Do All Cruise Lines Charge Full Price for a Baby Find Out Here

Not all cruise lines charge full price for babies, but policies vary widely by brand and sailing region. Some lines offer free or discounted fares for infants under 2 years old, while others apply full adult rates—making it essential to research specific cruise line rules before booking.

Key Takeaways

• Not all lines charge full price: Many offer discounted or free fares for infants under 2.
• Check age cutoffs: Infant pricing often applies only to babies under 24 months.
• Book early: Infant discounts may be limited to specific staterooms or sailings.
• Verify port fees: Even free-fare babies often pay taxes and port charges.
• Ask about perks: Some lines include cribs, babysitting, or meals for infants.
• Compare policies: Budget vs. luxury lines vary widely in infant pricing structures.

Why Taking a Baby on a Cruise Feels Like a Puzzle

You’ve finally decided to take the leap—your first family vacation with your baby. The beach is calling, the waves are soothing, and you’re picturing your little one giggling as they dip tiny toes into the ocean. But then you start looking at cruise prices, and your heart sinks. Is your baby really going to cost the same as an adult? It feels unfair. After all, they’re not ordering cocktails, using the gym, or even eating a full buffet plate. Yet, when you check the booking page, there’s no “baby discount” button in sight.

You’re not alone in this confusion. Many parents assume that because their infant doesn’t occupy a bed, use many amenities, or even consume full meals, they should be free or heavily discounted. But the reality? It depends. Cruise lines have different policies when it comes to infants, and understanding them can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. The good news? Not all cruise lines charge full price for a baby. Some are surprisingly generous. Others? Not so much. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know, from hidden fees to age cutoffs, and help you find the best cruise for your growing family—without breaking the bank.

How Cruise Lines Define “Infant” and Why It Matters

Before we dive into pricing, it’s important to understand how cruise lines define an “infant.” This isn’t just about age—it’s about policy, logistics, and sometimes even the ship’s capacity. Getting this wrong could mean paying more than you need to—or worse, being turned away at the terminal.

Age Cutoffs: The 12-Month Rule and Exceptions

Most major cruise lines consider a child under 12 months old to be an infant. This is the standard used by companies like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). But there are nuances. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Infants must be at least 6 months old on embarkation day for most sailings, and 12 months for transatlantic or world cruises.
• Carnival: Infants must be at least 6 months old at the start of the cruise, regardless of destination.
• Disney Cruise Line: Requires infants to be at least 6 months old for most itineraries, but 12 months for longer voyages.

Why the age requirement? Safety. Babies under 6 months may not have the immune system to handle the close quarters of a ship, and cruise lines want to minimize health risks. So if your baby is 5 months old and you’re eyeing a 7-day Caribbean trip, you might need to wait a month—or choose a line with a more flexible policy.

What Counts as a “Cabin Occupant”?

Here’s where things get tricky. Even if your baby is under 12 months, they still count as a cabin occupant. That means:

• You’ll need a cabin that accommodates 3 or more people (unless you’re willing to squeeze a crib into a standard stateroom).
• Some lines charge a “third guest” fee if your baby is the third or fourth person in the room—even if they’re an infant.
• On ships with occupancy limits, having a baby might mean you can’t book certain room categories.

For example, a standard inside cabin on a Carnival ship might list a maximum occupancy of 2. If you add a baby, you’ll need to upgrade to a triple or quad cabin—which can cost more, even if the baby’s ticket is discounted.

The Crib Factor: Free or Fee?

Most cruise lines provide cribs for infants at no extra charge—but you must request them in advance. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer bassinets for babies under 6 months. Others, like MSC Cruises, may charge a small fee for crib delivery or require you to bring your own.

Pro tip: Always call the cruise line 4–6 weeks before departure to confirm crib availability and request it. Don’t rely on the online booking system—sometimes the option isn’t visible until after you’ve booked.

Which Cruise Lines Charge Full Price for Babies (And Which Don’t)

Now for the big question: Do all cruise lines charge full price for a baby? The short answer? No. But the long answer involves a mix of free, discounted, and sometimes even “full price” policies depending on the line, the sailing, and how you book.

Lines That Offer Free or Heavily Discounted Infant Rates

These cruise lines are known for being baby-friendly when it comes to pricing:

• Royal Caribbean: Babies under 2 years old sail free on most sailings—as long as they’re the third or fourth guest in the cabin. The first two guests pay full price, but the infant is free. Note: This applies to base fare only. You’ll still pay port fees and taxes (usually $50–$150 per person).
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Similar to Royal Caribbean. Infants under 2 sail free as the third or fourth guest. Port fees and taxes still apply.
• MSC Cruises: Babies under 2 sail free on all sailings, including port fees and taxes—yes, really. This is one of the most generous policies in the industry.
• Holland America Line: Infants under 2 sail free as the third or fourth guest. Port fees and taxes are extra.

Real example: A 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on Royal Caribbean might cost $1,200 per adult. With a baby as the third guest, you’d pay $2,400 for two adults + ~$100 in port fees for the baby. Total: ~$2,500. Without the free infant rate, it would be $3,600+—a savings of over $1,100.

Lines That Charge Full Price (or Close to It)

Not all cruise lines are as generous. Some charge full price for infants, or apply only a small discount:

• Disney Cruise Line: Babies under 3 years old pay full fare—yes, full price. This is because Disney includes character meet-and-greets, themed nurseries, and other baby-focused amenities. But it’s a hard pill to swallow when you’re paying $1,800 for a 10-month-old.
• Carnival Cruise Line: While infants under 2 don’t pay base fare if they’re the third or fourth guest, they still pay port fees and taxes. However, Carnival often runs promotions like “Kids Sail Free,” which can extend to infants during certain booking periods.
• Princess Cruises: Babies under 2 sail free as the third or fourth guest, but port fees and taxes apply. No free crib—you must request one in advance.

Important note: Even when a baby “sails free,” you’re still paying port fees and taxes. These are mandatory and non-negotiable. They typically range from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the itinerary and departure port.

Exceptions and Fine Print

Always read the terms. For example:

• Group bookings: If you’re part of a group (like a family reunion), the free infant policy may not apply. Some lines require at least two full-fare guests per cabin.
• Special sailings: Holiday cruises (Christmas, New Year’s) often have different pricing. The “free infant” deal might be suspended.
• Booking through third parties: If you book via a travel agent or discount site, the infant policy might differ from the cruise line’s direct offer. Always confirm with the cruise line directly.

Hidden Costs: What “Free” Really Means for Your Baby

Just because your baby’s base fare is free doesn’t mean the vacation is cheap. There are several hidden or overlooked costs that can add up fast—especially when you’re traveling with an infant.

Port Fees and Taxes: The Non-Negotiable Add-On

Even on lines that offer free infant fares, port fees and taxes are almost always charged. These cover docking fees, customs, and local taxes. They’re based on the itinerary, not the passenger’s age.

• Example: A 7-day Alaska cruise might have $180 in port fees per person.
• Your baby, even if “free,” still pays $180.
• For a family of four (2 adults + 2 infants), that’s $720 in port fees alone.

Tip: Ask the cruise line for a detailed breakdown of fees before booking. Some lines include them in the total price; others add them later.

Gratuities: Do You Tip for a Baby?

Yes—and this is often overlooked. Cruise lines automatically charge daily gratuities (typically $16–$20 per person, per day) for all guests, including infants. That means your 6-month-old could be racking up $140 in tips for a 7-day cruise.

You can adjust or opt out of gratuities, but you’ll need to do it in advance—usually before boarding. Some lines allow you to remove gratuities for infants, but you must request it in writing.

Special Services and Amenities

While most cruise lines offer free cribs, other baby services may come with fees:

• Baby food and formula: Some lines (like Disney) offer complimentary baby food. Others require you to bring your own or pay for delivery.
• Nursery access: Royal Caribbean’s “Adventure Ocean” nursery charges $8–$10 per hour for infants under 3.
• Diaper changing stations: Most public restrooms have them, but some older ships don’t. Pack extra supplies.
• Stroller storage: You can’t leave strollers in hallways. Some lines offer storage rooms, but space is limited.

Pro tip: Bring a compact, foldable stroller. Umbrella strollers are ideal—they fit in tight spaces and are easy to carry on and off tenders.

Medical and Safety Considerations

Cruise ships have medical centers, but they’re not pediatric hospitals. If your baby gets sick, you may need to visit an onshore clinic—and pay out of pocket. Travel insurance with medical coverage is a must.

• Look for policies that cover infants at no extra charge.
• Confirm that the policy covers pre-existing conditions if your baby has health issues.

Smart Booking Strategies to Save Money on a Baby Cruise

Now that you know the ins and outs, how do you actually save money? Here are proven strategies to get the best deal on a cruise with your baby.

Book During “Kids Sail Free” Promotions

Many cruise lines run seasonal promotions like “Kids Sail Free” or “Third Guest Free.” These often apply to infants under 2. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Frequently offers “Kids Sail Free” on select sailings. Check their website or sign up for email alerts.
• Carnival: Runs similar promotions, especially for last-minute bookings or off-peak seasons.
• MSC Cruises: Their “Kids Sail Free” deal often includes port fees and taxes—making it one of the best values.

When to book: These deals are most common during shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) and after holidays.

Choose the Right Cabin Type

Booking a triple or quad cabin is essential when traveling with a baby. But don’t just pick the cheapest one. Look for:

• Family suites: Some lines (like Disney and Royal Caribbean) offer family staterooms with extra space, pull-down beds, and crib-friendly layouts.
• Balcony cabins: Worth the extra cost if you plan to spend time in the room. A balcony gives you private outdoor space—perfect for naptime.
• Connecting rooms: Ideal if you’re traveling with grandparents or another family. You get privacy but can share childcare duties.

Book Directly with the Cruise Line

While third-party sites offer discounts, they may not honor the cruise line’s infant policy. Booking directly ensures:

• You get the official “free infant” rate.
• You can request a crib and confirm nursery availability.
• You have direct access to customer service if issues arise.

Bonus: Some lines offer onboard credit (like $50–$100) for direct bookings—use it for nursery fees or souvenirs.

Travel Off-Peak

Fewer crowds, lower prices, and better service. Off-peak months (January, September, early December) are ideal for baby cruises. You’ll avoid spring break chaos and get better deals on shore excursions.

Real Families, Real Stories: What Worked (And What Didn’t)

Let’s hear from real parents who’ve been there. Their experiences offer practical insights you won’t find in a brochure.

Sarah & Mark: The MSC Surprise

Sarah, a mom of a 9-month-old, booked an MSC cruise from Miami to the Bahamas. “We were shocked when they said the baby sails free—including port fees. We saved over $600. The ship had a great baby play area, and the staff brought a crib to our room the same day we boarded. Only downside? The nursery was closed for renovations. We had to bring the baby to dinner every night.”

The Johnsons: Disney’s High Price Tag

The Johnson family booked a 5-day Disney cruise. “We paid full price for our 11-month-old—over $1,200. But we loved the character breakfasts and the baby splash pad. It was worth it for the memories, but we wouldn’t do it again unless we had a bigger budget.”

Tips from the Trenches

• Bring your own baby food: Even if the line offers it, flavors may not suit your baby.
• Pack extra diapers and wipes: Onboard stores charge a premium.
• Use the ship’s laundry room: Saves space and avoids packing 10 outfits.
• Download the cruise app: Check nursery hours, dining times, and baby-friendly activities.

Comparing Cruise Line Infant Policies: A Quick Reference

Cruise Line	Infant Age Policy	Base Fare	Port Fees & Taxes	Crib	Nursery Fees
Royal Caribbean	6–12 months (varies by itinerary)	Free (3rd/4th guest)	Yes ($50–$200)	Free (request in advance)	$8–$10/hour
Norwegian Cruise Line	6 months+	Free (3rd/4th guest)	Yes	Free	$7–$9/hour
MSC Cruises	6 months+	Free (including port fees)	No	Free or fee (varies)	$10/hour
Disney Cruise Line	6–12 months (varies)	Full price	Yes	Free	Free (limited hours)
Carnival Cruise Line	6 months+	Free (3rd/4th guest, during promos)	Yes	Free	$8/hour

The Bottom Line: You Don’t Have to Pay Full Price

So, do all cruise lines charge full price for a baby? Absolutely not. While some—like Disney—do charge full fare, many others offer free or deeply discounted rates for infants under 2. The key is knowing the policies, reading the fine print, and booking smart.

Your baby’s first cruise doesn’t have to be a budget-breaker. With the right line, the right timing, and a few insider tips, you can enjoy a relaxing, memorable vacation without paying adult prices for a tiny traveler. Whether you’re drawn to MSC’s all-inclusive free infant deal or Royal Caribbean’s flexible family cabins, there’s a cruise out there that fits your needs—and your wallet.

Remember: Ask questions, book early, and pack smart. And most importantly, enjoy every moment. Those first giggles on deck? Priceless. And that’s one thing no cruise line can charge you for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cruise lines charge full price for a baby?

No, not all cruise lines charge full price for a baby. Many offer discounted or even free fares for infants under a certain age, though policies vary by line and itinerary.

What is the typical age cutoff for reduced fares for babies on cruise lines?

Most cruise lines consider infants 2 years old and under as eligible for reduced or free fares. However, some luxury or specialty lines may have different age thresholds or pricing rules.

Are there hidden costs for bringing a baby on a cruise?

While base fares for babies may be low or free, you might still pay taxes, port fees, or gratuities. Additionally, specialty services like babysitting or infant meals may incur extra charges.

Do cruise lines charge full price for a baby on family-friendly ships?

Even on family-friendly ships, some cruise lines may still charge a reduced fare for babies instead of full price. Always check the specific line’s policy, as discounts often apply to infants under 2.

Can I book a cabin without an extra bed for my baby on a cruise?

Yes, most cruise lines allow infants to share a cabin with parents at no extra charge for the child’s bed. However, you must still pay applicable port fees and taxes for the infant.

Do luxury cruise lines charge full price for a baby?

Luxury cruise lines often have more flexible policies, with some offering complimentary fares for babies under 2. Others may charge a nominal fee, but full-price tickets for infants are rare in this segment.