Channel 4 has commissioned a new reality series for E4 titled Cruising Paradise: Above and Below Deck, which will explore life aboard cruise ships, offering a mix of first-time and experienced passengers alongside young crew members. The ten-part series is produced by Brighton-based Crackit, following their previous cruise-focused titles Cruising to the Ends of the Earth (2026) and Supercruising: Life at Sea (2025), both for Channel 4.
Series Format and Inspiration
Narrated by actor Callum Scott Howells (It’s a Sin), the series will provide behind-the-scenes access to life aboard contemporary liners. Filmed on Princess Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships, it follows the highs and lows of working at sea, including demanding shifts, homesickness, late-night camaraderie, and off-duty adventures at spectacular destinations. The show draws comparisons to the hit American series Below Deck, which documents crew life on superyachts during charter season and has spawned multiple international spin-offs.
Passenger and Crew Perspectives
A select group of passengers will also feature, from first-time cruisers to experienced travellers, offering a window into what many young Brits consider the ultimate holiday goals. The crew's personal and professional lives intertwine, with cameras capturing fun, friendships, and romance during a season onboard.
Quotes from Executives
Genna Gibson, Commissioning Editor at Channel 4, said: "A cruise ship is like a floating city where nobody gets to nip home after work, so every day brings new friendships, fresh drama and unforgettable characters. Above deck, passengers are making memories. Below deck, an incredible crew is making it all happen. Cruising Paradise gives viewers the best of both worlds, with humour, heart and spectacular escapism in equal measure."
Elaine Hackett, CEO of Crackit TV, added: "Behind every once-in-a-lifetime voyage is a dedicated team of ship crew delivering world-class experiences for those lucky enough to embark on them. In Cruising Paradise, we’ve secured extraordinary access to the many human stories unfolding every day on these vessels. With crew members having the time of their lives, making friends, and even falling in love, all while working in some of the most exciting and sought-after jobs around."
Broadcast Details
Cruising Paradise: Above and Below Deck will air on E4 and be available to stream on Channel 4.
