Best Cruise Lines for Families

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some

Finding a cruise vacation that meets the needs of every family member can be tough. While you may be in search of some peace and quiet, the kids will probably be eager to play. To help you find a cruise that fits your family's needs, U.S. News ranked the best cruise lines for families using a methodology that factors in health ratings, reputation among experts and approval among families with both younger and older kids.

Read Best Cruises Methodology

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5 day family cruises

Disney Cruise Line

From its signature Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party to its pirate-themed dinners, Disney attracts passengers looking for a full roster of entertainment options. Passengers can enjoy kid-friendly dining venues and amenities, plus visits from Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. The line's cruise ships also offer adults-only dining areas, quiet pool spots and nightlife options.

  • 4.46 Overall Rating
  • 5 Ships in Fleet

5 day family cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean offers onboard amenities and a variety of sailings that cater to cruisers of all ages. Some of the line's cruise ships feature rock climbing walls and ice rinks, while others boast zip lines, bumper cars and waterslides. Every ship also hosts fun and educational programs for kids and teens, plus a variety of evening shows, bars and lounges for older travelers.

  • 4.17 Overall Rating
  • 25 Ships in Fleet

5 day family cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival's frequent sales and budget-friendly fares mean you and your cruising crew can save some money on a voyage filled with family-friendly perks. Cruise ships are outfitted with water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses to entertain kids of all ages. Meanwhile, grown-ups can head to the spa, the casino or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

  • 3.90 Overall Rating

5 day family cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian greets families with colorful cruise ships, ample onboard amenities and children's clubs. While adults are relaxing at the spa or gambling at the casino, kids can attend supervised youth programs where they can learn to juggle, enjoy arts and crafts or attend themed parties. Plus, children's menus are available in all of the line's restaurants, including specialty eateries.

  • 3.97 Overall Rating
  • 19 Ships in Fleet

5 day family cruises

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' ships feature kids and teen clubs with activities like LEGO games, dance classes and sports tournaments. What's more, the whole family can enjoy onboard swimming pools and waterslides (on select ships). Families can also purchase the MSC Fun Pass to access special amenities like flight simulators, a bowling alley and the XD Interactive Cinema.

  • 3.79 Overall Rating
  • 22 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Family Friendly Cruises for Kids

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

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

Caribbean Cruise Destinations

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

European Cruise Destinations

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

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Destinations

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

Cruise Activities for the Whole Family

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

Adventures every member of the family will enjoy

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

Princess MedallionClass®

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

Get in the family zone

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

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

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

Voyage to the stars

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

Animal Planet™ invites local animals onboard

Many of the most fascinating inhabitants of the ports you'll visit aren't human at all. Introduce them to your family, as Animal Planet™ presents some of the wildest meet-and-greet gatherings at sea — including  Puppies in the Piazza  on Alaska cruises, and  Parrots in the Piazza  in the Caribbean.

Meet Stanley

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

Immersive Princess entertainment

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

So many fresh ways to dine together

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

Family cruise celebration vacations

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

Family-friendly cruise lodging

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

Explorers Come in All Ages. And Princess Inspires Their Imaginations

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

Exciting youth & teen clubs

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

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

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 6 Months - 2 Years

Making our youngest voyagers feel right at home.

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

Kids Cruise Activities — Ages 3-12

The treehouse — ages 3-7.

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

The Lodge — Ages 8-12

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

Sports, games, physical activities

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

Places, Animals, Science

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

Fun interactions with peers

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

Arts, crafts, inventions

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

Teens Cruise Activities — Ages 13-17

The beach house — ages 13-17.

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

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

Competitions

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

Dance classes

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

Movies & more

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

Youth & Teen Program Registration

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

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

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

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

Kids and Youth center facilities vary across Princess cruise ships.

Parents Night Out

Where kids can play while you're away.

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

Dinner events exclusively for kids

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

Cruise Activities for Young Adults — Ages 18-20

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

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Best 5-Day Cruises

Last updated: November 7th, 2023

Beautiful landscape of Nassau, Bahamas

  • Find a Cruise

Only have a couple of vacation days to spare, but still want to do something fun and adventurous? Plan a long weekend away with one of these fantastic five-day cruises that visit enticing ports in the Caribbean and Europe. With multiple sailing dates to fit almost every schedule, you’re sure to find an itinerary that works for you.

A five-day cruise with Celebrity is a great way to escape the mundane and treat yourself to world-class service, luxury, and style at sea. There are some great cruises available to book throughout the year, with five-day options that fit a variety of tastes, destinations, and schedules. From Cozumel to Key West, the Bahamas to Bruges, and the iconic city of Amsterdam, these cruises are sure to stimulate the senses at every stop.

Lounge on pristine beaches and swim in turquoise waters. Taste seafood fresh out of the ocean. Spend a day museum hopping or strolling cobblestone streets past historic buildings. And experience all of the luxurious amenities on board as you sail away on one of these unforgettable five-day cruises.

Key West & Perfect Day at CocoCay Cruise

People eating key lime pie from Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida

A five-day cruise to Key West and Perfect Day at CocoCay, our award-winning private island, is the perfect getaway. This relaxing itinerary blends culture, great food, waterslides, and beach life at its best.

During your day in Key West , join a food tour to taste the local cuisine, from conch fritters to Key lime pie, or visit the elegant villa where the great Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote. Explore the beaches, or join a snorkel tour to the nearby Florida Reef, teeming with marine life in brilliant colors.

Massive slide of Thrill Waterpark, CocoCay

Thrill Waterpark, CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay offers just as many choices. Perhaps you’re looking for the daredevil experience of North America’s tallest waterslide, which you’ll find in the Thrill Waterpark. Or choose to spend your day in a luxurious overwater cabana, where the only choice required is when to have your next dip in the warm, clear water.

Pick your beach chair on the fringes of the vast, freeform Oasis Lagoon, join a snorkeling excursion, or fly high above the whole scene on the island’s zipline.

There’s a day at sea on this itinerary, too, which is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ship, whether you want to lounge by the sparkling pool, relax with a spa treatment, or enjoy the many bars and restaurants.

Bahamas & Perfect Day at CocoCay Cruise

Best 5 day cruises - CocoCay

Set sail from Fort Lauderdale for the beautiful Bahamas, scattered like jewels across the warm Atlantic. Your first call is our award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, a paradise of lagoon pools, white sand beaches, water activities, and thrill rides.

Be as active or as relaxed as you like here. There’s a hot air balloon that takes you up to 450 feet high for incredible vistas. Or ride the 135-foot Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America. You might prefer simply to lie back with a book in a beachfront cabana on Chill Island.

Waterfront view of Blue Lagoon Island, Bahamas

Blue Lagoon Island, Bahamas

After a day on board to enjoy the luxurious facilities of your Celebrity ship, perhaps basking by the pool or enjoying lunch in the sunshine, you’ll arrive at bustling Nassau. This is the jumping-off point for the blissful beaches of Blue Lagoon and Pearl Island, also home to some of the best snorkeling in Nassau .

Elevate your experience further with a private cabana, or something different in the form of a watercolor painting class. Back in town, you could explore the colorful Straw Market, or join a rum-tasting tour.

Pink facade of Atlantis Paradise Island, Nassau

Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re traveling with family, your kids will be grateful for a day at Aquaventure, the superb waterpark at Atlantis Paradise Island, where you can hurtle down vertiginous slides, drift along lazy rivers, and see sharks circling in an enormous aquarium.

Key West & Bimini Cruise

Historic site of Fort Zachary Taylor, Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor in Key West, Florida

Relax in the tropical sunshine as your ship sets a course south from Miami to colorful Key West, the home of Key lime pie, coral sand beaches, candy-colored houses, and more than its fair share of history.

If you’re traveling with family, some of the best things to do in Key West with kids include visiting the imposing Fort Zachary Taylor to learn how the island was defended during the Civil War, and snapping a selfie next to the buoy that marks the southernmost point of the continental U.S. You can also explore Hemingway’s home and look out for the unusual six-toed cats that inhabit the lush garden.

Learn to roll your own cigar, or spend time with a historian to find out more about Key West in President Harry S. Truman’s time in the Little White House.

Best 5 day cruises - Bimini

Bimini, Bahamas

Beautiful Bimini is a place to relax on the soft, white sand in the shade of a coconut palm, or explore the underwater world. You can swim among reef sharks, hand-feed stingrays, or even learn how conch is harvested.

Your final day on this blissful getaway is at sea, where you can relax in the sunshine and further recharge. Treat yourself to a massage in the spa, enjoy world-class cuisine, and toast the end of a perfect vacation at the Sunset Bar.

Nassau & Bimini Cruise

Aerial view of the beautiful Pearl Island, Nassau

Pearl Island in Nassau, Bahamas

Set sail from Miami for a four-night tropical escape to Nassau and Bimini. Nassau is packed with exciting things to see and do, from rum tasting to private island beach escapes. Thrill-seekers can head to the Aquaventure waterpark at Atlantis Paradise Island, where you can ride the waterslides to your heart’s content and admire aquatic creatures in the aquarium.

If you prefer to get away from it all, take a boat cruise to romantic Pearl Island, home to some of the best beaches around Nassau . Here, you could spend your day paddleboarding over the aquamarine waters or sea kayaking. Climb the lighthouse for views over the surrounding islands and enjoy a traditional Bahamian lunch.

People hanging out on the Rooftop Terrace of Celebrity Cruises

Rooftop Terrace

You’ll have a day at sea in between your two island stops to explore your Celebrity ship. Head to the beautiful pool deck and the Rooftop Terrace, where you can bask in the sun or perhaps take in an al-fresco movie.

When you arrive in beautiful Bimini, you’ll be refreshed and ready for another day of exploration. Take a deep sea fishing trip, or join a tour where you can snorkel among reef sharks. Treat yourself to a private cabana on a white sand beach, or relax by the pool in a luxurious beach club.

Bruges & The Netherlands Cruise

Cityscape of Rotterdam

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Sail from Southampton to some of the most exciting cities in Northern Europe on a culture-packed 5-day cruise. You’ll start with a relaxing day at sea to explore the many attractions of Celebrity Apex , whether you want to relax by the pool, unwind in the spa, or enjoy the ship’s fantastic array of bars and lounges.

Your first port of call is Rotterdam , a dynamic, multicultural city on the banks of the river Nieuwe Maas, famed for its avant-garde architecture and superb art galleries.

The Museumpark alone is worth a day—and if you want to see “old” Rotterdam, simply cross the iconic Erasmus Bridge and explore the pubs and cafés of Delfshaven. Historic Amsterdam is only an hour away, where you can embark on a romantic canal journey or explore some of the world’s finest art museums.

Colorful buildings in Markt Square, Bruges

Markt Square in Bruges, Belgium

You’ll also have a full day to explore Bruges, an exquisite medieval city near the port of Zeebrugge. Cobblestone streets, bucolic canals, and flower-filled window boxes all add to the beauty of Bruges, the splendid Markt square at its heart, overseen by an impressive belfry.

There’s no shortage of entertainment here, not least thanks to its culinary scene. Try sweet Belgian waffles or stock up on chocolate truffles filled with fresh cream. If you prefer something savory, moules-frites is the local specialty; mussels cooked in a deliciously garlicky stock, served with crisp fries.

Taste of Luxury Cruise

Magic Carpet aboard Celebrity Cruises

Magic Carpet

Make a grand exit from Sydney’s gorgeous harbor as you set sail for Hobart, the capital of mountainous Tasmania .

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the beautiful Celebrity Edge; be sure to take a seat on the Magic Carpet, suspended high above the water with 270-degree views, for the sailaway.

Waterfront of Hobart, Tasmania

Hobart in Tasmania, Australia

Hobart is a fascinating little city, gaining a name for itself thanks to its many artisan food producers, coffee shops, craft breweries, and spectacular art scene. Explore the city’s darker side on a tour of Port Arthur, a former penal colony.

One of the best things to do in Hobart is to join a tour of the provocative Museum of Old and New Art, dug into the ancient sandstone of a nearby peninsula and with its own winery, making this a great day out.

View from Mount Wellington, Tasmania

Mount Wellington in Tasmania, Australia

If you want to experience a bit of the great outdoors, head up Mount Wellington for spectacular views down over the city; you can rent a mountain bike and freewheel down with a guide. See some of Australia’s native creatures at the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and the famous Tasmanian devil.

Western Caribbean Cruise

Marine life in Cozumel

Marine life in Cozumel, Mexico

A five-day Western Caribbean cruise itinerary departs from Miami and takes you to beautiful Cozumel, one of Mexico’s true treasures along the Mayan Riviera.

Cozumel , an island off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is prized for the reef system that circles the island. Scuba divers come from around the world to explore the abundance of coral and sea life, including whales, sharks, eagle rays, hawksbill sea turtles, lobsters, nurse sharks, and the dramatic-looking Cozumel splendid toadfish.

If you’re scuba certified, you can swim among schools of tropical fish and other marine life, and marvel at the colorful coral. If you’re not certified, book a swim and snorkel shore excursion that lets you enjoy reefs and marine life in shallower waters.

Aerial view of Chankanaab Park, Cozumel

Chankanaab Park in Cozumel, Mexico

Snorkeling in Cozumel is a great option for all ages, and no certification is needed. The best places to snorkel in Cozumel are at Playa Corona, Chankanaab Park, and the Villa Blanca Reef wall.

On this five-day cruise in the Caribbean , you’ll enjoy two luxurious days at sea where world-class amenities, exquisite dining, and exceptional service await. Head to the Rendezvous lounge for a drink and mingle with fellow guests. Then soak up some sun on the stunning rooftop terrace. Choose The Retreat for an exclusive all-suite experience that includes private dining and lounge access that rivals any high-end resort.

Tulum Mayan Ruins in Cozumel

Tulum in Cozumel, Mexico

While you’re in port at Cozumel, you’re just a few miles away from some of the best that Mexico has to offer. Visit Tulum, a Mayan ruin that’s located on the coast rather than inland, in a beautiful and much-photographed setting with a backdrop of turquoise sea. See the starfish sanctuary at El Cielo, a secluded sandbar, where you can swim and snorkel in aquamarine water. Take an active tour of the island’s interior on an ATV or dune buggy along rugged trails.

If leisurely and laid-back are your preferred mode of vacation, spend time in town shopping, walking along the waterfront, and enjoying the easy Cozumel lifestyle while eating and people-watching at a sidewalk cafe.

Key West & The Bahamas Cruise

Boardwalk leading to palm trees and white sand beach in Key West, Florida

Unwind and relax on one of our colorful and carefree five-day cruises to Key West and Nassau on one of our incredible new ships. Key West and the Bahamas offer endless distractions and are so close to the mainland that they make the perfect short break.

From swimming with dolphins in Key West to shopping for hand-made crafts at the Nassau straw market, you can fill your days with activities, using the time at sea to laze on board and enjoy the tropical sunshine.

People playing at the Casino of Celebrity Cruises

Explore all the exciting things to see and do on board one of our luxury cruise ships during your day at sea. Work out at the fitness center, then pamper yourself at the spa. Savor dinner at one of the specialty restaurants, then see a show, try your luck at the casino, enjoy an after-dinner drink at one of the bars or lounges, and dance under the stars.

In Key West , spend a day lazing on a palm-fringed beach or cycle around town to discover this beautiful 4.2-square-mile island. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch and try the island’s famous key lime pie.

People playing with dolphins at the Blue Lagoon Island

Sun-kissed, white-sand beaches and sapphire blue water await in Nassau . Take the ferry over to Blue Lagoon for beach time on the sand or swaying in a hammock. Enjoy watersports like snorkeling and savor tasty conch fritters.

Get up close and personal with playful dolphins on a dolphin swim excursion, and be sure to stop by the Straw Market downtown to watch artisans at work making straw hats, baskets, and other handicrafts.

Bruges & Amsterdam Cruise

Boat ride in Bruges canal

Bruges, Belgium

Discover the charming ports of Bruges and Amsterdam during a five-day cruise that departs from Southampton , a city located less than two hours away from London. Before your cruise, admire famous landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, go shopping on Oxford Street, or spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Windsor, home of the famous Windsor Castle.

Chocolate truffles in Bruges

Chocolate truffles

In Bruges , marvel at the medieval buildings and cobblestone streets in the city center. Board a boat cruise and explore the maze of canals that snake through the city. Bruges is also known as the chocolate capital of Belgium, so make sure to sample handmade chocolate truffles during your time in port.

One of the best things to do in Bruges for art aficionados is to visit the Groeningemuseum, where you can see a wide range of Belgian artworks from the Renaissance and Flemish eras, spanning some 400 years of history. Before boarding your cruise, don’t miss the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a famed 12th-century Romanesque church that is believed to contain a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus.

World-famous canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands

During your day in Amsterdam , explore the city’s many museums, including the Anne Frank House, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Van Gogh Museum, which houses the largest collection of works by the Dutch artist. Satiate your sweet tooth with a freshly made stroopwafel—a caramel-filled wafer—as you wander along the streets that curve around the city’s canals.

Best 5 day cruises - Amsterdam

Don’t miss a visit to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s urban oasis full of green spaces, man-made waterways, a meticulously manicured rose garden, and more. Just a short taxi or bus ride away lies Amsterdam’s old city center, De Wallen.

Here you can explore the city’s quintessential canals, traditional Dutch homes, and historic monuments all within a compact area. A guided canal cruise will give you a different perspective of the city and its history.

Street view of Amsterdam

Rent a bicycle and pedal your way around one of the most cycle-friendly cities on Earth. You can admire Amsterdam’s gorgeous 17th-century buildings while traveling through well-organized lanes, built specifically for cyclists.

This is a great way to see a lot of Amsterdam in a short time, and a popular mode of leisure and functional transportation for locals. Before boarding your ship, be sure to do some shopping and people-watching in the bustling Leidseplein Square, a popular and vibrant commercial area famous for its bars, restaurants, and shopping.

Read: Three Days in Amsterdam  

Bahamas Cruise

View of Atlantis Resort from the water

Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bahamas on this five-day cruise departing from Miami. This cruise takes you for a tour of the best of Bimini and Nassau with a fun-filled full day at sea on the way. There is so much to do and see in these two great locations that you’ll feel as though you’ve been away for a week.

On your first stop, you’ll visit the bustling Bahamian port of Nassau, the center for commerce in the island chain and the country’s capital city. Here you’ll find the ultimate in family-friendly adventure as you walk through the magical streets of the lost city of Atlantis at Ruins Lagoon, one of the many features of the spectacular Atlantis Resort. Wade through the shallow blue waters of Dolphin Cay and get an up-close experience with these magnificent mammals.

Aerial view of the island of Bimini

In Bimini , learn how to fish like the pros in Gun Cay, Holm Cay, or Great Isaac Cay, some of the most sought-after spots for catching tuna, marlin, and wahoo. Then, spend the afternoon diving and exploring Bimini Road, an underwater limestone rock formation that stretches a full half-mile and is full of unique sea life and archaeological history.

Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of beaches, boat tours, and land-based attractions to suit your tastes. Visit the Dolphin House Museum and learn about the history of the islands while walking through this unique structure made entirely from recycled local materials. Make sure to try some delicious conch fritters at Joe’s Conch Stand before you leave; it’s a local favorite.

Your last night on board will be a special one, where memories will be shared and Celebrity’s world-class service and amenities make for the perfect finish to a fabulous adventure. End your five-day Bahamas cruise with a delightful dinner and drinks at sunset as you leave port.

Cruise guests eating at Luminae

Enjoy lemon martinis and live music at The Martini Bar, a quiet meal with new friends at Cosmopolitan, or a luxurious fine dining experience at Luminae, exclusively for guests of The Retreat . You’ll return home refreshed, and with many memories to share of your new adventures.

Book one of these unforgettable five-day cruises on our website and experience the ultimate luxury getaway.

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Key West & Bahamas

  • 4 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
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Key West & Perfect Day

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Key West & Mexico

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Bahamas & Perfect Day

  • 3 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
  • Starting from $1192 USD
  • Starting from $1234 USD

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day

  • 6 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
  • Starting from $3743 USD

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I Go on 5 Cruises a Year and Save Up to 40% on Every Trip—Here’s How

How to save big on cruises.

T hink sipping a margarita from a cruise-ship balcony is beyond your budget? Think again! I’ve spent more than 150 nights at sea (I’ve been on five cruises in the last year alone), and I didn't pay full price on a single one of them. By my estimation, I save, on average, at least $900 on every cruise I take, which can be up to 40% off the full price. I even went on one completely complimentary seven-night cruise!

I’m not a travel professional, but I have become a travel expert over the years. I’ve spent the last 20 years exploring the world with my family, which includes my wife, two kids and sometimes my parents. As you can imagine, the costs for a vacation with four to six people can add up quickly. Plus, cruises are, by far, my first choice for a relaxing vacation. I call them a vacation from a vacation because all we have to do is show up and then we can choose to do as little or as much as we want.

Well, I figured out a way to make it work, and I'm sharing my best tips  on how to save money on a cruise with you. Here’s how to find discounts on the  best cruise lines , from  adults-only cruises to family cruises  to even the cheapest cruises.

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Book through a third-party site

Third-party booking sites like PrestigeCruises.com or Vacations to Go can offer significant discounts, since they often purchase blocks of cabins at a discounted rate directly from the cruise line. They may also throw in perks like prepaid gratuities, complimentary specialty restaurant dining and onboard credit.

Christmas is one of the most expensive weeks to cruise, and I booked a Princess Christmas-week cruise through Prestige Cruises at a huge discount. With their deal, we got the third and fourth passenger to sail for free , so both our kids sailed for free, saving us more than $1,800 on this one cruise. And when you book through a third-party site, you still get all the nights from that cruise credited on your cruise loyalty program, as well as the corresponding benefits from your cruise loyalty tier. Since you don't lose any of these benefits when booking with a third-party site, there really is no downside.

Stay loyal to your favorite cruise lines

Belonging to cruise line loyalty programs consistently saves me money and gives me perks that make cruising more enjoyable. Unlike land-based hotel loyalty programs where you must re-earn loyalty status yearly, cruise line loyalty programs are cumulative, so your status does not reset every year. With Royal Caribbean, I have Diamond member status in the Crown & Anchor Society, and one of the perks with this loyalty tier is that it allows me to get an additional $225 off the lowest listed prices every time we book a balcony room on a seven-night cruise. Loyalty programs also increase my chances for complimentary upgraded staterooms, based upon availability.

Use loyalty to earn other perks, like lattes and laundry

Another Royal Caribbean Diamond-level perk that saves me hundreds of dollars? I get four complimentary drinks—up to $14 per drink—every day that I'm on the cruise, which is almost $60 per day in complimentary drinks. This adds up to a whopping $420 in free drinks on a seven-night cruise per each Diamond member. I also receive access to the Diamond Lounge, which has complimentary specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos available. (There are also cocktail hours from 6 to 9 p.m. with drinks and hors d'oeuvres.) Specialty coffees can range from $3 to $5 each on a cruise ship, so for a caffeine lover like me, this saves me another $10 per day.

Breakfast is also served in the Diamond Lounge, which is much less crowded than other venues on the ship and is usually located in an area with phenomenal ocean views. Other benefits include things like a free portrait photo per member, which saves about $20, as well as a free day of internet, which is about $25.

On Norwegian Cruise Line, I have Platinum-tier loyalty, which has its own unique cost-saving benefits. The perk my wife, Vernic, loves the most is that they wash one bag of laundry free per Platinum member, which otherwise costs about $35 per bag. We get our laundry done on ship before we leave, so when we get home from our cruise, there's no arguing about who's going to do the laundry. Platinum members also get a complimentary dinner for two at one of the specialty restaurants on board, including wine. We use this perk to enjoy a quiet date night while on the ship, which usually costs about $50 per person.

Sign up your kids for loyalty perks

I signed up my children for the loyalty programs on their first cruise. Most cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean , match the children to the parents' loyalty tier, so my kids are Diamond members as well. This saves me additional money, beyond their tickets: Our kids receive four complimentary nonalcoholic drinks, up to $14 per drink, per day each, as well. For my two children, this saves me about $112 per day, or $784 on a seven-night cruise, just on drinks for them! Children also receive a day of complimentary internet access each, which is about $25 in additional savings.

Double your savings with spouse loyalty-tier matching

When I married my wife, she had never cruised before, but I had already sailed a couple of times prior to getting married. When we took our first Royal Caribbean cruise together , I learned that my wife would be able to be tier-matched to my Crown & Anchor Society level. This was great, since it essentially doubled the perks and value that we were receiving for that tier without my wife having to spend weeks at sea to earn this tier level.

Ask if a cruise line will match your loyalty status

At first, the prospect of sailing on several cruise lines and spending weeks at sea to build up status sounded daunting to me—until I realized that I can instantly get top-tier status with certain cruise lines even if I'd never sailed with them before! Cruise lines like MSC Cruises matched my loyalty-program status tier not only with other cruise lines but also with other hotel chains. So I used my clout with other loyalty programs to get matched to MSC Voyager's Club Gold status. MSC cruises even matches hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott and IHG. Once I was matched, I immediately started sailing with top-tier loyalty benefits right on my first cruise with MSC, so there was no need to spend lots of time or thousands of dollars building up loyalty.

Bid to upgrade your cabin

I regularly take advantage of the option to bid to upgrade my cabin. This is when a cruise line reaches out by email prior to the cruise and allows you to bid an additional amount per person, per night, to upgrade your cabin. So I always book the lowest cabin category that I am comfortable with, since this upgrade is not guaranteed. (It's based on various factors, like availability, how many people are on the ship and the dollar amount you bid.)

I don't want to be stuck in an inside cabin for seven nights, so I make my initial booking for a balcony cabin and then use the upgrade program to bid on a junior suite or higher room. With this option, worst-case scenario I'm still having breakfast on my balcony. And best-case scenario if my upgrade bid offer is accepted, I'm lounging out in a junior suite! The savings I get here varies depending on how high the occupancy of the ship is, but it usually saves me about $500 to $1,500 per cabin versus booking the upgraded cabin directly.

Use the future cruising program to save on your next trip

Another great idea for how to save money on a cruise is using the future cruise program, where you get a discount on future cruises when you book another one while still on the ship. Depending on the cruise line, I usually don't need to have a specific date or destination in mind; I just put down a small deposit, usually between $200 and $500 per cabin, and then I can select my next cruise with the discount rate. This usually saves me at least $200 to $500 per cruise.

Look for "kids sail free" promotions

When I travel with the kids, I shop around. Most cruise lines as well as third-party cruise sites occasionally offer promotions where kids sail free. These promotions provide me with substantial discounts—often between 30% and 50%—saving me $1,000 to $1,800 for two kids in a balcony cabin. One note: Even though the kids sail for free, I am still responsible for paying for their port charges and taxes (about $120 to $180 per child). But the savings on the cruise fare with these kids-sail-free programs are significant.

Choose your timing wisely

Like everything else, cruise prices vary by season. The off-peak season, and the lowest-priced time to cruise, is usually September through early December and also mid-January through February. Whenever my schedule permits, I book cruises during these times. The ships are less crowded, so it allows me a better overall cruise experience. I also save about 40% to 60% during these times, which translates to savings of $900 to $1,500 on a seven-night cruise.

Plan ahead for holiday cruises

Holidays , like Christmas and New Year's, are some of the most expensive times to sail. When I sail on these holidays, I usually book my trips six to 12 months in advance for the best deals. Summer is also a premium sailing season, since most families travel with children who are off from school.

Thanksgiving is an underrated time to take a cruise, and I usually get amazing deals over Thanksgiving, even though it's a national holiday and should be priced at a premium. I book three to six months in advance, so Thanksgiving seven-night cruises are about 30% less than the more popular holiday periods, which means I can save an average of $500 to $1,200 per cabin, depending on the cruise line.

Book shore excursions before you board

When I purchase shore excursions prior to my sailing, I use the cruise line's online portal and usually get about 30% off the excursions versus waiting to book the same excursions when I am already on board the ship. Most shore excursions range in price from $100 to $200, so booking prior to boarding the ship saves me about $30 to $60 per person, which can add up to almost $250 in savings per excursion for my family of four.

Consider booking excursions through third-party operators

When it comes to excursions, I usually like to play it safe and book directly through the cruise line. This is the safest option, since they guarantee to get me back to the ship on time for departure—and if not, they will cover the costs. Occasionally, if I'm really trying to figure out how to save money on a cruise, I will book excursions with sites like Viator , which saves me up to 60% on shore excursions. Most operators on Viator also have flexible cancellation policies, allowing me to cancel up to 24 hours before my excursion, which is great in case my cruise itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances such as inclement weather.

With Viator, I can also see the ratings of the tour operators, as well as reviews. In many cases, these are the same third-party tour operators that are being utilized by the cruise line—just with a significant discount. It's like cutting out the middleman.

Go ahead and purchase the packages

I always purchase packages—such as drinks, spa, photo and especially internet—prior to cruising, because this is a simple, surefire way to save up to 40% on things I would want anyway. When I travel with the kids, I always pre-book the "four devices steaming internet" package as soon as I book my cruise, which is usually a 30% discount ($150) versus purchasing while on the ship. Some cruise lines, like MSC, bundle the drink and internet into one package, which means you can save an additional 20% to 30% versus purchasing individually.

When traveling as a family , some cruise lines offer an all-inclusive photo package for around $300 for a seven-night cruise. Although it sounds steep, this package provides a great value, since each individual photo purchased on the cruise is about $20. This way, I can take all the family pictures I want during the cruise with as many poses or backgrounds, and my total cost is capped at about $300.

Pre-book onboard entertainment too

When it comes to onboard entertainment, I always pre-book these well in advance, usually as soon as I book my cruise, if the cruise line's web portal is open. Most cruise lines now require reservations for the onboard shows and entertainment, even though these are usually complimentary. When I don't get a chance to pre-book them, I get stuck standing in a really long line, usually 30-plus minutes on embarkation day, trying to make these show reservations and then I'm not able to get the premium show times or days, since those have already been booked.

If booking premium entertainment, such as the paid circus shows on Norwegian, it's always better to purchase them before you get onboard. The cruise line's online portal will also offer a 20% to 30% discount on these shows if they are pre-booked and paid for prior to boarding.

Nab more discounts using travel credit cards

I often book cruises with my American Express Platinum card . Even though it has a yearly fee between $595 and $695, it has a multitude of benefits that consistently provide me with five to 10 times the yearly fee in value and benefits. The Amex Platinum card has a vacation-booking portal that also includes cruises. One of the benefits is that when I book a cruise through them, they provide additional discounts, such as a $100 to $300 onboard ship credit, $100 if booking an inside cabin, $200 if booking a balcony cabin and $300 if booking a suite. This discount is applicable to most major cruise lines. All I have to do to receive this additional credit is to book my cruise on the Amex platinum vacation portal or call my Amex platinum concierge.

Buy stock in your favorite cruise lines

Here's a not-so-well-known discount that I use: I get perks from owning stock or shares of a cruise line. For example, with Royal Caribbean, because I own more than 100 RCCL shares, I get an additional $250 discount when I book a 14-night cruise or a $100 discount for a seven-night cruise. This discount is layered on top of any promotions currently on the cruise line's site.

Take a gamble on casino hotels

In addition to discount cruises, I have also sailed on completely complimentary seven-night cruises. How? I have medium/high-tier loyalty with several casino hotels, and most of these hotels partner with cruise lines to offer their program members discounts with "sister" cruise lines. I have the prime-level loyalty tier with Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, and one of the most valuable perks they provide is a complimentary seven-night Caribbean cruise on MSC cruise line for two people, redeemable once every year. I have used this discount to receive a completely complimentary cruise, including port charges and taxes, saving my wife and me more than $2,400.

Now that you know how to save money on a cruise, check out these all-inclusive-resort tips to help you make the most out of a different type of vacation.

The post I Go on 5 Cruises a Year and Save Up to 40% on Every Trip—Here’s How appeared first on Reader's Digest .

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

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15. Diving Club Divers

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Zaryadye Park

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The Moscow Kremlin

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All-Russian Exhibition Center

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Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

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6 Best Cruises Out Of Port Canaveral

By Zachary Laks | Published on April 9, 2024

It's time to start planning your next big vacation. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family-friendly vacation or an extended voyage, you'll find cruises out of Port Canaveral, Florida that tick all your boxes.

When considering one of the cruises out of Port Canaveral, plan extra time before and after your sailing to soak up all the fun that the area has to offer. There's so much to do in Orlando that you could stay for several days and never get bored — music to your ears if you're traveling with children. One of the best things about Orlando cruises is that you have your choice of theme parks to round out your vacation. They're expansive and immersive escapes into playful worlds, not unlike a great cruise. I love tacking on an extra day or two at an Orlando theme park, usually before my cruise departs. I always appreciate the days of racking up thousands of steps traversing a theme park before boarding a cruise, where I know I'll be able to lounge on a deck or relax in a hot tub.

Not far from Port Canaveral, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a great place to spend a day admiring the vast scope of NASA. The center offers one-of-a-kind immersion into space exploration, including the chance to strap into a rocket launch simulator for an adrenaline-pumping thrill.

For those seeking a more peaceful retreat before boarding their cruises out of Orlando, Port Canaveral is near the white sands of Cocoa Beach. Spend the day enjoying calm, low waves — great for year-round swimming, learning to surf and kayaking alongside manatees and dolphins. Or take a seat on an airboat ride through the wetlands for encounters with alligators and, depending on the season, bald eagles, herons and osprey.

Ready to book a cruise to Port Canaveral? Here are the six best cruises from Port Canaveral.

Serene Clear Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Florida

1. Best For A Long Weekend

Coco Beach Club Beach Cabanas Mom and Daughter Tanning, Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Set to launch in the summer of 2024, Utopia of the Seas ℠ will be the sixth Oasis Class ship, Royal Caribbean's class of ships packed with adventure and entertainment. The new ship will focus on three- and four-night cruises from its year-round home port in Port Canaveral, with onboard upgrades that include reimagined pool decks, a Giovanni's℠ Italian Kitchen that spans two decks (try the osso buco!) and the new Pesky Parrot tiki bar, serving fruity cocktails on the Royal Promenade. This itinerary  to the Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas ℠ is the best for a long weekend exploring the highlights of The Bahamas, with a day in Nassau followed by a day at Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island destination.

2. Best For Beach Lovers

Colorful buildings along the coast, Willemstad, Curacao

This exquisite itinerary to the Southern Caribbean on Adventure of the Seas ® routes you to the farthest corner of the Caribbean for some of its best beaches. Sailing on the Adventure of the Seas ® for eight nights from Port Canaveral, you'll stop in ports such as Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; and Kralendijk, Bonaire. Each port will welcome you with easily accessible, powdery sand beaches primed for world-class swimming, snorkeling and diving. You'll have your pick of 86 dive sites at Bonaire National Marine Park with more than 350 recorded fish species known to frequent the waters.

3. Best For A European Adventure

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Boats Docked

Transatlantic sailings make for such a special vacation, and this 13-night Transatlantic Azores itinerary on Adventure of the Seas ® packs four remarkable ports into the crossing. You'll cruise the Atlantic for the first nine days, living it up on a ship that is packed with ways to play and relax. You'll arrive in idyllic Tenerife in the Canary Islands on the tenth day. Immerse yourself in the local Spanish culture by spending part of your day exploring the Museum of Nature and Archaeology or the Basilica de Candelaria shrine. The cruise continues to Lanzarote, Canary Islands, where picture-perfect colonial mansions line cobblestone streets, then on to the adventurous mountain island of Madeira, Portugal before completing your journey in the charming streets of Lisbon, Portugal.

4. Best For Private Island Getaways

Hamilton, Bermuda Horseshoe Bay

This unique Port Canaveral cruise itinerary  to Bermuda and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Adventure of the Seas ® visits both of Royal Caribbean's private destinations, where paradise is just steps away from the ship. On an eight-night journey, this ship will first cruise to Labadee, the cruise line's private peninsula adventure park and beach. Soak up this private spot by relaxing on the beach, enjoy the destination's signature cocktail specialty, the Labadoozie (a fruity rum cocktail) or opt for a zip line ride that will send you soaring over the ocean. The next private island destination is Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's oasis in The Bahamas. Here you'll port within short distance of pristine beaches, a thrilling water park and countless ways to unwind beneath the palm trees. There's also a stop in Bermuda, home to pink-sand beaches and rum swizzles.

5. Best For Foodies

Authentic  Cozumel Shrimp Tacos

Foodies will delight in fresh, authentic Caribbean dishes on this itinerary to the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Wonder of the Seas ® . In Cozumel, Mexico you'll find lunch specialties featuring locally caught seafood, often grouper and red snapper fried on a plate with rice and a vibrant salad. In Roatán, Honduras, ceviche is the local favorite, along with fried plantains and baleadas — tacos made with soft flour tortillas. The ship's final port is Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, a charming fishing village where the salbutes  (fried corn tortillas topped with shredded chicken) make a great appetizer to the catch of the day, served hot off the grill.

6. Best For Variety

Aruba ATV Off Road Track, Oranjestad, Aruba

This seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary  on Wonder of the Seas ® is a top choice if you want to change things up and go on a unique adventure in each port. Your first destination is Philipsburg, St. Maarten, where you can tour the island on an ATV, sample rum from a local distillery or end the day with a sunset horseback ride on the beach. When the ship arrives in the U.S. Virgin Islands at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, head straight to Magens Bay, often short-listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Or dive into a snorkeling tour to get face time with some sea turtles and coral reefs. On your final stop, Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, everyone in your group can enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities. If the beach is calling, grab a spot on one of the many cushy beach loungers close to a bar serving up island cocktails that go great with the ocean view. For the adventurous ones, Daredevil's Peak® waterslide is North America's tallest and promises an adrenaline rush.

Encompassing ports of paradise and incredible culture, Orlando cruises are the ideal vacation getaway. Start planning your island escape from Port Canaveral now .

Wooden Walkway to the Beach, Orlando, Florida

Cruise From Orlando

STARTING FROM 

Perfect Day Coco Cay Dare Devil's Tower Sunny Day

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Swimming in Cenotes in Cozumel & Cancun

FAMILY GETAWAY

WESTERN CARIBBEAN

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