Top 8 Cruise Ship Pools

By Brooke Franco

Best cruise ship pools. - *Photo by Canva*

Nothing says vacation more than taking a dip in a cruise ship pool! So what could be better than chilling out with a frozen drink poolside as you bask in the tropical sunshine?

Long gone are the days of cruise ships with one pool and dozens of people jockeying for lounge chairs. Instead, as vessels have become more innovative, cruise lines have become creative with pool designs and creating multiple water-focused spaces.

Every type of cruiser will find a favorite in the following picks for the top eight cruise ship pools on the high seas. So grab a towel and sunscreen, and dive right in!

1. Aft Pool - MSC Cruises

The Aft Pool can be found on MSC Cruises Seaside-class ships. This infinity-style pool gives the illusion the water is spilling over the ships aft when at sea. The tranquil, relaxing space is open to all guests. One of the highlights of the Aft Pool is the curved lounge chairs fixed into the shallow area of the pool. They are a perfect place to relax and watch the waves roll by.

Check it out on MSC Seaside, MSC Seashore, and MSC Seaview

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2. Havana Pool - Carnival Cruise Line

This particular pool on several Carnival ships is exclusive to guests in Havana staterooms and suites and the Excel Presidential Suites on Mardi Gras. The Havana Pool is separate from the main pools, offering a quiet place to cool off, escape from the bustle of the ship and enjoy the sunshine while sipping on a fresh mojito.

Make a Splash at the Havana Pool on Mardi Gras, Carnival Vista, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Horizon

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3. Wakeview Pool - Princess Cruises

The Wakeview Pool has quickly become a favorite space on several of the newer Princess Cruise ships. Located on the aft of the ship, the pool features an infinity-style edge offering spectacular ocean views. Enjoy the sea breeze from the pool deck as you sail onto your next port.

Take a Dip on Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess

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4. Viking Infinity Pool - Viking Ocean Cruises

Video by Viking Cruises Facebook

Viking Ocean was among the first cruise lines to incorporate an infinity pool on its ships. Guests can take a dip and admire the scenery as they adventure to the next exotic destination. The pool is adjacent to a hot tub with plenty of lounge chairs. This space transforms into the alfresco dining area of the Aquavit Terrace in the evening.

Enjoy this Pool on Viking Sea and Viking Star

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5. Quiet Cove Pools - Disney Cruise Line

You can find a Quiet Cove Pool on all Disney Cruise Line ships. This area is the special adults-only section of the ship, featuring pools, hot tubs, and bars. On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, the Quiet Cove Pool is made of a 3-circle design (think a Mickey Mouse shape) that makes up plunge pools and a shallow sunbathing pool. The Quiet Cove Pool on Disney Wonder and Disney Magic is surrounded by a gazebo structure with comfortable teak lounge chairs.

Visit This Pool on All Disney Cruise Line Ships

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6. Infinity Beach - Norwegian Cruise Line

Although Norwegian Prima has yet to hit the high seas with passengers, its unique pool design has earned it a spot on this list. Infinity Beach features an infinity pool that seamlessly blends with the surrounding ocean. Guests can swim up to the side for a full ocean view. Located in the outdoor Ocean Boulevard area, the pool at Infinity Beach is nestled amongst lounge chairs and couches that are perfect for relaxing. This space is unlike anything we’ve yet to see on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

Check out Infinity Beach on Norwegian Prima

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7. Resort Deck Pool - Celebrity Cruises

The Resort Deck pool, found on Celebrity Cruises’ new ship Celebrity Beyond, gets bonus points for its ‘wow’ factor. Flanked by a highly photogenic elephant statue and martini-shaped hot tubs, the pool is a must-see. The entire space was designed with water views in mind. It features an asymmetrical lounging area and a terraced deck.

Check out the Resort Deck Pool on the new Celebrity Beyond

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8. Amplified Pool Deck - Royal Caribbean

*Photo by Royal Caribbean International*

As a part of Royal Caribbean’s ‘Amplified’ ship upgrades, the pools received a major facelift. These family-friendly outdoor areas are packed with extra space to swim, lounge, and play. Around the main pool, you will find a children’s splash pad, a variety of lounge chairs, and the adult-favorite Lime & Coconut Bar.

Catch this pool on Navigator of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, and Freedom of the Seas

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