Not since the heyday of 1930s cross-Atlantic elegance or the 1980s schmaltz of The Love Boat has the cruise ship been such a popular way to travel. Business is booming, and the variety of options available to young families seeking the luxury of a resort with the unique experience of traveling by sea has expanded significantly. However, navigating these options can be daunting. Here are eight essential tips for taking a cruise with kids.
It really is the journey, not the destination
When selecting a cruise, ensure that it caters thoughtfully to children. Look for more than just a babysitting service for parents wishing to enjoy a night out; companies such as Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Disney, and Royal Caribbean offer innovative ship designs that feature numerous kid-friendly facilities such as wave pools, rock-climbing walls, and movie theatres.
While children will eventually thrill at visiting exotic locations, if the ship itself is lacking — particularly during days spent at sea — even the most breathtaking destinations may not salvage the experience.
Start and end well
To enhance your travel experience, consider spending a few extra days in your departure and arrival cities. Dynamic destinations like Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney, Barcelona, and Vancouver offer families ample opportunities for exploration. Such additions help children to develop a sense of anticipation for their adventure and allow them to readjust seamlessly to dry land upon returning.
Furthermore, shore excursions can be exciting and engaging for kids. Activities like snorkelling, hiking, and kayaking may captivate their interest longer than traditional guided tours of museums or historical sites.
Train your budding cartographers
Maps serve not only as navigational tools but also as exciting sources of wonder. Encourage children to explore glossy maps detailing the geographical features of the various regions they will visit. This can inspire enthusiasm as they learn to measure distances, memorize body of water names, and create logs of key geographical features. Cultivating this curiosity can further enhance their traveling experience.
Know thy daily itinerary
Cruise ships present a myriad of activities. Upon boarding, take a moment to relax before diving into the ship’s schedule. Assess the activity calendar during breakfast or the night prior to plan a family-friendly agenda. Balance excitement with relaxation by strategically scheduling naps and activities.
Be aware that certain high-octane activities like abseiling and skill-building courses may incur additional costs, yet they can effectively engage older kids who might otherwise retreat to their devices. Youth counselors coordinate events featuring talent shows, sports tournaments, and scavenger hunts that can enrich the family experience.
Prepare for smooth financial sailing
A significant advantage of cruising with children is the ability to prepay for most of the expenses. This can alleviate financial stress and minimize the need for constant transactions during the trip. Once on board, additional expenses typically include drinks and optional activities. It can be beneficial to give each child a small allowance, enabling them to practice budgeting in a safe environment.
Make the most of multigenerational travel
Cruising provides an ideal setting for family bonding, allowing grandparents to connect with their grandchildren and other relatives seamlessly. Whether sharing meals, participating in exciting activities, or simply enjoying breathtaking views, cruises create lasting multigenerational memories.
