Family river cruises are becoming an increasingly popular vacation option, especially for families seeking a unique and fun travel experience. Blending relaxation, adventure and cultural experiences, these cruises are ideal for families looking to create lasting memories together.
There are a variety of activities both on land and on board to suit all ages and interests. Whether exploring the ancient castles on the riverbank, taking a cooking class on board, or taking a leisurely bike tour of the charming towns, there are fun and engaging experiences for the whole family.
Minimum age for children on river cruises
The minimum age for children to join a river cruise may vary depending on the cruise operator. Generally, some river cruises may not allow children under 4 years old for safety reasons or the nature of the activities involved. It is recommended to check with the river cruise operator regarding their specific age policy to ensure a smooth booking process and an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Family River Cruise with Children
Taking a cruise with young children can be an enjoyable experience for both parents and children. Many cruise operators offer child-friendly activities and facilities to keep children entertained on board. From children’s playrooms to interactive workshops and games, there is plenty for children to enjoy on a family cruise.
Family boat trips for teenagers
For families with children under 10 and 11, a river cruise is a great way to explore new destinations and cultures together. Many river cruise operators offer age-appropriate activities and excursions for older children, ensuring a memorable vacation experience for the whole family.
Multi-Generation River Cruise
Multigenerational river cruises are growing in popularity as families look for ways to spend quality time together. River cruising offers fun for everyone, from grandparents to grandchildren, making it the perfect choice for a multigenerational family vacation.
Child-Friendly River Cruise Operators
There are several river cruise operators that cater specifically to families traveling with children. American Waterways European family river cruises are offered in partnership with Adventures by Disney, offering specialized river cruises designed to accommodate multiple generations. A-Rosa Family River Cruise Offering family cabins and kid-friendly spaces, the A-Rosa Sena river cruise features a dedicated family pool and the pirate-themed Treasure Island Kids Club. United World is another well-known operator that offers multi-generational river cruises with various activities on board such as dessert making, craft workshops and VIP boat trips.
Private dining options for large families
For larger families, private dining options are a great way to enjoy a meal together without having to find seating for everyone. Many river cruise operators offer private dining rooms or special group dining arrangements, ensuring that large families can dine together.
Best kept secret: Christmas River Cruise
One of the best-kept secrets of family river cruising is the enchanting experience of a Christmas river cruise. These cruises offer families the opportunity to visit a magical Christmas market on the river, take part in fun Christmas-themed activities on the boat, and soak up the holiday spirit in a unique and memorable way. This makes a Christmas river cruise the perfect vacation for the whole family to enjoy together.
Our Family River Cruise Experience
Alex recently had the pleasure of taking a trip aboard AmaWaterways’ AmaKristina, and she highly recommends this trip for the whole family. Here’s why this river cruise is perfect for multi-generational travel.
AmaWaterways is one of the few river cruise companies that welcomes children as young as 4 years old. This inclusivity means that families can enjoy their vacation together, regardless of age. On our cruises, our passengers come from a diverse group, from grandparents and parents to teenagers and 4-year-old granddaughters.
Tours tailored for everyone in your group
The cruise offers a variety of excursions suitable for all activity levels, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience. For example:
Easy Walking Tour: Take a leisurely stroll through picturesque Avignon and Arles. These tours are perfect for grandparents and young children, who can sit comfortably in a stroller when they get tired.
Historical and cultural sites: Parents and teens appreciate the area’s rich history and culture, explore landmarks and learn about local heritage.
Family-friendly dining
Dining at AmaKristina was a highlight. The restaurant had a table set up to accommodate our whole family, allowing us to dine together every evening. The menu offered a wide variety of Western dishes to satisfy all taste buds, from the smallest to the largest.
Top Deck Pool Fun
The top floor pool is a big hit, especially with the youngest in the family. When the weather is nice and warm, she can spend hours splashing around in the water. This gives parents the opportunity to alternate between pool duty and enjoying other activities or just relaxing.
Quiet and child-friendly environment
One of the great things about cruising on the AmaKristina is the tranquility of the environment. Unlike on large ocean cruise ships, there are no dazzling entertainment activities on board, nor are there groups of children running around. The smaller size of the ship creates a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, where children can naturally blend into the rhythm of the cruise and enjoy the fun of the cruise without becoming the focus of the cruise.
Book your family river cruise with Global River Cruises
Family river cruises offer unique and exciting vacation options for families of all ages. From spending quality time together to fun activities for all family members, these cruises offer unparalleled memorable and enriching experiences.
With dedicated family-friendly cruise operators and tailor-made experiences for kids and teens, family river cruises cater to the different needs and interests of families, making them ideal for a truly memorable family vacation.
If you’re keen to take your family on an unforgettable river cruise in Europe, contact us today. You won’t regret it!
call(0800 471 4754) or Email Us Discuss your cruise preferences and we’ll take care of the rest.
