Looking for an easy family vacation? A cruise has something for every generation, giving you the perfect hack for your next trip.
Cruise ships bring together fun and relaxation as they travel to a myriad of destinations. Whether you are looking for endless activities, a chance for total relaxation or anything in between, a cruise has it all. Activities, amenities and destinations aboard a cruise offer options for all ages and travel styles.
Cruises have become more popular, especially for multi-generational travel. According to a May 2024 report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 28% of travelers sail with three to five generations in their party. The average age of cruise travelers is trending younger and now stands at 46. As a result, cruise lines are adding more experiences, technology and other amenities that cater to all generations.
Theresa Chu-Bermudez, owner of Get Out! Custom Travels, explains, “Cruising is one of the best ways for multi-generational families to vacation together. Catering to everyone's interests and energy levels can be one of the most challenging parts of planning a multi-gen trip. On a cruise, family members can choose their own adventure.”
Instead of picking a single destination and trying to arrange a schedule for everyone, a family cruise is the ideal vacation hack. Members of your family can choose from onboard and onshore activities, curating their own vacation. Spend the day relaxing or adventuring and come together as a family for an unforgettable trip.
Cruise ship activities for all ages
The modern cruise ship is a floating resort. While there is plenty of time to lay in a deck chair, soaking up sun and gazing at the sparkling water, you can also pack your days with all of the activities on board.
On a cruise, you’ll have a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from for every meal. There are kid-friendly options and adults-only options, as well as choices for ambiance and cuisine. With food available all day long, you won’t have to plan meals on your family vacation.
The offerings onboard will depend on your cruise line and ship. With a major cruise line like Carnival or Royal Caribbean, you’ll have a variety of amenities. Smaller or luxury ships may have fewer amenities that are often more targeted.
Adventure and entertainment on board
A family cruise will have activities and programming available all day long. Pools and water parks, volleyball, pickleball and other sports will keep you active. Daily shows and entertainment can include live music, comedy and theater. You can also be part of the show with karaoke or gameshows. For adults, onboard casinos offer the excitement of winning big on vacation.
Best ways to relax on a cruise
For travelers in your group that prefer a more laid-back experience, or if you need a break from the adventure, check out opportunities to relax. Many ships have spas and salons. Fitness classes, yoga classes, a jog around the deck or a dip in the pool or hot tub can be restorative.
Onboard shopping offers an opportunity to purchase clothing, jewelry and other luxury items duty free. You can also retreat to your room and order room service. This is a particularly nice way to relax and watch the waves if you book a balcony room.
Activities for kids and teens on cruises
In addition to pools and a water park, many ships offer kid-friendly activities. Mini golf, arcades, ropes courses, movies, sports courts and arts and crafts rooms are a few of the activities different ships offer for kids, teens and the young at heart.
Ships also generally have kids’ and teens’ clubs. These clubs are split by ages and offer age-appropriate activities and staff supervision. While the younger members of your party hang out, the adults can escape for a drink, spa treatment or just a bit of quiet time.
Best destinations for family cruises
With destinations around the globe, you can pick a destination that suits your family’s travel style. The destination and ports of call will influence the passenger demographic and the types of port activities available.
The Caribbean is an excellent cruise destination for a family trip and a popular choice, serving as the destination for 44% of cruise ship travelers in 2024 according to the CLIA report. Chu-Bermudez notes that, “Caribbean itineraries are also great for multi-generational vacations since they tend to depart from a US port which makes traveling a bit easier.”
Serviced by major cruise lines and smaller ships, your family can customize their trip. Islands throughout the Caribbean, such as St. Thomas, Aruba and Turks and Caicos, tend to be family friendly. An abundance of activities on shore offer shopping, dining, adventure, historical charm and beautiful white sand beaches.
The Mediterranean is another good destination for families. Beautiful scenery, vibrant culture and historic sites are the perfect setting for adventure and relaxation. Look for cruises that call in Venice, Dubrovnik, Barcelona or the Greek islands.
Dubrovnik is a hot spot for travelers, so be sure to check the best time to visit the coast of Croatia based on what you want to see and do.
Port excursions and day trips
At each port of call, cruise excursions let your family plan shore activities around your interests. Whether you want to wander on your own or join a tour, ports offer local food, shopping, historic sights and more. Enjoy some time off the ship with water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, swimming or relaxing on the beach.
Most cruise lines own private islands and beaches for a luxurious stop. In the Bahamas, Royal Caribbean will stop at CocoCay, Carnival at Half Moon Cay and Princess at Princess Cays. These private resorts offer beaches and activities exclusively to ship passengers.
You can also visit other resorts with a day pass, taking advantage of the many amenities they offer. In port at Nassau, an Atlantis day pass can give you access to beaches, an aquarium, a water park and more. Whether your family members are thrill-seekers or merely seeking opportunities to relax, they’ll find something to love.
If your cruise includes Venice, Verona is a perfect excursion for families who want to see Juliet’s balcony or wander through Roman ruins. Visit the hamlet of Borghetto, a tiny village along the river, known for its ancient watermills. Or combine these with Sirmione on Lake Garda to explore the castle and old town for a full day trip.
Book a cruise for an incredible family vacation
Family vacations create unforgettable memories and are an opportunity to bring loved ones together in the middle of busy lives. As you plan your next family trip, take the hassle out of scheduling and booking activities to please everyone. Opt for a cruise instead and everyone can create the vacation they want, all while spending invaluable time together.
This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
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