Hey there travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 tips for going on a cruise with a family. Embarking on a cruise ship with your family is a beautiful way to create lifelong memories together. However in the excitement, it can be very easy to forget some of the planning ang preparation that goes into a successful trip.
Hence, as with anything to do with traveling and children, it’s essential to be adequately prepared for your voyage. From packing appropriately to getting to know the ship’s layout and participating in onboard activities, there are many things you can do to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Tips for Going on a Cruise with a Family
From packing wisely to participating in onboard activities, here are my valuable tips to make your family cruise as enjoyable as possible. Let’s check them out.
1. Plan ahead
Planning ahead is, undoubtedly, a significant tip when it comes to going on a cruise with your family as it’s essential to make sure that everyone is prepared and knows what to expect.
Here are some areas where planning ahead can make a significant impact on your family cruise experience:
- Choosing the right ship – this is the first step in planning a family cruise. Different cruise lines cater to different types of travelers, so it’s important to find one that fits your family’s needs and preferences. Some ships are more family-friendly with amenities like water parks, kids’ clubs and family-friendly shows and activities.
- Checking the itinerary – also an essential factor to consider as you want to make sure that the ports of call and shore excursions are suitable for your family’s interests and ages. It’s also important to consider the length of the cruise, as some itineraries can be more tiring and overwhelming than others.
- Budget and expenses – planning ahead in terms of spending is also crucial for a successful family cruise. Make sure to research the costs of onboard amenities, shore excursions and any other activities or extras you may want to indulge in during the trip.
2. Book early
When traveling with a family, there are obviously certain restrictions in place in terms of cabin size etc. which, unlike normal cabins, are not as prevalent on a ship. Booking early then ensures that you get the cabin type and location you want.
In addition to cabin availability, booking early can also save you money as cruise lines often offer discounts and promotions for early bookings which help you save a significant amount of money on your family cruise. Also, the earlier you book, the more time you have to pay off the trip, making it easier to budget and plan for your family vacation.
The next reason here is that is also allows extra time to research other things such as the ports of call, shore excursions and onboard activities and amenities to ensure that you have a fun and enjoyable trip.
3. Choose the right cabin
As above, part of booking early is that you have a better chance of getting the right cabin as well. When planning a family cruise, choosing the right cabin is a worthy consideration for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The cabin you choose will depend on several factors, including your family’s size, budget and preferences.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right cabin for the gang:
- Consider Cabin Size – When booking a cabin, make sure to consider the size of your family. If you have a larger family, you may need to book multiple cabins or opt for a suite. You’ll also want to ensure that the cabin has enough storage space for your family’s belongings.
- Location – The location of your cabin can also affect your family’s experience on the cruise. If you’re prone to seasickness, it may be best to choose a cabin in the middle of the ship, where there’s less movement. Additionally, cabins near the ship’s engine or entertainment areas may be noisier, so consider the noise level when selecting a cabin.
- Balcony or Window – A cabin with a balcony or window can enhance your family’s cruise experience by providing a view of the ocean and fresh air. However, these cabins tend to be more expensive than interior cabins. If you’re on a tight budget, an interior cabin can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
- Connecting Cabins – If you have a larger family or want to have separate sleeping areas, consider booking connecting cabins. These cabins have a door that opens between them, allowing for easy access between cabins while still providing privacy.
- Accessibility – If anyone in your family has mobility issues, consider booking an accessible cabin. These cabins are designed to accommodate guests with disabilities with features such as wider doorways, grab bars and roll-in showers.
4. Pack wisely
Packing for a family cruise can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out what to bring and what to leave behind. That’s why packing wisely is a critical tip to keep in mind to ensure that you have everything you need for your trip without overpacking and burdening yourself with too much luggage.
Firstly, it’s essential to consider the cruise line’s dress code. Many cruise lines have specific dress codes for different occasions, such as formal nights or casual days so it’s crucial to pack accordingly. Check the dress code before you start packing to avoid bringing unnecessary clothing items.
Another relevant factor to consider when packing is the activities and excursions you plan to participate in during the cruise. For example, if you plan on spending time in the sun, you’ll want to bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses and don’t forget to pack swimwear and pool towels. And for shore excursions, it’s essential to bring comfortable walking shoes, backpacks and water bottles.
It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit and any necessary medications. In case of any emergencies, having these items readily available can provide peace of mind and ensure that you’re prepared for any situation that may arise.
Check out these: 3 Best Day Bags for Cruising
5. Get familiar with the ship
Before setting sail, take some time to research the ship’s layout, amenities and activities. Most cruise ships have maps that show the different decks and the location of amenities such as restaurants, pools and entertainment venues. Take some time to study the map and familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout. This can help you navigate the ship more efficiently and avoid getting lost.
It’s also beneficial to be aware of the ship’s safety procedures. Familiarize yourself and your family with the emergency exits, muster stations and evacuation procedures as well.
Another important aspect of being familiar with the ship is determining the dining options. Many cruise ships offer a range of dining options from formal restaurants to casual buffets. Familiarize yourself with the different options and make reservations in advance if necessary. This can help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get the dining experience you and more importantly, your kids want.
6. Participate in onboard activities.
As you probably know, many cruise ships offer different activities and entertainment options for all ages, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the best ways to discover the activities on board is to know the ship’s daily activity schedule. This schedule outlines the day’s events and activities including live shows, music performances, dance classes, sports tournaments and more. By doing so, you can plan your days and ensure that you and your family don’t miss out on anything exciting.
Another great way to participate in onboard activities is to join group activities such as trivia contests, scavenger hunts and game shows. The activities are a fun way to meet other families and make new friends while enjoying some friendly competition.
For those who love the water, most cruise ships offer a variety of water sports and activities as well including swimming, diving and snorkeling. Many also have onboard water parks with slides and pools that are perfect for children.
Additionally, cruise ships often have dedicated kids’ clubs and teen programs that offer age-appropriate activities and entertainment. These programs may include arts and crafts, movie nights, video game tournaments and themed parties.
7. Book shore excursions
Shore excursions provide an excellent opportunity to explore the ports of call and engage in activities that are not available on board. When booking shore excursions, you may consider your family’s interests, physical abilities and budget.
One of the best ways to book shore excursions is to do research before the cruise. Review the cruise line’s shore excursion offerings and read reviews from previous passengers. You can also look for independent tour operators at each port of call and compare their prices and reviews with those offered by the cruise line.
It’s also essential to bear in mind your budget when booking shore excursions. Excursions offered by the cruise line can be more expensive than those offered by independent operators. However, booking through the cruise line can offer the benefit of assurance and guarantee that you will not miss the ship’s departure time.
8. Stay hydrated
Cruises offer a range of activities and it can be easy to lose track of time and forget to drink enough water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches and other health issues which can put a damper on your family’s vacation.
One way to stay hydrated is to bring a reusable water bottle with you on board. Most cruise lines offer free water in their dining areas so you can easily refill your water bottle throughout the day. Some ships even have water stations located throughout the ship, making it easy to stay hydrated no matter where you are.
It’s important to note that staying hydrated is not just about drinking water. Eating foods with high water content, such as fruits and vegetables can also help you stay hydrated as well. Salads, watermelon and cucumbers are all excellent examples of foods that can help you stay hydrated while on a cruise.
9. Take breaks
When going on a cruise with a family, it’s easy to get caught up in all the fun activities and forget to take breaks. However, taking regular breaks is an important tip to keep in mind to ensure that everyone in your family enjoys the trip and doesn’t become too exhausted.
One effective way to do this tip is to schedule downtime into your daily itinerary. It can be as simple as setting aside an hour in the afternoon to rest, read a book or take a nap. This approach can be particularly important for families with young children who may need a midday nap to recharge their batteries.
Another way to take breaks is to alternate between physical activities and more relaxing ones. For example, if you spend the morning swimming in the pool or taking a hike, you might want to spend the afternoon taking a leisurely stroll around the ship or playing board games in the cabin.
It’s also important to recognize when you or your family members need a break. If you or your family members are feeling tired, irritable or overwhelmed, it’s time to take a step back and rest. This can help prevent any potential accidents or injuries, as well as ensure that everyone is in good spirits for the rest of the trip.
10. Relax and have fun
After all the planning and preparation, it’s important to remember to relax and have fun during your cruise with your family. Your cruise adventure is the time to create lasting memories and bond with your loved ones. Make sure to take advantage of all the amenities and activities that the ship has to offer, such as swimming pools, sports facilities, live entertainment, and more.
It’s also important to give yourself permission to unwind and let go of any stress or worries you may have brought with you. Take a break from technology and social media and just enjoy the moment with your family. Whether it’s a relaxing day at the spa or a fun-filled day exploring a new port, be present and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Remember that everyone in your family may have different interests and energy levels, so it’s important to find a balance that works for everyone. Don’t try to do everything at once, but rather pace yourselves and plan activities that will be enjoyable for the whole family. And don’t forget to take advantage of any child-care services or kids clubs that the ship may offer, so that parents can have some much-needed adult time as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 10 best tips that you’ll need when you cruise along with your family members. Let know how this article helped you, and as usual, of your family cruise experiences as well.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
