Cruising with kids has become more exciting and accessible than ever. From toddlers to teens, there’s a cruise line for every age group, complete with kid clubs, waterparks, character meet-and-greets, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a look at the top family-friendly cruise lines and what makes each one special.
1. Disney Cruise Line
Best for: Families with young kids, Disney fans, multigenerational groups
Highlights:
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Character meet-and-greets (Mickey, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar)
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Rotational dining with Disney-themed restaurants
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Broadway-style shows and fireworks at sea
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Extensive kids' clubs (ages 3–17) and “it’s a small world” nursery for infants
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Castaway Cay (private island in the Bahamas)
Ships to consider: Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy
Tip: Book early — Disney cruises sell out fast, especially during school holidays.
2. Royal Caribbean International
Best for: Active families with kids and teens
Highlights:
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Zip lines, surf simulators, skydiving simulators, and ice skating
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Award-winning Adventure Ocean Youth Program
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Family suites and family-connected staterooms
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Waterparks and glow-in-the-dark laser tag
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Private island destination: Perfect Day at CocoCay with water slides and a beach club
Ships to consider: Wonder of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas
Tip: Larger ships have the best family features — ideal for energetic kids and thrill-seeking teens.
3. Carnival Cruise Line
Best for: Budget-friendly family vacations
Highlights:
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Seuss at Sea programming (Green Eggs and Ham breakfast, parades, storytime)
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WaterWorks waterpark and mini-golf
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Camp Ocean (ages 2–11), Circle “C” (12–14), and Club O2 (15–17)
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Family Harbor staterooms with exclusive lounge access
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Nighttime babysitting and late-night activities
Ships to consider: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Panorama
Tip: Great value for large families and shorter itineraries.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Best for: Flexible family travel with casual vibes
Highlights:
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No set dining times — great for unpredictable family schedules
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Splash Academy and Entourage teen club
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Family mini-suites and interconnecting staterooms
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Go-karts, ropes courses, and VR gaming (on newer ships)
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Freestyle dining and entertainment options
Ships to consider: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Breakaway
Tip: Look out for “Kids Sail Free” promotions.
5. MSC Cruises
Best for: International families and affordable European itineraries
Highlights:
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LEGO-themed kids clubs and activities
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Chic, modern ships with family cabins
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Free kids’ fares (seasonally available)
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Partnerships with Chicco (baby/toddler equipment onboard)
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MSC Yacht Club (luxury option with family perks)
Ships to consider: MSC Seashore, MSC Euribia, MSC Meraviglia
Tip: Great value in Europe and the Caribbean; expect a multicultural experience.
6. Princess Cruises
Best for: Relaxed family vacations with educational activities
Highlights:
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Discovery at SEA (in partnership with Animal Planet & Discovery Channel)
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Camp Discovery for kids and teens
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Family-friendly shore excursions
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Movies Under the Stars and splash pools
Ships to consider: Discovery Princess, Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess
Tip: Best suited for families looking for a quieter, enriching cruise experience.
7. Holland America Line
Best for: Multigenerational travel with older kids or teens
Highlights:
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Club HAL for kids and tweens
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EXC (Explorations Central) shore immersion programs
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Family staterooms and quiet onboard vibe
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Culinary classes and music walk (BB King's Blues Club, Billboard Onboard)
Ships to consider: Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam
Tip: Not as flashy as others — perfect for families wanting culture over waterparks.
Choosing the Right Cruise for Your Family
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Cruise Line
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Best For
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Ages Best Suited
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Price Range
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Top Perks
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Disney
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All ages, Disney fans
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0–17+
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$$$$
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Characters, Castaway Cay
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|
Royal Caribbean
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Active families
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5–17
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$$$
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Thrill activities, CocoCay
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|
Carnival
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Budget travelers
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2–17
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$$
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Dr. Seuss, WaterWorks
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Norwegian
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Flexible schedules
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5–17
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$$–$$$
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Go-karts, Free-style dining
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MSC Cruises
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Euro-style cruising
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2–17
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$$
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LEGO programs, family cabins
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Princess
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Educational travel
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7–17
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$$–$$$
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Discovery programming
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Holland America
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Quiet, older families
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8–17
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$$$
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Cultural enrichment
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Bonus Tips for Cruising with Kids
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Pack a carry-on with swimsuits so you can hit the pool immediately after boarding.
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Download the cruise app for daily activity schedules.
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Reserve kids club spots early — especially on Disney and Royal Caribbean.
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Choose early dining to keep the little ones on schedule.
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Look for family promotions — like free or discounted kids' fares.
