Are There Bowling Alleys on Cruise Ships Celebrity Cruise Lines

Celebrity Cruise Lines does not currently offer bowling alleys on any of its ships. While the fleet features luxurious amenities like pools, spas, and theaters, bowling lanes are not part of the onboard entertainment lineup—disappointing for fans of the sport but leaving room for future upgrades.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises lacks bowling alleys: No ships in the fleet feature dedicated bowling lanes.
• Alternative entertainment options: Enjoy virtual reality games, rock climbing, or live shows instead.
• Check ship amenities beforehand: Review activity lists to confirm available onboard attractions.
• Bowling is rare on modern ships: Most cruise lines prioritize other recreational activities.
• Specialty venues may surprise: Some ships offer retro-style arcades or interactive gaming zones.

Are There Bowling Alleys on Cruise Ships Celebrity Cruise Lines

When it comes to cruise vacations, travelers often envision sun-drenched decks, gourmet dining, Broadway-style shows, and immersive shore excursions. Yet, for some, the idea of combining a luxury cruise with a nostalgic game of bowling brings an extra layer of excitement. Bowling, a beloved pastime since the early 20th century, has evolved from smoky alleyways to high-tech, entertainment-focused destinations. But what about at sea? Specifically, are there bowling alleys on cruise ships Celebrity Cruise Lines? This is a question that frequently arises among families, groups of friends, and solo travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and recreation.

Celebrity Cruises, a premium brand under Royal Caribbean Group, is renowned for its modern luxury, innovative design, and guest-centric amenities. With a fleet of over 15 ships, including the award-winning Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, the line has consistently pushed the envelope in onboard experiences. From rooftop terraces and immersive art installations to world-class spas and culinary venues, Celebrity Cruises caters to travelers seeking a refined yet fun-filled vacation. But does that include bowling? As cruise ships grow larger and more amenity-rich, the inclusion of niche entertainment like bowling becomes a topic of growing interest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether Celebrity Cruise Lines offers bowling alleys, which ships feature them, how they compare to traditional alleys, and what you can expect from a game at sea.

The Evolution of Onboard Entertainment on Cruise Ships

From Basic Amenities to High-Tech Entertainment Hubs

Gone are the days when cruise ships offered only shuffleboard, ping-pong, and a single movie theater. Today’s cruise lines, especially premium brands like Celebrity, invest heavily in creating multifunctional entertainment zones that appeal to all age groups. The shift began in the 2000s with the introduction of rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and ice-skating rinks. By the 2010s, cruise ships began incorporating more interactive and nostalgic attractions—such as escape rooms, virtual reality experiences, and yes, even bowling alleys.

This evolution reflects changing traveler expectations. Millennials and Gen Z travelers, in particular, seek experiential vacations—activities that are memorable, shareable on social media, and unique. Bowling, with its blend of competition, camaraderie, and retro appeal, fits perfectly into this trend. Moreover, cruise lines recognize that onboard entertainment drives guest satisfaction and repeat bookings. As a result, they are increasingly willing to dedicate deck space and engineering resources to niche attractions like bowling.

Why Bowling? The Appeal of a Classic Game at Sea

Bowling is more than just knocking down pins—it’s a social activity that transcends age and skill level. On a cruise, where guests spend days together, bowling offers a fun way to break the ice, celebrate milestones, or simply enjoy a lighthearted game. For families, it’s a bonding experience. For couples, it’s a playful date night. For solo travelers, it’s a chance to meet others.

Additionally, cruise ship bowling alleys often feature modern upgrades: automated scoring, glow-in-the-dark lanes, themed decor, and even cocktail service. These enhancements elevate the traditional bowling experience, making it feel fresh and exciting. The compact size of onboard alleys—typically 2 to 4 lanes—ensures they don’t take up excessive deck space while still providing a dedicated entertainment zone.

For Celebrity Cruises, the decision to include bowling reflects their commitment to offering a diverse range of activities. Unlike some budget-focused lines that prioritize quantity over quality, Celebrity emphasizes curated experiences—bowling being one of the more unique offerings that sets them apart from competitors.

Which Celebrity Cruise Ships Feature Bowling Alleys?

The Edge-Class Fleet: A New Standard in Onboard Entertainment

The most notable bowling alleys in the Celebrity fleet are found on the Edge-class ships: Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent (launched in 2023). These vessels represent the pinnacle of Celebrity’s innovation, and their entertainment offerings are no exception.

Located in the Resort Deck (Deck 14), the bowling alley is part of the Entertainment Court—a vibrant, open-air zone that also includes a mini-golf course, a basketball court, and a gaming arcade. The alley features two full-size lanes with synthetic flooring, automated scoring systems, and vibrant LED lighting that creates a nightclub-like atmosphere during evening hours.

What sets the Edge-class bowling experience apart is its integration with the ship’s overall design. The lanes are positioned to take advantage of ocean views, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls allowing natural light during the day and a starlit ambiance at night. The area is open to all guests, though reservations are recommended during peak hours (evenings and sea days).

Other Ships in the Fleet: Limited or No Bowling

While the Edge-class ships boast dedicated bowling alleys, most other Celebrity vessels do not. For example:

• Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Silhouette (Solstice-class) – No bowling lanes. These ships focus on other entertainment options like live music lounges, theater productions, and art workshops.
• Celebrity Reflection – Also Solstice-class, no bowling, but features an expansive lawn club and a glassblowing studio.
• Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Summit, and Celebrity Millennium (Millennium-class) – These older ships lack bowling alleys, though they offer shuffleboard, table tennis, and card rooms.
• Celebrity Xpedition (Galapagos-focused) – A small expedition ship with no traditional entertainment facilities.

It’s important to note that Celebrity Cruises has not retrofitted older ships with bowling alleys due to space constraints and structural limitations. The Edge-class was designed from the ground up with these attractions in mind, making them exclusive to newer vessels.

Future Additions: What’s on the Horizon?

With the launch of Celebrity Ascent in 2023 and plans for additional Edge-class ships, it’s likely that future vessels will continue to include bowling. The success of the Entertainment Court concept has been well-received, with guest surveys showing high satisfaction rates for the bowling experience. Celebrity Cruises has also hinted at potential upgrades, such as augmented reality (AR) scoring or themed bowling nights (e.g., “Glow Bowl” with neon balls and black lights).

For travelers planning a cruise with bowling in mind, booking an Edge-class ship is currently the only way to guarantee access to a full-sized alley.

What to Expect: The Onboard Bowling Experience

Lane Specifications and Gameplay

The bowling alleys on Edge-class ships are regulation-sized (60 feet from foul line to head pin), ensuring an authentic experience for serious bowlers. The lanes use synthetic materials for durability and consistent ball roll, similar to modern land-based alleys. Each lane is equipped with:

• Automatic pinsetters
• Digital scoring screens with animated graphics
• Ball return systems
• Adjustable ball ramps for children

Guests can choose from a range of ball weights (6 to 16 lbs), and shoes are available in sizes US 4 to 13. The staff includes trained attendants who assist with lane setup, scoring, and ball selection.

Games are typically played in 10 frames, and the cost is $10 per person per game, with discounts for children under 12. Group packages (e.g., 3 games for $25) are also available. Reservations can be made via the Celebrity Cruises app or at the Entertainment Desk on Deck 14.

Atmosphere and Amenities

The bowling area is designed to be social and inviting. During the day, it’s a bright, family-friendly space with ocean views. At night, the LED lighting transforms it into a lively entertainment hub. The adjacent arcade and mini-golf course create a cohesive “fun zone” atmosphere.

Guests can order drinks and snacks from the nearby Entertainment Court Bar, which serves craft cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks. There’s also a small snack station with nachos, pretzels, and candy—perfect for a post-game treat.

Special events are hosted weekly, such as:

• “Glow Bowl” nights with neon decor and music
• Family bowling tournaments
• Date night packages (bowling + cocktails + dessert)
• Competitive leagues for repeat cruisers

These events are announced in the daily Personalizer schedule, which is delivered to staterooms each morning.

Tips for a Great Bowling Experience

To make the most of your onboard bowling game, consider these practical tips:

• Book early: The lanes are popular, especially on sea days. Reserve your session at least 24 hours in advance.
• Arrive 15 minutes early: This gives you time to select shoes, balls, and familiarize yourself with the scoring system.
• Dress comfortably: While there’s no strict dress code, athletic shoes (or bowling shoes) are recommended. Avoid flip-flops.
• Bring kids: The adjustable ball ramps and lightweight balls make bowling accessible for children aged 5 and up.
• Try the glow bowl: The nighttime ambiance is a unique twist on traditional bowling.
• Check for promotions: Some sailings offer “Buy One, Get One Free” games or free bowling for loyalty program members.

For first-time bowlers, staff are happy to provide basic instruction. The scoring system is user-friendly, with automatic calculations and strike/spare animations.

Comparing Celebrity’s Bowling Alleys to Other Cruise Lines

Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean: A Sibling Rivalry

As part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity Cruises shares some DNA with its sister brand, Royal Caribbean International. However, their approaches to bowling differ significantly.

Royal Caribbean has long included bowling on many of its ships, such as Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Odyssey of the Seas. These alleys are typically located in the Royal Esplanade or Boardwalk areas and feature 2 to 4 lanes with similar amenities. However, Royal Caribbean’s bowling experience tends to be more casual, with fewer themed events and less integration into the overall ship design.

Celebrity’s Edge-class alleys, by contrast, are more curated and upscale. The oceanfront location, sophisticated lighting, and proximity to high-end bars create a premium atmosphere. While both lines offer competitive pricing, Celebrity’s bowling feels more like a luxury amenity than a standard activity.

Other Cruise Lines with Bowling

Bowling is not exclusive to the Royal Caribbean Group. Other lines that offer onboard bowling include:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Escape feature “Spice H2O” zones with 2-lane alleys.
• MSC Cruises: Some newer ships, like MSC Meraviglia, include “Bowling Alley” as part of the family entertainment complex.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Select ships have “Carnival Seaside Theater” zones with mini-bowling (shorter lanes for kids).

However, none match the scale, design, or exclusivity of Celebrity’s Edge-class alleys. For travelers seeking a high-end bowling experience at sea, Celebrity stands out.

Data Table: Bowling on Major Cruise Lines

Line	Ships with Bowling	Number of Lanes	Cost per Game	Unique Features
Celebrity Cruises	Edge-class (4 ships)	2	$10	Oceanfront, LED lighting, themed nights
Royal Caribbean	Anthem, Harmony, Odyssey, etc.	2–4	$8–$12	Boardwalk location, family-focused
Norwegian Cruise Line	Breakaway, Getaway, Escape	2	$10	Spice H2O zone, adult-only area
MSC Cruises	Meraviglia, World Europa	2	€8	Family entertainment complex
Carnival Cruise Line	Select ships	1–2 (mini)	$5–$7	Kid-friendly, shorter lanes

Is Bowling on Celebrity Cruises Worth It?

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

For many travelers, the bowling alley on Edge-class ships is a highlight of their cruise. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages and potential drawbacks:

Pros:

• Unique experience: Not many cruise lines offer oceanfront bowling.
• Social and fun: Great for families, couples, and groups.
• High-quality lanes: Regulation size with modern tech.
• Themed events: Glow Bowl and tournaments add variety.
• Convenient location: Integrated with other entertainment options.

Cons:

• Limited availability: Only 4 ships have bowling alleys.
• Cost adds up: $10 per game is pricier than land-based alleys.
• Small capacity: Only 2 lanes mean potential wait times.
• Not on older ships: No retrofits planned for Solstice or Millennium classes.

Who Should Try It?

Bowling on a Celebrity cruise is ideal for:

• Families with teens or older children
• Groups of friends looking for a fun activity
• Couples seeking a playful date night
• Bowling enthusiasts who want to play at sea
• Travelers who enjoy unique, Instagram-worthy experiences

For casual players, even one game can be a memorable part of the trip. For serious bowlers, the authentic setup offers a chance to maintain their skills while on vacation.

Final Verdict

So, are there bowling alleys on cruise ships Celebrity Cruise Lines? The answer is a resounding yes—but with important caveats. The Edge-class ships offer a premium, thoughtfully designed bowling experience that stands out in the cruise industry. While not available on every vessel, the combination of ocean views, modern amenities, and themed events makes it a must-try for many guests.

For travelers prioritizing bowling, booking an Edge-class cruise is essential. And for those who simply want to try something new, a single game is worth the price of admission. In the ever-evolving world of cruise entertainment, Celebrity Cruises has hit a strike with its onboard bowling alleys—proving that even at sea, you can enjoy the timeless joy of knocking down pins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bowling alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines ships?

Yes, select Celebrity Cruise Lines ships feature full-service bowling alleys. The Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex include the “Bowling Alley @ The Club,” a modern space with multiple lanes and lounge seating.

Which Celebrity Cruise ships have bowling alleys?

Currently, the Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, and Celebrity Beyond offer bowling alleys as part of their onboard entertainment. These venues are located in the innovative “The Club” space on Deck 5.

Is there a fee to use the bowling alleys on Celebrity cruise ships?

Bowling on Celebrity Cruise Lines ships is complimentary for guests, though shoe rental may incur a small fee. The alleys are open during scheduled hours, with reservations recommended during peak times.

Can kids bowl at the Celebrity cruise bowling alleys?

Yes, the bowling alleys on Celebrity Cruise Lines are family-friendly and welcome children. Bumper lanes and lightweight balls are available upon request to accommodate younger players.

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

The bowling alleys are part of “The Club,” a multi-purpose venue offering arcade games, live music, and themed events. It’s a hub for entertainment, located near the ship’s theater and dining areas.

Do other cruise lines besides Celebrity have bowling alleys?

Yes, while not standard, several cruise lines—like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian—also feature bowling alleys on select ships. However, Celebrity Cruise Lines stands out with its stylish, tech-enhanced lanes on Edge-class vessels.