Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Cruise Ship Lecture Topics


One of my favorite things in life is learning so I prefer vacations that expose me to new ideas and information. 


I especially enjoy cruise ship lectures conducted by passionate experts. These lectures are delightfully well-attended.


Here are some examples of topics for enrichment speaker presentations that you might find on cruise ships:


1. The History of Ancient Civilizations

2. Exploring the Wonders of the Natural World (National Parks, Wildlife Conservation)

3. Famous Explorers and Their Expeditions

4. Maritime History and Nautical Traditions

5. Art History and Famous Artists

6. Culinary Adventures Around the World

7. Wine Regions and Wine-Making Techniques

8. Astronomy and Stargazing

9. Cultural Heritage of Different Countries

10. Music Through the Ages (Classical, Jazz, Rock)

11. Literary Masterpieces and Famous Authors

12. World Religions and Their Influence on Society

13. Geology and Geological Wonders (Volcanoes, Caves, Mountains)

14. Sustainable Travel Practices and Responsible Tourism

15. Psychology and Mental Health Wellness

16. Famous Battles and Military History

17. Health and Wellness (Nutrition, Fitness, Stress Management)

18. Technology and Innovation in Modern Society

19. Environmental Conservation Efforts

20. Famous Architectural Landmarks and Their Designers

21. Fashion Through the Ages

22. Political History and Current Affairs

23. Sports Legends and Iconic Sporting Events

24. Folklore and Mythology from Different Cultures

25. Science and Technology Breakthroughs

26. Photography Tips and Techniques

27. World Festivals and Celebrations

28. Travel Writing and Blogging

29. Genealogy and Family History Research

30. Exploring Different Philosophical Perspectives


Some of the best lectures I have attended were presented by naturalists. A naturalist is an individual who possesses a deep understanding and expertise in the natural world, including its flora, fauna, ecosystems, and environmental processes. Naturalists often serve as guides, educators, and advocates for conservation, sharing their knowledge and passion for nature with others.


On certain cruises—such as those to Alaska, through the Panama Canal, to Antarctica, and to the Galapagos islands—lectures and presentations by naturalists are popular activities among passengers. These lectures offer passengers the opportunity to gain insights into the unique ecosystems and wildlife found in these regions, as well as to learn about the geological and environmental factors that shape them.


For example, on Alaska cruises, naturalist-led lectures might cover topics such as the diverse wildlife of the region, including grizzly bears, bald eagles, humpback whales, and salmon. Passengers may learn about the intricate relationships between these species and their habitats, as well as the challenges they face due to climate change and human activities.


Additionally, naturalist presentations on Alaska cruises may delve into the geological history of the region, exploring topics such as glacial formation, tectonic plate movement, and the impact of ice ages on the landscape. Passengers can gain a deeper appreciation for the stunning fjords, glaciers, and mountains they encounter during their cruise through these informative lectures.


Similarly, on Panama Canal cruises, naturalist-led presentations may focus on the rich biodiversity of Central America, including the rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs that line the canal’s route. Passengers may learn about the importance of these ecosystems for global biodiversity and the efforts underway to conserve them.


Naturalist lectures on Panama Canal cruises might also explore the history of the canal itself, from its construction to its modern-day operation, highlighting the engineering marvels and environmental challenges associated with this iconic waterway.







Places Where I Have Traveled *=more than once

  • India
  • China
  • Dubai
  • Israel
  • Russia*
  • Iceland
  • Cuba Aug 2016
  • Egypt*
  • Indonesia
  • Tahiti Feb 2016
  • Northern Ireland
  • Cook Islands Feb 2016
  • New Zealand Feb 2016
  • Australia Feb 2016
  • Belize
  • French Polynesia Jan 2016
  • Mallorca
  • Shetland Islands
  • Faroe Islands
  • Brunei
  • Morocco*
  • Brazil*
  • Philippines
  • North Borneo
  • Crete*
  • Ionian Islands*
  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Azores*
  • Norway
  • Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes)
  • Bosnia
  • Palestein
  • Croatia
  • Romania
  • Argentina
  • Ecuador
  • Tunisia
  • Corsica
  • Bulgaria
  • Columbia
  • Peru
  • Montenegro
  • Columbia
  • Chile*
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Uruguay
  • Jordan
  • Gibraltar
  • Turkey*
  • Bermuda
  • Estonia*
  • Viet Nam
  • Finland*
  • Malta*
  • Thailand
  • Guatemala
  • Crete*
  • Jamaica*
  • Panama*
  • Grand Canyon
  • Scotland
  • Niagara Falls
  • Greece*
  • France* lived there
  • Japan*
  • Bilbao, Spain*
  • Canada*
  • Costa Rica
  • Bahamas*
  • Banff Hot Springs
  • Hawaii*
  • Italy*
  • Catalina Island
  • Luxembourg*
  • St Johns
  • St Marteen/St Martin
  • St Thomas
  • South Padre Island Texas
  • Mexico*
  • Vatican City*
  • Austria*
  • Denmark*
  • Monaco
  • Portugal*
  • Belgium*
  • Holland*
  • Ireland*
  • Alaska
  • England*
  • Sweden*
  • Switzerland*
  • Spain*
  • Germany*
  • Madeira

Events/Experiences

  • Pyramids at Giza
  • Taj Mahal
  • Climbed Great Wall of China
  • Western Wall-Jerusalem
  • Transited Panama Canal 3X
  • Rode Camel in Tunisia
  • fathom Adonia--1st US cruise ship to Cuba--Aug 2016
  • Old Town in Havana
  • Burj Kalifa in Dubai
  • Saw Kangeroos, Wallabees, and Koalas in Australia
  • Kayaked in Bay of Islands, New Zealand
  • Vaparreto # 1 in Venice
  • National Museum in Brunei
  • Saw Geysers Erupt in Iceland
  • Drink at Raffles Hotel-Singapore
  • Fish Spa in Greece and Philippines
  • The Peak in Hong Kong
  • Pedicab Tour in Manilla Philippines
  • Road Amalfi Coast, Italy
  • Chewed Gum in Singapore
  • Marched in St Pat's Day Parade in Dublin
  • Sailed Kotor Bay
  • Old Bridge in Mostar, Bosnia
  • Smithsonian Museums-DC
  • Toured Ancient City of Petra, Jordan
  • Transited Suez Canal
  • Rio for Carnivale 2X
  • Cruised along Cinque Terre, Italy
  • Fish Spa in Corfu, Greece (teeny fish scrubbed my feet!)
  • Subway in Russia
  • Flash Mob (dance) on stage on several cruises
  • Visted 21 Countries on 5 long cruises in 2012
  • Ceviche in Peru
  • Cremation Service in Bali
  • Saw Lamas in Lima
  • Vasa Museum-Stockholm
  • Buddhist Monastery in Viet Nam
  • Drove Amalfi Coast
  • Queen Mary 2
  • Berlin Wall
  • Mummies In Cairo Museum
  • Jordan River; Sea of Galilee
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor at Sunrise
  • Transited the Pirate-Infested Gulf of Aden
  • Ski Dubai
  • Fellucca Ride on the Nile at Sunset
  • 16-day Europe/Transatlantic on Queen Victoria
  • Tahrir Square-Cairo
  • Toured Pompeii
  • In Fashion Show Aboard Queen Victoria
  • Rode Elephants in Thailand and India
  • 7-Country Baltic Cruise
  • Hermitage Museum
  • Checkpoint Charlie
  • Transatlantic Crossing on QM2
  • Climbed Tikal in Guatemala
  • Mediterranean Cruise 6 countries
  • Audience with Swami in Rishikesh, India
  • Poetry Class in France
  • Kissed Blarney Stone
  • Pike's Fish Market in Seattle
  • Photo with Snake Charmer in India
  • Dacau near Munich
  • Hitchhiked from France to Scotland
  • Climbed Washington Monument in DC
  • Oktoberfest in Bavaria
  • Toured Panama Canal
  • Wine Country in France, California and many others
  • Guest of Placido Domingo in Chicago
  • The Alamo
  • United Nations
  • San Diego Zoo
  • Helicopter over Grand Canyon
  • Club Med in Cancun
  • Eurailpassed Twice Thru Europe
  • Hollywood
  • Albuquerque Hot-Air Balloon Festival
  • Rodeo in Dallas/Ft Worth
  • NCAA Playoffs in Charlotte and New Orleans
  • Cucchi Tunnels in Viet Nam
  • Grammys in New York
  • Paella in Spain
  • Rain Forest in Costa Rica
  • Xmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on 5th Avenue
  • Niagara Falls
  • Disney Land & Disney World
  • Voodoo Museum New Orleans
  • Cancun Jazz Festival
  • Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica
  • Las Vegas for Trade Shows
  • Key West for Hemmingway Festival
  • Art Classes in Louvre
  • Black Ski Summit in Vail and Colorado Springs
  • Texas State Fair
  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • Italian Class in France
  • Nude Sunbathing in St Marteen
  • Danish Pastry in Denmark
  • Palace of Knossos Crete
  • Anne Frank House Amsterdam
  • Karaoke in Japan
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Lobster in Maine
  • Belfast Black Cab Tour
  • Dozens of Transatlantic Sailings