Think of river cruising and you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s the domain of retired couples who like to relax and watch the scenery, or young and active types who like to trek across cities, visiting museums and learn about history. However, the river cruise industry is evolving fast; a number of river cruise lines are beginning to recognise the fun and education that can come with a river cruise for children.
Though not yet common in the industry, a few popular lines now offer tailored family cruises, particularly in Europe, with family-friendly accommodations, excursions and onboard options.
Selected cruise lines now offer family suites and adjoining cabins that can accommodate up to five guests. Though you won’t find water slides, climbing walls and zip lines as seen on ocean cruise ships, there are onboard facilities that children can enjoy on several cruise ships, including small pools, cinemas, games and lounges that cater to younger guests.
You’ll find plenty of activities for children of all ages to enjoy once ashore as well, with a range of excursions which have been designed with young travellers in mind such as making Venetian masks in Venice or making marzipan in Germany.
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AmaWaterways was the first river cruise line to design ships with families in mind. AmaStella and AmaViola debuted in 2016 with adjoining cabins that connected via an internal doorway, providing accommodation for families of up to five (or four plus a nanny). These ships also feature suites with sofa beds to accommodate families of four in comfort and style. Children under 11 are also permitted to share a bed with two adults if desired.
AmaMagna, which launched in May 2019, is the widest ship on Europe’s rivers and features a family lounge with a PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and a selection of board games, as well as a good-sized swimming pool. Most of AmaWaterways’ ships have bicycles that guests can use ashore, and AmaMagna also has child-size bikes – perfect for exploring as a family!
Miniumum age to sail with AmaWaterways: Children must be at least 4 years old to sail, but AmaWaterways recommends their river cruises for children aged 8 and above.
Discounted fares for children? No
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Uniworld is known for its opulent river cruise ships, but this luxury line isn’t just about adult-only indulgence. Uniworld also hosts family cruises as part of its Boutique River Cruise Collection.
Uniworld’s family river cruises are all about helping you make new discoveries together: exploring exciting new destinations home to unforgettable experiences. On-board, guests can make desserts with the ship’s pastry chef and taste local soft drinks with a Soda Sommelier, indulge their creative side with craft workshops and brush up on their local lingo in language classes. Plus, there are culinary activities for adventurous diners, thrilling experiences for adrenaline junkies and exciting excursions designed to broaden inquisitive minds.
Uniworld also offers a Family Hosts service for Junior Cruisers (ages four to 12) and Young Cruisers (ages 13 to 17), where children can enjoy especially co-ordinated activities. They can also sit at the Young Traveller’s Table along with their friends and the Family Hosts, leaving parents to enjoy a romantic meal for two. Young travellers also receive small surprise gifts on their pillow on each night of the cruise.
Minimum age to sail with Uniworld: Children must be at least 4 years old to sail with Uniworld.
Discounted fares for children? Yes. Children aged 4 to 17 get a 25% discount when travelling with an adult (except in suites).
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Would you like to embark on a family river cruise but aren’t sure which cruise line or itinerary to choose? Call our Cruise Concierge team on 0808 258 1427 to find the best voyage for your clan of adventurers.
