Celebrity Cruises welcomes children, but has age rules and separate programs for different ages
Yes, Celebrity Cruises allows children on board. The cruise line operates dedicated kids' clubs organized by age group, offers family cabins, and provides activities designed for families traveling together. However, there are minimum age requirements for certain services, and some areas of the ship have age restrictions.
Children as young as infants can sail on Celebrity ships. The line does not have a blanket minimum age policy for cruising itself, but specific programs—like the nursery for babies and toddlers—do have age cutoffs. Understanding these rules before you book helps you plan which activities your children can actually use during the voyage.
Key Takeaways
- Celebrity Cruises operates kids' clubs for children ages 3 to 17, organized into separate age groups with different activities and programming.
- Infants and toddlers under 3 can sail but are not part of the main kids' club; some ships offer a nursery program for an additional fee.
- Family cabins and connecting cabins are available, though you should confirm the specific layout when you book because cabin types vary by ship.
- Certain ship areas—including some adult-only lounges and the spa—restrict access to guests 18 and older, so children cannot enter those spaces.
- Kids' club participation is included in your cruise fare, but you must pre-register your children before boarding to find a spot.
Age Groups and What Each Program Offers
Celebrity's kids' clubs divide children into four main age brackets, each with its own activities and spaces. The Shipmates program serves ages 3 to 5 and focuses on age-appropriate games, crafts, and supervised play. The Cadets program covers ages 6 to 8 with more structured activities like scavenger hunts, sports, and group dining options. The Teens program serves ages 9 to 12 with activities like dance parties, movie nights, and interactive games. The After Hours program is for ages 13 to 17 and includes late-night events, video games, and social activities designed for older teens.
Each program operates during set hours throughout the day and evening. Participation is optional—you can enroll your child for specific hours or for the entire cruise. Many parents use the kids' clubs during dinner time so they can dine without children, while others enroll their kids for afternoon activities while they relax on deck.
Nursery Care for Babies and Toddlers Under 3
Children under 3 years old do not automatically join the main kids' clubs. However, Celebrity offers a nursery program on most ships called Toddler Time, available for children ages 6 months to 3 years. This program operates during select hours and carries an additional charge beyond your cruise fare—typically around $10 to $15 per hour, though pricing varies by ship and sailing length.
The nursery provides supervised care in a dedicated space with age-appropriate activities, meals, and snacks. You must reserve nursery time in advance, and spots can fill up on popular sailings. If you plan to use the nursery, contact Celebrity before your cruise to confirm availability and pricing for your specific sailing.
Cabin Options for Families
Celebrity offers several cabin types suitable for families. Standard family cabins sleep four to five people and include two beds plus a sofa bed or upper berth. Connecting cabins—two adjoining rooms with a door between them—are also available on most ships, allowing parents and older children to have separate sleeping spaces while staying connected.
Cabin availability and layout differ by ship and sailing date. When you book, specify that you are traveling with children so the line can suggest appropriate cabin types. Some family cabins are located near the kids' clubs, which can be convenient if you plan to use those programs frequently. Request your preferred location when you reserve, though Celebrity cannot may provide specific placements.
Dining and Meal Options for Children
Children eat in the main dining room with their parents or guardians unless they are enrolled in a kids' club program that includes group dining. The main dining room offers children's menus with familiar options like pasta, chicken, and pizza alongside the regular menu. Buffet restaurants and casual dining venues also serve children, and staff can usually accommodate straightforward requests like plain food or smaller portions.
If your child is enrolled in the kids' club during dinner time, the program provides a meal as part of the activity. This is a popular option for families because it gives parents time to dine together while children eat with their age group. Ask the kids' club staff about the menu options when you check in on the first day.
Areas Where Children Are Not Allowed
Celebrity designates certain ship areas as adults-only, meaning children cannot enter even with a parent. These spaces typically include the adult-only pool deck, certain lounges and bars, and the spa facilities. The specific restricted areas vary slightly by ship, but the line clearly marks these zones with signage.
Most of the ship—dining venues, theaters, main pool areas, and activity spaces—welcomes children. The adult-only zones are designed to give adults a quiet retreat, not to exclude families from the majority of the ship's amenities. When you board, ask the front desk for a map showing which areas are restricted so you know what to expect.
How to Register Your Children Before the Cruise
Celebrity requires you to pre-register children for the kids' clubs before you board. You can do this through your online account on Celebrity's website or by calling the line directly. Pre-registration ensures your child has a spot in their age group and allows staff to gather information about allergies, behavior concerns, or special needs.
When you register, you will provide your child's name, age, and any relevant medical or behavioral information. You will also select which hours or days you want your child enrolled. On the first day of your cruise, visit the kids' club in person to complete check-in, meet the staff, and let your child see the space. This in-person visit helps children feel comfortable when they return for activities.
What to Pack and Bring for Children
Pack sunscreen, swimsuits, and casual clothing for your children—the dress code on Celebrity is relaxed during the day. Bring any medications your child needs, including seasickness remedies if your child is prone to motion sickness. A small bag with comfort items like a favorite stuffed animal or book can help younger children adjust to the ship environment.
You do not need to bring formal wear unless you plan to dine in the main dining room during formal or elegant nights, when the dress code requires it. However, many families skip formal dining and eat in the buffet or casual venues instead. Check your cruise documents for the specific dress code nights on your sailing and decide in advance what your family will do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my baby stay in the cabin alone while I go to dinner?
No. Celebrity does not allow unattended children in cabins at any time. You must either bring your child with you, enroll them in the nursery or kids' club, or arrange for an adult to stay in the cabin. This is a safety policy enforced on all Celebrity ships.
What happens if my child gets sick during the cruise?
Celebrity has a medical center on board staffed by a doctor and nurse. If your child becomes ill, notify your cabin steward or visit the medical center directly. The center can treat minor illnesses and injuries. Serious conditions may require diversion to a port with a hospital, which can add significant cost, so travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is recommended.
Are there quiet times or rest periods built into the kids' club schedule?
Yes, most kids' clubs include quiet time or rest periods, especially for younger age groups. The Shipmates program (ages 3 to 5) typically has a scheduled rest time in the afternoon. Older age groups have less structured downtime but still have quieter activities mixed in with high-energy events.
Can my teenager leave the kids' club and explore the ship on their own?
This depends on the teen's age and your comfort level. Celebrity does not restrict teenagers from leaving the kids' club or exploring public areas of the ship. However, you should discuss expectations with your teen before the cruise about where they can go, what time they need to return to the cabin, and how to stay in contact with you.
Do I need to pay extra for my child to participate in the kids' club?
No. Kids' club participation for ages 3 and up is included in your cruise fare. The only additional cost is the nursery program for children under 3, which charges by the hour. All other kids' club activities, meals included in the program, and supervised time are covered by your cruise price.