For a fun family getaway in the Caribbean, consider a cruise. It’s a great choice for families, because it enables you to visit a range of destinations easily, and also enjoy all the onboard amenities and activities.
There’s a huge range of cruise lines, ships, and itineraries out there, so in this article we’ll give you top 5 contenders for best Caribbean cruise for families.
Is a Caribbean Cruise Right for Families?
Before we get into the list, it’s important to address the misconception that many people have when it comes to cruising. Some people believe that cruising is only for older people, those with lots of money, or those looking for a peaceful getaway.
Many parents avoid cruising with the little ones because they think the kids will get bored, or the family will be crammed together 24 hours a day with no breaks. But this just isn’t true!
Here are a few reasons why Caribbean cruises are great for families.
Many Cruise Ships Have Children’s Activities
There’s a huge range of cruise ships that offer amazing activities aimed at kids. From zip lines to waterparks, kids’ clubs to gaming lounges, there’s plenty to keep the younger ones entertained.
Of course, this isn’t true of all ships or cruise lines. In fact, some cruise lines are adult-only, so be sure to do your homework on your cruise line ship before making a booking. A cruise travel agent can give you expert advice on which lines and ships are best for your family.
Many Cruise Ships Offer Babysitting Services
You may be surprised to learn that many cruise ships also offer babysitting services. These are usually available in the evenings, but depending on the cruise line childcare can also be found throughout the day, leaving the adults plenty of time to relax, go to the spa, or enjoy a peaceful drink or dinner.
Options Make Dinnertime Easy
With a variety of restaurants to choose from including a buffet-style restaurant on most ships, dining on a cruise makes eating out simple, even for picky eaters! Avoid the arguments over who wants to eat where each night by planning ahead.
The Caribbean Has Great Weather
With great weather in the Caribbean almost all year round, this is one of the best destinations to cruise with children. They will be able to spend plenty of time outdoors, soaking up the sunshine and playing in the pools.
The gorgeous weather also means a more enjoyable trip on land every time your ship is in port.
Now that you’re convinced how wonderful cruises can be, here are our choices for best Caribbean cruise for families:
Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line
If you’re a family that loves everything Disney, then this trip is perfect for you!
Guests begin their magical journey with an exciting week-long stay at Walt Disney World before heading off on a three-night round trip to The Bahamas, where you can visit Disney’s very own private island, Castaway Cay.
The Disney Wish boasts a great range of activities and amenities that Disney fanatics will simply love, including the AquaMouse water ride, a Frozen-themed dining experience with Anna and Elsa, and the opportunity to befriend Ant-Man and the Wasp with an Avengers encounter.
Adults are not left out either, as there’s even an onboard Star Wars-themed Hyperspace lounge, perfect for grabbing a drink and relaxing while the little ones play!
Mardi Gras, Carnival Cruise Line
Looking for a fun-filled family getaway for adventure seekers? Look no further than a trip aboard the Mardi Gras, with Carnival Cruise Line.
Spend a week cruising around the Eastern Caribbean and enjoy a wide range of on-land activities in a variety of beautiful destinations. From a relaxed beach day in Grand Turk to ziplining experiences in Puerto Rico and waterfall climbing in the Dominican Republic, there’s so much adventure to be had on this itinerary.
Of course, the adventure isn’t reserved just for when you’re on land. Onboard activities include the electric “Ultimate Sea Coaster” (a rollercoaster on the ship), a fun-filled water park, and SportSquare, where children can climb across a rope course.
Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean
For a one-week trip around The Bahamas and St. Maarten, this round trip cruise from Miami onboard Oasis of the Seas with Royal Caribbean is another good option for thrillseekers. Not only is there an exciting range of onboard activities to enjoy, but you also get to stop at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, home to its waterpark with the tallest waterslide in North America.
Onboard, this huge ship is jam-packed with adrenaline-filled activities for the older kids, such as zip wires, waterslides, and surf simulators. There’s also plenty to do for tots, such as playing in the Splashaway Bay water park.
Activities for the whole family to enjoy include ice shows on the rink and an AquaTheater. There are also 20 unique dining spots and 11 different bars and lounges.
Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Cruise Line
How about an eleven-night cruise to Curacao, Aruba, and the Dominican Republic onboard the Norwegian Encore with Norwegian Cruise Lines? Departing from Miami, guests can go snorkeling in St. Thomas, swim with stingrays in Antigua, and ride a rainforest aerial tram in St Lucia.
Back on board, there’s no shortage of fun, including a virtual reality complex, a variety of waterslides, a Formula One-style go-kart racetrack, and an open-air laser tag arena.
Norwegian Cruise Line also features a freestyle cruising approach. This gives families the freedom to eat when and where they like at a selection of 19 different dining spots.
Star Flyer, Star Clippers
If you’re traveling with children over the age of eight, then you might want to consider a week-long cruise aboard Star Flyer, one of Star Clippers’ gorgeous sailing ships.
This four-masted ship will take you on a journey around St. Maarten, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts, and St. Barts, exploring smaller Caribbean destinations rather than the main ports of call most large cruise ships stop at. This makes Star Flyer perfect for families who frequently visit the Caribbean.
Guests can enjoy relaxing at the two onboard pools, climbing to the Crow’s Nest, and lying in the bowsprit nests where you can see the dolphins diving below.
Still can’t decide which is the best Caribbean cruise for your family? Head on over to our Contact Us page to re quest expert assistance from one of our trusted travel advisors.