Cruising can be an amazing vacation option for families, offering something for everyone. From exploring new destinations to relaxing by the pool, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. But it’s important to be prepared to ensure a smooth sailing trip for the whole family, including some quality time for yourselves as a couple. Here are 11 tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise:
1. Choose the Right Cruise Line and Ship
Some cruise lines are more geared toward families than others. Look for lines that offer plenty of kids’ activities and amenities, such as pools, water slides, arcade games, and kids’ clubs.
Choosing the perfect cruise line and ship for your family vacation is one of tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise, and it requires careful consideration of several key factors. Firstly, assess the target audience of each cruise line to determine whether it aligns with your family’s preferences and needs. For instance, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival are renowned for their family-friendly offerings, while others may cater more to adults or couples.
Research the amenities and activities available onboard, such as pools, waterslides, arcades, and educational programs. Consider whether there are designated adult-only areas for relaxation.
Additionally, review the itinerary options to find cruises that visit destinations of interest to your family. Factor in the duration of sail days and port stops, particularly if you have young children who may prefer shorter voyages or frequent stops.
Finally, assess your budget and choose a cruise line that offers good value for your money, factoring in all associated costs like gratuities, drinks, shore excursions, and dining options. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the ideal cruise line and ship for a memorable family vacation.
2. Consider the Age of your Children
Considering the ages of your children is crucial for planning a successful family cruise. Younger children, such as toddlers and preschoolers, are content with simple entertainment like splash pads, ball pits, and character meet-and-greets. Look for ships with dedicated play areas and gentle activities tailored to their age group. Grade schoolers seek more variety and action, enjoying water slides, arcade games, and educational programs. Teens prefer activities geared towards their age, such as teen clubs with video games and pool tournaments.
Kids’ clubs are invaluable for providing supervised fun, allowing parents some alone time. Look for cruise lines with well-developed kids’ clubs offering engaging activities for different age groups. Consider dining options catering to children’s tastes, like buffet sections with familiar choices.
When planning the itinerary, consider the children’s tolerance for sea days. Younger ones may prefer more frequent port stops, while older kids might enjoy longer cruises with more onboard activities. By selecting a cruise that aligns with your children’s ages and interests, you ensure an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Happy kids contribute to a smoother and more memorable cruise vacation.
3. Book a Cabin that can Accommodate your Family Comfortably.
Choosing the perfect cabin is key to a relaxing family cruise. With standard cabins being compact, consider your family’s size first. Young children might share with parents, but older kids will need their own space.
Cruise lines offer various cabin configurations. Interior staterooms are budget-friendly but have no windows and can feel cramped for families. Ocean view staterooms offer a window for a more open feel. Balcony staterooms boast a private outdoor space, perfect for enjoying fresh air and views. Suites provide the most space, often featuring separate sleeping areas and living rooms.
Many cabins have two twin beds that convert to a king bed, while some also include pull-out sofas or bunk beds. Double-check the sleeping capacity to ensure it meets your needs.
For larger families or those desiring extra space, connecting cabins are an option. These are essentially two adjoining cabins with a doorway that can be opened between them.
Some cruise lines offer cabins designed specifically for families, featuring multiple bunk beds or even separate sleeping areas. If you have a child with special needs, inquire about accessible cabins with wider doorways or lowered amenities.
By considering these factors, you can choose a cabin that provides enough space and comfort for everyone, making your cruise truly enjoyable.
4. Pack Light, but Don’t Forget the Essentials.
Packing light is one of the tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise. Stress-free packing is essential for a smooth family cruise. To pack efficiently, consider these tips.
Most ships offer laundry services, so pack clothes for a few days with the ability to freshen up mid-trip. Opt for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Neutral basics with colorful accessories will create multiple outfits.
Formal nights are usually casual. Pack one dressier outfit per person that can be adjusted with accessories. Skip bulky shoes. Pack comfy shoes for exploring, flip-flops for the pool deck, and maybe one dressier pair for evenings. Leave boots and heavy shoes at home.
Many cruise lines provide pool towels, toiletries, and beach towels. Check with your cruise line to avoid packing these extras.
Don’t forget the essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimsuits (enough for each day), medications, and entertainment for kids (small toys, books, or travel games). Pack chargers for electronics and consider a portable power bank. Securely pack passports, cruise documents, and any other important travel documents.
A bonus tip: pack a small daypack for shore excursions to carry essentials without lugging your entire suitcase.
By following these packing strategies, you’ll ensure a fun and comfortable family cruise without the burden of overflowing luggage.
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5. Take Advantage of the Kids’ Clubs.
Kids’ clubs on cruises are a game-changer for families! These supervised programs offer a win-win for everyone. Parents get precious relaxation and alone time, while kids have a blast with exciting activities and make new friends.
Daily schedules are packed with age-appropriate fun. This might include themed arts and crafts, educational programs like science experiments or scavenger hunts, and even game nights or poolside competitions. Movie nights, costume parties, and special events like character meet-and-greets create unforgettable memories.
Most importantly, kids’ clubs are staffed by trained professionals who ensure your child’s safety and well-being. These caregivers entertain, educate, and supervise children of all ages, giving you peace of mind. Age groups are separated to ensure activities are tailored to each child’s interests and development.
Kids’ clubs are also fantastic for socialization and independence. Children make new friends from around the world, building social skills and confidence in a safe environment. The beauty of these clubs is their flexibility. Parents can choose to drop their kids off for a few hours or the entire afternoon, allowing for some adult time, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a relaxing show.
By taking advantage of kids’ clubs, you can create a truly enjoyable cruise experience for everyone onboard. Happy and entertained kids lead to relaxed and stress-free parents, making for a memorable vacation for the whole family.
6. Book Shore Excursions in Advance.
Booking shore excursions ahead of time is a smart strategy for a smooth family cruise. Popular tours fill up fast, so pre-booking secures your spot on the experiences you crave. Researching options in advance allows you to compare itineraries, prices, and activity levels to find the perfect fit for your family’s interests and energy.
Booking beforehand eliminates the stress of finding last-minute options on board. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your activities in each port, allowing you to create a structured itinerary for the entire cruise. Many cruise lines even offer discounts or onboard credit for booking excursions in advance.
Some unique experiences, like those involving remote locations or special permits, might require advanced booking. Pre-booking ensures you can participate in these activities and avoid missing out.
By planning ahead, you can avoid wasting precious time in port deciding what to do. You’ll disembark knowing exactly where to go and how to meet your tour guide, maximizing your exploration time at each destination.
Remember to research cancellation policies in case of itinerary changes or illness. Consider both cruise line-sponsored tours and independent operators, comparing prices, activity styles, and the possibility of customization for a more personalized experience. Choose excursions that match your family’s activity levels, ages, and attention spans. Opt for tours with variety or built-in breaks to avoid fatigue, especially for younger children.
Booking shore excursions in advance ensures a stress-free and enriching experience for your family in each port of call. Researching, comparing options, and strategic booking will create lasting memories for your family cruise adventure.
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7. Be Prepared for Seasickness
Seasickness can disrupt a cruise for anyone, especially children. Here’s how to be prepared for a smooth sail:
Over-the-counter medication like meclizine or ginger can prevent or treat seasickness. Consult a doctor before giving medication to children. Natural solutions like ginger candies or acupressure wristbands may also help alleviate nausea.
Also note that certain habits can minimize seasickness. Opt for bland carbs like crackers before sailing and stay hydrated with water. Avoid greasy foods, excessive alcohol, and caffeine. Fresh air on deck can help settle your stomach, so focus on the horizon. Minimize time in small cabins and lie down in a ventilated area if you feel unwell.
Planning also helps. Choose a midship cabin for less motion and consider a larger cabin to avoid claustrophobia. Pack a plastic bag and wipes for easy clean-up in case of nausea.
By following these tips, you can minimize seasickness and ensure a more enjoyable cruise for everyone. Remember, even experienced sailors can experience seasickness, so it’s always best to be prepared!
8. Budget for Onboard Expenses
This is one of the important tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise. While the base cruise price might seem like the final cost, there are several onboard expenses to consider for an accurate budget. These include gratuities, which are automatic daily service charges for the crew. The amount varies by cruise line and cabin category. Drinks are extra, including bottled water, soda, specialty coffees, alcoholic drinks, and even minibar items. Consider a beverage package if you plan on consuming a lot throughout the trip.
Exploring ports via shore excursions is a highlight, but prices can vary greatly depending on the experience. Decide on your preferred activity level and budget for excursions in each port beforehand.
The main dining rooms are typically included, but some ships offer specialty restaurants with a la carte menus for an additional cost. These restaurants often feature finer cuisine, unique themes, or celebrity chef experiences. Spa treatments are another cost to consider if you want to relax with a massage or facial.
Many cruise lines have arcades with video games and other activities. These typically require a swipe card loaded with credits you purchase onboard. Factor in how much your kids (and maybe even you!) might spend.
Cruise ships are full of shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. Set a budget to avoid overspending during onboard sales. Professional photographers capture moments throughout your trip. Buying these photos or a post-cruise video package can be a nice souvenir, but factor in the cost.
To manage onboard expenses, research the cruise line’s website for details on gratuities, beverage packages, and shore excursion pricing. Consider pre-paid beverage or internet packages if you know you’ll use them a lot. Set spending limits for shore excursions, specialty dining, and souvenirs.
Take advantage of free activities like deck parties, shows, trivia nights, and dance lessons. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at complimentary filtered water stations instead of buying bottled water.
By planning and budgeting for onboard expenses, you can avoid financial surprises and have a smooth and enjoyable cruise with your family.
9. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle
Packing a reusable water bottle is one of the few tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise. Here’s why:
Cruise lines typically charge for bottled water, which can add up quickly for a family. By bringing a reusable bottle, you can refill it at the many filtered water stations on most ships. This saves money and keeps you hydrated without extra expenses.
It’s also an eco-friendly choice. Using a reusable bottle reduces reliance on single-use plastic bottles, minimizing plastic waste onboard. Many cruise lines promote sustainability, and a reusable bottle aligns with those efforts.
Convenience is another perk. Having a water bottle on hand is great, especially for keeping kids hydrated. You won’t have to constantly buy bottled water or wait in line for refills.
A reusable bottle, especially one insulated, can keep your water cold all day. This is important on hot days spent by the pool or exploring ports.
Water bottles come in various sizes and styles. Choose one that’s easy for your child to carry and fits in cup holders throughout the ship. Leak-proof options with straws or spouts are ideal for younger children to avoid spills.
As a bonus tip, label your water bottles with your family’s names to avoid confusion!
Packing a reusable water bottle is a small but impactful way to make your family cruise more enjoyable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Don’t forget to toss your reusable water bottle in your suitcase for a smooth sailing adventure!
10. Plan Some Downtime
Scheduling downtime is essential for a relaxing and enjoyable family cruise. It is one among the tips to help you plan the perfect family cruise. Cruises are packed with activities, shore trips, and entertainment, and it’s easy to get swept up without planning breaks. This constant activity can lead to fatigue and meltdowns, especially for young children.
Downtime allows everyone to recharge and avoid burnout. Taking breaks throughout the day helps you return to activities with renewed energy and a more positive attitude.
Cruises are also a fantastic opportunity for quality family time. Downtime allows you to disconnect from technology and reconnect with loved ones. Relax on deck chairs watching the sunset together, play board games in a quiet corner, or simply enjoy a leisurely meal. These unplanned moments of togetherness can create lasting memories.
Downtime also allows for relaxation and self-care. Parents can catch up on some rest by reading by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or napping in their cabin. Taking breaks allows everyone to recharge and return to activities feeling refreshed. This can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment of the cruise.
Building downtime into your schedule also creates space for flexibility. Unexpected situations like rough seas or port delays can arise, and downtime acts as a buffer. This allows you to adapt to these situations without feeling rushed or stressed. Downtime also allows for spontaneity! If you discover a hidden gem onboard or an interesting activity in port, you have the flexibility to enjoy it without a rigid schedule.
To plan downtime, schedule breaks throughout your day. This could be a few hours in the afternoon for pool time and napping or designated quiet reading time after dinner. Balance active exploration with relaxing downtime. Alternate high-energy activities with pool days, movie nights, or leisurely walks onboard.
Encourage everyone to take breaks from electronics during downtime. Focus on real-life interactions, enjoy the scenery, or have conversations as a family. The ship likely has quiet areas like adult-only decks, libraries, or secluded loungers. Seek out these tranquil spots for some peace and relaxation.
11. Make Time for Romance
Finding romance on a family cruise requires carving out special moments amidst the fun. Thankfully, there are options!
Most cruise lines offer fantastic kids’ clubs, with supervised activities throughout the day and even evening sessions for an additional fee. This allows you and your partner to enjoy some quality adult time without worry. In-room babysitting services are also available on many ships, so you can book a sitter for a romantic dinner or quiet time in your cabin.
Specialty restaurants onboard often boast exquisite cuisine and a more intimate ambiance. Treat yourselves to a romantic escape from the lively main dining room. Couples massages at the spa are another great way to unwind and reconnect. Many spas even offer special couples packages.
Check the cruise schedule for adult-oriented shows, comedy acts, or live music. Enjoy an evening of entertainment together after the kids are asleep. Many ships also have designated adult-only areas like sundecks, bars, or pools, offering tranquil spaces for quality time together.
Sneak in spontaneous moments too! Wake up a little earlier for a sunrise breakfast on deck, or enjoy a romantic stroll after the kids are asleep. For shore excursions, choose a couples’ wine tasting tour or a private sunset sail. In-room dining allows for a special breakfast in bed or a private candlelit dinner on your balcony (if available).
Communication is key! Talk to your partner about your priorities for romance on the cruise. Do you crave a fancy dinner or quiet time together? Discuss your desires to ensure you’re on the same page.
Popular restaurants and shore excursions fill up quickly, so book reservations in advance to secure your romantic date nights. Be flexible, though, because things don’t always go according to plan, especially with kids. The most important thing is to spend quality time together.
Even small gestures can make a big difference. Pack a small gift or card for your partner, leave a love note in their suitcase, or simply take the time to compliment and appreciate each other. By making romance a priority, you can ensure your family cruise is filled with both love and unforgettable memories.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your family cruise is a fun and relaxing vacation for everyone. Now set sail and create memories that will last a lifetime!
