Do You Pay Full Price for a Child on a Cruise?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning to take your child with you on a cruise? One of the most common questions parents ask when planning a cruise vacation is, “Do I have to pay full price for my child?”

The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors. In this article, we will explore the various scenarios where you may or may not have to pay full price for your child.

Age Restrictions

Cruise lines have age restrictions for children. Generally, children under two years old do not have to pay full price for a cruise.

They are considered infants and can often sail for free or at a discounted rate. However, this policy varies from one cruise line to another, so it’s always best to check the specific policies of your chosen cruise line.

Occupancy Requirements

One of the factors that determine whether or not you will have to pay full price for your child is the occupancy requirements of the cabin. Each cabin has a maximum occupancy limit that includes both adults and children. If you exceed the maximum occupancy limit of your cabin by adding an extra child, you may be required to book an additional cabin or upgrade to a larger one at full price.

Special Offers

Cruise lines often offer special promotions and discounts for families traveling with children. For example, some cruise lines offer “kids sail free” promotions during certain times of the year or on specific itineraries. In such cases, if you fulfill certain requirements such as booking within a certain time frame or booking a specific cabin type, your child may be able to sail for free or at a discounted rate.

Group Bookings

If you are traveling with a large group that includes several children, you may be able to negotiate special rates with the cruise line. Group bookings often come with discounts and perks that individual bookings do not include. In such cases, your child may be able to sail at a reduced rate or even for free.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the answer to whether or not you have to pay full price for your child on a cruise depends on several factors such as age restrictions, occupancy requirements, special offers, and group bookings. Always check the specific policies of your chosen cruise line and inquire about any promotions or discounts that may be available for families traveling with children. With a little bit of research and planning, you can save money on your next family cruise vacation.