If you’re a fan of cruising or just love a good travel story, you’ve probably found yourself watching shows that take you behind the scenes of life at sea. From luxurious ships and unforgettable destinations to a little bit of drama and mystery, these TV shows offer a fascinating glimpse into what it’s really like onboard.
In this post, we’re diving into some of the best cruise-themed TV programs that bring the open waters right to your screen. So, whether you’re dreaming of your next getaway or just in the mood for some maritime entertainment, these shows are sure to set you on the perfect course.
The Love Boat
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
Aired: 1977 - 1986
Episodes: 9 series, 250 episodes (including 2 TV specials)
Where to Watch: Available to stream on Hulu
Synopsis: Set aboard the luxurious cruise ship Pacific Princess, The Love Boat follows the lives of the ship’s crew and passengers, highlighting the romantic escapades and personal dramas that unfold during their sea voyages.
Each episode typically features multiple storylines, with various guest stars playing passengers who find love, friendship, or self-discovery on their cruise. The crew members, including the charismatic Captain Stubing, are often at the centre of the action, while the show’s lighthearted tone balances humour with moments of heartfelt emotion.
The Love Boat became a cultural phenomenon, offering audiences a romanticised version of life at sea, and solidified its place in TV history as one of the most memorable shows of the late 20th century.
The Cruise
Genre: Documentary, Reality TV
Aired: 2004
Episodes: 1 series, 6 episodes
Where to Watch: Available to stream on Amazon Prime
Synopsis: The Cruise took viewers behind the scenes aboard Regal Princess, one of the largest ships in the Princess Cruises fleet. The series offered a fascinating look at the daily life of the crew and passengers, showcasing everything from the operational aspects of running a cruise ship to the glamorous experiences of guests.
The show highlighted the luxury services, breathtaking destinations, and the challenges faced by both the crew and the passengers. Through intimate interviews and candid footage, The Cruise provided a unique insight into the world of cruising, with a focus on the personalities of the crew and the emotional highs and lows of life onboard.
Whether it was the thrill of exploring exotic locations or the drama of shipboard romances, The Cruise gave audiences a taste of what it’s really like to be at sea.
Mighty Cruise Ships
Genre: Documentary
Aired: 2014 - 2021
Episodes: 4 series, 26 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Discovery UK and Apple TV
Synopsis: Mighty Cruise Ships is a documentary series that takes viewers inside some of the world's most impressive cruise liners.
Each episode follows a different ship, showcasing the challenges faced by the crew and the incredible logistics of managing these floating cities. The series highlights everything from the luxury amenities and entertainment onboard to the complexities of navigating diverse seas and handling thousands of passengers.
With ships like Oasis of the Seas and Queen Mary 2, Mighty Cruise Ships offers a captivating look at the operations behind these colossal vessels.
Cruising with Jane McDonald
Genre: Travel, Documentary
Aired: 2017 - 2021
Episodes: 4 series, 22 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 5, All4 and My5
Synopsis: Cruising with Jane McDonald is a travel documentary series where the popular singer and TV personality embarks on a series of cruises to explore some of the world’s most scenic and luxurious destinations.
Each episode sees Jane McDonald visiting various ports of call, experiencing onboard life, and discovering the unique aspects of each cruise. With her characteristic warmth and charm, Jane offers viewers a mix of entertainment and insight, from the onboard activities to the stunning landscapes and cultures she encounters along the way.
The show is a delightful exploration of cruising, perfect for those looking for inspiration for their next voyage.
Jane McDonald: Cruising…
Genre: Travel, Documentary
Aired: 2017
Episodes: 1 series, 4 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 5 and My5
Synopsis: Jane McDonald: Cruising… is a travel documentary series where the popular singer and TV personality embarks on a series of cruises to explore some of the world’s most scenic and luxurious destinations.
Each episode sees Jane McDonald visiting various ports of call, experiencing onboard life, and discovering the unique aspects of each cruise. With her characteristic warmth and charm, Jane offers viewers a mix of entertainment and insight, from the onboard activities to the stunning landscapes and cultures she encounters along the way.
The show is a delightful exploration of cruising, perfect for those looking for inspiration for their next voyage.
The Secret Life of the Cruise
Genre: Documentary
Aired: 2018
Episodes: 1 episode
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video
Synopsis: The Secret Life of the Cruise offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the operations of MSC Seaside, one of the largest cruise ships in the world.
With privileged access to every part of the cruise’s operation, this documentary uncovers the army of people and complex systems that keep this extraordinary ship at the top of its game.
From the engineers maintaining the ship’s mega engines to the 800-person catering team managing one of the biggest food operations at sea, the film reveals life on board in a way that viewers have never seen before.
The World’s Most Expensive Cruise Ship
Genre: Documentary
Aired: 2019 - 2025
Episodes: 3 series, 12 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 5 and My5
Synopsis: The World’s Most Expensive Cruise Ship is a documentary series that offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Seven Seas Splendor, a luxury cruise ship operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The series provides viewers with an in-depth view of life aboard this ultra-luxurious vessel, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail and exceptional service that define the Regent experience. From the opulent suites and gourmet dining options to the dedicated crew members who ensure every guest’s comfort, the documentary highlights the dedication required to maintain the ship’s six-star status.
The series also delves into the challenges faced during voyages, including navigating through unpredictable weather and accommodating the diverse needs of passengers.
Billion Pound Cruise
Genre: Documentary
Aired: 2020
Episodes: 1 series, 4 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 4 and Apple TV
Synopsis: Billion Pound Cruise offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Symphony of the Seas, one of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships in the world.
The documentary follows the operations of the ship as it sails through the Caribbean, giving viewers an inside view of the ship’s impressive scale and the team behind its operation. The series highlights the efforts of the 2,200 crew members who manage everything from entertainment and dining to safety and maintenance for up to 6,680 passengers.
Through interviews with the crew and stunning footage of the ship’s amenities, Billion Pound Cruise reveals the challenges of running such a massive vessel and showcases the incredible engineering that makes it possible.
Cruising with Susan Calman
Genre: Travel, Documentary
Aired: 2022 - Present
Episodes: 3 series, 22 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 5 and My5
Synopsis: Cruising with Susan Calman is a travel documentary series where the Scottish comedian embarks on a series of cruises to explore some of the world’s most scenic and luxurious destinations.
Each episode features Susan aboard a different cruise ship, experiencing the onboard amenities, engaging with the crew, and immersing herself in the local cultures of various ports of call. From the sun-soaked Canary Islands to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, Susan’s infectious enthusiasm and curiosity provide viewers with an entertaining and insightful look into the world of cruising.
The series offers a blend of humour, adventure and cultural exploration, making it a delightful watch for travel enthusiasts and cruise aficionados alike.
The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea
Genre: Reality Documentary
Aired: 2023
Episodes: 2 series, 30 episodes
Where to Watch: Available on Channel 5 and My 5
Synopsis: The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea is a reality documentary series that offers an inside look at the lives of British holidaymakers aboard Regal Princess as they embark on Mediterranean voyages.
Each episode follows different groups of passengers, from first-time cruisers to seasoned travellers, as they explore various ports of call, engage in onboard activities, and experience the highs and lows of life at sea.
The series captures the diverse personalities and interactions among the guests and crew, providing a lighthearted and entertaining glimpse into cruise life.
