Passengers can learn and explore new things when traveling on a cruise through the Explorer Academy. Several learning opportunities are offered, including salsa, swing and hip hop dance lessons. Wine tastings and classes, fruit and vegetable carving, and cooking demonstrations are provided for those interested in the culinary arts. Other activities include casino and card game lessons, jewelry making, rock-wall instruction and foreign language classes. On Freedom and Voyager class ships, passengers can also learn to ice-skate on board.
Ships organize theme nights that appeal to a range of interests and tastes, from masquerade balls to pirate theme nights for children. Examples include Rock 'n' Roll, retro '70s and '80s, Toga Party, and Big Band nights. Mystery Dinner Theater over an Italian dinner is also offered, as well as on-board parties such as the Captain's Welcome Reception and the Sail Away Party. Additional parties may include Dancing Under the Stars Pool Party, Family Disco Night, Honeymooners' Party, Singles Party and Mix-and-Mingles.
Friendly competitions and contests are held during cruises, including game shows and karaoke contests. Passengers can enter scavenger hunts, play a game of chess or scrabble, or participate in trivia challenges and talent shows. Tournaments also range from ping-pong to soccer. On Freedom, Voyager and Radiance class ships, passengers can also sign up for golf driving, dodge ball, basketball and volleyball tournaments. Mini golf is available on the Splendour of the Seas, the Legend of the Seas, and Voyager and Radiance class ships, and billiards tournaments are organized on Radiance class vessels.
Royal Caribbean introduced its first on-board, full basketball court in 1999 on the Voyager of the Seas. Several sports activities are possible on Royal Caribbean cruises on dedicated decks with half-court basketball, running track, golf simulator and golf course, in-line skating and zip lines. All ships are equipped with rock climbing walls and fitness centers, which also offer fitness classes. Passengers can also relax with one of the spa treatments or services provided on board.
