Kids and teenagers sailing a cruise can build dream castles on sandy beaches or explore legendary cities’ fortifications, while families can share unforgettable excursions together and tick experiences off their bucket lists together.
Carnival provides a host of kid-oriented activities from scavenger hunts to themed parties for children aged three-17 on its Oasis-class ships, including epic experiences like taking the plunge down the tallest slide at sea or surfing on FlowRider surf simulator.
Kids’ Clubs
Royal Caribbean ships provide ample family fun in various forms for all to enjoy. Take on the Ultimate Abyss slide for an adventure-filled 10-story test of courage or grab a group for glow-in-the-dark laser tag; or simply play mini golf while taking in sea views!
Young kids can take advantage of Adventure Ocean, an on-board program filled with childcare professionals and activities tailored specifically for different ages. Aquanauts (ages 3-5) can participate in exciting experiments to become “Certified Junior Adventure Scientists,” while Explorers (6-8 years) explore themed parties and science activities.
Norwegian Cruise Line provides go-kart tracks and virtual reality arcades on select fleet vessels for older children to enjoy, as well as offering LEGO Experience Onboard events on certain sailings and Discovery Family Tours to connect passengers to their destinations.
Movies
Cruises provide something for all family members on board, from playful pool games and luxurious afternoon teas, trivia contests, crafts and dance lessons – plus kid-friendly Broadway-style stage shows that bring movie characters to life!
Family-friendly cruises allow parents the chance to relax and take some much-needed alone time. On Disney Cruise Line, kids can meet Goofy or Snow White at character breakfasts and dinners; older children and teens will appreciate Norwegian Cruise Line ships which host Nickelodeon-themed activities as well as sports tournaments, tween and teen clubs with silent discos, video game challenges and socialization with other children their age.
Pools
Family cruises provide unforgettable shared experiences. Children can bond in the kid’s clubs while parents delight in cookery demonstrations or pampering spa treatments; teenage passengers may join daredevils on daring zip-line tours through jungle canopies or venture out on historic tours with guided walking tours.
Most mainstream cruise lines and some luxury ones feature kid clubs staffed by trained counselors that are drop-off programs with parents signing their children in and out. As well as offering themed parties and hands-on science experiments, these clubs may host costume contests, dance lessons or art auctions. Some ships even host family-oriented shows that include song-and-dance revues with musical soloists or guest groups during evening entertainment shows.
Spas
Cruise ships can be like floating resorts, offering multigenerational thrills and something for all age groups. Children can try their luck sliding down Ultimate Abyss or taking a spin on London Eye-esque North Star ride while adults indulge in mini-golf and spa services.
On certain cruises, children can meet animals on Animal Planet-affiliated shore excursions in Cozumel or search for Bigfoot while sorting crabs on an Alaskan voyage. Other family-oriented cruise activities may include character breakfasts, parades and deck parties.
Families seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation should select a ship offering spa, casino and theater amenities, in addition to exciting features such as bumper cars and roller skating rinks or even an FlowRider surf simulator.
Shore Excursions
Child-friendly cruises allow everyone to pursue their individual passions together or independently. Discover Alaska’s glaciers, Europe’s great cathedrals, or the Caribbean’s soft sand beaches; select one for your next spring break or summer vacation trip.
Experience a more customized onboard experience by selecting a ship with dedicated kids’ clubs, luxurious accommodations such as balcony cabins and suites, and expansive dining options that cater to family favorites. Plus, some cruise lines provide special kids’ menus and supervised eat-in times so you can dine together as a family in the main dining room without worry!
