Looking for a family holiday where the entertainment never stops (no, really), the dining options please even the pickiest eaters, and the memories last long after you’ve disembarked?
Carnival Cruise Line has long been a fantastic choice for families because of the myriad of options available to passengers, from short cruises to epic adventures, as well as the seemingly endless number of things to do once you’ve checked into your stateroom and set sail across the great wide ocean.
A smart balance between adult’s only areas and family-friendly spaces has made Carnival Cruise Line an easy pick for families of all sizes. With Carnival Cruise, you can find a range of onboard activities for guests of each and every age, ensuring two days are never the same. Yes, even a cruise ship can be dynamic and constantly changing.
Why Families Are Flocking to Carnival
Let’s be honest—travelling with children requires military-grade planning and the patience of a saint. Yet Carnival has mastered the art of pleasing everyone from toddlers to teenagers to tired parents desperately in need of a cocktail. The no-fuss approach is why families stick to cruising more than any other way of travelling.
Take Carnival Splendour, for example. The ship’s crown jewel has to be its aquatic playground. At Carnival WaterWorks, you’ll find yourself careening down spiraling waterslides that have plenty of twists and turns.
For the truly brave, Green Lightning awaits—an 11.3-metre free-fall drop where the floor literally disappears beneath you before sending you swirling into a giant bowl. You’ll be back in line for a second go before your hair dries.
Meanwhile, those who prefer their water adventures horizontal can lounge poolside while the children expend their seemingly limitless energy. Later in the day, these same pools transform into open-air cinemas showing the latest blockbusters—proof that Carnival understands the perfect holiday involves both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Waterslides aside, Carnival Splendor offers an extensive range of recreational riches. The mini-golf course delivers maritime-themed putting that will entertain novices and self-proclaimed pros alike. Basketball courts overlook the rolling seas, creating perhaps the most scenic pickup games you’ll ever play.
For indoor entertainment, the video arcade—open 24/7—boasts games for every skill level.
Camp Ocean deserves special mention for its ability to entertain the under-12 crowd with ocean-themed activities tailored to specific age groups. From the Penguins (ages 2-5) to the Sharks (ages 9-11), children are grouped with their peers for maximum enjoyment—and, let’s be honest, to give parents a few blessed hours of adult conversation.
As daylight fades, Playlist Productions takes center stage with musical performances that breathe new life into familiar songs. The El Morocco Lounge hosts comedy shows suitable for the whole family, and yes, there’s karaoke for those whose talents have heretofore gone tragically undiscovered.
Convenience Guaranteed
Carnival Cruise Line knows their ships can seem big and overwhelming, which is why there’s a Carnival Cruise App to help passengers keep track of everything from before they board to after they disembark. Being able to plan everything so your journey runs smooth ensures you have more attention to give to the kids. After all, you’re taking them on a holiday they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. You want to be as present as possible.
Ready to book your next trip? Head on over to carnival.com.au to see all your options.
Header Photo of Turtle in New Caledonia by Mary D Enterprises