Why families love cruising
- Meals, entertainment and many activities are included in the fare, which makes budgeting easier.
- Kids’ clubs, usually split by age group, give children their own fun and parents some time off.
- Big ships can have waterslides, splash zones, climbing walls and family shows.
- You visit several places without repacking or long car journeys.
Choosing the right family cruise
- Pick the right ship: facilities for children vary hugely, even within the same cruise line. Smaller, adult-focused ships and most river cruises have few.
- Check age policies: many lines set a minimum age for babies, often six months, and higher on some longer voyages. Kids’ clubs may also have minimum ages and nappy rules.
- Plan the cabin: look for family cabins, sofa beds, or connecting cabins. Check how many people each cabin really sleeps.
- Think about port days: short, easy itineraries such as the Bahamas, the Mediterranean or the Canaries suit younger children.
Cruising in the school holidays
School-holiday sailings sell out first and fares are usually higher, so book early for those dates. If you’re in the UK, sailing from Southampton avoids flight costs for the whole family. US families often choose short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from Florida.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
