8 Best Family Cruises 2024

Since making a splash in 1998 with the first of its four family-friendly vessels, Disney has been earning kudos in the premium cruise ship category. Disney Wonder, which debuted in 1999 and holds 2,700 passengers, is painted in Mickey Mouse hues of black, red and yellow—and its horn toots the first seven notes to “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

Best for: Disney-obsessed kids who love character interaction, musical productions and movies.

Coolest itinerary: Seven nights round trip from Vancouver to Alaska (runs May to September), convenient for families looking to spy on glaciers, whales and grizzlies with calls in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Price: from $1,685 per person. And hey, we love a Disney Cruise Line adventure.

Why it's great: It’s magical from aft to stern. Disney ships command a premium, but they deliver in all the right ways. Sail Away Celebrations and Deck Parties feature beloved animated characters and fireworks, pools are comfortably heated, and most cabins are designed with a half-bath plus a full bath with a tub—a cruise-ship rarity—and feature two portable Wave Phones so you can call or text while on board.