10 Reasons to Try a Cruise with Kids
- Toddlers
Preschoolers
Kids
Teens
Family
Parents Only
All Ages

We're going to let you in on one of the best-kept family holiday secrets: taking a family cruise might be one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to vacation with your kids. From the moment you board, until you return home, there’s something to keep everyone happy, excited and the vibes high.
We recently set sail on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, and while we were kid-free on the trip, our jaws well and truly hit the floor at how family-friendly the experience was.
Below are ten great reasons why a cruise is the perfect family getaway.
10 Reasons to Try a Cruise with Kids
1. Quick and Easy Boarding

We know, we know. Lines + children = the ultimate disaster cocktail. A lengthy, drawn-out check-in process with fidgety kids is a nightmare for parents (been there, done that, and got the frown lines to prove it).
But! Boarding the Ovation of the Seas, we were struck at how streamlined their check-in procedures were, making the boarding process fast and hassle-free.
We were given a specific boarding window prior to arrival at the terminal and were greeted by lots of friendly staff ready and raring to help, check in bags and answer any questions. The line ran on time, with 30 minutes outside and another 30 minutes to get through passport control, so it was a pretty cruisy (pun intended) one-hour total from arrival to stepping onto the ship and starting our adventure.
2. Action-Packed Onboard Activities

When we say we were blown away at the scope of activities on offer aboard the Ovation of the Seas, we are not remotely exaggerating. Imagine the ultimate kid's adventure destination, times it by ten and maybe you’ll be able to imagine how epic we are talking.
From adrenalin-fuelled pursuits like skydiving and surfing simulators, rock climbing and escape rooms (yes. Escape rooms. We are not kidding) to family-friendly fun such as bumper cars, archery, arcade games or even a silent disco, to say there is something for everyone is an understatement.
3. Great Itinerary Options

Depending on which cruise you choose, this style of travel gives your family the chance to discover different destinations without repacking your suitcase every time. Explore new cities, beaches, or cultural sites during on-shore excursions that cater to a range of interests.
Ours was a South Pacific cruise and it was a wonderful way to experience new places. We were able to get our fill of tourist vibes whilst not lugging around our suitcases, and return to our home away from home after each excursion. Bliss!
4. Fantastic Pools

Cater to every member of the family's water-based needs with the huge range of pools available on board.
Whether you’re looking for an all-ages pool, an adults-only solarium or a bright and colourful aqua park that’s bound to delight mini cruisers, it’s safe to say Ovation of the Seas has a great offering for families.
5. A World of Dining Choices

Hungry travellers will love the range of food available—from sumptuous buffets to casual cafés and speciality restaurants.
Ovation of the Seas features a whopping 17 dining venues, ensuring every taste is catered for, from burgers and pizza to fresh salads and global cuisines. And what kid wouldn't be wowed by this stunning food at the ultra-whimsical Wonderland Restaurant?!
6. Suitable for All Age Groups
Thanks to their incredible facilities, Royal Caribbean Cruises welcomes families with children of every age, and they provide age-specific entertainment for all. Whether you have toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, there’s something on board for everyone.
7. Comfortable Cabins

We were taken aback at how spacious our cabin aboard Ovation of the Seas was, complete with everything we could have needed. There are plenty of options to choose from, depending on size, budget and family set-up,
The cabins are designed with families in mind, offering smart storage solutions, convertible sleeping areas, and even interconnecting staterooms. With cosy bedding, plenty of space, and thoughtful amenities, they're a relaxing and easy place to unwind at the end of a busy day of cruising.
8. Onboard Childcare

Parents and carers will be thrilled to hear that Ovation of the Seas features Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning youth program designed especially for kids aged 3–11. Children who join are grouped by age and then kept entertained and engaged with hands-on activities supervised by vetted childcare professionals. From arts and crafts to scavenger hunts, science experiments, and themed parties, it’s the perfect way to keep younger cruisers happy and active onboard.
With kids happily engaged in age-appropriate activities and supervised by trained staff, you’ll get some well-deserved relaxation time. Winner, winner, kid-free dinner?
9. Fits Various Budgets
Cruise vacations come in all shapes and sizes. Between last-minute deals, off-peak sailing dates, and early-bird discounts, there are plenty of ways to find a cruise that suits your family’s budget. You’ll also appreciate knowing that accommodation, meals, and most activities are included in the fare.
10. Evening Entertainment Sorted

Royal Caribbean is renowned for its incredible entertainment and shows, and you can expect some seriously great performances every night aboard Ovation of the Seas. Take the family to the theatre for an unforgettable evening — there’s always something new to see, and all you need to do is reserve seats via the Cruise Planner app or stop by the box office onboard.
For the nights you want to keep things low-key, snuggle up with your loved ones during a cosy movie night by the pool, complete with popcorn under the stars. How idyllic.
Unforgettable Family Memories
Perhaps the best reason of all: a cruise gives your family a chance to share new experiences and create lasting memories together. Whether it’s trying out a new activity, discovering a far-off port, or simply watching the sunset from the deck, these are moments you’ll cherish for years to come.
Last Minute Summer Holiday, Anyone?
If you want to squeeze in a last-minute action-packed trip before school's back in session, check out these mega deals with Royal Caribbean. Bookings can enjoy up to 60% off second guests, with up to $850 instant savings and kids sailing from $59 per day. (You're welcome).
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3-Night Weekend Escape aboard Quantum of the Seas
- Departs Brisbane on 31 January
- Starting from $699 per person (balcony stateroom)
- Three days at sea featuring RipCord by iFLY, the FlowRider surf simulator, and bumper cars in Seaplex
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4-Night Queensland Holiday on Quantum of the Seas
- Departs Brisbane on 3 February
- Starting from $729 per person (balcony stateroom)
- Visit Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays, for snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest hikes, or relaxing on Whitehaven Beach
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7-Night South Pacific Holiday on Quantum of the Seas
- Departs Brisbane on 7 and 28 February
- Starting from $1199 per person (balcony stateroom)
- Enjoy the turquoise waters of Mystery Island (Vanuatu) and explore lively Noumea (New Caledonia)
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2-Night Weekend Getaway aboard Ovation of the Seas
- Departs Sydney on 22 March
- Starting from $749 per person (balcony stateroom)
- Experience 360° views from North Star, cocktails at the Bionic Bar, and world-class dining
Cruising Into 2025

Still firming up your 2025 travel plans? Consider one of six exclusive Wiggly Sailings on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem and Voyager, featuring all your favourite Wiggly Friends! These sailings combine the signature Royal Caribbean family experience with the fun and adventure of The Wiggles.
Young kids and their loved ones can look forward to character events, live concerts, and so much more aboard The Ultimate Wiggly Adventure.
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