian, which is described as a “ship-within-a-ship,” was designed by noted Italian designer Piero Lissoni. Accessible only via keycard, the exclusive area comprises 107 suites and villas, along with a private restaurant, a sundeck, a secluded infinity pool overlooking the ship’s wake and an outdoor spa with a sauna and cold room.

The Haven’s exclusive sun deck.  Norwegian Cruise Line

Guests staying in the Haven will also enjoy a concierge service to help curate activities and 24-hour butler service to cater to your every whim, from pouring champagne to unpacking suitcases. Naturally, you can also expect an evening turndown service and white-glove in-suite dining.

When you’re ready to explore, Viva sports a 44,000-square-foot walkway, known as Ocean Boulevard, which wraps around the entire ship to give you access to all the features. There’s that three-level go-kart track, which can accommodate up to 15 racers for high-octane fun at sea. There is also a 10-story plunge slide, dubbed the Drop, that takes passengers soaring down the side of the ship into the water. Elsewhere, there is an outdoor sculpture garden, countless infinity pools and an open-air food hall with 11 different eateries.

Norwegian Cruise Line

“Norwegian Viva sets the standard in the premium segment, illustrating our commitment to pushing boundaries in four main areas: wide open space, service that puts guests first, thoughtful design and experiences beyond expectation,” Norwegian’s CEO Harry Sommer said in a statement . “We have taken everything our guests love to the next level with this brand-new class of ships designed with them in mind.”

Norwegian Viva will make her debut in the Mediterranean in June 2023, porting in cities such as Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome and Athens, to name but a few. She will then sail the Southern Caribbean for the winter season.

Check out more renderings below:

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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What Is the Cruise With Go-Karts: Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has brought a new level of excitement to the world of cruising with their exhilarating innovation: the Cruise with Go-Karts. This groundbreaking experience combines the thrill of racing with the luxury of a cruise vacation, creating a unique and unforgettable adventure for travelers of all ages. Picture yourself speeding around a specially designed racetrack, wind in your hair, adrenaline pumping through your veins, all while basking in the beauty and grandeur of the open sea. This one-of-a-kind offering sets Royal Caribbean apart from other cruise lines and caters to the adventurous spirit within us all.

Which Cruises Have a Race Track?

The Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is well-known for it’s innovative and exciting cruise experiences, and one of their most popular features is their race track. Norwegian offers three cruise ships that feature their own exhilarating go-kart tracks: the Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, and the highly anticipated Norwegian Prima. Each ships track provides thrills and excitement for guests of all ages.

The Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss both have their own race tracks, though not as impressive as the one found on the Prima. During a special inaugural sailing last year, I couldnt help but notice the three-level go-kart track on the Norwegian Prima as soon as I returned to the ship from an excursion. It was an impressive sight, and I couldnt wait to try it out.

From luxurious staterooms to breathtaking entertainment options, the Prima promises to be a game-changer in the world of cruising.

So, if youre looking for a cruise experience that combines the excitement of go-kart racing with the luxury and relaxation of a cruise vacation, look no further than the Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you choose the Joy, the Bliss, or the Prima, youre guaranteed to have a cruise experience unlike any other. Get ready to rev your engines and set sail for adventure!

Reviews and Testimonials From Guests Who Have Experienced the Go-Kart Tracks on Norwegian Cruise Line Ships.

• Such an amazing experience! The go-kart track on the Norwegian Cruise Line ship was incredible and so much fun.
• We’d a blast racing around the track on the ship. The go-karts were fast and the track was well-designed.
• The go-kart track on the Norwegian Cruise Line ship was the highlight of our vacation. We couldn’t get enough of it!
• Highly recommend trying out the go-kart track if you’re ever on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience.
• My family and I’d a fantastic time on the go-kart track. It was a unique and exhilarating activity that we’ll never forget.
• The go-kart track on the Norwegian Cruise Line ship was a thrilling adventure. We loved every minute of it!
• Don’t miss out on the go-kart track when you’re on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. It’s an absolute must-do.
• We were impressed by the quality of the go-karts and the track. It was a professional-grade racing experience.
• The go-kart track on the Norwegian Cruise Line ship exceeded our expectations. It was incredibly well-maintained and lots of fun.
• Racing around the go-kart track on the ship was like a dream come true. We’d the time of our lives.

There are several Royal Caribbean Cruise Line ships that offer a running track for those looking to stay active during their cruise.

Does Royal Caribbean Have a Running Track?

Yes, Royal Caribbean offers a running track on several of it’s cruise ships. It’s a popular activity and is included with your cruise purchase. The running track provides passengers with the opportunity to maintain their fitness routine while enjoying the beautiful views of the ocean. It’s a great option for those who like to stay active even during their vacation.

Some of the ships that offer this facility include the Oasis-class ships such as Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas. These ships have a specially designed running track that loops around the deck, providing ample space for joggers to enjoy their run.

For those who prefer to avoid crowds, it’s recommended to get your run in early in the morning or during popular dinner or show times. This way, you can avoid any roadblocks or people who might be using the track at the same time. It can be a peaceful and relaxing experience to have the track to yourself while enjoying the fresh ocean breeze.

It’s a fantastic amenity that allows you to enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean while staying fit. Just remember to plan your runs accordingly to avoid any potential roadblocks or crowded times.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas are the two ships in their fleet that feature SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea. SeaPlex is a unique sporting venue with exciting new attractions that encourage guests to unwind and embrace their adventurous spirit.

Which Royal Caribbean Ships Have a SeaPlex?

The SeaPlex is a unique and exciting feature found on Royal Caribbeans Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas. It’s the largest indoor active space at sea, offering guests a wide range of thrilling activities and entertainment options. This state-of-the-art venue is designed to inspire guests to let loose, have fun, and connect with their playful sides.

One of the standout features of the SeaPlex is the go-kart track. This exhilarating attraction allows guests to race each other on a track suspended high above the ships decks. With twists, turns, and high speeds, it’s an experience like no other. Whether youre a racing enthusiast or just looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun, the go-kart track at the SeaPlex is a must-try.

Guests can play games like bumper cars, roller skating, basketball, and even take part in circus school. Theres truly something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. The SeaPlex is a versatile space that can transform to accommodate different activities, making it a dynamic and engaging venue for guests to enjoy.

The venue features live music, DJ nights, and themed parties, ensuring that guests have a vibrant and lively atmosphere to enjoy throughout their cruise.

With it’s go-kart track, bumper cars, roller skating, basketball, and more, it offers endless opportunities for fun and excitement.

Other Activities and Attractions Offered at the SeaPlex, Such as Bumper Cars, Roller Skating, Basketball, and Circus School

• Bumper cars
• Roller skating
• Circus school

Source: Spotlight on SeaPlex: Ultimate Activities Zone

Watch this video on YouTube:

With state-of-the-art tracks, fast-paced competitions, and breathtaking ocean views, passengers can enjoy an adrenaline-pumping adventure while sailing the high seas.

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Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts Tracks?

Unbelievable as it may seem, you can try Go Karting on a cruise ship and I did!

Some of Norwegian Cruise Line ’s newer, bigger ships have Go Kart Tracks on the top two – or sometimes the top three decks.

Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts?

There are five Norwegian ships that have Go Kart Tracks. These are:

• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Viva
• Norwegian Bliss

Are The Go Karts Free On Norwegian Ships?

The Go Karts aren’t free on Norwegian cruise ships, there is an additional charge.

How Much Does It Cost to Use the Karts on Norwegian Ships?

I was lucky enough to try out the three-deck Go Kart Course on Norwegian Prima .

I was pretty nervous before I started, but soon got into the swing of it and really enjoyed myself.

When I sailed on Norwegian Prima in 2023

• The Go Kart Rides cost $15 each.
• For an extra $5, you could have the track to yourself for three laps and drive at faster speeds. This is known as “You and the Track.”
• You could pay $199 and have unlimited rides on your cruise during the scheduled track opening time.  This is known as “The Ultimate Speedway Package.”

How Many Laps Do You Get For Your Money?

You can drive for eight laps for $15.

How Do You Book To Drive A Go Kart On Norwegian Ships?

You can book a Go Kart by:

• Booking via The Norwegian App
• At the designated desk onboard
• On the Cabin interactive TV

Which of Norwegian’s Ships Has The Biggest Go Kart Track?

Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva are sister ships . They have the biggest Go Kart tracks at Sea.

Instead of being spread over two decks like some other Norwegian ships, the Norwegian Viva and Prima’s 1,400-foot go-kart track is spread over the ship’s top three decks.

How Fast Do Go Kart Go On Norwegian Ships?

The Go Karts can go up to 40 miles per hour, but Norwegian limits speed to 27 mph during group races.

Do You Need To Wear Protective Clothing to Drive The Go Karts on Norwegian Ships?

Wearing helmets is compulsory and everyone is given a clean ski mask to wear beneath the helmet.

For safety reasons, you need to be dressed appropriately to race on the Go Karts

Leave your bags in the cabin or with someone watching your race. There are no lockers available to store your things when you drive.

Flat, fully closed footwear required (no flip flops, Crocs, or heels). Riders must always wear a helmet. Loose clothing is not allowed. No age minimum, guests must only adhere to height requirements. Hair longer than shoulder length must be tied back and hidden inside helmet. Drug and alcohol consumption before driving are strictly prohibited.    Norwegian Cruise Line Terms and Conditions

What Happens Before You Drive The Go Karts?

Before you are allowed on the Go Karts you will:

• Watch a safety video
• Get weighed – and height measured if you look like you might be too short
• Get strapped in

Do Norwegian’s Go Karts Have Petrol or Electric Engines?

All Norwegian’s Go Kart’s are electric – but they mimic the sound of petrol/Gasoline powered Karts

Are There Height and Weight Restrictions for the Go Karts?

Yes, there are height and weight restrictions if you want to drive a Go Kart:

• Minimum height is 55″(1.40m) The maximum height is 82″(2.08m)
• The maximum weight allowed is 265lbs (120kgs) 

What’s It Like To Go Kart On A Cruise Ship?

I had thought that the Go Karts would be a bit like bumper cars – you would just go round and round in circles – but how wrong I was!

The track is Eighteen decks above the Ocean, and around 166 feet above sea level. It felt very high up.

There were Hairpin bends, hills and corners, and it was quite scary at first as I had no idea where the track would go next.

Because the Go Karts are so close to the ground it felt like we were going fast.

After two laps, I got to know the track better, and I relaxed and really enjoyed myself.

I definitely got $15 worth of enjoyment out of my Go Karts experience!

I lost count of the laps, but I think it was around eight. There was a checkered flag at the end, so I knew when to stop.

I wasn’t last! I came 18th – out of 19 people!

Watch me try out the Go Karts on Norwegian Prima in the video below:

Before You Go

When I sailed on Norwegian Prima, I had what I think was my favourite balcony cabin at sea. Find out all about it here:

I Stayed in a Balcony Cabin on The Norwegian Prima (Full Review)

Find out how to get the best cabin for your money, without downgrading the category here:

Get The Best Cabin for Your Budget! Hints, Tips and Examples of How to Save Money Without Downgrading Your Cabin Type

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Norwegian Joy Ride: A Tour of the Go-Kart-Topped Cruise Ship

This is the Norwegian Joy from Norwegian Cruise Line . The ship was originally used for Asian itineraries, but, following a $50 million makeover, it has been reassigned to North America’s west coast—primarily Seattle to  Alaska , but also the Mexican Riviera and Baja from Los Angeles . At Norwegian’s invitation, Frommer’s took a short cruise to check out the vessel, from the go-kart racetrack on the top deck to the utility closet in steerage where they stash the cast of the onboard musical. 

Okay, fine, that last part wasn’t on the tour. But we’ll show you all the other noteworthy features of the ship, right after we get these stats out of the way:

Norwegian Joy

• Passengers : 3,804, double occupancy
• Staterooms : 1,903
• Launched : 2017, refurbished 2019
• Size : 167,725 gross tons, 1,094 feet long, 136 feet wide
• Decks : 20 (11 with staterooms)
• Speed : 23.2 knots
• Booking : 866/234-7350; ncl.com

Actually, let’s start with something that’s not onboard. Though Joy is the sister ship of the Norwegian Bliss , only the latter has studio staterooms ( pictured ) and a separate studio lounge for solo travelers. Those accommodations weren’t considered necessary for Joy ’s routes in Asia, where solo travel is less common than in the West. During the ship’s overhaul, some popular-in-Asia amenities—tearooms and casinos among them—were replaced with bars and expanded space for the spa and observation lounge (though one casino does remain). Studio staterooms were not added, however, which means that  Bliss is still more congenial to passengers cruising on their own.

When it first set sail in 2017, Joy boasted several firsts (most of which were reproduced on Bliss ). The most startling is the first go-kart track at sea, a twisty, bilevel blacktop course ( Deck 19 ) for electric vehicles that can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. The track has been expanded since its debut, but passing can be a tight squeeze nonetheless, so we hope you don’t get stuck behind a slowpoke, lest you experience the first documented case of road rage at sea. 

Joy ’s other innovations include outdoor laser tag ( Deck 20 ) and a virtual-reality arcade called the Galaxy Pavilion ( Deck 16 ). It’s an eerie space, not so much for the games—which simulate flying, riding roller coasters, driving racecars, and such—as for the experience of walking around in a neon-lit room filled with people who look eyeless because of the headsets that are sending their brains on adventures elsewhere while their bodies remain behind, on a giant tub floating on the churning sea. It all feels a little like the start of a Black Mirror episode. But hey, fill up the long hours between ports however you want.

An exclusive aerie for the one percent is perched on the upper decks of the ship’s forward end (that’s the front for you landlubbers). This VIP complex features enormous suites—the largest is 1,458 square feet—as well as a restaurant, observation lounge, and pool deck under a retractable roof, all of which can be accessed by Haven passengers only. Prices are of the if-you-have-to-ask-you-probably-can’t-afford-it variety, so let’s move right along.  

At the opposite end of the pricing spectrum from the Haven are the inside staterooms. Because of their location in the ship’s interior rather than lining its hull, these accommodations don’t have balconies or views of the ocean. And at 135 square feet, their dimensions recall college dorm rooms. But how much time were you planning to spend in your cabin anyway? 

Balcony staterooms have more breathing space, both inside (sizes range from 213 to 425 sq. ft.) and on their small but restorative balconies. With all the distractions aboard, it can do wonders for your equilibrium to spend a few private minutes contemplating the vast, rippling ocean before returning to the go-kart track or the shrimp station at the buffet.

A stateroom category exclusive to Joy , Concierge suites are a notch below the luxury to be found in the Haven. Cabins are relatively large (338–561 sq. ft.) and well-appointed with balconies, espresso machines, walk-in closets, and bathrooms with tubs. Additionally, Concierge-level guests are entitled to private breakfast and lunch daily in one of the specialty restaurants along with, as you’d guess from the name, certain concierge services such as help with planning entertainment, excursions, and deboarding. To put it in airline terms, if the Haven is first class, Concierge suites are business class. The ship also has mini suites, which would be premium economy.

If you get disoriented, remember that the fish on the carpet in the hallways swim forward —i.e., toward the front of the ship. Facing in that direction, aft is behind you, port is left, and starboard is right. Some cruising aficionados make a big deal of using those terms, so you may as well learn them, too. Draw the line at referring to watergoing vessels with she/her/hers pronouns, though. That’s weird.

Are you hungry? Let’s check out the dining options.

Joy has 18 food venues—nine that offer "complimentary" dining (meals there are covered in the price of your cruise) and nine “specialty” restaurants where you have to pay extra. The complimentary spots include three traditional dining rooms ( the Manhattan room on Deck 7 is pictured ) serving what we’ll call typical wedding-reception fare; a buffet ( Deck 16 ) with a wide range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes; and a 24-hour pub ( Deck 7 ) dispensing comfort food around an open space overlooking the central Atrium. As on any megaship like this, the more interesting food is saved for the specialty restaurants. 

Several specialty restaurants have outdoor seating along the Waterfront promenade on Deck 8, creating the illusion that you’re dining along a city boardwalk even though you’re far from shore. Along the Waterfront, you can try Cagney’s ( pictured ) for steaks, La Cucina for Italian, Ocean Blue for seafood, and Le Bistro for French cuisine. The remaining specialty venues range from the barbecue joint Q Texas Smokehouse  ( Deck 6 ) to an Asian-fusion emporium called Food Republic ( Deck 8 ).

Joy may have been light on bars when it debuted, but the refurbishment remedied that. Public spaces are now well stocked with booze. Along with the full bars near the main dining rooms, on the pool deck, and in the nightclubs, there are several bars and lounges dedicated to a specific type of alcohol for those who like to pick their poison and stick with it. Sugarcane Mojito Bar  ( Deck 8 ) is for sweet, rum-centric concoctions like the ones pictured. The Cellars  ( Deck 8 ) pours wines from Washington State and California. And Maltings Whiskey Bar  ( Deck 6 ) mixes premium cocktails made with its namesake liquor. 

Beer drinkers, meanwhile, will want to make their way to the District Brew House ( Deck 8; pictured ), where two dozen draft beers and more than 50 bottled varieties constitute the largest collection of craft brews at sea, according to Norwegian. Reflecting Joy’s itineraries, many beers come from breweries in Seattle and Alaska. Also on tap throughout the ship: a selection of premade cocktails developed by celebrity mixologist Kathy Casey.

For live entertainment, Joy has two large-scale productions. One is Elements ( pictured ), an earth-, wind-, water-, and fire-themed spectacle combining dance, magic, and aerial acrobatics. The other is Footloose , a staging of the Broadway musical based on the 1984 Kevin Bacon movie pitting small-town repression against the pleasures of dancing in unflattering formalwear .

Though they weren’t being performed when we were onboard, Joy ’s smaller shows supply entertainment at close range. A Beatles tribute band takes the stage at the Cavern Club ( Deck 8; pictured ), modeled on the famed Liverpool nightspot where the Fab Four played early in their careers. Elsewhere, standup comics extract yuks at Social Comedy and Night Club ( Deck 6 ).   And Wine Lovers the Musical balances romantic comedy with vino samples included in the price of admission (all the other shows are free with your cruise). 

To see what shows nature is capable of producing, snag a seat in Deck 15’s forward-facing Observation Lounge—the largest in Norwegian’s fleet—where huge floor-to-ceiling windows reveal what lies ahead. This is where you’ll want to be when the ship is slicing through Alaska’s Glacier Bay.

Outdoor and aquatic baubles adorn Decks 16, 17, and 19. Those in search of liquid-based entertainment have the main pool deck, waterslides, hot tubs, and, of course, poolside bars to choose from. There are two areas reserved for adults only: Spice H2O ( Deck 17 ), which has a dance floor and extra-large hot tub; and Vibe Beach Club ( Deck 19; extra fees apply ), where grownups can relax on daybeds between trips to yet another bar and yet another hot tub.

For kid-friendly thrills, families can zoom down the Ocean Loop water slide ( pictured ), which curves out over the side of the ship, or, for younger cruisers, splash around in the aquatic playground ( both attractions are on Deck 16 ). In addition to the previously mentioned go-karts, laser tag, and virtual-reality games, kids also have mini golf ( Deck 19 ), a supervised children’s club ( Deck 5 ), and a teen hangout ( Deck 16 ) to keep them occupied. 

Under a huge chandelier that gradually changes colors, the central staircase spirals up to the casino ( Deck 7 ), duty-free shops ( Deck 8 ), and dining venues. The gold doors on the left lead to the comedy club ( Deck 6 ), and that’s a little art gallery at the end of the hall. This probably isn't the best place to linger if you're worried about sensory overload. 

The area adjacent to the chandelier and staircase is Joy ’s equivalent to a hotel lobby. There’s a bar, a two-story projection screen for announcements or social-media picture sharing, and a guest services desk where you can make reservations for meals and shows (using the touch-screen consoles located throughout the ship is faster, however). There’s a separate desk for Internet service, where you can beg to no avail for faster Wi-Fi.

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Which Cruise Ship Has a Go-Kart?

By Anna Duncan

Cruise ships are known for their luxurious amenities and features, and now they are also offering go-karts. Go-karts have been popular for years as a fun way to get around, and now they’re also becoming part of the cruise experience. For those looking to add a bit of excitement to their cruise vacation, here’s a look at which cruise ships offer go-karting.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the first major cruise line to offer go-karts on board its ships. The company has installed two tracks on board its ships that are located in the main atrium area.

The karts can be rented by passengers for an additional fee and can be used while the ship is in port or while it is at sea. The tracks feature twists and turns as well as jumps, so there is plenty of fun to be had.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International offers go-karts on select ships in its fleet. The company has installed two tracks on board some of its larger vessels that include both indoor and outdoor sections. Passengers can rent karts for an additional fee and can race around the track while the ship is in port or at sea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has recently added go-karting to its entertainment options by installing two tracks on board some of its latest ships. Like other companies, passengers can rent karts for an additional fee and race around the track while the ship is in port or at sea.

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8 things that happen when you have a cruise ship (almost) all to yourself

Have you ever wished you could have your own private cruise ship? I've felt that way, especially after sailing on vessels at just 25% capacity following the COVID-19 industry shutdown. Something special happens when you're one of only a few passengers on board — something you can experience by staying on the ship during port days.

It might sound counterintuitive, especially if you cruise to see new places. After all, you don't have to take a voyage to lie in the sun, read a book or sleep in; you can do that at home for free. However, if you find yourself in a port you've already visited, and you're craving some relaxation, I highly recommend hanging back while most of your fellow passengers head ashore.

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If you're skeptical, here are eight things, both good and bad, that happen when you skip port days and have a cruise ship almost all to yourself.

There are no lines

On a recent sailing, I waited 20 minutes one sea day afternoon to grab a slice of pizza by the pool. It was delicious and worth every second I stood in line, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't have liked the wait to be shorter.

The following day, I stayed on the ship when it docked in a port I had been to several times before, and I was able to walk right up to the counter at lunchtime and snag a pie without any wait time at all.

I saw no lines for the usually popular waterslides, and trivia wasn't standing room only as it had been the day before.

You can find quiet spaces

As libraries become a relic of the past on many new vessels, it's increasingly more difficult to find quiet spaces outside of your cabin to read, do puzzles or simply take in the scenery — especially on crowded megaships and on sea days.

When most passengers are on land, many of the public areas transform into quiet spaces by default. Lower decibels make for a more soothing, peaceful atmosphere that lends itself to relaxation. Although certain bars might be closed, their adjoining lounges offer respite from the usual ship hubbub.

You'll never fight for a deck chair

As any avid cruiser knows, it can be downright impossible to snag a sun lounger near the pool on busy sea days. Each morning, some people rise early, slink from their cabins and claim prime poolside real estate by placing their belongings on deck chairs in the most sought-after locations. Then, they return to bed.

These passengers, known as chair hogs , have caused cruise lines to instate time limits. If a chair isn't actually occupied by a person for a certain amount of time, crew members are allowed to remove any items placed on them in order to free up space for other people to use.

You'll never run into this problem when a ship is in port, even on the nicest of days. Most passengers will leave the vessel in search of a beach on which to hog loungers instead; this leaves the pool nearly deserted for anyone who stays on board to enjoy.

Spa appointments abound

You must book certain activities and experiences before you board your sailing if you have your heart set on them. Spa treatments aren't generally one of them.

However, if you find that you're having trouble with the availability of certain treatments after you board or you're looking to score a discount, schedule something on a port day. With fewer people on the ship, more appointments are available; onboard spas and salons will often knock a percentage off the cost of services to entice people to show up when business is slow.

You can peek behind the curtain

One of the most interesting aspects of staying on board when most other cruisers don't is the chance to see some of what the average passenger misses when they're ashore.

Although you won't be able to directly participate in crew drills, you'll likely hear them announced during port days. If you're in the right place at the right time, you might be able to watch from your cabin balcony or an upper deck as lifeboats are launched and tested.

If you're listening closely, you might hear announcements directing the crew to a particular restaurant, bar or public space for faux medical or fire emergencies. If you just so happen to make your way to that area after the call (while staying out of the way, of course), you could see mock CPR rescues or fire responses; some of these practice scenarios are conducted on dummies like Ryan, pictured pre-rescue on Norwegian Viva .

On other ships, you might also be able to catch members of the entertainment crew as they rehearse for that night's show. Theaters are often closed to the public during rehearsals, but sometimes, you can quietly sneak in on the top floor and sit in the back to watch.

On some ships, such as the ones in Carnival Cruise Line 's new Excel Class , the secondary theater is open, and rehearsals can't be blocked off from passenger view. Royal Caribbean 's AquaTheater (on Oasis and Icon Class ships) is also in public areas that guests can access at all times. Grab a coffee or a cocktail, find a seat and get a preview of the show.

You'll miss a day in port

Obviously, if you stay on the ship in port, you won't be ashore, which means you'll miss one of the places on your itinerary. That's why I only recommend skipping port days in places you've already visited.

It definitely can be a bummer when you stay on board only to have your travel companions return to the ship at the end of the day and gush about what a fantastic time they had on a shore excursion or exploring on their own.

Of course, you can always spend part of your day on board before heading to land. Perhaps you sleep in, order room service or have brunch in the dining room, then hit the gym or have a spa treatment. Afterward, you can disembark to enjoy a bit of beach time or a tasty early dinner. That only works if your ship is docked for a significant chunk of time, but it's a nice compromise that won't make you feel like you missed out. It can also help your day to feel less exhausting.

You'll have limited food options

On port days, you won't find as many daytime food choices on board as on sea days. That's because many passengers will take all-day excursions or opt to dine ashore instead of on the vessel, so the ship doesn't need so many eateries to be open for lunch.

On port days, you're likely to be limited to the buffet and a handful of other casual choices like grill fare or pizza. The main dining rooms and specialty restaurants are likely to be closed; if you're hoping for a nicer sit-down lunch, you'll want to plan that for a day at sea.

You'll have fewer choices of onboard activities

A port day is a fantastic time to stay on board and avoid crowds in places like the gym, minigolf course, basketball court, pools and waterslides; these tend to be open regardless of the day. However, you can't avoid lines for every activity — largely because many onboard experiences aren't open on port days (or have limited hours starting in the afternoon).

Closed attractions or ones with reduced hours might include the go-kart track , ropes course, rock-climbing wall, roller coaster or surf simulator . Additionally, you might find yourself out of luck if you were hoping to grab a port-day slot for a hard-to-book escape room or test out a virtual reality ride.

Your options for crew-led events will also be limited, with fewer activities on the daily schedule. The number of trivia sessions might be cut from five or six to two, and you won't find daytime jewelry or spa seminars or art auctions. The ship's bands won't be playing music live by the pool or in the bars, and you're unlikely to find pool deck activities like bellyflop contests scheduled because not enough people are around to participate.

The same applies to the onboard kids club . Although it might be open, the scheduled events will likely be less structured (think movies, video games, and arts and crafts). Keep that in mind if you're cruising with kids and planning not to disembark.

Bottom line

If you're on a cruise and feel drained or sick of the crowds on board, it's OK to skip a port day in favor of resting, relaxing and enjoying a vessel that will make you feel almost like you're the only person on a cruise ship. This is especially true if you hang back in a port you've already visited.

When you stay on board as others disembark, you'll experience a quieter atmosphere, fewer crowds and more opportunities to take advantage of activities and amenities — such as spa treatments, trivia and waterslides — that can be crowded or difficult to book on busy sea days.

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The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

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Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

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Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long “water coaster” to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It’s one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn’t have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That’s the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it’s now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today’s biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival’s ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line’s 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you’ll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you’ll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you’ll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line’s relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line’s big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn’t just one giant waterslide; it’s a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you’ll find anywhere on the world’s oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there’s also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It’ll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you “down the drain” into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you’ll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it’s completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it’s the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it’s a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it’s what’s known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you’ll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you’ll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney’s two Dream-class ships. But don’t expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it’s designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you’re lounging up top, it’s hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey’s Pool. Dubbed Mickey’s Slide, it’s held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo’s Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney’s newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you’ll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there’s now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there’s now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You’ll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you’ll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you’ll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that’s packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children’s play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There’s also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

A handful of ships even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises’ 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.