The Ultimate Guide to Cruising with Teens

Cruising with teenagers can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Not only do cruises offer a wide range of activities and amenities that are sure to appeal to teenagers, but they also provide a convenient and hassle-free vacation option. Here is a guide to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation with your teens:

Choose the Right Cruise Line

When it comes to cruising with teenagers, not all cruise lines are created equal. Some cruise lines offer more activities and amenities that are geared towards teenagers, while others may be more focused on relaxation or romance. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a cruise line:

• Age range: Some cruise lines have age restrictions or are more suitable for certain age groups. For example, some lines cater specifically to families with young children, while others may be more geared towards adults. Be sure to choose a cruise line that is appropriate for your teens’ ages.
• Onboard activities: Look for a cruise line that offers a wide range of activities and amenities that will appeal to your teens. These might include sports courts, waterparks, rock climbing walls, and teen clubs.
• Shore excursions: Consider choosing a cruise line that offers shore excursions that are suitable for teenagers. These might include adventure activities, cultural experiences, or educational tours.

Book the Right Stateroom

When it comes to staterooms, you’ll want to choose a room that is comfortable and has enough space for your whole family. Here are a few things to consider when booking a stateroom:

• Size: If you’re traveling with teenagers, you’ll probably want to choose a stateroom that is larger than a standard interior or oceanview room. Look for a stateroom with extra space, such as a balcony or a suite.
• Location: Consider the location of your stateroom when booking. If you have teenagers who like to stay up late, you might want to avoid staterooms that are located near common areas or theaters, where noise levels may be higher.
• Amenities: Look for a stateroom with amenities that will make your teens happy, such as a TV, a mini-fridge, or a balcony.

Plan Ahead

To make the most of your cruise vacation with your teens, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Here are a few things to consider:

• Pre-cruise activities: Consider booking pre-cruise activities that will appeal to your teens. These might include city tours, adventure activities, or cultural experiences.
• Onboard activities: Look into the onboard activities that are available on your cruise and book any that your teens might be interested in. This might include sports courts, waterparks, or teen clubs.
• Shore excursions: Research the shore excursions that are available at each port of call and book any that your teens might be interested in. This might include adventure activities, cultural experiences, or educational tours.

Keep an Open Mind

Finally, it’s important to keep an open mind when cruising with teenagers. Your teens may have different interests and preferences than you do, and that’s okay. Encourage them to try new things and explore the ship and ports of call on their own. This will give them the freedom to have their own vacation experiences and make new friends.

Overall, cruising with teenagers can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. With the right cruise line, stateroom, and advance planning, you can create a vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Check out our Royal Caribbean Cruising Guide to decide what’s best for you and your family!