Best Cruise Line for Families

Planning a family vacation can be stressful, but taking a cruise is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to travel with kids of all ages. Cruise ships offer everything from waterslides and kids’ clubs to fine dining, and Broadway-style shows to appeal to every member of the family. Cruise is a great way for families to travel because you only have to unpack once, and you are surrounded by entertainment, kid-friendly menu options, and endless amenities. We will spotlight some of the family friendly cruise line options that each popular cruise lines offer. Family Vacation Ideas

Choosing the perfect cruise line with the right cruise line ensures everyone has a great time. The top family cruise lines cater to children and teens with supervised activities, allow parents to enjoy adult time, and offer cabin types to suit different family sizes and budgets. As you consider which company to sail with, keep these top-rated family cruise lines in mind. How To Plan A Family Reunion Cruise, Best Cruise Lines for Family Reunions; How to Pick the Right Family Cruise

Family Friendly cruise lines for families Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean ships are essentially floating resorts with activities and amenities for every age group and something for the whole family. One of the line’s newest ships, Wonder of the Seas, even has an 8-acre Central Park with over 20,000 real plants for kids to explore. Some of the best Royal Caribbean features for families include:

Cabins: Family interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite rooms accommodate 3-6 guests. Multi-room Family Connection suites combine up to 6 cabins for large groups.

Dining: Complimentary main dining rooms plus specialty venues like Johnny Rockets and Sugar Beach candy and ice cream shop.

Activities: Award-winning Adventure Ocean kids’ programs, teens-only lounge and nightclub, nursery for babies and toddlers, water slides, surf simulators, rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, carousel and more. The new cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships in the world, has six record-breaking slides at Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea. Discover adventure for the ages —all the ages —at the family friendly neighborhood SurfsideSM , a stay-all-day neighborhood that opens the floodgates on family fun. A sprawling aquapark and pool give kids more ways to splash and play as well as a redefined rock climbing wall. Other Roayl Caribbean ships feature the Ultimate Abyss as well as a surf simulator on the FlowRider.

Entertainment: Original stage shows, 3D movies, live music and parades.

Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Kids: Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas.

Ships are packed with amenities families love, the staterooms are spacious, kids’ programs get rave reviews, and there is no shortage of fun at any time of day or night. With new family-friendly ships on order, Royal Caribbean continues to be a top choice for memorable and hassle-free vacations with kids and teens.

Disney Cruise Line

For families who can’t get enough of Mickey, Minnie, and the Disney gang, a Disney cruise brings the magic of Disneyland or Disney World onto the high seas. Disney pioneered family cruising with their kid-focused activities and themed ships, with premium touches parents appreciate, too. There is something for the whole family onboard, such as Mickey’s Sail-A-Way Party, Pirate-themed dinners, kid-friendly dining venues, and character visits like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto. There is also an adults-only area with dining and nightlife options.

Disney Cruise Line brings the magical world of Disney to life on board the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, and Disney Wish. Launched between 1998-2022, these grand vessels have a passenger capacity ranging from 2,700 on the original Magic and Wonder up to 4,000+ on the majestic Dream. Across the fleet, families are immersed in Disney storytelling, characters, and entertainment through attractions like waterslides and coaster rides themed to Toy Story and The Little Mermaid, Marvel and Star Wars spaces with high-tech simulators, and live Broadway-style shows that bring Frozen and other classics to the stage. While kids embark on Disney adventures tailored to their age groups, parents enjoy elegant fine dining and lounges. Disney’s ships offer endless enchantment for all generations.

Cabins: Accommodates families in an ocean view, verandah, and one and two-bedroom suites. Partitioned staterooms open to combine up to 3 rooms. Most cabins also a slightly larger bathroom than other cruise lines, so someone can shower while someone else uses the toilet

Dining: Rotational dining in 3 creatively themed restaurants, plus adults-only specialty dining, pizza, and ice cream shops.

Activities: Award-winning Oceaneer Club and Lab kids’ programs, Edge Club for tweens, Vibe for teens. Broadway-style Disney shows, first-run movies by Disney, deck parties, and character meet-and-greets. Oceaneer Club offers several themed play areas that are different on each ship, including Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars: Cargo Bay and Fairytale Hall onboard the Disney Wish.

Entertainment: Immersive Star Wars and Marvel spaces, animation classes, trivia contests, talent shows, and more. All ships feature the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where children are transformed into princesses, pirates, knights and sea captains.

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for Kids: Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

Disney sets the gold standard best luxury cruise ever for family entertainment, and the youth programs and deck parties ensure kids have a fantastic time on board. From meeting beloved characters to quality time with your family watching Disney films under the stars, Disney cruises let you make magical memories together.

Carnival Cruise Line

Known for their family friendly “Fun Ships,” Carnival cruises aim to ensure every member of the family has a blast. Budget-friendly pricing makes it easy for parents to take the kids and the whole crew on a family getaway at sea.

Cabins: Accommodate 3-5 guests in the standard interior, ocean view, and balcony staterooms. Vista suites have private balconies and sleeping capacity for 4-8.

Dining: Dozens of dining options spanning food truck style to upscale seafood and steaks. Unlimited soft drinks, 24 hour pizza and ice cream make snack time a breeze.

Activities: Kids love the high tech play areas like Sky Zone trampoline park and simulated sport and racing experiences. The whole family enjoys mini golf, waterslides, multiple swimming pools, ropes courses, sports courts and outdoor movie screenings. Camp Ocean program divided into age-based groups including Dr. Seuss Bookville for toddlers. Cloud 9 Spa family lounge offering treatments for parents and older kids.

Entertainment: Carnival is known for its Playlist stage productions, Punchliner Comedy Clubs, and nighttime deck parties for an action-packed cruise. Some ships feature an outdoor promenade with family gathering spaces and child play zones.

The Best Carnival Cruise Ship for Kids: Carnival Firenze, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Splendor

Carnival ships have as much fun packed per square foot as possible to guarantee that even the fussiest kids have an absolute blast. The dining options make mealtime hassle-free for parents, and Carnival’s affordable rates make it easy to cruise again and again. Across Carnival Cruise Line’s growing fleet, the newest ships coming online emphasize connecting spaces for quality family bonding both in spacious staterooms and lounge areas indoors and out. As additional ships launch, the family vacation experiences will only get better!

Norwegian Cruise Line

For active families, who think ordinary vacations are boring, Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” approach means you can do what you want when you want while cruising. Their family friendly ships give both kids and parents the flexibility and excitement they crave.

Cabins: Standard, balcony, and suite rooms sleep up to 5 with multi-room Family Connected staterooms combining cabins to accommodate large families. The Haven offers two-bedroom family suites where one bathroom offers a tub.

Dining: 20+ dining options from quick casual to gourmet fine dining at no extra charge, plus pizza 24/7.

Activities: Awesome family friendly attractions like race car simulators, laser tag, expansive Aquapark with waterslides, themed parties for kids and the only go-kart racetrack at sea. Award-winning Splash Academy kids’ club. There are also rock climbing and rappelling walls, ropes course, batting cages, and bowling lanes.

Entertainment: Broadway shows, open-air cinema, comedy club, ice skating shows, dueling piano bar, and Duty-Free shops to round out family fun offerings. Dedicated kids and teens spaces like Entourage teen lounge.

Best NCL Ships for Kids: Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Dawn 

Norwegian’s freestyle approach gives families flexibility in dining and activities. Their action packed ships have some of the most exciting attractions at sea to thrill kids of any and different age groups. Parents will appreciate upscale dining and entertainment without rigid schedules or dressing up. No matter which Norwegian “Freestyle Family” ship you sail, you’ll find plenty of dining flexibility and energetic entertainment the whole family can enjoy together and separately across all age groups for an unforgettable vacation.

Celebrity Cruises

As Celebrity Cruises upgrades and modernizes ships across its award-winning fleet, they are enhancing amenities for the whole family to enjoy. While still featuring upscale accommodations, fine dining, and sophisticated entertainment parents appreciate, Celebrity makes multi-generational travel easy with expanded children’s offerings.

Cabins: Families can choose to connect staterooms family cabins or larger Sky Suite accommodations with expanded living space. Two and Three-story villas perfect for families. Unparalleled views and spacious new Family Veranda and Family Suite categories

Dining: From casual buffet to upscale dining, children’s menus are available. Complimentary room service makes snack time a breeze.

Activities: Certified counselors lead enriching activities at Camp at Sea Kids’ Club and outdoor kids play zones. Teen-only spaces offer gaming and movies for older children and younger children together. Entourage teen lounge for older kids to enjoy DJ parties and gaming. New winding slide traversing four decks.

Entertainment: Kids participate in their own talent shows and family movie nights, attend themed parties, and then join parents for award-winning Broadway-style productions in the theater. Expanded resort deck families can privately reserve.

Best Celebrity Ships for Kids: Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Eclipse

With a perfect balance of sophistication, style, and family inclusiveness, Celebrity Cruises lets parents experience a refined and relaxing vacation, knowing children are having fun on their own shipwide adventures. New high-tech kids’ clubs opening on Celebrity Beyond and other latest ships take family offerings to the next level. Celebrity Cruises continues investing in family accommodations and amenities while retaining its award-winning modern luxury focus.

Some growing family programs to look forward to include Celebrity Cruises’ Cruise with Confidence policies for flexible booking, newly designed kids menus, teen after-hours club activities, expanded LEGO play zones, and more staterooms catering to third and fourth passengers. Adults can indulge in world-class cuisine and entertainment, knowing the little ones are just as pleased. Celebrity hits the mark for together and apart family fun.

Princess Cruises

While Princess Cruises has a reputation as a luxury cruise line tailored more for adults and mature travelers, they have introduced many family-friendly features across their fleet of Princess cruise ships in recent years. Princess is a great cruise vacation choice for multi-generational groups and families looking to relax and spend quality time together.

Cabins: Family staterooms and suites sleep up to eight guests, some with partitioned areas for privacy. Other multi-bed rooms are available.

Dining: Anytime Dining lets families eat when they please. Casual buffet and poolside dining are kid-approved, plus specialty restaurants and 24-hour room service.

Activities: The Treehouse and The Lodge kids’ and teens’ clubs host age-appropriate events and let parents enjoy nightly date nights. Youth talent shows and stargazing encourage family participation. Splash park, laser tag, expanded kids clubs and poolside cabanas. Family members can attend the Jr. Chef@Sea Program, a hands-on chef-led cooking class that takes place in a shipboard kitchen. Family swim center for relaxing pool time with a sports court nearby.

Entertainment: The newest ships have spectacular atriums with Bellini’s cocktail bar and Vines wine tasting suited for parents, adjacent to youth play zones. Full roster of stage entertainment suitable for all ages and interests. Movies Under the Stars, the cruise line’s huge outdoor movie theater, plays poolside features on the top deck after sunset. Camp Discovery kids club and The Reef teens lounge.

Best Princess Cruise Ships for Kids: Star Princess, Sun Princess, Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, Majestic Princess

With the success of their family-centric Caribbean Princess, Princess Cruises is enhancing offerings for young cruisers across their fleet. From kid’s menus and pools to award-winning Alaska nature programs led by expert guides, Princess Cruises lets parents share memorable new experiences with children of any age. Princess Cruises continues evolving as a top family vacation choice, with ships sailing everywhere from Europe to Australia. Their newest vessels emphasize flexibility, connectivity, and togetherness, perfectly tailored to families looking to bond and make memories.

MSC Cruises

This European cruise line has been welcoming families aboard its contemporary ships best cruises sailing from U.S. home ports for over ten years. MSC cruises combine classic naval style with cutting edge technology and amenities for family cruisers.

Cabins: Incredible Family Plus staterooms feature kids’ bunk beds, video games, and bathrooms with two sinks and bathtub/shower combos. Other multi-bed family rooms are available. Ultramodern family suites complex with duplex cabins. Feature specially designed cabins for families of up to 10.

Dining: International dining with kid-friendly options like pizza and snacks is available most of the day, plus specialty steakhouse and family buffet dining.

Activities: Tennis courts, full basketball court, water park, VR games, family karaoke, 4D cinema, and one of the largest Lego play areas at sea in the kids’ club. Bowling, LEGO games (one of the largest LEGO play areas at sea), dance classes, sports tournaments, arcades, and more. Expansive kids clubs spanning over 10,000 sq feet. Feature special family cooking classes, dance parties, and talent contests. Family areas with swimming pools and splash pads.

Entertainment: Theater shows, dance classes, live music, and circus school activities appeal to the entire family.

Best MSC Ships for Kids: MSC Euribia, MSC Seashore, MSC Divina, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaside, and MSC Grandiosa

MSC ships shine with European flair and style the whole family can appreciate. Their impressive modern fleet appeals to American families seeking outstanding amenities, dining variety, and multicultural entertainment that feels worlds away from an ordinary cruise. With their European-inspired modern designs and amenities for every generation, MSC Cruises continues to enhance its ships to welcome families seeking high-quality vacations with world-class dining, entertainment, and service.

Holland America

While best known for catering to mature travelers, Holland America has expanded offerings for multi-generational groups in recent years with Club HAL children’s programming and family-friendly dining and cabin options.

Cabins: Family ocean-view cabins sleep up to 4 guests and have extra bunk beds for kids. Connecting staterooms are available to accommodate larger families. Junior Ranger Alaska program for families to explore glaciers.

Dining: Flexible My Time Dining and casual Lido Market buffet provide family friendly dining when you want it. Special kids menu and pastries available. Family-style dining options focused on flexibility and group meals.

Activities: Club HAL divides children by age group, with a teens-only hangout room and video arcade. Club HAL kids facility equipped with videogames and computer center. Other family recreation like movies under the stars and a mini golf course. Family swim center with water slides and padded flooring for safety. Some ships offer Junior Chef’s @ Play hands-on culinary class for families

Entertainment: Daily non-camp programming where kids join parents for activities like trivia contests, talent shows, geography challenges, and themed parties.

Best Holland America Ships for Kids: Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Eurodam

While less action packed than other lines, Holland America hits the mark for less adventurous families looking for quality time together. Their smaller ships provide a classic cruising experience for the whole family without breaking the bank. While not at the top of mind for families compared to other mainstream lines, Holland America hits the right chord for parents and grandparents seeking quality multi-generational cruising not centered exclusively around thrills. Their junior programming encourages family participation and togetherness.

Booking Tips

• Book early for the best pricing and family-sized cabin availability.
• Check out family reunion rates for gathering extended family members in groups.
• Ask about kids’ sail free deals and reduced fares for third and fourth passengers.
• Consider a theme cruise around holidays like Halloween, Christmas, or Spring Break.
• Notify the cruise line/travel agent when booking that you will need a crib if traveling with an infant.

Packing Tips

• Bring a magnetic dry-erase activities board to update daily schedules.
• Pack walkie talkies so kids can explore while parents relax.
• Bring glow sticks and decorate doors to easily find cabins at night.
• Overpack swimsuits and goggles – they may take longer to dry in humid climates.
• If traveling with infants and toddlers, make sure to pack diapers, formula, and anything else you might need. The gift shops onboard offer some supplies you can buy, but you should bring your own.

Onboard Tips

• Arrive early on the first day to sign kids up for youth clubs, sports competitions and activities.
• Check schedules for special family events like dance parties or game nights.
• Order room service for breakfast so kids can sleep in.
• Use Group Babysitting services to enjoy a couple of times while kids make new friends.

Disembarkation Tips

• Prepare color-coded luggage tags by a family member for easy identification
• Pack a separate overnight bag with essentials needed the last night
• Put all travel documents/IDs in a sealed envelope or folder for easy access
• Take early disembarkation to make flight connections or start sightseeing on shore

Finding the best cruise line for families involves balancing priorities like price point, amenities, destinations, and vibe on board. Many even offer baby and toddler services. Fortunately, there is a fantastic ship for every type of family out there if you sail with one of the best cruise lines we listed. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed to return home with a camera full of memories from the best family vacation ever!

Cruising makes vacationing easy for parents and magical for kids. Family bonding happens spontaneously, thanks to quality time together on board. Even when you get off the ship, you can book unique shore excursions for your family and really elevate the vacation. Cruises offer the perfect multi-generational getaway – just sit back, relax, and enjoy your family! Call us at 1-800-942-3301 so we can help you find the best all inclusive cruise for your family.

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