Discover the Magic of Family Cruises: Why Cruises Make the Perfect Family Vacation
As we kick off our summer 2024 travel plans, it's hard not to dream about what’s next. And guess what? It’s never too early to start planning for 2025!
Science backs us up on this: having a trip to look forward to makes people happier.
We love to keep our spirits high by always having an adventure in the pipeline. August 2025 itineraries are already out, and cruise lines are offering fantastic deals for early bookings. So, let’s dive into why cruises are an amazing choice for family vacations and find the best ones tailored for every type of traveler.
Brittany & Pete’s first cruise together aboard the Disney Dream.
Why Choose a Cruise for Your Family Vacation?
All-Inclusive Convenience: Cruises are the epitome of hassle-free travel. Accommodations, meals, entertainment, and activities are bundled into one price. This convenience means less planning and more relaxation for you.
Variety of Activities: From pools and water slides to kids’ clubs and teen lounges, cruises provide a plethora of activities for all age groups. Adults can enjoy spa treatments, fitness classes, and fine dining while kids and teens are entertained.
Exploration and Adventure: Cruises take you to multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Each port offers unique excursions and adventures, perfect for family bonding and exploration.
Safety and Supervision: Cruise lines prioritize safety and provide supervised activities, allowing parents to relax while kids and teens enjoy age-appropriate fun.
Top Cruise Recommendations for Different Family Needs
1. Families with Young Kids:
DISNEY CRUISELINE
Why It's Great: Disney Cruise Line is magical for all ages, but it truly shines for families with super young kids. Not only do they have great kids’ clubs, but they also offer fantastic onboard nurseries for babies as young as six months. Imagine letting your little ones nap in the nursery while you enjoy a relaxing massage or sending them off for dinner while you savor a premium date-night meal. The convenience and peace of mind this provides are invaluable.
Disney Cruise Line’s Small World Nursery welcomes the youngest travelers, from 6 months to 3 years for safe and fun childcare options young parents will feel guiltless about using throughout their vacation.
Recommended Destinations: The Caribbean and Bahamas are popular choices, offering short, manageable trips with plenty of sun and fun. Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a highlight, providing a safe and exciting environment for kids and adults alike. If you’re yearning for big adventures abroad but nervous about traveling with young kids, Disney Cruiseline is the PERFECT answer. We’ve
Concept Art for private island destination Lighthouse Point, opening summer 2024.
What People LOVE About Disney Cruise Line:
Character Interactions: From Mickey Mouse to Elsa, your kids can meet their favorite characters. One parent shared, "Seeing my daughter's face light up when she met Cinderella was worth every penny."
Themed Dining: Unique dining experiences where the surroundings and even the menus are themed after Disney movies. "The Animator's Palate was a hit with our whole family; we loved watching the drawings come to life!"
Family-Friendly Cabins: Spacious rooms with split bathrooms, a feature especially appreciated by families. "The room was perfect for our family of four; having two bathrooms made getting ready so much easier."
Broadway-Quality Shows: Spectacular performances featuring beloved Disney stories. "The shows were absolutely incredible, even better than Broadway!"
Frozen: A Musical Spectacular aboard the Disney Fantasy
Who It Might Not Be Best For: We genuinely believe Disney Cruise Line is great for all types of travelers, even those who don’t consider themselves Disney fans. The quality of the experience and fleet are outstanding and will easily satisfy even the pickiest and most skeptical cruisers. That said, some adult travelers may miss things like a casino, which Disney does not offer. Families with older kids may prefer other cruiselines that have more options for teens, tweens and adults. Or if you’re 100% sure Disney is just not your thing (how is that possible and how did your find your way to this blog?) then maybe Disney Cruise Line isn’t for you.
The oldest of the Magic Journeys team babies took her first trip through Europe at 6 months, visiting England, Portugal, Gibraltar and Spain, aboard the Disney Magic.
Best Itineraries:
Caribbean and Bahamas: These itineraries are perfect for young families with their short, manageable trips and plenty of sunny, fun-filled days. Stops include Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, offering safe, exciting activities for kids and relaxation for parents.
Europe: Too many parents with young kids think destinations like Europe are too difficult with little ones. Disney Cruiseline makes it really easy and enjoyable to vacation in Europe with little ones, giving parents everything from family-friendly experiences to fantastic onboard childcare.
2. Families with Teens and Older Kids: ROYAL CARIBBEAN
Why It's Great: Royal Caribbean ships are packed with thrilling activities that appeal to teens and older kids, including rock climbing walls, surf simulators, escape rooms, and even zip lines. Their teen programs and hangout spaces provide social opportunities and entertainment, ensuring that older kids are never bored.
Recommended Destinations: Alaska is a standout destination for Royal Caribbean. The breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and adventure excursions like glacier hiking and whale watching create unforgettable family memories. Mediterranean cruises are also a great choice, offering a mix of history, culture, and adventure perfect for engaging older kids.
See glaciers and humpback whales aboard Royal Caribbean’s Alaska Itineraries.
What People LOVE About Royal Caribbean:
Thrilling Activities: From FlowRider surf simulators to rock climbing walls and zip lines, there’s no shortage of excitement. One teen said, "The rock climbing wall was the highlight of my trip—I felt like Spider-Man!"
Teen Programs: Dedicated spaces and activities for teens, allowing them to socialize and have fun in a supervised environment. A parent noted, "Our teenagers loved the teen lounge—they made friends from all over the world."
Innovative Ships: Each ship is a marvel of modern engineering, offering unique experiences like ice skating rinks and carousel rides. "It was amazing to ice skate in the middle of the ocean!"
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas features 20 decks, 8 neighborhoods, 7 restaurants and 6 water slides.
Who It Might Not Be Best For: While Royal Carribbean is among the most family friendly cruise lines, there are less amenities and activities for the super little kids vs. Disney Cruise Line. The large ships can also be overwhelming for those who have a hard time with big crowds or want a more intimate experience (We’re a team divided on perspective of bigger is better vs. less is more. The author falls into the latter camp.)
Royal Caribbean features ships large enough to hold full parks and malls.
Best Itineraries:
Alaska: With breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and adventurous shore excursions, an Alaskan cruise offers teens and older kids a unique and thrilling experience.
Mediterranean: These cruises provide a rich mix of history, culture, and adventure, perfect for engaging the curiosity and energy of older kids. See the ancient ruins of Rome by day and be back on the ship for a nightime swim while you’re en route to your next destination for the next day. Best of all worlds!
3. Multi-Generational Family Trips:
PRINCESS CRUISES
Princess Cruises’s Sphere Class ship, the Star Princess.
Why It's Great: Princess Cruises offers a fantastic blend of activities, amenities, and accommodations that cater to all age groups. Their ships feature various dining options, enriching activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural presentations, and ample spaces for relaxation. The family suites and interconnected staterooms are perfect for accommodating multi-generational families. Princess also provides excellent shore excursions suitable for all ages, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience.
Princess Cruise through the Inside Passage.
Recommended Destinations: Alaska cruises with Princess Cruises are highly recommended. The breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife are enjoyable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational travel. Additionally, their European cruises provide rich cultural experiences that appeal to both young and old family members.
Princess Cruise Family Suite is an amazing option for large families traveling together.
What People LOVE About Princess Cruises:
Variety of Dining Options: From casual eateries to fine dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate. One grandmother shared, "We had the best meals ever, and there was always something for the kids, too."
Enriching Activities: Cooking demonstrations, cultural presentations, and ample spaces for relaxation. "I loved the cooking classes, and my dad enjoyed the art lectures."
Family Suites: Accommodations designed to keep families close and comfortable. "Our suite was perfect—plenty of space for everyone and the kids loved the bunk beds!"
Excellent Shore Excursions: Wide range of excursions suitable for all ages, enhancing the travel experience. "The glacier tour in Alaska was a hit with our entire family, from the youngest to the oldest."
Princess offers great onboard activities including its newest addition, the Family Zone, but the spaces and experiences are noticeably calmer than other cruiselines.
Who It Might Not Be Best For: You won’t find a mall, surf-machine or raging evening parties on Princess Cruises. Those seeking high-energy or highly themed environments might find Princess Cruises more subdued than other cruise lines.
Best Itineraries:
Alaska: The stunning landscapes and unique wildlife are enjoyable for all ages, making it a perfect choice for trips where kids, parents and grandparents are traveling togehter.
Europe: Rich cultural experiences that appeal to both young and old family members.
4. Cruisers Seeking Affordable Luxury:
CELEBRITY CRUISES
Why It's Great: Celebrity Cruises offers a more upscale experience with a focus on modern luxury, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational families looking for a touch of sophistication. The line's varied dining options, world-class entertainment, and extensive enrichment programs cater to diverse interests. Their ships feature family-friendly accommodations, including suites and staterooms designed to keep families close.
Recommended Destinations: Mediterranean cruises with Celebrity Cruises offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, appealing to all age groups. The Galapagos Islands are another fantastic destination, providing a unique and enriching experience for families interested in nature and wildlife.
What People LOVE About Celebrity Cruises:
Upscale Dining: Varied and high-quality dining options, from casual to gourmet. One traveler raved, "The dining experience was incredible—we felt like royalty every night."
World-Class Entertainment: Diverse and high-quality shows and performances. "The shows were top-notch; we couldn't believe the talent on board."
Enrichment Programs: Extensive options that cater to diverse interests, including art, cooking, and wellness. "My kids loved the interactive science classes, and I enjoyed the art auctions."
Family-Friendly Accommodations: Spacious and comfortable staterooms and suites. "Our suite was perfect for our family; the kids had their own space, and we had ours."
The Apex of the Seas rooftop garden.
Who It Might Not Be Best For: Families with very young children might find fewer activities specifically designed for them compared to other lines. Those seeking a more high-energy environment might find the ambiance too subdued.
Best Itineraries:
Mediterranean: A perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
Galapagos Islands: Unique and enriching experiences for families interested in nature and wildlife. This is a bucket list destination for us and Celebrity is our top-pick for when we finally get to go!
5. Cruisers Who Prefer to Pick Their Perks: CARNIVAL CRUISELINE
Why It's Great: Carnival provides affordable base fares with a variety of add-on options, allowing families to customize their experience according to their budget and preferences. Pay for what you use and enjoy a wide range of onboard activities. Their ships are known for being fun and family-friendly with plenty of options for dining and entertainment.
Recommended Destinations: Mexican Riviera cruises are cost-effective and provide sunny destinations with vibrant culture and adventure. You can explore beautiful coastal cities, enjoy water sports, and indulge in delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank.
The Carnival Celebration roller coaster at sea!
What People LOVE About Carnival:
Affordable Base Fares: Great value with the option to add perks as desired. One budget-conscious mom noted, "We loved that we could choose what extras to pay for—great for sticking to our budget."
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Fun activities and amenities for all ages. "The kids had a blast at the water park, and we loved the comedy shows."
Casual Dining: Plenty of dining options that are both delicious and family-friendly. "The food was fantastic, and there were so many choices, even for our picky eaters."
Energetic Environment: Always something happening on board. "There was never a dull moment; the kids loved the constant activities and games."
Carnival Cruises are known for their big parties and events.
Who It Might Not Be Best For: Those seeking a more luxurious or quieter cruise experience might find Carnival too lively and casual.
Best Itineraries:
Mexican Riviera: Cost-effective trips to sunny destinations with vibrant culture and adventure. Explore beautiful coastal cities, enjoy water sports, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Choosing the right cruise line and itinerary for your family’s needs, you can ensure a magical vacation that everyone in the family will remember forever. Whether you’re traveling with young kids, teens, or a multi-generational family, there’s a perfect cruise waiting for you.
