Twelve on-board activities every child will love – for every hour of the day

Telegraph

13-05-2025

The best ships cater for everyone, and with its 18 decks, seven unique neighbourhoods and seemingly endless activities to hand, the newly reimagined Allure of the Seas has something for all ages, sailing refreshed and refurbished into the summer season, making it an exceptional choice for a Mediterranean cruise around the best of Europe.
The range of on-board offerings ensures you can squeeze every kind of kid-friendly activity into a 12-hour day – and still have time over for ice cream and naps. From toddlers to teens, here are 12 activities to keep everyone entertained, creating unforgettable memories together.
1. Plunge into the Ultimate Abyss
Only the bravest dare to take the plunge into the Ultimate Abyss. Step to the edge, peer into the darkness, and take the leap. This 10-storey slide, the tallest at sea, will have you plummeting into the mysteries of the deep. Will you return a hero, having conquered the secrets of the Abyss?
2. Race the Perfect Storm slides
The Perfect Storm's Typhoon and Cyclone twin racers will have you and a fellow racer vying for the title of 'fastest' as you twist, turn and experience sea views through translucent stretches on the boldest waterslides at sea.
3. The Zipline challenge
Fly across the ship 10 decks above the Boardwalk neighbourhood on an exhilarating zip line ride. This deck-defying thrill ride is unlike any other, guaranteeing an unforgettable rush and major bragging rights. The best part? It's completely free, so you can ride as many times as you like.
4. Conquer the rock-climbing walls
The signature rock-climbing walls are a must-try for adventure seekers of all levels. These towering vertical ascents will challenge your body and reward your efforts with breathtaking views from almost 40ft above deck. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time climber, the rock walls promise an unforgettable experience.
5. Hang 10 on the FlowRiders
Allure's pair of 39ft FlowRider surf simulators use 25,000 gallons of rushing water to create endless waves. Whether you're an experienced surfer or prefer a more relaxed boogie board experience, FlowRider offers an exciting and dynamic experience for all skill levels.
6. Sweet creations in the cupcake class
This class only requires imagination and a love of sweet things - no challenge for most children. With an abundance of frosting and sprinkles at your disposal, the instructor will guide your little ones in transforming freshly baked cupcakes into edible works of art that are as visually stunning as they are delectable.
7. Battle of the planets
Who says cruises have to be all about kicking back and relaxing? Younger guests will have the chance to face off in an inter-galactic feud at Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z. Whether they find themselves taking the side of the robot defenders or alien invaders, they'll love the adrenalin rush of this live-action, glow-in-the-dark adventure.
8. Hit the ice on skates
Ice skating at sea? It's not a mirage, but a refreshing reality on board. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a wobbly beginner, the rink awaits your grand entrance – or maybe just your first tentative steps.
9. Escape to victory
You're trapped on board and have just 60 minutes to work out how you and your friends can escape. Luckily, that's not a nightmare scenario but one of Allure's new experiences for 2025. The Royal Escape Room will keep children 12 and over occupied, as they work together to solve brain-bending puzzles and secure their freedom.
10. Become a mad scientist
From fossil digs to junior chemistry and Space Mud creations, the Adventure Science Lab at Adventure Ocean provides a plethora of hands-on experiments to ignite curiosity and inspire learning. Young scientists can unleash their potential and make exciting discoveries.
11. Set yourselves a mini-golf challenge
Mini-golf is just one of the many family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy together. Take in the endless ocean views and challenge your family to a round or two on the ship's mini green. Who knows, you might get your first hole-in-one at sea.
12. Sink a shot at basketball
Grab your family and head to the basketball court for some friendly competition with a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views. Whether you're into pickup games or prefer a one-on-one challenge, you can experience the thrill of basketball like never before.
And as if all that is not enough, your children will relish the chance to make new friends and learn new skills at the supervised Kids' Clubs. Activities range from dinosaur exploration and soft play for three- to five-year-old aquanauts, to engaging science experiments and performing arts for children of six to eight at the Exploration Station. Older kids will love the Voyagers Group, with talent shows, sports and video games tournaments, or even the scavenger hunts that send them on a voyage of discovery all over the ship.
Sailings availability is subject to change due to demand