Holidays With Children on Cruise Lines

Holidays With Children on Cruise Lines

Cruising has always been a popular way to travel and explore new destinations. And for families with children, it's a great way to spend quality time together, relax and create unforgettable memories. But not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to catering to families with children. In this article, we'll explore some of the best cruise lines for families with children and what makes them stand out.

First, let's talk about the benefits of going on a cruise with children. One of the biggest advantages is the convenience of having everything you need in one place. A cruise ship is like a floating city, with restaurants, entertainment, and activities all within easy reach. This means that parents don't have to worry about keeping children entertained or finding something to do.

Additionally, cruise ships provide a safe and controlled environment for children to explore and play. Most cruise lines offer children's programs that are designed to keep kids engaged and entertained. These programs are usually divided into age groups, so children can socialize and make friends with other kids their own age.

Now, let's take a look at some of the best cruise lines for families with children.

Disney Cruise Line

It's no surprise that Disney Cruise Line tops the list of best cruise lines for families with children. The magic of Disney is present throughout the ship, from the decor to the characters that roam the decks. Disney Cruise Line offers a wide range of activities for children, including character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style shows, and interactive games.

The kids' clubs on Disney Cruise Line are second to none. The Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are designed for children ages 3 to 12 and offer a variety of activities, from cooking classes to science experiments. The club also has a Marvel-themed area for superhero fans. Tweens and teens have their own club called Edge, where they can play video games, watch movies, and participate in dance parties.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is another popular cruise line for families with children. The ships are packed with activities for all ages, from zip lining and rock climbing to ice skating and mini-golf. Royal Caribbean also has a partnership with DreamWorks Animation, so children can meet characters from popular movies like Shrek and Madagascar.

For younger children, Royal Caribbean has the Adventure Ocean program, which offers supervised activities and games. The program is divided into age groups, so children can socialize with other kids their own age. There's also a nursery for babies and toddlers, so parents can have some alone time.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its fun and casual atmosphere, making it a great choice for families with children. The ships are packed with activities, including water parks, mini-golf, and even a Dr. Seuss-themed parade.

Carnival also offers the Camp Ocean program for children ages 2 to 11. The program is divided into three age groups and offers a variety of activities, from arts and crafts to scavenger hunts. There's also a club for tweens and teens called Circle C, which has video games, dance parties, and other activities.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is another great option for families with children. The ships are packed with activities, including waterslides, mini-golf, and a rock climbing wall. Norwegian also has a partnership with Nickelodeon, so children can meet characters like SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.

Norwegian offers a children's program called Splash Academy, which is divided into age groups. The program offers a variety of activities, from arts and crafts to sports and games. Tweens and teens have their own club called Entourage, which has video games, dance parties, and other activities.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a great option for families with children who are looking for a more European flair. The ships are designed with families in mind and offer a variety of activities, including water slides, mini-golf, and a sports court.

The MSC Kids Club is divided into age groups, and the activities offered vary depending on the age group. For example, children ages 3 to 6 can enjoy arts and crafts, while children ages 7 to 11 can participate in treasure hunts and cooking classes. There's also a Teen Club for older children that offers dance parties, sports tournaments, and other activities.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a great option for families with older children. The ships offer a variety of activities, including sports courts, a putting green, and a video arcade.

The Princess Kids and Teens program is divided into three age groups, with each group offering a variety of activities. For example, children ages 3 to 7 can participate in storytelling and puppet shows, while children ages 8 to 12 can enjoy video game tournaments and scavenger hunts. Teens have their own lounge where they can watch movies, play video games, and participate in dance parties.

Tips for Cruising with Children

1. Pack Wisely: When packing for a cruise with children, make sure to bring everything they might need, from swim diapers to sunscreen. Also, don't forget to bring entertainment for the kids, such as books, coloring books, and tablets.
2. Plan Ahead: Before you board the ship, take a look at the activities offered and plan out your days. This way, you won't miss out on anything you or your children want to do.
3. Take Advantage of Kids Programs: Most cruise lines offer kids programs that are designed to keep children entertained and engaged. Make sure to take advantage of these programs so you can have some alone time or enjoy activities that aren't suitable for children.
4. Be Flexible: While it's important to plan ahead, it's also important to be flexible. Don't worry if you miss an activity or if your children want to do something else. Remember, the goal is to have fun and make memories.
5. Stay Safe: While cruise ships are generally safe, accidents can happen. Make sure to keep an eye on your children at all times, especially near the water.

Going on a cruise with children can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. With the convenience and variety of activities offered by cruise lines, parents can relax and enjoy their vacation while their children are entertained and engaged. Whether you choose Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, or Princess Cruises, you're sure to have a great time with your family. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and set sail for a vacation you'll never forget.