Do All Cruise Lines Charge for Infants Find Out Here

Not all cruise lines charge for infants, but policies vary widely—some offer free or discounted fares for children under two, while others apply full or partial rates. Always check the cruise line’s specific infant policy before booking to avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smooth family vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Not all cruise lines charge infants: Some offer free or discounted fares for under-2s.
• Always compare policies: Infant fees vary widely between cruise lines and sailings.
• Check age cutoffs: Most define infants as under 24 months at sailing start.
• Book early for best deals: Limited infant-free spots fill up fast on popular routes.
• Ask about port fees: Even free infant fares may include mandatory taxes and charges.
• Verify cabin occupancy rules: Some lines restrict infants in certain room categories.
• Request cribs in advance: Free infant amenities require advance notice on most ships.

Do All Cruise Lines Charge for Infants? Find Out Here

Imagine setting sail on a luxurious cruise, the sun dipping below the horizon, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of saltwater, and your infant cooing in your arms. For many families, cruising is a dream vacation—a chance to relax, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories. But one question often lingers in the minds of parents planning a cruise with their little ones: do all cruise lines charge for infants?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. While some cruise lines offer free or discounted infant fares, others charge full or partial prices, and policies can vary significantly based on age, itinerary, and even cabin type. Understanding these nuances is crucial for budgeting, planning, and avoiding unexpected expenses. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing how each major cruise line handles infant pricing can help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth, stress-free vacation for your entire family.

Understanding Infant Pricing Policies Across Major Cruise Lines

Infant pricing on cruise ships isn’t standardized. Each cruise line operates under its own set of rules, influenced by operational costs, onboard capacity, and target demographics. While infants are typically defined as children under 2 years old at the time of sailing, the exact age cutoffs, fees, and inclusions can differ. Let’s explore how the top cruise lines approach infant fares and what you can expect.

Infant Age Definitions and Cutoffs

Most cruise lines define an infant as a child under 24 months old. However, some lines use a stricter cutoff—such as 12 months—for special promotions or free infant offers. For example:

• Celebrity Cruises considers infants under 24 months at sailing date.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) defines infants as under 2 years, but free infant deals may require the child to be under 12 months at booking.
• Carnival Cruise Line uses a 24-month cutoff but may require infants to be at least 6 months old for transatlantic or repositioning cruises.

Always verify the age requirement at the time of booking, especially if your child is close to the age limit. Some lines may require proof of age (e.g., birth certificate) during check-in.

Free vs. Discounted vs. Full-Price Infant Fares

Cruise lines fall into three main categories when it comes to infant pricing:

• Free or heavily discounted: Lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises often offer free infant fares on select sailings, especially on 7-night or longer cruises. These promotions may require at least two full-fare guests in the stateroom.
• Discounted (partial fare): Princess Cruises and Holland America Line typically charge a small percentage (e.g., 25–50%) of the adult fare for infants. This covers port taxes, fees, and basic onboard services.
• Full or near-full fare: Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn may charge full fare for infants, as their all-inclusive pricing model includes premium services for all guests, regardless of age.

For example, on a 7-night Royal Caribbean cruise from Miami to the Caribbean, an infant under 24 months might sail free with two paying adults, while the same infant on a 3-night Carnival cruise could cost $150–$250 in port taxes and fees.

Special Promotions and Limited-Time Offers

Many cruise lines run seasonal promotions that include free infant fares. These are often marketed as “Kids Sail Free” or “Infants Cruise Free” deals and are more common during off-peak seasons (e.g., January–March, September–October). For instance:

• Royal Caribbean’s “Kids Sail Free” promotion (2023–2024) included infants under 2 on select sailings.
• NCL’s “Free at Sea” package sometimes extends free infant fares when bundled with other perks.

Tip: Sign up for cruise line newsletters and follow their social media accounts to catch these time-sensitive offers. Booking during promotional periods can save hundreds of dollars.

Factors That Influence Infant Pricing

Why do some cruise lines charge for infants while others don’t? The answer lies in a mix of operational, financial, and strategic factors. Understanding these can help you anticipate costs and plan smarter.

Operational Costs and Capacity

Cruise ships are designed for a specific number of guests, and every person—regardless of age—occupies space, consumes resources, and requires safety measures. Even infants need:

• Life jackets and safety gear
• Medical attention (ships have infirmaries)
• Space in elevators, dining areas, and emergency evacuation plans

Lines that charge partial or full fares often cite these costs. For example, Carnival Cruise Line charges port taxes and fees for infants because they’re legally required to report all passengers to port authorities, even if they’re not paying full fare.

Target Market and Brand Positioning

Family-focused lines like Royal Caribbean and NCL use free infant fares as a competitive advantage to attract young families. These lines have robust kids’ programs (e.g., Adventure Ocean), family cabins, and onboard activities for all ages. In contrast, luxury lines like Silversea or Oceania Cruises target affluent travelers and may not prioritize infant-friendly amenities, hence charging full fare to maintain exclusivity.

Itinerary and Cruise Duration

Longer cruises (10+ nights) and repositioning voyages (e.g., transatlantic crossings) often have stricter infant policies. For example:

• Disney Cruise Line requires infants to be at least 6 months old for transatlantic cruises due to health and safety regulations.
• Cunard Line charges higher fees for infants on Queen Mary 2’s transatlantic sailings, which last 7 nights and require more medical preparedness.

Shorter, regional cruises (3–5 nights) are more likely to offer free or discounted infant fares because operational risks are lower.

Third-Party Booking Platforms

When booking through travel agencies, online platforms (e.g., Expedia, Costco Travel), or cruise consolidators, infant pricing may differ from the cruise line’s official website. Some third-party sellers add service fees or don’t honor free infant promotions. Always compare prices across platforms and verify with the cruise line directly.

Top Cruise Lines Compared: Infant Pricing Breakdown

To help you navigate the options, here’s a detailed comparison of how the top 10 cruise lines handle infant fares. This table summarizes key policies as of 2024.

Cruise Line	Infant Age Cutoff	Typical Infant Fare	Free Infant Promotions	Special Requirements
Royal Caribbean	Under 24 months	Free on select sailings; otherwise, port taxes & fees only	Yes (“Kids Sail Free”)	Min. 6 months for transatlantic cruises
Celebrity Cruises	Under 24 months	Free on 7+ night cruises; otherwise, 25% of adult fare	Yes (seasonal)	Infants must be at least 6 months old
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)	Under 24 months	Free on select sailings; otherwise, port taxes & fees	Yes (“Free at Sea”)	Free fare requires 12+ month old at booking
Carnival Cruise Line	Under 24 months	Port taxes & fees (~$150–$300)	Rare	Min. 6 months for transatlantic cruises
Princess Cruises	Under 24 months	25–50% of adult fare	Occasional (e.g., “3 for Free”)	Infants must be at least 6 months old
Disney Cruise Line	Under 24 months	Port taxes & fees + $99–$150 service fee	No	Min. 6 months for all cruises
Holland America Line	Under 24 months	25–50% of adult fare	Occasional (e.g., “Kids Cruise Free”)	Min. 6 months for transatlantic cruises
MSC Cruises	Under 24 months	Free on select sailings; otherwise, port taxes & fees	Yes (“Kids Sail Free”)	Infants must be at least 6 months old
Regent Seven Seas Cruises	Under 24 months	Full adult fare (all-inclusive)	No	Min. 12 months for most cruises
Seabourn	Under 24 months	Full adult fare (all-inclusive)	No	Min. 12 months for all cruises

Note: Policies are subject to change. Always check the cruise line’s official website or contact customer service before booking.

Case Study: Family of 4 Booking a 7-Night Caribbean Cruise

Let’s say a family of four (two adults, one 18-month-old infant, and one 4-year-old) books a 7-night Caribbean cruise in June 2024. Here’s how pricing might vary:

• Royal Caribbean: Adults pay $1,200 each ($2,400 total). Infant sails free. 4-year-old pays $600 (50% off). Total: $3,000.
• Carnival: Adults pay $1,000 each ($2,000 total). Infant pays $200 (port fees). 4-year-old pays $500. Total: $2,700.
• Disney Cruise Line: Adults pay $1,500 each ($3,000 total). Infant pays $250 (port fees + service). 4-year-old pays $750. Total: $4,000.

While Disney is more expensive, it offers exclusive character experiences, themed dining, and a dedicated nursery. Carnival is budget-friendly but lacks infant-specific amenities. Royal Caribbean strikes a balance with free infant fare and robust kids’ programs.

Hidden Costs and What’s Included (or Not) for Infants

Even when an infant sails “free,” there may be hidden costs. Understanding what’s included—and what isn’t—can prevent surprises at the end of your cruise.

Port Taxes, Fees, and Service Charges

Most cruise lines charge port taxes and government fees for infants, even if the base fare is free. These typically range from $100 to $300 per infant, depending on the itinerary. For example:

• A 5-night Bahamas cruise: $120 in port fees per infant
• A 14-night Mediterranean cruise: $280 in port fees per infant

Service charges (gratuities) are another consideration. While some lines (e.g., Royal Caribbean) include gratuities in the fare, others (e.g., Carnival) add them post-cruise. Infants usually don’t incur gratuity charges, but check your final invoice.

Onboard Amenities and Services

Free or discounted fares often exclude premium services. For example:

• Dining: Infants eat free at main dining rooms, but specialty restaurants (e.g., steakhouse, sushi bar) may charge a small fee for high chairs or pureed food.
• Nursery/Childcare: Lines like Royal Caribbean and Disney offer paid nursery programs for infants (~$8–$12/hour). Free infant fare doesn’t include these services.
• Excursions: Infants may need a separate seat on shore excursions (e.g., bus tours, snorkeling), which can cost $20–$50 per activity.

Tip: Pack essentials like diapers, formula, and baby food. While most ships have basic supplies, they’re often overpriced and limited in variety.

Travel Insurance and Medical Coverage

Infants require travel insurance just like adults. Standard policies cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Some insurers offer “infant add-ons” for as little as $20 per trip. Without insurance, a medical evacuation from a cruise ship can cost $50,000+.

Additionally, check if your cruise line requires infants to have medical clearance for certain itineraries (e.g., remote destinations with limited healthcare).

Baggage and Stroller Policies

Most lines allow one stroller per infant free of charge. However, oversized strollers may incur a fee or be stored in a designated area. Check baggage allowances for baby gear (e.g., car seats, cribs). For example:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Free stroller storage; cribs provided on request (no charge).
• Cunard Line: $50 fee for oversized strollers; cribs available for $25/night.

Expert Tips for Booking Cruises with Infants

Booking a cruise with an infant doesn’t have to be stressful. With these expert tips, you can save money, avoid pitfalls, and enjoy a seamless vacation.

Book Early and Be Flexible

Free infant promotions often have limited availability. Book 6–12 months in advance, especially for popular itineraries (e.g., Alaska, Mediterranean). Be flexible with dates—mid-week sailings or off-peak seasons (e.g., January, September) are more likely to have infant discounts.

Verify Age Requirements and Documentation

Double-check the infant’s age cutoff. If your child turns 2 during the cruise, some lines may charge full fare for the entire trip. Bring a copy of the birth certificate and passport (if traveling internationally) to avoid delays at check-in.

Choose the Right Cabin Type

Family cabins (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Family Oceanview, Disney’s Family Staterooms) offer more space and amenities like cribs, bathtubs, and separate sleeping areas. Interior cabins are cheaper but may feel cramped with a crib and stroller.

Leverage Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Cruise line loyalty programs (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society) often include perks like free nursery access or onboard credits for families. Military, AAA, and senior discounts may also apply.

Prepare for the Cruise

• Pack smart: Bring enough formula, diapers, and medications for the trip + 2–3 extra days.
• Download apps: Use cruise line apps to check in early, reserve dining, and access nursery schedules.
• Plan shore excursions: Choose baby-friendly activities (e.g., beach days, glass-bottom boat tours) and avoid crowded, high-energy tours.

Know Your Rights and Options

If the cruise line denies a free infant fare you were promised, escalate to a supervisor or file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Most lines will honor advertised promotions if you have proof (e.g., email, screenshot).

Conclusion: Planning a Stress-Free Cruise with Your Infant

So, do all cruise lines charge for infants? The short answer is no—but the long answer is that it depends on the line, itinerary, and timing. Family-friendly giants like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises often offer free infant fares, while luxury lines like Regent and Seabourn charge full price. Carnival and Disney fall in the middle, with partial fees and service charges.

The key to a successful cruise with your infant is research, flexibility, and preparation. Compare policies across lines, book during promotional periods, and factor in hidden costs like port fees, excursions, and insurance. With the right planning, a cruise can be a magical experience for your entire family—even the littlest members.

Remember: A free infant fare isn’t just about saving money; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re watching your baby’s first sunset over the ocean or introducing them to new cultures onshore, the journey is worth every penny—and every diaper change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cruise lines charge for infants?

Most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, charge a base fare for infants (typically under 2 years old), though the cost is often discounted. However, some luxury or specialty lines may include infants for free—always verify during booking.

Which cruise lines offer free or discounted fares for infants?

Certain luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea often waive infant fees as part of all-inclusive pricing. Mainstream lines like Disney Cruise Line and MSC may offer reduced rates—check promotions for do all cruise lines charge for infants deals.

Are infants counted toward the per-cabin guest limit?

Yes, infants are almost always counted toward the maximum occupancy of a cabin, even if they sleep in a crib or share a bed. This policy is consistent across most cruise lines, including Carnival and Princess.

Do I need to pay port fees and taxes for my infant?

Yes, infants are subject to government taxes and port fees, which are usually included in their discounted fare. These mandatory charges apply even if the cruise line offers a “free” infant promotion.

Can I bring a stroller or crib for my infant onboard?

Most cruise lines allow collapsible strollers and provide cribs upon request at no extra cost. Confirm availability in advance, as policies vary—especially for do all cruise lines charge for infants scenarios with unique amenities.

What documents are required for infants on a cruise?

Infants need valid passports (or certified birth certificates for closed-loop cruises departing/returning to the same U.S. port). Some lines may require additional paperwork, so review requirements early.