Cruising With Babies & Toddlers
Age rules, nurseries and packing for the littlest cruisers.
Get Free Family Cruise QuotesCruising with a baby or toddler is very doable — your cabin is your nursery and dinner is a short walk away — but the rules are stricter than for older children.
Minimum Sailing Ages
| Cruise line | Usual minimum age | Higher minimum | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | 6 months on the first day of the cruise | 12 months for transatlantic, transpacific, Hawaii, some South America sailings and any cruise with 3+ consecutive sea days | Royal Caribbean’s age policy |
| Norwegian | 6 months on the day of boarding | 12 months if the cruise has 3+ consecutive sea days | Norwegian’s age requirements |
| Disney | 6 months on the day of sailing | 1 year for Transatlantic, Panama Canal and Hawaii itineraries | Disney Cruise Line “Traveling with Little Ones” |
Other lines set similar rules, and lines enforce them at the pier — a baby who is too young can be refused boarding. Confirm the policy for your exact sailing before you pay a deposit.
Nurseries and Babysitting
Some family ships have a nursery for babies and toddlers, usually for an hourly fee and with limited places that fill quickly. Disney, for example, offers group care in its nursery for children from six months to three years (from one year on the longer itineraries) rather than in-cabin sitting. On other lines, group sitting for younger children may be offered in the evenings through the kids’ club.
Ask about hours, fees and booking rules before you sail, and reserve sessions as early as the line allows.
Packing for a Baby or Toddler
- Enough diapers and wipes for the whole trip, plus extra — ship shops may carry only a small supply.
- Formula, baby food and any special items; ask the line whether it offers baby food or milk on request.
- Medicines, a thermometer and copies of prescriptions.
- A lightweight stroller — corridors are long and port days involve walking.
- Outlet covers, a night light and a favorite blanket or toy for sleep.
- Sun hat, baby-safe sunscreen and a cover for the stroller.
Printable family packing lists are on our sister site Cruising Checklist.
Babies and Toddlers FAQ
How old must a baby be to cruise?
On most mainstream lines, at least six months old on the day the cruise begins. Longer voyages — transatlantic crossings, Hawaii from the mainland, or cruises with several days at sea in a row — often require twelve months. The rule is strict, so check it before booking.
Can my toddler use the pool?
Children who are not toilet-trained, including those in swim diapers, are generally not allowed in the main pools and hot tubs on cruise ships. Many family ships have a dedicated splash area for little ones instead. Check your ship before you go.
Do ships provide cribs?
Most lines provide a crib (often called a pack-and-play) on request. Ask when you book, as numbers are limited.
Cruising With a Little One?
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise check age rules, cribs and nursery options before quoting. Tell us your baby’s age and dates.
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