Planning a cruise with lots of kids can be both exciting and challenging. It doesn’t matter if it’s your family, extended family, or a group trip.

There’s a variety of options you need to consider when booking a cruise that includes kids!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it smooth, fun, and stress-free:

Choose the Right Cruise Line & Ship

Best cruise lines for kids:

• Carnival – Affordable, fun, great kids’ clubs (Camp Ocean), waterslides, family comedy.
• Royal Caribbean – Larger ships, rock climbing, FlowRider, great for active older kids/teens.
• Disney Cruise Line – The gold standard for younger kids (but $$$).
• Norwegian – Flexible dining, water parks, and family suites.

Look for ships with:

• Splash zones or waterparks
• Family-sized staterooms or connecting rooms
• Kids’ clubs and teen lounges
• Babysitting or night programs (some offer after-hours care)

Pick a Kid-Friendly Itinerary

Best choices:

• Bahamas & Caribbean – Short flights, beach days, family excursions.
• Alaska – Wildlife, glaciers, nature-themed shore trips (great for older kids).
• Mexico Riviera – Easy West Coast option, lots of cultural excursions.

Tips:

• Stick to shorter cruises (3–7 days) if kids are new to cruising.
• Choose ports with minimal tendering (getting on/off boats can be a hassle with strollers).

Book the Right Rooms

Options for larger families:

• Family Suites or connecting rooms
• Inside cabins across from balcony rooms (saves money but gives access to fresh air)
• Some Carnival ships have Family Harbor cabins with access to a private lounge

Register Kids for Youth Programs Early

• Camp Ocean (Carnival): Divided into age groups (2–11)
• Circle C (12–14) and Club O2 (15–17)
• Activities include games, crafts, scavenger hunts, and themed parties
• Pre-register online or on embarkation day to secure spots

Plan Shore Excursions Wisely

Look for:

• Beach breaks
• Animal encounters (like dolphins or stingrays)
• Water parks or cultural tours designed for families

Avoid long walking tours or physically demanding excursions with little ones.

Dining with Kids

• Flexible dining times are key
• Buffet and casual options (like Carnival’s Guy’s Burger Joint, pizza, or soft-serve)
• Kids’ menus are always available in the dining room
• Bring snacks for picky eaters or wait times
• Cruise lines provide plenty of food items for those with food allergies

There are enough options and variety of places to eat to satisfy every member of your family!

Pack Smart

Bring:

• Swimwear & water shoes
• Refillable water bottles
• Ziplock bags for wet clothes/snacks
• Travel stroller or foldable wagon (if allowed)
• Nightlight or sound machine
• Meds for motion sickness (chewable Dramamine or Sea-Bands)
• Order a crib if needed

[Let me know if you want a printable cruise packing checklist for kids.]

Set Expectations & Routines

• Prep kids for muster drill, ship rules, quiet hours, how to use the elevators
• Set check-in points or rules for older kids who roam independently
• Download the cruise line app to stay organized and track daily activities
• Stress how important good manners and behavior is to fellow passengers

Make It Special

• Book your cruise around a special occasion such as a birthday celebration,
• Include kids in planning cabin decorations, theme nights attire, excursions
• Do family scavenger hunts or trivia
• Buy matching cruise shirts or lanyards for the kids
• Have them excited with by creating a fun countdown to cruise day

Want Help Planning?

I can help you:

• Choose the best cruise line based on your family size and kids’ ages
• Create a custom packing list
• Suggest specific ships or sailings
• Give you ideas to build excitement while planning and preparing for your cruise vacation

Pro tip: Work with a travel agent. A cruise planner can help with group bookings. They may also have possible discounts or perks, like group OBC—onboard credit. Cruise lines have a variety of cabin requirements for children of different ages. A travel agent can make sure you are compliant with the different rules a regulations.

Just tell me how many kids you’re planning for, their ages, and your preferred cruise line or dates!

What to Expect from Cruise Line Kids Camps