What Cruise Lines Do Kids Sail Free Find Out Now

Several major cruise lines offer “kids sail free” promotions, making family vacations more affordable and stress-free. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Disney Cruise Line frequently run deals where children under 12 or 18 sail at no base fare—especially on select sailings and stateroom categories. Check booking terms carefully, as blackout dates and restrictions often apply.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean offers free sailings for kids on select sailings and staterooms.
• Carnival Cruise Line provides third- and fourth-child discounts, often making them sail free.
• NCL’s Free at Sea includes free kid fares when booking qualifying packages.
• MSC Cruises frequently features promotions with free or discounted kids’ rates.
• Disney Cruise Line rarely offers free kids’ deals, but check seasonal offers.
• Always book early to secure free or discounted kids’ spots before promotions end.
• Compare all costs—free kids’ fares may have hidden fees or restrictions.

What Cruise Lines Do Kids Sail Free? Find Out Now

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when budget constraints come into play. One of the most sought-after perks for families is the ability for children to sail for free on cruises. For parents, this means significant savings—often hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars—on a dream getaway. Whether you’re planning a tropical escape to the Caribbean, an adventurous Alaska voyage, or a European river cruise, the prospect of kids sailing free can make all the difference in making your family vacation a reality.

But which cruise lines truly offer kids sail free promotions, and how do these deals work? It’s not always as simple as it sounds. Some lines offer free or reduced fares only under specific conditions, such as booking window, destination, stateroom category, or age limits. Others may bundle kids’ free fares with seasonal promotions or loyalty programs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines that let kids sail free, break down the fine print, provide real-world examples, and share insider tips to help you maximize savings. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this article is your go-to resource for unlocking family-friendly cruise deals that make vacations more affordable and enjoyable for everyone.

Top Cruise Lines That Offer Kids Sail Free Promotions

Several major cruise lines have built strong reputations for family-friendly pricing, including kids sail free or kids sail at a significant discount promotions. These deals are often seasonal, tied to specific itineraries, or require booking within a limited time frame. Below are the leading cruise lines that consistently offer these valuable perks.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is a standout when it comes to family cruising, and its Kids Sail Free program is one of the most generous in the industry. Typically available on select sailings during off-peak seasons (like late summer, fall, and early winter), this promotion allows children under 12 to sail for free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare adults.

• Eligibility: Children 12 and under, must be in the same stateroom as two paying adults.
• Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and select Bahamas cruises.
• Booking Window: Usually 3–6 months before departure; often part of “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” or “Kids Sail Free” seasonal campaigns.

For example, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami in October might cost $1,400 per adult, but with the kids sail free deal, two children under 12 could join at no additional cost. That’s a savings of nearly $2,800 for a family of four.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL is known for its “Free at Sea” promotions, which often include a Kids Sail Free option as one of five customizable perks. This is especially appealing for families who want flexibility.

• Eligibility: Children 17 and under sail free on most sailings when sharing a stateroom with two paying adults.
• Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Mediterranean, and Hawaii.
• Booking Window: Promotions typically run quarterly; best deals often appear 4–8 months before departure.

One real-world example: A 10-night Alaska cruise from Seattle in September might offer “Free at Sea” with the “Kids Sail Free” perk. Two adults pay $2,200 each, and two teens sail free—saving the family over $4,000.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival markets itself as “Fun for the Whole Family,” and its Kids Sail Free deals back up that claim. These promotions are frequently available on shorter cruises (3–5 nights) and select longer itineraries.

• Eligibility: Children 11 and under sail free on most sailings; teens 12–17 may sail at a reduced rate.
• Destinations: Primarily Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico.
• Booking Window: Often part of flash sales or “Carnival Early Saver” deals; check weekly promotions.

For instance, a 4-night Bahamas cruise from Port Canaveral might cost $500 per adult, with two kids under 12 sailing free. That’s a total of $1,000 for a family of four—less than $250 per person.

Princess Cruises

While not as frequent as Royal Caribbean or NCL, Princess Cruises occasionally runs “Kids Sail Free” promotions, especially on repositioning cruises or during shoulder seasons.

• Eligibility: Children 17 and under sail free on select sailings when sharing a stateroom with two paying adults.

<

• Destinations: Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, and select Caribbean routes.
• Booking Window: Limited-time offers, usually 2–4 months before departure.

An example: A 10-night Panama Canal cruise in April might include a “Kids Sail Free” promotion. With adults paying $2,500 each, two children sail free—saving $5,000.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises has aggressively targeted the family market with its “Kids Sail Free” program, which is one of the most consistent and widely available in the industry.

• Eligibility: Children 17 and under sail free on nearly all sailings when sharing a stateroom with two paying adults.
• Destinations: Caribbean, Europe, South America, and Middle East.
• Booking Window: Available year-round on most itineraries; no seasonal restrictions.

MSC’s “Kids Sail Free” policy is particularly attractive because it applies to all children under 18, not just those under 12. For example, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami in July could cost $1,200 per adult, with two teens sailing free—saving $2,400.

How “Kids Sail Free” Deals Actually Work: The Fine Print You Need to Know

While the idea of kids sail free sounds too good to be true, most of these promotions are legitimate—but they come with specific conditions. Understanding the fine print is crucial to avoid surprises at checkout.

Age Requirements and Definitions

Not all cruise lines define “kids” the same way. Some cap eligibility at age 11, while others extend it to 17. A few lines even have tiered pricing:

• Under 12: Free or deeply discounted (Royal Caribbean, Carnival)
• 12–17: Reduced rate or free (NCL, MSC, Princess)
• Infants (under 2): Often free on all lines, but may require a port fee or insurance

Tip: Always confirm the exact age cutoff when booking. A child turning 12 during the cruise may still qualify if they are under 12 at the time of sailing.

Occupancy Rules: Who Pays?

The most common requirement is that two full-fare adults must be in the stateroom for the kids to sail free. This means:

• Single parents or solo travelers cannot use the promotion unless they book a double-occupancy stateroom.
• Third and fourth passengers (kids) are free, but the first two must pay full price.
• Upgrades to suites or balcony rooms may void the deal unless explicitly included.

For example, if you book a family of three (two adults, one child), the child sails free. But if you’re a single parent with two kids, you’ll need to pay for a second adult fare or book a double-occupancy room with a friend or relative.

Booking Windows and Seasonality

“Kids sail free” promotions are rarely available year-round. They’re often tied to:

• Off-peak seasons: September–November, January–February (after holidays)
• Shoulder seasons: Late spring or early fall
• Repositioning cruises: Ships moving between regions (e.g., Alaska to Caribbean)

Booking during these times increases your chances of snagging a deal. Set up price alerts with travel agencies or use cruise line apps to monitor promotions.

Port Fees, Taxes, and Gratuities

Even when kids sail free, port fees, government taxes, and gratuities are not included in the “free” fare. These additional costs typically range from $100 to $250 per person, depending on the itinerary.

• Port Fees: Charged by each destination port (e.g., Nassau, Cozumel, Juneau)
• Taxes: Vary by country and cruise line
• Gratuities: Often $14–$18 per person, per day (automatically added)

Example: A 7-night cruise might have a base fare of $1,000 per adult and $0 for kids, but add $220 in port fees and $126 in gratuities per child. So while the cruise fare is free, the total out-of-pocket for the child could be $346.

Loyalty Program Perks

Some cruise lines enhance kids sail free deals for members of their loyalty programs. For example:

• Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society members get early access to promotions.
• NCL’s Latitudes Rewards members can combine “Kids Sail Free” with other Free at Sea perks.
• Carnival’s VIFP Club offers priority booking on family deals.

Signing up is free and can unlock exclusive offers.

Best Destinations and Itineraries for Kids Sail Free Cruises

Not all cruise destinations are equally likely to feature kids sail free promotions. Some regions and itineraries are more family-focused, making them ideal for maximizing savings.

Caribbean Cruises: The Gold Standard

The Caribbean is the most popular destination for family cruises, and it’s where kids sail free deals are most abundant. Lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and NCL operate dozens of ships in the region, increasing competition and driving down prices.

• Best for: Families with young children (3–12)
• Top Ports: Nassau, Cozumel, St. Thomas, San Juan, St. Maarten
• Onboard Perks: Water parks, splash zones, kids’ clubs, character meet-and-greets (e.g., Disney on select NCL ships)

Example: A 5-night Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston in October with Carnival might cost $600 per adult and $0 for kids. Total for four: $1,200.

Alaska Cruises: Nature Meets Adventure

Alaska is a favorite for families seeking outdoor adventure. While prices are higher than the Caribbean, kids sail free promotions can offset costs significantly.

• Best for: Families with teens and pre-teens (10–17)
• Top Ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay
• Onboard Perks: Educational programs, wildlife spotting, glacier viewing

Example: A 7-night Alaska cruise from Seattle in September with Princess might offer kids free. Adults pay $2,000 each, two teens sail free—saving $4,000.

European River Cruises: Cultural Exploration

While less common, river cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Emerald Cruises occasionally offer family promotions.

• Best for: Families interested in history, culture, and scenic beauty
• Top Routes: Rhine, Danube, Douro, Seine
• Onboard Perks: Guided tours, bike rentals, onboard lectures

Note: These deals are rarer and often require booking through a travel agent. For example, AmaWaterways’ “Kids Sail Free” on select Danube cruises in May or September.

Bahamas and Florida Getaways: Short and Sweet

Perfect for families with young kids or those new to cruising, 3–4 night Bahamas cruises are frequent sites for kids sail free deals.

• Best for: First-time cruisers, families with toddlers
• Top Ports: Nassau, Freeport, CocoCay (Royal Caribbean’s private island), Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Onboard Perks: Water slides, kids’ zones, character appearances

Example: A 3-night Bahamas cruise from Miami with MSC might cost $400 per adult, with two kids free. Total: $800 for four.

Hawaii Cruises: Island Hopping Made Affordable

Hawaii cruises are longer (7–14 nights) and pricier, but NCL’s “Free at Sea” with kids sail free can make them surprisingly affordable.

• Best for: Families with older children (10+)
• Top Ports: Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Hilo
• Onboard Perks: Luau nights, Hawaiian language lessons, snorkeling excursions

Example: A 10-night Hawaiian cruise from Honolulu with NCL might offer kids free. Adults pay $2,800 each, two kids sail free—saving $5,600.

Insider Tips to Maximize Your “Kids Sail Free” Savings

Getting a kids sail free deal is just the beginning. With smart planning, you can stretch your savings even further.

Book Early (But Not Too Early)

The sweet spot for booking is typically 4–8 months before departure. Too early, and promotions aren’t available. Too late, and staterooms fill up.

• Set Google Alerts for “[Cruise Line] kids sail free”
• Follow cruise lines on social media for flash sales
• Use cruise comparison sites like Cruisewatch or CruiseSheet

Travel in Shoulder or Off-Peak Seasons

Peak summer and holiday weeks (Christmas, New Year’s) have fewer deals. Instead, consider:

• Late August after school starts
• September–October (after summer, before holidays)
• January–February (post-holiday lull)

Choose the Right Stateroom Category

Some kids sail free deals only apply to interior or oceanview rooms. Upgrades to balcony or suites may void the promotion.

• Check the terms: Does the deal include “all stateroom categories”?
• If you want a balcony, look for lines like MSC that include it in their standard free kids policy.

Combine with Other Promotions

Many cruise lines let you stack deals:

• “Kids Sail Free” + “Free Airfare” (on select Alaska or Europe cruises)
• “Kids Sail Free” + “Free Onboard Credit” (NCL, Royal Caribbean)
• “Kids Sail Free” + “Free Gratuities” (Carnival, Princess)

Example: NCL’s “Free at Sea” allows you to pick one perk. But if you book through a travel agent, they may negotiate additional perks like free drinks or excursions.

Work with a Travel Agent

Experienced family cruise agents have access to unpublished deals and can often:

• Secure stateroom upgrades
• Get free specialty dining or shore excursions
• Negotiate better terms on kids’ free fares

Plus, their services are usually free—they earn commission from the cruise line.

Data Table: Cruise Lines with Kids Sail Free – Key Comparison

Cruise Line	Max Age for Free	Occupancy Requirement	Typical Destinations	Booking Window	Additional Fees per Child
Royal Caribbean	12	2 full-fare adults	Caribbean, Alaska, Europe	3–6 months pre-cruise	$200–$300
NCL	17	2 full-fare adults	Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii	4–8 months pre-cruise	$180–$280
Carnival	11	2 full-fare adults	Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico	1–6 months pre-cruise	$150–$250
Princess	17	2 full-fare adults	Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal	2–4 months pre-cruise	$220–$320
MSC Cruises	17	2 full-fare adults	Caribbean, Europe, Middle East	Year-round	$180–$260

Note: Additional fees include port charges, taxes, and gratuities. Exact amounts vary by itinerary and stateroom category.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Kids Sail Free Deals

When it comes to family vacations, few perks are as valuable as kids sail free promotions. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, NCL, Carnival, Princess, and MSC offer legitimate, generous deals that can save families thousands of dollars. But success depends on understanding the rules: age limits, occupancy requirements, booking windows, and hidden fees like port charges and gratuities.

The key to maximizing these savings is planning ahead. Research your preferred destinations, set up price alerts, and consider traveling during off-peak or shoulder seasons. Work with a knowledgeable travel agent to uncover hidden deals and stack promotions. And don’t forget to factor in the total cost—not just the headline “free” fare.

With the right strategy, a kids sail free cruise isn’t just a dream—it’s a realistic, budget-friendly reality. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the glaciers of Alaska and the historic cities of Europe, the world is waiting. Pack your bags, gather the kids, and set sail on an unforgettable family adventure—where the kids really do sail free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines offer kids sail free deals?

Several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC Cruises, offer “kids sail free” promotions on select sailings. These deals often apply to third and fourth children in a cabin and vary by destination and season.

What age qualifies for kids sail free on cruises?

Most cruise lines define “kids” as ages 2–12 for free or discounted fares, though some extend offers up to age 17. Always check the specific terms of the kids sail free promotion, as age limits can vary.

Are there blackout dates for cruise lines with kids sail free?

Yes, “kids sail free” offers often exclude holidays, peak seasons, and special voyages (e.g., transatlantic cruises). Promotions are typically available on shorter, off-peak sailings to encourage family bookings.

Do all cruise lines with kids sail free include gratuities?

No, base fares may exclude gratuities, port fees, or taxes even with a free child ticket. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian often bundle these extras, but always review the fine print before booking.

Can I combine kids sail free with other cruise discounts?

Generally, “kids sail free” promotions cannot be stacked with other discounts like military or loyalty rewards. However, some lines (e.g., MSC) allow combining offers during special campaigns—ask your travel agent.

What cruise lines do kids sail free for Alaska or Caribbean trips?

For Alaska, Holland America and Princess Cruises occasionally waive kids’ fares on summer sailings. In the Caribbean, Carnival and Royal Caribbean frequently run kids sail free deals on 3–7 night itineraries.

Related posts:

1. What Cruise Lines Does Carnival Own Explore the Fleet
2. Why Is American Cruise Lines So Expensive Here Is Why
3. How Much Fuel Does a Cruise Liner Use Revealed
4. What Is the Best Alaskan Cruise Line for Your Adventure