Planning a cruise with kids? Finding the perfect shore excursions that keep your little ones entertained can be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best family-friendly shore excursions that offer adventure, education, and plenty of fun — without the stress!
Why Choose Family-Friendly Shore Excursions?
Not all excursions are suitable for children, and the last thing you want is a long, exhausting tour that leaves your kids cranky. The best kid-friendly excursions include: Hands-on activities (like animal encounters or treasure hunts) Shorter durations to keep kids engaged. Safe, comfortable transportation. Plenty of time for snacks and breaks
Now, let’s dive into the best shore excursions that will make your cruise unforgettable for the whole family!
1. Atlantis Aquaventure — Nassau, Bahamas
Best for: Ages 3+ The Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park is a paradise for families. Kids can splash in the shallow pools, race down water slides, or float through a lazy river, while parents relax on the beach. The park also features an incredible marine habitat with sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles!
Why It’s Great for Kids: Shallow pools and water play areas for younger children. Thrilling water slides for older kids and teens Beach access for a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation
Book Now: Atlantis Aquaventure Tickets Here
2. Dolphin Encounter — Cozumel, Mexico
Best for: Ages 4+ Few experiences are as magical for kids as swimming with dolphins! This interactive dolphin encounter lets children touch, feed, and even get a dolphin kiss in a safe, shallow-water environment.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Shallow-water experience (perfect for young kids) No swimming skills required A fun way to learn about marine life
Book Now: Dolphin Experience in Cozumel
3. LEGO House Adventure — Billund, Denmark
Best for: Ages 5+ If your cruise stops in Denmark, don’t miss LEGO House, the ultimate destination for creative kids. They can build their own LEGO creations, interact with digital games, and explore massive LEGO-themed play areas.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Hands-on, interactive play Digital and physical LEGO experiences Perfect for rainy days
Book Now: LEGO House Tickets Here
4. Pirate Treasure Hunt — San Juan, Puerto Rico
Best for: Ages 3–10 Turn your shore excursion into an adventure with a real-life pirate treasure hunt! Dressed as little pirates, kids can explore old San Juan, solve clues, and search for buried treasure — all while learning about Puerto Rico’s history.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Fun, interactive storyline Historical education disguised as an adventure. Great for young explorers
Book Now: San Juan Pirate Adventure
5. Disney’s Castaway Cay — Bahamas
Best for: All ages If you’re cruising with Disney Cruise Line, a stop at Castaway Cay is a must. This private island is designed with families in mind, featuring kid-friendly beaches, supervised play areas, and even a water playground!
Why It’s Great for Kids: Exclusive Disney character meet-and-greets Shallow, calm waters for safe swimming. Water slides and kids’ club activities
Book Now: Disney Castaway Cay Excursions
6. Turtle Snorkeling Adventure — Barbados
Best for: Ages 5+ This gentle snorkeling tour lets kids swim alongside friendly sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. It’s an eco-friendly, educational experience that’s perfect for young ocean lovers!
Why It’s Great for Kids: Calm, shallow snorkeling areas Learn about sea turtle conservation. Short, family-friendly tour duration
Book Now: Swim with Turtles in Barbados
7. Alaska Wildlife Safari — Juneau, Alaska
Best for: Ages 6+ If your cruise takes you to Alaska, this wildlife safari is a must! Families can spot bald eagles, sea lions, and even bears in their natural habitat, all while enjoying a scenic boat ride.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Perfect for animal lovers. No long hikes — just easy wildlife spotting. Safe and comfortable for young travelers
Book Now: Alaska Wildlife Excursion
8. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour — Grand Cayman
Best for: All ages. For families who want to see marine life without getting wet, a glass-bottom boat tour is a fantastic option. Kids will love spotting colorful fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a stingray!
Why It’s Great for Kids: No swimming required. Perfect for toddlers and babies. Great photo opportunities
Book Now: Glass-Bottom Boat Tour Grand Cayman
9. Safari Jeep Tour — Aruba
Best for: Ages 6+ Take your kids on a bumpy, exciting Jeep ride through Aruba’s desert landscapes. Stops include natural bridges, rock formations, and secret beaches.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Off-road adventure fun Short stops for snack breaks Plenty of space to move around
Book Now: Aruba Jeep Safari
10. River Rafting for Beginners — Costa Rica
Best for: Ages 7+ For adventurous families, a gentle river rafting experience in Costa Rica is a fantastic way to explore nature. Kids can enjoy the thrill of rafting while spotting monkeys, birds, and waterfalls.
Why It’s Great for Kids: Safe, easy rapids for beginners. Stunning jungle scenery A fun mix of adventure and education
Book Now: Costa Rica Family Rafting
See also: The Ultimate Guide to Thrill-Seeking Shore Excursions
Final Tips for Booking the Perfect Shore Excursion
Book in advance to secure the best tours Check age requirements before booking. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and extra clothes.
Look for family-friendly tour operators
Ready to book the perfect shore excursion for your family? Click below to find the best kid-friendly tours for your next cruise!
