Best Cruises for Kids: Fun Ships With Family-Friendly Perks

Key Highlights

• Discover the top cruise line options for your next family vacation, each offering unique kid-friendly perks.
• Explore ships packed with amazing onboard activities, from massive water parks to high-tech virtual reality arcades.
• Learn about family-focused amenities like dedicated kids’ clubs, spacious staterooms, and themed dining experiences.
• Find out which ships feature the most exciting attractions, including towering waterslides and fun-filled pool deck areas.
• Get tips on popular destinations and exciting shore excursions that are perfect for travelers of all ages.

Introduction

Are you trying to plan the ultimate family vacation? Choosing the right getaway that pleases everyone from toddlers to teens can be a challenge. That’s where a cruise comes in. The best cruise line can provide an unforgettable cruise experience, combining travel to exciting destinations with incredible onboard fun. Imagine a vacation where the planning is handled for you, giving you more time to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Let’s explore the best cruises for kids.

Best Cruises for Kids: Fun Ships With Family-Friendly Perks

Finding the best family cruise means selecting a cruise ship that is packed with features to keep everyone entertained. Top cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Carnival have designed their vessels with family fun in mind, offering a wide array of entertainment options for all ages.

From Broadway-style shows to thrilling water parks, these ships ensure your time at sea is just as exciting as your time in port. Let’s look at the top ships that promise an amazing adventure for your entire family.

1. Disney Dream – Ultimate Disney Magic at Sea

The Disney Dream brings the world of Disney to the high seas, creating a truly magical experience for children and adults alike. A staple of the Disney Cruise Line fleet, this ship excels at immersing you in classic stories and character interactions. You’ll find Mickey and friends roaming the decks, ready for photos and hugs.

One of the most unique features on Disney ships is rotational dining. Your family, along with your dedicated serving team, will rotate through three wonderfully themed main dining room locations each night, each with its own distinct menu and atmosphere. This system keeps mealtime fresh and exciting throughout your journey.

Beyond dining, the entertainment options are second to none. Enjoy original, Broadway-caliber musicals in the Walt Disney Theatre or watch the latest Disney movie releases. For kids, the Oceaneer Club offers imaginative play areas that bring their favorite movies to life, making it a standout choice for families.

2. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas – Action-Packed Adventures

For families seeking non-stop action, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is a game-changer. This ship introduces a new class of adventure with neighborhoods designed for every type of traveler. The standout for families is Surfside, a neighborhood dedicated to young families, complete with splash areas, a carousel, and family-friendly dining.

The ship is home to Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, located within the Thrill Island neighborhood. It features six record-breaking slides, offering an unmatched thrill waterpark experience. For lodging, the Ultimate Family Townhouse is a multi-level suite with its own slide, movie room, and direct access to the Surfside neighborhood, creating a private playground for your family.

Of course, the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program is also on board, providing engaging and educational activities for kids of all ages. With so many high-energy activities, Icon of the Seas ensures that no one in the family will ever be bored.

3. Carnival Mardi Gras – Endless Onboard Fun

Carnival Mardi Gras takes family fun to a new level with its innovative “zones,” each offering a unique environment and set of activities. This Carnival Cruise ship is famous for BOLT, the first-ever roller coaster at sea, which provides an incredible adrenaline rush with ocean views. The ship is designed to feel like a destination in itself.

The entertainment is interactive and engaging for all ages. You can participate in a live, onboard version of the popular TV game show, Family Feud Live, creating hilarious memories. The ship also features a massive water park with multiple twisting slides and a PowerDrencher tipping bucket, perfect for cooling off on a sea day.

When it comes to dining, there are plenty of options beyond the main dining rooms, including specialty dining from Guy Fieri and Shaquille O’Neal. In the evenings, the Punchliner Comedy Club offers both family-friendly and adults-only shows, ensuring everyone has a great time. Carnival’s focus on high-energy fun makes it a strong contender for families with young children.

4. Norwegian Encore – High-Tech Thrills and Activities

If you have teens or older kids who love technology and thrills, the Norwegian Encore from Norwegian Cruise Line is an excellent choice. The ship is packed with high-tech entertainment, including one of the largest and most elaborate go-kart tracks at sea. This two-level Speedway hangs 13 feet over the side of the ship, offering a competitive and exhilarating race experience.

Another major draw is the Galaxy Pavilion, a sprawling virtual reality complex. Here, your family can immerse themselves in virtual reality games, simulator rides, and an escape room. The open-air laser tag arena, themed around the lost city of Atlantis, adds another layer of exciting competition for the whole family.

Beyond the high-octane activities, Norwegian Encore offers a wide variety of specialty restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries, ensuring even picky eaters are satisfied. These advanced entertainment options make it a top pick for families with teens who might have outgrown traditional kids’ clubs.

5. MSC Seashore – LEGO-Themed Family Experiences

MSC Cruises has partnered with LEGO to create an unparalleled family experience on ships like the MSC Seashore. This partnership is evident in the vibrant and engaging kids clubs, which are divided by age group and filled with thousands of LEGO bricks. The ship even hosts a “LEGO Experience on Board,” an entire day dedicated to creative building activities for the whole family.

The ship’s design focuses on connecting guests with the sea, featuring a stunning waterfront promenade with glass-floored walkways. For families, the Pirates Cove Aquapark is a major highlight, with slides, an adventure trail, and plenty of space to splash around. MSC Seashore also offers some of the most spacious family staterooms at sea.

When booking your cruise, amenities like these kids clubs and water parks are crucial. MSC also provides special pricing on shore excursions for children and offers diverse dining choices, including buffet options and specialty restaurants, making it a well-rounded option for a family getaway.

6. Disney Wish – Fairy Tale Voyages for All Ages

The Disney Wish, one of the newest Disney ships, elevates the brand’s signature magical experience with new and enchanting features. This ship is a floating fairy tale, with a grand hall inspired by a castle and details from beloved stories woven throughout its design. For fans of a galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge offers an out-of-this-world experience for adults in the evening.

Like other Disney Cruise Line vessels, the Wish features rotational dining but with new, immersive restaurant concepts. You can dine with characters from “Frozen” or join Ant-Man and the Wasp in a Marvel cinematic dining adventure. These entertainment options are seamlessly integrated into the cruise, making every moment special.

Compared to Royal Caribbean’s high-thrill focus or Carnival’s party atmosphere, Disney offers a more story-driven, premium experience. While it often comes with a higher price tag, the unparalleled character interactions, themed dining, and Broadway-quality shows provide a unique value for families deeply invested in the Disney universe.

7. Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas – Largest Family Ship

As one of the world’s largest cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas is a floating city of fun specifically designed to keep everyone, especially children, entertained. The ship is divided into eight distinct neighborhoods, including the lush, open-air Central Park and the brand-new Suite Neighborhood for luxury guests.

The redesigned pool deck is more vibrant than ever, featuring The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides and the kids’ aqua park, Splashaway Bay. For adrenaline junkies, the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story dry slide, provides a heart-pounding plunge. These features ensure that the journey is as much of an attraction as the destinations.

This ship is a prime example of a vessel built for entertainment. From the AquaTheater, with its stunning high-diving shows, to the ice-skating rink and zip line, there’s an activity for every member of the family. The sheer scale and variety of options on Wonder of the Seas make it a top choice for families wanting endless things to do.

8. Carnival Panorama – Waterparks & Sky Zone Fun

Sailing primarily from the West Coast, the Carnival Panorama offers a fantastic option for families looking for Mexican Riviera adventures. This Carnival Cruise ship is packed with signature fun, including a massive WaterWorks aqua park. Here, you’ll find two large water slides, a PowerDrencher tipping bucket, and smaller slides for younger kids.

A unique feature on this ship is the indoor Sky Zone trampoline park, the first of its kind at sea. For an extra fee, your family can enjoy bounce sessions, a rock-climbing wall, and even glow-in-the-dark dodgeball. It’s a great way to burn off energy on a sea day, rain or shine.

For first-time family travelers, Carnival offers a straightforward and fun-filled cruise experience. The pricing is often inclusive, with plenty of complimentary dining, like the extensive lunch buffet, and entertainment included. This makes it easy to budget and enjoy your vacation without worrying about constant upcharges, making it an accessible choice for new cruisers.

9. Norwegian Joy – Kid Zones & Virtual Reality Games

Norwegian Joy, part of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, is another fantastic ship for families with teens and older kids who crave high-tech entertainment and thrilling activities. The ship features a two-level, open-air go-kart track where you can race against your family and fellow passengers for ultimate bragging rights.

The Galaxy Pavilion is a hub of futuristic fun, offering an impressive array of virtual reality experiences. You can pilot a starship, walk a virtual plank, or compete in various video games. The ship also boasts an outdoor laser tag arena, perfect for friendly competition. These attractions provide plenty of age-appropriate family fun.

Dedicated kid zones like the Splash Academy cater to younger children, but the ship truly shines with its offerings for teens. The combination of the racetrack, virtual reality arcade, and teen-only club makes Norwegian Joy a top contender for families looking to keep their older kids engaged and excited throughout the cruise.

10. Princess Discovery Princess – Family Adventures at Sea

While Princess Cruises is often known for its more traditional and relaxed atmosphere, the Discovery Princess offers a wonderful experience for families, especially those new to cruising. The ship blends sophisticated comfort with engaging activities, making it a great choice for multi-generational trips. The focus is often on the destinations, with itineraries that explore the natural beauty of places like Alaska and the Mexican Riviera.

The ship features Camp Discovery youth centers, created in partnership with the Discovery Channel, offering hands-on science activities and destination-themed crafts. For entertainment, families can enjoy “Movies Under the Stars” on the top deck or take in a spectacular production show in the main theater.

For first-time family travelers, Princess provides a seamless experience. The cruise fare typically includes accommodation, meals in the main dining room and buffet, and a wide range of entertainment. The MedallionClass technology simplifies everything from boarding to ordering food, allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning ports of call with your family.

What Makes a Cruise Truly Kid-Friendly?

When you’re searching for a kid-friendly cruise, what should you really look for? It’s more than just having a pool. The best cruises for families offer a wide range of amenities and entertainment options designed specifically for children, from toddlers to older kids.

This includes everything from supervised kids clubs that give parents a break to accommodations built for families. In the following sections, we’ll explore the key features that make a cruise an unforgettable adventure for everyone.

Dedicated Kids’ Clubs and Childcare Options

One of the most valuable amenities on a family cruise is a well-run kids’ club. These dedicated, supervised spaces allow children to play, create, and make new friends in a safe environment. Most major cruise lines offer complimentary kids clubs divided by age group, ensuring the activities are always age-appropriate and engaging. It’s an easy way for your kids to have their own vacation fun.

For the youngest travelers, programs like Royal Caribbean’s Royal Babies & Tots provide excellent childcare with trained staff and educational activities. This allows parents to enjoy some much-needed alone time, whether it’s a quiet dinner or a relaxing spa treatment, knowing their little ones are in good hands.

Finding childcare on family-friendly ships is generally simple. These programs are a core part of their offering.

• Adventure Ocean (Royal Caribbean): Offers activities for ages 3-11, with a separate teen program.
• LEGO Experience (MSC Cruises): Features dedicated clubs and all-day LEGO-themed events.
• Late Night Party Zone: Many lines offer group babysitting in the evenings for an additional fee.

Age-Appropriate Entertainment and Shows

The best family cruises offer a dazzling array of entertainment options that appeal to every member of the family. Long gone are the days of simple lounge singers. Today’s ships feature full-scale, Broadway-style shows like “Mamma Mia!” or original Disney productions that will leave you in awe. These spectaculars are perfect for a memorable night out with the whole family.

Beyond the main theater, you’ll find a variety of other shows and activities. Many ships have dedicated venues for ice-skating shows, high-diving aqua performances, and live music. For a good laugh, lines like Carnival offer a Punchliner Comedy Club with both family-friendly and adults-only sets, providing fun for every age group.

This commitment to diverse, high-quality entertainment ensures that there’s always something to do. Look for ships that offer:

• Broadway-caliber musicals and original productions.
• Interactive game shows like “Family Feud Live.”
• Deck-defying aquatic and ice-skating shows.

Family Staterooms and Suite Options

Having the right living space is essential for a comfortable family vacation. Cruise lines have responded by designing family staterooms and suite options that provide more room and thoughtful amenities. Many rooms feature connecting doors, split bathrooms, or pull-down bunks to accommodate larger groups. Rooms with balconies and beautiful ocean views can also provide a private space to relax.

For those wanting to splurge, incredible suite options are available. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas is a prime example, offering multiple levels, a private slide, and a movie room. These luxurious accommodations transform your stateroom into a destination itself.

When choosing your room, consider your family’s needs for space and privacy. Even if you plan to spend most of your time enjoying the ship, having a comfortable home base is key. Don’t forget that room service is often available, perfect for a quiet family breakfast before heading out for the day.

Room Type	Key Feature	Best For
Connecting Staterooms	An interior door between two rooms.	Families with older kids needing space and privacy.
Family Oceanview	Extra space and a large picture window.	Families on a budget who still want a view.
Family Suite	Separate living and sleeping areas, often with a large balcony.	Larger families or those wanting a luxury experience.

Top Amenities to Look for on a Family Cruise

The modern cruise ship is a floating resort, and the amenities on board can make or break your family vacation. Beyond the basics, the best ships offer attractions that rival theme parks, from sprawling water parks on the pool deck to arcades filled with the latest video games.

The best part? Many of these incredible experiences are included in your cruise fare. As we look closer at what to look for, you’ll see how features like themed dining and family-friendly excursions can elevate your trip from good to unforgettable.

Water Parks, Pools, and Splash Zones

For many families, the pool deck is the heart of the cruise ship. The best family cruises take this to the next level with incredible water park facilities that provide hours of fun. You can find everything from twisting water slides and surf simulators to dedicated splash zones for toddlers, ensuring everyone can cool off and have a blast.

Royal Caribbean, for instance, is known for its incredible aquatic attractions. Perfect Day at CocoCay features Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, and Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America. Onboard ships like Icon of the Seas, the Category 6 water park offers multiple record-breaking slides.

When you’re choosing a cruise, take a close look at the aquatic features. These attractions are often the highlight for kids and a great way to spend sea days together as a family.

• Thrill Waterpark: Look for ships with multi-slide water parks.
• FlowRider: A surf simulator found on many Royal Caribbean ships.
• Splashaway Bay: A vibrant aqua park for younger children.

Themed Dining and Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Mealtime on a family vacation can be tricky, but cruise ships make it easy with a huge variety of dining options. Beyond the main dining room and casual buffet, many ships offer themed restaurants that turn dinner into an event. Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining system, for example, lets you experience different immersive restaurants each night.

Most ships also feature a range of specialty restaurants that cater to every palate, from Italian trattorias to Japanese hibachi grills. While these often come at an extra cost, they can be a great way to celebrate a special occasion. For more casual fare, you’ll find pizza parlors, burger joints, and ice cream shops scattered throughout the ship.

Kid-friendly menus are standard across all family-oriented cruise lines, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. This focus on food makes dining a fun and stress-free part of your family vacation.

• My Family Time Dining (Royal Caribbean): An expedited dining service for families.
• Themed Eateries: Look for restaurants based on movies or featuring interactive elements.
• 24/7 Options: Many ships offer around-the-clock pizza or room service.

Exciting Shore Excursions for Families

A cruise is a fantastic way to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. The best family cruises offer a curated list of shore excursions at each port of call, making it easy to plan your adventures. These excursions are designed for different activity levels and interests, from beach days to cultural tours.

Booking excursions through the cruise line offers peace of mind. You get direct access to trusted local operators, and the ship guarantees it will wait for you if your tour runs late. Many cruise lines also offer special pricing for children on their excursions, making them more affordable for families.

Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of an Alaskan fjord, snorkeling in the Caribbean, or visiting ancient ruins, these guided tours add immense value to your trip. They provide a safe and organized way to experience the best that each destination has to in offer.

• Family-Friendly Tours: Look for excursions specifically labeled for families.
• Private Islands: Many cruise lines have private islands with all-inclusive amenities.
• Active Adventures: Options can include zip-lining, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Popular Destinations for Family Cruises from the U.S.

Choosing where to go is just as important as choosing your ship. Luckily, cruise lines offer itineraries to some of the most beautiful and exciting family-friendly destinations in the world, with convenient departure ports from cities like Fort Lauderdale on the East Coast to Los Angeles on the West Coast.

Popular choices include the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean, the rugged wilderness of Alaska, and the vibrant shores of the Mexican Riviera. Each destination offers unique experiences, from exploring historic forts in Puerto Rico to whale watching near Puerto Vallarta.

Caribbean Islands and Private Cays

The Caribbean remains one of the most popular cruise destinations for families, and for good reason. The region is dotted with beautiful islands offering white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Itineraries are often divided into Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean routes, each visiting a different set of stunning ports.

A major highlight of a Caribbean cruise experience is a visit to a cruise line’s private island. These exclusive retreats, like Disney’s Castaway Cay or Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, are designed for the ultimate beach day. They offer pristine beaches, water sports, family-friendly dining, and attractions, all included or easily accessible.

Many travel experts agree that these destinations are often the best private island experiences available. They provide a safe, convenient, and fun-filled day for the whole family, combining relaxation and adventure in a perfect tropical setting.

• Perfect Day at CocoCay: Features a massive waterpark and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
• Disney’s Castaway Cay: Known for its character greetings and separate family and adult beaches.
• Island Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, jet-skiing, and relaxing in a private cabana.

Alaska Adventures for Nature-Loving Families

For families that love nature and wildlife, an Alaska cruise is an unforgettable adventure. Sailing through the majestic fjords and past towering glaciers offers a breathtaking experience that you can’t get anywhere else. The natural beauty of Alaska is the main attraction, with opportunities to see everything from bald eagles to humpback whales right from the ship’s deck.

The ports of call, such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, offer unique shore excursions that embrace the wild spirit of the Last Frontier. Your family can go dog sledding on a glacier, search for bears in the Tongass National Forest, or take a scenic train ride through historic mountain passes. Each cruise line offers tours that cater to families.

An Alaska cruise is both educational and awe-inspiring, making it a fantastic choice for families with curious kids. The stunning scenery and once-in-a-lifetime experiences create lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

• Glacier Viewing: Sail through Glacier Bay or past the massive Hubbard Glacier.
• Wildlife Spotting: Look for whales, bears, seals, and eagles.
• Active Excursions: Try salmon fishing, kayaking, or hiking.

Bahamas Getaways with Perfect Day Experiences

Cruises to the Bahamas are perfect for a quick family getaway, often available as short 3- or 4-night voyages. These trips pack a lot of sun and fun into a long weekend, making them an easy and accessible vacation option for many families. The main draw for many of these cruises is a stop at a private island.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay has redefined the private island experience. This destination in the Bahamas is an adventure hub, featuring the massive Thrill Waterpark with its record-breaking slides, and the sprawling Oasis Lagoon for those who’d rather relax. There are also zip lines, hot air balloon rides, and beautiful beaches.

The island is divided into different zones, so you can choose your own adventure, whether it’s high-energy thrills or quiet relaxation. With so much to do, a stop at this private island often becomes the most memorable day of the entire cruise.

• Daredevil’s Peak: Conquer the tallest waterslide in North America.
• Oasis Lagoon: Chill out in the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool.
• Up, Up and Away: Get a bird’s-eye view of the island from a helium balloon.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cruise for your family can transform your vacation into an unforgettable adventure. From immersive experiences on ships like the Disney Dream to thrilling activities aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Prioritizing kid-friendly amenities, such as dedicated kids’ clubs and exciting shore excursions, will ensure that your children have a fantastic time while you relax. As you plan your next family getaway, consider the unique offerings of each cruise line and ship to create memories that will last a lifetime. Ready to embark on your family’s next journey? Get in touch with us today to explore your options!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines offer the best activities for kids and teens?

Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line are leaders in activities for kids and teens. Royal Caribbean excels with its Adventure Ocean program and thrilling onboard attractions. Disney offers immersive kids clubs and character interactions, while Norwegian attracts teens with go-karts, laser tag, and expansive video games arcades.

How does Disney Cruise Line compare to Royal Caribbean and Carnival for families?

Disney Cruise Line offers a premium, story-focused experience with unique character interactions. Royal Caribbean is known for high-energy thrills like water parks and surf simulators. Carnival Cruise provides a fun-filled, budget-friendly family vacation with a lively atmosphere. Each offers a different style of fun, from magic to adventure.

Are there cruises that cater to first-time family travelers with children?

Yes, many cruises are perfect for first-time family travelers. Major lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival make the cruise experience simple with inclusive cruise fare options, a variety of staterooms, and easy-to-book shore excursions. Their ships are designed to be intuitive and fun, ensuring a stress-free first voyage.