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Going on a cruise can be a wonderful experience, taking in multiple locations all whilst enjoying the comforts of a luxurious ship.
Cruises these days don’t just take in sunny climates either. You can visit the Northern Lights on a cruise ship, sail around the top of Scotland and the Shetlands, or go a little more traditional on the Amalfi Coast, or into the Caribbean. They’re flexible in terms of where you go, they’re comforting and versatile in terms of how, when and on what ship, but are they child friendly?
When you think of a cruise, taking the kids probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. However, kids are allowed on most cruise ships, and taking them can help to expand their horizons by visiting multiple memorable locations in a single holiday.
If you are thinking of taking your kids on a cruise, here are some things to consider.
Check They’re Allowed
The first thing to do is to check that kids are allowed on your chosen cruise. Most ships accommodate children, including the largest cruise ship in the world, the Royal Caribbean vessel Wonder of the Seas. However, some may not, and it is certainly worth checking to ensure you’re not disappointed. It’s the first of three crucial elements to consider before you even book.
Some ships have designated adult-only areas as well, which is key to bear in mind. When booking for a family, it is best to look for a ship that will allow you to enjoy the restaurants and facilities with your children; otherwise, you may miss out on something the ship has to offer.
Book Enough Space
If your kids are allowed on the cruise, make sure you book enough space. If your children are infant age, you’ll need a room for all of you, but if they’re in their early teens, consider getting two rooms. It might cost a bit more, but would you normally consider sharing with teens? A cruise should be relaxing for the whole family, and booking you all into the same room could cause friction that spoils a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Destination is Paramount
You’ve got to pick the right destination for your family cruise. For instance, there are some journeys that are likely to appeal to kids more than others. The Caribbean is lovely and warm, and destinations include places with great beaches and places for kids to have fun. With that in mind, a journey on the Wonder of the Seas would be suitable.
Other cruises have destinations which may not be considered child friendly. The destinations offered by Explora Journeys include a trip around the northern edge of Scotland, stopping in Lerwick on Shetland and Portree on the Isle of Skye. These are places not exactly packed with things for kids to do. The same company offer idyllic cruises that include Antigua, Guadeloupe and Martinique, where the kids can get their shorts on and play on the beach, something they’re more likely to enjoy than a chilly fishing harbour.
Picking the right destination is important to ensure you all enjoy the experience equally.
Enjoy The Ship
Whilst the destination makes or breaks a journey, you must also consider what the ship has to offer. If you go on a cruise as a couple, the temptation can be to burn yourself out during the day, rushing around the great places the ship docks, then taking time in the evening for a meal and rest. If you go as a family, kids might benefit from enjoying some of the facilities the ship has to offer, just as much as the places it docks.
The Wonder of the Seas has seven distinct neighbourhoods on deck, with swimming pools, laser tag and ice skating. The Explora 1 has whirlpools, running tracks and a dedicated child and teen area. Both are cruise ships that visit amazing locations but also have great facilities on board. Be sure to enjoy their facilities with your family; don’t be afraid to let your children get in the pools are enjoy the thrill of being on a boat, because, for them, it is an adventure in itself, without stepping foot on dry land. Letting them do their own thing on the relative safety of the ship might help them be more understanding when it comes to trailing around the markets of the Caribbean, or the fishing harbour on Lerwick.
If you enjoyed this article, but taking your kids on a cruise is a bit out of your scope right now, don’t worry. We’ve got some lovely low-cost family day out ideas, plus plenty of other bits of advice, here at The Ladybird Adventures.