A vital step in choosing a cruise is determining what kind of ship you want. Here’s a handy cheat sheet to make it easy.
Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line
Action-Packed
For robust kids’ clubs, theme park–style attractions, Broadway-esque shows and days spent sailing the open ocean, try a mega ship. Cruises with 4,000-plus passengers offer plenty of activities, restaurants and shopping. If that’s your style, consider Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian and Carnival.
Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions
Shore-Focused
Small, nimble ships can go places large ships can’t and tend to focus more on shore excursions and educational opportunities. Check out Lindblad, Ocean One and Quark Expeditions.
Courtesy of Uniworld
The Slow Life
Boutique river cruises offer a relaxing pace and great opportunities for families to disembark daily (often in a city center). Look at lines like Adventures by Disney River Cruises, Tauck and AmaWaterways.
Courtesy of Crystal Cruises
Super-Luxe
Luxury lines are starting to cater to the family market. Crystal Cruises and Ponant offer connecting rooms, kids’ clubs and babysitting services. Even adult-focused lines like Viking are welcoming teens.
Courtesy of Holland America
A Bit of Everything
Ships that carry from 600 to 2,199 passengers are the perfect compromise for families looking for a taste of everything. These floating resorts have activities galore and plenty of kid-friendly options, but also fewer passengers, making getting around the ship and disembarking during shore excursions easier. Look to Celebrity, Holland America and Princess.
Discover more cruising tips and ideas in Family Cruise Vacations. And check out 6 Must-Know Tips for Taking Your First Cruise.