Disney is not alone in their quest to market the family cruise theme.

Disney is not alone in their quest to market the family cruise theme.  Other cruise lines are following the Disney blueprint and offering some serious competition. Carnival Cruise Lines has dedicated children's areas including great playrooms with separate pools. Toddlers from two to five years are indulged with puppet shows, face painting, coloring, and crafts. As long as diapers and supplies are provided, staff will change toddlers. For many parents, this is a plus, as most cruise lines do not offer diaper service.  Activities for children ages 6 to 8 include pizza parties, computer time, T-shirt painting, arts and crafts, talent shows, and fitness programs. For children from the ages of 9 to 11-year-olds, ping-pong, dance lessons, video games, swim parties, scavenger hunts, and sports will keep them begging for more. Not to be out done, family cruises with Nickelodeon are offered exclusively on Norwegian Cruise Line.  Children can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters, such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer, participate in Slime Time Live, enjoy scavenger hunts, family improv, story time and of course, amazing poolside activities.  Royal Caribbean has teamed with DreamWorks Animation to create an unforgettable vacation with favorite characters from Shrek, Madagascar and Kun Fu Panda to name a few.  Like other cruise lines, Royal Caribbean offers Character Meals, Broadway style shows as well as mini golf, ice skating and even a Carousel at Sea which includes hand-carved wooden carousels, carnival games and an outdoor high-diving show.  Princess Cruise Lines is also a top choice for families due to the quality of their children’s programs and on-board entertainment. Top luxury line Crystal is also getting into the game by creating a kid’s activities programs and offering discounts to young travelers. It is important to check with cruise lines on special programs they offer before booking your travel.