Cruises make the ultimate family vacation. From included youth programming to adult-only sun decks and adrenaline-pumping activities for teens, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Still, not all ships are built equally. Before booking the same cruise your co-worker raved about, it's essential to do your own research to see which ship will suit your family's needs.
Consider factors like the age of your children, the variety of activities available, and the overall vibe of the ship. Some cruise lines are known for their kids' clubs and family-friendly entertainment, while others may prioritize adult relaxation and unique itineraries.
If you don't know where to start, consider these ships that offer amenities for the whole family, from young toddlers to teens, grandparents, and beyond.
Royal Caribbean
Allure, Oasis, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder, and Utopia of the Seas + Icon and Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class debuted in 2009 with the launch of Oasis of the Seas. At the time, she was the largest cruise ship in the world and the first to feature the revolutionary neighborhood concept, as well as interior-facing balcony cabins. From ziplining high above the Boardwalk to watching Broadway-style musicals in the theater or being amazed by the high-diving shows at the AquaTheater, these ships remain a family favorite over a decade later.
The overall design of Oasis Class ships is similar regardless of whether you sail on Allure or Utopia of the Seas. However, Royal Caribbean has made a few changes over the years to keep the experience fresh and exciting for loyal guests. For example, Utopia of the Seas is the only ship in the class (and the Royal fleet) to feature Royal Railway: Utopia Station.
This specialty restaurant breaks away from the traditional steakhouse or Italian eatery by offering a unique dining experience that transports guests to various periods and locations via immersive train.
Not only that, but it's also the first brand-new ship launched by Royal targeting the short cruise market, meaning that if you aren't sure whether cruising is for your family, you can still experience the best of what Royal Caribbean has to offer, rather than sailing on an older ship with fewer amenities and outdated cabins.
Another perk of cruising on Oasis Class ships is that they sail from various departure ports across the globe, from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, to Barcelona, Spain. While you can't venture to The Last Frontier or Southeast Asia, you can explore culturally rich cities in Europe or vacation on world-famous beaches in the Caribbean.
However, if you're looking for the ultimate family vacation, consider a cruise on Icon of the Seas (or Star of the Seas in 2025 and beyond). Currently the world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas boasts attractions for the whole family, from the family-centered Surfside neighborhood to the exciting Category 6 water park and even the largest ice skating rink at sea!
Read more: I got a sneak peek at Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
Sailing on the newest cruise ships at sea isn't cheap, though. Thankfully, Royal Caribbean launches occasional Kids Sail Free deals to help make cruising more affordable. The exact offers vary, but typically, this promotion applies to cruisers who are 12 years or younger on select 4+ night cruises. Note that the deal isn't valid on all sailings, as Royal Caribbean does implement blackout dates, such as Christmas.
Read more: Pros and Cons of a Royal Caribbean Cruise
Carnival Cruise Line
Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee
Carnival's Excel Class has redefined the Carnival cruise experience. While there's no denying the "FUN" ship aspect is still prevalent, you can expect modern accommodations and even the first-ever roller coasters at sea. In fact, these ships are so popular Carnival ordered two additional Excel Class ships to be delivered in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Mardi Gras and Celebration sail out of Florida, whereas Carnival Jubilee sails exclusively from Galveston, Texas, honoring The Lone Star State with a giant star of her bow. Like Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class, Carnival's Excel Class was designed with distinct zones, each offering unique experiences.
For instance, The Ultimate Playground is where you'll find BOLT, the onboard roller coaster, as well as a miniature golf course, Water Works aqua park, and a fun ropes course. In other words, it's where those craving a little action will want to spend their time!
However, Carnival isn't known as having the most "FUN" ships at sea for no reason! In addition to outdoor thrills, Grand Central (or Celebration Central on Carnival Celebration) hosts activities like Deal or No Deal, aerial shows, Bingo, and more. Production shows here are unlike anything else on other Carnival ships, though there's still a Playlist Live cast who performs in the theater!
Foodies will appreciate all the complimentary dining on Excel Class ships, from Italian cuisine at Cucina del Capitano to crispy chicken tenders from Big Chicken. Of course, you'll find other Carnival staples like the Lido Marketplace buffet, Guy's Burger Joint, and BlueIguana Cantina.
Those looking to elevate their onboard experience will enjoy the range of specialty restaurants, including Bonsai Teppanyaki, Rudi's Seagrill, Emerli's Bistro at Sea, and more. In short, it's impossible to go hungry on an Excel Class ship!
Read more: Carnival menus 2024: Main dining room, specialty restaurants & more
Perhaps the greatest limitation of these ships is that their itineraries are just to the Caribbean. While you'll find Carnival sailing to places like Alaska, the South Pacific, and Europe, Excel Class ships only offer cruises to ports like Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos; and St. Thomas.
That said, Mardi Gras is embarking on two transatlantic cruises in 2025 that may be of interest. These depart on Sept. 13 from Port Canaveral, Florida, and Oct. 16 from Barcelona, Spain, and are only offered to accommodate Mardi Gras' dry dock.
Other Carnival ships that deserve an honorable mention include Carnival Vista, Horizon, and Panorama because, like Carnival's Excel Class, they feature Family Harbor suites. These cabins sport a nautical theme and include access to the Family Harbor Lounge, where daily breakfast and snacks are provided, as well as board games, video games, and family-friendly movies.
Plus, children in Family Harbor suites dine for free in many onboard specialty restaurants, and parents will enjoy one free night of Night Owls Babysitting.
Read more: Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, Wish
If you have young children who love all things Disney, you can't go wrong with any ship in the fleet, from Disney Magic to Disney Wish.
All feature themed dining experiences, character meet-and-greets, splash zones, and dedicated kids' clubs that will keep your little ones entertained. That said, newer ships—such as Disney Fantasy and Wish—will have more activities that might appeal to older children, such as the Aqua Duck and Aqua Mouse water slides.
Still, regardless of which you choose, families can enjoy movie nights under the stars, Broadway-style entertainment in the main theater, and themed parties that bring beloved Disney characters to life.
Plus, all ships have cabins with the split bathroom concept, ideal for larger families sharing one stateroom. One bathroom includes a sink and a toilet, while the shower and an additional sink are located in a separate room. This lets one person shower while another brushes their teeth or uses the restroom.
Families who want to take a magical cruise vacation aren't restricted in destinations, either. Though other cruise lines have multiple ships deployed to regions like Alaska and Europe, Disney still offers a diverse range of itineraries that cover popular destinations around the globe. Disney Wonder, for example, is set to sail to Alaska in 2025, while Disney Fantasy will offer a variety of cruises around Europe.
As expected, Disney is one of the priciest mainstream cruise lines. For example, a 7-night Alaska cruise in July 2025 starts at $9,400 for a family of four in a verandah cabin. Similarly, the cheapest inside cabin on a 4-night voyage aboard Disney Wish that same month costs $6,900 for four.
MSC Cruises
MSC Seaside, Seaview, Seashore, Seascape + World Europa and World America
Within the past few years, MSC Cruises has increased its North American presence. Most recently, they announced they will begin offering cruises to Alaska in 2026! However, if you can't wait that long to book a cruise (and I can't blame you!), consider sailing on their Seaside or World Class.
The latter is a direct competition with Royal's Oasis Class, featuring an open-air Boardwalk-type neighborhood, while MSC's Seaside Class is more akin to Carnival's Excel Class, though none are identical. Either way, MSC is known for its affordable rates on its mega-ships. For example, when MSC World America launches in April 2025, fares can be found throughout the year for as low as $691 per person.
Onboard activities will include a redesigned outdoor World Promenade, a water park with different interactive water features, a High Trial course and zip line, a sensory play area for younger children, a thematic playground, a comedy club, massive kids' clubs, and more. In essence, if you're a fan of non-stop action, MSC's World Class will meet your needs!
MSC's Seaside Class also offers a ton of activities that will keep everyone entertained. With features like a thrilling water park, sports courts, and various dining options, there's something for every member of the family. MSC Seaside and Seaview also have a zip line onboard, whereas the latter two ships in the class—Seashore and Seascape—have more outdoor dining, enhanced pools, and a new double-deck aft lounge.
Also, if you're a fan of ultra-luxury experiences, such as Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class or Norwegian's The Haven, MSC's Yacht Club provides a similar level of exclusivity and comfort for less.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Aqua, Prima, Viva, Encore, Bliss, Joy
Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising model is available on all ships in the fleet, from NCL Sky to the upcoming NCL Aqua. However, the newer ships, starting with Norwegian Joy, have the most activities onboard, including go-kart racing tracks, water slides, and more.
Parents who don't want to be burdened with set dining times and dress codes will appreciate the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising. Plus, they recently announced a new inclusive pricing model, so there's less nickel and diming to worry about.
"MORE at sea" will include things like unlimited premium spirits, additional specialty dining meals on cruises 7 nights and longer, and more. However, cruisers can opt out of the drink package and specialty meals when booking their cruise.
When Norwegian Joy launched in 2017, she was the first cruise ship in NCL's fleet to feature a go-kart track. While not included in the cost of the cruise, it's a thrilling addition that many guests find worth the extra fee, so much so that Norewgian added it to NCL Bliss, Escape, Prima, and Viva!
That's not the only attraction onboard, though. From massive water slides to a laser tag arena, mini-golf, and a video arcade, Norwegian ships boast a plethora of activities designed to entertain guests of all ages.
Norwegian Prima and Viva, the newest Norwegian ships at sea, offer even more innovative features and attractions, such as an interactive and tech-immersive mini-golf course, 10-story slides, a virtual reality pavilion, and more. While both ships have a go-kart track, Norwegian Aqua will replace this attraction with a brand-new hybrid roller coaster waterslide!
Read more: 60 Best Norwegian Cruise Line Tips, Tricks & Hacks
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she had the privilege of traveling frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas her freshman year of high school. She wanted to pursue a career that highlighted her passion for travel and strengths as a writer.
