If you’re planning a family vacation at sea, one of the most common questions parents ask is: Does Norwegian Cruise Line charge for children? The answer is yes — but with a few exceptions and special offers. While NCL kids pricing depends on the child’s age, itinerary, and current promotions, the cruise line is known for being family-friendly and offering great value for families traveling together.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) does not automatically allow children to sail for free. Instead, the cruise fare for children depends on a few main factors:
The child’s age at the time of sailing
The number of guests in the cabin
The type of stateroom booked
The current NCL family promotions or offers
In most cases, the first two passengers in a cabin are charged the full adult fare. Any additional guests, such as children or infants, are charged a reduced rate — often referred to as the third and fourth passenger rate. These fares can range from a discounted amount to completely free during special offers.
Here’s a closer look at the Norwegian Cruise Line child fare policy under regular circumstances:
Children under 2 years old: NCL does not charge infants under two for cruise fare in most cases if they are the third or fourth guest in a cabin. However, taxes, port fees, and gratuities still apply.
Children aged 2–17: Kids and teens typically pay a reduced cruise fare when sharing a stateroom with two paying adults. The amount depends on the cruise length, itinerary, and demand.
Solo or family cabins: If a child occupies a stateroom alone or with only one adult, standard double-occupancy rates may apply, as cruise pricing is based on two full fares per cabin.
This flexible system allows families to save on costs, especially when taking advantage of NCL’s family fare promotions or limited-time offers.
Norwegian Cruise Line often runs the popular Kids Sail Free offer — one of the best family deals in the cruise industry. Under this promotion, children traveling as the third or fourth guest in a cabin sail free of cruise fare, meaning parents only pay taxes, fees, and service charges for them.
Applicable on select sailings and itineraries only
Children must share a stateroom with at least two paying adults
The offer covers the base cruise fare (taxes and fees excluded)
Limited availability — early booking is advised
This promotion is a fantastic opportunity for families looking to explore destinations like the Caribbean, Alaska, or Europe without overspending. The Norwegian kids sail free deal usually appears several times throughout the year and may coincide with holiday or seasonal sales.
For families traveling with multiple children, NCL provides a range of family-friendly accommodations:
Family Inside Cabins: Budget-friendly options that fit up to four guests comfortably.
Family Oceanview Staterooms: Include windows and slightly more space, ideal for families with younger kids.
Family Balcony Rooms: Perfect for families wanting private outdoor space and scenic views.
Two-Bedroom Family Suites: Designed for larger families, with separate sleeping areas and added amenities.
Booking these cabins can make your trip more comfortable while often offering better child fare rates when bundled with promotions.
The NCL cruise policy for infants and toddlers ensures the safety and comfort of the youngest passengers.
Infants must be at least 6 months old at the time of sailing.
For transoceanic or South American itineraries, infants must be 12 months old.
Parents must provide proof of age (birth certificate or passport).
NCL provides cribs upon request, but supplies are limited.
While infants under 2 years often sail for free (when part of a shared cabin), parents should plan for port taxes and onboard gratuities, which are still mandatory.
When you pay for children on a Norwegian Cruise, you’re not just paying for transport — you’re paying for an experience. NCL’s family entertainment programs are among the best at sea.
Splash Academy: For ages 3–12, offering fun activities, games, and supervised play.
Entourage Teen Club: For ages 13–17, with video games, music, and social events.
Guppies Nursery: For infants and toddlers under 3, available on select ships.
Participation in these programs is included in the cruise fare, giving families excellent value for money.
In addition to Kids Sail Free, Norwegian frequently launches other family-oriented promotions:
Reduced deposits for family cabins
Free or discounted airfare for children
Complimentary dining packages for kids
Second room discounts for family bookings
Monitoring these offers can lead to substantial savings, especially for large families or multigenerational travelers.
Even though children may pay a reduced fare, daily service charges (gratuities) typically still apply. As of recent NCL policy, service charges per day per guest vary depending on the stateroom type. Infants and toddlers under 2 are usually exempt, but children over that age are charged the same rate as adults.
This policy ensures that crew members providing services — such as dining and housekeeping — are fairly compensated for all guests on board.
In short — sometimes. During special promotions, kids can sail free as the third or fourth passenger in a cabin. Outside of those periods, children pay a reduced fare. Parents should always review NCL’s family fare conditions before booking.
The cruise line’s flexibility makes it easy for families to plan a cost-effective vacation without sacrificing comfort or entertainment. From Norwegian kids discounts to family stateroom packages, there are multiple ways to save.
Teenagers aged 13–17 years are considered “youth passengers.” While they pay a discounted fare in most cases, they enjoy nearly full access to onboard amenities, excluding adult-only areas like the spa or casino.
NCL also offers special youth programs and shore excursions designed for teens, helping families create an engaging and age-appropriate experience for everyone.
So, does Norwegian Cruise Line charge for children?Yes — but at reduced rates compared to adults. Infants and young children often sail free or at a discount when sharing a cabin with paying adults. With Kids Sail Free promotions, NCL makes cruising with children both affordable and enjoyable.
From complimentary entertainment to family-focused staterooms and dining, Norwegian Cruise Line ensures parents get great value for their vacation dollars. By keeping an eye out for NCL children promotions and booking early, you can plan a stress-free and budget-friendly family getaway.
Q1. Are kids free on Norwegian Cruise Line cruises?
Kids can sail free during special promotions when sharing a stateroom with two paying adults.
Q2. Does Norwegian Cruise Line charge for infants?
Infants under two years old usually sail free, but parents must pay taxes, fees, and gratuities.
Q3. How much do children pay on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Children typically pay a discounted fare as the third or fourth passenger in a cabin.
Q4. What is included in the child fare on NCL cruises?
Child fares include accommodations, meals, entertainment, and access to youth programs.
Q5. Are there family discounts on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Yes. Norwegian offers family fares, Kids Sail Free promotions, and discounts for multiple bookings.
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