Planning a family cruise can feel exciting and overwhelming, especially for your first time. With so many cruise lines and options, finding the one that fits your family best is essential. Here are seven straightforward tips to help you pick the perfect cruise for your family.
1. Think About What Your Family Wants
As a busy mum, I like to mix adventure, exploring and some downtime for relaxation (which is easier said than done).
Start by chatting with everyone about what they hope to get from the cruise. Do you want to relax, explore, or do a bit of both? Figuring out these preferences and what fits with your family will help you narrow down your options.
2. Pick the Right Cruise Line and Check Out the Kids’ Programs
Not all cruise lines are equal when it comes to family fun. Disney can be fantastic for kids, while Carnival and Royal Caribbean have great kids’ clubs.
Carnival offers some great supervised activities for specific age ranges, which can help if you have bigger age gaps. Different cruise lines have different kids’ clubs and activities, so check to make sure the cruise line you pick has options that suit all your kids.
3. Factor in the fight times
Cruises are a great way to see the world, and there are lots of amazing destinations. However, consider the travel to get to the ship. If you’re having a longer holiday, the longer flights mean you can choose from a wider range of destinations.
If you have younger children, the Mediterranean can be a great option. Locations like Barcelona, Rome, Oslo, and Athens have significantly shorter flight times than other destinations. For the Bahamas and the Caribbean, most travel is through Fort Lauderdale (Florida), which can take between 10 and 11 hours.
Asia is also a beautiful option. Locations like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo are around 12 hours away. If you want to explore the South Pacific, for example, Bora Bora, you’ll need much longer travel times and multiple flights. Australia and New Zealand are similar; with connecting flights, you’ll travel for 24 hours or more.
4. Consider Cabin Space
Some cabins on cruise ships can be snug, especially for families. If you need more space, it’s worth booking a family suite or a cabin with a balcony. This extra room can make a big difference in comfort and make the trip more exciting. When the kids go to bed, it doesn’t mean your night ends, either. (Pro tip: Prosecco on the balcony on a starry night always goes down well.)
5. Look at Itineraries and Destinations
Check the cruise itinerary and ports of call. Some destinations are better for families, with plenty of activities and attractions for kids. You don’t need to leave the boat, but excursions can be a fantastic way to explore and sightsee. Day trips or excursions with kids could feel daunting, but some Disney Cruises include stops at specialised resorts designed for family leisure.
6. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations
Look at reviews from other families to get a real sense of what to expect. Sometimes, you have to take it with a pinch of salt, but websites like TripAdvisor can be useful for finding out what works best for families. Don’t be afraid to talk to an independent travel agent who isn’t tied to a particular cruise line. Let them do the hard work for you and find the right package—at the right price.
7. Budget for Extra Costs
Some cruises offer all-inclusive options, but packages vary, and only some things are covered. Some activities and dining options might incur an additional charge. Do some research on what’s included and plan a budget for extras like excursions or drinks.
Re-cap: Helping you select the Right Cruise for Your Family
I love holidays (obviously). As a parent of young children, I see them as an opportunity to have an amazing time and create memories and experiences they will never forget. I hope these tips help you; choosing the right cruise for your family sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday. By thinking about what your family wants, picking the right cruise line, and checking out what’s included, you can make sure everyone has an unforgettable time.
