How to Choose a Family Cruise for Teens

According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the number of family cruises grew almost 200 percent in 5 years. Because of this rise in the family category, cruise lines are offering more kid- and teen-oriented activities and accommodations for their young passengers. If you're planning a cruise that your whole family can enjoy, use these valuable tips to learn how to choose a family cruise for teens.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine what types of activities your family will enjoy doing together. These may include watching live shows, participating in sports and visiting cultural exhibits. Determine what kinds of activities your teens will have fun doing on a cruise. These activities can include crafts, disco parties, pool parties, pizza parties, karaoke and teen-only hot tubs. Write down both lists of activities, then call your travel agent or cruise lines directly.
   

2. You can also visit the major cruise lines online. Visit the Disney Cruise Line website first (http://disneycruise.com), since they are well-known for their family-friendly cruises. Check out their "Teen Section" to find out specifically what Disney has to offer your kids.

3. Visit the Carnival Cruise Line website (www.carnival.com) to view their activities and accommodations for teens and families on a cruise. Carnival has a special program for kids 12 to 14 years old and another one for kids 15 to 17 years old.
   

4. Visit the Celebrity Cruise Line website (www.celebritycruises.com) and check out their family cruises. Take a look at their "Youth Activities/Family Activities" page. Every Celebrity ship has at least 6 Youth Counselors who are officially qualified.

5. Ask family members, co-workers, friends and neighbors about family cruises that they have taken. Ask about the pros and cons of their trips.

6. Choose the cruise that most closely matches the interests of your family and teens. Call your travel agent or the cruise line and book the trip.

Tips & Warnings

• Disney Cruise Line offers a children's discount for kids up to 17 years old. Most other cruise lines cut off discounts at age 12.
• Hanging with their comrades is a popular activity for teens. Plan your family cruise during school vacation time, so there will be other teen passengers on the ship.
• Activities for your family and teens on the ship are very important since most of the time you'll be onboard. But don't forget to check out activities that are available in port too.
• Choose a cruise that has an Internet cafe if your teens don't want to leave their world wide web at home. However, the Internet usage bill can end up being pretty hefty with rates of 50 cents to $1.50 per minute.
• Don't count on using cell phones to stay in touch with your family and teens on a cruise. Cell phones don't always work. Instead, consider bringing 2-way radios for more reliable communications.