Cruise Activities for Kids Overview

Video compliments of the Travel Channel

What could be better than spending an entire week onboard a ship with your entire family? If your answer is, "Lots of things," then you're like any other parent out there—you love your kids, but sometimes you just need some time for yourself. Many cruise lines understand the feeling exactly and offer a heap of kid-friendly activities to keep your little ones happy and entertained (and free you up to truly enjoy yourself).

It all starts by choosing the right cruise. Worried that your tot is too young to have any fun? Try Carnival, which offers everything from finger painting and story time activities—not to mention a late-night child-care service, if you want to live it up at the ship's restaurants or bars. Try Holland America if your child is a budding Alain Ducasse—the cooking classes available teach kiddies basic techniques and how to follow recipe instructions.

If the tots are not yet worn out, consider the many kid-friendly shows that most cruises stage. Disney cruises always have top-notch actors, musicians and sets to recreate the adventures of its most beloved characters, from Cinderella to the Toy Story crew. Royal Caribbean isn't too far behind in the showmanship department—the line regularly stages ice skating shows.

So the littlest ones have had their fun; what about the teens? Your oldest kids will have nothing to worry about. Some cruises, such as Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Sea, not only boasts its own teenagers' hangout room where teens can play team games, but it also has the Flowrider—a water ride of sorts that simulates the crest of an ocean wave, where teens can can do their best Kelly Slater impression.

Before you know it, you'll be missing your little rugrats and wishing for your vacation from them to be over.