Best Cruise Ships for Multi-Generational Travel

Based in New York City, the new Breakaway delivers a touch of sophistication and a whole lot of fun. For kids, there is a fantastic Nickelodeon kids club and lots of activities and a seriously engaged team of counselors (when we interviewed them for this article, we found them still dressed up from the morning's fun and games ... yes, we interviewed a squirrel). Picture little Johnny and Grandpa Joe together on the water slide and ropes course or, for something a bit tamer, how 'bout family mini-golf challenge? Nine restaurants, two Broadway shows and a host of clubs, bars and live entertainment, including dueling pianos and Second City improv, will make it hard to choose your favorite for date night (you know, the one night of the cruise when grandma and grandpa watch the kids). Keep your eyes open for the Breakaway's sister ship, the Getaway, launching this February out of Miami.

You might not think Disney when you are thinking "something for everyone" but trust us here, Disney has done an extraordinary job, especially with the newest members of their fleet, the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. Of course there are countless activities for the little ones with princesses and pirates to meet, but it is the thought given to all the other members of the family that is unexpected and, dare I say, magical. Let's start with the often neglected teens ... on the Dream and the Fantasy they have entirely separate recreational spaces and even spa services designed just for them. And for the adults? Large adult-only space not only onboard but also on Castaway Cay (Disney's private island). The restaurants, onboard entertainment and excursions? Well, that's enough for another article altogether. But consider this: perhaps grandma and grandpa aren't quite up to a ten-hour day at a Disney theme park ... but wouldn't you love for them to see little Jenny's face when she meets Cinderella for the first time?  

Dinner with Shrek, anyone? Royal Caribbean has gotten into the character game with "DreamWorks experience" including movies, character appearances and more on the Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and several other ships. Is grandpa feeling adventurous? He can grab the grandkids and hit the zip line or test their surfing skills on the Flowrider surf simulator. Royal Caribbean gives a bit more attention to the littlest ones, with an onboard nursery from 6-36 months and their Babies 2 Go service that lets you pre-order diapers, wipes and cream and baby food to be delivered right to your stateroom, when you arrive and throughout your cruise (extra fees apply). 4-11 year old girls will love the Barbie Experience and teens have their own spaces and activities. Shows, entertainment, food and the only fleet with an onboard Starbucks. In short? Something for everyone.

And on our radar? The new Quantum of the Seas.