Have you ever sailed on a theme cruise?

Lately I have noticed an increase in themed travel packages, specifically in the cruise industry. I’m not talking about extreme sports expeditions or singles-only tours, which draw adventure-seekers to challenging locations or ensure that single travelers can mix and mingle with other adults on their vacations. While those have become popular, I’m thinking more of the mile-long lists of “theme cruises” out there catering to just about any interest you could imagine.

A theme cruise is generally defined as a “normal” cruise with additional activities or programs centered on a particular topic of interest. Typically, when I hear “theme cruise”, I immediately think of the Disney Cruise Line. Disney cruises allow families to eat with Mickey and Co.; offer parents and children Disney-themed activities; and spend the day on Disney’s own private island. But DCL isn’t the only game in town when it comes to theme cruising.

Over the past few months, I have seen several ads for political or policy-related cruises, where you can dine, drink and discuss the issues of the day with a group of politicos or pundits on board. A quick look at upcoming departures shows these particular types of cruises lean heavily starboard. At least seven politically-conservative theme cruises are setting sail between now and next November. Only two politically-liberal cruises are scheduled to depart during that time. 

If they’re so inclined, theme cruisers can sail with astronauts, ambassadors, artists and authors anywhere from Alaska to Antarctica. Crafters can scrapbook their way to Canada, or quilt their way through Norwegian fjords. Investors can plot a course to financial security on investment-themed cruises. Other passengers can explore their love of gardens, antiques, dancing and golf.            

For something completely different, mystery cruises put the guests in the thick of the drama. Everyone’s a Colonel Mustard, a Mrs. Peacock or a Professor Plum on these ocean-going Clue-like journeys.     

These don’t even include the sports, soap star and Hollywood-fan cruises, like the Twilight Cruise and or baseball legends cruises.         

Some journeys are chartered so that everyone on board is participating in the theme. Others are private programs held on general cruise ships, where only the theme passengers can participate in the activities –- much like guests who are attending a convention at a hotel. And some cruise lines host their own themes.

Given the popularity of cruising in general, I’m not surprised that these special interest voyages are taking off. I haven’t taken a theme cruise yet, but I am intrigued by the many options out there.

 Have you ever taken a themed cruise (private, charter or one run by the cruise line)? Are they worth the extra money you pay? How much or little did you participate in the themed activities? Do you prefer to take a general cruise or take part in a themed voyage? Which cruise lines offer the best themes? Does the ship’s destination play any role when you’re booking a theme vacation, or is it all about the activities on board? How often do you take cruises?