Traveling with babies brings unique challenges that many parents may not expect. Beyond picking a destination, families need to consider fare policies, childcare options, and baby-friendly amenities, each of which varies by cruise line.
I have spent time researching how different cruise companies handle these details, finding a range of options for parents eager to enjoy a smooth and family-friendly experience at sea.
This article highlights key policies and offerings from popular cruise lines, providing parents with a clear picture of what to expect when cruising with their little ones.
Key Takeaways
- MSC Cruises, Cunard, and Seabourn offer free passage for babies under two, while Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity offer discounted fares for infants.
- Most cruise lines require infants to be at least six months old, though extended routes often require babies to be at least 12 months.
- Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian offer nursery services for infants, while other lines expect parents to manage care in the cabin.
- Most lines provide cribs, highchairs, and bottle warmers upon request, but parents should reserve early due to limited availability.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises allows babies under two years old to sail free on certain routes, making it a helpful option for families traveling with young children.
Key Policies and Age Requirements
- Fare Policy: Babies under two years old travel free on select itineraries.
- Age Minimum: Infants must be six months old for most cruises and 12 months for extended or transoceanic routes.
Family-Friendly Features on MSC Cruises
- Babycare Program: Allows parents to leave babies in a supervised Kids Club for designated hours, giving parents a break.
- Onboard Essentials: MSC provides cribs, highchairs, and bottle warmers in limited supply, so early reservations are recommended.
- Dining Assistance: Crew can warm up baby food and formula at all dining spots and through cabin service.
Health and Safety for Infants
- Medical Support: Every ship has a medical center equipped for emergencies, including pediatric telemedicine support.
- Baby Supplies: Families should bring all essentials, like diapers and formula, as these are often limited on board.
Also, if you are planning to take on a cruise that will stop in Brazil, be sure to read more out safety guideline on Most dangerous cities in Brazil. another important detail is to learn more about the best time to travel there, and get the most out of your vacation.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line offers half-price fares for babies under three years old, providing parents with a cost-effective way to enjoy a family-oriented cruise.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Babies under three sail for half the child fare.
- Minimum Age: Babies need to be six months old on most itineraries, while extended routes require a minimum age of 12 months.
Infant-Friendly Services and Amenities
Several family-focused features add to the convenience:
- Nurseries and Play Spaces: Themed nurseries are available on board, staffed with trained caregivers and featuring safe play areas for infants. Reservations are recommended to secure space.
- Splash Zones: Certain areas on Disney ships, such as AquaDuck, are designated for babies in swim diapers, allowing water play that most cruise lines do not permit.
- Dining Options: Staff can prepare pureed food upon request to meet the needs of young children.
Essential Gear and Medical Support
- Baby Supplies: Cribs, highchairs, and bottle warmers are provided, though quantities are limited, making early reservations important.
- Medical Support: Onboard medical centers include pediatric support, giving parents peace of mind while traveling.
Cunard Line
Cunard Line allows babies under two to sail for free as third or fourth guests in a cabin, making it an economical option for families with young children. Its infant-friendly features include essential amenities and a night nursery, creating a more comfortable experience for parents.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Babies under two sail free when they are additional guests in a stateroom.
- Minimum Age: Six months is the minimum for most routes, while transatlantic or extended voyages require a minimum age of 12 months.
Infant-Friendly Amenities on Cunard
Cunard’s ships provide several useful features for families:
- Night Nursery: The night nursery, open to infants aged 6 to 23 months, offers free service during evening hours, giving parents a few hours to enjoy other parts of the ship.
- Baby Equipment: Cunard provides cribs and highchairs upon request. Bringing essential baby supplies, like diapers and formula, is advised, as onboard stock may be limited.
Additional Family Support
- Dining Options: Highchairs are available in all dining areas, and staff are ready to assist with any special dining needs for babies.
- Medical Facilities: Each ship’s medical center includes pediatric support, ensuring parents have accessible health services if needed.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line provides discounted rates for infants under two when they are third or fourth guests in a cabin, making it a cost-effective choice for families. Unlike other cruise lines, Carnival also waives daily gratuities for infants, providing added savings for parents.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Babies under two years of age sail at a reduced rate as additional guests in a cabin.
- Minimum Age: Carnival’s minimum age requirement is six months for most routes and 12 months for extended cruises.
Family Programs and Infant Amenities
Carnival offers several family-friendly options, although there are some limitations on services for very young children:
- Night Owls Program: This program provides late-night babysitting for children over two years old, costing $6.75 per hour. Parents of infants should note that babies under two cannot participate.
- Basic Equipment: Cribs and highchairs are available on request, but early reservations are advised to ensure availability.
Additional Support for Families
- Dining Options: Highchairs are available in all dining venues, and staff assist with specific dining needs for babies when requested.
- Medical Care: Each ship’s medical center offers pediatric services, ensuring accessible care in case of any health concerns.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean provides discounted fares for infants traveling as third or fourth guests in a stateroom, making it an affordable option for families with young children. The cruise line offers a range of programs and amenities tailored to babies and young children, although there are some service limitations based on the child’s age.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Infants sail at a discounted rate when they are additional guests in a cabin.
- Minimum Age: Babies must be at least six months old for most itineraries, with extended or transoceanic routes requiring a minimum age of 12 months.
Family Amenities and Programs for Infants
Royal Caribbean includes several infant-friendly features to support parents onboard:
- Royal Babies Program: Designed for ages 6 to 36 months, this play program offers safe, age-appropriate activities. Spaces are limited, so early reservations are advised.
- Nurseries: Available on select ships, these nurseries provide care for infants and toddlers at a nominal fee, allowing parents a few hours for themselves. Reservations are recommended due to high demand.
Additional Family Support
- Dining Options: Highchairs are provided in all dining areas, and staff are available to assist with specific requests for baby food preparation.
- Medical Services: Onboard medical centers include pediatric support, ensuring families have access to necessary care if required.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line offers reduced fares for infants when they travel as third or fourth guests in a cabin, making it a feasible option for families seeking budget-conscious travel. Norwegian’s focus on family support includes nurseries for infants on select ships, although certain limitations exist for younger babies.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Infants sail at a reduced fare as additional guests in a stateroom.
- Minimum Age: Norwegian requires infants to be at least six months old on most routes, with a minimum of 12 months for extended itineraries.
Family-Friendly Features for Infants
Norwegian provides several infant-oriented amenities:
- Guppies Nursery: Available on select ships, the Guppies Nursery serves babies from six months to three years with supervised play areas. Limited availability means early reservations are recommended.
- Stateroom Essentials: Cribs, highchairs, and baby bathtubs are available upon request, although these items may be limited during peak times.
Additional Support for Families
- Dining: Highchairs are available in all dining venues, and staff are equipped to assist with any infant-specific needs at mealtime.
- Medical Services: Each ship has an onboard medical center that includes pediatric support, ensuring families can access necessary care if needed.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers reduced fares for infants traveling as third or fourth guests, making it an affordable option for families with young children. While amenities for babies are available, Princess has a few limitations when it comes to infant-friendly activities and facilities. There are also occasional promotions where you can bring your baby for free.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Infants sail at a reduced rate when they are additional guests in a cabin.
- Minimum Age: Infants must be at least six months old on most itineraries, while longer or international routes require a minimum age of 12 months.
Infant-Friendly Amenities
Princess provides several essential services and amenities for families with babies:
- Baby Essentials: Cribs, baby bathtubs, and highchairs are available upon request. Due to limited stock, reserving these items early is advised.
- Dining: Highchairs are available in all restaurants, and staff can assist with special dining requests for babies.
Also, be sure to check out their best offers for families with kids.
Additional Family Support
- Pool Policy: Swim diapers are not permitted in pools, which means water activities may be limited for families with infants.
- Medical Services: Each ship is equipped with an onboard medical center, including support for pediatric needs, giving parents peace of mind.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers reduced rates for infants sailing as third or fourth guests in a cabin, creating an affordable option for families with young children. However, the cruise line has fewer amenities specifically geared toward infants, which families may want to consider when planning.
They also have limited promotions where you can bring a kid under 18 for free!
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Infants travel at a discounted rate when they are additional guests in a cabin.
- Minimum Age: Babies must be at least six months old on most routes, with extended cruises requiring infants to be at least 12 months old.
Infant-Friendly Amenities and Services
Holland America includes a few basic amenities for families traveling with infants:
- Baby Essentials: Cribs, highchairs, and baby bathtubs are provided on request. Limited availability means parents are encouraged to make arrangements early.
- Dining: Highchairs are available in all dining areas, and crew members can assist with simple dining needs for infants.
Additional Considerations for Families
- Youth Programs: Children under three are not eligible for youth programs, which may limit activities for very young passengers.
- Medical Support: Onboard medical centers provide pediatric services to address any health concerns families may have during their cruise.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises welcomes infants over six months old with discounted fares for babies traveling as third or fourth guests in a cabin. Celebrity provides various family-friendly amenities and conveniences, making it a supportive choice for families traveling with young children.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Infant Fare: Babies over six months old travel at a discounted rate when additional guests in a cabin.
- Minimum Age: Infants must be at least six months old for most routes, with extended or transoceanic cruises requiring a minimum age of 12 months.
Family Amenities and Services for Infants
Celebrity offers helpful amenities for families with young children:
- In-Cabin Babysitting: Babysitting services are available by reservation, allowing parents to plan alone time while ensuring their child is cared for in the stateroom.
- Baby Equipment: Cribs and baby bathtubs are provided upon request. Reserving these items early is recommended due to limited availability.
Dining and Medical Support
- Dining Options: Highchairs are available in all restaurants, and crew members assist with specific dining needs for infants when requested.
We also have to mention their policy for kids under 12: “Children 12 or under receive half off in our specialty dining restaurants or can select items from a special kids’ menu for free.”
- Medical Services: Each ship has an onboard medical center with pediatric support to address health needs during the cruise.
Seabourn
With a focus on adult-oriented cruising, Seabourn provides limited options for families with infants. Babies under two can sail for free, though parents need to manage all aspects of infant care themselves, as dedicated childcare services or nursery spaces aren’t offered onboard.
However, you have to be aware of the strict Seaburn Sail Agency policies towards traveling with kids:
Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21 years old; one adult chaperone is required for every five people under age 21.
We will not accept reservations for infants 6 months or younger for non-transocean sailings, 12 months or younger for transocean sailings at the time the cruise commences.
Seabourn cannot accept a booking or carry any guest who will be 24 completed weeks or more pregnant on the last day of the intended cruise.
All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high-risk.
Age and Fare Requirements
- Fare: Infants under two sail free.
- Minimum Age: Babies must be six months old for most routes, with 12 months required on certain extended itineraries.
Family Amenities
Families with infants will need to plan carefully, as support is minimal:
- Self-Supervised Care: Infant care remains the parents’ responsibility within the stateroom, given the lack of nursery or childcare programs.
- Essential Equipment: Cribs and highchairs are available, though quantities are limited. Reserving these items in advance is recommended.
Dining and Medical Support
- Dining Options: Highchairs are provided in dining areas, and staff assist with specific needs for babies.
- Medical Facilities: Each ship has a medical center with basic pediatric support, so parents should bring essential supplies.
Packing Tips for Cruising with an Infant
- Bring Extra Diapers and Wipes: Cruise ships often do not stock baby essentials like diapers and wipes, so pack enough to cover the trip plus a few extra days in case of delays.
- Pack Formula and Baby Food: If your baby is on formula or requires specific baby food, bring a sufficient supply as options can be limited or unavailable on board. Pre-measured formula packets or travel-size containers can save space.
- Include a Compact Stroller and Carrier: A lightweight, foldable stroller is useful for navigating the ship and port stops. A baby carrier can also be convenient for excursions where strollers aren’t practical.
- Prepare for Sun Protection: Bring baby-friendly sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight, UV-protective clothing to keep your baby safe from the sun while on deck or at port.
- Pack a Small First Aid Kit: Include essentials like infant pain relievers, a thermometer, and basic first aid supplies. While ships have medical centers, having immediate access to these items can be helpful.
- Don’t Forget Comfort Items: Familiar items like a favorite blanket, pacifier, or stuffed toy can make sleeping and transitions easier for your baby.
After looking through the experiences of parents who’ve traveled with babies on cruises, it’s clear that a little extra planning goes a long way.
Parents shared that while most ships stock basics like diapers, they’re often pricey and may not come in the right size, so packing extras is worth it.
Many suggested stashing diapers in outer luggage pockets to save space or bringing an extra bag just for baby supplies. If things run low, some recommended hitting up a nearby grocery store before boarding.
Those who took these steps felt better prepared, with fewer worries during the trip, making for a more enjoyable time on board with their little ones.
FAQs
How do I ensure my baby gets a good night’s sleep on the cruise?
Choosing a stateroom away from high-traffic areas, like near entertainment zones or elevators, can help reduce noise. Bring familiar comfort items, such as a favorite blanket or white noise machine, to help your baby adjust to a new sleeping environment.
Can I bring my own baby monitor on the cruise?
Yes, most cruise lines allow parents to bring a baby monitor. However, Wi-Fi-enabled monitors may not work consistently due to the ship’s internet setup. A simple audio monitor may work best, depending on the ship’s layout.
Are swim diapers allowed in all pools on cruises?
Swim diaper policies vary. While Disney Cruise Line permits swim diapers in designated splash zones, most cruise lines don’t allow swim diapers in regular pools. Be sure to confirm policies for swim diapers with the cruise line or check for baby splash zones.
What paperwork is required for cruising with a baby?
Most cruise lines require all passengers, including infants, to have valid passports for international itineraries. Some cruises may also need a birth certificate, especially for shorter cruises that stay within the same country. Check with the cruise line for specific documentation requirements.
Is there a place to refrigerate baby food or milk on the ship?
Some cruise lines offer small refrigerators in staterooms, while others may allow access to a shared fridge. Check with your specific cruise line about storage options for baby food and milk.
Can I order baby supplies or formula on board if I run out?
Most cruise ships carry a limited supply of basic baby items, though availability varies widely. It’s recommended to pack enough formula, diapers, and other essentials to cover your entire trip, as availability on board may be limited.
How do shore excursions work with infants?
Some excursions are suitable for families with infants, while others may have age restrictions. Many cruise lines provide family-friendly excursions, but it’s essential to verify in advance and bring a baby carrier for easier mobility if strollers aren’t practical.
So, Is Cruising with a Baby a Good Idea?
Cruising with a baby can actually work well if you know what to expect and pick the right line. Each cruise has different policies and perks.
Some give babies a free or discounted ride, while others have family-focused perks like nurseries, splash zones, and baby-friendly dining options. All of this gives parents some good options, but it’s worth knowing the details to avoid surprises.
A cruise can be one of the more relaxing ways to vacation with an infant. The structure of a ship keeps everything in reach, which can make it easier to balance family time with moments to relax.
Booking early, packing enough supplies, and choosing a line that suits your needs are all moves that will make it a smoother experience.
Just know what to expect, prepare for a few extras, and be ready to enjoy a unique way to vacation with your baby at sea.
