Top 7 Kid-Friendly Cruise Lines

 

Presented by Jet Set Aqua (JSA)

If we're keeping it real, traveling with kids can either be an amazing core memory…

or a stressful mess if you pick the wrong trip.

As a travel advisor, I get this question all the time:
“What cruise line is best for kids?”

And the real answer is: it depends on your kids, your budget, and your vibe.
So instead of giving you fluff, I’m breaking down the Top 7 Kid-Friendly Cruise Lines, from most affordable to most premium, so you can make a smart decision for your family.

1. Carnival Cruise Line: The Budget-Friendly Favorite

If you’re cruising with kids and don’t want to break the bank, Carnival is usually the go-to.

Carnival offers:

• Dedicated kids clubs

• Water slides and splash zones

• Family-friendly shows and activities

• Frequent deals that make cruising accessible for families

This is a great option for first-time cruisers, larger families, or parents who want fun without luxury pricing. It’s high energy, casual, and designed for families who just want to enjoy themselves.

Best for: Families on a budget, younger kids, and first-time cruisers.

2. MSC Cruises: The Underrated Family Gem

MSC is one of the most overlooked cruise lines for families, and honestly, it shouldn’t be.

They’re known for:

• Kids Sail Free promotions

• LEGO®-themed kids programs

• Family cabins designed for larger groups

• Strong youth programs across all ships

MSC is especially attractive for families who want value but still enjoy modern ships and international flair.

Best for: Families looking for great value and kid-focused programming.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line: Freedom for Parents & Kids

Norwegian Cruise Line is all about flexibility, and parents love that.

There are no strict dining times, which means:

• Less rushing

• Fewer meltdowns

• More freedom to enjoy your day

Kids and teens have their own clubs and activities, while parents can still enjoy entertainment, dining, and relaxation.

Best for: Families who don’t want rigid schedules and like a laid-back experience.

4. Royal Caribbean: The Teen Crowd Favorite

If you’ve got tweens or teens, Royal Caribbean is hard to beat.

Think:

• Massive water parks

• Surf simulators

• Zip lines

• Ice skating rinks

• Teen-only hangout spaces

These ships are basically floating resorts, and kids rarely say “I’m bored.”

Best for: Active families and teens who need nonstop entertainment.

5. Holland America: Multigenerational Approved

Holland America doesn’t always get mentioned in kid-friendly conversations, but it’s a solid choice for multigenerational travel.

They offer:

• Kids clubs

• Enrichment programs

• A calmer, more relaxed atmosphere

This is a great option when grandparents are traveling with you, and everyone wants something enjoyable but not chaotic.

Best for: Families traveling with grandparents or multiple generations.

6. Celebrity Cruises: Upscale Family Cruising

Celebrity is more refined, but don’t get it twisted, it’s still family-friendly.

They provide:

• Structured kids programs

• Family activities

• Elevated dining and service

This is for families who want kids to be entertained while parents enjoy a more polished experience.

Best for: Families who want comfort, quality, and a calmer onboard vibe.

7. Disney Cruise Line: The Ultimate (and Most Premium) Experience

Disney Cruise Line is unmatched when it comes to magic—but it comes with a higher price tag.

You’re paying for:

• Character experiences

• Broadway-style shows

• Incredible kids clubs

• Top-tier family entertainment

If Disney is your brand and your kids are young, this can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Best for: Disney lovers and families with younger children who want the full magic.

Final Thoughts: There Is No “One-Size-Fits-All” Family Cruise

The best cruise for your family depends on:

• Your kids’ ages

• Your budget

• Your travel style

• Your expectations

That’s why I don’t just book cruises, I match families with the right experience.

If you’re thinking about cruising with kids and want help choosing the best option, reach out to me. I’ll break it down, handle the details, and make sure your family trip is smooth from start to sail.

Because family travel should feel exciting and NOT overwhelming.

🩵

Deanna

CEO, Jet Set Aqua

deanna@jetsetaqua.com

www.JetSetAqua.com

Booked, Blessed, and Covered: Travel Smarter with the Right Insurance

 

🌍 The Smart Traveler's Guide to Global Travel & Medical Insurance 🌍

Presented by Jet Set Aqua (JSA)

When you’re jet-setting around the world, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’ll pay for an emergency appendectomy in Greece or a helicopter evacuation in the Amazon. That’s where travel medical insurance comes in, covering the critical gaps your domestic plan doesn’t.

💡 Why You Need Global Travel Medical Insurance

Here’s what your plan should cover:
✅ Emergency medical expenses
✅ Hospital stays
✅ Evacuation and repatriation
✅ Doctor visits
✅ Prescription medication
✅ COVID-19 treatment
✅ 24/7 assistance services
✅ Pre-existing condition options (optional)

Travel insurance is typically affordable, starting at $4–$12/day depending on age, destination, and coverage level. But the value it brings in peace of mind is priceless.

🏆 TOP 5 INSURERS FOR GLOBAL TRAVEL & MEDICAL INSURANCE

Here’s a breakdown of the five top-rated insurers, comparing price, coverage, reputation, and user experience.

1. Allianz Global Assistance

Best for: Overall International Coverage
🔹 Plans start at: $35 for a one-week trip
🔹 Medical coverage: Up to $500,000
🔹 Evacuation coverage: Up to $1,000,000
🔹 COVID-19 covered: Yes
🔹 Pre-existing conditions: Available with waiver

Why travelers love it: Allianz is the gold standard in international travel coverage. It’s trusted by major airlines and cruise lines and has an easy-to-use app.

🗣️ User Review: “Had to cancel our trip due to a medical emergency. Filed the claim and got reimbursed within 2 weeks. Seamless!” – TripAdvisor
🔗 Check Allianz Plans

2. IMG Global – Patriot International Plan

Best for: Customizable & Long-Term Travel
🔹 Plans start at: $20 for 7 days (basic), $80+ for comprehensive
🔹 Medical coverage: Up to $2,000,000
🔹 Evacuation: Up to policy maximum
🔹 COVID-19 covered: Yes
🔹 Pre-existing conditions: Limited

Why travelers love it: It’s budget-friendly, highly flexible, and excellent for international students, missionaries, and digital nomads.

🗣️ User Review: “Great value. I had a minor ER visit in Thailand and got reimbursed 90% after submitting receipts.” – Reddit Expat Thread
🔗 Explore IMG Patriot Plans

3. Seven Corners – Travel Medical Plus

Best for: Adventure Travelers & Custom Trips
🔹 Plans start at: $30–$50/week
🔹 Medical coverage: Up to $1,000,000
🔹 Evacuation: Up to $500,000
🔹 COVID-19 covered: Yes
🔹 Pre-existing conditions: Add-on available

Why travelers love it: The customer service is responsive and there’s generous adventure sports coverage.

🗣️ User Review: “We needed emergency evacuation after a hiking injury in Peru. Seven Corners handled the logistics within hours.” – Google Reviews
🔗 Visit Seven Corners

4. GeoBlue Voyager

Best for: Travelers with U.S. Primary Health Plans
🔹 Plans start at: $40–$90 for 2-week trip
🔹 Medical coverage: $500,000 – $1,000,000
🔹 Evacuation: Up to $1,000,000
🔹 COVID-19 covered: Yes
🔹 Pre-existing conditions: Covered with Voyager Choice plan

Why travelers love it: Direct billing with international hospitals and Blue Cross network access make this a stress-free option.

🗣️ User Review: “No out-of-pocket costs at a private clinic in Italy. They handled everything.” – Trustpilot
🔗 See GeoBlue Voyager Plans

5. Cigna Global Health Insurance

Best for: Expats & Long-Term Global Nomads
🔹 Plans start at: $100/month (depending on age & location)
🔹 Medical coverage: Comprehensive (customizable)
🔹 Evacuation: Included
🔹 COVID-19 covered: Yes
🔹 Pre-existing conditions: Usually covered

Why travelers love it: Designed for extended stays abroad, this is a true health insurance plan with dental, vision, maternity, and wellness options.

🗣️ User Review: “Cigna saved me during my semester abroad. Fast, fair, and professional.” – Expat Exchange Forum
🔗 Get a Quote from Cigna Global

📊 Quick Comparison Chart

Provider	Max Medical	Evacuation	Pre-Existing	COVID-19	Price (7 days)
Allianz	$500,000	$1,000,000	Yes (waiver)	✅	$35+
IMG	$2,000,000	Full limit	Limited	✅	$20–$80+
Seven Corners	$1,000,000	$500,000	Add-on	✅	$30–$50
GeoBlue	$1,000,000	$1,000,000	Covered	✅	$40–$90
Cigna Global	Unlimited	Included	Yes	✅	$100+/month

✈️ Pro Tips for Choosing a Policy

• 🧾 Read the fine print: Always review exclusions and how to file claims.

• 💉 Check if your destination requires insurance: Countries like Thailand, Schengen Zone, and Qatar do.

• 🧳 Multi-trip? Look for annual or frequent traveler plans.

• 🩺 Existing conditions? Choose a provider with waiver options like Allianz or GeoBlue.

• ⛷️ Adventurer? Opt for Seven Corners with adventure sports coverage.

Whether you’re headed to Bali for 5 days or Dubai for 5 months, don’t skip travel medical insurance. The financial risk just isn’t worth it. These five insurers: Allianz, IMG, Seven Corners, GeoBlue, and Cigna Global stand out for comprehensive care, global reach, and ease of use.

➡️ Bookmark this guide before your next trip and consider comparing rates at least 2 weeks before departure. Your health and peace of mind deserve it.

Grab your FREE Travel Insurance Checklist

My Jet Set Aqua Bucket List!

 

Last update: 17 June 2025

Hey y'all! I'm sharing my travel bucket list with you. Check back for updates on my journey! There will be a new link on every place I go to. If you have any destination suggestions, please let me know in the comments!

Cappadocia, Turkey

Jamaica

Greece

Tokyo Japan