Sailing with Infants

Setting Sail with Little Ones: A Guide to Cruise Line Infant Policies

Cruising can be a fantastic family vacation, but if your family includes an infant, you’ll need to consider specific age requirements set by each cruise line. Here’s a quick rundown of popular lines and their infant travel policies:

Minimum Age:

• Most Lines: Require infants to be at least 6 months old on the sailing date.
• Exceptions: Itineraries with extended stretches at sea (think transatlantic crossings) or exotic destinations may have a higher minimum age, sometimes 12 months.

Here are some resources to explore further (be sure to check each cruise line’s website for the latest information):

• Carnival: Generally 6 months, 12 months for some itineraries [Carnival infant policy] (Traveling with Infants and Toddlers | Carnival Cruise Line)
• Royal Caribbean: Generally 6 months, but restricted on cruises with many consecutive sea days [Royal Caribbean infant policy] (What’s the youngest my baby can be to come on the cruise? (royalcaribbean.com))
• Celebrity Cruises: Generally 6 months, with 12 months required for specific itineraries [Celebrity Cruises infant policy] (https://www.celebritycruises.com/blog/cruise-with-a-toddler)
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Generally 6 months, 12 months for itineraries with three or more consecutive sea days [Norwegian Cruise Line infant policy] (https://www.ncl.com/travel-blog/cruising-with-a-baby-top-tips-for-new-families)
• Disney Cruise Line: Generally 6 months, but check for specific itineraries [Disney Cruise Line infant policy] (https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/traveling-with-little-ones/)
• Princess Cruises: Infants must be at least 6 months old for most itineraries, including Alaska, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, and Transcanal cruises. All other cruises, including transatlantic and transpacific voyages, require infants to be 12 months old. In some cases, exceptions for 6-12 month olds on these longer itineraries might be considered on a case-by-case basis if emergency pediatric medical care is readily available. Princess Cruises age requirements: https://www.princess.com/html/global/book/popups/age-requirements.html
• Holland America: Similar to Princess Cruises, Holland America requires infants to be 6 months old for most itineraries and 12 months for voyages with more than two consecutive sea days. Holland America children policy: https://hollandamerica.cruiselines.com/cruise_info/age_requirements.cfm

Additional Tips:

• Be Prepared: Pack essentials like diapers, wipes, and formula in sufficient quantities.
• Pack to Easy your Burden: While many lines offer something similar to a “pack and play” it’s always a good idea to bring one with you. It’s great to have a safe space to put your little one down. Don’t forget your stroller and car seat in case you plan on taking an excursion!
• Research Onboard Services: Some lines offer nurseries, toddler programs, and special amenities for families.
• Doctor’s Note: Some lines may require a doctor’s note certifying your infant’s fitness to travel.
• Be Prepared: Bring along some help! For instance, your spouse or grandparents who may be open to safely caring for your infant for a few hours so you can enjoy some time or rest as well!

As always, this information is likely accurate but should always be verified by the cruise line prior to booking.