Family Cruise Cheat Sheet
Ready to sail away on your next family vacation, but not sure where to start? Find your match with our chart that breaks down the deal-makers and breakers for each major U.S. line.
Carnival
Biggest Draw: connecting cabins; onboard water park; kid-free areas
But know this... appeals to college and spring-break crowds too
Character tie-ins: Dr. Seuss parades, storytimes, and more; plus, life-size Hasbro games
Big-kid & family thrills: IMAX theater; Skyride; water park; mini golf
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $539 per adult and $349 per child
- RELATED: 8 Tips For A Fun Family Cruise
Disney
Biggest Draw: favorite characters throughout; all onboard entertainment is included
But know this... not awesome for adrenaline-fueled/ adventure-seeking teens/tweens
Character tie-ins: Mickey and the gang; the princess posse; Marvel and Star Wars characters abound
Big-kid & family thrills: AquaDuck waterslide; sports simulators
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $1,736 per adult and $974 per child
Norwegian
Biggest Draw: mealtimes are flexible, with lots of options; familyfriendly Broadwaystyle shows
But know this... important to book shows and dining times in advance to avoid missing out
Character tie-ins: None
Big-kid & family thrills: ropes course; zip line; rock-climbing; sports courts
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $574 per person based on four guests
Princess
Biggest Draw: destination themed onboard activities
But know this... no adrenaline pumping extras
Character tie-ins: Discovery and Animal Planet show tie-ins like MythBusters, Deadliest Catch, and Shark Week
Big-kid & family thrills: sports courts; mini golf
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $799 per adult and $399 per child
Royal Caribbean
Biggest Draw: wide selection of onboard activities that are great for older kids
But know this... large-capacity ships can feel crowded
Character tie-ins: favorites from Dreamworks films like Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar roam the ship
Big-kid & family thrills: ice-skating; surf simulator; bumper cars
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $2,025 per adult and $799 per child
RELATED: Tips to Avoid Getting Sea Sick
MSC
Biggest Draw: kids under 11 sail free (except for taxes and fees) and 12- to 17-yearolds sail at a discounted rate
But know this... only U.S. port is in Miami
Character tie-ins: Lego-themed games and competitions on board; Lego Sailor character meet-and-greets
Big-kid & family thrills: race-car simulator; waterslide/videogame combo ride
Price (Starting prices for a family of four on a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean): $777 per adult and $277 per child
Family Fun
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