If you ask someone what they imagine a luxury family cruise would be, they will probably think about relaxation and slow-paced excursions on board some massive cruise liners. But a cruise can be whatever you want to make of it. Depending on your family’s interests and preferences, a cruise can mean exploring exotic islands or heading to faraway destinations to discover new cultures. If you’re looking for ideas, here are some of the most incredible destinations for luxury family cruises.
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The Greek Islands
Cruising around the Greek islands is fun, especially for families looking for a unique experience. It’s a fantastic way to get to know Greece, explore its many beautiful islands, and introduce your kids to Greek mythology and history. The kids will surely enjoy discovering Greek archaeological sites and trying fun adventures like hiking and swimming.
Athens would be a great starting point for your cruise to the Greek islands. Before your ship leaves the port of Piraeus, take your kids on a sightseeing tour. Take your kids to the world-renowned Acropolis and the museum to learn more about Greek mythology. You can combine your visit to the Acropolis with a visit to the Ancient Agora. For families who love food, consider taking a food tour through the Plaka neighborhood.
From Athens, you can cruise towards Santorini. Although the island is a popular destination for romantic holidays, it also offers fun activities for families. As you disembark at sea, head towards the town of Fira for a scenic walk with kids. Hike towards the archaeological site of Akrotiri and stop at a local farm to sample the traditional products of Santorini.
The Galapagos Islands
A cruise to the Galapagos islands is perfect for families with kids. When planned well, your Galapagos adventure can be the trip of a lifetime full of active exploration while allowing kids to learn and discover fascinating animals. You will be with an English-speaking guide who will be happy to give insights into the Galapagos ecosystem and the animals you’ll encounter during your expedition.
There are many options for Galapagos family cruises. The most recommended options are small ships and yachts that offer family-focused excursions and crews trained to work with kids. These cruises include activities for all ages, complete with a scheduled daily itinerary. Kids can participate in off-vessel activities like snorkeling, swimming, and hiking. You can also book cruises that allow you to personalize the itinerary to include activities like a visit to a tortoise reserve at your preferred time of day.
Make the most of your Galapagos cruise by chartering a private boat, which can accommodate up to a dozen passengers. A private charter ensures a more intimate and exclusive experience with the freedom to explore the Galapagos Islands at your own pace.
Air-Cruise to Antarctica
Adventurous families who want to take their kids to Antarctica should consider booking an air cruise. With this option, you won’t have to cross the stormy Drake Passage, which has a notorious reputation for being the roughest seas in the world. With an air cruise, you’ll arrive in Antarctica by air and explore the islands without the torment of spending several days on rough seas.
Most air cruises to Antarctica will depart from Punta Arenas in the southernmost region of Chile. After a two-hour flight, you’ll arrive at King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. Then, you’ll board a ship to cruise among the islands and into the Antarctic Peninsula. You and your kids will enjoy seeing ice-filled fjords and icebergs as your boat sails around the Antarctic peninsula. Keep your eyes peeled on fascinating wildlife species, such as the penguins, seals, and whales that call Antarctica home.
While the itinerary will change with each expedition, you are guaranteed to explore many incredible sites offering the best possible overview of the varied landscapes of Antarctica. Aside from exploring the South Shetland Islands, you’ll also visit the Antarctic Sound, Penola Strait, and Gerlache Strait.
The Croatian Islands
Home to over a thousand islands and cities brimming with culture and history, Croatia is one of the best destinations for exciting cruises with the family. Croatia offers activities for all ages, whether seeking a relaxing break at the beach or hiking the country’s stunning national parks.
There’s something for everyone in Croatia, which explains why it’s a popular cruising destination for families. Exploring the country offers a range of activities and places to see, from secluded islands to impressive national parks and pristine beaches. So, regardless of your kids’ preferences, you are guaranteed to enjoy exploring the Croatian islands on a cruise.
The best Croatian cruises for families with older kids allow them to decide what activities to do, such as hiking the Plitvice Lakes National Park, swimming on the beaches of Korcula, or exploring the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Families with younger kids can take a small ship cruise of Croatia, allowing parents to relax while keeping a close eye on their little ones. Like the other cruises in Croatia, these small ship cruises still allow for adventures in Croatia’s most beautiful islands.
Alaska
Alaskan cruises offer a variety of itineraries, allowing you to choose one that suits your family. You can choose a round-trip cruise from Vancouver or Seattle, or choose a one-way cruise that combines with land-based tours to explore deeper into Alaska’s interior, including Denali National Park.
Alaskan cruises often include visits to native villages and cultural sites, providing opportunities to learn about Alaska’s indigenous cultures, traditions, and history. While in port, you can also partake in various activities like hiking, kayaking, fishing, dog sledding, and even helicopter tours, allowing you to experience Alaska’s wilderness firsthand.
Alaska is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including towering glaciers, majestic mountains, and picturesque fjords. Cruising allows you to witness this beauty up close and explore Alaska’s vast coastal region. Alaska’s glaciers are a major attraction. You can sometimes witness massive chunks of ice calving into the sea.
Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as bears, moose, eagles, whales, and seals. Alaska cruises allow you to spot these animals in their natural habitats, both from the ship and during shore excursions. Modern cruise ships offer a wide range of amenities and entertainment options. From fine dining and spas to Broadway-style shows and educational lectures about the region, there’s plenty to keep you and your family entertained during your time at sea.
Southeast Asia Cruise
Southeast Asia has become a favorite spot for cruising, especially for families looking for one-of-a-kind adventures. Many of these cruises originate in Australia, Hong Kong, or Singapore. They take you to the fantastic ports of Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
Like any family cruise, these cruises include shore excursion options, such as exploring ancient Asian temples like the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia, relaxing at the stunning beaches of Thailand, and visiting animal sanctuaries in Malaysia. Some of the most popular cruise ports for Southeast Asian cruises are Singapore, Bali, and Halong Bay in Vietnam.
Another popular option for family cruises in Southeast Asia is a river cruise. While these cruises do not come with all the bells and whistles that the vast ocean liners have, these cruises are comfortable and luxurious, best suited for families with kids.
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