Royal Caribbean: the Best Cruise for Families

Choosing to embark on a family cruise is a thrilling adventure, but it can also be a daunting task with a myriad of options to sift through. How do you know which is the best cruise for families with kids? Enter Royal Caribbean, a cruise line celebrated for its boundless sense of adventure and a perfect fit for travelers of all ages.

Ship Choice

Royal Caribbean's extensive history offers a wide array of ships to cater to your specific interests and needs. However, for families with youngsters in tow, allow me to introduce you to the Oasis, Quantum and Ultra Quantum classes. These vessels are a masterclass in family-friendliness, boasting an array of activities, amenities, stateroom choices and dining options that are nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you're planning a multi-generational escapade or have kids of varying ages, these ships have got you covered. But if you yearn for a cozier, more intimate atmosphere, don't overlook the Vision, Radiance or Voyager class vessels. While they might not offer every high-tech bell and whistle, they still promise a fantastic family journey.

Destinations

When looking into the best cruise for families, the length of your voyage and your choice of itinerary should also be on your radar. Royal Caribbean has a wide range of itineraries and ports all over the world, ranging anywhere from two days to two weeks (or more)! Depending on your family's interests, you can choose from journeys that encompass the classic Caribbean, the rugged beauty of Alaska, the exotic allure of the South Pacific, the timeless charm of Europe, transatlantic crossings and a plethora of other options.

Staterooms

Royal Caribbean's accommodation choices are divided into four primary categories: interior, ocean view, balcony and suites. Within these categories, there's several subcategories to suit your preferences.

The newer ships have interior balcony staterooms which over-look the promenade or boardwalk. Some interior rooms are equipped with virtual balconies, creating the illusion of gazing out to the endless ocean.

If you're in need of more space but aren't sold on a balcony, consider booking a spacious family ocean view cabin. Then there are the balcony cabins. My family of four once shared a cozy balcony cabin with a lower bed and two pull-down beds—an ideal choice when your children are still little. However, as they blossomed into preteens and teens, we opted for two connecting rooms, guaranteeing ample space and the convenience of two bathrooms.

For larger families with five or six members, Royal Caribbean offers a selection of balcony cabins to accommodate your crew. Alternatively, you could indulge in the ultimate luxury by reserving a suite. Royal Caribbean's suite perks program, known as Royal Suite Class, is a game-changer, offering a smorgasbord of complimentary perks, including Wi-Fi, concierge service, priority boarding, access to exclusive restaurants and lounge privileges.

The cabin stewards service the rooms impeccably, even adding cute touches like towel animals!

Dining

Let's face it. You can't talk about the best cruises for families with kids without talking about food. Your family will LOVE all the options on board. Royal Caribbean has several included eateries including the main dining room, buffet, pizza parlor, soft-serve ice cream and, depending on the ship class, hot dogs, tacos and more.

For those seeking a gastronomic adventure, the specialty dining options are a must-try, albeit for an additional fee. One standout experience is the Chef's Table, where you'll savor an intimate and upscale five-course dinner paired with exquisite wines.

Room service is also available, making it the perfect solution for those busy mornings before venturing out to explore your latest port of call.

Activities

There is no shortage of entertainment and activities on board. Kids and adults alike will love the flow rider, water parks with slides, ice skating rink, movie theater, family friendly evening shows and entertainment, zip lining and rock climbing - just to name a few.

Adventure Ocean is Royal Caribbean's kids club. Geared towards ages 3-12, Adventure Ocean allows children to interact with each other and engage in exciting activities. My kids absolutely loved the art and science-based activities. The staff is very well trained and at pick up time my girls were all smiles, telling me all about their adventures and their favorite counselors.

Not to be left out, teens have their own areas on the ship where they can escape their parents and connect with others. These teen-only spaces encompass a lounge equipped with video games and billiards. A late-night dance club to unleash their inner dance star and an arcade to fuel their competitive spirits.

With an array of activities for kids to enjoy independently, adults deserve their own slice of paradise. The solarium, an indoor/outdoor retreat for adults only, beckons with a tranquil pool, a well-stocked bar and an abundance of inviting loungers. And don't let the voyage pass by without indulging in the spa experience. Each ship boasts a spa offering treatments ranging from blissful massages and rejuvenating facials to acupuncture and meticulous manicures. For adults feeling lucky, the onboard casinos provide a chance to try your hand at table games and slot machines.

We absolutely loved our experiences on each of our Royal Caribbean cruises. Simply put - they know how to wow guests of all ages. I highly recommend Royal Caribbean cruises for an exceptional family vacation.

Royal Caribbean is the best cruise for families. I recommend choosing Royal Caribbean for families with kids of any age, multi-generational families and even couples looking for a getaway, being sure to indulge in all the adult-only offerings.

Royal Caribbean often runs promos where kids sail free, adding to the great value you'll get when sailing with them.

I always recommend planning your cruise as early as possible for the best selection of cabin types. As your travel advisor, I can help with choosing the perfect category and location of your cabin to suit your families needs, as well as offer advice on what to pack to guarantee a smooth trip!