The Best Family Cruise Lines, Compared
Characters, water parks or race tracks: what each family cruise line does best.
Get Family Cruise QuotesFinding the Best Family Cruise Lines for Your Crew
Every big cruise line welcomes children, but the best family cruise lines differ in what they do best. Some build the whole experience around kids; others offer a huge ship with something for everyone; still others shine in particular regions. Here is a feature-by-feature view, based on what the lines themselves publish, to help you shortlist.
| Line | Headline family feature | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Disney Cruise Line | Characters, Disney shows and Oceaneer kids’ spaces | Rotational dining moves your family and servers between themed restaurants; adults-only pools and areas give parents a break |
| Royal Caribbean | Big resort ships with Adventure Ocean kids’ programs | Many ships have a FlowRider surf simulator and climbing walls; newer ships add water parks |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Camp Ocean for younger kids and casual, fun ships | WaterWorks water parks on many ships; a wide choice of short sailings from U.S. ports |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Splash Academy and Entourage for teens; flexible dining | Some newer ships have go-kart race tracks on deck |
| MSC Cruises | Kids’ clubs by age and frequent family promotions | Has run kids sail free offers on select sailings |
| Princess Cruises | Camp Discovery youth programs on a calmer style of ship | Popular for Alaska with older children |
Features vary by ship within a line, so always check the specific ship. Youth-club age bands and nursery details are set out on Cruises for Children.
Match the Line to Your Family
Young children who love characters
A Disney cruise is built for you. Expect premium pricing, especially in school holidays.
Thrill-seekers aged 8 to 16
Look at the largest Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian ships, with slides, surf simulators and race tracks.
A first family cruise on a budget
A three- or four-night sailing from a drive-to port on a mainstream line keeps cost and risk low.
Nature-loving older kids
Alaska or the Caribbean with active shore trips; the ship matters less than the itinerary.
Questions to Ask About Any Ship
- What ages does the kids’ club take, and is it included in the fare at all hours?
- Is there a splash area for children in swim diapers?
- Are there quad cabins or connecting rooms in our price range?
- How many sea days are on the itinerary, and what is on board for those days?
- What does the teen program offer, and where do teens hang out?
Family Cruise Line Questions
Is Disney the best family cruise line?
It is the most family-focused, with characters, Disney entertainment and dedicated adults-only spaces. Many families also love the bigger resort ships of Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian for their water parks and variety. The right choice depends on your kids and your budget.
Are luxury lines good for children?
Most luxury and adults-oriented lines have few or no children’s facilities. Families with young kids are usually happier on mainstream resort ships.
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