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Andie Jones

Go Teen Go!

Updated: Jul 17

You only have them for 18 summers...spring breaks...winter vacations...(fill in the blank). All parents have heard some version of this phrase before. It truly puts into perspective the other phrase, "the days are long, but the years are short." While these can often put a somber feeling on a parent's heart, there is no better time than now to make the most of the days, weeks, months and years we DO have left with our kiddos before they fly the nest.

Picture of teen leaving the nest

This is all easy and fun when they are little, the world is a big, amazing place and you are the hero for showing them all the wonders to explore and adventures to be had. But what happens when they get to those lovely teenage years where being seen with your parents even when you are on vacation can make you uncool?? I have found one of the best ways to vacation with teens is to take them on a cruise! Beautiful locations, unpacking once, and a good mix of family and (new friend) time. I'm spilling my top three cruises for families with teens (even if you have younger ones in the mix AND how to get some quality time for you too!)

Picture of teen rolling eyes in front of parents

NUMBER 3 - DISNEY CRUISE LINE - DISNEY WISH

Picture of a cruise ship at sea

Right away, I know what you're thinking. My teen is "too old" and "too cool" for Disney. While that may be true, taking a cruise with Disney Cruise Line is much different than a day in the parks!

Seating area on a cruise line

Another seating area on cruise line

On board the Disney Wish, teens 14-17 have the chance to meet other cruisers their age at the Vibe—a laid-back space where they can watch movies, enjoy games and take the occasional selfie. Tweens 11-14 enjoy their own space at Edge, a colorful New York City-inspired hangout. There is even a dedicated sports court where they can challenge their new friends to a basketball game or ping pong. Each club has several gaming systems to choose from if they want a more virtual challenge! All of these fun areas are supervised by the coolest counselors at sea. On the first night of the cruise, kids and teens receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate their own personalized entertainment itinerary.

Restaurant dining room on cruise line

They are sure to have a lot to tell you when you meet up at dinner that night. AND while your teens are enjoying time with their newfound "besties," mom and dad can enjoy the adult only portion of the ship or a relaxing spa treatment!

NUMBER 2 - CELEBRITY CRUISE LINE - CELEBRITY ASCENT

Cruise line at sea during sunset

Celebrity Cruise Line offers unforgettable experiences for kids of all ages. With fun games, outdoor activities, video game tournaments, and slumber parties all on the agenda, your kids and teens alike will have the time of their life during their family vacation on board.

Sitting area on Celebrity Cruise Line

Teens ages 13-17 can hang out at the Teen Club, a space designed exclusively for young adults, where they can socialize with other cruisers in their same age group. Teen-focused activities and events at the Teen Club include sports competitions, silent disco parties, and video game tournaments. Have younger kiddos on board? Not to worry, Celebrity offers kid club options for sailors as young as 3. Camp at Sea is the only fully customizable kids cruise program in the industry. With over 500 activities to participate in, the schedule changes every sailing depending on the interests of the young cruisers on board. From arts and recreation to science and technology, Celebrity covers all types of subjects and hobbies, making sure every kid (no matter their interests), feels entertained and engaged during their family cruise.

Seating area on cruise line overlooking ocean

While the kids have their own social schedule to attend to, mom and dad can escape for lunch and drinks on the Magic Carpet where you can reconnect with each other as you soar 13 stories over the ocean. Views that take your breath away!

NUMBER 1 - ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE - ICON OF THE SEAS

Icon of the Seas Cruise ship

Spend an unforgettable vacation on the most family friendly ship ever to sail the high seas! The newly released Icon of the Seas was built with families in mind. From a family neighborhood to water park options, endless entertainment and all the dining you could dream of, there is so much for a family to do on this ship!

Outdoor water play area on cruise ship

Logos of multiple movies and shows

Younger kids can meet new friends in Adventure Ocean while teens can kick back and relax in Social 020. If you are looking for the perfect mix of family fun and exciting new adventures, this is the ship for you!

Kids area on cruise ship

Family hanging out on cruise line

While your kiddos are busy making best friends for life, mom and dad can escape to the Dueling Piano Bar for some lively entertainment. After all, kids can't have all the fun!

Person playing piano at dinner show on cruise ship

Whatever vacation you choose, you can't go wrong with a family cruise. Reconnect with the kids, each other and make a few new friends along the way! You never know, you may meet those special vacation friends you will have for life!

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