Cruise safety for kids: What parents need to know

Cruising is a fantastic family holiday, but how safe are cruise ships for kids? While most cruise lines are well-equipped for families, there are key safety concerns to consider – from pools and balconies to kids’ clubs and onboard rules. In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical tips and cruise line policies to help keep your children safe and give you peace of mind.

It’s one of the most family-friendly holidays out there, but if you're new to cruising, you might be wondering: Is a cruise safe for my child? As a parent who first sailed when our daughter was just five, I completely understand your concerns.

The good news? Modern cruise ships are designed with families and young people in mind, featuring secure environments, supervised kids’ activities and strict safety measures to ensure you can relax.

That said, while ships are generally very safe, there are key risks like pools, balconies and onboard independence – that parents should be aware of. This article will help you with a little planning and the right precautions, so you can enjoy a stress-free, memorable cruise with your kids.

Cabin safety: balconies, doors & railings

Cruise cabins provide home-from-home comfort, but they also require careful attention to safety when travelling with children. Balconies can be a notable concern – always ensure balcony doors are securely locked to prevent unsupervised access.

Children should be given clear safety instructions and taught not to lean or climb on balcony fixtures. Don’t forget about the furniture. Our hearts leapt into our chests when we saw our four-year-old attempt to get onto the small table!

Opting for family-friendly cabin configurations like interior rooms, ocean-view cabins with sealed windows or family suites can help reduce risks. If you're still deciding which stateroom is best for your family, check out our guide to the best cruise cabins for families to help you choose a layout that maximises space, safety, and comfort.

Railings: safety first

Whether on your cabin balcony or throughout the ship, railings can pose serious hazards if children are left unsupervised. It is essential to establish rules early on, like never allowing kids to climb on railings or lean too far over.

This applies to railings on the ship’s decks, stairs, or other areas. Regardless of the allure of views from higher vantage points, safety must always come first.

Are swimming pools safe onboard cruise ships?

When it comes to enjoying cruise pools, safety will always be your top priority. It’s so important to know that many cruise lines do not actually provide lifeguards, which means guardians must always take an active role in supervising children.

Disney Cruise Line is known for having lifeguards stationed at family pools, while Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also employ lifeguards across their fleets. However, other cruise lines may not offer this service, so it’s essential that you check before booking.

Key pool safety tips:

• Supervision is key: Always keep a close eye on your children, even if lifeguards are present.
• Be aware of pool dangers: Pools on cruise ships can have under-currents caused by the ship's movement, making it harder for inexperienced swimmers to stay afloat. Crowded pools also increase the risk of accidents, so choose quieter times for swimming. Non-slip footwear is a must to prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. And of course - no running round the pool!
• Swimming aids: Some cruise lines provide flotation devices for children, while others require you to bring your own. I’ve seen and used them on Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises. But check with your cruise line in advance to ensure you’re prepared.
• Avoid blue swimsuits: Dressing kids in brightly coloured swimsuits, rather than blue, makes them easier to spot in the water, reducing the risk of a delayed response in an emergency.

Cruise ship kids’ clubs: how safe are they?

For our family, cruise kids' clubs have been a fantastic way to keep our children entertained while we’ve enjoyed some quality time together, date nights and well-deserved downtime around the adult-only pool. To help you relax more, understanding how the clubs operate and ensuring their safety measures meet your expectations is essential.

How do cruise kids' clubs work?

Most cruise lines offer kids' clubs divided into age-appropriate groups, typically catering to children aged three to 17. Registration is required, so I recommend you do this at the start of your cruise. And parents or guardians must sign their children in and out of the club for every visit.

Some clubs allow older children to sign themselves out, which can be a concern for parents. It's crucial to familiarise yourself with the policies of your chosen cruise line to ensure you’re comfortable.

Cruise kids’ club staff are highly trained professionals. They’re required to hold relevant childcare or educational qualifications, along with extensive experience working with children.

Additionally, they must complete specialised safety training, ensuring they are equipped to provide a secure and engaging environment onboard.

Comparing popular cruise line kids' clubs

• Disney Cruise Line: Known for its exceptional kids' clubs, Disney offers themed activities, character inFfamiiteractions and highly trained staff. It's a top choice for families.
• Royal Caribbean: Offers Adventure Ocean, a programme with a wide range of activities for different age groups, including science experiments and arts and crafts.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Features Splash Academy, which provides creative play and team-building activities for kids.
• MSC Cruises: Partners with LEGO to offer unique play experiences, making it a hit with younger children. They even have a kids’ mascot!
• Carnival Cruise Line: Camp Ocean caters to kids as young as two, with engaging activities and a focus on fun.

By understanding how kids' clubs operate and what each cruise line offers, you can make an informed decision that ensures both safety and fun for your little ones.

Alcohol & teens: what you need to know

Cruise safety for teens is essential, especially regarding alcohol policies. While regulations vary, some cruise lines, like MSC Cruises, allow 16- and 17-year-olds to consume alcohol with parental consent. However, teens may still encounter alcohol through older passengers or unsupervised groups, so setting clear expectations about behaviour is crucial.

Bars and adult-only areas are restricted for under-21s, but you should remain vigilant, as teens can find creative ways to bypass rules. Open communication about boundaries and supervision can help ensure your teens stay safe while enjoying their cruise experience responsibly. Always check the cruise line’s specific alcohol policy before travelling.

General safety tips & emergency preparedness

Staying safe on a cruise and being prepared is vital for a worry-free holiday. Here are some practical tips to keep your family secure:

Attend the Muster Drill: Participate in the mandatory exercise as a family. Make sure your kids understand the emergency procedures, where to go and how to follow instructions and who to get help from in case of an emergency.

Teach them how to get around the ship: Help your children learn basic ship navigation, including identifying the nearest exits, locating their cabin and understanding deck numbers. This knowledge can be invaluable if they want to move around independently.

Set rules for exploration: Establish firm rules for wandering the ship. Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult, while older children should inform you of their plans and stick to agreed boundaries.

Cruising is one of the safest ways to holiday, offering a unique blend of adventures and relaxation. Modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced safety features, and staff are well-trained to handle emergencies.

For first-time cruisers, by preparing as a family and being mindful of onboard safety, you can focus on the incredible sights, activities, and memories that make cruising such a memorable, fun experience.