best cruise lines for families with toddlers

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8 Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Plan ahead for smooth sailing when cruising with young mariners.

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Young children can have just as much fun as their parents on these cruises.

Cruises are an ideal vacation option for families with toddlers . But with so many cruise lines to choose from – and new ships offering an array of endless activities and amenities for kids of all ages – you may find it difficult to wade through the sea of options when planning a cruise for babies and toddlers.

Many mainstream and premium cruise lines offer well-designed staterooms with families in mind. Many family cruise ships also offer water parks, rides and attractions, kid-themed venues, live entertainment and more – making cruises for babies and toddlers (as well as cruises for teens ) ideal for both young and multigenerational families.

"Many cruise lines offer the perfect solution for families with babies and toddlers to enjoy time together as well as adult-only cruise time ," says luxury travel adviser Elizabeth Caran, a member of Nexion Travel Group. "From family-friendly activities to babysitting services and kids' clubs, cruises encourage the whole family to travel together."

When you're ready to cast off with your young mates, these eight cruise lines offer varying degrees of creature comforts, in-cabin amenities, and activities to make this maritime adventure memorable for your baby or toddler – and for the whole family.

Disney Cruise Line

Msc cruises, celebrity cruises, holland america line, norwegian cruise line, carnival cruise line, royal caribbean international, princess cruises.

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Minimum sailing age: Infants must be 6 months of age or older on embarkation day to sail with Disney Cruise Line . Children must be 12 months or older to sail on the line's Hawaii , transatlantic and Panama Canal itineraries.

Disney Cruise Line's family staterooms and suites offer expanded spaces for families, with some sleeping up to seven guests. Many of these cabins are split-bathroom staterooms with two bathrooms; one has a sink with a combined shower and tub, while the other has a commode and sink. You'll also find bunk-style beds, room-dividing draperies, extra space for storing luggage, on-demand television, in-room movies and a refrigerator.

Families traveling with infants will have access to many complimentary baby amenities on board Disney's ships, including bottle warmers and sterilizers, diaper disposal units, playpens, cribs and Pack 'n Play portable cribs. Parents can request these items through the stateroom host or hostess. Complimentary strollers are also available through Guest Services, and all of the dining venues have highchairs to accommodate your hungry shipmates. If you forgot your baby's pacifier or other necessary items, you'll find baby essentials including rash cream, infant formula (ready to feed) and more available for purchase at the onboard shops.

While you can bring your own baby food on board the ship (the items that don't need food preparation from the kitchen), the restaurant staff is also happy to puree fresh vegetables, by request, in the main dining room or through room service.

When parents are ready for adult-only time, Disney's fleetwide "It's a Small World" nursery accommodates children starting at 6 months old (or 1 year of age, depending on the itinerary), up to age 3. This whimsical themed space boasts some of the most extended operating hours – and lowest hourly rates for child care – in the cruise industry. While at the "club," tots can read or play with interactive toys, games, videos or crafts. If one of the counselors needs to reach you on the ship, never fear: They can contact you via an onboard mobile phone service.

Older children – ages 3 to 12 – have access to the Disney's Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab play areas, which offer even more Disney-inspired fun. And don't forget all the other kid-friendly activities on the ship like themed parties and water attractions for little ones, as well as character encounters with Mickey and Minnie Mouse and a whole host of other princesses, pirates and superheroes. Don't forget to pack your baby's Disney-themed gear to join in the onboard fun.

Want to cruise with your family on Disney Cruise Lines? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Minimum sailing age: MSC Cruises welcomes children of all ages but recommends consulting your pediatrician if you plan to sail with a baby younger than 12 months of age.

When you're ready to set sail with MSC, the line has connecting staterooms and large suites to accommodate families. You can also opt to stay in the exclusive MSC Yacht Club to experience the luxury ship-within-a-ship accommodations and amenities, which include private venues and a 24-hour dedicated private butler. Cribs and playpens from baby care brand Chicco are available for your complimentary use through the housekeeping staff.

The Baby Club (for ages 2 and younger) is one of five distinct offerings for kids. MSC partners with Chicco to provide a dedicated play space for babies and toddlers who are younger than 3 years old. MSC Baby Time is available at select times on sea days and in port, giving the ship's youngest guests an opportunity to play with pals from around the world while you supervise your children and engage with other parents. Little ones will also enjoy the educational toys from the Osservatorio Chicco Baby Research Center, which include rhythm and music activities and crawling games. Another MSC offering allows 2- and 3-year-olds to test out their budding culinary skills with a Baby Chef activity. Babysitting is an option at the Baby Club for kids between 1 and 3 years old. This service – and available hours – varies by ship, so check with the Youth Program once you're on board.

For slightly older sailors (aged 3 to 6), the Mini Club's partnership with Lego provides even more friends and fun with arts and crafts, games, and events.

This cruise line's kids menus offer a wide selection of delicious and fun choices assessed by nutritionists from the Osservatorio Chicco. Some food options are dedicated to 6- to 12-month-old palates, and the menus are available in the main and specialty restaurants. Each buffet also features a Kids' Corner or Marketplace Family & Kids area. If your wee ones get hungry at off-hours and you don't want to head out into the ship, you'll still be able to keep them satisfied and happy – room service is available 24 hours a day.

For excursions, children 2 years and younger can join you free of charge; kids aged 3 to 13 receive a 30% discount off adult prices.

Looking to plan a cruise on MSC Cruises? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Minimum sailing age: Infants must be at least 6 months old on the first day of a Celebrity Cruises sailing or cruisetour. Some cruises/cruisetours require children be at least 12 months of age to participate.

Celebrity's Veranda Stateroom is the perfect option when traveling with younger kids as it allows parents the flexibility to go outside and enjoy a glass of wine or private time after the little one is fast asleep. If your child is more active, an Ocean View Stateroom still offers the view but with more peace of mind. If you splurge on a spacious suite, everyone will have more room to rest and roam – and get access to VIP areas of the ship – along with concierge and butler service. Suite accommodations also offer a private babysitting service for up to three children (for a fee), as long as the kids are all at least 1 year of age.

Celebrity offers several programs for younger children. Toddler Time is available in the ship's playroom for all kids younger than 3 and requires parental supervision – and you can check out the fun and educational toys and books to take to your stateroom. Led by the ship's youth staff, the daily Camp at Sea program is an option for potty-trained kids ages 3 to 5. Camp activities include science excursions, art activities, singing and cooking challenges. Children aged 3 to 12 who are registered in the youth program can join in for more activities with supervised afternoon and slumber parties on the ship.

Fussy young eaters will find plenty of kid-friendly favorites at mealtime like spaghetti Bolognese, mini pizzas, cheeseburgers and fries; these are some of the selections on the main dining room's kids menu. The buffet is an excellent alternative for a relaxed environment and even more choices – including an ice cream and dessert station for those sweet tooths. If you prefer to dine in your stateroom, kiddie favorites are also available on the in-room dining menu.

Want to cruise on Celebrity Cruises? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Minimum sailing age: Infants cruising on Holland America Line must be at least 6 months old at the time of embarkation. On longer cruises, such as transoceanic voyages or itineraries in South America , Asia , the South Pacific or Hawaii, infants must be at least 12 months at embarkation.

Holland America offers a selection of accommodations ideal for families that include connecting cabins and rooms with sofa beds or Murphy beds. On the Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, there are also dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, additional closet space and two bathrooms (one of which has a tub). The line also offers reduced fares for kids – who can even cruise for free on select itineraries during Holland America's Kids Sail Free promotions.

A limited number of complimentary cribs, highchairs and booster seats are available on board. The line recommends requesting a crib no later than 90 days before sailing. If you don't want to bring all the necessary supplies with you, select items can be purchased in advance, including diapers, baby wipes, formula and baby food.

Parents will appreciate the kids menu in the dining venues, with toddler-approved favorites like chicken strips, pizza, and mac and cheese, along with healthy options like soups, salads and fresh fruit. Children 12 years and younger receive half-off meals in specialty dining restaurants – or they can order from the kids menu for free – and you'll find reduced rates for the kiddos on shore excursions.

Club HAL, the line's youth program, is available on all 11 ships and offers supervised and entertaining activities for ages 3 to 17. At the Kids Program (for 3- to 6-year-olds), children can participate in games and crafts and attend themed parties like a "Ships Ahoy Pirate Treasure Hunt Adventure" or "Dino-Mite Night." The program, along with lunch, is an option on port days. The line also encourages children with special needs to participate in Club HAL activities based on their chronological age.

Looking to plan a family cruise on Holland America Line? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Minimum sailing age: Infants must be 6 months of age at the time of sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line , or at least 12 months old at embarkation if the voyage has three or more consecutive days at sea.

Norwegian's "freestyle cruising" philosophy provides parents options to design a vacation that will be flexible and fun for everyone in the family. Choices abound for staterooms and suites, including connecting cabins. The Haven, the line's exclusive luxury retreat, offers spacious accommodations, suites and villas – even a two-bedroom family villa. The Haven also boasts private venues, a concierge service, a 24-hour butler and other perks. During promotions on select sailings – and in all stateroom categories – kids can sail for free .

Complimentary portable playpens and foldable sleepers are available fleetwide. You'll also find highchairs in the dining venues, but booster seats are only available on Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore.

For activities, the line's Guppies Program is for tiny tykes ranging from 6 months to 3 years old. This hosted activity (on all ships) is open to parents and their children, focusing on sensory play, music and movement. Parents of children aged 3 to 12, meanwhile, can head out for an afternoon in port – or a night alone on the ship – and leave their children with the supervised Late Night/Port Play program for a fee. For more active pursuits, parents and their kids can check out the aquaparks and waterslides, play a game of mini-golf, or go on exciting and adventurous excursions, such as a whale watching expedition on a cruise to Alaska .

Throughout the ship guests will find complimentary dining venues, like the main dining rooms and buffet, where kids can enjoy tasty favorites like pizza, chicken fingers, pasta, waffles and soft serve ice cream. You can also visit specialty restaurants that offer a kids menu at no extra charge. If you're staying in for the night, 24-hour room service is always available.

Want to cruise with your family on Norwegian Cruise Lines? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Minimum sailing age: Infants must be 6 months of age at the time of embarkation to sail with Carnival Cruise Line . For transoceanic crossings, remote itineraries and any cruise with more than two consecutive sea days, children must be at least 12 months of age. They also must be at least 12 months to sail if there's at least one international port ( Singapore , the Pacific Islands or New Zealand ) or a port in Hawaii.

Carnival offers connecting cabins and flexible staterooms that can accommodate up to five guests – some also have an extra half bath. If you're cruising from Long Beach, California , to the Mexican Riviera with the kiddos, plan to reserve one of the 96 Family Harbor staterooms or suites in the family-dedicated zone on Deck 2 of Carnival Panorama. These cabins accommodate up to five passengers and feature a nautical flag motif. Additionally, the Family Harbor Lounge is the perfect place to hang out with your little ones: The space has large televisions, hosted family activities, complimentary snacks – like milk and cookies or ice cream – and other amenities. You'll also be able to grab continental breakfast in the lounge on port days. Family Harbor suites and staterooms are also available on Carnival Celebration, Mardi Gras and Carnival Vista. All the cabins in this category have additional perks like free specialty dining for kids and one free evening of day care.

While on board, parents can request a complimentary crib to use in the stateroom, and there are highchairs and booster seats available in the dining venues. Strollers are available to rent for a fee.

When it comes to activities, Camp Ocean has programs for infants younger than 2, with limited availability on sea days during the cruise. Children do not need to be toilet-trained to participate. Parents can leave their tots in the care of the ship's youth staff for a fee, or they can stay and use the camp facilities free of charge. On port days, child care is also available (at additional cost), but parents must return at mealtimes to feed their children – or to administer any medications. Children who are 2 years of age can join in the kiddie fun in the Penguin group for ages 2 to 5, which offers complimentary programming with entertaining age-appropriate activities and kid-friendly cuisine. Other ways to keep young seafarers amused while on the ship include Seuss at Sea, Zumbini and Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea.

In the evenings, infants 6 months and older – and children up to age 11 – may attend Night Owls (for a fee), a late-night supervised slumber party-type activity where tots can watch movies, play games, listen to music, participate in giveaways and enjoy snacks. Depending on the itinerary, there may also be themed Owl Jam Parties for the kids. Complimentary Pack 'n Plays are available to use for infants.

Looking to plan a cruise to the Caribbean on Carnival Cruise Line? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Minimum sailing age: Infants must be at least 6 months old on the first day of a Royal Caribbean International cruise or cruisetour. Note, however, that they must be at least 12 months old for certain cruises/cruisetours such as transatlantic and transpacific voyages, Hawaii cruises and select South American itineraries. Children are required to be at least 12 months old for any cruise with three or more consecutive sea days.

Royal Caribbean has a wide range of staterooms and suites appropriate for all sizes and types of families, but for an epic adventure, book the Ultimate Family Suite. This two-story accommodation is available on three of the line's ships, including Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest ship – and the largest ship in the world. Suite amenities feature a private game room and cinema, table tennis, an in-suite slide and VIP perks around the ship; you'll even have your own dedicated Royal Genie. For shorter itineraries closer to home, consider booking one of the line's Freedom-class vessels sailing from ports in Florida , Texas and New Jersey .

Take advantage of the line's Babies 2 Go service to make packing light and easy for your cruise. This program will deliver Huggies diapers, baby wipes and cream, and Gerber organic baby food to your stateroom. The items must be ordered in advance.

Royal Caribbean's Royal Babies program (for ages 6 to 18 months) offers little ones and their parents enriching classes in child development. Royal Tots features 45-minute interactive playground sessions for children aged 16 to 36 months. The ship's youth staff hosts these programs; parents must attend alongside their infants or toddlers. If your little one is between 3 and 5 years old – and potty-trained – they can participate in the educational program as an Aquanaut at Adventure Ocean. With this program, kids take part in fun experiments to become a Certified Jr. Adventure Scientist. These programs are complimentary for guests.

If you want to dine early with your kiddos and avoid the crowds in the main dining room, My Family Time Dining is available for kids ages 3 to 11 during the first seating. After dinner, they can head to Adventure Ocean for nighttime kid fun while their parents have an adults-only evening to explore the entertainment on board – or off the ship.

Want to cruise on Royal Caribbean International? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Minimum sailing age: Princess Cruises requires infants be at least 6 months or older on embarkation day and at least 1 year old for remote itineraries and transoceanic crossings. Children must be at least 5 years of age to participate in an escorted cruisetour.

Princess ships have plenty of staterooms that will accommodate up to four guests. The line also offers connecting cabins and two-bedroom suites for a family of up to eight that boast additional living space, a balcony and two bathrooms (one with a full tub). If you need a portable crib, you can call the line or reserve one in advance through the Cruise Personalizer.

Kids aged 3 and older (who must be potty-trained) can participate independently in Camp Discovery, a hosted complimentary program during the day and evening. Late-night group babysitting is also available at Camp Discovery for a small hourly fee, so parents can drop off their children and enjoy a quiet date night or some "me" time. Families can also delight in onboard entertainment such as stargazing with Discovery at SEA, kid-friendly films during Movies Under the Stars, festivals, dining events and more.

Kids menus are available in the main dining rooms and in specialty restaurants, where children receive half-price meals. Complimentary stage 1 and 2 jarred baby food can be ordered in advance through the Cruise Personalizer. You can also request fresh pureed fruits and vegetables in the main dining room.

Looking to plan a family cruise on Princess Cruises? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Tips for Cruising with Babies and Toddlers

• Book a short cruise: Celebrity Cruises' blog advises booking a shorter itinerary when cruising with babies and toddlers – especially until little sailors learn the ropes and get their sea legs.
• Choose a local port: You might also consider an itinerary departing from a port closer to home so you can drive there – and look for kid-friendly itineraries that offer age-appropriate excursions.
• Cruise during the off-season: If your schedule is flexible, book your vacation during the off-season or shoulder season, which will vary depending on your destination. Cruise fares are typically lower , and the kids facilities won't be as crowded when the older children are in school.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on: Keep anything you'll need the day of embarkation – food, diapers, pacifiers, swimsuits, a change or two of clothing, etc. – in your carry-on bag . Your checked luggage may not be available to you until later in the day. Carry-on luggage can include a rollaboard bag, diaper bag or backpack , the latter of which will also be useful for shore excursions.
• Pack plenty of diapers: Both regular and swim diapers are essential for your cruise packing list . Pack more than enough diapers as most cruise ships do not carry them (and even if they do, it's not guaranteed they'll sell the size your child needs). If available in a port of call, diaper options may be limited and/or more expensive.
• Pack baby food: Formula isn't widely available on cruise ships, and because there are so many varieties (and so many babies with particularities), it's best to bring the formula your baby enjoys at home. Even though some cruise lines will puree baby food, you'll still want your own for shore excursions (even those on the cruise lines' private islands ). It's also a good idea to confirm the cruise line serves the type of milk your toddler drinks.
• Pack bottles and bottle accessories: Some cruise lines offer bottle warmers and sterilizers, though they are few – and you may feel more comfortable packing a bottle brush and portable warmer anyway.
• Reserve baby items ahead of time: Most of the lines have portable cribs (such as Pack 'n Plays), travel strollers , and highchairs or booster seats that you can use, and it's best to reserve these items in advance. Depending on the cruise line, you may be able to order other essentials ahead of time as well.
• Consider travel insurance: Life is unpredictable – especially when you have a little one. You might want to consider cruise insurance or a cancel-for-any-reason travel policy for emergency protections and peace of mind during your vacation.

You might also be interested in:

• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Biggest Cruise Ships in the World
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Top Family Travel Insurance
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Family Vacations

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The Best Cruises For Families, From Foodies To Adventurers

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T he traditional family cruise isn’t like it used to be. Nowadays, popular cruise lines like MSC , Royal Caribbean and Disney are going the extra mile for families of all sizes and age ranges. From late-night babysitting and all-ages entertainment to customizable air and land arrangements and educational excursions, the best cruises for families offer amenities and activities so thoughtful, they’ve become equally as enjoyable for adults as they are for kids.

Thanks to pre-planned, tried-and-true itineraries and many all-inclusive options (onboard spending can really add up), a family can experience not just one but several destinations, enjoy their own onboard activities and still meet in the middle for some family bonding—all without the stress. Below, we’ve selected the best cruises for families in 2024, from sails with a focus on younger children to expedition-minded voyages and cruises for groups with a wide variety of interests.

Editor’s Picks:

• Best Cruise For Families Overall: MSC Cruises , MSC Seascape

Best Luxury Cruise For Families: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Evrima

Best all-inclusive cruise for families: royal caribbean, wonder of the seas, best cruise for families with young children: disney cruise line, disney wish, best cruise for families with teenagers: celebrity cruises, celebrity ascent, best cruise for large families: princess cruises, sapphire princess, best cruise for families with different interests: norwegian cruise line, norwegian prima, best cruise for active families: hx (hurtigruten expeditions), ms santa cruz ii, best cruise for families overall: msc cruises, msc seascape.

The MSC Seascape features 11 dining venues, 20 bars and lounges and 13 pools.

MSC Seascape

Recommended Itinerary: 7-Night Western Caribbean From Miami

Departure: July through January

All Star Amenities: 11 dining venues, 13 pools and unique shore excursions such as the Excursions Explorer Package, MSC Bike Adventours and MSC Protectours

With four- to 14-night Caribbean cruises to and from Miami, Brooklyn or Orlando running consistently, MSC Cruises takes the headache away from the planning logistics. Its newest ship, MSC Seascape , has everything a family could need onboard: 11 dining venues, 20 bars and lounges, 13 pools and water activities and more. For children up to 17 years old, there are activities such as sports, competitions, parties and more across five different clubs included in the stay. Each club is dedicated to a specific age group, so kids can socialize with those their own age. The ship also offers baby and toddler services, so mom and dad can get some (much needed, surely) time to enjoy the cruise’s many dining and entertainment amenities.

Evrima, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Recommended Itinerary: 11-Night Barcelona to Rome

Departure: April through October

All-Star Amenities: Full-service spa with a sauna; steam room and quiet areas; onboard classical and jazz performances

It doesn’t get more luxurious than the Ritz-Carlton—on land or sea. For families who want to spend time together but who still want to prioritize a white-glove experience, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has you covered with its first-ever ship, Evrima , which launched late last summer and is limited to suites only. Families will soon find that the real onboard luxury on this ship is the children’s programming: for kids aged four to 12, the cruise offers a comprehensive creative program complete with a dedicated, full-time youth counselor for an added fee per session. Take one of the Mediterranean routes (currently, there are 46) and advantage of the concierge’s customized air, land and hotel arrangements. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the service for which the Ritz-Carlton has become known.

Wonder of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's most family-friendly ship.

Wonder Of The Seas

Recommended Itinerary: 7-Night Eastern Caribbean

Departure: Monthly

All-Star Amenities: Six record-breaking water slides; Surfside, a family-friendly neighborhood; Thrill Island, a waterpark with rock climbing, mini-golf and more

Beyond all-inclusive pricing packages, Royal Caribbean really has it all. On Wonder of the Seas , the largest cruise ship in the world, families can find the Ultimate Abyss, a waterslide that boasts over 10 stories of height, plus a surf stimulator and zip lining for teens. The cruise line’s award-winning children’s program for ages six months to 12 years old, Adventure Ocean, includes immersive playrooms and even climbable creations (fees apply for infants six months to 36 months old and late-night programming for ages 3 to 11 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.). But there’s more where that came from: for ultimate family time, Royal Caribbean features Surfside, a neighborhood for families to enjoy all day with an aqua park and plenty of dining options, and Thrill Island, an over-the-top waterpark including a redefined rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, and more.

Disney Wish

Recommended Itinerary: 3-Night Bahamian from Port Canaveral

Departure: March through December 2023; January through September 2024

All-Star Amenities: Theatrical/cinematic dining experiences that incorporate favorites like Marvel and Frozen

Less than a year old, Disney Wish is a 4,000-person ship that is as popular as ever, thanks to its range of offerings that keep the little ones busy. Onboard, children will not only find their favorite characters from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars , and Pixar films, but be able to live out their fantasies through experiences like dining with Frozen ’s Elsa, Olaf, and others over a theatrical meal. The best part of this cruise line is arguably the staff, who are well-acclimated to handling overtired children or picky eaters and keeping things as seamless as possible—which, as most parents know, is truly priceless. Plus, the 3-night voyages are the perfect length for a quick getaway.

Celebrity Ascent

Recommended Itinerary: 12-Night European Route From Barcelona To Athens

Departure: From May 2024

All-Star Amenities: Spa treatments available for the whole family with separate kid and teen offerings

While Celebrity Cruises has a range of amenities that are fantastic for the whole family (movie nights beneath the stars, cupcake decorating, and beyond), its Camp at Sea program is particularly interesting for more mature children and teens. With over 500 art, culinary, and recreational activities available, the teen-specific category (for those aged 13 to 17 years old) includes silent discos, sports competitions, video game challenges, socialization with other teens onboard, and more. The cruise line is introducing another ship this fall— Celebrity Ascent —that has all of these offerings for kids and teens plus some extra special ones for adults. The spa, for example, is state-of-the-art and includes a kid- and teen-specific menu, making it an activity the entire family can enjoy.

Sapphire Princess

Recommended Itinerary: 7-Day Jeff Corwin's Nature & Adventure Voyage From Vancouver to Anchorage

Departure: September 6-13, 2023

All-Star Amenities: OceanMedallion, a wearable device which grants access to accommodations and even tracks other members of your party onboard

While Princess Cruises offers routes through the Caribbean, Europe and more, its Alaskan journeys are the cruise line’s crown jewel. Its 7-Day Jeff Corwin's Nature & Adventure Voyage on Sapphire Princess , in particular, features a fun-filled itinerary from Vancouver through multiple ports in Alaska ending in Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska. Children age three to 12 can participate in Camp Discovery, full of science-based activities associated with the Discovery Channel’s programming lineup, including MythBusters and Shark Week . Kids of any age can meet at their respective lounges (The Treehouse for ages 3 to 7, The Lodge for ages 8 to 12 or The Beach House for ages 13 to 17) to socialize with others, and entire families can partake in Animal Planet-affiliated shore excursions or meet under the stars to enjoy films on the big screen. With so much to do, larger families are sure to be kept busy while learning new things each day.

Exterior of Norwegian Prima.

Norwegian Prima

Recommended Itinerary: 9-Day Mediterranean: Italy, France And Spain

Departure: From November 2023

All-Star Amenities: The sheer amount and variety of children’s programming

With posts all around the world, Norwegian Cruise Line offers extensive destination options aptly timed with holiday breaks, including routes through Italy, France and Spain to others between Santorini, Mykonos and Florence. Onboard its over 3,000-passenger Norwegian Prima , expect tons of family-friendly programming: for children 6 months to 4 years of age, there’s the Guppies Program, giving space for children and parents to play; for ages 3 to 12 years old, there’s the Splash Academy that features free, interest-based programming including sports and art; and for teens (13 to 17 years old), the Entourage programming includes video games, movies, music, socializing, and more. The cruise line also offers family activities such as mini-golf and scavenger hunts, and adults can enjoy amenities like a spa, casino and theater while their children are supervised.

MS Santa Cruz II

Recommended Itinerary: 12-Day South America Expedition Cruise With Stops In Machu Picchu and Galápagos

Departure: Year round

All-Star Amenities: An onboard photographer who shares his tips and tricks for capturing wildlife photography

Based in London, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) is a cruise line that clearly understands adventure. Its MS Santa Cruz II ship in particular provides an intimate experience through the Galápagos Islands with just a 90-passenger capacity. Families can choose from a range of routes, including a 7-day route focusing on wildlife starting from a UNESCO World Heritage City, Quito or a 12-day journey tracing Charles Darwin’s footsteps through the natural wonders of the destination. The ship also offers several different accommodation arrangements with cabins for single travelers, couples, and families, as well as common areas to enjoy together including its Sky Deck, Science Center, library, fitness room and hot tub.

Which Cruise Line Is The Most Family Friendly?

Depending on your family’s travel style, age range and group size, there are several cruises that stand out as particularly family friendly. Our top overall pick is MSC Cruises . In particular, we’re a fan of the MSC Seascape , which has everything a family could need onboard: 11 dining venues, 20 bars and lounges, 13 pools and water activities. For families with younger children, we recommend Disney Cruise Line , particularly the Disney Wish , and for families with teens, we recommend Celebrity’s Celebrity Ascent .

Are Cruises Worth It For Families?

Yes, cruises are worth it for families thanks to the ease of having food, activities and accommodations for a wide range of age ranges all in one place. Depending on the type of cruise you book, families will be able to see multiple countries all in one trip, with many cabins even offering bunk beds or suites for families to stay together. Some cruise lines even offer free kids fares and other cruise deals for kids throughout the year, so there’s plenty of value to be found on a cruise as well.

Is Royal Caribbean Or Carnival Better For Kids?

Royal Caribbean is one of our top selections for family cruises. The cruise line’s award-winning children’s program for ages six months to 12 years old, Adventure Ocean, includes immersive playrooms and even climbable creations (fees apply for infants six months to 36 months old and late-night programming for ages 3 to 11 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.). Even families with older children will find plenty to do on two of the largest ships in the world, Wonder of the Seas and the newly debuted Icon of the Seas .

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of cruise guides featuring the best ship to book for every type of cruise style. The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran , a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries. The writer of each of our hotel roundups is handpicked based on their area of expertise, whether they are area locals or avid travelers who have visited the destination frequently—and all have bylines in other reputable travel publications. Further, this story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible. It was last updated in April 2024 to reassess our selections and make sure all details are still accurate.

About Annie Davidson Watson, Your Family Cruise Guide

I'm a writer, editor and consultant who has covered luxury travel and cruising for the last ten years. Formerly, I was an editor at Departures, Travel + Leisure, Glamour and more, and I now contribute regularly to both Forbes and Forbes Vetted. I'm also the founder of @littleackbook , a Nantucket-based publication and concierge service. For more, follow me at @anniedavidsonwatson .

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The 11 Best Cruise Lines and Ships for Families and Kids in 2024

Ashley Onadele

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Table of Contents

Family-friendly cruise amenities, cruise types and destinations, the 5 best cruise lines for families and kids, the 6 best luxury cruise lines for families, final thoughts.

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Cruising has long been a popular way for people to travel, especially for those that are retired. There’s something about getting to enjoy an endless amount of food, drinks, and onboard activities while the ship takes you from one destination to another. It’s surely a tempting way to see the world.

As cruise lines including Carnival and Royal Caribbean continue to introduce show-stopping attractions that kids love, such as roller coasters and laser tag, families are getting more and more into cruising, too.

However, as with any vacation parents and families consider taking with kids, we have to ask: what are the best cruise lines for families?

The answer is, it depends.

Just like when you choose a hotel, families look for certain amenities for a cruise vacation.

Entertaining kids on any vacation is usually top of mind when planning a trip. A kid-friendly cruise line will have entertainment for its youngest sailors . Kids’ and teens’ clubs, pools, and water slides are just a few of the kid-specific amenities that you’ll find on a lot of the cruises on this list.

Higher-end cruise lines like expedition cruises offer robust educational programs for kids as well as adults. A family-friendly cruise might also have a place for the adults to relax such as a spa or adults-only area.

The cabin size matters, too, just as it would at a traditional hotel or resort .

Larger families may prefer a suite over an inside cabin. But either way, the square footage matters — even more so if you’ll spend quite a bit of your time onboard the ship.

And lastly, food might be a factor in deciding what cruise line would be best for your family. Luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will no doubt have a superb menu, but they may not be expert kid-pleasers like Disney Cruise Line when it comes to food.

There are 3 types of cruises to choose from — ocean, river, and expedition cruises.

Ocean cruises are what most people have in mind when they think of taking a cruise. Most cruise lines have at least a few ocean cruise ships in their portfolio and they most popularly frequent the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska , and Hawaii.

River cruises have traditionally been more popular with older cruisers but are now appealing to the younger crowds as well. River cruises can be found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most cruise lines don’t have kid or family programs and some outright don’t allow kids under 18, though Adventures by Disney and AmaWaterways have partnered to offer river cruising for families (more on that later).

And finally, expedition cruises take adventure-seekers to curious and far-flung destinations like the Arctic, Antarctica , the Galapagos , and the Amazon. Expedition boats are much smaller than ocean liners, and the offerings on board are usually more tailored to history and education on expedition cruises .

With all of that in mind, here are the best cruise lines for families and kids.

Hot Tip: Consider our guides to the best websites to book cruises at the cheapest prices , and make sure to use one of our recommended credit cards for booking cruises .

1. Disney Cruise Line

Destinations :

• Australia and New Zealand
• Pacific Coast
• Panama Canal
• South Pacific

Number of Ships : 5

Disney Cruise Line is at the top of this list because it does a really fantastic job of catering to every member of the family. It has managed to bring the magic of Disney theme parks to the middle of the ocean — even the fireworks shows.

There are only 5 ships in Disney Cruise Lines’ portfolio, but Disney has plenty of cruise itineraries to choose from. It sails to popular destinations as well as unique places that families might not have considered, such as the Norwegian Fjords .

Sailings feature character experiences just like at the Disney theme parks. You’ll also find live shows, a spa, nightclubs, and lounges. Each ship also has various kids’ clubs for passengers as young as 3 years old (a fee-based nursery is available for kids under 3), as well as pools with waterslides and aqua play areas. Older kids can enjoy a little independence in spaces designed just for them where they can play video games, watch TV, and meet other kids their age.

Dining options aboard Disney cruises include main and casual dining as well as adult-exclusive dining options. There are almost a dozen restaurants, cafes, and snack shops on each ship. Some nod to beloved Disney movie characters, like Lumiere’s on Disney Magic and Tiana’s Place on Disney Wonder.

Within each ship, there are 4 categories of staterooms: Inside, Oceanview, Oceanview with Verandah, and Concierge. Within most categories are family rooms with bunk beds as well as accessible rooms.

Shore excursions include private tours, culinary adventures, and accessible excursions in more than 25 countries. Guests especially love Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , when cruising select Caribbean itineraries.

2. Royal Caribbean

Destinations:

• Arabian Gulf and North Africa
• North America
• South America

Number of Ships:  27

Royal Caribbean has a whopping 27 cruise ships in its portfolio with another, Utopia of The Seas, scheduled for delivery in 2024.

The cruise line features the world’s largest ships and the tallest water slide at sea . From arcades to roller coasters, there is never any shortage of thrill-seeking activities to find on board any Royal Caribbean cruise.

If you and your family want to make the most of a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll want to check out Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class and Amplified ships . These classes of ships feature even more exciting attractions including glow-in-the-dark laser tag and several on-deck pools.

Alternatively, there are places on every Royal Caribbean ship where you can get away from the excitement and relax. In the Solarium, where kids under 16 aren’t allowed, soothing music helps you to decompress while lounging on a daybed or hanging out in a hot tub.

Royal Caribbean also has a private island exclusively for its guests . Coco Cay is located in the Bahamas and features a 13-slide water park as well as the region’s largest wave pools and freshwater pools.

Kids always sail free on Royal Caribbean cruises.

3. Carnival Cruise Line

• Australia and the Great Barrier Reef
• Canada and New England
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea

Number of Ships : 24

Carnival Cruise Line has a reputation for being a party cruise line. However, the prices can rarely be beaten, which a lot of family travelers can appreciate.

Similar to Royal Caribbean, Carnival likes to wow its guests with nonstop fun. The onboard attraction Bolt Ultimate Sea Coaster — the first rollercoaster at sea — can be found on 2 of its ships: Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration .

There are 4 standard cabin types on Carnival cruise ships: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suite. There are also specialty rooms on select ships.

Family Harbor staterooms and suites are located near Family Harbor Lounges and come with a free evening of Night Owls babysitting, among other perks. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms and suites offer Elemis toiletries, spa-branded bathrobes and slippers, and priority spa reservations. And lastly, Havana staterooms and suites are located close to the Havana Bar and Pool. Some suites come with hammock chairs in the outdoor area.

New Orleans native and Food Network star Emeril Lagasse is the newest Chief Culinary Officer for all 24 ships with 3 original restaurants. There are plenty of dining options to choose from across the fleet with cuisines including Italian, Creole, burgers, and teppanyaki.

Onboard activities include Family Feud Live, waterslides, karaoke, and The Punchliner Comedy Club. Most but not all activities are included in the cruise fare. The IMAX theater and a few other attractions incur an additional cost.

Family-friendly excursions and tours include a wildlife safari and beach bonfire on an Alaskan cruise, panoramas and painting in Grand Turk, and a stingray adventure in the Bahamas.

Carnival has a private island that it shares exclusively with Holland America called Half Moon Cay.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Destinations

• Mediterranean

Number of Ships : 19

Norwegian Cruise Line is best known for being the most innovative cruise line . Notably, it has done away with traditional cruise concepts such as inflexible dining schedules and even dress codes.

Among the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet there are 8 different classes of ships of varying capacities and offerings. The class of ship that tends to be most popular with families is the Breakaway Class . The 2 ships in this class, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway , each have a capacity of about 4,000 passengers. Between the 2 of them, they sail all over the world.

What makes this class of ships on Norweigan Cruise Lines so appealing to families is that it feels like a floating resort. These are the second-largest ships in Norwegian’s fleet. Activities on either ship include multiple pools, a waterpark, and even a full-size ropes course.

The stateroom categories aboard both the Norwegian Getaway and the Norwegian Breakaway include Studio, Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Spa, Club Balcony Suite, and The Haven.  Within those categories are another 30 stateroom types to choose from, including a 2-bedroom family villa . The Haven is an exclusive set of staterooms at the top level of the ship that features a 24-hour butler, concierge service, and sundeck.

In addition to room service, guests aboard Breakaway Class Norwegian Cruise Line ships can enjoy almost 2 dozen restaurants and bars. Not every restaurant is included in your cruise fare. Specialty dining options include seafood restaurant Ocean Blue, Brazilian steakhouse Moderno Churrascaria, and French restaurant Le Bistro.

In addition to excursions that you can book for an additional fee, Norwegian Cruise Line has a private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas.

5. MSC Cruises

• Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar
• Northern Europe
• South Africa

Number of   ships : 19

MSC Cruises is a European-based cruise company with a growing footprint in North America and the Caribbean. It’s known for offering an affordable cruise option without a lot of the fluff of other cruise lines.

Even without a rollercoaster that jets out over the sea, MSC Cruises is still a popular option for family travelers.

For family cruisers in particular, MSC offers family excursions with special pricing for kids, and tours designed to be interactive as well as educational . There are also kids’ clubs aboard their ships in addition to the LEGO Experience on Board, which is a day dedicated to LEGO activities for the whole family.

Select ships feature a fully-immersive virtual reality experience, a movie theater, and an arcade room.

Passengers can expect the typical array of dining options aboard MSC Cruises as well as a special kids’ corner available at the buffet. There’s also a dessert corner and a wellness corner.

There are simply 4 stateroom categories aboard most MSC ships: Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and MSC Yacht Club. Within the highest category of staterooms, MSC Yacht Club, guests can expect 24-hour butler service, complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, relaxation amenities, and more.

For some families, a megaresort — or in the case here, a mega ship — just isn’t the way you’d like to spend your time on vacation.

There are more upscale and low-key cruise lines that cater to more discerning travel habits while also considering the needs of your youngest family members. In the luxury cruise category, you’ll find expedition and river cruises.

Luxury cruise lines come with a higher financial investment than the cruise lines listed above, but in return, you’ll find more inclusions, often better food, and far fewer onboard guests .

They also admittedly don’t offer as many action-packed attractions on board and some do not cater to especially young children. However, the cruise lines on this list each have unique kids and teens programs that you should be aware of.

Here are the best luxury cruise lines for families.

1. Celebrity Cruises

Number of Ships : 16

Celebrity Cruises features large ships but aims to provide a more high-end experience than you’ll find on cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises. It also does a great job of catering to multi-generational cruisers .

Camp at Sea is Celebrity Cruises’ kids’ club for kids 3 to 17 years old. Camp is open every day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is broken into 4 age groups. Activities range from arts and crafts for the youngest age group to video game tournaments, scavenger hunts, and movie nights for older kids.

Family-friendly excursions include cultural tours, water sports, volcano and glacier hikes, and swimming with dolphins.

There are 4 classes of cruise ships offered by Celebrity Cruises: Edge Class (its newest and most innovative), Solstice Class, Millenium Class, and Galapagos Vessels.

Hot Tip: Cruisers say that Celebrity Equinox is the most family-friendly Celebrity ship thanks to 2 kids’ programs only available on this ship as well as over 100 adjoining cabins.

An array of staterooms exist to choose from on Celebrity Cruise ships, including family verandahs that sleep 5. Celebrity Cruise ships also feature staterooms that cater to solo travelers as well, so when traveling with a group, no one has to feel obligated to share a room.

There are a dozen dining options across each ship such as the French restaurant Normandie or the Mediterranean eatery Cyprus Restaurant. Specialty dining options include Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, Raw on 5 Restaurant serving fresh seafood, and Fine Cut Steakhouse.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

• Northern Europe and the Baltic

Number of Ships : 1

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection struggled to set sail when its first yacht was delivered during the height of the pandemic. But Ritz-Carlton hotel loyalists, eager to experience the 5-star hospitality at sea, waited patiently for the first yacht to embark. That finally happened late last year.

Its solo yacht Evrima , which is the Greek word for “discovery,” will be joined by Ilma in 2024.

Guests aboard a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vessel can expect the same service they would on land, including the Ritz Kids program. At Ritz Kids, children ages 4 to 12 years old have the opportunity to participate in unique activities based on where they’re traveling . Programming mainly focuses on sustainability, marine life, sailing, and arts and culture.

There’s not an expectation for the yachts to frequently be teeming with children, but the cruise line expects to host more young passengers during summer and holiday school breaks.

The all-suite Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection features ocean views from every room, as well as 6 restaurants and in-suite dining. Guests can enjoy Southeast Asian cuisine from contemporary restaurant Talaat Nam or check out Mediterranean restaurant Mistral.

Ritz-Carlton is a Marriott Bonvoy brand and as such, you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points when sailing the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . You’ll earn 5 points per $1 spent on the price of your cruise and hotel package and 1 Elite Night Credit per night of your sailing. Redemptions start at 180,000 Bonvoy points to save $1,000, followed by 90,000-point increments to save $500. Redeeming points this way is a tough sell, but the earning isn’t too bad, especially paired with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card ..

3. Lindblad Expeditions

• Central America
• French Polynesia
• Vietnam and Cambodia

Lindblad Expeditions aims to be the premier expedition cruise line. Its National Geographic Global Explorers program offers exclusive and family-friendly programming for kids and teens.

Expedition cruises are all about exploring remote destinations like Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, and the Amazon. Expedition passengers can expect expert-led educational tours and excursions, and smaller ships that cater to less than 100 people .

With the National Geographic Global Explorers program, kids and teens get hands-on experience collecting and analyzing samples, learn how to take field notes, and even learn how to take slow-motion and timelapse videos to document their findings. The National Geographic Global Explorers program can be found on cruises to Antarctica, Alaska, Baja California, and Galápagos.

Lindblad Expeditions ships carry as few as 28 guests and at most 148. As such, cabins and suites vary across the company’s fleet of ships. It’s a little difficult to find out on your own which suites would accommodate more than 2 people or if you can get connecting cabins, though they do exist, as well as standard double-occupancy suites. As a tip, the best way to book a Lindblad Expedition cruise with your family may be to work with a travel advisor to ensure that you’re making the right investment.

Expedition cruisers seem to be less concerned about the dining options, however, Lindblad does boast that the dining is delicious and sustainably sourced.

4. Paul Gauguin Cruises

• Cook Islands
• Society Islands

Paul Gauguin Cruises specializes in luxury cruises in Tahiti, Fiji, and the South Pacific. With just 1 cruise ship in its fleet, Paul Gauguin takes cruisers to ports that larger cruise ships can’t access.

The Gauguin has a limited capacity of 330 guests . Featuring a spa, 3 dining venues, and an onboard watersports marina, the ship is mostly informal luxury.

The Moana Explorer Program , in partnership with marine education and conservation foundation “Te mana o te moana,” teaches kids ages 7 to 15 about the wonders of the South Pacific.

Only available on summer and holiday sailings, the free program includes activities such as naturalist-led island and beach excursions, crafts, and science. Other fun ways that kids can spend their time aboard The Gauguin are with treasure hunts, stargazing, and designing their own Polynesian tattoos.

All 3 of the dining venues aboard The Gauguin offer a well-thought-out menu with both formal and informal dining options. La Veranda offers alfresco dining inspired by the destinations the ship sails to, Le Grill serves a buffet breakfast, grilled lunch favorites, salads, and tropical fruits, and L’Etoile is the main dining option and serves a fine dining menu with complimentary wine pairings.

5. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

• Middle East
• Pacific and South Seas

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has been called “the most luxurious cruise line you’ve never heard of” by Cruise Critic and is frequently featured on lists of the best cruises for families.

The cruise line claims to pay the same amount of attention to the children and teenagers onboard as the adults. Cap’n Knof, Hapag-Lloyd’s mascot, welcomes each family on board every sailing and participates in games with guests.

Childcare offers vary across the 5 ships. However, sailors can expect a kids’ club for children as young as 4 years old on Europa and Europa 2, the cruise line’s 2 ocean liners. Activities include language classes, unique children’s excursions designed around the interests of the kids onboard, and even spa treatments for kids as young as 8 years old.

Unfortunately, there is no kids program on the cruise lines’ 3 expedition ships: Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration, and Hanseatic Spirit .

Children 11 years old and younger sail free on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and receive reduced pricing on arrival and departure packages.

6. Adventures by Disney River Cruises

• Danube River
• Rhine River
• Seine River

Number of Ships : 4

In partnership with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney River Cruises offer families an opportunity to experience river cruising that caters to them.

AmaWaterways is a leader in luxury river cruising, with destinations that include the Nile River in Egypt and the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, in addition to its European river cruises.

Adventures by Disney River Cruises feature local experts that tell the story of each location. What makes river cruises most attractive to some travelers is that you can travel slowly through a destination and spend more time learning about where you are . Disney’s river cruises are no exception with cultural immersion part of every day of the itinerary.

Hints of Disney can be found throughout the ship just as on Disney Cruise Line ocean ships. Mouse-shaped treats and Disney-themed karaoke are just a few of the features you’ll find on board.

Stateroom configurations range from inside to suites and can accommodate between 2 and 4 guests. Dining on board varies depending on the ship that’s sailing. This information can be found on the highlights page of each sailing’s itinerary.

Hot Tip: Adults who love Disney but prefer to travel without kids can sail on Adventures by Disney adult-exclusive sailings.

If a family cruise vacation is on your list, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer nonstop energy and lots of things to do or a more laid-back and low-key vibe with luxury amenities and excursions, there is a cruise line for you and your family.

Thrill seekers and budget-conscious travelers will find a great balance on cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises. And luxury travelers interested in expeditions and educational cruising with their families will be delighted to cruise with Lindblad Expeditions, Celebrity Cruises, and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Those interested in river cruising can also bring the kids along on Adventures by Disney River Cruises in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is royal caribbean or carnival more kid-friendly.

Though Royal Caribbean and Carnival cater to families, they differ in several ways. Carnival is more affordable and offers more family-friendly amenities. Royal Caribbean offers a slightly higher-end experience and thrilling, adventure-filled activities and attractions onboard.

What is the highest quality cruise line?

The best cruise lines in the world are ranked each year and categorized by type of ship, not exactly the highest quality. This would depend on the type of cruise you’d like to take. In 2022, Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards ranked Royal Caribbean as the best mega ship and Norwegian Cruise Line as the best large ship. Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises won for best medium ship and best ocean ship, respectively. And, lastly, Ponant won for best Expedition cruise.

Are cruises family-friendly?

Whether a cruise is family-friendly depends on the type of cruise you’re taking and with which cruise line. The cruise lines listed above all have special programming for kids and guests of all ages.

What age group cruises most?

According to Cruise Critic, the general age range of cruisers is 30 to 80 years old. You’re not likely to find a cruise line or ship that exclusively caters to 1 age group.

Is it worth taking kids on a cruise?

This depends on what you like to do as a family. The right cruise will offer activities for adults as well as kids to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable trip.

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About Ashley Onadele

Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.

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The Best Cruise Lines for Kids & Families

If you’re considering a family vacation, then there is arguably no better way to travel than on a cruise. Where else can everyone have something to do that interests them, all within walking distance?

On a cruise the kids can play at the arcade or climb the rock wall while parents sit poolside or enjoy a drink. Mom and Dad can go to dinner and a show as the kiddos drop into the kids club to play video games or arts and crafts while still being supervised by the crew.

And if you’re traveling with other generations, such as grandparents, the appeal of a cruise just gets stronger. Ships can appeal to all ages from two to 102 years old, providing something to enjoy no matter how mobile or active someone is… or what activities they like. Meanwhile, everyone can still be in the same area, offering the opportunity to spend plenty of time together as well.

Of course, not every cruise line is the same. And some are better at catering to kids and families than others. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best cruise lines based on a several different situations that might apply to your vacation.

First, however, it’s helpful to have an idea of what makes a cruise great for kids and families in the first place.

What Makes a Cruise Line Ideal for Kids & Families?

When it comes to finding the best lines for a family vacation, we think there are a few factors to consider…

Wide Variety of Things to Do: First and foremost, the best lines for families are going to be those with a lot of choices for things to do. Typically any large, modern ship will pack on a lot to do, but some cruise lines definitely push the envelope when it comes to what’s possible on a cruise. Even if you do sail a cruise line known for having lots, sticking to the newer and larger ships can give you even more options.

Focus on Children: It makes sense that you’d want a cruise ship with a focus on areas for kids, but if you aren’t familiar with the different options, you may not know what’s what. Nearly any modern ship will boast about things for kids to do. If we’re being honest, however, there’s a difference between the marketing for some lines about their family-friendly offerings and what’s actually available. Some lines really go all-out for things that kids will love while some have a more modest approach.

Other Passenger Demographics: Technically, just about any cruise line will be “family friendly.” Your kids will be welcomed aboard. However, that doesn’t mean its a line that caters to these families. As a result, it may be that your kids are some of the few onboard.

And when you sail on a line focused on adults with only a few children aboard, it can make a big difference in the enjoyment for your little ones. That’s why the most family-friendly lines won’t just have lots to do, but also plenty of similar-aged kids. This way, they won’t feel alone on the ship and have plenty of new friends to meet.

Best Overall for Kids and Families: Royal Caribbean

When it comes to the top overall choice for families, we think Royal Caribbean offers the best option. It simply goes above and beyond with large ships that have something to do for everyone while also focusing heavily on kids.

The cruise line is well known having the largest cruise ships at sea . Onboard those ships it packs the most activities and amenities — for adults and kids — meaning that no one will ever be bored.

Newer ships from Royal Caribbean will include everything from escape rooms to waterslides to arcades, dedicated kids lounges, climbing walls, ziplines, and the Flowrider surf simulator for children. That’s in addition to the “basic” items like pools and mini golf.

But one thing that also stands out to us is Splashaway Bay. This is a dedicated splash pad on many ships that kids love. It’s a a great idea not only because it’s more interactive than just jumping in a pool, but some kids have trouble swimming. This gives them an opportunity to get wet anyway.

You also can’t talk about Royal Caribbean without mentioning CocoCay , which is a destination on many cruises. This private island was completely transformed a few years ago and features lots of kid-friendly things to do, including the beach, its own Splashaway Bay, ziplines, a full waterpark, and an enormous swimming pool.

Of course, Royal Caribbean also has plenty for adults to do as well. From some of the top evening entertainment on any cruise line to tons of dining options to the casino, and plenty of bars and lounges to find a perfect spot, there’s plenty for all ages. And yes, you can even do the waterslides, no matter your age.

Best for Families on a Budget: Carnival

When it comes to family cruising, there are the “big two” options: Royal Caribbean and Carnival. Royal Caribbean takes the tops overall in our eyes, but if you’re on a budget, then Carnival is a great option.

To us, Royal Caribbean takes the lead when it comes to the number of things for kids to do, but Carnival is no slouch. Its newest ships include everything from waterslides to roller coaster to ropes courses, arcades, mini-golf, and of course the dedicated Camp Ocean kids areas where children can play (supervised) while adults enjoy the ship on their own.

But where Carnival really shines is in the value of the cruise. In general prices seem less expensive than Royal Caribbean. Some shorter cruises start at around $200 per person for an interior cabin. Even with taxes, fees, and gratuities, it’s possible to have a family vacation for a few days for less than $1,000 all-in. Similar value can be found on longer cruises as well.

In addition, we’ve found the onboard prices for Carnival for things from drinks to internet are generally a bit lower than other cruise lines.

Finally, Carnival also spreads its fleet across a lot of departure ports, including many smaller ones that otherwise don’t have service. The result is that there are plenty of ships within driving distance of the majority of people. So instead of having to pay for airfare for an entire family to fly to Miami to take a cruise, they can drive to a nearby port, saving even more.

Runner-Up for Families on a Budget: MSC

MSC, while a major player in Europe, is still growing its presence in the United States. But if you can sail from Miami, Orlando, or New York and are on a budget, we think it deserves mention.

When it comes to cruise pricing, we’ve found MSC to generally be the lowest in the industry. For instance, there are a number of 7-day cruises departing Miami that come in at less than $500 per person for an interior cabin before taxes and fees. They don’t have a lock on every deal, but in general you can find some extremely low prices.

We give the nod to Carnival when it comes to cruising on a budget because we believe they offer more things for families with kids to do on the ship. That said, there’s still plenty of kid-friendly activities aboard MSC, including an arcade with full bowling lanes on some ships, waterslides, and a kids waterpark.

One thing that stands out for the cruise line is Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in The Bahamas. While Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay has many more things for kids to do, we think Ocean Cay has a couple of advantages to note.

First, it’s enormous, giving everyone plenty of elbow room on its white-sand beaches. If you’re wanting a spot where the kids can run and play without bumping into others, this is it. But the island was also built strategically, with a large lagoon in its center. So no matter the weather, there will always be a calm spot where kids — no matter their age — can swim in calm water.

Best for Large Families: Royal Caribbean

One popular way to connect with family is what’s known as “multi-generational” cruising. That’s just a fancy way of saying the kids, parents, and grandparents (and sometimes even great-grandparents!) all take a cruise together.

If you’re interested in this sort of family cruising, then we’d suggest Royal Caribbean as the top pick.

As mentioned above, Royal Caribbean offers so much to do that any age can find something they enjoy. The kids can play in the water while mom and dad relax in the Solarium and the grandparents enjoy a drink in the Schooner Bar. Then they can all meet up for dinner and a show. No one is going to get bored.

But we also like that Royal Caribbean offers a ton of cabin options compared to other cruise lines. So if the family all wants to get a large suite together to share, that’s a possibility. If the grandparents want to spend a little more and get a nice luxury suite for themselves while the rest of the family chooses a less expensive cabin type, that’s possible as well.

In other words, from what to do on the ship to where you’ll actually stay on the ship, Royal Caribbean offers the most options.

More on Buying a Cruise:

• 10 Rules to Getting the Best Deal on a Cruise
• The Best Cruise Lines for First-Time Passengers
• The Best Cruise Lines For Adults & Couples

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7 Best Cruise Lines for Families (and Their 12 Most Kid-Friendly Ships)

By: Author Elizabeth Ciobanu

Posted on Published: 07/18/2023  - Last updated: 07/20/2023

Traveling to new places is always a thrill, but it can come with some challenges. For example, which side of the road are you supposed to drive on ?

Cruises simplify the bulk of your vacation planning and transportation, as everything you need is in one convenient package.

A family cruise line will keep your children entertained day and night. I’ve rounded up seven of my favorites, which I’ll share in the first part of this guide.

Then I’ll recommend the most kid-friendly cruise ships for booking your next vacation.

The 7 Best Family-Friendly Cruise Lines

1. disney cruise line.

Discover how enchanting life at sea can be on a Disney Cruise Line.

Entertainment of all kinds awaits you. If you want to splash and play on your family vacation, you can ride the AquaDunk or AquaDuck water coasters, romp in Donald’s Pool or Goofy’s Pool, or enjoy the sparkling pool at Mickey’s AquaLab.

Pools are also divided for guests of varying ages, such as the Quiet Cove Pool for guests 18 and older, splash pads for kids three and under, and Satellite Falls for adults.

Live performances and musicals give each night a magical feel, while karaoke, trivia, and Disney character meet and greets ensure every minute aboard is exciting.

There are even kids’ clubs to give parents a break to enjoy nightclubs, fitness facilities, or the adults-only pool.

Your cruise will stop at Castaway Cay if visiting a Caribbean or Bahamian island. This island is exclusively for cruise line guests. Your day at Castaway Cay will include food and refreshments, beach access, pools and water slides, trails, and yoga classes.

Oh, and there’s all-you-can-eat ice cream, which will delight children of all ages.

The family-centric staterooms offer television with in-room movies, a fridge, plenty of storage, and split bathrooms so the family can maintain its privacy.

Disney Cruise Lines can take you across the Transatlantic, South Pacific, Panama Canal, Pacific Coast, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, the Caribbean, Canada, Bermuda, Alaska, and the Bahamas.

» MORE: How Long Is Summer Break in Canada?

2. Norwegian Cruise Line

Take the family vacation of a lifetime on the Norwegian Cruise Line.

Its Freestyle Cruising allows you to plan your vacation just the way you like it. Enjoy long-running, Tony Award-nominated musicals or top-notch concerts.

Family fun awaits at every turn, such as arcades, pinball, water slides and pools, rock-climbing walls, mini golf, and plenty of other organized sports like soccer, baseball, basketball, and bowling.

The ThrillPlex offers activities that will make your kids smile from ear to ear. How does a rousing game of family laser tag sound? Or maybe you want to climb a ropes course or race on a track to see who’s the fastest? The ThrillPlex has all that and more.

Eat well no matter the cuisine you and the family crave, from simple burgers to Brazilian steakhouses, Japanese food, seafood, or global cuisine. Some establishments offer buffet-style dining, and others are open 24 hours so you can always fill your belly.

The sizable suites and staterooms are family-friendly and accommodate larger groups of up to eight. Your room includes concierge and butler service, large rooms for privacy, and a balcony you’ll love to look out from.

Norwegian Cruise Lines visit Asia, New England, Florida, Alaska, the Bahamas, Canada, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Europe, and Hawaii. You can also take special cruise tours or music-themed cruises.

3. Royal Caribbean International

Experience the world’s wonders on a Royal Caribbean International cruise line.

You won’t want for much, as the various ships under the Royal Caribbean umbrella promise fun and excitement from the moment you step onto the ship until you disembark.

You can take dance classes, check out a virtual concert, strategize to get out of an escape room, and eat to your heart’s (and stomach’s) content.

The youth programs feature an Imagination Studio for kids to explore and express their creative sides. Older kids can become junior scientists at the Adventure Science Lab, while the Teen Lounge keeps similarly-aged kids entertained.

Activities like story time, theater, art, and science will enchant the young’uns, who you will definitely want to bring, as kids sail free.

Cruise the world on a Royal Caribbean ship, including the Bahamas, Alaska, New England, the Caribbean, New Zealand, Asia, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, the Transpacific, Transatlantic, South Pacific, or Pacific Northwest.

» MORE: How Long Is Summer Break in Australia?

4. Carnival Cruise Line

It’s time to get away on a Carnival Cruise Line.

This vacation experience can be anything you want, from relaxing and rejuvenating (with adult-only retreats and spas) to exciting with breathtakingly tall water slides, Family Feud Live, and the SkyRide overlooking the ocean.

The kids can hop around and burn off energy at the bungee Sky Zone, make a new friend at the Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea, play mini golf, spend the day at the arcade, or compete in a friendly game of basketball.

Camp Ocean keeps kids between 2 and 11 years old busy, and Circle “C” is for older kids between 12 and 14.

Of course, with a ropes course, IMAX theaters, and a space program for kids 2 to 11, there’s always something for families to do together.

A stateroom or suite can accommodate your entire brood, whether there are only a few of you or a larger group. The rooms have an extra bathroom, a TV, and climate control.

Some rooms even connect so your kids can feel independent while you keep a watchful eye over them.

A Carnival Cruise Line vacation can take you across Greenland, the Panama Canal, Asia, the South Pacific, the Transatlantic, New Guinea, the South Pacific, New Zealand, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, New England, the Bahamas, Canada, Alaska, Europe, the Transpacific, Bermuda, and the Bahamas.

5. Princess Cruises

Perhaps a vacation on a Princess Cruise Line is what your family needs.

Onboard activities for all tastes are available. Princess and Discovery have an immersive, unique Discovery at SEA Enrichment Program that lets you see this planet and its inhabitants in engaging ways.

The Festivals of the World Program will introduce your family (especially the kiddos) to new cultures as they celebrate Mexican fiestas, Carnaval de Panama, Celtic Festival, and more.

Take a dip in a pool, chill out in a hot tub, play every sport imaginable (from shuffleboard to mini golf), and catch a tan at the Reef Family Splash Zone, a mini water park with games, pools, and water features.

So where would you and the family like to go?

You can take a short excursion that lasts between three and six days or visit such parts of the world as the South Pacific, Panama Canal, Europe, Tahiti, Asia, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, New England, Antarctica, Japan, South America, Canada, New Zealand, the Pacific Coast, Australia, and California.

World cruises are also available. 

» MORE: How Long Is Summer Break in Japan?

6. MSC Cruises

Immerse yourself in coastal wonder on an MSC Cruise.

You and your family will find it exceptionally easy to plan your itinerary both day and night. How does a family disco sound after dark, or a family game show that includes selfie, music, and dance challenges?

That’s only scratching the surface! The 4D cinema experience makes you feel like you’re racing on a freeway or experiencing other immersive scenes without leaving your seat. The Robotron is a thrilling amusement ride, and the Flight Simulator lets you take to the skies while still safely on the ship.

The kids can also play at the arcade, practice driving in the F1 simulator, or play some sports. Live entertainment abounds, with options for just the adults or the entire family.

The family-friendly staterooms include buffet access and a discounted drink package so you can feed the family for less.

An MSC Cruise will take you across New England, Asia, South Africa, South America, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Canada, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean.

7. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises are catered to families, with excursions, programs, and activities for kids and adults. They even offer autism-friendly activities, which are highly inclusive.

Imagine the look on your children’s faces when swimming with dolphins, exploring inactive volcanoes on foot, or seeing an exotic country from thousands of feet up in a plane! Celebrity Cruises makes it possible.

The kids and teen programs include Camp at Sea for kids between 3 and 12. Participants have themed parties, play sports, do arts and crafts, and engage in treasure hunts.

The Teen Club offers culinary classes, parties, and video game competitions.

The Retreat is the most family-friendly lodging option, as it includes more than 2,500 square feet of lounge space, an ample veranda, and a private sundeck.

Celebrity Cruises stop at more than 300 cruise ports, including Africa, New Zealand, Alaska, New England, Galapagos, the Caribbean, Europe, Bermuda, Asia, the Mediterranean, the Panama Canal, the Transatlantic, Mexico, the Pacific Coastal, South America, and the Transpacific.

The 12 Most Kid-Friendly Ships

You have some great ideas for where to book your next family cruise, but now the question is which ship specifically is right for your group?

I’m here to help you make this all-important choice by reviewing 12 of the best cruise ships for kids.

1. Disney Dream

Disney magic comes to life on the Disney Dream, an enchanting cruise experience.

The warm, opulent common areas add extravagance to your vacation, while kid-friendly activities and amenities will keep the young ones entertained.

Treat them to Vanellope’s Sweets, a candy shop with walls of candy as far as the eye can see. Disney entertainment comes to the big stages as only this brand can, with costumed characters singing, dancing, and entertaining guests all day or evening.

The staterooms have portholes that allow the kids to glance out at the ocean whenever they wish, and with family-centric amenities at every turn, you might not want to disembark!

2. Wonder of the Seas

The Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas embarks from Cape Canaveral and island hops the entire cruise, including a stop at Perfect Day at Coco Cay, the Royal Caribbean’s own private island only for cruise guests.

Kids will fall in love with the Wonder Playscape, which offers puzzles, games, climbing walls, and slides. Pool decks throughout will let you take a much-needed load off.

Perhaps you and the family are brave enough to try the 10-story Ultimate Abyss water slide!

Some staterooms overlook the majesty of the sea, and others have a virtual balcony. All rooms include Wi-Fi, spa features, and room service.

3. Disney Magic

You have so many ways to experience the wonder of a Disney Cruise Line vacation, including the Disney Magic.

This inviting ship is the home of D Lounge, the family-friendly hangout zone with dance parties, games, and hours upon hours of fun.

The kids can manage the Avengers during the Avenger’s Academy ride, visit the Mickey Mouse Club, receive a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (knights for boys and princesses for girls), or ride dizzying, spiraling water slides.

The nautical-themed staterooms are cozy and spacious for families, and split bathrooms, portholes, and private verandas also set the mood.

4. Symphony of the Seas

Calling itself “The Sound of Wonder,” the Symphony of the Seas through the Royal Caribbean is new and improved for families.

Hit up Sugar Beach and buy some candy, ride three water slides in one on The Perfect Storm, or learn to hang ten on the FlowRider. You’ll spend the days in the most fun ways possible.

Wonderland has whimsical food the kids will go gaga over. There are cocktails for the parents that are just as inspired.

Snuggle up to the Ultimate Family Suite, which boasts a private game room, a hot tub, table tennis facilities, and karaoke.

5. Mardi Gras

Carnival’s Mardi Gras is one of its latest and greatest creations, so you should expect the ultimate in entertainment.

Take a ride on the Bolt sea coaster for some exciting thrills. You can also spend a sunny day at the WaterWorks water park with a dumping bucket and countless water slides, then close out the day by seeing a show. It’s all waiting for you.

The Family Harbor Staterooms in the Family Harbor Lounge is where you need to be. Kids eat free at most restaurants in the lounge, and you can take advantage of entertainment like board games and movies. Babysitting is also available. 

6. MSC Meraviglia

Departing from Florida, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, set sail for a world of adventure aboard the MSG Meraviglia. This ship sails to New England and Canada and delights the entire voyage.  

Stroll through the 315-foot Galleria Meraviglia promenade, shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or simply enjoying the beauty of it all.

Dive into the Horizon pool, which is open day and night (although there are dances and parties at night, so maybe visit sans kids).

Your kids will adore the F1 simulators, full-sized bowling alley, sportsplex, and Polar Aquapark with its sloping, looping enclosed slides.

Mini and Juniors Clubs give the kids a safe and fun place to play if you need to drop them off, as the rooms are bright, colorful, and full of toys.

7. Disney Wish

The Disney Cruise Line collection has recently expanded, adding Disney Wish to the ever-growing fleet. This ship has some claims to fame you’ll only find here, such as theatrical Frozen or Avengers -themed dining experiences.

Be one of the first to experience the Disney Unchartered Adventure, an immersive water experience with more than 700 feet of tubes and music, animations, special effects, and lighting. The experience ends by riding down a lazy river, so dress to get wet!

The Hero Zone is another standout the kids should love. They can compete with one another gameshow-style, play on the game floor or playground, and see who’s victorious on the sports court.

8. Carnival Panorama

Set sail to the Transpacific and Mexico on the Carnival Panorama through a Carnival Cruise Line. The 1,055-foot ship that weighs over 133,000 tons will put the whole family in a festive mood.

Laugh until you cry at The Punchliner Comedy Club, which also offers entertainment for adults.

The Carnival Panorama has plenty of Dr. Suess-themed entertainment the young ones will love, such as Dr. Suess Bookville, the Suess-a-palooza Parade, the Suess-a-palooza Story Time, and the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast.

Zumbini is a Zumba class for kids two to five that will have their little bodies moving and grooving. There’s also a Night Owls overnight stay for the children, which is like one big sleepover!

9. Allure of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International invites families to sail away on the Allure of the Seas, an award-winning ship for family entertainment.

Included with your stay are kids and teen programs and access to the H2O Zone Water Park. The park boasts waterfalls, water cannons, pools, and sculptures the kids can climb. Geysers send water high into the sky, splashing down and refreshing your children all afternoon.

Dry off and play table tennis, ride a zipline, partake in an interactive game show, or watch an outdoor movie under the stars in the pool. The projector screen is 220 feet so there isn’t a bad seat in the house!

10. Norwegian Joy

The Norwegian Joy starts in the Mexican Riviera and wraps up its journey at the Panama Canal but alternately travels from Miami to the Caribbean. The ship is nearly 1,100 feet long and weighs more than 160,000 tons, so she’s quite heavy.

Fostering family togetherness on a ship like the Norwegian Joy is simple. You can take the twists and turns behind the wheel of the Joy Speedway, play a heart-thumping game of laser tag, or tee off at mini golf.

There’s so much more here. The Galaxy Pavilion offers a thrilling race-themed dark ride. Get your kicks at the Aqua Park, a water park for tweens and teens. The Norwegian Joy even has a Kids’ Aqua Park for the little ones.

11. Celebrity Equinox

Make your next family vacation something truly special on the Celebrity Equinox through the Celebrity Cruise Line. Deck 15 has all the amenities a family needs.

For instance, you and the kids can learn how to blow glass at the Hot Glass Studio, which is not something you see on every cruise ship.

How about some croquet or bocce on the Lawn Club? The kids’ club will watch your children between three and 12, offering lunch, dinner, and overnight stays if needed, and the ship even offers babysitting services in your cabin.

12. Norwegian Encore

Traverse the world on the Norwegian Encore, traveling from Alaska to Seattle or from the Caribbean to Miami. Adventure calls on the Encore, including many of the fun activities for families featured on other Norwegian cruise ships.

Family-Friendly Cruise Lines: 7 Best Cruises for Toddlers

Posted on Last updated: January 13, 2024

Home » Cruise » Family-Friendly Cruise Lines: 7 Best Cruises for Toddlers

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Are you thinking about taking a cruise with a toddler this year? Top cruise blogger Elaine Warren from the Family Cruise Companion details the best cruises for toddlers you should consider. Scroll to get all the inside information!

This best cruises for toddlers post was co-written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Guest post by Elaine Warren of the Family Cruise Companion

You start planning that family cruise, and then all the questions set in. What are the best cruises for toddlers? Will my older children have things to do? What kind of amenities do family cruises offer?

In this post, an avid family cruise blogger will share 7 top cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska that cater to families with younger children. Get all your answers below!

FAQ about Family-Friendly Cruise Lines

Is it a good idea to take a child on a cruise.

Yes! A family cruise is a wonderful option for children of all ages. Just keep in mind that the minimum age to sail domestically is 6 months old. And check with your cruise line before booking, because transoceanic sailings usually require children at be at least 1 year old.

What is the best length of cruise for younger kids?

I suggest a 7-night cruise for your first family cruise. This way, everyone has time to adjust and have fun! After your first or second cruise, you’ll know if your kids can handle shorter stays.

Is a cruise worth it for a 3-year-old?

If you want a cruise that truly caters to families, go with Disney Cruise Line. The kids clubs are top-notch and there are water attractions for every age. You get all the Disney magic you’d expect, but on the water! It’s one of the best cruises for babies and toddlers.

How to Choose the Right Cruise for Babies and Toddlers

Planning a cruise with a toddler can be nerve-wracking! The ship you choose can mean the different between a  fabulous cruise vacation  or one filled with stress and regrets.

Families planning cruises now have dozens of options from which to choose. But not every family-friendly cruise ship will be the best fit for families with toddlers.

Is Your Child Potty-Trained?

And if you have a toddler who isn’t quite yet fully potty-trained, that can really narrow down your options. Many ships will have limitations or restrictions on the activities that are available for kids in diapers.

For instance, you’ll find many restrictions on  swim diapers on cruise ships . And some ships may have restrictions on staff in the kids’ club changing diapers. 

Look at the Minimum Sailing Age

Also, families cruising with toddlers may have special concerns about choosing the right itinerary.

Cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska tend to offer the best options for families cruising with toddlers. You’re less likely to run into minimum age restrictions.

And the logistics of getting to embarkation ports for these cruises sailing can be much easier than one sailing from Europe or other parts of the world.

Focus on 7 Major Cruise Lines

I’ve identified ships from 7 major cruise lines that offer the best cruises for toddlers. All of the cruise ships on this list will have at least some activities that are open to toddlers in diapers.

In no particular order, they are:

• Disney Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• MSC Seaside
• Norwegian Escape
• Carnival Horizon
• Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth
• Hapag Lloyd Cruises

And these cruise ships that have a variety of excellent features for families with younger kids. This post focuses on ships that sail Caribbean or Alaska itineraries for at least part of the year. Keep reading for the best cruise lines for your family cruise!

My Pick for the 7 Best Cruises for Toddlers

1. disney cruises.

Of the Disney ships available this year, the best cruises for toddlers are Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. And, if you are interested in sailing Alaska, then add Disney Wonder to the list as well.

When it comes to sailing with toddlers, Disney offers some of the best possible  toddler amenities .

First , Disney  offers a wide range of complimentary baby gear for families cruising with toddlers. These include diaper disposal units, bottle warmers, bottle sterilizers, complimentary pack n plays and cribs, and strollers.

Furthermore, for a modest fee, Disney also offers childcare for infants and toddlers in the  It’s a Small World Nursery.  The nursery provides drop-off care for children ages 6 months to 3 years. The nursery includes a separate quiet nap area complete with cribs. 

And Disney is also one of the few remaining cruise lines that offers character experiences! These are opportunities to meet and interact with a variety of your favorite characters from numerous Disney films.

Some of the structured experiences include photo ops with favorite characters and designated meet and greet locations for specific characters, and character breakfasts. From time to time, some characters will also visit the kids’ club areas, including the nursery.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

Both Dream and Fantasy offer some of the more extensive water-based activities available in the Disney fleet. Not all of these upgraded water facilities will be suitable for all toddlers, but they do enhance the overall program activities for the entire family. 

These facilities include:

• Nemo’s Reef  – an elaborate water play area designed for kids ages 8 and under.   Nemo’s Reef  contains equipment and activities based on characters and events from the movie  Finding Nemo . It consists of a 1,500 square foot splash deck that includes fountains, bubblers, pop jets, and a small water slide.
• Mickey’s Pool  – A swimming pool shaped like Mickey Mouse that includes Mickey’s Slide.  A one deck slide that starts one deck above the pool and winds down below to a shallow pool. 
• Funnel Puddle  – a family wading pool. This area caters to families who are not necessarily in the mood for the full pool experience. Families can lounge around a shallow wading pool that features a central water play fountain.

Notably, all Disney ships have some water attractions that are  open to toddlers who aren’t quite yet potty trained  so long as they wear swim diapers. 

Each ship also features its own live production show based on a favorite Disney film. Dream has a live production of  Beauty and the Beast and Fantasy  has a live show based on  Aladdin !

Disney Wonder

This year, Disney Wonder will be sailing Alaska itineraries during the Alaska cruise season (May to September). The Disney Wonder has all of the same toddler amenities as its sister ships described above.

But it also features attractions not found on other ships: the live musical  Frozen  and the  Marvel Superhero Academy ! 

At the  Marvel Super Hero Academy , kids can interact with Captain America, Spider-man, and the Black Widow to solve various missions. And, among the various themed rooms, kids will find the  Frozen Adventures  theme room with games and props based on the movie  Frozen . They’ll also enjoy guest character appearances from Elsa and Anna.

Although not as extensive as those found on Fantasy and Dream, the Disney Wonder also has a wide range of fun family-oriented water attractions including:

• A splash zone for kids 3 and under based on the movie  Finding Dory
• The double loop  Twist n Spout  water slide. (Minimum height of 38 inches)
• An 1,800 square foot recreation space themed around Donald Duck’s nephews that includes a series of pop jets, geysers and bubblers, pouring paint cans, raining shower heads, and other fun surprises.
• Two pools for kids: Goofy’s family pool and Mickey’s children’s pool.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has dozens of delightful family-friendly ships. But I’ve identified 6 that are the best ones for families cruising with toddlers.

These include all four of the Oasis class ships and two quantum class ships.

The Oasis-Class Ships

Royal Caribbean’s 4 Oasis Class ships hit all the bells and whistles that Royal Caribbean has to offer when it comes to toddlers. These 4 ships include  S ymphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas.

Families cruising with toddlers on these Royal Caribbean ships can find drop off care at the  Royal Babies & Tots Nursery,  which provides care for infants and toddlers ages 6 to 36 months.

Two of the biggest attractions on the Oasis-class ships are the trio of water slides known as the  Perfect Storm  and a 10-story dry slide,  The Abyss . While these attractions may appeal to your older kids and adults, they have height restrictions that exclude almost all toddlers. 

However, these ships also boast a deluxe splash park area known as  Splashaway Bay . This splash park features sprayers and an oversized tipping bucket. It also features its own set of scaled down water slides that are perfect for the little kids! And Splashaway Bay is open to toddlers wearing swim diapers.

The Oasis class ships are known for having large multi-story climbing walls at the back of the ship with a panoramic view of the ocean. But those walls soar more than 30 feet and are obviously not suitable for toddlers.

However, both Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas also feature a scaled down climbing wall which is surrounded by safety netting for small kids.

You’ll find the kids’ climbing area on the Boardwalk, which is an open-air promenade, one of the hallmark features of all the Oasis class ships. This area definitely provides many fun activities for the toddler set.

There are also lots of fun, free activities such as a carousel, strolling entertainers, balloon animals and face painting. For a fee, you can also indulge in cupcakes, candy. There’s also the Build-A-Bear workshop.

Perfect Day (for Toddlers) at Coco Cay

Each of these ships will also have some Caribbean sailings that stop at Royal Caribbean’s new private island experience,  Perfect Day at Coco Cay .

Note that kiddos in swim diapers can swim in all of the many pools on Coco Cay, and also in the ocean at all beaches.

Toddlers will have a great time at Captain Jill’s Galleon, a pirate themed splash park and a  deluxe edition of Splashaway Bay . The galleon features interactive water cannons, slides, a splash pad and more.

And this expanded Splashaway Bay boasts fountains, sprinklers, geysers, 5 water slides and 2 massive drench buckets. There’s also adjacent seating for parents who want to watch the fun. 

And toddlers can also indulge in the island’s waterpark. While most toddlers will be too small for the slides (minimum height ranges from 42 – 48 inches), the waterpark also features the largest wave pool in the Caribbean. It’s open to kids under 42 inches provided they wear a swim vest.

The Quantum Class Ships

While slightly smaller than ships found in the Oasis Class, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class also features some of the line’s newest ships with many innovative bells and whistles. 

Two ships from this class would make particularly good choices for families cruising with toddlers.  Ovation of the Seas  which will be sailing Alaska itineraries this year. And  Odyssey of the Seas will sail Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.

The Quantum class ships offer the dedicated  Royal Babies & Tots Nursery  for drop-off care. And there’s also a dedicated open play area for toddlers that’s stocked with a range of age-appropriate toys where families can visit at their leisure. These ships also have  Splashaway Bay.

The distinctive features found on the Quantum class ships can largely be found in an extremely large indoor activity space known as the  Sea-Plex .

Activities include a trapeze school, roller rink, full-size basketball court, and real bumper cars. Note that for roller skating, kids under 6 must be accompanied by a grown up at all times. And, for bumper cars, kids must be at least 42 inches tall to drive alone. The  Sea-Plex  fun also includes a pool table and a wall of large screen Xbox One stations.

Other featured attractions include rock climbing, the FlowRider surfing simulator, a skydiving simulator (iFly), and the  North Star  observation pod that ascends 300 feet above sea level and out over the ocean (weather permitting).

3. MSC Seaside

MSC Seaside is one of the newest ship from the Italian cruise line, MSC Cruises. It sails Caribbean itineraries year-round out of Miami.

MSC Seaside has many features that will appeal to families cruising with toddlers. First, babies and toddlers have their own large play space in the Kids’ club section of the ship.

This room features developmentally appropriate toys and activities from Chicco. The space is very large, spacious, colorful and designed to appeal to babies and toddlers. 

The use of the space alternates between “Baby Time” and “Baby Care.” During “Baby Time,” parents or caregivers can bring their kids under age 3 to come play with the toys or participate in special organized activities. And “Baby Care” is when drop-care is offered, and parents are not permitted.

Generally, the drop off option opens for about 2 hours in the late morning/early afternoon and about 3 hours in the evening.

MSC offers numerous products for families traveling with infants.  These include on-board bottle warmers, strollers, bouncy chairs and “Caddy Knapsack child carriers.”

Also, for families traveling with babies, MSC Seaside offers a special baby laundry service. This service washes baby and toddler clothes separately from all other clothes in specialized machine with special detergents. 

Water Facilities & Other Family Activities on MSC Seaside

For water activities, MSC Seaside features its  Aquaventure Park . This is an extensive set of multi-story water play facilities, including a fantastic area open to toddlers.

It includes a large children’s splash park area and kiddie pool. The splash area includes various sprayers, a climbing structure and a big dumping bucket. It also has a couple of smaller water slides. 

Seaside has many fun options geared toward older children, as well as activities for the whole family. For instance,  MSC Cruises  also has an extensive partnership with the LEGO Group.

Thus,  Seaside  has an extensive amount of LEGO bricks, including DUPLO bricks, throughout the play areas. And the ship hosts many LEGO-themed activities, including a LEGO Family Fun Night.

In addition to the LEGO Night, the ship offers a roster of activities targeting families. These include events such as a Talent Show,a family movie night, and family sports competitions at the outdoor pool.  

Also,MSC Cruises has its own set of proprietary characters that are part of the DOREMI Family. They generally resemble walking sun stars.

The Family includes Doremi, his sister Mila, his brother Dorebro and their baby brother, Dorebaby. They roam the ship presiding over a range of family activities such as a cooking class, talent shows, a disco, and costume parade. They also have scheduled photo opportunities.

The Ocean Cay Marine Reserve

In 2019, MSC Cruises opened its new private island in the Bahamas,   Ocean Cay . The Ocean Cay Marine Reserve has 64 square miles of protected waters around it. Guests can enjoy 8 world-class beaches, numerous bars, an iconic lighthouse, shops and a Bahamian village.

Ocean Cay is a family-friendly island with designated family areas such as Seakers Family Cove and the Family Lagoon Beach. 

4. Norwegian Escape

The Norwegian Escape offers a variety of youth programs. For children 6 months to 3 years, families can participate in guided toddler-friendly activities through the  Guppies Hosted Activities  program.

Norwegian’s  primary kids’ club,  Splash Academy , offers programs for children ages 3-12. Notably, kids who are in diapers or pull-ups can still participate in the regular youth club. A parent will be a given pager and must report within 15 minutes to make any necessary changes.

If child is in diapers, one parent must remain on board when ship in port to respond to pages. Failure to respond to pages within the required time frame will result in monetary penalties and dismissal from the program.

The Escape features a 2-story version of Norwegian’s Splash Academy with high-tech games, a small movie theatre, arts and crafts, Nintendo Wii competitions, and a circus school where kids can learn to juggle and other circus tricks.

And kids have the opportunity to display their new circus skills in a show staged in one of the ship’s performance spaces.

Water Facilities & Other Family Activities on Norwegian Escape

The Escape features a nice selection of water activities that will appeal to a range of family members. Guests will find 2 main pools that are open to all guests (and a third open only to folks staying in the exclusive Haven suites). One main pool and a second with a waterfall feature is designed to attract kids.

Escape also features a robust water park, Aqua Park, with a separate children’s section called Kids’ Aqua Park . 

The interactive Kids’ Aqua Park features a tube water slide, tipping buckets, a climbing section, water cannons, and other splash activities.

The main section of the Aqua Park features several multi-story waterslides including:

• The Aqua Racer — a tandem water slide where competitors can race side by side on tubes. A clear portion extends over the side of the ship.
• The Free Fall Slides — two plunge-style slides where the riders climb into a seating area, a bottom drops out, and they plunge very fast down a twisty path.
• The Family Slide — a low-key open air water slide with traditional twists.

Per  NCL rules , children must be toilet-trained to ride the waterslides. Guests must be at least 42 inches tall to ride the Aqua Racer or Family Slide, and at least 48 inches for Free Fall.

Other fun activities on the Escape include a mini-golf course, sports area and an extensive multi-story ropes course. The ropes course includes a section for toddlers and smaller kids. Kids under 48 inches must have a chaperone on ropes course.

Norwegian Escape sails Caribbean itineraries. 

Special NOte: If Sailing Alaska, Consider Norwegian Bliss

Families interested in sailing Alaska should consider Norwegian Bliss. The Bliss has an elaborate dedicated Guppies Playroom for toddlers that features a variety of toys and games.

And throughout the day, staff host organized activities for the Guppies and their grown-ups. These included a variety of art projects, building projects, games and story time.

Norwegian Bliss also features the best versions of many of the family activities found on Escape. Plus, there’s a circus-themed escape room, Go-karts, and outdoor laser tag.

5. Carnival Horizon

If you are cruising with older potty-trained toddlers, then Carnival Horizon might be the perfect choice for your family. Notably, Carnival’s basic youth club starts at age 2. So, toddlers in the 2-year-old category can attend on their own at no additional charge.

And, unlike most other cruise lines, kids who aren’t fully potty-trained can still participate in regular youth program activities. However, parents must provide their own diapers and supplies.

Staff won’t change children over the age of 3. If necessary, staff will provide parents with a cell phone, and they will be called to come and make the change. 

Carnival also offers some  limited programming options  for kids under the age of 2. There are specific times on board each ship when children under 2 are permitted to use the youth club facilities. Hours vary based on itinerary.

Generally, on sea days, children under 2 can use the facilities during a designated “Under-2” period. During this period, parents can stay with their children and use the facilities at no charge. Or they may drop off their child for an hourly fee.

On port days, parents may drop off infants for an hourly fee, but ‘Under 2′ care will not be provided during mealtimes, so parents must return from port at that time.

Carnival also offers a fee-based nighttime option for younger infants and toddlers. The  night owl  group babysitting starts at age 6 months. Pillows, blankets, and cribs will be provided as needed. The program runs each evening from 10 PM until 3:00 PM.

Water Facilities & Other Family Activities on Carnival Horizon

Carnival offers several character experiences featuring characters from several beloved Dr. Seuss books. These include Cat in Hat, Fish Red and Blue, and Thing 1 & Thing 2.

Some of the available activities include a character parade, interactive story time, arts & crafts activities, and a Green Eggs and Ham character breakfast.  

Carnival has kicked up its fleetwide Seuss at Sea program a notch or three with Carnival Horizon. In addition to the typical Suess-themed programming found on its other ships, the  Horizon  also features the amazing  Dr. Seuss WaterWorks .  This Seuss-themed water park features:

• The Cat in the Hat Slide — guests enter the slide through the famous red and white striped hat and ride an enclosed raft slide for more than 450 feet of thrilling twists and turns.
• The Fun Things Slide — Based on Seuss’s Thing 1 and Thing 2, features a 213 feet enclosed body slide.
• A Seuss-themed splash park featuring a 150-gallon tipping bucket, shaped like the famous Cat’s hat, and a variety of water toys.

Note that no swim diapers are permitted in  any  of Carnival’s water facilities  including its spray parks .

Other notable family-friendly attractions on Horizon include Carnival’s iconic bike-ride-in-the-sky attraction called SkyRide, an IMAX Theatre and an outdoor recreation area with a suspended ropes course.  

Also, families have the option to book extra-large staterooms in Family Harbor. These rooms include access to a family lounge area with large screen TVs, board games, complimentary breakfast, and other snacks.

6. Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth

Have you ever wondered what it would be like sail on a ship like the Titanic (without the iceberg and the steerage quarters)? Then the Queen Elizabeth may be just right for you!

This year, Cunard is sailing its Queen Elizabeth ship on Alaska itineraries with 7-, 10-, and 12-night round trips sailings from Vancouver. And, Cunard will continue to sail a full Alaska season from June through September.

And while the Queen Elizabeth may be steeped in tradition, it has much to offer families cruising with toddlers. 

The Cunard youth program provides supervised activities for children ages 2 to 17.  The age group categories include:

• The Play Zone  for ages 2 to 7 — includes an outdoor play area, arts and craft station, carpeted indoor play area with blocks and toys, and tables for puzzles and games. 
• The  Kids’ Zone  for ages 8 to 12 — gaming consoles, sports competitions, arts and crafts, karaoke.
• The  Teen Zone  for ages 13 to 17 — table tennis tournaments, sport deck, dancing/discos. 

Cunard’s youth program has  free  group supervision in the evening. That includes a free Night Nursery available for children ages 6 months to 23 months from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. 

You will not find contemporary high adrenaline activities on this ship. No water slides. No skating, surfing, race cars or sky diving. But Queen Elizabeth has a fun Games Deck featuring paddle tennis, boules, and croquet.

You will also find traditional shuffleboard and a card room with a library of board games. And the ship offers lots of educational and enrichment activities such as watercolor classes, different styles of dancing lessons, and fencing classes.

7. Hapag Lloyd Cruises

Note: MS Europa 2 sails exotic itineraries all over the world, but its schedule does include  several Caribbean sailings .

What about upscale luxury cruise options for families cruising with toddlers?

While true luxury cruise lines seldom cater to families sailing with kids,  Hapag Lloyd  is a notable exception. This German cruise line has a ship that targets the English-speaking market, Europa 2, and also caters to families sailing with small children. 

The Europa 2 is a 516 passenger all suites ship with dedicated facilities for children across 3 different age groups. There’s the  Knopf Club for ages 2-3 , the Kids’ Club for ages 4 to 10, and the Teens’ Club for ages 11 to 15.

These different facilities provide a range of age-appropriate activities such as a ball pit and sensory wall, creative studio workshop, science lab, climbing wall, gaming consoles, karaoke, and a teen lounge. 

The ship offers a “late riser service for parents” on sea days where kids are picked up from their suite and whisked away so that parents can sleep in.

Book One of the Best Cruises for Toddlers

So, that’s a grand total of 15 ships that offer great options for families cruising with toddlers! This may be the best year yet for taking your little ones on a cruise.

About Elaine

Elaine M. Warren has sailed many cruises with her kids when they were toddlers, as well as the toddlers of other friends and family. She is the author of the Amazon best-selling travel book  The Family Cruise Companion’s Guide To Cruising With Kids , and she writes about cruising at  The Family Cruise Companion  blog.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best cruise lines that offer fun and adventure for the whole family

Best Cruise Line for Families (2024) February 16, 2024

Thanks to their excellent travel value, more and more families are turning to cruising when planning their vacations. These 10 cruise lines — voted by readers and chosen as the best in the industry by our panel of cruising experts — cater to young passengers in many ways, including family-friendly at-sea experiences (bumper cars, bowling, and water parks, to name a few), family cabins, and kid-approved dining options.

No. 10: Quasar Expeditions

The 16-guest yacht Grace and the 32-passenger Evolution offer the kind of personalized Galapagos experience you'd expect from a small luxury cruise, and that includes family-friendly guides who will introduce kids to the unique flora and fauna that helped inspire Charles Darwin's pioneering work on evolution. Activities that will build lifetime memories include swims with sea turtles, sharing beaches with seals, and add-on family safaris to Patagonia.

No. 9: Norwegian Cruise Line

Adults who want to build some "me time" into their family vacation will appreciate Norwegian's special kids programs, while a wide range of on- and off-ship activities guarantee plenty of bonding opportunities, too. Norwegian's "freestyle" cruising concept includes activities like a go-kart racing track on deck, the ThrillPlex activity zones on Breakaway Plus and Breakaway class ships, water parks, climbing walls, and exclusive family accommodations in The Haven.

No. 8: Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International has a full fleet of ships that are dedicated to family fun. With water parks, swimming pools, tons of entertainment, and family-friendly dining that will suit even the pickiest of eaters, these vessels are made for family vacations. And you can trek around the globe with sailings far beyond the company's tropical home waters to destinations in Alaska, Asia, North America, and the South Pacific.

No. 7: Disney Cruise Line

A family cruise with Disney is kind of a no-brainer, and a trip with Disney Cruise Line offers much more than meetings with Mickey and Minnie (though character encounters are definitely in the mix). Onboard activities include waterslides and kids clubs, plus a taste of the Magic Kingdom with live Disney shows and fireworks at sea. Films like "Frozen" and "Star Wars" provide inspiration for unique dining experiences, and Caribbean itineraries include a stop at the Castaway Cay private island with its family beach, snorkeling lagoon, water park, and other sunny activities.

No. 6: Princess Cruises

Cruising with a big family? The interconnecting Family Suites onboard Princess Cruises ships can accommodate up to eight, and in-room amenities include full-size bathtubs. You can also request fresh pureed baby food in restaurants. Camp Discovery features kids clubs for ages 3-7 and 8-12, while teens get their own beach house to hang out in. Discovery at SEA educational programs like stargazing and Shark Week activities are popular with all ages, and kids and adults alike will enjoy a culinary journey as onboard restaurants highlight food from every destination visited.

No. 5: Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Partnering with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions mounts family-centric trips to destinations like the Galapagos and Alaska, taking its small ships to places big cruise lines dare not venture and transferring to small Zodiac inflatables to get parents and kids even closer to exotic wildlife, glaciers, and other natural wonders. Cross-country skiing in Antarctica, visiting sea lion colonies, and spotting bears and bald eagles are among the guided outings that will earn bragging rights back home.

No. 4: Holland America Line

The premium experience aboard Holland America Line's mid-sized cruise ships includes programs for kids ages 3-17, with activities like pirate treasure hunts for the little ones, theme parties for 'tweens, and teen-friendly activities like gaming tournaments and poker nights. Family-friendly excursions range from whale watching and kayaking to glaciers to zip lining and encounters with penguins and green monkeys. 

No. 3: Margaritaville at Sea

The "booze in the blender" may be for adults only, but Margaritaville at Sea is first and foremost about lighthearted fun, and that includes guests of all ages. Of course, there's plenty of Caribbean-themed live music in the onboard entertainment mix, but also game shows, karaoke, kids clubs, theater shows, and a Cheeseburger in Paradise Burger Bar. Passengers can also enjoy stingray encounters and dolphin swims on two- and three-night cruises to Grand Bahama Island.

No. 2: Carnival Cruise Line

Cabins accommodating up to five guests (plus connecting rooms for even more space), 24-hour room service, kid-friendly dining options like burger joints and Mexican restaurants, and kids clubs catering to toddlers, 'tweens, and teens makes Carnival a great choice for a family cruise trip. And that's not even mentioning the ever-expanding range of onboard entertainment options aboard these "Fun Ships," including water parks, game rooms, ropes courses, and a deck-circling SkyRide.

No. 1: Adventure Canada

If your intent is to offer your kids the experience of a lifetime, look no further than Adventure Canada, which cruises to the vast wonders of the north with a mix of sailing yachts and ice-defying exploration vessels. Expert-led excursions introduce young travelers to everything from archaeology and botany to the science of glaciers through interpretive hikes, photography outings, and other unique programs.

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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8 Best Cruise Lines for Kids and Families [2024]

Updated : April 18, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMT

Table of contents.

Parents know that traveling with kids can be more of a “trip” than a vacation — keeping all the kids entertained and fed is a full-time job. This list of eight cruise lines for kids and families lays out the top options and makes finding an ideal vacation easier for everyone.

Knowing how to choose a cruise line can be tricky, especially for first-timers looking for a family trip.  AAA Travel  has been booking with our  cruise partners  for decades, and we know what to look for in the best cruise lines for families.

Learn more about these kid-friendly cruise lines and check out our list of  tips for cruising with kids  to create amazing memories for the whole family.

1. Adventures by Disney with Amawaterways

Destinations:

• Asia Pacific
• Central and South America
• North America
• AAA partnership:  Yes
• $200 per stateroom savings plus Welcome Amenity on cruises less than seven nights
• $300 per stateroom savings plus Welcome Amenity on cruises seven to 11 nights
• $600 per stateroom savings plus Welcome Amenity on cruises of 14+ nights
• Europe Cruises: Bottle of wine and box of chocolates
• Asia & Africa Cruises: $50 per stateroom onboard spending credit
• Egypt Cruises: $50 per stateroom onboard spending credit
• What makes it great:  Adventures by Disney cruises travel to over 40 destinations with adventure guides to help you explore new places and immerse yourself in the culture, all with the magic you expect from Disney.

It may be surprising to hear that a European river cruise can be a family-friendly vacation, but Adventures by Disney is exactly that. The cruise line has exclusive family river cruises onboard AmaWaterways that make it not only possible, but fun!

Itineraries  offer a variety of experiences for parents, children and teens. Adults will enjoy active excursions, wine tastings and tours of castles and museums. Disney movie nights are perfect for junior adventurers.

Onboard entertainment includes a nightly piano lounge, baking classes for kids, karaoke nights and more. Adventure guides and local experts tell stories about the people, culture and traditions of each place you visit. Sailings are in the heart of Europe on the Seine, Rhône, Danube and Rhine rivers.

2. Carnival Cruise Line

• Australia 
• Canada & New England
• Great Barrier Reef
• Greenland & Canada
• New Zealand
• Panama Canal
• Papua New Guinea
• South Pacific
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• AAA partnership:  No
• AAA member benefit:  None available
• What makes it great:  Cheaper fares make family cruising  budget-friendly . Plus, your kids will love the 24/7 pizza on most ships.

Carnival Cruise Line is on our list of kid-friendly cruises for their youth programs, offered for kids ages 2 to 17. The cruise line is one of the best for teens.

“Suess at Sea” features a character parade, interactive story time and breakfasts with Dr. Suess characters. The “Night Owls” program for kids under 12 lets them stay up as late as 1 a.m. with others their age. “Hasbro, The Game Show” invites families to play giant versions of Connect 4, Yahtzee and other games on stage to win prizes.

Ships feature onboard pools, water parks and mini golf. Some ships also include a ropes course and Skyride — a two-lane suspended course that lets you pedal a “bike” high above the ship.

3. Celebrity Cruises

• Australia & New Zealand
• Mediterranean
• Pacific Coastal
• South America
• AAA partnership:  Yes
• AAA member benefit:  Onboard credit per stateroom ($25 for outside, $50 for balcony, $75 for Concierge Class and above) valid for all departures three nights or longer except Galapagos products
• What makes it great:  Select ships partner with the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to offer STEM programming for kids and teens so they can learn while they play.

From family-friendly excursions to the Camp at Sea kids program, there’s plenty of  family fun on a Celebrity Cruise .

Camp at Sea provides programming for kids ages 3-17, and the program changes daily, so kids will never experience a repeat program. Older kids can hang in Xbox-themed teen areas and get a spa treatment at the teens-only spa, while kids of all ages can participate in trivia contests and Junior Olympics competitions.

Celebrity knows that the excitement of a cruise ship can be overwhelming for some kids, so they also offer sensory- and autism-friendly programs and services on their ships. 

Search Celebrity Cruises

4. Disney Cruise Line

• British Isles
• Western Caribbean
• Eastern Caribbean
• Mexican Riviera
• New Zealand & Australia
• Northern Europe
• Norwegian Fjords
• Pacific Coast
• Southern Caribbean
• What makes it great:  Experience the magic of Disney without the theme park lines — meet your favorite characters, see a firework shows and enjoy phenomenal dining experiences.

Highly regarded as offering some of the best cruises for kids and families, everyone in the family is sure to find fun aboard a Disney cruise. You can dance with Disney characters at family parties, take part in family game shows and watch fireworks on themed nights.

See Disney shows live on stage or watch movies in 3D. Clubs for kids feature characters from Disney, the Marvel Universe and Star Wars. Meet-and-greets give kids the opportunity to get autographs from their favorite Disney characters.

The cruise line offers fun pools, water slides and “water coasters” onboard, and there are plenty of kid-friendly options on the dinner menu.

Search Disney Cruises

5. MSC Cruises

• Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Qatar
• Egypt, Red Sea & Saudi Arabia
• Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
• South Africa
• Transatlantic 
• World 
• What makes it great:  The prepaid My Smart Card allows kids to buy snacks, drinks and arcade games without bothering you.

MSC Cruises is a popular family-owned European-based cruise line that knows cruising with kids can be expensive. They offer Family Cabins and Super Family Cabins that charge per room rather than by guest, so you can bring the entire family. Kids under 2 always sail for free, and kids under 18 sail free on select voyages.

MSC offers four age-based kids clubs: 

• Baby Club (up to age 2)
• Mini Club (ages 3 to 6)
• Juniors Club (ages 7 to 11)
• Teen Club (ages 12 to 17)

Kids and teens will love the LEGO and Chicco-themed  activities available  in the kids and teen clubs. The entire family can also play in one of the ships’ splash zones or pools or participate in the Family Explorer Program with interactive educational shore excursions.

If you have infants, MSC Cruises offers a special baby laundry service to wash infant clothing separately in a dedicated machine for added peace of mind.

6. Norwegian Cruise Line

• Greek Isles
• What makes it great:  Kids under 12 eat free at onboard specialty restaurants if they order from the kids’ menu.

Norwegian’s “freestyle” approach to cruising makes cruising with kids as stress-free as possible. With no set dining times, assigned seating or dress codes, eat when the kids are hungry, not when the ship’s schedule tells you to.

Splash Academy entertains kids ages 3 to 12 with age-appropriate arts and crafts and other activities, while teens ages 13 to 17 can relax in the Entourage club, complete with video games and a teens-only nightclub in the evening. Some ships also have go-kart tracks and VR playgrounds.

Five of Norwegian’s ships partner with Nickelodeon, so check out character-themed events like Dora’s Dance Party and breakfast.

7. Princess Cruises

• California Coast
• South America & Antarctica
• Tahiti & South Pacific
• AAA member benefit:  Reduced deposit (as low as $50 per person) and a complimentary Princess Medallion clip (first two guests in the stateroom) during quarterly cruise sales
• What makes it great:  Age-specific kids clubs keep kids ages 3-17 busy with age-appropriate activities, and you can track kids’ whereabouts on the ship with the MedallionClass app.

No matter the age, children will find plenty to do on Princess Cruises. The cruise line has programming for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and even 18- to 20-year-olds. Experience unique Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ shore excursions. Activities include meet-and-greet gatherings such as “Puppies on the Piazza” on Alaska cruises or “Parrots in the Piazza” on Caribbean cruises.

Discovery at Sea™ theme days feature activities inspired by Shark Week and Animal Planet. Kids can take part in Animal Planet Endangered Species and Glacier Bay Jr. Ranger programs. They can also make Animal Planet puppets, masks and paintings inspired by regional wildlife.

Princess offers stargazing on the top deck with an expert guide to show you all the stars and planets. Group babysitting is available for children ages 3 to 12 so parents can spend a day in port or savor a relaxing dinner for two. Kids-only dinners are offered on select nights, and teens have their own special dinner in a reserved section of the dining room on formal nights.

Search Princess Cruises

8. Royal Caribbean

• Cozumel & Cancun
• Greece & The Greek Isles
• AAA member benefit:  Receive one complimentary 8x10 onboard print or digital photograph per stateroom on any seven-night or longer sailing when booking a balcony and suite stateroom category.
• What makes it great:  Kids 12 and under sail for free during select sail dates, and many ships offer family-friendly staterooms and floor plans.

Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean® Youth Program will keep kids and teens busy. Teens can hang out at Fuel, a club just for them with a soda fountain, computers and a dance floor. The Living Room offers a teen lounge area with movies, games and a live DJ.

While the kids are having a blast with new friends, Mom and Dad can relax in the Solarium, a tranquil, adults-only covered retreat with whirlpools.

The whole family will delight in hit Broadway shows including “Grease” and “Mamma Mia!” plus aqua shows, ice-skating shows, parades and parties on the Royal Promenade. Other activities include a surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, mini golf, a skydiving simulator and multilevel waterslides. Select ships have the first-ever carousel at sea.

After a day of fun adventures, relax with family-friendly dining. Expedited service for kids allows them to be picked up by staff so parents can enjoy a leisurely dinner.

Search Royal Caribbean Cruises

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The 6 Best Cruise Lines for Kids and Families

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Table of Contents

1. Disney Cruise Line

2. royal caribbean international, 3. carnival cruise line, 4. norwegian cruise line, 5. msc cruises, 6. celebrity cruises, how prices compare, cruise amenities that are family-friendly, top destinations for kids cruises.

If you're looking to book your next family vacation, one of the most popular options is a cruise.

When searching for the best cruises for kids, some things to think about include the cruise's length, the ports it visits, the kid-friendly activities available and the meals on board.

When comparing the best cruise ships for kids, we reviewed six options based on destinations, departure cities, cruise options, amenities and price.

Ships: Six.

Departure ports: 17.

Destinations: 19.

At the top of the list is Disney Cruise Line , which offers some of the best cruise ships for kids. Disney Imagineers have taken the experience found in Disney parks and created a cruise vacation for families.

For lovers of all things Disney, this is the best cruise with kids. During your cruise, you'll interact with Disney characters and experience Disney-themed shows, rides and more.

Disney cruises to 19 destinations, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe and Hawaii, and departs from multiple ports around the world.

It also offers themed voyages that are immersive experiences for the entire family, like Pixar Day at Sea and Halloween on the High Seas. The company also has two private islands — Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay — for families to enjoy.

» Learn more: How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Departure ports: 54.

Destinations: 300-plus.

Royal Caribbean has been helping families create memories on cruises since its launch in 1969. It recently added to its fleet three new cruise ships that are essentially floating amusement parks. Icon of the Seas , Utopia of the Seas and Star of the Seas are the best cruise ships for kids because they're loaded with family-friendly activities that most travelers couldn't imagine being available on a cruise.

On Icon of the Seas, you'll find the largest water park at sea. It features six record-breaking slides for guests who love thrill-seeking adventure, including the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide) and Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide).

The company has 29 cruise ships in its fleet, sailing from 54 port destinations. Depending on the cruise, your itinerary may include CocoCay, the cruise line's private island that features beaches, lagoons, live DJs, cabanas, zip lines, Thrill Waterpark and more.

Royal Caribbean has received numerous awards, including best cruise line overall, best private island and best cruise line for kids and families.

Departure ports: 20.

Destinations: 20.

Carnival Cruise Line serves millions of guests every year, and it's in the process of launching five new cruise ships. The company was founded in 1972, and it also owns Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard Line and other cruise lines. Carnival offers cruises to match everyone's availability and budget, with voyages lasting from two to 31 days.

Popular onboard activities include the WaterWorks water park, the BOLT ultimate sea coaster, the SkyRide suspended bikes, and authentic “Family Feud” game shows for the family to compete in.

Plus, parents can pamper themselves in the Cloud 9 Spa or the Serenity adults-only retreat. Starting in 2025, Carnival passengers can enjoy Celebration Key, the cruise line’s new private island experience.

Departure ports: 50-plus.

Destinations: 450.

Norwegian Cruise Line is an excellent choice when cruising with kids. Families can save money and experience the cruise line’s free kids clubs, included speciality dining for kids under age 12, free third and fourth guests promotion on select cruises, and free airfare for second guest promotion.

When you cruise with Norwegian, family-friendly options including pools and water parks, interactive game shows and competitions, and Broadway musicals. Norwegian also features the only racetrack at sea, the largest ropes course at sea, a zip line over the ocean and other thrilling adventures. Plus, the cruise line includes free youth clubs with programming and activities catering to each age group.

Normally, cruise ships have small staterooms, which can get crowded while traveling as a family. Norwegian, however, has several spacious room options that rival the space and amenities you'd find at a hotel. Room options include balcony staterooms, family suites, two-bedroom suites and Haven staterooms. The Haven is a luxurious private area with a 24-hour butler, private lounge, restaurant and sundeck. Staterooms at The Haven include a 1,307-square-foot suite and a 6,694-square-foot three-bedroom villa.

Departure ports: 68.

Destinations: 250.

MSC Cruises offers a variety of cruise lengths for families to choose from, including classic cruises of three to 11 nights, longer cruises of 23 to 27 nights, or the ultimate 120-day World Cruise.

MSC offers shared experiences for the entire family. Families can enjoy on-shore excursions, onboard dining and kids clubs. A special treat is the LEGO Experience, which is an entire day of LEGO activities that's available on all MSC ships.

Some ships feature zip lines, an MSC Formula Racer, interactive XD cinema, immersive VR experiences and Broadway-style performances. Some itineraries also have the option of spending the day at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas.

Departure ports: 26.

Celebrity Cruises offers vacations year-round with up to eight destinations in one sailing, and it also caters to families with itineraries during the summer, spring break and holidays.

Passengers can enjoy numerous family-friendly activities like movie night under the stars, kid-friendly excursions and kid and teen programs. Parents can even take advantage of Camp at Sea, which offers art classes, sports activities and special STEM-based programs to encourage children to learn when they're away from school.

For children with autism, Celebrity Cruises offers autism-friendly ships that feature interactive activities, special menu options and services geared toward passengers with autism.

If you're looking for a luxury experience for your family, book The Retreat. It includes a private sun deck, a spacious suite and large lounge areas. The Penthouse Suite is 2,500 square feet and is ideal for larger families or multiple families traveling together.

This chart compares the starting price for a seven-night Caribbean cruise in an interior room for a family of four in December 2024. (Norwegian offers only four-night and six-night cruises to the Caribbean in December 2024, so this chart includes Norwegian’s six-night cruise.)

The family includes two adults and two children ages 12 and under. While there are numerous variables involved in each package, this gives you an idea of the budget needed to book one of the best cruise lines for kids.

When shopping for the best cruise with kids, consider using an aggregator website like Cruise Sheet . It provides a dashboard to compare prices from different cruises all at once, rather than you having to visit each company's website individually.

Cruise vacations can be nonrefundable, so consider purchasing travel insurance for your vacation. While many cruise operators sell insurance policies, you may be better off buying a stand-alone travel insurance policy for the trip or for the entire year.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

When searching for the best cruise for kids, you should consider the cruise line's amenities. Not only do you want a great experience for the kids, but the cruise should fit into your budget and keep the adults entertained, too.

Room sizes . Does the cruise offer enough space for your entire family, or will you need to book multiple rooms? If you have older kids who are mature enough, they can have their own room.

Dining options and room service . What dining options are available, and is room service included? Some cruise ships charge extra for premium dinners and have assigned times for dinner.

Adults-only areas . Are there areas of the ship that are strictly for adults? These adults-only spots can give you a break from the kids and keep the party atmosphere away from family areas.

Swimming pools and slides . How many pools are available on the ship, and do they offer slides and other amenities?

Kids and teen clubs . These clubs provide entertainment, crafts and other activities that are geared toward different age groups. You can drop off your kids for a few hours while you go get a massage, take a nap or enjoy adults-only parts of the ship.

Family-friendly activities . What activities and amenities are designed for the whole family to enjoy? Are there shows, dining experiences or games that involve the parents and kids?

Babysitting . Does the ship offer babysitting services for younger children? Some cruise lines have minimum age requirements, depending on the destination.

The best cruises for kids travel to multiple destinations during your trip. Depending on the length of your cruise, you may be able to visit several cities or countries. Common cruise destinations include:

The Caribbean.

The Mediterranean Sea.

Typically, U.S. citizens need a passport when traveling outside the U.S. However, children under the age of 16 don't need a passport for land or sea border crossings with Canada or Mexico. For this reason, cruises to Canada and Mexico are popular among families.

For cruises beyond Canada or Mexico, and all flights to destinations outside the U.S., children must have their own passport. If your child doesn't have a passport, a certified copy of your child's birth certificate can be used instead.

» Learn more: The best places to cruise without a passport

While many adults enjoy cruising, kids can have just as much fun. Today's cruise lines offer amenities and entertainment that rival water parks and theme parks. Plus, growing kids will love the all-you-can-eat dining options available when cruising. Kids clubs are also an excellent way to have fun and meet kids who are the same age.

Cruising is fun for the entire family, yet not all children are ready for this type of vacation. Some cruise lines have minimum age requirements. When reviewing cruise options, think about the types of cruise activities you're interested in, and consider whether your child is mature enough to participate.

Traveling as a family can be expensive, so some cruise lines offer discounts for younger children. Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines for kids because children age 12 and younger cruise for free on select dates with the cruise line's Kids Sail Free promotion. Families must still pay taxes, fees and port expenses for all travelers, even those who are cruising for free.

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Best Cruises for Babies and Toddlers (comparison of ships and lines)

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Are you looking for the best cruises for babies and toddlers? We are fortunate to have gone on cruises with both our kids when they are babies and toddlers on a variety of lines. In this guide we will compare the best ships and cruise lines for toddlers and babies, to help you decide what is the right cruise for you! 

Table of Contents

Questions to ask before you cruise with a baby or toddler

But before we get onto the best cruise line and ships for toddlers and babies, there are some questions you should ask yourself before you take your first family cruise to ensure that this is the right holiday for you!

Is there a minimum age for cruising with a baby?

There is absolutely a minimum age for cruising with babies but it depends on the cruise line and itinerary as to what the minimum age for cruising with a baby.

Generally speaking however on most cruise lines the minimum age for cruising is 6 months. However you will need to select your itinerary carefully as if the itinerary contains two or more consecutive cruise sea days (i.e. days where you don’t dock in port), the minimum age is 1 years old.  Therefore if you want to do a cruise with lots of consecutive sea days you will need to wait for your baby to become a toddler. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you! 

Do you have to pay for taking a baby on a cruise ship?

Cruising with a baby – baby friendly cruises

The truth is babies are not usually free on cruise ships which surprises many people. However there are two notably exceptions to this rule:

• MSC  and 
• Cunard Cruise Line

These lines will often offer free sailings for children under 2 – though sometimes you can find deals with free sailings for under 11s. However on Cunard you may have to pay the gratuities (Tips) for each day your infant is on board. 

Therefore if budget is a key component to your decision making in taking a baby friendly cruise it is worth considering these two lines first. 

For more information on c osts of taking a baby on a cruise ship check out this post. 

Are cruises safe for babies and toddlers? 

best cruise ship for toddlers and babies

One of the most frequently asked questions we get asked by first time cruise families is “are cruises safe for babies and toddlers?”. 

And I would say generally they are providing that you are sensible and keep an eye on your children. particularly toddlers, at all times. For more information on keeping toddlers safe on cruises check out this post. 

Is your child potty trained?

This is a big one for those cruising with babies and toddlers as it can really affect your enjoyment on the on ship amenities such as the pool. 

Can babies swim on Norwegian Cruise Ships?

Maritime Law states that unpotty trained babies and toddlers can NOT use the swimming pool on board cruise ships. This comes as a surprise to those cruising with babies and toddlers for the first time and can be disappointing if you find this out on board. So you may want to consider this before you book your first cruise. 

However, there is one way in which some lines have got around this rule and are able to provide water based fun for the youngest children and that is through the addition of splash pads / splash pools.   But these are not present on all ships on every cruise line. Therefore if having access to pools and water play on your cruise is important to your family you will need to select your cruise ship carefully. 

So know you now some of the questions you should ask before you book, we will look first at the best cruise lines for babies and toddlers, before we look at specific ship guidance. 

Do cruises offer kids clubs for toddlers? Is there babysitting on board for babies?

If having childcare on the cruise line is a key component for you when cruising with a baby you will need to choose your cruise line carefully. 

Many lines will have minimum ages to use kids club and potty training requirements. 

One of the few lines that does offer babysitting for babies is MSC and Cunard. On some ships they one hour babysitting however they usually have to be aged 12 months to use. Be sure to check with the line and ship before booking if is this important to you. 

Other lines will offer stay and play sessions for parents traveling with babies but this is worth checking especially since COVID as this has curtailed some kids activities. 

What is the best cruise line for babies and toddlers?

There are lots of cruise lines out there including some boutique, luxury and adults only cruise lines. In this guide we only be examining the main family friendly cruise lines which are: 

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Cruise Line
• MSC Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line 
• Princess Cruises 
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Carnival Cruises with babies and toddlers

Carnival is known for being one of the more budget cruise lines and also can have a reputation for having a few more party ships in its fleet? But are carnival cruises good for babies and toddlers? 

We took a Carnival cruise as a family with four toddlers and a baby and have to say we actually found it great for little ones. 

One of the things we love about Carnival is that there is baby care on all of Carnival ships. Between the age of 6 months to 1 year Carnival provides the Turtle club which provides age specific activities run by child care experts.  Little ones will also enjoy the Seuss at Sea theme with Dr Seuss meet and greets and special activities such as story time. 

However while Carnival has some splash pads called Waterworks, this is only accessible for those with potty trained children. 

Disney Cruises with babies and toddlers

Disney Funnel – Disney Cruise Instagram Captions

When you think about family friendly cruise lines the line that springs most to mind is Disney. Now apart from the general Disney magic and meet and greets, there are lots of baby and toddler focused facilities. 

For instance Disney actually provides complimentary baby gear for those cruising with babies or toddlers such as bottle warmers, pack n plays, cribs, sterilisers and diaper disposal bins. This is very handy especially if you plan on flying to meet your cruise as it reduces the amount of stuff you need to pack for babies. 

Also unlike many cruise lines too, Disney provides babysitting and childcare service even for the youngest cruisers meaning parents can actually have a night out on their own. 

Childcare for babies and toddlers is provided in their amazing  It’s a Small World Nursery and caters for cruisers aged 6 months to 3 years. Please note : there is an additional fee for babysitting and childcare for babies and toddlers. 

And if you are cruising in the Caribbean, as opposed to Alaska or cold weather destination , you will be pleased to hear that there are splash pads and water play areas that even unpotty trained children can use. 

Holland America with babies and toddlers

When we did our round the world trip with our toddler, we did a leg of our journey (from New Zealand to Hawaii) on a Holland America cruise ship. 

Now Holland America is generally regarded as a more high end cruise line that appeals to older cruises so what is it like cruising with a little  one? 

Well the first thing to know about Holland America, is that is only provides a kids club for children between the ages of 3 and 17. Therefore you won’t have access to kids club facilities if you are cruising with a toddler or baby. Also no Holland America ship has a splash pad so you won’t have access to any water facilities on a Holland America ship. 

Therefore, although we like Holland America with older kids , it is probably not the best line for those sailing with babies and toddlers. 

MSC With Babies and toddlers

If you are looking for a cheaper cruise with a baby or toddler, then MSC may be the best line for you as under 2s sail free. But on top of this MSC has some great baby and toddler orientated facilities such as amazing family cabins, Chicco Baby toys and perhaps my favorite thing, a dedicated bay laundry service. This guarantees that baby laundry is done separately with special detergent. 

Also all MSC ships have a Baby Club for those between the ages of 0-3 which has age appropriate activities. Also children can be left or parents can attend meaning you can do whatever you feel most comfortable as as a family. 

On top of this certain ships within the fleet have splash Pad though anecdotally, the use of them with swim diapers is varied. 

However overall I think MSC is one of the best lines for babies and toddlers.

Norwegian Cruise Line with toddlers and babies

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Good for Families

Norwegian Cruise Line has a reputation for being kid friendly largely due to its freestyle concept. This freestyle concept means there are no fixed tables, or dining times which provides ultimate flexibility for families. But what other facilities for they have for toddlers and babies? 

While most Norwegian cruise ships will have baby and toddler activities that parents need to supervise from 6 months to 3 years, it isn’t until toddlers are 3. And if you have a 3 year old who is not yet potty trained you must be within a 15 minute pager of the club as you will be required to come back and change your little one.

For a full review of how kid friendly Norwegian Cruise Line is check out this post. 

Princess Cruise Line

Best Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Princess cruise line is another more upmarket cruise line that people don’t typically associate with families. However having being on a princess cruise with our baby I can say that we found it to be surprisingly baby friendly. 

Although the kids club on Princess is only for children 4 years and older. However children under 4 can use facilities supervised. 

Also while the majority of Princess cruise ships don’t have splash pads, the new Caribbean Princess has a splash pad for children of all ages to use. 

P&O 

best cruise line for toddlers and babies

P&O offer a number of family cabins onboard their ships but as well as that there are plenty of special facilities that kids will love. For instance, every night P&O hosts a special kids tea, which includes children’s favorite food and baby food for those traveling with babies. 

And while the supervised kids club is for children aged 4 and over, there is a night nursery for children aged under 4 years which runs from 6pm to 2am which allows parents to get some alone time.

Royal Caribbean with toddlers and babies

Royal Caribbean was the first cruise line we went on with our baby and I have to say we loved our experience. We found the staff very accommodating. And while Royal Caribbean does not offer in-room babysitting on any of its ships, it does offer nursery babysitting for children aged 6 months to 36 months. 

Also, depending on what class of ship, and ship itself, you are sailing on determines whether or not there is a splash pad available. 

So how do we rank the cruise lines for babies and toddlers? 

Best Cruise Lines for Babies and Toddlers Ranked

• Disney Cruise Line 
• Royal Caribbean
• Carnival Cruises
• Princess Cruise Line 
• Holland America Line

We would love you to tell us your favorite cruise line for toddlers in the comments below. 

Best Cruise Ships for Babies and Toddlers

So now you know are favorite cruise lines we will turn our attention to the best cruise ships for babies and toddlers 

Best Carnival Cruise Ship for Toddlers

Generally speaking all of the carnival cruise ships have very similar amenities for toddlers and babies. The reason for this is that they all provide the same baby care facilities and on all their ships their splash pads are only for use by potty trained children. 

Best Disney Cruise Ship

As you would expect from such a family orientated line as Disney all the ships are great for little ones. 

Therefore if you decide to cruise with Disney Cruise Line, you will have a great time no matter which  ship (Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Treasure) you choose to sail on.

Best Holland America Ships for Babies and toddlers

Holland America Cruise while Pregnant

Due to the lack of toddler and babies focussed amenities on the Holland America ships, we recommend cruising Holland America with older kids. But if you do decide to cruise them with a toddler or baby you will find the facilities on all their ships are much the same. 

Best MSC Ships for small children

MSC is one of my favorite lines for cruising with toddlers and babies and you really can’t go wrong with whatever ship you go on. However some of the best ships in the fleet include:

• MSC Seascape
• MSC Grandiosa and
• MSC Meraviglia. 

Best Norwegian cruise ship for babies and toddlers

Although all Norwegian cruise ships offer freestyle dining, we recommend cruising on one of the newer ships if you are cruising with toddlers and babies as they offer Guppies play sessions and some splash parks. These include Breakaway and Breakaway Plus Class as well as the new Prima Class Ships. 

Best Ships on Princess Cruises for toddlers and babies 

Princess Cruises aren’t renowned for being the most family friendly. However the new Caribbean Princess has a a splash pad. Therefore if you are cruising with a toddler or baby this is the ship I would select. 

Best P&O ships for little ones

When you are selecting the best P&O cruise ship for your family, first you will need to make sure you pick a family friendly rather than an adults only ship that P&O runs. 

Of the family friendly ships one of the best in the fleet is the Arvia. This is one of the newest ships in the fleet. We also love”

• Britannia 
• Ventura 

Best Royal Caribbean ships for toddlers and babies

Royal Caribbean have loads of ships that are great for those cruising with toddlers and babies. But overall some of our favourites are:

• Oasis Class Ships – Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Symphony of the seas. These ships have Royal Babies & Tots Nursery which cater for children 6 months to 36 months and the Splashaway Bay water park which children in swim diapers can use. 
• Quantum Class Ships –  Odyssey, Ovation and Quantum of the Seas all have the Royal Babies & Tots Nurser and the Splashaway Bay water park for unpotty trained children. 

FAQs About selecting the best cruise for babies and toddlers

What should i pack for a baby on a cruise.

If you are cruising with a baby be sure to check out our dedicated baby cruise packing list !

Baby friendly cruises visiting private islands

If you are travelling to the Caribbean consider if your cruise goes to a private island or if you will have to pay to visit beaches and resorts. It might be more cost effective to pick a cruise which stops at its own island.

Katy Clarke

Thursday 1st of June 2017

Not having been on one, I can definitely appreciate how convenient cruising is for travelling with kids. Unfortunately, on our recent trip to Norway, the ships really spoilt the views and the crowds were a bit overwhelming. I think I'd have to go for a smaller cruise to try them out. Thanks for sharing on #farawayfiles

Wandermust Mummy

We always plan to do our own excursions away from the crowds as I like the freedom and lack of crowds too

Wednesday 15th of February 2017

They don't say that Southampton is in London do they?! Top tips - I will book mark for later. #mondayescapes

It is London (Southampton) or the other way round either way ridiculous

Sally's Tips 4 Trips

Monday 13th of February 2017

Some really could travel tips on choosing the right cruise. A good point about the port towns and the actual city. For example I live in Perth but cruises dock in Fremantle - a good 20min train ride from the city. Now Fremantle is a lovely historic town to explore - but it's not Perth.

Tuesday 14th of February 2017

Wow I hadn't realised about Fremantle! We are going on an oz / nz cruise next year but unfortunately Perth not a stop For us

Thanks - it is definitely always worth double checking this information

Sanna Vegancruiser

Great advice, have shared with my followers as although we cruise as a couple, the families need insider info like yours :)

Thank you appreciate it. We also have a cabin roundup for families too

Best kid-friendly cruises: The 7 best cruise ships for kids

Editor's Note

Kids can make or break your family cruise. If they're bored and hate the food options, they will loudly and repeatedly express their displeasure. Pick the wrong cruise ship, and parents will feel as trapped as if they were stranded on a deserted island … with biting crabs underfoot.

The best cruises for kids take advantage of ships with endless fun for the under-18 crowd, plentiful dining that appeals to both young palates and bottomless teen tummies, accommodations and ship services that keep families in mind, and opportunities to meet and hang out with peers. No matter your family size or price range, you can find some incredible vacations at sea that will have kids exclaiming, "Best cruise ever!" by the end of the week.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Find the top ship for your next trip with our list of the seven best cruise ships for kids (and their parents).

Disney Wish

No one is surprised that Disney is such a kid-friendly cruise line — but what might be surprising is how much there is for adults to do and enjoy , too. That's especially true on the new Disney Wish , which debuted in the summer of 2022.

Disney Wish has four kids clubs divided by age, but the main Oceaneer Club for 3- to 12-year-olds has an all-new and exciting grand entrance. Kids get to enter the club by slide — and once inside, can explore the club's spaces themed to "Star Wars," fairy tales, Marvel and Disney Imagineers.

Along with the kids club on Disney Wish, junior cruisers will find two movie theaters with first-run Disney movies, Broadway-caliber shows featuring Aladdin and the Little Mermaid and dining experiences themed around Arendelle from "Frozen" and the Worlds of Marvel .

In addition to a "Star Wars-" themed bar and adults-only fine dining restaurants, adults will appreciate the little touches on Wish that make family cruising easier — split bathrooms in most cabins, a drop-off nursery, a splash area for toddlers and restaurant staff members who will offer high chairs and puree baby food.

Disney Wish sails short three- and four-night trips from Port Canaveral , Florida (near Orlando) that include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island , with its family beach, supervised child care, splash pad and strollers to borrow.

Related: How to save money on the cost of a Disney cruise

A nearly identical sister ship, Disney Treasure , will debut in 2024.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

It hasn't even launched yet, and we're already confident that Royal Caribbean 's new Icon of the Seas , soon to be the largest ship afloat, will be one of the top cruise ships for kids. Kids will never be bored on a ship with a six-slide water park, wild ropes course, surf simulator, rock-climbing wall, sports court and Surfside — a half deck of play spaces and restaurants devoted to little kids and their families.

Kids (and parents) who like a good show can gasp as ice skaters land jumps on a rocking ship, and acrobatic divers flip and splash in the AquaTheater, now up high on the ship under a glass dome. Don't miss pizza and parades on the Royal Promenade, Icon's indoor shopping strip.

The kid-friendly cruise ship will also have innovative new family cabins and suites, some with separate kids' rooms, to better accommodate guests of all ages. The Ultimate Family Townhouse will be a massive three-floor living space with a screening room, karaoke machine, in-suite slide and a backyard that leads out to the Surfside family neighborhood.

Related: 5 best Royal Caribbean ships for kids

Icon of the Seas will sail weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning in January 2024.

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore has a more grown-up vibe than many of the family-focused ships on our list, but its onboard attractions make it a huge hit with teens. Its top decks lure older kids with one of the biggest go-kart tracks in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet and an open-air laser tag arena ideal for shooting matches under the stars. A huge virtual reality playground features rides and games that blow the standard cruise ship arcade out of the water.

Note to parents: Cruiselong passes for the go-kart race track , virtual reality games and laser tag do not come cheap. Be prepared to pull out your wallet to keep the teens happy.

At night, teens can feed their growing bodies with tacos, hibachi and barbecue, plus 24/7 burgers and comfort food at The Local. Afterward, they'll agree to be seen in public with their parents at a show as cool as "Choir of Man." It's an easy concession, as they know they can always escape to the teen club, Entourage, to hang out with the cool kids late at night.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Norwegian Encore's best cruises for kids span multiple oceans. The ship spends its summers in Alaska and winters in the Caribbean, with a handful of Panama Canal and Pacific Coast sailings in between.

Carnival Celebration

Passengers and crew members on Carnival Cruise Line ships come ready to meet new friends or share a laugh, a story and a drink with their shipmates. Social kids will fit right in and love the line's huge, new ship Carnival Celebration . They can make friends at the Family Harbor Lounge, Camp Ocean and Dr. Seuss Bookville; older kids will enjoy the teen and tween clubs conveniently located near Guy Fieri's burger stand and the video arcade.

If you're looking for the best cruises for kids, Carnival Celebration and its near-identical twin fleet mate, Mardi Gras , are the only cruise ships boasting a top-deck roller coaster called Bolt. (That is until a third sister, Carnival Jubilee, debuts in late 2023.) A ride here is Instagram gold and the ultimate bragging rights for kids on vacation. The coaster dominates the Ultimate Playground area of the ship, where young cruisers can challenge their new friends to miniature golf, waterslide races, basketball and ropes course domination.

Kids who love a good food court can meet up with friends or family at several no-fee, casual eateries, including Shaq's Big Chicken restaurant and a trio of Street Eats venues featuring dumplings, meat on a stick and loaded French fries. All-hours pizza and ice cream will keep the whole family fueled up for the interactive "Family Feud Live" show.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Carnival Celebration's kid-friendly cruises include weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami. Its sister Mardi Gras sails similar Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando). Carnival Jubilee will be based out of Galveston, Texas, and offer seven-night Western Caribbean cruises only.

Sun Princess

It may seem odd that two of our top ships for kids haven't debuted yet. However, like Icon of the Seas, Princess Cruises ' new 4,300-passenger Sun Princess will be heads and shoulders above the rest of the fleet in terms of family entertainment. If you're booking a multigenerational family cruise for 2024 or beyond, you will definitely want to keep this kid-friendly cruise ship in mind.

Sun Princess will be the first Princess cruise ship to feature an expansive upper-deck activity zone that kids will love. Named Park19, it will feature nine fun-in-the-sun activities spanning three decks. The attractions include the Sea Breeze Rollglider (imagine a safer version of hang-gliding from an elevated track), a climbing structure with obstacles and a slide, a ropes course, a splash zone and a sports court.

Inside the ship, Firefly Park will have drop-off kid programming and family play spaces for kids 6 months to 7 years old. Tweens and teens will each have their own hangouts, Neon Grove and The Underground, with cozy lounge furniture and plenty of video and other games.

Related: Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?

Sun Princess will split its time between Mediterranean cruises out of Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Piraeus (the port for Athens) and Barcelona as well as Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale.

MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises ' MSC Seascape is a floating megaresort with something for everyone, making its sailings some of the best cruises for kids. The ship stands out from its sisters because of its Robotron amusement park-style ride . Three riders at a time buckle into seating attached to a robotic arm, which then twists and turns to fly the riders over the ship and sea.

Water babies will make a break for the Pirates Cove Aquapark, with slides, a splash zone and a rope bridge. Other kids might spend their parents' money on more virtual fun, indulging in F1 race car simulators, VR motorcycle racing, a 4D movie theater and a video arcade. Family groups can split into teams for sports court competitions or participate in organized games that rely on the latest technology to challenge guests of all ages.

The ship's Lego-themed Doremi Land kids club has dedicated spaces for babies, kids and teens. The 7,567-square-foot space includes two Lego rooms (one for little kids to play with Duplos, the other with regular Lego bricks for older kids); the area also includes three spaces for teens — a gaming area (with VR options), a hangout with ping pong and foosball and a dance club.

Related: 7 cruise lines where kids sail free

And let's not forget the line's amazing pizza (including dessert versions slathered in Nutella) that families are sure to love.

MSC Seascape sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.

AmaWaterways' AmaLea

The typical river cruise draws a lot of retirees — except when Adventures by Disney partners with AmaWaterways. The two travel companies have created a river cruise vacation that is fun for grown-ups and kids.

AmaLea makes our list of the best cruise ships for kids because it's one of the ships AmaWaterways custom-built for family cruises. Certain twin balcony cabins sleep three, and suites sleep four to accommodate kids, with connecting cabin options for families who need more space. Unlike many river ships, AmaLea has a pool, as well as a surprise kid hit — giant outdoor chess.

While other ships sail the Seine and Rhine rivers, AmaLea travels the Danube through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Adventures by Disney makes the most of your time with shore excursions planned to entertain kids and adults, with options for supervised kid activities while parents head out on more grown-up tours. Your family might meet farm animals in Hungary, play hide-and-seek in a palace's labyrinth maze in Austria and hang around in a treetop playground in Germany.

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

On board, kids' menus are available, and the occasional pajama party whisks kids away for pizza and a movie while adults linger over dinner.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO

Vacation with the family.

Trying to plan the ultimate family vacation? Royal Caribbean offers thrills for everyone onboard

Pulling off the perfect family vacation isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to cater to different ages and preferences. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean is known for delivering great family getaways designed to wow guests across multiple generations. Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is packed with palate-pleasing dining options, incredible entertainment, and unforgettable activities for all ages included in your cruise fare — not to mention itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most adventure-filled shores. The best part? All the planning has been taking care of for you, so you can focus on bonding with your loved ones while doing as much or as little as you like. 

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

Your next family getaway is a click away — where will you wander next?

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BOLDER FAMILY BONDING STARTS HERE

Family-friendly vacation destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

cococay getaway

Kick family bonding up a notch at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas — voted Best Private Island Experience by Travel Weekly readers. Turn up the thrills, like conquering Daredevil’s Peak®, the tallest waterslide in North America. Or unplug and chill along Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

EXPLORE OUR PRIVATE ISLAND

TROPIC TREKS

Sun-kissed shores are yours to explore. Build epic castles on the pink sand beaches of Barbados . Splash into the turquoise waters of Curaçao. Or wander through legendary forts in Puerto Rico . No one does kid-friendly cruises better than Royal Caribbean® — the cruise line voted Best Overall for 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers.

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

WILDEST WEEK EVER

Discover the magic of Alaska, where snowcapped mountains, towering forests and misty fjords dare you to deny their majesty. Spot bears hunting for salmon in Tongass National Forest. Listen to the thunderous roar of Hubbard Glacier . And cross once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list together — on one unforgettable journey.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

WEST COAST WANDER

Nothing fuels bolder bonding like an epic adventure with your squad. Set out from L.A. on the family vacation you’ve been waiting for onboard the best cruises for kids. From whale-watching in Ensenada to post-card pretty shores in Puerto Vallarta and lounging on Cabo’s world-famous beaches — make memories that last a lifetime.

EXPLORE THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

SET SAIL ABOARD THE BEST SHIPS FOR FAMILIES

Cruise Planner is the place to get the most out of your adventure. Securing reservations and purchasing packages before you sail lets you score the best savings available anywhere. Add peace of mind to the mix — and you’re ready for big adventure. 

OF THE SEAS

CUE THE MEMORY MAKING

From record breaking rides — like the tallest slide at sea — to dining that offers a taste of every culture and shows that will leave you in awe, being onboard a Royal Caribbean ship makes the journey as bold as the destinations you’ll visit.

SUN-SOAKED FUN

Each ship offers endless ways for families to fill their sea days. Think epic experiences like a plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, and glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles that are bound to boost your adrenaline. Sun-soaked pool parties and hang ten sessions on the FlowRider®* surf simulator. A round of Mini Golf with a side of sea views and a rushing zip line ride ten stories above deck — and that’s barely scratching the surface.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR DINNER

With so many delicious dining options onboard, everyone in your family will find something to satisfy their cravings in between adventures. From the endless selection of complimentary flavors at Windjammer Café and family-friendly feasting with My Family Time Dining at the Main Dining Room, to specialty restaurants that take you from the Far East to Italy to Wonderland, there’s something to please every taste onboard.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

NEXT LEVEL SHOWS

Every night is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some of the best entertainment at sea. Dazzling original productions and fan favorites straight from Broadway, deck-defying high dives and aerial stunts at the AquaTheater, and the coolest moves you’ve ever seen on ice at the skating rink — you’ll quickly discover that on these ships, every performance is a show-stopper.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

room for everyone

Finding your crew’s just-right stay-place is easy, with spacious rooms designed with families in mind. Choose from rooms with endless ocean views or suites with wrap-around balconies. And if you’re craving next-level luxury, the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse on  Icon of the Seas℠ maxes the memories with three tiers of unbelievable amenities and direct access to the Surfside℠ neighborhood from your private patio.

EXPLORE ACCOMODATIONS

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO DATE NIGHT RIGHT

Who says a family vacation has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world class specialty restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theater, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

KID APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grownup time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programs provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children ages 3-11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favorite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

FAMILY VACAY MODE ON

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Don’t sweat the details — they’re all taken care of so you can focus on making lifelong family memories.

Family vacations should be stress-free, and Royal Caribbean makes it easy to fuel your wanderlust without worry. You can book unforgettable  shore excursions , onboard activities and shows online before you board, making the planning process a breeze. Once you’re on deck, you’ll enjoy award winning service by dedicated staff members that strive to meet every request, whether you’re traveling with special needs or just looking for ways to celebrate a special occasion onboard.

You can even get started customizing every aspect of your vacation from the moment you book. Browse and save big on onshore experiences, beverage and specialty dining packages, spa treatments and more when you reserve in advance online through  Cruise Planner . That way, you can go straight to enjoying your vacation as soon as you come aboard the ship.

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Many of the attractions onboard require closed-toed shoes and socks, so pack accordingly.

Even if you’re on a summer sailing to the tropics, pack a sweater if you plan to use the ice skating rink.

Luggage might not arrive in your stateroom until later. Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can dive into adventure early.

BEYOND BRAGWORTHY

Fill every minute with everything you love, anytime you want. Indulge in gourmet globetrotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment, and take on fleet favorites like rock climbing and the FlowRider®* surf simulator, plus so much more!

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The 7 Best Cruise Lines for Families, Vetted by a Frequent Cruiser

For a long time, I thought cruises were for the older crowd . The only thing I knew about cruising was from my 58-year old aunt, who was constantly traveling all over the Caribbean via ship. From her, I thought cruises were basically laying by the pool all day, checking out the views and eating at speciality restaurants. (I mean, it is, but there’s so much more.) But in 2018, I finally set “sail” on a vacation at sea of my own, and my mind was completely changed. Now, I’m kinda obsessed with them. From the fun trivia to the adventure-filled excursions, cruises are for everyone! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway (with a killer kids’ club), unique activities for your thrill-seeking teen or play areas to keep your toddler entertained , here’s a list of the seven best cruise lines for families.

The Best Cruise Lines for Families at a Glance

Best for Young Kids

Disney cruise line.

Best for All Ages

Royal caribbean .

Best Entertainment Options

Carnival cruise line.

Best for Teens

Norwegian cruise line.

Best for International Cruising

Msc cruises, how i chose the best cruise lines for families.

As mentioned, I’ve been going on cruises since 2018 and will be heading on my sixth cruise this year. I’ve been on Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, so I have first-hand experience on how each cruise line’s amenities, activities, entertainment, food and more. I also spent hours researching everything you need to know about each cruise line, from the ships themselves to the offerings available for each. To make sure all types of families and their needs are covered, I chatted with our parent editors, who vouched for a few of these cruise lines on the list. Keep reading to find one that’s right for you.  

1. Disney Cruise Line

If you’re searching for one of the best cruise lines for families, look no further than Disney Cruise Line. It takes all the magic we know and love from the parks with an at-sea flair. Character meet and greets replete with Mickey and friend, princesses and superheroes are a frequent occurrence. The ships also have themed days (like Pirate Night and Marvel Day at Sea), award-winning performances, specialty activities (Iike Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League) and dance parties filled with spectacular fireworks—it is Disney after all. 

Parents can drop their young kids off at the Oceaneer Club, where they’ll be able to interact with their favorite characters, enjoy themed play areas and games. The older kids can also enjoy their own daily activities through The Hideaway, The Edge or Vibe club, featuring gaming systems, karaoke and a dance floor. One more thing: The fun isn’t just for the kiddos. Pack some dancing shoes and be ready for the nightclubs and lounges on board for guests 18 and older. 

Aside from main and casual dining options, Disney Cruise Line offers interactive dining experiences (like Animator’s Palate and Royal Court Royal Tea) for the whole family. There’s also adult-exclusive dining in case parents want a romantic dinner away from tantrums and time outs. Guests will also enjoy checking out Disney’s own private island in the Bahamas called Castaway Cay, where you just might see some hidden statues of your fave characters if you like to try out snorkeling under the sun.

• Best Ships to Consider: Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, Disney Wonder, Disney Magic
• Amenities: Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, The Edge, Vibe, The Hideaway
• Activities: Character Meet and Greets, Themed Dinners, Live Shows, Dance Parties, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Pools
• Price Range: $422 to $5,592 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

2. Royal Caribbean 

Royal caribbean.

There’s no limit when it comes to Royal Caribbean. They have over 28 ships, which are categorized into six classes. Among them are family favorites like the Oasis class and the new Icon class, marketed themselves as the ultimate family vacation. The Icon of the Seas features everything you love from a Royal ship—rock climbing, FlowRider (aka a cool surf stimulator) and more—but with an entire ‘neighborhood’ dedicated to kids. As our Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay previously shared after a vacation on the largest ship in the world : “If you’re traveling as a family or in a large group, cruises just make sense, and that’s especially true on the Icon of the Seas. Like a fully planned vacation with minimal effort and the added bonus of a zero-commitment itinerary, this ship offers something for every generation to enjoy (yes, even Elvis trivia).”

The cruise line offers a Babies and Tots program, which you can drop off your baby (6 to 36 months). The baby-proof space have a bunch of toys and activities to keep them occupied. (Note: The Jewel, Adventure and Explorer of the Seas currently don’t have this service on board.) There are also three different clubs for older kids that you can book ahead of your trip, ranging from Aquanauts (3 to 5), Explorers (6 to 8) and Voyagers (9 to 11). They can explore arts and crafts, hands-on science experiments and friendly gaming competitions. As for the tweens and teens, they have more freedom to choose between pre-planned activities or spend their days hanging out at the lounge.

You’ll find even more activities to do with the family at their private island, Coco Cay. It’s home to one of the tallest water slides in North America, as well as a huge wave pool, expansive beaches and more. As for the food, the cruise line prides itself on buffet style at the Windjammer, specialty restaurants and complimentary favorites (like Loco Fresh, Sorrento’s Pizza and Park Cafe). If you’re looking for a table service, Royal Caribbean offers kids’ menu at their main dining halls, featuring pizza, spaghetti and chicken tenders. 

• Best Ships to Consider: Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Icon of the Seas
• Amenities: Aquanauts, Explorers, Voyagers, Teen Club
• Activities: Water Slides, Dry Slides, Rock Climbing, Surf Stimulation, Live Performances, Pools
• Price Range: $326 to $3,287 per person, kids under 12 can sail free (varies based on location, number of nights and ship).

3. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is known for being the most entertaining and party-filled of the bunch. Whichever of their 26 ships you set out on, the cruise line is all about having a good time. My first cruise (along with my 80-year-old grandmother) was on a Carnival. And we all had a blast. The company prides itself for having activities and amenities for every generation through dance parties, trivia and live performances. 

Each ship (yep, all 26) have Camp Ocean, a program broken down into Penguins (2 to 5), Stingrays (6 to 8) and Sharks (9 to 11). Each group can experience a host of activities. Some ships also have Seuss at Sea, where the iconic book characters come to life through character breakfasts, story time and a fun parade. Depending on the Carnival ship, the older kids can try out the Sky Zone (indoor trampoline park), catch a movie at the IMAX theater, experience the ropes course or hang out in their very own Club O2 or Circle “C”. Other amenities the kiddos will just love? Build-A-Bear Workshop, NASA-inspired activities, Thrill Theater and the first ever roller coaster at sea. FYI: Carnival currently has a Night Owls program, where you can leave your kids under 11 as late as 1 a.m, so you can enjoy a bit of nightlife on vacation. 

When it comes to dining, parents can rest assured that Carnival has you covered. Multiple dining venues have kids’ menus, featuring everything from chicken nuggets to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Plus, the ships have complimentary all-you-can-eat pizza and soft serve that’s available through the wee hours. 

• Best Ships to Consider: Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Vista, Carnival Glory
• Amenities: Camp Ocean, Night Owl
• Activities: Water Slides, Rollercoaster, Pools, SkyRide, Live Performances
• Price Range: $154 to $3,972 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

If you have older kids, Norwegian may be the best cruise line for your family. They have a ton of amenities for all ages. Zoom around the largest race track at sea, immerse yourself at the high-tech Galaxy Pavilion or take a plunge on the water slides. I had the chance to check out their latest ship, Norwegian Prima, which has two drop slides, a duo waterslide and a huge sports area (with mini golf, pickleball court, ping pong and more).

They also have programs for each age group, including the Splash Academy (3 to 12) and Entourage (13 to 17). As for the Guppies Program (6 months to 4), parents are required to stay with their child and enjoy the amenities together. However, Norwegian does offer group babysitting during the evenings for parents to enjoy a child-free dinner. 

While I love all the amenities, the food options were superb. They have both specialty (where kids under 12 can eat for free) and a complimentary buffet where even the pickiest eater of the fam will find something to enjoy. Aside from the buffet and 24-hour spots, newer ships offer the Indulge Food Hall. They are set up like a food market, where you can order from any station and have it all brought right to your seat. It was a great experience trying out new dishes and having a family-style meal. 

• Best Ships to Consider: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Prime, Norwegian Viva
• Amenities: Guppies Program, Splash Academy, Entourage
• Activities: Water Slides, Racetrack, Laser Tag, Virtual Reality
• Price Range: $129 to $4,598 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

5. MSC Cruises

From Norway, Greece or Rome, MSC is the best cruise line for families that want to take their young explorers out to the open sea—and this one has a ton of amenities to keep them busy in the meantime. Whether you want to try your hand at zip lining or prefer staying on the ground and playing bowling, grab yourself a MSC Fun Pass to try out these activities throughout your trip. All the ships also show Broadway-level shows, live music and immersive performances that will even have your teen engaged in the theatrics. 

You’ll also find five different clubs on the ship, Baby Club (0-3), Mini Club (3-6), Junior Club (7-11), Young Club (11-14) and the Teen Club (15-17). They vary depending on the age group, but some highlights include sports competitions, dance parties, karaoke and more. There are also additional services for your babies, including MSC Baby Time, MSC Baby Care Service and the MSC and Chicco. FYI: MSC has their own baby laundry service, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning out those stains once you get home. 

At MSC, dining is elevated to give kids just as amazing (and sometimes luxe) food options as the adults. Assessed by nutritionists, the menu features fun dishes for all ages, including babies from 6 to 12 months. The buffets each have a Kids’ Corner and all the specialty restaurants have a menu, so your kiddo can find a meal that they’ll like.  

• Best Ships to Consider: MSC Seascape, MSC Seaside, MSC Divina, MSC Seashore, MSC Virtuosa
• Amenities: Baby Club, Kids Club, Junior Club, Young Club, Mini Club
• Activities: Zip Line, Waterpark, Himalayan Bridge, Pools, Bowling Alley
• Price Range: $109 to $20,799 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

Best Kids Programs

6. celebrity cruises, celebrity cruises.

PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint shares, “Celebrity is great for families with older kids. It's very sophisticated and sleek (no giant plastic water slides here), but there's still a ton for big kids and teens to do: shows to see, one million pools to lounge at, and destinations like Bahamas, Aruba and St. Maarten. There are also various ‘Camp at Sea’ options to keep kids entertained all day long. But the best part is knowing you can let your kids go off by themselves, but they can never get too far.” 

Speaking of Camp at Sea, this entertainment center is home to over 500 activities for kids, including arts and crafts, culinary, sport competitions and STEM-based activities. It’s broken down by Shipmates (3-5), Cadets (6-9) and Captains (10 -12). On the flip side, the Teen Club offers different classes, competitions and parties throughout the day. Luckily for them, they have the freedom to leave whenever they want—although the dedicated space for them is worth checking out.  

Kids can try out the buffet or main dining room to get everything from grilled cheese sandwiches to a mini margarita pizza. MSC also offers in-room dining menus in case your kiddo gets a little restless at the dinner table. Plus, the cruise line is especially loved for being sensory- and autism-friendly, offering a wide range of services like priority checking, Camp at Sea flexible grouping and more.

• Best Ships to Consider: Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Edge
• Amenities: Shipmates, Captains, Cadets, Teen Club
• Activities: Live Shows, Silent Disco, Lawn Club, Pools
• Price Range: $222 to $17,535 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

Best for Multi-Generational Families

7. princess cruises, princess cruises.

Princess Cruises is known for being the best cruise line for the whole family, from baby to grandma. Request everything from highchairs to cribs to pureed food. And let the grandparents join in on the fun through educational excursions partnered with Discovery and Animal Planet, as well as splash zones, backyard games and yes, a kid-friendly bar with sweet mocktails. The cruise line also has their very own mascot, Stanley, who spends his time all over the ship to play games, take photos and interact with guests. 

Get the kids set up with one of the on-ship Camp Discovery programs including The Treehouse (3-7), The Lodge (8-12) and The Beach House (13-17). In partnership with Discovery, your kids will have immersive hands-on activities, sports competitions, dance classes, movie nights and science programs. Did we mention they even have a secret club for young adults, 18-20, too? They’ll need to know a special handshake and code in order to get in. Talk about an exclusive party. 

• Best Ships to Consider: Sapphire Princess, Caribbean Princess
• Amenities: The Treehouse, The Lodge, The Beach House
• Activities: Discovery at SEA, Culinary Demonstrations, Pools, Outdoor Sports, Live Shows
• Price Range: $128 to $20,879 per person (varies based on location, number of nights and ship)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruises worth it for families.

Yes. As you can see by the list above there are plenty of amenities and accommodations for the whole family. Many cruise lines offer programs and have play areas for all different age groups. I recommend looking through the cruise line’s age policies before booking your trip. Some cruise lines won’t allow infants younger than six months to board the ship. Most may even require the child to be at least a year or older. 

What Is the Best Cruise Length for Kids?

It depends on your child/children. According to Celebrity Cruises, they recommend 3 to 4 days for toddlers, especially if it’s their first cruise. However, many kids can deal with 7 to 10 day cruising. It boils down to how comfortable your children and you are at sea. 

Which Cruise Lines Are Not Kid-Friendly?

The two most notable cruise lines that are not kid-friendly are Virgin Voyage and Viking, which are strictly 18 and over. Viking has been around for decades and implemented the age restriction around 2015. Their guests are mainly geared towards 55+. On the flip side, Virgin Voyage is the latest cruise line with three ships dedicated to millennials.  

My First-Ever Cruise Was on the Largest Ship in the World—Here’s My Honest Review of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Associate Editor, Ultimate Fangirl, Aspiring Beauty Guru

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The Family Vacation Guide

14 Of The Best Cruise Lines For Families

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 26, 2022 // last updated on February 28, 2023

Choosing the right cruise line for your family vacation can be a daunting task. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start, especially when you are trying to make it fun for the whole family. Do you want a luxury family cruise? Action-packed adventures with a kids club? An all-inclusive stay? A trip to a private island?

The following list includes some of the best cruise lines for families based on factors such as amenities, activities such as family-friendly shore excursions, kids’ ages, family cabins, and overall customer satisfaction.

So whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with kids’ clubs or an action-packed adventure on a Dinsey cruise line, one of these family cruises is sure to be the ultimate family vacation.

1. Royal Caribbean International

2. disney dream, 3. carnival cruise line, 4. msc cruises, 5. costa cruises, 6. norwegian cruise line, 7. odyssey of the seas, 8. disney wonder, 9. allure of the seas, 10. princess cruises, 11. enchantment of the seas, 12. disney magic, 13. harmony of the seas, 14. celebrity cruises, is royal caribbean or carnival more kid-friendly, is royal caribbean good for families, which cruise line is the most inclusive, cruise lines.

Let’s take a look at some of the best cruises for families done in no particular order. We will go into detail about these cruise line companies and some of their individual cruise ships. We will discuss the Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruises, MSC Cruise Ship, and other cruise lines.

Royal Caribbean International is one of the most popular cruise ships for families because it has more than 300 destinations to choose from. Picture you and your family in the Bahamas, Florida, Italy, Greece, Alaska, Thailand, and so many more countries.

Royal Caribbean offers something for everyone with its world-class cruise ships, innovative onboard activities, and wide range of itineraries.

From the moment you step onboard any of the Royal Caribbean ships, you’ll be treated to world-class hospitality and service that will make your vacation truly memorable. And with so many onboard activities, you’ll never be bored!

Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, enjoy some time at the spa, or get active with the kids at bumper cars and laser tag,  Royal Caribbean International  has you covered.

When it comes to family-friendly cruise lines, Disney Cruise Line is hard to beat, thanks to their signature attention to detail. Their flagship ship, the Disney Dream, is a veritable floating palace complete with everything your family could possibly want or need on a cruise vacation. Did you know Disney has their own private island?

There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained onboard the Disney Dream, from the interactive Aquaduck water coaster to the adults-only restaurants and lounges. And, of course, there are plenty of opportunities to meet your favorite Disney characters! There is also an imaginative youth club, different dining options, and nightclubs for adults only.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free cruising experience where your every need is taken care of, then you can’t go wrong with  Disney Cruise Line . Sounds like family vacations just got a whole lot easier with Disney Cruise Line.

Carnival Cruise Lines  has long been a favorite of families cruising with young children. With its “Fun Ship” atmosphere, kids can enjoy plenty of activities both onboard and off while parents can relax knowing their little ones are well cared for.

Carnival offers a number of kid-friendly amenities such as a waterslide park, mini golf, arcade, and kids clubs for different age groups. There are also babysitting services available for parents who want to enjoy some time on their own.

Off the ship, Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay, is a great place for families to spend the day together. There’s a playground, water sports, and plenty of beach space to relax and soak up the Caribbean sun.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras  is one of the best cruise lines for families. This cruise line offers a wide variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. There are kid-friendly activities such as arts and crafts, game rooms, and pools.

For adults, there are casinos, nightclubs, and bars. The entire family can enjoy the ship’s many restaurants, shows, and live music. Carnival Mardi Gras also offers a variety of shore excursions for all ages.

Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance  is a great cruise line for families because it offers a wide variety of activities and amenities that are perfect for kids of all ages. There are several pools, a water park, a mini golf course, and a kids club on board, so there is always something for the little ones to do. The staterooms are also very spacious, so families can spread out and enjoy their time together.

Any  MSC Cruise ship  offers excellent family cruises. Their ships offer plenty of activities for kids of all ages and plenty of opportunities for parents to relax and enjoy some time for themselves.

One of the best things about MSC Cruises is that they have a wide variety of itineraries to choose from and Family Explorer Club tours. A plus is these tours are always half-price for children. The kids club will watch kids aged 3-11 for free, and there are play spaces for babies.

Beyond the baby center, they even offer guests a baby laundry service to make life extra easy for parents on board.

Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a longer vacation, they have options that will fit your needs. Their ships sail to destinations all over the world, so you’re sure to find an itinerary that interests you and your family. They also offer family cabins so you can all stay together (up to 10 people).

Another plus for MSC Cruises is that they offer unbeatable value. The prices are very competitive on MSC Cruises, and they often offer discounts and promotions that can save you even more money. Add in the fact that their ships are top-notch and offer a ton of amenities, and it’s easy to see why MSC Cruises is such a great choice for families.

Costa Cruises  is a great cruise line for families. The company has been in business for over 70 years and is known for its excellent customer service. Costa offers a variety of itineraries, including family-friendly options, that are sure to please everyone in the family.

What makes Costa so great for families? First, the company offers an extensive kids’ program with activities for children of all ages. There’s also a designated kids’ pool area on each ship, so little ones can splash around while parents relax nearby. In addition, Costa’s onboard babysitting services give parents some well-deserved time to themselves.

Costa also offers something for everyone in the family with its diverse itineraries. From cruises to exotic destinations like the Caribbean and Mexico to more relaxed sailings in Europe and Alaska, there’s sure to be a trip that appeals to every family member. And with Costa’s affordable pricing, families can enjoy a high-quality cruise without breaking the bank.

Norwegian Cruise Line  is a great choice for families who want a cruise vacation that includes a lot of activities and entertainment. Norwegian has something for everyone, with tons of kid-friendly activities, adult-only areas (such as the adults-only sun deck), and plenty of family-friendly dining options.

This Norwegian Cruise line offers kids clubs which will allow parents to have some alone time. Kids clubs have daily activities, so you can pick which activities to join based on your preferences. The cruise ship offers laser tag, mini-golf, broadway musicals, waterslide adventures, and more.

Norwegian ships are also some of the most innovative and modern at sea, so you can be sure you’re getting a top-notch experience.

Younger kids can ride with passengers on the racetracks, which span over two decks. This is a great activity for older kids.

The  Odyssey of the Seas  is one of the best cruise lines for families. It is part of the Royal Caribean cruise lines. It offers a wide variety of activities and amenities for families to enjoy. The ship is designed with families in mind, and it has a number of features that make it an ideal choice for a family vacation.

For starters, the ship has a waterslide park with two slides, a pool, and a splash pad for kids. Families can also enjoy the ship’s mini-golf course, zip line, rock-climbing wall, and sports court.

Odyssey of the Seas also has a kids’ club for children ages 3-12, where they can participate in arts and crafts, movies, and games. For parents looking for some alone time, the ship offers babysitting services. Find the perfect cruise vacation option right  here.  These options include packages with different destinations, duration of stay, and the specific vessel.

The Disney Wonder is a cruise ship owned and operated by the Disney Cruise Line, part of The Walt Disney Company. The second ship to be built for the cruise line, she entered service in 1999. Her sister ship is Disney Magic. A third vessel, the Disney Dream, entered service in January 2011.

At 93,000 gross tons and 964 feet (294 m) in length, she can accommodate 2,713 passengers in 875 staterooms. She also has 11 public decks, can travel at 22 knots (41 km/h), and her hull was painted to resemble that of classic ocean liners.

Like all other vessels in her class, she contains all the modern amenities one could want on a luxury vessel while still providing an intimate cruising experience. She has four restaurants, three pools (one being a Mickey-shaped pool), a spa and fitness center, and several kid-friendly areas, including an entire deck devoted to children’s activities.

Any Disney cruise line option makes great family cruises.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation, look no further than  Allure of the Seas.  This cruise line offers something for everyone, with a variety of activities and amenities that will keep your family entertained from start to finish.

The allure of the Seas features a water park, a small golf course, an arcade, and more. There are also plenty of dining options to choose from, so you can find something that everyone in your family will enjoy. And if you’re looking for some adult time, there’s plenty of that too! The allure of the Seas has casinos, bars, and nightclubs for you to enjoy.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Allure of the Seas vacation today!

The Caribbean Princess is one of the cruise ships that form a part of the  Princess Cruises.

If you’re looking for a luxurious cruise experience, look no further than Princess Cruises. With elegant staterooms, world-class cuisine, and impeccable service, Princess Cruises offers travelers a truly royal experience. Sail to destinations all over the world aboard a Princess Cruise ship and enjoy all the amenities and activities onboard.

Relax in your stateroom or take advantage of the ship’s many facilities, including pools, spas, fitness centers, and casinos.

Dine in style at one of the ship’s restaurants or enjoy a casual meal at one of the cafes or bars. Daytime activities include dance classes, language lessons, art auctions, and more, while evening entertainment features Broadway-style shows, live music, and movies under the stars.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate getaway or a family vacation, Princess Cruises has a cruise that’s perfect for you. This is definitely of the best family cruises.

Enchantment Of The Seas  is a cruise ship that forms part of the Royal Caribbean cruise lines. The ship offers a variety of clubs and lounges for children, teens, and adults. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes on board, as well as a casino and spa. Families can also take advantage of the many onboard activities, such as swimming, hiking, and biking.

Families can participate in family-friendly game shows, dance classes, and arts & crafts projects. There is also a kid-friendly pool and water slide for the little ones to enjoy. For those families looking for some quiet time, there is a library and an adult-only pool (called the Solarium).

The Solarium includes a pool, whirlpool, and deck chairs which are placed under a retractable crystal canopy. The Park Cafe venue is also found in the Solarium, so you can grab a bite to eat.

There’s something truly magical about a Disney cruise. From the moment you step onboard, you’re immersed in the world of Disney, with all the fun and excitement it entails. Themed dining rooms, character meet-and-greets, Broadway-caliber shows, and deck parties are just some of the ways you can enjoy your time on a Disney cruise.

And, of course, there’s also the chance to visit amazing destinations like the Bahamas and Mexico. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, a Disney cruise is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Other cruise lines for families just don’t compare to any of the Disney cruises.

Don’t forget about Disney’s private island, which will surely be the cherry on top of your vacation if you are headed to the Bahamas.

Harmony of the Seas , part of the Royal Caribbean cruise line, is one of the best cruise lines for families. It has a wide variety of activities and amenities that are perfect for families with kids of all ages. The ship also has a water park, mini-golf course, and multiple pools. There is also a kids club on board that offers age-appropriate activities and entertainment.

Celebrity Cruises  offer families a chance to spend quality time together while enjoying all the amenities of a luxury cruise. Families can choose from a variety of staterooms and suites, each designed with comfort and convenience in mind.

Kids will love the Celebrity cruises, pools, waterslides, and kids’ clubs, while parents can enjoy the spa, fitness center, Trivia contests, night clubs, and adult-only dining options. With so much to do onboard, families will never be bored on a Celebrity Cruise.

From poolside games and movie nights to dance classes and educational programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can also take advantage of the ship’s many amenities.

Both are highly popular cruise ships. The Royal Caribbean offers slightly more family-centric facilities but with an upscale feeling and enveloping charm. The Carnival is a cheaper option.

Royal Caribbean has a long tradition of providing great family holidays with an appeal to people from multiple generations.

The most exclusive and inclusive cruises are the Regent Seven Seas Scenic, Seabourn Silversea Viking Virgin Cruises & Azamara.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

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• Family Cruises on Carnival

FAMILY CRUISES ON CARNIVAL

Find out why Carnival is the best cruise line for families in 2024 and beyond.

MORE FAMILY MEANS MORE FUN ON YOUR FAMILY’S CARNIVAL CRUISE

Everybody finds it all here.

We keep everybody busy — and nobody bored — all cruise long.

Families like yours bring the fun spirit to a Carnival cruise… but give us a little credit too! Carnival makes sure everybody finds the fun they’re looking for on their vacation, with great activities to enjoy together, or as individuals. For one thing, we’ve got supervised youth spaces where kids can hang out and make new friends. Parents get to do their own thing too… plus there’s great things for families to do all together!

THERE’S BIG FUN IN CARNIVAL’S YOUTH PROGRAMS

What makes Carnival a great choice for kid-friendly cruises? We know that one size doesn’t fit all… but each size fits somebody just right! That’s why Carnival has a range of supervised programs for kids of all age groups, where they can meet up, have fun, enjoy learning experiences and make friends while hanging out with others their own age. From storytime to science, crafts to cultural enrichment, sports to sing-alongs… we help kids and teens get fun done.

• TURTLES (UNDER 2)
• CAMP OCEAN PENGUINS (2-5 YEARS)
• CAMP OCEAN STINGRAYS (6-8 YEARS)
• CAMP OCEAN SHARKS (9-11 YEARS)
• CIRCLE "C" (12-14 YEARS)
• CLUB O2 (15-17 YEARS)

FUN & FLEXIBILITY FOR FAMILIES

Fun happens for everyone on a Carnival cruise, but that doesn’t mean everyone’s idea of fun has to be the same. That’s why variety is key for families, and a Carnival cruise has fun for kids, teens and adults… plus the flexibility to either enjoy things together or do your own thing for a bit. That just might be along the lines of waterslides, mini-golf, live entertainment, or fun and enriching experiences from partners like Dr. Seuss, Zumbini and even the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

• ROPES COURSE
• DIVE-IN MOVIES
• VIDEO ARCADE
• BOLT: ULTIMATE SEA COASTER
• SPORTSQUARE
• FAMILY FEUD LIVE
• SEUSS AT SEA
• BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP AT SEA

OH… PARENTS TOO, OF COURSE!

What goes into the perfect date night? Great drinks, dancing under the stars, a stage show… and this wouldn’t be the best family cruise without the one thing parents need most: dependable childcare! A Carnival cruise takes care of the essentials so you can — day or night — explore, enjoy and indulge in great ways to put the “you two” in “family vacation.”

ENJOY FAMILY DINING AND KID-FRIENDLY FOOD

“YUM, THAT’S MY FAVORITE!” –LITERALLY EVERYONE ON CARNIVAL

How can we be so sure you’re going to love the food on your Carnival cruise? Because there’s such amazing variety, from casual munching to sit-down dining, fancy stuff and beyond. Some examples: steakhouse, sushi, family-style Italian, tacos, burgers and more. We serve up so much variety that even the pickiest eaters can find new favorites at every restaurant, and tons of great options are included in your cruise fare! Plus the food is as flexible as you are hungry. Room service is always on the menu, 24 hours a day, and delivery is just a quick call away. Also very much available: the pizza station stays open until 4 a.m. — just in case you show up! — and our soft-serve machines don’t quit until the clock strikes midnight.

EXPLORE NEW PLACES AS A FAMILY

There are great destinations all over the globe, and a Carnival cruise can take you to spots with just the sights and vibes you’re looking for. And because we’re Carnival, you know we’re ready to help you find the most fun stuff to do in each!

CARIBBEAN & THE BAHAMAS CRUISES

Carnival is known for taking families to islands across the Caribbean and The Bahamas. That sounds to us like fun in the sun! And who — young or grown — would say no to a vacation of beaches, calypso music and swimming with dolphins? Could anyone pass up catamaran sailings, glass-bottom boat tours, exploring islands by Jeep or ATV… not to mention the chance to paddleboard, jet-ski or kayak? We’re honestly not sure… because we haven’t met them yet!

MEXICO CRUISES

Mexico is a family destination with two different destinations in it: the islandy east coast that shows off the Gulf, and the Pacific coast with its stunning desert style. Some of the best ways to see them would be, let’s see, on the east coast… exploring ancient ruins on land or gazing at spectacular undersea life through a snorkel mask. And on the west coast, try surveying the scene on horseback, flying down a zipline, or doing some whale watching with the best scenery.

ALASKA CRUISES

Alaska isn’t cold in the summer months… but it’s definitely still cool! Chill while taking in views of wildlife, mountains, glaciers, history and more — this is the perfect way to open young eyes to some of the world’s most stunning natural beauty. But don’t just look at it, get into the action with dogsledding, gold panning, a scenic railroad ride and more!

FIND THE BEST CRUISES FOR KIDS HERE

Scroll here to find some great cruise deals, 2024 and beyond!

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

ROOMS DESIGNED FOR FAMILIES

Whether you keep it cozy or let the kids have their own space, Carnival has stateroom options practically designed for your family! Some staterooms sleep up to five, and feature flexible bedding configurations. Some rooms come with a view, some with balconies, and some even have an extra half-bathroom — nice! And some connect to the room next-door, for the greatest family flexibility. And we can’t leave out the Family Harbor staterooms on select ships, which add nautical decor and fam-favorite exclusive perks like access to a families-only lounge, kids eating free at most specialty restaurants and more.

GREAT IDEAS FOR WHEN TO CRUISE

Cruise during the summer.

Planning a summer cruise is nice and easy, because with the kids out of school there’s plenty of space to fit a vacation into your calendar. (And for the kids… we know it’s not a competition, but get ready to totally win at “how I spent my summer vacation.”) 

CRUISE FOR SPRING BREAK

When you see an opening on your calendar that looks perfect for a week off when the weather’s just right… grab it! Kids can head back to school refreshed and ready to wind down the school year.

SHORT CRUISES ANYTIME

Nobody needs a reason for a quick vacation — think along the lines of a long weekend or so — and just go. But if you want a great reason: it’s how easy short cruises are to plan! You’ll be back home with your new memories before you know it.

CELEBRATE A HOLIDAY AT SEA 

Spending a holiday like Halloween, Christmas, Thanksgiving or New Year’s on a Carnival cruise doesn’t just make it unforgettable, it makes it easy: we do the cooking, we do the cleaning, we do the entertaining. So why not bring everybody?

WHAT FAMILY FUN LOOKS LIKE ON CARNIVAL

See amazing moments shared by real people from their Carnival cruise.

The Best Cruise Lines To Book For Your Next Family Vacation, According To Travel Experts

A cruise can make a great family vacation. You get to visit multiple places and do interesting things; plenty of food options means even picky eaters will have something to eat; and on board, there are seemingly endless family-friendly activities. When booking a cruise, however, families will want to consider more than just the cruise's itinerary and amenities, although these are also important considerations. 

For example, cabarets and casinos won't be especially fascinating to the younger set. You'll also need to look at the accessibility and availability of cabins in terms of the layout your family needs. Two bunks and a double bed? Does a pullout couch work? Also, what sort of childcare does the cruise line have? Will you have any evenings to yourself?

The cruise industry offers a wide variety of ships and specialties. Some lines cater to upscale (and generally older) travelers, with opulent luxury and fine dining. Others have gone all in for families with kids, creating what can be seen as floating amusement parks. Other cruise lines are trying to strike a balance, with a little something for every age group. By scouring online reviews from other travel experts and drawing from our own cruise experiences, we've chosen the top cruise lines for family vacations. 

Read more: The Prettiest Waters Around The World

Disney Cruise Lines

Disney is the top choice for many families, with good reason. From character dining to excursions on Castaway Cay — its own private, family-friendly island -- Disney cruises are designed from top to bottom with kids and their parents in mind. U.S. News & World Report ranked Disney Cruise Lines as number one for families, citing the spacious cabins and food and beverage offerings as particularly worthy of praise.

Fans of Mickey and the gang will love the chance to meet Disney characters, including "Star Wars" and Marvel characters, and some of the stage shows are based on popular movies like "Frozen" and "Beauty and the Beast." On the downside, all that  Disney cruise magic comes at a cost , and it's higher than many of the other family-oriented cruises. Additionally, while most of the food and drinks are covered by the per-person price of the cruise, as is the case on most cruise lines, alcohol is not. Unlike other cruise lines that sell an alcoholic drinks package, Disney does not, which means this additional cost could add up.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Billed as "the Fun Ship," Carnival Cruise Lines prides itself on providing a festival atmosphere on each of its cruises. For families, that means things like waterslides, SkyRide (i.e., what you get if you cross a zipline with a bicycle), and Camp Ocean Kids Club. On top of that, there is plenty of Dr. Seuss-themed fun, including a character parade, stage shows, and even a Green Eggs and Ham breakfast. Kids aged 2 to 11 can go to Camp Ocean, which offers entertainment and supervision, while teens have their own dedicated hangout spaces. Infant care is also available. 

One of the biggest draws, though, for Carnival Cruises is the price point. With the frequent  family cruise vacation deals you can find, your cruise can be a relatively inexpensive holiday. This, along with its all-ages inclusivity, makes Carnival an attractive option to first-time cruisers and a more youthful demographic. While Carnival's party-forward environment is undoubtedly fun, the downside is that it can create a noisy, sometimes overwhelming atmosphere. Also, the high-capacity ships can feel crowded, especially at the buffet, by the pool on a hot day, and during embarkation and disembarkation.

Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruise Lines is carving out a niche for itself as a luxury line at an affordable price. A little more upscale than others that put kids front and center, Princess is perfect for those traveling with multiple generations, especially if your kids are no longer tiny. For a family celebrating a milestone, a glamorous night at one of the specialty restaurants or exclusive dining options, like the immersive 360 Dining Experience or Lumiere Chef's Table, would be an unforgettable way to mark the occasion.

Balcony staterooms are also available in multiple configurations (bunk beds, pullout beds, etc) to accommodate families, and you can add additional space by choosing a mini-suite or suite. Onboard, there are adults-only areas to retreat from the kids, and for the young ones to retreat from the adults, there are kids and teens clubs. Landside, there are excursions to appeal to a range of interests and abilities. Of note, many families may be interested in the science-focused excursions that Princess designed in partnership with the Discovery Channel and Animal Planet. 

One thing that may give families pause is the fact that, while Princess cruises are open to all ages, the demographic tends to skew slightly older, with the average age being 57, according to The Points Guy . That means children make up a smaller percentage of passengers than they do on other cruise lines. If you are looking for tons of kids for potential playmates, you may want to look elsewhere.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

Royal Caribbean ships have nearly endless activities onboard to keep kids and their parents entertained, which is why we think it's great for families. If the dining options and stage shows aren't enough to keep everyone occupied, you can try bumper cars, rock-climbing walls, ziplines, and the surf simulators. Royal Caribbean ships are among the largest on the seas, and all that room means several cabin configurations are available, including family suites and even "townhouse"-style accommodation, allowing your family to spread out.

When the Icon of the Seas launches in January of 2024, it will be the biggest cruise ship in the world. The amenities are also mega-sized, including what is being hailed as the largest waterpark ever built on a cruise ship. Of course, not everyone is thrilled by the gargantuan Icon of the Seas. When the artist's rendering of the ship was released on social media, it caused a furor. On X , formally known as Twitter, one person wrote, "Icon of the Seas looks more like a Hieronymus Bosch painting than a cruise ship."

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Cruise vacations were originally built on the naval traditions of traveling by boat, and sometimes retain that formality that many see as old-fashioned. While it may be charming to some, for others, especially those with kids, this atmosphere may feel, well, a bit stifling. However,  Norwegian's family-friendly cruises , with their "freestyle cruising" approach, are anything but stifling. The freestyle mentality refers to the fact that Norwegian ships don't have a dress code or set dining times.

In addition to this carefree vibe, families will find lots of activities to love. Of note is the Guppies Program and its open play areas, which give parents a spot to play with their babies and toddlers. For families with older kids, the VR games in the Galaxy Pavillion, ropes courses, waterslides, and race courses will likely be hits.

There's lots to do on a Norwegian ship, but we should mention that the cruise line is making a shift in its itineraries toward more time in ports of call. If you are someone who treasures your days at sea, this excursion-forward change may feel like a drawback. 

P&O Cruises

American cruisers may be less familiar with P&O Cruises than they are with cruise lines that sail regularly from U.S. ports, but P&O, which bills itself as Britain's favorite cruise line, knows a thing about catering to all kinds of passengers -– families included. English Claymation animation stars Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep make special guest appearances on family-friendly cruises. The characters are featured in arts and crafts in The Reef kids club and play an augmented reality version of hide and seek with younger passengers. Aboard P&O's newest ship, Arvia, Wallace and Gromit star in a special live show for their young fans. 

Something that makes P&O stand apart is the nursery services for babies and toddlers. Not every line includes baby care in the cost of the cruise, much less nighttime nursery service. However, families with infants will be happy to know that evening child-minding is included for passengers aged 6 months to 4 years. 

Since P&O is a British company, passengers are largely English and prices are generally given in pounds sterling, so you may need to calculate conversions for various costs related to the cruise. Another consideration is that only five of the P&O ships are family-friendly. The remaining two are adults-only, so make sure you plan your family vacation with the correct ship in mind. 

MSC Cruises

Cruise Critic concedes MSC Cruises "may not be on your radar" for family cruises, but goes on to report "it's actually a great option for people traveling with children." And with some very cool, all-ages activities aboard its ships, it's hard to disagree. By purchasing the MSC Fun Pass, you'll have access to bowling, an XD interactive cinema, and a flight simulator. Another plus is how MSC has worked to make things more accessible for passengers with limited mobility, most notably on its private Caribbean island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. The island is fully ADA-compliant and has beach wheelchairs that, upon request, will be set aside for passengers to use as soon as they reach the island.

MSC attracts an international clientele and officially operates in six languages: English, Italian, German, French, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese. Which language takes precedence on any given cruise is determined by the language spoken by most passengers. That doesn't mean you won't be able to communicate in a different language, but if you are considering booking a cruise with MSC, know that English is not the default language.

Celebrity Cruises

Traveling with teenagers is notoriously tough, as stuff that appeals to kids may be too baby-ish, but an adult-only cruise isn't feasible either. Celebrity Cruises seems to have struck a magic balance, and according to Forbes , is the best cruise line for teenagers. The publication singles out Teen Camp programming, describing it as "particularly interesting for more mature children and teens." Activities include silent discos, video game competitions, sports competitions, and culinary lessons.

On the new Celebrity Ascent, the spa has services specially designed for kids and teens, as opposed to many adult-only spas with strict "no kids allowed" policies. On the Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Edge, S.T.E.M. activities developed with the Frost Science Museum teach kids about sailing and navigation, nature and conservation efforts, as well as marine life. In addition, Celebrity offers autism-friendly cruising, which includes specialized dietary options and toys and films that accommodate passengers with sensory sensitivity. The cruise line also offers priority boarding and check-in to help these families avoid crowd bottlenecks. 

While there are lots of great things for families on a Celebrity ship, their main demographic remains adults, as it has been from the beginning —marketing themselves as an edgier alternative to staid competitors. If you have young kids or are looking for a cruise fully focused on the younger set, Celebrity may not be the line for you.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Ritz-Carlton is one of the top brands in luxury accommodations, and they've brought the same white-glove service they are known for on land to their cruise superyacht, the Evrima. The ship will be joined by two more in 2024 and 2025. For now, the small vessel (with only a 298-passenger capacity) stands alone for the brand. Ritz-Carlton has made a name for itself with gorgeously designed spaces, and the suites on the Evrima carry on this tradition, with beautiful furnishings and high-end touches. Families can make use of the convertible sofa beds found in many of the suites, while the two-story lofts offer a bit more privacy. In these spacious suites, the sofa bed is located upstairs in the sitting room, while the master suite is located on the lower floor. 

In this luxury yacht and small ship category, kids clubs are not a given, but Ritz Kids, a popular program offered at Ritz hotels, has been bought aboard. The club offers creative programming for kids with trained counselors to enrich the time young people spend on board. During school holidays and summer sailings, expect more young passengers than at other times of the year.

In keeping with the theme of a luxury hotel on water, the pricing structure of the Ritz-Carleton Yacht Collection is closer to a hotel than an all-inclusive resort (like other cruise lines). This means things that you might expect to be included in your fare may not be. This includes the kids club, which incurs a charge per child, per session.

Hurtigruten Expeditions

Hurtigruten Expeditions is where it's at for adventurous families. With small ships and itineraries visiting places like the Galapagos Islands and Arctic regions, a trip with Hurtigruten appeals to those with an explorer's heart. For people who aren't enchanted with the floating theme park feel of some mega-ships, but want to share a marine experience with their kids, this could be just the thing. You won't find Broadway-style stage shows or waterslides, but they do have hot tubs (some ships also feature infinity pools). However, you'll have ample opportunity to learn from onboard experts while spending time with the ones you love most.

The Young Explorers' Programme is focused on giving passengers aged 6 to 12 the chance to meet other kids on board while learning about nature, various cultures, wildlife, and local food. The educational youth program is offered on the MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, and MS Otto Sverdrup. Children are welcomed onboard Hurtigruten Expeditions, but it's important to note that they must be at least 5 years old to visit Antarctica and South Georgia. For safety reasons, participation in excursions for those under 12 is based on the captain's discretion.

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