How do I choose a family cruise?

If you want to have a good family holiday, going on a cruise is a great option. Some of the best cruise lines offer various amenities for families onboard. These include children’s activities, babysitting services, dining options, and even onboard cartoon characters. Cruising with family may involve an ample lot of planning and decisions.

5 reasons to Cruise with your family

As a result, it is crucial to choose an appropriate cruise that is suitable for your family. While choosing a cruise line for your family, it is important to look for a few services and amenities available. Listed below are some of the points that need to be kept in mind while choosing a family cruise:

1. Family-friendly amenities:

The prime step while choosing a cruise is to look for one that caters to families. The cruise must have appropriate accommodations and services, including family suites, in-cabin babysitting, and complementary nurseries. Several cruise ships offer spaces designated for kids. These spaces have video games, art supplies, and various toys. 

2. Children’s programs:

Most cruise lines have special programs for the children onboard. These include special play areas, skill classes, and other activities. For instance, Disney cruises offer Star War-themed play areas along with Marvel Superhero Academy. The Norwegian Cruise Line provides skill classes for juggling and tumbling, among many others. Many cruise lines also offer onboard kid’s clubs. Disney Cruises offers the Oceaneer Club and Lab, where any child can engage, regardless of their age. 

3. Onboard cartoon characters:

Several family-friendly cruises feature cartoon characters from popular movies and shows. Disney Cruises offers onboard characters from Star Wars, Marvel, and Disney princesses. Carnival cruises offer ‘Seuss at Sea,’ which involves character parades, storytelling, character breakfasts, and arts and crafts sessions. At Royal Caribbean cruises, families can enjoy aqua shows and ice shows based on themes like Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon? 

Also Read: How to get a good deal on family cruises?

4. Dining options: 

Along with activities and amenities, a family-friendly dining experience is also important. Most luxury cruise lines offer a variety of dining facilities and venues. Look for cruise lines that provide flexible dining where you can board the ship with no fixed dining times. You must look for cruises that offer casual dining options beyond the traditional buffets. You can opt for Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line. 

5. Onboard nursery:

If you’re traveling with toddlers, choose a cruise line that provides onboard nurseries and nighttime childcare facilities. Several cruise lines offer late-night group babysitting programs, allowing kids to play with their peers. At the same time, you can engage in various onboard activities, explore a location, or rejuvenate at a spa. Disney Cruises are a great choice if you’re traveling with a toddler. The cruise line offers themed nurseries for ages 6 months to 3 years. Other cruise lines that offer such facilities include Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, MSC, and Royal Caribbean.

Conclusion

Cruising is one of the best options if you want to have a budget-friendly family holiday. Most cruise lines offer amenities that are provided within the cruise fare, including dining, entertainment, and onboard activities. If you want to experience hassle-free cruising with your family, it is important to make some necessary arrangements. While choosing a cruise line, look for one that caters to your family’s needs while providing satisfactory amenities.