Discover which cruise ships have the best bars, featuring signature cocktails, vibrant settings, and the perfect ambiance for passengers to enjoy at sea.
Cruise ships are more than just vessels for transport—they are floating luxury resorts that offer a variety of experiences for their passengers. Another great thing about cruising is the opportunity to visit some of the most outstanding and colorful bars during the cruise. Whether you prefer a place where you can enjoy an alcoholic beverage or a place that offers entertainment, cruise ships offer both. Listed here are some of cruise ship bars that will make your cruising experience unique:
If you're cruising aboard Holland America’s Rotterdam, you can’t miss the Half Moon Bar, which offers an exclusive and unforgettable bar experience. The bar is not only new to the fleet but also unique to the Rotterdam, offering a blend of history and innovation in every drink. The bar features seven exclusive mixed drinks, each with a backstory tied to the cruise line's deep-rooted history. One standout drink is the Rotterdam VII, a smoky gin and maraschino cocktail named after the ship. The small venue can get quite crowded, so be prepared to wait for a seat, but it’s well worth it for the history, flavor, and ambiance.
One of the most fun and interactive bars at sea is Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line. This unique, pharmacy-themed bar is manned by bartenders dressed in lab coats, ready to "prescribe" the perfect cocktail for any guest. The menu features creative and fun sections like Energizing Elixirs and Passion Portions, but for those who want a surprise, simply hand over your favorite flavors and let the bartenders do the magic. A favorite cocktail is the Cucumber Sunrise, a refreshing drink that captures the essence of the Alchemy Bar experience.
For fans of mojitos, Sugarcane Mojito Bar aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Breakaway-Plus Class ships is a must-visit. This Havana-themed venue offers indoor and outdoor seating with live Latin-Cuban music, creating a lively atmosphere as you enjoy your drink. Whether you opt for the Spicy Passion Mojito, Pineapple Coconut Mojito, or the Raspberry Guava Mojito, each drink is an exciting fusion of flavors. The venue’s alfresco promenade seating is perfect for watching the sunset while sipping on a refreshing mojito flight.
The Blue Eye Lounge on Ponant's Le Laperouse is undoubtedly one of the most unusual and coolest bar concepts at sea. Located below the waterline, the lounge features whale-eye-shaped portals that allow you to watch the sea pass by as you sip your drink. The lounge is designed to offer a multisensory experience, with couches that vibrate to undersea acoustics, making it feel like you are inside a whale. It’s a strange yet spectacular experience, perfect for those looking for something out of the ordinary. Order a martini and feel like James Bond in this eerie, sophisticated setting.
Schooner Bar is a signature Royal Caribbean watering hole that offers a classic nautical vibe. Known for its daily live piano music and trivia contests, the bar has a laid-back atmosphere that makes it a popular spot for guests looking to unwind. A revamped cocktail menu has brought fresh excitement to the venue, with the Toasted Marshmallow Old Fashioned being one of the standout drinks. It’s a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a relaxing evening after a busy day onboard.
For those cruising with Disney, the Ooh La La and Pink Champagne Bars on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ships, respectively, are not to be missed. Ooh La La is a chic French boudoir-themed bar filled with gold, velvet, and ornate furniture, creating an elegant atmosphere. On the other hand, Pink offers a bubbly and playful vibe, with pink elephants occasionally appearing on the walls. Both bars are perfect for enjoying a glass of Champagne, with the Icy Pop being a refreshing and popular cocktail at both locations.
Celebrity Cruises Eden Bar is a multi-use venue that combines a restaurant, deli, bar, and performance space. Known for its quirky cocktails and immersive presentations, the Eden Bar is the place to go for a truly one-of-a-kind drink experience. From treasure boxes and smoke-filled glasses to drinks served in apple-shaped containers, the drinks here are as visually spectacular as they are delicious. If you're looking for an adventurous drinking experience, this bar is definitely a top contender.
For wine lovers, Vintages on Royal Caribbean ships is the perfect spot. A quieter and more laid-back alternative to the more bustling bars, Vintages offers an extensive wine list and tapas to pair with your drink. The sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for those looking to enjoy a glass of wine before dinner. Vintages is often found in the Central Park neighborhood of ships, providing a peaceful retreat where you can sip, savor, and socialize.
The Sip Champagne Bar aboard Virgin Voyages' ships is an elegant venue that combines comfort with luxury. Set with plush seating and a beautiful sea view, it's an ideal spot for those looking to relax with a glass of bubbly. The venue is strategically placed near the theater, making it a perfect place to stop for a drink before or after a show. With its chic decor and intimate atmosphere, Sip is one of the most stylish places to enjoy a glass of Champagne on the high seas.
For craft beer lovers, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Brewhouse on Carnival ships like Horizon and Mardi Gras offers a fantastic selection of exclusive craft beers brewed on board. From smoked porters to farmhouse ales, there’s a brew for every taste. Pair your drink with delicious BBQ dishes from Food Network star Guy Fieri, and you’ve got a perfect combination of food and drink. The brewery tours available on certain ships add an extra layer of excitement to this already lively venue.
No matter what type of bar experience you’re looking for, cruise ships offer a variety of exciting, unique, and stylish bars that are perfect for enjoying a drink while on the high seas. Whether you’re in the mood for a historical drink, a quirky cocktail, a glass of bubbly, or a craft beer, there’s something for everyone. From the innovative Half Moon Bar on Holland America's Rotterdam to the lively Alchemy Bar on Carnival, these bars provide much more than just drinks—they offer unforgettable experiences that make cruising even more memorable.
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