It has been a long-standing tradition for our family to go on one big vacation each year. For the past five years, we’ve decided to take a cruise with Royal Caribbean. We love the small cruise ships for families and the intimate feel it gives us as a family.
We first started going on cruises when my brother was just ten years old. It has become something that he looks forward to every year.
He loves being able to explore all four decks of the ship, finding new activities and places that he hasn’t seen before. One of his favorite things is staying up late at night to watch movies or play games in the ship’s theater or game room!
I enjoy spending time on deck soaking up some sun while listening to music or reading a book. This is my idea of relaxation! I also like taking part in water sports, such as snorkeling and kayaking, when available.
They always make for an exciting day out at sea! My mom loves getting dressed up for formal dinners where she can chat with other passengers about interesting topics over delicious food. It’s her little bit of luxury during our trips together!
My dad likes watching all kinds of live shows put on by Royal Caribbean staff members throughout our trip. These performances often bring laughter and joy into everyone’s lives aboard the ship.
He also enjoys checking out onboard shops and trying different cuisines offered around different parts of the world through specialty restaurants located within each vessel.
Overall, I think what makes cruising with Royal Caribbean so special is that there is something fun for everyone, no matter what age you are. Kids have plenty of activities designed specifically for them, while adults can truly relax.
Small Cruise Ships for families Offer plenty of Fun
A small family cruise ship is an ideal way to have a perfect family holiday. The small size of the ship makes it perfectly suited for small families or extended family reunions.
You can easily fit your whole party into one room, giving everyone ample space to enjoy the voyage. You’ll never run out of things to do on board, such as swimming pools and other fun activities.
And when you reach the port, you can explore nearby cities and culture with shore excursions guided by experienced local tour leaders. Family cruise ships offer plenty of fun!
What to Expect from a Family Cruise Ship
These small ships provide loads of fun for all ages – from small children to adults; everyone can find something that suits their interests. On board, you’ll find plenty of activities and amenities tailored to making sure your family has an amazing getaway.
There are kid’s clubs, youth centers, pools, game rooms, waterslides, and many more enjoyable attractions on these small cruise ships designed with families in mind.
The staff on board make sure parents get the opportunity to enjoy adult-only activities while their children stay entertained and happy under their watchful care. An unforgettable experience awaits on a family cruise ship!
Find the Best Cruises for your family
The best cruises for your family are those that offer a variety of activities for all ages.
1. Royal Caribbean
If you’re looking for a cruise that has something for everyone, Royal Caribbean is a great choice. The cruise line offers a wide variety of activities and amenities, including pools, waterslides, mini golf, rock climbing, zip-lining, casinos, and more.
There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as kid’s clubs, babysitting services, and family-friendly entertainment.
2. Carnival
Carnival is another great option for families looking for a fun-filled cruise vacation. The cruise line offers a variety of activities and amenities, including pools, waterslides, mini golf, rock climbing, zip-lining, casinos, and more.
There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as kid’s clubs, babysitting services, and family-friendly entertainment.
3. Norwegian
Norwegian is a great choice for families who want a little more freedom and flexibility on their cruise vacation. The cruise line’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept allows guests to dine when they want, where they want, with no set dining times or dress codes.
There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities available onboard Norwegian cruises.
4. Disney
Disney cruises are perfect for families who want to experience the magic of Disney at sea. The cruise line offers a variety of themed cruises that feature Disney characters and entertainment.
Guests can also enjoy special perks like access to the Disney parks in Florida and California while on their cruise.
5. Holland America
Holland America is a great choice for families looking for an upscale cruise experience. The cruise line offers elegant staterooms and suites, gourmet dining options, award-winning service, and extensive children’s programming.
Families can also take advantage of Holland America’s partnership with the Seattle Children’s Museum to enjoy educational activities onboard the ship.
Options before Booking your next Family Vacation
1. Consider your family’s needs
When choosing a cruise for your family, it is important to consider your family’s needs and preferences. Do you have young children who will need childcare? Are there any activities that your family enjoys doing together?
What type of accommodations does your family prefer? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the best cruise for your family.
2. Choose the right ship
Once you have an idea of what you are looking for in a cruise, you can start to look at specific ships. There are a variety of cruise ships available, each with its unique features and amenities.
Some ships are better suited for families with young children, while others are better suited for families who want to enjoy a more active vacation. You can read reviews of different cruise ships online to help you make your decision.
3. Select the right itinerary
The next step is to select an itinerary that is suitable for your family. There are many different itineraries available, so be sure to select one that includes stops at destinations that interest your family.
It is also important to make sure that the itinerary includes enough free time so that your family can enjoy some downtime together.
4. Book early
Once you have chosen a cruise ship and itinerary, it is important to book early to get the best price and selection. Prices for cruises typically go up as the departure date approaches, so booking early can save you money.
Additionally, booking early will give you a wider selection of staterooms and activities to choose from.
5. Get travel insurance
It is also important to purchase travel insurance when booking a cruise for your family. Travel insurance will protect you and your family in case of any unforeseen events, such as illness, injury, or cancellations.
Be sure to read the policy carefully so that you understand what is covered and what is not covered.
6. Pack wisely
When packing for your cruise, it is important to pack wisely to avoid paying baggage fees. Most airlines allow each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, so try to pack everything into these two items.
If you are bringing any electronics or valuables with you, be sure to pack them in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost or stolen.
What’s the most popular cruise for families?
Small ships offer a unique experience that larger, mainstream vessels cannot compete with. Intimate settings allow for more personalized service from attentive crew members and are much less overwhelming than busy ports of call experienced aboard bigger ships.
Family-friendly activities on board, such as mini golf, rock climbing walls, pools, water slides, and video arcades, make it easy for family members of all ages to enjoy their time together in a safe environment without the hassle or long queues.
What is the smallest capacity cruise ship?
Are you and your family looking for the perfect cruise getaway but don’t want to be overwhelmed by the size of a giant ship? Then a smaller capacity cruise may be just what you need.
The smallest capacity cruise ship currently sailing is the SeaDream I, which can hold up to 112 passengers and crew. This small boutique-style vessel offers larger-than-life luxury amenities in an intimate atmosphere.
The SeaDream I cruises throughout Northern Europe and The Mediterranean.
Onboard this small yet luxurious vessel, guests will find cozy cabins with all of the modern comforts that come with an upscale cruise experience, including complimentary Wi-Fi, spa treatments, fine dining, and daily activities such as yoga classes and cooking demonstrations.
Royal Caribbean vs Carnival, Which one is more kid-friendly?
When it comes to small cruise ships for families, Royal Caribbean and Carnival have become two of the most popular names in the industry.
Both companies offer a wide array of services and amenities that make them an ideal choice for families looking to take a fun-filled vacation at sea.
But when it comes to which one is more kid-friendly, there are some key differences between Royal Caribbean and Carnival that could sway your decision.
Royal Caribbean offers some of the best activities and entertainment options designed specifically with kids in mind, from their award-winning.
Adventure Ocean youth program offers interactive play areas, art classes, science experiments, and more, to their state-of-the-art onboard water parks with thrilling slides and splash zones – kids will never be bored.
The company also offers exceptional babysitting services so parents can enjoy some time away from their little ones if needed.
Do cruise ships have family suites?
Many small cruise ships are now offering family-friendly amenities, including dedicated family suites. These suites offer plenty of space for the whole family to relax and make the most out of their voyage.
Family suites on cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes, depending on the ship and its layout. Some may be large cabins with multiple bedrooms; others may be single rooms with separate bunk beds or pull-out sofas.
No matter what kind of suite you choose, they typically come equipped with the same amenities as other cabins: a bathroom, TV, refrigerator, and Wi-Fi access.
