Dreaming of a cruise but worried about the cost? Many family-friendly cruise lines offer special discounts, free perks, and even free fares for kids. Whether you’re looking for tropical beaches, thrilling onboard activities, or kid-friendly dining, these budget-friendly cruises deliver a great experience without breaking the bank.
Here are 10 low-cost family cruises that offer incredible deals for kids.
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1️⃣ MSC Cruises – Kids Sail Free on Select Sailings ⚓🎈
MSC Cruises is one of the best options for families on a budget, offering “Kids Sail Free” promotions on select voyages. Children under 18 years old sail for free when traveling with two paying adults in the same cabin.
Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and more.
Family perks:
- Free access to LEGO-themed kids’ clubs and dedicated family entertainment
- A variety of pools and splash zones perfect for little ones
- Affordable family cabins that accommodate up to five people
Best deal tip: Book during off-peak seasons for the biggest savings.
2️⃣ Royal Caribbean – Huge Discounts for Kids + Adventure Activities 🏝️🤿
Royal Caribbean frequently offers Kids Sail Free promotions on select sailings. Even when this deal isn’t available, they provide steep discounts for children, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Destinations: Bahamas, Caribbean, Alaska, and more.
Family perks:
- Onboard water parks, surf simulators, and skydiving simulators
- Adventure Ocean Program with activities for toddlers, kids, and teens
- Special family suites with separate sleeping areas for kids
Best deal tip: Check for flash sales and last-minute offers to snag the best rates.
3️⃣ Norwegian Cruise Line – Free 3rd & 4th Guest in a Cabin 🎟️🎊
Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the best family deals—kids and even extra adults can sail for free as the third or fourth guest in a cabin on select itineraries.
Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and more.
Family perks:
- Splash Academy Kids Club with supervised activities for all age groups
- Complimentary kids’ menus and fun dining experiences
- Onboard go-kart tracks, laser tag, and Broadway-style shows
Best deal tip: Look for “Free at Sea” promotions, which include free Wi-Fi, free drinks, and shore excursion credits—perfect for families looking to save even more.
4️⃣ Carnival Cruise Line – Family-Friendly Fun at Low Prices 🎡🚢
Carnival Cruise Line is known for offering some of the most affordable cruises, and they frequently have promotions where kids sail at reduced fares or even free. Their ships are packed with family-friendly entertainment, making them a great value for the price.
Destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and more.
Family perks:
- Seuss at Sea program with character meet-and-greets and themed activities
- WaterWorks onboard water park with slides and splash zones
- Camp Ocean kids’ club with age-specific activities
Best deal tip: Look for Early Saver rates, which lock in the lowest prices and often include onboard credit.
5️⃣ Disney Cruise Line – Discounts on Select Kids’ Fares 🏰⚓
Disney cruises are known for their top-tier family experiences, but they can be pricey. The good news is that Disney occasionally offers special promotions where kids sail at reduced rates on select sailings, making it possible to enjoy the magic at a lower cost.
Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, and more.
Family perks:
- Rotational dining with interactive character experiences
- Themed kids’ clubs, including Marvel and Star Wars play areas
- Broadway-style Disney shows and fireworks at sea
Best deal tip: Book during Disney’s off-peak seasons, such as late January or early fall, for the best prices and availability.
6️⃣ Princess Cruises – Special Family Cabins and Discounts for Kids 🏝️🎭
Princess Cruises may not be the first name that comes to mind for families, but they offer fantastic amenities for kids and frequent promotions that make family travel more affordable.
Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and more.
Family perks:
- Camp Discovery kids’ program with science and adventure activities
- Outdoor movies under the stars and live entertainment
- Family-friendly stateroom options, including connecting cabins
Best deal tip: Check for limited-time family discounts where kids sail at a reduced rate when sharing a cabin with parents.
7️⃣ Holland America Line – Reduced Kids’ Fares and Family-Friendly Activities ⚓🎶
Holland America may be known for a more relaxed cruising experience, but it also caters to families with kid-friendly programming and occasional deals where children sail for reduced fares.
Destinations: Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, and more.
Family perks:
- Club HAL kids’ program with interactive games, crafts, and scavenger hunts
- Cooking classes and family-friendly entertainment
- Spacious staterooms with options for families
Best deal tip: Watch for promotions offering discounted kids’ fares when booking a family suite.
8️⃣ Costa Cruises – Kids Sail Free on Select Itineraries 🌍🎢
Costa Cruises offers a fantastic Kids Sail Free program on many of its European and Mediterranean sailings, making it a top choice for families looking to explore overseas without a high price tag.
Destinations: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, UAE, and more.
Family perks:
- Squok Club for kids with themed parties and fun activities
- Onboard water slides and interactive game zones
- Italian-inspired family dining with special kids’ menus
Best deal tip: Book early to take advantage of Costa’s best Kids Sail Free promotions, as these deals often have limited availability.
9️⃣ Celebrity Cruises – Family Discounts and Unique Learning Programs 🚀🔭
Celebrity Cruises offers discounts for kids and family-friendly entertainment that goes beyond the usual cruise offerings, making it an excellent choice for families who enjoy a mix of fun and educational experiences.
Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, and more.
Family perks:
- Camp at Sea program with STEM-focused activities, arts, and culinary workshops
- Family-friendly entertainment, including silent discos and live performances
- Connecting family staterooms for added comfort
Best deal tip: Check for promotions where kids sail for up to 50% off and book during school break sales for the best family rates.
🔟 Virgin Voyages – Family-Friendly Deals on Select Sailings 🌊🎉
While Virgin Voyages is typically an adults-only cruise line, they occasionally offer family-friendly sailings with special promotions. These sailings are a great way to experience a high-end cruise at an affordable price.
Destinations: Caribbean, Europe, Mediterranean, and more.
Family perks:
- Trendy onboard dining with family-friendly options
- Exciting shore excursions suited for all ages
- Large entertainment venues with live music, dance performances, and interactive shows
Best deal tip: Keep an eye out for rare family-friendly promotions, particularly during the holiday season.
🌍 Set Sail for Family Fun Without Breaking the Bank
Cruising with kids doesn’t have to be expensive. Many cruise lines offer special deals that make family vacations more affordable, whether it’s free fares for children, discounted rates, or value-packed perks.
The key to getting the best deal? Book early, be flexible with your travel dates, and take advantage of off-season promotions.
