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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO

Vacation with the family.

Trying to plan the ultimate family vacation? Royal Caribbean offers thrills for everyone onboard

Pulling off the perfect family vacation isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to cater to different ages and preferences. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean is known for delivering great family getaways designed to wow guests across multiple generations. Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is packed with palate-pleasing dining options, incredible entertainment, and unforgettable activities for all ages included in your cruise fare — not to mention itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most adventure-filled shores. The best part? All the planning has been taking care of for you, so you can focus on bonding with your loved ones while doing as much or as little as you like. 

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

Your next family getaway is a click away — where will you wander next?

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BOLDER FAMILY BONDING STARTS HERE

Family-friendly vacation destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

cococay getaway

Kick family bonding up a notch at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas — voted Best Private Island Experience by Travel Weekly readers. Turn up the thrills, like conquering Daredevil’s Peak®, the tallest waterslide in North America. Or unplug and chill along Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

EXPLORE OUR PRIVATE ISLAND

TROPIC TREKS

Sun-kissed shores are yours to explore. Build epic castles on the pink sand beaches of Barbados . Splash into the turquoise waters of Curaçao. Or wander through legendary forts in Puerto Rico . No one does kid-friendly cruises better than Royal Caribbean® — the cruise line voted Best Overall for 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers.

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

WILDEST WEEK EVER

Discover the magic of Alaska, where snowcapped mountains, towering forests and misty fjords dare you to deny their majesty. Spot bears hunting for salmon in Tongass National Forest. Listen to the thunderous roar of Hubbard Glacier . And cross once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list together — on one unforgettable journey.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

WEST COAST WANDER

Nothing fuels bolder bonding like an epic adventure with your squad. Set out from L.A. on the family vacation you’ve been waiting for onboard the best cruises for kids. From whale-watching in Ensenada to post-card pretty shores in Puerto Vallarta and lounging on Cabo’s world-famous beaches — make memories that last a lifetime.

EXPLORE THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

SET SAIL ABOARD THE BEST SHIPS FOR FAMILIES

Cruise Planner is the place to get the most out of your adventure. Securing reservations and purchasing packages before you sail lets you score the best savings available anywhere. Add peace of mind to the mix — and you’re ready for big adventure. 

OF THE SEAS

CUE THE MEMORY MAKING

From record breaking rides — like the tallest slide at sea — to dining that offers a taste of every culture and shows that will leave you in awe, being onboard a Royal Caribbean ship makes the journey as bold as the destinations you’ll visit.

SUN-SOAKED FUN

Each ship offers endless ways for families to fill their sea days. Think epic experiences like a plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, and glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles that are bound to boost your adrenaline. Sun-soaked pool parties and hang ten sessions on the FlowRider®* surf simulator. A round of Mini Golf with a side of sea views and a rushing zip line ride ten stories above deck — and that’s barely scratching the surface.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR DINNER

With so many delicious dining options onboard, everyone in your family will find something to satisfy their cravings in between adventures. From the endless selection of complimentary flavors at Windjammer Café and family-friendly feasting with My Family Time Dining at the Main Dining Room, to specialty restaurants that take you from the Far East to Italy to Wonderland, there’s something to please every taste onboard.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

NEXT LEVEL SHOWS

Every night is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some of the best entertainment at sea. Dazzling original productions and fan favorites straight from Broadway, deck-defying high dives and aerial stunts at the AquaTheater, and the coolest moves you’ve ever seen on ice at the skating rink — you’ll quickly discover that on these ships, every performance is a show-stopper.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

room for everyone

Finding your crew’s just-right stay-place is easy, with spacious rooms designed with families in mind. Choose from rooms with endless ocean views or suites with wrap-around balconies. And if you’re craving next-level luxury, the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse on  Icon of the Seas℠ maxes the memories with three tiers of unbelievable amenities and direct access to the Surfside℠ neighborhood from your private patio.

EXPLORE ACCOMODATIONS

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO DATE NIGHT RIGHT

Who says a family vacation has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world class specialty restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theater, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

KID APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grownup time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programs provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children ages 3-11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favorite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

FAMILY VACAY MODE ON

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Don’t sweat the details — they’re all taken care of so you can focus on making lifelong family memories.

Family vacations should be stress-free, and Royal Caribbean makes it easy to fuel your wanderlust without worry. You can book unforgettable  shore excursions , onboard activities and shows online before you board, making the planning process a breeze. Once you’re on deck, you’ll enjoy award winning service by dedicated staff members that strive to meet every request, whether you’re traveling with special needs or just looking for ways to celebrate a special occasion onboard.

You can even get started customizing every aspect of your vacation from the moment you book. Browse and save big on onshore experiences, beverage and specialty dining packages, spa treatments and more when you reserve in advance online through  Cruise Planner . That way, you can go straight to enjoying your vacation as soon as you come aboard the ship.

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Many of the attractions onboard require closed-toed shoes and socks, so pack accordingly.

Even if you’re on a summer sailing to the tropics, pack a sweater if you plan to use the ice skating rink.

Luggage might not arrive in your stateroom until later. Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can dive into adventure early.

BEYOND BRAGWORTHY

Fill every minute with everything you love, anytime you want. Indulge in gourmet globetrotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment, and take on fleet favorites like rock climbing and the FlowRider®* surf simulator, plus so much more!

H2O ZONE WATERPARK

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IZUMI HIBACHI & SUSHI

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Best Family & Kid Friendly Cruises

129 night cruise to around the world.

• You want a luxury cruise with expedition teams on some sailings
• You appreciate bright, modern public areas with few crowds
• You enjoy having plenty of inclusions and dislike extra charges
• The ship's adventurous expedition sailings don't interest you
• You want lots of nonstop entertainment and vibrant nightlife

20 Night Cruise to Hawaii

4 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
• You don't need the flashy features of MSC's newer ships
• You want a cruise experience that focuses on unique itineraries
• You want splash parks, waterslides and bowling alleys onboard
• You are looking for a cruise that caters to North Americans

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

7 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a cutting-edge family cruise with European flair
• You like nonstop activities with round-the-clock fun for all
• You want dozens of different bars, lounges and restaurants
• You don't want cruise catering to European tastes first
• You dislike announcements made in up to six different languages

7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a freshly renovated older ship with lots of activities
• You like plenty of open decks and cabins with balconies
• You want a ship that provides fun with a touch of class
• You want a quiet, classically understated cruise experience
• You need diversions like massive waterparks and ziplines

4 Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

• You want new features like virtual balconies in inside cabins
• You want a big-ship experience with family-friendly fun
• You want a splash of traditional grandeur with lots of choice
• You want a ship with plenty of massive, windowed public rooms
• You want a quiet cruise experience that focuses on relaxation

4 Night Cruise to Canada & New England

• You want mega-ship fun with innovative onboard features
• You need a cruise that is suitable for families of all ages
• You want your ships big and bold but with a touch of class
• You hate crowds; things can get competitive at the buffet
• You are looking for cruises longer than a week in duration
• You don't enjoy being upsold for promotions and packages

4 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You like the idea of traveling on a fully refitted ship
• You want to take a family-friendly, activity-filled cruise
• You value a casual atmosphere that encourages you to have fun
• You dislike traveling with large groups of families and friends
• You need the latest spa treatment and fitness facilities
• You want a cruise that lasts for more than a week in duration

4 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You like scenic cruising; this bright ship is perfect for it
• You appreciate a traditional look with high-tech features
• You want big ship amenities wrapped up in a smaller package
• You're after active diversions like ziplines and surf simulators
• You want nonstop activities and a party atmosphere onboard

4 Night Cruise to Pacific Coastal

• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships

3 Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

4 night cruise to the western caribbean.

• You a value-packed cruise on a ship with plenty of features
• You find Royal Caribbean's newer ships to be just too big
• You like to keep busy and want a full schedule of activities
• You want the wow factor of Royal Caribbean's big new ships
• You need spacious cabins; standard cabins are fairly tight
• You want all the latest bells and whistles to be onboard
• You want a cruise with plenty of poolside fun in the sun
• You're bringing the family, kids or friends along with you
• You value casual informality over rigid dining times and dress
• You're not a fan of wacky, organized poolside activities
• You need top-notch suites and lavish amenities to go with them

5 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
• You prefer intimate, adult-oriented vacation experiences

11 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a classy, big ship experience with lots of amenities
• You are traveling as a family and need a cruise for all ages
• You like having plenty of choice when it comes to food onboard
• You are looking for nonstop, Vegas-style nightly entertainment
• You dislike crowds; disembarking the ship can require patience
• You feel more at home on a smaller and more intimate ship

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

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Create an all-inclusive cruise experience by combining our vacation packages to elevate your vacation to the next level. With our standard cruise-only rate, you’ll get to enjoy a stay in one of our spacious staterooms, delicious gourmet meals at our restaurants, and a slate of activities and entertainment shows—without ever worrying about the tab.

We also have a number of cruise, hotel and flight packages, Alaska and Galapagos cruise and land tours, and our unrivaled luxury vacation experience at The Retreat, where you're attended too by a dedicated team of butlers and concierges who make sure you don’t lift a finger throughout your customized all-inclusive cruise.

Create Your All-Inclusive Cruise Package

With Flights by Celebrity, we’ll get you from the tarmac to the top deck. Our dedicated Flights by Celebrity specialists find the best available rates for flights to your departure port and back, and are available 24/7 to assist you with any help you may need along the way.

Spectacular suites, an exclusive restaurant, and a private lounge are all a part of the all-inclusive cruise package when you book a stay at The Retreat, our luxury vacation experience.

Extend your vacation in Alaska with one of our Alaska Cruisetours, which combines a seven-night cruise with a fascinating land tour around destinations including Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali.

Discover the beauty of the Galapagos Islands on one of our all-inclusive cruises to this ecological paradise. Our Galapagos cruises include vacation options that combine a stunning cruise with a few nights in Quito, Ecuador or the ruins of Machu Picchu.

The best way to experience our port destinations is by signing up for one of our shore excursions, which vary from cultural tours and activities to exciting outdoor adventures and water sports.

Embark on an in-depth experience in the city where your cruise starts or ends. Stay in accommodations we’ve carefully selected. Enjoy tours guided by experts to see the must-sees and do the must-dos. Take private transportation between your airport, hotel, and ship.

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Plan your next vacation aboard one of our all-inclusive cruises. Take the entire family on a cruise of a lifetime, where they’ll enjoy world-class dining, unparalleled entertainment, and impeccable service. Celebrate a special occasion and escape on a romantic getaway at sea. Or simply take some much needed time off on one of our award-winning cruises, where you’ll find it impossible not to relax and unwind.

Our cruises travel to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Soak in the sun during a cruise to the idyllic islands of the Caribbean . Discover ancient history and exquisite cuisine while sailing around the Mediterranean . Find adventure when taking a Alaskan cruise , where glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife roam. And take the journey of a lifetime across the Atlantic Ocean. Book one of our all-inclusive cruise deals, and take the guesswork out of your next getaway.

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The 11 Best Cruise Lines and Ships for Families and Kids in 2024

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Family-friendly Cruise Amenities

Cruise types and destinations, 1. disney cruise line, 2. royal caribbean, 3. carnival cruise line, 4. norwegian cruise line, 5. msc cruises, 1. celebrity cruises, 2. the ritz-carlton yacht collection, 3. lindblad expeditions, 4. paul gauguin cruises, 5. hapag-lloyd cruises, 6. adventures by disney river cruises, final thoughts.

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Cruising has long been a popular way for people to travel, especially for those that are retired. There’s something about getting to enjoy an endless amount of food, drinks, and onboard activities while the ship takes you from one destination to another. It’s surely a tempting way to see the world.

As cruise lines including Carnival and Royal Caribbean continue to introduce show-stopping attractions that kids love, such as roller coasters and laser tag, families are getting more and more into cruising, too.

However, as with any vacation parents and families consider taking with kids, we have to ask: what are the best cruise lines for families?

The answer is, it depends.

Just like when you choose a hotel, families look for certain amenities for a cruise vacation.

Entertaining kids on any vacation is usually top of mind when planning a trip. A kid-friendly cruise line will have entertainment for its youngest sailors . Kids’ and teens’ clubs, pools, and water slides are just a few of the kid-specific amenities that you’ll find on a lot of the cruises on this list.

Higher-end cruise lines like expedition cruises offer robust educational programs for kids as well as adults. A family-friendly cruise might also have a place for the adults to relax such as a spa or adults-only area.

The cabin size matters, too, just as it would at a traditional hotel or resort .

Larger families may prefer a suite over an inside cabin. But either way, the square footage matters — even more so if you’ll spend quite a bit of your time onboard the ship.

And lastly, food might be a factor in deciding what cruise line would be best for your family. Luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will no doubt have a superb menu, but they may not be expert kid-pleasers like Disney Cruise Line when it comes to food.

There are 3 types of cruises to choose from — ocean, river, and expedition cruises.

Ocean cruises are what most people have in mind when they think of taking a cruise. Most cruise lines have at least a few ocean cruise ships in their portfolio and they most popularly frequent the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska , and Hawaii.

River cruises have traditionally been more popular with older cruisers but are now appealing to the younger crowds as well. River cruises can be found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most cruise lines don’t have kid or family programs and some outright don’t allow kids under 18, though Adventures by Disney and AmaWaterways have partnered to offer river cruising for families (more on that later).

And finally, expedition cruises take adventure-seekers to curious and far-flung destinations like the Arctic, Antarctica , the Galapagos , and the Amazon. Expedition boats are much smaller than ocean liners, and the offerings on board are usually more tailored to history and education on expedition cruises .

With all of that in mind, here are the best cruise lines for families and kids.

Hot Tip: Consider our guides to the best websites to book cruises at the cheapest prices , and make sure to use one of our recommended credit cards for booking cruises .

The 5 Best Cruise Lines for Families and Kids

Destinations :

• Australia and New Zealand
• Pacific Coast
• Panama Canal
• South Pacific

Number of Ships : 5

Disney Cruise Line is at the top of this list because it does a really fantastic job of catering to every member of the family. It has managed to bring the magic of Disney theme parks to the middle of the ocean — even the fireworks shows.

There are only 5 ships in Disney Cruise Lines’ portfolio, but Disney has plenty of cruise itineraries to choose from. It sails to popular destinations as well as unique places that families might not have considered, such as the Norwegian Fjords .

Sailings feature character experiences just like at the Disney theme parks. You’ll also find live shows, a spa, nightclubs, and lounges. Each ship also has various kids’ clubs for passengers as young as 3 years old (a fee-based nursery is available for kids under 3), as well as pools with waterslides and aqua play areas. Older kids can enjoy a little independence in spaces designed just for them where they can play video games, watch TV, and meet other kids their age.

Dining options aboard Disney cruises include main and casual dining as well as adult-exclusive dining options. There are almost a dozen restaurants, cafes, and snack shops on each ship. Some nod to beloved Disney movie characters, like Lumiere’s on Disney Magic and Tiana’s Place on Disney Wonder.

Within each ship, there are 4 categories of staterooms: Inside, Oceanview, Oceanview with Verandah, and Concierge. Within most categories are family rooms with bunk beds as well as accessible rooms.

Shore excursions include private tours, culinary adventures, and accessible excursions in more than 25 countries. Guests especially love Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , when cruising select Caribbean itineraries.

Destinations:

• Arabian Gulf and North Africa
• North America
• South America

Number of Ships:  27

Royal Caribbean has a whopping 27 cruise ships in its portfolio with another, Utopia of The Seas, scheduled for delivery in 2024.

The cruise line features the world’s largest ships and the tallest water slide at sea . From arcades to roller coasters, there is never any shortage of thrill-seeking activities to find on board any Royal Caribbean cruise.

If you and your family want to make the most of a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll want to check out Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class and Amplified ships . These classes of ships feature even more exciting attractions including glow-in-the-dark laser tag and several on-deck pools.

Alternatively, there are places on every Royal Caribbean ship where you can get away from the excitement and relax. In the Solarium, where kids under 16 aren’t allowed, soothing music helps you to decompress while lounging on a daybed or hanging out in a hot tub.

Royal Caribbean also has a private island exclusively for its guests . Coco Cay is located in the Bahamas and features a 13-slide water park as well as the region’s largest wave pools and freshwater pools.

Kids always sail free on Royal Caribbean cruises.

• Australia and the Great Barrier Reef
• Canada and New England
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea

Number of Ships : 24

Carnival Cruise Line has a reputation for being a party cruise line. However, the prices can rarely be beaten, which a lot of family travelers can appreciate.

Similar to Royal Caribbean, Carnival likes to wow its guests with nonstop fun. The onboard attraction Bolt Ultimate Sea Coaster — the first rollercoaster at sea — can be found on 2 of its ships: Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration .

There are 4 standard cabin types on Carnival cruise ships: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suite. There are also specialty rooms on select ships.

Family Harbor staterooms and suites are located near Family Harbor Lounges and come with a free evening of Night Owls babysitting, among other perks. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms and suites offer Elemis toiletries, spa-branded bathrobes and slippers, and priority spa reservations. And lastly, Havana staterooms and suites are located close to the Havana Bar and Pool. Some suites come with hammock chairs in the outdoor area.

New Orleans native and Food Network star Emeril Lagasse is the newest Chief Culinary Officer for all 24 ships with 3 original restaurants. There are plenty of dining options to choose from across the fleet with cuisines including Italian, Creole, burgers, and teppanyaki.

Onboard activities include Family Feud Live, waterslides, karaoke, and The Punchliner Comedy Club. Most but not all activities are included in the cruise fare. The IMAX theater and a few other attractions incur an additional cost.

Family-friendly excursions and tours include a wildlife safari and beach bonfire on an Alaskan cruise, panoramas and painting in Grand Turk, and a stingray adventure in the Bahamas.

Carnival has a private island that it shares exclusively with Holland America called Half Moon Cay.

Destinations

• Mediterranean

Number of Ships : 19

Norwegian Cruise Line is best known for being the most innovative cruise line . Notably, it has done away with traditional cruise concepts such as inflexible dining schedules and even dress codes.

Among the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet there are 8 different classes of ships of varying capacities and offerings. The class of ship that tends to be most popular with families is the Breakaway Class . The 2 ships in this class, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway , each have a capacity of about 4,000 passengers. Between the 2 of them, they sail all over the world.

What makes this class of ships on Norweigan Cruise Lines so appealing to families is that it feels like a floating resort. These are the second-largest ships in Norwegian’s fleet. Activities on either ship include multiple pools, a waterpark, and even a full-size ropes course.

The stateroom categories aboard both the Norwegian Getaway and the Norwegian Breakaway include Studio, Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Spa, Club Balcony Suite, and The Haven.  Within those categories are another 30 stateroom types to choose from, including a 2-bedroom family villa . The Haven is an exclusive set of staterooms at the top level of the ship that features a 24-hour butler, concierge service, and sundeck.

In addition to room service, guests aboard Breakaway Class Norwegian Cruise Line ships can enjoy almost 2 dozen restaurants and bars. Not every restaurant is included in your cruise fare. Specialty dining options include seafood restaurant Ocean Blue, Brazilian steakhouse Moderno Churrascaria, and French restaurant Le Bistro.

In addition to excursions that you can book for an additional fee, Norwegian Cruise Line has a private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas.

• Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar
• Northern Europe
• South Africa

Number of   ships : 19

MSC Cruises is a European-based cruise company with a growing footprint in North America and the Caribbean. It’s known for offering an affordable cruise option without a lot of the fluff of other cruise lines.

Even without a rollercoaster that jets out over the sea, MSC Cruises is still a popular option for family travelers.

For family cruisers in particular, MSC offers family excursions with special pricing for kids, and tours designed to be interactive as well as educational . There are also kids’ clubs aboard their ships in addition to the LEGO Experience on Board, which is a day dedicated to LEGO activities for the whole family.

Select ships feature a fully-immersive virtual reality experience, a movie theater, and an arcade room.

Passengers can expect the typical array of dining options aboard MSC Cruises as well as a special kids’ corner available at the buffet. There’s also a dessert corner and a wellness corner.

There are simply 4 stateroom categories aboard most MSC ships: Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and MSC Yacht Club. Within the highest category of staterooms, MSC Yacht Club, guests can expect 24-hour butler service, complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, relaxation amenities, and more.

The 6 Best Luxury Cruise Lines for Families

For some families, a megaresort — or in the case here, a mega ship — just isn’t the way you’d like to spend your time on vacation.

There are more upscale and low-key cruise lines that cater to more discerning travel habits while also considering the needs of your youngest family members. In the luxury cruise category, you’ll find expedition and river cruises.

Luxury cruise lines come with a higher financial investment than the cruise lines listed above, but in return, you’ll find more inclusions, often better food, and far fewer onboard guests .

They also admittedly don’t offer as many action-packed attractions on board and some do not cater to especially young children. However, the cruise lines on this list each have unique kids and teens programs that you should be aware of.

Here are the best luxury cruise lines for families.

Number of Ships : 16

Celebrity Cruises features large ships but aims to provide a more high-end experience than you’ll find on cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises. It also does a great job of catering to multi-generational cruisers .

Camp at Sea is Celebrity Cruises’ kids’ club for kids 3 to 17 years old. Camp is open every day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is broken into 4 age groups. Activities range from arts and crafts for the youngest age group to video game tournaments, scavenger hunts, and movie nights for older kids.

Family-friendly excursions include cultural tours, water sports, volcano and glacier hikes, and swimming with dolphins.

There are 4 classes of cruise ships offered by Celebrity Cruises: Edge Class (its newest and most innovative), Solstice Class, Millenium Class, and Galapagos Vessels.

Hot Tip: Cruisers say that Celebrity Equinox is the most family-friendly Celebrity ship thanks to 2 kids’ programs only available on this ship as well as over 100 adjoining cabins.

An array of staterooms exist to choose from on Celebrity Cruise ships, including family verandahs that sleep 5. Celebrity Cruise ships also feature staterooms that cater to solo travelers as well, so when traveling with a group, no one has to feel obligated to share a room.

There are a dozen dining options across each ship such as the French restaurant Normandie or the Mediterranean eatery Cyprus Restaurant. Specialty dining options include Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, Raw on 5 Restaurant serving fresh seafood, and Fine Cut Steakhouse.

• Northern Europe and the Baltic

Number of Ships : 1

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection struggled to set sail when its first yacht was delivered during the height of the pandemic. But Ritz-Carlton hotel loyalists, eager to experience the 5-star hospitality at sea, waited patiently for the first yacht to embark. That finally happened late last year.

Its solo yacht Evrima , which is the Greek word for “discovery,” will be joined by Ilma in 2024.

Guests aboard a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vessel can expect the same service they would on land, including the Ritz Kids program. At Ritz Kids, children ages 4 to 12 years old have the opportunity to participate in unique activities based on where they’re traveling . Programming mainly focuses on sustainability, marine life, sailing, and arts and culture.

There’s not an expectation for the yachts to frequently be teeming with children, but the cruise line expects to host more young passengers during summer and holiday school breaks.

The all-suite Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection features ocean views from every room, as well as 6 restaurants and in-suite dining. Guests can enjoy Southeast Asian cuisine from contemporary restaurant Talaat Nam or check out Mediterranean restaurant Mistral.

Ritz-Carlton is a Marriott Bonvoy brand and as such, you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points when sailing the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . You’ll earn 5 points per $1 spent on the price of your cruise and hotel package and 1 Elite Night Credit per night of your sailing. Redemptions start at 180,000 Bonvoy points to save $1,000, followed by 90,000-point increments to save $500. Redeeming points this way is a tough sell, but the earning isn’t too bad, especially paired with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card ..

• Central America
• French Polynesia
• Vietnam and Cambodia

Lindblad Expeditions aims to be the premier expedition cruise line. Its National Geographic Global Explorers program offers exclusive and family-friendly programming for kids and teens.

Expedition cruises are all about exploring remote destinations like Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, and the Amazon. Expedition passengers can expect expert-led educational tours and excursions, and smaller ships that cater to less than 100 people .

With the National Geographic Global Explorers program, kids and teens get hands-on experience collecting and analyzing samples, learn how to take field notes, and even learn how to take slow-motion and timelapse videos to document their findings. The National Geographic Global Explorers program can be found on cruises to Antarctica, Alaska, Baja California, and Galápagos.

Lindblad Expeditions ships carry as few as 28 guests and at most 148. As such, cabins and suites vary across the company’s fleet of ships. It’s a little difficult to find out on your own which suites would accommodate more than 2 people or if you can get connecting cabins, though they do exist, as well as standard double-occupancy suites. As a tip, the best way to book a Lindblad Expedition cruise with your family may be to work with a travel advisor to ensure that you’re making the right investment.

Expedition cruisers seem to be less concerned about the dining options, however, Lindblad does boast that the dining is delicious and sustainably sourced.

• Cook Islands
• Society Islands

Paul Gauguin Cruises specializes in luxury cruises in Tahiti, Fiji, and the South Pacific. With just 1 cruise ship in its fleet, Paul Gauguin takes cruisers to ports that larger cruise ships can’t access.

The Gauguin has a limited capacity of 330 guests . Featuring a spa, 3 dining venues, and an onboard watersports marina, the ship is mostly informal luxury.

The Moana Explorer Program , in partnership with marine education and conservation foundation “Te mana o te moana,” teaches kids ages 7 to 15 about the wonders of the South Pacific.

Only available on summer and holiday sailings, the free program includes activities such as naturalist-led island and beach excursions, crafts, and science. Other fun ways that kids can spend their time aboard The Gauguin are with treasure hunts, stargazing, and designing their own Polynesian tattoos.

All 3 of the dining venues aboard The Gauguin offer a well-thought-out menu with both formal and informal dining options. La Veranda offers alfresco dining inspired by the destinations the ship sails to, Le Grill serves a buffet breakfast, grilled lunch favorites, salads, and tropical fruits, and L’Etoile is the main dining option and serves a fine dining menu with complimentary wine pairings.

• Middle East
• Pacific and South Seas

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has been called “the most luxurious cruise line you’ve never heard of” by Cruise Critic and is frequently featured on lists of the best cruises for families.

The cruise line claims to pay the same amount of attention to the children and teenagers onboard as the adults. Cap’n Knof, Hapag-Lloyd’s mascot, welcomes each family on board every sailing and participates in games with guests.

Childcare offers vary across the 5 ships. However, sailors can expect a kids’ club for children as young as 4 years old on Europa and Europa 2, the cruise line’s 2 ocean liners. Activities include language classes, unique children’s excursions designed around the interests of the kids onboard, and even spa treatments for kids as young as 8 years old.

Unfortunately, there is no kids program on the cruise lines’ 3 expedition ships: Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration, and Hanseatic Spirit .

Children 11 years old and younger sail free on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and receive reduced pricing on arrival and departure packages.

• Danube River
• Rhine River
• Seine River

Number of Ships : 4

In partnership with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney River Cruises offer families an opportunity to experience river cruising that caters to them.

AmaWaterways is a leader in luxury river cruising, with destinations that include the Nile River in Egypt and the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, in addition to its European river cruises.

Adventures by Disney River Cruises feature local experts that tell the story of each location. What makes river cruises most attractive to some travelers is that you can travel slowly through a destination and spend more time learning about where you are . Disney’s river cruises are no exception with cultural immersion part of every day of the itinerary.

Hints of Disney can be found throughout the ship just as on Disney Cruise Line ocean ships. Mouse-shaped treats and Disney-themed karaoke are just a few of the features you’ll find on board.

Stateroom configurations range from inside to suites and can accommodate between 2 and 4 guests. Dining on board varies depending on the ship that’s sailing. This information can be found on the highlights page of each sailing’s itinerary.

Hot Tip: Adults who love Disney but prefer to travel without kids can sail on Adventures by Disney adult-exclusive sailings.

If a family cruise vacation is on your list, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer nonstop energy and lots of things to do or a more laid-back and low-key vibe with luxury amenities and excursions, there is a cruise line for you and your family.

Thrill seekers and budget-conscious travelers will find a great balance on cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises. And luxury travelers interested in expeditions and educational cruising with their families will be delighted to cruise with Lindblad Expeditions, Celebrity Cruises, and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Those interested in river cruising can also bring the kids along on Adventures by Disney River Cruises in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is royal caribbean or carnival more kid-friendly.

Though Royal Caribbean and Carnival cater to families, they differ in several ways. Carnival is more affordable and offers more family-friendly amenities. Royal Caribbean offers a slightly higher-end experience and thrilling, adventure-filled activities and attractions onboard.

What is the highest quality cruise line?

The best cruise lines in the world are ranked each year and categorized by type of ship, not exactly the highest quality. This would depend on the type of cruise you’d like to take. In 2022, Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards ranked Royal Caribbean as the best mega ship and Norwegian Cruise Line as the best large ship. Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises won for best medium ship and best ocean ship, respectively. And, lastly, Ponant won for best Expedition cruise.

Are cruises family-friendly?

Whether a cruise is family-friendly depends on the type of cruise you’re taking and with which cruise line. The cruise lines listed above all have special programming for kids and guests of all ages.

What age group cruises most?

According to Cruise Critic, the general age range of cruisers is 30 to 80 years old. You’re not likely to find a cruise line or ship that exclusively caters to 1 age group.

Is it worth taking kids on a cruise?

This depends on what you like to do as a family. The right cruise will offer activities for adults as well as kids to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable trip.

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About Ashley Onadele

Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.

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Orlando Family Vacations:

Kids and teens of all ages love to spend time in Orlando, Florida, whether it's at a Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios, or one of the many other parks or attractions in Orlando. Some cruise lines offer special vacation packages that include a specialized Orlando vacation before or after a cruise!

Your children and teens will love the early admission options for parks such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as well as arranged tickets for places like Universal Studios, Magic Kingdom, or Animal Kingdom. Or, interact with the wildlife of Port Everglades during a kayaking trip, one of many fun, family-friendly options you can choose outside of the parks.

Contact us for more information and sailing dates for family Orlando and cruise vacation packages. For immediate assistance, get in touch with one of our cruise consultants and call 1-800-377-9383.

Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program (Paul Gauguin Cruises):

Explorer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society have created a special program only offered onboard Paul Gauguin Cruises which educates and immerses young travelers on the wonders of French Polynesia. Offered to cruisers aged 9-17, this program includes interactive activities that include, but are not limited to: coral reef exploration, rainforest trail hikes, education on ancient Polynesian temples, and learning about the cultivation of black pearls. Parents are even allowed in on the fun sometimes! Click here to learn more about Paul Gauguin Cruises . To learn about applicable sailings, speak with one of our expert cruise consultants by calling 1-800-377-9383.

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Uniworld River Cruises knows that families love to river cruise, but need assistance for certain activities and logistics when it comes to planning a vacation. That's why their Multi-Generational Family Friendly Programs have been such a success: cruises developed around summer vacations, shore excursions tailored specifically for the family, special family pricing, meals and entertainment onboard, as well as transfers included on arrival and departure days, among more. These features ensure that your family cruise with members of all ages will be smooth, packed with excitement, and satisfying. Click here to learn more about cruising with Uniworld .

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The Family Vacation Guide

8 of the Best Caribbean Cruises for Families

posted by Karly Braggington on October 29, 2021 // last updated on November 1, 2021

Cruising is at an all-time high, with many cruise companies offering awesome deals for family cruises. Consequently, choosing the best cruise ship for your next family vacation becomes overwhelming. 

If you plan your next vacation to the Caribbean , you can narrow down your cruise ship options by setting a budget and understanding the different cruise lines in the region.

To make it even easier for you, here are 8 of the best Caribbean cruises for families.

Disney Cruises

Carnival cruises, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean cruise, princess cruises, holland america line, norwegian cruise line, msc cruise line, popular ports of call on caribbean family cruises.

Disney Cruise is a well-known family cruise for anyone looking for premium cruising services. It offers a kid-friendly atmosphere, whimsical amenities, and spacious rooms. It’s the best cruise line for adults who wish to reconnect with their childhood fantasies when sailing. 

The cruise line ensures maximum customer satisfaction. In this case, they provide one crew member for every three passengers, regardless of the ship size. In addition, the cruise line offers adults-only pools, restaurants, traditional Italian food, and lounges. 

Disney Cruise Family-Friendly Features

Disney Cruise Line offers the opportunity to experience the Disney magic on an ocean voyage and tropical beaches. Some family-friendly features to enjoy on your Caribbean vacation with Disney Cruises include:

• Luxurious staterooms- Disney Cruises offer spacious accommodations that feature storage space and separate bathrooms that allow your family to get ready at once. Depending on your budget, you can choose a stateroom with a private verandah. 
• Pools and water fun- your kids get an opportunity to enjoy quality time on the wild water coaster AquaDuck.
• Disney rotational dining- the cruise has a dedicated wait staff that learns and serves your preferred taste. In addition, they offer a bountiful buffet where you can get a casual meal and an innovative dining experience at the Animator’s Palate show. 
• Tropical beaches- during your trip to the Caribbean Islands, you get a chance to visit Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay, which is exclusive for Disney Cruise Line Guests. Here, you get access to a large family beach, splash stations, secluded adults-only beach, and lagoons. The tour includes beach chairs, umbrellas, and a buffet.
• Enjoy the magic of Disney- immediately you set your foot on the cruise ship, you become a part of a story that only Disney can create. Here, you’ll enjoy spectacular entertainment that includes quality shows that bring Disney storytelling to life. 

Benefits of Using Disney Cruise 

• The cabins are spacious.
• Non-alcoholic drinks and beverages and onboard entertainment are included in the cruise fare.
• Florida residents receive special rates.
• Disney Cruise has minimal onboard adult activities.
• Alcoholic drinks are not included in the cruise fare.
• Shore excursions incur additional charges.

If you’re looking for a family cruise ship to the Caribbean which offers a festive atmosphere and versatile entertainment options, Carnival Cruise is your best bet. Their trips range from two to 16 days, with at least one crew member for every three passengers. 

Carnival Cruise Line offers plenty of fun onboard activities for both adults and kids. Once onboard, get ready to enjoy waterslides, casinos, sports courts, comedy acts, piano bars, and nightclubs.

In addition, they offer guests a variety of cuisines served in three-course meals. You can choose to enjoy your meals in the main dining room, the Lido deck buffet, or specialty restaurants. The latter serves everything from sushi to traditional Italian dishes.   

Carnival Cruise Family-Friendly Features

Some of the features that make Carnival Cruise one of the best Caribbean cruises for families include:

• Waterworks- when using the Carnival Cruise Line, you don’t have to wait until you get off-board to enjoy water-based action. The cruise line includes an onboard water park that features rides that suit kids and fun-loving parents. In addition, there’s a PowerDrencher where you can enjoy family soaking and a Speedway Splash for the teens. 
• Mini golf- if any member of your family is a golfing enthusiast, the cruise line has a mini-golf where you can enjoy a round or two. So what makes this onboard golfing experience exceptional? It comes with sea breezes, ocean views, and extra features such as a windmill and treasure chest. 
• Dr. Seuss activities- Carnival Cruise offers Seuss at Sea, entertaining and engaging to members of all ages. For instance, the kids can participate in the magical and interactive Seuss-a-palooza storytime, where their favorite stories come to life. 
• Camp Ocean- this activity allows kids to delve into marine life with ocean-themed settings and supervised activities. The activities divide according to age groups. For example, kids aged two to five interact with the penguins, six to eight with the stingrays, while nine to eleven interact with the sharks. 

Benefits of Using Carnival Cruise

• Offers a variety of dining options
• They have an extensive selection of onboard activities
• They have numerous ships and itineraries to choose from
• Shore excursions attract extra fees
• You need to pay more for Wi-Fi services
• Larger cruise ships may feel too crowded

Celebrity Cruise Line is for anyone looking for an upscale design and innovative cuisine. With this cruise line, you have the freedom to choose a smaller cruise ship that accommodates 48 passengers only. Alternatively, you can board a large cruise ship that houses over 2,900 passengers. Both ship sizes offer exceptional customer service, with each boat carrying at least one crew member for every two passengers. 

Celebrity Cruise Family-Friendly Features

This cruise line plies waters all over the globe and offers numerous onboard activities to passengers of all ages. Some of its family-friendly features include:

• Kids programs- Celebrity cruise ships offer numerous kids programs that are supervised by experienced staff. The activities are tailored for specific ages, including toddler time, Fun Factory, and X Club. They also get to enjoy movies, games, and sports, among other activities. 
• Camp at sea- during your voyage, Celebrity Cruise offers exciting, entertaining, inspiring, and engaging activities to all family members. In addition, they introduce you to the culture, history, and flavors of all the Caribbean Islands you visit. 
• Autism-friendly ships- with Celebrity Cruises, you no longer have to avoid going on a voyage because you have an autistic child. This cruise line has Autism Friendly Certification that allows them to have kids with autism onboard. 

Benefits of Using of Celebrity Cruise 

• You get access to exclusive events and rewards when you enroll in the cruise line’s reward program.
• They have cost-saving packages for specialty restaurants
• They have a wide range of activities for kids and teens
• Cruise fare doesn’t include shore excursions
• If you need an unlimited supply of soft and alcoholic drinks, you must purchase a beverage package.

Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise choices when planning a family vacation and looking for a cruise that caters to different ages and preferences. Each of their ships is packed with palette-pleasing dining options, a wide range of activities for all ages, and entertainment.

With Royal Caribbean, you get an opportunity to explore different cultures while sunbathing and dipping your toes in turquoise waters. With their stress-free flexibility, you’re already into an incredible family vacation to the Caribbean. 

Features Making Royal Caribbean One of the Best Caribbean Cruises for Families

Royal Caribbean ships depart from ports all over the country and numerous international airports. Their itineraries range from two to 19 nights. During these voyages, you get to enjoy a wide range of family-friendly features, which include:

• Onboard thrills- the cruise line offers a wide range of onboard activities that make your trip unforgettable even before reaching your destination. Most of these activities are easy to plan and are designed with your family’s interest in mind. In addition, each of these activities is tended by staff, allowing you total focus on these life-changing moments. Some of these outstanding activities include; rock climbing, roller skating, ice skating on ice rinks, bumper cars, and circus.
• Sight of beautiful shores- sailing to brand new places and the thrill of viewing new lands from a stunning perspective is an experience like no other. A voyage to the western or easter Caribbean gives you a glimpse of magnificent and ancient ports such as Puerto Rico and El Morro in San Juan. The Royal Caribbean Cruise stops over at these Islands to allow you to dive headfirst to some of the most family-friendly adventures. Here you can enjoy Jeep adventuring through the pines in the Bahamas or warm water diving in Belize. And if you are a family of reggae fanatics, you can listen to reggae beats in Jamaica when climbing Mt.Zion. 
• A taste of the delicious sea and land cuisine- Royal Caribbean cruise is a haven for the gourmet of all ages. While onboard, you can taste food from world-renowned restaurants where you can savor family-pleasers and traditional homemade dishes. And when you reach your destination, get an opportunity to enjoy the cuisine of the place. 

Benefits of Royal Caribbean Cruise

• They have numerous ships and plenty of destinations to choose from
• Offer a variety of onboard dining options
• Have a wide range of onboard activities suitable for all ages
• The cruise rates don’t cover all amenities
• You need to pay extra for some beverages

If you are looking for a personalized and family-friendly voyage, Princess Cruises is your best option. The cruise line has a fleet of 18 midsize and large boats that depart various US ports to multiple destinations, including the Caribbean. In addition, it offers enriching onboard activities and has at least one crew member for every two or three passengers. 

Princess Cruises Family-Friendly Features

The cruise line ships are technology-based, a feature that minimizes physical contact. In addition, Princess Cruises offer a wide range of services that make your family sea voyage memorable. These include:

• Voyage to the stars- with the Princess Cruise voyage, each member of your family can find a place among the stars. The cruise line has top-deck stargazing to view the planets, stars, and galaxies in real-time. In addition, they offer stateroom content, Camp Discovery activities, and Discovery at Sea, which experts guide. 
• Animal planets- the cruise line allows local animals onboard where you get to meet and greet animals such as Parrots in the Piazza . 
• Live theatre- the Princess exclusive offers Broadway-caliber stage shows from Steven Schwartz. The shows from this award-winning composer bring everyone together. In addition, the cruise provides The Voice of the Ocean, whereby each person on the cruise gets an opportunity to participate.
• Family dining options- while on your voyage to the Caribbean, the Princess Cruises allows you to have family dinners. Take the opportunity to try traditional foods from different parts of the world. In addition, the cruise has a special kids menu and provides your dietary preferences upon request. 

Benefits of Princess Cruises

• Offers a variety of culinary options
• Has a Me tool that allows you to plan travel plans together as a 
• The cruise is wheelchair accessible
• Shore excursions incur extra cost
• Cruise rates don’t cover some onboard amenities

If you are an affluent family and wish to voyage to the Caribbean, the Holland America Line is your best choice. Their ships leave the US cities to their destinations and can take anywhere from one to 128 days. During your time on the cruise, you get to enjoy plenty of activities ranging from mixology workshops, digital photography, and cooking demonstrations. 

They have a ship buffet, Lido Market, which offers plenty of dishes in an easy-to-navigate setting. In addition, their food is of top quality and each family member is guaranteed to get something they like. The cruise’s public spaces are clean, inviting, and functional, ensuring your comfortable stay throughout the voyage. 

Holland America Line Family-Friendly Features

In addition to their well-established reputation, Holland America Line offers several family-friendly features. These include:

• Club HAL- Holland America Line has a kid’s club which runs on a pre-planned schedule. During club time, the kids get to enjoy a lot of games and attention from the staff. The club involves kids (3-17), with the facility being divided into colorful rooms to hold different groups. Kids (3-6) go into pirate treasure hunts, crafting with their hands and minds, storytelling, and not-so-late night parties. From age 7 to 12, they enroll in Xbox tournaments, video games, scavenger hunts, and disco parties. Finally, teenagers (13 -17) get their fair share of activities, including hip hop classes, mocktail making classes, one vs one scavenger hunts, and nightclub parties. 
• Onboard activities and entertainment- the cruise ship includes outdoor and indoor pools where you can have fun in the water. They also offer other activities, including basketball, BINGO, shuffleboard, and cooking classes. 
• Stateroom- the cruise line offers spacious rooms with private verandahs and separate rooms for the kids. In addition, they have ample storage space and a bathtub that will meet your family’s expectations. 

Benefits of Holland America Line

• Give priority to kids and teen programs.
• They have small guest capacities, which make the cruise feel spacious
• Their prices are higher than the Royal Caribbean and the Carnival cruises
• Wi-Fi will cost you extra
• They have limited onboard activities compared to bigger cruises

The Norwegian Cruise Line has a long reputation for being one of the best Caribbean cruises for families and active adults. The cruise line combines action and high-energy activities with top-quality entertainment. In addition, it’s known as the cruise line that brought an end to the rigid dining schedules and dress codes. 

Norwegian Cruise Line Family-Friendly Features

The cruise line allows its passengers to dine in their specialty restaurants or the main dining hall. In addition, they have large suites to fit your family comfortably. In addition, the cruise’s other family-friendly features include:

• Entertainment- the cruise ships have plenty of production shows and events hosted by highly trained and talented performers. Every night on the cruise, you enjoy stand-up comedy, which is fun, fresh, and brings you laughter every night. In addition, they have lively dancers for anyone who doesn’t enjoy sit-down entertainment. 
• Onboard activities- the cruise ship has an array of onboard activities arranged with each family member in mind. These include award-winning casinos, state-of-the-art fitness centers, epic water parks, and shore excursions. If you take your Caribbean voyage using the newest ship in the fleet, you get an opportunity to access a virtual reality wonderland at Galaxy Pavillion. The kids get a full program of activities, all of which are divided into age groups. These include Splash Academy, Guppies Program, and Entourage centers for the youths to make friends and have an enjoyable time during the cruise. 

Benefits of Norwegian Cruise Line

• They have a variety of onboard restaurants
• They don’t have a fixed dress code
• The dining venues and theatres have long lines at some times
• The cruise rates don’t include some of the onboard activities

This cruise line sets itself apart from the competitors with its refined onboard activities. The cruise line ships carry between 1984 to 6300 passengers with at least one crew member for every three members. In addition, the cruise line has a reputation of having a sophisticated ambiance and a variety of globally inspired cuisines. 

MSC Cruise Line Family-Friendly Features

In addition to taking you to exotic beaches and ports in the Caribbean, the MSC cruise line has other family-friendly features that make it one of the best Caribbean cruises for families. These include:

• Water parks- MSC cruises have Aqua Park with water slides and splash zones where the kids can spend their days. In addition, they have onboard pools where you can have a great time as a family. 
• Kids clubs- the cruise line has unique programs and services to cater to kids of all ages. Kids of different ages can engage in supervised activities to spend the entire or half the day.
• Outdoor and indoor fun- no matter how many days your voyage is, the cruise line ensures you enjoy every bit of it with its numerous indoor and outdoor activities. They have sports activities which include; basketball, table tennis, bowling, and mini-golf, among others. And if your family is not up for water fun or sports, the cruise line has a video game arcade, formula one car stimulators, and 4D cinema. 
• Family cabins and dining- The cruise line offers family cabins and dining to help you bond as a family. The cabins costs are per room and not per person. The main restaurants in the fleets have a delicacy even for the pickiest eaters. They offer buffets with a kid’s corner, with some including menus for the infants. 

Benefits of MSC Cruise Line

• Offers free sails to kids aged 11 years and below
• It’s appealing to European and US travelers
• The cruise fare doesn’t include soft and alcoholic drinks

Now that you know some of the best Caribbean cruises and the features each offers, you may be wondering where family Caribbean cruises go. Well, here is a list of popular ports of call on Caribbean family cruises:

Western Caribbean Cruises

At this destination, your family will have a great time in popular ports, including:

• Key West Florida
• Dominican Republic
• Grand Cayman
• Jamaica, and 
• Various stops in Mexico

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

During this family cruise, you will visit places such as:

• Puerto Rico
• Tortola 
• Nassau in the Bahamas

Bermuda Cruises

Although located in the North Atlantic, making it a British territory, the region is in most Caribbean family cruises. A visit to the area gives you access to pink sand beaches, tea parties, and historic forts. 

Southern Caribbean/ Exotic Sailing

If you want a less tourist vacation but more adventure and exploration, you should get an itinerary to the Southern Caribbean. In this family cruise, you will visit places such as:

Hopefully, this guide helps you choose the best Caribbean cruise for your family and the best destination, depending on your preferences. 

More about our TFVG Author

Karly Braggington

Karly is a The Family Vacation Guide guest travel contributor.

About Karly Braggington

Cruise vs. all-inclusive resort: Which budget-friendly option is best for you?

Travelers looking for an easy vacation, with accommodations and activities bundled into one package price, often compare cruises and all-inclusive resorts to find their ideal trip. On a cruise ship or at a resort, you've got restaurants, bars, activities, entertainment and kids clubs all in one place, saving you from doing loads of research for every aspect of your trip. Even better, many (or all) of these amenities are included in the upfront price, helping make these vacation types budget-friendly.

Sure, you can choose pricey luxury cruise lines or upscale resorts , but when you book a cruise or all-inclusive resort, you can rest easy knowing you're getting the convenience of an all-in-one vacation without a ton of extra expenses.

The question then becomes: Which vacation type is better for you, a cruise or an all-inclusive resort? The answer depends on which sorts of things you want included in your base price and which ones you'd rather purchase a la carte. Additionally, what type of trip you're looking to take matters.

To help you decide which option is best for you, you'll first need to understand which activities and amenities cruises and all-inclusive resorts actually cover in their base rates. Then, you can compare the similarities and differences before picking between the two.

For more travel tips and news, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Cruises: What's included?

Cruises are often pegged as all-inclusive vacations, but exactly what is included varies by cruise line and cabin type . When pricing out a cruise vacation, you'll need to know the details of what your line covers in everyone's fares and what add-ons you can buy to make your trip more inclusive.

Let's start with the basics. All cruise fares on any major cruise line include accommodations with en suite bathrooms; meals in select restaurants (typically a large main dining room and a buffet venue, plus perhaps a few other eateries); basic drinks (tap water, coffee, hot and iced tea, milk and select juice at breakfast); use of pools, hot tubs, lounge chairs and fitness equipment; kids clubs and programming; and some kinds of daytime and evening entertainment.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Whether you're sailing mass-market Carnival Cruise Line or ultra-luxe Regent Seven Seas Cruises, your base fare will include the aforementioned items.

High-priced luxury cruise lines will typically also include a large selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, gratuities for the crew, Wi-Fi access and meals in smaller, themed restaurants. However, this isn't always the case.

To see how inclusions vary, let's take a look at a few examples.

Royal Caribbean is a big-ship line that caters to couples and families. Its entry-level fares cover just the basics mentioned above. You might find discounted rates and free kids fares (when sharing a cabin with two paying adults), but it is not known for throwing in freebies like Wi-Fi or tips unless you book a suite.

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite-class fares are more inclusive than standard fares. Book a Sky-class suite and you'll receive free Wi-Fi for each guest, room service and meals in the exclusive Coastal Kitchen restaurant, as well as access to a lounge with complimentary evening drinks and snacks. Book a Star-class suite and you'll get even more fare inclusions, such as meals in all specialty restaurants, a Deluxe beverage package (including booze, soda and premium coffee drinks), minibar items, tips and laundry.

Related: 5 things I love about Royal Caribbean's new suite neighborhood — and 3 that need work

Norwegian Cruise Line takes a different route. Its "Free at Sea" promotions (which seem to run continuously these days) allow everyone to make their base fares more inclusive, depending on which version of the sale is running. At press time, the fare inclusions for the first two guests per room extended to free airfare, Wi-Fi, a beverage package and excursion and specialty dining credits. (Third and fourth guests sail free and therefore don't receive the additional inclusions.) Sometimes the deal includes fewer freebies or offers fewer inclusions with the cheaper cabins.

A luxury line like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, arguably the most inclusive cruise line , always covers airfare and transfers, shore excursions, pre-cruise hotel stays, all beverages (except the most ultra-premium bottles), Wi-Fi, gratuities, dining in all onboard restaurants and laundry service.

Additionally, many cruise lines offer all-inclusive beverage packages or specialty dining packages as add-ons to your cruise fare to make the rate more inclusive. Some lines have inclusion packages that combine a few things. For example, Windstar Cruises charges an extra $79 per person per day ($89 if purchased on board and not pre-cruise) for included Wi-Fi, drinks and tips.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

If you're trying to assess the value of a cruise fare, especially as compared with another cruise line or an all-inclusive resort, you'll need to look at which vacation activities you'll be doing and tally up your all-in vacation cost. Less-inclusive cruise lines will be cheaper to book initially, but high onboard spending could make the trip cost more than a more-inclusive line with pricier base fares. Or, you may love the idea of included cocktails, wine and beer, but if you don't drink multiple alcoholic beverages each day, you may find that you'd spend less purchasing drinks a la carte.

All-inclusive resorts: What's included?

It's not just a clever name. The upfront price you pay when you book a stay at an all-inclusive resort is, for the most part, all-inclusive. While there certainly are amenities and experiences you can add to enhance your stay, the price you see when you click "Book Now" is the price you get.

Typically, this means your accommodations, a fully stocked minibar, meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, kids club access, nonmotorized water sports and daily entertainment are included in the upfront cost. If you want to visit the spa, have a romantic dinner on the beach or reserve a cabana (with or without bottle service), you'll have to pay extra.

Related: 8 lessons I learned from my 1st all-inclusive vacation

Among the amenities that are included, you are not relegated to just one bar and dining establishment to frequent during your stay. Most all-inclusive resorts have multiple food and beverage outlets and often shops where you can grab coffee and ice cream as well. You'll also be treated to entertainment and activities throughout the day and into the evening, and most resorts offer a decent mix of family-friendly and adult-oriented activities .

For example, if you are most interested in an all-inclusive tropical beach escape, Hilton's all-inclusive properties in Mexico and the Caribbean have a variety of dining options to choose from, as well as multiple pools, fitness facilities, kayaks and paddleboards, daytime games and activities, and live entertainment come nighttime.

If you prefer hitting the slopes to lounging seaside, all-inclusive ski resorts offer a similar pricing structure in a different environment. Accommodations may be in a rustic-style lodge, private cabin or traditional hotel room. While there may be fewer dining options, meals are typically more artfully prepared than at a massive beachfront resort. Activities include skiing and all-terrain-vehicle rides in winter and horseback riding and mountain biking in summer.

Related: Why I loved my 1st all-inclusive hotel experience

What may not be included are gratuities for servers, bartenders, housekeepers and the porter who delivers your luggage to the room. Some brands, like Sandals and Beaches, expressly state that their employees cannot accept tips, but this is not true of every all-inclusive resort. You may be able to find this information on the resort's website, by reading reviews or by calling ahead to ask so you can be prepared with cash (in the correct currency) for tipping during your trip.

It's also important to keep in mind that unlike booking a standard hotel room, the cost of your all-inclusive trip will vary based on the number of guests. You must enter the exact number of children and adults to get an accurate price — and yes, we learned this the hard way .

Related: Tips for booking hotel rooms for large families

When choosing whether an all-inclusive resort vacation is the right choice for your budget, you can rest assured that the price you see when you make your reservation will get you a bed to sleep in, meals to eat and plenty to keep you busy during your stay. What you may want to consider is whether you will take advantage of all those included offerings and if the resort you're interested in has the kind of food, activities and entertainment you'll enjoy.

Cruises vs. all-inclusive resorts: The travel adviser perspective

To truly compare these two similar-yet-different vacation options, TPG turned to John Lovell , president of Travel Leaders Group. Lovell has more than two decades of experience as a travel industry executive and not only advises others on travel, but is an avid traveler himself.

Related: 4 scenarios when you should use a travel agent

If you are currently in the midst of choosing between a cruise and an all-inclusive vacation, Lovell assured us that both options are "open and honest about what they are going to charge you for."

While there may be upcharges for Wi-Fi, excursions or fine dining, providers tend to be upfront and transparent about those costs. Hidden costs shouldn't be an issue, but you do need to do some research prior to your trip so you have a good idea of what's included in the cost and what may be an add-on.

"If you are going on a seven-day cruise, for example, adding a drink package and excursions at each port can add hundreds of dollars to your budget," Lovell said. "If you are comparing one cruise line to another, and one claims to be $799 for a week and another is $599 but doesn't include Wi-Fi or a drink package, the $799 may actually be a better deal."

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

There isn't as much variance at all-inclusive resorts unless you are partial to top-shelf liquors and beachfront massages.

So which is a better value? The short answer is: "It depends."

"Both cruising and all-inclusive resorts offer wonderful experiences," Lovell said. "You can do a budget-friendly cruise and have a wonderful experience and you can do the same thing at an all-inclusive."

They both offer great experiences, but it really comes down to identifying what you want out of your vacation and finding a cruise or all-inclusive resort that offers it.

"In addition to working with a travel adviser who is an expert on both types of trips, the best thing a consumer can do is decide what they want out of a trip," Lovell said.

Bottom line

If you are looking for an opportunity to visit multiple destinations without having to pack and unpack at each stop, a cruise vacation may best suit your needs. You'll need to be OK with some vacation days spent entirely on the ship at sea and smaller accommodations, as cruise cabins tend to be smaller than hotel rooms at similar price points. As mentioned earlier, some lines are more inclusive than others, so you may end up with more additional expenses than at an all-inclusive resort.

If you are looking for a family-friendly beach vacation where you can spend time with your kids but also drop them off at the kids club when you need a little quiet time, an all-inclusive resort may be your best choice. You will need to be fine with multiple days on the same beach (versus visiting different destinations), and you'll want to be mindful of the fact that you'll likely need to pay extra if you want to explore beyond the resort's gates and experience the local culture.

Once you've determined your personalized vacation needs, all that's left to do is to find the cruise or all-inclusive resort that offers what you are looking for and do the math to get the true total cost of your vacation. You'll be lounging with a drink in hand in no time.

Is Disney Cruise All-Inclusive? A Comprehensive Guide for Families

Feb 7, 2024 | Disney | 0 comments

Setting sail on a magical voyage with Disney Cruise Line promises an unforgettable adventure for families. With its iconic characters and storytelling, Disney Cruise blends the enchantment of Disney with the excitement of ocean exploration.

But the pressing question on many vacationers’ minds is. “Is Disney Cruise all-inclusive?” Let’s embark on a journey to discover what “all-inclusive” really includes and whether Disney Cruise meets the mark for family vacationers.

Are food and drink included on Disney Cruises?

Additionally, some cruises may offer dining packages that allow guests to sample a variety of specialty dining options for a discounted price. It is recommended to research and book these packages in advance to ensure availability. Guests with dietary restrictions or food allergies can also be accommodated on the Disney cruise. The crew members are trained to handle special dietary needs and can assist in providing appropriate meal options. For those who prefer a more casual dining experience, there are also plenty of quick-service options available on board. These may include buffets, fast food-style restaurants, and snack bars. It is important to note that gratuities are not included in the cruise fare and are typically added automatically to the final bill. However, guests have the option to adjust the amount or provide additional tips as they see fit. Overall, dining on a Disney cruise offers a variety of choices and experiences for all types of guests. From elegant dinners to casual snacking, there is something for everyone on board. Bon appétit!

Understanding All-Inclusive Disney cruise packages

What exactly does “ all-inclusive ” mean when it comes to cruising? Typically, an all-inclusive cruise package encompasses accommodations, meals, entertainment, and a variety of activities.

The idea is to pay one price upfront and enjoy a worry-free vacation without having to reach for your wallet constantly. But the extent of what’s covered can vary widely between cruise lines.

How Much Does Disney Cruise Cost?

The cost of a Disney Cruise can vary depending on various factors such as the destination, length of cruise, type of stateroom, and time of year. On average, a 7-day Disney Cruise can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 per person. Prices also include meals, entertainment, and access to the ship’s amenities.

It is important to keep in mind that these prices do not include additional expenses such as airfare, shore excursions, and gratuities. It is recommended to budget extra for these expenses.

Additionally, Disney offers various discounts and promotions throughout the year which can help lower the overall cost. These discounts can include special rates for military personnel, Florida residents, and repeat cruisers.

To get an accurate estimate of how much your desired Disney Cruise will cost, it is best to visit their official website or speak with a travel agent. They can provide you with specific pricing based on your preferences and help you find the best deal available.

Overall, while a Disney Cruise may seem like a costly vacation option at first glance, it offers an all-inclusive experience filled with magic and unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages.

Is Disney Cruise’s High-end cruise line

One of the key elements that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from its competitors is its attention to detail when it comes to the onboard experience. From the moment guests step foot on the ship, they are transported into a world of magic and fantasy, with intricate theming and decor inspired by beloved Disney stories.

Another aspect that sets Disney Cruise Line apart is their commitment to providing top-notch entertainment for all ages. From Broadway-style shows featuring iconic Disney characters to engaging activities and events for kids, teens, and adults, there is never a dull moment onboard a Disney cruise.

In addition to these features

Disney Cruise Line also offers unique experiences such as character meet and greets, movie screenings, and even fireworks at sea. And for those looking for some relaxation, there are adults-only areas like the Quiet Cove Pool and the luxurious Senses Spa.

Disney Cruise Line also prides itself on its exceptional dining options. With rotational dining, guests have the opportunity to try different themed restaurants each night while keeping the same servers who get to know their preferences. Additionally, there are multiple dining venues including casual quick-service options and upscale fine dining experiences.

Last but not least, service is at the heart of everything on a Disney cruise. The crew members go above and beyond to make sure every guest has a magical experience. From stateroom hosts who leave towel animal creations on your bed each evening to waitstaff who remember your favorite dessert, the level of care and attention is unparalleled.

In summary, Disney Cruise Line stands out among its competitors not just for its recognizable characters or family-friendly amenities but also for its dedication to creating an unforgettable vacation experience for every guest. It truly is a magical way to explore new destinations while enjoying all of the comforts of a luxury cruise ship.

What is Included on a Disney Cruise

When you book a Disney Cruise for the first time , you’re signing up for an experience steeped in whimsy and wonder. Here’s what families can expect:

Accommodations

You’ll find comfort and style in the staterooms designed with families in mind. Complete with storage solutions for all your essentials and magical touches.

Dining Options

Your taste buds are in for a treat with a range of dining experiences from buffets to upscale sit-down meals, all included in the cost of your cruise. Plus, with Disney’s unique rotational dining, you’ll savor a different culinary adventure each night.

Entertainment and Activities

Be dazzled by Broadway-caliber shows. Deck parties, character meet-and-greets, and movie screenings—all part of what makes a Disney cruise distinctively delightful.

Kids’ Clubs and Childcare

From babies to teens, Disney Cruise Line has age-appropriate clubs boasting engaging activities, overseen by trained Disney counselors.

Onboard Amenities

From pools to sports courts and live entertainment, the ship brims with activities. With so much to do, there’s little room for boredom.

RELATED: Best Overall Disney Cruise Ships

What is Not Included on a Disney Cruise

While a Disney Cruise offers abundant activities that are covered by your fare. It’s beneficial to know what you’ll be paying extra for:

Alcoholic Beverages and Specialty Drinks

Sodas may be free, but alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees come at an additional cost.

Spa Services

Indulgences like massages or facials at the onboard spa are not part of the all-inclusive pricing.

Excursions and Port Activities

Disney offers a variety of port adventures, but they come as separate, chargeable experiences.

Specialty Dining Experiences

Seeking something extra special? Disney offers fine dining at select venues onboard for an additional fee.

Tips for Maximizing the All-Inclusive Experience

Crafting the perfect family getaway on a Disney Cruise is all about balancing the wealth of included amenities with your desired extras. To manage your budget:

• Utilize the complimentary kids’ clubs for a guilt-free adult evening.
• Enjoy the included entertainment and resist the temptation of pay-per-view in your room.
• Carry refillable water bottles to avoid purchasing bottled water.

Comparison to Other Cruise Lines

In terms of what’s includeding, Disney Cruise Line holds its own against other family-friendly cruise brands, with the added magic of its characters and storytelling setting it apart. However, comparing prices and inclusions with other cruise lines can pinpoint the best value for your family.

What do We Offer as a Disney Travel Specialist?

Immerse your family in the enchantment of the seas with insider tips from a seasoned Disney Travel Specialist! We’ve gathered pearls of wisdom to ensure your cruise is sprinkled with an extra dose of pixie dust:

• Book Early for the Best Deals: Disney cruises are synonymous with magic. And booking well in advance can often secure you a stateroom at a spellbinding price.
• Discover Hidden Magic Onboard: From secret deck parties to the character’s meet and greets. Our expert knows all the hidden corners where Disney magic comes alive.
• Customize Your Cruise Experience : Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or have unique dining requests, we can help tailor your experience for memories that last a lifetime.

Unmissable Onboard Activities

• Catch the Fireworks at Sea: Only Disney can make the night sky come alive with a spectacular fireworks show over the ocean—a truly magical moment for the whole family.
• Experience Themed Days at Sea : Revel in the unparalleled fun of themed days, from Marvel Superhero Academy adventures to Princess gatherings, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Family Vacation Expert’s Guide to Shore Excursions

Adventure beckons in every port—heed the call with advice from a Family Vacation Expert to make the most of your land expeditions:

• Select Family-Friendly Adventures: We’ll help you choose excursions that cater to all ages, ensuring that every member of your family has the time of their life both onboard and ashore.
• Seek Local Experiences: Going beyond the typical tourist track can lead to immersive cultural experiences and create lifelong family memories, and we know just the hidden gems to recommend.

Embark on your next Disney Cruise with these expert insights to guide you. From the alluring secrets onboard to the thrills of shoreside adventures, your journey is guaranteed to be filled with wonder and joy.

Is Disney Cruise all-inclusive? While it may not include everything, it certainly encompasses much of what families could wish for in a memorable vacation. Whether meeting princesses or pirates or soaking in the sun by the pool deck, the inclusive offerings aim to provide a seamless and magical experience.

Consider expenses for extras and make a well-informed decision. With enchanting entertainment and activities for all ages, Disney Cruise presents a valuable option for families seeking an inclusive vacation with a touch of pixie dust.

Ready to set sail with Disney?

Explore our all-inclusive family packages! Whether seeking adventure with your little ones or soaking in the Disney magic at sea, let us help you navigate toward your next unforgettable family escapade. Book your Disney Cruise today!

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All-Inclusive vs Cruise? (Book the Best for Your Family Vacation)

Posted on Published: 11/26/2023

Are you thinking of taking a tropical vacation? As the colder weather settles in, planning a warm-weather vacation can be very tempting.

Family cruises and all-inclusive vacations are two popular types of vacations for families. They both offer lots of freedom and can be easy to plan and budget for, making them perfect vacation options.

Some families may wonder whether an all-inclusive resort or a cruise is the best for your vacation. Here are some considerations to help you decide between the two. Keep in mind that some of it will come down to personal preferences.

This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click-through of one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. We’ve been on some cruises and all-inclusive vacations on media trips and on some at our own expense.

You can check cruise prices for your next vacation here .

Comparing All-Inclusive Vs Cruise Vacations

While there are cruises and all-inclusive resorts throughout the world, for this post, we are primarily focusing on Caribbean cruises and all-inclusive resort vacations. There are so many different family-friendly options in this region, and the weather and water temperature won’t be a differentiating factor.

Keep in mind hurricane season, however, when you may experience bad weather, dangerous conditions, and vacation interruptions. We recently had a cruise extended due to a hurricane , although we still had an amazing time.

Both of these vacation types are a great way to know the costs of your vacation upfront. With many things included, you’ll understand exactly what you’ll be spending.

It’s difficult to compare the costs of cruises and all-inclusive vacations directly because there are so many vacation options at different price points. Budget options are available but there are also some fantastic luxurious resorts and luxury cruise lines.

There are some factors to consider though. All-inclusive vacations will typically include alcoholic beverages, while you’ll have to pay extra on a cruise ship for individual drinks or a beverage package.

This can really add up if you have several expensive alcoholic drinks per day. Depending on the cruise line, soft drinks may also cost extra.

For those trying to budget for their vacation in advance, an unlimited drinks package on a cruise could be a good idea. You’ll just want to make sure you will consume enough to make the package price worthwhile.

If you need WiFi for your vacation, it’s typically offered for an additional fee on most cruise lines and can be expensive. The streaming quality may also be a little slower.

On Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean, for instance, there are several different levels and quality of WiFi available to purchase. WiFi at an all-inclusive resort is more likely to be included and will probably be a slightly better quality.

On a cruise vacation, you’ll also have to pay extra for any meals you have when at the various ports of call. Excursions are also an extra cost, and can definitely add up for a longer cruise.

Many all-inclusive resorts don’t include motorized water sports, so keep that in mind as you budget. You may also want to do some shore excursions or meals away from the resort at your own expense.

Gratuities are another consideration that is typically not included in cruise fares. Most cruise lines will allow you to charge them to your stateroom account at the end of the cruise, while others let you prepay gratuities.

For an all-inclusive resort, gratuities are sometimes included. If not, you’ll usually leave tips as you go. This is something you’ll want to research in advance.

Rooms vs. cruise cabins

Rooms can definitely vary depending on the resort you choose. But in general, you’ll probably find that standard cruise staterooms are much smaller than traditional hotel rooms.

For both of these vacation types, I’d expect that you won’t spend much time in the room. So, you probably won’t need to worry too much about the specific room you are in. If you’re traveling with a baby, you may prefer to have a larger room where you’ll have more space for a crib, etc.

The activities you partake in will probably vary quite a bit between all-inclusive resorts and cruises. On a cruise, you’ll have very different days depending on whether it’s a sea day or a port day.

Cruises also offer many different onboard activities, including Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, game rooms, karaoke, trivia, dance parties, spa treatments, etc. While all-inclusive resorts may offer these, you’ll have to check the specific resort to learn about the activities offered.

If you want to spend all day at the beach each day, an all inclusive resort is definitely going to be a better option (assuming it’s on the beach). While you may have some beach options on port days, they will probably be more limited and you’ll have to pay extra for an excursion. If you want to roll out of bed and go right to the beach, an all-inclusive beach resort would be a great option.

Cruises often have fantastic kids’ clubs, which can be so much fun for your children and a good way to meet new people on their vacations. While some all-inclusive resorts also do, you’ll want to check in advance to see what the offerings and activities are.

For more adventurous travel or a vacation that includes multiple stops and visits to new places, a cruise is the best choice. Every day on a cruise can be different, and you can find activities at each port that fit in with what your family enjoys doing.

Zip lining, snorkeling, fishing, beach days, scuba diving, exploring the local culture, and city tours are just some examples of cruise excursions that you can sign up for – just keep in mind that these are an extra cost and not part of your cruise fare.

I don’t generally feel much motion on cruise ships. However, if you are someone prone to motion sickness, that is an obvious consideration.

Depending on the resort you are looking at, you may have more dining options at an all inclusive. Some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, do offer specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room. However, specialty dining is typically available at an additional fee on cruise vacations.

At most all-inclusive resorts, you’ll be able to dine at different onsite restaurants, including a standard buffet, as part of your stay. There may also be more flexibility in reservations. Most cruises require advance reservations for specialty dining, while all-inclusive resorts may not.

Getting There

If you are planning on going to an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, that will typically involve an international flight (with the timing and cost that comes with that). But for a cruise, many depart from the United States, which can be more convenient and are often less expensive.

As you compare, keep in mind that these are general comparisons. Depending on the cruise line and resort you are considering these things may vary and not necessarily be applicable.

Have you been on a cruise or an all inclusive resort? Which do you prefer?

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The 8 best alaska cruises for families.

Plan your next family vacation to explore the boundless beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

A cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime family or multigenerational vacation. With unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures that you won't find anywhere else in the world – not to mention scenic cruising days on the ship to spend time together – this special experience will stay with you forever.

For an extended vacation in the 49th state, consider booking a cruisetour. This combined cruise and pre- or post-cruise land tour option is offered by many of the larger cruise lines. The tours visit some of the top attractions in the state , such as Denali National Park and Preserve, and often include picturesque rides into Alaska's remote wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. Some tours also head north to Fairbanks and visit Kenai Fjords National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (or both, in some cases). You can choose between fully escorted adventures or laid-back options to explore on your own, depending on what works best for your family.

Ready to book your Alaska adventure? These eight cruise lines offer excellent family-friendly excursions ashore , plus plenty of onboard activities to keep both kids and parents entertained during days at sea.

Find your perfect cruise

Princess Cruises: 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay

Departure city: Vancouver, British Columbia

The 2024 cruise season brings Princess' 55th-anniversary sailing to The Great Land, and the line is offering more than 150 Alaska voyages between April and September. The popular Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay itinerary northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , is available on dozens of dates this season on Grand Princess , Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The sailing includes stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord in Alaska. If you prefer a smaller ship, choose Grand Princess or Sapphire Princess, which hold 2,610 and 2,680 passengers (double occupancy), respectively. Meanwhile, Royal Princess accommodates 3,560 guests at double occupancy.

The Princess Cruises North to Alaska program features immersive, family-friendly opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the 49th state. Guests can sample fresh local seafood and meet famous Alaskans such as Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod dog race. In Skagway, families can meet some of the newest sled dogs and their handlers during Puppies in the Piazza on the ship. Younger cruisers and teens can participate in the Alaska Explorers Youth Program in partnership with Glacier Bay National Park and the Discovery Channel, which includes activities like the "Deadliest Catch" Crab Sort Challenge.

The North to Alaska program also partners with Discovery and Animal Planet to feature onboard exhibits about Alaska, as well as curated excursions like the White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure in Skagway, which was created by a train historian. Back on the ship, kids and teens can hang out with other young cruisers their age at Camp Discovery's Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Lodge (8 to 12) or Beach House (13 to 17). In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for Princess Cruises' Alaska mascot: Stanley the Bear. You might even find him during story time at the kids clubs wearing a captain's uniform or destination-themed costumes, such as lumberjack gear in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Alaska – Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure city: Seattle, Washington

This seven-day round-trip voyage from Seattle is available on Norwegian Bliss from April to September during the line's 2024 Alaska season. The sailing includes the ports of Sitka, Juneau , Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan (Ward Cove), plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an evening stop in Victoria, British Columbia , before disembarking in Seattle. Norwegian Bliss can carry 4,004 passengers at double occupancy and 4,266 passengers at maximum capacity.

The entire family will enjoy excursions like the Whale Watching & Bear Search tour in Icy Strait Point, while thrill-seekers of all ages will want to book an adrenaline-pumping ride down the mountain on the massive ZipRider zip line. In Ketchikan, take a hike through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., where you might catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears or bald eagles. You can also head offshore from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad, the famed ship from Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch," to pick up the day's bounty of king crab and search for marine wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage.

Plenty of family activities and entertainment options are offered on this Norwegian Cruise Line ship, including the Bliss Speedway, a two-level racetrack at sea; laser tag; mini-golf; an interactive aqua park with waterslides that zip above the side of the ship; a video arcade; and live entertainment. You'll also find kids clubs designed for younger children and teens , as well as adults-only escapes like Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O. When it comes to dining, there's no shortage of casual fare for hungry kids at venues like the Garden Café buffet, American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill.

Disney Cruise Line: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

This seven-night itinerary aboard Disney Wonder departs round-trip from Vancouver on several voyages throughout the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. The weeklong Disney Cruise Line sailing includes glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Plus, you'll enjoy plenty of Disney fun on board, with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and entertaining activities and venues for kids and adults alike.

Many of the ship's nautical-themed staterooms are designed with families in mind and feature a "split bath" concept and extra under-bed storage for suitcases. Disney Wonder can hold 1,750 passengers at double occupancy and 2,700 passengers at maximum capacity. The ship's unique rotational dining venues include an "under the sea" adventure at Triton's, a dinner show with Disney characters at Animator's Palate and Southern specialties with jazz music at Tiana's Place. For a night out sans kids, adults can savor a quiet evening with northern Italian cuisine at Palo or nosh on casual pub fare at Crown & Fin Pub. Younger sailors will find age-appropriate spaces at Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, tween venue Edge, and teen club Vibe.

Disney's excursions also offer family fun ashore – especially in Skagway. Try panning for gold with Disney characters like Donald Duck, then feast on baked Alaska salmon at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. You can also take an extended six-hour tour by boat into Alaska's deepest fjord, Lynn Canal, then hike through the rainforest to reach your canoe for a wilderness safari at Glacier Point. For a bucket list splurge, reserve a spot on the helicopter flightseeing tour that includes dog mushing on the Denver Glacier with a team of Alaska sled dogs.

Holland America Line: 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America's Koningsdam will sail the line's seven-day Inside Passage itinerary more than 20 times between April and September in 2024. This round-trip voyage embarks in Vancouver and includes multiple days of scenic cruising. You'll sail through the Inside Passage for two days; through Tracy Arm Inlet, where you can disembark for a shore excursion; and through Glacier Bay, where the Junior Ranger Program is a highlight for kids. The ports of call on this itinerary are Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan in Alaska.

Koningsdam features dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, two bathrooms and extra closet space. The ship carries 2,650 guests at double occupancy and 3,194 passengers at maximum capacity. A wildlife expert on the ship helps guests spot Alaska's incredible marine and land animals through announcements and during daily programs. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, moose, brown bears and other wildlife. While in the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area, you'll want to take the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to explore glacier-covered mountains, jagged cliffs and the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. surrounding the fjord. On a high-speed catamaran, you'll get up-close views of the Sawyer Glaciers and have potential sightings of harbor seals, bears, mountain goats and more.

Back on board, Holland America Line 's kids club offers supervised, age-appropriate activities for young cruisers ages 3 to 17 – including children who may need certain accommodations. You'll also find plenty of family-friendly options for dining on Koningsdam, including Lido Market, New York Pizza and the poolside Dive In grill. During the cruise, look for themed evenings in the Lido Market like salmon bakes or seafood boil pop-up dinners, which are in line with Holland America's commitment to serving certified sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood. An Alaska brunch is also offered once during the voyage in the main dining room; you'll enjoy dishes highlighting ingredients from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Royal Caribbean International: 7 Night Alaska Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Hop aboard Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas for the seven-night Alaska Adventure Cruise, sailing round-trip from Seattle . This itinerary is available on several dates between May and August 2024 and features stops in the towns of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an afternoon call in the Canadian city of Victoria. While there, book an off-roading excursion through the coastal rainforest that includes a zip line adventure. Or, take a self-guided tour through Victoria's famed Butchart Gardens and the tropical Butterfly Gardens filled with wildlife.

Quantum of the Seas – which holds 4,180 passengers at double occupancy and 4,905 passengers at maximum capacity – is one of the two larger Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska in 2024 (Ovation of the Seas is the other). As such, it offers abundant activities and entertainment for families at sea. On board, guests can experience Ripcord by iFly (the only skydiving simulator at sea) and take in snow-capped mountain views from the FlowRider surf simulator or atop the ship's rock climbing wall. Other onboard activities include bumper cars, an escape room, an arcade, pickleball and The Silent Party (a dance party where everyone wears headphones).

At mealtime, kids will have plenty of choices for casual and quick bites, from carefully crafted hot dogs at the Dog House and specialty pies at Sorrento's Pizza to around-the-clock snacks at Café Promenade and grab-and-go fare at The Café@Two70. When the little ones want to play or chill out with kids their age, Adventure Ocean offers activities for children 3 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, teens can meet other 13- to 17-year-olds at the Hideout Hangout.

Carnival Cruise Line: 7-Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Departure city: Juneau, Alaska

Carnival's 2024 Alaska season runs from May to September, with the 7-Day Alaska from Seattle itinerary available every month during that time. The round-trip sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. You'll enjoy scenic cruising in Victoria and through Tracy Arm Fjord. You'll also have one "fun day at sea" to check out the activities and entertainment on the ship, which offers a double occupancy capacity of 2,260 passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,826 passengers.

Younger sailors ages 2 to 11 can join in on ocean-themed games, songs and programming at Camp Ocean, while tweens and teens (ages 12 to 17) can participate in destination-focused activities at See the World. Club 02 is a designated space for guests ages 15 to 17 to watch movies, play sports and video games, and more. Families can enjoy Dive-In Movies together at Carnival Seaside Theater and watch live musical productions at Playlist Productions. When it comes to dining on Carnival , families will have a choice of several casual restaurants to satisfy finicky eaters, including Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace and Swirls for soft serve ice cream. For a special night out, make reservations at the Steakhouse, which costs extra but offers reduced prices for children 11 and younger.

When going ashore, Juneau offers many family-friendly excursions – some of which you may not have the chance to experience anywhere else in the world. The Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery takes guests airborne by bush plane over the five glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. After the ride, you'll land in the Taku River at the historic Taku Lodge, which sits across from Juneau's largest glacier, the Taku Glacier. At the lodge, you'll feast on a bountiful meal featuring homemade side dishes and one of the best-known local seafood specialties, Alaska king salmon.

Celebrity Cruises: 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier itinerary is available on nine voyages between May and September 2024. The Celebrity Solstice (which holds 2,852 guests at double occupancy) sails round-trip from Vancouver and stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. You'll have two days of scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and around Hubbard Glacier. While in Icy Strait Point, book a guided nature walk excursion along the "Trail of the Bears" in the bush country of the Spasski River Valley. During your search for Alaska's coastal brown bears, you'll also learn about the Tlingit culture and community in Hoonah, and perhaps even see Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Back on the ship, Celebrity's Camp at Sea program entertains children, tweens and teens ages 3 to 17 with four different age-appropriate programs: Shipmates (ages 3 to 5), Cadets (ages 6 to 9), Captains (ages 10 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 17). The customizable activities change every cruise and are based on the interests of the participants. Celebrity also offers autism-friendly activities and services for families on board.

When it comes to dining options on the ship, families will find kid-friendly selections on the in-room dining menu and at the main restaurant. For quick casual fare, head to the buffet-style Oceanview Café or to the Mast Grill for burgers and other grab-and-go bites. If you want healthier dishes, the Spa Café offers homemade energy bars, acai bowls, turkey wraps and other light choices.

UnCruise Adventures: Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

If you prefer a small-ship cruise experience without the bells and whistles of some larger vessels, UnCruise offers adventure-style cruises to Alaska on its fleet of safari- and expedition-style ships. With these intimate cruises, you and the kids (ages 8 and older) can get up close to glaciers, wildlife and Alaska's vast wilderness directly from the ship via Zodiacs and kayaks. You may even see wildlife from a short distance away along the shoreline, as UnCruise vessels are able to sail into smaller waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships.

The line's Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise features two full days in pristine Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve aboard the Wilderness Discoverer, which holds a maximum of 76 passengers. Here, guests can hike along remote coastlines amid old-growth forests, view sea life up close and go birding at South Marble Island. You'll also have the opportunity to see several tidewater glaciers, go kayaking in the Keku Islands and explore Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Another highlight is a visit to Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove, the only hotel accommodations in the 3.3 million-acre national park. The seven-night itinerary departs round-trip from Juneau and is offered between April and September 2024.

The full itinerary includes stops in Icy Strait and Neka Bay; Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve; Chichagof Island (which boasts the world's largest population of brown bears per square mile); Frederick Sound; and Tracy Arm and the Sawyer Glaciers. During the weeklong cruise, you'll have narration by expert onboard guides and embark on some of the most memorable adventures your kids will ever have in Alaska's remote wilderness.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts

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The 12 Best All-Inclusive Cruises for 2024

When it comes to all-inclusive cruises, there are a few different options:

• Luxury cruise lines: All-inclusive cruise rates are available on luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. While more expensive than traditional cruise rates , the fares cover nearly everything, including door-to-door transfers, luxurious suite accommodations, specialty dining , premium alcoholic beverages and excursions. Plus, you don't need to show your cruise card every time you order a latte or a pre-dinner cocktail. You'll disembark the ship with very few, if any, additional charges on your final bill.
• Cruise lines with inclusive pricing: Alternatively, you can consider an upscale cruise line like Viking, which offers fares with more-inclusive pricing and some of the amenities found on board the fully inclusive lines. However, you'll still have to budget for a few expenses, such as immersive excursions and alcoholic beverages beyond wine or beer at lunch and dinner.
• Packages and add-ons: Other cruise lines like Oceania, Windstar and Norwegian offer add-on drink packages and other promos so you can create a more all-inclusive experience.

After comparing the costs between a truly all-inclusive cruise and a sailing with package pricing for the extras, the total price may be closer than you think.

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All-Inclusive Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Regent Seven Seas touts its six ships – with the newest vessel, Seven Seas Grandeur , which debuted in late 2023 – as "the world's most luxurious fleet." The line's intimate ships accommodate up to 750 guests. They feature all ocean-view suites, prestigious museum-quality art collections (including a prized Fabergé egg on the new Grandeur), and itineraries that call on more than 500 destinations around the world.

With Regent's "every luxury included" philosophy and 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares, passengers receive round-trip airfare and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs (based on the itinerary), and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel package for concierge suites and higher. On the ship, enjoy a fully stocked in-suite minibar; specialty dining; unlimited fine wines, spirits and other beverages; prepaid gratuities; unlimited Wi-Fi; and free valet laundry service.

On top of personalized service, guests sailing on Regent Seven Seas cruises will enjoy immersive exploration ashore – with overnights in some ports of call – and enrichment programs. Top-notch dining includes French cuisine at Chartreuse (on select ships), Pan-Asian fare at Pacific Rim (also on select ships) and Italian fare at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen (available on Grandeur, Splendor and Explorer ), some tours and bespoke excursions, spa treatments, unique offerings, and certain wines and top-shelf liquors come with an additional cost.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Sailing on board one of Silversea's 13 ultra-luxury cruise or expedition ships commences with the line's new chauffeur experience. This door-to-door service transports guests from home to the airport and back home on the return trip. The line's all-inclusive pricing also encompasses international or domestic flights (with business class upgrades in certain destinations), pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, butler service in every suite, all gratuities, gourmet dining, and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including Champagne.

Guests will also enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1 – and with no more than 728 guests. Other all-inclusive perks include at least one shore excursion in each port plus onboard lectures and programming. On expedition sailings in destinations like Antarctica , all guided Zodiac tours and landings are included in the fare.

When it comes to dining on Silversea ships, gourmet options feature French, Asian and Italian cuisine along with other international fare. For a special evening, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is a new destination-focused concept on Silver Ray, Nova , Moon and Dawn . This immersive dining experience, Sea And Land Taste, was developed in partnership with the former editor-in-chief of "Saveur Magazine," Adam Sachs. The culinary offerings with S.A.L.T. also include shore excursions, where guests can tour a 500-year-old family winery and vineyard in Croatia, visit an organic farm in Denmark, or learn to make gelato in Sicily.

Expenses not covered in Silversea's fare include salon and spa services, personal training sessions, select excursions, upgraded internet packages, and special bottles of wine or liquors.

Compare Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn's seven purpose-built expedition vessels and intimate luxury cruise ships accommodate between 264 and 600 guests. The club-like atmosphere on board its ships comes with highly intuitive and personalized service with about a 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. Each suite also has a dedicated personal suite host and a suite attendant that will cater to your every whim.

All-inclusive fares include oceanfront suites with walk-in closets, living areas and luxurious bathrooms. All Seabourn Encore and Ovation accommodations feature private verandas, while 90% of the suites on Seabourn Odyssey , Sojourn and Quest have balconies. Premium and penthouse suites offer additional amenities and perks.

While aboard Seabourn Cruise Line , guests will enjoy complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome Champagne, and a fully stocked in-suite bar with your personalized selections. Dining is a real treat, with several venues in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller, such as the line's signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller. Seabourn is also a member of the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy.

Other complimentary amenities on Seabourn's cruise ships include special evenings with dinner and live entertainment; a marina and complimentary water sports; "Caviar in the Surf" on select voyages; movie nights; a chance to shop with the chef at local markets; personal valet luggage shipping service; enrichment lectures; and more.

Additional expenses include a wide selection of epicurean, mindfulness and wellness excursions as well as cultural and historical bespoke tours. You can also book the ultimate underwater adventure on one of the line's high-tech submarines on the two expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Pursuit. Programs and treatments at Seabourn's Spa & Wellness are also at an additional cost.

Find a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages features "always included" cruise fares on its two purpose-built yachts, World Navigator and World Traveller. The line recently welcomed a third ship to its fleet for the 2023-24 Antarctica season, World Voyager. Atlas' high-end boutique ships cater to just 198 passengers and feature spacious staterooms and suites with panoramic windows or private balconies and beautiful public spaces and lounges. These small ships also have several options for dining, depending on the sailing and destination.

The all-inclusive fares cover complimentary dining; unlimited wines, craft beers and spirits; 24-hour bar service with canapes; a free in-room minibar; afternoon high tea; fresh-pressed juices and specialty teas and coffees; butler service; 24-hour room service; prepaid gratuities; cultural immersion in every port; and other perks.

Polar expedition fares cover private charter jet service, group transfers from the airport to the yacht, an Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest to take home, Zodiac sightseeing safaris, expert guided shore landings, and destination lectures and briefings.

If you're on one of the line's Epicurean Expeditions, the cultural immersion program offers complimentary special tastings, market visits and cooking demonstrations. In addition to use of the marina's water toys (on select sailings, weather permitting), guests can enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and an alfresco Josper Grill dining experience at 7-AFT Grill. On select voyages, culinary presentations, wine tastings and other special events are hosted by an expert.

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More-Inclusive Cruises

Cruise fares with these lines include many of the amenities and perks that you'll find with the all-inclusive cruises. However, you'll still need to budget for some expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, excursions and specialty dining, depending on the line.

Viking's ocean fleet of nine 930-passenger all-veranda ships offers a nearly all-inclusive experience for guests. The upscale Scandinavian-inspired ships feature king-bed staterooms and suites with many amenities, including luxurious linens and plush robes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi – plus an in-room minibar with soft drinks, water and snacks. Higher-category staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises come with additional perks like priority dinner and spa reservations, early stateroom access, and a welcome bottle of Champagne.

Cruise fares also include complimentary dining at all the venues; one free shore excursion in every port; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffee and bottled water; access to the spa; lectures and performances; port taxes and fees; and more.

Viking also has two 378-passenger Polar Class 6 expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. These ships also offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with the same amenities as their oceangoing vessels. Pricing on the expedition sailings includes Zodiac safaris, the use of kayaks, a keepsake Viking jacket, and essential gear for excursions and landings.

Select excursions, pre- or post-dinner cocktails, spa treatments, special bottles of wine, and other optional purchases come at an additional expense.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships carry a maximum of 702 guests and offer immersive experiences around the world, calling on many smaller, lesser-known ports. The line also boasts more than 380 overnights and 850 late nights in port, so guests can have dinner in town and experience more of the destination's local culture and cuisine.

Azamara's cruise fares include all meals (other than the specialty dining restaurants) with water, tea and coffee. A selection of complimentary wine, sparkling wine, beer and spirits is available throughout the voyage. Cultural evenings ashore or on board the ship and gratuities are also included in the basic cruise fare.

If you'd like to enhance your onboard experience, Azamara offers inclusive "Experience More" packages that are discounted and based on the length of the voyage.

For example, on a seven-day or shorter sailing, solo travelers can add a package for $799 that's valued at $1,114 (a savings of 28%). This value-add bundle includes $350 of onboard credit to use for shore excursions; unlimited Wi-Fi for one device; a drinks package featuring premium wines, spirits and bottled water; a $150 spa credit; and a dinner at the Chef's Table or a total of three nights of specialty dining at Prime C or Aqualina. Three bags of laundry are also included.

Guests can book similar packages for double occupancy staterooms and longer voyages. You can also choose individual beverage, dining or internet packages if you don't need the extra amenities or features of the bundled options.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' four superyacht-inspired ships are designed with adults in mind and feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. Pricing with the adults-only cruise line includes stateroom or suite accommodations and meals at more than 20 eateries serving up international cuisine and dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. Guests also have access to complimentary Wi-Fi; unlimited group exercise classes; nonalcoholic drinks such as water, tea and coffee; and plenty of lively entertainment.

Virgin does not offer beverage packages, but the line at times advertises special promotions that include voyage credits to cover expenses like airfare and drinks. Shore excursions and spa treatments – including skin care offerings on board Scarlet Lady in partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Virgin's chief entertainment and lifestyle officer – are some of the additional expenses not covered in the base fare.

Find a Virgin Voyages deal on GoToSea.

Add-on Packages and All-Inclusive Fares

These five cruise lines offer basic cruise fares that cover accommodations and some amenities – and you can typically find special pricing and promotional deals throughout the year.

With the optional packages, guests can create a mostly all-inclusive voyage with bundles of add-on extras, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities or shipboard credit to cover miscellaneous personal expenses such as spa treatments or a bottle of wine for a special celebration.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania's eight small luxury ships carry between 648 and 1,238 guests. The line's newest ship – Vista , the first Allura Class vessel – debuted in Rome in May 2023. The beautifully appointed vessel features four new dining concepts, spacious standard staterooms at 290-plus square feet in size, new Concierge Level veranda accommodations for solo cruisers, an elevated mixology program and more.

Oceania's culinary program is touted by the line as "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" under the tutelage of Jacques Pépin, executive culinary director and master chef. Complimentary specialty dining is included in cruise fares on Oceania sailings. Pricing also covers airfare, still and sparkling water, specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, and Wi-Fi on the ship.

Oceania's "OLife Choice" package provides additional value to your cruise with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare and airport transfers – plus one free amenity you'll choose out of eight complimentary shore excursions, a beverage package or up to $800 in shipboard credit.

Explore Oceania Cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers special rates and packages throughout the year that save money over a la carte pricing – and elevate your onboard experience to be more inclusive. You'll be able to access the best deal on the added perks if you book the upgraded package before you sail, saving up to 40 to 50 percent of the actual cost.

The line's "All-Included" package bundles the most popular add-ons for cruisers: a standard beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, unlimited basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities for the staff and crew. Pricing depends on the stateroom or suite category and sailing.

There are other options when booking a cruise with Celebrity to create a more upscale and all-inclusive experience. Guests staying in all-suite The Retreat have exclusive access to a sundeck (on select ships), a lounge and Luminae – a private restaurant that features Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud at the helm. Guests of The Retreat booking the "All-Included" package receive a premium beverage package, premium unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities and an onboard credit.

If you book AquaClass accommodations, you'll also have access to complimentary amenities and perks, such as unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, discounts on spa treatment packages and complimentary fitness classes. In addition, you'll also find a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival (by request) and two bottles of water refreshed daily in your room. AquaClass guests also have exclusive access to the restaurant Blu. You can add the "All-Included" package to your booking, which will include the Classic Drinks Package, basic Wi-Fi and gratuities.

Passengers who want to book this "All-Included" package and are sharing a stateroom or suite will need to book the same package.

Compare Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers promotional fares and special deals throughout the year that feature similar amenities and perks to what you'll find on an all-inclusive cruise. The "Free at Sea" deal bundles discounts on the cruise, free specialty dining, unlimited open bar privileges, shore excursion credits, savings on Wi-Fi access, discounts on the third and fourth guests in the stateroom, and a 2-for-1 deal on airfare.

"Free at Sea Plus" takes the package up a notch with a more comprehensive beverage selection, including top-shelf cocktails, Champagne by the glass, bottles of select premium wines at dinner and signature Starbucks coffee drinks. This option also includes unlimited Wi-Fi, additional nights of specialty dining and shore excursions.

Prices for both packages on Norwegian Cruise Line will depend on the dates, length and destination of the cruise.

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line's "Have It All Premium Cruise Package" is available to book for cruises six days or longer, excluding the line's Grand Voyages. The benefits vary depending on the length of the trip but include credits for shore excursions; the Signature Beverage Package; specialty dining at Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto; and a Wi-Fi Surf Package. The cost starts at $50 a day per person. 

An early booking bonus for this package includes an Elite Beverage Package upgrade, covered crew appreciation charges and a premium Wi-Fi upgrade. Holland America has other special promotions throughout the year. One of these is an early booking bonus of up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom for Mariner Society members.

Find Holland America deals on GoToSea.

Princess Cruises

"Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages offer guests two options to upgrade their onboard amenities from the standard Princess Cruises plan, which covers accommodations, dining, entertainment and the line's signature MedallionClass experience.

"Princess Plus" perks include a beverage package with drinks up to $15 each, Wi-Fi on one device per guest, gratuities for the crew, two premium desserts a day (think hazelnut gelato at the onboard gelateria), two fitness classes per cruise (such as Pure Barre or YogaSix) and unlimited trips to the juice bar. The cost is $60 per day per person for this middle-tier package.

Additional benefits of the highest-tier option, at $80 per person per day, include the Premier Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $20 each, and Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest. Other features of the "Princess Premier" upgrade are two specialty meals, a photo package, Princess Prizes, reserved theater seating and a Medallion accessory.

Explore Princess Cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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