In this guide
Christmas-market cruises skew adult — most river ships don't have kids' clubs, and Viking famously doesn't allow anyone under 18. But a few lines welcome families, and with the right ship and itinerary, a December market cruise can be magical for kids.
Which lines welcome families?
- AmaWaterways — suitable for some multi-generational groups on the right ship
- Tauck — offers selected family-focused departures
- Uniworld — has a family program on select European sailings
- Avalon — welcomes families subject to its current age policy
- Viking — adults only (18+), not an option for families with kids
What makes a market cruise work for kids
The markets themselves are a kid's dream: gingerbread, carousel rides, roasted almonds, hot chocolate, and toy stalls. The key is choosing a sailing with short sailing days (so you're docked and exploring, not stuck on the ship) and a ship with enough onboard space for downtime.
Our top family pick
AmaWaterways can be a strong family option when the selected ship has connecting cabins and the itinerary offers flexible activity levels. Exact ships, routes, age rules, and cabin configurations should be checked for the departure you are considering.
Tip
Book a sailing that departs the week before Christmas rather than Christmas week itself — markets are less crowded, fares are lower, and kids miss less school.
Put this into action
Turn this guide into your sailing
A VPC cruise advisor can apply what you've read to current ships, departures, cabins, and supplier offers without an added planning service fee.