Cruises are not what they used to be and, for the new generation of travelers, that’s good news. Formal dress is out, inclusive pricing is in, the same old mass cruise ports are out and remote and exotic destinations are in. On many lines, children sail free, so it’s easier to include them in your family cruise travels. Here are some things to expect:
Comfort is a Priority
Formal dinners are rare and casual clothing is the norm on most ships. Cabins are larger, with more amenities, and even smaller ships have spas.
More is Included
More lines joined the move toward inclusive pricing, instead of charging for everything separately. This means guests know in advance what the cruise will cost instead of being surprised by large bills for extras at the end of the cruise. Expect more cruise lines to include drinks, shore excursions, internet and even pre- and post-trip hotels.
Destinations are More Exotic
The Arctic regions rise in popularity, with more ships sailing to Antarctica and the polar regions of Canada, Scandinavia and Greenland; look for the Chilean fjords, Glacier Alley and Cape Horn on itineraries, as well. New cruise destinations include remote regions: Look for stops in Easter Island, Porta Limon, Bora Bora, Moorea and Rarotonga.
River Cruising is Hot
As more small ships are added to fleets, new rivers opened up to cruising. No longer limited to the Rhine, the Danube, the Amazon, the Nile and the Mississippi, river boats now cruise the Mosel, the Saone, the Garonne, the Dordogne, the Douro, the Yellow River and the Mekong.
Prices are More Competitive
With all the new ships (there are now more than 500 cruise ships in the world) and new itineraries, competition drives prices down. Early-bird discounts and last-minute specials make the deals even sweeter.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Jun 23, 2025Beat the Heat at These 2 Family-Approved Miami Splash Parks
In South Florida, family travelers can expect not one but two acclaimed splash parks perfect for cooling down and having fun this summer.
Destinations / North America
Jun 20, 2025Bucket Brigade Beach Tours in Galveston, Texas, Teach Kids to Respect the Beach
A summer vacation in a laid-back beach town sounds like a dream come true for family travelers, but add in fun and educational activities for kids and you’ve got a sure-fire winner on your hands. Galveston delivers on these components and ups the game with Bucket Brigade tours, giving your family the perfect place to relax and have fun with a healthy dose of responsible travel mixed in.
Destinations / North America
Jun 20, 2025Frisco, Texas, Launches Summer Family Fun Sale
This summer, family travelers seeking a vacation that won’t break the bank should look to Frisco, Texas. This city just launched its Summer Family Fun Sale for a limited time, giving families savings of up to 30 percent off a variety of accommodations.
Hotels
Jun 20, 2025Rosewood Mayakoba Launches Family-Friendly Summer at Rosewood Program
Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, Mexico, invites family travelers to experience a season of personal connection with its Summer at Rosewood program.
Destinations / North America
Jun 19, 2025Have a “Sundae” Funday at Pennsylvania’s East Broad Top Railroad
A new, unique adventure at East Broad Top Railroad awaits family travelers this summer. The little engine arrives at Orbisonia Station to welcome families on a sweet, hot fudge sundae-filled adventure that perfectly mixes summer fun with education. On select Sundays (including June 29, July 20 and Aug. 10), take a vintage train ride filled with delicious ice cream sundaes. The Sundae Special experience departs Orbisonia Station at 3 p.m. for a 90-minute, 9-mile ride through Aughwick Valley, Pennsylvania.
Hotels
Jun 19, 2025Italian Dolomites’ Resort Perfect for New Parents
You might not think of traveling in the first few months after your baby is born, but a luxury resort high in Italy’s Dolomite mountains has designed a family getaway just for new parents.
ShareThis