booking a cruise for family of 6

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How To Book A Cruise For A Family Of 6

Published: December 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Daphne Binns

• Family Travel
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Booking a cruise for a family of 6 can be an exciting and memorable experience. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to spend quality time together, a cruise offers something for everyone. From endless onboard activities to exploring exotic destinations, a cruise provides a hassle-free vacation option that caters to the needs and preferences of all family members.

However, with so many cruise options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the choices and find the right fit for your family. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you book the perfect cruise for your family of 6. From selecting the right cruise line to planning excursions and activities, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, taking the time to plan and research will ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation for your family. By considering factors such as the cruise line, ship amenities, itinerary, cabin options, and family-friendly activities, you can make informed decisions that will cater to the unique needs and interests of your family members, both young and old.

So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover how to book a cruise that will create lasting memories for your family of 6.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Choosing the right cruise line is the first and most important step in booking a cruise for your family of 6. Each cruise line has its own unique atmosphere, amenities, and target audience, so it’s essential to find one that aligns with your family’s interests and preferences.

Start by researching different cruise lines and reading reviews to get a sense of their reputation and offerings. Consider factors such as the onboard activities, dining options, entertainment, and overall ambiance. Some cruise lines cater more towards families with young children, while others focus on providing a luxury experience or catering to specific interests like adventure or culture.

Additionally, consider the size and layout of the ships. Larger ships may have more amenities and entertainment options, while smaller ships may offer a more intimate and personalized experience. Depending on your family’s preferences, you can choose a ship that provides the right balance of activities and relaxation.

Another crucial consideration is the destinations and itineraries offered by the cruise line. Decide whether you want to explore tropical beaches, historical sites, or bustling cities. Some cruise lines specialize in certain regions, so make sure to choose one that offers itineraries that align with your family’s interests.

Lastly, take into account the cruise line’s policies and services for families. Are there dedicated kids’ clubs and activities for children of different age groups? Can the cruise line accommodate dietary restrictions or special needs? These are important factors to consider to ensure that all members of your family are comfortable and well-catered to during the cruise.

By doing thorough research and considering these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the cruise line that offers the best experience for your family of 6. Once you have chosen the right cruise line, you can move on to the next step in the booking process: selecting the right ship.

Step 2: Selecting the Right Ship

After choosing the cruise line that suits your family’s preferences, the next step in booking a cruise for your family of 6 is selecting the right ship. Each ship within a cruise line offers its own unique features, amenities, and overall experience, so it’s important to consider these factors when making your decision.

Start by looking at the size of the ship. Larger ships generally offer a wider array of onboard activities, multiple dining options, and extensive entertainment. They may also have more spacious cabins, giving your family room to spread out and relax. On the other hand, smaller ships often provide a more intimate and personalized experience, with a smaller number of passengers and a greater sense of community.

Consider the family-friendly amenities available on the ship. Look for features such as swimming pools, water parks, sports courts, and kids’ clubs that cater to different age groups. Having dedicated spaces and activities for children will ensure that they stay entertained and engaged throughout the cruise.

Research the dining options on the ship. Are there multiple restaurants and cuisines to choose from? Are there options for special dietary needs or picky eaters? Having a variety of dining choices will give your family the flexibility to enjoy meals that suit everyone’s tastes.

Take note of the onboard entertainment and shows. Are there Broadway-style productions, live music, or comedy shows? Having a diverse range of entertainment options will keep the whole family entertained during the evenings or on sea days.

Consider the cabin options available on the ship. Some ships offer family-sized cabins or suites that can accommodate larger groups, ensuring that everyone has a comfortable place to sleep and relax. Check for amenities like connecting rooms or cots for infants if needed.

Finally, take into account the overall ambiance and theme of the ship. Some ships focus on providing a laid-back and casual atmosphere, while others offer a more formal or themed experience. Choose a ship that aligns with your family’s style and preferences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

By considering these factors and researching different ships within your chosen cruise line, you can select a ship that offers the right balance of amenities, entertainment, and comfort for your family of 6. With the ship chosen, you can now move on to the next step: determining the ideal itinerary for your cruise vacation.

Step 3: Determining the Ideal Itinerary

Once you have chosen the cruise line and ship, the next step in booking a cruise for your family of 6 is determining the ideal itinerary. A cruise itinerary dictates the destinations and ports of call that the ship will visit during the voyage. It’s essential to consider the interests and preferences of your family members when selecting the itinerary.

Start by thinking about the type of destinations you want to explore. Do your family members prefer relaxing on tropical beaches, exploring historical landmarks, or immersing themselves in vibrant cities? Consider the variety of destinations offered by the cruise line and choose an itinerary that aligns with your family’s interests.

Take into account the duration of the cruise and the number of port days versus sea days. Some families prefer a more laid-back vacation with more sea days to enjoy the onboard amenities, while others prefer a port-intensive itinerary to explore multiple destinations. Consider the balance that suits your family’s preferences and energy levels.

Research the excursions and activities available at each port of call. Look for family-friendly options such as snorkeling trips, guided city tours, or wildlife encounters. Excursions can enhance the overall experience and provide unique opportunities for your family to create lasting memories.

Consider the time of year and weather conditions in the destinations you will be visiting. Make sure to choose an itinerary that offers favorable weather for the activities and experiences you have in mind. Taking into account school schedules and work commitments can also help ensure that the chosen itinerary works well for your family.

Think about the pace of the itinerary. Some cruises offer longer stays at each port, allowing for more in-depth exploration, while others have shorter port visits with a focus on maximizing the number of destinations visited. Choose an itinerary that strikes the right balance for your family’s preferred pace of travel.

By carefully considering these factors and doing thorough research on the itinerary options available, you can select the ideal itinerary for your family of 6. A well-planned and thought-out itinerary will provide a balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration for everyone to enjoy during the cruise.

Once you have determined the ideal itinerary, the next step is to move on to Step 4: Understanding Cabin Options, where we will explore the different types of cabins available for your family to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay onboard.

Step 4: Understanding Cabin Options

When booking a cruise for your family of 6, understanding the cabin options available is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay onboard. Cruise ships offer a variety of cabin types to suit different needs, budgets, and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right cabin for your family.

Firstly, consider the size and layout of the cabins. Depending on your cruise line and ship, you may have the option of choosing from interior cabins, oceanview cabins, balcony cabins, or even suites. Larger cabins or suites can provide more space for your family to relax and move around comfortably.

Next, think about the sleeping arrangements. Some cabins offer bunk beds or pull-out sofas to accommodate a larger number of guests. This can be a great option for families with children, allowing everyone to have their own bed without needing additional cabins.

Another important consideration is the cabin’s location. Cabins located in the middle or lower decks of the ship tend to experience less motion, which can be advantageous for those prone to seasickness. Additionally, choosing a cabin closer to the elevators or common areas can make it easier to access amenities and activities onboard.

Take into account the views and natural lighting offered by different cabin types. Oceanview cabins and balcony cabins allow you to enjoy scenic views and natural light, creating a more open and airy atmosphere. However, if budget is a concern, interior cabins can be a cost-effective option while still providing a comfortable place to rest.

Consider the amenities and features included in the cabin. Some cabins may offer mini-fridges, televisions, and even private balconies. These additional features can enhance your family’s comfort and enjoyment during the cruise.

Finally, be sure to check the maximum occupancy limit of each cabin type. Ensure that the cabin you choose can comfortably accommodate your family of 6 without overcrowding, and that it complies with the ship’s safety regulations.

By understanding the different cabin options available and considering factors such as size, layout, sleeping arrangements, location, views, amenities, and occupancy limits, you can select a cabin that meets the needs and preferences of your family. With the cabin chosen, you can move on to Step 5: Checking for Family-friendly Amenities, where we will explore the onboard facilities and activities designed for families to enjoy together.

Step 5: Checking for Family-friendly Amenities

When booking a cruise for your family of 6, it’s important to check for family-friendly amenities offered by the cruise line. Family-friendly amenities can enhance the overall experience and ensure that everyone in your family, from the youngest to the oldest, has a fantastic time onboard.

Start by looking for dedicated kids’ clubs and activities. Many cruise lines offer supervised programs for different age groups, ranging from toddlers to teenagers, providing a safe and engaging environment for kids to socialize and have fun. Check for age-appropriate activities, games, and entertainment options that cater to the interests of your children.

Consider the availability of family-friendly dining options. Some cruise lines offer special menus, buffet stations, or designated dining areas for families with young children. Having a variety of food choices that suit different tastes and dietary needs within close proximity can make mealtime more enjoyable for the whole family.

Check if the cruise ship offers babysitting services or in-cabin childcare options. This can be especially helpful for parents who want some alone time or wish to explore adult-only areas of the ship. Knowing that your children are in safe hands allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation.

Look for onboard amenities that cater to different age groups. Are there water parks or swimming pools specifically designed for kids? Are there sports courts or mini-golf for older children and teenagers? Having diverse recreational activities onboard ensures that there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Consider the presence of family-friendly entertainment options. Look for live shows, movies, or themed parties that the whole family can attend together. Interactive game shows or trivia competitions can also provide a fun bonding experience for everyone.

Take note of any special events or themed cruises that may be happening during your travel dates. These events can offer unique experiences and additional entertainment tailored to families, such as character meet and greets or themed parties.

Lastly, check if the cruise line offers amenities and services for infants and toddlers, such as cribs, high chairs, or baby-sitting services. Having these conveniences available can make traveling with young children much easier and more comfortable.

By checking for family-friendly amenities and considering factors such as kids’ clubs, dining options, childcare services, recreational activities, entertainment, special events, and amenities for infants and toddlers, you can ensure that your family will have a memorable and enjoyable experience onboard. With the amenities checked, it’s time to move on to Step 6: Comparing Prices and Deals, where we will explore ways to find the best prices and discounts for your cruise booking.

Step 6: Comparing Prices and Deals

When booking a cruise for your family of 6, it’s essential to compare prices and deals to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Here are some tips to help you find the most competitive prices and take advantage of any available deals.

Start by researching different travel agencies and booking websites that offer cruise deals. Make a list of reputable sources and compare the prices they offer for the same cruise itinerary and cabin category. Sometimes, different agencies may have exclusive promotions or discounts that can result in significant savings.

Look for last-minute deals or promotions. Cruises often offer discounted rates for cabins that have not been booked close to the departure date. Keep an eye out for these deals if you have a flexible schedule and don’t mind booking closer to the sailing date.

Consider booking during shoulder seasons or off-peak times. Prices tend to be lower during these periods as demand is typically lower. Additionally, if you have more flexibility with your travel dates, you may be able to find better deals.

Check for package deals that include airfare, transfers, and pre or post-cruise hotel stays. Bundling these elements can often result in additional savings compared to booking them separately.

Join loyalty programs or frequent cruiser clubs. Cruise lines often offer perks and discounts to their loyal customers. By joining these programs, you may be eligible for exclusive discounts or onboard credits that can further reduce the overall cost of the cruise.

Consider booking a group cruise. Many cruise lines offer special group rates and incentives for booking a certain number of cabins. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or multiple families, this can be a great way to save on the cost of the cruise.

Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts specifically for families. Some cruise lines offer kids sail free promotions or reduced rates for children sharing a cabin with their parents. Take advantage of these family-specific deals to maximize savings.

Compare the included amenities and perks offered by different cruise lines. Some cruise lines may include additional benefits like complimentary drink packages, onboard credits, or specialty dining vouchers, which can add value to your overall cruise experience.

Remember to factor in any additional expenses such as gratuities, onboard activities, excursions, and specialty dining when comparing prices. While a lower upfront price may seem appealing, it’s important to consider the overall value and potential extra costs associated with your cruise.

By taking the time to compare prices, research deals, and consider the overall value, you can find the best prices and discounts for your family cruise. With the prices and deals compared, it’s time to move on to Step 7: Making the Reservation, where we will guide you through the process of securing your booking.

Step 7: Making the Reservation

Once you have chosen the cruise, compared prices, and found the best deal, it’s time to make the reservation for your family cruise. Making a reservation can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps:

1. Contact the cruise line or travel agency: Reach out to the cruise line directly or the chosen travel agency to initiate the booking process. Provide them with all the necessary information, including the sailing date, cabin category, number of guests, and any special requirements or preferences.

2. Review the terms and conditions: Take the time to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the booking. It’s vital to be aware of any cancellation policies, payment schedules, and other important details before proceeding with the reservation.

3. Provide personal information: Be prepared to provide personal information for each member of your family, including full names, dates of birth, contact information, and passport details if applicable. Accuracy is essential to ensure smooth processing and compliance with immigration requirements.

4. Make the deposit: Most cruise lines require a deposit to secure your reservation. The amount will vary depending on the cruise line and length of the cruise. Ensure that you are clear on the deposit amount and payment deadlines to avoid any cancellation penalties.

5. Choose additional services: At this point, you may have the opportunity to add any additional services to your reservation, such as dining packages, beverage packages, or spa treatments. Consider the needs and preferences of your family to determine if any of these extras would enhance your cruise experience.

6. Review the booking confirmation: Once you have provided all the necessary information and made the deposit, you should receive a booking confirmation. Review it carefully to ensure that all the details, including the sailing date, cabin category, and guest information, are correct.

7. Make final payments: Typically, the remaining balance of your cruise fare is due a few months before the sailing date. Set a reminder to make the final payment on time to avoid any cancellation penalties or loss of your reservation.

8. Sign any required documents: Depending on the cruise line, you may need to sign additional documents, such as a passenger contract or liability waiver. Read through these documents carefully and sign as required to complete the reservation process.

9. Obtain travel insurance: While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected events or emergencies. Look for a policy that provides adequate coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and trip interruption.

10. Keep copies of all documents: Once your reservation is confirmed, make copies of all the booking-related documents, including the confirmation, payment receipts, and any additional services or insurance policies. Keep them in a safe place and bring them with you when you embark on your cruise.

By following these steps, you can successfully make a reservation for your family cruise. Making the reservation is an important milestone in your planning process, and it brings you one step closer to enjoying a memorable vacation with your loved ones.

With the reservation made, it’s time to move on to Step 8: Planning for Excursions and Activities, where we will guide you on how to make the most of your time in port and onboard.

Step 8: Planning for Excursions and Activities

Planning for excursions and activities is an important step in maximizing your family’s cruise experience. By carefully selecting and organizing your activities both onshore and onboard, you can create memorable moments for everyone in your family. Here are some tips to help you plan for excursions and activities:

1. Research the ports of call: Start by researching the destinations that your cruise will visit. Look for popular attractions, landmarks, and activities that are suitable for your family’s interests and preferences. Consider whether you want to explore the destination independently or book organized shore excursions through the cruise line or third-party companies.

2. Book shore excursions in advance: If you decide to book organized shore excursions, it’s advisable to make your reservations in advance. Some popular excursions may have limited availability and can sell out quickly. Booking early also allows you to secure the activities and attractions that are most appealing to your family.

3. Consider the interests and ages of your family members: Select activities that cater to the varied interests and ages of your family members. For example, if you have young children, look for excursions that offer kid-friendly experiences like interactive museums or wildlife encounters.

4. Allow for flexibility: While planning excursions, leave some room for flexibility in your schedule. This allows for spontaneous exploration or relaxation if desired. It also helps avoid a rushed and overly packed itinerary, allowing you to enjoy the destination at a more leisurely pace.

5. Take advantage of onboard activities: Cruise ships offer a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options. Research and take note of the daily activity schedule to identify events and shows that are of interest to your family. From live performances to children’s clubs and sports tournaments, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

6. Coordinate with other families or friends: If you are traveling with other families or friends, coordinate your excursion and activity choices. This allows for shared experiences, group discounts, and makes the planning process more streamlined. Collaborate and decide on activities that everyone can enjoy together.

7. Allocate free time for relaxation and exploration: While it’s important to plan and book activities, also allocate some free time for relaxation and exploration. Use this time to soak in the onboard amenities, explore the ship, or simply relax by the pool. Balancing scheduled activities with downtime ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable cruise vacation.

8. Check for onboard activity reservations: Some cruise lines require reservations for certain onboard activities, such as specialty dining, spa treatments, or shows. Check if any of these require advance reservations to secure your preferred time slots and avoid disappointment.

9. Consider cultural experiences: When planning excursions, consider incorporating cultural experiences that provide insights into the local traditions and customs of the destinations you will be visiting. This can include activities such as visiting local markets, participating in cooking classes, or attending cultural performances.

10. Keep safety in mind: While planning for excursions and activities, prioritize safety for your family. Research the reputation and safety record of the tour operators and excursions you are considering. Follow any guidelines or recommendations provided by the cruise line to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

By following these tips, you can effectively plan for excursions and activities that cater to your family’s interests and preferences. Taking the time to plan ahead ensures that you make the most of your time both onshore and onboard. With your excursions and activities planned, it’s time to move on to Step 9: Preparing for the Cruise, where we will guide you on what to do before embarking on your family cruise.

Step 9: Preparing for the Cruise

As your family cruise approaches, it’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare for your upcoming adventure. By planning and organizing beforehand, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for your family. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for the cruise:

1. Check travel documentation: Ensure that all members of your family have the necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and any additional identification required for the cruise. Check the validity of these documents to avoid any last-minute complications.

2. Pack smartly: Create a packing list for each family member to ensure you have everything you need for the cruise. Pack appropriate clothing for both onboard activities and excursions, including swimwear, comfortable shoes, and formal attire if required. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, medications, and any necessary toiletries.

3. Familiarize yourself with the cruise line’s policies: Take the time to review the cruise line’s policies and guidelines. Understand the onboard rules, dress codes, and dining protocols to ensure you and your family adhere to them. Pay attention to any specific policies related to children or enhanced health and safety measures.

4. Plan transportation and transfers: Make arrangements for transportation to and from the cruise port. If you’re flying, consider booking airport transfers or arranging for a rental car in advance. Research parking options if you plan to drive to the port and ensure you have clear directions.

5. Arrange pre or post-cruise accommodations: If you’re arriving a day or two before the cruise or staying after it ends, book accommodations accordingly. Look for hotels near the cruise port or in desirable areas of the destination to make the most of your pre or post-cruise stay.

6. Keep important contact information accessible: Save and store the emergency contact information provided by the cruise line. Additionally, carry a printed copy of your cruise reservation details, including embarkation details, cabin number, and any important phone numbers, in case of any technology or communication issues.

7. Purchase travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your family against unforeseen events, such as cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Compare different insurance plans and choose one that provides adequate coverage for your needs.

8. Plan for budget and expenses: Determine the budget for your cruise vacation and plan accordingly. Consider additional expenses, such as gratuities, specialty dining, onboard activities, and souvenirs. Make sure you have enough cash or credit cards for any personal expenses or emergencies.

9. Review health and safety measures: Familiarize yourself with the health and safety measures implemented by the cruise line. Stay updated on any vaccination or testing requirements and ensure you and your family comply with them. Prepare any necessary health-related documents or forms as required.

10. Share important details with family members: Communicate information about the cruise itinerary, embarkation details, and any other important information with all family members. Make sure everyone is aware of the scheduled activities, meeting points, and emergency procedures.

By following these preparation tips, you can ensure that your family cruise is organized and stress-free. Taking care of the necessary arrangements beforehand allows you to relax and focus on enjoying quality time with your loved ones during the cruise. With the preparations complete, it’s time to embark on your family cruise and create lasting memories together!

Booking a cruise for your family of 6 can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate through the process with ease and confidence. From choosing the right cruise line and ship to planning excursions and activities, each step plays a significant role in creating a memorable vacation for your family.

Starting with selecting the right cruise line that aligns with your family’s interests and preferences, you can ensure a cruise experience tailored to your needs. Choosing the right ship, understanding cabin options, and checking for family-friendly amenities contribute to the comfort and enjoyment of your family’s time onboard. Comparing prices and looking for deals ensures that you find the best value for your money.

Planning for excursions and activities allows you to make the most of the destinations you visit, while preparing for the cruise helps ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. By following these steps, you can minimize stress and maximize enjoyment for your entire family.

Remember to research, compare, and communicate with your family members throughout the process to ensure that everyone’s needs and preferences are taken into account. Flexibility and open-mindedness are key to adapting and making the most of your cruise vacation.

As you embark on this voyage with your family, create lasting memories and embrace the journey together. Cherish the shared experiences, explore new destinations, and enjoy the multitude of onboard activities and entertainment. A family cruise offers something for everyone, from young children to grandparents, providing quality time, relaxation, and adventure all in one unforgettable vacation.

So, set sail on your family cruise and create memories that will be treasured for years to come. Bon voyage!

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Cruising with a Large Family

By About A Mom

Three generations of my family recently headed down to Miami to embark on a 4 day Western Caribbean cruise aboard the Carnival Ecstasy . I can’t recall a time when planning a family vacation was this easy. I am so excited to partner with Carnival Cruise Line for this blog post and share some of the things that made planning my family’s cruise a piece of cake.

Cruising is such a great way to get your family together with minimal planning. Once you get there, the itinerary, dining and entertainment are all taken care of, so you can just enjoy time with family. Spending that little extra time pre-cruise will help make your family’s cruise go more smoothly.

After cruising aboard Carnival Ecstasy with my family last month, I’m excited to share a few tips to help with planning your family’s next cruise.

Tips for Planning a Cruise for a Large Family

Staterooms. While looking at cruises on the Carnival website, I found a lot of different options. When booking your cruise for a large family take time to explore the various stateroom options. Carnival offers a variety of staterooms that will work for large families. I recommend booking early to have the most options. Don’t be intimidated by booking two staterooms. Carnival does offer some adjoining staterooms, and if you are traveling with teenagers consider booking one outside stateroom and the inside stateroom across the hall. That’s exactly what we did for our recent cruise.

Activities. A cruise is the ideal family vacation if you are traveling with children of different ages. There are a variety of activities for all ages. Days can be spent relaxing by the pool, or racing down water slides. You can catch a show before or after dinner. Enjoy a massage while the kids are spending time with their grandparents. The possibilities for fun are endless.

I was excited to learn about Camp Carnival where the younger kids can get involved in kids club activities. On a Carnival cruise, kids can enjoy all the best parts of summer camp and family vacation at Camp Carnival. Kids are split up into three different age groups: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, and 9 to 11 years. The best thing about Camp Carnival is that it’s free.

Dining options. Our cruise ship, Ecstasy, has so many different dining options that are included with your cruise. There are some buffet options which is great! With kids I think the buffet is always a safe bet. There is surely something that everyone in your party can eat and enjoy. All drinks, on the other hand, are not included with the cost of your cruise. I recommend checking with your cruise line to see what drink packages are available. We opted for the Bottomless Bubbles drink package which includes unlimited soda and juice. You can sign up for a beverage package ahead of time or once onboard.

Shore Excursions. Shore excursions come at an additional cost. If your cruise visits more than one port, consider booking an excursion for just one of them to cut down on the expense. If money isn’t an issue, shore excursions can be a lot of fun and are a great way to have new experiences like snorkeling and swimming with the dolphins. Planning a shore excursion that will be fun for grandparents and kids of different ages is a lot easier than you might think. My family did a beach excursion in Cozumel that was loads of fun for us all. Getting to sunbathe and swim in the ocean during the month of December was such a treat. The water was still plenty warm and the private beach was breathtaking. It was an amazing day for us!

Packing.  I always worry about over-packing, especially since I am usually traveling with teenage girls. It happens so often. You want to put some thought into what you pack for a cruise. It’s a lot less stressful to go on vacation when you have less to haul around. Warm destinations require less bulky clothing, and with the exception of one or two dinners you don’t need to pack anything fancy. Pack mix and match items that can be worn more than once. The girls and I ended up spending most of the cruise in our swimsuits and cover-ups.

Plan a getaway

Bring proper documentation. Of course, passports are the recommended documentation for everyone in the family. However, for most cruise ships , kids can board with a birth certificate only, and adults with a birth certificate and a government issued picture ID. Some cruise lines allow a picture of the birth certificate, if you don’t want to bring the original. Make sure you bring multiple copies. Check with your cruise line to make sure what you need.

Make sure you have all of your documents well in advance of your cruise, in case you are missing something. The night before our cruise my sister was going nuts trying to locate her travel documents. Whew! It was a stressful evening for her and me too. Remember, make sure you have these documents together well in advance.

I was amazed by how simple it was to plan a cruise for my large family. Our cruise was such a great bonding experience, and a chance to have fun and let loose. Visit Carnival online to learn more about planning your own cruise. Will you be planning a cruise anytime soon?

This post was created for Away We Go with Carnival , the destination for getting in the getaway state of mind.

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https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

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• You want a charming luxury ship with lots of nooks and crannies
• You appreciate grand, modern-looking suites and public areas
• You enjoy socializing with convivial, like-minded adults
• You're looking for butler service; you won't find those here
• You want the more varied amenities of a larger luxury vessel

• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries

4 Night Cruise to Canada & New England

• You want mega-ship fun with innovative onboard features
• You need a cruise that is suitable for families of all ages
• You want your ships big and bold but with a touch of class
• You hate crowds; things can get competitive at the buffet
• You are looking for cruises longer than a week in duration
• You don't enjoy being upsold for promotions and packages

4 Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

• You want new features like virtual balconies in inside cabins
• You want a big-ship experience with family-friendly fun
• You want a splash of traditional grandeur with lots of choice
• You want a ship with plenty of massive, windowed public rooms
• You want a quiet cruise experience that focuses on relaxation

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

7 night cruise to the western mediterranean.

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a freshly renovated older ship with lots of activities
• You like plenty of open decks and cabins with balconies
• You want a ship that provides fun with a touch of class
• You want a quiet, classically understated cruise experience
• You need diversions like massive waterparks and ziplines

5 Night Cruise to Bermuda

7 night cruise to canada & new england, 4 night cruise to the western caribbean.

• You a value-packed cruise on a ship with plenty of features
• You find Royal Caribbean's newer ships to be just too big
• You like to keep busy and want a full schedule of activities
• You want the wow factor of Royal Caribbean's big new ships
• You need spacious cabins; standard cabins are fairly tight
• You want all the latest bells and whistles to be onboard
• You want to cruise on a ship with never-before-seen features
• You value cutting-edge technology and plenty of activities
• You are traveling solo and want a single-occupancy stateroom
• You are on a budget; this is one of the hottest ships around
• You are looking for a classic, traditional cruise experience
• You dislike using technology to enhance and manage your cruise

7 Night Cruise to Bermuda

• You want a classy cruise experience on a trendsetting big-ship
• You appreciate plenty of food and entertainment options
• You want an upscale cruise vacation at a reasonable price point
• You dislike being excluded from suite-only areas of the ship
• You want the latest technological innovations and features
• You aren’t interested in longer, more unique itineraries

1 Night Cruise to Pacific Coastal

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
• You prefer intimate, adult-oriented vacation experiences
• You want a big-ship cruise to the most popular ports of call
• You want nonstop active entertainment by day and by night
• You want the latest features of Royal Caribbean's larger ships
• You don't like being upsold; extra cost activities abound
• You want to visit exotic, off-the-beaten-path ports of call
• You are looking for an intimate, traditional cruise experience

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• Cruises for Families
• Family Travel Tips

6 Best Cruise Booking Sites for Families

Feb 19, 2020

See recent posts by Cortney Fries

Your family has chosen a cruise for your next vacation , but how do you go about booking the trip? Starting with any search engine can give you a good idea of the overall offerings, but all the results can get a bit overwhelming. You’ll find numerous different cruise lines and sailings. To help drill into the details and narrow down your selection, it’s helpful to visit various cruise booking sites.

Orbitz is a powerful travel engine that can help you search cruises as well as assemble your total travel itinerary, including flights, hotel stays , and car rentals , if needed. Many families find it helpful to check sites like Cruise Critic and Tripadvisor , which highlight deals and provide ever-insightful, unbiased reviews, then steer you to partners or cruise lines to book directly.

Booking directly with the cruise line can secure you a great price and direct access to the cruise line’s team for any assistance needed. But when looking for information to make your selection and identify deep discounts or last-minute deals , searching some additional sites can be invaluable. For example, CruiseDirect.com and Costco.com can throw in extra freebies and onboard perks.

Here’s a quick list of the best cruise booking sites. Read on to learn how to book a cruise for your family by leveraging some of the best cruise booking sites available.

• CruiseDirect.com
• Cruise Critic
• Tripadvisor
• CostcoTravel

1. CruiseDirect.com

CruiseDirect.com is all about cruises. This A+ BBB-rated cruise booking site makes it easy to navigate the options for family cruises with quick narrowing by sailing duration, dates, destinations, departure cities, ship, customer reviews and even specifications for “family with kids” or “family with teens.” You can search for specific ship features and amenities, like an arcade, babysitting, mini golf, room service or a teen club. The sailings are listed by dates and prices per room and allow you to quickly see which dates and options might maximize your vacation dollar.

You can sort by customer reviews, which include Pros, Cons and Best Uses. Callouts for each of the cruises available include percent off brochure price or recent accolades each ship or itinerary received. You can search by last-minute cruises and click for deals. CruiseDirect.com features a best price guarantee, no booking fees, flexible payment plans and live experts available to answer any questions, plus bonuses like 10 percent off shore excursions.

Best Feature for Families: CruiseDirect.com makes it super easy to search for family-friendly features and amenities with filters for numerous options that can make or break a family vacation. You can also heart cruises you were interested in, but not yet ready to book, so that you can refer back to your saved options.

2. Orbitz 

Orbitz makes it pretty easy to search family cruises with a simple request for your destination, date range and number of adults and children. This powerful engine then turns up results you can filter by port country, cruise length, cruise line, ship and itinerary. Discounts and onboard credits are called out as well as starting price per person vs. list price.

Once you click on a cruise, you can see pictures of the cabin types, details on the itinerary, cruise line and ship info to help you solidify your selection. You can call their 1-800 number to talk to a cruise expert if you need help booking multiple or adjoining cabins.

Best Feature for Families:  On Orbitz, you can book your pre or post-cruise hotel, car, flights and everything all together in one place, often with discounts. Plus, you can join Orbitz Rewards and earn Orbucks to use for future booking at over 385,000 hotels worldwide.

Related: 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites for Families 

Kayak searches hundreds of travel sites and allows you to compare to Cruise.com , Expedia and Priceline , Orbitz, Travelocity and other sites all in one place, housed in several different tabs on their page. Kayak provides all the options for comparison, but will highlight providers based on customer popularity or price.

Best Feature for Families:  Kayak’s standout feature is their comparison capabilities. Families looking to compare options all within tabs on one page will be pleased.

4. Cruise Critic

Cruise Critic is an indispensible tool when searching for a family cruise. With more than 650,000 reviews covering more than 700 cruise ships and nearly 500 cruise ports worldwide, expert and real traveler photos, cabin reviews and tons of tips and information, this is a must-visit source for all things cruising.

You can narrow reviews specifically to see family cruise feedback. Virtual tours allow you to view tons of real photos to give you an accurate idea of what you’ll encounter, like this Virtual Tour of Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas .

Sign up for price alert emails that notify you of changes in pricing on the specific cruises you’re following. This can help you secure a low price, commit before a price increases significantly or snag a discount on a suite or luxury stateroom. Note that Cruise Critic (a sister site to Family Vacation Critic) is great for researching and comparing, yet will send you to an agent partner to book your cruise.

Best Feature for Families:  Expert Ship Profiles break down onboard restaurants, entertainment, cabin types and other amenities so you can make an educated decision for your family vacation. Cruise Critic provides a vast wealth of information to really help you ensure you’re making the ideal cruise choice for your crew.

Related: 6 Best Kids’ Clubs on Cruise Ships

5. Tripadvisor Cruises

Tripadvisor Cruises  (parent company to Family Vacation Critic) empowers you to shop more than 70,000 cruises, from ocean and luxury cruises to river and adventure cruises, all on one site packed with user generated content such as candid reviews and real traveler photos. You can sort and filter by cabin type and itineraries and discover some of the lowest deal prices across the globe.

Tripadvisor’s Cruising Guide details the benefits of cruising, tips for finding a cheap cruise or last-minute deal, and the best cruises of the year. You’ll find all the info to make an informed decision for your family cruise, and then be linked to a partner site to book.

Best Feature for Families:  Ship-tinerary pages, like this robust Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas Ship-tinerary, provide comprehensive information on specific ships all in one place so you can feel out if it’s the right cruise for your family. Select a ship you want to check out for details on ship size, maps of itineraries, images and dimensions of cabins, an overview of the activities and entertainment, candid reviews that you can even narrow by time of year, as well as the best partner deals you can book.

6. Costco Travel

Many families rely on Costco for their quality and value. But  Costco Travel  is a fantastic benefit of membership, as you can count on Costco to provide discounts on popular family cruises, and no, you don’t have to buy a dozen! Packages can include airfare, hotel, ground transportation and activities in addition to your cruise. Talk about super simple planning! Extras like Costco Shop Cards, shipboard credit and dining upgrades can also be thrown in.

While CostcoTravel.com and their brochures can be a bit bare bones, you can rest assured that the pricing is clear. Plus, you can call up their travel professionals to take you through all the details, big and small, to ensure you’re booking the best cruise for your family.

Best Feature for Families:  Executive Members earn an annual 2 percent reward on Costco Travel Purchases. Those reward dollars can really add u  and help you get to your next family vacation!

Related: 8 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Families 

Cortney Fries (pronounced “freeze”) is an award-winning Chicago-based writer and mom to two spunky elementary school-age kids. She loves nothing more than traveling with family, having adventures with friends and exploring the outdoors. Cortney believes that you should definitely do things that scare you just a little bit. Follow her on Instagram,  @cortneyfries.

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Teen girl’s cool cruise outfit for summer, shop the look.

Colwyn Shirt

Bleach Joni Shorts

Canvas Tote Bag

Moment Espadrille

Teen boy’s cool cruise outfit for summer.

Pink Lemonade Shirt

Stone Utility Shorts

Polarized Sunglasses

Dad’s/Men’s Cool Cruise Outfit for Summer

Striped Tee

Grey Chino Shorts

Mom’s/Women’s Cool Cruise Outfit for Summer

Lenny Tie Shirt

Mixed Broderie Midi Skirt

Flat Top Straw Hat

Shield Paddle Earrings

Baby Girl’s Water Park Outfit

UPF 50+ UV Ray Sun Hat

UPF 50+ Swimsuit

Elephant Hooded Towel

Baby Sunglasses

Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Family Friendly Cruises for Kids

Voyages of discovery and reconnection that everyone from grandkids to grandparents can share., best family cruise destinations, alaska cruise destinations and cruisetours.

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Walk along sun-kissed beaches in laid-back style.

European Cruise Destinations

Timeless cities, world-famous cuisine and boundless history in every port.

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Destinations

The Great Barrier Reef, stunning coastlines and relaxed charm are calling.

Cruise Activities for the Whole Family

Princess makes sure there are a variety of family friendly cruise activities so you have plenty of ways to spend quality time together

Adventures every member of the family will enjoy

Unique and immersive travel experiences, including more time in more ports, Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ shore excursions, and award-winning onboard programs, have earned Princess the distinction of "Best Cruise Line for Multi-Generational Family Travel" in the  Porthole Cruise Magazine 2018 Readers' Choice Awards.

Princess MedallionClass®

Get more from family time with the MedallionClass experience on all ships. Easy embarkation and customizing dining preferences, including pace, means fewer meltdowns. Interactive games and the fast, reliable MedallionNet® Wi-Fi keep the gang entertained. And you’ll always be able to find the kids (or the adults!) anywhere on board. Connect with what matters most – each other – on your Princess MedallionClass cruise.

Get in the family zone

New on the Caribbean Princess®, the Reef Family Splash Zone is the perfect place to relax, have fun and enjoy the water. An interactive splash pad with giant whale feature will entertain kids of all ages with showers, sprays and a water jet from the whale's spout! Oversized backyard games in the all-ages game zone set the stage for some good natured family competition. Celebrate after with playful mocktails for the kids and refreshing cocktails for the parents at our kid-friendly bar area. When you need a break from the sun, head to the comfy loungers and sheltered shade canopies.

Discovery™, Discovery Family™ & Animal Planet™ shore excursions

Welcome to enriching, immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences your whole family will never forget — especially on unique Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ Exclusive Tours that can't be booked independently, and are available only through Princess Cruises.

Voyage to the stars

Princess enables everyone in the family to find their place among the stars. With top-deck stargazing, an indoor planetarium with real-time views of planets, stars and galaxies, Camp Discovery activities, expert insights through Encounters with Discovery at SEA, engaging stateroom content and more, there are many unique experiences for every family to enjoy.

Animal Planet™ invites local animals onboard

Many of the most fascinating inhabitants of the ports you'll visit aren't human at all. Introduce them to your family, as Animal Planet™ presents some of the wildest meet-and-greet gatherings at sea — including  Puppies in the Piazza  on Alaska cruises, and  Parrots in the Piazza  in the Caribbean.

Meet Stanley

Make friends with the cuddliest bear at sea. Interact with Stanley throughout the voyage — at photo ops, story time, bear games, and crafts! You can even get your own Stanley exclusively on board and bring him home as a reminder of your special journey. And don’t forget to share your adventures on social media with #StanleyAtSea.

Immersive Princess entertainment

The thrill of being part of a live-theater audience is something family members will relive for years. And Princess-exclusive, Broadway-caliber stage shows from award-winning composer Steven Schwartz are a dazzling way to bring everyone together. You'll also find plenty of opportunities for audience participation with  The Voice of the Ocean  musical competition, the  High Seas Heist  mystery challenge and  Can You Survive?  game show.

So many fresh ways to dine together

Eat dinner every night as a family and try new regional foods together. Satisfy everyone's personal tastes with a delicious variety of casual dining options, special kids' menus in the Main Dining Room, and the ability to cater to individual dietary preferences upon request. Princess does the cooking and cleaning so you can spend more time focusing on what matters most.

Family cruise celebration vacations

The heart of a celebration is spending time with those you love. But what if one person you love is 17, and the other is 71? It’s hard to pick an activity that appeals to everyone. A Princess family cruise is a perfect chance to celebrate together while enjoying the hundreds of amazing activities taking place on Princess ships from morning to night.

Family-friendly cruise lodging

Princess makes it easy to sail together in comfort. ‭In addition to comfortable Mini-Suites and spacious Suites, ‭larger groups can ‭opt for a Family ‭Suite which includes ‭two interconnecting ‭staterooms and ‭sleeps up to eight on select ships.

Explorers Come in All Ages. And Princess Inspires Their Imaginations

Uniquely themed centers host engaging activities specially designed to help them play, huddle, create and discover.

Exciting youth & teen clubs

In partnership with Discovery™, Princess has developed engaging new youth programming and wonder-filled centers designed for our youngest guests.

• Places for young explorers to learn about the world and discover new interests.
• Invitations to meet new friends and enjoy memorable experiences while sailing.

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 6 Months - 2 Years

Making our youngest voyagers feel right at home.

Princess welcomes babies, toddlers and preschoolers to the world of cruising with services and amenities that make life easier for their families as well. These young guests are welcome in Camp Discovery when accompanied by a parent. Mini-Suites and Full Suites offer full-sized bath tubs, and wash bins for showers are available. Staterooms with balconies are perfect for naptime. You can request high chairs, booster seats and cribs. We also provide complimentary jarred baby food. And fresh, pureed foods (fruits, veggies and rice) are available in the main dining room, specialty restaurants, and Horizon Court or World Fresh Marketplace.

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 3-12

The treehouse — ages 3-7.

This bright, whimsical, forest-themed center for children features hands-on activities and programs surrounded by captivating creatures.

The Lodge — Ages 8-12

Inspired by the great outdoors, this cozy center is filled with sports activities and comfortable places for kids to explore, hang out and lounge.

Sports, games, physical activities

• Scavenger hunts, group games, basketball tournaments, ping pong competitions, dodgeball, skeeball, dance parties and more!
• Try your skills on PlayStation®, Nintendo Wii™, and XBOX Kinect consoles, board games, air hockey and ping-pong.
• Join dance classes and engage in friendly competitions.
• Enjoy sports including basketball, mini golf, yoga and miniature Olympics.

Places, Animals, Science

• Mythbusters Jawsome Sharks program: Try hands-on challenges, featuring Tori Belleci from the show.
• Animal Planet™ uncovers ferocious secrets in  Shark Attack , and learn squid anatomy in  Just Squiddin’ Around .
• Learn the science of magic or become an engineer for a day with programs from the  California Science Center , home of the  Endeavour  space shuttle.
• Inspire a love of nature from the regions we sail with Animal Planet Endangered Species and Glacier Bay Jr. Ranger programs.

Fun interactions with peers

• NEW!  Rhythm of the Caribbean : Caribbean music, dance, trivia and crafts light up the night for the whole family.
• Wild Alaska Festival : Celebrate Alaskan nature at this family theme night.
• Discovery at Sea™ theme days with activities inspired by  Shark Week  and Animal Planet.
• Talent Shows showcase singing, dancing, musical skill, and jokes.
• Theme Nights include Pirate, Mexican Fiesta and competitive Challenge themes.

Arts, crafts, inventions

• Compete: Join the Klutz® paper airplane challenge or Lego boat-building contest.
• JrCHEF@Sea: Learn cake decorating and enjoy the results with your family.
• Make Animal Planet puppets, masks and paintings inspired by regional wildlife.
• Klutz® Art Projects: Craft bracelets, velvet art, jewelry and more.

Teens Cruise Activities — Ages 13-17

The beach house — ages 13-17.

This contemporary beach-themed lounge is "the" place for teens to hang out, socialize and connect.

You won't want to miss our  Rock the Boat Party . It’s the occasion to dress up, stroll down the red carpet and flash your VIP badge, then enjoy an evening of mocktails, awards and celebrating with your friends.

Competitions

Give your skills a workout in our video game tournaments. Play to win in air hockey, foosball and ping-pong. Or compete in outdoor sporting activities like dodgeball and basketball tournaments.

Dance classes

Perfect your moves with guidance from one of our crew dancers, then show what you’ve got at dance competitions and parties.

Movies & more

Get your scream on at  Scary Movie Night , or catch some recent hits at  Late Night Movies . Or cast yourself in a whole new light with teen makeovers and glitter tattoos.

Youth & Teen Program Registration

Registration Form with Youth Guidelines & Safety Measures (PDF)  or  Register Online

Registration Form with Teen Guidelines & Safety Measures (PDF)  or  Register Online

Please note:  During voyages with a high number of families onboard, we will make all efforts to accommodate interested parties. However, participation in our program cannot be guaranteed. Hours of operation may change to better serve our guests.

Hours of Operation:  Sea days 9:00am to 12:00 pm | 1:00pm - 5:00pm | 6:00pm - 10:00pm. Port Days 8:00am - 5:00pm | 6:00pm - 10:00pm. Depending on the itinerary, port hours may be expanded. Check the schedule once onboard. The program is complimentary during port days and advanced bookings are not required.

Kids and Youth center facilities vary across Princess cruise ships.

Parents Night Out

Where kids can play while you're away.

Rest assured, whether you've planned a day of exploring or a romantic night out, the group kidsitting at our Youth Centers offers your children between the ages of 3 and 12 plenty to look forward to. It's the perfect place for them to relax or play games with their friends. And the charge is just $5.00 USD per hour per child.

Dinner events exclusively for kids

Children and adults alike get the chance to enjoy dinner on their own with a variety of opportunities for kids to eat with their friends and Princess Youth Staff. They'll find kids-only dinners on select evenings, a teens-only dinner on a formal night in an exclusively reserved section of the dining room, as well as ice cream and pizza parties held throughout the voyage. Please be sure the Youth Staff members know about any food allergies your child may have.

Cruise Activities for Young Adults — Ages 18-20

Imagine a secret society. Only those invited can join. Guests ages 18-20 will learn the secret handshake and be granted a special code word to unlock an exclusive list of Club1820 events made just for them. No parents, no little siblings, no official hosts.

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Take a peek at our latest offerings

Food & Dining

Award-winning and made from scratch

Enriching Activities

Relaxing days & enriching experiences

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THE ALL NEW ULTIMATE FAMILY SUITE

RED CARPET EXPERIENCES

IN-SUITE CINEMA & TOP VIDEO GAMES

IN-SUITE SLIDE & LUCKY CLIMBER

MULTI-PURPOSE DINING TABLES

FAMILY TOGETHERNESS

SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE SHIP

The first and only one of its kind available exclusively onboard Symphony of the Seas® , Spectrum of the Seas® , and Wonder of the Seas® the Ultimate Family Suite offers endless ways to bond over thrilling new experiences — all in one room. Unwind on your balcony in your very own jacuzzi or take part in a game of table tennis — all while soaking up stunning ocean views. Level up your stay with a little friendly competition in your private game room complete with video game systems and access to all the games you could want, life-size Connect-Four and more. There’s also a stylish separate master suite where parents can escape. And it’s all completely accessible.

The Ultimate Family Suite is part of the Star tier, the highest in our Royal Suite Class collection. That means you’ll enjoy access to VIP perks, like complimentary drinks, specialty dining and VOOM, the fastest internet at sea. And a dedicated Royal Genie who can coordinate exclusive one-of-a-kind experiences designed around you — from planning the perfect date night at sea, to reserving front row seats to your favorite performance.

Interested in booking or learning more? Just call our reservation desk at 866-562-7625 .

EXPLORE SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE SPECTRUM OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE WONDER OF THE SEAS

AMP UP HOW YOU STAY

A suite sneek peak.

The new Ultimate Family Suite takes your stay to a whole new level with two stories of elevated memory-making experiences. Curious about what all that awesome looks like? Take a peek inside.

IN-SUITE SLIDE

ROYAL GENIE

IN-SUITE CINEMA & VIDEO GAMES

JACUZZI ON THE BALCONY

MASTER BEDROOM

AMP UP THE BALCONY PLAY

KID'S BATHROOM

 EXPLORE MORE

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Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Considerations for Larger Families

If your family consists of four or fewer people, selecting a stateroom on the Disney Cruise Line ships is a straightforward affair – your party can fit into most DCL staterooms. If you have five or more people in your traveling party, things get a little more complicated. Here’s what you need to know:

Many Stateroom Categories Won’t Accommodate a Party of Five or More

Take a look, for example, at the deck plans for the Disney Dream and Fantasy. A quick skim of the room floor plans at the top will show you that all staterooms in categories 11, 10, 9, 7, 6, and 5 are off limits for your group if you all want to stay together. The same floor plans shows you that if you have a party of six or more, you won’t be able to stay in one room together at all on these ships. (Click to enlarge the image.)

If you’re a party of five, and you want to stay together in one cabin, your only options on these ships are stateroom categories 3, 4, and 8, plus the pricey concierge categories 1, 2, and 3.

If you Have a Party of Five, Even if You Can All Fit into One Room, You Might Not Want To

On the Dream and Fantasy, a category 4 stateroom, which can accommodate five guests, runs approximately 300 square feet, including the verandah. At the full capacity of five guests, that gives each person 60 square feet, some of which is bathroom and outdoor space, and most of which is consumed by the bed and other furniture. Also on the Dream and Fantasy, a category 8 stateroom (an oceanview room with no verandah), which allows five guests, is approximately 240 square feet total, or 48 square feet per person, much of which is consumed by the bathroom and furniture.

And consider that you’ll have five people’s worth of luggage to store, devices to charge, and toiletries to contain, and you’ll soon realize how quickly cozy can turn into cranky.

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, as you make your stateroom selection, one thing to consider is that you may use your stateroom differently than a hotel room at Walt Disney World, for example. I’ve been on plenty of Walt Disney World vacations where I left my hotel room at 7:30am and returned at 11:00pm to just to shower and sleep. I was too far away and too occupied in the parks to go back to my room.

This type of room avoidance is unlikely on a cruise. There’s certainly plenty to do on the ships, but chances are you’ll be in and out of your room much more often on board than you would be at theme parks, even if only to change clothes. On board a ship, guests often find a need to change frequently. On a typical day, you might be in and out of exercise clothes, swim clothes, casual attire, and formal dinner attire, then back to swim or casual attire. If one person wants to nap and another person needs to change, there’s not much room for quiet and privacy with only 48 square feet to call your own.

Splitting Your Party Into Two Staterooms May Save Your Sanity

If you’re putting five guests into one category 4 stateroom, for example, your sleep surfaces will be one queen sized bed, one twin-size sleeper sofa, a twin-size Murphy bed, and a twin-size bed that pulls down from the ceiling. This set-up requires that two of the guests sleep in the same bed. If you’re traveling with adults who don’t want to share a sleep surface this could be problematic. This arrangement might also be tight for any guest who is physically larger than average. Some teen boys may find that the twin-size beds, particularly the top bunk, are uncomfortably small.

I have three daughters who all like to take their time in the bathroom. Even with DCL’s split-bath (shower/sink in one compartment, toilet/sink in a different compartment) arrangement, we have A LOT of grumbles about who is taking too long to get ready. And again, there is often more need to get ready on a cruise ship than their would be in some other vacation situations.

Having more sleep surfaces and more bathroom space could be the key family harmony. This can be accomplished by booking your family of five or more into two cabins rather than one.

Contrast this with putting five guests into two category 11 staterooms. This combination would give the party two queen beds, two twin sleeper sofas, and likely two twin beds that pull down from the ceiling. This gives your group an additional adult-sized sleep surface, which can be helpful if the members of the party are friends rather than family, if the guests are physically larger, or if there is more than one guest with a fear of heights who doesn’t want to sleep in a bunk-like situation. And – while the category 11 staterooms don’t have a split bathroom, they do have two showers, which may be better for some party configurations.

The Finances of Two Staterooms May Not Be Different Than One Stateroom

Note: Stateroom pricing is quite variable. The same room might be a drastically different price depending on your sail date and the date on which you book the cruise. So that I’m comparing apples to apples, the prices I’m about to note were all found on the same date for the same cruise. You might encounter different pricing if you conduct your own search.

For the April 6, 2023 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami on the Dream, putting five guests into one stateroom (two adults and three kids, ages 15, 10, and 8) involves a minimum cost of about $7,400 in an Oceanview stateroom, or about $7,850 in a Verandah stateroom. (An inside stateroom is not an option with this party composition.)

If you instead book these folks into two inside staterooms, you can get a price of about $7,900. This is less than $100 different than putting everyone into one Verandah stateroom to get more sleep surfaces, more square footage, and an additional shower.

Losing window or verandah access might be a deal-breaker for some families, but a compromise might be to get one inside cabin and one with outdoor access.

When you’re playing around with different stateroom combinations, be aware that the first two people booked into a stateroom always pay the adult rate, regardless of age. If you have young kids and teens, you may be able to save a few dollars by making sure the youngest child is booked as the third person in a room (rather than the second) so that they get charged the child rate instead of inadvertently forcing them into the adult rate.

You Can Make Two Staterooms Feel Like One Room

Families with young children might worry about putting little ones in a different cabin. Never fear! Break out your magnifying glass for a look at the deck plans and you’ll see that many of the staterooms on the Disney ships are connected by an internal door. (Look for the little V-shaped symbol between the rooms to indicate that the rooms are connected. Seriously, you may need a magnifying glass to see them.) Connecting rooms are available at most stateroom levels, from standard category 11 inside staterooms, on up to concierge suites. There are even a few concierge rooms which allow more than two rooms to be connected.

Connecting rooms are exactly what they sound like, two rooms connected by an internal door. Opening the internal door effectively turns those cabins into a multi-room suite. In addition to adding space, selecting connecting rooms gives you a real door in addition to the flimsy internal “privacy curtains” present in most rooms.

Connecting Rooms are Not All Alike

In most instances, connecting rooms are listed at the same category level. For example, an 11B is connected to an 11B or a 4C is connected to a 4C. However, there are a few unique situations in which staterooms of different categories connected. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, stateroom 7188 (a 6B cabin) can connect to 7190 (a 5E cabin). These staterooms are quite similar, but a bit of tinkering with various combinations might save you a few dollars.

The most common situation in which you’ll find dissimilar staterooms connected occurs when one of the staterooms has a handicap accessible designation. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, you’ll see handicap accessible stateroom 6186 (a 9A deluxe oceanview cabin) connected to 6188 (a 6B deluxe oceanview cabin with a verandah). For many parties, this would be a nice balance of economy and outdoor access, with one slightly less expensive room connected to a slightly more expensive room with an additional amenity. Of course, the priority access in this situation should go to guests who need the handicap room for medical reasons, but if theses rooms become available for general booking, it could be the best of two worlds.

If you’re looking for odd stateroom combinations, you may benefit from the expertise of a veteran cruise specialist travel agent who understands the nuances of the various options.

Your Options Expand Further if You Don’t Need Your Rooms to Connect

While parents of small or special needs children will likely want access to them via a connecting door, families with older kids, or a party of friends rather than family, might not need their rooms to be connected. For example, when my daughters were older teens, I liked to have them in a room fairly close to my husband and me, but they were experienced enough travelers that I didn’t absolutely need them to be in a connected room.

If you just want adjacent but not connected rooms, the stateroom type combinations increase dramatically. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, cabin 9010 is an oceanview stateroom next to (but not connected to) 9012, a stateroom with a navigator’s verandah. This could be a good combination savings and outdoor access for my family, particularly if something like the connecting door handicap room combinations were not available.

There are also many families who put teens in an inside stateroom with the parents in an oceanview or verandah room directly across the hall (for example something like 9521 and 9518 on the Dream or Fantasy). Again, this allows cost savings in one room with better amenities in the other.

Larger Parties Should Get Familiar with the “Add Another Stateroom” Button

A group of six or more will get error messages when trying to book the entire party into one stateroom. Any larger party will want to get familiar with the “Add Another Stateroom” button as they explore their booking options.

Not All Age Combinations Will Work When Booking Staterooms

While getting two rooms for your larger party is often an elegant solution, it may not be possible in all cases. Disney Cruise Line requires that at least one guest age 18 or over be booked into every stateroom. Additionally, all guests ages 17 and younger must be booked into a stateroom with someone 21 or older.

This is no problem if, for example, two adults are traveling with three kids. Two get two rooms, you would book an adult with one child into one cabin, and the other adult and two children into the second cabin. However, if one adult is traveling with four children, then they would not be eligible to be booked into two staterooms. On the Dream and Fantasy, their only option would be one category 8 room or a one category 4 or higher room, assuming one is available. This is true regardless of whether the rooms are connecting and regardless of the age of the children. A single parent of four teens would have to stay with them in one stateroom rather than two.

This rule has other impacts as well. I once considered taking two of my teen daughters and a friend of theirs on a DCL cruise. While my daughters are quite close with their friend, I didn’t think she would be entirely comfortable sleeping/changing/relaxing in the same room with me (a non-family member) for a week. I wanted to get a room for the girls (again, well-behaved older teens) connected to a room for me to give everyone a measure of privacy, but Disney would not allow me to do this. We ended up scrapping our plans.

You Don’t Have to Sleep Where You’re Booked

I mentioned earlier that some families put their teens in an inside stateroom with the parents across the hall in a verandah or oceanview stateroom. Given the 18-and-over rule, you’ll see that this is not allowed from a booking perspective. However, once you’re actually on the ship, the rule is not enforced. If you’re a family traveling with more than one stateroom, Guest Services at the ship will be more than happy to code your Key to the World Cards (room keys) so that each key opens all the linked rooms. This means that on the ship, family members are free to mix and match their sleeping locations among the reserved rooms. Even though it’s not booked that way, parents can sleep in one room, with the kids in another. Most stateroom attendants will automatically ask you how you want your rooms configured and where people will really be sleeping.

Think About Your Castaway Club Status

In addition to thinking about the ages of who gets booked into which room, your ability to book excursions and fine dining may be impacted by who is booked into which stateroom.

For example, during one family vacation, my twins and I had a higher Castaway Club (DCL loyalty program) rating than my husband and other daughter (lucky us). My kids were all older, so we had no pricing issues with who got paper-booked into which cabin. However, we did run into a problem when trying to book excursions for that cruise. We inadvertently booked me and the higher Castaway status twins into one room, while my husband and lower status Castaway status daughter were in the other room. Excursion and dining booking access dates are based on the Castaway level of the highest status person in each room. Because we had stacked the deck with all the high-status family members in one of our rooms, half of our party was able to make excursion reservations before the other half. If we had arranged the booking slightly differently, booking one of the higher-status kids into the room with her dad, we would have been able to make excursion reservations for both rooms at the same time.

The excursions we were selecting were not in short supply, so as a practical matter it ended up as a non-issue, but if you were looking to book an extremely popular or scarce excursion, then you might be in trouble.

Additional Ways to Save Money on DCL for Larger Families

In addition to tinkering with different stateroom configurations, larger families (and anyone else looking to economize), may want to look closely at their travel dates. Your travel date can be the largest factor in the overall price of your Disney Cruise vacation. The price might be double on the same ship, on the same itinerary, if you choose a Christmas week voyage over one in, say, late September. Choosing a different ship is also something to consider. The Wish may be the hot new thing, but the Dream visits the same ports and is often 10% cheaper (or more) for a nearly identical itinerary.

You may also want to look at other aspects of your trip planning as areas where you can economize. Will driving, rather than flying, allow you to reduce your total budget? Will choosing a different embarkation port change your budget? Can you skip extras like pricey shore excursions?

For more tips on Disney Cruise Line travel, check out The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line .

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

3 thoughts on “ Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Considerations for Larger Families ”

Thanks Erin! This is very helpful. We’re a family of 5 and for our Mediterranean B2B cruises this summer, it was less for us to get 2 connecting Navigator’s Veranda rooms then one bigger room. We’re looking forward to the extra space and bathroom. Kelly

Thanks for this, Erin! We just devoured the 2022 Unofficial Guide as well. We’re a family of 6 embarking on our first cruise since our family grew to that size (we were a family of 4 on our last cruise). We had to juggle this same situation, booking connecting rooms, with my wife and 2 kids (tweens) in one room and myself and the other 2 kids (littles) in another. As you mentioned, sleeping arrangements will differ once we board. We’re also trying it a little differently on another cruise with a guaranteed rate and will see where and how they assign us.

When we called DCL, they did mention that the Wish will have rooms that sleep a family of our size, is that right?

Thanks for reading! Pretty much what we know about stateroom configurations on the Wish can be found in this post by our friend Scott Sanders at the DCL blog. https://disneycruiselineblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/StateroomLayouts_Wish_Original-Scan.jpg

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The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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Several cruise lines offer kids sail free promos throughout the year.

If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2024. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Book a Holland America Line Cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries throughout the year. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including bucket-list destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Explore Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GotoSea.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruise itineraries on GotoSea.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Find a Costa Cruises deal on GotoSea.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children younger than 18 cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts fun family excursions and a "Lego Experience On Board" event on every cruise. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by one of five dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
• The Best Cruises for Teens
• Do You Need a Passport to Cruise?
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

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• Family Cruises

Cruising family of 6

By sjram , January 8, 2009 in Family Cruises

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I am looking to plan a cruise for our family of 6 and have a few questions for you experienced cruisewrs with kids. We have four kids 11, 8, 4, and 2. I have read enough to learn that we need to book two connecting rooms but have some other general questions that I am hoping to find answers to before narrowing down our search.

Which cruise line is better for kids?

What ports are more kid friendly? Older 3 can swim butt not the 2yo. Don't want to have to travel by taxi obviously.

Have you found it is better to have an oceanview with kids or should we save money and go for inside? Do any balcony rooms have coonecting rooms or balconies?

How do they price for kids? When I pretend book a room for three (and multiply by 2) Is that an accurate price? Is there a kids price or is it the standard third person rate?

Any other tips/info that is important to know that I have probably not thought of yet?

Our work schedules allow is travel during nonpeak times, so that should help keep the costs down. Dh and I have cruised alone before and could get a past guest discount from Carnival. Thanks for any info. It is much appreciated!

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Almost any of the "mainstream" lines will do nicely for a family. Disney, of course, is the king, but can be pricey. RCI and Carnival both have great kid's programs.

As far as ports...all are just as "kid-friendly" as another. It really depends on what you like to do onshore! Get a guidebook and read up on each port that you're thinking of visiting--it'll give you a better idea of what points of interest there are, how to get there, safety, food.....

If you book an excursion through the cruiseline, you won't have to worry about transportation--they'll take care of all that. But, if you just want to go to the beach or shop, that's almost always best done on your own. (That's where the guidebook comes in handy!!)

Some folks love interior room--no me! I want at least a balcony! There are "connecting" rooms with balconies--on some ships, you can get a balcony that connects to an interior (a good way to say a few bucks!) Not all ships allow the balcony divider to be removed, so while your room may have a connecting door, you'll still have 2 seperate balconies.

Some line charge full rates for kids, some discount them. Depends on the cruiseline!

Your best bet is to contact a travel agent (go to a real one in your town--not online) and talk to them. They can help you get the most for your money! And, you'll get borchures, deck plans....lots of stuff that you should have!

Agreed. Your best bet is to find and go to a good TA.

We had great luck with RCCL and our then 3 year old- Adventure Ocean was fantastic for him.

I'm not sure that all ports are kid friendly, but I'll leave it to others to discuss those that aren't. I can say that the ports on our Canada/New England cruise were extremely kid friendly. Portland had a great kids museum (Boston too- but we went whale watching which was really cool!), there was a steam train ride in Connecticut that was a big hit, and Tuffey the Tugboat and Amphibious boat rides in Halifax were made for kids, to name a few. I know that most think of the Caribbean or other warm destinations for cruises, but Canada/New England was a great family cruise. I would highly recommend it.

Personally I would pick one of the Freedom class ships on RCCL. They will have a small tot pool for kids in swim diapers. It is very small but at least the 2 year old will be able to swim!

I am looking to plan a cruise for our family of 6 and have a few questions for you experienced cruisewrs with kids. We have four kids 11, 8, 4, and 2. I have read enough to learn that we need to book two connecting rooms but have some other general questions that I am hoping to find answers to before narrowing down our search.   Which cruise line is better for kids?   What ports are more kid friendly? Older 3 can swim butt not the 2yo. Don't want to have to travel by taxi obviously.   Have you found it is better to have an oceanview with kids or should we save money and go for inside? Do any balcony rooms have coonecting rooms or balconies?   How do they price for kids? When I pretend book a room for three (and multiply by 2) Is that an accurate price? Is there a kids price or is it the standard third person rate?   Any other tips/info that is important to know that I have probably not thought of yet?   Our work schedules allow is travel during nonpeak times, so that should help keep the costs down. Dh and I have cruised alone before and could get a past guest discount from Carnival. Thanks for any info. It is much appreciated!   Julia

We travelled RCL before with the kids (4 and 6 at the time). Adventure Ocean was amazing. They didn't even want to miss out of "camp" when we were at ports. We spent the extra money to get a balcony and a slightly bigger suite room as with the kids we thought (correctly for us) that we would be in the room more then if we were by ourselves. It was really nice to be able to sit on the balcony and relax while the kids had some down time in the room. Overall I saw the kids way less then I had expected. They loved the kids program and had lots of fun. We are booked on the Eurodam Feb 28, 2009 so we will see how it compares.

Our upcoming cruise is our second with 6, as my mom joins us!

We always cruise Carnival - price is usually the deciding factor.. but now it is the kids. They LOVE cruising and love the Camp Carnival activities.

We cruised on the Liberty last February, and had two Ocean View connecting rooms. This was a PERFECT set up for us! It really felt as if it was one big room. This year, we have side by side balcony rooms, and we are hoping that the balcony dividers will open so we can have some common area.

As far as ports go, my kids have enjoyed the Western side the best. Paradise Beach in Cozumel is a blast. The Taxi's in Cozumel are BY TAXI, not by person, so it is the same for a family of 6, as a couple. There are also VAN taxis.

In GrandCayman, Seven Mile beach is nice, as is Stingray City, which you may wish to split up and have the older kids go there.

No matter what you choose, cruising is sure the Best Family Vacation for our family!

On Carnival, the 2 year old will be able to go to the kids club, not so on RCCL. RCCL does have cabins that will sleep 4 though. You won't be able to book them on the internet though. It's best to go through a TA or RCCL directly.

By way of background, we have cruised with our three children (now 6, 7, and 8) since they were infants and have taken them on RCL, NCL, Carnival, Celebrity, and HAL.

If you want to be able to leave the two year old in the camp, your only choices are Carnival and NCL. On RCL and Celebrity, you can bring the two year old in and they have some activities every day, but you must remain present.

Our children are such fans of the kids programs, that the (literally) refuse to leave the ship! On our last Celebrity cruise, they went to camp at 9:00 a.m. and remained there until 10:00 p.m. and were begging us to pay for group babysitting so they could remain until midnight.

On port days on RCL, Celebrity, and Carnival you can leave them aboard while you take the baby with you. HAL does not offer that option. It has been too long since I went on NCL for me to speak with authority.

HAL and Celebrity have a markedly older crowd. Some grandmotherly types are sweet, some alte kakers do nothing but complain loudly about why you have brought young children (even well-behaved ones) on "their" cruise line. You can usually put the latter in their place by pointing out that you paid just as much for your children as they paid for themselves.

I prefer Mexico and the Caribbean in the winter. If you are worried about taxis for safety reasons, please note that I have yet to be on a cruise line tour bus that had seatbelts. In my experience you are more likely to get seatbelts in a taxi/van.

Have you found it is better to have an oceanview with kids or should we save money and go for inside? Do any balcony rooms have connecting rooms or balconies?

I consider oceanview cabins a complete waste. No one sits in one and looks out the window. Balcony cabins are nice, but very pricey. We had a GORGEOUS "Family Ocean View" one on our thirteen-day fall foliage cruise on Celebrity last October which actually had a huge verandah, almost as big as the room. We took it because the price for that cabin was only $200 more than the cost of two inside staterooms. Cruisecritic has an article on family friendly cabins. Check it out. Note that neither you nor your travel agent can access that inventory online. You (or your travel agent) must call the cruiseline to check availability.

There are cabins with connecting doors in all classes. If you and your spouse do not mind splitting up to sleep, you might consider getting a balcony cabin opposite an inside cabin. You combine the benefits of a balcony (nice for Alaska and the Caribbean) with the costs savings of an inside cabin which serves primarily as a bunk room.

There is no "kids rate". On NCL, children under two pay only the port taxes and fees. On MSC children under seventeen have the same deal as long as two people are paying the "adult rate". Almost invariably, you pay the standard third person rate. By chance, our next trip is to Alaska. Because she has more vacation time, my wife is traveling northbound on HAL from Vancouver in an inside cabin where the rate for passengers 3 and 4 was only $1.00 plus taxes and fees! I have never seen this before. [We are returning on RCL in two inside cabins with a connecting door. The FOVs on RCCL have only a window, and the cost of a balcony room was exorbitant. We would rather cruise twice as often than pay twice as much.]

If you can travel at off-peak times, you can get a great rate. Historically, we cruise during the dead time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. We usually get the lowest rates of the year. The school is good about giving the kids an "independent study" package of homework. The kids get the benefit of a cruise and the school still gets its money from the state. It gets tough supervising homework from 5-7, but we all cooperate to get it done.

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Hello!! We are a family of 6 (2 adults and 4 kids) hoping to book a Disney cruise in the very near future. How can we travel together (same stateroom) without breaking the bank?? ”

• Be as flexible as Elastigirl: Try to stay open to sailing at a different time of year and on a different deck than you may have originally thought. We tend to sail in January and November before the holidays and notice we have been able to find great rates at non-peak times like school breaks. 
• Book as far on the horizon as you can: Rates are often the absolute best they can be right as itineraries are announced.
• Consider Inside staterooms: I know they're not for everyone, but we LOVE inside staterooms. they stay super dark at night for sound sleeping, and we've found them to be quieter and less affected by the ships' motion in many cases! Ooh, and on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, two words: Magical Porthole!
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6 tips for booking your 1st cruise

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I come from a long line of cruisers and water lovers — my grandfather was an avid cruise enthusiast, and every room in his house was covered with pictures of my grandparents’ adventures. He introduced me to the world of cruising when I was in high school, and it’s safe to say I’ve never looked back.

After more than 10 cruises throughout the Caribbean, Europe and Alaska, as well as a career in the Navy , my love for the water has become a significant part of my life. Here, I’ll take what I learned from those experiences and share several tips for booking your first cruise that every new sailor should take to heart.

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

Understand the modern cruising experience

Most people who are initially against the idea of a cruise vacation have one of a few objections: They have no desire for a scheduled vacation, are perhaps a bit nervous about heading out to sea or are just picturing the dining room of a senior citizens’ home with a mediocre jazz band playing in the background.

The reality of today’s cruise experience is quite a different story. Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s slogan is “Freestyle Cruising,” and most major cruise lines have as many activities and dining options as you could ever hope to find on a single ship. You can do — or not do — as little or as much as you want.

For dining, you can eat at a plethora of onboard restaurants, in your room, at the buffet or in the dining room. You don’t have to sit at a formal dinner with strangers if you don’t want to, though this has always been a blast for me as the cruise line does a good job matching people for table sittings.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

While there have been some notable exceptions to the rule,  cruises generally make for safe vacations , as they have the most qualified officers and crews at sea on board to ensure your safety. Modern ship designs have wonderful safety features and retractable stabilizers to minimize port and starboard rocking, while Azipod propulsion now makes even the largest ships able to turn on a dime.

Onboard entertainment has taken a noticeable step forward, too, even since I began cruising. While magicians, comedians and musical reviews are still in the picture — and quite enjoyable — you can now bowl, ice skate, ride bumper cars, go zip lining, take cooking or dance lessons, learn computer programs, ride wild water coasters, see an onboard production of a Broadway show and enjoy top-of-the-line spa treatments along with many other intriguing experiences.

Add in a few extra perks, such as visiting several new countries or ports while never having to repack your suitcase, and you have a week of as much (or as little) excitement and fun as possible anywhere.

Related: The 10 wildest attractions you’ll find on a cruise ship

Choose an itinerary that works for you

Caribbean cruises are great, but they may not be what you want for your first cruise vacation — perhaps visiting historic sites in Mediterranean countries without having to hop from airport to airport intrigues you. You can cruise almost anywhere that has a port, so you’ll want to consider a few factors when deciding your itinerary.

• The weather in your destination: What season is it? Will it be as warm or as cool as you want?
• Length of the cruise: How many days at sea and how many days in port would you like?
• Size of the ship : Do you want a small, intimate and upscale ship knowing entertainment options will be basic? Or, would you prefer a megaship with tons of attractions but also thousands of people on board?
• High/low seasons : Peak travel times may have the best weather but the highest cruise fares and larger crowds. Shoulder or low seasons may be more affordable, but know that the weather may be cool or wet.
• Cruise line : While every cruise line gives you plenty of options, each also has its own distinct personality. You’ll want to match the line to your personal travel style.

Pick your ports and prepare

While considering which itinerary to pick, the ports you’re visiting should play a huge part in your decision. Regardless of where I have been on a cruise, most ports and cruise lines have a few similarities. They all offer set shore excursions at every stop, and the port itself will also have tour vendors right at the pier waiting for guests who have not booked excursions directly through the cruise line.

The advantage of booking tours through the cruise line is that the provider has been vetted and the logistics of the tour itself are convenient, allowing you plenty of time to get to and from the ship. The downside of booking through the cruise line is the price, which can be much higher compared to smaller, locally run tours.

I usually do my research ahead of time and either book a tour online through a company before I arrive — sometimes the exact company taking my fellow passengers, only I’ll have paid about half of what they did — or haggle with the people on the pier and set off on what can turn out to be a surprise adventure. Haggling is not for everyone, and you have no protection or recourse if the experience you choose is subpar, but you will save a lot of money.

Either way, not properly preparing for your shore excursions can cause both your wallet and your head to ache.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Get the right room

Cruise lines have become clever with the marketing and layout of the different room types on board each ship. There are usually upwards of 15 categories, many with minor differences that you may pay more for but will not notice. Before booking your first cruise, research your ship class online and understand the category differences.

Generally, a ship will offer interior rooms with no windows, ocean-view rooms with windows you can’t open and balcony rooms with either interior-facing or ocean-view verandas, as well as various suites. It gets a bit more complicated with additional options like spa rooms and family cabins, which offer extra amenities, so be sure to do your homework ahead of time so you know what to expect.

I usually book what’s called a “balcony-guaranteed” room , where I don’t know which specific balcony room I will have as it will be assigned closer to booking based on availability. This is a good money-saving tip, as these rooms often cost less. It helps that I’m also not picky about where my stateroom is located.

Related: The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Book your cruise with the travel agency offering the most incentives

I have booked all but one of my cruises from third-party online travel agencies because of the extras given on top of the cruise fare. These have included onboard credit, beverage packages, shore excursion credit, a specialty dinner at an onboard restaurant and free casino play. You could be giving up a lot of freebies by not shopping around.

Sites I peruse often for cruise deals include Vacations To Go, CruiseDirect, CruisesOnly and CruCon Cruise Outlet.

Whether you’re booking your first cruise or your 50th, I recommend shopping around to find the best deal — meaning the extras you’ll receive, not just a great price.

Related: The best cruise booking perks — and which ones are actually free

Use the right credit cards

While cruises aren’t traditionally considered the best use of points and miles, you can book a free cruise solely on points . You can divert all your credit card spending to cruise line cobranded credit cards , generic cash-back cards or reimbursable travel expense cards like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees).

However, before doing this, consider the opportunity cost of not earning transferable points with your credit card spending. These rewards can be much more valuable when redeemed for premium-class flights or luxury hotel stays before or after your cruise.

That said, credit cards can still be useful when cruising for a few reasons.

Many popular travel credit cards effectively come with travel insurance (in the form of trip interruption or trip cancellation protection ) when you use them for travel purchases like flights and cruises. This can cover issues like a flight delay to the departure port that causes you to miss your cruise or if you or a travel companion is hospitalized and can’t make your sailing. You do need to file a claim and provide extensive documentation, but this can offer reimbursement for any nonrefundable travel you booked.

Popular cards with this coverage include the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (See rates and fees) Be sure to read the full details for your card’s coverage, though, so you can decide if the card’s policy offers enough peace of mind — or if you should spring for separate third-party travel insurance.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. 

Even better for cruises are cards that give you extra points for travel-related spending — both for the initial purchase and onboard expenses like drinks, shore excursions, specialty dining and souvenirs. You may even be able to find an Amex Offer or a Chase Offer for purchases with specific cruise lines. These limited-time offers can award bonus points or discounts, so it’s critical to check your account and see what’s available.

Some great options for earning bonus points on travel purchases include the American Express® Green Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Related: Use these credit cards to maximize your next cruise vacation

Bottom line

Booking your first cruise can be intimidating, but with a little planning and the proper research, it will make for an unforgettable experience. My family has seen glaciers calve, toured ancient ruins at Ephesus, been diving on Caribbean reefs and seen an active volcano — all thanks to our vacations on the high seas.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 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

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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I went on 2 of Royal Caribbean's largest and newest cruise ships. I enjoyed them, but they're not for everyone.

Before booking a vacation at sea, travelers should always research the best cruise line and ship for their needs.

• I've sailed on Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships, Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
• Both mega-ships are jam-packed with amenities, dining options, and people.
• They might not be for you if you want a quiet cruise to unique destinations.  

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If you're looking for an ultra-cheap and fast trip, try Margaritaville at Sea . Craving something more upscale? Consider Oceania Cruises.

And if you're looking for high-end sailing to unique destinations, I'd suggest avoiding Royal Caribbean's mega-ships .

Royal Caribbean has become synonymous with giant, family-friendly cruise ships

According to its current expansion plan, by 2028, about a third of Royal Caribbean's fleet will consist of mega-ships.

The latest addition, the 1,196-foot-long and 248,663-gross-ton Icon of the Seas, set sail in January, unseating its less than two-year-old predecessor, Wonder of the Seas , as the world's largest cruise liner.

Together, the two vessels can accommodate a whopping 19,238 people — 4,554 crew and 14,684 guests.

At almost all times of the year, these throngs of travelers can be seen running around the ships' eight neighborhoods, lining up for waterslides, and indulging at a combined 29 bars and 48 eateries.

I've attended complimentary sailings on Wonder and Icon, the longest being three nights on the latter. From their colorful pool decks to their inescapable crowds, as a solo adult traveler, I was equal parts entertained, overwhelmed, and overstimulated the entire time.

But admittedly, I had fun. I do love a good waterslide — and Wonder has three of them, while Icon has six.

If you plan on cruising with your children — and if they, like me, love activities like rock climbing and mini-golfing — Royal Caribbean's mega-ships could be your best option.

Its two largest and newest vessels are jam-packed with things to do. They each have more than 20 dining options and dozens of unique activities, a shortlist of which includes ice-skating rinks, ziplines, and shopping mall-like walkways.

But don't expect a peaceful retreat. The rowdy bar-hopping adults and screaming children at the water playground aren't exactly conducive to a relaxing vacation.

Mega-vessels might not be for you if you want a quiet, itinerary-focused cruise

If you want a relaxing and upscale vacation — maybe one that doesn't involve crowds of children — Royal Caribbean's behemoth vessels shouldn't be your top choice.

There are many ways to have a luxury vacation on Icon of the Seas . But unless you want to pay for upcharged amenities at every turn, you might be better off spending more upfront to reserve a more premium cruise line — especially if you're interested in cruising for the destinations, and not the ships.

After all, like most of Royal Caribbean's largest vessels, both Icon and Wonder are exclusively sailing in the Caribbeans.

Many desirable destinations like French Polynesia have set restrictions on cruises , including limits on ship size, amid concerns of pollution and overcrowding.

If stopping at these ports — or really anywhere outside the Caribbean — is at the top of your vacation wish list, you'll have to prioritize a smaller Royal Caribbean ship or go with higher-end companies like Oceania , Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas.

You might not get a waterpark, but at least you'll get a quieter vacation to destinations no mega-ship will likely ever be allowed to visit.

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Florida woman sentenced for 2020 murder of fellow ‘Sovereign Citizen’ over child custody dispute

Florida woman sentenced for 2020 murder of fellow ‘Sovereign Citizen’ over child custody dispute Neely Raye Pesognellie Petrie-Blanchard, 37, convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the Nov. 15, 2020 shooting death of 50-year-old Christopher Hallett.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Pensacola woman is headed to prison for the 2020 shooting death of a man in Marion County.

▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

After a trial during which she represented herself, a jury found now 37-year-old Neely Petrie-Blanchard guilty Friday of first-degree murder with a firearm for killing 50-year-old Christopher Hallett.

The investigation started just after 9 p.m. on Nov. 15, 2020 with reports of a shooting at a home on SW 34th Court Road in Ocala.

READ: 2nd person of interest arrested in connection with deadly Seminole County carjacking, kidnapping

Responding deputies arrived to find two witnesses- a woman and her juvenile daughter- hiding in a back room of the home.

They also found Hallett on the kitchen floor, obviously dead from multiple gunshot wounds to the back of his head.

The witness told deputies she was in another room of the home with her daughter when she heard what she thought was a firecracker, before hearing a second pop.

When she went to see what was happening, the witness said she came out to the living room to see Hallett with a “pained” look on his face and Petrie-Blanchard standing by him holding a gun.

The witness said Petrie-Blanchard then aimed the gun at her and her daughter as though she intended to shoot them too, but the gun jammed, allowing them to run to the back of the house.

READ: Orlando man accused of shooting roommate in the face during argument ‘over a female’

The witness’ daughter told a similar story, adding that she could hear the victim say, “Oh God, Please. No…” and Petrie-Blanchard saying something to the effect of “You’re hurting my children…” before she heard additional shots being fired.

Investigators later learned that both Hallett and Petrie-Blanchard associated with the Sovereign Citizen and QAnon movements, and that Petrie-Blanchard was one of Hallett’s “clients” whom he was helping with a child custody issue.

After talking to the witnesses, investigators determined Petrie-Blanchard shot Hallett because she believed he was working against her or with the government to keep her children away from her.

Petrie-Blanchard drove away from the scene after the shooting and was captured the next day by law enforcement in Lowndes County, Georgia.

A grand jury indicted her in 2021 for one count of first-degree premeditated murder with a firearm.

READ: Bodies found in Osceola County confirmed as missing couple

Jurors only deliberated for approximately 30 minutes Friday before finding Petrie-Blanchard guilty of first-degree murder with a firearm. After her trial, the judge sentenced Petrie-Blanchard to life in prison.

“I want to thank the jurors for their diligence during the trial,” Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson said. “Being called upon to serve as a juror is one of the highest forms of community service. I also want to thank the prosecutors who worked tirelessly to seek justice on behalf of the victim and on behalf of the people of the great state of Florida.”

Assistant State Attorneys Amy Berndt and Toby Hunt successfully prosecuted the case.

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Terry Anderson, Reporter Held Hostage for Six Years, Dies at 76

The Beirut bureau chief for The Associated Press, he was kidnapped in 1985 by Islamic militants.

By Sam Roberts

Terry Anderson, the American journalist who had been the longest-held Western hostage in Lebanon when he was finally released in 1991 by Islamic militants after more than six years in captivity, died on Saturday at his home in Greenwood Lake, N.Y., in the Hudson Valley. He was 76.

The cause was apparently complications of recent heart surgery, his daughter Sulome Anderson said.

Mr. Anderson, the Beirut bureau chief for The Associated Press, had just dropped his tennis partner, an A.P. photographer, at his home after an early morning tennis match on March 16, 1985, when men armed with pistols yanked open his car door and shoved him into a Mercedes-Benz. The same car had tried to cut him off the day before as he returned to work from lunch at his seaside apartment.

The kidnappers, identified as Shia Hezbollah militants of the Islamic Jihad Organization in Lebanon, beat him, blindfolded him and kept him chained in some 20 hideaways for 2,454 days in Beirut, South Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley.

The militants, supported by Iran, indicated that they were retaliating against Israel’s use of American weapons in earlier strikes against Muslim and Druze targets in Lebanon. They had also been seeking to pressure the Reagan administration to secretly facilitate the illegal sales of weapons to Iran — an embarrassing scheme that became known as the Iran-contra affair because the administration had planned to use proceeds from the arms sales to secretly subsidize the right-wing contra rebels in Nicaragua.

Mr. Anderson was the last of 18 Western hostages released by the kidnappers. After he was freed, he married his fiancé, Madeleine Bassil, who had been pregnant when he was kidnapped, and, for the first time, met his 6-year-old daughter.

While he had not been tortured during his captivity, he said, he was beaten and chained. He spent a year or so, on and off, in solitary confinement, he said.

“There is nothing to hold on to, no way to anchor my mind,” he said after the ordeal. “I try praying, every day, sometimes for hours. But there’s nothing there, just a blankness. I’m talking to myself, not God.”

He found some consolation in the Bible, though, and added: “The only real defense was to remember that no one could take away my self-respect and dignity — only I could do that.”

Terry Alan Anderson was born on Oct. 27, 1947, in Lorain, Ohio, where his father, Glen, was the village police officer. When he was still young, the family moved to Batavia in western New York, where his father drove a truck and his mother, Lily (Lunn) Anderson, was a waitress.

After graduating from high school, he was accepted by the University of Michigan and offered a scholarship but decided to join the Marines instead. He served for five years in Japan, including in Okinawa, and in Vietnam, where he was a combat journalist. He spent a final year in Iowa as a recruiter.

After he was discharged, Mr. Anderson earned degrees in journalism and political science from Iowa State University while working for a local television station.

He worked for The A.P. in Japan and South Africa before beginning a two-and-a-half-year stint in Lebanon in 1983.

After his release, he owned a blues bar in Athens, Ohio, and ran unsuccessfully as a Democrat for the Ohio State Senate in 2004. He sued Iran for $100 million in damages in a federal court and eventually collected about $26 million from Iranian assets in the United States that had been frozen by the government. His windfall lasted about seven years; he filed for bankruptcy in 2009.

Mr. Anderson established a foundation, the Vietnam Children’s Fund, with a friend, Marcia Landau, which built more than 50 schools in Vietnam. He also contributed $100,000 to endow the Father Lawrence Jenco Foundation, named for a fellow hostage who was the director of the Catholic Relief Services in Beirut. The foundation supports community service projects in Appalachia.

“Though my father’s life was marked by extreme suffering during his time as a hostage in captivity, he found a quiet, comfortable peace in recent years,” his daughter Sulome said. “I know he would choose to be remembered not by his very worst experience, but through his humanitarian work with the Vietnam Children’s Fund, the Committee to Protect Journalists, homeless veterans and many other incredible causes.”

Mr. Anderson taught at the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism, Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University, the University of Kentucky, the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and the University of Florida.

In addition to his daughter Sulome, he is survived by Ms. Bassil, his second of three wives, whom he married in 1993; another daughter, Gabrielle Anderson, by his first wife, Mihoko Anderson; a sister, Judy Anderson; and a brother, Jack.

Another sister, Peggy Say, figuratively wrapped America in a yellow ribbon of remembrance and rallied humanitarian groups and world figures to keep her younger brother from being forgotten after he was abducted. She died in 2015.

In 1993, Mr. Anderson published a memoir, “Den of Lions: Memoirs of Seven Years.” In The New York Times Book Review , Prof. Eugene Kennedy of Loyola University in Chicago called it “an improbable and moving love story” of a world-weary correspondent guilty over a failed marriage who falls in love with a beautiful Lebanese Maronite Catholic, a relationship that restores his religious conviction and provides a spiritual foundation “for his surviving his arbitrarily brutal years as a captive.”

As much as captivity was an ordeal, Mr. Anderson recalled, so was re-acclimating to what he called “the real world.”

“I had problems, and it took me a long time to begin to cope with them,” he said. “People ask me, ‘Did you get over them?’ I don’t know! Ask my ex-wife — ask my third ex-wife. I don’t know; I am who I am.”

“I was damaged a great deal more than I was aware of — than anyone was aware of,” he said, adding, “It takes as long to recover as the time you spent in prison.”

Neil MacFarquhar contributed reporting.

Sam Roberts is an obituaries reporter for The Times, writing mini-biographies about the lives of remarkable people. More about Sam Roberts