Family Fun Aboard Royal Caribbean: Activities and Tips for All Ages
📅 Published by Here for the Badge | Cruise Culture Blog
Whether you're bringing toddlers, teens, your significant other, or your entire extended family, Royal Caribbean has earned its reputation as one of the most family-friendly cruise lines on the ocean. As a multigenerational cruise family ourselves, we know firsthand how exciting (and sometimes chaotic!) it can be to find activities that everyone enjoys.
That’s why we’ve pulled together our ultimate guide to fun for all ages aboard Royal Caribbean—real tips, honest reviews, and hidden gems from a family who’s seen it all.
🚼 For the Littlest Cruisers (Ages 6 months to 6 years)
Royal Caribbean makes cruising with kids easy. Here’s what our youngest family members love most:
Adventure Ocean (AO Babies & AO Juniors): Trained youth staff, age-appropriate play, and colorful, secure spaces. Bonus: It gives parents a break to enjoy their own adventures.
Splashaway Bay: A mini waterpark with fountains, slides, and tipping buckets. Our toddlers are OBSESSED.
Character Meet-and-Greets: DreamWorks characters like Shrek and Kung Fu Panda on select ships? Yes, please!
Early Dining Options: Family-friendly menus and high chairs always available. Ask for crayons and the kids’ activity booklet!
Pro Tip: Bring a small stroller for port days and download the app to check AO hours and locations.
Fun for Everyone!
🧒 For Kids & Tweens (Ages 7–12)
The perfect age for high energy and independence:
Adventure Ocean Explorers & Voyagers: Science experiments, scavenger hunts, and pirate parties!
Rock Climbing Wall & Mini Golf: Great for burning energy and challenging parents to a rematch.
Ice Skating Rinks: On ships like Adventure and Oasis—yes, actual skating at sea.
Arcade & Laser Tag: Teens and tweens never want to leave.
Badge Fam Favorite: The cupcake decorating class is a hit across all ages—and yes, adults sneak bites.
🎮 For Teens (Ages 13–17)
Teens want freedom—but still want fun:
Teen Spaces & Lounges: No parents allowed. Video games, music, movies, and new friends.
FlowRider Surf Simulator: Great for action shots and adrenaline. Also good for wiping out in style.
Zip Line (Oasis Class): A 9-deck drop across the Boardwalk. Just say YES.
Late Night Dance Parties: Supervised but super cool. They’ll thank you later.
Pro Tip: Encourage teens to join the teen welcome event on day one—it’s the easiest way to meet new friends.
💑 For Couples & Adults
It’s not all splash zones and soft serve:
Solarium: Adults-only oasis with pools, hot tubs, and panoramic views.
Specialty Dining: Romantic dinner at Chops Grille or Izumi. Don’t forget to book early.
Spa & Fitness Center: Massages, facials, yoga, and a full gym.
Evening Shows: Broadway performances, ice shows, and live comedy every night.
Date Night Idea: Start with cocktails at the Rising Tide Bar, see a show, then stroll the promenade for people-watching and soft serve.
👨👩👧👦 All Together Now: Family Bonding Moments
When the whole crew wants to play together:
AquaTheater Shows: Jaw-dropping dives and stunts that wow every generation.
Escape Rooms: Team up to solve puzzles before time runs out.
Family Trivia & Game Shows: Hilarious, competitive, and unforgettable.
Port Adventures: Beach days, snorkeling, zip-lining — choose excursions that thrill the whole squad.
Group Cruise Hack: Create custom t-shirts (we’ve got some great ones!) and organize a photo scavenger hunt across the ship.
🎒 Insider Tips from the Badge Fam
Use the App: Daily schedules, activity sign-ups, dining reservations, and interactive maps—essential for staying on top of fun.
Plan Sea Day Activities Early: Activities like cupcake classes, escape rooms, and FlowRider lessons can book up quickly.
Rotate Freedom & Structure: Mix scheduled group events with unstructured time so everyone gets to relax and recharge.
Pack Theme Night Gear: Glow sticks, tropical shirts, formal wear, and 80s outfits—we’ve never regretted going all out.
Download Before You Sail: Wi-Fi can be spotty. Download the Royal app, music playlists, shows, and games ahead of time.
Stagger Show & Dinner Times: Book one night for early dinner, one for late dining—this gives flexibility based on activities.
Book Specialty Dining in Advance: The best times at Chops Grille or Izumi fill up fast. Book before you board if possible.
Take a Family Photo on Day One: Everyone’s fresh, excited, and coordinated. You’ll thank yourself later.
🚢 Your Floating Playground Awaits
No matter your age or energy level, there’s something onboard for you. Royal Caribbean has mastered the art of multi-generational fun—and if you ask us, the only hard part is deciding what to do first.
So next time you’re booking your voyage, rest easy knowing the whole family is covered—right down to the littlest splashers and the pickiest teens.
Tag us in your family fun photos @HereForTheBadge and show us how your crew plays at sea!
Visit RoyalCaribbean.com to Start your Cruise Adventure!
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