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The Family Vacation Guide

celebrity cruises child friendly

Is Celebrity Cruise Line Kid Friendly?

posted by James Brockbank on November 10, 2021 // last updated on November 10, 2021

Going on a luxurious cruise sounds like an amazing adventure. Usually, cruise ships have all-inclusive options and of course, you get to stop at different ports to visit different cities. 

However, some parents may ask themselves if it is appropriate to take their kids on a cruise vacation. The last thing you want is to have a bored toddler or teenager when you’re trying to enjoy your 7 days at sea. 

Luckily, Celebrity Cruise Line certainly has kids in mind with the plethora of programs that they have for various young age groups. There are over 500 activities to participate in, and the shipping schedule changes with every sailing depending on the interests of young cruisers.

So if you are thinking about taking a trip with Celebrity Cruise Line don’t hesitate to book a vacation for you and your whole family. Let’s find out more about all the options for your kids to enjoy.

Is There An Age Limit For Children?

Do parents have to attend all children’s activities, what activities are good for entire families, programs for kids and teens, programs for ages 6-9, programs for ages 3 -5, food options for kids, education at sea, your kids can meet other kids.

Children as young as 6 months old are allowed on the ship. Kids of any age can spend time with the ship’s nursery while you go out on an excursion or enjoy your dinner in one of Celebrity’s amazing restaurants.

When your kids are big enough to leave the nursery, let them go explore. The Adventure Ocean Youth Program has plenty of activities for all different age groups (six months to 17 years).

You can choose from scheduled supervised activities or you can drop them off and let them do their own thing. However your children want to enjoy themselves during their free time on the ship, the Youth Program will be sure to provide a safe and fun environment.

The Youth staff is all CPR/First Aid certified and are attentive, caring, energetic individuals that will take care of your children. Your child can sign up online before sailing so they won’t miss out on any activities.

celebrity cruises child friendly

No, you are not required to attend any of the children’s activities. However, it may be helpful for your children to see their parents cheering them on from time to time.

It is a ship vacation so you should enjoy yourself and go out on some excursions while the kids hang out with other young cruisers. When it is time to come together, there are tons of things the entire family can enjoy together.

While there are tons of activities and clubs just for kids, there are things your family can all do together like swimming, board games, classes, croquet, basketball, and outdoor movie night.

Come together for theater shows and live music. Gather everyone for a movie night on the open deck. Like most cruises, there are tons of shore excursions you can enjoy with your adventurous or curious children.

The cruise also offers some family-focused shore excursions like kayaking along a beautiful coastline or snorkeling with stingrays.

There are also family-friendly spaces for parents and their children to play together on the ships. For example, the Celebrity Reflection cruise has lawn bowling, comedy shows, lectures, feature films, karaoke, a sky observation lounge, and team trivia among other activities.

Come together for dinner at one of the formal or casual restaurants before catching a show in the theater. 

A family-style restaurant called the Oceanview Cafe is another great place for your kids to make friends with other families. It becomes a casual buffet for breakfast and lunch, or you can sit down together for dinner. World-class chefs prepare international meals ranging from pizza, sushi, stir-fry, and more. You and the kids can indulge or opt for the healthy salad bar as you socialize.

No matter what you choose to do during your travels, Celebrity Cruise Line has something for everyone to enjoy whether young or not so young.

celebrity cruises child friendly

One of the most popular programs is the Camp At Sea for kids ages 3 through 12. Camp At Sea boasts a large variety of age-appropriate activities for kids that they can enjoy together or on their own.

Some of the options for them to choose from include arts and crafts, cooking, tennis, swimming, karaoke nights, scavenger hunts, and tournaments at the Sports Court. The Camp at Sea is open from 9 am until 10 pm, so your kids can stay occupied all day.

The Teen Club offers activities just for them – no adults allowed. Here they have their lounge area, games room, music performances, and DJ’s, where they’ll be able to relax or let off some steam any time of the day.

Teens can participate in Xbox competitions, parties, and cooking classes. They can come and go as they please all day.

The Explorer’s Lab has educational themes to cover subjects like physics, astronomy, and marine biology. Kids will learn about the ocean ecosystems at the Wildlife Adventure where they can feed bottlenose dolphins or sea turtles. Kids may learn the fundamentals of sailing, such as navigation, time, weather patterns, when they enroll in the nautical program.

The fun continues when kids get hands-on experience in arts and crafts, cooking lessons, sports tournaments, and much more.

Ships may have an interactive room where kids can play with bubbles, see live baby alligators and lizards or get their hands on ocean specimens. The Camp at Sea program has more of a structured environment for preschoolers to learn about the world around them through games, songs, arts, and crafts.

You can drop off your little ones for a few hours of safe, age-appropriate playtime. Kids will get to meet new friends and experience their first-day camp vacation.

There are three options for kids who don’t want to take the time to sit down and eat.

The room service menu includes items like grilled cheese, peanut butter, and jelly sandwiches, or hamburgers with fries.

Kids can always stop by one of the buffets and grab a little something quick like cereal, yogurt, fruit, bread, pastries, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, or pizza. Children usually love ice cream, and Celebrity has several locations for ice cream cones, sundaes, banana splits, or shakes.

You can relax knowing that kids are always welcome to join their parents at any of the restaurants or bars onboard Celebrity ships if they want to eat a more formal meal together. They also have lots of healthy fare like fresh fruit, vegetables, and salad bars.

Celebrity Cruises have even partnered with The Frost Science Museum and Anturus to create unique educational experiences onboard for kids on certain ships like Celebrity Edge and Equinox.

They have a one-of-a-kind science and discovery museum at sea, where children can interact with marine scientists. They may learn about the Galapagos Islands by getting up close and personal with its animals, as well as learning about weather patterns, meteorology, or how to handle dangerous waves.

Another unique educational program they offer is for teens to learn the basics of scuba diving at the Underwater Explorer’s Lab. Kids will learn about marine ecosystems through videos, games, and discussions with expert divers.

celebrity cruises child friendly

The various kids’ clubs offer lots of different activities for kids to do together or independently. Even though the Camp At Sea program is age-specific, there are playrooms for toddlers as well as teenagers that everyone can use together.

Kids will be excited to see their favorite characters like Doc McStuffins onboard Celebrity ships. They won’t have a hard time making new friends because they’ll be running around having fun together all day long.

They can keep track of their schedules with a kids activity guide made just for them, so mom and dad don’t have to do it. Kids can bring fun stickers back to use later in the week when they get to decorate their family photo album.

Each ship has unique activities that will be a hit with your kids. For example, your ship may have a board game cafe that allows you to hang out and play classic games like Battleship, chess, checkers, and Connect Four.

Celebrity Cruises Are Fun For All

In conclusion, if you want to take your children on a cruise, but you’re worried about whether it might not be a good fit for your family, Celebrity Cruises have several features to help ease your mind.

There are endless activities and programs available to help keep kids entertained and learning all week long. Kids can make new friends on board by participating in their organized childcare services or hanging out in the playroom.

Celebrity Cruises is kid-friendly and a fantastic choice for your next family vacation.

More about our TFVG Author

celebrity cruises child friendly

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

celebrity cruises child friendly

The Family Cruise Companion

Celebrity Edge Review For Families: 23 Things You’ll Want To Know

By: Author Elaine Warren

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2023

Categories CRUISE LINES & SHIPS , Kids , Reviews

Our Celebrity Edge review details all of the key things you should know about this fabulous ship before booking a sailing with your kids.

Celebrity Edge Review | photo of ship docked in Malta

The Celebrity Edge is the newest ship to join the fleet of Celebrity Cruises . Debuting near the end of 2018, the ship splits time between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. We sailed one of the Mediterranean itineraries near the end of the summer. Not surprisingly, we had a fabulous time!

Our Celebrity Edge review in a nutshell: The Edge is a beautiful ship with many innovative and forward-thinking touches. It has many features that are family-oriented or family-friendly. That said, the youth programming was somewhat less structured and predictable than what we have seen on other ships. So, this may be better suited for families who have more independent older kids, or who aren’t looking for a full program of pre-defined activities, or lots of child-oriented bells & whistles.

Celebrity Edge Review: Embarkation

1. the amazing & efficient check-in process..

Check-in process was amazing. Hopefully, this carries over to the Caribbean sailings.

The Edge offered a very streamlined and efficient embarkation process. Guests had options to download the Celebrity App to speed up embarkation. Or, during the advanced online check-in, you could also upload scanned versions of your passports and individual photos that reportedly would help speed up the process as well.

We did none of those. We did the basic online reservation and then showed up at the appointed time at the pier. Even without doing the optional advanced footwork, we completed the entire process in less than 15 minutes. 

When we walked into the registration area, after security, there was a long desk area with several agents. But notably, there weren’t any lines. Just a handful of people scattered across the stations. But it turned out that wasn’t actually the primary way to check-in.

As we started walking towards that area, we were intercepted by a woman carrying a tablet. And looking around, she had several other colleagues walking around with tablets. She asked for our boarding passes and passports. Scanned them with her tablet, and then took our photos with our tablet. Then she told us we were done, and could board the ship. That was it. Seriously.

We proceeded to our stateroom, and our keys were waiting for us.

2. Probably The Best Muster Drill We’ve Ever Experienced.

The mandatory safety drill on embarkation day can often be tedious. But, the Celebrity Edge muster drill was one of the most painless we have experienced to date. 

As an initial matter, ours occurred in one of the main air-conditioned restaurants. So everyone had the opportunity to sit down on an actual chair and be comfortable. And, as for the actual safety presentation, it came in the form of an entertaining video that was built around a spy-theme storyline. Much more engaging than the typical video. 

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Celebrity Edge Review: Our Cabin

The staterooms on Celebrity Edge are absolutely beautiful. Since the ship had only been sailing for a few months, the cabins still had a very fresh and new feeling, as well as beautiful decor. The website photos provided an accurate representation of what you’ll find onboard.

3. Main Cabin Storage More Limited Than Expected

Although the cabin was beautiful, it, unfortunately, had a limited amount of useful storage for a party of four. Definitely less than what we have typically seen in a balcony cabin. The closet space was insufficient and offered less flexibility than the prior ships. The space to hang full-length hanging clothes was reduced. It had a bar that ran horizontally halfway down the closet so that you could double hang clothes on two rows. Usually, a bar like that is optional, in that you can fold it up out of the way and use the entire closet for full-sized clothes. But in these closets, the bar was fixed.

There were no storage shelves or cabinets over the bed or the sofa. And, while there were shelves next to the closet, they curved around a wall. Making them oddly shaped and not that functional.  

This was definitely a cabin that needed some creative applications of our cozy cabin hacks .

Tip: There’s a desk next to the dresser that’s actually attached to the dresser on one side. The legs on the unattached side fold up, allowing you to slide it into a special slot in the dresser. Revealing a full length mirror and more floor space. This feature was not immediately apparent to us.

4. The Staterooms Are Tech-Friendly.

Typically, cruise cabins have a limited number of electric outlets. This is why we consider an outlet expander a must have cruise accessory . The Edge staterooms have outlets that allow you to plug in more than two devices at a time, including a handy bedside USB port. But even, with these additional options, we still needed the outlet expander. 

Also, if you download the Celebrity App, you’re able to use it to control several features in the stateroom, such as the lights, the temperature, and the television.

5. Infinite Veranda vs Traditional Balcony: A Toss-Up of Mixed Reviews.

One of the most promoted novel features for Celebrity Edge has been the new Infinite Veranda. And, it’s a very interesting concept.

Rather than the traditional sliding door leading from the main room to the balcony, the doors have ceiling to floor glass, open in the middle, and fold back against the wall accordion style. When the doors are open, the balcony area acts as an extension of the stateroom itself. The walls of the balcony run from floor to ceiling without any gaps. The third “wall” at the end of the balcony is made of floor-to-ceiling glass divided horizontally about halfway down. The top half is a window that slides down by pushing a button to access the outside air.

If you kept the window portion of the balcony closed most of the time, it would seem like the balcony portion of the room was part of the regular living space. And, it increases the room size by more than 20%. But, when you are “on the balcony” you aren’t actually outside. It’s more like being in a sunroom with a large picture window.

Interestingly, the ship personnel have the ability to close the infinite veranda remotely. According to the notice printed in the newsletter, the Captain may decide to do that in the case of inclement weather, or for cleaning.

This setup will appeal to some folks but not all.  If you are looking for the opportunity for extra floor space, you will love it. If you are seeking a true balcony experience, not so much. 

6. Fantastic Bathroom

The balcony staterooms on Celebrity Edge have fantastic bathrooms. They are noticeably larger with a generous shower. And, unlike the main cabin, they have lots of useable shelf space. There are sets of shelves on either side of the long vanity, and there are two lower shelves below that run the entire length of the vanity. 

Celebrity Edge Review: Kids’ Club & Youth Program  

For this sailing, our travel party included three kids who were ages 6, 11, and 13.  So we had interactions and child feedback on both the main youth club (for kids ages 3 through 12) and the teen club.

Celebrity Edge Review: photo of interior of ship's kids' club.

Shipmates Area of Celebrity Edge Kids’ Club (ages 3-5).

7. Physical Facilities Smaller Than Expected

The first thing we noticed when walking into the kids’ club was its size and location. The club resides on one of the lowest levels of the ship – Deck 3, directly beneath the Theater (which can be convenient at pick-up time). And, it has no access to natural light. The actual physical space for the kids’ club facilities is rather small. Particularly for the older age groups. When standing at the front reception desk, you can basically see the entire club. Or, at least, all of the areas open to children.

Celebrity Edge Review: Interior photo of youth club.

Celebrity Edge Kids’ Club – “Captains” area for ages 10 – 12.

The Teens space was also somewhat on the smaller side, and it was not located near the main club. Rather, it was tucked away on Deck 2 and not obvious. It’s aptly named “The Basement.” Although the interior itself was not particularly large, it was adjacent to a large open area (the Destination Lounge) that was available to be used for overflow activities at certain times of the day. (Typically, the Destination Lounge was the area used for entering and exiting the ship on port days.) Some daytime teen activities were also scheduled for The Club on decks 4 and 5.

8. Published Activities Often Not Track What Actually Happened

At the beginning of the cruise, families could pick up a schedule of the planned activities for the week when they when registered on embarkation day. Although the schedule provided detailed information about the various activities for each of the different age groups for each day, it was often not followed. This led to some frustration when kids would show up for an announced activity (such as an Xbox tournament), but nothing resembling that was actually happening. 

 Photo of child playing with oversized light board in youth club.

Celebrity Edge: Youth club area for “Cadets” – kids ages 6 – 9.

According to the program brochure, the youth club staff have a basic menu of core activities that they supplement each sailing based on the interests of the kids. This may have been part of the reason that daily activities frequently departed from the printed materials. But, ideally, there would be some way of informing guests of changes in advance.

A sample of some of the general activities:

  • Shipmates (ages 3-5) – Fat Brain Toys, paper plane competition, finger painting, beading bonanza, pizza making, face painting, obstacle course, food relay, Legos, balloon volleyball, superhero night. 
  • Cadets (ages 6-9) – foosball challenges, finger painting, robotics, movie night, dance party.
  • Captains (ages 10-12) – dodgeball vs Teens, Xbox challenges, Pictionary, card games, ping pong tournament, gaga ball.

9.  Family-Friendly Program Hours

The regular program hours for the club were consistent with those on other Celebrity ships. Complimentary hours ran from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.-10 p.m. For $6 per hour per child, kids could also attend a lunch session, Dinner session, and/or the late hours Slumber Party (lunch party on port days from 12-2; dinner party from 5-7; slumber party from 10-1 am). Dinner party free if ship departs port before 5.

In addition to that regular schedule, you could arrange for early morning hours on port days where the ship arrived before 9 a.m. This was not a regular service we had seen before. Given that ours was a very port-heavy itinerary with long port days that often started at 7 a.m., it was very handy to have this option. The club would open 30 minutes prior to port arrival if the staff was notified at least 24 hours in advance.

We ended up using this service twice for my younger child. On days that we had long excursions that required extended bus or van travel and included activities that were not ideal for smaller kids.

Related Post: 5 Best Reasons Families Leave Kids On The Cruise Ship

Celebrity Edge Review: Recreation, Entertainment & Other Activities

10. pool area very low key and functional.

The main pool area consists of one large pool with adjacent hot tubs. No water slides or other water attractions. The focus is on natural beauty and relaxation. The overall pool deck is quite nice with conveniently located bathrooms that are several steps above the typical pool bathroom and were well maintained.

On the same deck, you’ll find the enclosed adults-only solarium which has another pool.  And, there’s a third pool on a higher deck that’s for the exclusive use of suite guests.

11. Different Interpretation of a Cabana

The pool deck also features several cabanas that can be reserved for a fee. And the fee includes a certain amount of premium food and drinks and cabana service. But these aren’t exactly like typical cabanas we’re used to seeing. Most notably, they are near the pool, but they don’t actually open out into the pool area. You can’t see or access the pool directly from the cabana. So, it’s more of a designated lounge space with perks that you could visit for breaks from the pool.

Celebrity Edge Review: photo of poolside cabana

A “cabana” on Celebrity Edge .

Supposedly, the cabanas have access to stunning ocean views (rather than direct access to the pool), but this was not apparent during the times that we walked through. The Magic Carpet docks on the side of the cabanas that would presumably face the ocean. So, when the Magic Carpet slides down to reside on Deck 14, it blocked any potential views from the cabanas.  The views from the Magic Carpet, however, were stunning.

12. Magic Carpet Area Is Delightful & Novel

The Magic Carpet generated a fair amount of hype when the ship launched, and we were eager to check it out once our sailing rolled around. While the space was not quite what I had imagined, it is quite delightful.

The Magic Carpet is a large open-air platform structure attached to the side of the ship that moves from Deck 2 all the way up to Deck 14 at various points of the day. When you get on the ship’s elevators, there’s a special button for “Magic Carpet” so you don’t have to keep track or wonder where it might be at any given point.

Depending on the time of day, it serves many functions. During port days when passengers take the tender launches to shore, the Magic Carpet incorporated into the Destination Gateway on Deck 2. At other times, it floated to Deck 5 to become an outdoor eating extension to Raw on 5. Or, it rose to Deck 14 adjacent to the pool area and served as a beautiful, restful daytime lounging space. In the evenings, it floated to Deck 16 and transforms into a specialty restaurant.

Celebrity Edge Review | photo of starboard side of ship with Magic Carpet

This was a great lounging spot during the late afternoons. It had beautiful views, a nice ambiance, and attentive service. It was also steps away from the Mast Grill, so you could grab food and bring it into the lounge space if you wanted.

Photo of view from Magic Carpet on Celebrity Edge

Passenger views from the Magic Carpet on Celebrity Edge

13. Port Day Embarkation/Disembarkation Process Deserves High Review Marks

Disembarking and embarking the ship on port days occurred through the Destination Gateway on Deck 2. It’s a large, attractive multi-purpose area that could be used for a variety of other functions when embarkation services weren’t taking place.

The embarkation area on port days was spacious and well organized. While there were often long lines when returning to ship, as expected, the process was extremely quick and efficient. During peak periods, they were able to have three or four lines running at once. Interestingly, they were not really confiscating purchases as people re-boarded (e.g, alcohol). This likely contributed to the speed. Unclear whether this will continue on future sailings.

The addition of the Magic Carpet on tender days greatly enhanced the tendering experience. The whole process felt safer and more stable. Oftentimes, the tendering process involves maneuvering from a small metal landing at the bottom of outside stairs while gripping onto two crew members as you stepped across an obvious and unavoidable gap that opened down onto the ocean below. Swaying the entire time.

In contrast, on Celebrity Edge , the tender vessels were able to align even with the side of the Magic Carpet. It seemed almost flush with no obvious large gaps. And tendering was a simple matter of walking through a beautiful lounge and stepping into an adjacent lounge. One that happened to be floating on the water and could sail away once it was full.

14. Features You Won’t Find on the Edge

There were several features or amenities that you often find on the newer family-friendly Mega ships that you won’t find on Celebrity Edge.

  • No water slides, splash parks, or options of any kind for non-potty trained kids.
  • No arcade. But there were extensive Xbox offerings in the regular kids’ club, the Teen Club, and several public events held at The Club.
  • No sports deck. But there is a multi-level jogging track and a couple of ping pong tables (which were very popular on our sailing).

15. Beautiful Spa Worth A Visit

The Spa was gorgeous.  Go attend one of the tours on embarkation day. Some one-day specials were available that could be great deals for certain travelers. 

Generally, the spa services were on the expensive side, but there were several opportunities for additional savings. The spa advertised daily specials that were featured in the ship’s newsletters. For instance, the spa offered a 75-minute package that included a hot stone or bamboo massage, full-body exfoliation, foot/ankle massage, and a health assessment for a $60 savings. The spa offered different versions of this 75-minute combo throughout the cruise.

The spa also offered a twilight massage special with special pricing between 4:00 and 8:00 on a 50-minute massage or facial. 

And, on a couple of occasions, the spa sponsored a  Ladies Pamper Party promotion in one of the ship’s restaurants. The promotion included a complimentary DIY eye, face, and neck skin treatment and a California Sunglow makeover. And, special offers were provided to those who attend. 

Related Post: 15 Things You’ll Really Want To Know About The Cruise Spa

16. Unique Venues: Eden & The Rooftop Garden

The Celebrity Edge offers two other unique public areas that warrant special mention: The Rooftop Garden and Eden. We had heard quite a bit about both spaces before boarding the ship.

Rooftop Garden

The Rooftop Garden is a large open-air park-like area at the top of the ship that features an array of metal sculptures, living plants, and comfortable seating. It features oversized games such as Jenga and chess, and other lawn games and puzzles. It plays host to a variety of activities throughout the day and evening. Including organized hosted tournaments, movies and music, and dancing.

An intensely stylized designed space that spans multiple decks with panoramic windows. It also includes a variety of living plants. The space features a variety of seating options, a bar, and a restaurant. And, it hosts various entertainment acts and performances, including aerialists, many of which are interactive.

Photo of interior of Eden on Celebrity Edge.

Eden during the daytime.

17. Modern Casino That’s Well Integrated Into Main Activity Areas

The casino on Celebrity Edge has a somewhat unusual layout. It’s very long and narrow with multiple entrances from several directions. This allowed for guests to flow in and out easily.  But, at the same time, no guests were forced to walk through the casino itself to get to points A or B.

The casino had a great selection of table games and slots. Not a lot of tables, but generally sufficient.

And, the casino enjoys a great location on Deck 4. It is a few steps away from the main complimentary restaurants, and it’s adjacent to the Grand Atrium and other fun high traffic areas.

18. Updated and Novel Approach to Ship Photography

The Photography department on Celebrity Edge has a different approach that will be interesting to see if it’s carried over to other ships. Guests have the opportunity to download pictures throughout the sailing for those who want to do social media along the way. You didn’t have to wait to receive a download link after you returned home. There was a package available for purchase online pre-sailing for all-inclusive digital photos + top-tier internet for one device. And, this included the onboard downloading options.

Also, many of the interior photo stations incorporated a special effects green screen. This allowed for a variety of backgrounds and effects to be applied to a single shot. When the photos were published, they were automatically made available with all of the different individual backgrounds. And, all versions of the shot were included in the all-inclusive package.

19. Nice Mix of Family Friendly Entertainment Options

Overall, the ship offered a nicely varied mix of entertainment options throughout the day and evening sufficient to avoid boredom, but not so numerous as to be overwhelming. It was easy to quickly figure out what was going on at any point in time using either the app or the paper newsletter.

Daytime Activities

During the daytime, the cruise director’s staff hosted a range of educational and recreational activities such as a session on how to cook a perfect steak, an archery challenge, origami, knitting, and a giant Jenga challenge.

Notably, traditional bingo was not offered. Instead, the ship offered a version of Deal or No Deal with cash prizes. (We saw a similar offering during our sailing on Norwegian Bliss .)

The ship also hosted daytime movie screenings in The Club and/or the Rooftop Garden. During our sailing, the choices included Aquaman , Nancy Drew, and the Hidden Staircase ; Mama Mia ; The Upside ; A Star is Born ; and the family classic Wizard of Oz .

There were also various iterations of trivia games. Including an interactive game show style trivia that required the use of a smartphone or tablet.

Evening Activities

The Main Theater generally had showings at 7:30 and 9:30.  Featuring a mix of different types of musical acts, acrobats, and the occasional magician or comedian.  While some of the featured musical acts would perform songs from several popular Broadway shows, this ship did not feature actual stand-alone shows that you often find these days on other ships.

During our sailing, the Main Theater featured:

  • The Barricade Boys – featuring music from Les Miserables, Jersey Boys, Queen, West Side Story, Motown, Beatles, Bruno Mars, and more.
  • The Other Guys – “the Four Sea Sons” from London’s West End Stage offered a combination of vocals and dancing.
  • Hype with Marcus Terrell – vocalist with dancers
  • Mike Votano’s American Jukebox – Australian vocalist and instrumentalist. One-man musical jukebox
  • Magician – Joe Enock
  • A Hot Summer Night’s Dream – Shakespeare with acrobats and music.
  • Colors of Life – Musical journey with acrobats.
  • Kaleidoscope – Described as a “powerful mash-up of music and emotion.”
  • Ashlie-Amber Harris – A former American Idol contestant who performed a powerful Whitney Houston retrospective.  Passengers were buzzing afterward. 

Music & Dancing

Several venues also offered different options for music and dancing.

Eden offered a rotating menu of musical performances at 10:15. This included several stagings of “Revelations at Eden.”  This was described as “A one-of-a-kind immersive experience that expresses the true spirit of Eden. Traversing through chillful environments, playful interactions and enticing performances.” And, Eden also featured various styles of musical performances from several different house acts.

On several different nights, the ship also offered a version of Silent Disco or karaoke with a live band. Late evenings also featured a DJ and dancing at The Club. And, the Grand Plaza (the central atrium area) was always very lively at night with music and dancing. The bartenders would often get into the act as well.

For those who wanted an alternative to music and dancing, the nightly program options also included a game show option and movie options. The Club featured a daily game show with rotating themes at 8:15 p.m. And the Rooftop Garden hosted evening movies (such as Captain Marvel and John Wicke 3 ).

celebrity cruises child friendly

Cafe al Bacio, Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Edge Review: The Food 

20. terrific new approach to main dining room .

Overall, the food was standout.

Celebrity Edge offers an interesting re-interpretation of the main dining room. Instead of one or two large dining areas, the ship has four different complimentary restaurants, each with its own theme and slightly different menu options. If you have fixed seating, like we did, you will be assigned to one of the four restaurants for the duration of your cruise. But, you always have the option to make a reservation at any of the other three venues.

All four restaurants shared some common menu items, some of which changed nightly and some of which were always available. But each restaurant also had a unique portion of the menu that was based on its particular theme:

  • Cyprus – Mediterranean food with a focus on seafood.
  • Cosmopolitan – Celebrity describes this as “New American with global influences.”
  • Normandie – Contemporary French cuisine.
  • Tuscan – Italian fare.

Our home restaurant was Cyprus. Every meal was excellent, and our assigned table staff was fantastic. We also had meals at the other options but ended up preferring Cyprus.

Note that Cosmopolitan opened every morning for a sit-down breakfast. A much more relaxing option than trying to navigate the buffet. Service was generally efficient, so we were able to get in and out quickly.

21. Specialty Restaurants Get Mixed Reviews

Overall, the ship’s specialty restaurants received mixed reviews among our travel party.

A Fine Cut is the ship’s steakhouse. This is a lovely venue overlooking the Grand Plaza, and the staff provided excellent service. Perhaps the most attentive service we had all trip.

As for the food, the appetizers, bread basket and an array of interesting sides received uniformly rave reviews. Views on the different steak offerings, however, significantly diverged. Everyone who had the aged NY strip (which included myself) was disappointed. And it pains me greatly to write that. Initially, neither of the steaks was cooked to the right temperature. Nor were they well seasoned. They simply weren’t tasty, and much of it was left on the plate.

In contrast, the folks who had the filet were extremely happy. Including one notoriously young picky eater. All of those plates were just shy of licked clean. 

 The sushi bar was fine. It was a great place to have lunch with large windows and lots of natural light. Unfortunately, the day that we dined there, the Magic Carpet was not in residence.

The Grand Bistro/Le Petit Chef

Le Petit Chef dining involves a dinner spanning several courses that are interspersed with various animated vignettes that are displayed on the individual tables and plates. The animation relates to the various dishes that are about to be served, and it fun and entertaining. We had enjoyed a different version of this on a prior sailing on a different ship.

For this sailing, while the animated performance built around the menu theme was obviously intended to appeal to kids, the menu offerings themselves really weren’t. So, be sure to check out the menu in advance to make sure you can find something your kids will eat.

22. As to the Buffet: A Cautionary Review

As with the rest of the ship, the physical space for the Oceanview Cafe was visually striking and appealing. Overall, there was plenty of natural light streaming through the oversized windows, and an abundance of comfortably arranged seating options. The menu options were diverse and tasty.

But, there was a very troubling incident that soured us on the buffet experience.

I was standing in line at one of the breakfast stations waiting to get some bacon and breakfast potatoes. The woman in front of me was struggling with the bacon. When she tried to pick up a slice with tongs, she inevitably ended up with many pieces stuck together. She couldn’t quite manage to separate the pieces using the tongs. So she finally abandoned the tongs and used her bare hands to separate out the pieces that she wanted and returned the remaining unwanted pieces to the serving dish for someone else to have. The unwanted slices that she had handled with her bare hands were simply mixed in with the other slices to await some other unsuspecting passenger to grab them.

This appalling observation underscored another troubling issue. Usually when you visit the buffet on a cruise ship, staff members are stationed at the entrances reminding people to wash and sanitize their hands. We rarely saw anyone doing that on our sailing. And on the day of the incident noted above, we didn’t see anyone at the entrance at all.

celebrity cruises child friendly

23. Ship Offered Interesting Options for Disembarkation Day

Overall, the disembarkation process was orderly and well-managed. While not quite as speedy as the embarkation process, it still moved relatively fast once your group was called.

Departures For True Early Birds

On this sailing, the ship offered two interesting disembarkation options that we had not previously seen. First, they offered a “pre-authorized early departure” option.

Regular disembarkation started at 7:00 a.m. And the self-assist walk-off option started at 6:30 a.m. In addition to these typical options, the ship had arranged with local authorities (in Civitavecchia) to pre-authorize a special 5:15 a.m. departure for people with early travel arrangements. Interested guests could sign up at guest relations. But there was a strict deadline to sign up no later than 5 days before disembarkation day. Only people who pre-registered were allowed to exit during the early time.

Unfortunately, this option was not particularly well advertised. There was a note about it in one of the daily newsletters early in the trip. Part of our group would have loved that option but didn’t learn about it until too late.

Option For Delayed Departures

The ship also offers an “Extend Your Stay” option for people who had late travel arrangements. For a fee, the ship would store your luggage while you continued to enjoy use of the ship’s amenities. You could grab food with an included dining credit at Raw on 5. You could relax by the pool. Or, book spa appointments. And, you had the continued use of your beverage package, if you had one.

Although we had previously seen something like this on another cruise line, this was our first time seeing it on Celebrity.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Overall, we had a very favorable review of Celebrity Edge. It’s a beautiful ship that’s staffed with genuinely service-oriented people. And, it offers several features that will appeal to many families seeking a low-key, relaxing vacation.

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Celebrity Cruises for Families

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Mar 17, 2011

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celebrity cruises child friendly

Celebrity Cruise Line Celebrity Cruises offers a range of kid-friendly amenities distinctive from other cruise lines. From flexible eating times to diverse youth programs to an expansive grass lawn on the highest deck, there’s something for every family member. Celebrity also provides a personalized experience where staff members address you by name and personal concierges attend to your every need.

Ship Specifics Celebrity was founded and marketed as a big-ship operator in 1989 by the Chandris Group in Greece. In 1997, the cruise line was acquired by Royal Caribbean and now operates as a sister company. With 10 ships in total, the former small-ship cruise line continues to offer personalized service on their new, larger ships. Since 2008, Celebrity has produced ships that weigh 122,000 tons — larger than all of Carnival’s fleet, except Carnival Dream. These ships carry 2,850 passengers, while others in the fleet offer less than 2,000 spaces. Due to its interior designing, even ships occupied to full capacity feel half empty. Passengers rarely experience lines or excessive crowding.

Celebrity spans the whole gamut of ships. Celebrity Xpedition is in class of itself. It is a smaller ship of 2,329 tons that holds only 98 passengers. Recently, Celebrity Century, one of the first ships, was rereleased from a major renovation that included the addition of 314 verandahs, 14 suits and 10 staterooms. Celebrity Silhouette is expected in fall 2011 and Celebrity Reflection in 2012.

Ports and Destinations A worldwide cruise line, Celebrity has 190 ports across the globe. The only place Celebrity does not venture, as of yet, is Asia. Itineraries include Europe , Alaska , the Panama Canal, South America, Hawaii , the Caribbean , Canada and New England . Antarctica “drive-bys” are also available. Homeports in the U.S. are in New York , Miami , Fort Lauderdale , Honolulu , San Diego and Seattle . Canada also has a main port in Vancouver .

Caribbean tours are most popular among families, and are shorter in length, usually running between four to seven days. In the Caribbean, Celebrity stops at over 35 ports, including Shangri-La, Antigua and Paradise Beach in Cozumel Island. Forty-two itineraries offer a wide variety of trips that you can tailor with specific excursions. At port, families can snorkel with stingrays, parasail above the beaches, sail in glass-bottom kayaks or simply make sandcastles. The top ships going to the Caribbean are Celebrity Solstice, Silhouette, Equinox, Eclipse and Millennium.

Another family favorite, Alaska’s Inside Passage is best seen by cruise ship. Sailing the Prince William Sound offers striking views of the glaciers. Cruises stop at Denali State Park and Brooke Falls to get passengers up close and personal with bears and bald eagles. Passengers receive ample time on land with a tour director that explains the natural wonders of the state. Celebrity Century, Infinity and Millennium travel to Alaska between May and September. Normally, cruises depart from the west coast, namely Seattle or Vancouver .

The Celebrity Xpedition ship offers a remarkable Galapagos Island tours. Celebrity is the only big-ship line to run trips to the islands year round. Transatlantic voyages also travel to Israel via Celebrity Equinox. Celebrity is one of the few cruise lines to travel to these two exotic destinations.

celebrity cruises child friendly

Celebrity Cruise Line Staterooms Staterooms feature telephones, safes, hair dryers, mini-bars and convertible twin-to-queen beds. A television in each room offers closed-circuit movies and Sony video games. Families who want balconies can find them. If this is important to you, check out the Millennium-class ships, which offer them in 56 percent of their rooms. Family Oceanview Staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, second bedrooms with a small bed for kids, sitting areas with sofa convertible trundle beds and veranda seating. Unfortunately, family rooms do not come with bathtubs and cribs are not available. Complimentary beach towels and 24-hour room service are provided. Laundry service is also available for an extra fee. Suites are equipped with DVD players, whirlpool baths and also come with private butler service. Though all rooms feature bathrobes, only suites have bathtubs. For a real splurge, the Concierge-class units offer priority luggage service, upgraded bed coverings and furnished balconies.

celebrity cruises child friendly

Celebrity Cruises Dining In 2007, Celebrity developed new twists on traditional culinary favorites. This gastronomic overhaul improved the quality and diversity of dining options on each ship. Nowadays, Celebrity is known for its delicious culinary options and ships typically host at least 10 high-quality restaurants with options for everyone in the family. Kids can choose what food they want to eat. Casual dining often appeals to families and is offered at Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria, Outdoor Grill and International Marketplace. The Marketplace has a pasta station, a pizza area that stays open late and a dessert station. It is a kid’s buffet dream. The newer ships, Solstice and Equinox, also offer theme dining concepts, like an Asian-fusion restaurant and an Italian steakhouse. Slower to catch on than other cruise lines, in 2010 Celebrity unveiled a flexible dining program that allows passengers to reserve dining times online before or during their cruise. Traditional dining is also offered for the more conservative families who want to dress for dinner. One to three formal dinners are presented per trip, depending on the length of voyage.

Room service is available. Breakfast served on your stateroom’s expansive verandah over the waves is offered from 6:30 to 10 a.m. Celebrity also accommodates families with special culinary needs, like vegetarian, kosher or food allergy diets. Low-sugar or gluten-free dishes can also be arranged.

celebrity cruises child friendly

Celebrity Cruises Activities A Lawn Club perches on the highest deck, flaunting a half acre of real grass and a country-club ambience. The area is perfect for family picnics, and Croquet and Bocce ball are some of the games on the green. A popular draw, few other cruises offer such a unique environment, and it is nice to visit when you’ve been at sea a little too long.

Trivia contests will excite families who enjoy game shows, and interactive video games are also available. Sports competitions focus on basketball, ping-pong and golf. Celebrity also offers unique demonstrations and shows. Smithsonian experts give lectures, the Corning Museum of Glass staff performs the first at-sea glassblowing demonstrations and art auctions are held throughout the trip. Onboard boutiques offer a place to peruse for souvenirs, too.

Kids’ Clubs The Fun Factory offers a safe haven of toys and activities for kids’ up to age 11. The children’s center is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Toddler Time is offered for children under age three; however supervision is not provided for this age group. Though the Fun Factory is at their disposal, parents must accompany children while they play with toys and meet other kids. Toddlers must be fully potty trained to participate in this program, as supervision is not available for children under age three.

For supervised groups, children are split into four age groups. Ship Mates (3 to 5) hosts theme parties, treasure hunts, crafts and musical games. Celebrity Cadets (6 to 8) also offers relay races, trivia competitions and talent shows. Ensigns (9 to 11) plans pool games, karaoke, scavenger hunts and video games.

Admiral Teens (12 to 17) offers teens the opportunity to make new friends. A teen center is equipped with video game consoles. The hangout serves as a venue for late-night dance parties for teens-only, sport events and other social activities.

For Mom and Dad Parents can enjoy a romantic evening together due to Celebrity’s babysitting services. For $6/hour kids can attend an Afternoon Party from noon to 2 p.m. or a Dinner Party from 5 to 7 p.m. on port days. A Slumber Party is another option, running from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. These two events take place in the Fun Factory. For $8/hour for up to two children per family, private in-room babysitting is provided (subject to availability). This service must be arranged in advance.

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Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

Celebrity Cruises, the higher end mainstream line, was originally created without the thought of children sailors, but it has become one of the most sought after family friendly lines.  While not every sailing is full of kids, during the holidays, school vacations and the summers, the Celebrity fleet of ships are loaded with the younger generation off on a family adventure cruising together.  

We had our doubts, that without all the water slides, and costumed crew members dressed as cartoon characters, that this may not of been the perfect choice for our recent Christmas cruise, with 3 generations  Let me tell you, for a family, there couldn’t have been a more perfect match. We loved every minute of our family adventure cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with kids.

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

Welcome aboard the Celebrity Reflection!  

We approached the 3030 passenger, 1047 feet long and 123 feet wide Celebrity Reflection cruise ship with awe.  She glistened in the sun light and there were kids of all ages from infants to 100 year olds waiting to board.  

We were greeted as VIPs and boarded with an escort.  Our concierges Bogdan and Samantha made sure that our every need and desire were fulfilled.

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

Our Concierge Cabins:

We cruised in Concierge veranda quad cabins.  Space was not huge, but very accommodating for 2 adults and 2 younger children.  The Concierge quad cabins use a trundle system for the added 2 guests.  Our kids said that the beds were more comfortable than their beds at home.  

Our cabin steward made sure to make all the comforts of home available, with the addition of towel animals and a token pillow chocolate every night.  In Concierge class cabins, all guests receive a “savory” snack platter at the end of the busy afternoon, which included miniature salmon “lox” wraps everyday, and our daughter raced back to the cabin everyday, to devour the snack.  

The biggest difference between regular cabins and the concierge cabins is better placement on the ship, exclusive use to a concierge, upgraded bath amenities, and the afternoon snacks.  The Aqua class cabins have a separate dining room, called Blu, unlimited access to the Relaxation area in the spa, and unlimited access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub’s Persian Garden

Food-  Oh the food!  

The Oceanview cafe is the buffet, if that is truly what you want to call it.  I’d call it a gourmet restaurant with unlimited food for the taking.  The kids loved the made to order pasta bar, pizza bar, stir fry bar, omelette bar, salad bar, Indian food, and a Mexican food station.  

I almost left out, the kids favorite hangout.  The ice cream bar, with daily fresh made ice cream, with every dry topping imaginable including sour patch kids.  The Oceanview also had a carving station and the usual buffet items like miscellaneous salads, cold items and lots of hot selections.  

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

The line also has the main Opus dining room which features a kids menu, although lots of kids order directly from the Opus menu, because the food was so delicious and could be tried even if they then didn’t want to eat the entire portion.  

An expedited dinner service is not published as a Celebrity offering, but all the wait staff are willing to serve kids quicker and let them get out of dining room to kids club or other entertainment, if the need arises. Our kids had a Classic, non- alcoholic drink package, and they were able to order “mocktails”, soft drinks, or fresh juices with every meal, or any time during the day.  

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

The Reflection offers many other speciality, added cost dining options  The beauty of the specially dining is they do discount for the kids.  We chose a special dining option of a daddy/daughter lunch at the Porch.  

The Porch is on the Lawn of the ship.  It serves fish specialties, including a seafood tower.  My daughter Samantha was addressed as Princess by all the staff and she told me after lunch it was one of the best meals she ever had.

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

Speaking of the Lawn .  

The Lawn is an area on the top deck of the ship.  It is an area of real, growing grass, which is mowed and watered on a daily basis.  On the Lawn, you can have a picnic, throw around a football, play bocce ball, rent a cabana, or just walk around barefoot with the cool grass beneath your feet.  

It is amazing to think of natural grass growing on a ship in the middle of the ocean.  The kids were in amazement and visited the lawn everyday, multiple times.

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

The entertainment was so enticing.  

We had comedians, a Christmas show, a 80’s music show, a female impressionist, and many other family friendly shows.  The shows were very well balanced and “clean”, so the kids were able to completely enjoy.

Splashing at the pool.

The main pool deck, may not have had the bells and whistles of water slides and simulated surf machines, but gave all the kids on board days full of non-stop fun.  I don’t think the kids felt they were missing anything.  

The ship had a specific kids pool, an adults pool, an all adult indoor pool, and kid/adults whirlpools.  On this sailing, the staff were a little loose with the rules. They opened the indoor pool for a bit for the kids, and the rules were very relaxed so the kids were in and out of all the pools.  

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

Just for Kids.

Celebrity has taken care in creating a Kids program, which can’t be beat.  The Fun Factory is one large venue, separated into three different age groups.  3-5 year olds are called “Shipmates,” “Cadets” are the 6-8 year olds, and 9-11 year olds are called “Ensigns”.  Everyone loved playing there, we did not see one unhappy kid.  

Even though the kids are separated by age groups, they are all together in one very large area.  So while brothers/sisters/cousins and friends of differing ages may not be in the same group, they have the comfort of being in the same area.  

The teen/tweets have a separate area altogether called X-Club.  The teen/tweens have a dance club and a great area to hang out with table tennis, and televisions, and XBox entertainment.  

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

By the way, the under 3 age group is not to be forgotten.  Celebrity hosts play times with the toddler groups and their parents. In room babysitting is also available on most sailing.

Tour the ship.

We had the honor to be hosted to a Bridge and Galley Tour.  It was such a special treat to see where all the food masterpieces are prepared.  I have been on over 3 dozen cruises in my life, and it still amazes me how the chef can cook for 3000 people.  Even after seeing the galley and having it explained to us, I still am in awe.  

The Bridge tour is also a place for amazement.  Our kids got the chance to turn the little knob that actually turns the ship. Luckily the captain was the one who was truly in control.

Outstanding Staff.

The Celebrity cruise staff could not have been more welcoming to my family.  We were celebrating father-in-law Albie’s 70th birthday, and he was wished Happy Birthday everyday of the cruise, by a myriad of staff member.  

Even the cruise director Alexander Yepremain, caught up,with me in the hall one day, to introduce himself, and offered assistance in anything to make our trip more enjoyable.  He continued to ask me what he could do for us every time I saw him.  I was also invited to meet with the hotel director, who so happened to be a waiter on my first Royal Caribbean cruise, the Nordic Prince. Small world.

Bravo Celebrity!  

The Celebrity Reflection was spectacular for our family.  Our kids were treated like royalty, the rest of us were given a trip of a lifetime, and Celebrity, we will be back!

Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

What’s next for Celebrity Cruises?

The Celebrity Reflection is the last build of the Solstice Class of the Celebrity Fleet. The next generation of ships will be the Project Edge, due to arrive in the near future.  

The Reflection sails out of the Port of Miami on 7 day Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruise itineraries in its winter sailing season.  During the late spring, it will sail transatlantic to Europe for its summer season.

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Family Adventure Cruising on the Celebrity Reflection with Kids

David Shindler lives in north suburban Chicago with his wife Cari and their two kids—Grant, 6, and Samantha, 9. Having travelled the world, David has a passion for cruises and luxury hotels. He and his family vacation together as often as possible, and his kids have travelled on cruises since infancy. The owner of a Disaster Restoration Company, in his free time, David runs a travel agency called Travel Majesty, which specializes in cruises. He believes that when on vacation, the traveler should always be treated like royalty.

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Celebrity Kids Activities

Celebrity Kids Cruises

Celebrity Cruise kid friendly programs provide a host of activities for kids of all ages. Divided by different age ranges including Toddler Time, Fun Factory and X Club, kids of all ages will enjoy activities such as movies, games, sports, and much more.

Toddler Time (Ages 3 and under)

Celebrity Cruises’ Toddler time program lets toddlers and parents interact with other children their age and toys appropriate for this age group. Each ship offers lavatory-based changing tables and baby wipes. Parents/guardians must accompany their child during Toddler Time and toddlers do not need to be potty-trained. Available during select times each day.

Fun Factory (Ages 3 - 11)

The Fun Factory offers three different age-based kids programs offering a variety of activities that will keep them entertained throughout the cruise. The programs are available daily from 9AM-10PM. Activities include a variety of games, sports, crafts, music, karaoke, treasure hunts, theme parties, movies and more.

  • Shipmates SM (Ages 3 - 5): Shipmates must be completely, independently toilet-trained and diaper/pull-up free. Exceptions cannot be made. Shipmates must be signed in and out of the program by an adult 18 years of age or older who knows the child's password.
  • Cadets SM (Ages 6 - 8): Cadets must be signed in and out of the program by an adult 18 years of age or older who knows the child's password.
  • Ensigns SM (Ages 9 - 11): Based in the Fun Factory, but frequently using other venues throughout the ship. Ensigns sign themselves in/out of programs until 10PM, unless otherwise indicated on their Parental Consent Form. After 10PM, Ensigns require an adult 18 years of age or older to sign them out.

X Club (Ages teens)

For young adults, Celebrity Cruises offers the ultimate hangout place for teens, featuring social activities, the newest gaming consoles and titles, sports activities, even teens-only late night dances. All activities are hosted and supervised by Youth Counselors. All very cool.

Up-and-coming "directors," can participate in the coolest video project afloat. First, young visionaries brainstorm a storyboard for the short videos to be created. Then, armed with GoPro Hero 3 high definition, wide-angle video cameras (used to film extreme sports and other cool events), they'll head out to get the shots they planned - even underwater shots! After the filming, they'll learn how to edit their videos in our cyber chic Celebrity iLounge SM .

Cool prizes will be awarded in a variety of film categories at the XClub Film Festival & Award Ceremony. This complimentary program takes about 4 hours to complete. Available on all ships with a Celebrity iLounge: Celebrity Eclipse®, Celebrity Summit®, Celebrity Silhouette®, Celebrity Reflection®, Celebrity Infinity®, Celebrity Solstice®, Celebrity Millennium® and Celebrity Constellation®.

Family Fun Activities

Celebrity Cruises understands that a family vacation needs quality time spent together. Onboard there are many fun filled family activities to serve as a background for lifelong memories being made.

  • Pool Volleyball
  • Sports Tournaments
  • Trivia Contests
  • Interactive Video Games
  • Port vs. Starboard Games

Babysitting Services

Parents deserve to enjoy a night out. Babysitting services can be arranged either in the Fun Factory or in the comfort of your own stateroom. Children from 3-11 years old can participate in the Afternoon Party from noon-2PM on port days and/or the evening Slumber Party from 10PM-1AM. An additional cost applies for babysitting services.

Parents can also arrange for a private, in-stateroom babysitter for up to three children within the same family. Children must be 12 months or older to be eligible for in-stateroom babysitting. An additional cost applies for babysitting services. Babysitting services must be arranged at least 24 hours in advance and is subject to availability.

Please note that all programs are subject to change without notice. Please contact an agent if you have questions about a specific program.

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celebrity cruises child friendly

No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

T he launch of Disney Cruise Line in 1998 was a game changer for family cruises. Now in its third decade of operation, Disney Cruise Line consistently tops the list of best cruise lines for families. And its newest ship (for now), Disney Wish , is unquestionably one of the best cruise ships for kids ever made. But Disney isn't the only major player in the family cruising space. 

A host of other cruise lines, including Carnival Cruises , Princess , Norwegian , MSC , and Royal Caribbean , have helped usher in a new era of family vacations on cruise ships with amenities like kids clubs, water parks, stage shows, theatrical dining experiences, reduced fares for young children, and even kids sail free deals . And because the best cruise ships for kids are also great for grownups , you have plenty of options when it comes to the best family cruises. 

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world

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1. Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line

The sheer volume of onboard entertainment options for families on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Wish , takes things to a whole new level. From action-packed dinner-and-a-show experiences like Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure to the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge , and Incredibles-themed inflatable obstacle course , you'll never run out of things to do. 

BIG SAVINGS: Kids sail free: 7 cruise lines with kids cruise free deals this year

Sailings on the Disney Wish also include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , which is always a highlight of any family cruise. Castaway Cay’s family beach is a great place for swimming, and you can rent bikes, kayaks, and snorkeling gear to see colorful tropical fish and perhaps even a sea turtle munching on seagrass.

2. Disney Magic

While every ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet has a claim to be among the best family cruises, the original DCL family cruise ship deserves a special mention: Disney Magic is the ship that launched Disney Cruise Line in 1998, and with DCL's constant improvements and upkeep, the ship doesn’t feel outdated at all. Pirates, princesses, superheroes, and a thrilling water slide with a three-story drop are just a few of the fun features that make this a kid-favorite ship on one of the best cruise lines for families. In 2013, Disney added the AquaDunk high-speed thrill slide and Marvel Avengers Academy kids club. In 2018, a Tangled dinner theater restaurant made its debut. 

WATER WORLDS: 50 best cruise ship water parks for kids and tweens

As one of the smaller ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, Disney Magic can be a less overwhelming experience for younger kids and first-time cruisers, especially given the trend among family cruises to be bigger and louder with every new ship. (The fabulous Disney Wonder is similarly sized.) But there's more than one reason to consider a Disney Magic voyage in 2024. This year, the ship will be the first to sail to Disney Cruise Line’s newest private island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , in the Bahamas.

3. Disney Treasure

Making its debut in December 2024, Disney Cruise Line's sixth ship will be called Disney Treasure and it will be the ship for fans of the Disney theme parks. Venues inspired by classic attractions such as the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea are among the highlights to look forward to when the ship sets sail. The sister ship of Disney Wish will also have a high-tech Worlds of Marvel dinner show and a theater-in-the-round dining experience, this time themed to Pixar’s Coco. 

CAPTAIN MICKEY: 7 best Disney cruises for families in 2024  

Disney Treasure will also feature a brand-new original Broadway-style production called "Disney The Tale of Moana" in the Walt Disney Theatre. Other shows performed on board will include "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney Seas the Adventure." Best of all, Disney Treasure will sail seven-night itineraries to both the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. That means you can enjoy two distinct dinner shows in the Worlds of Marvel and Plaza de Coco restaurants, and all of the Broadway-style shows on stage during one family cruise. 

4. Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean

A brand-new class of ship is heading to North America in 2024, and it starts with Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas in January. Among the many firsts for Icon of the Seas is the AquaDome, the largest glass and steel structure on any cruise ship, seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides, eight separate neighborhoods, 40 ways to drink and dine, four stages, and a three-level ultimate family townhouse. The innovative AquaDome is a peaceful oasis during the day and a vibrant hotspot at night with a 55-foot-tall water curtain and AquaTheater that debuts performances with divers, skateboarders, and robots. 

FAMILY CRUISES: 5 best cruise ships to entertain your teen  

Thrill-seekers will love Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides. There's also the Crown’s Edge, which is part skywalk, part ropes course, and 100 percent thrill ride where you can dangle 154 feet above the ocean. And, of course, you'll also find the Royal Caribbean staple FlowRider surf simulator and the Lost Dunes mini golf course. Those looking to take it easy should head to Chill Island, which features four pools spread over three decks with sweeping ocean views.

Fans of Royal Caribbean will enjoy the Royal Promenade with 15 restaurants, bars, and lounges; Central Park's open-air neighborhood filled with live plants and trees; and Surfside, the first neighborhood designed specifically for young families. The ship's seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean family cruises all stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay , the line’s award-winning private island. Families will find an array of activities on Perfect Day at CocoCay, such as its beaches and freshwater pool (included) and an expansive water park and zip line (available for an extra charge).

5. Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships debuted in early 2022 and instantly ignited buzz that they might be the most kid-friendly cruise ships in the entire world. At 1,188 feet long and 18 decks tall, there's plenty of room for families to spread out and find entertainment onboard the Wonder of the Seas . Two dedicated private teen spaces onboard make vacationing with teenagers a little easier. In fact, teens aged 16 and up can even enjoy a massive teens-only hot tub that literally protrudes over the edge of the ship on Wonder of the Seas' deck 15. 

SCENIC VOYAGES: Everything you need to know about river cruises in the USA

Grade school kids and even the littlest ones have it pretty great, too. For big kids, there’s an enormous multiple-deck play area called Wonder Playscape . For the youngest passengers, there's the Adventure Ocean play area full of soft toys and games for toddlers. And a playground with climbing equipment gives them a space to work off their energy. Wonder of the Seas also has the most amazing family suites around. They come complete with two levels of space, an in-suite slide, table tennis, and plenty of room for the whole family.

6. Oasis of the Seas

When it launched in 2009, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas was the largest ship in the world, accommodating more than 5,500 passengers per voyage and cementing the line's place among the best cruise lines for families. After a reimagining 10 years later, Oasis of the Seas is still a popular option for family cruises in 2024 with its Caribbean-inspired pool deck, rock climbing walls, and Perfect Storm trio of multistory waterslides. Among the many reasons that make Royal Caribbean one of the best cruise lines for families is that its Symphony of the Seas builds upon the strengths of the line’s other Oasis Class ships. 

7. Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Cruise Line

What makes Norwegian one of the best cruise lines for families? For one thing, you’ll never hear "I’m bored" from kids. And with its three-story race track, two escape rooms, The Rush and The Drop dry slides, The Wave waterslide, immersive virtual reality games, Topgolf simulator, mini golf, waterpark, splash ground, and kids’ clubs, your family’s biggest problem on the Norwegian Viva might just be deciding how to balance all the activities with quiet relaxation. 

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The Norwegian Viva arrived in North America in December 2023 and offers Caribbean cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico, in early 2024 before heading to Europe through November. The ship's Observation Lounge has panoramic 180-degree views to soak in the scenery or take Insta-worthy photos on Oceanwalk’s glass walkway. After playing the day away in port or on the ship, your family can enjoy dinner followed by a live performance of Beetlejuice: The Musical, based on the cult-classic Tim Burton film.

8. Carnival Panorama

Carnival Cruise Line

One of Carnival Cruise Line ’s newer ships, the Carnival Panorama 's many kid-friendly features have already made it one of the best cruises for families. The Panorama has supervised kids programs in three different age categories, a massive aqua park, the popular SkyRide aerial attraction, SkyCourse ropes course, and the first SkyZone trampoline park at sea. 

DON'T OVERPAY: How to save money on a Carnival Cruise (with or without kids)

In addition, Carnival's exclusive partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises provides "Seuss at Sea" experiences on family cruise vacations, such as Dr. Seuss Bookville, Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, and the Seuss-a-palooza Parade. Based in Los Angeles, Carnival Panorama sails week-long round-trip cruises to the Mexican Riviera in 2024.

9. Caribbean Princess

Princess Cruises

Made famous by the classic '80s TV series "The Love Boat," Princess Cruises now hosts more than two million passengers each year. Kid-friendly Caribbean Princess underwent an extensive renovation in 2017 that boosted its family offerings to include Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Center, HD Movies Under the Stars, and the Reef Family Splash Zone (the line's first splash zone at sea). 

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: 11 best outdoor movie screens for your backyard staycation

Caribbean Princess will be 20 years old in 2024, but another extensive drydock refurbishment in 2022 has kept the ship from feeling dated. Other features that earn the Caribbean Princess a spot on my list of best family cruises include its partnership with Discovery Inc. for "Discovery at SEA" activities, which feature Animal Planet and Discovery Channel programming, the Stanley the Bear experience, and JrChef@Sea cooking classes. In summer 2024, Caribbean Princess heads to Southampton for a series of European cruises before heading back to Florida.

10. MSC Meraviglia

Unless you're a hardcore cruise family, MSC Cruises might be the largest cruise line you’ve never heard of. One of the leading cruise lines in Europe, South America, and other parts of the world, MSC is working hard to get a foothold in North America by offering great deals on family cruises. These include kids ages 18 and under sailing free on select departures , and young children ages two and under always sailing free. 

FIRST-TIMERS: 19 things to know before your first cruise with kids  

Family-friendly MSC Meraviglia launched in 2017 and it features seven different kids’ clubs for children from babies to age 17. Teens have their own space with a cinema, game room, and live stage. And Meraviglia’s Polar Aquapark has three different waterslides, including a high-speed “champagne flute,” that easily make it one of the best cruises for families. Families can play together in the vast entertainment area that includes an MSC Formula One Racing Simulator, a full-sized bowling alley with two lanes, an interactive XD cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade. There’s also a Sportsplex facility for basketball, tennis, squash, volleyball, pickleball, mini golf, and five-a-side soccer.

11. MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises

The U.S. flagship of the MSC Cruises brand, MSC Seascape was designed with families in mind and offers plenty of options for onboard entertainment. The cruise line's partnership with LEGO includes a DUPLO room for children ages three to six and a second LEGO room for kids ages seven to 11 with the opportunity to earn a LEGO Master Builder certificate. Teens have three different themed areas to engage with their peers. 

BRING THE LITTLE ONES: 10 toddler-friendly vacations that are just as much fun for parents  

You have to check out Robotron on these family cruises. Robotron is a robotic arm ride that sends you 173 feet above the sea, giving you a unique 360-degree view as you're moved in different directions and flipped upside down. At night, Robotron offers a personalized DJ experience where you can curate your musical journey with colors and music preferences. 

MSC Seascape sails from Miami on the Bahamas and Caribbean family cruises, including a visit to MSC Cruises' private Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Ocean Cay features two miles of white sand beaches and a variety of family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. Some family cruises dock overnight at Ocean Cay, allowing you to watch the spectacular Lighthouse light show.

12. Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Cruises

An upscale cruise line with prices to match, Celebrity Cruises appeals to families with older children or multigenerational groups looking for luxurious family cruises. Celebrity Equinox is not the newest ship in the line (its inaugural sailing was in 2009), but this kid-friendly cruise ship received an extensive overhaul as part of the "Celebrity Revolution" in 2019 and continues to impress with its family cruises in 2024. 

COUPLES CRUISES: 7 best cruise lines for couples (and their most romantic voyages)  

Celebrity's Camp at Sea kids' program offers a diverse and constantly changing series of activities so that it’s "never the same camp twice." And Celebrity Equinox partners with Miami’s Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to offer STEM programming on topics such as the importance of plankton to the Earth’s oceans. Other kid-friendly activities on Celebrity’s family cruises include hot glass blowing classes and demonstrations, as well as lawn games such as croquet and bocce on the real grass of the Lawn Club.

7 great cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships) originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

  • 13 cheap family vacations that are super fun
  • 50 best family vacation ideas for all ages
  • 25 best family vacation spots in the U.S.

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. FamilyVacationist covers family vacation ideas ; family vacation spots ; all-inclusive family resorts ; and must-have travel accessories for families. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

Disney Wish

Travel Babbo

Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

The Celebrity Edge with Kids: A Review

By Eric Stoen on December 6, 2018 • Last Updated February 7, 2023 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Celebrity Edge - Sunrise on the Celebrity Edge

A Celebrity Edge Review

When I received an invitation for a preview sailing of the Celebrity Edge , I wasn’t initially excited. Our last cruise with kids with Disney had been decidedly mediocre and we didn’t have another cruise in our travel plans. But I was also intrigued. The Celebrity Edge was supposed to be the most advanced ship ever, with some really cool features like a cantilevered restaurant on the exterior of the ship. And then when I mentioned the invitation to my 8-year-old daughter, she jumped at the opportunity to miss a couple days of school and join me. I mean, how many times would she be able to say she was one of the first kids ever on a ship?

So I accepted the invitation and we flew out from Santa Barbara on a Wednesday morning, connecting in Phoenix and Charlotte, and arriving into Fort Lauderdale around 8pm. The nice thing about Fort Lauderdale is that the airport, several hotels, and the cruise port are all very close together, making the trip easier. Less than 15 minutes after walking off the plane we were at our hotel.

Thursday morning we checked out of the hotel at 11:00 and then headed to the cruise port at noon. Check-in and embarkation were remarkably fast because we had already completed all paperwork online, including uploading photographs. Definitely do this to save time, either through the app ( iTunes  | Google Play ) or website, in order to skip lines. A couple of facial scans and a luggage check later, we were walking onto the ship. We headed straight to our cabin.

Celebrity Edge - Boarding the Celebrity Edge in Fort Lauderdale

Celebrity Edge Review: Staterooms

We were in stateroom 12228, near the middle of the ship on the deck right below the pool. We always prefer stairs to elevators on ships, so it was a little bit of a hike to Camp at Sea (the Deck 3 Celebrity Edge kids club) and the Deck 4 restaurants, but it was extremely close to the pool, the Rooftop Garden and the Oceanview Café – the main buffet spot (and site of the all-important 24-hour coffee).

The cabin felt large compared to cabins on other cruises with kids we’ve been on. There was plenty of storage (drawers and closets), and the bathroom was large by ship standards. 12228 sleeps four. There was one king-size bed and a couch that converted to another bed. There’s a very upscale feel, including the gorgeous bathroom and shower.

Celebrity Edge - Room 12228 on the Celebrity Edge

One of the coolest elements is that there is, and isn’t, a balcony. It’s basically an enclosed veranda (an “Infinite Veranda”), where you can have the interior door open and have a larger cabin, or close it off and have a separate patio. There’s a window that raises and lowers, giving you the same feel of a standard ship balcony. When we were in the stateroom my daughter spent half her time on the bed and half in one of the chairs on the veranda – typically doing homework.

Celebrity Edge - Doing homework on our Infinite Veranda

We LOVED walking around and exploring the Celebrity Edge. It is truly an incredible ship from a design perspective. From the three-level Eden area to the pool and pool cabanas to the previously-mentioned cantilevered restaurant/lounge (the Magic Carpet), it’s spectacular. And it’s colorful (in a very classy way) and there are places to relax everywhere. Our preview cruise was unfortunately only two nights, and I have the feeling that even with all of our exploration, we missed a lot. Over a 7 or 10-day cruise, I’d love constantly finding new places to relax and read. And I went up to the top deck both mornings to watch the sunrise, but both days the sun was in the same direction relative to the front of the ship. I’d love to be able to see the sunrise (and sunsets) from different spots.

Celebrity Edge - The Grand Plaza

Celebrity Edge Review: Dining

There are 29 restaurants, cafes, bars and lounges on the Celebrity Edge, from the Oceanview Café that serves all meals (in buffet style) to Luminae and Blu which are reserved for certain suites/guests, to Fine Cut Steakhouse, Le Grand Bistro / Le Petit Chef, Raw on 5, the Magic Carpet, the Rooftop Garden Grill and Eden, with dining on a reserved basis. Plus there are the main four restaurants (Tuscan, Cyprus, Normandie and Cosmopolitan). We had breakfast each day at Oceanview Café, lunch both days at Cosmopolitan, a late afternoon snack at the Mast Grill, and dinner at Le Petit Chef (the transformation of Le Grand Bistro in the evening) and at Oceanview Café the second night. We could have been more adventurous, but when I travel with my kids they get to choose, and buffets are simply easier and more flexible than set seatings. Plus the food at the buffet is legitimately good, with a lot of meat and vegetarian choices and international selections (heads up – some of the Indian dishes are spicy). And there are a ridiculous number of desserts.

Celebrity Edge - The Oceanview Cafe

I mentioned Le Petit Chef. Do this. Make a reservation and go. Do not miss out. It costs an extra $55 and it’s worth it – a truly unique dining experience where your table comes to life through animation. The basic story line is that four chefs (one for each course) are competing to make the best dish, but the fun is in watching each chef create your dish – right before the real version comes out. It really was fun, and the animation is gorgeous and creative. Plus the food was great.

Celebrity Edge - The tables become art at Le Petit Chef

The Vibe / Kid-Friendliness / Disney Comparison

So we’re not anti-Disney by any means, but our Disney Cruises have really tested us as to how much Disney we can take. Well before the end of our 12-night cruises with them we’ve gotten tired of the constant Disney soundtrack, the characters everywhere, the themed dinners, and honestly, the talking down to us by cast members (like hearing “wipey, wipey” when we would enter a dining room). And with staff constantly interacting with us, we always had to be on and ready to interact back.

By contrast, the Celebrity Edge was low-key luxury; much more the way we like to vacation. The staff was professional – always around when we wanted them, but not in our faces in a fake-cheery manor when we didn’t. We could relax, and we could enjoy the gorgeous ship. And we both felt like the entire ship was kid-friendly. My daughter was comfortable everywhere. She says she liked it better than Disney – specifically the Celebrity Edge kids club (info below) and the pool. She doesn’t need a water park or drop slide to have fun. Give her a nice, uncrowded pool and she’s happy every time. And honestly, my kids don’t want to be around 1,000 other kids.

Celebrity Edge - You have to stop at the Wings for a photo!

I would say that if you have very active teens and are exploring cruises with kids, they may be bored on the Celebrity Edge. There’s not a basketball court, or climbing wall, or arcade, or crazy pool like we’ve seen on other ships. There are a couple of ping-pong tables, and we loved playing giant Jenga and ring toss at the Rooftop Garden, and there’s a jogging track, but it’s definitely not an amusement park. Again, that’s perfect for how we like to travel. But you may be different.

Celebrity Edge - Playing giant Jenga at the Rooftop Garden

Celebrity Edge Kids Club – Camp at Sea

Camp at Sea is the Celebrity Edge’s kids club. There are actually three different sections, for 3-5 year olds, 6-9 year olds, and 10-12 year olds. My daughter loved the section for 10-12 year olds. It’s all STEM-based, with LEGO, robots and computers galore, plus video games and interactive toys like Rubik’s Cubes. We also played Foosball for a while.

Celebrity Edge - The Shipmates (3-5 year olds) section of Celebrity Edge's Camp at Sea

My daughter was one of only four kids on our sailing and she was completely welcomed at Camp at Sea every time we went down there, but we can’t speak to any of the group activities (scavenger hunts, hula hooping, obstacle courses, coding, robotics, and more). Next time.

Note: Camp at Sea is complementary several hours a day, and there’s an hourly charge for other periods, or for sleeping (camping) overnight. Or you can purchase a package that includes everything Camp-related.

Celebrity Edge Basics

The Celebrity Edge holds 2,900 guests. Our preview sailing had 1,943 guests, so we were roughly 2/3 full. It never felt remotely crowded anywhere, and I can’t imagine that sailing at capacity would feel crowded very often.

Celebrity Edge - Walking along the Eden ramp

Celebrity Edge 2023 and 2024 Sailings

In 2023 the Celebrity Edge is in the Caribbean through April for 10-11 night sailings (with several different itineraries ).

From April through October the Celebrity Edge is in Europe, with 7-12 night sailings to Italy, France and Spain. Note: Please don’t do a day trip to Rome or Florence off the Edge or any other ship!

In October 2023 the Edge heads through the Suez Canal to Bali and then will spend six months around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific before heading to Hawaii and Alaska in May 2024.

Depending on the sailing, prices start at $999 per person in the Caribbean and $1,117 in Europe and the Mediterranean. The South Pacific sailings start at $920 per person. There’s a discount for groups/families.

Celebrity Edge - Getting drinks at the Rooftop Garden

Celebrity Edge Review: Summary

The Celebrity Edge made me like cruises again! My daughter and I both wished that our cruise was a lot longer. We didn’t stop at any ports, so I can’t speak to the disembarkation/embarkation process, but Celebrity seems to have everything else down to a science so I’m optimistic that there won’t be issues in port. My kids aren’t super-social. They like reading and relaxing and appreciate luxury and really good food, and this is an absolutely perfect (kid-friendly) atmosphere for that – basically, a wonderful upscale floating hotel where you can unpack once and see different destinations every day. Kind of perfect if you’re not looking for an amusement park!

Celebrity Edge - Walking around the Celebrity Edge

More from Travel Babbo

A Review of Our Disney Fantasy Caribbean Cruise

April 3, 2019 at 9:37 am

Loved this review! Thank you!

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September 1, 2019 at 7:53 am

Thank you for the review. We are looking at the Celebrity Apex for in the summer 2020 My daughter is 13 years old. We love the pictures. Many thanx

Danielle from Holland

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November 17, 2019 at 5:52 pm

Loved this review! Great detail and enjoyed the Disney comparisons 😉 – we r over Disney too! Looks like the Edge will be a great ship like Royals Oasis.

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January 3, 2020 at 4:58 pm

Thank you for the thoughtful review! We are looking for summer 2020 and have 5 and 10 yo boys 🙂

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January 16, 2020 at 1:08 am

Thanks for the review!

Going on a 7-night Caribbean experience with my family on the Celebrity Edge in February, can’t wait!

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January 16, 2020 at 8:34 am

Have a great time! We would love to be on the ship again.

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January 26, 2020 at 10:10 am

Taking my 5 and 7 year old on the Celebrity Edge early February and we are all excited! Recently sailed on Celebrity Solstice in Alaska, but this will be the first time for the kids to join. I am hoping they enjoy the Camp at Sea and they allow our 5 year old to join the 6-9 group since he is shy and doesn’t like leaving his sister’s side!

January 27, 2020 at 8:34 am

Have fun! If you think of it after the cruise, please let me know whether they’re flexible on the Camp at Sea age. Would be great for other families to know.

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February 20, 2020 at 12:27 pm

Hi there, just curious how your kids liked it. We are taking our 8 and 5 year old in April, and I’m a little concerned if there will be enough for them to do/ enough pool space. Please let me know if you have a min. thanks, Lauren

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July 7, 2021 at 7:06 pm

We are confirmed for our family! Wife and I, Daughter 18, Son 12 and Daughter’s friend 17. Looking forward to our 7 day cruise on Edge in August 2021!!!!

Eastern Caribbean Sailing – FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

July 8, 2021 at 7:45 am

Have a great time!

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December 1, 2021 at 10:17 pm

Loved your review! Thanks for this. May I ask what was the Covid PCR test at the terminal like for your kids? Did the testers go way up in their sinuses or not so deep? I know it may sound like a silly question but it would put my mind at ease because I’m worried we will travel across the country and my child may panic and refuse. However, if it’s the basic painless nose swab, it won’t be an issue.

December 2, 2021 at 7:59 am

We traveled pre-pandemic, so I don’t have direct experience, but in the past year I haven’t seen any long swabs at all. Between my kids and me, we’ve probably gotten 100 covid tests, and all have been shallow. I’m assuming it’s the same at the port.

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November 12, 2022 at 6:03 pm

Trying to convince my wife to allow my 3 year old grandson (turns 4 at the end of the cruise to come with us.

November 13, 2022 at 7:09 am

That would definitely be a different cruise experience, but fun. The kids club is good.

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April 27, 2023 at 12:45 pm

Why did you say not to do the day trip to Rome or Florence?

April 27, 2023 at 3:21 pm

I have a post on that! https://travelbabbo.com/why-you-should-never-do-a-day-trip-to-rome-or-florence/

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The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

At Edge aboard the Disney Wish, tweens ages 11 to 14 years old play games and make new friends in a bright, colorful hangout inspired by a chic New York City loft.

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Teens Club on the MSC Seashore.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Arcade, including air hockey tables, on Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

The Edge on Disney Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Social 100 Patio (Deck 17 Forward Portside) on Wonder of the Seas by Royal Caribbean International.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Club HAL for teens (Deck 10 Midship Starboard) on Rotterdam by Holland America Line.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Teens play Connect Four on Princess Cruises ship.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration in Caribbean waters.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

The Basement (Deck 2 Midship) on Celebrity EDGE by Celebrity  Cruises.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

Kudankulam

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

Pleasant encounters on the streets of Moscow

Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Insider’s Guide to San Miguel de Cozumel

By Kieran Meeke

Last updated: April 29th, 2024

Isla Cozumel sign in Benito Juarez Park, San Miguel de Cozumel

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On the west coast of the Mexican island of Cozumel is its largest town, San Miguel de Cozumel, the arrival point for most visitors. Confusingly, it’s usually just called “Cozumel”, or “el Centro”.

While Cozumel is rightly famous for its pretty beaches and majestic reefs, San Miguel also has a lot to offer. Great shopping, good restaurants, and lots of history provide something for everyone to enjoy.

The quiet, walking-friendly streets are lined with pretty one- or two-story buildings. They tempt you to slow down, talk to the people you meet, and really enjoy your time here.

Attractions

Benito Juarez Park

Isla Cozumel sign in Benito Juarez Park, San Miguel de Cozumel

This spacious plaza has shops on three sides, opening out to the ocean on its fourth. The colorful “Isla Cozumel” sign here is an almost obligatory stop for visitors wanting to snap that selfie for Instagram.

There are lots of benches, shaded by native trees, to rest shopping-tired feet, or just enjoy people-watching. A central dancing water feature, very popular with kids, and plenty of good ice cream shops help with the cooling process.

Another landmark is an orange clock tower, which makes this a good meeting place for groups (ask for “El Zócalo”—or “The Plaza”—if you’re lost). The official visitor guides around here can also help you with ideas for your next stop.

Read: Things to Do in Cozumel with Kids

Cozumel Crafts Market

Souvenirs at a market in Cozumel

Souvenirs in Cozumel

On the east side of Benito Juarez Park, this lively market is a colorful place to discover the best in local crafts. It will be very hard to resist buying a hammock here.

Prices are usually flexible for those who know how to haggle, although items imported from the mainland are more expensive. Look for ceramics, papier-mâché fruit, silver, blankets, and souvenir clothing.

Cozumel Museum

Yellow facade of Cozumel Museum

Cozumel Museum Photo by David Stanley on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you are not in San Miguel, Cozumel for its exciting Carnaval, you can still enjoy a taste in this museum. One room is dedicated to flamboyant costumes from the event’s 150-year history.

The rest of the museum covers island history from pre-Maya times to the present day. Temporary exhibitions and events such as cooking lessons offer deeper insights into local culture.

One of the most interesting rooms deals with the history of chicle, once harvested here as the base for chewing gum. Cozumel’s first hotels (of which the museum was originally one) were built in the 1920s and 1930s to house chicle buyers.

Upstairs, there is a gem of a restaurant with great sea views. The interesting gift shop is complemented by craft sellers in the lobby and local art for sale.

Monumento Al Mestizaje

View of the Monumento Al Mestizaje in San Miguel de Cozumel

This monument celebrates Mexico’s mix of Indigenous and Spanish peoples and cultures. You’ll find it towards the northern end of the Malecon, backed by the Yucatan Channel.

It is dedicated to Gonzalo Guerrero, a shipwrecked Spanish sailor who was adopted into a Yucatan Maya community. He refused later Spanish offers to leave his Maya wife and three children, the first documented “mestizo” children in Mexico .

Mercado Municipal

Bell peppers at a market in Cozumel

Bell peppers

Who doesn’t love a lively local market full of colorful tropical fruit and interesting people? San Miguel’s market is a great place to sample fruit juices, eat fish tacos, or even find a few handicrafts (but do bring your pesos, not dollars).

There are also homeware stalls and even places selling things like cheap sunglasses, should you need an emergency pair. The building, dating to the 1970s, is very functional, but the market is a real look into everyday Cozumel life.

San Gervasio Park

Historic site of San Gervasio Park

These Mayan ruins were once the major center of Maya pilgrimage that brought women from all over the region to Cozumel. The complex was dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and motherhood.

The site lacks the grandeur of places such as Chichen Itza, but a good guide will easily bring it to life. These pyramids, temples, and other structures, built from 250 CE onwards, were still in use when the Spanish first arrived in 1518.

Smallpox brought by the invaders devastated the whole island and by 1600 it was almost completely abandoned. It was the 1840s before outsiders first saw the site again and the 1980s before it was excavated.

Cathedral of Corpus Christi

View inside the Cathedral of Corpus Christi

The distinctive twin bell towers and pale yellow walls of Corpus Christi are a prominent landmark in Cozumel. Standing opposite Parque 3 de Mayo, it dates to the turn of the 20th century.

The clean neoclassical design blends indigenous and European influences. Inside the white-columned interior, rays of colored sunlight from the tall stained glass windows add to the restful, airy feel.

Things to Do in San Miguel de Cozumel

Stroll along avenida rafael e. melgar.

View while strolling Avenida Rafael E. Melgar

Avenida Rafael E. Melgar

The waterfront strip of San Miguel is Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, but everyone calls it “El Malecón” (breakwater). Like the famous one in Havana, Cuba, it’s a place to enjoy cool ocean breezes on hot days or evenings.

Walk the seaward side to take in the incredible Caribbean views. On the landward side, you’ll find shops, hotels, cafés, and restaurants.

Here is where you will find most of the high-end shopping in Cozumel . If you are looking for an exquisite silver bracelet or a brand-name watch, this is the place to be.

Discover Downtown

Street view of San Miguel de Cozumel's Downtown

Off the Malecón, San Miguel’s downtown streets, many of them pedestrianized, are lined with pretty pastel-colored houses and independent shops. Here you can find lots of handcrafts and discover the Mexican love of food.

From yogurt shops to taco stands, the colors and smells will entice you in. Photographers will also love the images created by the blend of Mexican and Spanish architecture.

The area is very safe to walk, often with children playing and families enjoying themselves. You can also rent a bike or e-bike and join a walking or food tour.

Search for Street Art

Street art in Cozumel

Street art in Cozumel Photo by Sharon Hahn Darlin on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Admiring street art is one of the best things to do in Cozumel , as it is lucky enough to have almost 60 large public murals by notable international contemporary artists. Many are the legacy of the Seawalls: Artists for the Oceans festival that has been hosted here twice.

You’ll find these murals throughout the town by following a guided or self-guided walking trail. Pick up a map at a tourist office or ask one of the official city guides.

Along the way, you’ll discover plenty more street art, some political, some just beautiful. You will also find many private art galleries, showcasing everything from traditional beadwork to glassware.

Take a Cooking Class

Cookery class in Mexico

Making guacamole

If you haven’t fallen in love with Mexican cooking before you arrive in Cozumel, you will before you leave. Taking a cooking class provides a memory of the island that you can revisit in your own kitchen anytime.

You can learn how to make guacamole, prepare tacos, or tackle more ambitious dishes. Besides food, you can also find classes that concentrate on cocktails, such as margaritas.

Most classes start at a local market, where you pick the fresh ingredients and learn a little about them. Then it’s back to your host’s home or another venue to have a hands-on experience in the kitchen.

Photograph Playa Caletita Lighthouse

View of Playa Caletita Lighthouse in San Miguel de Cozumel

Playa Caletita Lighthouse

The Ultramar car ferry jetty in the south of San Miguel is marked by a tall white lighthouse, bearing a very photogenic “Cozumel” signage. At its foot is the tiny Playa Caletita, one of the few seaside places in San Miguel where public access is still open.

Popular with local people, this Cozumel beach is well served with places to eat and drink. Its rocks make for good snorkeling, sheltered by the ferry jetty.

Snorkel at Stingray Beach

Stingray spotted moving across the sand

For those with limited time to discover Cozumel’s underwater wonders, this is an ideal spot. It gives you a chance to snorkel with both stingrays and gentle nurse sharks.

Afterwards, there is chocolate and tequila tasting for some added fun. You’ll find it a few minutes south of San Miguel, next to Playa Caletita.

If you have more time, you’ll want to join a glass-bottom boat tour, which will bring you to some great snorkeling spots in Cozumel . If you are a scuba diver, the Cozumel Barrier Reef is an unmissable sight. There are plenty of dive shops around.

Indulge in Chocolate

Chocolate tour in Mayan Cacao Company, Cozumel

Mayan Cacao Company

The Maya used chocolate for centuries before the Spanish arrived to help spread it around the world. Their version was bitter, flavored with chili and served cold as a ceremonial drink.

You can find out about their ancient recipes and other modern variations in the Mayan Cacao Company, about 20 minutes south of San Miguel. You can even taste that Maya chocolate, handmade with a grinding tool called a metate.

After seeing the chocolate making process, you’ll learn how to mix a chocolate margarita. Don’t leave without Maya chocolate bars, fresh cacao, or a “molinillo” whisk.

Restaurants

There is no shortage of good places to eat in San Miguel de Cozumel, whether it’s a busy taco stand or upscale fine dining.

Azul Madera

With a strong emphasis on fresh Caribbean seafood , this atmospheric restaurant is earning a great reputation. There is a lovely courtyard, great cocktails, and service is excellent.

Dishes are well presented and the menu has an interesting modern twist on old favorites such as slow-cooked pork belly. A brick oven also produces the likes of goat cheese pizza.

Blue tortillas on a pan

Blue tortilla

Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 9pm, this taqueria ensures you are never without your Mexican food fix. From handmade blue corn tortillas to smoked pork tacos, their food is freshly made, with love, in front of you.

Family-run, this is one of the busiest restaurants in town for good reason. It’s also vegetarian-friendly with its imaginative taco options.

Wet Wendy’s Margarita House

The clue is very much in the name here of this party bar. After you’ve had a Jalapeño or Strawberry Margarita or two, you’re practically guaranteed a good time.

The food covers everything from pulled pork sliders to hickory bbq wings and cheese steak. It’s in the heart of the pedestrianized shopping district on Fifth Avenue, making it a good pit stop for the thirsty traveler.

This Swiss-Italian serves great pasta, lasagne, and other hearty Italian fare. Its wood-fired pizza is also a popular choice.

To that it adds a sure touch with Mexican food, particularly seafood. The rustic garden setting is very romantic at night, but still a lovely place by day.

Bajau Steakhouse & Seafood Grill

Would it surprise you to hear this upmarket restaurant specializes in steak and seafood? It’s near Los Cinco Soles on the waterfront, so has great sea views, to which it adds attentive service.

The menu offers Mexican cuisine with an imaginative twist. Dishes such as blackened skirt steak or octopus are perennial favorites.

Travel Tips

Best time to visit.

Street view of San Miguel de Cozumel

San Miguel de Cozumel

The best time to visit Cozumel is from late November through April. Although Cozumel is rarely affected, the hurricane season runs from September through November.

Summers are hot, peaking in July and August, when it is very humid. May to October is Mexico’s rainy season. It will still be warm but frequent tropical downpours will clear the air. You may also encounter seaweed on the beaches during the summer months.

What to Pack

Snorkel mask in a luggage

Snorkel mask

Dress as for any tropical destination with lightweight clothing, sun hat, and sunglasses. Reef-friendly sunscreen and your snorkel mask (usually a better fit than the rental ones) are also essentials.

Don’t forget your water shoes, as most beaches near San Miguel are rocky. For evenings or air-conditioned restaurants, a light sweater or jacket is also a good idea.

Shops in Cozumel accept US dollars and credit cards, but the official currency is the Mexican peso (MXN). On the east coast, lack of cell coverage means card machines don’t usually work, so bring pesos in cash.

What to Buy

Street view of Downtown San Miguel de Cozumel

Handcrafts are usually the first to catch your eye in Cozumel. These include gorgeous Talavera pottery, bright papier-maché fruit, tempting silver bracelets, and ornate wood carvings.

Woven goods include hammocks, of course, but also handbags, hats, and items such as tortilla warmers. Clothing includes Guayabera shirts for men and Huipil tops for women (or vice versa).

For food items, chocolate and vanilla extract are top of the shopping list. You’ll find all of these and much more in Cinco Soles, a large waterfront shopping landmark.

View of the Monumento Al Mestizaje

Are you tempted to explore San Miguel de Cozumel for yourself? Then why not browse our Cozumel itineraries to find the perfect cruise?

Kieran Meeke

Kieran is a freelance travel writer who has lived and worked in 12 different countries, on every continent except Antarctica. He now spends his time between Kerry, Ireland, and Granada, Spain, while writing for newspapers and websites worldwide.

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  26. Insider's Guide to San Miguel de Cozumel

    Reef-friendly sunscreen and your snorkel mask (usually a better fit than the rental ones) are also essentials. Don't forget your water shoes, as most beaches near San Miguel are rocky. For evenings or air-conditioned restaurants, a light sweater or jacket is also a good idea.