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The Family Vacation Guide

8 of the Best Cruises for a Family of 5

posted by Charmaine Cortes on January 5, 2023 // last updated on January 11, 2023

Cruise vacations are excellent for relaxation and exploring new destinations. They are also very convenient for planning as cruise ships provide transportation, accommodation, and entertainment. 

That said, finding the right cruise vacation can be challenging, especially when trying to cater to a bigger family. If you are searching for a cruise for a family of 5, read our list below and find the one that best fits your family’s needs.

Royal Caribbean

Disney cruise line, princess cruise line, carnival cruise line, norwegian cruise line, msc cruises , costa cruises, celebrity cruises.

The Royal Caribbean cruises are designed for family vacations providing amenities and activities for guests from multiple generations. The ships from Royal Caribbean offer fun and educational activities for kids and teens as well as many evening shows and events for adult cruisers. 

With Royal Caribbean, you don’t need to worry about planning a vacation, as each ship provides dining options, activities for all ages and preferences, and outstanding entertainment.

Activities on board 

Each cruise ship offers so much to do to fill your days with fun while onboard. The cruisers can play on the water slides, participate in laser tag battles, play mini golf, and do much more. There is also a surf simulator and zip lining for adventurers. 

The cruisers can also try rock climbing, go-karts, ice skating, playing an escape room game, and jumping on the trampolines. The activities vary from one ship to another, but each one offers many activities for the cruisers. 

Entertainment 

During the night, the Royal Caribbean cruise provides musicals and shows that you can enjoy with your whole family. From productions from Broadway and ice skating shows to aqua theater shows, such cruises provide a variety of entertainment. 

The full-scale productions happen every night on every cruise and feature award-winning shows.

Dining 

To fuel your body between the adventures and the onboard activities, Royal Caribbean has restaurants providing delicious meals from a variety of cuisines across the world. There are dining and beverage packages, complimentary dining, and specialty dining venues with a broad selection of foods. 

Cruise rooms 

The Royal Caribbean ships have modern cruise rooms designed with every type of guest in mind. The cruise rooms are stylish and offer plenty of room and comfort, making their ships suitable for larger families. 

There are spacious interiors and connecting rooms to accommodate larger families and staterooms for couples. You can also opt for luxury cruise suite accommodations that will elevate your vacation experience to another level.

If you would like to surprise your family with a magical vacation experience, the Disney Cruise Line might be the best option for you. The cruise ships from Disney combine fun and relaxation, providing activities for the whole family.

The Disney Cruise Ships never disappoints when it comes to entertainment, dining venues, and amenities for the guests and this cruise line attracts plenty of travelers every year. 

The Disney Cruise Line is known for meet and greets with Mickey Mouse, Disney princesses, and other popular Disney characters. 

Every day is an adventure on the Disney Cruise Ships, which offers fun activities for the whole family, making the journey very exciting. 

Aside from Disney character experiences, the cruisers can also expect themed deck parties and 3D Disney movies. 

The imaginative youth clubs allow the children to learn and play in large play spaces, while the adults-only areas on the ship include many bars and pubs. 

The Disney Cruise also features pools and recreation activities, including waterslides, a spa and salon, and sports and fitness centers.

Throughout the voyage, the family-friendly cruise ships offer live musicals for the whole family and magnificent firework shows. 

The Disney Cruise Lines have many live shows based on classic Disney movies that are suitable for guests of all ages.

The Disney Cruise Line offers many dining options for the cruisers, including themed restaurants, poolside snacks, and 24-hour room service. 

The food is prepared by renowned chefs who are known to accommodate customers with different dietary restrictions. There are also themed nightclubs and lounges for the adult cruisers

Their spacious cabins can easily accommodate a family of 5, and they typically come with two bathrooms, allowing more people to get ready at the same time. 

The largest Concierge-level suites can accommodate up to 7 people, so you can easily find a stateroom for your needs by providing the number of guests while booking.

Princess offers cruise vacations for every generation. You can choose from popular cruise destinations and participate in fun activities to spend quality time with your family. The Princess Cruise Lines are also known for excellent food and service. 

This American cruise line hosts numerous passengers every year and their family-friendly ships such as the Caribean Princess offer plenty of fun activities for the children including a youth and teen center, a splash zone, HD movies under the stars, and a lot more. 

What differentiates Princess cruise vacations from so many others is that the ships provide destination-themed activities such as traditional live performances, dance lessons, and local dishes served at the restaurants.

Among the fun ship activities are festival celebrations and multimedia presentations provided by local destination experts. 

The adults on the cruise can also learn to prepare gourmet specialties, do wine tasting, participate in world-class gaming, and attend art history lectures. 

During your Princess cruise voyage, you can also take a dip in the sparkling freshwater pools or relax in the hot tubs. The Princess ship cruises also have activities for sports enthusiasts and allow the guests to participate in fun dance classes. 

Princess also offers unique activities such as Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions. One of their kid-friendly cruises, Caribbean Princess, includes Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Center and HD Movies Under the Stars. 

There is also a Reef Family Splash Zone that features an interactive water playground with a splash pool. 

The Princess Cruise Lines feature plenty of dazzling live shows from performers around the globe. The cruise ships provide plenty of hit production shows.

Apart from the shows, the cruisers can also participate in game shows such as Deal or no Deal, and The Voice of the Ocean, based on the popular singing competition, and attend magician and comedian shows, watch movies at the poolside movie theater, and more. 

The chefs from the Princess Cruise Lines offer many tasty dishes that tell stories of their own. You can opt for a formal dinner or order from casual eateries with your family. 

Moreover, the guests can order their favorite foods and drinks and have them delivered with free delivery.

Room suites 

The room suites from the Princess Cruise Line can easily accommodate large family groups. The cruisers can choose from inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins, and suits, depending on the cruise ship and their needs and preferences.

The Carnival Cruise Line is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable cruise for a family of 5. The ship cruises feature spacious cabins for larger families and various onboard attractions. 

The family-friendly ships offer some of the most entertaining voyages for children and adult cruisers and offer affordable prices for the amenities. 

With the Carnival Cruise Line, you can explore great destinations and join popular onboard activities such as ‘Family Feud Live’, Waterworks, and Skyride. 

The adults can also join a Cloud 9 spa and the serenity adult-only retreat. The carnival Cruise ships also include parties, shops, fitness, and more.

The adult cruisers can also have a fun night in the nightclubs, join themed parties or visit the casino. 

On such a cruise, the whole family can have an excellent time during the vacation and enjoy live music and comedy shows. The cruising ships also feature karaoke, a theater, and a piano bar. 

The guests on the cruise have several dining choices, such as a steakhouse, a sea day brunch, a seafood shack, and many restaurants, which makes it a fantastic cruise line afloat. Aside from the various dining choices, the Carnival cruise ships also have themed bars for adult cruisers.

The Carnival Cruise Line caters to all types of passengers. Hence, they have many options when it comes to accommodation. Larger families can choose from flexible staterooms, connecting rooms, and suite rooms with an extra bathroom. 

Aside from the large cabins with enough space for up to five passengers, you can also book a family harbor suite and get a family lounge with Wi-Fi, snacks, movies, games, and other essentials.

If you and your family would like to experience new fun activities on board, you can look into the Norwegian Cruise Line deals. From music mania, ropes course, and laser tag to waterslides, Broadway musicals, and live performances, these cruise ships have something to offer for every passenger.

The Norwegian Cruise Line is known for their fun water parks, slides, and activities for cruisers of different generations. The children can join the splash academy and showcase their artistic skills. 

They can also enjoy themed parties and gaming, burn energy in the dynamic zone or relax in the chill zone; one thing is for sure, the activities make sure that no passenger gets bored during their vacation.

The newer Norwegian Cruise ships also offer VR experiences, bowling, and go-karting. Aside from the thrilling race track, the cruisers can also hang the largest ropes course, do rock climbing, and participate in other fun activities.

The cruisers can also relax on a chaise lounge, rejuvenate at the spa or have an energizing workout at the fitness centers. The Norwegian Cruise line also offers shore excursions for the cruisers. 

The Norwegian Cruise Line provides award-winning entertainment for the guests. During the night, the guests can enjoy watching musicals and shows, attending live music performances, or joining themed parties. 

The cruise ships also provide game and comedy shows as well as a variety of other exclusive entertainment.

The Norwegian Cruise line is very flexible when it comes to the dining system, so many eateries onboard allow families to plan their meals according to their liking and provide them with many food options.

The cruisers can enjoy various complimentary, specialty, and family dining options that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. 

All of the cruising ships offer crafted menus with every guest in mind. The guest can visit the Main Dining Rooms, go to the Buffets, or choose food from casual eateries. Their renewed chefs offer original dishes made with the finest ingredients, ensuring an incredible dining experience.

The Norwegian Cruise line has family mini-suites, balconies, oceanviews, and inside staterooms. Also, most of their ships have 2-bedroom family suites near the kids’ area.

The ship’s ocean-view cabins are suitable for larger families, but you also have the option to connect cabins or book a family suite for extra space and access to a private pool and a restaurant. 

MSC Cruises has one of the largest glamorous cruises offering excellent family deals. Given their partnership with LEGO, their cruise ships ensure that the children have a lot of fun on board. 

With MSC Cruises, you can visit amazing destinations and have an exciting vacation with your family. The MSC Cruises are also suitable for families with babies. Many of their ships have baby areas, special baby menus, and push chairs. 

The cruise ship activities provided by MSC Cruises ensure fun times during the day and at night. From the F1 simulator, bowling, and billiard room to arcade games and 4D cinema, there are plenty of activities to do and spend quality time with your family. 

The MSC Cruise lines also have a kid’s club devoted to LEGO building. Among the activities they offer is a Family Game Show, which is a competition for the whole family to dance and do selfie challenges. The passengers who like dancing can also join the Family Disco for a special disco time. 

For those passengers who enjoy outdoor activities, the Italian cruise line has zip lines, waterparks, swimming pools, and others, such as taking a skywalk on the Himalayan bridge and witnessing breathtaking ocean views.

MSC Cruises offers Broadway shows with international artists to entertain guests. The cruisers can also enjoy watching Carousel Production Sea shows with dance and live music, acrobatics, and innovative technology, offering world-class entertainment.

When it comes to dining, MSC Cruises offers packages from various cuisines, including Mediterranean and Asian. The packages offer many dining options suitable for everyone’s taste. 

You also have the option to book specialty dining packages in advance for a discounted price and enjoy an incredible dining experience. There are also drink packages for everyone, offering cocktails, premium drinks, alcohol-free packages, and minor packages. 

The MSC Cruises have spacious ocean-view cabins for larger family groups. However, you can also choose from the variety of connecting family cabins suitable for accommodation for up to 10 people. There are also duplex suites, grand suites, royal suites, and other cruise accommodations. 

With Costa Cruises , you can explore destinations across the world from a different perspective. With bright and sophisticated rooms, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone’s taste on these cruises. 

For the athletic cruisers, there are also equipped gyms, sports activities and tournaments, swimming pools and hot tubs, and massage and beauty treatments. 

With Costa Cruises, your cruise holiday can be filled with a lot of fun. The ships feature slides and waterparks, shows at the theater, game rooms, and more. Their cruising ships feature an Aqua Park dedicated to children where they can safely play water games.

There is also a Rope Garden Adventure Park for adventurers, an Outdoor Peppa Pig Area for family gathering moments, and a mini golf area for exciting challenges. The cruises have activities and games intended for every age group. 

There is also a Squok Club for arts and crafts with their entertainers and a teen zone offering board games, table tennis, and many sports tournaments. 

Certain Costa Cruise ships, such as Costa Esmeralda and Costa Toscana, also have babysitting services for families traveling with babies. 

The cruise lines offer entertainment throughout the day and the night. In the evening, the guests can enjoy watching shows and live performances at the theater, making the holidays an unforgettable experience. 

From comedy shows, musicals, games, acrobats, and more, the shows are designed for passengers of different age groups and preferences. 

The Costa Cruising ships not only provide an exploration of different places but also offer flavors from different regions of the world. 

The renowned chefs make a signature dish every night and offer destination dishes that represent the destination you are about to visit. 

The cruise ships have various themed restaurants. There are also wine bars for adults, ice cream parlors, and chocolate bars the whole family can enjoy.

Each of the suites on the Costa Cruises has its style, but they are all designed with modern touches. You can also book suites featuring a balcony allowing you to enjoy a scenic view while relaxing. Costa Cruises offers different suites, including large ones for families with multiple children. 

Celebrity Cruises boast large and luxurious cruising ships with technology features for an exclusive holiday experience. This is a cruise line designed for people with older children who value comfort and style while traveling.

These cruise lines are also designed for passengers with mobility issues in mind, and their attentive crew is always ready for assistance. The cruise lines provide a unique, comfortable, and fun experience, no matter your destination.

Activities on board

These cruising ships’ activities enable you to create memories and spend quality time with your family. 

Celebrity Cruises offer adventurous excursions on land and plenty of onboard activities, such as Xbox stations for video game tournaments, swimming in pools, archery tournaments, hot glass classes, and more. 

The cruise ships also provide spa and wellness treatments specially designed for teens. Moreover, they have autism-friendly ships with many products, services, and menu options. The ships also offer photography packages and cruise shopping.

Celebrity Cruises don’t disappoint when it comes to unique entertainment. The guests can gather for a movie night under the stars or participate in silent disco parties. There are also live music performances during the day and night and unpredictable parties that will make your voyage even more exciting. 

This cruising line also has an entertainment center and a program for children and teens. The Camp at the Sea program schedules activities based on the interest of the cruisers. The program covers art, recreation, culinary, and S.T.E.M. and has designed more than 500 activities.

The adult guests can also view main-stage productions with music, incredible acrobatics, and acting. On such a cruise ship, you can play Deal and no Deal, inspired by the popular game show, or play Bingo Express.

The delicious food also contributes to an amazing vacation experience. Hence, the renowned chefs from Celebrity Cruises offer appetizing scents and flavors. Here you can find specialty restaurants, various bars and lounges, and exclusive signature dishes. There is also an in-room kid’s menu with many delicious options.

Staterooms and suites

Celebrity Cruises have luxurious accommodations suitable for both solo travelers and bigger families with multiple children. The spacious styling rooms have exquisite bedding and offer picturesque views for the guests. All of their rooms have a modern style.

If you are looking for a cruise for a family of 5, cruise lines such as the ones we have reviewed in this post can be an excellent option for your next holiday. Such cruise ships have spacious cabins for large families and offer various onboard activities for passengers of all age groups. 

The cruises also offer dining specialties from different cuisines and offer entertaining shows during the evenings.

Cruising makes for a unique cruising experience to spend with your family and have quality time together.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Cruising With a Family of 5? How to Find Your Best Stateroom Options

• June 19, 2023

Are you planning a cruise with a family of 5 and curious about your stateroom options? The first time I planned a vacation for my family, I quickly learned that most vacation packages and hotels are not designed to accommodate a family of 5. I’m just going to assume that it doesn’t get any easier with families larger than 5, only more expensive.  

I never even considered a cruise when my kids were young, as I couldn’t bear the thought of all five of us crammed into one room, if it was even an option. Cabins onboard cruise ships tend to be very small. They are much smaller than your average hotel room, so if you like to be able to spread out in your room at the end of the day while on vacation, a traditional cabin on a cruise ship is probably not your best option.

If you are travelling on a budget, there are not a lot of alternatives, but there are a few options to consider when selecting your stateroom.

While travel will always be a little more challenging for families of 5, cruise ships actually do have many different cabin options, so it actually is possible to accommodate large families. It just may take a little creativity if you don’t want to break the bank.

Table of Contents

Inside Cabins

Your least expensive option for a stateroom is an inside cabin, although these rooms generally only accommodate a maximum of 4 people.  

Inside cabins are exactly that, inside cabins. They are located on the inside of the ship, so there is no window or view to the outside. If you are the type of person who easily feels claustrophobic, you will probably want to avoid staying in an inside cabin.

This class of cabin is generally configured with 2 twins or one queen bed, and either have pull down bunks above or a pullout sofa. They remind me of a small college dorm room. So probably great for kids, but I’d rather not stay in one if I have a choice.

There are some cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line that offer inside family cabins that can accommodate up to 5 people. However, you should bear in mind that cruise fares are charged per person, not per stateroom. As a result, inside cabins might not always be the best option unless they are offering a substantial discount on additional passengers (i.e. 3rd and 4th passenger sail free promotions etc.).

Oceanview Cabins

Oceanview cabins are very similar to inside cabins with one exception, they have a small window or porthole with a view of the ocean. In addition, some of these cabins are offered at a reduced fare, as they have an obstructed view. This basically just means that there is something outside your window blocking your view of the ocean (like a lifeboat or a large post or something similar).

Recently, there are cruise lines like Royal Caribbean , Norwegian , and Disney that offer virtual portholes or balconies that allow passengers to see the view outside the ship from their inside cabins. Important to note, though, these are still inside cabins, not actual oceanview cabins.

Whether you have a virtual ocean view or just a small window in your cabin, I would still hesitate to book this room unless it is a great deal, as it might feel cramped with a family of 5.  For a party of two, this option is probably fine, as you most likely won’t be spending a lot of time in your room.  

As previously mentioned, fares are charged per passenger by cruise lines, not per cabin, so unless the passenger fare is largely discounted, you will pay a substantial amount to cram your entire family in one room with no option for fresh air (Note: cruise ship windows do not open). 

I have 3 boys so I am familiar with what a room might smell like after a week with no fresh air, and I say “no thank you”.

Balcony or Veranda Cabins

By far, the most popular stateroom on a cruise ship is the balcony or veranda cabin. Balcony cabins are slightly larger than inside or oceanview cabins, and they include a small outdoor seating area. 

For larger families, this room will have a sofa bed and may also have a pull down bunk area. Balcony rooms are still fairly small, and the only separation between the beds is a curtain that can be pulled for a little privacy between the sofa bed and main sleeping area.

If you are travelling on a budget, this is probably your best option for a family. Although depending on the price per passenger, you might want to consider booking more than one room so you have a little more room when you want to unwind.

Suites are the largest and most expensive cabins on a cruise ship. They range from a slightly larger balcony room that includes a sitting area, all the way up to a 2-storey suite that could rival any luxury condo.

Check out the new Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas for an example of what you can book if money is no object and you are interested in pure overindulgence.

On the other hand, if you are travelling with a large family and want to stay in the same cabin, but would rather not be on top of each other, there are a few less expensive options, such as Princess’s 2-bedroom family suite that can accommodate up to 8 people.

Your Best Options

Keeping all of the above stateroom categories in mind, while it is possible to book a single stateroom for your entire family, I don’t recommend it unless you are booking one of the larger family-style suites.

Most standard staterooms on a cruise ship are under 200 square feet, so trust me when I tell you, you will feel cramped with 5 people in one room. And if, like me, you aren’t looking to spend $20,000++ for 7 days in a luxury suite you will want to consider one of these other options:

Adjoining Cabins

It is possible to book adjoining cabins on most cruise ships, so this is a great option if you want to have all of your family together in the same space, but require a little more room. 

Adjoining rooms are two identical rooms that have a door separating them that can be unlocked to convert the rooms into one large room. You can book two balcony cabins or two inside cabins, depending on your preference and budget.  

Booking two adjoining cabins is less expensive than a luxury suite, and in some cases will offer more space and privacy. And let me just point out that having two bathrooms is a game changer when travelling with a large family. For me, that alone makes it worth booking the extra room.

Balcony / Inside Cabin Combination

While booking adjoining rooms is a great option if you have young kids so you are able to have eyes on them at all times, with older kids another option is to book a balcony room with an inside cabin across the hall. 

This way you will get a little privacy from your kids and they will enjoy the freedom of having their own room. It is cheaper than booking two balcony cabins and the family can always hang out together in the balcony room, and the kids can just use their cabin to sleep and shower etc.

Truthfully, this is my favourite option with teenagers. It works best for our family, and I strongly recommend trying it. 

Adjoining Balconies Only

If you prefer to have two connecting balcony cabins, but don’t want to pay the extra fee for adjoining cabins there is another “little known” option.  

Just book side-by-side balcony staterooms that are not adjoining, and when you board the ship you can request that your ship stewards remove the balcony partitions between the two rooms.  Viola!  You now essentially have adjoining cabins that are connected by your balcony at no extra cost.

With this option, the key is to wait until you board the ship to request removal of the partition. This is because if you ask about it at the time of booking you will be advised to book adjoining cabins instead.  

I only recently learned of this option, and have yet to try it, but it sounds like a great alternative to adjoining rooms. The bonus with this option is you end up with a double-sized balcony for the whole family to enjoy.  I can’t wait to try it.

Leave the Kids at Home

The final option worth considering is to just leave one, or all of the kids at home. My husband and I tried both of these options and of the two, I preferred the latter.

Okay, I’m kidding. I actually preferred the cruise when our boys were with us, but there is something to be said for saving a little money and booking a getaway for two .  And as far as leaving one of the kids at home, the one we left at home was 19 at the time, and trust me, that was his preference!

So as you can see, although it is a little more challenging to book a stateroom as a family of 5, it is not impossible. Cruise lines have multiple options to meet your needs both on and off a budget.

Are you aware of any other options that I have neglected to mention? Please share in the comments.  

And if you are thinking about booking a cruise , I’d love to help, no matter the size of your group!

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Princess Cruises ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Is a balcony cabin a must for you when you cruise? Princess Cruises could be your line.

The California-based brand was a pioneer in adding a large number of balcony cabins to ships, and even its oldest vessels are loaded with balcony cabins — something that can't be said for many of its rivals.

On the flip side, Princess offers relatively few suites on its ships compared to some of the big-ship lines with which it most directly competes, including Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. Just 46 of the 1,830 rooms on the line's recently unveiled Discovery Princess are suites, for instance. Believe it or not, that's an improvement from earlier vessels in the same series, some of which have as few as 36 suites.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Princess also isn't known for enormous and amenity-filled suites.

What this means is there aren't a lot of ways to live large on a Princess ship or pack a lot of people into a single accommodation. Until the debut of Sky Princess in 2019, the line didn't have a single cabin that could accommodate more than four people.

That said, on Princess ships, you can often create larger living spaces by booking two connecting cabins.

A Princess Cruises cabin primer

As is typical for many cruise ships, Princess vessels offer cabins in four broad categories: Windowless "inside" cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins and suites.

As noted above, a significant portion of cabins on all Princess ships are balcony cabins — the category of cabin that everyone wants these days. About 80% of the 1,834 cabins on Princess's six-month-old Enchanted Princess are balcony cabins or suites with balconies, for instance. Compare that to the 72% of cabins on Royal Caribbean's four-year-old Symphony of the Seas that are balcony cabins or suites with balconies.

Notably, every single cabin facing the sea on three of the newest Princess ships — Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess — has a balcony. These three vessels are completely devoid of ocean-view cabins (cabins facing the sea that only have a window). That's relatively unusual in the world of big mass-market ships — the niche of cruising in which Princess plays. It's more common with luxury cruise vessels.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships

At the same time, as noted above, Princess vessels have fewer suites than you'll find on the ships operated by such big-ship brands as Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

Here's a breakdown of the broad cabin categories on Royal Princess, which is typical of the line's newer ships (it's the prototype vessel for the line's new, six-ship Royal Class series):

Inside cabins: 342 (19%) Ocean-view cabins: 0 (0%) Balcony cabins (including mini-suites): 1,402 (79%) Suites: 36 (2%)

On older Princess ships (and, in general, all older cruise ships), there are fewer balcony cabins. However, the ratio of balcony cabins to non-balcony cabins is much higher on older Princess ships than it is on older vessels at many other big-ship lines. An impressive 72% of the 1,000 cabins on Princess's 2003-built Coral Princess, for instance, are balcony cabins.

On Coral Princess, inside cabins and ocean-view cabins only make up 26% of all rooms. A breakdown of the cabin categories on that ship:

Inside cabins: 108 (11%) Ocean-view cabins: 157 (16%) Balcony cabins (including mini-suites): 719 (72%) Suites: 16 (2%)

The takeaway here is that you'll have an easier time locking down a balcony cabin on a Princess ship — even an older Princess ship — than you will when booking many of the ships operated by competing big-ship lines.

Just note that you'll want to book early if you're aiming for a suite on a Princess ship since there are so few of them. Note, also, that suites tend to sell out early on cruise ships in general. An old saying in the cruise industry is that "ships sell from the top and the bottom." That is, the first cabins on any vessel to sell out are the most expensive cabins, which are the suites, and then the least expensive cabins, which typically are the inside cabins. The mid-priced "middle" cabins sell last.

Design-wise, Princess's cabins and suites are fairly basic and comfortable, if not super stylish.

When it comes to rooms, Princess is sort of the Marriott of the big-ship cruise world. Its rooms are comfortable and functional, but a bit bland. Avant-garde style is not a Princess thing.

Inside cabins on Princess Cruises ships

These are the cabins you stay in when you're on a tight budget. On any Princess ship, they are almost always the least-expensive option when you're booking a cabin. You often can save considerable money by booking an inside cabin versus an ocean-view or higher-level cabin.

What you'll give up, of course, is that ocean view. Your room will have four walls and no windows offering a glimpse of the outside world.

You'll also be in a relatively small room. The typical inside cabin on the new Discovery Princess measures 166 square feet, with some as big as 175 square feet. By comparison, the typical balcony cabin on Discovery Princess measures 181 square feet, not including a 41-square-foot balcony (for a total of 222 square feet).

Still, the inside cabins on Princess ships are bigger than the inside cabins on ships operated by some of the line's main competitors.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

Inside cabins on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas, for instance, measure just 149 square feet — quite a bit less than the inside cabins on Discovery Princess.

Note that older Princess ships sometimes have smaller inside cabins than newer Princess ships. On the line's 2003-built Coral Princess, inside cabins measure just 156 to 166 square feet. On the line's 1998-built Grand Princess, most inside cabins are 160 square feet (some wheelchair-accessible inside cabins on Grand Princess measure 182 square feet).

Many inside cabins on Princess ships have pull-down bunks that will allow for up to four people to stay in the rooms.

Ocean-view cabins on Princess Cruises ships

With an ocean-view cabin, you get a window looking out to the sea, but not an attached balcony where you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

As noted above, three of Princess's newest vessels — Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess — don't have a single ocean-view cabin. Every outward-facing cabin has a balcony. However, you'll find ocean-view cabins on the line's older vessels and also on the line's three newest ships, Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess.

In general, ocean-view cabins on the Princess ships that have them are a tad bigger than the inside cabins found on the same vessels. On the line's Emerald Princess, for instance, the typical ocean-view cabin measures 178 square feet. The typical inside cabin on Emerald Princess measures 163 square feet.

On many Princess ships that have ocean-view cabins, the rooms are mostly found just above the promenade deck, where the lifeboats hang, and have obstructed views. You'll also sometimes find a few ocean-view cabins at the back of Princess vessels, facing the wake.

Related: The 3 classes of Princess ships, explained

On the line's two Coral Class ships — Coral Princess and Island Princess — there are a few "premium" ocean-view cabins that measure a more spacious 212 square feet. If you're the kind of traveler who needs a lot of space, these rooms can be a good choice.

There also are a handful of "premium" ocean-view cabins on the new Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess that measure 172 square feet and have unusual slanting windows.

Balcony cabins on Princess Cruises ships

Balcony cabins are what everyone wants these days, and Princess is delivering with huge numbers of balcony cabins on all its newest ships. On the line's new Royal Class series of ships, which began debuting in 2013, nearly 80% of rooms are balcony cabins.

On these newer vessels — Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess — the typical balcony cabin has an interior space of 181 square feet plus a balcony that measures 41 square feet (for a total of 222 square feet). However, there also are bigger "premium deluxe balcony" cabins that can measure as much as 233 square feet on the inside (not including the balcony). Some of these have larger-than-normal balconies that can stretch the total square footage to 312 square feet.

In addition, the Royal Class vessels have even larger balcony cabins that Princess calls mini-suites. Including their balcony space, these cabins measure anywhere from 299 to 329 square feet. While these mini-suite cabins have the word "suite" in their name, we are including them in the balcony cabin category as they generally resemble very large balcony cabins vs. true suites.

Related: Everything to know about the Princess Captain's Club loyalty program

The typical Princess balcony cabin has twin beds that can be converted into a queen bed, a built-in desk with a chair and a built-in miniature refrigerator. In addition to beds, a desk and a miniature fridge, premium balcony cabins have a seating area with a sofa bed that can be used for a third passenger in the room. Some also have a pull-down bunk that can accommodate a fourth person.

Suites on Princess Cruises ships

As mentioned above, Princess ships generally have fewer suites than the ships operated by some of its biggest competitors. The line also isn't known for particularly giant suites.

Princess's three newest ships — Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess — have the line's first truly large standalone suites, dubbed Sky Suites. There are two of them on each of the vessels, and they measure a generous 1,792 square feet (though more than half of that space is taken up by a huge wraparound balcony). With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa, the Sky Suites are the first Princess accommodations designed for up to five people.

Still, even the Sky Suites on Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess aren't the sort of truly epic suites with huge interior living spaces that you'll find on the latest ships from such competitors as Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. The latest Celebrity vessels, for instance, offer so-called Iconic Suites that have twice as much interior space as the Sky Suites.

If you're the kind of cruiser who is only happy in a cabin of truly giant proportions (and are willing to pay up for it), Princess probably isn't your line.

Still, you'll find at least a few suites of a decent size on every Princess ship. The line's seven Grand Class vessels each offer two "family suites" at their fronts that can be created by connecting a mini-suite with an adjacent inside cabin to create a six- to eight-person complex.

Each of the line's Royal Class ships (the line's six newest ships) has at least 36 suites.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge for a suite on a cruise

Bottom line

Princess offers a relatively wide range of cabins on its ships, including lots of the sort of cabins that everyone wants — balcony cabins. If you're a fan of balcony cabins, you'll find plenty of options on Princess ships, including standard size balcony cabins and bigger "premium" balcony cabins. You'll also find a lot of larger "mini-suite" balcony cabins on Princess ships. However, you won't find a lot of truly large suites with multiple rooms.

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Wrap up a full day of Carnival fun… and you're gonna need a good night's sleep. Our staterooms are here to help.

ROOM TYPES FOR ALL TYPES

When it comes to staterooms, one size only fits some. That's why we've got enough variety to satisfy any type of fun seeker.

Interior Staterooms

The most affordable way to experience all the Carnival excitement, without cutting corners on comfort. Here’s the perfect spot to curl up after a long day’s fun.

Available On : All ships

Available Features

Ocean View Staterooms

These comfy rooms with a view let you sail along to beautiful destinations while gazing at the sort of vistas you simply won't find anywhere on land.

Balcony Staterooms

Any time you’re in your room, you’re steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis… designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views.

Get all the comforts of home and then some, with absolutely none of the hassles. Get comfy… stretch out, put your feet up. Or just spend time on your balcony — you’ve got one of our most spacious rooms.

Exclusive Amenities:

• VIP check-in, plus priority embarkation and debarkation
• Priority dinner reservations and main dining room time assignment
• One complimentary load of laundry service
• Two complimentary large bottles of water

Exclusive Amenities

• Priority check-in, embarkation & debarkation
• Priority dinner reservations & main dining room time assignment
• Pillow-top mattresses

Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites

The term “family room” brings to mind that comfy place where kids and parents can do the all-important work of having fun simply being together. That’s precisely why there’s Family Harbor. You’ll notice that Family Harbor staterooms sport a classically American nautical décor... but benefits don’t stop at your door. Family Harbor staterooms are located near the Family Harbor Lounge, an exclusive spot featuring breakfast in the morning, snacks throughout the day, plus activities like board games, family movies, video games and more. As you explore the rest of the ship, the Family Harbor benefits come along, with your kids eating free in most onboard specialty restaurants... plus one free evening of Night Owls babysitting service, so you can enjoy some much-deserved alone time.

Available On : Carnival Celebration ® , Carnival Horizon ® , Carnival Jubilee ™ , Mardi Gras ® , Carnival Panorama ® and Carnival Vista ®

Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms & Suites

Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms do things a little different than ordinary staterooms. For starters, we dare you to cross the threshold without feeling a little more relaxed. Once you're inside, you'll find pleasing decor and in-room amenities like ELEMIS bath products and spa-branded bathrobes and slippers to enhance your stay.

What’s more, your excellent stateroom choice gets you priority spa reservations, free fitness classes, unlimited access to the thermal suites, exclusive discounts on treatments during port days... and more. (And on ships with a Hydrotherapy Pool, you’re welcome to use it as much as you want!)

And the best part? We've got a full range of rooms with that Cloud 9 mojo, from cozy Interiors to stretch-out Suites, ensuring you'll never have to sacrifice comfort for value.

Available On : Carnival Breeze ® , Carnival Celebration ® , Carnival Dream ® , Carnival Horizon ® , Carnival Jubilee ™ , Carnival Luminosa ® ,Carnival Magic ® , Mardi Gras. ® , Carnival Panorama ® , Carnival Radiance ® , Carnival Splendor ® , Carnival Sunrise ® , Carnival Sunshine ® and Carnival Vista ®

Havana Staterooms & Suites

At Carnival we love to cruise as much as anyone, but when you book a Havana stateroom, it's like you're no longer on a ship... you're at an exclusive island resort. But unlike most spots on land, you're never far from the ocean... or from the Havana Bar & Pool. (You'll enjoy exclusive access to the pool area!) Inside, all Havana staterooms feature a unique décor, but step up to a Havana Cabana for an extra-large outdoor chill space featuring a lounge-ready hammock chair. Step into a Havana Cabana suite for even more space, plus a luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Terrazza Staterooms

Have you ever thought “maybe I could live like an Italian”? Well there’s a place you can kind of try out the lifestyle, at least for one vacation: Terrazza Staterooms aboard a Carnival cruise! You’ll find these aboard any of our Fun Italian Style ships, and the resort layout gives you everything you need for comfort and style in one place. For starters, all the staterooms feature a fresh style inside… and some add premium open-air benefits like a patio lounging area or balcony. And on a select few, the balcony is — how shall we put it? — grandissimo! But guess what’s included with every Terrazza stateroom? Exclusive access to a private deck featuring amenities like all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more. (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Available On : Carnival Firenze ™ and Carnival Venezia ™

ALL THE PERKS, IN EVERY ROOM

With all this comfort and all these standard features, you've gotta try real hard to get homesick on a Carnival cruise.

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Stateroom climate control
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• Bathrobes upon request
• In-room safe for valuables

YEP, WE THOUGHT OF THAT TOO

Beyond the basics, you’ll find rooms that take your vacation to the next level — we’re talking stuff that matters most to groups, families, folks with special needs and more!

Adding friends equals multiplying the fun. That’s why many Carnival staterooms can be configured in different ways — some sleep up to five!

Keep the group together. Some cabins have connecting rooms with a common door between them.

When it comes to bathrooms, an extra might be a good idea. Deluxe Ocean View staterooms sleep up to five and come with an extra half-bath.

Specially modified rooms are available for guests with special needs .

TOP-TO-BOTTOM, FRONT-TO-BACK FUN

Wherever on the ship you make your home base, good times aren't far.

• Lower decks
• Upper decks

For arts and entertainment, health and relaxation, stay up front. The fitness center and spa are nearby, not to mention great performances in the show lounge.

What Cruise Ships Have 5 Person Rooms

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Balcony cabins are what everyone wants these days, and Royal Caribbean is delivering, with huge numbers of balcony cabins on all its newest ships. On the lines four Oasis Class ships, which began debuting in 2009, around 65% of rooms are balcony cabins. On the lines even newer Quantum Class ships, which began debuting in 2014, the percentage is even higher: around 69%.

The typical Royal Caribbean balcony cabin has a contemporary look, with clean lines and relatively minimalist furniture. Theyll typically offer twin beds that can be converted into a royal king bed, a desk and a sofa that often pulls out into an additional bed. They typically measure around 180 square feet, not including the balcony area.

A few Royal Caribbean ships have balcony cabins that face toward the center of the vessel, not toward the outside. If this seems like a paradox, it is. Its the result of an unusual design feature of one series of Royal Caribbean ships, the Oasis Class.

Related: 6 reasons to book a balcony cabin

The Oasis Class vessels are so wide that they have room for an interior, open-air boardwalk amusement area at their backs lined with inward-facing cabins. On Oasis Class ships, you thus can get a balcony cabin that faces the sea or a balcony cabin that faces inward, toward the boardwalk area.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages

Cruise & Maritime offers single cabins across all of its ships, as well as a number of benefits for those cruising solo. Not only do solo travellers have their own cabins, ranging from Inner Single to Standard Ocean View. The number of these cabins varies on each ship, between eight to 14, so you will need to be quick when booking a solo cruise with this cruise line.

Inner Single

This stateroom has a bathroom with shower & WC, wardrobes, drawer space, dressing table, TV, hairdryer, music console and stretch to an average size of 100 sq ft.

Standard Single Ocean View

As well as the same facilties as the Inner Single, the Ocean View also boasts a window where you can watch the passing seascapes. These rooms are slightly larger, measuring an average size of 129 sq ft.

Standard Plus Single Ocean View

This stateroom is even larger than the standard Ocean View, measuring an average of 188 sq ft. It also comes with ample hanging and storage space fridge flat-screen television and a picture window. There is also a Superior Ocean View on-board selected ships.

Superior Plus Single Balcony

This room is only available on-board Vasco da Gama. Located midship on deck 9, the Superior Plus Single Balcony Stateroom offers the benefit of a private balcony to solo travellers. This is alongside en suite facilities, whirlpool bath with shower plus ample storage space.

Cruise Ship Covid Cases Force Passengers To Quarantine In Nyc

The Cunard ocean liner “Queen Mary 2” is seen docked in Brooklyn, New York, on October 18, 2019.

NEW YORK – Ten passengers of the Queen Mary 2 were forced off of the ship in New York City to quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19 during the trip from England. The cruise line said that all passengers were vaccinated and were tested before the trip began.

It was unclear when the positive tests took place but Cunard called the tests “routine.”

The Queen Mary arrived in New York City Monday, carrying 1,473 guests.

The 10 passengers with COVID-19 are being forced to isolate themselves in hotel rooms in New York City.

Get breaking news alerts in the free FOX5NY News app! |

In a statement to FOX 5 News Cunard said: “Whilst the guests who have tested positive have disembarked, in line with approved protocols, all guests remaining on board will be tested again in the coming days.”

The ship has left to continue its itinerary. It will spend several days in the Caribbean, including visiting several ports.

Cunard says the guests forced into quarantine in New York City will be able to rejoin the ship on Jan. 3 for the trip back to England if they test negative.

NYC covid cases have risen as a covid surge has hit the city.

The Queen Mary is far from the only cruise ship with coronavirus problems.

At least 48 people onboard Royal Caribbean’s “Symphony of the Seas” tested positive for COVID-19 last week. The ship docked in Miami last weekend with 6,091 people on board.

Recommended Reading: Cruises Leaving Norfolk

Incredible Cruise Ship Cabins For Families

Ever since Disney Cruise Line first introduced family staterooms in the 90s, other cruise lines have been looking for ways to entice families with spacious, comfortable accommodation.

As a result, newer cruise ships boast a choice of cleverly designed family suites and connecting rooms that could comfortably house the Brady Bunch. So after a fun-packed day at the waterpark, kids club, or exploring on shore, there’s plenty of space for everyone to kick back and recharge.

Here are seven cruise lines getting the thumbs up from families however, some of these staterooms can be booked through the cruise line only and are not available through cruise agencies.

Celebrity Cruises

When it comes to catering for families, Celebritys family ocean view staterooms are spot on. The main room features two beds that can convert to queen-size, plus theres a second bedroom with a twin bed and Pullman berth beds, which pull down easily to form a bed. And for extra space, floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to a balcony where everyone can sit and enjoy the view. Find out more about Celebrity Cruises.

Holland America Line

P& o cruises, princess cruises.

Let the whole family spread out in a Princess family suite. There are two bedrooms, which can be configured with a queen or two twin beds, plus two bathrooms and a sitting area with two sofa beds. Enjoy some quality family time out on the balcony decked with tables and chairs for four and two loungers. Find out more about Princess Cruises.

Get A Discount On Your Cruise

The price of your cruise will be different depending on who you book it with. Its always cheaper to use a travel agent with access discounted rates.

See the best cruise deals from all travel agents in one place .

Of course, not all travel agents are equal in terms of the service that they provide, and a great travel agent is worth their weight in gold.

• If you prefer to email your enquiry This travel agent always goes above and beyond to provide the very best personalised service
• If you want to speak to someone right now This large travel agency has great prices and Ive always found them to be really helpful

Also Check: Marriott Vacation Club Points Cruises

Msc Seaside Grand Suite

The Grand Suite on the MSC Seaside is as advertised: grand, indeed! This two-bedroom family cabin has a king bed in the master bedroom and pair of twin beds that can convert to a queen, plus a single pullman bed, in the second bedroom. There are two bathrooms allowing your kids to have their own shower, while you enjoy the choice of a relaxing hot shower or a long warm soak in the tub. Theres plenty of space for your stuff as well as for your family in this oversized cruise ship cabin. The walk-in closet is impressive as is the family room with sofa and seating for five. But the real star is the balcony with stellar ocean views and enough seating for everyone to truly relax and get away from the crowds on the public decks.

Jeff Bogle lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his two teen daughters, two cats, one dog and six guinea pigs. He is an award-winning photographer and respected travel journalist with bylines on Readers Digest, Good Housekeeping, PBS, Esquire and more. Jeff spends too much time in England watching football and far too many hours plotting his familys future travel adventures. Find Jeff on his own site, Out With the Kids .

Msc Meraviglia Super Family Plus Balcony And Deluxe Suite

As a family-owned company, MSC takes special care to tailor the onboard experience for families, making accommodations that suit the individual needs of families regardless of size and age of children. On Meraviglia, a combination of connected staterooms are usedunder titles like Super Family Plus Balcony and Family Ocean View to provide groups with the beds, bathrooms, sight lines and space required to ensure every member of every family enjoys their cruise vacation. Fitting up to nine guests, the Super Family Plus Balcony uses a pair of balcony cabins plus an interior stateroom, all connected with adjoining doors to be as close or apart as you wish! Meanwhile, the ships Duplex Suite gives families of five or fewer total members a memorable two-deck-high cabin experience. On the main level theres an open living and dining room with a sofa that converts to a double bed, while upstairs is the master bedrooms king-size bed.

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Do Any Cabin Categories Offer Additional Amenities

A cabin category on a luxury line like Crystal will come with more amenities than a similar category on a mainstream line. – Photo by Crystal Cruises

There are also some hidden gems, as Carnivals Change calls them, on various ships, pointing to the 6N category on Carnival Dream, Carnival Magic, and Carnival Breeze . They are like most ocean view rooms except for one bonus: a second bathroom. One bathroom has a sink and a toilet, and the other has a sink and tub-shower combo. For a family traveling together, the fact that two people can get ready before dinner at the same time can be a valuable perk.

In addition, Carnivals Spirit-class ships have obstructed inside staterooms that are actually obstructed ocean view rooms with French doors that open. The price point on those is generally very good, and the midship location is nice as well, says Cruise Planners Devine. Carnival and Royal Caribbean ships also have some staterooms with unusually large balconies that I always look for.

Oceanview Cabins On Cruise Ships

Oceanview cabins: as sizes are similar to Interior staterooms on cruise ships, but each of them has a Porthole or normal window . Their window sizes also vary by line and ship. On some ocean ships and some luxury river ships, such staterooms feature floor-ceiling windows. Oceanview rooms’ window sizes are usually 4×3 ft . As furniture, Oceanview cruise cabins have twin beds that convert to King-size, sofa, TV and phone, sitting area, safe, mini bar, private bath with shower, and also a washroom with sink and a junior tub, bathrobes and a hairdryer and of course a picture window. You should take a look at the cruise ship deck plans again as Cabins of 5A category have two porthole windows. Unlike deluxe, there is no washroom with sink and junior tub. Below are the layouts of Ovation of the Seas Oceanview cabins .

Read Also: Cruises Out Of Mobile Al 2021

Balcony Cabins On Cruise Ships

Most balcony cruise ship cabins feature floor-ceiling sliding glass doors leading to a private step-out veranda. The balcony also is furnished with a table and pair of chairs/loungers. Standard balconies are separated by dividers. As sizes, balcony cabins on cruise ships vary, with those on Princess and NCl ships being among the smallest compared to other big-ship lines. In our cruise deck plans, we also list room sizes and the size of the balcony. Balcony Apart from the balcony they can offer You twin beds that can be converted to King-size bed. Balconies also provide sitting area with chair and coffee table and private bath with shower, as well as closet/wardrobe, electronic safe box, mini bar, television and phone, sofa, bathrobes, hairdryer. Most verandas are between 30-60 ft2 . Below are shown the layouts of the Anthem ship’s Deluxe and Accessible balcony cabins.

Suites On Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean is known for having some of the cruise worlds most spectacular suites, including, on some ships, suites that sprawl over two decks.

Royal Caribbean isnt a luxury cruise line. But the top suites on its vessels offer an experience in keeping with what youll find on some of the worlds top luxury ships. Depending on the ship, these suites can come with such perks as private butlers who attend to your every need, access to a private restaurant, access to a private suite lounge and sun deck, reserved seating in entertainment venues and priority boarding and disembarkation.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge on a suite on your next cruise

They also come with a much higher price tag than the typical Royal Caribbean cabin. These are rooms that are aimed at well-heeled travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the sort of mass-market, megaship cruise experience that Royal Caribbean offers over the more intimate, white-glove experience youll find on the small luxury ships that luxury lines operate.

As noted above, there is a wide range of suite categories on some Royal Caribbean ships. Among the lines most spectacular suites are the Royal Loft Suites on some of the newer Royal Caribbean vessels. Two decks high, they offer a soaring living room space framed by a glass wall that offers stunning views.

Related: The 5 most spectacular suites at sea

Note that these family suites often carry an astronomical price, falling in the $20,000-a-week range.

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Is There A Way To Save Money Once I Choose

An ocean view cabin on Celebrity. – Photo by Celebrity Cruises

A guaranteed stateroom is the least expensive way to book a cabin on a sailing. It means youre promised a room in a category, but you yield control over which stateroom youre assigned. Guests are sometimes upgraded to a higher category altogether say, from an inside to an ocean view but you also risk getting a less-than-optimum location.

From Luxury Ocean Liners To Megaship Cruising

With the advent of large passenger jet aircraft in the 1960s, intercontinental travelers switched from ships to planes sending the ocean liner trade into a terminal decline. Certain characteristics of older ocean liners made them unsuitable for cruising duties, such as high fuel consumption, deep draught preventing them from entering shallow ports, and cabins designed to maximize passenger numbers rather than comfort.

Ocean liner services aimed at passengers ceased in 1986, with the notable exception of transatlantic crossings operated by the British shipping company Cunard Line, catering to a niche market of those who appreciated the several days at sea. In an attempt to shift the focus of the market from passenger travel to cruising with entertainment value, Cunard Line pioneered the luxury cruise transatlantic service on board the ocean liner Queen Elizabeth 2 . International celebrities were hired to perform cabaret acts onboard and the crossing was advertised as a vacation in itself.

Sovereign of the Seas

Until 19751980, cruises offered shuffleboard , deck chairs, “drinks with umbrellas and little else for a few hundred passengers”. After 1980, they offered increasing amenities. As of 2010, city-sized ships have dozens of amenities.

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Ocean View Cabins On Royal Caribbean Ships

With an ocean view cabin, you get a window looking out to the sea but not an attached balcony where you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Royal Caribbeans newer ships have relatively few such cabins, as generally cabins that face outward now are built with balconies.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

In general, ocean view cabins on Royal Caribbean ships are bigger than inside cabins and around the same size as balcony cabins . But you sometimes can find ocean view cabins that are significantly bigger than what is typical for a balcony cabin. This is sometimes the case for ocean view cabins at the front or back of ships, where there can be relatively large but odd-shaped rooms with windows but no balconies.

Royal Caribbean has built ocean view cabins at the front of some ships that incorporate the angled space in the front part of the superstructure. As a result, they have sloping windows, and a bit more floor space around these windows .

Royal Caribbeans Radiance Class ships, notably, have a category of cabin called Ultra Spacious Ocean View that includes cabins at the front and back of the ship that measure 319 square feet nearly twice as much as the typical ocean view cabin on the vessels . Each of these bigger ocean view cabins has two twin beds that can convert into a royal king bed, one double sofa bed and either one Pullman bed and one twin bed or two Pullman beds.

Is Saving Money The Priority

Norwegian’s studio cabins are budget-friendly, especially for solo travelers. – Photo by Norwegian Cruise Line

Inside cabins have no views and are therefore cheaper than outside cabins, which have portholes, windows, or balconies. There are times when saving money with an inside cabin makes sense. They can be good for quick vacations two- or three-day sailings when you wont be in your cabin much, says Dave Change, a vice president at Carnival Cruise Line .

If youre never in your cabin, then natural light and views might not be so important. And families often book them, with the parents in the outside cabin and their kids in the cabin across the hall, Change says. There are also inside spa staterooms that include amenities and features that a guest wouldnt have access to in a lower-deck, ocean view cabin.

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Inside Cabins On Royal Caribbean Ships

These are the cabins you stay in when youre on a tight budget. On any Royal Caribbean ship, they almost always are the least-expensive option when youre booking a cabin, and you often can save considerable money by booking an inside cabin versus an ocean-view or higher-level cabin.

What youll give up, of course, is that ocean view. Your room will have four walls and no windows offering a glimpse of the outside world .

Youll also be in a very small room. Inside cabins on Symphony of the Seas measure just 149 square feet, quite a bit less than the typical ocean view cabin on the vessel . The typical balcony cabin on Symphony of the Seas is 182 square feet, not including a 50-square-foot balcony.

As I hinted at above, there is one way to get a glimpse of the outside world from an inside cabin on a Royal Caribbean ship. In one of the great cruising innovations, Royal Caribbean has created some inside cabins which have a virtual balcony that offers a view of the outside.

Related: The upside of booking an inside cabin

The virtual balcony is a high-definition screen built into one end of the windowless room that projects a real-time view of the ocean outside. Its designed to make you think youre actually in a balcony cabin with a view, and it is quite realistic-looking.

Just dont try to walk through the faux balcony opening.

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How To Book Connecting Rooms On Cruise

Published: December 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ninette Taft

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome aboard the exciting world of cruising! Embarking on a cruise vacation offers endless adventures, breathtaking views, and unparalleled relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, one of the key considerations when booking your cruise is your accommodations. And if you’re traveling with a larger group or family, or simply prefer the convenience of having multiple rooms, booking connecting rooms could be the perfect choice for you.

Connecting rooms on a cruise provide a unique and convenient option for travelers who want to stay close to their loved ones, while still maintaining a level of privacy. These rooms are designed to have a connecting door or a shared private hallway, allowing easy access between the rooms, making it ideal for families with children or groups of friends traveling together.

By booking connecting rooms, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – the togetherness of shared space and the privacy of separate rooms. Imagine spending quality time with your family or friends during the day and retreating to your own space to relax and unwind at night.

Throughout this article, we will explore the benefits of booking connecting rooms on a cruise, discuss the factors to consider when making this decision, offer tips on researching and selecting a cruise line that offers connecting rooms, and provide insights on how to find and book connecting rooms that meet your needs and preferences.

So, if you’re ready to discover the art of cruising while enjoying the comfort and convenience of connecting rooms, let’s dive in and explore the world of cruises together!

Understanding Connecting Rooms on a Cruise

Before delving into the process of booking connecting rooms, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what they actually are. Connecting rooms are a type of accommodation arrangement on a cruise ship that allows two or more rooms to be connected, either through a shared interior door or a shared private hallway. This means that guests can easily move between the rooms without having to go out into the main corridor.

Connecting rooms are especially popular among families, multi-generational travelers, and groups of friends. They provide the perfect balance between spending quality time together and having your own personal space. Parents can keep an eye on their children in the adjacent room, while still enjoying privacy and comfort.

It’s important to note that connecting rooms can be found across various cabin categories on a cruise ship, including interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite cabins. This means that you can choose the level of luxury and amenities that best suits your preferences and budget.

When it comes to the physical layout of connecting rooms, cruise lines typically have different configurations. Some cruise lines have adjoining rooms, where the connecting door is inside the cabin, while others have staterooms with a shared private hallway, where the connecting door is located in the hallway outside the cabins. It’s important to check the specific layout and design of the connecting rooms on the cruise line you’re interested in to ensure it meets your needs.

Another factor to consider is that not all cruise ships have connecting room options available. So, it’s essential to research and select a cruise line and ship that caters to your specific requirements. Additionally, connecting rooms tend to be in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s advisable to book early to secure these rooms for your cruise.

By understanding the concept and variety of connecting rooms available on a cruise ship, you can make an informed decision when it comes to booking your accommodations and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your travel companions.

Benefits of Booking Connecting Rooms

Booking connecting rooms on a cruise offers several enticing benefits that enhance your overall vacation experience. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:

• Convenience and Accessibility: One of the main advantages of connecting rooms is the ease of access between the rooms. Whether you’re traveling with children, elderly family members, or friends, having connecting rooms allows you to stay close to your travel companions while still maintaining the privacy and comfort of separate rooms.
• Flexibility and Comfort: Connecting rooms provide ample space for everyone to spread out and relax. Instead of cramming into a single room, you can enjoy the luxury of having your own sleeping area, bathroom, and storage space. This ensures that each member of your group can have their own personal space and privacy when needed.
• Enhanced Family Time: Traveling as a family is all about creating memorable moments together. Booking connecting rooms allows you to spend quality time with your loved ones while enjoying the convenience of separate sleeping quarters. Whether it’s game nights, movie marathons, or simply bonding time, connecting rooms provide the ideal setting for family togetherness.
• Peace of Mind: For families with young children, connecting rooms offer added peace of mind. Parents can keep a close eye on their children in the adjacent room, ensuring their safety and well-being while still being able to relax and unwind in their own space.
• Group Travel Made Easy: If you’re traveling with a group of friends or extended family, booking connecting rooms allows you to stay close and share the excitement of the cruise together. It eliminates the hassle of having to coordinate meeting points and ensures that everyone can easily stay connected throughout the voyage.

It’s important to note that the specific benefits of booking connecting rooms may vary depending on the cruise line and ship you choose. Some cruise lines offer additional amenities and perks for guests staying in connecting rooms, such as exclusive access to certain onboard facilities or priority dining reservations.

By taking advantage of the benefits of booking connecting rooms, you can create a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience for yourself and your travel companions. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a combination of both, connecting rooms provide the perfect blend of togetherness and personal space, ensuring that everyone has a memorable and relaxing vacation.

Factors to Consider When Booking Connecting Rooms

While booking connecting rooms on a cruise can offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider certain factors to ensure that you make the best decision for your vacation. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Cabin Configuration: Different cruise lines have varying layouts for their connecting rooms. Some may have adjoining rooms with an interior connecting door, while others may offer cabins with a shared private hallway. Take the time to research and understand the specific configuration of the connecting rooms on the cruise line and ship you’re interested in to ensure it suits your preferences and needs.
• Room Size and Amenities: Consider the size of the rooms and the amenities they offer. If you’re traveling with a large group or family, you may need more space, so opting for larger connecting rooms or suites could be beneficial. Also, check for amenities such as extra storage space, sofa beds, or mini-fridges that can enhance your comfort during the cruise.
• Location on the Ship: Take into account the location of the connecting rooms on the ship. If you’re sensitive to noise, you may want to avoid rooms near high-traffic areas or late-night entertainment venues. Conversely, if you prefer quick access to certain facilities or areas of the ship, consider booking connecting rooms that are located conveniently for your needs.
• Availability and Booking Timeframe: Connecting rooms are in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s advisable to book your cruise and connecting rooms as early as possible to secure the accommodations you desire. Waiting until the last minute may result in limited availability or having to settle for different arrangements.
• Price and Budget: Keep your budget in mind when booking connecting rooms. While they offer convenience and added space, they may come at a slightly higher price compared to standard rooms. Make sure to factor in the cost when planning and budgeting for your cruise.

Additionally, it’s essential to do thorough research on the cruise line’s policies regarding connecting rooms. Some cruise lines have age restrictions on guests staying in separate rooms, while others may require all occupants of the connecting rooms to be booked under the same reservation. Understanding these policies beforehand will help you avoid any surprises or inconveniences during the booking process.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when booking connecting rooms on your cruise. Remember to plan ahead, research various options, and choose the accommodations that align with your preferences and needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable vacation for everyone in your travel group.

Researching and Selecting a Cruise Line

When it comes to booking connecting rooms on a cruise, it’s crucial to research and select the right cruise line that meets your specific requirements. Here are some factors to consider when conducting your research:

• Connectivity Options: Not all cruise lines offer connecting rooms, so it’s important to check which cruise lines provide this accommodation option. Look for cruise lines that prioritize family or group travel and specifically mention connecting rooms in their cabin descriptions.
• Destinations and Itineraries: Consider the destinations and itineraries offered by the cruise lines you’re interested in. Ensure that they visit the places you wish to explore and offer the activities and experiences that align with your preferences.
• Onboard Amenities and Activities: Take into account the amenities and activities offered onboard the cruise ship. Different cruise lines cater to different interests and demographics, so choose one that provides the type of entertainment, dining options, and facilities that you and your travel companions will enjoy.
• Family-Friendly or Suitable for Groups: If you’re traveling with family or a group, look for cruise lines that are known to be family-friendly or cater to groups. These cruise lines often have more extensive offerings for children, including supervised kids’ clubs, family-friendly entertainment, and activities tailored to different age groups.
• Reputation and Reviews: Research the reputation and customer reviews of the cruise lines you’re considering. Pay attention to feedback about their accommodations, service, cleanliness, and overall passenger satisfaction. Online forums and review websites can provide valuable insights from past travelers.
• Budget and Pricing: Determine your budget and compare the pricing for connecting rooms across different cruise lines. Keep in mind that pricing can vary based on the cruise line, ship, cabin category, and travel dates. Look for any special offers, promotions, or discounts that may be available for connecting room bookings.

Once you have gathered information about various cruise lines, compare and evaluate your options based on the above factors. Consider the needs and preferences of your travel group, and select a cruise line that offers the best combination of amenities, destinations, connectivity options, and value for your money.

Booking connecting rooms on the right cruise line will ensure that you and your travel companions have a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience, with comfortable accommodations that cater to your specific needs.

Finding and Booking Connecting Rooms

Now that you have researched and selected the cruise line that offers connecting rooms, it’s time to find and book the perfect accommodations for your cruise. Here are some steps to help you in the process:

• Consult with a Travel Agent: If you prefer personalized assistance and expert guidance, consider consulting with a travel agent specializing in cruises. They can help you navigate through the various options, provide insights, and handle the booking process on your behalf.
• Visit the Cruise Line’s Website: Start your search by visiting the official website of the cruise line you have chosen. Explore their cabin options, and specifically look for information on connecting rooms. You can typically find details about the layout, amenities, and location of the connecting rooms, as well as any special promotions or offers available.
• Use Online Travel Agencies: Utilize online travel agencies that specialize in cruise bookings. These platforms often provide robust search features that allow you to filter your results based on cabin type and preferences. They may also offer additional perks or discounts for booking through their platform.
• Contact the Cruise Line Directly: If you have specific questions or requirements regarding connecting rooms, reach out to the cruise line’s customer service directly. They can provide more detailed information and assist you in finding the best connecting room options for your needs.
• Book Early: Connecting rooms tend to be in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s advisable to book as early as possible. By securing your reservations in advance, you increase your chances of securing the desired connecting rooms for your cruise.
• Consider Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try checking different departure dates for availability and potential savings. Sometimes, adjusting your travel plans by a few days can offer more options when it comes to connecting room availability.
• Read and Review the Booking Terms: Before finalizing your reservation, carefully read and review the booking terms and conditions. Pay attention to cancellation policies, payment schedules, and any additional fees that may apply.
• Secure Your Booking: Once you have selected the connecting rooms that meet your requirements, proceed with the booking process. Follow the instructions provided by the cruise line or travel agency, providing the necessary information and payment details to secure your accommodations.

It’s worth noting that booking connecting rooms may require providing specific details about the number of guests and their relationships (e.g., parents and children), as some cruise lines have restrictions on who can occupy connecting rooms.

By following these steps, you can successfully find and book connecting rooms that provide the ideal accommodations for your cruise. Remember to be proactive, ask questions, and make your reservation early to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your travel companions.

Tips for Booking Connecting Rooms

Booking connecting rooms on a cruise can enhance your vacation experience, and with these helpful tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful process:

• Plan Ahead: Connecting rooms are in high demand, so it’s advisable to plan and book your cruise well in advance. This gives you a better chance of securing the connecting rooms that meet your preferences and needs.
• Be Flexible: If your travel dates are flexible, consider adjusting them based on availability and pricing for connecting rooms. Even a slight change in departure dates can open up more options and potentially save you money.
• Communicate Your Requirements: Clearly communicate your requirements and preferences for connecting rooms during the booking process. Ensure that the cruise line or travel agent understands that you need the rooms to be connected or located near each other.
• Consider Cabin Location: Think about the location of the connecting rooms on the ship. If you have specific preferences, such as being close to certain facilities or avoiding noise, make these requests known during the booking process.
• Review the Cabin Layout: Take the time to review and understand the layout of the connecting rooms. Determine if an interior connecting door or shared private hallway is preferable for your travel group.
• Check Age Restrictions: Some cruise lines have age restrictions for guests staying in connecting rooms without accompanying adults. Ensure that your group meets the requirements to avoid any misunderstandings or issues during the cruise.
• Stay Updated on Promotions: Subscribe to newsletters or follow the cruise line’s social media channels to stay informed about any promotions or discounts specifically for connecting rooms. This can help you save money or receive additional perks for your booking.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Purchasing travel insurance is always a good idea, especially when booking connecting rooms. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances that may affect your travel plans.
• Confirm Your Reservation: After booking connecting rooms, double-check the reservation details and confirm with the cruise line or travel agent to ensure everything is correct. This step helps avoid any potential issues or misunderstandings when you embark on your cruise.
• Prepare for Onboard Enjoyment: Once your connecting rooms are booked, start researching and planning for the onboard experiences and activities that you and your travel companions can enjoy together. This includes exploring the dining options, entertainment choices, and excursions available.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of securing ideal connecting rooms and set the stage for a fantastic cruise adventure with your loved ones or travel companions.

Booking connecting rooms on a cruise can provide a perfect balance between togetherness and privacy, making your vacation a memorable and enjoyable experience. By understanding what connecting rooms are and considering the factors involved in booking them, you can make an informed decision that caters to your specific needs and preferences.

We explored the benefits of booking connecting rooms, such as the convenience, flexibility, and enhanced family time they offer. We also highlighted the factors to consider, including cabin configuration, room size and amenities, location on the ship, availability, and pricing.

Researching and selecting the right cruise line that offers connecting rooms is essential. Take into account the connectivity options, destinations and itineraries, onboard amenities, suitability for families or groups, reputation, and pricing. By doing so, you can find the cruise line that aligns with your vision of a perfect vacation.

Finding and booking connecting rooms requires careful consideration and proactive steps. Consult with travel agents, visit cruise line websites, use online travel agencies, contact the cruise line directly, book early, and review the booking terms to secure your accommodations effectively.

We also provided tips to enhance your booking experience, including planning ahead, being flexible, communicating your requirements, considering cabin location and layout, checking age restrictions, staying updated on promotions, considering travel insurance, confirming your reservation, and preparing for onboard enjoyment.

In conclusion, booking connecting rooms on a cruise offers convenience, comfort, and the opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones or travel companions. By following the guidance and tips provided in this article, you can navigate the booking process seamlessly and embark on a remarkable cruise adventure that perfectly suits your needs and desires.

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What To Wear on a Cruise: 5 Day-to-Night Outfit Ideas [INFOGRAPHIC]

The five must-have cruise outfits to wear from day to night.

By Chantae Reden Published on April 9, 2024

Day-To-Night Outfits

To bring on your cruise.

Explore the world in style with these five perfect cruise outfits that'll keep you comfortable as you go from pool deck to onshore excursion and back again. Put together a capsule wardrobe made up of a few versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for any adventure.

The quintessential cruise style consists of chic but relaxed pieces. Think breezy fabrics, loose silhouettes, light neutrals, bright colors and beachy accessories.

Lean into tropical prints, red and coral hues that pop against aquamarine waters, woven hats and classic sunglasses.

Your cruise outfits will be as fun to wear as they are to look at.

Port-Day Wardrobe

Fashion and function combine on days strolling through port cities.

Breezy top or polo shirt

Flowy maxi dress

Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

Comfortable sandals

Capris or shorts

Dress it up

A cardigan or button-up shirt adds evening elegance when it's time for dinner.

Onboard Ensemble

Go for comfort on those relaxing sea days.

Swimsuit or stylish swim trunks

Sundress or a loose nautical-themed shirt

Panama hat and sunglasses

Comfortable sandals or flip-flops

Swap flip-flops for dressy sandals or closed-toed shoes before heading to the onboard restaurant.

Adventure Attire

Be ready for all of the fun cruise ship adventures, from the skydive simulator to the waterpark.

Lightweight shirt

Athletic shorts or leggings

Long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and hat

Shoes with sturdy soles

Before showtime at the onboard theater, change into a skirt or trousers, dress shoes and an airy scarf for a polished look.

Beach-Day Outfit

Nothing says beach paradise vacation like an outfit that's laid-back yet luxe.

Swim shorts with a Cuban collar shirt

Hat and sunglasses

Swimsuit under a romper or sundress

Have dinner reservations? Trade your beach sandals for smart penny loafers, and add seashell-inspired jewelry or a sleek watch

Sightseeing Cruise Outfit

Opt for loose, breathable fabrics on big days out to roam any terrain from rainforests to ruins.

A lightweight shirt

Socks and boots or sneakers

Sunhat and sunglasses

Breezy linen pants

This outfit can easily carry you into the evening, but dainty jewelry, colorful slip-on shoes, a Panama hat and swapping from a backpack to handbag will create a softer look.

Getting There

Get packed and ready to set sail on the Ultimate World Cruise.

T hough it's tempting to pack everything, cruise outfits are meant to be laid-back, so plan to wear a few items of clothing more than once — no one will judge you, promise. Pack a few key staple pieces that can be paired together in several different mix and match styles — this is called a capsule wardrobe. To ensure you can put together a great outfit each day, pack mindfully in one color palette or scheme — colors like red, coral and yellow will pop in pictures when photographed in front of a turquoise sea. If you're wondering what to pack for a five-day cruise, bring along six shirts, six sets of underwear, and three to four bottoms. Then, throw in at least two swimsuits, so you always have one dry. Finally, pajamas, a jacket or sweater, athleisure wear, a hat, sunglasses, sandals, athletic shoes, and dress shoes round out a perfect cruise outfit packing list.

Breezy fabrics like cotton and linen in a loose silhouette keep you cool and covered under the sun during the daytime, and with a few adaptable accessories, you can transition seamlessly into a polished evening look. No matter if you're spending your day sipping an ice-cold cocktail on deck, strolling along a sandy beach, adventuring on jungle trails or searching for local treats, these five versatile day-to-night cruise outfit ideas will make packing easy, getting you on island time, in no time.

1. Port-Day Wardrobe

If you'll be spending your port days shopping, dining, and exploring new cities and towns, you'll need cruise outfit ideas that are both stylish and practical. A flowy top or polo shirt, bright-colored capris or khaki shorts, comfortable shoes, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will keep you cool during the day. When the sun goes down, dress it up with a button-down shirt, shawl or cardigan.

2. Onboard Ensemble

For days spent at sea, you'll want cruise attire that's comfortable and convertible. A swimsuit underneath a sundress or flowy shirt and shorts is an outfit that will take you from the pool to the spa to the mini golf course and beyond. When it's time for dinner, swap your shorts for trousers and slip on dressy sandals or closed-toe shoes. If you're cruising with your kids, be prepared for spills and stains with an extra shirt.

Solid-colored board shorts paired with a button-up shirt (nautical print encouraged) work just as well for a day on deck. Then, change from swim trunks and flip-flops to chinos and dress shoes before heading to the onboard restaurant. A Panama hat adds an element of holiday luxe no matter the time of day.

3. Adventure Attire

The best outfits for a cruise are the ones you can wear all day long. If you have a list of adventure activities planned for your shore excursions, or if you'll be braving the ship's RipCord® by iFly® skydive simulator and Zip Line, pack accordingly. During the day, wear athletic shorts, a neutral-colored tank top, and sneakers or sandals. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved sun shirt in your day bag. Need to dress up for dinner? It's simple. Pack extra clothes in a tote bag in case you don't have time to go back to your stateroom. Swap your athletic shorts for a flowy skirt or trousers, and trade your sneakers for a more formal pair of shoes, like chunky heels or loafers for a put-together look.

4. Beach-Day Outfit

For many, a cruise vacation is all about spending as much time as possible in or near the sea. Maybe this means claiming a lounge chair as your own, seeking a spot in the sand without footprints or swimming out into the clear blue water. When you're done wading in the water or soaking up the sun, a cover-up like a romper, oversized shirt or dress is always a stylish choice for wandering local shops and grabbing a seaside lunch. Quick-drying swim trunks are the go-to staple for this cruise outfit and is a perfect choice for kids. Just throw on a collared shirt and slip-on penny loafers, and you're good to go.

For dinner reservations, add an air of tropical elegance with a pair of wide-legged linen trousers or chinos in a solid color, paired with a linen top in a colorful print and some timeless accessories like a gauzy scarf, dangling necklace, a sleek watch or large sunglasses.

Make sure your cruise packing list includes a lightweight bag for your book, sun protection, wallet, camera, phone and a foldable dry bag tucked inside. When you're done swimming, you can stow your swimwear away in the dry bag without getting the rest of your items wet.

5. Sightseeing Cruise Outfit

When trying to figure out what to wear on a cruise, it's important to plan ahead and know what your must-dos are for your cruise vacation. For long days jam-packed with historical and natural sights to see, pack fabrics that are breathable and comfortable. Linen pants and a good pair of socks and boots are invaluable for rainforest hikes, while a lightweight long-sleeve shirt and a sunhat with a drawstring will keep you covered when visiting ancient ruins. If you're packing outfits for a cruise destination in a warm climate, bring something that can be worn over a swimsuit, so you're always ready to take a dip in hidden cenotes.

When it's time to hit the town at night, add some accessories to soften this look like dainty jewelry, colorful slip-on shoes, a Panama hat and a handbag.

Written By CHANTAE REDEN

Chantae Reden is an adventure writer and photographer who rarely strays far from the coastline. She is a freediver, surfer, scuba diver, and has a mild obsession with sharks. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Escape, ScubaDiving.com and she's a guidebook author for Moon Travel Guides. Discover more of her stories on her travel website, TheSaltSirens.com.

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The best adults-only cruises to try if you can’t stand being around kids on vacation

What are the best adults-only cruises — the ones that not only ban kids but cater to grown-up tastes and interests?

You may be asking because you just spent time on a megaship where the kids took over the pools and hot tubs (not to mention the elevators), much to your chagrin. Or, you might be looking for a vacation with more lectures and less limbo, or perhaps a cruise that skews more R-rated than G.

The list of cruises for adults only is, alas, very short. Only a handful of cruise lines ban children from their ships and promise cruises for grown-ups — perhaps the most notable being cruise newcomer Virgin Voyages and fast-growing Viking .

The trend in recent years in cruising is, in fact, more family-focused, with more kids appearing on ships of all types. Indeed, some of the biggest, best-known cruise brands have gone full-bore after the family market , to the extent that the sun-soaked top decks of their ships sometimes can feel more like a scene out of "Daddy Day Care" than a blissful vacation retreat.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Don't despair, though. Even as many lines double down on the family market, a small group of cruise operators remains all-in on the idea of adult-only cruises.

Here are our picks for the best adults-only cruise lines, with a grown-up vibe to boot.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Virgin Voyages

The much-ballyhooed new line from Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group has banned children under the age of 18 from its ships. It's part of an effort to create a hipper, more-sophisticated, adult-focused vibe that company leaders think is sorely lacking in the cruise world.

"We have done a ton of research really trying to create a sophisticated experience," Virgin Voyages CEO Tom McAlpin said in the days before the line's 2021 debut . "I've done some personal research. We found that when you put kids in the pool, they scream, and we don't want that."

Related: I've been on more than 150 cruise ships. Here's what I thought of Scarlet Lady

Virgin Voyages' first three adults-only cruise ships, the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady and sister vessels Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady , cater to grown-ups looking for a decidedly adult sort of fun with such offerings as interactive dance parties and a drag queen performance. It also offers a karaoke lounge with pink-and-purple karaoke rooms and a tattoo parlor (read about how one of our staffers was among the first to get inked on board ).

What you won't find on the three ships (a fourth is due later this year) are waterslides, watery splash zones, teen lounges and all the other family-friendly features that are becoming so common on bigger ships.

To create an adults-only cruise experience, Virgin Voyages took a page from fast-growing Viking 's playbook. Viking's 12-ship ocean cruise division has banned children under the age of 18 since it debuted in 2015. In addition, its 80-ship river cruise division has had a minimum age limit for more than two decades. (Initially, the cut-off was age 12; as of 2019, that jumped to 18, too.)

Not that Virgin and Viking are anything alike. Virgin is designed to appeal to millennials and older travelers who want to party like they are millennials. Viking, by contrast, is the anti-millennial line.

Viking's target market is squarely in the 55-plus bracket. It zeroes in on that demographic with an upscale, destination-focused experience that is heavy on what the industry likes to call "enrichment" — onboard lectures and other learning opportunities. It also emphasizes tours focused on history and culture (with at least one free excursion in each port) and entertainment offerings that veer more toward string quartets than dancers in string bikinis.

"What we're looking to do is try not to be everything for everyone," Viking's executive vice president of marketing, Richard Marnell, told TPG. "We do not have a kids' program. What we have is . . . [an] immersive experience that is best suited for people that are intellectually curious."

P&O Cruises

This storied British line clearly sees the demand for adults-only cruise ships, but it isn't giving up on the family market, either. The line splits the difference between the two segments. Five of its seven vessels (Arvia, Iona, Britannia, Ventura and Azura) are marketed as "family-friendly" and open to passengers of all ages. The other two (Arcadia and Aurora) are reserved exclusively for adults.

Given that more than 95% of the Southampton, England-based cruise line's passengers are British, you'll probably want to be either British yourself or a major Anglophile to consider booking one of the latter two vessels. Sailing with P&O Cruises is a very British experience, something that becomes clear the moment you see its vessels. They feature hulls painted with massive Union Jacks.

In addition, you'll find quintessentially British offerings on board P&O Cruises ships, such as elaborate afternoon teas, quoits on the top deck and restaurant menus designed by chefs big in the United Kingdom, such as Marco Pierre White.

That said, if you're a Princess Cruises fan, you might feel right at home on a P&O Cruises ship. Nestled under the same corporate umbrella, the two brands are longtime sisters that have swapped ships back and forth (though Holland America fans might be interested to know that Arcadia actually shares a ship design with that line's Vista class).

For booking purposes, P&O Cruises considers anyone who will be 18 or older when sailing an adult.

Saga Cruises

Like P&O Cruises, Saga Cruises is a British line that has honed in on the business of offering voyages just for adults. But it goes way beyond what P&O Cruises or any other line does in shunning younger travelers. The minimum age at Saga Cruises isn't 18 or even 21 — it's 50.

That's right — you won't find a single millennial or even that many Generation Xers on board a Saga Cruises ship (at 58, even the oldest members of Generation X only make the cut-off by eight years). You will find a heck of a lot of baby boomers, many of them retired.

Saga Cruises operates just two ocean vessels, sailing exclusively out of the U.K., plus several river ships. Like P&O Cruises, it's a product that is probably best for British travelers or big-time Anglophiles.

Other adult-focused cruises

In addition to lines that ban passengers under the age of 18 outright, a number of cruise operators allow young children but get relatively few of them.

Examples include such upscale lines as Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Silversea Cruises and Seabourn , which cater heavily to an older crowd. Small-ship specialist Windstar Cruises allows tweens and teenagers on its six ships, but it doesn't allow any children under the age of 8.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, which sells both ocean and river cruises, traditionally discourages customers from bringing passengers under the age of 12 on vessels except during Christmas holiday sailings.

Also, the longer the cruise, the fewer children you will find. Book a two-plus-week sailing to a more exotic location, like Asia or South America, during the school year on a line like Holland America or Princess, and you'll share the ship predominantly with adults.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Iran launches hundreds of drones, ballistic and cruise missiles at Israel in unprecedented revenge attack

The attack marked the first time iran has launched a direct military assault on israel, despite decades of enmity dating back to the country’s 1979 islamic revolution., by josef federman and jon gambrell • published april 13, 2024 • updated 5 hours ago.

Booms and air raid sirens sounded across Israel early Sunday after Iran launched hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented revenge mission that pushed the Middle East closer to a regionwide war. In Washington, President Joe Biden said U.S. forces helped Israel down “nearly all” of the drones and missiles and pledged to convene allies to develop a unified response.

The Iranian attack, less than two weeks after a suspected Israeli strike in Syria that killed two Iranian generals in an Iranian consular building, marked the first time it has launched a direct military assault on Israel, despite decades of enmity dating back to the country’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. Condemnation from the United Nations chief and others was swift, with France saying Iran “is risking a potential military escalation,” Britain calling the attack “reckless" and Germany saying Iran and its proxies “must stop it immediately."

The Israeli military's spokesman , Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said Iran fired scores of drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles — with the vast majority intercepted outside Israel’s borders. He said warplanes intercepted over 10 cruise missiles alone, also outside Israeli airspace.

Biden to convene Group of 7 nations for ‘united diplomatic response' to Iran after attack on Israel

Airspace closures throughout the Middle East ground, divert flights as Iran launches drone attack on Israel

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Hagari said a handful of missiles landed in Israel. Rescuers said a 7-year-old girl in a Bedouin Arab town was seriously wounded in southern Israel, apparently in a missile strike, though they said police were still investigating the circumstances of her injuries. Hagari said a missile struck an army base, causing light damage but no injuries.

"A wide-scale attack by Iran is a major escalation,” he said. Asked whether Israel would respond, Hagari said only that the army “does and will do whatever is required to protect the security of the state of Israel.” He said the incident was not over, and dozens of Israeli warplanes remained in the skies.

U.S. forces  downed some of the Iran-launched drones flying toward Israel, according to a U.S. defense official and two U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter. Israel’s military said its Arrow system, which shoots down ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere, handled most interceptions and noted that “strategic partners” were involved.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Biden spoke early Sunday, Israeli time, their governments said. Biden said in a statement that he reaffirmed “America’s ironclad commitment” to Israel's security — a departure from his harsh criticism over Israel’s handling of the war in Gaza.

I condemn Iran's attacks in the strongest possible terms and reaffirm America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel. My full statement on Iran’s attacks against Israel: pic.twitter.com/EuPJZoGw6w — President Biden (@POTUS) April 14, 2024

“At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week,” Biden said in the statement. “Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our servicemembers, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles.”

Iran had vowed revenge since the April 1  airstrike in Syria , which Tehran accused Israel of being responsible for. Israel hasn’t commented on it.

Israel and Iran have been on a collision course throughout Israel’s six-month war against Hamas militants  in the Gaza Strip. The war erupted after Hamas and Islamic Jihad, two militant groups backed by Iran, carried out a devastating cross-border attack on Oct. 7 that killed 1,200 people in Israel and kidnapped 250 others. An Israeli offensive in Gaza has caused widespread devastation and killed over 33,000 people, according to local health officials.

Almost immediately after the war erupted, Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group in Lebanon, began attacking Israel’s northern border. The two sides have been involved in daily exchanges of fire, while Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, Syria and Yemen have launched rockets and missiles toward Israel.

In a statement carried late Saturday by Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, the country’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard acknowledged launching “dozens of drones and missiles towards the occupied territories and positions of the Zionist regime.”

In a later statement, the Revolutionary Guard issued a direct warning to the U.S.: “The terrorist U.S. government is warned any support or participation in harming Iran’s interests will be followed by decisive and regretting response by Iran’s armed forces."

IRNA also quoted an anonymous official saying ballistic missiles were part of the attack. A ballistic missile moves on an arch trajectory, heading up into space before gravity brings the weapon down at a speed several times faster than the speed of sound.

Israel has a  multilayered air-defense network  that includes systems capable of intercepting a variety of threats including long-range missiles, cruise missiles, drones and short-range rockets. However, in a massive attack involving multiple drones and missiles, the likelihood of a strike making it through is higher.

Iran has a vast arsenal of drones and missiles. Online videos shared by Iranian state television purported to show delta-wing-style drones resembling the Iranian Shahed-136s long used by Russia in its war on Ukraine. The slow-flying drones carry bombs. Ukraine has successfully used both surface-to-air missiles and ground fire to target them.

Some Israelis watched the interceptions light up the night sky.

Air raid sirens were reported in numerous places including northern Israel, southern Israel, the northern West Bank and the Dead Sea near the Jordanian border.

Israel's army ordered residents in the Golan Heights — near the Syrian and Lebanese borders — as well as the southern towns of Nevatim and Dimona and the Red Sea resort of Eilat into protective spaces. Dimona is home to Israel’s main nuclear facility, and Nevatim has a major air base. Loud booms were heard in Jerusalem and northern and southern Israel.

The army’s Home Front Command canceled school Sunday and limited public gatherings to no more than 1,000 people. Israel and some other countries in the region closed their airspace.

Earlier, Netanyahu warned: “Whoever harms us, we will harm them.”

In Washington, Biden convened a principals meeting of the National Security Council to discuss the attack.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, the head of the U.S. military’s Central Command, was in Israel over the weekend consulting with Israeli defense officials. The Central Command oversees U.S. forces in the Middle East.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations issued a warning to both Israel and the U.S. “Should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe,” it wrote online. “It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!”

For days, Iranian officials including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had threatened to “slap” Israel for the Syria strike.

In Iran’s capital, Tehran, witnesses saw long lines at gas stations early Sunday as people appeared worried about what may come next. Dozens of hard-liners demonstrated in support of the attack at Palestine Square.

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported heavy Israeli airstrikes and shelling on multiple locations in south Lebanon following Iran's launch of drones. The Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said it launched “dozens” of Katyusha rockets at an Israeli military site in the Golan Heights early Sunday. It was not immediately clear if there was any damage.

Iranian missiles or drones were intercepted in the sky above the Jordanian capital, Amman. In Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, and elsewhere in the country, residents reported seeing missiles in the sky and hearing explosions, likely from interceptions. In Syria, explosions were heard in the capital, Damascus, and elsewhere. Britain-based war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Syrian air defenses tried to shoot down Israeli attempts to intercept Iranian missiles.

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