A family cruise holiday can be a great vacation option! Be sure to follow these tips to ensure a relaxing family cruise holiday.
Planning
Make sure that everyone is included while planning your family cruise holiday. Let your kids have a say when looking at options for destinations. If they feel that they are part of the decision-making process, they are more likely to enjoy themselves. Cruising options are very varied. Consider whether you want to get out on the open ocean or to stay closer to the shore. Maybe try an adventure or river cruise! Many families choose options that offer warm weather, tropical beaches, deserted islands and exciting wildlife.
Investigation
One of the most important tips for preparing for a family cruise is to thoroughly investigate what each cruise offers both on and off-board. Many companies now offer family friendly cruise options which offer amenities and facilities catering to children with various things to do on the cruise. Some offer trained personnel who supervise kids’ activities with games and sports for younger children. They also have adventure activities like rock-climbing walls, water slides and surf simulator pools for bigger kids. Some ships have special theater performances for children and rooms with kid’s TV channels.
Make sure to check if there is a minimum age restriction, as some companies will not take babies less than 6 or 12-months old. Many ships offer babysitting services and have adult-only, kid-free areas like fine dining restaurants, spas and casinos. Mum and dad can take time to relax and enjoy the family cruise as well! Also, check out the ports of call, and see if the excursions on offer are suitable for children and if they include fun and relaxing things to do for all the family.
Length
Traveling with family can be lots of fun but be realistic and don’t plan to do too much for a short trip. For family cruising, a week is usually a reasonable amount of time to plan for.
Size
Larger ships often offer more on-board options. Some have specially designed family cabins or can offer adjoining cabins to accommodate you all. One of the most important family cruise tips is to ensure that the sleeping arrangements will allow everyone to get a good night’s rest.
Dining
Many ships offer food at all times and include dining options for kids. If any member of your family has special dietary needs, be sure to check that the ship you have chosen can accommodate your requirement before booking. Also, check if you should bring your own formula or baby food.
What is included?
Make sure to check exactly what is included in the cruise price. Normally all on-board dining and entertainment costs are included, but excursions and tips are not.
Book Early
Remember that family oriented travel options are likely to be booked up fast during school holiday times. Follow our family vacation tips and book your adventure early!
Packing
When it comes to packing, one of the most vital tips for family trips is to make a list of each person’s requirements and check each thing off as you go. Remember that you will need to bring swimming and snorkeling gear, sports and leisure wear, clothes for exploring on land, clothes for going out for dinner, a rain jacket, and so on. Be prepared for everything! Remember to bring a stroller if you have small kids – cruise ships are big!Follow these travel tips to ensure that your vacation runs as smoothly as possible and your family has a great time!
Author Bio:
Cloe Matheson is a writer from New Zealand with a passion for all things travel and adventure. She has written on behalf of various travel companies such as Omega Rental Cars. You can find more of her work here.