Five Reasons to Consider a Family Thanksgiving Cruise

As Thanksgiving approaches, many families contemplate how and where to celebrate the holiday. While traditional gatherings around the dinner table are cherished, Thanksgiving cruises are becoming an increasingly popular tradition. This unique experience combines the holiday spirit with an exciting and new environment for families to bond, explore new destinations, and enjoy a festive and stress-free atmosphere. Following are top reasons why you should consider a family Thanksgiving cruise. 

1. No Cooking and Cleaning

Imagine enjoying a gourmet Thanksgiving feast without the stress of cooking and hours of cleaning after the meal. Forget about spending long hours in the kitchen making turkey, gravy, and pies, and let your cruise line handle it all with special holiday menus complete with traditional dishes prepared by top chefs. 

The best part is that after enjoying your delicious meal, you can simply leave the mess behind. There’s no kitchen to clean or table to clear! The crew takes care of all the cleanup, allowing you to relax and enjoy time with your family. 

2. Quality Family Time

Cruises provide a unique opportunity for families with travelers of all ages to bond. With a range of onboard activities, programs, and events, everyone from younger children to grandparents can find something enjoyable to do on the ship. What better way to bring your family together over the holidays than by bonding over a vacation? 

3. Opportunity to Explore New Destinations as a Family

Embarking on a Thanksgiving cruise offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the holiday while exploring new destinations. Imagine escaping the November cold for the Caribbean or exploring the ancient sites of the Mediterranean as a change from your traditional holiday at home. Each day on a cruise brings the excitement of discovering vibrant ports and creating new memories you will cherish. 

4. Special Programs 

Many cruise lines get into the holiday spirit with special Thanksgiving celebrations. Operators like Disney Cruise Line and Holland America Line have a special Thanksgiving menu, seasonal decor, and other festive touches around their ships. Carnival Cruise Line offers unique Thanksgiving family trivia and a special ‘duck hunt’ for families after dinner. 

And what is Thanksgiving without watching a little football? Many lines, like Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer big games at onboard venues with TVs so you can cheer on your favorite team from the high seas. 

5. Create New Family Traditions 

One of the reasons that cruises are so beloved by families, especially those traveling with guests of all ages, is the relative ease of the cruise experience. With accommodations, meals, and activities included, cruising simplifies family holiday planning, making it easier for you to enjoy the festivities. Imagine the tremendous new experiences you will share with your family while visiting new destinations, dining together, and trying new activities onboard your ship. 

Plan Early & Save on Thanksgiving Cruises 

Thanksgiving cruises are highly in-demand, with more and more families wanting to join in on the fun. To get the best price, we recommend planning early and taking advantage of savings when you see them. 

See a Thanksgiving cruise you like but don’t love the price? Sign up for our free Price Alerts and receive an email whenever the cruise fare drops on selected sailing(s). Stay updated with incredible cruise deals and special offers when you sign up for our Deals Email.

Ready to start planning your Thanksgiving family cruise for next year? Explore All 2025 and 2026 November Sailings

Related: 

12 Reasons Why a Cruise is the Best Holiday Gift

7 Ways Cruise Ships Celebrate Holidays

4 Festive Ways Cruise Lines Spread Holiday Cheer