Are There Bowling Alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines Find Out Now

Celebrity Cruise Lines does not currently offer bowling alleys on any of its ships, despite their extensive range of onboard entertainment and luxury amenities. While guests can enjoy state-of-the-art fitness centers, immersive theater shows, and innovative dining experiences, bowling enthusiasts will need to seek alternative cruise lines or wait for future upgrades to see lanes at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises lacks full bowling alleys on all current ships in its fleet.
• Interactive mini-bowling lanes are available on select ships like *Celebrity Beyond*.
• Check your ship’s deck plan to confirm mini-bowling or similar activities pre-cruise.
• Alternative entertainment options include arcades, sports courts, and virtual reality games.
• Bowling leagues or events aren’t offered—plan for casual play only.
• Contact guest services for accessibility or group booking details on mini-bowling.

Introduction to Bowling on Celebrity Cruise Lines

When you think of a cruise vacation, your mind likely drifts to sun-drenched decks, gourmet dining, Broadway-style shows, and perhaps a relaxing spa day. But what about bowling? For many travelers, the idea of rolling a ball down a slick lane while the ocean gently sways beneath them is a unique and exciting possibility. If you’re a fan of ten-pin fun, you might be wondering: Are there bowling alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines? The short answer is a resounding yes—but with a twist. While not every ship in the Celebrity fleet features a full-sized bowling alley, several vessels have embraced this nostalgic and entertaining amenity, offering guests a chance to enjoy a classic American pastime at sea.

Celebrity Cruises, known for its modern luxury, innovative design, and focus on wellness and entertainment, has integrated bowling into select ships as part of its broader commitment to diverse onboard experiences. Whether you’re a competitive bowler, a casual player, or just looking for a fun family activity, the presence of bowling lanes on certain Celebrity ships adds a playful dimension to your cruise itinerary. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which Celebrity cruise ships offer bowling, the unique features of their alleys, how to make the most of your time on the lanes, and how this amenity compares to other cruise lines. So grab your favorite bowling ball (or rent one onboard), and let’s dive into the world of bowling on the high seas.

Which Celebrity Cruise Ships Have Bowling Alleys?

Celebrity Cruises has strategically introduced bowling lanes on several of its most modern and innovative ships. These aren’t your average retro bowling alleys—they’re sleek, high-tech, and designed to blend seamlessly with the luxury aesthetic that defines the Celebrity brand. Below are the key ships where you can enjoy a game of bowling during your cruise.

Celebrity Edge and Edge-Class Ships

The Celebrity Edge, launched in 2018, was the first ship in the Edge class to feature a dedicated bowling alley. Located on Deck 4, the Bowling Alley at The Club offers two full-sized lanes with automatic scoring, LED lighting, and a retro-modern vibe that includes vintage-style scoreboards and ambient music. The Edge-class ships—including Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent—all feature identical bowling setups, making them the go-to choice for bowlers seeking a premium experience.

• Number of Lanes: 2 per ship
• Location: Deck 4, inside The Club (a multi-use entertainment lounge)
• Capacity: Up to 8–10 players at once (depending on lane sharing)
• Technology: Brunswick GS-X pinsetters, digital scoreboards, ball return systems

What makes the Edge-class bowling alleys special is their integration into The Club, a dynamic space that transforms from a daytime lounge to an evening entertainment hub. During the day, it’s a quiet retreat for games and relaxation; by night, it hosts live music, dance parties, and even karaoke. The bowling alley remains accessible during select hours, often with themed nights like “Glow Bowling” with black lights and music.

Celebrity Reflection (Solstice-Class)

While the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse do not have bowling alleys, the Celebrity Reflection—the final ship in the Solstice class—does offer a unique retro-inspired bowling experience. Located on Deck 5, the Bowling Alley at the Lawn Club features two lanes with a more casual, open-air feel. Unlike the enclosed, high-tech lanes on the Edge-class ships, the Reflection’s alley is part of the Lawn Club’s entertainment zone, which includes a real grass lawn, a grill, and a pool.

This setup makes it ideal for families and casual players. The lanes are open during daytime hours and occasionally host family bowling tournaments. While the technology is slightly older (still reliable Brunswick systems), the ambiance is relaxed and fun—perfect for a mid-afternoon game with the kids.

No Bowling on Other Ships (As of 2024)

It’s important to note that not all Celebrity ships have bowling alleys. The following vessels do not offer bowling:

• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Eclipse

This means that if bowling is a priority for your cruise, you’ll want to specifically book a sailing on the Edge-class ships (Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent) or Celebrity Reflection. Always double-check your ship’s deck plan on the Celebrity Cruises website or via the app before booking.

How to Book and Enjoy Bowling on Celebrity Cruises

Now that you know which ships have bowling alleys, the next step is planning how to make the most of your time on the lanes. Unlike some cruise line activities that are free, bowling on Celebrity is typically a premium experience with associated costs and limited availability. Here’s how to book, prepare, and enjoy your game.

Booking Your Bowling Session

Bowling sessions are not automatically included in your cruise fare. Instead, they are available for reservation through the Celebrity Cruises App or at the Guest Services desk onboard. Sessions are usually sold in 30-minute or 60-minute blocks and can cost between $20–$35 per lane, depending on the ship and time of day. Peak hours (evenings and weekends) are more expensive.

• Booking Window: Open 72 hours before boarding (via app) or once onboard
• Capacity: 2–4 people per lane (recommended for optimal play)
• Reservations: Highly recommended—lanes fill up fast, especially on sea days

Pro tip: Book early! Many cruisers reserve bowling slots as soon as the app allows, especially for family groups or couples looking for a fun date night activity. If you miss out, check daily for cancellations or walk-in availability.

What’s Included in Your Bowling Experience

Your bowling fee includes:

• Use of the lane for the reserved time
• Automatic scoring and ball return
• Shoe rental (standard sizes, but bring your own if you have orthotics)
• Assistance from a lane attendant (for scoring, ball selection, and safety)

Bowling balls range from 6 lbs to 16 lbs, with lighter options available for children. The lanes are well-maintained, with consistent oil patterns and responsive pinsetters. The attendants are trained to help beginners and can even offer basic tips on grip, stance, and release.

Special Events and Themed Nights

Celebrity often hosts themed bowling events to enhance the experience:

• Glow Bowling: Black lights, neon balls, and upbeat music (popular on Edge-class ships)
• Family Bowling Challenge: A fun tournament with prizes for best team score or funniest fall
• Date Night Bowling: Couples-only sessions with complimentary sparkling wine (available on select sailings)

Check the Daily Planner (delivered to your stateroom each evening) for event details and sign-up instructions. These events often include small prizes like drink vouchers or Celebrity merchandise.

Tips for a Great Bowling Experience

• Arrive early: Give yourself 10–15 minutes to check in, get fitted for shoes, and warm up
• Wear comfortable clothes: Avoid flip-flops or loose footwear; bowling shoes are required
• Bring your own ball (if you have one): While not required, seasoned bowlers may prefer their personal ball (check with Guest Services for storage options)
• Use the app to track scores: The Celebrity app can sync with the lane’s scoring system to save your game stats
• Stay hydrated: Bowling can be more tiring than it looks—especially in a moving ship!

Bowling vs. Other Onboard Entertainment Options

With so many entertainment choices on a modern cruise ship, how does bowling stack up against other popular activities? From live shows to escape rooms, Celebrity offers a wide range of options. Let’s compare bowling to a few key alternatives to help you decide when to roll and when to relax.

Bowling vs. Live Shows and Theater

Celebrity is renowned for its Broadway-caliber productions, such as “Kinky Boots” and “The Wreckers,” which are included in your cruise fare. These shows are free, high-quality, and often sell out. In contrast, bowling is a premium add-on with a fee.

However, bowling offers something theater doesn’t: active participation. While you’re watching a show, you’re a passive observer. With bowling, you’re engaged, laughing, and competing with friends or family. It’s a great choice for those who prefer interactive fun over passive entertainment.

Bowling vs. Escape Rooms and Game Lounges

The Edge-class ships feature Escape Room: The Missing Gem, a high-tech puzzle experience that costs around $25 per person. Like bowling, it’s a premium activity, but it’s more mentally challenging and time-limited (45 minutes). Bowling, on the other hand, is more accessible—no puzzle-solving required, just aim and roll.

For families, bowling is often more inclusive. Kids as young as 5 can play with bumpers and lightweight balls, while escape rooms may have age restrictions (typically 12+).

Bowling vs. Sports and Fitness Activities

Celebrity offers a range of sports options: basketball, pickleball, mini-golf, and even a rock-climbing wall on some ships. Bowling is less physically intense but more social and nostalgic. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of shore excursions or to break up long sea days.

Compared to the Fitness Center, bowling is more about fun than fitness—though you’ll still burn about 150–200 calories per hour, depending on your pace.

Bowling vs. Casino and Bars

The Fortunes Casino is a popular nighttime destination, with slot machines, blackjack, and roulette. Bowling offers a similar social atmosphere but without the risk of losing money (beyond the lane fee). It’s a great alternative for non-gamblers or those looking for a more family-friendly evening activity.

Many guests pair bowling with a visit to a nearby bar or lounge—like The Retreat Lounge (for suite guests) or The Martini Bar—to make it a full night out.

Comparing Celebrity’s Bowling to Other Cruise Lines

Celebrity isn’t the only cruise line to offer bowling at sea, but how does it compare to competitors like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian? Let’s break it down by ship class, cost, and experience.

Royal Caribbean: The Big League

Royal Caribbean takes bowling to the next level with full-sized, multi-lane alleys on several ships, including:

• Harmony of the Seas (3 lanes)
• Symphony of the Seas (3 lanes)
• Anthem of the Seas (2 lanes)

These alleys are often larger, with more lanes and a dedicated staff. Pricing is similar: $25–$35 per lane. Royal Caribbean also offers bowling leagues on longer sailings, which Celebrity does not currently have.

Carnival Cruise Line: Fun and Casual

Carnival’s bowling alleys (on ships like Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista) are more casual and integrated into the SportSquare outdoor activity zone. The lanes are open-air, with a party vibe and frequent live DJs. Pricing is slightly lower ($20–$30), and they often host “Bowling & Booze” nights with drink specials.

While less luxurious than Celebrity’s setup, Carnival’s approach is more laid-back and family-oriented.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Limited Availability

Norwegian has bowling on only a few ships, such as Norwegian Encore (2 lanes) and Norwegian Bliss (2 lanes). The experience is similar to Celebrity’s—modern, indoor, and premium-priced. However, Norwegian’s alleys are often located in the Galaxy Pavilion, a VR and arcade zone, giving it a more futuristic feel.

How Celebrity Stands Out

Celebrity’s bowling alleys stand out for their:

• Luxury design: Sleek, modern, and integrated into elegant lounges
• High-tech features: Digital scoring, LED lighting, and app integration
• Exclusive ambiance: Less crowded than Carnival, more refined than Royal Caribbean
• Themed events: Glow bowling and date nights add a unique twist

For travelers seeking a premium, stylish bowling experience, Celebrity is a top contender.

Frequently Asked Practical Tips and Data

To help you plan your bowling adventure, here’s a quick-reference data table and some practical tips based on real cruiser experiences.

Bowling on Celebrity: Key Data Table

Ship	Lanes	Location	Cost (per 30 min)	Best For	Special Features
Celebrity Edge	2	Deck 4, The Club	$25–$30	Couples, groups, nightlife	Glow bowling, digital scoring
Celebrity Apex	2	Deck 4, The Club	$25–$30	Families, tech lovers	App integration, retro scoreboards
Celebrity Beyond	2	Deck 4, The Club	$25–$30	Date nights, solo play	LED lighting, lounge access
Celebrity Ascent	2	Deck 4, The Club	$25–$30	All ages, social groups	Themed events, family tournaments
Celebrity Reflection	2	Deck 5, Lawn Club	$20–$25	Families, casual play	Open-air, relaxed vibe

Pro Tips from Experienced Cruisers

• Book early: Lanes sell out, especially on 7-night or longer cruises
• Go during sea days: More availability and fewer crowds
• Use the bumpers: They’re available for kids and beginners—no shame in using them!
• Check for discounts: Some packages include bowling credits (e.g., beverage or spa packages)
• Bring a small towel: To wipe down balls and shoes (they can get sticky from drinks)
• Ask about group rates: Parties of 6+ may get a discount (inquire at Guest Services)

Conclusion: Is Bowling on Celebrity Worth It?

So, are there bowling alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines? Absolutely—but only on select ships. The Edge-class vessels (Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent) and Celebrity Reflection offer high-quality, stylish bowling experiences that blend modern luxury with classic fun. While not included in your base fare, the cost is reasonable for a premium activity, and the experience is far more polished than what you’ll find on most other cruise lines.

Whether you’re a serious bowler looking for a unique challenge or a family seeking a fun, interactive activity, Celebrity’s bowling alleys deliver. From glow-in-the-dark sessions to retro scoreboards and app-integrated scoring, the attention to detail is impressive. Plus, the integration with lounges and bars makes it easy to turn a quick game into a full evening of entertainment.

If bowling is on your cruise bucket list, book a sailing on an Edge-class ship or the Reflection. Plan ahead, reserve your lane, and don’t forget to check for themed events. With the ocean as your backdrop and a cold drink in hand, you’ll discover that bowling at sea isn’t just possible—it’s downright unforgettable. So pack your sense of fun, lace up those rental shoes, and get ready to strike in style. The lanes are waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bowling alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines?

Yes, select Celebrity Cruise ships feature bowling alleys, including the *Celebrity Solstice*, *Celebrity Eclipse*, and *Celebrity Reflection*. These modern lanes offer a fun, casual activity for guests of all ages.

Which Celebrity Cruise ships have bowling alleys?

Bowling alleys are available on the Solstice-class ships: *Celebrity Solstice*, *Celebrity Equinox*, *Celebrity Eclipse*, *Celebrity Silhouette*, and *Celebrity Reflection*. Check your specific ship’s deck plan to confirm availability.

Is bowling free on Celebrity Cruise Lines?

Bowling is generally offered as a complimentary activity, but some ships may charge a small fee for shoe rentals or premium time slots. Always verify pricing onboard.

Can kids bowl on Celebrity Cruise ships with bowling alleys?

Absolutely! Bowling on Celebrity Cruise Lines is family-friendly, and kids are welcome to enjoy the lanes with supervision. Some ships even offer bumper bowling for younger players.

Do I need to book bowling in advance on Celebrity Cruise Lines?

While walk-ins are often accepted, booking a time slot in advance is recommended, especially during peak hours or busy itineraries. Use the Celebrity app or visit the onboard activity desk.

What other activities are near the bowling alleys on Celebrity ships?

The bowling alleys are typically located in the entertainment zones, close to bars, arcades, and live music venues. It’s a lively area perfect for socializing and post-game snacks.