Choosing the right cruise ship can be the difference between a good trip and a great one. There are various types of ships designed for different experiences, whether you're looking for family-friendly amenities, luxurious suites, or adventure-packed itineraries. Consider the size of the ship, the onboard activities, and the destinations it visits. Larger ships often have more activities and entertainment options, while smaller ones can offer more intimate experiences and unique destinations.

When selecting your cruise, think about what’s most important to you—whether it’s excellent food, relaxation, or off-the-beaten-path excursions. By researching cruise lines and reading reviews, you’ll get a better idea of which ship is the best fit for your needs.

Cruising offers a unique opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, but the time you have in each port is often limited. To make the most of your visit, shore excursions are the perfect way to explore, learn, and enjoy everything the destination has to offer. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys a leisurely day on the beach, planning your shore excursions ahead and wisely can ensure you have a fulfilling experience without feeling rushed. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips on how to plan the best shore excursions for your next cruise.

1. Understand Your Port Schedule

Before diving into the world of shore excursions, the first step is knowing how much time you’ll have in port. Cruise ships typically dock in each location for anywhere between six to twelve hours and sometimes overnight, but this can vary. Take note of the time your ship arrives and departs from each port, and factor in any potential delays.

Tip: Always allow extra time to return to the ship. Many cruise lines recommend returning to the ship at least 30 minutes before departure, bigger cruise ships usually 1 hour before as ports can be busy and lines at security may take longer than expected.

2. Plan Based on Your Interests

Shore excursions range from action-packed adventures to laid-back explorations, so think about what activities interest you most. Here are some options to consider:

Tip: Don’t try to pack too much into one day. If you want to fully enjoy each excursion, aim for one primary activity per port, rather than trying to squeeze multiple excursions into a single day.

3. Book Excursions Early

While it’s tempting to book your shore excursions on the day of your arrival at the port, booking ahead can have significant benefits. Popular excursions, such as swimming with dolphins or exploring ancient ruins, can fill up quickly. Securing your spot ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on your top choice.

Tip: Many cruise lines offer an online platform where you can book excursions before your sailing. Take advantage of these booking tools to select the best options for your cruise.

4. Research Independent Shore Excursion Providers

While booking through the cruise line is convenient, consider exploring independent excursion providers for a more personalized experience. Cruiseworld partners with top-rated independent excursion providers to offer tours at up to 40% cheaper than the cruise line, with the added benefit of smaller group sizes and unique itineraries. These independent providers often deliver a more intimate and tailored experience, with the flexibility to explore beyond the typical cruise offerings. Plus, they guarantee timely returns to the ship, ensuring you won't miss your departure. However, always be sure to check the tour schedule and confirm the return times to avoid any stress on your adventure.

Tip: Look for independent tours that have good reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Trustpilot, and double-check that they offer a "guarantee return to ship" policy if your excursion runs late.

5. Factor in Travel Time to and from the Port

When selecting shore excursions, don’t forget to account for travel time between the port and the activity location. For example, if you’re interested in visiting a remote beach or historical site, the excursion might include a 30-minute or longer drive. Be sure to confirm how long the journey will take and if it's worth it based on your available time in port.

Tip: If you have limited time, consider staying closer to the port or choosing activities that are within easy walking distance, such as exploring the local town or visiting nearby beaches.

6. Choose Flexible or Private Excursions

If you’re someone who doesn’t like being tied down to a fixed schedule or wants a more personalized experience, consider booking flexible or private excursions. With these options, you can set your own pace, customize your itinerary, and enjoy a more intimate experience without the crowd.

Tip: Private excursions can be more expensive, but they can also provide better value for those seeking a more tailored experience, especially for families or small groups.

7. Be Culturally Aware and Pack Smart

When planning shore excursions, consider both local customs and your packing needs. Respect cultural norms, dress codes, and practices like tipping, especially when visiting sacred sites or local villages. At the same time, pack appropriately for the activity—sunscreen, water shoes, swimwear, and a small daypack with essentials like water and a camera. For water excursions, bring a waterproof bag to protect your valuables, ensuring you’re both prepared and respectful throughout your adventure.

8. Be Ready for Unexpected Delays

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things don't go according to plan. Weather conditions, transportation delays, or other unforeseen factors may cause excursions to run late or get canceled. In such cases, it’s important to stay flexible and maintain a positive attitude.

Tip: Always have a backup plan or a list of things you can do near the port in case your original excursion gets delayed or canceled.

Conclusion

Shore excursions are a fantastic way to make the most of your cruise vacation, offering opportunities to discover new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. By planning ahead, considering your interests, and choosing the right excursions, you can ensure that you have an unforgettable time in each port. Remember to stay flexible, research your options, and take into account the logistics of each destination so you can maximize your time ashore.

Happy cruising and adventuring!

Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting adventure, but with so many options and details to consider, it can also feel a little overwhelming. Don’t worry – cruising is designed to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, and with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to set sail like a pro! From choosing the perfect cabin to understanding shore excursions, we’ve got all the tips you need for a smooth sailing experience. Let’s dive into Cruising 101 and make sure your first voyage is everything you’ve dreamed of!

1. Choosing the Right Cruise for You

One of the most important steps in preparing for your first cruise is choosing the right type of cruise. Cruises come in a variety of styles and itineraries, so it's essential to pick the one that best suits your preferences and travel goals. Here's a breakdown of different types of cruises:

Family-Friendly Cruises: Perfect for those traveling with kids, these cruises feature kid-friendly activities, water parks, family dining, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises offer exceptional family-focused experiences.

Adult-Only Cruises: If you’re looking for a peaceful, yet fun environment without children, adult-only cruises provide a more serene atmosphere, with amenities and activities tailored to adults. These cruises are perfect for couples or groups of friends looking to escape into a quiet, luxurious retreat, away from the bustle of family-focused ships. Popular lines like Virgin Voyages, Vikings, Celebrity, Azamara and Adventurous Adult Cruises cater specifically to adults who prefer an uninterrupted experience, focusing on wellness, romance, and sophistication.

Luxury Cruises: If you're looking for an upscale and relaxing experience, luxury cruises offer high-end accommodations, fine dining, personalized service, and exclusive amenities. Cruise lines like Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Oceania Cruises cater to guests seeking a lavish getaway.

Adventure Cruises: For those seeking a more active and immersive experience, expedition cruises offer opportunities to explore remote destinations like the Arctic or Antarctic, or take part in activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Lines such as Hurtigruten, Ponant, Swan Hellenic, Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad Expeditions specialize in these unique voyages.

Specialty Cruises: If you’re passionate about a specific interest, consider a specialty cruise such as a wine cruise, culinary cruise, or themed cruises that focus on activities like races, sports or events. These cruises cater to enthusiasts who want to combine their love of wine, food, or unique experiences with their vacation. Examples include wine-themed cruises where you can enjoy wine tastings and food pairings, or culinary cruises offering cooking classes and exclusive food-focused excursions.

Cruise & Land Programs: If you’re looking to maximize your holiday, consider an all-inclusive cruise such as the Cruise & Land program. These packages combine your cruise with flight, hotels and land-based excursions, such as cruise and rail programs that let you explore scenic rail routes or pre- and post-cruise extensions that allow you to spend additional time exploring cities and landmarks before or after your cruise. These programs offer a well-rounded travel experience, combining the best of both worlds.

River Cruises: For a more intimate and scenic experience, river cruises offer a relaxing way to explore cities and towns along famous rivers, like the Danube, Rhine, or Amazon. These cruises are typically smaller and focus on cultural immersion, offering stops at quaint villages and historic landmarks, perfect for those who want a slower-paced, scenic journey and are prone to seasickness that can sometimes occur with Ocean cruises.

Ship Size: Another important factor to consider is the size of the ship. If you love large ships with a wide range of activities and amenities, mega ships might be ideal for you. These ships carry around 3,000 to 6,000 passengers and offer everything from water parks, theatres, and shopping malls to multiple restaurants, pools, and many entertainment options. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Costa, Princess, MSC, Norwegian, and Carnival are known for their large, activity-packed ships.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more intimate experience with fewer crowds and more relaxation, Medium to smaller ships or yacht-style cruises may be the better choice. These ships capacity range from 700 to 1,500 for medium ships and 150 to 700 for small ships. They offer a quieter, more personalized experience with spacious, luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and fewer passengers. Small-ship cruises, such as those offered by Explora Journeys, Windstar Cruises, Seadream Yacht Club, Variety Cruises or Regent Seven Seas, focus on offering a refined atmosphere and more personalized service.

No matter which type of cruise you choose, the key is to think about what kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s family fun, relaxation, adventure, specialized interests, or the ideal ship size—and choose a cruise line that offers the right atmosphere for your ideal vacation.

2. Choosing the Right Cabin

When it comes to your cabin, there are various options depending on your budget and preference. Understanding the different cabin types will help you make the best choice: When choosing your cabin, think about how much time you plan to spend in your room, your budget, and what kind of view you’d enjoy the most.

Inside Cabins: These are the most budget-friendly options and provide a comfortable, no-frills space with no windows. If you don’t mind being in a dark room while you sleep, this is a great option for those who plan to spend more time exploring the ship than in their cabin.

Oceanview Cabins: These cabins feature a window (or porthole) that allows natural light and views of the sea. They’re a great mid-range option for those who want to enjoy the view but don’t need the extra space or luxury of higher-end cabins.

Balcony Cabins: Ideal for those who want to enjoy their private outdoor space, balcony cabins come with a private balcony where you can relax and take in the views. These are great for anyone who wants a bit more luxury and relaxation in their room.

Suites: For a truly luxurious experience, suites offer more space, premium amenities, and additional perks such as concierge service, priority boarding, and access to exclusive areas. Perfect for those looking for the ultimate cruise experience.

When choosing your cabin, think about how much time you plan to spend in your room, your budget, and what kind of view you’d enjoy the most.

3. Dining on Your Cruise

One of the best parts of cruising is the incredible range of dining options available onboard. From casual buffets to fine dining restaurants, you’ll never go hungry! Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

Main Dining Room: Most cruise ships have a main dining room where you’ll enjoy multi-course meals with set seating times. Some cruise lines offer flexible dining times, so you can choose when to dine.

Buffets: Buffets are a casual and convenient dining option where you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes. These are perfect for a laid-back meal or when you're craving variety.

Specialty Restaurants: Many cruise lines offer specialty dining venues featuring international cuisine, steak, seafood, or even celebrity chef-inspired dishes. These often come with an additional fee but are a great way to treat yourself to something extra special.

Room Service: Don’t feel like dressing up? Many cruise lines offer 24/7 room service, so you can enjoy meals in the comfort of your cabin. Room service can be a great option for a quiet night in or a leisurely breakfast.

With so many dining options available, your meals can be as casual or elegant as you like, depending on your mood!

4. Shore Excursions and Activities

While onboard activities are often plenty to keep you busy, part of the fun of cruising is exploring new destinations. Most cruise lines offer a variety of shore excursions to enhance your trip, also at Cruiseworld we have partner with a great excruision provider to provide you with a personalised tours at a cheaper rate:

Excursions to Popular Attractions: These may include guided tours to famous landmarks, museums, or natural wonders in the port cities you visit.

Adventure Activities: For those seeking more adrenaline-filled experiences, you can book excursions like zip-lining, snorkeling, scuba diving, or even ATV rides.

Local Culture: Take part in cultural experiences such as cooking classes, local performances, or shopping trips to discover the unique culture of the places you're visiting.

To make the most of your shore visits, it’s a good idea to book your excursions in advance, especially for popular tours that may sell out quickly.

5. Entertainment and Activities Onboard

Cruise ships offer a wide array of entertainment to keep you busy while sailing. Here are some of the most popular activities and shows to enjoy onboard

Broadway-Style Shows: Most cruise ships feature high-quality musical performances, comedy shows, and themed productions.

Live Music and Nightlife: Enjoy live bands, DJs, and themed parties at the ship’s bars and lounges. There’s usually something for every musical taste, from jazz to pop.

Pools and Sports: Whether you want to relax by the pool or take part in more active pursuits like rock climbing, basketball, or mini-golf, there’s no shortage of options.

Spa and Wellness: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment, yoga class, or fitness session to recharge during your cruise.

Final Tips for First-Time Cruisers:

• Plan Ahead: Be sure to research your cruise itinerary, understand the ship’s layout, and plan your activities early to make the most of your time.

• Pack Smart: Bring a mix of casual clothes, swimwear, and a few dressier outfits for dinners or formal nights onboard.

• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask our travel advisors for more questions we are available to help you and make your cruise experience seamless and on board always ask the crew for help they can guide you through the ship’s offerings.

Your first cruise is just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with travel and adventure at sea. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the exciting experiences that cruising has to offer. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, discovering new destinations, or enjoying a gourmet meal, cruising offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, set sail, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!

Starting your first cruise can be exciting and a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! From understanding cabin options to figuring out shore excursions, a cruise is designed to be as easy and enjoyable as possible. Most cruises offer everything from entertainment to dining right onboard, so you can simply relax and let the adventure unfold.

For beginners, choosing the right type of cruise is key. Whether you’re after family-friendly fun, a luxurious escape, or an adventurous expedition, there’s a cruise out there just for you. Start by considering what kind of experience you want, and feel free to ask questions along the way. Your first cruise is just the beginning of an exciting journey!

Cruising offers an all-inclusive vacation experience where you can visit multiple destinations, enjoy a wide range of activities, and indulge in delicious meals—all without the hassle of constant packing or worrying about logistics. But exactly what’s included in a cruise? If you’re considering a cruise for your next vacation, here's a breakdown of what you can typically expect to be included in your fare.

1. Accommodation

Your cruise fare typically includes your cabin or stateroom. Cruise lines offer various types of cabins, from inside rooms with no windows to oceanview cabins with portholes or windows, to balcony cabins where you can enjoy private outdoor space. More luxurious options like suites are also available and come with additional perks like concierge services and access to exclusive areas.

The price you pay for your cruise will usually cover the cost of your room for the duration of the trip, with most ships offering comfortable, well-appointed rooms and daily housekeeping.

2. Meals

One of the best perks of cruising is that most meals are included. Whether you're dining in the main dining room, a buffet, or at casual eateries on deck, food is usually part of the package.

Main Dining Room: Cruise ships typically have a main dining room where you can enjoy multi-course meals. Some ships offer traditional seating times, while others feature more flexible dining options. The main Dining room is usually Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Buffets: Buffets are a casual and convenient option, with a wide variety of food available throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Casual Dining: Many ships also offer casual dining venues where you can grab a quick bite, such as pizza, burgers, or sandwiches.

However, while meals in the main dining room and buffet are included, some specialty dining restaurants or themed restaurants may charge an extra fee. For those who enjoy fine dining, these venues offer a more exclusive experience with an additional cost.

3. Entertainment

Cruise ships are known for their lively entertainment options, and most of these are included in your cruise fare. Whether you’re into Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, live music, or dance performances, there’s usually something to keep you entertained.

Some ships even feature movie screenings, trivia games, themed parties, and talent shows. Depending on the cruise line, you might also find onboard casinos or lounges with live performances or DJs.

While certain premium shows or events might have an extra charge, the majority of entertainment options are included in your cruise package.

4. Onboard Activities

There’s never a dull moment on a cruise, thanks to the variety of onboard activities included in your fare. Here are a few things you can enjoy:

Pools and Hot Tubs: Relax by the pool or take a dip in one of the ship's hot tubs, all included in your cruise fare.

Sports and Recreation: Most cruise ships offer sports facilities such as basketball courts, mini-golf, rock climbing walls, and fitness centers.

Kids’ Clubs and Activities: Many cruise lines have kids' clubs where younger passengers can enjoy supervised activities, from arts and crafts to games and themed events.

Spa and Wellness: While treatments like massages, facials, and wellness services often come at an extra cost, fitness classes like yoga or group workouts are often included.

Daily Activities: Cruises offer daily activities, such as trivia, dance classes, workshops and cooking demonstrations, that are all part of your cruise experience.

5. Shore Excursions (Optional)

While shore excursions to ports of call are not typically included in your cruise fare, they can be arranged through the cruise line for an additional cost. These excursions offer a chance to explore the destinations you'll be visiting, from guided city tours and nature hikes to snorkeling trips and cultural experiences.

Cruise lines often provide a wide selection of shore excursions, and booking them in advance ensures you have a spot on the tours of your choice. Alternatively, you can explore ports independently, although the cruise line's excursions typically include the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

6. Tipping and Gratuities ( Optional Extra)

On many cruise lines, tips for the crew (such as cabin stewards and wait staff) are included in the cruise fare or added to your onboard account. However, some cruise lines charge an automatic daily gratuity, and guests can adjust this amount if desired. It’s always worth confirming with your cruise line whether gratuities are included or need to be paid separately.

For specialty services, like room service or additional onboard services, tipping might be expected, but it’s up to you.

7. Onboard Amenities

Cruise ships are floating resorts with a range of amenities that are typically included in the price of your cruise:

Fitness and Wellness Facilities: The use of fitness centers, jogging tracks, and wellness facilities like saunas or steam rooms is usually included in your cruise fare.

Room Service: Many cruise lines offer complimentary room service, allowing you to enjoy meals or snacks in the comfort of your cabin. However, some ships may charge for certain items or during late-night hours.

8. Coffee, Tea, and Water

Coffee, tea, and water are generally included on most cruises, available at buffets, dining rooms, and self-service stations throughout the ship. You’ll be able to grab a cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of water during your day without extra charges.

However, specialty coffees (like espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos) and bottled water may come with an additional charge, depending on the cruise line.

9. Wi-Fi (Optional Extra)

Internet access is becoming increasingly important to travelers, and most cruise lines offer Wi-Fi on board, though it usually comes at an extra cost. Wi-Fi plans are generally priced by the day or by the amount of data you need, so it’s worth checking with your cruise line ahead of time to find out the pricing structure.

However, a few premium and luxury cruise lines go above and beyond by including complimentary Wi-Fi in their cruise fares as part of the all-inclusive experience. These luxury lines include: Regent seven seas, Oceania Cruises, Vikings Cruises, Seabourn and Virgin Voyage

For standard or more budget-friendly cruise lines, such as Carnival, Costa, MSC, Royal Caribbean, or Norwegian Cruise Line, Wi-Fi is typically an optional extra, and the cost varies from cruiseline

10. Specialty Packages and Extras (Optional)

While your basic cruise fare covers a lot, there are additional packages and services you can opt for at extra cost. These may include:

Drink Packages: Cruise lines often offer drink packages that allow you to enjoy unlimited alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or specialty coffees during your cruise for a set fee.

Specialty Dining Packages: If you want to dine at one of the specialty restaurants on board, you may need to purchase a dining package or pay an à la carte fee.

Excursions and Add-Ons: As mentioned earlier, shore excursions, helicopter rides, spa treatments, or even private beach access may be available for an extra fee.

Photos and Souvenirs: Many cruises offer photography services, and purchasing souvenir photos, art, or other retail items will be an additional cost.

11. Port Charges (Included)

In the past, port charges were often an additional cost not included in the cruise fare, but now, since the "Honest Pricing Law" introduced in July 2024, most cruise lines are now rquired to include port charges in the overall price of the cruise. These charges cover the fees for docking, port services, and other necessary facilities used during your stop at each port of call. However, you should double-check when booking to confirm if port charges are included in your total fare.

All-Inclusive Cruise Fares

For those who want the ultimate stress-free vacation, some cruise lines offer all-inclusive cruise fares, which bundle a variety of services and amenities into one price. These all-inclusive fares can include:

All-inclusive cruise fares offer great value for those who want to enjoy a worry-free vacation, knowing that most of their expenses have already been covered upfront.

Final Thoughts

A cruise offers exceptional value for an all-inclusive vacation, especially when you consider the accommodation, food, entertainment, and activities included in the price. While there may be additional costs for certain services, excursions, or premium experiences, the overall cruise experience offers convenience and enjoyment without having to worry about paying for every little thing along the way.

To get the most out of your cruise, it’s a good idea to research the specifics of what is and isn’t included with your chosen cruise line. Some lines are more all-inclusive than others, and understanding what’s covered can help you plan your budget and make the most of your adventure at sea.

Happy sailing!

Cruising with kids can be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family, combining relaxation, fun, and exploration all in one package. Many cruise lines offer fantastic amenities, activities, and entertainment specifically designed to keep little ones (and their parents) happy. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, there’s a perfect ship and itinerary for your family.

Here are the top 5 family-friendly cruises you should consider for your next getaway!

1. Disney Cruise Line: A World of Wonder for Kids and Families

Best for: Families with young children, Disney fans, and anyone looking for a magical experience.

Why it’s great: Disney Cruise Line is the ultimate family-friendly cruise experience, offering a blend of immersive entertainment, themed activities, and exceptional service. Disney’s ships—like the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy—are packed with character meet-and-greets, themed dining, and kids' clubs. Disney cruises bring the magic of Disney to life on board.

Activities for Kids & Families:

Oceaneer Club: A space where kids can immerse themselves in adventures like a Pixie Hollow play area, or engage in Star Wars. The club is also home to the Marvel Super Hero Academy, where kids can channel their inner superhero

Oceaneer Lab: This area offers fun science experiments, crafting activities, and hands-on games. Kids can enjoy everything from Disney Infinity video games to art and crafts projects inspired by their favorite Disney films.

Broadway style shows: Watch spectacular performances featuring beloved Disney characters like "Frozen" , "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty & The Beast", and "Disney’s Aladdin".

Themed Dining: Enjoy meals in fun, themed restaurants such as Animator’s Palate, where the walls come to life with animation, A Frozen Dining Adventure, Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Tiana’s Place: Inspired by The Princess and the Frog, which can be found on all Disney cruise ships including Disney Treasure, Disney wish, Disney wonder.

Private Island: Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, featuring water play areas, family-friendly beaches, and fun excursions like snorkeling and bike rides

Pirate Night Party

Aboard every Disney Cruise, guests enjoy the exciting Pirate Night—a deck party full of music, dancing, and fun. It’s a high-energy evening where the whole family can dress up like pirates and join in the fun

Disney Character Meet-and-Greet: No Disney cruise is complete without meeting some of your favorite characters! From Mickey and Minnie to Elsa and Buzz Lightyear, families can get up close and personal with the characters during scheduled meet-and-greet sessions throughout the cruise. The experience is magical for children (and adults) who want to snap a photo or get an autograph. Why families love it: The onboard experience is designed for kids but ensures the parents can also enjoy some relaxation time, whether it's by the adult-only pool or at the spa. Keep in mind all these shows and activities are included in the cruise fare.

2. Royal Caribbean International: Thrills for Kids of All Ages

Best for: Families with active kids and thrill-seeking teens.

Why it’s great: Royal Caribbean is a favourite amonth families for its adventure and dynamic onboard offerings. Ships like the Oasis of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas feature everything from surf simulators to ice skating rinks and rock climbing walls. Royal Caribbean caters to families with diverse activity levels, from relaxed days at sea to high-energy, action-packed adventures.

Highlights for Kids & Families:

Adventure Ocean: A comprehensive kids' club for ages 3 to 17 with everything from arts and crafts to treasure hunts and video games. Feautre activities such as science experiments, talent shows, and educational programs

FlowRider Surf Simulator: Teens and tweens can try their hand at surfing or boogie boarding on the ship’s surf simulator. can be found on most oasis class ships like Odyssey of the seas, Allure of the seas, Ovation of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas

Family Fun Attractions: The ships feature waterslides, rock climbing wall, a carousel, a mini-golf course, and even an escape room!

Kids Dining Options: Specialized menus for kids with healthy and tasty meals that appeal to younger tastes.

3. Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Fun, Fun for the Whole Family

Best for: Families who want a laid-back cruise filled with fun, energy, and affordability.

Why it’s great: Carnival is often referred to as the “Fun Ships,” and for a good reason—this cruise line is packed with playful activities and family-oriented events. The Carnival Horizon and Carnival Panorama are top choices for families looking for a lively experience. The Carnival fleet includes waterparks, youth clubs, and family entertainment that ensures everyone stays engaged.

Top activities for kids:

Camp Ocean: This fun kids’ club is divided into age groups (2-5, 6-8, and 9-11) and offers themed activities like scavenger hunts and talent shows.

WaterWorks Waterpark: Carnival’s ships feature onboard waterparks with slides, water cannons, and splash zones, perfect for cooling off while having a blast.

Family & Teens Game Centre - This include a mini golf, basketball, pickel ball , volley ball, ziplines and ropes course

Seuss at Sea: In partnership with Dr. Seuss, Carnival offers a unique character breakfast and storytime sessions that bring beloved characters like The Cat in the Hat to life.

Space Cruisers : Kids ages 2–11 can explore the cosmos — at sea! — with NASA-inspired activities, in this unique program developed in partnership with Kennedy Space Center

Bolt Roller Coaster: If you are a thrill seeker, Meet BOLT®: the fastest — and first! — rollercoaster at sea Strap in and zoom your motorcycle-style speed machine around an open-air course high, high above sea level, Bolt can be found on Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Jubileee Why families love it: With its casual vibe and plenty of activities for all ages, Carnival is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines without breaking the bank. The entertainment is fun, and the meals are family-approved!

4. Norwegian Cruise Line: Ultimate Family Fun at Sea

Best for: Families who want flexibility and variety in their cruise experience.

Why it’s great: Norwegian Cruise Line is perfect for families who want to combine fun activities with a relaxed, flexible schedule. Their NCL Breakaway and Joy ships offer a wide range of family-friendly activities, from water parks to family-friendly Broadway shows. The "freestyle cruising" experience allows families to create their own itinerary, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more laid-back schedule.

Top activities for kids:

Splash Academy: This kids' club offers age-specific activities, including arts and crafts, sports, and games. Kids ages 6 months to 12 years will find a fun-filled experience here.

Aquaparks: Norwegian ships feature massive water parks with slides, splash zones, and pools—perfect for cooling off and having fun in the sun. Ready to slide this fast? Dare to experience The Drop, the first free-fall dry slide in the world or The Rush Norwegian Viva's newest slides are the fastest at sea.

Laser Tag & Mini Golf: Teens will love the onboard laser tag arena, while the entire family can enjoy a round of mini-golf with ocean views.

• Race track at Sea : Norwegian cruiseline boast the longest race tracks at sea, you can hit speeds up to 30 miles per hour as you take in the ocean view
• on their first three-level race track at sea. Available on Norwegian Viva, NCL Joy, Norwegian Bliss



• Galaxy Pavilion: The Galaxy Pavilion on ships like Norwegian PRIMA is a high-tech interactive entertainment space. It’s packed with virtual reality games, simulators, and other cutting-edge experiences. Teens and older kids will have a blast racing cars, battling in virtual space, or experiencing thrilling motion simulators. Also avaialble on Norwegian Viva, NCL Joy, Norwegian Encore 
• Why families love it: Norwegian’s flexibility in dining times and the ability to mix adventure with relaxation is a hit for families with varying schedules and interests. The Galaxy Pavilion provides the perfect blend of futuristic fun, while the variety of other activities keeps everyone in the family entertained

5. MSC Cruises: A World of Fun for Families



Best for: Families looking for a mix of European flair and family-friendly fun.

Why it’s great: MSC Cruises is known for its modern ships and innovative features. With the family-focused MSC Seashore, MSC Meraviglia, and MSC Bellissima, the line offers a variety of activities that appeal to both children and parents alike. The line also emphasizes Italian-inspired elegance while ensuring fun and adventure are always top of mind.

Top activities for kids:

Conclusion: Set Sail for Family Fun!

When it comes to cruising with kids, these cruise lines go above and beyond to create unforgettable family experiences. Whether you're looking for magical character meet-and-greets with Disney, thrilling adventures with Royal Caribbean, or flexible, fun-filled days with Norwegian, there’s something for every family to enjoy. So, pack your bags, grab your little explorers, and get ready to set sail on a family vacation you’ll never forget!

Are you ready to take the family on an exciting cruise? Which cruise line do you think would be the best fit for your family? Let us know in the comments below!