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 and exploring. I also make sure there is some downtime for relaxation. This 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 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. Kids’ clubs and activities vary among different cruise lines. 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. Still, 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 choice. Locations like Barcelona, Rome, Oslo, and Athens have significantly shorter flight times than other destinations. For the Bahamas and the Caribbean, travellers often go through Fort Lauderdale (Florida). This journey can take between 10 and 11 hours.
Asia is also a beautiful choice. Locations like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo are around 12 hours away. If you want to explore the South Pacific, the travel times are much longer. For example, Bora Bora requires 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. Taking day trips or excursions with kids can feel daunting. Still, some Disney Cruises include stops at specialised resorts. These resorts are 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 approach them critically. However, 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 incur an extra 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. We can 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. Consider what your family wants. Pick the right cruise line. Check out what’s included to ensure everyone has an unforgettable time. x
