Family cruise holidays: The best family cruises 2025

Best family-friendly cruises

Family cruise holidays are exciting ways to explore the world and relax with your kids. With all-inclusive meals, thrilling activities and exciting destinations, cruises take the stress out of family travel. The best part? You can find family cruises for summer holidays, festive Christmas adventures and school holiday getaways.

Summer holiday cruises

Summer is the ultimate time to set sail with the family. You can go snorkelling in the Caribbean, explore the Greek islands or cruise through the Norwegian fjords. Many cruise lines offer kid-friendly entertainment, from water slides and mini golf to interactive kids' clubs.

Fun activities on family cruises

A family cruise holiday isn't just about sailing from one destination to another. It's about having the time of your life onboard and onshore. Whether your family loves thrill-seeking adventures or just kicking back and relaxing, cruises are packed with exciting activities for all ages.

Endless entertainment for the whole family

Cruise ships are basically floating resorts, meaning there's never a dull moment. Kids will go wild for massive water parks with slides, splash zones and even wave simulators. Adventure seekers can take on rock climbing walls, ziplines and surf simulators.

For little ones, there are kids' clubs with treasure hunts, crafts and movie nights. Teens can chill in gaming lounges, virtual reality arcades and even escape rooms. Meanwhile, parents can relax at the spa or catch a Broadway-style show in the evening.

Do you love movies? Many cruise lines offer outdoor movie nights under the stars, which are perfect for the whole family. And, of course, don't forget the themed dinners and dance parties that bring everyone together for unforgettable moments.

Northern Europe & Norwegian Fjords

For families who love nature, a Norwegian Fjords cruise is a truly magical experience. Sail past breathtaking glaciers, dramatic cliffs and charming Nordic villages, all while soaking in some of the world's most stunning landscapes.

Stops in Oslo and Flam offer exciting activities for all ages. Kids can visit Viking museums, explore medieval castles or take a scenic train ride on the world-famous Flam Railway, winding through mountains and waterfalls. Outdoor lovers can enjoy spotting wildlife, like puffins and seals, or even hiking from breathtaking viewpoints. For a truly unforgettable experience, cruise during the midnight sun in summer or catch the Northern Lights in winter.

The British Isles

For culture and natural beauty, a British Isles cruise is a fantastic family cruise holiday. Explore Edinburgh's medieval streets or take a scenic drive along Ireland's Cliffs of Moher. Stops in London, Dublin and Liverpool offer plenty of kid-friendly museums and interactive attractions. It's a fun way to explore the UK and Ireland without long car journeys.

Q: When should a child be able to cruise?

A: Most cruise lines allow babies as young as six months, but for longer cruises (like transatlantic trips), kids must be at least 12 months. That said, cruising is best for toddlers and older kids who can enjoy kids' clubs and fun activities. If your child loves new, exciting places and fun in the sun, they're ready to cruise.

Q: Are cruises worth it for families?

A: Yes. Cruises are one of the easiest and most stress-free ways to travel with kids. With all-inclusive dining, exciting onboard activities and kid-friendly entertainment, there's something for everyone. Parents can relax while kids enjoy water parks and kids' clubs. Plus, you can explore multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking.