Pick the Best Cruise For Teen – 9 Awesome Cruises for Families & Teens
Traveling with teens can be a trying experience, particularly when it comes to picking the right trip or best cruise for teens. Instead of wasting your energy trying to find activities that everyone in the family will enjoy, why not opt for something special – like a cruise holiday?
Cruises are an excellent choice for traveling families since they provide plenty of group fun and private time too. Plus, there are now so many different cruising options tailored specifically around teenagers’ tastes and preferences.
In this article I will give you an introduction to nine best cruises for teens and families with teens – perfect ideas if you’re looking for ways to please everybody on vacation!
Read on to get inspired about one of the best vacations your family can take: a cruise adventure full of lasting memories!
Discover our top 9 cruise line picks below!
The 9 Best Cruise for Teen Options the Whole Family will Love
No matter which cruise line you choose for your family vacation, each one offers something special to make sure your teens have a great time. Not only that but cruises come with enough flexibility so that all passengers can choose what they feel like doing (or not doing) at any given time.
The benefits of taking a cruise holiday for families with teens go beyond fun activities and spending quality time together. Cruises are also great value for money, since most lines include meals in the package which means you won’t have to worry about finding restaurants or paying extra for food. Plus, you’ll also get great deals on cabins and shore excursions so it won’t break the bank.
With all these amazing cruise lines offering exclusive teen-friendly activities, your next family trip is bound to be a hit! So why not plan your next vacation on board one of these cruises for teens and make it an experience they’ll never forget. With so much fun
Now that you have an idea of which cruises are best for teens, decide on the destination! From the Caribbean to Europe, there’s sure to be a cruise with fun activities everyone in your family will enjoy. Be sure to book early so you don’t miss out on all the fun!
My Picks for the Best Cruise For Teenagers and Family Vacations
- My Pick for Teen Cruise Overall: Royal Caribbean
- My Pick For European Teen Cruise: Celebrity Cruises
- My Pick for Multi-Generational Cruises: Holland America Line
- My Pick for a Caribbean Cruise: Princess
- My Pick for Best Activities: Norwegian Cruise Line
- My Best for for Families Overall: Disney Cruise Line
- My Pick for Best Budget Cruise Line: Carnival
Why It’s Important to Pick the Right Cruise For Teens
For many families, going on a cruise is the perfect way to spend quality time together, and while parents might be looking forward to lounging by the pool or enjoying some gourmet dining, teens have their own set of expectations.
A cruise can be an exciting way for teens to meet other young people, enjoy some independence and explore new destinations. However, not all cruises are created equal when it comes to catering to a teenage audience. That’s why picking the right cruise for teens is essential if you want to ensure that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
From onboard activities to shore excursions, choosing a cruise that suits your teen’s interests and needs can make all the difference and create lifelong memories.
No matter the age of your family, a cruise is always a great way to explore the world and make lasting memories. Cruises for families with teens are especially fun because they’re tailored specifically towards their tastes and interests.
Teens will love all the different activities that these cruises offer including karaoke competitions, sports tournaments, scavenger hunts, and more! Along with all the fun onboard activities, teens can also look forward to exploring new destinations and cultures through shore excursions.
To make sure your family has an unforgettable experience, it’s important to pick the right cruise line for teens – one that suits their needs and interests.
Remember to take into account each person in your family when selecting a cruise and ask your teens what they’d like to do on vacation. With so many options available, you can find the perfect fit for your family! Cruising is a great way to travel with family and create lasting memories – new cultures, new experiences, and plenty of fun activities for everybody!
9 Awesome Cruises for Families with Teens
Traveling with teenagers can be challenging, but finding the right vacation that will make everyone happy is possible. Cruising is a great option for families with teens because it offers something for everyone, from adventure to relaxation.
Some of the top cruise ship and cruise lines for families with teens include Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas, which boasts the biggest water park at sea. Disney Cruise Line’s Marvel Day at Sea gives teens a chance to meet their favorite superheroes while sailing the Caribbean. Norwegian Cruise Line offers water slides, laser tag and race track.
And for those looking for a cultural experience, Princess Cruises offers a Japan itinerary with stops in Tokyo and Kyoto. Whether your teens are thrill-seekers or culture enthusiasts, there is an awesome cruise out there that will suit their interests.
Disney Cruise Line – The Ultimate in Family Fun Cruise Ship
Set sail with Disney Cruise Line, the ultimate in family fun on the high seas. You’ll be transported to a magical wonderland filled with endless activities for both adults and children alike. From world-class dining and Broadway-style shows to character meet-and-greets and thrilling water slides, there’s something for everyone on board.
Kids and teens on board this cruise ship can let their imaginations soar at the youth clubs, while parents can unwind at the spa or lounge by the pool. With destinations ranging from the Caribbean to Alaska, your family can explore new sights and make unforgettable memories together.
On board, there are fantastic spaces specifically designed for teens. These include Edge, a club exclusively for ages 11-14, and Vibe, a vibrant teen club for ages 14-17. Vibe even has its own pool area! Additionally, teens can enjoy the sports deck, movie theater, mini golf, sports simulators, Cabanas buffet, and the delightful Eye Scream ice cream machine.
Regardless of their interests, it’s important for everyone to have a place they enjoy spending time at. Even Castaway Cay offers specific spots and activities exclusively for teens! One of the advantages of being on a cruise is the freedom to explore within a more confined space. The Disney Cruise Line app facilitates staying in touch with them while on the ship.
Recommended Disney Cruise Ships for Teenagers
- Disney Dream
- Disney Magic
- Disney Wonder
- Disney Wish
Royal Caribbean – Perfect for Adventure Seekers
For those looking for an action-packed cruise vacation, Royal Caribbean is the perfect choice. With an impressive array of exciting activities, guests are guaranteed to have the adventure of a lifetime.
Royal Caribbean is renowned for offering guests an exhilarating experience on the high seas. With attractions like FlowRider surf simulators, the Perfect Storm water slide trio, ice skating rinks, zip lines, skydiving simulators, and glass observation capsules that ascend 300 feet above the ocean, there is no shortage of excitement and adventure to be had.. Some Royal Caribbean ships also feature a skating rink.
Each Royal Caribbean cruise ship boasts a specially designed venue exclusively for teenagers. The nightly teen disco, along with a plethora of themed parties like pajama parties, Caribbean nights, and toga parties, are an absolute blast. The teen team onboard brings their unique touch to party planning, ensuring that no two itineraries are ever identical.
And that’s not all, on Royal Caribbean there are plenty of shore excursions on offer too, allowing guests the chance to scuba dive, hike through lush jungles, or even skydive over some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. So, if you’re after a vacation that’s anything but boring, Royal Caribbean is the way to go.
Recommended Royal Caribbean International Cruise Ships for Teens:
- Wonder of the Seas
- Symphony of the seas
- Odyssey of the Seas
- Oasis of the Seas
- Navigator of the Seas
- Voyager of the Seas
Carnival Cruise Line – Great Choice for Budget Travelers
So why are Carnival Cruises some of the best cruise ships for teen vacations? The rooms for the younger ones aboard the newer ships, are very spacious, cheery and well-equipped. The Destiny-class ships also have an outdoor play space for younger kids with a slide, climbing gym, splash pool and kid-sized picnic tables.
For older kids and teenagers, there is the trademark Carnival Cruise Line waterslide on each cruise ship, and that’s just a start.
Camp Carnival for 12-14 – Club 02 for 15-17 year olds
Carnival Cruise Lines offers two separate teen programs. For 12-14 year old guests, Camp Carnival offers a extensive choice of activities from late night movies, sports night, teen disco, Karaoke, late night swimming beneath the stars, scavenger hunts, and many additional age suitable activities.
Carnival even has a exceptional shore excursion program planned just for teenagers. Your 12- to 14-year-olds can select from a option of Camp Carnival recommended tours; they can go as a group to tour numerous of their thrilling destinations with a Camp Carnival chaperone.
If your teen loves to boogie, they will enjoy themselves every night with the onboard entertainment aboard a Carnival cruise as 12- to 14-year-old guests have the chance to “mix and mingle” at Carnival’s shipboard dance club from 9:30pm to 10:45pm. After 11:00pm, teens 14 and under can hook up with the youth staff for a variety of activities, such as a late night movie, karaoke or outdoor games.
The older teens get a opportunity to show off during a Karaoke party, pool parties, late night dances, outdoor sporting events such as basketball and ping pong at the sports court.
Club O2 Directors are specially hired and trained to be the heart of the Club O2 program. They create the sparkle that gets all the teens interested. Each director brings their own special style to Club O2.
Their energy and devotion to the program ensures that they put together the teen cruise experience unlike anything they have ever done before. Most of them act as hosts, entertainers, and DJ’s for the teens.

Norwegian Cruise Line – Relaxation and Entertainment Combined
If you’re looking for a cruise ship family vacation that combines relaxation and world-class entertainment, look no further than Norwegian Cruise Line. With luxurious accommodations, top-notch dining options, and a wide range of onboard activities, there’s something for every vacationer.
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of age-tailored youth programs, such as Entourage, designed exclusively for teenagers aged 13 to 17. As a parent, it’s reassuring to know that while you enjoy adult-oriented activities, your teenagers can socialize with peers in a safe and engaging environment. The best part? This program is complimentary, adding even more value to your cruise experience.
During the day, your child can enjoy a wide range of activities on the Norwegian cruise ships including movies, art, video games, and sports. As night falls, Entourage transforms into a trendy lounge and nightclub exclusively for teenagers.
- Gaming and Movies: Unwind with a captivating movie or indulge in a diverse array of video games for your enjoyment.
- Sports: Teenagers have the opportunity to challenge their athletic abilities by competing against the teen counselor in various sports activities like soccer, basketball, or dodge ball.
- Themed Events: These events vary by ship, but every night has different themed parties including Glow, White Hot Party, and College Night.
Your teenagers will have an abundance of onboard activities to choose from during your cruise. The newest cruise ships boast an array of exhilarating and engaging options that cater to their interests.
Find Luxury Vacations: Best Luxury Resort For Teens in the Caribbean for 2023
Norwegian Cruise Lines offer an array of thrilling attractions for teens, including the fastest waterslide at sea, two swimming pools, and four hot tubs. But that’s not all! They also boast a colossal sports complex equipped with a ropes course, rock climbing wall, and basketball court. With such an impressive range of amenities, it’s no wonder Norwegian Cruise Lines is considered one of the top choices for teenage adventurers.
Teens have their own dedicated space a Teens Club called Entourage. During the day, Entourage transforms into a vibrant clubhouse where they can immerse themselves in a variety of engaging activities. From interactive theater workshops that unleash their creativity to exciting themed events that spark their imagination, there’s always something happening at Entourage.
And when the sun sets, Entourage undergoes a magical transformation into a pulsating teen dance club, where they can groove to the latest beats and create unforgettable memories with friends. Entourage is a dynamic hub that offers endless opportunities for teens to have fun, express themselves, and make lasting connections.
They can experience the thrill of zooming around a multilevel racetrack, engage in adrenaline-pumping laser tag battles, embark on captivating adventures in virtual reality worlds, and so much more. With these exciting offerings, their cruise experience will be filled with unforgettable moments of fun and entertainment.
Princess Cruises – A World of Endless Possibilities
Embark on an adventurous journey around the world with Princess Cruises. Experience a world of possibilities as you explore stunning locations and cultures, indulge in delectable cuisine, and unwind in luxurious accommodations. From the sunny Caribbean to the exotic destinations of Asia, Princess Cruises offers an array of itineraries to suit every type of traveler.
Teenagers will love a Princess Cruise ships because of the wide range of onboard activities they can enjoy. The youth and teen centers provide a safe environment for your kids to mingle, relax, and have fun with other teens their age.
Through Princess’ specially designed programs, teenagers aged 13-17 years old will be kept entertained with exciting activities like theme nights, sporting competitions, karaoke, movies and more!
MSC Cruises For Teens and Families
MSC Cruises offer great value for money and a range of kid-friendly entertainment on board. With dedicated play areas, fun-filled kids’ clubs, activities, and exclusive shows, your teens won’t want to leave the ship!
Young cruisers will have access to Teen Lounges and special events like pool parties, dance contests, mocktail making competitions, and more. Plus, they can take part in a range of fun activities from the Kids’ Academy or join their own age group’s club such as Mini Club (ages 3-6), Junior Club (7-11) and Teen Club (12-17).
When you book with MSC Cruises, your teens will get exclusive access to the exclusive MSC for Me program where they can track their activities, earn points and find out about special offers. They’ll also have access to a range of discounts in the onboard shops and restaurants.
For parents, this is one of the best cruises for teens as there’s no need to worry as all kids’ clubs are supervised by professional staff trained in youth entertainment. Plus, teenagers between 12-17 will be required to have an adult with them when using the Kids’ Academy or Teen Club. So, while your teens are having fun, you can rest assured that they’ll be safe and well looked after.
Whether it’s a family holiday or a cruise for just the teens, MSC Cruises offer something special for everyone. Every aspect of an MSC Cruises vacation is crafted with all ages in mind, making it the perfect choice for families and groups of friends looking to explore the high seas in style.
Find out more and book your cruise
Costa Cruises – Create Magical Memories Together with Your Teens
Costa Cruises provides an unforgettable cruise experience for families, and teens will love everything they have to offer. With age-appropriate activities everywhere on board, your teens can explore the world while having fun with their peers in a safe environment.
Costa Cruises presents the Costa Fun@sea Program, providing a diverse range of activities for children aged 3 to 17. Tailored to their age groups, four distinct clubs ensure age-appropriate fun. The younger children can enjoy the Mini and Maxi Squok clubs, each offering a unique experience.
TeenZone offers two clubs for older kids: Teen Junior and Teen. The lineup of engaging and educational activities is diverse, ranging from pizza parties and face painting to karaoke contests and Italian lessons. Our experienced entertainment staff meticulously oversees these events, ensuring that young cruisers have a blast and create lasting memories.
Costa Cruises also caters for the whole family with a range of activities suitable for all ages such as themed parties, workshops on local cultures and languages, cooking classes with professional chefs, and zumba classes in the fitness center. Plus, they offer exclusive discounts for teens on selected shore excursions.
Holland America Line – Family Members of all ages will love Holland America Cruise
Holland America tends to draw an “older” clientele. That being said, there is plenty to do for all members of the family. Teens and younger children will be delighted with the great selection of onboard activities just for them.
From rock climbing walls to pool parties, Holland America offers something for everyone. Older teens can enjoy enriching workshops on photography or language classes in the Explorations Central teen center. Plus, they have access to their very own 24-hour hangout lounge and plenty of activities that they can take part in like scavenger hunts and movie nights.
For younger children, the Youth Center is bustling with fun activities such as crafting, science experiments, all-day camp sessions and more. Plus, they also provide a range of age-appropriate entertainment such as karaoke, talent shows and pool parties!
I also recommend Holland America for multi-generational cruise vacations. Families will love spending quality time together poolside, at one of their onboard specialty restaurants or just enjoying the amenities in the comfort of their cabin.
Celebrity Cruises – Best cruises for teens
Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its upscale reputation and appeal to an older demographic. While there may be some truth to this perception, in my personal view, Celebrity stands out for its exceptional teen centers onboard, making it one of the top choices for families at sea.
Celebrity cruise ships offer an array of fantastic amenities. Enjoy refreshing pool areas, relaxing hot tubs, a thrilling video arcade, a delightful miniature golf course, and even a basketball court.
The food on Celebrity is absolutely incredible and the service is truly unbeatable. From the moment you step into the main dining room, you’ll be greeted with a wide array of delectable options that are sure to please even the pickiest of teenage eaters.
Whether they have a hankering for classic comfort food or are craving something more adventurous, Celebrity has it all. With a menu designed to cater to every taste, you can rest assured that everyone in your group will find something that satisfies their cravings and leaves them wanting more.
With the exception of Celebrity Xpedition, Xploration, and Flora, all Celebrity ships offer a dedicated youth program with designated spaces for children and teenagers. The Camp at Sea program provides a variety of activities for young cruisers aged 3-17, taking place both within the club and throughout the entire ship.
Teenagers aged 13-17 can enjoy their exclusive Teen Club, providing ample space for relaxation and socializing. The club offers a range of engaging activities, including sports competitions, Xbox tournaments, culinary classes, and silent disco parties, both onboard and off the ship.
Tips on How to Choose the best Cruises For Teenagers
Embarking on a family cruise can be an exciting and memorable experience, but what about teenagers? While parents may be lounging by the pool or enjoying the on-board entertainment, teens may be looking for more engaging activities. When choosing a cruise for teenagers, it’s important to consider factors such as the ship’s amenities, excursions, and entertainment options.
Look for ships that offer activities specifically designed for teens, such as sports tournaments, dance parties, or game nights. Consider which excursions will be the most thrilling for older kids – from zip-lining to snorkeling, the possibilities are endless. With a little research and planning, you can ensure that your family cruise is an unforgettable experience for everyone.
How to Make the Most Out Of Your Trip With Your Teenagers
Traveling with teenagers can be challenging, but with the right planning, it can also be an unforgettable experience. One way to make the most out of your trip is to involve your teenagers in the planning process. Get them excited about the destination by researching activities that they would enjoy.
You can also give them a budget and let them decide on some of the activities or meals they want to try. Another tip is to allow some freedom and independence for your teenagers to explore on their own. This can give them a sense of responsibility and also give you some much-needed alone time.
Finally, don’t forget to capture and celebrate the moments together. Take photos, try new things, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With these tips, you can make your trip with teenagers a success.
In conclusion, choosing the best cruises for teens is an important consideration to ensure everyone has a wonderful time together. From Disney Cruise Line offering the ultimate family fun and relaxation, to Royal Caribbean perfect for adventure seekers, Carnival Cruise Line for diverse activities and Princess Cruises with a world of possibilities, there is something for every teen here.
Following the tips mentioned earlier will allow parents to select the best cruise possible for their teenager’s preferences, ensuring they will make the most out of their trip. The exciting world of cruising awaits – book your cruise today!
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