When it comes to creating unforgettable memories, few experiences can compare to adventure cruises for families. These expedition-style trips are the perfect blend of excitement, exploration, and relaxation. And compared to traditional cruise itineraries, these adventure getaways give you the chance to explore lesser-known destinations.
Imagine spending your day kayaking past glaciers, exploring ancient temples, or biking through historic cities. Whatever you’re interested in, these family-friendly adventure cruises have something for everyone to enjoy!
The Best Adventure Cruises for Families
Silversea – Galapagos
With just 100 guests on board, this cruise on the Silver Origin is bound to be an unforgettable journey to one of the most remote places on Earth. In just seven days, you’ll see six different islands of the Galapagos – San Cristobal, Isabela, Española, Fernandina, and Genovesa. And you’ll be accompanied by a team of Ecuadorian expert guides (certified by the National Park of the Galapagos) the entire time.
Another great thing about this cruise is that it’s all-inclusive. That means food, drink, and shore excursions! So if you want to go deep water snorkeling or hiking along the black volcanic shores, you won’t have to pay anything extra.
Cunard – Panama Canal
Set sail on the Queen Anne for a luxurious trip to one of the greatest engineering marvels in the world. Leaving Los Angeles, you’ll travel straight to Central America, making your first stop in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala. After a few days at sea, you’ll arrive in Panama. The Queen Anne will actually pass through the locks, so you’ll be on the ship as it rises and descends through the canal. Once you reach the other side, you’ll make two more stops (Willemstad, Curaçao and Oranjestad, Aruba) before returning to Miami.
As the newest ship in the fleet, the Queen Anne spares no expense when it comes to entertainment. With multiple kid clubs, sports courts, themed nights, and on-board lecturers, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – Splendors of Egypt & the Nile
Traveling down the Nile is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure your family won’t soon forget. The first two days of this trip are actually on land. This gives you ample time to explore the grand city of Cairo and the stunning Great Pyramids. From here, you’ll fly to Luxor where you’ll board your cruise down the Nile for the week. Besides your daily excursions, you’ll also be treated to cultural programs in the evening, including folklore dancing, Galabeya parties, and Nubian performances.
But what’s especially enticing about this cruise is the Generations Family Program. This gives your little ones the chance to participate in kid-friendly activities while they’re on board. There’s even an opportunity to meet with local children in Egypt, which can be wonderful learning experience for your family.
AmaWaterways – Best of the Danube
You don’t have to completely disconnect from the outside world in order to enjoy a family-fun adventure. This 7-night river cruise is the perfect getaway for those looking to soak up the charm of Europe’s most iconic cities.
There are four daily excursions included with your booking, so your family can enjoy different activities each day. Take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage in Vienna or visit the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. Complimentary bikes and helmets are also provided to guests, so you can explore at your own leisure if you prefer.
MSC Cruises – South Africa
Cape Town and Johannesburg are nice, but this cruise is all about exploring South Africa’s hidden gems! Hop onboard the MSC Opera from Durban, the country’s second-largest city. After three days at sea, you’ll arrive on Madagascar, an island known for its unspoiled beaches and wild nature. The cruise also visits the French overseas island of Mayotte, as well as Mauritius, and Reunion Island.
This is the itinerary to choose if your family loves snorkeling, diving, wildlife, and nature hikes! But if you want a relaxing beach day in the sun, there’s plenty of time on this 14-day itinerary for that too.
Holland America – Canada & New England: New France & Newfoundland
If you’re looking for a cruise that mixes beautiful cities and natural wonders, this is a good option. There are lots of things to see in Quebec City and Corner Brook, Newfoundland (a charming fishing village mapped by Captain Cook) to delight city-dwellers. But if you prefer nature, stopovers at Baie-Comeau, Havre-Saint-Pierre, and St. Anthony are where you’ll want to plan your excursions.
And make sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Whales, moose, and polar bears are all known to inhabit these areas!
Celebrity Cruises – Alaska Dawes Glacier
On this 7-night journey, you and your family will get to see some of Alaska’s most breathtaking landscapes. This is a great option if you’re looking to spend your family vacation in the US. The highlight of the itinerary is on day four when you’ll sail through the Endicott Arms glacier to see the spectacular 600-foot Dawes Glacier. The Celebrity Edge leaves from Seattle and also makes stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, BC. You’ll also spend the day cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage surrounded by fjords, snow-capped peaks, and whales!
The on-board naturists can provide daily insight into the majestic marvels you’ll be exploring. But it’s up to you what you want to do at your ports of call! Canoeing, hiking, dog sledding, bear-watching – everything is a possibility!
Adventure cruises for families may not be everyone’s idea of a perfect vacation. But they’re ideal for anyone with a passion for exploration and excitement! Keep in mind that expedition cruises tend to be more expensive than traditional ones. Therefore, creating a family holiday budget can help you plan and prioritize what experience matters the most. This is just one of the many steps to ensure everyone is properly prepared for the upcoming family vacation!
