I have been writing about cruises for many years now, but one question that continues to stir up heated debate is: Should kids be allowed in the ship’s hot tubs?
Cruise lines have clear rules, and many cruisers have strong opinions on this.
In this post, we’ll look at the official policies, hear from both sides of the debate, and even check in with health experts.
Cruise Line Policies on Hot Tub Use
As you probably know, each cruise line can set its own age rules for pools and spas.
For example, Holland America explicitly bans guests younger than 16 from using hot tubs or saunas.
Princess Cruises’ rules say children under 16 cannot be in the swimming pools without an adult, and they even forbid any child in diapers (or not toilet-trained) from entering any pool or spa.
Celebrity Cruises also requires kids under 16 to be accompanied by an adult in whirlpools and spa areas.
PRO TIP: Many lines use the terms “whirlpool,” “spa,” or “adults-only pool” interchangeably with hot tub.
These policies are driven by safety and hygiene concerns, and by the fact that hot tubs are often in or near adult-only areas.
That said, as I was saying at the beginning, rules vary. Some ships have family hot tubs or designated family pool hours, while others treat all tubs as adult spaces.
Even on ships with adults-only sections (like Royal Caribbean’s Solarium), lines sometimes allow children during certain times or inclement weather.
For example, I’m very flexible on this subject, but I must say that I disagree on this point. If certain areas are for adults only, I don’t see why children should be allowed in.
In general, however, if you sail with young kids you should check your cruise line’s age limits.
Most major lines set a minimum age (often 16) or require adult supervision for spa and hot tub use.
And remember that almost all lines also forbid infants, toddlers, or anyone not toilet-trained from pool and spa areas due to public health rules.
Why Some Cruisers Want Kids Out
Many adults love the idea of a peaceful moment on cruises, and some feel that kids in hot tubs undermine that.
Of course, I asked what you all think. In my poll, 71% of you said that kids under 14 shouldn’t be allowed in the hot tubs.
Meanwhile, 89% of you said they shouldn’t be allowed in adults-only areas either, not even as an exception when the weather’s bad.
What I’ve noticed is that children, especially younger ones, are often seen as less hygienic in pools.
Parents might forget to shower kids first, or kids might not be toilet-trained.
In fact, public health experts advise that little children can introduce contaminants if they aren’t potty-trained, and one study guide for parents notes that “infants and toddlers should not be permitted in a hot tub at all” because their bodies heat up too fast and they can soil the water “almost instantly when accidents happen”.
The second complaint I have seen most often concerns crowding and disruption.
As we all know, hot tubs have limited space and often only a few seats. If families let kids take over, other adults can get shut out.
And noisy play can ruin the relaxing ambiance. Some people said that young kids often just don’t understand etiquette in a shared space.
They might splash water on others, climb on heated jets, or climb in and out too fast.
One cruiser described children treating the hot tub like a jungle gym, leaving adults squeezed on the edges.
So basically, the fear is that poorly behaved kids could bump or scare others, making the hot tub experience unpleasant. Even some parents admit they wouldn’t let unsupervised young children in, fearing either the heat or the kids “making it full” with play.
Why Many Families Want Kids In
On the flip side, many parents and family cruisers insist that hot tubs are part of the fun.
They point out that kids should be able to enjoy the same amenities as adults, as long as some common-sense rules are followed.
In fact, cruise line marketing often highlights hot tubs as family attractions.
For example, Celebrity Cruises touts that spots like “the inviting pool and hot tubs” are guaranteed to please guests of all ages.
I was also reading the article on travellovingfamily.com, where they said their kids loved the cruise ship hot tubs and that the family happily spent “a lot of time on the pool deck” using them, while another adult-only tub was available for those who preferred a kid-free one.
So parents often argue that preventing well-behaved children from them is unfair.
And many suggest solutions like designated “kid-friendly times” in order to find a balance. Children get to enjoy the experience, and adults also get some guaranteed quiet time.
What Health Experts Say
Beyond policies and opinions, what do health experts say about kids and hot tubs?
Pediatricians and safety organizations generally urge caution. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says don’t let children under 5 use hot tubs.
The CDC also reminds all hot tub users to shower before entering to wash off germs (this applies to everyone, but is crucial with kids around).
When older children do go in, experts recommend keeping the water temperature lower (around 98°F for kids) and limiting soak times (kids no more than 5–15 minutes, per one source).
These guidelines align with the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), which bluntly states, “infants and toddlers should not be permitted in a hot tub at all”.
The APSP also warns that young children easily overdilute or soil the water (and can suck in drains), so they must be watched closely.
In practice, this means adult supervision is non-negotiable. Safety experts emphasize that parents must watch their kids at all times around any water, including hot tubs.
Hot Tub Etiquette Tips for Families and Adults
Whether you cruise with kids or as an adults-only group, following some hot tub etiquette can make everyone’s trip more enjoyable.
Check your cruise line’s policy before boarding. If the line says kids under X age cannot use spas, please don’t sneak toddlers in.
Remember that a quick shower reduces oils, sweat, and germs, especially important with kids who run around all day. It’s not just polite, it’s health-wise.
Also, remember that hot water can dehydrate anyone. Encourage kids (and adults) to take breaks after a few minutes, especially little ones.
Five to fifteen minutes is plenty for a child, but adults should also avoid marathon soaks.
Lastly, supervise children at all times, be aware of others, and share the space.
Don’t let a group (kids or adults) monopolize the tub all day. A good rule of thumb is 20–30 minutes per turn, then yield to the next person.
These are simple rules, but polite cruise passengers respect them. Also, remember to take a look at the other 10 cruise rules you must always follow and the 10 things cruise ship workers hate to see from passengers.