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How to Plan a Family Caribbean Cruise Vacation

By Carnival Cruise Line

With sun-drenched beaches, balmy tropical weather, and a blend of vibrant cultures, the Caribbean is one of the world’s most popular family vacation spots. It’s a place where life slows down just enough to let you relax and where the entire family can find something to do. When you combine a tropical destination with a family cruise, you get a fun-filled vacation and plenty of quality time.

If you’ve never been on a cruise vacation , get ready to experience the ultimate in vacation ease. Once you get on the ship, you’re on your own schedule and can be in complete vacation mode. Instead of dealing with the usual travel logistics of arranging transportation or searching for a restaurant that pleases everyone’s palate, you get to relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities on your way to the ports of call. It all starts with a little planning.

Decide on a Destination

For most people, the simplest way to start planning a cruise to the Caribbean is to choose a destination. Carnival sails to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean, with stops in The Bahamas , Dominican Republic , Mexico , Belize , U.S. Virgin Islands , and more. You’ll find beaches, shopping, and exciting shore excursions at each port of call, so the deciding factor is likely what you want to see and do when you’re on shore. You can tour Mayan ruins near Cozumel , swim with dolphins in Amber Cove , or ride a zip line through the rainforest in St. Lucia , and that’s just the beginning.

You can choose from an assortment of shore excursions that appeal to the entire family and enhance the vacation experience, including:

• Everglades Tour
• Whitewater Rafting Class
• River Tubing
• Stingray Sensation
• ATV Adventure
• Turtle Encounter

Imagine the delight in your children’s eyes as they snorkel with sea turtles or ride in a submarine to get a glimpse of marine life and coral reefs near a shipwreck. Grab the family and escape on a catamaran to a private spot for swimming and snorkeling in clear, turquoise water. Indulge your wild side with a tour through the Everglades or buggy ride through sand dunes.

Select a Sailing Date

One of the best features of a Caribbean cruise vacation is the fact that you can schedule the trip for dates that fit within your schedule. Carnival ships sail to the region year round with convenient itineraries that range from two to more than six days. Shorter cruises that last two to five days take you to up to three ports of call, but longer cruises give you a chance to visit even more destinations.

Do you need a quick escape from freezing temperatures and snow? A four day winter cruise from Miami to Grand Turk will warm you up enough to make it through the winter. Are the kids out of school for an extended holiday in April? Make the most of the time off with a five day cruise from Tampa to Cozumel and Grand Cayman. Is it time to schedule the next family reunion for next July? Get the whole crew on board for an eight day cruise on Carnival Horizon ® featuring SkyRide ® , Dr. Seuss Bookville ™ , and The Chef’s Table.

Additional Travel Arrangements

As you consider dates, you also have to think about how you’re going to get to the departure port . Unless you live close enough to drive to the cruise terminal, you need to make flight arrangements . Ideally, you should arrive a day before your cruise leaves so that you have plenty of time to get there on time and start your vacation feeling relaxed.

If you’re arriving a day or so early, consider choosing an interesting departure port city you’d like to explore with your family as part of your overall vacation. You can spend a few days there before or after the cruise having some fun on dry land before you head out to sea or before you head home. In addition, you may be able to choose a departure port that’s close to where other family members live, allowing your children to visit relatives who don’t live near you.

Check Out the On Board Activities

On Carnival cruises, the fun begins when you step on board, so spend some time perusing the available onboard activities. Your cruise itinerary includes at least two days at sea when you can explore the ship and take part in a variety of entertainment options. Take the whole family to WaterWorks ™ , the onboard waterpark where you can splash and slide and swim or enjoy a friendly game of basketball or mini golf at SportSquare ™ .

Other on board activities include:

• Camp Ocean ™ for kids, 2-11
• Circle “C” ® for pre-teens, 12-14
• Club O2 ® for teens
• Cloud 9 Spa ™
• Serenity Adult Retreat ™
• IMAX Theater
• Seuss at Sea ™
• Punchliner Comedy Club

Choose a Stateroom

Keep all this in mind as you select your stateroom . You can choose between a suite, balcony, oceanview, and interior room. A private balcony is a serene spot to watch the water, but you may not use it much if you’re traveling with small children. Interior rooms are a budget-friendly option, especially when you consider how much time you’ll actually spend there. Note the location of the room as well. Rooms in the back of the ship are usually closer to the dining area, where as the rooms in the front are closer to the spa. If it’s important to be near the center of the action, be sure to book towards the middle of the ship where you can find all the fun activities.

Pay for the Cruise

When you know where and when you want to go, it’s time to take care of the final details. Carnival EasyPay makes it easy to pay for your cruise in installments if you opt for an eligible sailing. You just pay a deposit when you book your vacation and then make monthly payments until your sail date so you can focus your attention on getting ready for the big trip.

Plan More Fun with Carnival® Mastercard®

As part of getting ready for your trip, make your family cruise to the Caribbean even more fun with a Carnival Mastercard. For example, when you want to try shore excursions like whitewater rafting or a turtle encounter, you’ll receive a reFUNd or percentage back when you book with your card on carnival.com, prior to your cruise.

This helps every member of your family see and do more within your budget – on your cruise of a lifetime.

Also, when you use your card for the first time, get set to earn bonus FunPoints®. You can redeem the points for a statement credit. Double FunPoints are yours when you make any purchase on Carnival Cruise Line and World’s Leading Cruise Lines brands, plus you’ll earn one FunPoint on all other purchases. You’ll also reap the benefits of no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.

All in all, this means happy spending, and earning with FunPoints, on your family cruise vacation to the Caribbean!  Learn more .

Terms & Conditions

Start Packing

Start thinking about what you’re going to pack for the cruise a few weeks before your departure. You’ll need casual attire—think shorts, khakis, and summer dresses for the day—and a few dressier items for the evening if you plan to eat in the main dining room. Bring a swimsuit, cover-up, and water shoes or non-slip boat shoes with traction to wear at the pool and make sure everyone has a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen to ward off the sun’s rays. Bring your passports, medication, and necessities for the kids in a carry-on bag.

Before you know it, you’ll be ready for your voyage. We’ll take over from there to make sure you and your loved ones enjoy an unforgettable vacation experience in a tropical paradise.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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Best Family & Kid Friendly Cruises

129 night cruise to around the world.

• You want a luxury cruise with expedition teams on some sailings
• You appreciate bright, modern public areas with few crowds
• You enjoy having plenty of inclusions and dislike extra charges
• The ship's adventurous expedition sailings don't interest you
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4 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
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3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

4 night cruise to the mexican riviera.

• You want new features like virtual balconies in inside cabins
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• You want a splash of traditional grandeur with lots of choice
• You want a ship with plenty of massive, windowed public rooms
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7 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a cutting-edge family cruise with European flair
• You like nonstop activities with round-the-clock fun for all
• You want dozens of different bars, lounges and restaurants
• You don't want cruise catering to European tastes first
• You dislike announcements made in up to six different languages

5 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
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4 Night Cruise to Canada & New England

• You want mega-ship fun with innovative onboard features
• You need a cruise that is suitable for families of all ages
• You want your ships big and bold but with a touch of class
• You hate crowds; things can get competitive at the buffet
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7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want an upscale cruise experience at a decent price
• You like having plenty of options for dining and entertainment
• You appreciate cruise ships with plenty of innovative amenities
• You are looking for a truly all-inclusive cruise vacation
• You typically only cruise on the latest and largest ships
• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries

4 Night Cruise to Pacific Coastal

• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships

4 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You like scenic cruising; this bright ship is perfect for it
• You appreciate a traditional look with high-tech features
• You want big ship amenities wrapped up in a smaller package
• You're after active diversions like ziplines and surf simulators
• You want nonstop activities and a party atmosphere onboard

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a freshly renovated older ship with lots of activities
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3 Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

7 night cruise to the eastern mediterranean.

• You want a value-packed, family-friendly cruise on a classy ship
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7 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

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• You like adventurous diversions, like waterslides and ziplines
• You prefer to have more spacious cabin accommodations

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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO VACATION WITH THE FAMILY

CUE THE MEMORY MAKING

SUN-SOAKED FAMILY FUN

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR FAMILY DINNER

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

SHOWS THAT STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO

Who says a family vacation has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world class specialty restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theater, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

KID-APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grown-up time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programmes provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children aged 3 and 11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMMES

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favorite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new "Encanto" live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Unique to the Magic is the teens-only Chill Spa. When it comes to dining, the ship offers eight eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ;  San Diego ;  Miami ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New Orleans ; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. Royal Caribbean's latest ship is the first Quantum Ultra Class vessel to sail in the United States. As a member of this class, Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY, billed as the only skydiving simulator available at sea, and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below. 

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers nine bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more. 

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. 

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, as well as to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

Disney Dream

Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largest ships. Highlights include the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee) and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites – like "Beauty and the Beast" – to life.

While the ship emphasizes family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon. At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult oasis with host of bars and lounges. In terms of dining, the ship offers nine themed venues including two specialty adults-only restaurants.

Staterooms also cater to cruising clans, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85 percent of cabins have ocean views or verandas. Those looking for extra space can opt for Concierge Suites, which range from 622 to 1,781 square feet.

While some recent cruisers commented that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most said it was well worth the price due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.

Disney Dream departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New York ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Southampton, England; and more for sailings in the Bahamas , Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. The cruise line also offers some transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't skip dinner at Animator's Palate and its Undersea Magic dinner show. During the meal, you'll be immersed in the world of Finding Nemo, as Crush the turtle from the movie swims by virtually to chat with families between courses. (This dinner show is also available on the Disney Fantasy ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy launched in 2012 and underwent a dry dock in 2017. The ship features activities such as Pixar Day at Sea, Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular and the 765-foot AquaDuck water ride.

Staterooms are designed with families in mind. Inside cabins can accommodate up to four guests, and over 85% of the ship's cabins have an ocean view or a veranda. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, minifridges and iPod docking stations.

Onboard entertainment is just as family-oriented, with Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee), nightly live performances and 3D movies. While younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs, adults can relax at the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy an evening at an adults-only bar or lounge.

When it comes to dining, the ship offers 10 themed dining venues, including two adults-only specialty venues, three main dining rooms and an ice cream shop: Sweet on You.

Fantasy sails from  Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida , to the Bahamas , Bermuda and a variety of ports in the Caribbean.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Between Palo and Remy is a secluded adults-only bar called Meridian. The bar is known for its martini program, where the bartenders will ask you a few questions and then whip up something off-menu for you to enjoy inside or outside on the exclusive patio. (Meridian can also be found on the Disney Dream ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

Carnival Panorama

A member of Carnival Cruise Line's Vista class, the Carnival Panorama debuted in December 2019 as the first new Carnival ship homeported on the West Coast in 20 years. With a capacity of 4,008 guests and 1,450 crew, Panorama is one of Carnival's largest ships.

Among the ship's standout amenities is the Sky Zone – a trampoline park that offers dodgeball and basketball games, toddler bounce sessions and more. Other unique Carnival amenities found on the ship include a suspended bicycle in the air called SkyRide, a sprawling water park, the Cloud 9 Spa and an open-air recreation area and ropes course.

Dining options on board are just as diverse. In fact, there are more than a dozen dining venues aboard Carnival Panorama, including multiple Guy Fieri eateries, a sushi restaurant, a steakhouse, a seafood eatery and more.

Carnival Panorama offers the line's typical range of accommodation classes (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) along with Family Harbor and Havana staterooms and suites. Havana Cabana Suites feature rain showers and patios equipped with hammock chairs, along with exclusive access to the Havana Bar & Pool. Meanwhile, Family Harbor accommodations are located next to the ship's Family Harbor Lounge and afford guests special perks, such as a free evening of babysitting and complimentary kids meals in the onboard specialty restaurants.

Sailing from Los Angeles , the ship cruises to destinations in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas . It also departs from Singapore for transpacific voyages. 

Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance (previously Carnival Victory) set sail in December 2021 after a full transformation. The ship, which holds 2,984 guests and 1,108 crew members, boasts plenty of fun indoors and outdoors for cruisers of all ages.

Carnival Radiance features a ropes course, waterslides, a mini-golf course, dive-in movies in the evening and a sports area for activities like soccer, basketball, volleyball and boxing. The ship also offers a kids club for youths ages 2 to 17. The pool is surrounded by lounge chairs – perfect for relaxing – and those seeking additional quiet space can spend some time at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Inside, the spa, the piano bar, the comedy club and the performance event venue, which features musicals, concerts and more, round out some of Carnival Radiance's most popular offerings. Dining options (14 eateries in total, including a Chef's Table experience) abound on this ship as well: Cruisers can enjoy casual fare at Big Chicken or Guy's Burger Joint, or sit down for a more upscale meal at Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi or the Steakhouse.

Staterooms aboard the ship include Interior (porthole and picture window choices are available), Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category options. Carnival Radiance sets sail from Los Angeles to destinations in Hawaii and Mexico .

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

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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Caribbean (All)

More ships cruise the Caribbean islands than any other region in the world, and Caribbean cruises treat vacationers to crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, abundant water sports and duty-free shopping. Caribbean cruises are divided into three regions: Western Caribbean cruises, Southern Caribbean cruises and Eastern Caribbean cruises.

Western Caribbean cruises can take you to see Mayan ruins on Mexico's Yucatan coast, snorkeling in the barrier reef off the coast of Belize or to Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach. Southern Caribbean cruises can take you to the beautiful beaches of Aruba, the rain forest of Martinique or the beautiful beaches of Barbados. Eastern Caribbean cruises may call on ports in the Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Turks and Caicos.

Because so many people cruise the Caribbean islands, you'll find the most competitive pricing and the best per-diem rates on a Caribbean cruise. This is especially true in the fall -- just before the start of the peak Caribbean cruise season -- when ships return to the Caribbean from Alaska and Europe.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, but with the sophisticated radar and weather-tracking systems found on larger Caribbean cruise ships today, there is little cause for concern. Ships can easily change course to avoid storms and will substitute alternate Caribbean cruise ports as necessary.

For more information on the Western Caribbean, click here . For more information on the Eastern Caribbean, click here . For more information on the Southern Caribbean, click here .

• The Caribbean is blessed with continuously balmy, pleasant weather, making it a year-round cruising destination.
• Caribbean cruises last 4 to 14 nights.
• Many ships will alternate 7-night eastern and western itineraries, giving passengers the option of purchasing back-to-back cruises and remaining on one ship for a 14-night sailing.
• Caribbean cruises are particularly kid-friendly, making them ideal for family getaways. Most ships have children's programs, youth counselors and children's activity centers.

Royal Caribbean's family-friendly private island is about to get more crowded with Gen Xers

• Celebrity Cruises will sail to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay for the first time.
• The cruise lines target different demographics, but the business case is solid.
• The private island is scheduled on 47 of Celebrity's itineraries this year.

Royal Caribbean's family-friendly private island is about to get a bit more crowded — with Gen Xers.

On April 21, Gen X-beloved Celebrity Cruises will voyage to Royal Caribbean International's Perfect Day at CocoCay for the first time, marking the start of a Celebrity-CocoCay bonanza: The premium cruise line plans to visit the family-friendly getaway 47 more times before the end of the year.

According to Celebrity, these itineraries will both double its year-round Caribbean offerings and launch its first weekend cruises . And travelers are hyped: A handful of these sailings are halfway or close to selling out.

Fares start at about $277 per person for a three-day roundtrip cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in which the Caribbean island is the only destination on the itinerary.

Travelers familiar with Celebrity and CocoCay might be scratching their heads

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity share the same parent company, Royal Caribbean Group .

For the most part, that's where their similarities end.

Royal Caribbean's private island is a tropical dream for cruising families dotted with sprawling beaches, clubs, a zipline, and a waterpark. The private destination is colorful, loud, kid-friendly, and generally the antithesis of what travelers might find on Celebrity's ships.

Celebrity's stylish vessels do offer children and teen programming. But if you want the exciting water slides, fun rides, and rock climbing walls of the popular mass-market ships, you're better off looking elsewhere.

Compared to Royal Caribbean's ships, Celebrity is best if you want to be on a premium, trendy, and more subdued cruise.

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If it's not obvious, the two brands are vying for different guests. Royal Caribbean goes after multi-generational families, while Celebrity's target demographic is Gen Xers, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the then-CEO of Celebrity Cruises, told Business Insider in 2021.

Celebrity sails to 300 ports on all seven continents — why this sudden push for the private Caribbean island?

In short, cruisers love Celebrity's upcoming Caribbean destination .

Last year, Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told analysts that CocoCay had seen robust demand, including from repeat travelers.

About two-thirds of Royal Caribbean's Caribbean-bound guests will stop at CocoCay this year. And most of them aren't complaining: "The vast majority of people love the islands," Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in March.

But for the two brands' parent company, there are more benefits to private island cruising besides guest satisfaction.

CocoCay is one night's sailing from Florida's major cruise ports, reducing the visiting ships' fuel consumption and costs.

More importantly, these private destinations keep more profits in-house.

A day pass to CocoCay's waterpark can exceed $100 per person. Entry to the recently opened Hideaway Beach costs up to $89 per person. Nearby, an afternoon at the more luxurious Coco Beach Club could be shy of triple that cost.

Even the complimentary parts of the island have splurge-enticing amenities like rentable cabanas and snorkeling gear. And because there's no need to rely on other excursion operators, Celebrity's parent company gets to pocket more profits.

Most of Celebrity's 2024 cruises to CocoCay will be on two of its largest ships: the 3,849-guest Celebrity Beyond and 3,480-guest Celebrity Reflection. That's plenty of guests ready to spend big on the popular private island.

But that doesn't mean Celebrity cruisers will be fighting kids for beach chairs

It is possible to escape the hoards of families at Perfect Day at CocoCay. For example, the new Hideaway Beach is rowdy, boozy, and thankfully adult-only.

While not kid-free, on the other side of the island, the Oasis Lagoon pool has become the de facto hot spot for afternoon ragers "packed with intoxicated people having a really good time" on one end, and children on the other end, Bayley told reporters in late January.

If nothing else, at least there won't be any kids drinking at the island's more than 10 bars.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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Dad Takes Aim at Cruise Staff After 20-Year-Old Son’s Fatal Jump

Francel Parker told his hometown newspaper that his family doesn’t drink, so he’s unsure how his son got so drunk just before he leaped to his death in the Caribbean.

Josh Fiallo

Breaking News Reporter

Getty Images/Bruno Vincent

The dad of Levion Parker , the 20-year-old Florida outdoorsman who drunkenly leaped to his death in front of his family on a Royal Caribbean cruise last week, is now questioning how his son was able to get so drunk despite being underage.

In an interview with his hometown newspaper, The Daily Sun , Francel Parker insisted that his son wasn’t suicidal and that they weren’t arguing before his fatal plunge—a statement that contradicts what others onboard told the New York Post they witnessed.

Instead, Francel told the paper his son’s spontaneous jump was done out of drunken ignorance—something he suggested should have been avoidable.

“We don’t drink,” he told the Sun . “I’d like to know how my son was served so much alcohol.”

Despite being over international waters at the time of the fatal plunge, roughly midway between Grand Inagua Island and Cuba, cruises that depart and return from U.S. ports are barred from serving alcohol to anyone under 21. Royal Caribbean has released a statement on the incident, but has not addressed witness statements that claimed Levion was drunk.

Parker added that he’s holding out hope his son, an outdoorsman who won a saltwater fishing tournament just last month, is still alive somewhere in the Caribbean—despite Thursday making it a full week since he disappeared into ocean, and two days since the U.S. Coast Guard called off its search.

“As soon as he went off the side, I prayed over him,” he said, adding that his son was a skilled diver. “I was confident the prayers I said over my son were heard. I stand on the word of God. I believe he is alive.”

The tragedy unfolded around 4 a.m. on April 4, on the 11th deck of the massive Liberty of the Seas cruise liner. Witnesses told the Post last week that Levion was hanging out in a hot tub with his brother when he was approached by his dad, who appeared angry that he’d been drinking.

After what he perceived as being an argument, the witness Bryan Sims told the Post he heard Levion tell his dad, “I’ll fix this right now.” Moments later, he jumped into the dark ocean below—an incident Sims described as being an “impulsive leap.”

Sims added that the ship was moving “pretty fast” and that Francel screamed for staff to alert the captain, which brought the ship to a complete stop within 20 minutes. The vessel launched rescue boats, but to no avail—Levion was nowhere to be found.

Francel told the Sun he flung six life rings off the ship hoping one would reach his son, who he said accompanied him on board along with his younger brother to take a break from his work on a commercial fishing boat.

Social media posts showed Levion graduated from North Port High School, in southwest Florida between Sarasota and Fort Myers, in 2022. He played football there, and regularly posted about fishing and hunting.

In in its lone statement on the incident, Royal Caribbean said last week it was “providing support and assistance” to Levion’s family.

“The ship’s crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the U.S. Coast Guard,” it said, adding, “For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share.”

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The Family Cruise Guide To Voyager Of The Seas

Level up your next family vacation onboard a cruise ship designed for maxing out on memories..

By Amanda Mesa | Published on April 5, 2024

Savvy travellers know that Royal Caribbean® ships deliver the best family cruises, with plenty of thrill-filled onboard attractions, top-notch cruise dining options, and spectacular, family-friendly cruise entertainment sure to wow guests of all ages. Whether you’re traveling with your little ones, teens, or grandparents; every ship in the fleet was designed with families in mind . The Amplified Voyager of the Seas® is one cruise ship that really shines in this department. 

Beloved by guests, this award-winning fleet-favourite offers countless ways to level up family bonding during your next sun-soaked escape. Like adrenaline-amping, tide-taming sessions on the FlowRider®* surf simulator, epic glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles, poolside movie nights under the stars and so much more. The food scene onboard Voyager of the Seas is also top-notch and bound to please even the pickiest eaters.

With so many unique experiences onboard, having a game-plan before you embark on your getaway will help ensure a fun holiday for the whole family. Here are some of the top cruise activities for kids and parents sailing onboard the Amplified Voyager of the Seas . 

Spark Your Competitive Side With Family Cruise Activities

Chase Adrenaline-amping Thrills At Sea

Enjoy Your Time Poolside In The Sun

Introduce Your Kids To An Onboard Fun Zone All Of Their Own

Make Every Family Dining Experience Different From The Next

Enjoy The End Of Each Night On A High Note

When you sail onboard a cruise ship like Voyager of the Seas , the memory-making continues long after sundown thanks to award-winning entertainment at the Royal Theatre and Studio B. If you’re into Broadway-style musicals, you’ll love Broadway Rhythm & Rhyme , which celebrates classic and contemporary stage hits from the Great White Way. Hardcore movie buffs will find lots to rave about in Music in Pictures , an irresistible revue of memorable scores and songs from classic films. And in Studio B, you can watch as world-class figure skaters wow the crowd with head-spinning twirls, gravity-defying jumps, and flawless figure-eights. You’ll be happy to learn every show onboard is complimentary for cruise guests. 

When it comes to incredible family holidays, nothing beats a Royal Caribbean cruise. Though every ship in the fleet delivers spectacular shows, delicious dining, and unforgettable activities for guests of all ages , the Amplified Voyager of the Seas is a great choice for families looking to maximise their time away from home. These are just a few of the many wow-worthy attractions onboard — there are plenty more thrills, restaurants, and family-friendly experiences to discover during your cruise getaway. 

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Dad of Royal Caribbean cruise passenger, 20, who jumped off ship 'confident' his son's alive

T he father of a 20-year-old man who jumped off the side of a cruise ship seven days ago believes his son is still alive as he claims he's "confident" his prayers for his safety have been heard.

Levion Parker jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last Thursday (April 4) in what is believed to be a drunken leap and he has not been seen since despite rescue attempts. His father, who has described his son as "a master diver" is insistent that he is still alive despite the US Coast Guard standing down their search.

The young man reportedly leaped from the 18-storey cruise ship at around 4am in front of his father and younger brother. A witness claimed he'd been arguing with his father moments before but Levion's dad has disputed this.

READ MORE: Astrology influencer mom who killed baby and partner feared solar eclipse

His father, Francel Parker, told The Daily Sun that he believes Levion is still alive in the waters off the Bahamas. He said: "As soon as he went off the side, I prayed over him. I was confident the prayers I said over my son were heard. I stand on the word of God. I believe he is alive."

The US Coast Guard stopped their search for the 20-year-old yesterday (April 10) and he has not been seen since his jump last week. Francel, who runs an AC business in Port Charlotte, has told journalists that he wasn’t arguing with Levion and that his son wasn’t trying to take his own life at the time of the incident.

He is also questioning how his son was served alcohol on the four-day cruise to Cuba and the Bahamas’ Grand Inagua Island. He said: "We don’t drink, I’d like to know how my son was served so much alcohol."

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At the time, other passengers allege that Francel was "fussing" over his son for having drunk too much. Passenger Bryan Sims told The Post that he was hanging out with Levion and his 18-year-old brother Seth prior to the incident, before later seeing the two brothers and their father arguing.

Bryan said: "As we were walking from the hot tub back to the elevators, his dad and brother were walking towards us. His dad was fussing at him for being drunk, I guess. When we got to them, he said to his dad, ‘I’ll fix this right now.’ And he jumped out the window in front of us all."

Another cruise guest, Deborah Morrison, recalled: "There was a lot of yelling, and the crew was alerted immediately. His family was horrified. Just beside themselves. I can’t even begin to imagine what they’re going through."

After Levion's jump, a frantic Francel threw six life rings into the ocean below in hopes of saving the 20-year-old until the cruise ship could come to a stop 20 minutes later and begin a rescue mission. Royal Caribbean said it “immediately” launched search boats and alerted the Coast Guard.

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