The Best Kid-Friendly Cruise Ship For Multigenerational Travelers

What Makes A Cruise Kid-Friendly

Kid-friendly cruises are all about excitement, adventure and amenities that make family fun stress-free. From onboard waterparks to dining options everyone will love, here’s what to look for:

Fun, Fun, Fun

The best cruises for multigenerational families provide ample age-appropriate activities for kids to burn off excess energy, leaving the adults to enjoy a peaceful getaway. On the Royal Caribbean ship Star of the Seas, for one, there’s a waterpark of more than 17,000 square feet with six record-breaking slides.

Destination Adventures

On kid-friendly cruises, every destination stop and shore excursion should have little ones in mind. Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, has exciting activities and features like palm tree-shaded beaches, a tram shuttle to delight toddlers and complimentary soft serve.

Snacks Galore

As far as dining goes, what kid doesn’t love a buffet with all of their favorite foods on display? These smorgasbords are part of the magic of a cruise vacation. A kid-friendly cruise includes dining options for picky eaters and adventurous ones alike.

Which Royal Caribbean Ship Is Most Kid-Friendly?

Royal Caribbean has leveled up its family-friendly focus with Star of the Seas, a ship that sets sail on week-long Caribbean getaways from Florida. Groundbreaking features like the largest water park at sea are sure to keep kids awed and entertained for all seven days. 

From its more than 40 dining options to its family-centric neighborhood zones to its suites designed for families (one sleeps up to eight and features a slide and cinema inside!), this variety makes it one of the best Royal Caribbean ships for kids.

Kid-Friendly Features For An Unforgettable Family Vacation

The ingredients that make up a memorable family vacation are different for everyone — but generally, if a family is having adventures, bonding and enjoying great meals together, the trip can be called a success. It’s no surprise the cruise industry has such a high rate of repeat passengers. Star of the Seas delights with a focus on thrills, togetherness and dining.

If ashore exploration is more your speed, Star of the Seas has you covered there too, offering activities like: 

● Snorkeling.

● Parasailing

● Zip-lining.

● 4x4 off-road treks.

● Animal encounters at select ports.

Endless Opportunities For Family Bonding

Star of the Seas is filled with opportunities that facilitate family bonding. Steel Pan Family Jam™, an interactive Caribbean music experience using authentic steel drums, lets parents, grandparents and kids make music side by side. Two escape rooms bring on the problem-solving and the laughs as generations uncover clues and crack codes together. Family-friendy karaoke invites everyone in the group to belt out their favorite songs, and all-ages swimming pools mean everyone can splash and relax in tandem. Spacious family suites with separate sleeping areas for kids and adults also boast memorable features like balcony hot tubs and game rooms.

Flavorful Feasts For Young Foodies 

With more than 40 places to eat and drink on the ship, Star of the Seas is there to sate your cravings. There are plenty of casual spots for kids to enjoy, including a buffet where they can build their own pancakes for breakfast and customize tacos at lunch.

For kids who may not be familiar with Japanese food, a kids’ menu at Izumi Hibachi & Sushi introduces them to the cuisine in a fun way with smaller portions of classic dishes. They can feast on chicken tenders and spaghetti in the main dining room for dinner, followed by a sweet treat at the Desserted milkshake bar. 

Kids under 5 eat free at many places on the ship. Adventurous diners may want to consider the Unlimited Dining Package to try a specialty restaurant each night of the cruise. 

Tips For Traveling With Your Grandkids

Start by including the grandkids in planning — let them help choose excursions or onboard activities to build excitement and ensure everyone feels heard. Reserve connected cabins or consider upgrading to the Ultimate Family Suite — its separate rooms plus in‑suite fun spaces allow for both privacy and quality family time.

Make sure you book popular shore excursions in advance of your travels; you don’t want to find out they’re at capacity and leave the little ones disappointed. Encourage bonding moments over shared meals or group game nights, but don’t be offended if people want their alone time. Moments of solitude to recharge can be just as vital for a successful trip as moments together.

Why A Royal Caribbean Cruise Is Fun For Parents And Grandparents Too

Royal Caribbean may be the best cruise line for kids, but that doesn’t mean it’s not designed for their parents and grandparents, too. 

On Star of the Seas, you’ll find:

● High-end cocktail bars.

● adults-only pool and lounge areas.

● A full-service spa.

● A casino.

● An adults-only comedy club.

● An open-air jazz lounge with live music. .

At the adults-only Hideaway Pool, folks can do just that and have a break from the kids if they wish, sipping champagne cocktails and swaying in the suspended infinity pool to the tunes of a live DJ before returning to spend quality time with the rest of their crew. 

Plan Your Kid-Friendly Family Cruise

Are you ready to bond with your loved ones in an adventure-filled, stress-free environment? Consider a kid-friendly cruise line for your next family getaway and be among the first to set sail on Star of the Seas. You may even return home feeling like you had a vacation.