As for the differences between the two lines, Allen says Disney Cruise Line is more focused on storytelling and making family memories, while she finds that Royal Caribbean caters to higher-energy families with more action-oriented activities. She also notes that little things, like each lines’ room service hours, may not seem like a dealbreaker upfront but can make all the difference when out at sea. On Disney, room service is mostly free all day and night, while on Royal Caribbean, only continental breakfast is included in the fare (hot breakfasts and other meal periods are surcharged), for example.
Jennifer Greene at MEI Travel says Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay is a standout for families: “It really is a true island oasis with something for every age in the family from a private beach club, to a waterpark and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean,” she tells Traveler. Law is also a fan of Coco Cay, noting it’s a “more lively” waterpark atmosphere than Disney’s private islands, which offer “more relaxing beach experiences” instead.
Cruise Center’s Tom Baker says not to count out other cruise lines entirely when traveling with children. For example, MSC Cruises has a Kids Sail Free offer, allowing up to two children under 18 to share a cabin with their parents at no additional fare. He also says MSC and Norwegian are well-liked for their “ship-within-a-ship” products which have been popular among family cruisers.
Baker also says families preferring a more upmarket experience can book cruise lines like Celebrity, Princess, or Holland America Line. These cruise lines also offer children’s programming, although not quite as overly family focused as Royal Caribbean or Disney.
Linda Bendt with Pique Travel Design also says families should also consider expedition cruising, noting that lines like Silversea, Lindblad, and Quark Expeditions are big hits among teens and older children for their small ship, wildlife-focused cruises—think whale watching off Baja California or searching for polar bears in the Arctic.
As far as booking tips, Law advises her clients to “choose the itinerary, cruise line, and ship based on aspects that appeal to the entire group, such as ports of call, excursions, dining options, and onboard activities,” she tells Traveler. “Every cruise line and ship offers accommodations at varying price points—from interior cabins all the way to suites with large verandahs and even additional concierge amenities.”
So, if the grandparents want a suite and their kids and grandkids prefer an adjoining stateroom, they’ll be able to book the categories they like on a ship that has all the amenities they want.
How to book a family cruise
Each of the specialists advised families to book early, as cruise lines adjust pricing as they sell cabins. Baker notes that larger groups in particular have difficulty booking the cabins they want closer in, and Law shares a reminder that discounts can typically be applied retroactively, so there’s “no penalty for booking early.”
Larger family groups, Greene mentions, can inquire with their travel specialist about group rates, which often come with extra perks. Booking with a travel specialist can also be a good value for multiple family groups traveling together, as their specialist can often cross-reference their reservations to ensure their cabins, dining assignments, and shore excursions are booked together.
