Best for active teens: Royal Caribbean

If your teenager loves activities, Royal Caribbean is hard to beat.

Many of their ships feature:

Surf simulators

Zip lines

Climbing walls

Ice skating

Escape rooms

Sports courts

Water parks

Extensive teen clubs

For active teenagers who like to stay busy from morning until night, Royal Caribbean often comes out on top.

Best value for families with teens: MSC Cruises

MSC can sometimes be overlooked by UK families, but many teenagers absolutely love it.

Ships such as MSC Virtuosa and World Europa offer:

Large waterparks

Formula 1 racing simulators on selected ships

VR experiences and gaming arcades

Teen clubs split by age group

A lively atmosphere with plenty happening into the evening

MSC can offer excellent value during school holidays, especially for families looking for lots of entertainment without stretching the budget.

Best "freestyle" option: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL is a great middle ground and often a hit with teens who want a little more independence.

Teenagers typically enjoy:

Dedicated teen clubs

Video game and virtual reality experiences

Waterslides and aqua parks

Mini golf, sports courts and outdoor activities

Flexible dining with no fixed dining times or formal dress codes

NCL's newer ships are particularly appealing for teens, with innovative attractions including go-kart tracks at sea and immersive entertainment experiences.

Final thought:

If you're sailing from Southampton, I'd also put P&O Arvia and Iona high on the list, especially for convenience and school holiday value.

But if your main question is, "Which cruise line will keep my teenager entertained?", Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and NCL are usually where I start the conversation.

If you're planning a family cruise and would like some advice on choosing the right ship, please get in touch.

Call or WhatsApp: 01403 473833

anna.murrell@travelcounsellors.com