How to Choose the Best Cruise Line for Your Family
Picture this: your family, basking in the sun’s warm glow, surrounded by the sparkling blue expanse of the Sea as you sail towards exciting destinations and create cherished memories together.
A family cruise is an excellent way to escape the everyday routine and embark on an adventure that caters to everyone’s interests. Whether you seek thrilling activities for the kids, serene relaxation for the parents, or captivating cultural experiences for the whole family, a well-planned cruise can offer it all.
But choosing the perfect family cruise may seem daunting, especially with the many options available. You need not worry, though, as this comprehensive guide will navigate the seas of cruise planning!
We will give you the top seven things to consider ensuring your family’s voyage is extraordinary. From choosing the right cruise line to selecting the ideal amenities, this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Read on!
1. Decide on a Destination
When choosing a cruise, it is natural to consider a warm and tropical place like the Bahamas or the Caribbean. While many cruises go to these areas, know that cruise ships travel to various parts of the world, such as Europe, Asia, and Australia. So, do not limit your choices just yet!
Is your family looking for a sunny and relaxing getaway? Are you interested in seeing humpback whales and bald eagles? Would you love to explore cities like Rome and Barcelona? Once your family agrees on a destination, you can investigate which cruise ships go to that area.
Another part to consider when deciding on a destination is when planning to travel. If your travel dates are flexible, you will have more options since some places only offer cruises during certain months of the year.
2. Set a Budget and Consider All Potential Costs
Once you have established a destination for your family cruise, the next step is establishing a budget. While cruise packages offer excellent value given their inclusions and amenities, consider more expenses you may incur during the trip.
Here are things to factor in when creating your budget:
- Flight costs and transportation to and from the cruise port;
- Possible onshore activities and tours at ports;
- Specialty restaurants that are usually expensive;
- Shopping or souvenir purchases; and
- Services fees.
How much do family cruise trips cost?
A general estimate for a 7-day family cruise trip can range from $500 to $1,500 per person, excluding airfare, excursions, and other expenses.
However, the average cost for a family cruise trip can vary widely depending on the cruise line, destination, length of the journey, time of year, and cabin type.
As a general guideline, budget 50 percent more than the cruise fare to cover the above-mentioned extra costs.
Also, luxury cruise lines and high-demand itineraries will likely have higher costs. So it’s essential to research and compare different cruise options to find the best fit for your family’s budget and preferences.
Remember that prices vary greatly between cruise lines, and different ships are available at varying price points, even within the same cruise line.
Pro Tip: Companies often run promotions, such as reduced fares or “kids sail free” offers for children staying in the same room as adults. Watch for these promotions, as they can help you save significant money.
3. Learn about the Various Family-Friendly Cruise Lines
Once you have chosen a destination and set a budget, it is time to explore the cruise ships that meet your family’s requirements.
Some famous family-friendly cruise lines are Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Disney Cruise Lines. Most likely, you have heard of them and are considering them for your cruise.
However, travel preferences greatly vary for every family. You must consider your needs and travel style to narrow your choices for an excellent time at Sea.
Aside from the popular options mentioned above, there are many other cruise lines you may want to consider. Here are some of the best options with family-friendly amenities and kid-oriented activities:
| Cruise Line | Home Port | Docks | Highlights |
| Disney Cruise Line |
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| Royal Caribbean International |
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| Carnival Cruise Line |
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| Norwegian Cruise Line |
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| MSC Cruises |
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Home ports and their docks can vary depending on the cruise line and time of year. We recommend checking with the specific cruise line for the most up-to-date information on home ports and itineraries.
4. Consider the Ship Size
You may wonder about the size of cruise ships and how this part may affect your trip. Some people like bigger ships, but others do not want to be stuck with thousands of other passengers.
Overall, cruise ship size is determined by family dynamics and age range. Note, however, that bigger ships are usually newer and have the latest features. These also have more elaborate facilities, dining options, and a variety of attractions.
But large cruise ships can be tricky for young kids to navigate. Plus, they are more expensive than smaller ships from the same cruise line.
But these smaller cruise ships are older, with fewer top-deck attractions and facilities. However, cruise lines regularly update older ships to add new features. You will likely find everything you want on an older ship—at a better price!
Remember that all ships are busiest during popular travel times, like summer and school breaks. If you do not like crowds and have flexibility in your travel plans, it might be better to avoid those peak times, no matter the size of the ship you choose.
5. Check the Facilities and Amenities
When planning a cruise with your young children in tow, consider the activities for everyone.
Most cruises allow babies as young as six months to join, but some lengthier or more exotic trips may have a minimum age requirement of 1 year. Check if the cruise line you are interested in allows children, as some luxury and expedition cruises do not.
Family-Friendly Facilities
Many cruise lines offer exceptional facilities and activities for young children. Some have drop-off nurseries where you can leave your child under three years old for a fee, while others have play areas where you can stay and play with your little ones.
On certain ships, there are soft play areas, toys suitable for their age, and cribs for napping. Some nurseries even organize interactive playgroups for different age groups so parents can join in the fun too.
To take time for yourself during the cruise, look for cruise lines that provide drop-off activities when the ship is in port. This way, your child can play with friends. Meanwhile, you can enjoy activities like spa treatments, visiting wineries, scuba diving, golfing, or exploring museums and shops.
Before deciding, check the rules about leaving the ship while your children are in the youth club. Some cruises require at least one parent or guardian to stay onboard.
Also, be aware of any fees that might apply on port days. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line charges a fee if you want the staff to supervise your kids during meals while you’re off the ship.
Babysitting Services
Remember that most cruise lines offer babysitting services in the kids’ clubs during the evening for an additional fee. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, has a program called Late Night Fun Zone that operates until 1 AM. Carnival, Disney, Holland America, Celebrity, MSC, Princess, and Royal Caribbean also have late-night programs for children.
Child-Friendly Amenities
Swimming and water activities are great fun on a family cruise. While all family-friendly cruises have pools, some ships have even more water fun to offer.
Look for ships with multiple pools and water parks, especially newer ones with exciting water features. For example, Carnival’s new and refurbished ships have long and twisty slides, and their WaterWorks play areas have splash areas and slides for little ones.
Royal Caribbean has the H2O Zone, where kids can enjoy geysers, water guns, and small pools. It also has a surf simulator called the FlowRider, which is suitable for older kids and adults.
6. Explore the Dining Options
You must consider your family’s dining preferences during the planning stage. Do you prefer a structured dining schedule or a more relaxed and flexible experience? Remember that dining is a significant part of the cruise experience.
Modern cruise ships offer various dining options, with some ships featuring up to 20 venues. For example, Norwegian Cruise Lines stands out among contemporary cruise lines for their innovative “Freestyle Approach,” which lets you dine whenever and wherever you choose on the ship, with a few restaurants possibly having more charges.
Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines also provide flexible dining options and set dining times in the Main Dining room. These options mean you can choose between a freestyle approach or a consistent early or late dining time.
Additionally, both cruise lines offer a range of casual dining options beyond the traditional buffet, and some ships even have specialty restaurants that may require an extra fee.
Disney Cruise Lines maintains a more traditional dining approach, with a main dining room and set dining times. They offer some casual dining options as well. But a unique part of dining on Disney cruises is the rotation through various themed dining rooms, which is excellent if you want to experience their culinary offerings.
7. Take Note of Available Family Activities and Programs
As you plan your cruise trip, it is essential to consider the activities you and your family want to engage in. Ask yourself about how active your family is and what activities you enjoy when on the ports.
Additionally, consider whether your kids would use the onboard programs. To get started, you may browse the websites of different cruise lines and explore the offerings available on their various classes of ships.
Next, list specific onboard activities that appeal to all your family members. For example, consider whether your kids would love to meet their favorite cartoon characters or experience the thrills of multiple waterslides. Older kids may enjoy surf simulators, rock climbing walls, or ropes courses.
Addressing these questions and narrowing down your options lets you choose the cruise line and ship that best aligns with your family’s preferences and interests.
Here are things you can expect in the leading family-friendly cruise lines:
Onboard Attractions
Beyond the presence of kids’ clubs and pools, family-friendly cruise lines offer an array of attractions and programs that both kids and parents can enjoy.
Royal Caribbean sets the bar higher with athletic activities such as ice skating, rock climbing, zip lines, and surfing. On Anthem of the Seas, you can even simulate skydiving with RipCord by iFLY. At the same time, the SeaPlex offers an indoor space housing bumper cars and roller skating.
MSC Grandiosa presents many family-friendly activities, including a drone relay race, a dance competition, and an immersive shipwide spy experience. Some MSC ships go the extra mile with F1 race car simulators and 4D cinemas that offer enjoyment for everyone.
Family-Friendly Shows
Another highlight of a cruise vacation is the evening entertainment cruise lines provide. Family-friendly shows are a standard feature; each cruise line offers diverse entertainment options!
For example, Princess Cruises introduced “Movies Under the Stars,” letting you relax in a lounge chair on the deck, snuggled under a blanket while watching films. Carnival and other lines also offer outdoor movie experiences.
Meanwhile, Disney astonishes kids and adults with first-run movies, and captivating Disney-themed stage shows in their indoor theater.
For older kids, Royal Caribbean presents popular Broadway hits like “Grease,” “Mamma Mia,” and “Saturday Night Fever.” Select ships also showcase ice skating performances, acrobatic shows, and thrilling diving spectacles that offer exceptional family entertainment.
With a wealth of entertainment choices available, tailored to various interests and age groups, select shows and performances that cater to your and your family’s preferences.
Book Kidmoto Now!
Understandably, planning your dream family cruise vacation can get stressful. You have many parts to consider, especially when traveling with a baby.
One way to deal with complicated things is to have less on your hands, literally! With Kidmoto, you can ditch the car seats without compromising safety. From the airport to your chosen cruise ship port and vice versa, you can count on your designated Kidmotorist for travel convenience.
Download the mobile-friendly Kidmoto App today through the Apple Store or Google Play Store! In a few taps, you can reserve a safe and comfortable car service with pre-installed car seats to bring you to your ultimate family getaway!
