Cruises offer a fantastic way for families to travel. For starters, you unpack once and wake up in a different location each day. This means no constant packing and unpacking between destinations. Plus, there’s something to keep everyone entertained, from toddlers to teens, with activities, entertainment, and dining options to suit all ages. Cruises also offer the chance to explore multiple destinations, whether it is the sun-soaked Caribbean or the historic Mediterranean.
Should I choose a no-fly cruise from the UK or fly to a destination?
Whether you opt for a no-fly cruise sailing from the UK, or a cruise with flights included departing from a port further afield really depends on what you’re looking for and what sort of budget you’re working with as well as other factors such as the amount of time you’re looking to go on holiday for.
- No-fly cruises from the UK, often departing from Southampton, are super convenient for families. There are no restrictions on luggage, so you can bring all the essentials and more. P&O Cruises, for example, offers a range of cruises from Southampton.
- Flying to a destination means you can often reach more exotic locations such as the Caribbean. You can also combine a cruise with a stay at a resort, extending your holiday. You might want to combine a cruise from Port Canaveral in Florida with a stay at Disney or Universal.
Which cruise lines are best for families?
Several cruise lines stand out for their family-friendly approach:
- MSC Cruises is known for its award-winning family offerings, with dedicated kids’ clubs for all ages, family excursions, and discounts for children. They even partner with LEGO to create fun, engaging play areas.
- P&O Cruises provides family-friendly ships with a great balance of popular British favourites and healthy dishes. They’ve recently partnered with Annabel Karmel to create a new children’s menu.
- Royal Caribbean is renowned for its innovative ships packed with activities, from escape rooms to impressive private islands like CocoCay. They offer family suites and connecting rooms so everyone can stay together.
- Princess Cruises offers family cruises with a variety of activities to suit different interests, including unique and immersive experiences, and family-friendly dining options. They have been awarded “Best Cruise Line for Multi-Generational Family Travel”.
- Disney Cruise Line provides an enchanting experience with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and themed deck parties. They have dedicated clubs for kids, tweens and teens.
- Norwegian Cruise Line has a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, as well as family-friendly activities, and are committed to offering a flexible and unforgettable cruise experience for the entire family.
What kind of dining options are available for families on a cruise?
Most cruise lines offer a range of dining choices to satisfy all ages:
- Dedicated kids’ menus are often available in the main dining rooms and casual restaurants. MSC Cruises for example has dedicated kid’s menus with international and Mediterranean options.
- Buffets provide a casual, flexible option with a variety of foods.
- Speciality restaurants offer a chance to experience new cuisines and some cruise lines offer a reduced rate for children dining in speciality restaurants.
- P&O Cruises provide a special early tea with children’s favourites. They also offer Hipp Organic baby food jars.
- Most cruise lines offer the option to have meals delivered to your cabin which can be convenient if you’ve already put the kids to bed.
What activities and entertainment are available for families on board a cruise?
There’s never a dull moment on a family cruise, with activities for all ages:
- Kids’ clubs offer supervised fun for different age groups, from toddlers to teens. MSC Cruises has 5 dedicated clubs for ages 0-17 with trained multilingual staff. P&O Cruises also offer kids clubs for children and teenagers.
- Pools and water parks provide hours of fun in the sun.
- Sports courts offer activities such as basketball and table tennis.
- Live shows and entertainment include Broadway-style productions and themed deck parties.
- Royal Caribbean offers escape rooms.
- MSC Cruises has drone academies, dance crew competitions and web series specifically designed for children.
- Disney Cruise Line offers unique character experiences.
What type of family accommodation can I expect on a cruise?
Cruise lines offer a variety of cabin options to suit families:
- Connecting rooms allow you to stay close to each other.
- Family suites offer more space and amenities. Royal Caribbean has introduced an Ultimate Family Townhouse with three storeys.
- P&O Cruises offer family-friendly cabins with flexible sleeping arrangements.
- MSC Cruises offers interconnecting cabins to allow kids their own space.
Are there discounts for children on cruises?
Yes, many cruise lines offer discounts and special deals for families:
- MSC Cruises often has “Kids Sail Free” promotions. They also offer discounted rates for children on shore excursions.
- P&O Cruises offer generous family reductions, with children aged 2-17 years old receiving a reduced price. They also offer half price shore excursions for children aged 2-12.
- Norwegian Cruise Line offers discounted rates for 3rd-4th guests as part of their More at Sea offer.
- MSC Cruises has a single parent discount where the first child sails at 15% off.
What are the best cruise ships for families?
Choosing the ‘best’ ship really depends on your family’s preferences but here are a few examples of ships that stand out:
- P&O Arvia: This ship is great for families with its SkyDome, retractable roof and family-friendly dining options created in partnership with Annabel Karmel.
- Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas: As one of the largest cruise ships in the world, this ship features multiple neighbourhoods, an ultimate family suite, and activities like mini golf and an ice rink, making it perfect for larger families.
- MSC World Europa: This ship provides a variety of family-friendly options from LEGO play areas to drone academies and is a great option for families with young children, tweens and teens.
- Disney Wish: Offers an immersive experience with themed dining, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-calibre shows, making it a top choice for fans of Disney.
- Princess Cruises: Discovery Princess: With unique immersive travel experiences including Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions and multiple youth and teen centers, this is a great option for multi-generational families.
- Norwegian Encore: Offers thrilling activities such as go-karts and laser tag as well as a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it a great option for families with older kids.
Should I book early or wait until the last minute to book my family cruise?
It’s always best to book your family cruise as early as possible. Family cabins, especially those that are connecting or suites, are limited and in high demand. Booking early ensures you’ll secure the best cabin for your family, and also take advantage of early booking discounts or promotions. Waiting until the last minute often means missing out on the specific cabin types or itineraries that best suit your family.
What else should I consider when booking a family cruise?
- Check the ship’s amenities to ensure they fit your family’s needs.
- Consider the itinerary and whether the destinations are suitable for your children.
- Book in advance, especially if travelling during school holidays.
- Review the cruise line’s policies on minors and check for any specific requirements.
- Check if there are any specific restrictions on what you can bring on board.
If you are still unsure of the perfect family cruise holiday, do not hesitate to get in contact with our friendly team, we are always happy to help find the perfect cruise package.
