Lisa Wells
Family vacations are a great way to bring loved ones together, but planning them can be a pain. Picking a trip that will entertain everyone – the grandparents, the parents, the kids – can be a challenge. A cruise is the perfect family vacation that the whole family can enjoy.
Cruise ships offer fun and relaxation as they sail to a variety of destinations. Whether you’re looking for endless activities, total relaxation or anything in between, a cruise has it all. The activities, amenities and destinations on board a cruise ship offer options for every age and travel style.
Cruises are becoming more popular, especially for multigenerational travel. According to a May 2024 report from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 28% of travelers will sail with groups of three to five generations. The average age of cruise travelers is trending younger, now at 46. As a result, cruise lines are adding more experiences, technology, and other amenities that cater to all generations.
“Cruising is one of the best ways for multi-generational families to vacation together,” explains Teresa Chew Bermudez, owner of Get Out! Custom Travels. “Meeting everyone’s interests and energy levels can be one of the most difficult parts of planning a multi-generational trip. A cruise allows every family member to choose their own adventure.”
Instead of choosing one destination and coordinating everyone’s schedules, a family cruise is the ideal way to spend your vacation. Each member of the family can plan their own vacation by choosing from on-board or on-shore activities. Spend your days relaxing or adventuring, and create an unforgettable trip for the whole family.
Cruise ship activities for all ages
This modern cruise ship is a floating resort where you can spend plenty of time reclining in a deck chair, soaking up the sun and watching the sparkling sea, but you can also fill your days with onboard activities.
On your cruise, you’ll have a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from for every meal, with kid-friendly and adult-only options, as well as ambiance and cuisine choices. With dining options throughout the day, there’s no need to worry about meal planning when traveling with the family.
The services offered on board vary by cruise line and ship. Major cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a wide range of amenities. Smaller and luxury ships may have fewer, more targeted amenities.
On-board adventure and entertainment
Family cruises offer a variety of activities and programs throughout the day. Stay active at the pool, water park, or enjoy sports like volleyball and pickleball. Daily shows and entertainment include live music, comedy, and theater. You can even get in on the action with karaoke and game shows. For adults, the onboard casino offers the thrill of winning big money while on vacation.
The best way to relax on a cruise
Groups who prefer a more laid-back experience or travelers looking to take a break from adventure should look for opportunities to relax. Many ships have spas and salons. Fitness and yoga classes, a jog on deck or a dip in the pool or hot tub are all great ways to rejuvenate.
Onboard shopping allows you to purchase clothing, jewelry and other luxury items duty-free, or you can return to your stateroom and order room service – if you book a room with a balcony, it’s an especially nice way to relax and watch the waves roll by.
Activities for Kids and Teens on Cruises
In addition to pools and water parks, many ships offer activities for kids: mini golf, arcades, ropes courses, movies, sports courts, arts and crafts rooms, and more are some of the activities the various ships offer for kids, teens, and those young at heart.
Ships also usually have kids’ and teens’ clubs, which are separated by age and provide age-appropriate activities and staff supervision, so adults can enjoy drinks, spa treatments, and quiet time while the younger members of their party play.
Best Destinations for Family Cruises
With destinations all over the world, you can choose one that suits your family’s travel style. The destination and ports of call will affect passenger demographics and the types of in-port activities available.
The Caribbean is a great cruise destination and a popular choice for families: According to a CLIA report, 44% of cruise ship travelers will depart the Caribbean in 2024. “Caribbean itineraries often depart from U.S. ports, making travel a little easier, and they’re also perfect for multi-generational vacations,” says Chew-Bermudez.
Major cruise lines and smaller ships allow families to customize their trip. Islands throughout the Caribbean, such as St. Thomas, Aruba, and the Turks and Caicos Islands, tend to be family-friendly. On land, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including shopping, dining, adventure, historical charm, and beautiful white-sand beaches.
The Mediterranean is another great destination for families. Beautiful scenery, vibrant culture and historical sites make it the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. Look for cruises that call on Venice, Dubrovnik, Barcelona or the Greek Islands.
Port sightseeing and day trips
At each port of call, cruise excursions allow you to plan land activities to suit your family’s interests. Whether you choose to explore on your own or join a tour, you’ll enjoy local food, shopping, historical sites and more when you hop off the ship to enjoy water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, swimming or simply relaxing on the beach.
Most cruise lines have their own private islands or beaches as luxury destinations. In the Bahamas, Royal Caribbean calls at CocoCay, Carnival at Half Moon Cay, and Princess at Princess Cay. These private resorts offer beaches and activities exclusively for ship passengers.
You can also use your day pass to visit other resorts and take advantage of their many amenities. At the Port of Nassau, your Atlantis day pass gives you access to the beach, aquarium, water park and more. Whether your family is a thrill seeker or just looking to relax, they’re sure to love it.
Book a cruise for a great family vacation
Family vacations are an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and bring loved ones together in their busy lives. When planning your next family getaway, avoid the hassle of scheduling and booking activities to keep everyone happy. Choose a cruise instead, and you can have the vacation you want while everyone spends precious time together.
Lisa Wells is a travel, food and lifestyle writer and photographer who has traveled to 37 countries. As founder of Coastal Wandering, she shares her love of the laid-back beach life through stories, recipes and tips for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
