Each ship’s event offerings are different. I’ve been on a backstage tour (Princess), galley tour (Royal Caribbean), and a bridge tour (before 9/11). Princess had a cooking show on stage complete with large screen and gas stove. Carnival gave a towel folding demonstration to show how to make monkeys and elephants from towels. Most lines have an ice carving demonstration, art auction, and an afternoon tea.

Alaska cruises have great lecturers on board. I learned about the migrating habits of whales, where eagles congregate and how to identify the different types of salmon. An Alaskan was brought on board and recited "The Cremation of Sam McGee" and other tales of Alaskan life.

The evening shows are a must see. High energy dancing and the female and male lead singers perform many nights during the cruise. A family comedy act is, many times, followed by an adult only act late in the evening. If you have a talent (usually singing, comedy or dancing), use it during the talent night. Practice because sometimes the competition is strong.

Be sure to attend the game shows–not so newlywed game and trivia competitions. The participants are your fellow guests and can be hilarious. If you miss them, you can watch them on your in-cabin TV. Sports enthusiasts have putting contests (keep a sense of humor since the ship is moving), ping pong tournaments and basketball. Some Royal Caribbean ships have climbing walls, Carnival has water slides strong enough for adults, and some ships have miniature golf as well as golf driving cages.

And then there are excursions. You can book them online before the cruise or wait until you board. The popular ones sell out early. The other, less expensive option is to take a similar excursion offered near the dock. The gamble is that a flat tire, for example, won’t keep you from getting back to the ship on time. With the ship sponsored tours, the ship will wait for the group. If you are a good swimmer, bring swimming goggles, purchase a $1 snorkel tube and swim in a designated area near the dock.

Bring books and magazines to read. When you are finished, give them to the staff. We gave Men’s Health to the gym men. Use the exercise equipment on port days and you’ll have the gym to yourself. Remember to walk the steps as often as possible to burn those extra calories. Load up on veggies and fruit at the buffet to avoid bogging down and needing to rest after every meal.

On formal night, men can wear a suit, but can get away with a collard shirt and tie on most ships. Ladies, you can dress up to your heart’s content or keep it simple.

Take your camera and have a waiter take your photo. Carnival and Royal Caribbean have photo contests–maybe you could win your next cruise!