Set Sail for Family Fun! Discover the Most Popular Cruise Lines for Families

Find the Top Picks for Family-Friendly Cruises with Our Annual Guide

Ready to embark on a journey? Let’s dive into our annual directory of popular cruise lines for families. We’ll share the best cruises for your type of cruising and family, plus what’s new for this year.

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Cruise holidays are increasingly attracting multigenerational travelers, as showcased in the Cruise Line International Association’s latest report. A whopping 73% of cruisers sail with at least two generations of family members, a trend we’ve noticed across mega-ships, river cruises, and adventure-focused yachts.

The allure is clear: a single price covers accommodation, entertainment, and meals (though specialty restaurants may incur additional charges). Grandparents relish the range of activities suitable for all age groups. Parents appreciate supervised children and teen activities and events designed for family bonding. The growth in solo cabins and accessible activities cater to those with special needs. Plus, kids get to sample various cuisines at no extra cost. Explore the most popular cruise lines for families with us!

Authored by Family Travel Consulting partners Eileen Ogintz, Nicky Omohundro, and Kyle McCarthy, this annual directory serves as a guide to the finest kid-friendly cruises. It includes sponsored content from Allianz Partners USA and CroisiEurope. All opinions are our own.

Travel Savings Tip: The time to book a cruise is during WAVE season, January to March each year. Be sure to follow your favorite lines on social media and join their loyalty programs to get extra perks on board. 

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Best Cruise for a Family Reunion

Caribbean or Mexico? Alaska or the Mediterranean? Or an adventurous family reunion on a cruise to the Galapagos Islands, Japan, or even the Antarctic?

There are many options, from mega-ships like Royal Caribbean’s Ikon of the Seas, to family-friendly expedition yachts. With the surge in traveler interest in expedition cruises, companies are catering more to families.

Consider new itineraries focused on cultural and culinary experiences. Many mega-ships have programs tailored for kids and teens. Choose an itinerary that fits your reunion, whether it lasts a few days or a few weeks. The perfect family reunion could be just a cruise away!

Cruise Companies Progress Towards Sustainability 

Cruise companies are making significant strides towards sustainability. With a growing awareness of environmental impact, many cruise lines are implementing eco-friendly practices such as reducing single-use plastics, recycling waste, and adopting cleaner fuel technologies to minimize carbon emissions. 

Hurtigruten has the goal to be zero-emissions by 2030 and is investing in green upgrades on existing ships. Royal Caribbean has also committed to reducing their carbon footprint by reducing the use of single-use plastics and reducing food waste by 24% through their Win on Waste project. Royal Caribbean’s Galveston port is also the first in the world to use zero energy.

In addition to environmental efforts, some cruise companies are also focusing on social sustainability. Princess Cruises, for example, partners with local communities in destinations they visit to support education and economic development initiatives.

Up to 90% of fresh water is produced by scientific means, on board and at sea. Specially designed hulls, propellers, and noise suppression devices help reduce underwater noise.  

Increasingly, food is locally sourced, supporting local businesses. More ships can plug-in while in port, greatly reducing emissions. CLIA claims that 60% of ships scheduled to debut by 2028 will rely on LNG fuel, the cleanest available.  

Carnival Cruise Line, with the most domestic ports, notes that half of Americans live within a five-hour drive of a port. That’s an easy way to save on airfare and avoid the aggravation of flying. It also cuts down on carbon emissions when your family doesn’t have to fly to a port of embarkation.

Travel Savings Tip: Sites like CruiseCritic.com and VactaionsToGo.com show the best cruise deals at a glance. When you’ve narrowed down your options, book directly with the cruise line for perks and amenities.

What’s Trending for Family Cruises? More Immersive Experiences

The family cruise industry is constantly evolving to meet the demands of modern travelers. One major trend that has emerged in recent years is the focus on immersive experiences. Families are no longer satisfied with just lounging by the pool or attending a few shows onboard; they want to fully immerse themselves in the destinations they visit.

One way this trend is being embraced by cruise lines is through their shore excursions. Instead of traditional sightseeing tours, families can now participate in activities such as cooking classes, cultural workshops, and even local volunteer opportunities. This allows them to not only see a destination but also experience it firsthand.

Take a Greek cooking class with a local in Mykonos on a Celebrity shore excursion or learn to make pottery fit for the gods in Rhodes on a Celeystal Cruises excursion.

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line have added more immersive programming and a focus on locally sourced food, especially in Alaska. Guests can now participate in crab fishing and salmon bakes, giving them a taste of the local culture and cuisine.

In addition to these hands-on experiences, cruise lines are also incorporating more cultural workshops and performances onboard. From traditional dances to language lessons, guests can learn about different cultures without ever leaving the ship.

Travel Tip: You don’t have to book your excursions through the cruise line. Do some research beforehand and see if you can find a reputable local tour operator through GetYourGuide.com book with. Not only will it likely be cheaper, but you’ll also have a more authentic and personalized experience. Just ensure that you are back on the ship at the last call.

River Cruises Are Increasingly Popular for Families

While cruising has traditionally been seen as a vacation choice for older adults, river cruises are now becoming popular among families as well. With smaller ships, slower travel, more intimate experiences, river cruises offer a great way for families to explore together without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.

Some river cruise lines including CroisiEurope, Uniworld, and AMA Waterways, offer family-specific itineraries. AMA also partners with Adventures by Disney and Backroads to offer itineraries with special family shore activities. 

Plus, with the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one trip, river cruises provide a convenient and hassle-free option for busy families who want to see the world together.

Related: Read more about why you should feel good about taking a cruise this year. 

Bucket List Expeditionary Cruises Are More Affordable

Cruise companies are now promoting dream trips to exotic locales like Antarctica and the Galapagos. Disney Cruise Line and Abercrombie & Kent have even curated Family Expedition cruises, specifically designed for children to enjoy these destinations. Seabourn, on the other hand, has launched two new expedition ships catering to the affluent traveler sans kids. Although these trips are on the pricey side, increasing competition is gradually driving down costs, making these once-exclusive adventures accessible to more people.

Quasar Expeditions offers family-specific cruises on cozy yachts. They provide child-friendly menus, special discounts for children, and guides who can turn every activity into an all-age adventure. For families with older children or adults who appreciate more intimate settings, UnCruise presents nature and wilderness-oriented experiences on small vessels. In some instances, entire boats can be chartered for your family. Moreover, companies like Adventure Smith Expeditions even offer the option to charter your own yacht for an expedition. These evolving options demonstrate how the cruise industry is becoming increasingly flexible and accessible to cater to a wider range of travelers.

And the relatively new Virgin Voyages, which our friends experienced in 2023, doesn’t allow kids under 18, but is great for families with older or adult children. 

Why Every Cruiser Needs to Get Travel Insurance  

Most travelers who go on cruises hope the experience will be smooth sailing. But when something goes awry on a cruise with kids’ vacation, things can go south quickly and having cruise insurance can make all the difference.

Here are some of the reasons why purchasing travel insurance is so important.

1. Protect your investment in the event of last-minute cancellations. Cruise lines will try to sell you their own waiver, but if you read the fine print, you’ll see they only offer refunds when you cancel your trip for a limited list of covered reasons. 
2. You need to make medical emergencies more manageable without having to pay everything out of pocket. Travel insurance is there when you miss the boat — literally. 
3. Missed flights and missing bags become big problems when you’re beginning your cruise vacation. 
4. Additionally, you’re insured against family illness, theft, accidents and other unforeseen circumstances your insurance may cover. 

A top-flight cruise travel insurance policy, such as the plans offered by Allianz Global Assistance, can offer recourse from the unexpected.

Everything You Want to Know about the Most Popular Cruise Lines for Families

Carnival Cruise Line

What’s New: Carnival has just unveiled its new flagship, Carnival Jubilee, embarking on year-round, weeklong voyages in the Western Caribbean from Galveston, Texas. The Jubilee boasts many shared features with its sister ships, the Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, including the thrilling top-deck rollercoaster BOLT. The ship also pays tribute to the sea, featuring two immersive zones. The Currents zone uses advanced technology to take guests on an underwater journey via LED “Ports to the Sea.” Meanwhile, the Shores zone recreates a coastal boardwalk atmosphere. This year, Carnival is also bolstering its West Coast offerings with the addition of Carnival Firenze, which will sail year-round from Long Beach, California.

For Toddlers: Carnival is broadening its youth program, introducing the new Turtles Program designed specifically for our youngest cruisers – those under the age of 2. The program promises a host of special activities, such as Baby Turtle Trek, a fun and educational event about sea turtle conservation.

For Kids: Carnival Cruise Line typically provides free programming and facilities for kids and teens across three age groups. Camp Ocean (ages 2-11) is an indoor play haven loaded with games and toys. Professional staff host themed activities and a plethora of fun-filled events for Penguins (2-5s), Stingrays (6-8s), and Sharks (9-11s). Kids can dine with their counselors, allowing parents to have a relaxing evening to themselves. Plus, for a nominal fee, kids can enjoy breakfast with Dr. Seuss characters.

For Tweens and Teens: Circle “C” provides a dedicated space for 12- to 14-year-olds to dance, watch movies, play games, and mingle with new friends. Within Circle “C,” activities range from anime drawing lessons to pop culture games. For teens aged 15-17, Club O2 offers an authentic tea ceremony, Japanese crafts, and games to foster new friendships.

Culinary: Carnival has revamped menus across the fleet in collaboration with renowned chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse, who serves as the cruise line’s Chief Culinary Officer. Emeril’s restaurant concept, Emeril’s Bistro, is already a hit on-board Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises‘ fleet, comprising 16 ships including the latest addition, Celebrity Ascent, is renowned for its refined cuisine, chic ambiance, destination-centric journeys, and tailored service. It was awarded Forbes’ Travel Guide Four-Star Rated resort at sea. The modern, premium luxury offered by Celebrity appeals to families, setting it apart from its sister Royal Caribbean fleet.

What’s New: Last December, Celebrity introduced its fourth Edge Series ship, Celebrity Ascent. Known for its innovative, contemporary spaces like the Grand Plaza, Sunset Bar, and Rooftop Garden, it also boasts over 30 dining and beverage options. After a full Caribbean season sailing from Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale, the ship will embark on a summer of European voyages.

For Young Explorers: Celebrity’s Camp at Sea offers a unique nautical program for children aged 6 to 9, introducing them to sailing basics, navigation, and weather patterns. Meanwhile, the Creation Station caters to 3-5 year-olds. Certain ships offer STEM AT SEA programs in collaboration with the Frost Science Museum, covering topics like marine wildlife and conservation. With over 500 activities changing every sailing to cater to the children’s interests, Celebrity ensures a varied and engaging experience.

For Tweens & Teens: Celebrity’s Teen Club, exclusively for those aged 13-17, is a social hub designed for young adults. It hosts a variety of teen-centric activities, including sports competitions, silent disco parties, and video game tournaments. Celebrity also offers Autism-Friendly cruises, providing a supportive environment replete with sensory-friendly films, toys, and dietary menu options.

Celeystal Cruises

Celeystal Cruises is the top cruise line for cruising to the Greek Islands. They offer itineraries throughout Europe, including Greece, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Plus has itineraries to the Middle East, Asia and Africa including Cairo, Turkiÿe, Israel, and more.

What’s New: Celestyal Journey is adding four new countries and six new ports of call in the Persian Gulf beginning in November 2024.

On board Celeystal’s ships, guests can enjoy a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. The cruise line offers a range of shore excursions that allow passengers to explore each destination in depth. In addition, onboard activities include cooking classes, language lessons, and traditional dance performances.

For Kids: The Kids Club offers supervised games and activities for children aged 4-12. 

For Teens: The Teen Club offers an array of engaging activities for teens aged 13-17. Both clubs are designed to keep kids entertained while allowing parents some much-needed relaxation time.

Costa Cruises

Embarking on a family vacation with Europe’s premium cruise line offers a unique opportunity to mingle with diverse European families. With specialized lounges for different age groups, every family member is catered for. Older kids have the Teens Lounge designed just for them, while parents can rest easy knowing their younger children are engaged in the supervised Squok Club. Here, activities are thoughtfully organized into age-specific groups, 3-6 and 7-11, with the beloved character Peppa Pig as the club’s mascot, making it a delightful experience for the little ones.

The cruise line, Costa Crociere, is headquartered in the historic city of Genoa, Italy, and has been a leading name in the industry since 1948. With an impressive fleet of 27 ships operating under the Costa, AIDA and Costa Asia brands, they are equipped to deliver an unforgettable travel experience.

Croisieurope River Cruises

This is Europe’s largest and oldest river cruise company operating more than 50 river and small ship cruises, including river ships throughout Europe, canal barges in France, Mediterranean cruises, and cruises around the world. International experience with a French Flair means service and food are excellent. There’s a friendly, multilingual staff. Shore excursions (included in rates) emphasize expert-guided tours of local arts, history, and cultural experiences.  CroisiEurope, while still lesser known to Americans, is very popular among European families because it’s the only river cruise where children under 2 travel free and children under 10 travel at a discount.

What’s New: CroisiEurope has introduced a Multigenerational Cruising providing discounts on all European cruises when 3 generations travel together, and the pricing is combinable with Special Family Club Cruises with CroisiFamily itineraries that operate during the summer months. Family Club Cruises with kids will sail in Portugal, Italy, Spain, France, Germany and Croatia, where children 16 and under travel free or at a 30% discount. Family and friends groups may enjoy the privacy of one of their modern, crewed barges which ply the canals through the gorgeous French countryside. Both options provide wonderful values and unforgettable experiences. You can see more in our review of a CroisiEurope cruise.

For Kids: CroisiEurope features river cruises with hiking shore excursions for families who like to actively explore together. Family Club Cruises offer family-friendly excursion options. With such superb cuisine at sit down meals, kids are exposed to new foods and can sample everything. Adapted child friendly menus are available on all European river cruises if requested at booking.

For Teens: Tweens and teens with a cultural bent or an interest in practicing their French will love this river cruise. Look for itineraries offering hiking, and other off-beat shore tours for more adventurous travelers.

Around the Ships: CroisiEurope is the global leader in river cruise ship building, so their vessels are extremely comfortable and able to navigate in unusual waters. There’s always a main restaurant, bar, lounges, library and roof deck space for sightseeing. Some ships have small roofdeck pools. Each ship is unique and designed for the smallest harbors at the destination, with easy access that’s ideal for family elders. Don’t expect constant activities or kids’ clubs outside of Family Club Cruises, because the focus is on the destinations and local culture.

Cunard Line

Maintaining the grandeur of luxury cruising since 1840, Cunard offers an experience rich with classes in fencing and dance aboard ships named after British Queens. It stands unique, providing regular transatlantic services between New York and Southampton, England on the crown jewel, Queen Mary 2. Notably, it boasts the only kennel at sea managed by a full-time Kennel Master.

What’s New: Cunard has set its sights on the majestic Alaska for the summer season of 2024. The Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to embark on seven voyages, each lasting between 7-10 nights, commencing from Vancouver. The journey will offer breathtaking scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, encompassing the remarkable Glacier Bay National Park. Cunard guarantees full-day stopovers at key ports in the region, including Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, Victoria, and Icy Straight Point.

Adding another feather to its cap, Cunard’s new alliance with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS) promises the presence of experts on every voyage throughout the 2024 Alaska season, as part of the esteemed Cunard Insights enrichment program.

For Babies: The Night Nursery is available for children ages 6-23 months from 6pm-11pm. It is free of charge on a first come, first served basis.

For Kids: Kids ages 2-7 are invited to the Play Zone, an area stocked with books, toys, puzzles, computer games, and more. Tots ages 6 months to 2 years are welcome with a parent in the Play Zone. The Kids Zone is for ages 8-12 and features gaming consoles, sports competitions, arts ‘crafts and karaoke.

For Teens: Teen Zone offers team games and deck sports by day, while in the evenings they bring pizza and dance parties. Game consoles are available. All kids and teen programs are free-of-charge.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney is a trailblazer in imaginative programming and activities for children. From character encounters to expansive youth clubs, swimming pools, water play areas, and slides, all the way to themed deck parties that climax with dance-offs and sea fireworks. The Disney Cruise Line has been frequently recognized by Cruise Critic as the “Best for Families.”

Family Favorite: The Disney Wish made its debut in July 2022 as an innovative, family-centric ship with 1,254 cabins, including 53 luxury concierge rooms. A considerable number of these are interconnected, with some featuring king beds and sofa beds, third and fourth wall bunks, and even four grand Royal Suites (with two duplexes!). The ship features a golden Cinderella in the Grand Hall, advanced children’s programs, a “Frozen” themed dinner theater experience, and two exclusively adult restaurants, comprising an elegant French eatery and a contemporary steakhouse. At the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, children can design adrenaline-pumping rides before heading to the top deck to ride the 760-foot-long AquaMouse water coaster. Meanwhile, adults can unwind at the adults-only pool and spa. The Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, which becomes exclusively adult after dark, is a gathering spot for all ages, offering Star Wars themed drinks inspired by destinations like Batuu and Mustafar.

Family Top Picks: Families adore Disney’s private island Castaway Cay, with its snorkeling lagoon, cycling trails, stingray encounters, and beaches. Make sure to reserve in advance for the two highly sought-after experiences: Pixar Day at Sea on the Disney Fantasy and Marvel Day at Sea on the Disney Dream.

For Babies: Children ages 6 months to 3 years (or from 1 to 3-years-old on Transatlantic and Panama Canal itineraries) are welcome at “it’s a small world” nursery, where they’ll be cared for by trained counselors. Nursery space is limited, and reservations are required.

For Kids: Open to kids ages 3-12, Disney’s Oceaneer Club is the ultimate destination for creativity and fun. Step into Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck, Andy’s Room, Star Wars: Millennium Falcon, Star Wars: Command Post, Marvel Superhero Academy and Pixie Hollow.

For Tweens: The 11 to 14-year-olds have their own Edge club with comedy improv classes, trivia contests, pirate challenges and a lounge with flat-screen TVs, the latest video games, computers and more.

For Teens: Teens 14-17 have their own smoothie bar in Vibe, a space to chill out, listen to music, watch TV and play group games. On the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, teens have their own sundeck. There are even special teen shore excursions like The Wild Side at Castaway Cay, where teens explore on bikes, snorkel, and ride a high-speed boat around the island.

Holland America

This line now serves over 20,000 families annually, including many spanning multiple generations. Passengers commend HAL’s diverse itineraries (with a return to Asia slated for 2024) onboard its 11 mid-sized vessels. On many of these sailings, families can enjoy cooking classes in conjunction with America’s Test Kitchen. Kids ages 3-17 are catered to by Club HAL, which offers activities like scavenger hunts, video game tournaments and karaoke nights.

What’s New: Six ships will be stationed in Alaska this summer, providing more opportunities to visit Glacier Bay than any other cruise line. Additionally, the cruise line is expanding its offerings to include more extended cruises, with some lasting 9 days instead of the usual 7, and even longer voyages spanning over two weeks, all departing from the US.

For Babies: Holland America welcomes infants 6 months and older (12 months on Transocean sailings). By advance request through the Service Department, guests may arrange commercial baby food, diapers, and refrigerators for a nominal fee. A limited number of highchairs, booster seats and cribs are available at no charge.

For Kids: The Kids Club provides supervised activities for kids ages 3-12. All children participating in the youth program must be completely toilet trained and pull-up free. Club HAL activities include PJ parties, arts and crafts, pirate treasure hunts. Kids Olympics, video game tournaments, and more. Children with special needs are invited to attend Club HAL activities under the supervision of a trained staff and, at the moment, are limited to children age 5 and older who are fully vaccinated.

For Tweens: The 8-12s have their area featuring air hockey, foosball, Kinect for Xbox 360, and large LED screens for video games and movies. Teens also enjoy dance parties, deck sports, trivia nights, karaoke, and Xbox tournaments.

For Teens: The Loft is an adult-free lounge where teens ages 13-17 can hang out and enjoy movies, games, and music. The teen-only space, supervised by HAL staff, is where teens enjoy music, games and more. Other activities include volleyball, a steel drum class, jewelry making and mocktail mixologist. Guests aged 16 and older are invited to use the onboard Fitness Center.

Hurtigruten

Since 1893, Hurtigruten has navigated the breathtaking fjords of Norway on its Coastal Express, often dubbed “the world’s most beautiful journey.” Resembling a ferry more than a traditional cruise, it docks at 34 ports, offering awe-inspiring views. The journey is tailored for travelers and explorers, and yes, “Frozen” enthusiasts, rather than providing children’s clubs or activities.

What’s New: Hurtigruten recently introduced premium expeditions – the summer Svalbard Express and the winter North Cape Express, aboard the renovated, award-winning MS Trollfjord. These new voyages offer extended stays at fewer ports. Uniquely, they provide the only continuous route linking Svalbard with the mainland, showcasing the absolute best of Norway.

Special Offers: Hurtigruten is presently offering a $4,000 discount for bookings made by March 1, 2024. These voyages navigate the Auroral Zone and, during this season of heightened solar activity, their Northern Lights Promise assures a complimentary trip if the Aurora Borealis doesn’t materialize on selected cruises. Also, children aged 2-15 receive a 50% discount on fees when sharing a cabin with two adults.

Bucket List Expedition to Antarctica: Aboard Hurtigruten’s polar vessel, you can explore the most remote continent on Earth. Led by experienced expedition teams, this voyage takes you through the Drake Passage and to the icy landscapes of Antarctica. Activities include zodiac excursions, wildlife spotting, and visits to research stations.

MSC Cruises 

With its innovative design, resplendent public areas, global cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and engaging kids’ clubs catering to ages 3-17, MSC Cruises delivers a European touch. Recognized for its value-for-money pricing and last-minute cruise deals, the line is a hit among European families. As a result, US cruises departing from Port Canaveral, New York, and Miami to the Caribbean and Mexico have a multicultural vibe.

What’s New: MSC Seascape, the company’s 21st ship, boasts 2,270 sleek cabins in 12 different categories of staterooms and suites. The MSC Yacht Club is their exclusive, upscale enclave. The ship buzzes with multiple dining venues, bars, and lounges serving eclectic cuisines. It features six swimming pools, including a pirate-themed kids splash zone, a spacious sun deck, and a charming waterfront promenade.

Don’t miss the opportunity to snap a selfie on the glass-floored Bridge of Sighs on deck 16, experience the Robotron’s thrilling ride, or try the indoor VR Formula 1 race and motorcycle ride. The ship sails the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Miami and will relocate to Galveston, Texas in 2025 for Mexico and Central America routes.

The fast-growing MSC has been a leader in sustainable technologies at sea. MSC World Europa (it housed dignitaries at the Qatar World Cup) was its first LNG-powered ship. The line’s second LNG-powered vessel, MSC Euribia, set sail in June 2023. The line’s private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, is a sterling example of how hard work and money transformed a Bahamian waste dump into a tropical paradise and coral reef research center.

Norwegian Cruise Line

During the WAVE season, Norwegian Cruise Line presents a multitude of irresistible offers: a 2nd Guest Free deal, complimentary airfare on selected cruises, and unlimited access to an open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits, all for a limited duration.

With 19 ships setting sail from numerous global homeports, the Cruise Line welcomes families aboard, offering world-class dining, top-tier onboard entertainment, and a variety of family-oriented activities. Notably, it features the first-ever sea racetracks. With accommodation choices ranging from connecting staterooms to multi-bedroom Haven suites, Norwegian is an ideal choice for families.

What’s New: In December, Norwegian introduced its latest ship, Norwegian Viva, a sister ship of the innovative Prima Class. It offers creative attractions for family cruises, including a three-tier racetrack, a virtual gaming complex, and the swiftest slides at sea.

Looking forward, the forthcoming Norwegian Aqua, set for its maiden voyage in 2025, will showcase thrilling new attractions, including the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and water slide, and the Glow Court — a digital sports complex featuring an LED floor. Of particular interest to families, Norwegian Aqua will reintroduce the dedicated Entourage space, part of NCL’s teen program, providing teenagers with a comfortable space to socialize and engage in age-appropriate activities.

Princess Cruise Line

AKA the Love Boat, Princess Cruises prides itself on providing guests with exceptional service, delicious cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Princess Cruises has something for everyone.

One of the unique features of Princess Cruises is its partnership with Discovery Communications. This collaboration allows guests to experience themed cruises that focus on various topics such as food and wine, photography, and even Shark Week

What’s New: Coming in early 2024, the Sun Princess, a colossal vessel weighing 175,500 tons and accommodating 4,300 guests, will embark with a host of fresh entertainment and activities. Boasting 30 innovative dining and drinking venues and a vast selection of staterooms and suites, it ensures a memorable voyage.

The ship presents the maximum number of balconies seen on any Princess ship, offering guests the privilege to soak in the sun and admire the pristine Mediterranean and Caribbean waters from their own rooms.

The Dome, an entertainment hub inspired by Santorini’s terraces, promises relaxation, while the Arena, the most technologically sophisticated Princess Theatre design, promises excitement.

Sun Princess also introduces Park19, a family activity area featuring nine diverse activities, including the Sea Breeze, the first-ever Rollglider on a cruise ship. Plus, the newly designed children’s spaces provide daily games, themed events, and activities, ensuring fun for all ages.

For Babies: Firefly Park on Sun Princess invites families with babies and toddlers, ages 6 months to age 3, to crawl and engage their senses with a dedicated play area.

For Kids: Princess Youth Programs start at age 3 with The Treehouse, a bright, whimsical forest and animal-themed center including hands-on activities. Firefly Park is available for kids on Sun Princess. After-hours group babysitting is available from 10pm-1am for $5 per hour, for ages 3-12.

For Tweens: The Lodge for 8- to 12-year-olds is inspired by the great outdoors. In collaboration with Discovery, Princess expanded its Discovery at SEA partnership with re-imagined youth centers called Camp Discovery. Additionally, cultural activities related to the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe will help young cruisers learn about the customs and nature of where they cruise. On Sun Princess, Neon Grove offers an inviting space for tweens to socialize and have fun.

For Teens: The Beach House offers ages 13-17 a contemporary surf-themed lounge where teens can hang out and socialize, enjoy parties, movies, teen makeovers, dance classes and game tournaments. On Sun Princess, The Underground has PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch gaming consoles, plus air hockey, foosball, skeeball, and more.

Around the Ship: Families love the Movies Under the Stars, swimming pools, the line’s private island Princess Cays, video games, basketball courts and more. Afternoon tea is a time-honored tradition on Princess ships. Guests can get moving with newly launched fitness classes through Pure Barre, YogaSix and StretchLab brands. 

Regent Seven Seas 

Regent Seven Seas is known for small ships, attentive service, food and amenities. Everything is included — even shore excursions. That’s why the upscale line is a favorite of grandparents who are treating their families to a trip, particularly a bucket list trip in Alaska.

Solo travelers, Don’t let unexpected events ruin your trip. Stay prepared and save with a cruise policy from Allianz Travel Insurance. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure or exploring new destinations

Royal Caribbean 

Royal Caribbean is renowned for vibrant TV ads showcasing unique and exciting on-board facilities like FlowRider surf simulators, iFly Parachute machines, and sports courts.

What’s New: The world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, weighing in at 248,663 gross tonnage, began its journey from Miami in January 2024. It boasts more ocean views and pools, one for each day of the week, along with over 40 new and returning dining, nightlife, and bar venues.

Family Features: The unique My Family Time Dining allows children to finish their meal within 45 minutes during early seating. After dinner, Adventure Ocean youth program counselors escort them to the kids’ club for evening activities, granting parents some leisure time. Special children’s dinners are also available for parents to enjoy a quiet evening. Additionally, select ships offer drop-off nurseries for infants aged 6 months and above at an extra charge.

Seabourn

Seabourn is the ideal choice for luxury cruisers seeking an adventure without the hassle, perfect for those traveling without kids or with grown children. With a commitment to six-star service, Seabourn offers an inclusive experience featuring gourmet dining, premium spirits, and fine wines. Adding to the experience, their intimate, all-suite small ships accommodate between 458 and 600 guests, ensuring a personalized journey. 

Destinations are varied, including the sun-soaked Caribbean, the rugged beauty of Alaska, or the historic Mediterranean. For families, Seabourn provides ample opportunities for adults and young adults to engage in unique onboard activities and enriching excursions, ensuring an unforgettable voyage for all age groups.

What’s New: Seabourn is launching two state-of-the-art expedition ships – the Seabourn Venture and its sister ship, the Seabourn Pursuit, later this year. These intimate vessels, each featuring just 132 suites, redefine all-inclusive luxury. They are equipped with custom-built submarines, offering guests an unprecedented view of the world beneath the ocean’s surface. Additionally, they house double kayaks and Zodiacs. Expect thrilling adventure excursions guided by experts, enriching your experiences whether you’re in Antarctica, the British Isles, the Arctic, or navigating the Northwest Passage.

Windstar

For those with older or adult children preferring more intimate, quiet settings, Windstar provides an enticing selection of newly renovated yachts and sailing vessels. These smaller, upscale ships have the advantage of accessing less crowded, smaller ports, providing a unique and personal experience.Friends sailed with Windstar in Greece during the pandemic and loved it.

What’s New: They’ve introduced a fresh vegan menu across all six of our yachts. These dishes go beyond just being plant-based; they’re crafted without any added salt, oil, sugar, or flour. Moreover, we’ve launched exciting new itineraries in the Middle East, Tahiti, the Mediterranean, and the Panama Canal. Plus, windsurfing continues to be a crowd favorite amongst their activities.

Conclusion

When it comes to popular cruise lines for families, We’ve shared a variety of options that cater to different interests and styles. From the fun-filled activities on Royal Caribbean to the luxurious experiences offered by Hurtigruten and Windstar, there is something for everyone. It’s important to consider factors such as budget, destination, and onboard amenities when choosing the right cruise line for your family vacation. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect fit for an unforgettable family cruise experience. 

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Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• AIRFARE
  • Find low fares with airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and WayAway.com.
  • Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
  • Book your plane ticket with  Expedia or Kayak
  • Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
  • Take the scenic route and rent an RV from RVShare
  • Get packed for an epic road trip and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com.
• LODGING
  • From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or booking.com.
  • For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot.
• PACKING
  • Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
  • For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher.
• TRAVEL PLANNING
  • Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
  • For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
  • Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
    • Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
    • CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
    • Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
    • Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
    • Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
  • Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
  • Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App.
• LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
  • We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• AIRFARE
  • Find low fares with airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and WayAway.com.
  • Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
  • Book your plane ticket with  Expedia or Kayak
  • Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
  • Take the scenic route and rent an RV from RVShare
  • Get packed for an epic road trip and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com.
• LODGING
  • From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or booking.com.
  • For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot.
• PACKING
  • Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
  • For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher.
• TRAVEL PLANNING
  • Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
  • For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
  • Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
    • Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
    • CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
    • Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
    • Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
    • Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
  • Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
  • Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App.
• LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
  • We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.