Whether you've never cruised before, are rekindling your love for being out at sea after having children, or you're seasoned sailors looking to choose where to head on your next holiday, there are plenty of family-friendly cruise destinations waiting to be discovered.
From summer holidays in the Mediterranean to Northern Europe adventures or Christmas breaks spent discovering the Caribbean, keep reading to find out our pick of the best family cruise destinations.
Caribbean Cruise For Families
With its sparkling ocean, sandy beaches and vibrant culture, a Caribbean cruise is the perfect winter treat for all the family. From hours spent at sea, to days exploring the shore, escape the cold British weather on a family friendly Caribbean cruise; which are frequently voted as best cruises for families looking for some fun in the sun!
Where to go
When it comes to destinations, the best Caribbean cruises for families visit desirable locations such as the Bahamas, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos. From thrilling water sports to browsing the local shops and dining on regional specialities, there's something for everyone when you head ashore.
Alternatively, depending on the cruise line you're travelling with, you might get the chance to visit a private island, such as Royal Caribbean's Cococay or Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay. With beaches for relaxing, plenty of restaurants and even waterparks, guests of any age will enjoy hours of fun on these slices of paradise floating in the Caribbean sea.
When to go
While temperatures remain high throughout the year, the best time for a family Caribbean cruise is in the winter months. Travel in the Christmas holidays and treat your little ones to a festive season soaking up the sun and discovering new places.
Cruise Lines
With many cruise ships spending the winter season in the Caribbean, there are lots to choose from. Some of the best cruise lines when it comes to Caribbean cruises for families include:
Mediterranean Cruises For Families
Closer to home, and with the option to embark on a no-fly cruise, the Med offer the best cruises for families with young children. A family friendly Mediterranean cruise will take you and your loved ones to bustling cities and picture-perfect beaches anywhere from sunny Spain to the Greek Islands.
Where to go
When it comes to Mediterranean cruises, some of the most popular itineraries head to the Western Mediterranean, taking in desirable destinations across Spain, France and Italy, giving families the chance to explore some of Europe's most vibrant cities. Alternatively, for something a little different, an Eastern Mediterranean cruise is the ideal choice, with itineraries including the Greek Islands and even Turkey.
When to go
Not far from the UK and with warm weather through spring and summer, some of the best Mediterranean cruises for families are in the half term and summer holidays, providing the perfect getaway for both the children and adults.
Cruise Lines
To make Mediterranean cruises for families even more appealing, many cruise lines offer no fly cruises from the UK, meaning that you won't even have to worry about the hassle of air ports. Cruise lines include:
European Cruises For Families
If sun and sandy beaches aren't your top priority, there are plenty of other great destinations to visit in Europe, meaning that half-terms and summer holidays can be spent in fascinating ports of call and seeing more of the world.
Where to go
Northern Europe has plenty to offer if you're considering a family cruise, with many cities across the Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia offering the chance to combine diving into local culture with spending quality time together as a family. However, some of the best European cruises for families looking for something even more memorable are to Norway to discover the natural beauty of the Nowegian Fjords, and the Arctic Circle, where you might just get the chance to glimpse the spectacular phenomenon of the Northern Lights.
When to go
From the summer holidays to half term and the Christmas break, there's never a bad time to embark on a Europe cruise, although if you want to take the family to see the Northern Lights, winter is the best time.
Cruise Lines
Just like with cruises to the Mediterranean, no fly cruises from the UK can take you around Europe on cruise ships belonging to lines such as:
Now you've read our guide to the best cruises for families along with the destinations, browse our fantastic family cruise deals and get ready for an adventure everyone will love! If you'd like to keep reading, head to our page on family cruises, our guide to a cruise with toddlers, browse the best cruise ships for families or see the Best Family Cruises Summer 2024 blog.
