With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and family-friendly activities, Alaska offers a unique travel experience that caters to visitors of all ages. For families looking to enjoy an Alaskan adventure, selecting the right cruise is crucial. Here are some of the best Alaskan cruises for families, ensuring a memorable and engaging trip for everyone in the group.
1. Quantam of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas is the latest addition to Royal Caribbean's fleet and offers a unique mix of activities tailored for families. The ship boasts a state-of-the-art theater with robotic "dancing" screens, a skydiving simulator, high-tech escape rooms, indoor basketball court, and dedicated children's spaces. Kids can enjoy hot dogs and pizza at themed eateries and participate in fun activities like a children's club, movies under the stars, and games. Quantam of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle and visitsSitka, Skagway, and Juneau, Alaska, providing breathtaking views of glaciers and wildlife.
2. Disney Wonder
Disney Cruise Line's Disney Wonder is the perfect size ship for families and offers a wealth of Disney magic at sea. From meeting Mickey and friends to dining in theme restaurants and watching a magical musical stage show of frozen, the Disney Wonder caters to the whole family. Cabins are designed with families in mind, with plenty of space and amenities. The ship's week-long Alaskan cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver, British Columbia, and visitJuneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria, BC, with opportunities to view glaciers. For added excitement, families can experience the Alaskan wildlife and environment firsthand during their voyage.
3. Carnival Spirit
Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Spirit offers great value for families with its all-inclusive package that includes accommodations, meals, activities, children's programs, and entertainment. The ship spends its summer in Alaska and serves as a great base for exploring the state's beautiful shores. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including comedy shows, mini-golf, and kid and tween clubs. The Carnival Spirit also offers free at-sea perks, such as a free beverage package, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credit.
4. Norwegian Encore
Nordic Cruise Line's Norwegian Encore is one of the largest ships in its class, offering plenty of activities for families. The ship features a laser tag arena, go-kart race track, virtual reality pavilion, and water park. Families can also enjoy shore excursions like dog sledding camps, scenic train rides, and gold mining experiences. Norwegian Encore's Alaskan cruises are ideal for families with younger children, as the ship's shorter itinerary allows for more family time and flexible shore excursions. Additionally, families can save money by taking advantage of the free at-sea perks, which often include a free beverage package and Wi-Fi connectivity.
5. Royal Princess
Princess Cruises' Royal Princess offers diverse itineraries and activities that cater to the whole family. The ship visits destinations like Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. The ship also features several family-friendly activities, such as movies under the stars, a kids' club, and the popular Alfredo's pizza. Princess Cruises' on board entertainment is top-notch, with live performances in the Princess Theater, activities throughout the vessel, and various family-themed events. The Discovery Princess also offers a unique partnership with Discovery Communications, offering special talks and recommended excursions that immerse families in Alaskan culture and wildlife.
Alaskan cruises for families represent a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, wildlife, and the environment. Families can enjoy a variety of activities tailored to their interests and age range, whether it's embarkation, beach landings, helicopter rides, hiking, kayaking, or even dog sledding. The best Alaskan cruises for families combine action-packed itineraries with vessels designed for family fun, ensuring a memorable and engaging trip for all the members of the family.
