Searching for the perfect family adventure in the Last Frontier? Look no further than a scenic Alaskan cruise. Whether you're a pro at navigating the great indoors or a first-time traveler, there's a cruise line that's just right for the whole clan. Here are the top Alaskan family cruises that cater to families with kids.
1. Princess Cruises
One of the most family-friendly lines, Princess Cruises offer a variety of ships perfect for families with kids. Choose from the Anana, Star, Coral, and Grandeur, which all feature youth programs that include age-appropriate activities and supervised playrooms. The younger crew members can enjoy arts and crafts, video games, and movies. Plus, there's a Parent-Child activities program, and you can opt for in-room child care if needed. Your kids will love the interactive dining experience, and the daily activities are endless.
2. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line's family-friendly ships are perfect for all ages. Children can enjoy large waterslides, water park games, and dedicated play areas indoors. For outdoor fun, there's the Aquaventure Waterpark, featuring the world's longest river rapid slide, lazy river, and more. The kids program, Camp Carnival, has six age groups, and Supervised playrooms offer activities like crafts, wading pools, and gaming consoles. For a hassle-free vacation, Carnival's family-friendly cruises include all meals, activities, and childcare.
3. Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers an inclusive cruise experience with many family-friendly features. The line provides a supervised program for younger children, ages 3-7, and activities are also available for older kids. There's a late-evening program, and you can opt for in-cabin child care for an additional fee. Your kids will love the arts and crafts, sports, and video games. Plus, the line focuses on environmentally friendly practices.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL's "Freestyle" philosophy makes family-friendly cruises a breeze, with no set dining times, and onboard perks like a bowling alley. The Kids' Crew program features activities for three age groups, and the younger ones can utilize the play centers for free. Supervised activities for teens include parties and dances. For the youngest travelers (ages 6-23 months), there's a nursery with a reduced fare, and you can borrow toys or use playrooms. NCL also offers specialty dining options for a la carte dining.
5. Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity's ships offer a unique mix of luxury and activity. For kids, there are supervised activities for three age groups, and the line's signature Polar Explorer program includes exploration experiences like dog sledding and hiking. You can also book exclusive shore excursions designed just for families. The ships are aimed at an urban-cosmopolitan clientele, but there's still plenty of family-friendly excitement to be had.
6. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean's family-friendly cruises offer an array of activities both indoors and outdoors, including the famous boardwalk. For younger children, there's aParent-Child AquaVenture, and for teenagers, there's a separate youth program. The line offers a variety of ships with different layouts and dining options to suit families of all sizes. With so much to see and do, your kids are bound to have an unforgettable experience.
Best Family Cruise Line for Alaska
If you're looking for an Alaskan adventure that caters specifically to families with kids, then look no further than Princess Cruises. Their partnership with Discovery Communications means that each cruise includes unique activities and shore excursions tailored to the whole family's interests. The Discovery Princess, launched in spring 2022, is the line's newest and most family-friendly ship thus far. With its spacious quarters, engaging activities, and top-notch childcare options, it's no wonder that Princess Cruises is a top choice for families traveling with kids.
Why Choose a Family Cruise?
Family cruises have numerous advantages for families with children. They provide a relaxed and fun environment where parents can enjoy themselves alongside their children, eliminating the stress often associated with travel. Additionally, family cruises are a fantastic way for kids to learn and experience the natural wonders of the world in a safe and controlled setting. Whether you're looking to relax in a poolside cabanas or experience the thrill of an outdoor adventure, a family cruise has something to offer everyone in the family.
Whether your family is looking for a serene vacation with little ones or an adventurous experience for the whole clan, an Alaskan family cruise is a remarkable way to spend quality time together. The top cruise lines provide a range of family-friendly features that cater to various preferences and budgets, making it easy to find a perfect match for your family. Book your dream vacation today with the knowledge that your kids will remember their trip for years to come.
