The trips, on the Celebrity Cruises ship Meridian , are specially designed to appeal to couples with children -- a growing section of the cruise market.

Activities for kids will include art, singing, dancing, acting, scavenger hunts and sports.

They will meet the captain, learn how the ship works, and eat at special breakfast sittings so parents can sleep late.

The seven-night cruises leave New York every Sunday between June 27 and September 5.

Research shows parents want to go on cruises but are worried they would not appeal to children, said Celebrity marketing chief Mr. Al Wallack.

"We have to give kids the opportunity to do what they want to do, and we have to be creative so that it is a positive experience for everyone.''