The Norwegian Jewel may be one of the line's older ships, but refurbishments in 2014 and entertainment give the ship a fun, casual, familiar feel. The Jewel sails around Alaska, Mexico, and Panama Canal on 7, 9, 10, 12, 13,  14, 15, 16, 18, 19, and even 21-night journeys. These longer sailing dates are perfect for filling long school vacations and summer months. The Jewel departs from various ports including Seward, Vancouver, Sydney, Singapore, Seattle, Yokohama, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Auckland. Such a variety of cruise lengths and itineraries mean you're guaranteed to find a cruise perfect for your family vacation.

Kids can swim the day away in one of the two main pools complete with four hot tubs and a tubed water slide. A small children's pool is also on board with its own water slide. As with most Norwegian cruise liners, the kids and teens clubs, Splash Academy and Entourage respectively, are a huge hit. The kids' clubs set up activities, games, and other fun events for youngsters. The teen club features air hockey, dance parties, a juice bar, and event nights.

For parents and older passengers, the Jewel has plenty for your vacation as well. Game show fans will enjoy onboard the Not So Newlywed Game and Deal or No Deal. Daily fun activities are present all over the ship including trivia, dance classes, family dodgeball, circus workshops, and cupcake decorating. The onboard casino on deck 7 and numerous lounges add up to an exciting date night will no kids. For those who are able to stay up later, the Jewel offers a variety of spots to enjoy long after sunset. For parents, group babysitting is available onboard for those in need of alone time.

Each ship has a variety of fun activities for the whole family, so be sure to check your ship before you cruise to view what's available. Whether you're 8 or 80, there's no reason not to have fun on your getaway at sea; before breaking off into everyone's activities, enjoy some time together by planning to meet for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 

This is the time to make memories and nothing could be more memorable than setting up a shore excursion for the whole family. Plan your shore excursions ahead of time for the best chance at booking your top selections.

*Please note it is often cheaper to book two staterooms or two connecting cabins instead of one large stateroom suite - plus it gives you a second bathroom.*