Dance Cruises and Dance Workshops on Board

On a cruise, dancing can mean an informal evening on the dance floor, a guided workshop or the main focus of a themed cruise. These formats differ in whether guests dance to the music on their own, practise new steps with instructors or follow a planned programme of events. A dance-themed cruise brings several such events together under a shared travel theme.

What makes a dance-themed cruise

“Mein Schiff auf Tanzkurs” (Mein Schiff Dance Course) is taking place for the fourth time in 2026. During the 20-night cruise from 25 October to 14 November, Mein Schiff 6 will sail between Las Palmas and Cape Town. Professional dancer Christian Polanc heads the announced line-up. He will be joined by Holger Nitsche, Werner and Michèle Straßer, Matthias Gronostay, Sibylle and Oliver Lepp, Tobias Lange and Joana Schipper. The group brings together a range of dance professionals and instructors in a jointly announced onboard programme.

The programme includes workshops and dance classes, as well as a dance show and an autograph session. According to the organiser, the show and autograph session are included; no tickets are required, and seating is unreserved, though not guaranteed. Classes and workshops are exclusive events: bookings are expected to open in the “Meine Reise” section about four weeks before departure. This means that the show events are open to guests, while the classes require advance booking. The cruise itself follows the West African coast, from the Canary Islands to South Africa.

Finding the right format

Dance for fun: An open dance evening gives you the chance to dance familiar steps; it does not include instruction.
Learn something new: In the workshops, the featured professionals and instructors provide guidance. On this cruise, classes and workshops can be booked separately.
Enjoy a performance: The dance show is a separate event and does not require taking part in a class.
Combine several activities: A dance-themed cruise brings classes, a show and other events together as part of the same voyage.

The rest of life on board is part of the cruise experience too: Mein Schiff 6 offers à la carte and buffet restaurants, as well as advice and a special offering for guests with allergies. The services and booking conditions mentioned apply to the 2026 edition.

Dancing as a cruise theme

Dance cruises are a type of themed cruise: the theme shapes several events, rather than being limited to a single advertised activity. On ocean and river ships, dancing can be part of life on board; the scope and organisation depend on the programme for each cruise.