As a parent, I know how important it is to choose the right cruise ship for a family vacation. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for your kids. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to 2023’s best Royal Caribbean ships for kids, highlighting their activities, age groups, and accommodations.
Royal Caribbean has always been a top choice for families, offering a wide range of activities and facilities designed specifically for kids. From Adventure Ocean kids clubs to virtual reality trampolines, there is something for every age group and interest.
In this article, I’ll be sharing the top Royal Caribbean ships for kids, so you can plan a vacation that your whole family will enjoy. So, let’s dive in and discover the best Royal Caribbean ships for kids in 2023!
- Royal Caribbean has 27 ships grouped into 8 classes, all with facilities like Adventure Ocean kids club, swimming pools, whirlpools, arcade, and rock climbing wall.
- Different ships have unique features like waterslides, ziplines, mini-golf, RipCord by iFLY, North Star observation pod, bumper cars, and more.
- The activities and facilities have height, weight, and age requirements, and Royal Caribbean staff will weigh and measure children to ensure they meet the requirements.
- Adventure Ocean kids club is available on all ships for children aged 3 years and older, and there are age-specific programs for kids, tweens, and teens. Accommodation options include Ultimate Family Townhouse and Surfside Family Suites.
Ship Classes
I’ve learned that Royal Caribbean has 27 ships grouped into 8 classes, each with their own unique offerings for children.
The Anthem of the Seas is the best Royal Caribbean ship for babies and toddlers, with facilities like the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery and the Fisher-Price play area.
On the other hand, the Oasis-class ships are best for older kids and teenagers, with features like the zip line and FlowRider surf simulator.
For kids aged 6-8, the Freedom-class ships are a great choice, with plenty of activities like mini-golf and the H2O Zone water park.
Additionally, the Quantum-class ships offer exciting features like the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, North Star observation pod, and bumper cars.
Overall, each ship class has something unique to offer for families with children, making a Royal Caribbean cruise a great choice for a family vacation.
Facilities and Features
On every Royal Caribbean ship, there are a variety of exciting facilities and features that will keep children entertained throughout their cruise vacation. From the Adventure Ocean kids club to the rock climbing wall, there’s something for every age group to enjoy.
Here are just a few of the many facilities and features available on Royal Caribbean ships:
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Swimming pools: There are multiple pool options available on every ship, including designated kids’ areas and adult-only options.
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Adventure Ocean kids club: This program is available on all ships and offers age-appropriate activities for children aged 3 years and older.
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Dining choices: Royal Caribbean offers a variety of dining options, including kid-friendly options like Johnny Rockets and the Windjammer Marketplace.
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Whirlpools: For a relaxing soak, there are whirlpools available on many ships, including some with stunning ocean views.
With all of these facilities and features available, kids will have a blast on their Royal Caribbean cruise. From swimming and playing to dining and relaxing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Age Requirements
To ensure safety and suitability for all children, Royal Caribbean staff will weigh and measure children before participating in activities that have height, weight, and age requirements. This is a standard safety regulation that ensures children are not put in harm’s way during their cruise experience. The staff will also check if children have any special needs or accessibility requirements so that they can provide the necessary accommodations for them.
Below is a table that outlines the height requirements for some popular activities on Royal Caribbean ships. Please note that these requirements may vary depending on the ship and activity. If you have any questions or concerns about the accessibility of an activity or the special needs accommodations available, please contact Royal Caribbean directly.
| Activity | Height Requirement |
|---|---|
| Splashaway Bay | 42 inches (107cm) |
| Perfect Storm Waterslides | 48 inches |
| Laser Tag | 40 inches |
| SkyPad Virtual Reality | 5 years old |
| (7 years old with | |
| headset) |
Remember that while age restrictions are in place to ensure safety, Royal Caribbean provides a range of activities for children of all ages. From the Aquanauts kids club for 3-5 year olds to the Teen program for 12-17 year olds, there are plenty of options available for children to enjoy their cruise experience. If your child has any special needs or accessibility requirements, please contact Royal Caribbean to discuss the accommodations available.
Adventure Ocean Kids Club
As a parent, it’s reassuring to know that the Adventure Ocean kids club is available on all Royal Caribbean ships for children aged three years and older. This program is designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to play and learn while on board.
Here are some of the benefits of the Adventure Ocean kids club:
- Age-appropriate activities: The program is divided into different age groups to ensure that activities are tailored to the needs and interests of each child.
- Trained staff: Adventure Ocean staff are trained to work with children and are certified in CPR and first aid.
- Flexible schedule: Parents can drop off and pick up their children at different times throughout the day, allowing for family activities and adult-only time.
- Variety of activities: Adventure Ocean offers a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, science experiments, and themed parties.
- Socialization opportunities: Kids have the chance to meet and make friends with others their own age from all over the world.
It’s important to note that the Adventure Ocean kids club is not the same as supervised activities. While supervised activities are available for kids of all ages, the kids club provides a structured program with trained staff and age-appropriate activities. So, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive program for your child, the Adventure Ocean kids club is definitely worth considering.
Special Activities
I’m excited to share some of the top picks and insider tips for special activities on Royal Caribbean ships that will take your family vacation to the next level.
One of the most popular activities is the Perfect Storm waterslides, which are available on many of the ships and suitable for both adults and kids who are at least 48 inches tall. The slides are thrilling and offer a fun way to cool off on a hot day.
Another great activity is laser tag, which is available on select ships and suitable for children aged 5 years old and over who are at least 40 inches tall. It’s a fun way to spend time with family and friends, and kids love the excitement of shooting lasers at each other.
For those who are looking for a unique experience, the SkyPad virtual reality trampolines are a must-try. They are available on select ships and suitable for kids who are at least 5 years old to jump and at least 7 years old to jump with the headset. It’s a fun and immersive way to jump around and pretend you’re in a different world.
Finally, if you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, the escape rooms on select ships are a great option. Children must be 12 years old or over to play the game, but it’s a fun way to test your problem-solving skills and work together as a family.
Accommodations
Well, it turns out that choosing the right accommodations on a Royal Caribbean ship can really make or break your family vacation experience. Luckily, there are two options that stand out as the most kid-friendly: the Ultimate Family Townhouse and the Surfside Family Suites.
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Ultimate Family Townhouse: This three-storey suite has added features that make it perfect for families. It includes a master bedroom with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with two twin beds, and a third bedroom with bunk beds. The suite also comes with a private balcony, a living room, a dining room, and a kitchenette. What sets it apart is the added bonus of a private deck with a whirlpool and a slide. Kids will love having their own space to play and relax, and parents will appreciate the added privacy and luxury.
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Surfside Family Suites: These suites are located in a prime spot for easy access to waterparks and other fun activities on board. They offer a separate sleeping area for kids with their own alcoves, complete with a TV and Xbox console. The main area of the suite includes a king-size bed, a sofa bed, and a private balcony. Families will appreciate the added space and privacy, as well as the convenience of being close to all the action.
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Kid-Friendly Room Features: Both the Ultimate Family Townhouse and the Surfside Family Suites offer kid-friendly features such as cribs, high chairs, and baby bathtubs upon request. Additionally, the rooms are designed with safety in mind, with childproof locks and electrical outlets. Families can relax and enjoy their vacation knowing that their little ones are safe and comfortable.
Reviews and tips
One thing I’ve found helpful when planning a Royal Caribbean cruise with kids is to read reviews and tips from other families who have already sailed on the same ship. There are many online resources like TripAdvisor, Cruiseline.com, and Cruise Critic where you can find honest and unbiased opinions about the ships, activities, and accommodations.
I also recommend checking with Royal Caribbean directly to see what facilities are available on your chosen ship. Another tip for families looking to save money on their Royal Caribbean cruise is to opt for an older ship. While the newer ships have more bells and whistles, they also come with a higher price tag.
Cruising on an older ship can be a great cost-saving option, especially for families on a budget. Additionally, it’s important to research popular shore excursions and plan accordingly. Some excursions may be better suited for families with young children, while others may be more appealing to teenagers.
By doing your homework and planning ahead, you can ensure that everyone in your family has a fun and memorable vacation.
Founder of Cruise Tips
As a frequent cruiser and founder of Cruise Tips, I understand the importance of researching and reading reviews before booking a family vacation. That’s why I highly recommend checking out online resources like TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic to read up on the experiences of other families who have sailed on Royal Caribbean ships.
These sites offer valuable insight into the facilities, activities, and accommodations available on each ship, as well as tips and recommendations from experienced cruisers.
At Cruise Tips, our mission is to help families plan the perfect cruise holiday by providing travel industry insights and expert advice. We understand that every family is different, which is why we strive to provide a variety of resources and information to help families make informed decisions when booking their next vacation.
Whether you’re looking for the best Royal Caribbean ship for kids or want to know more about the age groups and programs available onboard, Cruise Tips is here to help.
So, before you set sail on your next family adventure, be sure to check out our website and social media channels for tips, reviews, and insider information.
What are the dining options available for kids on Royal Caribbean ships?
The onboard dining experience on Royal Caribbean ships includes a kids’ menu with options like pizza, burgers, and mac and cheese. With a variety of dining options, kids can find something they love while parents enjoy the freedom to choose their own meals.
Is there a maximum number of children allowed in Adventure Ocean kids club at one time?
Wow, the Adventure Ocean kids club is a kid’s paradise! While I’m not sure about the maximum capacity, I do know that the staff to child ratio ensures a safe and fun experience for all.
Are there any restrictions on bringing outside food or drinks onto the ship for kids?
I’m sorry, as an AI language model, I cannot provide you with a personalized answer as the information provided in the context is not enough to accurately answer the current question. However, typically, Royal Caribbean does not allow outside food or drinks to be brought onto the ship, except for specific dietary needs and allergen accommodations. It’s best to check with the cruise line for their specific policies.
Are there any medical facilities or services available on board for children?
Coincidentally, I found out that Royal Caribbean has pediatric care and first aid services available on board for children. It’s reassuring to know that these facilities are available in case of any emergencies during our cruise.
What is the policy on children with special needs or disabilities on Royal Caribbean ships?
Royal Caribbean offers accessibility accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities. Special needs programs are also available, including trained staff and specialized equipment. Everyone deserves to have an amazing cruise experience, and Royal Caribbean is committed to making that a reality for all guests.