The 5 Best Cruises For Teens

July 19, 2024

Let’s be honest, finding the perfect vacation to please everyone in the family can be tough, especially when you have teenagers. Cruises, however, offer an incredible solution – exciting activities, a chance to relax, an option for socialization with other teens, and the thrill of exploring new places! Here’s why cruises rock for teens and which cruise lines top the list.

Why Cruises Are Awesome for Teens

Vacation planning with teens can be like navigating a minefield – what’s cool one minute is totally lame the next. Why are cruises such a good option? They’re packed with exciting activities and a built-in social scene. 

• Dedicated teen clubs: Most cruises offer dedicated spaces for socialization and teen-focused fun, in a safe environment. 
• Activities galore: Sports complexes, thrilling water slides, rock climbing walls, zip lines, arcades, and laser tag – boredom isn’t an option. 
• Make new friends: Teen-specific programs onboard are designed to foster friendships. Activities, games, dances, and themed nights create an instant social scene.
• A taste of freedom: Teens can safely roam the ship, hit the snack spots, and hang out with their new crew while parents get some well-deserved downtime or partake in the adult-only activities.
• Caters to every appetite: Cruise dining caters to everyone. Buffets, specialty restaurants, and snack bars mean even the pickiest eaters find something to love.

While cruises offer tons of positives for teens, it’s important to consider the potential downsides as well. Here’s a breakdown of some things to keep in mind:

• Cost: Cruises can get pricey, especially during peak season or if you want a more spacious cabin or one with a balcony. Specialty restaurants, shore excursions, drinks, gratuities, and onboard activities like arcades and spa services add to the overall expense.
• Limited Personal Space: Cruise ship cabins, even with balconies, tend to be on the small side. This can be tough for teens who value privacy or might bicker with siblings.
• Potential for Boredom: While many ships cater well to teens, there’s always a chance your teen might not connect with the specific crowd on board or find all the activities appealing. 
• Spotty Connectivity: Wi-Fi on cruises is often expensive and can be unreliable. If your teen is social media obsessed or needs to stay connected with friends, be prepared for added costs and potential frustration.
• Seasickness: Some people are prone to motion sickness, and the rocking of a ship can exacerbate this. Medications and remedies can help, but it could be a significant issue for sensitive individuals.

Top 5 Cruises for Teens

Royal Caribbean

• Best for: Adventure seekers, teens who don’t like to sit still
• Unique features for teens: FlowRider surf simulators, skydiving simulators, ice-skating, rock climbing walls
• Teen Clubs: Vary by ship, but all have dedicated teen lounges and supervised programming with video games, music, and more. 

Royal Caribbean is the cruise line for teens who crave constant excitement and cutting-edge thrills. Their ships boast adrenaline-pumping features that teens will love. With everything from surf simulators and rock climbing walls to ziplines and even skydiving simulators, there’s never a dull moment. Their private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, is an adventure playground in itself. Royal Caribbean’s largest ships offer an overwhelming variety of activities and dining options, guaranteeing teens will find something to keep them entertained.

Carnival Cruise Line

• Best for: Social butterflies, budget-minded families
• Unique features for teens: Energetic teen clubs, lively onboard atmosphere
• Teen Clubs: Circle C (ages 12-14) and Club O2 (ages 15-17) offer activities, games, and parties designed to create new friendships.

Carnival lives up to its “Fun Ship” nickname with a lively, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for outgoing teens seeking a social experience. Their dedicated teen spaces are known for engaging programming and activities designed to foster friendships and fun. As a bonus, Carnival often offers some of the most budget-friendly prices in the industry, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious families.

Disney Cruise Line

• Best for: Disney fans of all ages, teens seeking a touch of magic
• Unique features for teens: High-tech scavenger hunts, upscale teen spaces, unique character interactions
• Teen Clubs: Edge (ages 11-14) and Vibe (ages 14-17) provide themed activities, crafts, and hangout spaces.

For teens who want a touch of Disney magic without feeling childish, or families traveling with children of multiple ages, Disney Cruise Line is the way to go. Disney delivers its signature upscale flair, exciting themed activities, and top-notch entertainment. Think Broadway-caliber shows, creatively themed teen clubs, and character meet-and-greets designed with teens in mind. While there’s still a focus on families, Disney maintains a refined atmosphere that won’t feel overly kid-centric for older teens.

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Best for: Teens who like flexibility, entertainment lovers
• Unique features for teens: Go-kart tracks, laser tag, impressive water parks
• Teen Clubs: Entourage (ages 13-17) has well-organized programs, offering diverse activities to connect with other teens.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s freestyle approach offers flexibility that many teens appreciate. With no set dining times and a wide array of activities, teens can truly set their own pace. They’re also known for fantastic entertainment options, including lively shows and music. Many Norwegian ships boast thrilling attractions like go-kart tracks and laser tag arenas.

MSC Cruises

• Best for: Teens who want a different vibe, tech enthusiasts
• Unique features for teens: Formula 1 simulators, XD cinemas, sleek design
• Teen Clubs: Young Club (ages 12-14) and Teen Club (ages 15-17) offer an international atmosphere and unique opportunities to meet teens from around the globe.

MSC Cruises brings a dash of European sophistication to the cruising experience. With a sleek ship design and an international crowd, MSC offers a unique vibe that might appeal to worldly teens and their families. The emphasis on high-tech attractions, like Formula 1 simulators and XD cinemas, also adds a special appeal for tech-savvy teens. MSC often offers competitive pricing, making it a great option to experience European-style cruising without a hefty price tag.

Tips for a Successful Teen Cruise 

Cruises offer a vacation where teens get the perfect mix of fun, independence, and new experiences. The right cruise depends on your teen’s interests and your family’s overall vibe. But rest assured, there’s a ship out there waiting to create incredible memories. Here are our parting tips for a successful cruise with your teen. 

• Choose the right itinerary: Caribbean cruises are synonymous with beaches and watersports. Alaska appeals to adventurous teens, while Mediterranean voyages are a cultural immersion. The length of the cruise can also vary greatly. If you’re new to cruises, it may be best to start with a 3-4 night trek, while 7 days is often considered the sweet spot for maximum destinations and time to enjoy the ship’s amenities.
• Consider your specific boat: Even within the same cruise line, different boats may have different amenities, so be sure to check before you schedule your trip. 
• Get them involved: Let your teen research activities and pick shore excursions.
• Money talks: Have an upfront discussion about spending allowances.
• Private space: A balcony cabin can give teens a little retreat.
• Stay connected: If your teen wants to check in with friends, research the ship’s Wi-Fi plan before sailing.
• Encourage socialization: Many ships will offer a teen meetup on the first day of the cruise, which is a great place for your teen to make connections with other their age. 
• Family check-ins: Many families find it helpful to designate certain times of day to connect as a family – say breakfast every morning to discuss the itinerary and then midday at the pool. A whiteboard in the room for leaving eachother notes can also be helpful.