Do Cruise Lines Charge for Babies Find Out Here

Yes, most cruise lines do charge for babies, typically including infants under two in the base fare or as a discounted third/fourth guest. However, policies vary widely—some lines offer free sailings for babies on select sailings, while others require full or partial payment regardless of age.

Key Takeaways

• Most cruise lines charge for infants as a third/fourth guest, even if they’re babies.
• Infant fares often include full port fees and taxes, not just a nominal onboard charge.
• Always verify age cutoffs—some lines consider infants under 12 months free, others up to 24 months.
• Book early for bassinets; availability is limited and prioritized for families with infants.
• Check for free nursery access—some lines offer complimentary childcare for babies as young as 6 months.
• Pack essentials; formula, diapers, and baby food may be scarce or costly onboard.

Do Cruise Lines Charge for Babies? Find Out Here

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you have a little one in tow. One of the most common questions parents ask is: Do cruise lines charge for babies? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. While some cruise lines welcome infants at no additional cost, others may charge fees or impose age restrictions. Understanding these policies can make a significant difference in your travel budget and overall experience. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing the ins and outs of infant pricing is crucial for a smooth and stress-free trip.

Cruise vacations are often seen as a luxurious getaway, but they can also be surprisingly family-friendly. With amenities like kids’ clubs, family staterooms, and even baby care services, many cruise lines are stepping up their game to accommodate families with young children. However, the cost of bringing a baby onboard can vary widely depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and time of year. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the policies of major cruise lines, break down the costs, and provide practical tips to help you plan the perfect cruise vacation with your little one. From age restrictions to hidden fees, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding Cruise Line Policies for Infants

Age Definitions: What Qualifies as a “Baby”?

Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand how cruise lines define an “infant” or “baby.” Most cruise lines consider children under the age of 2 as infants, but the exact age cutoffs can vary. For example:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Babies must be at least 6 months old on shorter sailings (3-5 days) and 12 months old on longer itineraries (7+ days).
• Royal Caribbean: Infants must be at least 6 months old for most cruises, but 12 months for transatlantic or transpacific voyages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Babies must be at least 6 months old for all sailings, with no exceptions for longer cruises.
• Disney Cruise Line: Babies as young as 12 weeks old are welcome on all itineraries.

These age restrictions are in place for safety reasons, as infants require specialized care and may not be suitable for certain activities onboard. Always check the specific cruise line’s policy before booking, especially if your baby is on the cusp of the age requirement.

Why Age Matters: Safety and Logistics

The age restrictions aren’t just arbitrary rules—they’re designed to ensure the safety and comfort of your little one. Infants under 6 months may not have the immune system strength to handle the close quarters of a cruise ship, and some medical facilities onboard may not be equipped for newborns. Additionally, cruise lines need to plan for lifejacket sizes, crib availability, and even the logistics of disembarking in an emergency. For example, Royal Caribbean requires infants to be at least 6 months old because their lifejackets are designed for babies weighing at least 18 pounds.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Some cruise lines offer exceptions for special circumstances, such as a baby’s first birthday during the cruise. Disney Cruise Line, for instance, allows babies as young as 12 weeks old, making it a top choice for families with very young infants. However, these exceptions often require additional documentation, such as a doctor’s note confirming the baby’s health and readiness for travel. Always contact the cruise line directly if you’re unsure about their policies or need to request an exception.

Do All Cruise Lines Charge for Babies?

Lines with Free or Discounted Infant Pricing

Good news for budget-conscious families: several cruise lines offer free or discounted fares for infants. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most family-friendly options:

• Royal Caribbean: Babies under 2 sail free as a third or fourth passenger in the same stateroom. However, taxes, fees, and gratuities still apply.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Similar to Royal Caribbean, infants under 2 are free as a third or fourth passenger, but port fees and taxes must be paid.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Babies under 2 are free as a third or fourth passenger, but again, taxes and fees are not included.
• Disney Cruise Line: Infants under 2 sail for free, including port fees and taxes, making it one of the most generous policies in the industry.

These policies can save families hundreds of dollars, but it’s important to note that “free” doesn’t always mean “no cost.” Port fees, taxes, and gratuities can add up, so always factor these into your budget.

Lines That Charge for Infants

Not all cruise lines offer free infant fares. Some charge a percentage of the adult fare or require a minimum payment. Examples include:

• Princess Cruises: Babies under 2 are charged 25% of the adult fare as a third or fourth passenger, plus taxes and fees.
• Holland America Line: Infants under 2 are charged 25% of the adult fare, with additional port fees and taxes.
• MSC Cruises: Babies under 3 are charged a flat rate, which varies by itinerary and season.

While these costs may seem steep, they’re often justified by the amenities provided, such as dedicated baby care centers or specialized staterooms. Always compare the total cost of the cruise, including fees and taxes, to determine the best value for your family.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Even if the base fare for your baby is free, there are often additional costs to consider:

• Port Fees and Taxes: These are mandatory and can range from $100 to $300 per person, including infants.
• Gratuities: Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities for all passengers, including infants, which can add up to $15–$20 per day.
• Special Services: Baby care services, crib rentals, and specialty dining may incur extra charges.

To avoid surprises, request a detailed breakdown of all fees from your cruise line or travel agent before booking.

Tips for Booking a Cruise with a Baby

Choose the Right Cruise Line

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to family travel. If you’re traveling with a baby, prioritize lines with:

• Generous infant policies (free or discounted fares).
• Dedicated baby care centers or nurseries (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Royal Babies & Tots program).
• Family-friendly staterooms with cribs, changing tables, and extra space.

Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival are consistently ranked as top choices for families with young children. However, smaller lines like Viking Ocean Cruises (which offers free infant fares on select sailings) may also be worth considering.

Book Early and Request Special Accommodations

Cruise lines often have limited space for cribs, strollers, and other baby gear, so it’s best to book as early as possible. When you book, be sure to:

• Request a crib or bassinet in your stateroom.
• Ask about stroller storage or rental options.
• Inquire about baby food, formula, or milk availability onboard.

Most cruise lines are happy to accommodate these requests, but they may need advance notice to arrange everything.

Pack Smart: What to Bring for Your Baby

Packing for a cruise with a baby requires extra planning. Here’s a checklist of essentials:

• Enough diapers, wipes, and rash cream for the entire trip (plus extras).
• Baby food, formula, or snacks (most cruise lines can store these in your room’s refrigerator).
• A lightweight, collapsible stroller (preferably a travel-friendly model).
• Sun protection (hat, UV-protective clothing, and baby-safe sunscreen).
• Entertainment (toys, books, and a tablet loaded with baby-friendly apps).

Pro tip: Many cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of baby food and formula through security, but check the specific rules before packing.

Plan for Shore Excursions

Shore excursions can be tricky with a baby, but they don’t have to be a dealbreaker. Consider:

• Booking private tours with baby-friendly transportation (e.g., car seats or stroller access).
• Choosing shorter, less crowded excursions to avoid overstimulating your little one.
• Staying on the ship if the port doesn’t have baby-friendly amenities (some parents prefer this anyway).

Remember, it’s okay to skip the excursions entirely if your baby isn’t up for it. The cruise ship itself offers plenty of entertainment and relaxation for the whole family.

Comparing Major Cruise Lines: Infant Pricing and Policies

To help you compare the options, here’s a detailed table of major cruise lines and their infant policies:

Cruise Line	Minimum Age	Infant Fare	Taxes/Fees	Special Notes
Royal Caribbean	6 months (12 months for transatlantic)	Free (third/fourth passenger)	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	Royal Babies & Tots program available
Carnival	6 months (12 months for 7+ days)	Free (third/fourth passenger)	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	Carnival’s Camp Ocean includes baby care
Norwegian	6 months	Free (third/fourth passenger)	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	Family staterooms available
Disney	12 weeks	Free (including taxes and fees)	None	Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery for babies 3 months and older
Princess	6 months	25% of adult fare	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	No dedicated baby care center
Holland America	6 months	25% of adult fare	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	Family staterooms available
MSC	6 months	Flat rate (varies by itinerary)	Port fees, taxes, and gratuities apply	MSC Baby Club for infants 6 months–3 years

This table highlights the key differences between cruise lines, but always verify the latest policies directly with the cruise line or your travel agent, as rules can change.

Real-Life Examples: Families Share Their Cruise Experiences

Case Study 1: The Smith Family (Royal Caribbean)

The Smith family booked a 7-night Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean when their baby was 7 months old. Since the cruise was longer than 5 days, the 6-month age requirement applied. Their baby sailed free as a third passenger, but they paid $120 in port fees and $15 per day in gratuities. The family loved the Royal Babies & Tots program, which provided toys, cribs, and even a babysitting service. “It was worth every penny,” says Sarah Smith. “Our baby had a blast, and we got some much-needed downtime.”

Case Study 2: The Garcias (Disney Cruise Line)

The Garcia family chose Disney Cruise Line for their 4-month-old’s first cruise. Thanks to Disney’s 12-week minimum age, they were able to sail without paying for the baby. The It’s a Small World Nursery provided a safe space for their little one, and the family enjoyed character meet-and-greets and kid-friendly dining. “Disney made it so easy,” says Maria Garcia. “We didn’t have to worry about a thing.”

Case Study 3: The Johnsons (Norwegian Cruise Line)

The Johnson family booked a 5-day Alaska cruise with Norwegian when their baby was 6 months old. Their infant sailed free, but they paid $100 in port fees and $14 per day in gratuities. They appreciated the family stateroom’s extra space and the ship’s relaxed atmosphere. “It was the perfect intro to cruising for our baby,” says Mark Johnson. “We’ll definitely do it again.”

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Family

So, do cruise lines charge for babies? The answer depends on the cruise line, itinerary, and your baby’s age. While some lines offer free or discounted fares, others charge a percentage of the adult fare or require additional fees. By researching policies in advance, booking early, and packing smart, you can minimize costs and maximize fun for the whole family.

Remember, the best cruise line for your family isn’t necessarily the cheapest—it’s the one that meets your needs, whether that’s a dedicated baby care center, spacious staterooms, or flexible dining options. With the right preparation, a cruise with a baby can be a memorable and stress-free experience. So pack your bags, grab the diapers, and get ready for an adventure your little one will (eventually) remember!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cruise lines charge for babies under 2 years old?

Most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Carnival, charge a reduced fare for infants under 2, but they are not entirely free. These fares typically include port fees and taxes but exclude gratuities or specialty dining.

Are there any cruise lines that offer free cruises for babies?

A few luxury or river cruise lines occasionally run promotions where infants sail free, but this is rare. Always check the cruise line’s current policy, as standard bookings usually include a base fare for babies.

What does the baby fare on cruise lines cover?

The fare for babies on cruise lines generally covers their berth in your stateroom, basic meals, and access to onboard activities. Additional costs like cribs, babysitting, or specialty dining may not be included.

Do cruise lines charge port fees and taxes for infants?

Yes, even if the cruise fare for babies is discounted, port fees and government taxes are usually applied per person, including infants. These charges are mandatory and vary by destination.

Can I bring a stroller or crib for my baby on a cruise?

Most cruise lines allow strollers and provide cribs or pack-n-plays upon request for infants. Check your line’s policy in advance to ensure availability and avoid extra fees.

Are there age restrictions for babies to board a cruise?

Most cruise lines require infants to be at least 6 months old on the first day of the cruise, though some transatlantic or exotic itineraries require infants to be 12 months old. Always confirm age requirements before booking.