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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 the Caribbean. 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 21 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 globetrotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment, and take on fleet favorites 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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Kids Cruises

Jump into the fun today!

A FAMILY HOLIDAY THAT SUITS EVERYONE!

Make memories your whole family will cherish forever with a Carnival kids cruise.

From all the latest video games to amazing family-friendly shore excursions and itineraries, there’s no way your kids will be wanting the best family holiday they have ever had to end.

Carnival Cruise Line activities are perfect for all age groups and feature special clubs so they can hang out with kids their own age and make friends for life.

Oh, and don’t forget to have some fun while your kids are occupied!

KIDS CLUBS FOR ALL AGES ON CARNIVAL

We have the perfect thing for you and for your kids, and it’s called “Night Owls™”! For a nominal fee, kids 11 and under can fun it up with others their age until as late as 12am.

Find out more on Night Owls™ .

At Camp Ocean ® , 2–11 year-olds stay busy, keep active and have fun as they enjoy all new ocean-themed activities and entertainment made for kids.

Find out more on Camp Ocean ® .

This is where young teens ages 12 to 14 go to hang out, meet new friends, and enjoy some pretty awesome activities like dance parties, games, outdoor movies and more, in the special Circle “C” area or around the ship.

Find out more on Circle "C" .

Where to? Club O2. Hang out and do stuff like watch movies, listen to music from this decade, play sports and video games, join karaoke jam sessions… maybe even have a pool party or two, all with other high schoolers aged 15 to 17.

Find out more on Club O2 .

All kids clubs are free until 9pm.

Enjoy Adult fun in total comfort!

Delight in a cocktail poolside or a delicious dinner at Fahrenheit 555, with our award winning Kids Clubs taking care of your children.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the best cruise for kids.

A cruise ship is perfect for everyone – kids, families, singles, and couples. But when it comes to kids, we go the extra mile. Here’s a few cruise deals that, between the onboard activities and the shore excursions, are perfect for kids:

• Family cruises
• School holiday cruises
• Easter cruises
• Weekend cruises
• Getaway cruises
• Short cruises
• Great Barrier Reef cruises

At what age can kids start cruising?

Kids must be at least 6 months old to sail with most cruise lines, and 12 months old on trans-ocean trips to remote locations.

Are cruises good with kids?

Cruises to and from Australia are great for kids of all ages. At Carnival, we offer age-specific Kids Clubs so they have fun with kids their own age. Our cruise kids clubs include:

• Camp Ocean. Kids aged 2 to 11 enjoy ocean-themed activities.
• Night Owls. Kids 11 and under have fun until midnight.
• Circle C. 12-14 year-olds catch up and enjoy a heap of activities.
• Club 02. For kids aged 15 to 17 to meet, greet, and hang out.

What are cruise activities for kids?

With more than 45 activities onboard, there’s a lot of specific kid-friendly activities that will keep them entertained for yours. Here’s just a few:

• Water works
• Warehouse Arcade
• Dive-in movies

They’ll be able to keep going and going with a big range of yummy dining options (and ice cream, of course!).

How do you book a family cruise package with kids?

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Family Cruises

Make memories that will last a lifetime.

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Family Friendly Excursions

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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 Family Cruises

Kid friendly cruises.

Every P&O Cruise is kid friendly! You'll enjoy an all-inclusive, affordable family holiday with plenty of room, delicious food, endless activities, amazing entertainment, travel to amazing destinations and four age-specific kids clubs.

A P&O cruise is a great family holiday idea. We offer some of the best family-friendly holiday experiences. Whether you’ve got little ones, teens, or a whole extended family coming along, cruising with your kids is a fun, safe and convenient way to holiday as a family.

With an endless array of activities for all ages, from adventure parks to tropical island shore tours, kids menus in all restaurants, special dining time in The Pantry and parties for all ages, the whole family is catered for. 

A P&O cruise is guaranteed to keep the whole family happy.

The benefits of cruising with kids

Cruising with your kids is the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and family time, all while being transported from one stunning destination to the next. From kids vs kids-at-heart games, to enjoying an Island Adventure show together, there are endless activities to try - you can even take a shore tour and explore a different world. Plus, with four great age-specific Kids Clubs, it can be date night, every night! And when it’s time for rest? We have rooms to suit every taste and budget, from spacious Suites to Interconnecting rooms to budget friendly interior rooms . You’ll rest easy knowing everyone’s close by, but still has their own space to relax.

• Stress-free travel
• Kids Clubs & family dining
• Family activities & entertainment
• All-inclusive deals & no expensive surprises
• Accommodation options for everyone

1. Fun & engaging Kids Clubs 

Our Kid’s Clubs activities will keep your kids happy and engaged with the perfect combination of fun and learning. With the guidance of professional childhood academics, we’ve developed a diverse range of fun daily activities specifically designed for kids. From arts and crafts to sport and music, our Kids Clubs offer specialised activities for specific age groups in a safe and supportive environment:

●      Turtle Cove (2 years – 5 years)

●      Shark Shack (6 years – 9 years)

●      HQ (10 years – 13 years)

●      HQ+ (14 years – 17 years)

Travelling with teens? They’ll have lots to do too! When they’re not hitting the pool or Edge Adventure Park, our HQ and HQ+ youth staff provide lots of great activities for guests aged 10 - 17. Kids can also hang out in their own special lounge with movies, video games, music, and more. It’s a great place to chill out and meet new friends!

2. Waterslides, adventure parks & sports

Every P&O cruise offers an amazing array of kid-friendly activities and adventures. Kids of all ages love our waterslides and pools on all ships and the interactive waterpark on Pacific Explorer - and so do parents! Or, if your kids are looking for some extra action, they can explore  more at the P&O Edge Adventure Park, available on all our ships.  Family passes are available. There are plenty of ways to stay active onboard. If your kids are the sporty kind, challenge them to an array of deck games and find your family champion.

3.Talent time, music lessons & shows

Travelling with a young musician or mini movie star? Then get your cameras ready! Every P&O cruise offers the chance for your kids to get creative, learn something new, perform on stage or simply sit back and enjoy a good show.

Our Time To Shine Talent Show gives your kids the chance to receive specialised coaching by our professional performers onboard. The Talent Show is a great opportunity to see your kids channel their inner star and take centre stage. For older kids, our Teen Jam program is the perfect place to test out a range of instruments and learn some new music skills - plus they can perform their jams for an audience!

For the little ones, TC & Skipper's Island Adventure Show will have them laughing in seconds as our hilarious mascots perform the fun TC & Skipper’s Island Adventure production show.

4.Shore Tours to new worlds

From meeting adorable baby turtles to exploring waterfalls in the jungle, your kids will be amazed by our range of P&O Shore Tours . Even better, it’s all organised for you - simply book through Cruise Control , and let us take care of the rest! Some Shore Tours offer discounted prices for kids aged 2 - 12 years, while infants aged less than 2 years sitting on a parent’s lap are not charged for the tour. Plus, on small group tours of less than 25 people, guests can choose to be transported in their own private vehicle for ultimate flexibility and comfort.

To find out more, read the 5 Steps to Planning a Group Cruise .

Are there age restrictions for children on cruises?

We welcome kids 6 months and over on Australian Domestic and New Zealand Domestic cruises. For all other itineraries, children must be 12 months and over to cruise. Any little ones under two years will need to remain with their parent or guardian at all times.

How do I register my child for Kids Club?

We’ve introduced a new Kids Club registration process in Cruise Control, allowing you to easily register your child before you board. Simply log into  Cruise Control  and head to the Manage Booking section to access Kids Club registration for each child on the booking. Online registration is available up until three days before your cruise departure.

Registration can also be done in person at Kids Club once you get onboard if you miss the online cut-off time.

School Holiday & Family Cruise Deals

Check out our best kid-friendly group cruise deals below for a fun, convenient and affordable family holiday option:

For extra room, consider a Suite

Does your family need a little extra room? Book a Suite! With a spacious balcony with views, separate sitting area, priority embarkation and complimentary laundry service, you and your kids will love the extra room to move - and extra special treatment.

Priority treatment

Book your next family cruise today

Planning a P&O family cruise is easy - you can book online. School holiday periods can be very popular and sell out early - so get in quick and book soon!

What It Means

• Turtle Cove P&O Kids Club
• Shark Shack
• HQ P&O Kids Club
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Family Cruises

• About Family Cruises

Family Fly, Stay & Cruise - Whitsundays Cruise and Brisbane Stay, 7 Nights

Travel departing from: Adelaide from $4399* per family Brisbane from $2799* per family (No Flights Included) ...

Departing Date :

11 Feb 2025

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea Family Cruise Departing Brisbane ending in Melbourne

Day 1 Brisbane, Australia Day 2 Day at Sea Day 3 Eden, Australia Day 4 Da...

Limited Availability

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea Family Cruise Departing Melbourne ending in Sydney

Day 1 Melbourne, Australia Day 2 Day at Sea Day 3 Hobart, Australia Day 4 ...

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea Family Cruise Departing Melbourne

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea Family Cruise Departing Sydney

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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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The best cruises for kids

Cruising is back, and with a flotilla of brand-new ships as well as some old family favourites setting sail, we’re sharing the lowdown on the latest in family cruising.

Balancing the need for great spaces and activities for kids as well as improved adults-only zones, dining and entertainment, cruise lines are amping up the excitement.

Upcoming cruises have everything from cool kids’ clubs to cartoon character meet and greets, water parks, ziplines and ropes courses, teen hangouts and awesome gaming zones.

Here’s what our favourite family cruise lines have in store for your crew.

Disney Down Under

Polish up your mouse ears – for the first time, Disney Cruise Line is coming to the shores of Australia and New Zealand.

Disney Cruise Line has a limited season from late 2023. The ‘Disney Magic at Sea’ sailings aboard Disney Wonder will bring all the dazzle of characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars on board.

Your family will love the imaginative dining and spectacular one-of-a-kind entertainment, infused with storytelling. Think original Broadway-style stage productions, special themed family dining experiences and interactive adventures such as the immersive Frozen Adventures and Marvel Super Hero Academy.

Families can also look forward to imaginative kids’ clubs, adult-exclusive hotspots, three themed pools and even its own Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiqu. The enchanted salon turns kids into princesses, knights or sea captains.

The special two- to six-night sailings aboard the epic Disney Wonder will depart from four home ports: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines’ Carnival Splendor has returned to Sydney. The popular ship is home to action-packed Carnival Waterworks with the Green Lightning thrill-slide, Splashy Cove for little ones, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Seuss At Sea, 17 different dining options and the Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity Retreat for the grown-ups.

Carnival Luminosa has chosen Brisbane as its new home port. Carnival Luminosa is a family-friendly cruise with fun-filled kids’ clubs, poolside cinemas, adults-only haven and delicious dining options. Pull up a deck chair or dive into the pool to watch the latest blockbusters on Carnival Luminosa’s (really) big outdoor screen. Camp Ocean is the ships fun-packed club. Kids aged 2 to 11 can stay busy, keep active and have a blast with ocean-themed activities and entertainment.

Royal Carribean

Quantum of the Seas made its debut in Brisbane last year. The ship offers families some incredible first-at-sea experiences.

SeaPlex is the largest indoor sporting and entertainment venue at sea with a full-size regulation basketball court, bumper cars and roller-skating. Braver souls might like to try skydiving with Ripcord by iFly, catching a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator, or taking to the sky with North Star, the highest viewing platform at sea.

There’s also a deck with pools, spas and water play parks. Take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean kids’ club, for ages 3 to 17, to enjoy a restorative massage at the Vitality Centre or unwind in the adults-only Solarium, a retreat with swimming pools, whirlpools and a lounge area.

Quantum of the Seas sails from Brisbane with a selection of itineraries to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Keep reading:

• Disney Cruise Line is bringing Wonder Down Under
• 8 things your family will love on Carnival Luminosa

P&O Cruises

P&O has welcomed two new ships to its family.

Pacific Adventure is the fleet’s largest ship. It has a range of new restaurants, bars and exciting features. Families will love the Twin Racer Waterslides, the Byron Beach Club, and a dedicated indoor-outdoor family space. This outdoor space has a pool and family-oriented activities including games and parties, plus an all-weather retractable roof.

Pacific Encounter will showcase many of P&O’s favourite features. New on board are celebrity dining venues like Luke’s Bar & Grill by Luke Mangan. This ship also has a dedicated indoor and outdoor family area. While the kids do their thing in HQ, P&O kids’ club for children aged 10-13, parents can enjoy a cocktail with a view.

Both Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will be home ported in Brisbane and offer itineraries in Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has launched Norwegian Prima. The ship is the first of six new Prima Class ships to be delivered by 2027.

Norwegian Prima is 294 metres long and with a capacity for 3,300 guests. Boasting the largest and first three-level racetrack at sea on the Prima Speedway and The Drop which is a freefall dry slide with a 10-storey plunge experience. The slide reaches more G-forces than an accelerating F1 race car.

There’s also Infinity Beach, with two infinity pools positioned close to water level to take in uninterrupted views of the ocean; the surf-inspired Tidal Wave waterslide; and Oceanwalk, where two glass bridges make guests feel as though they are walking on air over the water.

Norwegian Prima is currently in the Caribbean, taking passengers to Bermuda, Jamaica and Grand Cayman. The ship also visits Mexican ports.

Safe sailing

Cruise operators are providing a variety of enhanced on-board public health measures to reduce risk. Expect enhanced cleaning and ventilation and a boarding requirement that means all passengers, including eligible children, must be fully vaccinated.

This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids  magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue here .

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Family Cruises With Princess

Voyages of discovery and connection that the whole family can share., best family cruise destinations.

Explore our top picks for  best family-friendly cruises

Alaska Cruise Destinations and Cruisetours

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

Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Walk along sun-kissed beaches in a 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.  Get more out of your family cruise vacation when you sail with Princess.

Princess MedallionClass® For Family Cruises

Get more from family time with the MedallionClass experience on all ships. Easy embarkation and customizing dining preferences, including pace, means fewer meltdowns and smoother family cruising. 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® family cruise ship, 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. All Princess family cruises create a lifetime of unrivaled experiences and unforgettable memories.

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 classes, activities, and events designed for different ages make for an amazing cruise for kids.

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.

Family cruises are all about connection, but “you time” is still an important part of your vacation experience. 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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Australia & New Zealand Cruise & Land Tour

Australia and New Zealand cruise and land tours combine a traditional cruise of this region with extensive sightseeing tours on land, offering a more in-depth experience. Your Australia and New Zealand cruise and land tour will take you to the diverse cities and landscapes of Australia and/or New Zealand, including stays in first-rate hotels in some of Australia and New Zealand's most famous destinations. Sydney, Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef and Ayers Rock, also known as Uluru, are among options for the land portion of an Australia cruise and land tour, and Auckland and Queenstown are commonly featured on the New Zealand land portion.

• Australia and New Zealand cruise and land tours are usually available from December through April.  
• Australia and New Zealand cruise and land tours may last from 13 to 23 nights.  
• Remember that if you fly from North America to Australia or New Zealand, you will cross the International Date Line and lose a day. Furthermore, your flight will take a day. This requires that you leave your hometown for your port of departure at least two days in advance of your cruise and land tour. However, we suggest that you leave three or four days before your Australia and New Zealand cruise and land tour. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

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• Desert Days – Dubai – Abu Dhabi – 4 Nights
• Desert Days – Abu Dhabi – Dubai – 3 Nights
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• Iconic Arabia – 4 Nights
• Iconic Arabia – 3 Nights
• Steps of Paul - 7 Nights
• Heavenly Adriatic – 7 Nights
• Idyllic Aegean - 7 Nights
• Summer Heavenly Adriatic – 7 Nights
• Idyllic Aegean (2026) – 7 Nights
• Desert Days – 7 Nights
• Desert Days – Doha Extended Stay – 7 Nights
• Desert Days Abu Dhabi Extension – 7 Night Cruise Celestyal Journey 2024-12-07
• Desert Days Doha – 7 Nights
• Desert Days – Dubai – 7 Nights
• Gulf Icons – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Qatar Grand Prix – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Double Grand Prix – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Double Grand Prix – 14 Nights
• Heavenly Adriatic & Idyllic Aegean – 14 Nights
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• Khalifa Bin Salman, Bahrain
• Khasab, Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE
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3 & 4 Night Mediterranean Cruises

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Family Cruises

Cherish the fond memories of a family cruise holiday.

A family cruise Holiday in the Mediterranean offers a cost-effective opportunity to explore some of the world’s most captivating and enchanting countries in a short space of time. With a host of beautiful islands, historic locations and charming villages to discover, you can create magical moments to share with the family forever.  

Our family cruises are designed to create an unforgettable journey of discovery. The fun-filled itinerary includes visits to spectacular iconic landmarks where you will hear about the mysteries of history including tales of brave knights, mythical battles and romantic stories.  

There is plenty of entertainment onboard as well. With a wide range of amenities including a pool, sports courts, spa, casino and beauty salon, there is something for mum, dad and children of all ages. Our authentic cuisine is also varied and our Inclusive fare includes select drinks with meals in the price.  

Diverse Excursion

The excursions we offer are designed to appeal to all types of interests so that families are not excluded. You also have plenty of free time at each destination to enjoy magical family moments that you create for yourselves.

A visit to the magical Med would not be complete without the opportunity of a beach visit. We provide several opportunities to balance sightseeing opportunities with leisure time on sun-drenched sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming and enjoying water sports.

Keep Children Entertained

The activities we have onboard are ideal for all the family. Our cruises give you the opportunity to play fun and games, take traditional dancing lessons and participate in arts and crafts. Youngsters can make their own postcards for friends and family back home.  

Experience Our Award-Winning Hospitality

Cruising The Celestyal Way

A cruise holiday with Celestyal involves more than an adventure to romantic destinations – we also treat our guests to a wide range of onboard culinary delights, a full program of entertainment and all port charges and gratuities included as standard. If you want to indulge more, our Inclusive cruise adds a complimentary €75 shore excursion discount and select drinks to enjoy with meals. And if you want to go even further , simply upgrade to the Enhance Fare to add a complimentary €150 shore excursion discount , premium drinks package, 25% speciality dining discount , one hour of Wi-Fi access and an optional premium plus drinks package. We believe in total transparency and do not have any hidden charges – so you can plan your vacation budget with confidence.  

The Celestyal Experience

Onboard Dining

We know the best recipes are the ones passed down between generations. And we love to share that with our guests. So onboard a Celestyal cruise, you can expect freshly prepared by our local chefs – morning, noon and night!

Select Drinks with Meals

Get complimentary house wine, beer, soft drinks, teas and coffees with all your meals.* Thirsty for more? Elevate your experience with one of our tailored drinks packages.

*Please note, our Package fare doesn’t include specialty dining.

Up to $AU110 Shore Excursion Discount**

That’s $AU110** to pay for one of our popular shore excursions, or put towards a package—which saves you 15% more compared to booking multiple trips individually.

**2024 Greece & Mediterranean cruises include $AU110 shore excursion discount.

Onboard Entertainment

Daily shows. Live music. Clubs, classes and crafts. All our onboard entertainment is Included so you can take your pick. Or for quiet relaxation, you can also read a book by the pool.

With all charges, port expenses and gratuities included in our fares, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered. We’ll bring your next adventure to you, with no additional fees.

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What It's Like to Cruise Through One of Australia's Most Remote Regions — With Deadly Crocs and Ancient Landscapes

The Kimberley in Western Australia is now an expedition hotspot, with luxury ships taking intrepid guests deep into one of the world’s last great wildernesses.

Matt Dutile

Pinch me: I’m sailing through a prehistoric paradise of towering sandstone cliffs in rich hues from orange to burgundy, an aqua ocean, and beckoning white-sand beaches, and it simply doesn't feel real. A setting this spectacular typically teems with tourists and posh resorts, yet we zoom along in Zodiacs for miles and see nary a soul or animal. Life here is primarily invisible — lurking underwater, hidden in trees, camouflaged on ancient rocks. Some of it is dangerous, even lethal.

Welcome to northwestern Australia’s Kimberley, a region about the size of Sweden and one so remote that even most Aussies never visit. It’s one of the world’s last great wildernesses, with a sparse population, of which nearly half is Aboriginal. Here I am, a wuss who naturally leans to catastrophic thoughts, on an expedition outing for the 264-passenger Seabourn Pursuit during its June 2024 inaugural sailing. With the Kimberley now an expedition hotspot, I had to get on board this 10-day Broome-to-Darwin voyage, even though I was hesitantly onboard.

On our first outing, idling in a Zodiac near the mothership, we get a lecture on the ferocious saltwater crocodiles, which may swim beneath and around our rubber boats. Greg Fitzgerald, one of 24 expedition team members and our guide for the day, sounds almost gleeful as he rapid-fires off lots of croc info: Salties are stealth predators, making no wake or bubbles in the water. You will not see them approach. They can sense a Zodiac a kilometer away. They swim fast and even run fast, in case you’re wondering about going ashore. They will eat us. They even eat each other.

“Saltwater crocodiles are the oldest reptiles on earth, the apex of predators. They can reach 19 feet long and weigh 1,000 pounds or more," he explains in a broad Aussie accent. " Never put your hands or legs in the water. Do not stand up unless I OK it," Fitzgerald adds, as if I was considering it.

“Can a croc jump onto a Zodiac or bump it from underneath?” I ask, my voice quivering. “I’ll never say never, but I’ve never heard of it,” shrugs Fitzgerald.  With those words of comfort, we are off full throttle, all leaning a bit forward in our Zodiac as instructed, me probably the most. Although we’re wearing lifejackets, I’d rather fall into the boat than out.

We see no crocodiles this day, but we learn so much about this primordial region that I can barely absorb it all. Take the underwater mangrove forests lining our ocean route. Fitzgerald points out their yellow leaves floating in the water. “They’re sacrificial leaves,” he says with reverence. “For the mangroves to survive in saltwater, these leaves give their lives, secreting all the salt to keep the trees alive.”

The sandstone cliffs bordering our waterways are a whopping 350 million years old and topped by flat plateaus dotted with acacia trees. Their layered, compressed, and craggy shapes, weathered by sun, water, and time, evoke faces and sandwiches — one is accurately nicknamed ‘lasagna.’ I must snap 1,000 pictures, as no two are alike.

It's hot here, even though it’s winter, the only time expedition ships visit, as the rainy summer brings typhoons and unbearable heat. The temperature feels warmer than the reported high 80s, and the sun pounds through my protective hat and clothing. “Drink a liter of water an hour,” advises Fitzgerald. He’s right. If we don’t, dehydration and fatigue sets in. Seabourn Pursuit grows quiet when cruisers are not exploring — naps are definitely a thing.

Yet, despite the clime, I am mesmerized. Each day is a jaw-dropper. Imagine the extreme contrast of cruising on an ultra-luxury expedition ship, where all accommodations are sumptuous suites with marble baths, and complimentary caviar and alcohol flows freely. Yet the second we climb into a Zodiac, we time-travel to ancient times marked by fossilized dinosaur footprints and often dangerous undetectable life. I admit, I keep expecting a T. Rex to appear on one of these clifftop plateaus, a next-gen Godzilla, or King Kong beating his chest.  It all looks like a movie set waiting for its dinosaur-driven cast.

As a rather Nervous Nelly, I find the expedition team — mostly unflappable Aussies eager for adventure and responsible for our safety every time we leave the ship — absolute heroes. They scout for crocs before and during our journeys ashore or snorkeling excursions, ensuring we all return safely to the boat, and I’m also impressed with how they guide the older passengers.

Our expedition team is downright gleeful here, as if crocs, venomous spiders, and poisonous snakes add to the allure. Fitzgerald kindly shares there’s a rare one-fanged snake here whose bite can kill you in 30 minutes.  I’m in awe of team member Sue Crafer, who also races yachts around the world.  Before we head to the Horizontal Falls, Crafer says, “Take in where you are. Feel the place.” She urges us to smell the iron from the sandstone and inhales deeply, her face awash with bliss.

We reach the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay — the only ones in the world — where extreme tides forcibly push water between narrow gorges, creating the illusion of gushing horizontal waterfalls. Crafer explains that water travels up to 10 knots, about our ship's speed, as she guides our Zodiac to the Falls’ edge. We skid and swirl a little like the Mad Tea Party ride at Disney World.  Then Crafer gets a radio call and grimly informs us about a situation with another Zodiac. She says aloud, “I hope no one is hurt.”  Our group's awe morphs to anxiety until we arrive at the boat with the “situation” and discover a smiling Seabourn crew greeting us with glasses of Champagne and passionfruit popsicles.

Next, we travel to Paspaley, a pearl farm in Kuri Bay, a special stop — Seabourn is one of just two cruise lines permitted to visit. We get a compressed course in how each South Sea pearl forms over a two-year process and even taste oyster pearl meat — delicious, like scallops — which our chef brings back on board for a sunset caviar bash.

One unforgettable morning, we rise at 5:30 a.m. for a Zodiac ride to Montgomery Reef, perhaps 1.8 billion years old. Sunrise lights the inky sky in blazing orange hues, making the early rise a thrill.  We zoom past green sea turtles, whose heads pop out of the water and then vanish. This coral reef is the world’s largest inshore reef, appearing and disappearing during the Kimberley’s giant tidal changes, which can vary a whopping 30 feet in one day. In low tide, the reef seems to rise from the ocean, and suddenly, lagoons, inlets, waterfalls, and mangroves materialize.  In high tide, the reef is swallowed by the sea once again.

We also gawk at cave art in two locations; they’re thousands of years old — some may be up to 65,000, as no one truly knows. At Freshwater Cove, indigenous Worrorra tribe members invite us to walk through a cleansing smoke ceremony and paint our cheeks with ochre.  This experience feels joyful and surreal, and I grin from ear to ear. Before we view the sacred art, a Worrorra guide says a prayer in his native tongue. We relish such delicate drawings - a cyclone resembling a spider web, a hand, a turtle, and a fish — and leave with more questions than answers, wondering who drew them and what their lives were like so long ago.

Finally, we see crocs on the Hunter River’s sandy shores. We cut our motor and drift close. One is estimated to be about 1,200 pounds, probably male. I see his eyes, so reptilian, so primordial, and it was full-body goosebump time.

Near the cruise end, it’s Seabourn Pursuit ’s inaugural day, and all cruisers gather for a shoreside ceremony on Ngula (Jar Island). Seabourn spent years developing relationships with the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners to get to today. (Traditional Owners denotes Indigenous people possessing a traditional connection to an area of land designated their country from where their ancestors were forcibly removed.) These Traditional Owners, flown in by helicopters, are Seabourn Pursuit’ s godparents, marking the first time Kimberley’s Indigenous people are godparents of any expedition ship, despite some vessels having sailed here for decades.

Seabourn also contributes to tourism initiatives so Traditional Owners can return to their country during the dry season and sell their beautiful arts and crafts to all expedition ships, not just Seabourn’s. Pride and joy fill their faces, and tears moisten ours. Instead of the traditional Champagne bottle used for ship christening, this one is custom-made of sugar and filled with Kimberley sand — a poignant, decisive nod to sustainable tourism for which I’m fully onboard.

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8 best Australia and New Zealand cruises

W hen it comes to cruising, Australia and New Zealand are often intertwined into a single sailing — these two countries have a complementary relationship, offering a diverse array of attractions and experiences. Plus, their relative geographic proximity makes it convenient to check both of these bucket list destinations off your list simultaneously, creating one unforgettable vacation.

Australia's allure lies in its vastness and variety. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast and the ancient wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia delivers an approachable mix of urban sophistication and raw wilderness.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Similarly, New Zealand captivates cruisers with its cinematic scenery. Active shore excursions featuring hiking, bungee jumping and kayaking get your heart racing, while Maori cultural tours add a depth and richness to your visit.

Aussie and Kiwi splendors await aboard these eight best cruises to Australia and New Zealand. We chose options that vary in length, ports of call and price, so everyone can find their own Down Under dream cruise.

Azamara's 16-night New Zealand & Australia Voyage

Tick several Australasian highlights off your list with this one-off 16-night New Zealand & Australia Voyage from Azamara in February 2025 aboard the 702-passenger Azamara Pursuit. Beginning in Auckland, the ship will wind its way around New Zealand before heading to Tasmania (with an overnight stay in Hobart) and up to Melbourne and Sydney. Shore excursions will keep passengers busy during two-plus weeks with only three sea days. Try a trek through Hastings Cave in Tasmania, a dip in a thermal pool in the rainforest or a wine tasting in Waipara Valley.

Who should go: Golf lovers will be especially keen to hop on this cruise, as it's part of Azamara's golf program by PerryGolf. Add this to your booking and get in six rounds throughout the sailing (including at Terrey Hills, Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers). For many travelers, Azamara represents a good value, with included gratuities, drinks and self-service laundry. Fares start at $3,744 per person.

Seabourn's 10-night Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls & Wandjinas cruise

As one of the world's most precious wilderness regions, the Kimberley is home to Precambrian rocks, rugged and diverse landscape with mangroves and savannas, and the oldest living culture in the world. It's no wonder cruises here are highly coveted, as is the case with Seabourn 's 10-night Kimberley expeditions in 2025 .

This itinerary begins in Darwin and each of the nine port stops offers a wide array of excursions designed to deeply entrench passengers into the locale. Many are guided Zodiac expeditions with naturalists to see waterfalls, wildlife and local ways of life.

Who should go: Travelers looking for a luxurious experience in one of the most remote places on the planet will appreciate the 264-passenger all-suite Seabourn Pursuit, the newest expedition vessel in Seabourn's fleet. The yacht-like ship is tricked out with two custom-built submarines, 24 Zodiacs and eight double sea kayaks. The onboard expert Expedition Team helps guide up-close wildlife encounters and cultural experiences, including a visit with local pearl industry farmers and an exploration of the ancient Wandjina-style rock art in Cyclone Cave.

Related: The best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia

Holland America's 13-night Australia and New Zealand cruise

Holland America 's Australia and New Zealand itinerary offers the best of two countries over the course of two weeks, with two departures in 2025. Leaving from Sydney, the 1,964-passenger Westerdam stops in Melbourne, Australia; Hobart, Tasmania; and Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland, New Zealand. It also spends a day cruising the Fjordland National Park, where you're likely to see seals, dolphins, whales and a rare bird called the flightless takahe.

Notable excursions include a visit to the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary with koalas, kangaroos and platypus; UNESCO World Heritage site Mt. Field National Park (Tasmania's oldest national park, featuring a eucalyptus rainforest and waterfalls) and the neo-Gothic Larnach castle, with its beautiful gardens.

Who should go: This cruise is a fantastic deal for budget-conscious travelers yearning to journey to the land Down Under — fares start at just $1,159 per person for two weeks, but you'll need to put up with a windowless cabin for 13 nights. Westerdam offers activities and attractions for all ages, including a kids club for children ages 3 to 17, pickleball, trivia contests and live music.

Cunard's 30-night Australia Circumnavigation cruise

Looking for a comprehensive Australia-focused cruise and have time to spare? Try this one-time monthlong itinerary from Cunard aboard the 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth in fall 2024. The ship sails round-trip from Sydney to 11 Australia ports and even makes a bonus stop in Bali about halfway through the cruise.

Expect tours of Whitsunday Islands and the stunning sands and turquoise waters of Airlie Beach, a day spent sightseeing in tropical Cairns, a visit to the remote northern shores of Darwin, wildlife sightings in rural Adelaide and marsupial spotting at the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park. This cruise has several evening departures to make the most of each day in port.

Who should go: With fares starting at $6,039 per person, this cruise isn't inexpensive, but we think it's a solid value for the length of the trip (about $200 per day). Cunard caters to a more sophisticated traveler, one who plays croquet on the Games Deck in between stops, marvels at the entertainment in the Royal Court Theatre, indulges in traditional afternoon tea and dresses up for black-tie gala evenings.

Viking's 14-night Australia & New Zealand cruise

Cruise Australia and New Zealand with Viking for an adults-only voyage with a focus on education and exploration. The 930-passenger Viking Orion and Viking Venus each offer numerous sailings through 2026 .

Your journey begins with two days in Sydney, where you're docked at one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. Next, head to the cultural capital of the country, Melbourne, before moving on to sail through the scenic islands of Bass Straight and dock in Tasmania's capital (Hobart) to view its unusual wildlife.

Once in New Zealand, on the second half of this trip, stops in Christchurch, Wellington, Napier and Auckland showcase this country's most wonderous landmarks. Optional pre- and post-cruise extensions provide a few more days to explore the region since you've already made such a long journey.

Who should go: Viking's ocean ships carry roughly 900 passengers, making them an attractive size for travelers who want a smaller ship experience without sacrificing any of the amenities they love on big ships, including a fitness center, Nordic spa, multiple restaurants and well-appointed cabins. Viking's inclusive pricing is also attractive, with complimentary shore excursions, Wi-Fi, beer and wine, not to mention alternative dining at no extra charge. Fares start at $5,999 per person.

Princess Cruises' 14-night New Zealand sailing

Cruisers who have their sights set mainly on New Zealand will love Princess Cruises ' 14-day itinerary . It begins and ends in Sydney, but the rest of the time is split between exploring numerous New Zealand ports and enjoying relaxing sea days.

Journey to Middle Earth on a Lord of the Rings excursion in Christchurch or take the iconic Wellington cable car up 390 feet to a scenic overlook that'll take your breath away. You can connect with Maori culture in Tauranga, head underground into the Kawiti Caves to see the splendor of thousands of glow worms in Bay of Islands and sip your way along the Auckland Wine Trail.

Who should go: Princess does an exceptional job of making New Zealand accessible to those with a modest budget — fares start at $778 per person. The 3,080-passenger Crown Princess offers several sailings in 2025, with more sailings available through 2026 on the 3,560-passenger Royal Princess and 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess. Onboard, you'll find no shortage of restaurant options, plus a sports court set up for volleyball and basketball, multiple pools and hot tubs, miniature golf and a casino. Youth and teen programs keep traveling kids busy with age-appropriate activities and live animal experiences.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Celebrity's 9-night Australia Wine cruise

Australia is known for many wonderful things, but for many, winemaking tops the list — shiraz dominates the red category, thanks to the climate and soil in the region. Celebrity Cruises offers passengers a perfect pairing with its Australia Wine cruise that runs round-trip from Sydney in December 2024.

In Hobart, Tasmania, explore wine country and treat yourself to some of the best fresh oysters in the world. Adelaide (considered the wine capital of Australia) excursions include a journey into the McLaren Vale or Barossa Valley wine-growing region for a tasting accompanied by lunch. In Melbourne, spend a day with wallabies and wine in the Yarra Valley.

During four days at sea, you can keep the wine flowing with a visit to the Sunset Bar for a glass of your favorite vino while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Or book dinner at Eden Restaurant to enjoy globally influenced dishes that you can pair with your favorite wines from an extensive list.

Who should go: A wine-themed cruise draws the attention of travelers with a more sophisticated palate, and 2,908-passenger Celebrity Edge delivers an equally refined vacation with such amenities as the Magic Carpet (a floating lounge cantilevered above the ocean), an adults-only Solarium and a 25-yard lap pool (the largest in the fleet). With fares starting at $1,099, this sailing might attract younger couples looking for a good value on a shorter sailing.

Norwegian's 12-night Australia & New Zealand: Auckland & Melbourne cruise

While many cruises to this region offer a fair amount of sea days, Norwegian Cruise Line 's Australian & New Zealand: Auckland & Melbourne itinerary maximizes your time on land. You'll visit 10 ports in 12 days for this one-off sailing in 2026, which means the only two sea days land in the middle of the trip, when you're ready for a little relaxation.

Beginning in Auckland, Norwegian Spirit will make its way around New Zealand to Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Lyttleton and Dunedin. You'll also visit Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound and Milford Sound -- massive fjords that are home to waterfalls, marine life and lush rainforest. The first Australian stop is Melbourne, followed by Eden and Sydney. From Lord of the Rings tours and four-wheel safaris to gondola rides and a visit to a Maori tribe's fortified settlement, the excursion options are well rounded with options for all tastes.

Who should go : The 2,032-passenger Norwegian Spirit will attract those looking for a ship with a modern vibe, as it was remodeled in 2022. The $100 million facelift is evident in the expanded spa, new dining venues and lounges (including a cigar bar), an adults-only retreat and an expanded fitness center. Fares start at $1,899 per person.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
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• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Viral Olympic breakdancer Raygun defends her performance

The Australian breaking star went viral with her unique dance moves.

When breaking , or breakdancing, made its debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics , the sport quickly had its breakout star, b-girl Raygun, a 36-year-old Australian college professor.

Raygun, whose birth name is Rachael Gunn, went viral after her performance Friday in Paris, where she took on b-girls in their late teens and early 20s with unique dance moves that quickly became the focus of memes and jokes on social media.

Gunn did not earn a medal in Paris, losing her three round-robin battles by a score of 54-0.

The online criticisms of Gunn's performance led her to defend her skills, telling reporters that what she brought to her performance was "creativity."

"I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best -- their power moves," Gunn said, according to ESPN . "What I bring is creativity."

"All of my moves are original," she continued. "Creativity is really important to me. I go out there, and I show my artistry. Sometimes it speaks to the judges, and sometimes it doesn't. I do my thing, and it represents art. That is what it is about."

On social media, some users dubbed one move by Gunn "the kangaroo," while others compared her dance moves to when a child asks you to watch their performance.

"I'd like to personally thank Raygun for making millions of people worldwide think 'huh, maybe I can make the Olympics too,'" one user wrote on X, alongside a photo of Raygun's Olympic performance.

The online critiques of Gunn's performance led Australia's Chef de Mission, Anna Meares, to issue public support Saturday for her performance.

"I love Rachael, and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing," Meares said at a news conference, according to ESPN. "Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has."

2 generational greats on the culture of breaking

On Sunday, the head judge of the breaking competition in Paris defended Gunn, while the head of the World DanceSport Federation said officials are looking out for her "mental safety" after the online criticism.

"Breaking is all about originality and bringing something new to the table and representing your country or region," head judge Martin Gilian said at a press conference, according to The Associated Press. "This is exactly what Raygun was doing. She got inspired by her surroundings, which in this case, for example, was a kangaroo."

Sergey Nifontov, general secretary of the World DanceSport Federation, added of Gunn's mental health, according to the AP, "We offered (the) support of our safe-guarding officer. We are aware about what has happened, especially on social media, and definitely we should put the safety of the athlete, in this case, mental safety in first place. She has us as a federation supporting her."

According to her Olympics biography , Gunn is a former jazz and ballroom dancer who entered the sport of breaking through her husband, Samuel, who had been breaking for the past decade.

Gunn started breaking in her mid-20s and went on to become the top-ranked b-girl in Australia in 2020 and 2021.

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Last year, she won the QMS Oceania Championships in Sydney to earn Australia's first-ever spot in the b-girl competition at the Olympics, according to her bio.

When not breaking, Gunn, who holds a Ph.D. in cultural studies, is a researcher and lecturer at Macquarie University in Sydney, where she studies the "the cultural politics of breaking," according to her university biography.

As both a breaker and a researcher, Gunn told the podcast "The [Female] Athlete Project" that her bag, "always has two main things, my knee pads and my laptop."

Tom Cruise skydives into Paris Olympics closing ceremony in epic stunt

While in Paris, Gunn shared a photo of herself on Instagram in Team Australia's uniform along with the caption, "Don't be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that's gonna take you."

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of ABC News and ESPN.

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Search suspended after young brit falls off royal caribbean cruise ship near croatia.

Rescue crews suspended their search efforts Sunday for a young British man who fell off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship in the waters near Croatia early Friday morning.

The passenger, who has not been publicly identified, fell overboard into the Adriatic Sea while traveling on the cruise line’s Explorer of the Seas in the early morning hours, according to local Croatian news outlets.

The man plunged nearly 100 feet off the ship into waters near the uninhabited island of Jabuka, the local news station 24 SATA reported .

Royal Caribbean crew members who witnessed the man’s fall immediately tossed over a life ring but could not see him in the water, according to the station.

A massive multi-agency search — spearheaded by the National Center for Coordination of Search and Rescue at Sea — was launched from both sea and air and continued over the weekend.

The rescuers were hopeful that if the Brit survived the fall, he would be able to survive in the warmer waters of the Adriatic Sea during this time of year.

“Survival in these conditions is more than 12 hours, and the search lasts twice as long, at least 24 hours,” Radovan Linić, the coordinator of the search and rescue agency, told 24 SATA in Croatian.

But after three days of searching, the rescue teams were unable to locate the missing man and officially called off the search at around 2 p.m. Sunday, Croatian outlet HRT reported.

The seven-day Royal Caribbean cruise from Greece was headed to Zadar when the man tumbled into the sea.

Another passenger aboard the cruise ship said she was awakened by an emergency message blasting “Oscar Oscar Oscar off the port side. Man overboard” at around 3:40 a.m., she shared on X .

The ship canceled its docking in Zadar but continued on its path after hours of searching when the Croatian coast guard took over the immediate search, Nicole Bullock wrote.

The Post has reached out to Royal Caribbean for comment.

In May, a man reportedly jumped from Royal Caribbran’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, on the first night of his week-long voyage soon after it left Florida. His body was recovered, and he was pronounced dead.

A month before, a 20-year-old man believed to be drunk allegedly jumped off Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas as it sailed between Cuba and the Bahamas while on a vacation with his family.

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Pilbara family trio to compete in Oceanic speedcubing competition

feel good Pilbara family trio to compete in Oceanic speedcubing competition

A family trio from WA's remote north will compete in an international speedcubing competition in Perth in December.

Karratha father Peiching Nie and his two primary-school-aged children can solve a Rubik's cube in less than 20 seconds.

What's next?

Triston Nie, 12, and his younger sister Taylor, aged 10, are hoping to break their personal cube-solving records at the Perth competition.

Triston and Taylor Nie are locked in a race they've done countless times before.

Their hands move at lightning speed, contorting their 3x3 Rubik's cubes into a blur of constantly revolving colours. 

Triston slams his solved cube on the wooden board in front of him.

"Still better," he says with a smug grin.

He's clocked in at an incredible 11 seconds, Taylor just a whisker behind.

Proudly watching on is their father Peiching — the man who introduced them to speedcubing.

The term refers to the act of trying to solve a Rubik's cube as fast as possible.

"Normally you consider yourself a speedcuber when you at least solve it within 20 seconds or 15 seconds," Mr Nie said.

The world record for solving a cube is 3.13 seconds.

A family affair

Mr Nie's love for cubing began when he was a fly-in fly-out worker travelling to and from Karratha.

"I spent all the time on the plane playing Sudoku and [I got] to a level where I couldn't go any further," Mr Nie said.

"And I thought 'What are the other puzzles?' and 'What is world famous?' and I thought 'Oh, cubes!'"

In the years after becoming a permanent resident in Karratha, he stopped regularly cubing but picked it up again during the downtime enforced by the COVID pandemic.

And this time, then seven-year-old Triston also picked up the cube.

"Then I watched this documentary called Speedcubers, and I thought it was interesting, so I started solving it," Triston said.

"Once I did my first solve, I couldn't stop."

Now 12 years old, Triston's record for solving a 3x3 cube is 10.49 seconds.

His younger sister Taylor, aged 10, started at age five and can complete a 3x3 puzzle in 13 seconds. 

And she's one of the country's 10 fastest female speedcubers for the larger 6x6 and 7x7 cubes.

Family bonded through cubing

Mr Nie said the best thing that had come out of the cubing craze was how it tied his family together.

"By doing some hobbies with the children together … you feel the thrill when they grow. I think that's a very good experience," he said.

"And my wife, after she solved the 3x3 she stopped there. But she became our dedicated photographer."

"It's how we connect," Triston said.

"Especially when we have a huge age gap [with Dad], we can just try and be with each other," Taylor said.

With a solving time of 17 seconds, Mr Nie admitted he had lost the title of top spot in his household.

"They were young but now they are all better than myself," Mr Nie said.

Both children made it to the semi-finals of a speedcubing competition in Perth late last month.

Eyeing new records

The family trio will make the trip to Perth again in December to compete at the Oceanics2024 speedcubing competition.

Mr Nie said around 700 people are expected to attend.

Events will be divided by cube size, and there will be no age restrictions — so children can compete against adults.

Triston aims to beat his record before the event and improve his times with other cube sizes.

"Six by six I want to get an average under three minutes, 7x7 an average under 4.30, and then 5x5 an average under 1.30," Triston said.

Taylor said she would also focus on the larger cubes by December.

"I mainly want to focus on 6x6 and 7x7 … they're the most interesting ones because they are the biggest," she said.

• X (formerly Twitter)

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Tom Cruise Was ‘Protective’ of Gina Gershon While Filming Her First Sex Scene, Even When She ‘Kneed Him’ in the Face: ‘I Just Broke His Nose’

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Gina Gershon appeared on “Watch What Happens Live” and was asked by host Andy Cohen if she ever hooked up with Tom Cruise . The two actors starred together in 1988’s “Cocktail,” where Gershon remembered nearly breaking Cruise’s nose during the filming of a sex scene. The moment just so happened to be Gershon’s first time shooting a love scene in a movie. The actor said Cruise “totally” took care of her while filming.

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Gershon, meanwhile, was more of a newcomer to Hollywood movies at the time. Her fame increased in the 1990s with acclaimed performances in “Bound,” which Gershon recently revealed she was told not to do as the movie centered on a lesbian relationship. The actor said on the  “It Happened in Hollywood” podcast that her agents told her specifically that she “can’t play a lesbian” because it would tank her Hollywood career.

“It was a great script and I could tell they were incredible directors, but my agents were like, ‘We will not let you do this movie. You are ruining your career. You will never work again,’” Gershon said, adding that her agents said they could no longer represent her if she took the part.

Watch Gershon’s full appearance on “Watch What Happens Live” in the video below.

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