A guide to cruising with toddlers: tips & tricks
A family cruise holiday with toddlers might sound like a logistical nightmare, but modern ships are built for family adventures. With dedicated kids’ clubs, toddler-friendly activities and onboard amenities designed with little ones in mind, cruising can be one of the easiest ways to travel with young children. Here’s everything you need to know to set sail stress-free.
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About the author
Kate Holroyd is a writer and avid cruiser. Having been on dozens of cruises with her husband and two children, she knows a thing or two about getting the best experience at sea for parents and little ones.
Can you go on a cruise with a toddler?
Cruising with a toddler might sound overwhelming – they’re a handful at home, let alone in unfamiliar surroundings. But modern family-friendly cruise ships are designed with little explorers in mind, offering a safe, comfortable and adventure-packed experience.
So, are cruises safe for toddlers? Absolutely. Cruise ships cater to families, ensuring safety for kids of all ages. Like anywhere, supervision is key, especially around stairways, balconies and pools.
For us, cruising with toddlers was a game changer. At one of the most exhausting stages of parenthood, we could finally enjoy some well-earned respite, thanks to the expert, complimentary childcare available at the kids’ clubs. Here’s a guide to help you plan your first getaway with your mini-me.
Best cruise lines for toddlers
When travelling with little ones, choosing the right family-friendly cruise line makes all the difference. Thankfully, many ships offer kids’ clubs designed just for toddlers, complete with supervised activities, play areas and even dedicated nurseries for babies as young as six months. Here’s a look at some of the most popular options for fuss-free family cruising.
Disney Cruise Line: Oceaneer Club includes a dedicated nursery, It's a Small World, for babies and toddlers (six months to three years).
Carnival Cruise Line: Camp Ocean welcomes children as young as two and offers age-appropriate activities for different age groups.
Royal Caribbean International: Adventure Ocean offers various programs at Aquanauts (ages three to five), plus a dedicated nursery for babies and toddlers.
MSC Cruises: Doremiland features a Baby Club (infants to three-year-olds) with activities and a dedicated staff.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Splash Academy provides separate activities for different age groups, including children aged three to five. And for younger ones, there are parent-supervised activities.
P&O Cruises: The Reef has Splashers for children aged two to four.
How to toddler-proof your cabin
One major difference between a holiday at sea and a typical fly-and-flop getaway? The room moves. From swaying hangers to shifting cupboards, cruise cabins introduce a few unexpected toddler hazards. A little preparation goes a long way, starting with cupboard latches, doorstops and outlet covers.
Balcony safety: Balconies are a dream for soaking in ocean views, but they require extra vigilance with little ones. Ensure your toddler is only on the balcony when supervised. If you're busy inside, lock the door to prevent accidental escapes.
Door security: Got a little escape artist? If your toddler has mastered door locks, a simple wedge or doorstop placed inside can prevent any unexpected adventures.
Power outlets: Cruise cabins often have outlets that look unfamiliar, and toddlers are naturally curious. Outlet covers help keep tiny fingers safe and stop them from poking around where they shouldn't.
Night light: Navigating a cruise cabin in the dark can be tricky, especially with little toes in the mix. A night light is a lifesaver, making late-night trips easier without disturbing your toddler’s sleep.
Packing for your toddler
Packing for a cruise with a toddler isn’t just about throwing a few extra nappies in your suitcase; it’s about making sure you’ve got everything you need for a smooth sailing adventure. From must-haves to optional extras that make life easier, here’s our packing guide for toddlers on a cruise.
Cruise essentials for toddlers
Diapers and wipes: Pack extra. You don’t want to be hunting for them mid-cruise.
Snack cups: Stock up at the breakfast buffet to keep hunger tantrums at bay with easy, toddler-friendly options like fruit, crackers and granola bars.
Sippy cups: Bring a couple to make mealtime (and hydration) hassle-free.
Swimwear and safety devices: Include at least three swimsuits because wet clothing never dries as fast as you think.
Pram or carrier: A compact pram or baby carrier is crucial for navigating both the ship and shore days.
First aid kit: Pack the basics, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes and infant-friendly pain relief.
Medications: Add essentials like allergy meds, pain relief and teething gel.
Sunscreen: This is a must for sunny deck days and poolside fun. The surfaces onboard bounce the sun around, so we always include sun hats, too.
Comfortable clothes: Pack enough outfits for spills, playtime and bedtime (plus a few spares).
Toys: Include their favourite cuddly toy or a small selection of entertainment to keep them happy.
Cruise nice-to-haves for toddlers
Inflatable tub: It’s unlikely your stateroom will have a bath, so this is great for bathtime.
Childproofing supplies: This includes outlet covers, cupboard latches and a few safety extras.
Baby food and formula: Bring their absolute favourites if they’re still on baby food or formula.
Travel cot: If needed, for a familiar sleep setup.
Rain gear: If your itinerary includes wet-weather destinations, a toddler raincoat or umbrella is worth packing.
Onboard activities for toddlers
Keeping a toddler entertained at sea is easier than you might think. Cruise ships are packed with interactive play areas, splash zones and fun-filled kids’ clubs designed just for little cruisers. And if you bring along a few small toys and games, you'll have endless entertainment options, whether in public spaces or your cabin.
Cruise kids’ clubs for toddlers
Many cruise lines offer dedicated kids' clubs with soft play areas and age-appropriate activities. Think storytelling, arts and crafts and even mini-science experiments. Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean is a great example, designed to keep little ones engaged while parents enjoy some downtime.
Cruise play areas & splash parks
Ships often feature soft play zones and interactive splash areas, perfect for toddlers to explore safely. These vibrant spaces help burn off all that toddler energy in a fun and engaging way.
Onboard entertainment
Beyond play zones, many ships host themed events, movie nights and even family-friendly talent shows, giving toddlers a chance to enjoy the cruise fun right alongside their grown-ups.
Toys and games
To keep downtime entertaining, pack travel-sized board games, colouring books and magnetic toys – ideal for quiet moments in the cabin or meals at onboard restaurants.
A cruise holiday with toddlers might require a little extra planning, but the payoff is worth it, offering the chance for adventure, relaxation and memories to last a lifetime. You’re now ready to embrace the waves with confidence. So grab the swim nappies, lock that balcony door and get ready for a journey where family time meets effortless travel.
