Family Alaskan cruises may just be the best family bonding opportunity.
A cruise to Alaska is not often top of mind for families. Vacations like all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and Disneyland often take first place when we brainstorm family vacation ideas. However, Alaska has something different to offer: a chance to connect to nature and bond as a family like never before.
Cruising, in general, provides amazing value for families. Most ships are all-inclusive onboard, providing possibilities for fun that are endless! Another great element is the dining. Sitting together for meals can be a great way to bond on vacation, and what better way to do it than on a moving restaurant that has menus catering to everyone’s taste buds!? Cozy up at night on the deck with a warm cup of hot chocolate and watch the beautiful Northern Lights welcome you to paradise.
Parents can sit back, relax, and enjoy the time onboard knowing that their kids are in great hands at the kids/teen clubs or with the onboard babysitting club doing activities that appeal to them such as watersports, scavenger hunts and cooking classes – all with no lineups! Every generation will be able to find something they love onboard.
Shore excursions are a great way to interact with the surroundings as a family. Learn something new from world-class biologists and geologists. Gather an appreciation for the land and other cultures by exploring different ways of doing things, all while having fun!
Some of our top recommendations for activities in Alaska include: dog sledding in Skagway, Crab Fisherman Tours in Ketchikan, Rainforest Tours in Ketchikan and Whale Watching in Juneau.
There is something truly magical about experiencing the elements outdoors as a family.
Alaska provides the grounds to experience and learn about nature first hand and see some of the world’s most magnificent creatures and formations. When you combine this amazing destination with a cruise, you add in elements of comfort and safety that are ideal for family travel.
Our Top Recommendations for Family Alaskan Cruises
Disney Cruises
Disney knows how to do family vacations, and that is no exception when travelling to and within Alaska. Disney musicals, themed rooms kids’ clubs and a wide variety of dining from casual bites to gourmet cuisine are just a few of the features. Be sure to experience the snorkelling family adventure in Ketchikan (yes, wetsuits are provided!).
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises goes above and beyond to ensure that kids, teens, and families feel at home onboard. Kids clubs include The Treehouse for children age 3-7, The Lodge for children aged 8-12 and Beachouse for teens 13-17. Get ready for one of your family’s cutest memories when dog handlers bring junior huskies onboard for learning, playing and photo opportunities in Skagway.
Carnival Cruises
A truly unique experience is created onboard by having everything you want at your fingertips. Carnival has some of the biggest ships on the sea, and that means more activities for kids. Enjoy Carnival Camp – a kids’ camp that is divided into five age groups to ensure targeted fun!
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Royal Caribbean is a long-standing name in the cruising industry, and their Alaskan cruises are some of the best. Depending on your ship, you may be able to have one of the tallest observation towers out on the ocean at 300ft (Ovation of the Sea) to view the Northern Lights and constellations closer than you have ever seen before.
Norwegian Cruises
Norwegian has some great options for families, including extensive restaurants onboard and action-packed activities. The Norwegian Bliss debuted last year which includes onboard mini-golf, race track, laser tag and more! Something for the whole family will not be hard to find.
Thinking about cruising to Alaska as a family?
To find out more information about family Alaskan cruises, contact one of our experienced travel specialists. They will be thrilled to help you and your family create a memorable experience in Alaska.
