Family cruises offer a fantastic vacation solution, combining convenience and fun for all ages. Families benefit from bundled accommodations, meals, and endless activities, all without the hassles of cooking or transport logistics. The best cruise ships provide exceptional facilities that keep children entertained, giving parents well-deserved time to relax.

Many cruise lines also feature the option to explore multiple destinations without the need for cumbersome logistics like car rentals or public transport. However, it’s essential to review each ship’s specific amenities and inclusions before making a reservation. Here are 12 of the top cruise lines that cater excellently to families.

1. Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises, under Tui’s umbrella, provides an all-inclusive family voyage without the usual stresses. The basic fare covers everything from transfers to select alcoholic beverages and mocktails. Families can choose from various restaurants offering kid-friendly meals. Kids’ clubs cater to ages 3 to 11 with activities like pirate hunts and mini-discos, while teenagers have dedicated areas. Moreover, children receive a plush toy and activity booklet to keep them engaged during the trip.

2. Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys provides a luxury experience akin to a five-star hotel on water, welcoming families with children aged six months and older (infants below two sail for free). The cruise line features interconnecting suites for space, engaging kids’ activities, and a poolside gelateria. The Nautilus Club room has games consoles and recreational amenities. The standard fare includes meals, drinks, room service, and gratuities, alongside complimentary wi-fi for teens.

3. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ensures that entertainment options are available for toddlers up to teens through its Camp at Sea program, which includes slumber parties and Xbox stations. Educational opportunities focus on marine conservation and STEM subjects, with complimentary kids’ clubs available in most cases. Cruises typically include meals (excluding specialty dining), shows, and activities, with additional options like drinks and wi-fi available through the All Included package.

4. MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises entertain families throughout the day with award-winning amenities. Activities range from ziplines and bowling alleys to Broadway-inspired performances. The MSC Virtuosa features a special tech zone for teens, a silent disco, and a water park. Full-board meals, various entertainment options, and numerous activities are included, while excursions and select drinks are an additional cost.

5. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line stands out for its flexible dining options, eliminating set meal times. Each ship offers various kids’ activities, with Norwegian Encore boasting exciting features like a Speedway race track and virtual reality experiences. The cruise fare includes meals, activities, and entertainment, though drinks and popular extras may cost extra. Occasional promotions allow kids to sail free, offering great savings.

6. P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises has launched their Excel class ship, Arvia, featuring activities like high-ropes courses and mini-golf, alongside entertainment options like a cinema. Most family activities, including kids’ clubs and meals, are part of the cruise package (excluding specialty dining), attracting a primarily British clientele.

7. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has innovated with the MedallionClass system, allowing parents to locate their children easily while enjoying onboard meals and activities. Standout features include an indoor planetarium, stargazing opportunities, and family splash zones. The package includes onboard activities, kids’ clubs, and main dining (with most drinks at an added cost).

8. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean ships feature thrilling activities like rock climbing, ice skating, and zip lining. The Anthem of the Seas offers unique experiences such as skydiving simulators, surf simulators, and bumper cars. Complete package itineraries include full board meals and many entertainment options, though specialty dining and other extras carry an additional charge.

9. Uniworld

Uniworld is recognized for its luxury offerings, providing family-friendly river cruise experiences through its Generations program. This program includes engaging activities on land, such as paddleboarding and treasure hunts, along with onboard perks like PlayStation lounges and crafting workshops. The all-inclusive packages cover activities, bike rentals, and premium drinks, often including flights.

10. A-Rosa

A-Rosa prioritizes family experiences with spacious cabins and family-friendly activities. The E-Motion offerings feature toy boxes and children’s amenities, allowing adult guests to visit the spa while kids engage in various entertaining activities. Included are meals and selected drinks, with free kids’ clubs offered during school holidays.

11. Carnival

Carnival offers unique attractions for families, like the first rollercoaster at sea, named Bolt, along with craft studios and aerial bike experiences. The Mardi Gras ship is particularly captivating, equipped with waterslides and mini-golf. Families can take advantage of spacious staterooms and a lounge, with the cruise covering meals (except specialty dining), entertainment, and kids’ programs.

12. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line encapsulates the charm of its theme parks, allowing kids to attend beauty salons, meet beloved characters, and enjoy shows based on classic Disney stories. A highlight is cruising to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island featuring a snorkeling lagoon and teen hangouts. Packages encompass entertainment, dining (including room service), and youth clubs but charge extra for alcoholic drinks and dining upgrades.

FAQs

Which cruise lines have family suites?

Family suites are available on various cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, which offers fun perks like slides and cinemas, as well as Celebrity Cruises, Carnival, Princess, MSC, Disney, and Norwegian Cruise Line, with its Haven Family Villas on select ships.

How much do family cruises cost on average?

Average costs vary based on cabin selection and destination, but families of four can expect to spend from £1,500 for a seven-night Mediterranean trip. Kids Sail Free promotions can lead to significant savings.

What’s the cheapest month to go on a cruise?

The bargain season is influenced by the itinerary and location, with Caribbean cruises often cheaper during terms or hurricane seasons. For Mediterranean cruises, consider going in March, April, or November when demand drops.

Additional reporting by Oliver Berry