The Best Lines for Family Cruises and All-Ages Entertainment
There are so many different angles that you can take when booking a cruise. From senior specialties to LGBTQ+ friendly cruises, the major lines will generally include options that suit a range of lifestyles. Family cruises are one of the most commonly searched for forms of expeditions, with many unable to or not wanting to travel without taking the kids (and maybe some more extended members) out together.
This piece highlights the cruise lines that offer the best family cruises, putting a little more attention on the specific elements that make them so impressive. Of course, every cruise will include some stellar locations, along with pools, eateries and bars for the parents to enjoy, but the most memorable cruises for families will include all-ages options, along with stuff to keep the kids occupied throughout the journey.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is arguably the best-equipped cruise line in the world, with their ships known for offering a remarkably immersive experience and countless entertainment options. Their kids’ and teens’ facilities are known for being exceptionally well-formed, including things like science labs, arts and crafts centres, youth theatres, themed adventures and much more.
More activities and options for the family cruise vacation include:
- Water parks
- Fairground rides
- Live music venues
- Virtual concerts
- Indoor skydiving
- Ice skating
- Rock climbing
- Classes and guided activities
This just scratches the surface of what Royal Caribbean cruises have to offer families.
Carnival Cruise Line
The Carnival Cruise Line is known as a party destination for adults, singles and couples, packed with chances to enjoy booze, partying and the general Carnival vibe. However, it’s also a great line for hosting a family on a cruise. The family-friendly elements of the line include themed entertainment like Lip Sync Battle, movies by the pool, live stage shows, various stage shows, live music and even The Mad Hatters Teaclub to name a few.
More child and teenage-focused entertainment options include:
- Water parks
- Cultural integration activities
- SkyRides
- On-deck sports and games
- Nasa Space Cruisers camp
- IMAX movies
- Sky Zone
- Ropes Courses
- Seuss at Sea!
- And more!
These kinds of offerings prove that Carnival is for much more than thirsty singles and party animals!

Other lines for family cruises
Alongside Carnival and Royal Caribbean, there are plenty of other lines that offer remarkably fun family-friendly cruises, such as:
- MSC Cruises. These expeditions are known for having plenty of entertainment options, along with branded LEGO experiences for children. Consider it a great choice for all-ages travelling groups.
- Princess Cruises. Broadway-level stage shows and the branded The Voice On The Ocean are great choices for entertaining the whole family. That’s not to mention their family-friendly lodging options for maximum comfort.
- Norwegian Cruise Line. This cruise line is known for being a little more laid back, making it a great choice for chill kids and parents alike. The Youth Programs include Splash Academy, Late Night Fun Zones, Port Play options and more!
These are some more notable lines that can offer the right options to serve your family effectively.
Doing your due diligence for family cruises
Again, almost every cruise line will work to accommodate family cruises, as otherwise they’re cutting off a massive part of their market. These are some of our top choices but it’s important to check on the amenities offered by any cruises that you’re considering.
It’s also important to think about what the locations on a cruise might have to offer your family. Do you like to explore new cities together? Or are you more content to chill out in the sunshine? These questions are just as important to consider as the amenities on the ship itself.