Best Cheap Cruises for Families in 2025 (That Are Actually Worth It!)

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of The Seas

Planning a family vacation on a budget? Good news: You don't have to sacrifice fun, safety, or quality to take your crew on an unforgettable cruise. In this guide, we break down the best cheap cruises for families in 2025 — including cruise lines that deliver serious value, kid-friendly activities, and wallet-friendly perks.

Whether you're sailing with toddlers or teens, these affordable family cruises combine price, convenience, and pure fun.

Why Cruises Are a Smart Choice for Budget-Conscious Families

• All-Inclusive Feel: Meals, entertainment, accommodations, and activities all rolled into one price.

• Easy Planning: Unpack once and visit multiple destinations without complicated logistics.

• Kid-Friendly: Kids' clubs, pools, waterslides, and family shows included.

• Flexible Pricing: Sales, off-season deals, and interior cabins make cruising more affordable than many land vacations.

Best Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines for Families in 2025

1. Carnival Cruise Line: The King of Affordable Fun

Ratings:

• Price: 5/5 (Very affordable)

• Kid Activities: 4/5

• Dining Options: 3/5

• Family Cabins: 3/5

• Overall Family Value: 5/5

Why It's Great: Carnival is known for its "Fun Ships" — and that fun doesn’t come with a high price tag. With onboard water parks, kids' clubs, family comedy shows, and late-night pizza, it’s a crowd-pleaser for families on a budget.

Best Ships for 2025:

• Carnival Mardi Gras

• Carnival Celebration

• Carnival Firenze (new for 2025)

Money-Saving Tip: Watch for "Kids Sail Free" deals and book early for the best cabin selection.

Estimated Starting Prices:

• 4-night cruise for family of 4: $1,200 USD

• 7-night cruise for family of 4: $1,800 USD

Pros: Low price, fun atmosphere, water parks Cons: Less elegant, older ships, crowded during holidays

2. MSC Cruises: Best for Kids Sail Free Deals

Ratings:

• Price: 4/5

• Kid Activities: 4/5

• Dining Options: 3/5

• Family Cabins: 4/5

• Overall Family Value: 4/5

Why It's Great: MSC often offers "Kids Sail Free" promotions, making it a solid choice for families. The line's newer ships like MSC Seascape and MSC Euribia offer LEGO play areas, pools, and entertainment zones for kids and teens.

Best Ships for 2025:

• MSC Seascape

• MSC World America (coming in 2025)

Money-Saving Tip: Choose a Caribbean sailing with included drinks and Wi-Fi bundles to maximize value.

Estimated Starting Prices:

• 7-night cruise for family of 4: $1,400–$1,800 USD

Pros: Kids sail free, sleek ships, good family staterooms Cons: More European vibe, fewer U.S. departure ports

3. Royal Caribbean: Best Affordable Option for Active Families

Royal Caribbean’s Coco Cay has some amazing attractions!

Ratings:

• Price: 3/5

• Kid Activities: 5/5

• Dining Options: 4/5

• Family Cabins: 4/5

• Overall Family Value: 4/5

Why It's Great: While not always the cheapest, Royal Caribbean offers excellent value for families who want big thrills on board. Think surfing simulators, rock climbing, bumper cars, and ice skating — all included in the fare.

Best Ships for 2025:

• Freedom of the Seas

• Odyssey of the Seas

• Utopia of the Seas (new for 2025)

Money-Saving Tip: Book an older (but renovated) ship to get Royal Caribbean fun at a lower price point.

Estimated Starting Prices:

• 4-night cruise for family of 4: $1,800 USD

• 7-night cruise for family of 4: $2,400+ USD

Pros: Incredible activities, high energy, great service Cons: Slightly more expensive, ships can feel large and busy

4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Best Flexible Dining on a Budget

Ratings:

• Price: 3/5

• Kid Activities: 4/5

• Dining Options: 5/5

• Family Cabins: 3/5

• Overall Family Value: 4/5

Why It's Great: NCL's "Freestyle Cruising" lets your family eat when and where you want — perfect for picky kids and unpredictable schedules. Ships like Norwegian Getaway and Encore offer water slides, ropes courses, and great entertainment.

Best Ships for 2025:

• Norwegian Getaway

• Norwegian Prima

• Norwegian Aqua (launching 2025)

Money-Saving Tip: Book during their "Free at Sea" promos for included drinks, Wi-Fi, and kids' fares.

Estimated Starting Prices:

• 7-night cruise for family of 4: $1,600–$2,200 USD

Pros: Flexible dining, great entertainment, modern ships Cons: Smaller pools, some perks cost extra

Quick Cruise Line Comparison Table

Best Destinations for Budget Cruises in 2025

Caribbean

• Quick flights and year-round sailings keep prices low.

• Easy access to private islands like CocoCay, Great Stirrup Cay, and Half Moon Cay.

Mexico (Baja & Riviera)

• Short 3-5 day cruises from California ports.

• Ideal for first-time cruisers or families on a time crunch.

Bahamas

• Often included in shorter itineraries.

• Lots of cruise line competition = lower prices.

What to Look for in a Cheap Family Cruise

Look For:

• "Kids Sail Free" or "3rd/4th Guest Free" offers

• Older ships with newer refurbishments

• Off-peak sailing dates (January, early May, September)

• Included extras (drinks, Wi-Fi, shore credits)

Avoid:

• Last-minute bookings during school holidays

• Extra-cost onboard experiences (budget for these ahead!)

• Assuming "cheap" means fewer kid activities — many budget lines offer TONS for kids

FAQ: Cheap Cruises for Families in 2025

What is the cheapest cruise line for families?

Carnival is typically the most affordable cruise line for families, especially on shorter sailings in the Caribbean or Mexico.

When is the best time to book a cheap cruise?

Look for deals during wave season (January–March), or book 9-12 months in advance for best pricing and cabin options.

Are budget cruises safe and clean for kids?

Yes! All major cruise lines meet international safety standards and have robust cleaning protocols, especially post-2020.

Can I find cheap cruises during school breaks?

It's harder, but possible. Look for shoulder-season dates like early June or Thanksgiving week, and book early.

Ready to Set Sail on a Budget?

👉 Contact Sun Chaser Travel to find the best deals on family cruises for 2025!

We’ll help you pick the perfect ship, time it right, and take advantage of every promo so you can cruise without the stress.

Want more cruise inspiration? Check out our full guide to the Best Cruises for Families in 2025 here.