Whether you’re sailing with toddlers, tweens or teens, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a family-friendly atmosphere that blends freedom and structure for a memorable voyage. With robust youth programming, well-equipped play spaces and activities tailored to each age group, NCL makes it easy for parents to relax while kids stay entertained, safe and socially engaged.
In this Article:
- The Ultimate Norwegian Cruise Line Guide
- What’s Included with Your Norwegian Cruise
- Accommodations on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Dining and Bars on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Entertainment and Activities on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Available Packages on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Loyalty Program on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Kids Programs on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Destinations and Itineraries on Norwegian Cruise Line
- Payment Policy on Norwegian Cruise Line
Youth Programs
NCL’s youth programming is divided into dedicated age groups, each with its own space and schedule to foster fun, creativity and friendships. Staffed by trained youth counselors, the program emphasizes safety, inclusivity and engagement.
- Guppies (6 months–3 years): Norwegian’s Guppies Program offers age-appropriate play sessions for infants and toddlers accompanied by a parent or guardian. Select ships also offer Guppies Nursery for drop-off services, featuring quiet time, story time and guided activities in a cozy, secure environment.
- Splash Academy (3–12 years): This complimentary program features a dynamic schedule of crafts, games, theme nights and circus skills workshops. Kids can earn rewards for participation, and theme nights keep the fun going well into the evening.
- Entourage (13–17 years): A cool, dedicated teen space gives older kids a chance to hang out, play video games, dance, watch movies and join in late-night parties and events. With minimal structure and no parental involvement required, Entourage provides a laid-back social space where teens can be themselves.
Facilities

From vibrant playrooms and splash zones to high-tech lounges and game rooms, Norwegian’s ships offer thoughtfully designed spaces for all age groups. Larger ships include areas like the Splash Academy play spaces, Guppies playrooms for toddlers, and teen clubs with video game consoles, pool tables and mood lighting. Outdoor features include waterslides, ropes courses and mini-golf, with many ships also offering laser tag arenas and go-kart tracks.
Special Programs
Norwegian Cruise Line enhances its youth offerings with unique experiences like:
- Circus School at Sea: Offered through Splash Academy, kids can learn juggling, plate-spinning and tumbling in a fun, non-competitive environment.
- Theme Nights and Events: From Glow Parties and Superhero Nights to scavenger hunts and family game shows, there’s always something festive happening onboard.
- Youth Talent Show: Budding performers can shine in the spotlight at sea, with supportive staff helping to prepare routines for an end-of-cruise showcase.
Planning Considerations
All youth programming is complimentary during standard hours, with late-night group babysitting available for a small hourly fee (typically from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.). Parents must register children on embarkation day and sign them in and out at designated times. Teens using Entourage can come and go freely. On port days, supervised programming may be available so parents can explore ashore independently.
From imaginative play for little ones to high-energy hangouts for teens, Norwegian Cruise Line’s kids programs create a family cruising experience that’s effortless, entertaining and truly rewarding for all ages.