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The Family Vacation Guide

8 of the Best Cruises for a Family of 5

posted by Charmaine Cortes on January 5, 2023 // last updated on January 11, 2023

Cruise vacations are excellent for relaxation and exploring new destinations. They are also very convenient for planning as cruise ships provide transportation, accommodation, and entertainment. 

That said, finding the right cruise vacation can be challenging, especially when trying to cater to a bigger family. If you are searching for a cruise for a family of 5, read our list below and find the one that best fits your family’s needs.

Royal Caribbean

Disney cruise line, princess cruise line, carnival cruise line, norwegian cruise line, msc cruises , costa cruises, celebrity cruises.

The Royal Caribbean cruises are designed for family vacations providing amenities and activities for guests from multiple generations. The ships from Royal Caribbean offer fun and educational activities for kids and teens as well as many evening shows and events for adult cruisers. 

With Royal Caribbean, you don’t need to worry about planning a vacation, as each ship provides dining options, activities for all ages and preferences, and outstanding entertainment.

Activities on board 

Each cruise ship offers so much to do to fill your days with fun while onboard. The cruisers can play on the water slides, participate in laser tag battles, play mini golf, and do much more. There is also a surf simulator and zip lining for adventurers. 

The cruisers can also try rock climbing, go-karts, ice skating, playing an escape room game, and jumping on the trampolines. The activities vary from one ship to another, but each one offers many activities for the cruisers. 

Entertainment 

During the night, the Royal Caribbean cruise provides musicals and shows that you can enjoy with your whole family. From productions from Broadway and ice skating shows to aqua theater shows, such cruises provide a variety of entertainment. 

The full-scale productions happen every night on every cruise and feature award-winning shows.

Dining 

To fuel your body between the adventures and the onboard activities, Royal Caribbean has restaurants providing delicious meals from a variety of cuisines across the world. There are dining and beverage packages, complimentary dining, and specialty dining venues with a broad selection of foods. 

Cruise rooms 

The Royal Caribbean ships have modern cruise rooms designed with every type of guest in mind. The cruise rooms are stylish and offer plenty of room and comfort, making their ships suitable for larger families. 

There are spacious interiors and connecting rooms to accommodate larger families and staterooms for couples. You can also opt for luxury cruise suite accommodations that will elevate your vacation experience to another level.

If you would like to surprise your family with a magical vacation experience, the Disney Cruise Line might be the best option for you. The cruise ships from Disney combine fun and relaxation, providing activities for the whole family.

The Disney Cruise Ships never disappoints when it comes to entertainment, dining venues, and amenities for the guests and this cruise line attracts plenty of travelers every year. 

The Disney Cruise Line is known for meet and greets with Mickey Mouse, Disney princesses, and other popular Disney characters. 

Every day is an adventure on the Disney Cruise Ships, which offers fun activities for the whole family, making the journey very exciting. 

Aside from Disney character experiences, the cruisers can also expect themed deck parties and 3D Disney movies. 

The imaginative youth clubs allow the children to learn and play in large play spaces, while the adults-only areas on the ship include many bars and pubs. 

The Disney Cruise also features pools and recreation activities, including waterslides, a spa and salon, and sports and fitness centers.

Throughout the voyage, the family-friendly cruise ships offer live musicals for the whole family and magnificent firework shows. 

The Disney Cruise Lines have many live shows based on classic Disney movies that are suitable for guests of all ages.

The Disney Cruise Line offers many dining options for the cruisers, including themed restaurants, poolside snacks, and 24-hour room service. 

The food is prepared by renowned chefs who are known to accommodate customers with different dietary restrictions. There are also themed nightclubs and lounges for the adult cruisers

Their spacious cabins can easily accommodate a family of 5, and they typically come with two bathrooms, allowing more people to get ready at the same time. 

The largest Concierge-level suites can accommodate up to 7 people, so you can easily find a stateroom for your needs by providing the number of guests while booking.

Princess offers cruise vacations for every generation. You can choose from popular cruise destinations and participate in fun activities to spend quality time with your family. The Princess Cruise Lines are also known for excellent food and service. 

This American cruise line hosts numerous passengers every year and their family-friendly ships such as the Caribean Princess offer plenty of fun activities for the children including a youth and teen center, a splash zone, HD movies under the stars, and a lot more. 

What differentiates Princess cruise vacations from so many others is that the ships provide destination-themed activities such as traditional live performances, dance lessons, and local dishes served at the restaurants.

Among the fun ship activities are festival celebrations and multimedia presentations provided by local destination experts. 

The adults on the cruise can also learn to prepare gourmet specialties, do wine tasting, participate in world-class gaming, and attend art history lectures. 

During your Princess cruise voyage, you can also take a dip in the sparkling freshwater pools or relax in the hot tubs. The Princess ship cruises also have activities for sports enthusiasts and allow the guests to participate in fun dance classes. 

Princess also offers unique activities such as Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions. One of their kid-friendly cruises, Caribbean Princess, includes Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Center and HD Movies Under the Stars. 

There is also a Reef Family Splash Zone that features an interactive water playground with a splash pool. 

The Princess Cruise Lines feature plenty of dazzling live shows from performers around the globe. The cruise ships provide plenty of hit production shows.

Apart from the shows, the cruisers can also participate in game shows such as Deal or no Deal, and The Voice of the Ocean, based on the popular singing competition, and attend magician and comedian shows, watch movies at the poolside movie theater, and more. 

The chefs from the Princess Cruise Lines offer many tasty dishes that tell stories of their own. You can opt for a formal dinner or order from casual eateries with your family. 

Moreover, the guests can order their favorite foods and drinks and have them delivered with free delivery.

Room suites 

The room suites from the Princess Cruise Line can easily accommodate large family groups. The cruisers can choose from inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins, and suits, depending on the cruise ship and their needs and preferences.

The Carnival Cruise Line is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable cruise for a family of 5. The ship cruises feature spacious cabins for larger families and various onboard attractions. 

The family-friendly ships offer some of the most entertaining voyages for children and adult cruisers and offer affordable prices for the amenities. 

With the Carnival Cruise Line, you can explore great destinations and join popular onboard activities such as ‘Family Feud Live’, Waterworks, and Skyride. 

The adults can also join a Cloud 9 spa and the serenity adult-only retreat. The carnival Cruise ships also include parties, shops, fitness, and more.

The adult cruisers can also have a fun night in the nightclubs, join themed parties or visit the casino. 

On such a cruise, the whole family can have an excellent time during the vacation and enjoy live music and comedy shows. The cruising ships also feature karaoke, a theater, and a piano bar. 

The guests on the cruise have several dining choices, such as a steakhouse, a sea day brunch, a seafood shack, and many restaurants, which makes it a fantastic cruise line afloat. Aside from the various dining choices, the Carnival cruise ships also have themed bars for adult cruisers.

The Carnival Cruise Line caters to all types of passengers. Hence, they have many options when it comes to accommodation. Larger families can choose from flexible staterooms, connecting rooms, and suite rooms with an extra bathroom. 

Aside from the large cabins with enough space for up to five passengers, you can also book a family harbor suite and get a family lounge with Wi-Fi, snacks, movies, games, and other essentials.

If you and your family would like to experience new fun activities on board, you can look into the Norwegian Cruise Line deals. From music mania, ropes course, and laser tag to waterslides, Broadway musicals, and live performances, these cruise ships have something to offer for every passenger.

The Norwegian Cruise Line is known for their fun water parks, slides, and activities for cruisers of different generations. The children can join the splash academy and showcase their artistic skills. 

They can also enjoy themed parties and gaming, burn energy in the dynamic zone or relax in the chill zone; one thing is for sure, the activities make sure that no passenger gets bored during their vacation.

The newer Norwegian Cruise ships also offer VR experiences, bowling, and go-karting. Aside from the thrilling race track, the cruisers can also hang the largest ropes course, do rock climbing, and participate in other fun activities.

The cruisers can also relax on a chaise lounge, rejuvenate at the spa or have an energizing workout at the fitness centers. The Norwegian Cruise line also offers shore excursions for the cruisers. 

The Norwegian Cruise Line provides award-winning entertainment for the guests. During the night, the guests can enjoy watching musicals and shows, attending live music performances, or joining themed parties. 

The cruise ships also provide game and comedy shows as well as a variety of other exclusive entertainment.

The Norwegian Cruise line is very flexible when it comes to the dining system, so many eateries onboard allow families to plan their meals according to their liking and provide them with many food options.

The cruisers can enjoy various complimentary, specialty, and family dining options that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. 

All of the cruising ships offer crafted menus with every guest in mind. The guest can visit the Main Dining Rooms, go to the Buffets, or choose food from casual eateries. Their renewed chefs offer original dishes made with the finest ingredients, ensuring an incredible dining experience.

The Norwegian Cruise line has family mini-suites, balconies, oceanviews, and inside staterooms. Also, most of their ships have 2-bedroom family suites near the kids’ area.

The ship’s ocean-view cabins are suitable for larger families, but you also have the option to connect cabins or book a family suite for extra space and access to a private pool and a restaurant. 

MSC Cruises has one of the largest glamorous cruises offering excellent family deals. Given their partnership with LEGO, their cruise ships ensure that the children have a lot of fun on board. 

With MSC Cruises, you can visit amazing destinations and have an exciting vacation with your family. The MSC Cruises are also suitable for families with babies. Many of their ships have baby areas, special baby menus, and push chairs. 

The cruise ship activities provided by MSC Cruises ensure fun times during the day and at night. From the F1 simulator, bowling, and billiard room to arcade games and 4D cinema, there are plenty of activities to do and spend quality time with your family. 

The MSC Cruise lines also have a kid’s club devoted to LEGO building. Among the activities they offer is a Family Game Show, which is a competition for the whole family to dance and do selfie challenges. The passengers who like dancing can also join the Family Disco for a special disco time. 

For those passengers who enjoy outdoor activities, the Italian cruise line has zip lines, waterparks, swimming pools, and others, such as taking a skywalk on the Himalayan bridge and witnessing breathtaking ocean views.

MSC Cruises offers Broadway shows with international artists to entertain guests. The cruisers can also enjoy watching Carousel Production Sea shows with dance and live music, acrobatics, and innovative technology, offering world-class entertainment.

When it comes to dining, MSC Cruises offers packages from various cuisines, including Mediterranean and Asian. The packages offer many dining options suitable for everyone’s taste. 

You also have the option to book specialty dining packages in advance for a discounted price and enjoy an incredible dining experience. There are also drink packages for everyone, offering cocktails, premium drinks, alcohol-free packages, and minor packages. 

The MSC Cruises have spacious ocean-view cabins for larger family groups. However, you can also choose from the variety of connecting family cabins suitable for accommodation for up to 10 people. There are also duplex suites, grand suites, royal suites, and other cruise accommodations. 

With Costa Cruises , you can explore destinations across the world from a different perspective. With bright and sophisticated rooms, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone’s taste on these cruises. 

For the athletic cruisers, there are also equipped gyms, sports activities and tournaments, swimming pools and hot tubs, and massage and beauty treatments. 

With Costa Cruises, your cruise holiday can be filled with a lot of fun. The ships feature slides and waterparks, shows at the theater, game rooms, and more. Their cruising ships feature an Aqua Park dedicated to children where they can safely play water games.

There is also a Rope Garden Adventure Park for adventurers, an Outdoor Peppa Pig Area for family gathering moments, and a mini golf area for exciting challenges. The cruises have activities and games intended for every age group. 

There is also a Squok Club for arts and crafts with their entertainers and a teen zone offering board games, table tennis, and many sports tournaments. 

Certain Costa Cruise ships, such as Costa Esmeralda and Costa Toscana, also have babysitting services for families traveling with babies. 

The cruise lines offer entertainment throughout the day and the night. In the evening, the guests can enjoy watching shows and live performances at the theater, making the holidays an unforgettable experience. 

From comedy shows, musicals, games, acrobats, and more, the shows are designed for passengers of different age groups and preferences. 

The Costa Cruising ships not only provide an exploration of different places but also offer flavors from different regions of the world. 

The renowned chefs make a signature dish every night and offer destination dishes that represent the destination you are about to visit. 

The cruise ships have various themed restaurants. There are also wine bars for adults, ice cream parlors, and chocolate bars the whole family can enjoy.

Each of the suites on the Costa Cruises has its style, but they are all designed with modern touches. You can also book suites featuring a balcony allowing you to enjoy a scenic view while relaxing. Costa Cruises offers different suites, including large ones for families with multiple children. 

Celebrity Cruises boast large and luxurious cruising ships with technology features for an exclusive holiday experience. This is a cruise line designed for people with older children who value comfort and style while traveling.

These cruise lines are also designed for passengers with mobility issues in mind, and their attentive crew is always ready for assistance. The cruise lines provide a unique, comfortable, and fun experience, no matter your destination.

Activities on board

These cruising ships’ activities enable you to create memories and spend quality time with your family. 

Celebrity Cruises offer adventurous excursions on land and plenty of onboard activities, such as Xbox stations for video game tournaments, swimming in pools, archery tournaments, hot glass classes, and more. 

The cruise ships also provide spa and wellness treatments specially designed for teens. Moreover, they have autism-friendly ships with many products, services, and menu options. The ships also offer photography packages and cruise shopping.

Celebrity Cruises don’t disappoint when it comes to unique entertainment. The guests can gather for a movie night under the stars or participate in silent disco parties. There are also live music performances during the day and night and unpredictable parties that will make your voyage even more exciting. 

This cruising line also has an entertainment center and a program for children and teens. The Camp at the Sea program schedules activities based on the interest of the cruisers. The program covers art, recreation, culinary, and S.T.E.M. and has designed more than 500 activities.

The adult guests can also view main-stage productions with music, incredible acrobatics, and acting. On such a cruise ship, you can play Deal and no Deal, inspired by the popular game show, or play Bingo Express.

The delicious food also contributes to an amazing vacation experience. Hence, the renowned chefs from Celebrity Cruises offer appetizing scents and flavors. Here you can find specialty restaurants, various bars and lounges, and exclusive signature dishes. There is also an in-room kid’s menu with many delicious options.

Staterooms and suites

Celebrity Cruises have luxurious accommodations suitable for both solo travelers and bigger families with multiple children. The spacious styling rooms have exquisite bedding and offer picturesque views for the guests. All of their rooms have a modern style.

If you are looking for a cruise for a family of 5, cruise lines such as the ones we have reviewed in this post can be an excellent option for your next holiday. Such cruise ships have spacious cabins for large families and offer various onboard activities for passengers of all age groups. 

The cruises also offer dining specialties from different cuisines and offer entertaining shows during the evenings.

Cruising makes for a unique cruising experience to spend with your family and have quality time together.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Best Cruise Lines for Families

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some peace and quiet, the kids will probably be eager to play. To help you find a cruise that fits your family's needs, U.S. News ranked the best cruise lines for families using a methodology that factors in health ratings, reputation among experts and approval among families with both younger and older kids.

Read Best Cruises Methodology

Find Cruises

Call to plan a cruise: 1-833-468-6732

with a cruise advisor

Disney Cruise Line

From its signature Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party to its pirate-themed dinners, Disney attracts passengers looking for a full roster of entertainment options. Passengers can enjoy kid-friendly dining venues and amenities, plus visits from Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. The line's cruise ships also offer adults-only dining areas, quiet pool spots and nightlife options.

• 4.46 Overall Rating
• 5 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean offers onboard amenities and a variety of sailings that cater to cruisers of all ages. Some of the line's cruise ships feature rock climbing walls and ice rinks, while others boast zip lines, bumper cars and waterslides. Every ship also hosts fun and educational programs for kids and teens, plus a variety of evening shows, bars and lounges for older travelers.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival's frequent sales and budget-friendly fares mean you and your cruising crew can save some money on a voyage filled with family-friendly perks. Cruise ships are outfitted with water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses to entertain kids of all ages. Meanwhile, grown-ups can head to the spa, the casino or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

• 3.90 Overall Rating

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian greets families with colorful cruise ships, ample onboard amenities and children's clubs. While adults are relaxing at the spa or gambling at the casino, kids can attend supervised youth programs where they can learn to juggle, enjoy arts and crafts or attend themed parties. Plus, children's menus are available in all of the line's restaurants, including specialty eateries.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' ships feature kids and teen clubs with activities like LEGO games, dance classes and sports tournaments. What's more, the whole family can enjoy onboard swimming pools and waterslides (on select ships). Families can also purchase the MSC Fun Pass to access special amenities like flight simulators, a bowling alley and the XD Interactive Cinema.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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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.

3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free

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.

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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Best Family & Kid Friendly Cruises

4 night cruise to the bahamas.

• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
• You don't need the flashy features of MSC's newer ships
• You want a cruise experience that focuses on unique itineraries
• You want splash parks, waterslides and bowling alleys onboard
• You are looking for a cruise that caters to North Americans

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

7 Night Cruise to Bermuda

• You want nearly a dozen different onboard dining options
• You appreciate a wide array of public rooms and lounges
• You enjoy vibrant, nonstop nightlife and production shows
• You're on a budget; extra onboard costs can add up quickly
• You prefer a more classic, quietly subdued cruise experience

7 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a cutting-edge family cruise with European flair
• You like nonstop activities with round-the-clock fun for all
• You want dozens of different bars, lounges and restaurants
• You don't want cruise catering to European tastes first
• You dislike announcements made in up to six different languages

7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want plenty of evening entertainment and production shows
• You don't mind paying extra for some specialty restaurants
• You want plenty of fun options for all ages by day and night
• You're after a more classic, laid-back onboard experience
• You prefer taking part in lectures and enrichment activities
• You don't like paying extra for drinks and other options

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

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

7 Night Cruise to Hawaii

• You want to sail on the only big ship operating from Honolulu
• You like plenty of dining and entertainment options onboard
• You want a good quality cruise around the Hawaiian Islands
• You don't want to sail to Hawaii; this ship is here year-round
• You are on a budget; these sailings can be quite pricey
• 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

15 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You like your ships and entertainment options super-sized
• You are traveling solo and want dedicated single cabins
• You are looking to stay in Norwegian's Haven suite area
• You want a standard oceanview room; there are none onboard
• You like ships small and intimate, with quiet spaces galore

14 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a big, reasonably sized ship with lots of amenities
• You like having fun diversions like an onboard bowling alley
• You're traveling as a family and want fun options for all
• You're looking for the biggest, newest cruise ships at sea
• You want thrill-seeking options like ziplines and racing tracks
• You are looking for a quiet, subdued onboard experience

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want solid entertainment and splashy, Broadway-style shows
• You like to keep busy, and want active days and vibrant nights
• You want a big ship cruise with plenty of bang for your buck
• You want longer cruises that explore uncommon destinations
• You prefer a more traditional, laid-back kind of cruise vacation

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 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

10 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a bevvy of dining, lounge and entertainment options
• You love being outdoors; The Waterfront promenade is a winner
• You like lavish suites and well-appointed cabin options
• You don't want to pay extra for some of the ship's best features
• You dislike crowds for shows and popular top-deck activities

11 Night Cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean

• You want a classy, adult-oriented cruise on a gracious ship
• You enjoy having plenty of big-ship amenities and features
• You want an upscale cruise experience at an affordable price
• You dislike paying extra for drinks, gratuities and excursions
• You are looking for a true luxury cruise ship experience
• You want the latest and most technically innovative ship

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Everything about a vacation should be easy, especially the planning stage.

Create an all-inclusive cruise experience by combining our vacation packages to elevate your vacation to the next level. With our standard cruise-only rate, you’ll get to enjoy a stay in one of our spacious staterooms, delicious gourmet meals at our restaurants, and a slate of activities and entertainment shows—without ever worrying about the tab.

We also have a number of cruise, hotel and flight packages, Alaska and Galapagos cruise and land tours, and our unrivaled luxury vacation experience at The Retreat, where you're attended too by a dedicated team of butlers and concierges who make sure you don’t lift a finger throughout your customized all-inclusive cruise.

Create Your All-Inclusive Cruise Package

With Flights by Celebrity, we’ll get you from the tarmac to the top deck. Our dedicated Flights by Celebrity specialists find the best available rates for flights to your departure port and back, and are available 24/7 to assist you with any help you may need along the way.

Spectacular suites, an exclusive restaurant, and a private lounge are all a part of the all-inclusive cruise package when you book a stay at The Retreat, our luxury vacation experience.

Extend your vacation in Alaska with one of our Alaska Cruisetours, which combines a seven-night cruise with a fascinating land tour around destinations including Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali.

Discover the beauty of the Galapagos Islands on one of our all-inclusive cruises to this ecological paradise. Our Galapagos cruises include vacation options that combine a stunning cruise with a few nights in Quito, Ecuador or the ruins of Machu Picchu.

The best way to experience our port destinations is by signing up for one of our shore excursions, which vary from cultural tours and activities to exciting outdoor adventures and water sports.

Embark on an in-depth experience in the city where your cruise starts or ends. Stay in accommodations we’ve carefully selected. Enjoy tours guided by experts to see the must-sees and do the must-dos. Take private transportation between your airport, hotel, and ship.

Popular All-Inclusive Cruises

Plan your next vacation aboard one of our all-inclusive cruises. Take the entire family on a cruise of a lifetime, where they’ll enjoy world-class dining, unparalleled entertainment, and impeccable service. Celebrate a special occasion and escape on a romantic getaway at sea. Or simply take some much needed time off on one of our award-winning cruises, where you’ll find it impossible not to relax and unwind.

Our cruises travel to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Soak in the sun during a cruise to the idyllic islands of the Caribbean . Discover ancient history and exquisite cuisine while sailing around the Mediterranean . Find adventure when taking a Alaskan cruise , where glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife roam. And take the journey of a lifetime across the Atlantic Ocean. Book one of our all-inclusive cruise deals, and take the guesswork out of your next getaway.

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Alaska cruises, mediterranean cruises, weekend cruises, cruises for families, cruises for two, view all cruises, sign up and start planning your best vacation ever..

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Bring Your Crew To Meet Our Crew

Share a world of fascinating cultures, natural wonders and engaging adventures with your entire family on an unforgettable Holland America Line cruise. On board, kids can join other young travelers for supervised, age-appropriate games and activities. Plus, the whole family can learn to make tasty brownies at a live cooking show. In port, experience fascinating destinations on family-friendly shore excursions.

A Journey For All Ages

Dining Options For Everyone

Perfect For Reunions

Staterooms & suites to fit your family, featured shore excursions.

From Alaska’s mighty glaciers to Europe’s great cathedrals to the Caribbean’s white-sand beaches, explore the world—together or independently—on a wide array of family-friendly shore excursions for every age, activity level and interest.

Featured Itineraries

Imagine spring break in the Bahamas, a sunny winter cruise along the Mexican Riviera or a summer trip exploring the Mediterranean together. Choose your next family vacation from a wide array of 7- to 10-day cruises or longer adventures.

7-Day Mexican Riviera

What could be more relaxing than a San Diego roundtrip cruise to the Mexican Riviera? You can go deep-sea fishing in Cabo San Lucas. Savor Mazatlán’s distinctive cuisine. Visit the boutiques and galleries of Puerto Vallarta.

7-Day Classic California Coast

From sportfishing off Ensenada to swirling and sipping in wine-country ports, such as San Francisco and Monterey, you'll enjoy a delightful vacation.

7-Day Alaskan Explorer

Embark on a convenient roundtrip Seattle adventure, offering spectacular Glacier Bay National Park, whale-watching and stops in rough-hewn Ketchikan and Alaska's capital, Juneau.

Family & Multigenerational Travel FAQs

Learn how your crew will have the experience of a lifetime cruising with Holland America Line.

Is there a minimum age for cruising on Holland America Line?

Infants must be at least six months of age at the time of embarkation. On longer cruises, such as transoceanic, South America, Asia, South Pacific or Hawaii voyages, infants must be a minimum of 12 months of age at the time of embarkation.

Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21 years old. One adult chaperone is required for every five people under the age of 21.

To confirm the minimum age for a cruise, please call 1-855-932-1711. 

Do you offer any discounts for kids?

For parties larger than two adults planning to travel in the same stateroom, our reduced fares for kids or extra guests beyond the first and second guest per room offer an exceptional value. Fares vary by departure date and stateroom category purchased, and during select promotions they may be free. (Whether cruise fares are reduced or free for these additional guests per stateroom, the cost of taxes, fees and port expenses per person still applies.)

On board, children 12 or under receive half off in our specialty dining restaurants or can select items from a special kids’ menu for free.

Many of our award-winning shore excursions also offer reduced pricing for kids. 

Do you have staterooms that accommodate families?

Our staterooms and suites come in an array of sizes and configurations to fit your family. Family-friendly options include sofa beds, Murphy beds and connecting rooms.  Nieuw Statendam  and  Koningsdam  also feature dedicated family staterooms with beds for five guests, extra closet space and two bathrooms — one with a bathtub, shower, sink and toilet and one with a shower and sink.

To learn more about family cruises with Holland America Line  here .

For help finding your ideal stateroom, please call us at 1-855-932-171

Do you have portable cribs, high chairs and other infant / toddler items available on board?

A limited number of portable cribs, high chairs and booster chairs are available on board at no charge. For safety reasons, all infants sleeping in a portable crib must weigh 30 pounds or less, with a maximum height of 34 inches. Portable cribs will be supplied with sheets and a blanket and do not require bumpers, as they have mesh siding. In addition, we have select infant supplies available for purchase by advance order, including diapers, baby wipes, formula and baby food.

We recommend requesting a portable crib at booking or by contacting Ship Services at (800) 541-1576. For additional requests and advance orders, please fill out our Infant Request Form and email it to HAL_Ship_ [email protected].

REQUESTS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 90 DAYS PRIOR TO SAILING

We cannot guarantee fulfillment of any items ordered less than 90 days prior to sailing. 

Do you offer babysitting on board?

Babysitting service is not offered on board.

Does Holland America Line offer onboard programs for kids or teens?

Yes, we offer supervised, age-appropriate games, sports and activities on board for kids and ‘tweens while teens can enjoy an exclusive venue and special events.

Where are kids allowed on board the ship?

We have a variety of entertainment options, daily activities and dining venues for everyone in your family to craft their ideal day. However, there a few age restrictions on board.

Guests must be 18 or older to use our SeaView Pool and 16 or older to use the fitness center, hot tubs and steam rooms. Children wearing any type of diaper, including swimming diapers, or who are not toilet trained are not allowed into the swimming pool and whirlpool areas.

Children are welcome at our World Stage shows but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian and must be 18 or older to sit in the first two rows. 

What dining options are available for kids?

Children are welcome in any of our dining venues. A special kids’ menu is available at each venue, and we can accommodate a variety of dining restrictions and preferences. Our kids’ menu includes favorites such as pizza, chicken strips and mac and cheese, as well as salads, soups and fresh fruit. Menu items from the daily menu are also available in half portions upon request. And if your child is celebrating a birthday on board, ask our dining crew for a special, personal-sized cake!

Children 12 or under receive half off in our specialty dining restaurants or can select items from the kids’ menu for free.

Learn more about family cruises with Holland America Line .

For your convenience, a variety of optional  beverage packages  are available for sale to accommodate the varied needs of your family. You may purchase these in advance of your cruise or after you embark.

What kind of holiday celebrations can be enjoyed on board?

We celebrate a variety of holidays on board and offer special holiday voyages on every ship in late December. Leave the cooking, cleaning and stress behind and join us on an unforgettable cruise over the holidays!

For Christmas, there are festive decorations; caroling and singalongs; Catholic Mass and interdenominational services; and a special visit from Santa Claus. During each night of Hanukkah, a celebration and candle lighting is held for Jewish guests, and latkes are served daily for lunch in the Lido Market. And on New Year’s Eve we ring in the New Year with festive dining, sparkling wine toasts, live music and dancing — it’s truly a Dressy Night to remember. 

To learn more about Holiday Cruises with Holland America Line click  here

Will my kids be able to go on shore excursions with Holland America Line?

Yes, you’ll find a range of experiences to suit the interests and activity levels of everyone in your family. Our family-friendly shore excursions give you new ways to discover destinations together.

Click to learn more about  family cruises with Holland America Line .

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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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Voted one of the best cruise lines for families by Travel Weekly!

There’s no easier way to travel with your family than on a cruise with Norwegian. Unpack once and visit multiple destinations whilst enjoying the comfort and convenience of the same stateroom throughout your entire holiday. Whether you’re exploring with fully planned Free Shore Excursions or discovering what’s on board — including a wide range of activities, award-winning entertainment and complimentary family programming, there’s something for everyone. Best part is the incredible value you get with Free Kids’ Clubs, Free Dining, Free 3 rd & 4 th Guests, Free Airfare for Second Guest^, Unlimited Open Bar and much more! Sail with Norwegian and give your family the time — and experiences — to create treasured memories.

The Perfect Family Cruise? Child's Play. Family Activities

• Pools & Aqua Parks
• Free Family Programming
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Towering waterslides. Multiple swimming pools. Tubing and splash parks. Soak it all in. Take the plunge on some of the fastest drop slides at sea. Splash the day away in the interactive Kids' Aqua Park.

The family that plays together stays together! From activities like the fan-favourite game show Music Mania to the brain-teasing Beat Your Bedtime to dance tournaments to sports competitions and more, you'll have endless ways to make memories - and laughs - for the whole gang.

Let them eat cake. And tacos. And steak. And sushi. You'll find every cuisine imaginable on all of our ships, so there's no such thing as a picky eater out here. Combine this much variety with our famous complimentary buffet, main dining rooms and Free Speciality Dining with Free At Sea, and you'll be wishing there were more meals in a day. Best part, kids under 12 eat free at all of our speciality restaurants!

There's something for everyone on all of our ships - families can stay busy from dusk till dawn, then wake up and start anew. Step into a virtual world at our video arcade, Galaxy Pavilion. Play nine holes of Mini Golf as you sail over the ocean. Capture aliens as a family with a round of Laser Tag. Bring on the competition with sports ranging from bocce ball and pickle ball to subsoccer and basketball. Together or apart, it's always time for play time!

Ready to rev it up? Zoom around the only race tracks at sea. Fly down the fastest dry slides at sea. Conquer the largest ropes course at sea, zip line over the ocean, venture up a climbing wall, then rappel down. If you're feeling extra daring, venture out onto The Plank - a rush like no other. These activities give "action-packed" a whole new meaning.

The enjoyment doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Take in family-friendly Broadway musicals like Beetlejuice , Choir of Man , Jersey Boys and more. Or go for gold at live game shows like The Price Is Right , Press Your Luck and Deal Or No Deal . Entertainment and excitement — we’ve got it all.

If You're Going to Act Like a Child, Come Aboard. COMPLIMENTARY YOUTH CLUBS

Guppies Programme (6 months to under 4 years old)

Splash Academy (Ages 3–12)

Entourage (Ages 13–17)

Group Babysitting

NOTE: Splash Academy and Entourage services are offered on a first come, first served basis and require an onboard registration. We recommend you board as early as possible and register with the Youth Programmes Staff either at Splash Academy or Entourage facilities. . Norwegian Spirit does not offer Youth Programmes.

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Get up and stay family accommodations.

• Balcony Staterooms
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The Haven ® offers families an exclusive enclave with our most luxurious accommodations. Includes a 24-hour butler, as well as a private sundeck, pool and restaurant.

Balcony staterooms provide an extra interior space, spectacular views, privacy and an outdoor space that serves as an extension of the room. They start at 200 square feet, sleep up to 4 and come with amenities like a TV, mini fridge and a coffee maker, plus a bonus spacious sitting area. You can also book connecting balcony staterooms, allowing plenty of room to roam whilst keeping the family close.

These family-size accommodations place you near all the kid-friendly action, including our complimentary youth programmes and the pool deck. Wake up to brilliant views from your sliding glass doors, grab coffee on the balcony and kick back in the living and dining area. Be sure to call for butler and concierge service anytime you like. 574 sq. ft.* of space includes a double bed a double sofa bed and a Murphy bed. *Accommodates up to six guests.

For larger groups (or larger kids), our 2-bedroom suites are the perfect solution. Features a large private balcony, a spacious dining area (ask your butler to organise a feast!) and two bedrooms - one with a king-size bed and walk in-closet and one with two lower convertible beds. Sleeps up to 6 guests.

A Cruise for the Whole Family GROUP TRAVEL

Big family? We've got you covered, and we'll help you save! Book 5 cabins and enjoy a variety of discounts, plus a Free Onboard Credit. You'll also get a dedicated Groups Concierge who can pre-arrange meals, parties, shore excursions and more. From Broadway shows to fine dining to complimentary kids' clubs, there's something for everyone from day to night on Norwegian.

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Cruising with a baby: top tips for new families.

THE BEST CRUISES FOR SMALL & LARGE FAMILIES

FAMILY ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY ON HARVEST CAYE

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

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Cruise kids clubs: All your questions answered about camps at sea

Quality time together is a hallmark of a great family vacation, but sometimes kids just want to play with their peers — and adults need a break. Cruise lines understand these dual needs deeply and have designed ships accordingly, with amazing, expansive cruise kids clubs.

Kids clubs give families more choices in daytime and evening activities because they have options to hang out together or spend time apart. The clubs take the pressure off parents to find fun, age-appropriate activities for their kids all day long while suppressing their own needs for R&R and couples time. Also, kids who need video game time or social interaction with new friends can escape their siblings and "boring" adults for an hour or two ... or more.

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

Curious about kids clubs on cruise ships and how they work? I've sent my own kids to clubs across multiple lines and toured dozens more, so I have the answers to all your questions about these camps at sea.

What is a kids club on a cruise ship?

Cruise kids clubs are a combination of daycare, camp and a super-cool clubhouse. Families can drop off their kids and teens for as little as an hour to as long as nearly a full day for supervised play with other cruisers their age. The spaces for kids on a cruise ship are often clustered together, though tween and teen clubs might be separate.

Kids are not required to visit the kids clubs and can spend as much or as little time in the facilities as they and their families choose. Younger kids must be signed in and out by an adult caregiver; older children and teens can sign themselves in and out.

The kids clubs are run by the ship's youth staff, who are trained and experienced in childcare. For example, Royal Caribbean requires a four-year university degree in education or a related field (or an international equivalent) and three to five years of work experience in childcare. Youth staff on all lines take more of an active role in activities with younger kids and serve more as cool facilitators with the teens.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

What are the ages for kids clubs on cruise ships?

Each cruise line divides up its kids clubs differently, but you can expect that the littlest kids and oldest teens will not be together.

The main kids club typically accepts children as young as 3 (and toilet trained) and goes up to 10, 11 or 12, depending on whether the ship has a separate tween club. Tween clubs are often for kids ages 11 or 12 to 14, and teen clubs take 13- or 14-year-olds through 17-year-olds.

Your 18-year-old high schooler will not be able to visit the teen club, so keep that in mind if you're planning to take a family cruise during spring break of your child's senior year, for example.

Some lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line , will accept kids in the club as young as 2 years old. Other lines, like Disney Cruise Line , have nurseries for babies and toddlers younger than 3.

The younger kids club might also divide attendees into smaller age groups for certain activities. For example, MSC Cruises offers a Mini Club for kids ages 3 to 6 and a Junior Club for kids ages 7 to 11. Carnival divides its Camp Ocean into Penguins (2 to 5 years old), Stingrays (6 to 8 years old) and Sharks (9 to 11 years old).

Related: Best kid-friendly cruises: The 7 best cruise ships for kids

Are kids clubs on cruises free?

Yes! All kids club activities during the day and early evening for kids and teens are included in your cruise fare.

However, you might have to pay extra to drop off babies and toddlers at onboard nurseries. Also, late-night childcare for kids in the main club — usually starting at 10 or 11 p.m. — might cost extra on your ship. Both are often charged at an hourly rate for the time you use, with the occasional sibling discount.

What are the kids club spaces like?

Kids clubs for 3- to 12-year-olds are often multipurpose spaces that the ship's youth staff can set up with tables and chairs or clear out for group games. They all come equipped with video game areas, with stations set up with monitors and game consoles, and some might have other high-tech games on the walls, floors or tables, or other games like air hockey or foosball. The spaces often have colorful decor, perhaps themed to the ocean or nature.

On Royal Caribbean 's larger ships, you'll find multiroom play areas with separate spaces for art workshops, science experiments, sports and active games, and theatrical productions. Disney's kids clubs have rooms themed to different movies and characters, including a replica of the Millennium Falcon from "Star Wars," a play area done up like Andy's room from "Toy Story" and Tinkerbell's Pixie Hollow. MSC Cruises' kids clubs have dedicated areas for building with Lego bricks.

Tween and teen lounges are cool hangouts with lots of comfy seating areas for chatting with newfound friends, checking social media accounts, playing games and watching movies. Some have dance floors with DJ booths and mocktail or soda bars. A few even have outdoor patio space for sunbathing, occasionally with a hot tub, splash pool or lawn games.

Related: The 5 best cruises for teens

Nurseries and play spaces for younger cruisers have age-appropriate toys and soft flooring, perhaps even a small climbing structure or slide. Nurseries will have a quiet area with cribs and cots in the back for naptime, as well as diaper changing stations.

Kids clubs all have bathrooms in them, often with kid-height facilities.

What activities can my child do in a cruise kids club?

Cruise ship kids clubs offer a mix of free play and guided group activities, so there's something for every child to enjoy.

Kids can enjoy traditional camp activities like arts and crafts, silly group games and scavenger hunts around the ship. They can also get active with sports competitions in the club or up on the ship's sports courts. When it's screen time, kids can challenge each other to video games or gather together to watch a movie on a big screen. Science experiments and puppet shows are also popular activities.

Tween and teen activities lean more toward parties, foosball tournaments, sports and group games, with lots of unstructured time for hanging out. Events might take place around the ship, not just in the tween or teen club.

The youngest cruisers can enjoy story time, song sessions and other toddler games.

Are the kids clubs open all day?

Open hours for cruise kids clubs will vary by ship and itinerary. On one sailing, you might find different opening times for sea days versus port days.

Generally, kids clubs are open from 9 or 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Some will be open until midnight or 1 a.m., and some will charge an hourly rate to watch your kids after 10 or 11 p.m. Some kids clubs might close for lunch or dinner, so be sure to check when you drop off your kids the time you need to pick them up.

On port days, cruise kids clubs often open an hour before disembarkation time, especially clubs that allow parents to drop off their kids and explore in port without them.

Tween and teen clubs might not open until the afternoon to accommodate late sleepers. On the flip side, these clubs will run programming later in the evening without additional fees.

Is there food at cruise kids clubs?

Cruise kids clubs don't generally serve food due to the number and variety of food allergies found in the hundreds of kids who could be on board a ship at any time.

Some cruise ship kids clubs might offer special group lunches or dinners in the buffet or even offer a cooking class. Clubs that offer port day care while parents are ashore will, of course, make sure kids get lunch.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Can kids clubs accommodate children with disabilities?

Cruise lines try to be as accommodating as possible of travelers with disabilities, and the youth staff is happy to work with families to welcome kids with special needs into the kids clubs. However, do not expect one-on-one care or highly trained special needs professionals.

Several lines, such as Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, require youth staff members to undergo autism awareness training. Carnival has partnered with KultureCity to become "sensory inclusive" certified to work with guests with autism, ADHD and Down syndrome. Its kids clubs are stocked with helpful items, such as weighted vests, sensory games and conversation cards.

Families should notify a cruise line's special needs department ahead of sailing to alert them to their child's needs. Once on board, you might be able to move your child to a different age group to be with a sibling or to accommodate developmental differences. Most youth staff cannot help with toileting but might be willing to give caregivers a pager so they can come and help when required.

Alternatively, ship staff might allow a parent or caregiver to accompany a child with special needs to certain kids club activities.

How do cruise kids clubs handle safety?

Youth staff are all carefully vetted; they're required to be first aid-certified and undergo reference and background checks.

Ships have protocols for what to do in case of an emergency if children are in the cruise kids clubs. Youth staff will either bring them to their muster stations or to a central pickup point, and at no time will leave children unattended.

Additionally, kids clubs have rules for fire safety, including a maximum occupancy. During peak family travel times, you might find that you can't drop off your child at the kids club when you wish because it has reached full occupancy, and you'll need to wait for someone to leave before your kid can enter.

Related: Are cruises safe? Here's what you need to know about cruise ship security and safety

Which cruise lines have kids clubs?

All of the big-ship cruise lines have kids clubs. Cruise lines with a greater family focus will often devote more onboard space to youth facilities, though newer, bigger ships will typically have larger kids clubs. Lines like Holland America and Celebrity Cruises are more adult-focused and still have kids clubs, but they might not have the same wow factor.

Here's an overview of the major cruise lines' kids clubs:

Carnival Cruise Line

The Carnival cruise kids club is called Camp Ocean, and its tween and teen clubs are Circle C and Club O2. Camp Ocean takes kids as young as 2 and is divided into three age groups: Penguins (2 to 5 years old), Stingrays (6 to 8 years old) and Sharks (9 to 11 years old).

Celebrity Cruises

Camp at Sea is Celebrity's cruise kids club. Younger cruisers are divided into Shipmates (3 to 5), Cadets (6 to 9) and Captains (10 to 12), and teens (13 to 17) get their own Teen Club. Some ships have a special STEM at Sea program in partnership with the Frost Science Museum.

Disney Cruise Line

The Disney cruise kids club is called the Oceaneer Club, sometimes with a second space called the Oceaneer Lab. Its tween and teen clubs are Edge and Vibe, and it offers the It's a Small World Nursery for babies and tots under 3. The Oceaneer Club is open to kids ages 3 to 10; they can choose from a number of simultaneous activities in the Disney-themed spaces.

Holland America

Holland America's aptly named Kids Club is divided into the Kids Program (ages 3 to 6), Tweens Program (ages 7 to 12) and Teens Program (ages 13 to 17). The kids club does not operate on 25-night or longer cruises, though the line will put on some activities for children sailing on these grand and world voyages.

Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Cruise Line kids club is named Splash Academy (ages 3 to 12), and its teen club is Entourage (13 to 17). The line also has a Guppies open play program for kids ages 6 months to 3 years, but an adult is required to accompany each child; it's not a drop-off service like the other kids clubs. Additionally, NCL does not offer kids programming when the ship is docked in port.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' kids club, Doremiland, is divided into five clubs based on age: Baby Club (up to 3 years old), Mini Club (ages 3 to 6), Junior Club (7 to 11), Young Club (12 to 14) and Teen Club (15 to 17). MSC Cruises is an outlier in that it offers free drop-off childcare for kids under 3, as well as spaces for parents and their babies and toddlers to play together.

Princess Cruises

The kids club on Princess Cruises is Camp Discovery. Kids ages 3 to 7 hang out in The Treehouse, kids ages 8 to 12 play in The Lodge and teens 13 to 17 hang out in the Beach House. Many activities are inspired by the cruise line's partnership with media company Discovery.

Royal Caribbean

The Royal Caribbean cruise kids club is Adventure Ocean. On newer ships, AO Juniors (kids ages 3 to 5) are separate from AO Kids (ages 6 to 12), while on older ships, they might be divided into separate spaces for Aquanauts (3 to 5 years old), Explorers (6 to 8 years old) and Voyagers (9 to 12 years old). Teens ages 13 to 17 are together in the teen club, and all but a few ships have nurseries for kids ages 6 to 36 months.

Do small ships or luxury lines offer kids clubs?

Some luxury lines embrace children, while others ban them from their decks. In general, most luxury lines will offer some kind of programming during school holidays when more kids than usual are on board.

Luxury cruise lines such as Crystal , Explora Journeys and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection actually have small kids clubs on board with programming either all the time or when enough kids are present. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships do not have youth facilities, but the line runs its Club Mariner Youth Program with age-appropriate activities when enough children are on board.

Lines like Silversea , Seabourn , Oceania and Azamara allow children on board but do not run special programs for them, though you might find an exception during Christmas week or another cruise with a greater-than-usual number of kids on board.

Some lines have age minimums. You must be 18 years old to cruise with Viking and 8 years old on Windstar Cruises .

Related: 12 tips for surviving a luxury cruise with kids

Bottom line

Cruise ship kids clubs provide a safe space for young travelers to meet and hang out with peers and enjoy age-appropriate activities in inviting spaces. The drop-off programming allows parents and caregivers to get some alone time to enjoy the ship's spa, upscale dining venue or adults-only spaces. Kids can join in the fun for as much of the day and evening as they want; many families will spend time on the ship together and only go their separate ways for a few hours per day.

Note that some young cruisers love the kids club and want to spend whole afternoons there, and others go once and refuse to go back. Your child's love or dislike of the kids club might even change over time or with different ships.

My best advice is to send your kid on the first evening to meet the counselors and the other children and to check out the activities when there is no expectation that they stay a certain amount of time. The more they feel that they can control when they go (and not that you are ditching them to have fun without them), the more likely they are to have a good experience.

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