sailing cruise boat

Caribbean Small Ship Sailing Cruises

• Start Date Select Month August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2024 December 2024 January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 April 2025 May 2025 June 2025 July 2025 August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025 January 2026 February 2026 March 2026 April 2026 May 2026 June 2026 July 2026 OR, More specific start
• Easy Active
• Most Popular
• Small Ship Cruises
• Wildlife & Safari Exploration
• Scuba Diving
• Wildlife Viewing
• Small Ship Sailing
• Adventure Options
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Hacienda Visits
• Land & Sea Exploration
• Local Market Visits
• Rainforest Exploration
• Spa Relaxation
• Urban Exploration
• Village Visits
• Volunteering
• Emerald Azzurra
• Emerald Sakara
• Le Champlain
• Royal Clipper
• Scenic Eclipse
• Sea Cloud Spirit
• Seabourn Venture
• Star Clipper

Classic Yachtsman Caribbean

• Enjoy Grenada's unique aromas
• Discover Falmouth Harbour, Antigua
• Enjoy the beach in ÎIes des Saintes
• Explore lush St. Lucia Island

Windward Islands

• Explore beaches in Barbados
• See lush island of St. Lucia
• Visit sophisticated Martinique

Treasure Islands

• Visit Virgin Gorda's famous “Baths”
• Enjoy the lifestyle of Soper's Hole
• Walk the streets of Basseterre
• Relax on famous St. Barts

A Colorful Caribbean Time-Out

• Explore Old San Juan's forts
• Enjoy salsa music
• Sail in the British Virgin Islands
• Explore unique rock formations

Leeward Islands

• Visit Dominica Island
• Snorkel at Iles des Saintes
• Sail across Rivière Salée
• Enjoy Gustavia's unique charm
• Sailing the Caribbean
• Experience a 4-masted, 30-sail ship
• Sail into lesser-known ports
• Explore wildlife, culture, and sea
• Enjoy the relaxed Caribbean pace

Barbados to Panama

• Explore Bridgetown, Barbados
• Discover Dutch colonial Curacao
• Transit the historic Panama Canal

Panama to Antigua

• Swim in paradise in Bonaire

Westbound Atlantic Ocean Crossing

• Visit Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
• Take in the fresh ocean breeze
• Explore San Sebastian, La Gomera
• Relax on paradise beaches
• Discover the Rock of Gibraltar
• Experience Tangier
• Visit Cadiz
• Explore Safi
• Marvel at Bonifacio's views
• Explore charming Mahon, Menorca
• See Malaga's Moorish architecture
• Enjoy Marbella's natural beauty

Dream of A Lifetime: Transatlantic Crossing

• Follow Columbus's course
• Sail across the Atlantic Ocean
• Enjoy an offshore sailing adventure
• Observe incredible sunsets
• Discover Lisbon and its history
• Visit Safi, Morocco
• View Tenerife's mountains
• Enjoy the beaches of Barbados

Caribbean Travel Guide

• All Caribbean Trips
• Caribbean Small Cruise Ships & Sailboats
• Lesser Antilles
• Best Time to Visit the Caribbean
• Caribbean Island Guide
• Belize Sea Kayaking Tours
• Belize Snorkeling Trips & Tours
• Belize Beach Resorts
• Caribbean Luxury

Favorite Caribbean All Trips

• Bahamas Sailing Adventure
• Belize Explorer

Top Caribbean Travel Destinations

Caribbean trips by departure date.

• 2024 Caribbean trips (31)
• 2025 Caribbean trips (27)
• 2026 Caribbean trips (14)
• October 2024 (12)
• November 2024 (17)
• December 2024 (19)
• January 2025 (13)
• February 2025 (13)
• March 2025 (14)
• November 2025 (12)
• December 2025 (9)
• February 2026 (9)

Top Experiences in Caribbean

• Caribbean Cruises (37)
• Caribbean Small Ship Cruises (28)
• Caribbean Beaches (13)
• Caribbean Cultural (10)
• Caribbean Active (9)
• Caribbean Luxury (8)
• Caribbean Land Tours (8)

Caribbean Trips by Duration

• 8 day trips (23)
• 9 day trips (3)
• 15 day trips (6)

Caribbean Trips by Activity

• Caribbean snorkeling (28)
• Caribbean small ship sailing (15)
• Caribbean wildlife viewing (11)
• Caribbean hiking (11)
• Caribbean local market visits (9)
• Caribbean kayaking (6)
• Caribbean archaeological site visits (5)
• Caribbean adventure options (4)
• Caribbean homestays (4)
• Caribbean urban exploration (4)
• Caribbean village visits (4)

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

Dump out your bucket list.

This is the adventure you’ve been looking for..

Windjamming is, quite literally, like nothing else on Earth. By turns exhilarating, relaxing, surprising, and nurturing, it’s like no other vacation you’ve ever experienced.

Wake up to the quiet solitude of Maine’s coast, find renewal in the wind and sun, and surprise yourself as you help steer the ship. Aboard our vessels, with itineraries tossed to the wind, our guests find both a spark of adventure and time to reflect.

Is there a sailor in your soul?

Welcome to the Maine Windjammer Association – the largest fleet of traditional tall ships in the Americas. Our iconic windjammers offer multi-day, all-inclusive, sailing adventure cruises in one of the most acclaimed cruising grounds in the world.

When you sail aboard a Maine Windjammer Association vessel, you can be sure that your hosts hold themselves to the highest standards of safety and quality. As your captain and guide they will treat you to honest, heartfelt Maine hospitality and personalized attention.  Explore our fleet and offerings to find your perfect cruise.

The Windjamming Experience

Simply put, windjamming is about reconnecting with our essential enjoyment of life. It’s about gorgeous scenery, human connection, soul-nourishing meals, and taking time for both adventure and reflection. Our playground is the sparkling sea and the spruce-clad granite islands that rise from it.

Whether you join us for a three-night cruise or a week, we promise you a total escape from the ordinary. Be prepared to get closer than you ever have before to breathtaking wildlife like eagles, seals and porpoises, to visit some of North America’s most spectacular coastal scenery, charming villages and unspoiled islands, and to savor the freshest, fire-cooked Downeast fare. With only 16-31 guests on our ships, you’ll experience the kind of honest, heartfelt hospitality that keeps our guests coming back year after year.

Welcome to the only place in the world where schooners play in abundance. Where steady breezes, glittering bays, and literally thousands of islands make Penobscot Bay one of the most revered cruising grounds on earth.

On our small ship cruises, we have complete liberty to explore secret anchorages, remote fishing villages, and charming gallery towns. Schooners have been an intrinsic part of the Maine Coast for centuries, and there is something very special about rounding the point and arriving at anchorage under sail. Come touch this culturally distinct, pristine and physically breathtaking part of America.

Explore by Schedule

Use our cruise finder below to explore sailing options that fit your schedule. If your dates are flexible, or you just want to learn more, visit our fleet page and each vessel’s website. Reservations can be made directly with the Windjammer of your choice. Have fun exploring! Whichever vessel you choose, you are sure to have the sailing adventure of a lifetime.

Find My Trip

Leave your fancy clothes home for this low key, relaxing cruise. Experience quiet morning sunrises; the wind and sun on your face as you fly sailing across the water; beautiful scenery; and the most amazing (and never ending!) food. Maine lobster cooked right on the beach, ocean swims, and music night. This is a trip for making lifetime memories.

Stay in the Know

With our monthly newsletter, you’ll receive tips and hints from folks who have sailed as well as information about the best dining and attractions the area has to offer, special packages, windjammer history, events, and more!

You can request a mailed or digital packet of brochures, or you can find individual ships’ brochures under each listing on the fleet page.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. We recommend Google Chrome.

The Essence of Small Ship Sailing

Wind Star is a sleek, 4-masted sailing yacht accommodating 148 guests. With four decks and a gross tonnage of 5,703, Wind Star feels like your own private yacht.

Wind Star features wide open, teak decks—quite unusual for small ships. Guests will find hidden nooks for private moments giving them a feeling of being on their own private veranda.

All staterooms have ocean views, queen beds, flat-screen TV with DVD player, and the Owner’s Suite includes a sitting area.

Wind Star offers two primary dining venues. Amphora restaurant offers gourmet, course-by-course cuisine in the evenings and Veranda restaurant offers casual buffet and full-service dining for breakfast and lunch. All dining is open seating. And, for dining under the stars, make a reservation for Candles which features steaks and skewers.

Wind Star amenities include: World Spa by Windstar, Watersports Platform, Lounge, Pool, and Hot Tub.

Windstar has always been known for our iconic sailing ships, and now Wind Star has under her Setting Sails: A Wind Class Refresh . The initiative brings the tight-knit connection of the Windstar community to the forefront through the redesign of public spaces and staterooms. From a revamped lobby to a new pool and larger pool bar, new World Spa by Windstar to a redesigned lounge, this initiative also includes intricate details like new teak decks and décor for a timeless and welcoming experience.

Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers Interactive TV Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator Safe L'Occitane Bath Amenities Fresh Fruit Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets Wi-Fi Internet Access (various plans available for purchase) Bathroom with granite countertop and shower Granite vanity with magnifying mirror

• CAPACITY: 148 Guests
• STATEROOMS: 73 deluxe ocean view staterooms
• OWNERS SUITE: 1 ocean view owner’s suite
• DECKS: 4 decks
• CREW:  101 international staff
• SHIP'S REGISTRY: Bahamas
• LENGTH: 360 feet (110 meters) at waterline; 440 feet (134 meters) including bowsprit
• DRAFT: 14 feet (4.1 meters)
• TONNAGE: 5,307 gross registered tons (grt)
• BEAM: 52.1 feet (15.8 meters)
• SAILS: 6 triangular, self-furling, computer-operated sails with 21,500 square feet (or 2,200 square meters) of Dacron surface area
• MASTS: 4 at 204 feet (62 meters)
• ENGINES: 3 diesel electric generating sets, 1 electrical propulsion motor
• SPEED: 10 knots with engines only; up to 15.8 knots with prevailing wind

The most unusual new cruise ship of the decade: Why Sea Cloud Spirit is a vessel you'll want to try

It might just be the most spectacular show in all of cruising.

Standing on the teak-lined top deck of Sea Cloud Spirit, the glorious new sailing ship from Sea Cloud Cruises, I am watching 18 sure-footed deckhands scurrying about high in the rigging to unfurl the sails.

From my perch, the crew members look like frenzied ants bumping around a recently disturbed anthill. Wherever you look across the vessel's three massive masts, which rise nearly 200 feet in the air, and the giant "yards" that cross them at regular intervals, at least one of these little jumbles of arms and legs is untying sails and throwing them into the proper position to unfurl.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It doesn't take these deckhands long to prepare all 16 of the massive pieces of cloth up above — one on each yard — and soon they are bounding back down to the ship's top deck for the second half of the show: the (winch-assisted) heaving of the ropes that fully unfurl the sails.

It is only then that the massive vessel — five decks high and 453 feet long — begins to catch the wind and accelerate forward. Call it the show's epilogue. We are now underway, propelled by the power of the wind alone.

Even for a seen-it-all cruise writer like me, it is an exhilarating experience — and a rare one.

In the (small) world of large sailing ships that can be booked for multiday cruises, only a handful of vessels have sails that are still set by hand in this way — the old-fashioned way, like it was done centuries ago.

Most large sailing ships that offer multiday voyages, such as those operated by Windstar Cruises , have automated sails.

It is rarer still that a vessel like this would be built new, with all the latest creature comforts, as Sea Cloud Spirit was over the past 15 years during an on-again, off-again project to craft one of the biggest, most elegant passenger sailing ships ever.

This is at the heart of what makes Sea Cloud Spirit special. It is an old-style tall ship that, above all, offers an authentic sailing experience. But as I saw recently on an 11-night voyage down the coast of Costa Rica and Panama, it's also a modern and upscale cruise vessel that will whisk you around such sailing-friendly destinations as the Caribbean in style.

Here are more of my first impressions of Sea Cloud Spirit, which is just starting to draw attention in the North American market after a quiet launch to mostly Germans in 2021.

It's an old-style windjammer with modern rooms

Call it the most unusual new cruise vessel of the decade — if not longer. Carrying just 136 passengers, Sea Cloud Spirit is a full-rigged, three-masted sailing ship of the sort that hasn't been common on the world's oceans for more than a century. Still, it's no relic of the golden age of sail. While it's modeled on classic sailing ships of old, it was built with all of the modern comforts that you would expect on a new cruise vessel, including elegant and amenity-filled cabins.

Aimed at an upscale traveler, Sea Cloud Spirit's accommodations are notably roomy for a sailing vessel, with most measuring more than 200 square feet and many boasting spacious balconies —a rarity for even the biggest passenger sailing ships.

All 25 cabins on the Panorama Deck (Deck 3), billed as junior suites and suites, have such balconies, allowing passengers to step out into the fresh ocean air during long sails between destinations. That's roughly 36% of the 69 cabins on the vessel.

The remaining 44 cabins — most located one deck down on the Cabin Deck (Deck 2), with a few on the higher Lido Deck (Deck 4) — all have windows to the outside. In an unusual-for-a-cruise-vessel twist, the windows of the Lido Deck cabins can be opened for a breeze.

All the cabins are well appointed with such modern amenities as televisions with on-demand movies available at no extra charge, miniature refrigerators stocked with soda, personal safes and a welcome bottle of Champagne. On the downside, storage space is somewhat limited, with relatively tight built-in closets with oddly small slide-out drawers.

All feature decor that draws its inspiration from the 1930s design of Sea Cloud Cruises' original vessel Sea Cloud — once the private yacht for Postum Cereals heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post (and, at one time, the largest private yacht in the world). Think classical motifs, white-on-white decorative wall paneling and shiplap ceilings, and bathrooms with lots of marble, brass and gold. (In junior suites, the type of cabin I had, the bathrooms boast deep whirlpool bathtubs and Villeroy & Boch fittings.)

The dining is upscale (if limited)

Hard and tasteless sea biscuits, salted meats and pickled vegetables might have been the staples of sailing ships of old, but that's definitely not the case on Sea Cloud Spirit. The ship offers a fine dining experience in its main eatery, the Restaurant, that mixes elegantly plated classic continental cuisine such as beef Rossini with locally inspired dishes such as a pan-seared fillet of grouper floating on a Caribbean-style salsa.

Big enough to serve all 136 passengers on the ship at once, the Restaurant has a classic feel to match its continental cuisine. It sports large arched windows that bathe the room in light, crisp white tablecloths, German-made china embossed with a gold line drawing of the ship, and paintings of sailing ships on its walls.

Located at the back of the vessel on the Panorama Deck, the Restaurant is, alas, one of few dining options on Sea Cloud Spirit, and it offers a limited menu at dinnertime. Each night, the menu features just a single starter, a single soup, a choice of three main courses and a single dessert (that can be substituted with an international cheese plate). Plus, sorbet is always served in between the soup and main courses.

An alternative option on some nights is a more casual dinner at the open-air "bistro" — a covered seating area with teak furniture and 270-degree views at the back of the ship. Its menu also is limited to just a few choices, and they typically overlap with what is offered at the Restaurant one deck below.

The bistro space, which is backed by a bar, also serves as the ship's main outdoor lounge space during the day and morphs into a drinking spot at night (complete with a DJ spinning tunes). On some nights, there's even dancing.

The single option for lunch typically is a buffet served at the outdoor bistro, with breakfast served as a buffet in the Restaurant. On some nights, dinner is also a buffet served at the outdoor bistro, with no meal served in the Restaurant.

What you won't find on Sea Cloud Spirit is the sort of casual decktop grill that you find on some ships where you can grab a quick burger in between lounges on the Lido Deck. And there's no room service offered on board for those who want to swap one of the very-drawn-out meals in the main restaurant for an early night to bed.

This is, no doubt, partly due to the small size of the vessel and resulting limits on the number of kitchen and wait staff members that it can carry. Even with the limited menus and dining options, the dining staff often appears stretched too thin.

Still, what the kitchen is able to accomplish with its limited resources is impressive. Dinner buffets at the bistro often feature chefs grilling fresh local fish either bought the same day from local fishers or caught off the back of the vessel while it is underway (something I've never seen done on any other vessel in nearly 30 years of writing about cruising). Filet mignon, lobster and other high-end fare cooked in front of passengers on deck is also common.

Sea Cloud has also begun hosting well-known U.S. chefs on some sailings to lead cooking demonstrations and lectures during the day and create special dishes for dinners at night. On my sailing, renowned South Florida chef Cindy Hutson and partner Delius Shirley, who have had restaurants in Florida and Jamaica, were on board. Sea Cloud recently announced that chef Michael Collantes of Winter Park, Florida's Michelin-starred Soseki would be sailing on a voyage in October.

It's mostly all-inclusive

Sea Cloud Spirit's itineraries aren't inexpensive. Ten-night Costa Rica and Panama voyages scheduled for 2025, similar to the one I experienced, start at $9,530 per person — or nearly $1,000 per person, per day. Top cabins on the vessel for such voyages cost as much as $23,090 per person.

But as is typical for cruise lines at the high end, Sea Cloud Cruises includes a lot in its base price. In addition to a room and all meals, the fares wrap in the cost of gratuities, a complimentary minibar in cabins stocked with sodas, and fine wines and other alcoholic drinks available from the ship's eateries and bar around the clock. These costs can really drive up the total price of a cruise vacation on many other lines.

In addition, all passengers get 1 gigabyte of speedy Starlink Internet access for free on every voyage. (If that isn't enough to last your entire sailing, you can buy more at a rate of 20 euros for 5 gigabytes or 35 euros for 10 gigabytes.) Plus, those staying in higher-level cabins get free laundry service throughout their cruise, a notable perk.

Another free perk on the ship is access to its small spa's thermal area— an extra charge on many ships. It's home to a Finnish sauna, steam room, foot bath, showers and a relaxation room.

Some destination activities are also included in the fare. On my sailing, for instance, guided snorkeling outings with a naturalist off the beach during stops at Panama's Coiba National Park and Pearl Islands were available at no extra charge. So was a visit with the indigenous Kuna people of the San Blas Islands off the coast of Panama.

The handful of things that cost extra during a Sea Cloud Spirit sailing include extra-charge shore tours offered during visits to some destinations (on my sailing, there were extra-charge tours during three stops) and treatments in the ship's small spa.

It's magical — and romantic

Lovely rooms, lovely food, inclusive pricing — these are all things that you'll find on just about any higher-end cruise ship. But what you won't get on almost any other vessel is the feeling of sheer awe that you get spending a day under sail on Sea Cloud Spirit.

It is, quite simply, something magical — and romantic — to be propelled through the ocean on a vessel the size of Sea Cloud Spirit by nothing more than the power of the wind.

It harks back to a bygone era before the arrival of modern motor vessels, when crossing the world's oceans was as adventurous as it was arduous.

It's an experience that's all about the feeling of the wind in your hair, the lean of the vessel (known as the heel) as it's pushed by the wind and the sway from the waves, which is smoother than what you get on a motor ship.

It's about looking up at the massive sails swollen with the wind from the vantage point of a lounge chair and thinking about how far humans have come in just a few centuries — for better or worse.

It's about thinking about our collective history and the personal tales of our family histories.

Walking around Sea Cloud Spirit's graciously curved top deck, with its seemingly endless arrays of coiled ropes and winches and other gear needed to operate a giant tall ship, I couldn't help but think of my poor Scot-Irish ancestors casting off from Belfast and Londonderry to the Americas in the 1700s, setting off on sailing ship journeys that would take eight weeks in some cases.

Sea Cloud Spirit is enchanting for many reasons, including its sheer beauty. Narrow and sleek, as sailing ships always are, it's a sight to behold from the water when all 28 of its sails are unfurled and trimmed for maximum speed — something passengers can experience firsthand during a "photo safari" off the ship in rubber Zodiac boats.

When the light catches the ship's sails just right, it is pure majesty.

All that said, if you're the sort of cruiser who doesn't think a ship is complete if it's not loaded with amusements, Sea Cloud Spirit is probably not the vessel for you. Other than the show of the sails being put up, it offers no onboard shows, just lectures by the ship's staff and guest speakers about the places the ship is visiting and the ship itself. Its top deck doesn't even have a pool.

In contrast to what you'll find on many new cruise ships, the experience isn't about being amused while carving your way across the sea. It's about the simple thrill of traveling across the sea.

If you're an American, you might be in the minority

Sea Cloud Cruises is a Germany-based company, with a big following there, and as a result, its sailings are often dominated by German-speaking passengers.

While the company markets internationally, and its onboard program is bilingual (the relatively rare number of announcements on board are made in both German and English, and most of the staff speaks both languages), certain sailings can have very few English speakers on board. On my sailing, only about a dozen of 104 passengers on board were English speakers, for instance.

In addition, you'll find that pricing for extra-charge items on the ship, such as spa treatments, is in euros. The plugs on board the vessel are all European style (though you will find a couple of USB ports to charge your phones in every room).

Sea Cloud Cruises has been making a major effort in recent months to draw more travelers from the North American market, so expect to see this ratio of English speakers to German speakers grow. But, for now, a cruise on the vessel sometimes has the feel of a stay at the sort of smaller hotels in Germany that mostly cater to locals.

When passing someone in a hall, whether passenger or crew, you're more likely to be greeted with a "guten morgen" or "guten tag" than a "good morning" or "good day" — at least until they figure out that you're one of the few Americans on board.

Bottom line

Other authentic sailing ships offer multiday trips for vacationers — including the two other vessels in the Sea Cloud Cruises fleet (Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II). But none are as big or awe-inspiring as the new Sea Cloud Spirit.

If it's an authentic sailing ship experience you're after, on a large vessel of the sort that once was common on the world's oceans, a voyage on Sea Cloud Spirit will be hard to beat.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

TALL SHIP SAILING CRUISES IN SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN

Free cancellation.

Daily Public Sails

Private Charter

Best of the best

Ranked #1 tour in Saugatuck

360+ five-star reviews

Daily public sailing tours on the Schooner Serenity, Saugatuck’s only authentic tall ship.

Daily public sailing tours on the Schooner Serenity.

Set sail on saugatuck’s only authentic tall ship..

2 hours long

Day Sailing Cruise

$56 / all ages

See more details

Sunset Sailing Cruise

$68 / all ages

Welcome aboard!

Step aboard the Schooner Serenity with Sailing Saugatuck and embark on a sailing adventure you won't forget. Our daily two-hour cruises take you through the stunning scenery of the Kalamazoo River and onto Lake Michigan, providing a peaceful and relaxing experience.

Our goal is to create an unforgettable sailing experience for everyone, so whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, come join us for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

Recent reviews

"Simply Perfect. The highlight of our vacation!"

“I can’t say enough good things about the crew on the boat. They were all so friendly– it was like sailing with family! Very well maintained ship and professional crew! Highly recommend this adventure!”

Samantha H.

September 2022

"The best boat tour in Saugatuck."

“We really enjoyed our sunset sail on Lake Michigan! The Serenity staff was great and the trip was full of beautiful scenery. We will definitely sail with them again!”

August 2022

"Incredibly friendly and fun crew."

“I never understood the relationship people have with their boats until I sailed on the Schooner Serenity. What a beautiful experience. A visit to Saugatuck is not complete until you have a sail on Serenity!”

“The best sailing experience to date!”

“What a wonderful experience! We did the sunset sail with family that came into town and everyone enjoyed it immensely. The Captain and Crew were great. You can participate in hoisting the huge sails which was so fun and provided opportunity for great photos. GO, you won’t be disappointed.”

Easy Parking

Our guests have access to free and easy parking just steps away from our dock.​

Get directions

Coast Guard Certified

Our Captains, crew and sailing vessels are US Coast Guard certified and regularly inspected to provide a safe and fun sailing experience.

Private Charters

Small weddings, reunions, birthdays, bachelorette parties… our boats offer a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your special occasion!

See more info

Have a special event coming up?

Special event coming up, book the schooner serenity for a private charter., daily public sailing tours on saugatuck's only authentic tall ship..

$59 / all ages

Private charter options

Interested in a more intimate, private sailing experience for your crew? Consider booking a private charter on one of our two sister vessels.

Private charter option

Interested in a more intimate, private sailing experience for your crew? Consider booking a private charter.

Private sail on the Schooner Serenity

Up to 24 guests, us coast guard certified.

Make your next private event or leisurely outing on the water an unforgettable experience by chartering Schooner Serenity. With room for up to 24 guests and our professional captain and crew, you'll have everything you need.

Starting at $1,288

Sanctuary Cruises

Premier whale watching in monterey bay, ca, whale watching on monterey bay.

Hop aboard Sanctuary for unforgettable whale watching on Monterey Bay. Journey with expert guides through pristine waters. Book your tour today.

• User For All Ages
• Hour Glass Up to 4 hr
• Users Up to 22 passengers

All Cruises

Learn More »

Marine Life

Sanctuary cruises is different - in a good way.

Hop aboard an eco-friendly Sanctuary Cruise for the premier whale watching adventure on the Monterey Bay! Aboard the bio-diesel powered Sanctuary, marine biologists provide in-depth and engaging marine wildlife insights. The waters right outside our harbor are dubbed the “Moss Landing Whale Park” for good reason – the deep canyon waters close to shore are teeming with marine life: feeding whales, dolphins, orcas, sea otters, sea lions and birds year-round.

What Our Clients Have To Say ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The boat is cozy but it's all you need! It's close to the water so when the whales come up, you SEE them up close and personal. Chase Dekker and Jackson are the best combo around. Chase is the best naturalist/photographer around and Jackson is the best captain. I have been on 2, almost 3 Photography centric cruises and whale watching several times and every single time was memorable!!

The variety of marine life you can encounter in the Monterey Bay is exceptional. I've been fortunate to witness humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, gray whales, and more. Each trip is a new adventure, I highly recommend going out multiple times in a season to see it all. Don't miss out – book your tour with them today!

I have been on this boat multiple times, and it has been wonderful every time. I think the thing to remember is you are looking for animals. You're not guaranteed to see them every time, but I have been fortunate enough to. This cruise was a better experience for me than any of the others I have gone on, in other parts of California. If you would like to see humpback whales, this is the place to go. The crew is knowledgeable and experienced.

So awesome that this sustainable charter boat uses biodiesel! The captain and Brian (marine biologist) were so nice and accommodating and expert with their info and their ability to locate the best spots for finding marine wildlife.

We went on a cruise in early December. There weren't many other people that day so we had tons of space on the boat. Chase was great, shared tons of information about the wildlife we were seeing and the bay generally, he also answered many questions. Even before we got on the boat in the morning Chase and the boat captain had a plan for where to go based on what they'd heard from other boats. We spent a bunch of time with orcas (who came right up to the boat at one point) and then humpbacks.

Amazing day of whale watching. Saw lots of whale breaching and one whale fully out of the water. Lots of views of white dolphin, Casper, close by. Crew works hard to make sure you see ocean life and and knowledgeable about their behaviors.

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Cruises from San Francisco

From the golden gate bridge to the painted ladies, sail on the best sf cruises with princess®.

Best Cruises From the West Coast

Cruise Critic

Start your cruise from San Francisco by sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and into a sea of opportunity. Venture north to relive Alaska’s gold rush history, or head south to bask in the beauty of the Mexican Riviera. Tour the California Coast on a 4-day cruise from San Francisco, or explore the Hawaiian islands on a 15-day cruise. Arrive in Northern California and embark on your dream vacation with Princess.

Find the Best Cruises from San Francisco

Alaska Cruises

Glaciers, wildlife and mountains await you on a cruise from San Francisco to Alaska. Our roundtrip voyages bring you up close to untouched landmarks, including Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier. Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, meet sled dogs in Juneau and pan for gold in Skagway. Experience it all with Princess, the #1 cruise line in Alaska*.

*More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line

California Coast Cruises

From Northern California to the Southern cities, The Golden State is brimming with breathtaking coast lines, creative cuisine and iconic marine life. On cruises out of San Francisco, visit the San Diego Zoo, California’s very own living sanctuary. Explore Catalina Island’s underwater oasis where kelp forests dance to the rhythm of the ocean. Or enjoy crisp wines amidst the Sonoma Wine Country.

Hawaii Cruises

On a cruise from San Francisco, unpack once and visit multiple Hawaiian Islands. Drive through Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Then enjoy an evening in Honolulu with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays – included in every itinerary. With the sunset as your backdrop, conclude your trip with a traditional luau. Island hop with ease in a way that only Princess can offer.

Mexico Cruises

For a taste of fun, flavor and fiesta, sail to Mexico with Princess. On a cruise from San Francisco, dive into adventure in Cabo while snorkeling beside sea turtles and kayaking along the Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Puerto Vallarta, zipline over vast jungle canopies. Or take the day to relax on one of the unspoiled beaches where sun-kissed sand and crystalline waters leave you feeling recharged.

Panama Canal Cruises

The Panama Canal is a true engineering wonder, but even more spectacles lie ahead when you cruise from San Francisco aboard the #1 cruise line in the Canal. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary in Limon. Stroll along the colorful streets of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Spanish fortresses nearby. Or zipline through Nicaragua’s lush jungles and relish in sweeping views of the region’s untouched landscapes.

Getaway Cruises

Enjoy convenient departures and itineraries with Getaway Cruises out of San Francisco. Sail down the coast to meet San Diego’s famous seals, and sip fine wines in Ensenada’s Guadalupe Valley. Or head North to Astoria to experience the iconic beauty of the Pacific Northwest while sampling ales at local breweries. Choose from a four-day cruise from San Francisco to Vancouver or a five-day voyage through the Golden State.

What to Know About Cruises from San Francisco

Make the most of your cruise out of San Francisco by taking in the flavor, beauty and history that lies before you. Here’s everything you should know before arriving in the Golden Gate City.

San Francisco at a glance

• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. dollar
• Time Zone: Pacific Time (PT)
• Docking: Your Princess ship docks at Pier 27, San Francisco Cruise Terminal.
• Attire: Light jackets, sweaters or blazers are recommended, especially for the mornings and evenings.
• Transportation: Taxis or rideshare vehicles can get you to and from the ship and are available pier side for all guests.

Things to do in San Francisco

Visit Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Muir Woods National Monument. In the birthplace of blue jeans, shop boutiques on Market Street, or find the perfect souvenir at Pier 39. Then savor Italian seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, and try the city’s signature dish — clam chowder in a bread bowl. Or spend time in Sonoma or Napa sipping locally grown wines before your cruise from San Francisco.

Ships That Cruise from San Francisco

Our Princess fleet includes some of the best cruises from San Francisco. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Ruby Princess®

Grand Princess®

Sapphire Princess®

Crown Princess®

Coral Princess®

Island Princess®

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

Need help planning?

Why book your cruise with a Cruise Vacation Planner?  Get tips on promotions, and plan celebrations and groups. Book cruises, air, hotels & more – plus access expert knowledge on destinations and ships.

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes.

You May Also Like

Medallionclass® on all ships.

Next-level technology. More time for you. Your vacation – simplified, personalized.

New To Cruising

First time cruising? Have questions? We have the answers so your first  time will be nothing but smooth sailing.

Food & Dining

Award-winning and made from scratch

American Liberty Christened, Sets Sail on Maiden Cruise

• August 22, 2024

American Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the American Liberty, was christened this week in Newport, the company announced in a press release.

The ceremony took place at Fort Adams State Park, where the 100-passenger ship was docked as part of its inaugural cruise.

The American Liberty’s christening celebration included cruise guests, community members, officials from Sail Newport and Fort Adams State Park, as well as a small group of American’s executives and crewmembers.

Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines, gave remarks as did American Liberty’s godmother, Clare Harington, vice commodore of the New York Yacht Club.

“We are honored to be able to host this event in Fort Adams State Park with our fantastic partners from the community and Sail Newport. We are especially honored to have Vice Commodore Clare Harington of the New York Yacht Club serve as godmother of the American Liberty,” said Robertson.

“We look forward to further developing our longtime partnerships in Newport and many other historic coastal towns along the Eastern Seaboard,” he added.

Brad Read, executive director of Sail Newport, and Lauren Carson, RI state representative, also spoke at the event, both commending American Cruise Lines for its commitment to sustainable cruising and the company’s introduction of new and environmentally friendly small ships.

The musical trio, The Victory Belles, were also on hand to entertain guests with patriotic music as everyone gathered on the ship’s top deck for the official blessing and ceremonial bottle smash, American Cruise Line said.

The christening was followed by a traditional New England Lobster bake at Fort Adams State Park where guests also took part in a discussion and live demonstration of the region’s ancient Native American cooking process.

As the third ship in American Cruise Line’s Coastal Cat series, the American Liberty set sail on its maiden cruise on August 15, 2024 .

Departing from Providence, the sold-out voyage explored destinations in New England, such as New Bedford, Nantucket Island and Martha’s Vineyard.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

62 Ships | 154,146 Berths | $50.1 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Instant Access
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

• Cruise search
• Atlantic Coast, Azores & Madeira
• Northern Europe
• Mediterranean Sea
• Canaries & Morocco
• Caribbean – Lesser Antilles & Grenadines
• Bahamas & Florida
• Costa Rica & Central America
• Transatlantic Crossing
• Service package
• Special offer
• Private charter
• Special occasion
• SEA CLOUD II
• SEA CLOUD SPIRIT
• Fascinated by windjammer
• Low-impact tourism
• Newsletter subscription
• Feine Privathotels
• Meisterkreis

A private yacht with an eventful history

Golden swan-shaped water taps, magnificent marble fireplaces, French antiques – as heiress to a fortune worth millions, Marjorie Merriweather Post was able to give free rein to her imagination when building her private yacht, which was launched in Kiel in 1931. Even today, every detail on the SEA CLOUD radiates the glamour of a bygone era. Her elegance seems timeless, as she has retained her unconventional charm.

Captain Sergey Komakin & Captain John Svendsen

• Public areas
• Ground Plan

CAT. A Owners’ Suite 1

Like all the original accommodations, Marjorie Merriweather Post furnished the owner’s suites herself. Whenever she traveled aboard the SEA CLOUD, these posh, private quarters were her home, so she outfitted them in opulence. Today, her personal owners’ suite maintains her exquisite touch with white Carrara marble in the fireplace and bathroom, gold-plated swan fixtures, Louis Philippe chairs, an elaborate floor-to-ceiling dressing mirror and ornate golden-trimmed ceilings. The high-end design and furnishings reflect the successful entrepreneur’s penchant for luxuriating on this private yacht in ultimate comfort.

• approx. 410 sq. ft.
• Marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub
• dressing table and golden fittings
• California king bed, 71 x 79 in.
• walk-in closet
• marble fireplace (electric)

CAT. A Owners’ Suite 2

In addition to her exquisite taste, Marjorie’s attention to detail is also on display in the owners’ suites, richly reflected in the chambers of her first husband Edward Hutton, who gifted her the majestic SEA CLOUD sailing yacht. The maple wood paneling and furnishings create a feeling of warmth and solidity offset by a light, coffered ceiling. Hutton’s bureau-bookcase secretary with mirrored glass is a particularly stunning piece. In contrast to her white bath, his is done in red Carrara marble and includes a chest of drawers and golden fixtures.

• approx. 366 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 3

The hospitality Marjorie cultivated still characterizes a stay on board the SEA CLOUD today. The original colonial style of this deluxe suite continues to welcome guests with the posh comforts and ambiance of a private yacht. Renowned nobility, celebrities and industry titans have all called these deluxe suites home on legendary sailings.

• approx. 258 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 43 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 4

Throughout the commissioned construction of the SEA CLOUD in Kiel, Germany, and later when Marjorie was already living on board, she collected precious antiques from all over the world. This deluxe suite is one of the many examples of how skillfully she integrated the valuable pieces into the interior, and thus, into the overall appearance and ambiance of her private luxury yacht.

• approx. 237 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 54 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• queen bed, 63 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 5

Marjorie frequently mentioned her goal of making family, friends and notable guests feel at home every minute on board the SEA CLOUD. Accordingly, she designed spaces like this deluxe suite to feel like the ultimate in comfort, five-star accommodations. Antique mahogany chests of drawers, marble in the bathroom and by the fireplace and unique pieces create cozy elegance.

• approx. 215 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 58 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds arranged as a double, 36 in. x 79 in. each

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 6

Exclusive getaways on the SEA CLOUD are also journeys through time. The original design and decor of the deluxe suites feel like a portal to a bygone era of glamor. In the spirit of private yachting, this antique mahogany furniture was selected so as not to overwhelm the space, and the fabric palettes complement the light ambiance of elevated comfort.

• approx. 194 sq. ft.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 7

As the SEA CLOUD’s original owner, Marjorie designed the interiors of her luxury sailing yacht with such attention to detail because she wanted to offer her daughter, Dina Merrill, a wonderful and safe home on board. This is especially noticeable in this deluxe suite where Dina spent a large part of her childhood. The warm maple finishings stand out with dramatic mahogany inlays. The unusual floor plan, including an angled fireplace makes the space feel even larger.

• marble bathroom approx. 75 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub and golden fixtures

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 8

The main deck, where the original suites are located, is the heart and soul of the SEA CLOUD. This deluxe suite envelopes guests in its spirit of an exclusive private yacht. It is on display in the all the details, from fixtures to furnishings to finishings, complemented with a regal red and coral palette. Built-in cabinetry creates extra space.

• approx. 268 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 65 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• California king bed (2 mattresses), 71 x 79 in.
• additional fold-out bed

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 9

Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 are also part of the original accommodations on the main deck. Once used as single cabins for the former shipowners’ staff and their guests, they were redesigned into large luxury lodgings during renovation of the SEA CLOUD.

• marble bathroom approx. 35 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• generous storage space

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 10

The design of Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 is based on historical models with a modern aesthetic in warm fabrics and light wood tones. Both suites are located at the end of the original hallway and connect to the promenade deck by a separate staircase.

• approx. 198 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 39 sq. ft. with shower and golden fixtures

CAT. 1 Staterooms

Like all staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck, these two were built as recently as the late 1970s and offer all the comforts of private yacht accommodations. Panoramic windows cornering the head of the bed create a bright, airy vibe with views to match.

• approx. 140 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom with shower and golden fixtures
• queen bed (2 separate mattresses), 63 in. x 79 in.
• spacious closet

CAT. 2 Staterooms

Even though the staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck were harmoniously integrated into the SEA CLOUD after her initial construction, they still follow the design standards set on the original. Their tasteful interiors are a contemporary interpretation of Marjorie’s aesthetic from the 1930s. The elevated comfort of the spaces is complemented by spectacular sea views from double windows.

• approx. 145 sq. ft.
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in. (convert to queen upon request)

CAT. 3 Staterooms

These plush staterooms have a special maritime charm due to their location between the stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, and due to its location on the promenade deck, the staterooms are also only steps away from the restaurant and lounge.

• approx. 135 sq. ft.
• two windows with sea views

CAT. 4 Staterooms

In addition to the luxurious comfort that defines the SEA CLOUD, both staterooms offer a special feature: direct access to the most charming place on the tall ship, the Blue Lagoon. The semi-circular, blue-cushioned space is the traditional onboard area for relaxing under the daytime sun or dreamy night views of starry skies twinkling off the ocean.

• approx. 113 sq. ft.
• window with sea view

CAT. 5 Staterooms

These special staterooms were made for sailing enthusiasts. In Marjorie’s time, these were accommodations for SEA CLOUD officers, thus, the vibe is authentically nautical. The best part, which is exclusive to these staterooms, is direct access to the promenade deck, directly below the bridge. Open the door to breathe in the salty sea air and experience the charming maritime ambience.

• approx. 102 sq. ft.
• upper and lower beds, 32 in. x 79 in.
• porthole and door to promenade deck

Guaranteed double cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the range of accommodation starts from Cat. 5. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Stateroom (twin beds), category 3, No. 20

These comfortable cabins have a special maritime charm due to their location between the manoeuvring stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, but due to its location on the promenade deck, the cabins are also only one step away from the restaurant and lounge in the superstructure amidships.

Cabin at a glance:

• approx. 12,5 m² (135 sq. ft.) large
• Marble bathroom with shower
• two single beds 80 cm x 200 cm (32 in. x 79 in.)
• Panorama window

Guaranteed De luxe outside cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the accommodation for the guaranteed De luxe outside cabins is provided in Cat. B or C. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Guaranteed stateroom: Space is limited. Allocations are at SEA CLOUD CRUISES’ discretion starting in Category 5. You will receive your exact stateroom number when arriving on board.

On a course that made history

Technical data and sail diagram

Length overall:

109.50 m / 360 ft

14.94 m / 50 ft

5.13 m / 17 ft

Height of main mast above waterline:

56 m / 184 ft

Total sail area:

3,000 m² / 32,000 sq ft

Number of sails:

Passengers:

Year of construction:

32 outside cabins (of those 10 cabins are located in the luxury area)

Cabin equipment:

Bathrobes, hair dryer, telephone, air conditioning, private safe, exclusive cosmetics

Public areas:

Lido deck with bar, restaurant with free seating in one session, lounge with library and desk area with laptop, hospital, WI-FI, water sports equipment, 2 zodiacs

• Destinations
• Hotels & All-Inclusives
• Theme Parks

5 cruise lines that know how to keep teenagers happy

A vacation with a teenager can be great (no, really) onboard these teen-friendly ships..

If you’re planning a family cruise and you have teenagers to keep busy at sea, you already know how important it is to figure out which lines offer the most entertaining cruise ships for teens. The megaships offer the most bells and whistles—rock climbing walls, racetracks, and surf simulators—but don’t count out some of the ships with fewer attractions, especially if your teen is content hanging out with other kids the same age, playing foosball or video games, and joining in activities like sports tournaments and dance parties.

As an avid cruiser who’s sailed on ships of all sizes, I’ve toured many teen clubs and personally checked out the virtual reality games, high-tech simulators, and other activities while on board. These five standout cruise ships for teens are some of my top picks from different cruise lines. They offer just the sort of action-packed fun that will keep everyone in the family happy, including often-hard-to-please teenagers.

SET SAIL: 7 great cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships)

1. Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is the largest vessel in the world, six percent bigger and 10 feet longer than the previous record holder, Wonder of the Seas . Billed by the line as the “ultimate family vacation,” the megaship accommodates as many as 7,600 passengers and features eight distinct themed “neighborhoods” with activities and dining options for families and kids of all ages. The Surfside neighborhood, a space dedicated to families (which also has staterooms located close to the family-friendly activities) features a supervised teen club, Social020.

MAKE MEMORIES: 25 best family vacation spots in the U.S. for all ages

Thrill-seekers will want to check out Category Six, the largest water park at sea. The impressive new area at the top of the ship boasts lots of firsts—the tallest waterside, the first open freefall slide, and the first family raft slide on the high seas. The vessel also has Royal Caribbean favorites, such as a rock-climbing wall; the surf simulator, FlowRider; a Sports Court offering basketball, dodgeball, volleyball, and pickleball; and a mini golf course, Lost Dunes. In addition, the ship has an impressive seven pools.

Icon of the Seas offers Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries yearround from Miami. All cruises include a stop at the line’s fun-filled private island,  Perfect Day at Coco Cay , where teens will find more warm-weather activities waiting ashore. 

2. MSC Seashore (MSC Cruises)

MSC’s ships offer plenty of activities and entertainment for teen cruisers, especially on MSC Seashore, one of the line’s U.S.-based ships. Tweens 12 to 14 and teens 15 to 17 get their own respective clubs, complete with video game consoles and contests, a disco, table games, themed events, and other special programming. It also features a Teens Lab, an immersive, modern tech space.

Another highlight for young adults is the TLS Teens Late Show, a weekly “late-night show” event during which they will be interviewed by hosts, chat about different trending topics, and even have a chance to earn prizes. Outside, a jaw-dropping “waterpark meets obstacle course” features a virtual reality waterslide, Adventure Trail hanging bridge, and much more.

MSC Seashore homeports in Port Canaveral and offers Bahamas and Caribbean cruises ranging from three all the way up to 14 nights.

3. Norwegian Bliss (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Norwegian Bliss, one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus class ships, and one of their largest vessels, is packed with entertaining activities that are best fit for teens. Entourage, the teen club, is an exclusive space for 13- to 17-year-olds where they can chill out, play games, and meet other kids their own age. The lounge offers movies, music, art, and sports, and there are planned age-appropriate activities to join in throughout the sailing. You’ll find some of these events listed in the daily program.

CRUISE DEALS: Kids sail free on these 8 cruise lines

There’s also no shortage of action around the ship with two watersides—Aqua Racer and Ocean Loops; a two-level racetrack, Bliss Speedway; an open-air laser tag course; a video arcade with VR games, skeeball, and more; a two-lane duck pin bowling alley at The Local Bar and Grill; and mini-golf.

For quieter pursuits, young adults can play board games like Monopoly, backgammon, checkers, and chess in The Library and Card Room. And there’s a jogging track so they can stay in shape while at sea. From October to April, it offers Western Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries from Miami, as well as cruises to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula and the Panama Canal from Los Angeles. There is also a transatlantic sailing between Miami and London.

4. Disney Wish (Disney Cruise Line)

There are three dedicated adult-free zones on Disney Cruise Line’s cruise ship Disney Wish . Edge, for ages 11 to 14, is inspired by a New York City loft and decorated in bold, bright colors, creating the perfect cozy spot for kids to hang out, play games, and watch movies. Other cool features are the “photo walls” (graphic arts display) for capturing shareable vacation images; an indoor solarium with a skylight and décor with the theme of a city park; and a soda bar.

TEEN-FRIENDLY TRIPS: 10 best vacation ideas for families with teenagers

Older teens, ages 14 to 17, can play games, watch movies, and meet new friends at Vibe. This teen-only area, inspired by a Paris artists’ loft—and with a funky retro twist—features pop art murals, French columns, bold graffiti, and Disney-inspired travel posters. Additional highlights of the club are the floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the views and planned activities geared toward teens such as scavenger hunts, trivia games, drawing classes, card tournaments, karaoke, and more.

The Hideaway is new to Disney Wish . The third designated space for tweens and teens is also retro in design with vibrant colors and disco ball lights. Here, young adults can listen to music, kick back and relax, or join in the fun during a friendly competition on the dance floor. Teens can also look for additional onboard programming throughout the ship in the Hero Zone, Luna and other venues. And they won’t want to miss taking a ride on Aqua Mouse, Disney’s first attraction at sea.

BEFORE YOU BOOK: Everything you need to know about Disney’s cruise ships

Disney Wish is based in Port Canaveral, Florida , and sails three- and four-night itineraries to the Bahamas. The voyages include a stop at Castaway Cay , the line’s private island, where younger cruisers can head ashore for land-based fun. Activities available on the island include banana boat rides, fishing adventures, adventure jeep rides, and an Atlantis Aquaventure. 

5. Carnival Jubilee (Carnival Cruises)

Carnival Jubilee is the third and final vessel in Carnival Cruise Line’s XL class. Circle “C” is the designated area where tweens ages 12 to 14 can hang out together for dance parties, outdoor movies, games, and other activities. The colorful space features comfy seating areas where kids can chill and chat while supervised by the ship’s friendly counselors. Young adults, 15 to 17 years old, can socialize with same age teens at Club o2. This venue features current music, movies, sports and video games, and karaoke. The space is also host to theme parties like Carnival’s version of a high school prom.

EASY VACATIONS: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world

There’s no shortage of action-packed fun around the ship with BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea; thrilling water slides at WaterWorks, the ship’s water park; a challenging ropes course; and Sports Square, which features mini-golf, basketball, foosball, ping pong, and other sports activities. The ship’s ZSPA has an indulgent spa service menu for teens with pedicures, haircuts, facials, and fitness classes. Carnival Jubilee sails round-trip from Galveston, Texas, and include ports of call in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 17 best flight booking sites for cheap airfares
• 50 best family vacation ideas for all ages
• 12 best hotel booking sites for cheap prices

Gina Kramer also contributed to this article.

8 off-the-beaten-path destinations great for family travel on a budget

Cold outside? These 7 family resorts have indoor lazy rivers you can float on all winter long

11 all-inclusive family resorts with jaw-dropping swim-up rooms

Sandals and Beaches Resorts roll out new sale, this time just for Jamaica

familyvacationist

Major expansions announced for Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line

Details on the biggest expansion ever at Magic Kingdom, and more!

10 family resorts with nonstop activities for kids with nonstop energy

These hotels go way beyond simply providing a place to spend the night.

I’ve taken my kids to Europe dozens of times. Here are my tips for a perfect European family vacation.

After dozens of transatlantic trips, I finally got the routine down.