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Cruise Experiences

Best family cruises.

Family time is the best time aboard a P&O Cruise! With Kids Clubs, family dining, shore tours and more, P&O is one of the best family holidays in Australia and New Zealand.

From playing Marco Polo to swimming with turtles in Papua New Guinea, a family cruise with P&O will be a holiday that you and your kids will never forget. Our family-friendly holidays offer something for toddlers, kids, teens, and adults of all ages. Whether it’s a school holiday cruise deal or a long weekend getaway, book the best family cruise with a P&O family cruise from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle, Cairns and Auckland.

The benefits of booking a family cruise

From Kids Clubs to family dining, to adventure parks and comedy shows, there’s never a dull moment on a P&O family cruise. With cooking, cleaning, planning and entertainment all taken care of, you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and spend some quality time with your favourite people as you cruise to stunning destinations in total bliss. From Kids Clubs to family dining to adventure parks and comedy shows, there’s never a dull moment on a P&O family cruise.

Stress-free travel

Kids Clubs & family dining

Family activities & kid-friendly entertainment

All-inclusive deals & no expensive surprises

Family-friendly activities

A P&O cruise offers a wide array of fun, safe, family-friendly activities - from waterslides and Kids Clubs to adventure parks and shore tours. Join the adrenalin lovers at P&O Edge Adventure Park for some action-packed fun in the sun, or explore our incredible interactive waterpark aboard the Pacific Explorer.

As well as an endless collection of fun activities, we offer four age-specific Kids Clubs, all included in your fare. With help from professional childhood academics, we run daily activities specially designed for kids, from arts and crafts to music and sports. It's the perfect combination of learning, entertainment and fun and not to mention, new-found friends. Each Kids Club program features specialised, age-specific activities, with our friendly and experienced staff supervising at all times.

To learn more, check out our Top 5 Fun Cruise Experiences for Kids

Cost effective & easy to plan

Planning a family holiday can be a stressful, time-consuming task that can often take longer than the holiday itself. Fortunately, our all-inclusive family cruises take all that hassle away thanks to a range of flexible group options that are easy to book and great value for money. Spend less time worrying about the details and spend more quality time with your loved ones. Plus, all your travel, accommodation, main meals in designated restaurants and entertainment are included in the price, making a P&O family cruise far more cost-effective and convenient than a holiday on land. Unpack once, and enjoy your family holiday immediately!

To find out more, read the 5 ways to plan the best family cruise holiday ever.

Family dining & accommodation

Whether you’re a family of 4 or cheaper by the dozen, we have dining and accommodation options to suit each family’s needs, including room options for families of five and eight (on Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure only). Cruise comfortably in one of our spacious Suites , or choose our Interconnecting rooms for some extra space. If you’re after something more budget-friendly, our interior rooms are a fantastic choice because who wants to stay in their room all day when there is so much to do on a P&O Cruise.

When you get hungry around mealtimes, you can relax knowing the cooking and cleaning is taken care of for you. Enjoy delicious food and ocean views with your loved ones with our family dining options . Aboard each of our ships, we offer a vast range of nutritious and delicious menu options for the whole family, so even your fussiest eaters will find something they love.

Unforgettable Shore Tours

Most shore tours offer children’s prices for ages 2 to 12 years on select tours. Plus, infants aged less than two years (sitting on a parent’s lap) tour for free! For small group tours, guests can even choose a private rental vehicle for ultimate flexibility. From stunning beaches and snowy mountains to colourful creatures and ancient temples, your family will never forget a P&O shore tour .

For extra room, consider a Suite

If your family enjoys spreading out, book a Suite! You and your family will love the extra space, separate sitting area and spacious balcony overlooking the water. Plus, you’ll even receive special treatment from priority embarkation to a complimentary laundry service.

Spacious living area

Large bathroom

Priority treatment

Private balcony*

*Private balcony not available on 5 berth family suites on Pacific Adventure.

Check out our great family group cruise deals below for a fun, convenient and cost-effective holiday option:

Best Family Cruise Deals

Stunning holiday destinations await the whole family aboard a P&O cruise. From Kids Clubs to family dining to adventure parks and comedy shows, spend some quality time with your favourite people as you sail to stunning destinations without a worry in the world. All the cooking, cleaning, planning and entertainment are taken care of so you can sit back and relax.

School Holiday cruise deals

Check out our excellent family group cruise deals below for a fun, convenient and cost-effective holiday option:

What It Means

5 Fun Cruise Experiences for Kids

With a seemingly endless array of activities, from adventure parks and Kids Clubs to tropical island shore tours, a P&O family holiday is guaranteed to keep kids - and adults - of all ages entertained for days on end.

5 Ways to Plan the Best Family Cruise Holiday ever!

A family cruise is one of the best ways to spend quality time with your loved ones - not to mention one of the easiest! With age-specific supervised kids’ clubs, special kid-friendly activities, tasty family dining and flexible accommodation options, it might just be the best family holiday ever!

The Best Family Cruise Deals

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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO

Holiday with the family.

Trying to plan the ultimate family holiday? Royal Caribbean offers thrills for everyone onboard

Pulling off the perfect family holiday isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to cater for different ages and preferences. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean is known for delivering great family getaways designed to wow guests across multiple generations. Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is packed with palate-pleasing dining options, incredible entertainment and unforgettable activities for all ages included in your cruise fare – not to mention itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most adventure-filled shores. The best part? All the planning has been taking care of for you, so you can focus on bonding with your loved ones while doing as much or as little as you like. 

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

Your next family getaway is a click away – where will you wander next?

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BOLDER FAMILY BONDING STARTS HERE

Family-friendly holiday destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

CocoCay Getaway

Kick family bonding up a notch at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas – voted Best Private Island Experience by Travel Weekly readers. Turn up the thrills, like conquering Daredevil’s Peak®, the tallest waterslide in North America. Or unplug and chill along Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

EXPLORE OUR PRIVATE ISLAND

TROPIC TREKS

Sun-kissed shores are yours to explore. Build epic castles on the pink sand beaches of Barbados . Splash into the turquoise waters of Curaçao. Or wander through legendary forts in Puerto Rico . No one does child-friendly cruises better than Royal Caribbean® – the cruise line voted Best Overall for 20 years running by Travel Weekly readers.

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

WILDEST WEEK EVER

Discover the magic of Alaska, where snowcapped mountains, towering forests and misty fjords dare you to deny their majesty. Spot bears hunting for salmon in Tongass National Forest. Listen to the thunderous roar of Hubbard Glacier . And cross once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list together – on one unforgettable journey.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

WEST COAST WANDER

Nothing fuels bolder bonding like an epic adventure with your squad. Set out from LA on the family holiday you’ve been waiting for onboard the best cruises for kids. From whale-watching in Ensenada to postcard-pretty shores in Puerto Vallarta and lounging on Cabo’s world-famous beaches – make memories that last a lifetime.

EXPLORE THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

SET SAIL ABOARD THE BEST SHIPS FOR FAMILIES

Cruise Planner is the place to get the most out of your adventure. Securing reservations and purchasing packages before you sail lets you score the best savings available anywhere. Add peace of mind to the mix – and you’re ready for big adventure. 

OF THE SEAS

CUE THE MEMORY-MAKING

From record-breaking rides – like the tallest slide at sea – to dining that offers a taste of every culture and shows that will leave you in awe, being onboard a Royal Caribbean ship makes the journey as bold as the destinations you’ll visit.

SUN-SOAKED FUN

Each ship offers endless ways for families to fill their sea days. Think epic experiences like a plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, and glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles that are bound to boost your adrenaline. Sun-soaked pool parties and hang ten sessions on the FlowRider® surf simulator. A round of Mini Golf with a side of sea views and a rushing zip line ride ten storeys above deck – and that’s barely scratching the surface.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR DINNER

With so many delicious dining options onboard, everyone in your family will find something to satisfy their cravings in between adventures. From the endless selection of complimentary flavours at Windjammer Café and family-friendly feasting with My Family Time Dining in the Main Dining Room, to speciality restaurants that take you from the Far East to Italy to Wonderland, there’s something to please every taste onboard.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

NEXT-LEVEL SHOWS

Every night is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some of the best entertainment at sea. Dazzling original productions and fan favourites straight from Broadway, deck-defying high dives and aerial stunts at the AquaTheater and the coolest moves you’ve ever seen on ice at the skating rink – you’ll quickly discover that on these ships, every performance is a show-stopper.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

Room for Everyone

Finding your crew’s just-right stay-place is easy, with spacious rooms designed with families in mind. Choose from rooms with endless ocean views or suites with wrap-around balconies. And if you’re craving next-level luxury, the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse on  Icon of the Seas℠ maxes the memories with three tiers of unbelievable amenities and direct access to the Surfside℠ neighbourhood from your private patio.

EXPLORE ACCOMMODATIONS

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO DATE NIGHT RIGHT

Who says a family holiday has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth programme, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world-class speciality restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theatre, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

CHILD APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grown-up time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programmes provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children ages 3-11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMMES

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favourite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

FAMILY HOLIDAY MODE ON

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

Many of the attractions onboard require closed-toed shoes and socks, so pack accordingly.

Even if you’re on a summer sailing to the tropics, pack a jumper if you plan to use the ice skating rink.

Luggage might not arrive in your stateroom until later. Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can dive into adventure early.

BEYOND BRAGWORTHY

Fill every minute with everything you love, whenever you want. Indulge in gourmet globe-trotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment and take on fleet favourites like rock climbing and the FlowRider® surf simulator, plus so much more!

H2O ZONE WATERPARK

ESCAPE ROOM

VIRTUAL ADVENTURE ZONE

THE PERFECT STORM

ADVENTURE OCEAN

IZUMI HIBACHI & SUSHI

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Family Friendly Cruises for Kids

Voyages of discovery and reconnection that everyone from grandkids to grandparents can share., best family cruise destinations, alaska cruise destinations and cruisetours.

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Walk along sun-kissed beaches in laid-back style.

European Cruise Destinations

Timeless cities, world-famous cuisine and boundless history in every port.

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Destinations

The Great Barrier Reef, stunning coastlines and relaxed charm are calling.

3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free

Cruise activities for the whole family.

Princess makes sure there are a variety of family friendly cruise activities so you have plenty of ways to spend quality time together

Adventures every member of the family will enjoy

Unique and immersive travel experiences, including more time in more ports, Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ shore excursions, and award-winning onboard programs, have earned Princess the distinction of "Best Cruise Line for Multi-Generational Family Travel" in the  Porthole Cruise Magazine 2018 Readers' Choice Awards.

Princess MedallionClass®

Get more from family time with the MedallionClass experience on all ships. Easy embarkation and customizing dining preferences, including pace, means fewer meltdowns. Interactive games and the fast, reliable MedallionNet® Wi-Fi keep the gang entertained. And you’ll always be able to find the kids (or the adults!) anywhere on board. Connect with what matters most – each other – on your Princess MedallionClass cruise.

Get in the family zone

New on the Caribbean Princess®, the Reef Family Splash Zone is the perfect place to relax, have fun and enjoy the water. An interactive splash pad with giant whale feature will entertain kids of all ages with showers, sprays and a water jet from the whale's spout! Oversized backyard games in the all-ages game zone set the stage for some good natured family competition. Celebrate after with playful mocktails for the kids and refreshing cocktails for the parents at our kid-friendly bar area. When you need a break from the sun, head to the comfy loungers and sheltered shade canopies.

Discovery™, Discovery Family™ & Animal Planet™ shore excursions

Welcome to enriching, immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences your whole family will never forget — especially on unique Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ Exclusive Tours that can't be booked independently, and are available only through Princess Cruises.

Voyage to the stars

Princess enables everyone in the family to find their place among the stars. With top-deck stargazing, an indoor planetarium with real-time views of planets, stars and galaxies, Camp Discovery activities, expert insights through Encounters with Discovery at SEA, engaging stateroom content and more, there are many unique experiences for every family to enjoy.

Meet Stanley

Make friends with the cuddliest bear at sea. Interact with Stanley throughout the voyage — at photo ops, story time, bear games, and crafts! You can even get your own Stanley exclusively on board and bring him home as a reminder of your special journey. And don’t forget to share your adventures on social media with #StanleyAtSea.

Immersive Princess entertainment

The thrill of being part of a live-theater audience is something family members will relive for years. And Princess-exclusive, Broadway-caliber stage shows from award-winning composer Steven Schwartz are a dazzling way to bring everyone together. You'll also find plenty of opportunities for audience participation with  The Voice of the Ocean  musical competition, the  High Seas Heist  mystery challenge and  Can You Survive?  game show.

So many fresh ways to dine together

Eat dinner every night as a family and try new regional foods together. Satisfy everyone's personal tastes with a delicious variety of casual dining options, special kids' menus in the Main Dining Room, and the ability to cater to individual dietary preferences upon request. Princess does the cooking and cleaning so you can spend more time focusing on what matters most.

Family cruise celebration vacations

The heart of a celebration is spending time with those you love. But what if one person you love is 17, and the other is 71? It’s hard to pick an activity that appeals to everyone. A Princess family cruise is a perfect chance to celebrate together while enjoying the hundreds of amazing activities taking place on Princess ships from morning to night.

Family-friendly cruise lodging

Princess makes it easy to sail together in comfort. ‭In addition to comfortable Mini-Suites and spacious Suites, ‭larger groups can ‭opt for a Family ‭Suite which includes ‭two interconnecting ‭staterooms and ‭sleeps up to eight on select ships.

Explorers Come in All Ages. And Princess Inspires Their Imaginations

Uniquely themed centers host engaging activities specially designed to help them play, huddle, create and discover.

Exciting youth & teen clubs

In partnership with Discovery™, Princess has developed engaging new youth programming and wonder-filled centers designed for our youngest guests.

• Places for young explorers to learn about the world and discover new interests.
• Invitations to meet new friends and enjoy memorable experiences while sailing.

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 6 Months - 2 Years

Making our youngest voyagers feel right at home.

Princess welcomes babies, toddlers and preschoolers to the world of cruising with services and amenities that make life easier for their families as well. These young guests are welcome in Camp Discovery when accompanied by a parent. Mini-Suites and Full Suites offer full-sized bath tubs, and wash bins for showers are available. Staterooms with balconies are perfect for naptime. You can request high chairs, booster seats and cribs. We also provide complimentary jarred baby food. And fresh, pureed foods (fruits, veggies and rice) are available in the main dining room, specialty restaurants, and Horizon Court or World Fresh Marketplace.

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 3-12

The treehouse — ages 3-7.

This bright, whimsical, forest-themed center for children features hands-on activities and programs surrounded by captivating creatures.

The Lodge — Ages 8-12

Inspired by the great outdoors, this cozy center is filled with sports activities and comfortable places for kids to explore, hang out and lounge.

Sports, games, physical activities

• Scavenger hunts, group games, basketball tournaments, ping pong competitions, dodgeball, skeeball, dance parties and more!
• Try your skills on PlayStation®, Nintendo Wii™, and XBOX Kinect consoles, board games, air hockey and ping-pong.
• Join dance classes and engage in friendly competitions.
• Enjoy sports including basketball, mini golf, yoga and miniature Olympics.

Places, Animals, Science

• Mythbusters Jawsome Sharks program: Try hands-on challenges, featuring Tori Belleci from the show.
• Animal Planet™ uncovers ferocious secrets in  Shark Attack , and learn squid anatomy in  Just Squiddin’ Around .
• Learn the science of magic or become an engineer for a day with programs from the  California Science Center , home of the  Endeavour  space shuttle.
• Inspire a love of nature from the regions we sail with Animal Planet Endangered Species and Glacier Bay Jr. Ranger programs.

Fun interactions with peers

• NEW!  Rhythm of the Caribbean : Caribbean music, dance, trivia and crafts light up the night for the whole family.
• Wild Alaska Festival : Celebrate Alaskan nature at this family theme night.
• Discovery at Sea™ theme days with activities inspired by  Shark Week  and Animal Planet.
• Talent Shows showcase singing, dancing, musical skill, and jokes.
• Theme Nights include Pirate, Mexican Fiesta and competitive Challenge themes.

Arts, crafts, inventions

• Compete: Join the Klutz® paper airplane challenge or Lego boat-building contest.
• JrCHEF@Sea: Learn cake decorating and enjoy the results with your family.
• Make Animal Planet puppets, masks and paintings inspired by regional wildlife.
• Klutz® Art Projects: Craft bracelets, velvet art, jewelry and more.

Teens Cruise Activities — Ages 13-17

The beach house — ages 13-17.

This contemporary beach-themed lounge is "the" place for teens to hang out, socialize and connect.

You won't want to miss our  Rock the Boat Party . It’s the occasion to dress up, stroll down the red carpet and flash your VIP badge, then enjoy an evening of mocktails, awards and celebrating with your friends.

Competitions

Give your skills a workout in our video game tournaments. Play to win in air hockey, foosball and ping-pong. Or compete in outdoor sporting activities like dodgeball and basketball tournaments.

Dance classes

Perfect your moves with guidance from one of our crew dancers, then show what you’ve got at dance competitions and parties.

Movies & more

Get your scream on at  Scary Movie Night , or catch some recent hits at  Late Night Movies . Or cast yourself in a whole new light with teen makeovers and glitter tattoos.

Youth & Teen Program Registration

Registration Form with Youth Guidelines & Safety Measures (PDF)  or  Register Online

Registration Form with Teen Guidelines & Safety Measures (PDF)  or  Register Online

Please note:  During voyages with a high number of families onboard, we will make all efforts to accommodate interested parties. However, participation in our program cannot be guaranteed. Hours of operation may change to better serve our guests.

Hours of Operation:  Sea days 9:00am to 12:00 pm | 1:00pm - 5:00pm | 6:00pm - 10:00pm. Port Days 8:00am - 5:00pm | 6:00pm - 10:00pm. Depending on the itinerary, port hours may be expanded. Check the schedule once onboard. The program is complimentary during port days and advanced bookings are not required.

Kids and Youth center facilities vary across Princess cruise ships.

Parents Night Out

Where kids can play while you're away.

Rest assured, whether you've planned a day of exploring or a romantic night out, the group kidsitting at our Youth Centers offers your children between the ages of 3 and 12 plenty to look forward to. It's the perfect place for them to relax or play games with their friends. And the charge is just $5.00 USD per hour per child.

Dinner events exclusively for kids

Children and adults alike get the chance to enjoy dinner on their own with a variety of opportunities for kids to eat with their friends and Princess Youth Staff. They'll find kids-only dinners on select evenings, a teens-only dinner on a formal night in an exclusively reserved section of the dining room, as well as ice cream and pizza parties held throughout the voyage. Please be sure the Youth Staff members know about any food allergies your child may have.

Cruise Activities for Young Adults — Ages 18-20

Imagine a secret society. Only those invited can join. Guests ages 18-20 will learn the secret handshake and be granted a special code word to unlock an exclusive list of Club1820 events made just for them. No parents, no little siblings, no official hosts.

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FAMILY CRUISE DEALS

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DISCOVER UNLIMITED FUN ON THE HIGH SEAS DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS!

At Carnival, a family cruise package is more than just a holiday – it's an adventure of a lifetime. Spend your school holidays sliding down water slides, splashing in pools, or simply relaxing on deck. Our family cruises offer a wide range of entertainment for the whole family, day and night.

And what's a proper family cruise package without some quiet alone time for the parents? With our fully supervised parent-free events and cruise activities for kids of all ages, you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation in our relaxation pods in Serenity.

On top of all the fun onboard, a family cruise package can take you to some amazing ports, allowing you to explore what Australia and the South Pacific has to offer.

Departing from Brisbane and Sydney, our family cruises will give you all a getaway to remember.

VIEW FAMILY CRUISE DEALS

Entertainment

There’s nothing quite like a live show after a fun filled day. Kickback and let us entertain the socks off you.

DINING & BARS

Every meal will be the adventure of a lifetime for your tastebuds. Our talented chefs and bartenders will bring out your inner foodie.

When was the last time that you really relaxed? A visit to our Spa & Fitness centre will leave you in seventh heaven.

We put the fun into Family Cruise Packages

In order for any family holiday to be a success, you need to find generational activities that’ll delight any age group. And that is easy and fun to do on a Carnival cruise. Life as a parent is busy and that’s something the Carnival Cruise Line team understands.

So, why not book a spa therapy or night out while our friendly onboard take care of the kids’ clubs. We even have a teen club, 12-14 years with Circle ‘C’. When you’re done, reunite in the water park or at the mini-golf while a hit movie unfolds on the big screen out on deck. For family dining options, head to Guy’s Burger Joint for juicy burgers or be tempted at Masala Tiger.

As ever, the journey is the destination onboard your family-friendly cruise holiday with Carnival.

Commonly Asked Questions

How to get the best deal on a family cruise.

Finding an affordable family-friendly holiday that suits old and young children, and is perfect for mum and dad, is no longer a problem with a family cruise deal from Carnival. Have fun every day, and relax in style, with one of our great value favourite family cruises. To find the best family cruise deals, simply choose your:

• Destination

What is the best cruise for families in Australia?

Well, we are a tad biased, but if you’re looking for family cruise deals from Sydney and family cruise deals from Brisbane that will create life-long memories, then you can stop clicking. Carnival family cruises give you and your family everything you could ever want in one place – from spa treatments and swimming pools to playlist productions and arts and crafts . And that doesn’t even include the:

• Serenity Adult Only Retreat
• Activities for everyone
• Shore Excursions
• Video Games

Oh, and have we mentioned that the kids will be flat out all day and night with endless fun activities?

How much does a cruise cost for a family?

Finding a family cruise deal that’s right for you comes down to choosing a range of different options, including from our unique staterooms .

• Family Suite

Each room is perfect for family of 4 cruise deals, and we even offer adjoining rooms for that extra space and privacy. Not that you’ll be spending too much time there.

What is the cheapest month to go on a family cruise?

Find the great rates, exclusive offers and special deals and fit them in with your family’s schedule. When it comes to value for money, a family cruise deal has it all. With Carnival, you’ll find family cruises that suit your budget, whenever you want to sail. You can even organise an onboard credit prior to departing.

How to book a family cruise deal?

Simply find a family cruise deal and book online today. Family cruise deals offer you and your loved ones a cruise ship holiday like no other.

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BEST CRUISES FOR FAMILIES

Check out our best cruises for families through bluesun travel.

Plan a holiday cruise of a lifetime with our Best Cruises for Families , We always have an amazing choice of family cruises around Australia and the world.

FAMILY CRUISES - HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT CRUISE

Family Cruises are back in fashion big time and surging in popularity which is why we dedicate this section to the Best Cruises for Families . And it’s not just with mum and dad and the kids. They are bringing together the whole extended family with grandparents, as well as uncles, aunts, cousins and yes, even their friends. Where family cruises were once the domain of small parties, today they are comprising larger groups and all ages.

The big question is where to start looking for the best family cruises? Which cruise lines or ships cater for families the best?

The hunt is not an easy one, as there are multiple variables to take into account, including budgets, destinations, duration and of course the ages. Some cruise ships steer away from families and kids, with openly “adults only” voyages. Others welcome and embrace them. Even the accommodation options are being tailored to family packages. However, if you are bringing younger kids with you, don’t expect every ship to be fun for the kids. You need to get it right or you’ll have a miserable time dealing with the grumpy little ones!

Use the Wisdom of Cruise Experts

BlueSun Cruises are forever on the hunt for the best family cruise packages. With so many options to choose from, we encourage you to call our friendly team and seek their advice. We spend a lot of our time working with families and have some great tips too.

Top Ocean Cruise Lines For Families

• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• P&O Cruises Australia
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Costa Cruises

Top River Cruise Lines For Families

• CroisiEurope
• Emerald Cruises
• Riviera Travel River Cruises

BlueSun Cruises is a division of BlueSun Travel and is an Australia & Asia Travel specialist with a huge choice of cruises departing from ports around Australia. We have access to a vast number of Sydney Cruise Deals, so feel free to click on the links below to discover amazing deals:

Click here to find one of our many othe r   CRUISE DEALS .

For more information on our Best Cruises for Families  call us now on 1300 799 758 .

We are available to chat 7 days a week, even on Sundays!

CHECK OUT OUR BEST CRUISES FOR FAMILIES DEALS

We've selected the best ones for you.

** Prices, dates and itineraries are dynamic and are subject to change without notice.  All prices are quoted per person, in Australian Dollars (AUD), unless specified othewise. 

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Best Family & Kid Friendly Australia Cruises

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14 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

• You want big ship features on a smaller, manageable scale
• You appreciate having plenty of choice when it comes to food
• You want accomodations with private balconies for lounging
• You want a cruise ship with a real party atmosphere by night
• You are bringing kids, and want amenities like waterslides

4 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

9 night cruise to australia & new zealand, 3 night cruise to australia & new zealand.

• You are traveling as a family and want a slice of Disney at sea
• You love family-friendly activities and adult-oriented amenities
• You want a ship that can please adults and children alike
• You dislike cruising with large numbers of families and children
• You are budget-conscious and book cruises at the last-minute
• You are looking for an adult-oriented cruise experience
• You want a classy, big ship experience with lots of amenities
• You are traveling as a family and need a cruise for all ages
• You like having plenty of choice when it comes to food onboard
• You are looking for nonstop, Vegas-style nightly entertainment
• You dislike crowds; disembarking the ship can require patience
• You feel more at home on a smaller and more intimate ship

54 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

• You want plenty of choice on a more traditionally styled ship
• You love open deck space; this ship has lots to go around
• You enjoy a wide array of family-friendly entertainment choices
• You've cruised on Coral Princess and loved the experience
• You want cabins with ultra-luxe features and amenities

2 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

5 night cruise to australia & new zealand.

• You want to be wowed by glitzy, Vegas-style attractions
• You need plenty of exciting activities and nonstop nights
• You are traveling as a family and need something for everyone
• You want cutting-edge design and all the latest features
• You dislike crowds and additional charges; both are here
• You want to channel the great ocean liners of yesteryear
• You want a sophisticated cruise that won’t hurt the wallet
• You enjoy live music, enrichment lectures and afternoon tea
• You dislike formality and dress codes; that's part of the fun
• You prefer wacky pool games to relaxing on deck with a book
• You want a ship that provides a fully inclusive cruise experience

13 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

• You want an upscale cruise experience at a decent price
• You like having plenty of options for dining and entertainment
• You appreciate cruise ships with plenty of innovative amenities
• You are looking for a truly all-inclusive cruise vacation
• You typically only cruise on the latest and largest ships

10 Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand

7 night cruise to australia & new zealand, explore australia.

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Family Cruises

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From fun activities on board to adventurous excursions on land, our award-winning cruises offer unforgettable experiences for the whole family to enjoy. Kids, parents, and grandparents will find plenty of opportunities to spend quality time together and create memories that will remain long after your vacation ends.

Gather everyone for a movie night under the stars. Enjoy theater shows and live music. Splash with your kids on the beach or go on thrilling shore excursions with adventurous teens. There’s something for everyone to love on our fun-filled family cruises.

Kids and Teen Programs

The fun starts at Camp At Sea, our onboard entertainment center and program designed exclusively for kids ages 3 to 12. Open every day from 9:00am - 10:00pm, Camp at Sea offers kids the opportunity to participate in a number of entertaining activities, including treasure hunts, arts and crafts, sports, and theme parties, all under the supervision of our experienced youth staff. For our teen cruisers, the Teen Club is the place to be. At the Teen Club, they can make new friends and participate in events like video game competitions, teen parties, and culinary classes. Activities are overseen by our team of teen counselors and offered throughout the day, allowing teens to come and go as they please.

Entertainment On Board

There’s no shortage of entertaining venues on board. Spend the day swimming in the pool with the kids, then watch the sunset while relaxing in one of our elevated hot tubs. Gather on board for movie night under the stars, silent disco parties, hot glass classes, and archery tournaments —so many activities to share. Don’t miss the views from the Lawn Club or the Resort Deck, which provides the ultimate backdrop for a picture-perfect family photo.

One of the top reasons we’re one of the best cruise lines for families is because we offer an array of family-friendly shore excursions at over 300 port destinations. With activities varying from cultural tours to thrilling water sports, families will have no trouble finding a number of exciting excursions such as swimming with dolphins, hiking up volcanoes or glaciers, and strolling through ancient Mayan ruins.

Family Luxury at The Retreat

The Retreat is the ultimate luxury vacation experience on board. Families staying at The Retreat will not only enjoy a private sundeck*, but also spacious suite accommodations with expansive verandas and large lounge areas, where the whole family can comfortably relax and spend time together. Those traveling with multiple family members can stay at our Penthouse Suite or book one of our breathtaking Iconic Suites, which span over 2,500 square feet.

*The Retreat Sundeck available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships.  

Unforgettable Family Cruise Destinations

With over 300 destinations on our itineraries, there are plenty of exciting places waiting to be discovered. Tropical islands, cosmopolitan cities, seaside villages, and rustic towns are all on the agenda.

Take the family on a cruise to Alaska, where you’ll sail through the famous Inside Passage and witness the magic of towering glaciers and the stunning wilderness of the Last Frontier. If you’re looking for a little bit more culture, head on one of our European journeys, where you’ll stroll past ancient buildings, feast on exquisite cuisine, and stop by picturesque towns. As for a sun-soaked vacation, it doesn’t get much better than a cruise to the Caribbean, where white sand beaches and turquoise waters await.

SOUTH AMERICA

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Family Fun for Everyone

Cruises are the perfect opportunity for multigenerational family members to bond. Spend the day together at the pool, sign up for any number of group activities, and enjoy nightly family meals at our main dining room. If you want to try something different, then plan a skip-generational vacation, where parents stay at home and grandparents are free to spoil their grandkids during an unforgettable trip.

Summer Cruises

What better way to enjoy the warm, balmy weather of summer than by sailing to a sunny destination with the family? Spend a week visiting Caribbean beaches, chase adventure during a cruise to Alaska, or discover the best of Europe while on a Mediterranean journey—our summer cruises are what vacation dreams are made of.

Spring Break Cruises

Take advantage of spring break and spend seven days at sea with the kids. Even though school’s out, there are still plenty of opportunities for learning on board. At Camp at Sea, children can take art classes, participate in sports activities, and sign up for special STEM-based programs focused on marine biology and environmental conservation.

Holiday Cruises

Celebrating the holidays with family is easy while aboard one of our cruises. Even if you’re far away, you’ll feel right at home with our festive decorations and delicious traditional holiday meals. Get into the holiday spirit by hearing Christmas carols or taking in a holiday show at our theater. And don’t worry, Santa always makes a surprise appearance bearing gifts for the kids.

Find the Perfect Family Cruise Vacation Itinerary

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Best Cruises for Kids in Australia and the Pacific

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Cruising is becoming increasingly popular with families, particularly ones with young or teenage children. Today’s big cruise ships offer an amazing array of kid-friendly activities, entertainment and shore tours – and if you’re looking for a budget-friendly holiday that doesn’t involve taking a long flight, there’s more choice of cruises in our region than ever before.

Some of the most family-friendly ships sail from Australian ports year-round – P&O Cruises’ Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel, Pacific Pearl, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden; and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit.

Other lines send ships to Australasia for the summer season, which runs from October to April – these include Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line (HAL), Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean. While Celebrity, HAL and Princess ships are well-suited to couples of 50-plus and multi-generational cruisers and offer kids’ clubs and activities, Royal Caribbean is a standout in terms of its ships’ onboard attractions and dedicated areas for active children and teens.

If you’ve never cruised with kids before, it’s a good idea to check out some shorter itineraries. Ships get booked up quickly during school holidays so you need to do some advance planning – also, when you book early you’ll have more choice of accommodation.

The most popular cruises are to the Pacific Islands and all the cruise lines mentioned above sail there. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights; some include visits to Fiji and New Zealand and all go to Vanuatu and New Caledonia. You’ll find several cruises to New Zealand and lots that sail around the Australian coast – P&O Cruises home-ports its ships in Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney.

What will you find aboard the ships sailing from Australia year-round? Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit offer three age-specific kids’ clubs: the Penguin Colony (two to five), Stingrays (six to eight), Sharks (nine to 11), Circle “C” (12 to 14) and Club O2 (15 to 17). These are free of charge and each club has its own special features – from miniature play igloos for the youngest cruisers to interactive gaming stations for the older kids.

Outdoor fun includes the Green Thunder waterslide, billed as the steepest at sea; WaterWorks aqua park, which has the Twister ride and Splash Zone for younger kids; three pools; mini-golf and a basketball court. In the evenings you can watch movies on the giant outdoor screen by the pool – complete with popcorn and blankets.

Real-life Dr Seuss characters pop up all over the ships – kids can meet Cats in Hats, Fish Red and Blue and Things One and Two, in parades, hosting interactive story time and at special breakfasts when Green Eggs and Ham are on the menu. Hasbro The Game Show is another drawcard for family members of all ages.

Eating onboard Carnival Spirit and Legend is a breeze – kids’ menus are served in the Camp Ocean clubs and eateries include Guy’s Burger Joint, Freshie’s Corner, which serves fish and chips among more sophisticated seafood dishes, and the Lido’s Pizza Pirate pizza station and Swirls ice cream bar. Save the Cherry On Top lolly shop for special occasions (if you can).

P&O Cruises’ five ships range in size from 1500 passengers (Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden) to the 2000-passenger Pacific Dawn. All ships feature the P&OEdge Adventure Park, which boasts 19 exciting activities on the top deck. Activities include a flying fox, funnel climb, Segway obstacle course and bungee trampolining; on Pacific Dawn you can ‘walk the plank’ and climb to the Crows Nest Viewpoint. There are charges for each activity, so if your family is planning to use them a lot, it’s worth buying a P&O Adventure Pass that lasts for the whole cruise.

The ships host four age-specific kids’ clubs: Turtle Cove (two to six), Shark Shack (seven to 10), HQ (11 to 14) and HQ+ (15 to 17) as well as talent shows, karaoke, Teen Jam music sessions and movie-making workshops. Deck games such as golf-putting, quoits, table tennis and good old-fashioned shuffleboard are available and each ship has two pools.

Kids’ menus are served in the Waterfront Restaurant every day and Plantation offers a kids-only dinner each evening, which includes special appearances from TC and Skipper, the mascots from Turtle Cove and Shark Shack.

Royal Caribbean’s ships are renowned for their rock-climbing walls, ice rinks, FlowRider surf simulators and even more outlandish activities on its newest, biggest ships. Of the four regular visitors Down Under (Explorer, Voyager, Radiance and Legend of the Seas), Explorer and Voyager are both fitted with FlowRiders and ice-skating rinks.

Ovation of the Seas, which will be the newest ship ever to cruise in Australia when it arrives for a short season in December 2016, takes onboard entertainment to a whole new level. Ovation is the third Quantum-class ship and its famous features include a skydiving simulator, the NorthStar viewing capsule rising 90 metres above sea level, bumper cars, circus school and rollerskating – and two FlowRiders.

Kids’ clubs on Royal Caribbean ships start with Aquanauts (three to five years) and move up the age range to Explorers (six to eight), Voyagers (nine to 11), Navigators (12 to 14) and Guests (14 to 17). Entertainment for 12 to 14-year-olds include rock-climbing competitions, dodgeball, talent shows, open-mic nights and Scratch DJ Academy. Older teens have organised basketball comps plus their own theme nights, dinners and karaoke competitions. Younger children will also enjoy meeting DreamWorks characters from Shrek, Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda on board Voyager and Ovation.

Kids’ menus are available and each ship has a wide range of restaurants and cafes where you’ll find something to suit every member of the family, however fussy they are. Windjammer Café is the buffet option and specialty restaurants such as Johnny Rockets will appeal to the teens.

When you’re planning a family cruise, make sure you spend some time researching the shore excursions on offer to get the best value from your holiday dollar. It can be worth doing your own thing. If the organised tour is to an island beach, for example, and you have small children sometimes you’ll have more fun staying on the ship on port days because there will be fewer people in the pools, aqua parks and adventure playgrounds.

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All aboard… forget all-inclusive beach resorts, if you want your kids to have a trip of a lifetime then head to the seas.

More and more cruise ships are pulling out the stops to keep little ones happy: we’re talking water parks, themed entertainment, fairgrounds, children’s parades, live shows, video games arcades and ice skating. Not to mention facilities such as teen lounges and night clubs, dodgems and sky diving simulations for hard-to-please adolescents. Of course there is something for parents too, with many ships offering entertainment along the lines of casinos, cocktail bars, spas and onboard shopping. Simply put, cruise holidays are a stress-free and fun way for the entire family to experience some of the world’s most amazing destinations.

So, which cruise lines, ships and itineraries are the best of the best for families? Browse an array of cruises, hot deals, special offers and travel inspiration here.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas: everything on board for families

The colossal Quantum of the Seas blurs the traditional boundaries of cruise travel, merging relaxation with exhilarating adventure. Here’s everything families should know about the buxom Brisbane-based ship.

The Wiggles join Royal Caribbean for exclusive ‘Wiggles Sailings’ in Australia

Family-friendly cruise line Royal Caribbean is teaming up with The Wiggles for exclusive ‘Wiggles Sailings’ for summer 2025-26.

POV: Sailing on Disney Wonder from Sydney to Hobart

We set off on Disney Wonder’s maiden Australian voyage.

Seven irresistible reasons to set sail with Carnival Cruise Line

No longer expensive, adult-only affairs, modern cruise liners now boast fun-filled activities and entertainment for all ages.

Disney Wonder has arrived in Australia – what does the cruise line have in store for families?

For the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line is bringing their signature magic and wonder to Australian shores.

Calling all pirates, join Captain Pineapple on a Sydney Tall Ship

Join Sydney Tall Ships on a fun adventure onboard a tall ship. Dress as pirates and get involved with the story of Captain Pineapple and his pirates that unfolds right before your eyes. Your family will be an essential part of this story as it unfolds, and you will help determine its outcome.

Insider tips for when Disney Wonder sails Down Under

Here’s a list of all the things you need to know about Disney Wonder to ensure your family cruise is bursting with magical moments.

Royal Caribbean Cruises’ for families

With onboard sky diving, surfing, bumper cars and Alice in Wonderland themed restaurants, it’s no wonder families are booking cruises through to 2023.

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Waterslides, mini golf, a 24/7 video arcade, live theatre shows, a tasty selection of restaurants.

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Family-friendly accommodation

Browse our selection of great family accommodation options around the world

Captain Cook Holiday Park

Big4 easts beach holiday park, sofitel bali nusa dua beach resort, blue lake holiday park, mandalay holiday resort and tourist park, big4 adventure whitsunday resort, plantation island resort.

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Family Cruises

• About Family Cruises

Exclusive Family Rate! - Whitsundays Cruise Departing Brisbane

Day 1 Brisbane Day 2 At Sea Day 3 Airlie Beach Day 4 At Sea

Departing Date :

11 Feb 2025

Tips for booking a family cruise:

• Look out for kids-go-cheap or free cruise deals.
• Look for a good children’s programs with provisions for a range of age groups.
• Child-minding services so parents can enjoy the odd night out too.
• On-shore excursions that will suit the whole family.
• Book adjoining suites so the family can be together.
• A balcony can provide some welcome privacy for parents when young children are asleep.
• Book summer holiday cruises as early as possible to get the best value family cruise.
• Involve children and teenagers when choosing a family cruise.

Find out more about kids and youth programs .

To book your family cruise or find out more, contact one of our travel consultants today on 13 70 79 and remember to ask about our great deals on flights, tours , travel insurance and more.

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