Dining is arguably one of the most important activities cruise passengers partake in while onboard any cruise ship. "Serenade of the Seas" has a traditional main dining room called Cascades where guests may choose to gather for arranged seating and three meals per day, as well as a standard buffet option for those who prefer something less formal. The The ship also features eight specialty and casual dining options including a Mystery Dinner Theater, two Italian eateries and three cafes. The ship's specialty restaurants require a per person surcharge, which varies from one option to the next and which tops out at $20 for the premium Chops Grill and Portofino. The ship features at least one formal night per cruise when suit and tie are mandatory attire.
Nightly entertainment is featured onboard the "Serenade of the Seas." The Aurora Theater plays host to shows ranging from popular dance reviews to the "Love and Marriage" show, where couples are tested on their knowledge of one another. Other entertainment options include art auctions, which are free to watch, ship tours and a collection of bars and lounges. Live music is featured at the Schooner and Lobby Bars, while sports are always on in the flat screen TVs of the Pit Stop Sports Bar. A more social scene can be found in the Vortex Disco Bar or the surrounding Viking Crown Lounge.
"Serenade of the Seas" has a host of outdoor activities to choose from, starting with the rock-climbing wall, sports court with basketball and volleyball, golf simulator, shuffleboard, adult and kiddie pools, two whirlpools, jogging track, water slide, Adventure Beach water park and nine-hole miniature golf course. Passengers can also try the Ship Shape fitness center, Indoor solarium with swimming pool and the peaceful environs of the wraparound 6th deck, which provides ocean views, lounge chairs and a quiet place to read. The game room and library both lend their wares so passengers can use them anywhere, and the art studio provides the space for experts or novices to work.
Bingo is by far the most promoted and well-liked activity on the "Serenade" and is described by the cruise line as "not just a game -- it's an event." There is a fee to join each game, and tournaments are scheduled regularly on the "Serenade of the Seas" with prizes including free cruises and port shopping sprees. The ship's Casino Royale has a full selection of slot machines and gaming tables, and the ShipShape Spa offers a full menu of treatments, nail and hair salon, steam rooms and sauna.
The Cruise Compass is the onboard planner that is distributed every evening to all staterooms. The Cruise Compass contains, among other things, a list of the day's organized activities including options such as Team Trivia and the onboard game shows "Who Wants to Feel Like a Millionaire" and Karaoke Idol. The selection of activities listed in the flyer will change from day to day, with standards appearing throughout the cruise.
