Active families will enjoy all the ways they can play aboard 3,998-guest Norwegian Encore as they rev it up on the Encore Speedway, spiral down tandem waterslides, play laser tag in the Lost City of Atlantis, and try virtual-reality gaming in Galaxy Pavilion. Plus, with clubs for toddlers to teens, Broadway shows, a Mandara Spa, and 27 places to eat and drink, this ship satisfies all cravings.

Disney knows how to craft enjoyable experiences for all ages and aboard 1,750-guest Disney Magic the family fun includes character meet and greets, Pirate Night, and a day at sea devoted to generation-spanning Marvel superheroes. But adults-only activities—dining in Palo, relaxation at the Quiet Cove pool, and live music at Keys nightclub—give Magic a versatility that grown-ups appreciate, too.

There’s always a catchy tune in the air aboard 2,666-guest Nieuw Statendam, where Holland America’s MusicWalk offers rock, jazz, blues, and pop performances that are a magnet for everyone from older teens to youthful retirees. Add in family cabins, cooking demos, a cool $3 million art collection, indoor and outdoor pool areas (one with a big screen), a sports court, and who needs waterslides?

Like its Oasis-class siblings, 5,518-guest Symphony of the Seas features seven neighborhoods designed to entertain all ages, including the Boardwalk with its carousel and sports bar; the Pool and Sports Zone, home to corkscrew slides and zip lines; and Entertainment Place for live theater, ice shows, and laser tag. Plus, open-air Central Park beckons adults with chic bars and specialty eateries.

For families that prefer edutainment to adrenaline rushes, 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess is an ideal option, offering activities inspired by hit Discovery™ TV shows, Movies Under the Stars (with popcorn), and The Voice of the Ocean singing competition. The Italian-style Piazza (home to Gigi’s Pizzeria), a lively piano bar, and decadent Chocolate Journeys desserts sweeten the at-sea experience.

A roller coaster at sea? When 5,282-guest Carnival Mardi Gras debuts later this year, its guests can ride BOLT, a first-of-its-kind top-deck thrill then enjoy flavorful New Orleans cuisine at Emeril’s Bistro (BAM!) or face off against fellow passengers on an authentic Family Feud set. Yes, Carnival’s ships are lively and loud—but some families wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Another option for fun-loving families is 4,132-guest MSC Seaview, known for its European vibe and international passenger roster. Onboard? Four pools (plus 13 hot tubs and a waterpark), dueling zip lines, a Formula One simulator, 5D theater, glass skywalk, and four-story atrium shimmering with Swarovski crystals. Also irresistible: made-to-order pastas and Venchi coffee, chocolate, and gelato.

Mega-ships can be overwhelming, so a great mid-size option for a multigenerational cruise, especially when the youngest family members are young adults, is 1,250-passenger Oceania Riviera. Sophistication abounds, from a fantastic art collection to delicious dining options (including two bistros by French chef Jacques Pépin), while an Artists Loft and Culinary Center allow for immersive learning.

Hawaii is a terrific family destination and there’s only one ship, 2,186-guest Pride of America, that makes island-hopping a breeze by sailing roundtrip from Honolulu to Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Each day ashore offers scenic adventure, while nighttime fun onboard includes family-style Japanese teppanyaki and Brazilian churrascaria—with a chaser of karaoke in the Gold Rush Saloon.

Families with tweens and teens will find lots to keep them happy aboard 4,198-guest Odyssey of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Quantum Ultra Class ship. They’ll spend hours in the SeaPlex with its virtual reality gaming, bumper cars, laser tag, and SkyPad bungee trampoline—leaving the grown-ups to watch from the Playmakers Sports Bar above or enjoy classic rock cover bands in the Music Hall.