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Children Traveling: How-tos For Single-parent Vacation Cruises

Traveling alone with your kid made easy, things to do as a single parent..

By  Sherri Eisenberg | Published on November 3, 2022

If you're a single parent looking to plan an affordable vacation for your family, you may have a few non-negotiables, like childcare services, activities that excite young kids and teenagers alike and, of course, opportunities to kick back and relax yourself. Single-parent vacation cruises are an ideal getaway that delivers all that and more. After all, on a cruise, you only have to unpack once, the itinerary is left up to the cruise line, and the onboard amenities will keep you and your family busy on sea days. Here's everything you need to know before you book your first of many single-parent vacation cruises.

Affordable Family Vacations For Single Parents

As a parent traveling alone with their child or children, a more all-inclusive type of getaway such as a cruise is typically the best option for an affordable family vacation  for single parent’s looking for travel deals . When browsing family-friendly cruises, you want to pick a ship that has onboard amenities your kids will enjoy while you soak up a little quiet time. For traveling with teens and tweens , for example, look for bustling arcades, around-the-clock onboard pizzerias, soft-serve spots, mini-golf courses and movie nights on the pool deck.

Fun ideals for taking a vacation with your toddler , on the other hand, a sprinkler park, a shallow pool area, and buffets that serve kid favorites like grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fries and chicken fingers will tick all your boxes.

If you've ever traveled alone with a young child, you know the importance of keeping little ones in their routine, no matter where they are in the world. And when it comes to babies and toddlers, nap time is nap time, regardless of the time zone. Planning a cruise vacation  alone with your child helps you keep those routines, as you'll have a steady home base and can tailor your days to your preference.

Best Places To Cruise As A Single Parent

It can be a little tricky to have a child traveling with one parent internationally or domestically, but you'll likely find that cruising alone with your child is just plain easier than traveling by car or plane.

Booking a cruise, and then exploring independently in some ports, is an adventure in itself. But when booking a cruise as a single parent, be sure to look for shore excursions you'll both enjoy.

Sailing to the Caribbean  or Mexican Riviera  is a great choice for beach babies — and beach parents — who are happy to spend their time dancing along the edge of the surf, sipping fruity drinks under a palm tree, and stretching out in the powdery white sand. Whether your child is young enough to giggle loudly as you hop over waves or old enough to be at the helm of a jet ski, there are so many fun things to do as a single parent on a Caribbean cruise vacation. You can also lean into adventure with hikes to waterfalls , days spent exploring Mayan ruins , boat rides to prime snorkeling spots and even dune buggy tours of a storied city.

How To Keep Your Family Happy On A Cruise Vacation

Children who are picky eaters love the food on cruise ships  as they can experience the world traveling without ever being too far from their favorite foods if the something new that was not to their liking. Even at breakfast, the buffet gives your child a chance to try a few different things without having to commit. If, say, they don't love the scrambled eggs and bacon, there are always the Belgian waffles and strawberries to fall back on. At dinner time, after a long day in port with a small child, consider skipping the dining room and specialty restaurants (with their paced multi-course menus and more formal environment) in favor of the buffet, where the meal is faster and they can set eyes on the food before deciding what to try. Just be sure to save room for the dessert spread!

If you and your child are social, consider asking the maître d' or a social director if there are other single parent-child duos onboard. Often, the cruise ship staff can make introductions, easing the stress of finding like-minded passengers to dine or explore with during your sailing.

And when you're in port, be sure to introduce your child to the flavors of the destination, especially with foods they get to try for the first time. Whether that means sampling rich pistachio gelato in Sicily , savory jerk chicken and beef patties in Jamaica , smørrebrød (open-face sandwiches) in Copenhagen, crispy conch fritters in the Bahamas  or fried fish tacos in Cabo San Lucas , it's sure to be a memory the two of you will never forget.

Traveling Alone With Your Child, Being Prepared For Anything

Can one parent travel with their child on a cruise? Yes, one parent can travel alone with their kid abroad. Be prepared for anything, and that starts before you set sail, you'll hear lots of people say you should pack your vacation clothing in layers; both for you and your child, regardless of where your ship is sailing. Though you can take that cruise travel tip one step further by packing clothing in a single-color palette. Packing for vacation will be a breeze, and you'll be able to easily mix and match pieces (or change a stained shirt) throughout your weeklong cruise.

Before you finalize your packing list , though, be sure to check the dress code of your sailing trip. You don't want to pack formal attire only to realize you didn't really need those dressy duds after all and can get away with a sundress or a versatile pair of slacks.

While packing, take the time to plan ahead for the cruise activities  you and your child hope to do while at sea. If you're looking for the best mother-daughter cruises  or things to do on a father-son cruise, seek out ways you can maximize your time together onboard, like booking ahead a special dinner, spa day or show. Wherever you cruise in the world, plan for a mix of fun and downtime for both you and your child, so you can come home refreshed and ready to recount highlights of the trip to friends and family. Lean into whatever help the cruise line can provide in making your family vacation one that's smooth sailing all day every day.

Luckily, for single parents, cruise ships have kids clubs and even nurseries and babysitting services to keep the kids occupied while you get some much-needed alone time. Look into which programs would be a fit for your children, and plan to stretch out by the nearby pool with a book the first time they go to the club, just in case they're not comfortable. Then, see if you can book a spa treatment later in the cruise, once you're sure your child has acclimated to the new atmosphere. And be sure to look into evening entertainment while at sea , as some cruises have pajama parties, pool parties, and karaoke nights for tweens and teens, offering the opportunity for a parent to sip a cocktail or see a show. After all, a little "me time" is always on the "things to do" list of a working single parent.

Written By SHERRI EISENBERG

Sherri Eisenberg is a New York City-based travel and food writer who has written about travel for Condé Nast Traveler, Travel and Leisure, Bon Appétit, and The Los Angeles Times and has served as cruise editor for Travel + Leisure and, before that, for Travel Holiday. As senior travel editor of Condé Nast’s Brides, she won the Lowell Thomas Gold Award for best travel coverage in a non-travel magazine. Sherri has been on more than 100 cruises and today she keeps a bag packed at all times so she can hop on a plane — or a ship — at a moment’s notice.

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Is A Single Parents Cruise Really The Perfect Family Vacation?

By: Author Elaine Warren

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories CRUISE PLANNING , FAMILY TRAVEL , Kids , Special Cruises

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It can be challenging traveling with kids as a single parent. You are responsible for absolutely everything, pretty much every minute of each day. Planning the logistics of getting from point A to point B can be inherently stressful. And, if you have multiple kids, you have the challenge of identifying activities that will appeal to kids in different agent groups or who have different temperaments.

Plus, you have to pay for it all. Expenses for hotels, flights, meals, and activities add up very quickly.

But, taking a cruise as a single parent can address those challenges. We already think highly of family cruising (it’s in our name!). But, for single parents, we think that a family cruise can be an ideal option.

Keep reading to discover why a single parent cruise may answer all of your vacation dreams and tips on making the most of it!

Here’s Why A Single Parents Cruise Should Be A Top Vacation Option

Getting on a ship with their kids for a week or more may sound intimidating to many single parents, but a single-parents cruise is one of the best ways to travel with children. But a single parents’ cruise is one of the best and safest ways to celebrate the summer (or any other season) with the whole family. Here’s everything single parents should know about booking a family cruise.

All Vacation Necessities are Included

Budgeting for an ordinary vacation with kids often means leaving room for many planned and unexpected expenses for meals, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, entertainment, and lodging. But on a cruise, all the essential expenses are paid for with the cruise fare. Although you will have many opportunities to spend on extra add-ons, you don’t have to do so to have a good time!

There are options for every meal, snack, or treat you may want that nave no additional charge. The cruise ship will have daily activities included in the cruise fare. You can find options such as laser tag, water slides, splash parks, bumper cars, magic shows, movies, and more already included in what paid.

There are also fun standbys like the pool, hot tub, mini-golf, and lawn-type games. No need to stress about your vacation budget because it’s all included in the fare.

Sure, there are opportunities to pay more for souvenirs, alcohol, excursions, and photo opportunities. But it’s much easier to keep costs under control on a cruise with kids than on a traditional vacation.

Freedom & Flexibilit y

A single parent on a typical vacation with kids is constantly trying to come up with a way to please everyone at once because the whole family has to be in the same place at the same time. But on a cruise, single parents and their kids have more freedom to do what they want.

One of the biggest challenges of traveling as a single parent with kids is that you are responsible for planning everything for everybody.

With a cruise, you have an array of pre-planned options. If you want everything to be pre-planned, that’s already arranged. But, you can modify, adjust and schedule as much or as little as you want. Each day you will receive a schedule of all the activities planned for the day. Choose what you want, or do your own thing.

Free Childcare

Cruise lines that cater to families will have ships with built-in childcare. While the options for babies may be somewhat limited (but still available), if your kids are over the age of three, you have access to daily childcare at various points throughout the day, from morning into the evening. This allows you to plan many family activities, but it also allows you to plan adult time and/or me-time.

Whether you want to spend some quality time in the cruise ship spa or experience some adult nightlife at a comedy club, hang out listening (or dancing) to your favorite style of music, or try your luck at the casino – you can do any or all of those things knowing that your kiddos are having their own good time in the kids’ club.

Kids’ clubs and other onboard activities provide supervised fun for kids of all ages, so single parents can spend one-on-one time with one kid while the other(s) are entertained by cruise staff and characters. Parents can even enjoy a little bit of quiet time on their own instead of stressing about where the kids are every minute.

And kids, especially little ones, have a way of throwing a wrench in the best-laid plans. On a regular vacation, a cranky toddler can ruin a whole day, but it’s no big deal on a cruise. If the youngest child needs a nap, the older one(s) can go off exploring independently while their parent enjoys a quiet afternoon reading in the room with the little one. 

Everybody wins, even when things get chaotic.

More Vacation in Less Time

A single parent on a family vacation usually has to choose just one destination per vacation and find as many things to do in that one place as possible. But a cruise allows single-parent families to see more destinations and sights in one trip.

For example, a single parent can take their kids to several destinations within the Florida Keys , the Caribbean, and/or various parts of Mexico in just a few short days. The cruise ship takes care of the transportation and the lodging so that families can experience more on one trip. Plus, you have some options for international travel even if your kids don’t have passports .

Even the days traveling between destinations (aka “sea days”) are more enjoyable on a cruise than on land because there’s so much to do onboard. The cruise ship is a vacation destination in itself.

Choosing Your Single Parents Cruise

Choosing the wrong cruise line for single-parent cruises can make the entire experience miserable for the parent and kids alike. But the right cruise line can make a family cruise feel as relaxing as a solo one. Here’s what every single parent needs to know about choosing the right cruise line.

Cruise Lines and Onboard Activities

Some cruise lines are more kid-friendly than others. Some cruise lines are known to attract a more mature clientele, in part because they have fewer kid-focused activities and amenities onboard. Indeed, there are now options for adults who want to sail without any kids on board at all .

Single parents cruising with kids will want to avoid these cruise lines (unless they’re having a special kid-friendly event, like Uniworld’s multigenerational river cruise events.

On the other hand, cruise lines like Disney , Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival are explicitly family-friendly (to varying degrees). They have as many (and sometimes more) onboard events and activities for their younger guests as they do for the adults, which means single parents and their kids will have more to do on days at sea.

Also, with the wide range of family-friendly cruise lines comes a nice range of budgets. Parents will pay a premium for the Disney name — always. Carnival in general tends to be very budget-friendly. And Royal Caribbean (and MSC) often run promotions where kids sail free or at a significant discount.

Destinations and Itineraries

Single parents and their kids can travel to exotic destinations on a single parents’ cruise that would otherwise be impossible to get to on an ordinary vacation. But not all destinations are as family-friendly as others.

The Caribbean, the Bahamas, Mexico, and other destinations in and around the Gulf of Mexico are jam-packed with history, culture, and tropical fun in the sun. But you’re not limited to the traditional Caribbean cruise. If you’re more adventurous, and your budget allows, you can travel to almost every part of the world by cruise ship. Europe, Australia & South Pacific, and Asia all have dozens of ports on cruise itineraries every year (when there’s not a pandemic issue).

Our Top Tips for A Single Parents Cruise

As with any vacation, there are a lot of factors that are outside a single parent’s control. But there are some things any single parent cruising with kids can do to help make things run as smoothly as possible.

Choose the Right Cabin

Each cruise ship will have a range of accommodations available at various price points. Everything from a smallish inside cabin without windows to luxury suites. If you are budget conscious and plan to spend most time outside your stateroom, an inside cabin can be an excellent choice.

But, if you have a child who still naps, consider a balcony room if you can afford it. That provides more options to enjoy yourself even when you can’t leave the room.

Plan Ahead for Meals

Most family-friendly cruises offer several dining options, but waiting until the last minute to plan can still spell disaster, particularly for single parents traveling alone with their children. Limited seating availability means venues can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is essential.

Two adults cruising alone might steer clear of the standard group dining experience, but single parents cruising with young children might want to schedule an early reservation every night as the default choice. 

On the other hand, the buffet is always a great option for picky eaters, so if the little ones don’t enjoy the standard meal, there’s a variety of quick and easy backup choices available, even late at night. Just plan ahead so that it’s not your only option.

Think Differently for Excursions

In every port, you will have various options for shore excursions – whether sponsored by the cruise line or an independent excursion you organize yourself . But, just because a shore excursion allows kids doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s genuinely kid-friendly. Some excursions involve hours of travel for a short event, while others may involve lots of walking with few breaks. 

Single parents should read the excursion details carefully before booking to know what they’re getting into, especially if traveling with multiple children or even just one young child . 

And, not every port call requires a formal excursion. For some ports, you can find fun, casual activities just steps from the cruise terminal. Check out our posts on Cozumel beaches and Nassau beaches for examples. Sometimes the best choice is a bucket of dollar store beach toys and a short walk (or taxi) from the ship. With a little advanced research, single parents cruising with kids can plan their own onshore family adventures.

Depending on the port, you may even want to stay on the ship. Many fun activities will still be open and will be far less crowded.

Go with the Flow

Traveling with kids on a single parents’ cruise requires a lot of flexibility. Sometimes the little one will need a nap while the older kid (or parent) wants to go exploring. Single parents can avoid frustration and stress by accepting that things are not always going to go according to plan.

Having a list of crowd-pleasing backup options, like dinner at the buffet, a morning poolside, or even a couple of hours of screen time in the cabin, makes it easy to go with the flow when the kids just won’t or can’t cooperate. 

Don’t Overschedule

It can be tempting to jam as many activities into each day as possible, but for a single parent cruising with kids, that would be a huge mistake. Leave plenty of time in between activities for coordinated bathroom breaks, snacks, and naps instead of trying to drag cranky kids (or yourself) to yet another scheduled activity.

Cruising as a single parent can be a great way to take a vacation. You’ll have the opportunity to relax and enjoy time with your kids without worrying about all the details of traveling. Plus, you’ll get to explore new places and make fun family memories together.

Elaine Warren

Founder & Crew Chief

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Best Cruises for Single Parents: Tips for Stress-Free Family Vacations

Are you a single parent looking for the perfect getaway that caters to both you and your children? Picture this: you deserve a vacation where you can relax while your kids have the time of their lives, all without the stress of planning every detail.

In this article, we’ll explore the best cruises tailored to single parents like you. Imagine having access to a range of activities for all ages, from supervised kids’ clubs to adult-only spaces, allowing you to unwind knowing your children are safe and entertained.

Discover how these cruises offer a balance between family time and moments of personal relaxation, making your next vacation a memorable and hassle-free experience for everyone on board.

Key Takeaways

• Choose cruise lines with kid-friendly activities and supervised kids’ clubs for a hassle-free vacation experience.
• Look for cruises offering amenities like single-parent cabins and family-friendly accommodations for comfort and convenience.
• Consider popular cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line known for catering to single parents.
• Prioritize cruises with onboard childcare services, single parent-friendly staterooms, and social events for a well-rounded experience.
• Manage your budget effectively by finding deals, considering inclusive packages vs. a la carte options, and planning ahead to make the most out of your single-parent cruise.
• Prepare for your cruise by creating a checklist, connecting with other single parents onboard, and packing essentials for a seamless vacation experience.

Understanding the Needs of Single Parents on Cruises

Choosing the right cruise line.

When it comes to selecting the ideal cruise line as a single parent, opt for ones that offer kid-friendly activities and facilities geared towards family fun. Look for cruises that provide supervised kids’ clubs, ensuring that your children are safe and entertained while you enjoy some downtime. Consider cruise lines that have dedicated areas for adults, allowing you to relax and socialize while your kids are engaged in age-appropriate activities. It’s essential to choose a cruise line that strikes a balance between family bonding and personal relaxation, ensuring a fulfilling experience for both you and your children.

Amenities and Services for Single Parents

Single parents embarking on a cruise should consider the various amenities and services offered to make their journey smoother. Look for cruises that provide single-parent cabins or family-friendly accommodations to ensure your comfort and convenience. Check if the cruise line offers meal options suitable for both adults and children, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. Some cruises provide special activities for single parents and their children, fostering a sense of community and allowing you to connect with other families in similar situations. Prioritize cruises that understand the unique needs of single parents, offering support and resources to make your trip memorable and hassle-free.

Top Cruise Lines for Single Parents

When considering the best cruise lines for single parents, it’s essential to focus on those that offer a wide range of activities for both parents and kids, ensuring a fun and stress-free vacation experience. Here are some top cruise lines known for catering to single parents:

Disney Cruise Line: Family-Friendly Adventures

Disney Cruise Line stands out for its emphasis on family-friendly adventures, making it an excellent choice for single parents looking for a magical experience. With themed deck parties, character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style shows, and youth clubs tailored to specific age groups, Disney cruises offer something for everyone in the family. The kids’ clubs provide supervised activities, allowing parents to have some relaxing time on their own, knowing their children are in good hands.

Royal Caribbean: Fun for All Ages

Royal Caribbean cruises are renowned for their diverse entertainment options that cater to all age groups, making them ideal for single parents with children of varying ages. From rock climbing walls and water parks to Broadway shows and teen lounges, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone engaged. Single parents can enjoy some downtime at adult-only retreats while their kids have a blast at the Adventure Ocean youth program or the Royal Babies and Tots nursery.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexible Accommodations

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its flexible accommodations, making it a great choice for single parents seeking versatility in cabin options. Whether you prefer connecting staterooms for easy access to your kids or solo studios for some personal space, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of choices to suit your needs. The line’s Freestyle Dining concept allows families to dine together at their convenience, with multiple restaurant options to please even the pickiest eaters.

Choosing the right cruise line as a single parent can make a significant difference in your overall vacation experience. Consider these top cruise lines known for their family-friendly amenities and activities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip for both you and your children.

Important Features of Single Parent-Friendly Cruises

When choosing a cruise as a single parent, there are key features you should look out for to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your child. Here are some important aspects to consider:

Onboard Childcare and Kids Clubs

On single parent-friendly cruises, onboard childcare services and kids clubs play a crucial role in providing you with some downtime while ensuring your child is engaged and entertained in a safe environment. These facilities offer various activities tailored to different age groups, allowing your child to socialize, learn, and have fun under the supervision of trained staff members. For example, Disney Cruise Line’s Oceaneer Club provides themed play areas and interactive games, giving your child a chance to explore while you relax knowing they are well taken care of.

Single Parent-Friendly Staterooms

Stateroom accommodations designed with single parents in mind can enhance your cruise experience by providing comfortable and convenient living spaces for you and your child. Look for staterooms with features such as pull-out sofas, bunk beds, or connecting rooms that offer flexibility and privacy for both you and your child. Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, offers Studio staterooms designed for solo travelers, providing a cozy space for single parents looking for privacy and comfort without the additional cost of a second adult.

Social Events and Group Activities

Social events and group activities onboard single parent-friendly cruises can create opportunities for you and your child to connect with other families in a welcoming and inclusive environment. These activities range from family-friendly games and parties to interactive workshops and excursions that encourage bonding and interaction among guests. Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean program, for example, organizes group activities where single parents and their children can participate in fun-filled experiences together, fostering new friendships and memorable moments during the cruise.

By considering these important features when selecting a cruise tailored to single parents, you can ensure a well-rounded vacation experience that caters to your needs as a single parent while creating lasting memories with your child. Choose a cruise line that prioritizes family-friendly amenities and activities to make the most of your time at sea.

Budgeting for a Single Parent Cruise

When it comes to planning your single parent cruise, managing your budget effectively is key to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable vacation for you and your children. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your budget:

Finding Deals and Discounts

To make the most of your budget when booking a single parent cruise, keep an eye out for special deals and discounts offered by cruise lines. Many cruise companies have promotions specifically tailored to families, including single parents, which can help you save on your overall costs. Signing up for alerts or newsletters from cruise lines can keep you informed about any upcoming promotions or last-minute deals.

Additionally, consider booking your cruise during off-peak seasons or taking advantage of early booking discounts. Being flexible with your travel dates can often lead to significant savings. Some cruise lines also offer reduced rates for children or may have promotions that include free or discounted fares for kids, allowing you to stretch your budget further.

Inclusive Packages vs. A la Carte Options

When budgeting for your single parent cruise, consider whether opting for an inclusive package or a la carte options is more cost-effective for you. Inclusive packages often bundle amenities such as meals, beverages, onboard activities, and gratuities into a single price, providing you with a comprehensive vacation experience without worrying about additional expenses.

On the other hand, choosing a la carte options allows you to pay only for the services and amenities you use, giving you more control over your expenses. While this can provide flexibility, it’s essential to budget carefully to avoid overspending on individual items.

Before booking your single parent cruise, compare the costs of inclusive packages and a la carte options to determine which best suits your budget and preferences. Keep in mind any additional expenses, such as shore excursions, onboard shopping, and gratuities, when calculating the total cost of your cruise to ensure you stay within your budget constraints.

Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Cruise

Planning and packing advice.

When preparing for your single parent cruise, start by creating a detailed checklist. Include essentials like travel documents, medications, sunscreen, and swimwear. Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched for various activities on board. Opt for a lightweight, wheeled suitcase for easy maneuverability.

Connecting with Other Single Parents

Engage with other single parents on the cruise to enhance your experience. Attend onboard social events specifically designed for families, where you can meet like-minded parents. Join online forums or social media groups before your cruise to connect with fellow single parents and potentially arrange meetups on the ship. Sharing experiences and tips can make your cruise more enjoyable and create lasting friendships.

You’ve learned about the best cruises for single parents and why choosing the right one is crucial. From kid-friendly activities to budgeting tips, planning, and packing advice, you’re now equipped to make the most of your vacation. Remember, connecting with other single parents can enhance your experience and create lasting memories. So, go ahead, book that cruise, and embark on a fantastic adventure with your little ones. Enjoy every moment and make the most of this special time together. Happy cruising!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some cruise lines suitable for single parents and their children.

Popular cruise lines for single parents and kids include Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These cruise lines offer a variety of kid-friendly activities and amenities to ensure an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

How can single parents budget effectively for a cruise vacation?

Budgeting tips for single parent cruises involve careful financial planning. Setting a budget, looking for deals, and booking in advance can help manage expenses. Additionally, opting for onboard packages and avoiding unnecessary expenses can contribute to a stress-free vacation.

What advice is provided for planning and packing for a cruise as a single parent?

When planning and packing for a cruise, single parents are advised to create a checklist to ensure they have all necessary items. Packing versatile clothing suitable for various activities on the cruise is recommended. It is also suggested to pack essentials like medications, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

How can single parents socialize with others during a cruise?

Single parents can socialize with others during a cruise by attending social events organized onboard. Engaging in group activities, participating in excursions, or joining online platforms dedicated to single parents can help connect with others and potentially form lasting friendships.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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Single parent cruises

1st child sails at 15% off.

With MSC Cruises, single parent families sharing a cabin enjoy a special offer . With our single parent cruise deal, the parent pays the regular fare, while the first child under 18 sails at a discounted rate of 15%. The second child, if applicable, pays the regular price. Choose to share your cabin with your children and take advantage of the single parent cruise deal on selected departures.

Turn your single parent holiday into an unforgettable adventure with MSC Cruises. Prepare for a truly special vacation with your children, exploring incredible destinations together as you sail from port to port and then find your own space and savor well-deserved relaxation while your children are captivated by the ship's exciting activities. From engaging Kids Clubs to thrilling entertainment , there's something for everyone on a spectacular cruise holiday.

And with MSC Cruises, you can let go of the planning worries. We've taken care of everything you need for a fantastic family getaway: delicious meals at the Buffet and Main Restaurant, a world of onboard activities, and endless opportunities to create thrilling memories together.

Choose from the itineraries below and book your extraordinary single-parent cruise today !

The prices shown already include the discount.

Terms & Conditions

• Offer starts from 19 June 2024
• The offer applies only to cruise departures displayed on this page
• Applicable to families travelling with 1 adult and up to 2 kids booking one cabin
• The Adult in the cabin is not requested to be the children's parent
• The offer can be combined with the 5% MSC Voyagers Club discount . Not applicable to Voyagers Exclusives
• Not combinable with any other discount
• The offer is not retroactive and applicable only to new individual bookings
• It will be subject to availability at booking confirmation date
• Standard terms and conditions will apply
• The offer is not retroactive and applicable to new individual bookings only

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