CRUISING FOR FAMILIES

I think it is a common misconception that a cruise is for older people maybe who’s kids have left home and who are retired and have time on their hands. That was once maybe the case, however, today I would strongly disagree with this. The mainstream cruise lines are offering more and more facilities and catering more for the needs of families. This can be in the form of parents and children and even multi-generational families, so holidays which grandparents can enjoy with the rest of the family. The advantage of a cruise with a family is that you can embark for a Mediterranean or a Norwegian Fjords cruise in Southampton should you not wish to fly to start your cruise. This also means that you are not restricted on the amount of luggage you take so you can ensure you have everything you need for the children. You only need to unpack once so you can settle into your stateroom and make yourselves at home. You will have the peace of mind of knowing that your accommodation and facilities are of an exceptionally high standard but have the benefit of visiting many destinations whilst only unpacking once. This makes a cruise really convenient when travelling with children. You can choose to explore the ports of call all together as a family or stay on board and make use of the excellent facilities of the ship. The ships also cater exceptionally well for children with fantastic, well equipped kids’ clubs and a dedicated team to look after the younger traveller and their every need. A lot of the activities are also educational and are so much fun the kids will be begging to go back. I think one of the big appeal of a cruise is that the children can enjoy their meals with their friends in the kids’ club whilst mum and dad can enjoy a meal in one of the speciality dining restaurants or perhaps take in a show knowing the kids are having their own fun. Or enjoy dining all together as a family by choosing freedom dining times or an early sitting to ensure the children are eating a time that suits them. The cruise ships also can accommodate larger families with interconnecting staterooms or suites so there is room for everyone. With a balcony suite mum and dad can enjoy a coffee or drink on the balcony whilst the younger guests have a nap in the afternoon ready for the evening activities. There are a multitude of dining options available as well on all cruise ships and the crew are so accommodating with dietary requirements there is no need to worry. The buffet restaurants have such a huge selection there is always a number of options to suit even the fussiest of eaters. One of the leading cruise lines in the family market is Royal Caribbean. Their ships have so much on board for families, from water parks, zip lines, multi sports centre, roller disco, dodgem cars to family suites with air hockey, table tennis and even a slide! One of the most exciting developments with Royal Caribbean is the launch of their new exclusive island in the Bahamas Coco Cay. This is a fantastic island which has the most amazing water park, restaurants, chill out areas and Maldives style over water cabanas. All of their Caribbean cruises will stop here, and this will certainly be the most memorable day of your cruise it has been named Perfect Day. I am so sold on the idea of cruising with the family that I have booked a Mediterranean cruise and a Caribbean cruise with my family and my girls are aged 10 & 8 and they are so excited. Royal Caribbean is certainly a great choice for any families who have not cruised before but are wanting to try a cruise, you will not be disappointed and there are always great offers available to ensure it is amazing value for money.