Planning a River Cruise with Kids
Updated: May 31, 2023
River cruises can be a great option for families with kids. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, and the scenery is beautiful. Here are a few tips for taking a river cruise with kids:
- Choose a kid-friendly river cruise line. Some lines offer special activities and amenities for families traveling with children.
- Book a cabin with plenty of space. This will give you room to spread out and also store all of your kids' gear.
- Plan ahead and pack carefully. Bring along items to keep your kids entertained, like books, toys, and games.
- Be prepared for occasional rainy days. Most river cruises have indoor activities available, but it's always a good idea to have some backup options in case of bad weather.
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities to do on a river cruise. Most lines offer onboard activities like arts and crafts, movies, and games. Many also have special excursions designed for families traveling with children.
Some popular options include visiting a local farm or going on a nature hike. You can also usually find kid-friendly sightseeing tours in the cities you visit. Ask your cruise line or travel agent for recommendations on the best activities for kids in the ports you'll be visiting.
Plan ahead and bring some books, games, or tablets loaded with your kids' favorite movies, just in case you hit a slow moment aboard your river cruise. If you can, do research ahead of time about the destinations you'll be visiting so that you can educate your children along the way.
Take whatever it is they're into (sports, science, history, literature) and find relevant and fascinating stories related to your travels to share with them as you go. This is a great way to engage them in your vacation and make valuable travel memories together.
All this said, it is important to note that some river cruise lines, like Viking, do not allow guests under 18 to book with them. As your travel agent for help if you are hoping to bring the whole family aboard your river cruise. There are plenty of options out there for you to choose from. For instance, Adventures by Disney river cruises offer several options that are adults-only and many that are designed for the whole family to experience together.
With a little planning, taking a river cruise with kids can be a great way to see the world and create lasting family memories. Need help planning yours? Contact us today!