HomeCruise NewsIrish Kids Favour Full Family Holidays, Royal Caribbean Research Shows

Irish Kids Favour Full Family Holidays, Royal Caribbean Research Shows

Irish kids view a trip with the whole family as their top holiday priority, new research by Royal Caribbean shows.

The survey found that nearly half of kids enjoy their holidays even more when their grandparents are included on the trip.

According to the survey, 69% of young ones say the extra fun that comes with having grandparents along for the adventure is their top reason for wanting them on holiday.

Gerard Nolan, vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Royal Caribbean International, said: “We know planning family holidays can be a balancing act to ensure everyone is entertained and different family needs are being met. At Royal Caribbean, we’re proud to offer the ultimate multi-generational experience with something for everyone and without compromise. From racing waterslides and ziplines, to relaxing moments, incredible entertainment and dining options to suit every palate, every member of the family can enjoy their perfect holiday, both together and in their own way.”

The research further reveals that children’s ideal holiday lasts 11 days, packed with four different activities every day – adding up to 44 ways to keep kids entertained. The top activities include swimming (77%), visiting a water park (73%) and zooming down the slides (63%). Kids also love exploring new places (45%), trying new and different foods (42%), riding rollercoasters (48%) and even zip lining (37%). The lineup of Royal Caribbean adventures awaiting travellers can check all these boxes, the cruise giant added.

More highlights from the survey show 52% of kids admit they use tablets and phones less on holiday—they’re simply too busy having fun. Making new friends is also a key holiday highlight for 88% of children, bringing new experiences and in-person connections.

To help make these feelings a reality, Royal Caribbean has outlined its perfect family holiday itineraries; with Europe and Caribbean options:

Europe

  • 7 Night Western Mediterranean holiday itinerary on soon-to-be-amplified Allure of the Seas
  • Date: 1 June – 8 June, 2025
  • Itinerary: Barcelona, Spain > Palma De Mallorca, Spain > Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy > Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy > Naples / Capri, Italy > Barcelona, Spain
  • Current pricing**: €1,188 per person in 1x interior stateroom (based on two adults and two children). Other room types available include Ocean View, Balcony and Royal Suite Class. 

Caribbean

  • 7 Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day holiday itinerary on new ship, Icon of the Seas
  • Date: 13 September – 20 September, 2025
  • Itinerary: Miami, Florida > Philipsburg, St. Maarten > Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas > Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas > Miami, Florida
  • Current pricing**: €1,577 per person in 1x interior stateroom (based on two adults and two children). Other room types available include Ocean View, Balcony and Royal Suite Class. 
Geoff Percival
Geoff Percival
Geoff has worked in business, news, consumer and travel journalism for more than 25 years; having worked for and contributed to the likes of The Irish Examiner, Business & Finance, Business Plus, The Sunday Times, The Irish News, Senior Times, and The Sunday Tribune.
Logo

Must Read