One of the biggest hassles on the larger cruise ships is getting good seats for the show, whether in the main theaters or other venues. On nearly all cruise ships, theaters and other venues assign seats on a first-come basis – there are no reserved seats. Some of the larger ships require reservations, but they still do not guarantee good seats. All ships discourage the holding of seats for large groups, but you will always see someone doing this. The reality is that not all members of a party will get to the theater at the same time, so there will always be someone saving seats.
Examine the layout of the theater
It is important that you take time to explore the layout of the theater. Many of the newer ships are changing the layout. Visit the theater in advance to scope its layout. Here are some questions to ask.
– Where do you want to sit?
Do you like to sit close to the front? Or do you prefer a balcony seat? I am short, so I check for seats that are less likely to be blocked so my view of the state is not obscured. Be aware of items like pillars and high walls that may block your view. Most seats in the theater are excellent, so this is mostly a matter of personal choice. Check out whether the theater has “boxes” on the sides that can be used as these are sometime great locations. Many theaters have a back section that is raised higher than the front section, thus providing an unblocked view from the front row of the back section. The Celebrity Edge has a unique theater layout with an electronic wall and the stage that juts out into the audience, thereby providing some very interesting options for seating. Most, but not all, theaters have balconies. Explore the theater on the first day and check out where others sit during the first day performances.
– The show may dictate the best seating
Some shows, such as production shows with lots of choreography, are better viewed from a distance. The front rows do not allow you to enjoy the full richness of the program. Other shows, such as comedians or single performers can be viewed satisfactorily from the front rows. The same is true for many of the other theater-like venues. Consider whether you wan the front row for a game show or disco night. We have found that sitting up close is good for single performers, such as a violinist or pianist or comedian, but not for shows that require the entire stage. Many theaters have a back section of the lower level that rises above the front section. Sitting in the front of this rear section provides a great view for action-based shows.
– What seats are most comfortable for you?
The seating in the theaters and other theater-like venues differs between ships. Some ships have bench-like seating, others have individual seating. Some have cocktail tables, others only have cup holders. Some even have movable chairs. The point is that you need to understand the seating available to know what is best for you.
– Do you have special requirements?
If you need accessible seating or have problems using stairs with no handrails, look at the theater layout to see what areas work best for you. In particular, look at all the entrances. Some theaters have entrances at multiple levels, so you can access the front seats without having to walk down stairs. I have read several posts by persons of weight who cannot fit into the individual seats in some theaters since they are too narrow. It is always best to scout the theater for seating that satisfies your requirements. Generally, I look for seating near the aisle that can be access with few stairs, but a handrail is required.
– Be aware of obscured views or seats with distractions
Many theaters have columns that can block your view of the stage. While these columns are necessary for the ships structural stability, they can impede your visibility if you are in the wrong seat. Pay attention to these columns as they may only block a portion of the stage, which can be important during a production show, but not so much during a magician act.
I have also seen seats that have “distractions”. The biggest distraction is that many theaters have the sound and lighting booth in the seating area. This booth causes some glow and I find it distracting. I have good peripheral vision and am highly ADD, so I avoid seats close to this booth. Likewise, if you choose a see to the side of the stage, be aware that the stage lights might be more visible.
Get there early
Have at least one of your party get to the the theater early. My wife and I have the arrangement where, after dinner, I will go to the theater 30 to 45 minutes prior to the show to get us seats where we want to sit while she does other stuff. I take my Kindle or iPad to read or do some work while I wait. I know the cruise lines discourage holding seats for large groups, but I am only holding one seat. I am perfectly happy with this arrangement and this allows me to get a seat where my view is not blocked and she does not have to navigate a lot of stairs with no handrails.
Make sure the other party knows where you will be sitting as it can be hard to find someone in the large theater. Plus, if they get there after the lights are turned down, it can be even more difficult. We have a predetermined area where I always sit. That way, if my wife gets there just after the show starts, she can easily find me. This has worked well for years.
Sit up front or in the side balcony
I don’t know why it is, but the front rows seem to be pretty empty until the beginning of the show. If you don’t get to the show early, consider just going up front. This is also true with theaters that have balconies – the balcony seats at the sides of the theater seem to fill up slowly. The pattern may vary based on the ship, so examine the theater when you board. All theaters seem to have areas that are “less desirable” and fill up slowly.
Handicapped seating
If you require it, use the handicapped seating, which is generally available. You can always ask a crew member to assist you – they will ask non-handicapped persons to vacate the handicapped seats for you. Don’t be shy to ask for the handicapped seating if you need it. Most able-bodied passengers are considerate and will give up their seating if requested. In many cases, they offer up their seating when they see you.
Preferred seating
On a recent Hawaii trip, we had a suite which entitled us to preferred seating. There were a number of seats reserved for suites close to the front of the theater. While this was not convenient for my wife, it was nice to know it was there. About five minutes prior to show time, these seats were released to all passengers, so this is a good place to look if you are coming in at the last minute.
Consider all the venues
Many of the larger ships have more than one theater. There is a main theater at the front of the ship, but there may also be a second theater elsewhere. Many of the Princess ships have the main theater at the front, another smaller venue at the rear, and even a third theater in the middle. The Queen Mary 2 has a second theater/planetarium in front of the main theater. The Norwegian Pride of America has Mardi Gras nightclub area above the main theater. Your choice of entertainment will determine which venues you use. Also research the other venues to see if there are spots more suitable for you and your party. The Harmony of the Seas has the skating rink and diving stage which are also very popular.
Summary
The only sure want I have found to get a good seat for a popular show is to get there early, since seating is generally on a first come basis, even if you have a reservation. I find this to be a good time to check my e-mail or read a book (or even take a nap). Sometimes, I will get a drink and just enjoy the downtime.
One final note. Be aware if there are any restrictions on attending the show. On Cunard lines, you must be dressed appropriately or they will turn you away. Some shows prohibit minors from the front rows. This is not common, but do pay attention to any restrictions.
Do you have any ideas for getting good seats at shows? If so, let me know in the comments below to share them with readers.
