Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory has officially taken to the high seas, and Royal Caribbean has found a way to make the experience even sweeter.
The cruise line’s newest ship, Legend of the Seas, is home to the first-ever at-sea production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a Broadway musical that brings the beloved story of Charlie Bucket, Willy Wonka and the mysterious chocolate factory to life.
But there’s one surprise audiences might not expect: During the performance, the theater actually smells like chocolate.
I attended the musical during a sailing aboard Legend of the Seas, and the chocolate scent was just one of several unexpected touches that made the production feel like much more than a typical cruise ship show.
What Is ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ Like on Legend of the Seas?
The production takes place in the ship’s Royal Theater and runs approximately one hour and 42 minutes without an intermission.
One of the most impressive elements is the combination of physical scenery and digital projections. Large screens create changing cityscapes, colorful factory interiors and other backgrounds, allowing the production to move between scenes without relying entirely on traditional stage sets.
Additional screens on either side of the stage extend the scenery beyond the main performance area. At one point, screens are even used to show fictional news broadcasts about the children who have found golden tickets.
The colorful costumes and scenery are particularly striking, especially during musical numbers featuring Violet Beauregarde and Veruca Salt.
The show also takes advantage of the Royal Theater’s technical capabilities. Performers disappear beneath the stage on moving platforms, while aerial effects bring characters above the audience.
Violet Beauregarde transforms into a giant blueberry during Royal Caribbean’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, one of several scenes featuring aerial effects.Terri Peters
In one memorable scene, Violet transforms into a giant blueberry and floats over the crowd. Another highlight comes during the finale, when Charlie and Willy Wonka soar above the audience in the glass elevator.
And then there’s the chocolate scent, which fills the theater during the factory portion of the show, adding an unexpected sensory element to the experience.
Who Stars in Royal Caribbean’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’?
According to the show’s official digital program, Lyle Mackston plays Willy Wonka, while Oliver Dawson and Edward Jones share the role of Charlie Bucket. The cast also includes Christopher Harrod as Grandpa Joe, Emma Jane Fearnley as Mrs. Bucket, Aniah Long as Violet Beauregarde and Alexandra Kinsley as Veruca Salt.
The performers bring considerable stage experience to the production. Dawson previously appeared in London’s West End production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, while Mackston’s credits include Frozen Live and Mamma Mia! at the Hollywood Bowl.
Willy Wonka takes passengers on a colorful journey through his chocolate factory in the new musical aboard Legend of the Seas.Terri Peters
The musical also features a live orchestra, with musicians positioned in areas to the left and right of the stage.
Among the standout moments are Violet’s and Veruca’s colorful musical numbers, the comical puppet squirrels and Veruca’s interactions with one particularly memorable squirrel named Jeremy.
The final number featuring Charlie and Wonka is another highlight, especially as the two characters rise above the audience.
Is ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ Free on Legend of the Seas?
Yes. The musical is included in the cruise fare, meaning passengers don’t have to purchase an additional theater ticket to attend.
However, reservations are strongly recommended. Guests can book performances before their cruise through the Royal Caribbean app or the cruise line’s website.
An elaborate, multilevel set depicts the Bucket family’s home during Charlie and the Chocolate Factory aboard Legend of the Seas.Terri Peters
Showtimes vary by sailing, and multiple performances may be offered.
Unlike a traditional theater experience, seats aren’t assigned, so guests can choose from available seating when they arrive.
Families with younger children should also keep the show’s length in mind. At approximately one hour and 42 minutes without an intermission, it’s a relatively long performance for little ones who have trouble sitting still.
Still, the production offers plenty of visual surprises, colorful characters and familiar moments from the beloved story.
What Other Shows Are on Legend of the Seas?
Legend of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship, which began sailing in Europe in July 2026 before arriving in Florida for its inaugural Caribbean season in November.
In addition to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the ship features America’s Got Talent LIVE, which brings performers from the popular television competition franchise to the Royal Theater.
Other entertainment includes Shockwave, an AquaTheater production featuring high dives, aerial performances and aquatic stunts, and Fusion, an ice-skating show at Absolute Zero. Families can also catch Voyage to Adventure, a parade featuring colorful floats inspired by destinations around the world.
Like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, these productions are included in the cruise fare, giving passengers several entertainment options without paying extra for show tickets.
Is Royal Caribbean’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ Worth Seeing?
Having attended the production firsthand, I was particularly impressed by how effectively the creative team used projections, physical sets and aerial effects to bring the chocolate factory to life.
The Royal Theater itself feels much like a traditional theater, but the production’s technical capabilities allow for some especially imaginative moments.
From Wonka appearing in the theater balcony to performers flying overhead and the scent of chocolate filling the room, the show finds ways to bring the story beyond the stage.
The cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory receives a standing ovation following a performance aboard Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas.Terri Peters
The audience appeared enthusiastic during the performance I attended, with plenty of smiles as guests left the theater.
For anyone sailing aboard Legend of the Seas, especially fans of Roald Dahl’s story or the Broadway musical, it’s an experience worth making a reservation for.
Related: M&M’s Is Giving Its Holiday Candy a Makeover Inspired by ‘Elf,’ ‘A Christmas Story’ and ‘Christmas Vacation’
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