So you’ve decided to go on a cruise for this year’s family vacation. Excellent choice! From world-class entertainment to endless food options, cruises offer everything for a relaxing holiday. It’s like vacationing on a floating resort.
That said, having some insider tips up your sleeve never hurts. Let’s take a closer look at four things you must know before going on a cruise holiday with your family:
- Early Bird Gets the Worm
Cruise vacations are super popular around the world, especially during school holidays. This is why the best options get snapped pretty quickly. Booking early gives you more cabin choices (more on this later).
You could also get better prices, since many cruise lines offer early-bird discounts, onboard credits, or free perks for kids. Booking early also means less stress. You have time to compare cruise lines and read reviews to see which ships are more family-friendly.
Book early to start your family vacation on the right note.
- Cabin Size Matters More Than You Think
Here’s a bitter truth: Cabins may look spacious in photos, but they are often smaller than hotel rooms. And when you’re traveling with family, a cabin could quickly feel crowded. Between your own luggage, kids’ essentials, and the cabin’s own furniture, it can be hard to relax or unwind after a long day of entertainment.
This is why the cabin size matters more than what most people realize. Large family cabins or connecting ones are highly recommended as they offer more breathing space. For this, too, you need to book early.
Moreover, pay attention to small details. What is the storage space like? Is the bathroom spacious? The last thing you want is your kids fighting for space.
Then comes the cabin location. Rooms near elevators are convenient with kids, but can be noisy. Seasoned cruisers typically recommend balcony cabins for families. They offer fresh air and a calm space to enjoy the view. And of course, opt for a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck if one of the kids is prone to motion sickness.
- Buffets Aren’t Your Only Food Option
Yes, cruise buffets are great, offering endless and delicious food options. But they aren’t the only place you can eat. Most cruise ships include main dining rooms where you can enjoy sit-down meals at no extra cost. They even have a kids’ menu and a flexible option for picky eaters.
Speciality restaurants are also a great option, especially if you’re into fine dining. These are usually not included in the base cruise fare, but are definitely worth the extra cost.
You’ll also find casual spots like pizza counters, burger grills, and cafes that are perfect for quick bites between activities.
Bottom line? If you want to eat on your own time, explore other food options than the buffet.
- The Kids Club is Worth It
Another solid piece of advice. Cruises are designed for passengers of all ages (part of the reason why they make such a good option for multigenerational holidays). This is why kids’ clubs are one of the biggest perks of a family cruise.
The best part? They are often included in the base fare. Most families don’t realize it and miss out on the experience. For instance, at Carnival Adventure, you’ll find extensive, age-appropriate kids’ activities organized by the club. This includes:
- Arts and crafts
- Dancing
- Video games
- Zipline
- Arcades
- Rock climbing
- Waterslides
- Splash zones
- Mini-golf
- Rope courses
- Table tennis
- Build-a-bear
Kids’ clubs also give children a sense of independence while ensuring their safety. They get to choose activities, socialize, and make lifelong memories just as the elders do.
