carnival cruise ships for families

7 Best Carnival Cruises for Families in 2024- Complete Guide

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Are you planning a Carnival Cruise and wondering about the best cruise ships for families? As someone who has cruised with Carnival with my own family, I know first hand which Carnival cruise ships are best.

Choosing a cruise for a family vacation, isn’t one size fits all. Carnival is known for having some of the best cruise lines for families and kids. However, you’ll want to find the best Carnival cruise ship to fit your needs, budget and vacation preferences.

With that being said, here are the 7 best cruises for families.

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7 Best Carnival Cruises for Families

1. Carnival Vista

The Carnival Vista is a fun ship for every member of the family. This cruise first set sail back in 2016, and has been a popular favorite ever since!

Since the Carnival Vista isn’t super new anymore, it’s going to be more affordable than newer ships. This is great is you’re cruising on a budget or just trying to save some money on your family vacation .

The Carnival Vista has some great restaurants onboard including: Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguanna Cantina, and you can’t forget the main dining room!

Some unique attractions on the Carnival Vista are the IMAX theatre, the SkyRide, the ropes course and water play areas. Kids and young adults who enjoy fun thrills will absolutely love these cruise ship attractions!

Carnival Kid’s and Teen Club Information:

The great thing about all Carnival Ships is that they have kids clubs which are separated by age group.

• Camp Ocean is for younger kids ages 2-11
• Circle C is for young teens ages 12-14
• Club O2 is for teenagers ages 14-17

When I was a younger kid, I would spend my days hanging out at the kid’s club, making new friends and having a good time. There are activities for kids 17 years and under, going on throughout the day and in the evening.

Activities like scavenger hunts, sports games, movie nights and dance parties are always fun. There’s also an area to hang out, a dance floor and an area to play video games, which every kid likes!

2. Carnival Mardi Gras

The Carnival Mardi Gras is a fan favorite, which gets a lot of repeat cruisers. The Mardi Gras is one of the largest ships and newest ships in Carnivals fleet, with over 5,200 passengers onboard!

The Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship has 26 total dining options. You can bet that there is something for everyone to eat on this cruise ship!

Whether you’re cruising with young children, teens or young adults , this cruise is fun for the whole family.

The Mardi Gras is one of the best cruise ships at sea for families , as there is so much to do for every member of the family. Whether it’s hanging out by the pool, playing in the waterparks or relaxing in the hot tubs, the Carnival Mardi Gras makes for an awesome family vacation.

The main attraction on the Carnival Mardi Gras is the Bolt Roller Coaster, which is the first roller coaster at sea. This does have an additional cost, however going on a roller coaster at sea is not something you do everyday!

3. Carnival Panorama

The Carnival Panorama is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon. This cruise ship first set sail back in late 2019, and is known for having plenty of cruise ship activities and attractions.

Some of the attractions on the Carnival Panorama include the SkyRide, Sky Zone (trampoline park), a ropes course, an enclosed basketball court, mini golf and an outdoor exercise area. This cruise ship is amazing for teenagers !

There are also two water slides called Red Fun (raft slide) and Blue Fun, which is a standard water slide. If you’re cruising with older children who are afraid of water slides, there is a splash park which is also really fun.

Onboard the Carnival Panorama there are also plenty of bars, places to eat at and a Casino. In the evening time, there are parties going on around the ship.

There is a great kid’s club on Carnival, so you leave your children in the kids club (there is a fee after 10 pm) and let loose for the evening!

There is so much included on a Carnival cruise , which makes it a good time and great value for everyone.

Related: Carnival Cruise Packing List – The Ultimate Guide

4. Carnival Sunrise (Refurbished)

The Carnival Sunrise is a mid-size ship that is known for it’s shorter sailings (2-5 days). If you’re looking for a short family getaway, the Carnival Sunrise is perfect.

This cruise ship holds over 2,700 passengers and was originally built in 1999. The Carnival Sunrise was recently refurbished in 2019, so the look of this cruise ship is pretty modern and new looking.

The Carnival Sunrise has two waters slides, a splash park and a ropes course. There is also a nice pool area, which has fun activities and games going on throughout the day.

By the pool, you’ll find is a giant screen that will play movies and shows throughout your cruise. This is a great place to take it easy with the family and spend some quality time together.

Since this cruise was recently refurbished, the kids clubs and teens club looks super modern. If you’re cruising with kids , good luck getting them out of the teens club or kids club!

Related: 50 Popular Cruise Essentials from Amazon

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5. Carnival Horizon

The Carnival Horizon is the sister ship to the Carnival Vista and the Carnival Panorama. Unlike the Carnival Panorama, this ship does not have a SkyZone, however it does have an IMAX theatre.

Like its sister ships, the Carnival Horizon has a ropes course, SkyRide and water slides.

If you like fine dining, then you will love the wide variety of specialty restaurants onboard the Carnival Horizon. Please note that specialty restaurants do have an extra charge.

Carnival Horizon Specialty Restaurants:

• JiJi Asian Kitchen
• Seafood Shack
• Cucina Del Capitano
• Bonsai Teppanyaki
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse

Overall, the Carnival Horizon is a fun ship for the whole family. A Carnival cruise is quite affordable, which is one of the reasons why cruising is the best family vacation!

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise: 27 Tips, Tricks & Hacks

6. Carnival Dream

The Carnival Dream launched back in 2009. However it was refurbished a few years ago in 2017. The ship received the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, which includes new restaurants like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguanna Cantina, the Alchemy Bar and Bonsai Sushi.

This Carnival cruise ship has multiple pool areas, water slides and serenity, which is the adult only area. Serenity is a great place to relax while your kids are on the water slides or at the kids club.

In the evening time, there are family friendly shows, as well as adult only shows. The Punchliner Comedy Club is a great spot to go see some hilarious comedians onboard the Carnival Dream.

The Carnival Dream has something for everyone, so expect the whole family to love this cruise.

Related: 27 Cruise Packing Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

7. Carnival Celebration (coming soon!)

The Carnival Celebration looks like it might be the best Carnival cruise ship yet! The Carnival Celebration is a new cruise ship that will set sail in November 2022, in celebration of Carnival Cruise Line’s 50th anniversary.

Some of the highlights on the Carnival Celebration include it’s 6 zones to explore: Celbration Central, The Gateway, Summer Landing, 820 Biscayne, Lido and The Ultimate Playground.

You’ll have The Bolt, the world’s fastest, and first (along with Mardi Gras) roller coaster at sea. The kids and all family members will love Waterworks, an incredible water slide and water park area onboard the ship.

You’ll also experience some of the best entertainment onboard Carnival cruise ships, including the popular Family Feud Live game show.

This Carnival Celebration is a sister ship to the Carnival Mardi Gras, so it has similar restaurants and onboard activities. Although the Carnival Celebration is similar to the Mardi Gras, they did add three new restaurants.

New Restaurants on the Carnival Celebration:

• The Golden Jubilee
• Emeril’s Bistro 1397

Going on new cruise ships are usually more expensive than cruising on ships that are a few years older. If you want a really special cruise for the whole family, consider the Carnival Celebration for a vacation no one will forget.

However if you’re on a tight budget, consider waiting a few years before booking the Carnival Celebration and choose one of the slightly older cruise ships.

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Final Thoughts on Best Carnival Cruises for Families

Well there it is, the best Carnival cruises for families!

When it comes to a family cruise, it’s hard to beat the value you get with Carnival. The endless entertainment, amazing attractions and plentiful food options makes Carnival one of the best cruise lines for families.

When are you booking your Carnival cruise? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

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A Guide to All 27 Carnival Cruise Ships

With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there’s a Carnival cruise for everyone.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers numerous cruise options worldwide with a fleet of 27 ships. Their cruises include all the hits: celebrity chef-driven restaurants, onboard rollercoasters, dedicated kids venues, serene spa moments, adults-exclusive pool decks, and exciting destinations. Carnival has it all — and can be relatively affordable. But which ship is right for you?

After sailing on eight Carnival cruises, including voyages on its oldest ship, Carnival Elation , and the newer Carnival Celebration, I’ve learned that sailing on newer ships is generally more expensive, and older vessels are more budget-friendly. However, I often consider more than the total cost before booking a cruise. I look at the ports of call, the space-to-guest ratio, the amenities and onboard activities, and the launch point.

When I select a sailing, I book through Carnival Cruise Line’s reservation number to see if I can snag an exclusive deal not listed online. Carnival's free-to-join loyalty program, the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club, offers deals like reduced deposits, onboard credit, and room upgrades. The more you book with the cruise line, the better your deals will be. 

Before committing to a cruise, I break down the price per person per night, particularly if I need multiple cabins because I'm traveling with a group. I recommend you take advantage of Carnival's convenient 24-hour reservation hold, which displays the total cost, itinerary, and a countdown timer so you know when to purchase to secure the locked-in price.

Here, find guidance on every Carnival cruise ship, from the newest to the oldest.

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise

Carnival Firenze

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Venice Class

Ship Capacity: 4,126 double occupancy; 5,245 total guests

Standout Amenities: Amari bar for a peritivi and digestivi ; Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need time away from kids; and Pizzeria Del Capitano for hand-tossed pizza made with imported Italian ingredients  

Originally debuted in 2021 as part of the Costa Cruises fleet (an Italy-based subsidiary of Carnival), the Firenze will set sail as a Carnival ship — with an Italian twist — in Spring 2024. Across Firenze , you’ll see touches of Italy; think cute cafe set-ups that look like they were picked up from a Florence sidewalk. Terrazza staterooms access a private sun deck with whirlpools and a bar. Carnival’s fan-favorite dining options and amenities, like Guy’s Burger Joint and WaterWorks, will be on board.

Carnival Jubilee

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Excel Class

Ship Capacity: 5,374 double occupancy; 6,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster rollercoaster; relaxing Cloud 9 Spa thermal suites with adjustable humidity and temperature; pickleball courts for challenging family and friends

Carnival Jubilee is the newest Excel-class ship in the fleet, sailing from Galveston, Texas. The massive ship offers Camp Ocean, the onboard kids club. Adults also have their own space at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar.

Carnival Venezia

Ship Capacity: 3,934 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: The Gondola Lounge, themed after Venice's beautiful canals; a pool area with a retractable roof

Initially built in 2019 for Costa Cruises, this ship joined the Carnival fleet in 2023. Carnival Venezia is ideal if you’re looking for a ship that celebrates one of Italy’s most iconic cities. Venice is the inspiration behind the indoor and outdoor areas, including the atrium, modeled after Piazza San Marco, and the Carnevale Lounge, inspired by Venetian masquerades. Don't miss the Venetian Toast, where the ship’s captain greets guests and crew don Venetian masks.

Carnival Celebration

Inaugural Year: 2022

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers, a kids camp in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; The Golden Jubilee Bar for vintage cocktails; BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster

Carnival Celebration is all about never-ending good times. During my recent sailing, I found all the Carnival classics, like the Alchemy Bar and Guy’s Burger Joint, a thrilling ropes course, dive-in movies, and plenty of themed deck parties. If you’re looking to relax, it has that, too. Rent cabanas or lounge in the ocean-view whirlpools at Loft 19, where attentive staff take care of everything, like delivering you fruit and chilled towels. My favorite spot to hang out was the aft Patio Pool because it wasn't ever super crowded, and the view of the ocean was unmatched. 

Carnival Luminosa

Ship Class: Spirit Class

Ship Capacity: 2,260 double occupancy; 2,826 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Carnival fan-favorite Alchemy Bar; Circle “C” tween club; Cloud 9 Spa hydrotherapy pool for rejuvenating soaks

Carnival Luminosa (formerly the Costa Luminosa ) is for you if you want to sail to destinations like Alaska and Australia. It also offers occasional itineraries through scenic transpacific spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, and Japan. The ship has all of the brand’s classic amenities, like the RedFrog Rum Bar and Punchliner Comedy Club, plus an array of dining options, including sushi, pizza, ice cream, and an over-the-top brunch.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Inaugural Year: 2021

Ship Capacity: 5,282 double occupancy; 6,456 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster for adrenaline junkies; Havana Bar for Cuban drinks and live music; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse

Carnival Mardi Gras is a nod to Carnival’s first ship, also named Mardi Gras, which was launched in 1972. The vessel has six onboard zones where families can have fun together, including the Ultimate Playground, where BOLT and the SportsSquare are located. Of course, there’s no Mardi Gras without New Orleans, so the French Quarter zone is where you’ll find Big Easy-inspired amenities like an Emeril Lagasse restaurant.

Carnival Radiance

Inaugural Year: 2021 (formerly Carnival Victory , which set sail in 2000)

Ship Class: Sunshine Class

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,873 total guests 

Standout Amenities: BlueIguana Tequila Bar for great margaritas; ZSPA for teens who want a spa day; an outdoor gym on the ship's top deck

Carnival Radiance has culinary delights and family fun in spades. If you're a foodie, try Guy’s Burger Joint for loaded burgers straight from Flavortown or Shaq’s Big Chicken for the basketball star's incredible fried chicken sandwiches. Kids will love seeing The Cat in the Hat characters during activities like character parades, story time, and character breakfasts.

Carnival Panorama

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Vista Class

Ship Capacity: 4,008 double occupancy; 5,146 total guests

Standout Amenities: Sky Zone trampoline park where families can bounce and play games; Skyride, a suspended bike on the top deck with great ship and ocean views; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse featuring Carnival Cruise Line exclusive craft beers

Carnival Panorama is smaller than today's mega-ships, but it packs a ton of fun into its 15 decks. Rooms are spacious; some come with exclusive perks like access to the Havana Pool area or unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites. Kids will also love that there’s an onboard waterpark, kids club, and a Build-a-Bear Workshop at Sea.

Carnival Sunrise

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,973 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa cabins with access to the thermal suites; Lucky Bowl restaurant, which is only on Carnival Sunrise and only open for lunch

Carnival Sunrise  (formerly Carnival Triumph ) features an exciting splash zone for kids and a piano bar where adults can sing along to their favorite songs all night. The ship sails on two to five-night and six to nine-night cruises from Miami, Florida, to the Bahamas.

Carnival Horizon

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 3,960 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: IMAX movie theater for a family night out; Dr. Suess Bookville for family story time and character appearances; volleyball court where adults can test their skills or just hit the ball around

Carnival Horizon has all the makings of a fun family vacation. The kids clubs have dedicated counselors who ensure children are always having fun, and parents can slip away to an adults-only bar for a cocktail or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat to catch some sun. Then, as night falls, you can come back together for a special meal in the main dining room or JiJi Asian Kitchen, which specializes in regional Asian cuisine.

Carnival Vista

Inaugural Year: 2016

Standout Amenities: The thrilling SkyRide suspended bike for great ship and sea views; Thrill Theater for a 3-D show with water, lighting, wind, and chair movement effects; RedFrog Pub & Brewery, the first brewery at sea in North America

Carnival Vista is perfect for new cruisers. Sailings range from two to nine days out of Port Canaveral, so you can get a taste of what a cruise is like without committing to a more traditional weeklong sailing. Expect an onboard brewery, incredible restaurants, and family-friendly fun.

Carnival Sunshine

Inaugural Year: 2013

Ship Capacity: 3,002 double occupancy; 3,758 total guests

Standout Amenities: Carnival WaterWorks with multiple slides and water features; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for poolside libations; an onboard steakhouse with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine list

Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny ) is 10 years old and a fan favorite. The lower guest capacity, at just over 3,000 for double occupancy, means you won’t have to fight hoards of people to get to and from activities. Families who want even more cabin space should book one of the aft-view extended balcony rooms with great wake views and ample private outdoor space.

Carnival Breeze

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Dream Class

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa for next-level relaxation; Mongolian Wok lunch restaurant; pickleball courts to get competitive with your family; waterslides

Carnival Breeze is ideal for a short cruise out of Galveston, Texas. The ship has plenty of activities throughout the day, including bingo, trivia, and live performances in the comedy club.

Carnival Magic

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa; a thrilling ropes course; Chef’s Table dining experience

Carnival Magic sails for a week or more from Miami, Florida. The ship debuted the restaurant Cucina del Capitano, which is now onboard multiple ships in the fleet. It’s also home to the original Guy’s Pig & Anchor. I sailed the Carnival Magic years ago, but I vividly remember spending an entire day enjoying the amenities at the Cloud 9 Spa and eating at the Mongolian Wok quick-service restaurant almost every afternoon for lunch.

Carnival Dream

Inaugural Year: 2009

Ship Capacity: 3,646 double occupancy; 4,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: Ocean Plaza, a multi-use entertainment venue that’s family-friendly during the day and a nightclub after dark; Guy’s Burger Joint for standout smash burgers; Cloud 9 Spa for adults to relax

Carnival Dream is known for exciting entertainment and food and beverage offerings, including Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed cocktail "pharmacy." The ship sails from Galveston, Texas, on six to nine-day cruises. I loved playing the onboard mini-golf course.

Carnival Splendor

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Splendor Class

Ship Capacity: 3,012 double occupancy; 3,734 total guests

Standout Amenities: Masala Tiger Indian restaurant, which is only open for lunch and only on this ship; a mini-golf course; a pool with a retractable cover

Carnival Splendor sails the Southern Hemisphere around Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on cruises that range from two to 10 days. The ship has Carnival’s only quick-service Indian restaurant and boasts a pool with a retractable roof, so you can swim without worrying about the weather.

Carnival Freedom

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Conquest Class

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,754 total guests

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers kids program in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; RedFrog Pub, with Key West-inspired food and drinks; Dr. Seuss Bookville, a kids library that's themed after the famous author’s characters

Carnival Freedom is ideal for first-time cruisers because of the lower guest capacity and the smaller ship size. But don’t let the numbers fool you; this ship is packed with high-energy activities for all ages; from the kid's clubs to the casino, there’s no lack of fun to be had.

Carnival Liberty

Inaugural Year: 2005

Ship Capacity: 2,974 double occupancy; 3,576 total guests

Standout Amenities: Punchliner Comedy Club for family-friendly laughs during the day and adults-only fun at night; SkyBox Sports Bar to keep up with the big games back home; Mongolian Wok, a prime lunch spot with custom bowls

Looking to relax? Prefer a high-energy vacation? Carnival Liberty can do it all. Head to the main theater for enchanting live performances and shows every night, enjoy tacos and burgers on the pool decks, or find a lounge chair around the pool and soak up the sun.

Carnival Valor

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,756 total guests

Standout Amenities: Dive-in movies where you can catch a family-friendly flick under the stars; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for tequila and Mexican beer-based cocktails; Scarlett’s Steakhouse, where perfect steaks and impeccable sides await

Carnival Valor is almost 20 years old and still showing cruisers a good time. The ship's home ports are New Orleans, Louisiana, and Barcelona, Spain, and it offers two to over 10-night sailings. Don’t miss the epic Seaday Brunch, where you'll find all kinds of treats like huevos rancheros, french toast, loaded burgers, and chicken and waffles.

Carnival Miracle

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,680 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat where the 21-plus crowd can enjoy a kid-free space; pickleball courts that have great views of the ocean and ports of call

Fantasy worlds and elements inspired Carnival Miracle . Around the ship, you’ll find spaces like Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away. When you’re ready to soak up the sun, find a lounge chair at the adults-only pool deck or splash down on one of the slides at WaterWorks.

Carnival Glory

Inaugural Year: 2003

Standout Amenities: Camp Ocean kids club for children ages two to 11; AquaTunnel waterslide; 24-hour pizza delivery to anywhere on the ship

Carnival Glory is a vibrant ship inside and out. Think nightly dance parties in White Heat Dance Club, movies under the stars on the pool deck, and tacos from BlueIguana Cantina. The ship sails around the Bahamas, Caribbean, and more on two to 10-day itineraries.

Carnival Legend

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests 

Standout Amenities: White Hot Night Party; jogging track with panoramic ocean views; Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea where kids can make a new friend to bring home

Carnival Legend, themed around legends and lore around the world, has two pools and plenty of places to grab a bite, including the Golden Fleece Steakhouse for a stunning multi-course dinner. You're sure to return home with tales.

Carnival Conquest

Standout Amenities: Pickleball courts so you can keep up with weekly family matches; '80s Rock-In-Glow Party for an evening of throwback fun; Guy’s Burger Joint for tasty and quick meals between activities

Carnival Conquest takes cruisers to the Bahamas and the Caribbean on two to 10-day sailings. Special programs allow kids to see their favorite Dr. Seuss characters at sea, and adults can enjoy the enticing Alchemy Bar for one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Carnival Pride

Inaugural Year: 2002 

Standout Amenities: Mid-ship pool with a retractable roof; Heroes Tribute Bar, which recognizes each branch of the American military

For an extended cruise from Tampa, Florida, or Baltimore, Maryland, look to Carnival Pride . The ship has something for every type of traveler, including three kids clubs, adult-only spaces, and over a dozen different dining options.

Carnival Spirit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests

Standout Amenities: Domed swimming pool; two-deck fitness center; a pizza window open until 4 a.m.

Carnival Spirit sets sail from home ports around the United States to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal. The ship offers a wide range of entertainment options, including mini-golf, a jogging track, kids clubs, and adult-centric entertainment.

Carnival Paradise

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Fantasy Class

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need a place without kids; twin racing waterslides for all ages

With two to nine-day cruises from Tampa to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Carnival Paradise literally takes cruisers to paradise islands. The ship brims with fun amenities like the WaterWorks splash zone and the relaxing Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Elation

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Duke’s Piano Bar for nightly sing-a-longs; Alchemy Bar for custom cocktails; BlueIguana Cantina for breakfast and lunch options with a Mexican twist

Carnival Elation is currently the fleet's oldest ship, debuting in March 1998, and the only cruise ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Even though the ship is small, with a total guest capacity of 2,606, it’s ideal for a quick weekend away if you want a mix of relaxation and high-energy activities. I've sailed the most on Carnival Elation since the ship sails from my hometown of Jacksonville. Even though it's the oldest in the fleet, I love that the sailings are short weekend trips where I can sit outside in the sun enjoying a Guy's Burger Joint smash burger before heading inside to see a show or play bingo. And because the ship is so small, it's easy to navigate, and I always end up making friends with the delightful crew onboard.

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• Cruises for Families

Carnival Cruises for Families

Mar 15, 2011

See recent posts by Lissa Poirot

Originally known for its “fraternity” atmosphere, Carnival Cruise Line has grown up in recent years, evolving into a family-friendly cruise line with better cuisine, high-quality children’s programs and diverse itineraries to new parts of the world. Carnival Cruise Line is the largest in the world and, founded in 1972, it has been around long enough to know what makes a good cruise.

Carnival Fantasy-class ships were first introduced in 1990, including Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise. These Carnival ships have water parks, kids’ clubs and miniature golf courses. Similar to Fantasy-class is Spirit-class, which began with Carnival Spirit in 2001. Other Carnival ships include Carnival Miracle , Carnival Freedom , Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend, and the new Carnival Fathom , launched in 2015. Fathom is the first cruise dedicated to providing cultural volunteering programs. Fathom is also the first American cruise to offer voyages to Cuba for Americans, where guests will work on educational and cultural exchanges.

Ports and Destinations From the sandy beaches of Hawaii to the jungles of Cozumel to the glaciers of Alaska’s Inside Passage, beautiful destinations are fun for everyone in the family. Currently, Carnival Cruise Line travels to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and New England and, most recently, Europe. To ensure that all family members enjoy the time at port, Carnival offers excursions and activities, like city tours or snorkeling outings.

Carnival offers a wide range of trip itineraries, with cruises offered as little as three days or up to 16 days. Carnival professes that half of all states in the U.S. are within a five-hour drive from a cruise line homeport. Located along the western, eastern and southern boarders, the following are some popular Carnival ports: Baltimore, Charleston, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Diego and Seattle.

Related: Are Carnival Cruises From Close-to-Home Ports Worth It?

Larger families can opt to stay in family-friendly staterooms, which can accommodate up to five people. Offering more privacy and space, family-friendly staterooms are essentially two rooms connected with a door. Newer ships, like Carnival Splendor, also offer spa cabins for families looking for relaxation and decadence. These ships also have spacious accommodations that will make you feel as if you’re not on a cruise. Carnival Dream features ocean-view cabins with two bathrooms that sleep up to five people. Typically, suites offer bathtubs. Holiday cribs, portable and folding, are also provided free of charge.

The new Vista Family Suites are located in the Family Harbor, a dedicated family zone with 96 extra-large family suites that can accommodate five guests. These suites have two bathrooms with kid-friendly toiltertries and kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, as well as a separate sleeping area for parents and children, so parents don’t have to go to sleep when little ones do. As part of the Family Harbor, guests also receive access to the Family Harbor Lounge, free meals for kids 12 and younger, and a free kids’ night activities program in Camp Ocean.

Note: Third and fourth people sail for reduced rates on Carnival, which benefits most families.

Carnival Cruise Dining As the cruise line has matured, Carnival’s food has become better and better. The cruise line offers traditional, sit-down meals at 6 and 8:15 p.m. but also offers a more flexible eating schedule, called “Your Time Dining,” in the dining room, between 5:45 and 9:30 p.m. More casual dining and buffets allow guests to eat at any time of the day. Usually, ships also offer themed eateries, like Asian buffets, New York delis and complimentary sushi bars. Spa Carnival also serves health-conscious meals that are low in sodium, fat and cholesterol.

Chef’s Table The Chef’s Table experience is a dining attraction not to be missed. This program offers a multicourse dinner with the master chef, a private cocktail reception and a tour of the galley. There is an extra fee of $75 per person (adult or child), but it may be worth it to a family of foodies.

Lido Deck Dining Lido Deck Dining are buffet dining areas that keep it casual for families and allows meals to be eaten alongside the ocean. Outdoor dining on the deck is available at any hour of the day. The kitchen never closes and you can eat as much as you want. Children’s menus offer spaghetti and meatballs, hotdogs and pizza.

Each ship has a European-style cafe that serves all sorts of tea and coffee variations. Buffet selections feature a diverse salad bar, a meat-carving station and many desserts that will more than satisfy your sweet tooth.

Room Service is also available 24/7 and great for families who are too tuckered out from their busy day, or who want to sleep in late and lounge around.

For the Kids Carnival cruises with kids are completely doable. Unlike other cruises, Carnival offers children’s programs in a variety of age groups, so your child will never feel too young or too old, while at play. Children at Camp Ocean split into three age groups between ages 2 and 11: Toddlers (2 to 5), Juniors (6 to 8) and Intermediates (9 to 11). Certified staff members supervise, while kids do crafts, have story time, play board games and romp around outside. Childcare includes kid-friendly meals, like macaroni and cheese. Carnival Vista features a new 4,000-square-foot Camp Ocean for kids 2 to 11. The play area includes a common area, a crafts zone, two outdoor playgrounds and more.

Circle C is a program especially for ‘tweens ages 12 to 14 years old. Kids have their own hangout in the Circle C room, usually decorated with an artsy, chic vibe. Here, they can mix and mingle while playing video games or attending dance parties. Pool parties, scavenger hunts and sports events are also arranged in other parts of the ship.

Club 02 is a teens’ center for kids between the ages of 15 to 17. Teens can meet new friends or simply hang out at the Club 02 Lounge, which hosts dance parties, video gaming, sports and karaoke. Teen-only shore excursions also take place when you pull into port.

Select ships, including Carnival Freedom and Carnival Liberty, feature the Seaside Theater — an outdoor movie shown on a large screen by the pool. Like Princess Cruise’s “Movies Under the Stars” program, this one lets passengers tune in to news, concerts, sports games and movies throughout the day and night.

Waterworks, Carnival’s onboard water park features spiraling slides, side-by-side race slides or a swirling DrainPipe slide, depending on which ship you are aboard. Carnival Vista has the first IMAX Theatre at sea, with a three-deck screen and 182 seats and the new SkyRide, which is like a bike high in the sky that zips over the ship’s decks and over the sea.

In 2014, Carnival launched a Dr. Seuss-themed program called Seuss at Sea. Dr. Seuss Bookville provides a family reading and play venue, while Seuss-a-Palooza Parades and Storytimes provide entertainment. A special character breakfast with the Cat in the Hat and Friends, featuring Green Eggs and Ham, of course, is also available.

Carnival’s ships all offer Internet cafes with private computer stations. Wi-Fi access is available in all public rooms and areas, as well.

More From Family Vacation Critic: Are Carnival Cruises From Close-to-Home Ports Worth It? What to Expect on Carnival Fathom’s Social Impact Cruise to the Dominican Republic 5 Best Cruise Lines for Families

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best Cruise Ship for Families: Carnival Horizon wins

Best Cruise Ship for Families (2021) March 12, 2021

Thanks to their excellent travel value, more and more families are turning to cruising when planning their vacations. These 10 cruise lines cater to young passengers in many ways, including family friendly at-sea experiences (bumper cars, bowling and waterparks to name a few), family cabins and kid-approved dining options.

The top 10 winners in the category Best Cruise Ship for Families are as follows:

No. 10: Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

One of the world’s largest cruise ships features one of the most robust and diverse kids programs. A highlight for young passengers is the DreamWorks Experience, where kids can interact with their favorite characters from  Shrek ,  Kung Fu Panda  and the penguins of  Madagascar.  Amazing acrobatics at the AquaTheater, surf simulators, an old-fashioned carousel, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, mini golf and classic carnival games at the Boardwalk Arcade mean kids can kiss boredom goodbye.

No. 9: Disney Fantasy - Disney Cruise Line

On the Disney Fantasy, kids programs are Disney-crafted and predictably high-quality; the older set loves bulleting down 4-deck-drop AquaDuck water coaster. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique delights kids with princess or pirate makeovers. Mom and Dad can refresh at Quiet Cove Pool.

No. 8: Symphony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

Symphony of the Seas, the newest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet and the largest ship at sea, has many of the same features of other mega-ships in its class, as well as new additions like Battle for Planet Z glow-in-the-dark laser tag and Sugar Beach ice cream and sweets shop. Kids also love the two surf simulators, tallest waterslide at sea, a zip line above the Boardwalk and rock climbing wall, while parents will appreciate the Ultimate Family Suite.

No. 7: Disney Magic - Disney Cruise Line

The Disney wand waved in 2013, turning Disney Magic into a modern member of the sailing Mickeys. AquaLab’s splashy play park plus two water slides boost Magic’s fun quotient. Even more cool: kids can train as superheroes at Marvel Avenger Academy. Magic also added the adults-only AfterHours bars and nightclub, making Magic sweeter for everyday heroes — mom and dad.

No. 6: Disney Dream - Disney Cruise Line

Aboard the Disney Dream, Donald gets his due with AquaDuck, a 4-deck-drop water coaster (the first at sea) that zips riders through transparent tube. The host of Disney-themed kids programs get points for their organization; costumed characters–Mickey, Minnie and friends–keep the pre-school set happy. Character greetings and Broadway-style productions (with a Disney twist of course) make this 4,000-passenger vessel a hit with the young and the young at heart.

No. 5: Carnival Panorama - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Panorama sails from Long Beach, California with tons of things to do for every member of the family. The first ever Sky Zone at sea comprises an indoor trampoline park for all ages, while the Choose Fun Waterworks features two huge waterslides. Play soccer, basketball, volleyball or ping-pong in SportSquare. Parents can unwind at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

No. 4: Carnival Vista - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival elevated its already very family-friendly offerings with the debut of Carnival Vista. Kids can ride a bike through the sky, go mini bowling or play ping pong at SportSquare, and the onboard water park is the largest in the fleet. Kids love the Cherry On Top candy store and ice cream counter, and parents will appreciate the Family Harbor staterooms equipped with board games, family movies and video games.

No. 3: Regal Princess - Princess Cruises

A favorite feature among kids aboard the Regal Princess is the SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet over ship’s edge. The ship's youth and teen center has teamed up with the California Science Center for some interactive edutainment at sea. The three kids spaces are excellent, and teens even have their own outdoor hot tub.

No. 2: MSC Meraviglia - MSC Cruises

Families aboard MSC Meraviglia enjoy a range of kid-approved amenities, from a full-sized bowling alley at sea to F1 simulators to a decked out Sportplex. The popular Aquapark with its two waterslides has a polar theme.

No. 1: Carnival Horizon - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival’s latest and greatest ship, Carnival Horizon, sails from Miami to the Caribbean with plenty of family fun onboard. Kid-approved amenities include two movie theaters (including an IMAX screen), Dr. Seuss Waterworks waterpark, nighttime babysitting and reduced prices for kids at some specialty restaurants.

A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Congratulations to all these winning cruise ships!

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Danielle fear.

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized...   Read More

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized and trusted cruise bloggers and is better known to her audience as CruiseMiss. As well as maintaining an award-winning cruise blog, she also works as a freelance writer, content manager and social media professional covering all aspects of sea travel. Having embarked on more than 75 sailings, including 2 world cruises, it’s fair to say that Danielle knows a thing or two about cruising.  

Don and Heidi Bucolo

Don and Heidi Bucolo are the husband and wife team...   Read More

Don and Heidi Bucolo are the husband and wife team behind EatSleepCruise.com . Their love for cruising began after taking their first cruise together back in 2007. Having spent over 180 days at sea on more than 30 cruises with various cruise brands, they have learned a thing or two about planning and executing the perfect cruise vacation. The couple was voted as one of Porthole Cruise 's Top 10 Cruise Influencers and is featured in the new book  Cruising Interrupted . You can find them on the web and social media sharing detailed cruise ship reviews, port guides, packing tips and planning tips to help travelers "sea the world, one port at a time."

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert...   Read More

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 150 sailings under his belt and a fresh, millennial perspective on the industry. He has been cruising since before he was two years old, thanks to his parents’ shared passion for traveling and their desire to experience all journeys together as a family. Now, he regularly sails and writes “he said, she said” cruise columns with his wife Heidi. He is the founding editor of Popular Cruising , producer of the successful Popular Cruising YouTube channel  and Cruise Editor for TravelAge West. He also contributes to Cruise Travel, Porthole and Cruise Business Review magazines; USA Today 10Best; Oyster.com; MiceChat.com and the Cruise Radio podcast.

Ming Tappin

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been...   Read More

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been in the cruise industry since 1994. Ming spent over 20 years in the retail travel sector, working with travel agencies in marketing initiatives, cruise training, and promoting cruise vacations to their clients. In 2015, Ming created  Your Cruise Coach  and transitioned into travel writing, preaching the merits of cruising via her partnerships with Canadian and American travel trade publications as well as consumer media outlets. An avid cruiser since 1991, Ming has sailed on over 70 cruises and has experienced over 25 ocean, river, and expedition cruise lines combined.

Sherry Laskin

Sherry hasn’t set foot on an airplane in more than...   Read More

Sherry hasn’t set foot on an airplane in more than 25 years.  Instead, she relies on cruise ships, river ships, trains and road trips to travel the world.  In that time, she’s been on more cruises than she can count and includes her solo cruise and travel adventures on her website,  CruiseMaven.com .  Her articles have been published in major newspapers and magazines - in print and online.  During a year and a half of living in Alaska, Sherry has cruised and spent time at every port in the Last Frontier except for Nome.  She’s become an avid transatlantic cruiser since 2005, as that is the only way for her to get to Europe without flying. Sherry hopes to inspire and encourage her readers to travel slow and travel solo, experience new cuisines and cultures. 

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The Best Carnival Ships for Kids: Family-Friendly Picks

When planning a family vacation, cruising can offer an array of activities and experiences that cater to every age group. Carnival Cruise Line, in particular, has built a reputation for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of onboard options to keep kids engaged and entertained. With a fleet of ships each offering their own unique features, families can enjoy a variety of dining options, entertainment, and special events tailored to create lasting memories.

Selecting the best Carnival ship for a family with children requires considering the onboard activities, accommodations, and dining experiences. Carnival’s ships are designed with fun-filled decks packed with attractions, including water parks, miniature golf courses, and youth clubs that ensure kids have the time of their lives. To further sweeten the journey, comfortable staterooms and suite options provide a haven for families to recharge together after a day full of adventures.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line provides a family-centric vacation experience with diverse onboard activities.
• The selection of a ship should consider the needs and interests of children and parents alike for an optimal travel experience.
• Careful planning of the cruise itinerary can enhance a family’s enjoyment with tailored entertainment and shore excursions.

What Makes Carnival Cruise Line Stand Out for Families

We find that Carnival Cruise Line has meticulously tailored their offerings to cater to families, ensuring that all members have an unforgettable experience. From extensive kids’ programs to family-centric staterooms , the attention to family-friendly fun is evident.

Enticing Kids Clubs and Childcare

Carnival Cruise Line has curated an exceptional range of kids clubs suitable for various age groups, which we see as a cornerstone of their family appeal. The Camp Ocean provides engaging activities for children aged 2-11, focusing on marine-themed fun. For tweens, Circle “C” offers a space to hang out, and there’s Club O2 for teenagers looking for a cool, exclusive spot. Furthermore, Night Owls allows parents to enjoy late-night entertainment, assured their little ones are having their own fun in a safe environment until as late as 1 AM.

Engaging Family Activities and Entertainment

The entertainment on board is diverse and suitable for all ages, which enhances the overall family experience on a Carnival cruise. We’re especially impressed with their Seuss at Sea program, which includes character parades, interactive story times, and themed activities. Moreover, Hasbro, The Game Show is a lively competition where families can play giant versions of popular games. Not to be overlooked, the WaterWorks aqua parks are a big splash, featuring waterslides and splash zones that deliver excitement for the entire family.

Family-Optimized Accommodations

Carnival understands that families require specific types of accommodations, which they’ve addressed with Family Harbor staterooms and suites. We note these staterooms offer extra space, a convenient location, and free access to the Family Harbor Lounge—an area which serves breakfast, snacks throughout the day, and hosts family-friendly games and movie nights. Moreover, certain suites even include board games and video game consoles, creating a homely atmosphere for family bonding.

Popular Carnival Ships for Family Cruising

When planning a family cruise, it’s vital for us to pick a ship that caters to all ages with a mix of entertainment and relaxation options. We focus on ships that provide variety and encompass amenities specifically designed for family enjoyment.

Carnival Celebration: A World of Fun for All Ages

On Carnival Celebration , we’re introduced to an expansive range of activities that resonate with every family member. From the BOLT roller coaster, providing breathtaking ocean views, to the kid-friendly WaterWorks aqua park, families find non-stop amusement. This ship also boasts the Seuss at Sea program which keeps younger cruisers enchanted with their favorite Dr. Seuss characters.

Carnival Horizon: Adventures Above and Beyond

Carnival Horizon elevates the cruise experience with its SkyRide , an aerial bicycle ride above the top deck, and the IMAX Theater for movie enthusiasts of all ages. Families appreciate the dedicated Camp Ocean, Circle “C” , and Club O2 facilities that are impeccably designed for different age groups, keeping children engaged and giving adults time to explore the Serenity Adult Only Retreat .

Mardi Gras: Innovative Amenities and Thrills

Mardi Gras sets itself apart with its groundbreaking features like BOLT , the first roller coaster at sea, and a comprehensive water park. This ship’s Family Harbor accommodations include exclusive lounge access, making it an instant hit with families. The culinary experiences onboard, such as Guy’s Burger Joint , are curated to satisfy diverse palates across all ages.

Carnival Vista and Carnival Panorama: Visual Delight and Activities

Carnival Vista and Carnival Panorama share a blueprint that merges striking visuals with abundant activities. Both vessels spotlight the multiplex with IMAX , SkyRide , and a variety of live shows. Children are thoroughly entertained in youth programs like Camp Ocean , while parents relax in the Cloud 9 Spa . Families find their spacious staterooms perfect for comfortable interludes between activities.

Packed With Fun: Onboard Activities and Attractions

Carnival ships offer an incredible array of onboard fun that exceeds expectations for both kids and those young at heart. We’re exploring top-tier entertainment that transforms sea days into unforgettable adventures for families.

Adventurous Water Parks and Waterslides

WaterWorks , the onboard water park, is a splash-filled paradise kids adore. Here, they’ll find a variety of waterslides that cater to all thrill levels. The signature Twister Waterslide twists and turns for hundreds of feet, offering an exciting descent into the splash zone, while younger children can safely enjoy mini-racing slides and water toys. It’s the perfect water playground for every family member to beat the heat.

• Tidal Wave : A massive bucket that douses everyone below in hundreds of gallons of water.
• SplashZone : A safe, fun-filled area designed for the little ones.

Ultimate Playground and SportsSquare

The Ultimate Playground boasts fun physical activities for kids who have energy to burn. Meanwhile, SportsSquare is where families can engage in friendly competition with activities like soccer, basketball, and even mini-golf. Here are two signature attractions:

• SkyRide : A bike-ride in the sky offering panoramic ocean views.
• Ropes Course : High above the deck, this course challenges kids and adults alike.

Creative and Educational Kids’ Programs

Carnival takes pride in its onboard educational and creative programs, ensuring kids are engaged and learning even while they play.

• Camp Ocean : The marine-themed kids’ club invites children ages 2-11 to delve into oceanic adventures, with programs tailored to different age groups.
• Dr. Seuss at Sea : Brings the magical world of Dr. Seuss to life, offering interactive story time and fun activities.
• Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea : Allows kids to create their own stuffed buddy right on the ship.

Through these carefully crafted spaces and activities, families are guaranteed days filled with laughter, discovery, and best of all, shared joy.

Dining Delights: Options for Every Family

We understand the importance of a broad range of dining options for families sailing on Carnival ships. The offerings are designed to meet varied tastes and preferences, ensuring every family member finds something delightful to enjoy.

Specialty Restaurants and Casual Eateries

Dr. Seuss-themed Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast presents an opportunity for whimsical dining that captivates the imaginations of both children and adults. Meanwhile, Shaq’s Big Chicken serves up hearty and satisfying chicken dishes that are a hit with all ages.

• Bonsai Sushi
• Cucina del Capitano
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que
• Lido Marketplace
• Seafood Shack
• 24/7 Pizza Pirate for around-the-clock pizza cravings

Dining With a View

Carnival ensures its dining venues pair delicious culinary creations with awe-inspiring views of the sea. Its lounges and main dining rooms offer expansive windows, allowing families to enjoy their meals alongside the scenic beauty of the ocean.

• BlueIguana Cantina
• The Steakhouse
• Vista Dining Room

Dietary Considerations and Kids Menus

Carnival ships cater to various dietary needs, from gluten-free options to vegetarian dishes. Its kids menus are extensive, with picks that please even the pickiest of eaters, while ensuring nutritional balance. We’re careful to provide options that cater to allergens and other dietary restrictions, so every family member has a stress-free dining experience.

• Gluten-free
• Lactose-intolerant friendly
• Chicken nuggets
• Fresh fruits

Accommodating Every Age Group

We understand that a successful family cruise caters separately to the interests and needs of every age group. From the youngest to the oldest, Carnival ships are designed to ensure that everyone has a place to enjoy, relax, and engage in appropriate activities.

Engaging Toddlers and Babies

Camp Ocean provides a safe and fun environment designed for toddlers and babies . Here, trained professionals supervise interactive play areas replete with age-appropriate toys and activities. This enables the youngest guests to enjoy their time on board as much as their parents do.

• Penguin Colony is for 2-5 years, ensuring little ones are entertained.
• Dedicated napping areas allow for routine sleep schedules.

Activities for Children and Teens

For children and teens , we’ve designed exclusive zones that allow them to connect with their peers. Circle C offers 12-14 year-olds a place to watch movies, play games, and attend dance parties. For those aged 15-17, Club O2 provides a cool, teen-only space where they can listen to music, play sports and video games, or just hang out with new friends.

• Activities like scavenger hunts and karaoke keep things vibrant.
• Splash parks and video arcades ensure endless entertainment.

Adult Zones and Privacy Options

Carnival respects the need for adult-only zones and privacy. Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ is a tranquil space away from the energetic vibe of family areas, perfect for parents to unwind.

• Ample lounge chairs and whirlpools provide relaxation for adult guests.
• Private Cabanas can be rented for extra exclusivity and comfort.

Making Memories: Entertainment and Special Events

We find that the best Carnival ships for kids offer an array of entertainment and special events that are perfect for making lasting memories. From awe-inspiring performances to themed parties, the ships bring excitement and joy to families.

Awe-Inspiring Shows and Performances

Onboard Carnival ships, families are treated to nightly entertainment that includes professional shows. The main stage often features dazzling productions that are suitable for all ages, combining music, dance, and sometimes even magic.

• Live Performances : High-energy musicals and captivating magic shows.
• Family Feud Live : A favorite game show adaptation where families can participate and watch live.

Family Fun Activities and Competitions

We take pride in offering a range of activities that encourage family bonding. Daily schedules are packed with fun competitions and engaging activities aimed at guests of all ages.

• Scavenger Hunts : Teams of families explore the ship to solve clues and win prizes.
• Bingo Sessions : A classic game that’s perfect for family members to play together.
• Arts and Crafts : Creative sessions where kids and parents can make keepsakes.
• Seuss-a-Palooza Parade : An exciting parade featuring beloved Dr. Seuss characters.

Themed Parties and Gatherings

The themed parties and gatherings create a festive atmosphere where families can let loose and enjoy themselves in a unique setting.

• Dance Parties : These lively events are suitable for all ages and often feature music from various genres.
• Prom Night : A fun chance for families to dress up, take photos, and dance the night away.
• Night Owls : Supervised parties for kids, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy some time to themselves in the evening.

Exploring Ashore: Carnival Shore Excursions

When cruising with Carnival, we ensure families have an array of shore excursions that cater to all ages. These excursions are meticulously planned to enhance the Caribbean and Bahamas cruise experiences.

Family-Friendly Excursion Options

The family-friendly excursions provide activities that parents and children can enjoy together. We’re mindful of balancing adventure with safety, ensuring a fun and secure experience for all family members. Popular excursions include:

• Beach Outings : Unwind on the pristine sands of the Caribbean, where we offer amenities like beach chairs and water sports gear for a relaxing family day.
• Aquarium and Animal Encounters : In the Bahamas, interactive aquarium tours fascinate children and educate them about marine life.
• Water Parks : We partner with top water parks for thrilling slides and kid-friendly pools .

Cultural and Adventure Activities

For families seeking enrichment and excitement, our cultural and adventure activities are perfect to explore the heritage and natural beauty of our destinations.

• Historical Sites : Visit ancient ruins and landmarks that highlight the rich past of Caribbean islands.
• Eco Tours : Nature trails and wildlife reserves offer a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Bahamas and beyond.
• Zip-lining and Snorkeling : Engage in adrenaline-pumping zip-lining or explore underwater wonders through snorkeling excursions.

Planning Your Family Cruise

When we plan a family cruise, selecting the right Carnival ship and setting a realistic budget are crucial for an exceptional vacation experience.

Choosing the Right Carnival Ship

Carnival Cruise Line boasts a variety of ships, each with unique features that cater to families. Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon are excellent choices for kids due to their onboard water parks and family-friendly entertainment options. For a newer vessel with the latest amenities, we could opt for the Carnival Panorama . To decide, we should consider the age-specific activities available and the itineraries each ship offers. Here’s a comparison:

Budgeting for the Ultimate Family Vacation

Budgeting carefully can ensure we enjoy the best family cruise without overspending. Early planning allows us to take advantage of promotional deals and payment installments. It’s wise to include costs like excursions, onboard spending, and travel to the port in your budget. We could also monitor price drops post-booking because Carnival offers a price protection guarantee. Here’s a basic budget checklist:

• Cruise Fare : Include all family members and check for kids’ discounts.
• Travel Costs : Account for airfare, hotel (if needed), and transfers.
• Onboard Expenses : Set a limit for games, drinks, and specialty dining.
• Shore Excursions : Budget for group tours or individual exploration.
• Miscellaneous : Reserve funds for shopping and unexpected costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve gathered some of the most common questions regarding family-friendly features on Carnival cruise ships to help guide you in choosing the best cruise experience for your children.

What types of activities does Carnival offer for children on their cruises?

Carnival cruises cater to young passengers with a variety of age-appropriate activities ranging from mini water parks and pools to Camp Ocean kids clubs, which offer arts, crafts, movies, and video games.

How does Carnival accommodate families with kids in terms of cabin space and amenities?

The family-friendly staterooms come with extra space and even partitioned areas to give kids and parents their own private areas. Many rooms also offer additional pull-out beds, cribs, and child-safety features upon request.

Which Carnival ships feature the best facilities for children’s entertainment?

The Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama are standout choices with features like SkyRide, WaterWorks, and Family Harbor lounges tailored specifically for family entertainment and comfort.

How do Carnival cruises ensure safety for kids on board their ships?

We prioritize safety with features like 24-hour surveillance, muster drills, secure children’s program areas, and crew members trained in child safety. Youth staff are also required to have professional childcare experience.

Can you compare the family-friendly features of Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines?

Carnival offers a more informal and budget-friendly experience with an emphasis on splashes and fun-filled activities, while Royal Caribbean tends to offer innovative features like rock climbing walls and ice-skating rinks for family enjoyment.

What are the advantages of choosing a Carnival cruise for a family vacation with kids?

Opting for a Carnival cruise offers families an inclusive vacation where entertainment, meals, and various children’s programs are bundled into the fare, ensuring a hassle-free experience with amenities designed to delight kids of all ages.

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Best Cruise Lines for Families

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some peace and quiet, the kids will probably be eager to play. To help you find a cruise that fits your family's needs, U.S. News ranked the best cruise lines for families using a methodology that factors in health ratings, reputation among experts and approval among families with both younger and older kids.

Read Best Cruises Methodology

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Disney Cruise Line

From its signature Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party to its pirate-themed dinners, Disney attracts passengers looking for a full roster of entertainment options. Passengers can enjoy kid-friendly dining venues and amenities, plus visits from Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. The line's cruise ships also offer adults-only dining areas, quiet pool spots and nightlife options.

• 4.46 Overall Rating
• 5 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean offers onboard amenities and a variety of sailings that cater to cruisers of all ages. Some of the line's cruise ships feature rock climbing walls and ice rinks, while others boast zip lines, bumper cars and waterslides. Every ship also hosts fun and educational programs for kids and teens, plus a variety of evening shows, bars and lounges for older travelers.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival's frequent sales and budget-friendly fares mean you and your cruising crew can save some money on a voyage filled with family-friendly perks. Cruise ships are outfitted with water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses to entertain kids of all ages. Meanwhile, grown-ups can head to the spa, the casino or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

• 3.90 Overall Rating

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian greets families with colorful cruise ships, ample onboard amenities and children's clubs. While adults are relaxing at the spa or gambling at the casino, kids can attend supervised youth programs where they can learn to juggle, enjoy arts and crafts or attend themed parties. Plus, children's menus are available in all of the line's restaurants, including specialty eateries.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' ships feature kids and teen clubs with activities like LEGO games, dance classes and sports tournaments. What's more, the whole family can enjoy onboard swimming pools and waterslides (on select ships). Families can also purchase the MSC Fun Pass to access special amenities like flight simulators, a bowling alley and the XD Interactive Cinema.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Best kid-friendly cruises: The 7 best cruise ships for kids

Editor's Note

Kids can make or break your family cruise. If they're bored and hate the food options, they will loudly and repeatedly express their displeasure. Pick the wrong cruise ship, and parents will feel as trapped as if they were stranded on a deserted island … with biting crabs underfoot.

The best cruises for kids take advantage of ships with endless fun for the under-18 crowd, plentiful dining that appeals to both young palates and bottomless teen tummies, accommodations and ship services that keep families in mind, and opportunities to meet and hang out with peers. No matter your family size or price range, you can find some incredible vacations at sea that will have kids exclaiming, "Best cruise ever!" by the end of the week.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Find the top ship for your next trip with our list of the seven best cruise ships for kids (and their parents).

Disney Wish

No one is surprised that Disney is such a kid-friendly cruise line — but what might be surprising is how much there is for adults to do and enjoy , too. That's especially true on the new Disney Wish , which debuted in the summer of 2022.

Disney Wish has four kids clubs divided by age, but the main Oceaneer Club for 3- to 12-year-olds has an all-new and exciting grand entrance. Kids get to enter the club by slide — and once inside, can explore the club's spaces themed to "Star Wars," fairy tales, Marvel and Disney Imagineers.

Along with the kids club on Disney Wish, junior cruisers will find two movie theaters with first-run Disney movies, Broadway-caliber shows featuring Aladdin and the Little Mermaid and dining experiences themed around Arendelle from "Frozen" and the Worlds of Marvel .

In addition to a "Star Wars-" themed bar and adults-only fine dining restaurants, adults will appreciate the little touches on Wish that make family cruising easier — split bathrooms in most cabins, a drop-off nursery, a splash area for toddlers and restaurant staff members who will offer high chairs and puree baby food.

Disney Wish sails short three- and four-night trips from Port Canaveral , Florida (near Orlando) that include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island , with its family beach, supervised child care, splash pad and strollers to borrow.

Related: How to save money on the cost of a Disney cruise

A nearly identical sister ship, Disney Treasure , will debut in 2024.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

It hasn't even launched yet, and we're already confident that Royal Caribbean 's new Icon of the Seas , soon to be the largest ship afloat, will be one of the top cruise ships for kids. Kids will never be bored on a ship with a six-slide water park, wild ropes course, surf simulator, rock-climbing wall, sports court and Surfside — a half deck of play spaces and restaurants devoted to little kids and their families.

Kids (and parents) who like a good show can gasp as ice skaters land jumps on a rocking ship, and acrobatic divers flip and splash in the AquaTheater, now up high on the ship under a glass dome. Don't miss pizza and parades on the Royal Promenade, Icon's indoor shopping strip.

The kid-friendly cruise ship will also have innovative new family cabins and suites, some with separate kids' rooms, to better accommodate guests of all ages. The Ultimate Family Townhouse will be a massive three-floor living space with a screening room, karaoke machine, in-suite slide and a backyard that leads out to the Surfside family neighborhood.

Related: 5 best Royal Caribbean ships for kids

Icon of the Seas will sail weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning in January 2024.

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore has a more grown-up vibe than many of the family-focused ships on our list, but its onboard attractions make it a huge hit with teens. Its top decks lure older kids with one of the biggest go-kart tracks in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet and an open-air laser tag arena ideal for shooting matches under the stars. A huge virtual reality playground features rides and games that blow the standard cruise ship arcade out of the water.

Note to parents: Cruiselong passes for the go-kart race track , virtual reality games and laser tag do not come cheap. Be prepared to pull out your wallet to keep the teens happy.

At night, teens can feed their growing bodies with tacos, hibachi and barbecue, plus 24/7 burgers and comfort food at The Local. Afterward, they'll agree to be seen in public with their parents at a show as cool as "Choir of Man." It's an easy concession, as they know they can always escape to the teen club, Entourage, to hang out with the cool kids late at night.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Norwegian Encore's best cruises for kids span multiple oceans. The ship spends its summers in Alaska and winters in the Caribbean, with a handful of Panama Canal and Pacific Coast sailings in between.

Carnival Celebration

Passengers and crew members on Carnival Cruise Line ships come ready to meet new friends or share a laugh, a story and a drink with their shipmates. Social kids will fit right in and love the line's huge, new ship Carnival Celebration . They can make friends at the Family Harbor Lounge, Camp Ocean and Dr. Seuss Bookville; older kids will enjoy the teen and tween clubs conveniently located near Guy Fieri's burger stand and the video arcade.

If you're looking for the best cruises for kids, Carnival Celebration and its near-identical twin fleet mate, Mardi Gras , are the only cruise ships boasting a top-deck roller coaster called Bolt. (That is until a third sister, Carnival Jubilee, debuts in late 2023.) A ride here is Instagram gold and the ultimate bragging rights for kids on vacation. The coaster dominates the Ultimate Playground area of the ship, where young cruisers can challenge their new friends to miniature golf, waterslide races, basketball and ropes course domination.

Kids who love a good food court can meet up with friends or family at several no-fee, casual eateries, including Shaq's Big Chicken restaurant and a trio of Street Eats venues featuring dumplings, meat on a stick and loaded French fries. All-hours pizza and ice cream will keep the whole family fueled up for the interactive "Family Feud Live" show.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Carnival Celebration's kid-friendly cruises include weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami. Its sister Mardi Gras sails similar Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando). Carnival Jubilee will be based out of Galveston, Texas, and offer seven-night Western Caribbean cruises only.

Sun Princess

It may seem odd that two of our top ships for kids haven't debuted yet. However, like Icon of the Seas, Princess Cruises ' new 4,300-passenger Sun Princess will be heads and shoulders above the rest of the fleet in terms of family entertainment. If you're booking a multigenerational family cruise for 2024 or beyond, you will definitely want to keep this kid-friendly cruise ship in mind.

Sun Princess will be the first Princess cruise ship to feature an expansive upper-deck activity zone that kids will love. Named Park19, it will feature nine fun-in-the-sun activities spanning three decks. The attractions include the Sea Breeze Rollglider (imagine a safer version of hang-gliding from an elevated track), a climbing structure with obstacles and a slide, a ropes course, a splash zone and a sports court.

Inside the ship, Firefly Park will have drop-off kid programming and family play spaces for kids 6 months to 7 years old. Tweens and teens will each have their own hangouts, Neon Grove and The Underground, with cozy lounge furniture and plenty of video and other games.

Related: Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?

Sun Princess will split its time between Mediterranean cruises out of Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Piraeus (the port for Athens) and Barcelona as well as Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale.

MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises ' MSC Seascape is a floating megaresort with something for everyone, making its sailings some of the best cruises for kids. The ship stands out from its sisters because of its Robotron amusement park-style ride . Three riders at a time buckle into seating attached to a robotic arm, which then twists and turns to fly the riders over the ship and sea.

Water babies will make a break for the Pirates Cove Aquapark, with slides, a splash zone and a rope bridge. Other kids might spend their parents' money on more virtual fun, indulging in F1 race car simulators, VR motorcycle racing, a 4D movie theater and a video arcade. Family groups can split into teams for sports court competitions or participate in organized games that rely on the latest technology to challenge guests of all ages.

The ship's Lego-themed Doremi Land kids club has dedicated spaces for babies, kids and teens. The 7,567-square-foot space includes two Lego rooms (one for little kids to play with Duplos, the other with regular Lego bricks for older kids); the area also includes three spaces for teens — a gaming area (with VR options), a hangout with ping pong and foosball and a dance club.

Related: 7 cruise lines where kids sail free

And let's not forget the line's amazing pizza (including dessert versions slathered in Nutella) that families are sure to love.

MSC Seascape sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.

AmaWaterways' AmaLea

The typical river cruise draws a lot of retirees — except when Adventures by Disney partners with AmaWaterways. The two travel companies have created a river cruise vacation that is fun for grown-ups and kids.

AmaLea makes our list of the best cruise ships for kids because it's one of the ships AmaWaterways custom-built for family cruises. Certain twin balcony cabins sleep three, and suites sleep four to accommodate kids, with connecting cabin options for families who need more space. Unlike many river ships, AmaLea has a pool, as well as a surprise kid hit — giant outdoor chess.

While other ships sail the Seine and Rhine rivers, AmaLea travels the Danube through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Adventures by Disney makes the most of your time with shore excursions planned to entertain kids and adults, with options for supervised kid activities while parents head out on more grown-up tours. Your family might meet farm animals in Hungary, play hide-and-seek in a palace's labyrinth maze in Austria and hang around in a treetop playground in Germany.

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

On board, kids' menus are available, and the occasional pajama party whisks kids away for pizza and a movie while adults linger over dinner.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Kids Cruises

Jump into the fun today!

A FAMILY HOLIDAY THAT SUITS EVERYONE!

Make memories your whole family will cherish forever with a Carnival kids cruise.

From all the latest video games to amazing family-friendly shore excursions and itineraries, there’s no way your kids will be wanting the best family holiday they have ever had to end.

Carnival Cruise Line activities are perfect for all age groups and feature special clubs so they can hang out with kids their own age and make friends for life.

Oh, and don’t forget to have some fun while your kids are occupied!

KIDS CLUBS FOR ALL AGES ON CARNIVAL

We have the perfect thing for you and for your kids, and it’s called “Night Owls™”! For a nominal fee, kids 11 and under can fun it up with others their age until as late as 12am.

Find out more on Night Owls™ .

At Camp Ocean ® , 2–11 year-olds stay busy, keep active and have fun as they enjoy all new ocean-themed activities and entertainment made for kids.

Find out more on Camp Ocean ® .

This is where young teens ages 12 to 14 go to hang out, meet new friends, and enjoy some pretty awesome activities like dance parties, games, outdoor movies and more, in the special Circle “C” area or around the ship.

Find out more on Circle "C" .

Where to? Club O2. Hang out and do stuff like watch movies, listen to music from this decade, play sports and video games, join karaoke jam sessions… maybe even have a pool party or two, all with other high schoolers aged 15 to 17.

Find out more on Club O2 .

All kids clubs are free until 9pm.

Enjoy Adult fun in total comfort!

Delight in a cocktail poolside or a delicious dinner at Fahrenheit 555, with our award winning Kids Clubs taking care of your children.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the best cruise for kids.

A cruise ship is perfect for everyone – kids, families, singles, and couples. But when it comes to kids, we go the extra mile. Here’s a few cruise deals that, between the onboard activities and the shore excursions, are perfect for kids:

• Family cruises
• School holiday cruises
• Easter cruises
• Weekend cruises
• Getaway cruises
• Short cruises
• Great Barrier Reef cruises

At what age can kids start cruising?

Kids must be at least 6 months old to sail with most cruise lines, and 12 months old on trans-ocean trips to remote locations.

Are cruises good with kids?

Cruises to and from Australia are great for kids of all ages. At Carnival, we offer age-specific Kids Clubs so they have fun with kids their own age. Our cruise kids clubs include:

• Camp Ocean. Kids aged 2 to 11 enjoy ocean-themed activities.
• Night Owls. Kids 11 and under have fun until midnight.
• Circle C. 12-14 year-olds catch up and enjoy a heap of activities.
• Club 02. For kids aged 15 to 17 to meet, greet, and hang out.

What are cruise activities for kids?

With more than 45 activities onboard, there’s a lot of specific kid-friendly activities that will keep them entertained for yours. Here’s just a few:

• Water works
• Warehouse Arcade
• Dive-in movies

They’ll be able to keep going and going with a big range of yummy dining options (and ice cream, of course!).

How do you book a family cruise package with kids?

• New Zealand
• South Pacific
• Great Barrier Reef

The 8 best family-friendly cruise ships

The eight best cruise ships for families are luxury hotels, restaurants, sports arenas and entertainment venues all rolled into one. Cruise ships today are no less than our holiday escape on a 5-star floating resort.

So which cruise ship is best for you and your family, and who offers kid-friendly cruises?

There is much to consider when choosing how to spend your vacation budget. Especially as you have most likely taken time to save for your dream vacation . Or if this is one of the few times a year you can get the whole family on a fantastic holiday that everyone – old and young – can enjoy together.

Knowing what questions to ask yourself in the planning stage will guide you in making the right choice when picking the best family cruise for you. And our tips below will help you narrow your choice.

We have put together our top 8 best cruise ships for families – and the reasons we think they are great. All of these are kid-friendly cruise lines. Here’s what to expect onboard and in which region these cruise ships sail in 2023. If you find the cruise ship to suit you but not the itinerary you want, check out the sister ships, which offer similar facilities but have different ports of call. That way, you can build your perfect cruise.

Quick navigation

1. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line – Wonder of the Seas

• Number of guests: 5400

Let’s start with the biggest and best cruise line among these eight best cruise ships for families. Who doesn’t like to sail the ocean in a mini-city and have the best of everything within walking distance? Here is our first vote in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s fleet for the best cruise ship.

The Oasis Class – perfect for kids and active families

Sister ship to Harmony, Allure, Symphony, and Oasis of the Seas, which all belong to Royal’s “Oasis” class, Wonder of the Seas gives you some of the best adventures and entertainment at sea. Recommended for families and adventurous, lively couples, Wonder had its maiden voyage in March of 2022. Expensive? Yes. Value for money? Absolutely.

Start with a ten-story high slide thrill in a tunnel, the Ultimate Abyss, that delivers you safely to the boardwalk deck. Learn to surf on their wave riders on the top deck or meet new friends in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag game. Adventure is the name of the game here.

There are great kids clubs, and if you are traveling with teens. They will have their lounge and a new dedicated outdoor deck area where making new friends will be easy. Your kids can even try out a Mission Control Apollo 18 escape room.

The pool decks are fantastic – so good that they get very crowded. Expect a Caribbean-style pool area with more bars, whirlpools, and a variety of seating, including day beds and cabanas.

Family dining and live music

You will be spoilt for choice when dining, but we like Giovanni’s Italian kitchen and wine bar. You get rustic family-style dining with the traditional Italian dishes that everybody loves. Also on offer will be Poolside BBQ and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, both highly popular with families.

For music fans, you will love the Music Bar, where you will find live music and fantastic dance floors. The Spotlight Karaoke venue is always a cruise highlight where you can sing your heart out in front of other guests. This is one of the most popular venues onboard Royals ships and is great fun. It is safe to say that Wonder of the Seas offers some of the best family fun at sea.

Cruise destinations for Wonder of the Seas

2. royal caribbean cruise line – voyager of the seas.

• Number of guests: 3602
• Year: 1999. Updated 2019

Voyager of the Seas is a great cruise ship amongst the fleet of Royal Caribbean for all types of guests. It’s a classy, elegant ship without being stuffy. You get a luxurious cruise on a ship that has recently upgraded. And offers just the right variety of restaurants, entertainment, sports, and relaxation.

Guest areas such as the Promenade deck, the Royal Theatre, and the fitness area have all been refreshed and refined. And the ice rink – the first at-sea ice rink on any cruise ship – still offers mesmerizing evening shows. The Perfect Storm twin waterslides and laser tag areas have been rebuilt, and a fantastic outdoor space is now exclusively for teens.

Great design, great restaurants

The Schooner Bar, a Royal Caribbean classic, is a must. We love the classical nautical design, ample seating areas, friendly bar service, and excellent atmosphere day and night. But if you’re traveling with teens, visit The Tavern instead, as they will enjoy the big-screen TV sports games. Among all the specialty restaurants onboard, Chops Grill is the firm favorite with our teens.

Cruise destinations for Voyager of the Seas

3. norwegian cruise lines – norwegian encore.

• Number of guests: 3998

Norwegian Encore is our favorite in the Breakaway Plus class of ships and is the sister ship to Joy and Bliss. If you find an itinerary to your dream destination and are lucky enough to be on one of these ships, you will not be disappointed. These cruise ships are spectacular and authentic works of art.

Thrill rides for an adrenalin rush onboard

To start with, let’s talk about activities. The go-kart track on board gives the kids the adrenaline rush they may seek! There are two water slides – including Ocean Loops, for a real thrill ride. You’ll find four hot tubs and plenty of loungers. On deck 16, there are two large pools, a kid’s aqua park, and bars. At night there are great dance parties on deck.

A speedway track that loops over the ship’s side will give a fantastic experience for those who love speed! This feature alone could win this ship among the best cruise ships for families! The galaxy pavilion is a virtual reality theme park, but there is an extra charge – not really for me, but your teenagers will love it!

Nearer to the front of the ship, you can play laser tag. We recommend making a reservation from your cabin via your TV. The laser tag and the speedway track cost extra, and you can book and pay on board.

The new Galaxy Pavilion offers full och virtual reality experiences. It’s incredible. However, everything is at an extra charge.

A multitude of dining options

You have a fantastic choice regarding their main dining restaurants (no reservation needed). Try the American Dining restaurant – a specialty restaurant with great food and decor reminiscent of a 50’s diner with booths and authentic touches everywhere. I love this place.

On deck 17, we recommend Le Bistro, a French diner for those who want elegant dining and perfect service. Cagney’s Steakhouse is excellent if you prefer a casual atmosphere and offers food to rival any great steak restaurant.

Back to deck 8, you find The Waterfront, a quarter-mile extended outdoor promenade deck that comes into its own at sunset. Relax at the bar at sundown, an excellent place to recharge your batteries before you choose evening entertainment.

If you are a music fan, NCL has built a replica of The Beatle’s famous Cavern Club; here, you can hear Beatles music and listen to the tribute bands. If you love beer, visit the District Brew House, where you are spoilt for choice. And if you never tire of a pub atmosphere, visit The Local for pub-style food and drinks, and you can even try your hand at bowling.

At the Q Texas Smokehouse on deck 6, try authentic Texas-style BBQ and listen to country music. Head to The Social comedy club afterward. We recommend you pay at least one visit to Teppanyaki, where you can watch your entertaining chef’s slicing and dicing skills; it’s a fun family experience with a menu to suit all.

Open-air movies on deck

There is a vast open-air movie screen with plenty of seating; it’s excellent in the evening as the sun goes down. Grab a bite from the buffet restaurant and a glass of wine, and nab a sofa before the crowds arrive. If you need something warmer, we appreciate the Starbucks on board for a warm drink and something sweet to finish the evening. Check out the Southern Night Rock evenings with great music and good snacks.

The Guppies and the Splash Academy kids clubs offer fully supervised activities for your youngsters. Entourage is a parent-free zone, so your teens will have a fun, safe environment to enjoy with other teen guests.

Cruise destinations for Norwegian Encore

• Southern Caribbean
• Dominican Republic
• Panama Canal

4. Norwegian Cruise Lines – Norwegian Jewel

Every cruising family I meet loves NCL Jewel , and that’s why Jewel is on our best cruise ships for families list. It’s a popular mid-size with a capacity of under 2400 passengers; the ship is comparatively small compared to the larger, newer ships. And it may be old (built in 2005) but has undergone an extensive refurbishment in 2018, bringing it to its gleaming glory again. With a more modern, fresher, and lighter decor, Jewel feels more personal than the bigger ships and is one of the best cruise ships we have experienced.

The renovation included building the brand new Pit Stop, an all-American bar reminiscent of the beloved 50s era. This replaced the old Sky High bar and is an exciting addition.

Open 24/7, the O’Sheehans Neighborhood Bar & Grill is great. It’s a relaxed place to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner and a good party venue in the evening. These are just a couple of the 20 restaurants on board to choose from. Six of these are included in your price, and where you will have great food even if you don’t want to pay extra to try the specialty restaurants.

The Bliss Ultra lounge has replaced the old karaoke lounge, as it is the place where you enjoy more classic dance music.

A smaller ship with exciting itineraries

What we love about this ship as one of the best cruise ships for families is that it is elegant without being flashy. The colors are soft and modern without being cold, and the staff seems at ease, experienced, and with an eye for detail. I loved being on board. It’s smaller than many other NCL ships, with exciting itineraries to more unusual ports.

Smaller ships can dock at ports that don’t allow the bigger ships to dock. So you are likely to find your dream itinerary but note that while there are great kids clubs and pools, there are fewer activities on board, Which means fewer venues for you to visit compared to the Bliss, Encore, and Joy.

Cruise destinations for Norwegian Jewel

• Mexican Riviera

5. MSC Cruises – MSC Grandiosa

• Number of guests: 6300

MSC Cruises has a reputation for being a less expensive cruise experience with great kids’ prices. Founded in Italy, MSC is very popular amongst European guests. MSC Grandiosa was launched in November of 2019 and is, in our opinion, their best ship to date. And therefore, it’s here in our summary of the ten best cruise ships.

The glamour of Italy on board

MSC Grandiosa has a stunning interior, full of glamour and highlighted by the sparkling digital sky overhead. As you walk the indoor promenade, look up – the digital LED roof changes view often and are remarkable.

MSC Grandiosa is a big ship. There are enough cabins for over 6000 guests. The vast theatre offers free nightly shows, like most other cruise lines. And while the standard may not be up to the same par as the Broadway shows of Royal Caribbean, they are entertaining.

Cirque de Soleil at Sea

As an alternative, there is a smaller theatre that offers the Cirque de Soleil shows at an additional cost. We recommend booking dinner and the Cirque de Soleil show package from home before you sail, as it is popular. But apart from some of the stand-up comics evenings, we must admit that we mostly gave the theatre shows a miss while on board. We preferred instead to spend time in the bars, lounges, and on the dance floor.

Family-friendly prices

MSC Cruises is very family-friendly, with prices to match. You often have a luxurious family cruising experience at a lower price than Royal Caribbean or NCL Cruise Line. As the cruise line was founded in Italy, the theme of the food in the main dining rooms is Italian too. But coupled with specialty restaurants (12 dining rooms on board), you will be spoilt for choice for cuisine from around the world.

There are some different classes to choose from when booking MSC Cruises. Each cabin class offers different experiences: Bella, Fantastica, or Aurea, and you can read all about what is included in each category on their website.

We have cruised with MSC Cruises several times and are a fan of their Aurea class, including the all-inclusive beverage package, free spa treatment, and a private sun deck. We felt this was well worth the extra.

Cruise destinations for MSC Grandiosa

• Mediterranean

6. Carnival Cruise Line – Carnival Vista

• Number of guests: 3934

Carnival is one of the largest cruise companies in the world and is soon celebrating its 50th birthday. With a long history of being synonymous with fun, Carnival Vista offers all the family fun you could wish for on vacation.

With playgrounds for all ages, this fun ship boasts a “sky ride,” a suspended pedal bike track early 50 meters above the ocean. There are numerous colorful activities on board – take the Imax theatre, for example – that keep Carnival attracting families with children coming back for more.

Family Harbour is a family zone offering various room configurations where up to 5 can stay in each cabin. Carnival is one of the cruise lines that cater to large families. You can access the family lounge with movies, popcorn, self-serve ice cream machines, and more.

What we love about Carnival Vista is the endless choices of food venues; you will soon see that this is a cruise ship for families and kids who may be fussy eaters. There is something for you all on board, including you adults, with fantastic piano bars, comedy clubs, and even an onboard brewery.

Havana Cabanas on Vista class ships

We recommend looking at the Havanna category of cabins to book a room if you have children 12 or over. Havana cabins are available only on Vista category ships (Carnival Vista, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Horizon).

The Havana Cabana rooms are spacious, with island-inspired decor and ocean-facing patios. In addition, you have access to a private area designated only for Havana guests: pool, hot tubs, bar area, 24-hour ice cream and pizza, and a breakfast buffet area. Beware! If you are a super-private person, then it’s essential to know that other guests can walk by your area. There is a walkway between your patio and the railings looking over the ocean.

Therefore if you like your privacy, opt for the balcony rooms instead. But if you can afford the extra cost and are very social, we love the additional perks that this area on Carnival Vista offers!

Cruise destinations for Carnival Vista

• Western Caribbean

7. Princess Cruises – Sky Princess

• Number of guests: 3660

Much like Celebrity Cruises, Princess ships do not have giant water slides and aqua parks for your kids. But they make up for this in many other ways. The newer vessels are beautiful and modern yet still feel traditional, focusing on good cuisine and service, many activities on board, and fun-packed evening shows.

We recommend the newer Princess ships, and our choice is Sky Princess. We can also expect good things from the latest ship Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess is launching in Spring 2022.

A mix of private areas for adults and fantastic facilities for the whole family

Sky Princess is stunning. We feel that you get good value for money on this ship. If you are traveling as a couple, we highly recommend The Sanctuary and The Retreat, private outdoor areas for adults. The main pool area for all guests and families has two deep pools and plenty of space for loungers. In the evening, this area becomes an outdoor movie theatre. It’s one of our favorite spaces onboard among the many.

If you are lucky enough to book one of the two sky suites onboard, you can even get a direct view of the movie screen from your private balcony.

One downside we discovered with Princess Cruises is that they allow smoking inside the casino rather than having a separate room for smokers. So if you adults were considering visiting the casino while the children were using the kids’ clubs, beware that there will be smokers there. If you don’t enjoy being around smokers, this will affect your enjoyment of the casino.

The entertainment is great fun onboard Sky Princess with a good mix of magic shows, comedy, and acrobatics. You’ll also find a basketball court, minigolf, a running track, and self-service laundry facilities (for a few dollars per load, and you buy tokens onboard). And a fantastic Seawalk glass platform on either side of the ship hangs out over the ocean.

Children are entertained in kid-friendly areas of The Treehouse, The Beach House, and Camp Discovery, from tots to teens.

What we love about this ship, too, is the fantastic array of itineraries you can experience when cruising. See the list below.

Cruise destinations for Sky Princess

• Norwegian Fjords from Southampton
• Scandinavia & Baltic Heritage
• Morocco Passage
• Canary Islands
• Iceland & Norway
• Canada and New England

8. Disney Cruise Line – Disney Magic

• Number of guests: 1754
• Year: 1998. Updated 2018

Disney is hard to beat regarding family entertainment, nostalgia, and fun. From super musical theatre shows to superheroes (Disney Magic is offering Marvel-themed sailings), Disney offers up the heart-warming quality we have come to expect, year after year, cruise after cruise.

We love Disney Magic for its friendliness and intimacy. While the ship is old, the renovations and modernizations are current.

The family pool area may not be huge, but we don’t think your kids will notice with all the other available activities. And for an escape, the adults can enjoy the larger adult-only pool at the front of the ship.

Service is paramount, as you would expect from Disney, and it’s service with a smile at all times. The staff pays attention to details, and everything in your cabin is geared towards making light of traveling with kids. Everything around you will be Disney, from the music you hear playing, the costume characters in the dining rooms to your Mickey-shaped deserts. So if you can’t get enough of Disney, especially if you have young children, this cruise ship is for you, despite the high-end price tag.

Cruise destinations for Disney Magic

• Scandinavia and The Baltics
• Greek Islands
• British Isles
• Norwegian Fjords

Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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As a helpful assistant, I am thrilled to recommend “The 8 best family-friendly cruise ships” article by Cruise Trail for any family looking for the perfect vacation getaway. The article lists ships that cater to families with amenities like water parks, themed dining, and children’s clubs. The detailed descriptions and highlights of each ship make it easier to select the best fit for your family’s needs. This article is a perfect guide to make your vacation memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

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