Cruising is one trip the whole family can get behind — the chance to see exotic locales from the comfort of resort-style lodging and endless entertainment onboard. It’s no wonder that over the last 10 years, the demand for cruising has increased 62 percent, according to Cruise Lines International Association. But because a good chunk of your vacation is spent on the ship, the amenities and activities available onboard are just as important as the destinations.
Cruise lines are increasingly offering activities and perks from shows and water slides to ice rinks and yummy treats for both parents and kids to enjoy while sailing the high seas.
For your next cruising adventure, here are some cruise ships offering the coolest things for kids to do.
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Oasis of the Seas
This Royal Caribbean ship was named the world’s largest cruise ship in 2009, and it still remains one of the more popular among families. Why? Well, it keeps the kids occupied with plenty of options to let off steam, including an ice skating rink, zip line, FlowRider surf simulator, mini-golf and a sports deck. If they’re still itching for more, there are two 30-foot rock climbing walls aboard and The Boardwalk, a carnival-themed area complete with carousel, snacks and fun shops.
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Allure of the Seas
Another Royal Caribbean hit with kids is the Allure of the Seas, where the youngest can meet with some of their favorite DreamWorks characters, including Shrek. The biggest draw here is the 29,000 square foot Adventure Ocean, a complex on Deck 14 split into age-appropriate activities and areas. Kids can do science experiments, visit the theaters and learn to act or participate in various arts and crafts. Kids and parents can enjoy the excellent Broadway-style performances aboard the Allure of the Seas, such as Mamma Mia and Blue Planet.
Courtesy of Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Breeze
One of the more budget-friendly cruise ship options for families, Carnival Breeze has no shortage of activities and perks for kids. For those hot days when you wish you were in the ocean instead of gliding over it, there’s an Aqua Park, one of the largest water parks at sea, including several slides and a soaker station. On days when the weather is iffy, kids will love the Thrill Theater, complete with 3-D showings, vibrating seats and special effects. Other activities are targeted specifically to kids’ age groups, including a Dr. Seuss parade around the ship featuring The Cat and The Hat.
Disney Magic
Disney cruises are always favorites among families, and Magic is no exception. If your kids are fans of Tangled, they’ll love the live, musical theater production onboard. The Oceaneer Club is home to four themed worlds, including a larger-than-life-size Toy Story set where the kids will feel miniature and an Avengers Academy where kids can unleash their inner superhero and train with the Avengers to prepare for world-saving missions.
Freedom of the Seas
Like several of the Royal Caribbean family-friendly ships, Freedom of the Seas is complete with energizing activities like rock climbing walls, a surf simulator and an ice-skating rink. For cupcake-lovers, there’s a specialty shop with 30 flavors of the yummy treats. The Challenger’s Arcade on this ship features modern video games as well as classics like Ms. Pac Man.
Disney World
For cruisers headed to Alaska, there’s no better place for a live, musical performance of the Disney classic Frozen. This isn’t the largest ship, but it’s definitely filled with all of the Disney favorites, including characters, a number of pools and theaters, a sports deck and plenty of unique activities to keep kids entertained. We love the Ratatouille Cooking School where kids can bake chocolate chip cookies and Marvel’s Superhero Academy, where they can learn to save the world alongside their favorite characters.
Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Breakaway
Kids of all ages will love the array of activities on Breakaway. The ship’s Splash Academy breaks them into groups, offering customized activities appropriate for their age level. For some of the youngest, this means guest appearances by characters like Dora the Explorer and Spongebob Squarepants, juggling lessons, parades and scavenger hunts. For teens, Entrourage is the dance club, hangout spot they’ll wish they had at home, complete with themed dance nights, comedy shows and a Glow Party.