The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Cruises

All You Need to Plan the Best Family Getaway

Taking a cruise is a fantastic way to combine adventure with relaxation and turn any family trip into an epic vacation they'll never forget. 

Modern cruise ships are resorts on the water, offering many of the same amenities, facilities, and activities (and then some!) of luxury resorts. But instead of being nestled on a beach with the same view, a cruise happens against stunning natural backdrops that change every day.

With entertainment for all ages and endless options for things to do, taking a cruise is one of the best ways to vacation as a clan. If you're planning your next family getaway or looking for last-minute cruise deals to wow your loved ones, you're in the right place. 

What are the best cruise liners for families?

Royal Caribbean International

The luxury cruise liners' impressive fleet features surf simulators, ice-skating rinks, and outdoor movie nights. The line's extensive list of ports and itineraries are two other reasons Royal Caribbean is the gold standard for taking adventure cruises with your family.

Editor's Pick: 5 nights in the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas

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Disney Cruise Line

Between cameos from iconic characters, themed dining, fireworks, Broadway-caliber productions, and kids' clubs for every age, there isn't much your family won't enjoy on Disney's fleet of luxury cruise liners. For a break from the action, there are also exclusive child-free areas to relax and unwind while kids enjoy supervised activities.

Carnival Cruise Line

Fun-focused family cruises on this fleet feature water parks, mini-golf courses, and kids' clubs, while adults enjoy concerts, comedy shows, and spa treatments. Add family-friendly dining, themed breakfasts, and casual buffets, and it's no wonder why Carnival consistently makes it to the top of the list of family-friendly cruise lines.

Editor's Pick: 7 nights in the Caribbean on Carnival Liberty

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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL mixes the best of all worlds to provide experiences that cater to every age group and cruiser type. Go-karts and water slides keep kids entertained while teens and adults hang out in their exclusive areas to mingle, relax, and take advantage of Norwegian's "Free at Sea" promotional perks.

Editor's Pick: 3 nights in the Bahamas on Norwegian Jade

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What's there to do for families on a cruise? 

Lots! Here are some of the favorite activities for families to do on cruise ships:

For Kids and Teens

• Supervised kids' clubs with tailored activities for different age groups
• Dedicated hangout lounges filled with gadgets
• Water parks, arcades, and playgrounds
• Character events and kids' shows
• Sports courts, arcades, teen spas

For Adults and Families

• Professional performances with high production-value
• Adults-only spas and wellness centers
• Mini-golf and escape rooms 
• Excursions on shore at every destination
• Family style buffets

What are the best destinations for family-friendly cruises?

The Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas are the most classic family cruise destinations. Still, you can also take adventure and educational-based cruises to Alaska, the Norwegian fjords, and Antarctica.

What are the best times of year to go on a family cruise?

October to March is best for Caribbean cruises, while the best European cruises expand into autumn and spring for school holiday seasons.

Pro tips for stress-free family cruising

• Book in advance to get early-bird deals
• Make sure the amenities and facilities meet your needs
• Research your port destinations for a more enriching holiday
• Double-check that you've packed all the family essentials
• Look for last-minute cruise deals on travel websites