Curator’s statement
Cruising is one of the best ways for families to travel because it combines adventure, relaxation, and entertainment all in one place. From exciting onboard activities like water slides and kids’ clubs to unforgettable shore excursions, there’s something for every age to enjoy together. What makes a family cruise truly special is the chance to explore beautiful destinations while creating lasting memories at sea. It’s a vacation where families can relax, have fun, and experience new places without the stress of constant travel planning.
The Fora Difference
Book with Amary Long to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay on a family cruise
Unlock perks by contacting Amary Long to book your trip.
Things to do on a family cruise
Enjoy the onboard water parks: Many cruise ships feature exciting water slides, splash zones, and surf simulators that keep kids entertained for hours while parents relax nearby.
Join the Kids’ and Teens’ Clubs: Cruise lines offer supervised clubs with games, crafts, and activities designed for different age groups, giving kids a fun place to socialize.
Watch live shows and entertainment: Family-friendly shows, musicals, and comedy performances provide evening entertainment that everyone can enjoy together after a day of exploring.
Explore beautiful island beaches: Cruise stops often include stunning beaches where families can swim, build sandcastles, or try snorkeling in clear blue water.
Take fun shore excursions: Families can book excursions like snorkeling tours, zip-lining adventures, wildlife tours, or cultural experiences in each destination.
Watch movies under the stars: Many cruise ships show family movies on big outdoor screens at night, creating a cozy and memorable experience for everyone on board.
Places to eat & drink on a family cruise
Main dining room: The main dining rooms on cruise ships offer a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, from kid-friendly favorites to more adventurous options for adults.
Buffet restaurant: Buffets are perfect for families who want a quick, casual meal with something for everyone, including pizza, pasta, fresh salads, and desserts.
Pool deck snack bars: Poolside snack bars serve sandwiches, burgers, ice cream, and smoothies—ideal for grabbing a quick bite between water slides or sunbathing.
Character dining experiences (Disney or themed cruises): Meet beloved characters while enjoying themed meals, making dining both entertaining and memorable for kids and adults alike.
Specialty restaurants (steakhouse or Italian): Many cruise ships offer specialty dining with reservations, such as Italian trattorias, steakhouses, or seafood restaurants, perfect for a family treat night.
Ice cream and dessert stations: Every cruise has dedicated dessert stations or ice cream counters, where kids (and adults!) can indulge in sundaes, soft serve, or pastries anytime.
Family-friendly cafés: Onboard cafés offer coffee, hot chocolate, pastries, and sandwiches—great for a light breakfast or afternoon snack while exploring the ship.
Island restaurants at shore excursions: When docking at ports, families can enjoy local cuisine such as fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and casual beachfront restaurants.
Pizza and quick-service counters: Some cruise ships have 24/7 pizza or burger stations, ideal for late-night cravings or feeding hungry kids on the go.
Mocktail and smoothie bars: Non-alcoholic smoothies, mocktails, and fresh juices keep kids refreshed while adults enjoy adult beverages nearby.
Need to know
Traveler tips for a family cruise
Book early: Popular family cabins and specialty dining reservations fill up quickly, so plan ahead to secure the best options.
Pack smart: Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for excursions, and small carry-on bags for daily essentials.
Plan shore excursions: Research kid-friendly activities at each port in advance—snorkeling, beach days, and cultural tours are usually the most fun for families.
Take advantage of Kids’ Clubs: Most cruise lines have supervised programs for different age groups, giving parents a chance to relax while kids enjoy organized fun.
Stay flexible: While there are many activities onboard, leaving some downtime for naps, pool time, or just exploring the ship makes the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
Budget for extras: Specialty dining, photos, and souvenirs often cost extra, so plan accordingly.
Health and safety: Pack motion sickness remedies if needed, and always follow the ship’s safety guidelines during activities and excursions.
Travel documents: Ensure passports, visas (if required), and any necessary medical forms are up to date for all family members.
Travel Advisor
Amary Long
Get in touch with Amary Long
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Amary Long within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Family Travel page.