Determine what types of activities your family will enjoy doing together. These may include watching live shows, participating in sports and visiting cultural exhibits. Determine what kinds of activities your teens will have fun doing on a cruise. These activities can include crafts, disco parties, pool parties, pizza parties, karaoke and teen-only hot tubs. Write down both lists of activities, then call your travel agent or cruise lines directly.
You can also visit the major cruise lines online. Visit the Disney Cruise Line website first (http://disneycruise.com), since they are well-known for their family-friendly cruises. Check out their "Teen Section" to find out specifically what Disney has to offer your kids.
Visit the Carnival Cruise Line website (www.carnival.com) to view their activities and accommodations for teens and families on a cruise. Carnival has a special program for kids 12 to 14 years old and another one for kids 15 to 17 years old.
Visit the Celebrity Cruise Line website (www.celebritycruises.com) and check out their family cruises. Take a look at their "Youth Activities/Family Activities" page. Every Celebrity ship has at least 6 Youth Counselors who are officially qualified.
Ask family members, co-workers, friends and neighbors about family cruises that they have taken. Ask about the pros and cons of their trips.
Choose the cruise that most closely matches the interests of your family and teens. Call your travel agent or the cruise line and book the trip.