You’ll find cruises in almost every corner of the world. Because it’s so easy for families to board a ship, unpack once, and see multiple destinations in one trip, many people choose to travel by sea. That convenience certainly has its merits, but that doesn’t mean cruising is the best option for every destination (or family).

Despite taking nearly 50 cruises under my belt, I still make a point of staying in local hotels and bed and breakfasts, immersing myself in the culture of a place, and getting off the beaten path. However, in the following five destinations, I would consider taking my family on a cruise instead of a land tour for a more hassle-free experience.

  1. Alaska

A 2014 cruise to Alaska sold me on the idea of ​​exploring the destination by ship. It’s without a doubt the best way to see Alaska’s vast coastline and waterways, glaciers, and wildlife. While larger ships offer more family-friendly experiences onboard and ashore, smaller ships are able to get closer to glaciers, and also visit more remote villages not found on traditional itineraries. For those who still don’t want to choose between a cruise and a land stay in Alaska, some lines also offer cruise tours, which combine travel with time at a wilderness lodge.

My favorite Alaska cruise for families

Princess Cruises has always been a leader in family-friendly Alaska cruises. With the most ships sailing to the region, it offers a variety of itineraries as well as cruise tours that include a stay at one of its five private, wilderness lodges. Deep relationships with local experts underpin Princess’s North to Alaska program, which includes onboard lumberjack demonstrations, the chance to cook your own salmon or halibut caught during the excursion, and other special experiences.

2. Greek Islands

The history, culture and magic of Greece are evident the moment you arrive. Each island tells its own story, so you should experience more than one. The easiest way to do this with kids in Tou is by cruise. Instead of multiple accommodations, ferry rides and excursions, board a ship that takes you to the most iconic islands a la Mykonos and Santorini, as well as smaller islands that invite you to ‘get lost’ in a canvas of whitewashed buildings, volcanic mountains and cerulean seas.

My favorite Greek Islands cruise for families

Greek-based Celestial Cruises is more than just a means of transportation around the islands. It is a source of authentic experiences, thanks to its years of expertise and its relationships with local tour operators and government officials. This translates into more thoughtfully designed itineraries that can include access to islands when no other ships are there; the ability to easily change course if necessary due to weather; and special tours offered exclusively to Celestial passengers.

3. Iceland

Those unfamiliar with Iceland — but no less enthralled by its otherworldliness — will be surprised to learn that there are so many areas to explore within the island nation. They can’t all be seen in a day. In fact, it takes days to get to the most popular spots, between transportation and tours. That’s why I’m a big fan of Iceland cruises. Most cruises that depart from Reykjavik allow you to visit the famous Blue Lagoon and breathtaking glaciers and waterfalls, connecting you with the sights. Longer itineraries can also include visits to the more than 2,000 islands off the coast.

My favorite Iceland cruise for families

Don’t opt ​​for an extensive European itinerary that spends just a day or two in Iceland. Go with a line like Celebrity Cruises, which makes round-trip trips from the capital Reykjavik and cruises the coast. You’ll get to see every side of the island in a week’s time, and you’ll have plenty of time to experience its Nordic culture and rugged beauty. Plan a few days before or after your cruise to see more of Reykjavik, including the kid-friendly Perlan Museum, the Lagardalur Pool, and the Lava Show.

4. Hawaii

With so much variety in the Hawaiian Islands, families find it hard to choose just one. The solution? Book a cruise. Learn about volcanoes while hiking on the Big Island, retreat to Maui’s picture-perfect beaches, walk in the footsteps of the legendary “Jurassic Park” dinosaurs on Kauai, and explore the urban jungles of Oahu. Along with the opportunity to sample different parts of Hawaii, a cruise is almost always more cost-effective — especially if you’re willing to see more than one island.

My favorite Hawaii cruise for families

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is the only ship to stay in Hawaii year-round, making it easy for families to book a cruise that works with their schedule. No sea days means more time to explore the four islands on land over seven days. Didn’t get a chance to try local cuisine while in port? The island’s culinary culture is incorporated into the ship’s dining program, where you’ll find staples like pineapple beurre blanc with fresh seafood and Asian short ribs with papaya.

5. The Galapagos

With strict tourism regulations to protect the Galapagos ecosystem, a cruise offers a welcome opportunity to see more wildlife and remote landscapes that may not be as easy to access. Cruise lines adhere to local restrictions by keeping passenger numbers low and offering carefully vetted and controlled tours—giving you peace of mind that all the logistics have been taken care of for you. As long as you uphold these values, families can get up close and personal with blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, sea lions, and more on consciously designed tours.

My favorite Galapagos cruise for families

Unlike mainstream cruise lines that offer the Galapagos as one of many itineraries around the world, Ecoventura sails exclusively to the archipelago. The Relais & Chateaux line features three 20-passenger luxury expedition ships that aim to “explore the Galapagos as nature intended.” While you’ll pay a pretty penny, it’s the closest you’ll get to immersing yourself in nature. Dedicated family sailings cater to kids ages five and up with family-friendly excursions and enrichment on-board activities ranging from bridge tours to ice fishing.

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