As someone who loves to travel with my family, I know how challenging it can be to choose the perfect vacation that will satisfy everyone’s interests and preferences. And when it comes to cruising, the options can be overwhelming.
But fear not, because Cruise Tips has done the research and compiled a list of the top 10 family-friendly cruise lines for 2023. Whether you’re a Disney fanatic, an active family with older kids, or looking for a budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone on this list.
But it’s not just about finding the right cruise line for your family – it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. As someone who values freedom and adventure, I understand the importance of finding a cruise line that offers flexibility and fun.
And with the options on this list, you can rest assured that your family will have an unforgettable vacation filled with exciting activities and entertainment. So pack your bags and get ready to set sail on the ultimate family adventure!
- There are many cruise lines to choose from for families with kids, each with their own unique offerings.
- The top 10 family-friendly cruise lines for 2023 include Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC Cruises, PO Cruises, A-ROSA River Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises.
- Families should choose the cruise line that aligns best with what they and their kids will enjoy, based on factors such as age range, budget, location, and amenities.
- Some cruise lines are better suited for families with younger children, while others are more geared towards older kids and teenagers. Multi-generational families may prefer certain cruise lines that cater to all age groups.
Best for Disney Fans
I’m a huge fan of Disney, so I was thrilled to see that the Disney Cruise Line is the top pick for families who love all things Disney. With five luxurious and fun ships, the Disney Cruise Line offers a magical experience for kids of any age.
Themed deck parties, live shows, and 3D Disney movies are just some of the entertainment options available. However, as with anything Disney, the cost can be steep. Families should weigh the value of the experience against the cost and consider ways to maximize their Disney Cruise Line value.
One way to do this is to take advantage of the free-of-charge kids clubs for 3 to 12-year-olds. These clubs offer fun activities and allow parents to have some adult time. Another way to save money is to book early or during off-peak times.
Overall, the Disney Cruise Line is worth considering for families who want to combine their love of Disney with a fun and luxurious vacation experience.
Active Families’ Favorite
With so many thrilling activities to choose from, Royal Caribbean is the perfect choice for families who want to stay active and adventurous during their cruise. With 27 ships to choose from, families can pick the one that suits their needs the most. The ships are packed with outstanding features, offering a fun atmosphere that is sure to keep everyone entertained. One of the most popular features is the FlowRider, a surf simulator that allows passengers to surf and boogie board. Additionally, there are rock climbing walls, zip lines, ice skating rinks, and mini-golf courses, just to name a few of the adventure options available.
To give you an idea of the adventure options available on Royal Caribbean ships, take a look at the table below:
| Adventure Options | Onboard Activities |
|---|---|
| – FlowRider | – Rock Climbing Wall |
| – Zip line | – Mini-Golf Course |
| – Ice Skating Rink | – Bumper Cars |
| – Skydiving Simulator | – Basketball Court |
| – Surf Simulator | – Ice Skating Rink |
| – Scuba Diving | – Laser Tag |
| – Stand-Up Paddleboarding | – Escape Room |
| – Kayaking | – Water Slides |
With so many options available, Royal Caribbean is the perfect choice for active families who want to try new things and have fun together. From thrilling activities to onboard entertainment, there is never a dull moment on a Royal Caribbean cruise.
Budget-Friendly Option
For families on a budget, Carnival is a great option with brightly colored ships and amazing facilities like the SkyRide. This cruise line offers a fun and affordable experience for families with children aged 8 and over. While younger children can still enjoy the cruise, some of the waterslides and activities have height restrictions.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly family-friendly cruises, there are a few tips for saving money. First, consider traveling during the off-season or shoulder season when prices are typically lower. You can also save money by booking early or taking advantage of last-minute deals. Additionally, look for cruises that offer free or discounted rates for children.
With a little bit of planning, you can find a budget-friendly cruise that offers plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Ideal for Babies and Toddlers
As a parent, cruising with infants or toddlers can be a challenge, but MSC Cruises makes it easier with their family-friendly amenities. Their glitzy and glamorous ships have partnerships with LEGO and Chicco, making it a dream come true for both parents and kids.
The kids’ club is a fun-filled area where children can spend their time while parents enjoy the rest of the ship. Additionally, there is a dedicated baby area, so parents can relax knowing their little ones are in good hands.
MSC Cruises has a wide range of toddler-friendly activities at sea, including arts and crafts, face painting, and treasure hunts. Parents can also take advantage of the babysitting services and enjoy a night out in one of the ship’s many restaurants or bars.
The ship’s crew understands the importance of making family vacations enjoyable and stress-free. With MSC Cruises, parents can rest assured that their little ones will have a memorable experience while cruising.
Great for British Families
Luckily, being from Britain, I have found that PO Cruises offers a great option for families with younger children looking to embark on a cruise with great facilities and a variety of itineraries to choose from. PO Cruises caters to families with children of all ages, including those with babies and toddlers. They have swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and kids’ clubs that accept 2-year-olds and allow babies and toddlers in swimming nappies to use the swimming pools.
For family friendly activities, PO Cruises offers a range of options, including waterslides, kids’ clubs, and themed events. They also have a variety of dining options and family cabins that can accommodate up to five people. When traveling with young children on a cruise ship, it’s important to plan ahead and bring any necessary items, such as diapers and formula. Additionally, it’s important to take advantage of the kids’ clubs and activities, so both parents and children can have a fun and enjoyable experience.
Perfect for River Cruises
I personally prefer river cruises, and one of the best options for families is A-ROSA River Cruises. Their smaller ships are designed with families in mind, featuring kids’ clubs and family cabins that can accommodate up to 5 people.
A-ROSA River Cruises also offers family friendly shore excursions that allow families to explore the local culture and history together. One of the biggest benefits of a river cruise is that you get to see multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking.
A-ROSA River Cruises offers cruises on the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and Rhone rivers, allowing families to immerse themselves in the beauty of Europe. Plus, with the convenience of embarking and disembarking at various points during the cruise, families can easily customize their itinerary to fit their needs.
If you’re looking for a unique family vacation that combines adventure and relaxation, A-ROSA River Cruises is definitely worth considering.
Flexible and Fun
Flexibility and fun are key components of a great family vacation, and Norwegian Cruise Line delivers both with their colorful ships and endless dining and activity options.
With customizable itineraries, families can choose to spend their days lounging by the pool, exploring new destinations, or participating in the numerous on board entertainment options.
Norwegian Cruise Line caters to families of all ages with their splash parks and dedicated groups in the Splash Academy kids’ clubs. And for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of quiet spaces and adult-only areas on board.
Plus, with ships sailing from Southampton from April to October, families have the flexibility to choose a departure port that best suits their needs.
Overall, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a fantastic family vacation experience with something for everyone to enjoy.
Italian-Style on a Budget
When looking for a budget-friendly cruise option, Costa Cruises offers Italian-style cruising with good facilities for kids. While not as extravagant as other cruise lines, Costa Cruises provides a solid experience for families with younger children under six. With splash parks and dedicated teen rooms, there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy.
However, families with older children may not find as much to do on board. Additionally, departure ports for Costa Cruises often require flying to Europe, adding additional costs to the trip. To save money, consider booking during the shoulder season or taking advantage of early bird discounts.
When it comes to shore excursions, consider visiting more affordable destinations like Naples or Dubrovnik. Overall, Costa Cruises provides a great option for families on a budget who want to experience Italian culture and cuisine on the open seas.
Costa Cruises offers a budget-friendly option for families who want to experience Italian-style cruising. While not as extravagant as other options, Costa Cruises provides good facilities for kids and an authentic cultural experience. To save money, consider booking during the shoulder season and visiting more affordable destinations. Keep in mind that Costa Cruises may be more suited for families with younger children, and departure ports often require additional travel costs.
Are there any cruise lines that offer special accommodations or activities for families with children who have special needs or disabilities?
Yes, some cruise lines offer special needs accommodations and inclusive activities for families with children who have disabilities. It’s best to check with each individual cruise line to see what options are available.
Can families bring their own food and beverages on board, or are they required to purchase all meals and drinks from the ship’s restaurants and bars?
Yes, families can bring their own food onboard, but there may be restrictions on what is allowed. It’s best to check with the cruise line beforehand and also communicate any dietary restrictions to ensure a stress-free vacation.
What health and safety measures are in place on these cruise lines to protect families from illness or injury while on board?
Health measures on family-friendly cruises prioritize the safety of families on board. Safety protocols include frequent sanitation of public areas, mandatory mask-wearing in certain areas, and pre-boarding health screenings to prevent illness or injury.
Are there any restrictions or limitations on the amount of time that children can spend in the kids’ clubs or other supervised activities?
Age restrictions and kids club supervision vary by cruise line. Carnival is suited for children aged 8 and over, while PO Cruises accepts 2-year-olds in the kids’ club and allows babies and toddlers in swimming nappies to use the swimming pools.
How can families ensure that they get the best possible value for their money when booking a cruise, and are there any special promotions or discounts available for families traveling with children?
For budget-friendly family cruising, I recommend booking during off-peak seasons and taking advantage of promotions for children. Researching and comparing different cruise lines can also help families get the best value for their money.