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There’s a popular misconception that cruises are just for adults or older generations, but with so many family cruise deals out there to take advantage of, there’s no reason why your little ones won’t enjoy a cruise as much as you do.
A Guide to Family Cruises
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If you’re worried that children will be bored on a cruise, this guide is here to show you just how much there is to do on a cruise holiday for a family – including time for the parents to relax a little too!
So, if you’re looking to learn more about planning the perfect family cruise, here’s everything you need to know.
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What to expect from a family cruise
Firstly, it’s important to remember that some cruise lines will have an age restriction when it comes to babies and smaller children. On typical sailings, your baby must be at least 6 months old, and in most cases children must be 1 year to board a transoceanic sailing.
The majority of cruise ships are well-equipped for families including children, with a whole host of entertainment, dining options, cabin types and more to suit your preferences. In short, a cruise ship is like a floating resort packed with things to do, to keep everyone entertained as you travel from port to port.
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Booking a family cruise can be really straightforward too, as in most cases everything is included in the price. This means once you embark, you don’t have to worry about a thing, knowing everything is already paid for.
While there are some areas that will be designated for adults, such as the bars and casinos, there are ample parts of the ship that children can take advantage of.
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Are family cruises worth it?
A cruise is an incredible way to see more of the world, with many cruise itineraries stopping in different countries. It’s a brilliant way of introducing your children to an array of diverse destinations and helping them to explore the world, all while spending quality time together.
A family cruise offers great value for the whole family, with great service, a wide choice of dining options and a ship-load of activities and facilities – all in one place.
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The most important thing is to do your research across the cruise lines and find the right one of your family, as some will be better equipped than others when it comes to keeping the little ones occupied. From kids’ clubs to early dining options, each cruise line will offer its own features to help make your family cruise a relaxing and seamless trip for everyone.
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No fly cruises
No fly cruises
When travelling as a group or with children, you might want to consider cutting down the stressful travel time. A no fly cruise means that you can embark your ship in the UK, with the most popular ports including Southampton and Dover. This means you don’t have to worry about entertaining your little ones on a plane before you’ve even got to your cruise, and means your holiday can start a little bit quicker.
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Choose the right stateroom
Choose the right stateroom
Many staterooms on cruises are equipped with all the modern amenities, but consider how many are in your party and how you want to approach this when it comes to room type. Typically cabins can accommodate up to 4 people, but consider the space you will need. Some cabins will be designated as family-specific staterooms and may have some room, but you might want to look at interconnecting cabins or a larger stateroom such as a suite for a touch of added luxury and relaxation.
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Early dining
Early dining
Consider speaking to your cruise line about early dining options. Many children-friendly cruises will offer an earlier sitting which can work perfectly if you’ve got little ones in tow.
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Keep your excursions simple
Keep your excursions simple
When it comes to booking those exciting excursions in port, have a look at which ones might be better suited to a family group. You might want to look at trips or experiences that don’t involve a lot of travel or sitting still, and you should always check the age restrictions on your chosen excursions before booking.
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Look out for the kids’ activities
Look out for the kids’ activities
Once you’re onboard, look out for the schedule of kids' activities and entertainment, just in case anything needs to be booked in advance.
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View the deck plan before you travel
View the deck plan before you travel
In some cases you may be able to see the deck plan of your ship in advance. This might help you to be a little more familiar with where everything is, from the pools and restaurants to the entertainment.
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Do your research
Do your research
It’s crucial before embarking on any cruise that you do your research so you know which cruise line and ship will be right for you and your family’s needs.
When looking for cruises that will be suitable for children, weigh up the options and look out for things like child care facilities, family activities, meal options and cabin room sizes and layouts. What one cruise may offer you might not be as sufficient as another, so it’s crucial you look into every option before you make any decisions to ensure your children are in the right environment to make the most of their holiday. Find out what facilities are available on board, because this will give you a good idea as to whether or not it’s worth taking your children on that particular cruise ship.
When considering excursions and shore days, go for ones that will be fun for the whole family. The age range for certain kids clubs may vary so if you are travelling with very small children or babies, bear this in mind when you start looking at deals.
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Things to pack for children
Things to pack for children
This will obviously vary depending on the age of your children but some of the general items are as follows:
Child’s airline tickets/passport/cruise information
Child’s medication/first aid essentials such as plasters, creams etc.
Toiletries/baby shampoo
Suncream
Nappies/swim nappies
Baby wipes
Baby formula
Sun hat
Books and magazines/colouring books
Toys
Bibs
Inflatable swim aids
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Check minimum age requirements
Check minimum age requirements
Most cruise lines will have a minimum age requirement on board and this is usually around 6 months. Some don’t have any minimum age requirements and welcome guests of all ages. It’s handy to look into this when you’re choosing which cruise liner to opt for though, just to be on the safe side. At the end of the day, you know your children best so trust your own judgement.
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Think about your cabin choices
Think about your cabin choices
One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a cruise line that is perfect for you and your children is the accommodation on board. Think about whether you need a cabin that is more spacious than a standard size and also consider the facilities that are available in each cabin. Your decision will depend on the ages of your children, the layout of the room and the cost.
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Prepare your children
Prepare your children
It’s a nice idea to involve your children when it comes to planning your cruise. Try giving them books about the destinations you will be visiting and show them the cruise line website. It’s even more crucial to prep very young children so that they know what to expect. An important note to remember is that their usual daily routine will be thrown off when you go on holiday, and that can sometimes be upsetting if it’s not something they are used to.
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Make a checklist
Make a checklist
There’s nothing worse than being away from home and realising you have forgotten an essential suitcase item. Make sure you make a checklist before you go away and do a separate one for your children’s items. This will ensure that you have everything you need whilst you’re away and all your children’s items are at hand when you need them. Using this organisational tip will make your cruise run smoothly and keep you prepared at all times. It will also save you money because you won’t need to purchase something you have forgotten to pack whilst you’re away.
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Make a point of health and safety
Make a point of health and safety
This is only really relevant if you have children who are a little bit older and are able to understand more clearly but it’s a good idea to tell them about the importance of safety whilst on board the ship. Explain that ships are safe but they must follow the general rules and regulations at all times.
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Sign your children up for kids clubs
Sign your children up for kids clubs
Many cruise lines offer the chance for children to attend kids clubs and these are even categorised in different age ranges so that each child can benefit from the activities available. It’s also a really great way to give you and your other half the chance to spend some quality time alone and also it’s a great social environment for your children to engage and interact with other children their age. Not to mention the fact that they can put their creative minds to good use and pick up key skills from these activities.
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Bahamas
Bahamas
The Caribbean is a must for families with its welcoming culture and jam-packed with activities. In particular, the Bahamas is a haven for children and adults alike, with crystal clear water, incredible wildlife and historical sites. Some cruise lines, including MSC and Royal Caribbean, also have their own private island in the area so you can enjoy the perks no matter your age. From snorkelling and other water sports to shopping and sipping, the Bahamas offers something to keep the whole family engaged.
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The Mediterranean
The Mediterranean
With stunning weather and great cuisine, the countries along the Mediterranean make for a great family playground. The likes of Greece, Spain and Italy are renowned for being child-friendly, so you’ll feel right at home whatever you’re doing while you’re in port. What’s more, many of the itineraries around the Med are around 1-2 weeks long, which is perfect for a family trip during the school holidays.
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Dubai & Emirates
Dubai & Emirates
A world of its own, Dubai is an incredibly unique destination that offers something for everyone. From beaches to malls, it’s known for its desert climate and skyscrapers. There’s plenty to see and do, so whether you’re a family of adrenaline junkies or you’re looking for R&R, you’ll find it in the Emirates.
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Canary Islands
Canary Islands
If you’re looking for a slice of sunshine year round, the Canaries is your best bet. With destinations like Tenerife and Fuerteventura on the list, you’ve got the chance to experience great weather, a mountainous backdrop and plenty to do. The Canary Islands have long been a favourite for travelling families, and it’s easy to see why.
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Swimming pools & water slides
Swimming pools & water slides
These are the focal points of many cruise ships, with multiple pools to take advantage of. In general, cruise lines will have a dedicated pool deck which is usually at the top! There are lounge chairs for sunbathing or topping up your suncream, and some may even have some casual eateries with al fresco tables. Larger ships might even have water slides too!
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Mini golf
Mini golf
Some cruise ships offer a wealth of activities for your kids to get involved in, such as mini golf. These short courses are great for the whole family to get involved, whether it’s a bit of fun or some healthy competition.
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Theatres
Theatres
Most cruise ships will have a theatre that offers an entertainment programme. While most of the shows will happen in the evening, look out for anything that the staff might be doing throughout the day to keep your little ones entertained.
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Sports
Sports
There’s always an abundance of sports activities going on around the cruise ship, from football and table tennis to rock climbing and ice skating. So, whatever sports you and your kids love to get involved in, you can bet there’s something on the ship that takes their fancy.
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Cinema
Cinema
Sometimes you can’t beat a good film, and luckily a lot of cruise ships have an onboard cinema. There’ll typically be a whole host of classics and favourites as well as newer films, as well as 18+ screenings later in the evening for the grown-ups.
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Dining
Dining
As mentioned a few times already, the dining options onboard your cruise ship will be plentiful. Alongside the main dining room, there’ll be themed restaurants, snack bars and more to keep everyone fuelled up, including healthy options and dedicated kids’ menus.
Parent date night
Remember, just because you’re on holiday with your kids doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some quality time with your other half too. A lot of activities onboard are also geared towards adults, as well as the bars and lounges.
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Kids’ clubs and child-minding services can offer a great opportunity for you to have a break and switch off from parenting for just a short while!
However you choose to spend your next cruise holiday, here at Cruise Nation we’ve got a family cruise deal that’s suited to you.
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