Best Cruises for Families with Young Adults and Teens

Cruising with teens or young adults means planning for more than just family time. They want excitement, flexibility, and opportunities to make their own memories too.

• Independence and age-appropriate activities: Teens love feeling trusted to explore safely on their own.

• Spaces to socialize: Dedicated teen clubs, lounges, and hangouts are key to helping them meet new friends.

• Tech-forward entertainment and adventure: From VR games to surf simulators, interactive attractions are a huge draw.

• Flexible dining and schedules: Teens and young adults appreciate the ability to eat when and where they want.

Modern cruise lines have embraced these preferences, creating ships that keep teens entertained while parents relax knowing everyone is happy.

Each cruise line offers its own take on family fun, with activities and atmospheres that appeal to different age groups.

Royal Caribbean: Famous for innovation, Royal Caribbean is a top choice for active families. Teens can try surf simulators, zip lines, laser tag, escape rooms, and rock climbing. The dedicated teen spaces and variety of dining options make it easy for everyone to find their niche. Perfect for thrill-seekers and families who love to stay busy together.

Norwegian Cruise Line: With freestyle cruising, flexible dining, and late-night entertainment, Norwegian is ideal for families who want options. Older teens and young adults can enjoy comedy shows, deck parties, and go-kart tracks, while parents appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and spacious cabins.

Disney Cruise Line: Best for younger teens, Disney combines immersive storytelling with state-of-the-art ships. Teens can enjoy exclusive clubs, Marvel and Star Wars activities, and Disney’s signature entertainment. It’s the ideal choice for families who want a touch of magic and top-notch service.

Carnival Cruise Line: Known for affordability and energy, Carnival delivers fun for all ages. Teens love the onboard waterslides, sports courts, and themed parties, while young adults appreciate comedy shows and casual nightlife. Carnival’s upbeat atmosphere makes it a hit for large or laid-back families.

Some cruise ships are specifically designed to wow families with teens and young adults. These standout vessels deliver next-level activities, impressive entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean): The world’s largest and most exciting ship features the Category 6 waterpark, Surfside family neighborhood, and Chill Island pool area. Teens will love the adrenaline-packed thrills, while parents can unwind at serene lounges and restaurants.

Norwegian Viva or Prima: These ships feature the Prima Speedway racetrack, immersive VR gaming zones, and stylish cabins perfect for families. Their modern design and flexible dining options make them great for young adults seeking freedom and entertainment.Disney Wish: This ship offers an upscale experience with Marvel and Star Wars themed spaces, dedicated teen-only lounges, and elegant dining for the whole family. It’s ideal for families who love storytelling with a touch of luxury.

Carnival Celebration: Fun and lively, this ship includes the BOLT rollercoaster, sports zones, casual dining, and vibrant nightlife. Teens and young adults will find plenty of energy, while parents can join in or enjoy a peaceful cocktail by the pool.

When traveling with teens and young adults, choosing the right destination is just as important as the right ship. Here are a few itineraries that combine adventure, relaxation, and exploration.

Caribbean Cruises: White-sand beaches, snorkeling excursions, and water parks offer endless fun for all ages. Popular stops include Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, and St. Thomas, where families can enjoy a mix of adventure and downtime.

Alaska Cruises: For families who love nature and outdoor activities, Alaska offers glacier treks, wildlife viewing, and zipline excursions. These cruises combine breathtaking scenery with active adventure perfect for older teens.

Europe Cruises: History and culture meet independence with Europe’s port-rich itineraries. Teens can explore ancient ruins, try new cuisines, and experience iconic cities such as Rome, Barcelona, and Athens.

Hawaii or Mexico Cruises: Ideal for families wanting laid-back vibes, these itineraries combine stunning landscapes with plenty of water-based fun. Surfing lessons, volcano tours, and beach excursions make them great choices for active families.

A smooth family cruise balances structure and freedom.

• Choose ships with dedicated teen and young adult spaces to give everyone room to relax.

• Give older kids time to explore independently while planning shared family dinners or excursions.

• Book adjoining or family cabins for privacy and comfort.

• Include excursions that combine adventure, culture, and downtime, so every generation stays engaged.

With a little flexibility, you can create an experience where everyone gets what they want out of the vacation.

Planning a multigenerational cruise can be complex, but Avoya Travel makes it simple.

• Personal Travel Advisors who specialize in family travel and know which ships and itineraries teens love.

• Exclusive promotions and upgrades that help families save while maximizing onboard fun.

• Expert guidance on cabins, excursions, and group logistics to ensure a seamless vacation from start to finish.

Your Avoya Personal Travel Advisor will handle the details so you can focus on making memories.

Cruising is one of the best ways to bring families together while giving everyone the freedom to enjoy the trip their own way. From thrilling onboard attractions to relaxing beach days and cultural explorations, the right cruise offers something for every age and interest.

Ready to plan the ultimate family getaway? Contact an Avoya Travel Personal Travel Advisor today to discover the best cruise options for families with teens and young adults.