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Kids Are A Trip/Groups Are A Trip

Not All Cruises Are the Same (Here’s How to Pick the Right One)

Published about 1 month ago • 1 min read

I'm currently on an adventure with my sister—something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. We flew into Paris before joining European Waterways for a barge cruise through small canals and scenic waterways. It’s an incredible, slow-paced, luxury experience, complete with the option to walk or bike alongside the boat as it makes its way to the next stop. Be sure to follow along on Instagram @travelswithkirsten so you can see what it’s all about!

Speaking of cruises, I’m sure you know, not all cruise ships are the same. Choosing the right type can completely shape your vacation experience. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which ship is right for you and your family.

Large Ship Cruises

Best for: Families and first-time cruisers

Think floating resorts with pools, shows, kids clubs, and endless dining.

Ones we recommend:

River Cruises

Best for: Culture lovers and multigenerational trips

Sail along rivers like the Danube or Rhine with guided excursions and a relaxed pace.

Small Ship Cruises

Best for: Travelers who want unique destinations

Smaller ships = fewer crowds and access to ports larger ships can’t reach.

Sailing Ship Cruises

Best for: Couples and unique experiences

A more intimate, old-world sailing experience focused on scenery and charm.

Expedition Cruises

Best for: Adventure and wildlife

Explore remote places like Alaska or Antarctica with expert-led excursions. These are some of the best cruise vacations with teens!

Luxury Cruises

Best for: High-end, all-inclusive travel

Expect top-tier service, fine dining, and fewer crowds. Older kids and young adults are ok, but young children might be bored.

Yacht Cruises

Best for: Small, intimate getaways

Feels like a private yacht with personalized service and hidden ports.

Examples:

As you can see, there’s a cruise for every travel style, from action-packed family trips to quiet, off-the-grid adventures. The key is choosing the one that fits how you like to travel.

Cheers,

Kirsten

Thinking About Booking
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You can connect with me at kirsten.maxwell@fora.travel.

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Kids Are A Trip/Groups Are A Trip

Kirsten Maxwell

Kids Are A Trip is an award-winning website and your go-to resource for family travel inspiration. I cover everything from travel tips and packing guides to detailed itineraries for destinations worldwide. My goal is to make travel planning simple and fun, with actionable advice and real-life stories that resonate with families at every stage of life. Groups Are A Trip is for trips with friends, family reunions, and multigenerational travel. More Groups. More Trips. More Memories.

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