For families who love to travel together, a multigenerational cruise offers something for everyone. “Cruise lines are noticing that a lot of multigenerational families are starting to travel together,” says Tully cruise specialist Natalie Thomson. “Quiet kid-free zones have now been created for mom, dad, grandma and grandpa, allowing them to escape and enjoy a relaxing massage or even a romantic date night. And shore excursions are becoming more hands-on for kids, contributing to a wonderful family vacation where everyone is left asking, ‘When can we do that again?”‘ Ready to plan your next getaway? Here are our favourite cruises for multigenerational family travel.
Norwegian – From interconnecting staterooms to family dining, entertainment and activities, there’s plenty of bonding time to be had on a Norwegian holiday. With its private club-like atmosphere, Norwegian’s Haven area is particularly suited to families who like the jet-set lifestyle. Located at the top of the ship, Haven’s exclusive Courtyard boasts a private pool, hot tub, fitness area, dining areas and dedicated service from the Courtyard Valet, so there’s no need to race out in the morning to save your deck chairs. Multi-room suites come with their own private concierge and butler to cater to your every whim, and prime seats for shows and restaurants are secured for no-fuss attendance.
Royal Caribbean – Kids will love the chance to sail with Madagascar, Puss In Boots and other DreamWorks characters, while activities for tots to teens are sure to keep young cruisers busy. Parents can leave the young ones to play at Adventure Ocean while they take part in comedy shows, nightclubs, cool lounges and more. With My Family Time Dining, kids age 3 to 11 are served their meals and then picked up by Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean staff so you can enjoy the rest of your meal. Accommodation options meet the needs of families of all sizes, with spacious suites and interconnecting staterooms. For added privacy, many of the ship’s family staterooms provide separate bedrooms.
Disney – Disney may seem like the obvious choice, but still, this cruise line doesn’t rest on its laurels. Whether it’s relaxing me-time for adults, fun activities for kids or thrilling entertainment for the whole family, Disney makes sure each member of the family gets the vacation they deserve. Broad way-style shows, deck parties, Port Adventures and Disney-themed entertainment offer boatloads of fun for the whole family. Adults also have the chance to escape to adults-only locales and experiences—from adult-themed port adventures that’ll have you tee-ing off in Cabo to Disney Castaway Cay, an adults-only haven of sand and surf.
Celebrity – A host of family activities—from sports tournaments to pool volleyball, trivia contests and lawn games at the lawn club—offer an abundance of chances to make great memories together that last a lifetime. Kids also have their pick of youth-specific programs, including toddler time for kids under 3, Fun Factory for kids age 3 to 11 and an X Club for teens. Celebrity Cruises has even achieved Autism Friendly Cruise Line status, and offers autism friendly interactive initiatives for families living with autism. Parents and grandparents have their share of onboard activities too—learn to organize your vacation photos in the Celebrity iLounge and pick up a few new culinary techniques in one of the ship’s cooking demos. Babysitting services are available, in both the Fun Factory and in individual staterooms, to allow for a relaxing kid-free night out.
Uniworld – A cruise roundup wouldn’t be complete without a river cruise option, and Uniworld’s Generations program serves up a great time the whole family can enjoy. Explore the rivers of Europe together on a multigenerational journey that also provides unforgettable experiences onboard. Programming and kid-friendly activities keep young travelers engaged with plenty of free time for adults to relax and recharge, while shore excursions appeal to the younger set too, with treasure hunts, ghost walks and visits to a toy museum.
