Create Lasting Family Memories at Sea

Where adventure meets relaxation—the perfect mix of fun activities, quality family time, and moments just for you.

The Ultimate Family Holiday Experience

A cruise holiday is the perfect choice for families with children of any age. Modern cruise ships are floating resorts packed with activities, entertainment, and experiences that keep every family member engaged—from toddlers to grandparents. The ship transports you from destination to destination (no more “are we there yet?”), and you only have to unpack once. While the kids are entertained in supervised programmes, parents can enjoy a spa day, romantic dinner, or simply relax by the pool. It’s the rare holiday where everyone gets exactly what they need.

Kids & Teens Programmes

Age-appropriate supervised activities keep children entertained while they make new friends, learn, and have adventures of their own.

Unpack Once

Visit multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking at each stop. Your floating hotel takes you everywhere.

Together & Apart

Spend as much or as little time together as you like. Family dinners one night, romantic couple time the next—you choose.

Family Cruise Experiences for Every Age

From babies taking their first cruise to grandparents sharing wisdom with grandchildren, family cruises cater to every generation with thoughtfully designed experiences.

Babies & Toddlers

Children as young as 6 months can cruise. Many ships offer nurseries, splash zones, and baby-friendly amenities including cots, high chairs, and baby food.

Children (3–12)

Supervised kids’ clubs with age-appropriate activities, pools with waterslides, character meet-and-greets, and adventure programmes keep children endlessly entertained.

Teens (13–17)

Teen-only lounges, gaming arcades, sports courts, adventure activities, and late-night events give teenagers their own space to socialise and have fun.

Multi-Generational

Connecting staterooms, family suites, and activities for all ages make cruises perfect for grandparents, parents, and children travelling together.

Compare Family-Friendly Cruise Lines

Cruise Line Kids’ Programme Best For Key Features Min. Age
Disney Cruise Line Oceaneer Club/Lab Character experiences, younger children Disney characters, Broadway shows, themed dining, private island 6 months
Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean Thrill-seekers, active families Waterslides, FlowRider, rock climbing, ice skating 6 months
Carnival Camp Ocean Budget-conscious families, first-timers WaterWorks, Dr. Seuss experiences, family-friendly entertainment 6 months
Norwegian Splash Academy Flexible dining, teens Freestyle dining, go-karts, laser tag, Nickelodeon experiences 6 months
MSC Cruises MSC Kids’ Clubs European itineraries, LEGO fans LEGO experiences, Chicco baby care, kids sail free offers 6 months
Three children laugh and play under cascading water in a colorful splash zone aboard a Royal Caribbean ship.

Our family cruise specialists find the perfect fit for your family.

Selecting the right cruise line, ship, and stateroom is crucial for a successful family holiday. Every cruise line has a different personality—some excel with toddlers, others are perfect for active teens, and some cater brilliantly to multi-generational groups.

Extraordinary Adventures specialises in matching families with their ideal cruise experience. We’ll ask about your children’s ages, interests, and your family’s travel style to recommend the perfect voyage. We handle all the details so you can focus on making memories.

What Families Love About Cruising

Modern cruise ships are designed with families in mind. Here’s what makes a cruise holiday the ultimate family getaway:

  • Supervised kids’ and teens’ clubs (often complimentary)
  • Multiple pools, waterslides, and splash zones
  • Family-friendly dining with flexible options
  • Broadway-quality shows and family entertainment
  • Character experiences and themed activities
  • Sports courts, mini-golf, and adventure activities
  • Family staterooms and connecting cabins
  • Shore excursions designed for all ages
  • 24-hour room service and pizza delivery
  • Babysitting services for date nights
  • Adults-only areas for parents to relax
  • All-inclusive options with simplified budgeting

Best Time to Book a Family Cruise

School Holidays: Peak seasons include summer holidays, Christmas/New Year, Easter, and half-terms. These sailings fill up quickly—book 9–12 months ahead for the best cabin selection and family staterooms.

Kids Sail Free: Many cruise lines offer “kids sail free” promotions during specific sailings. MSC and Royal Caribbean frequently run these offers. Watch for wave season (January–March) for the best family deals.

Shoulder Seasons: If you have flexibility, consider early June or late August when prices drop but weather remains pleasant. Some cruise lines offer reduced kids’ rates during these periods.

Spring Break & Bank Holidays: Caribbean and Bahamas cruises are especially popular during these times. Book early for the best rates and cabin locations.

Why Book with Cruise Help

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Family Cruise FAQs

Most major cruise lines welcome babies from 6 months of age on standard itineraries. For transatlantic crossings, Hawaii, and other longer voyages, the minimum age is typically 12 months. Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and MSC all accept infants from 6 months. Some luxury and expedition lines have higher age requirements—we’ll help you find the right fit for your family.

Yes! Most cruise lines offer complimentary supervised kids’ and teens’ programmes during the day and evening. Activities are age-appropriate and run by trained youth staff. Some ships charge for nursery care for children under 3, and late-night babysitting services (after 10pm or midnight) may have hourly fees. We can advise on specific policies for each cruise line.

Disney Cruise Line is consistently rated the best for families with young children thanks to character experiences, themed dining, and exceptional kids’ clubs. Royal Caribbean offers fantastic facilities including waterslides and adventure activities. For budget-friendly family cruising, Carnival and MSC (with “kids sail free” offers) are excellent choices. The best line depends on your children’s ages and interests—we’ll help you choose.

Absolutely! Most cruise lines offer connecting staterooms that open into each other, allowing families to have separate sleeping spaces while staying close. Many newer ships feature dedicated family staterooms that sleep 4-5 guests with bunk beds or sofa beds. Book early for the best selection of connecting cabins and family rooms, as they’re limited and popular.

Cruise lines are well-equipped to handle food allergies and dietary requirements. Notify us when booking, and we’ll ensure the cruise line is aware before departure. Onboard, head waiters and chefs can discuss menu options, prepare allergen-free meals, and accommodate specific needs. Many ships can also provide baby food, purées, and children’s menu options.

Age requirements vary by excursion. Many family-friendly tours welcome children of all ages, while adventure activities (zip-lining, jet skiing, snorkelling) often have minimum age and height requirements. Private tours can often accommodate younger children more flexibly. We can recommend family-friendly excursions and help you plan activities everyone can enjoy.

All cruise ships have medical facilities staffed by qualified doctors and nurses, equipped to handle everything from minor ailments to emergencies. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes medical coverage. Pack any prescription medications your children need, plus basics like children’s paracetamol and motion sickness remedies. Most ships also have pharmacies for common items.

Family cruise costs vary significantly based on cruise line, ship, cabin type, and destination. Third and fourth passengers (usually children) in a stateroom often cruise at reduced rates, and many lines offer “kids sail free” promotions. All-inclusive beverages packages for children are also available. We’ll help you find the best value for your budget and take advantage of current promotions and deals.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

Take our short quiz to discover the perfect specialty cruise for your travel style and bucket list.

We Know the Perfect Destinations for You

Alaska

Antarctica

Caribbean

Europe

Greece

Greenland

Iceland

Italy

Mediterranean

Start Your Extraordinary Family Adventure Now!

If you’re looking for a cruise agency that hoists the extra sail for your family, you’re looking for Extraordinary Adventures. We’re here to answer any questions and help you craft your next extraordinary family cruise adventure. Contact us now!