Disney Cruise Line

Junior Cruisers

As expected, Disney ships have extensive programs for children and teens, including shore excursions designed for families to enjoy together. Parents are issued a pager for peace of mind while their children are participating in onboard activities and to alert them when their offspring need them. Complimentary age-appropriate activities are scheduled from 9 am to midnight in the Oceaneer Club for ages 3 (toilet training required) to 7, in Oceaneer Lab for ages 8 to 12. Activities include arts projects, contests, computer games, pool parties, interactive lab stations, and opportunities for individual and group play. Ocean Quest on Disney Magic, designed for 10- to 14-year-olds, has video games, plasma-screen TVs, and a ship simulator where young mariners learn to steer the ship. The emphasis is on fun over education, but subtle educational themes are certainly there. Coffeehouse-style teen clubs offer music, a dance floor, big-screen TV, and Internet café for the younger set. Scheduled activities include challenging games, photography lessons, sporting contests, beach events, and parties, but they are also great places for teenagers 13 to 17 to just hang out with new friends in an adult-free zone.

An hourly fee is charged for child care in Flounder's Reef Nursery, which is open during select hours for infants as young as three months through three years. Supply your own diapers, and nursery attendants will change them. Private, in-cabin babysitting is not available.