From exciting onboard activities to thrilling shore excursions, cruising is one of the best vacations for sailing as a family and enjoying quality time, both together and apart.
With so many different itineraries from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean and Alaska and beyond, even the most hard-to-please youngster will not get bored as cruising opens up a world of wonders to explore.
Having said that, keeping the kids engaged on the cruise requires some smart and strategic planning which most parents are not aware of. This guide will show you how to go on a cruise with kids and make the most of your cruising time with your family.
Choose a Suitable Destination
Whether it is spotting humpback whales and hiking over glaciers or enjoying the beaches and waterspouts on the islands of the Caribbean, consult your children about the destination and the activities they have always been dreaming of.
If your teens are art-minded, then consider touring ancient castles, see masterpieces of renowned painters and go window shopping on the iconic avenues on a European or Scandinavian voyage.

Choose the Right Cruise Line
For families seeking an all-inclusive cruise experience with kids, consider a cruise company that prefers young passengers on board.
For an adventurous trip, Antarctica cruises are the best, and for a relaxing trip, a Caribbean cruise is a wonderful option.
There should be a robust entertainment program tailored for children of all age groups, from babies and toddlers to teens and young adults.
Check if the cabin is also suitable to your child’s age, as cabin choices on modern ships can be confusing as a family of four will surely feel cramped inside a stateroom.
Choose a Ship that Offers Customized Kid’s Menus
Consider cruise ships that offer an elevated dining experience for the whole family. Ships that have plenty of kid-friendly menu options available in the main dining room as well as in the specialty restaurants will be a delight for the parent.
This will go a long way to ensure that even the most fussy eater will find something to eat they love. The casual eatery should serve a variety of choice items like pizza, pasta and fresh fruit to make it easy for all family members to dine together.
Choose Shore Excursions Wisely
While onboard entertainment on ships should also be kid-centered, in the same way when exploring a new destination the cruise line should focus on family-friendly shore excursions.
Whether it is exploring ancient ruins or spotting wildlife in a sanctuary, there should be ample options available for fun and adventure, which both parents and kids could enjoy together.
Choose the Right Cruise Time and Land Time
When planning a cruise with kids, the right duration of your voyage plays an important role. Ensure that the whole family has ample time to explore and enjoy the amenities on the ship and the excursions on land.
Keep in mind that when you spend a long time at the beach or in any other activity on shore you are not using the facilities on the ship. So ideally, choose a seven day itinerary which will give you enough time to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Choose a Cruise Line Suited to Your Child’s Age
Before planning your cruise vacation, it is essential to check with the concerned company regarding the age restrictions for kids. On some cruises, infants must be six months or older to go on a cruise, while other itineraries require children to be at least a year old.
Most parents prefer to wait until their child is at least three years old, in order to be old enough to go to the kid’s club and enjoy the many activities on offer onboard. Again, there are some cruise lines that offer nursery care for toddlers and younger children.






