Planning a family cruise that caters to teens can be a daunting task, but with the right cruise line and activities, it can become an unforgettable adventure for everyone. In this article, we'll dive into the best family cruises for teens, highlighting entertainment options, exciting excursions, and more.
Key Takeaways:

When it comes to family cruises, not all lines are created equal. Some stand out for their teen-friendly activities and amenities. Here are a few top picks:
Royal Caribbean is renowned for its Oasis-class ships, which offer an array of activities perfect for teens. From rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks to the Ultimate Abyss slide, there's no shortage of adrenaline-pumping fun. The Adventure Ocean Youth Program ensures that teens are well-engaged with activities tailored to their age group, including the teen-only lounge, "The Living Room," which transforms into a nightclub at night. This lounge is equipped with video games, movies, and karaoke, providing a space for teens to socialize and relax.
Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants like Giovanni's Table for Italian cuisine and Sabor Modern Mexican for a vibrant dining experience. Their ships often feature a robot bartender at the Bionic Bar, adding a futuristic twist to family fun.
Disney cruises are a dream come true for families with younger teens. Ships like Disney Wish and Disney Dream offer themed kids' clubs, such as the Oceaneer Club and Lab, where teens can enjoy Marvel and Star Wars-themed activities. Disney's approach to kids' programming ensures that siblings and friends can enjoy activities together, making it ideal for families with teens. The Edge lounge is designed specifically for tweens, offering a space for them to hang out, play games, and participate in activities like karaoke and scavenger hunts.
Disney cruises also feature spectacular entertainment, including Broadway-style shows like "Beauty and the Beast" and "Frozen," which are sure to captivate both kids and adults. Their themed nights, such as pirate-themed dinner and fireworks at sea, add an extra layer of excitement to the cruise experience.
Norwegian cruises offer a casual, relaxed atmosphere that appeals to families. Their Splash Academy provides arts and crafts, karaoke, and even circus skills for younger teens, while the Entourage space caters to older teens with air hockey, video games, and a teens-only nightclub. Norwegian's freestyle dining concept allows families to dine at their own pace, choosing from a variety of restaurants without the need for formal attire or set dining times.
Norwegian also offers a range of onboard activities, including water parks and sports facilities, ensuring that there's always something to do for teens looking for adventure or relaxation.