Must-Know Family Cruise Tips!
Embarking on a family cruise is like setting sail on a grand adventure, where the high seas become your playground and cherished memories are made.
Picture your family basking in the warm sun, exploring exotic ports, and indulging in endless fun and relaxation. If you’ve got a summer cruise with your fam, you’ve come to the right place! If you’ve never cruised before – or never cruised with your whole family – I’m here to make sure the planning process and vacation is stress-free and seamless.
Save these must-know cruise tips for your next vacation!
Packing essentials
Packing for a family vacation can quickly become a frazzled, disorganized task. Make it easier on yourself by following these tips.
Create a comprehensive packing list for each family member. Split your list into sections, including clothing, toiletries, carry-on items, and miscellaneous/cruise specific.
Consider the climate, onboard activities, and port excursions when selecting clothing, swimwear, and shoes.
Don’t overlook personal necessities like toiletries, medications, and any specific hygiene items your children may require.
Don’t forget important personal items that your children may need, like favorite toys, books, or comfort items.
Perform a dry run. Do a test packing session and then whittle down items as needed until you’ve found the perfect balance.
***Remember to check your cruise line’s website for specific packing information. Most cruise lines allow you to bring on beverages including alcohol and packaged snacks!
Important documents & travel requirements
Ensure that all family members have valid passports and any necessary visas well in advance of your departure date. Make copies of important travel documents, such as passports and reservations, and keep them in a separate location from the originals – consider leaving a copy with a friend at home.
Familiarize yourself with specific travel requirements for your destination.
As your travel advisor, I’ll provide you details about any additional documentation or specific guidelines needed for traveling with children.
Kid-friendly onboard activities and features
Many cruise ships feature water parks, splash zones, and swimming pools specifically designed for children. These areas provide endless entertainment and opportunities for your little ones to make new friends while having a splashing good time.
Look out for play areas and children’s clubs, which often offer supervised activities and age-appropriate programs. These clubs allow kids to engage in crafts, games, and interactive adventures while parents enjoy some downtime. Some cruise lines even have dedicated teen lounges or activity areas designed to keep older children and teenagers entertained with gaming consoles, dance floors, and social events.
Be aware that cruise lines do not allow children in swim diapers into the main pool. There may be a designated splash pad area for little ones in swim diapers – be sure to clarify this before you board! As your travel advisor, I will do extensive research to ensure we’ve chosen the right ship for you.
Entertainment and activities for the whole family
One of the highlights of a family cruise is the wide array of entertainment and activities available onboard. From thrilling shows to engaging recreational options, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when it comes to entertainment and activities during your cruise.
Attend the spectacular Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, or magic performances that are often offered onboard. These shows are (usually) suitable for all ages and provide memorable experiences for the whole family.
Check the cruise schedule for family-oriented entertainment, such as live music performances, acrobatic acts, or interactive game shows. These events allow your family to participate and have a great time together.
Again, if you are traveling with young children, work with me to make sure we have found the right cruise line and ship for your family to make the experience inclusive for everyone.
Many cruise ships have outdoor movie screens where you can enjoy family-friendly films under the starry sky. Grab some popcorn and blankets, and relax with your kiddos as you watch the latest releases or timeless classics.
Explore the ship’s sports facilities, such as basketball courts, mini-golf courses, or rock climbing walls. Engage in friendly competitions and stay active during your cruise.
If you’re cruising on the Disney Wish, don’t missed the Incredibles themed hero zone!
Take advantage of onboard game rooms or arcades where you can challenge each other to video games, air hockey, or other fun activities.
Look out for enrichment programs that focus on the destinations you will visit during your cruise. These programs provide insights into the culture, history, and wildlife of the ports of call, making your journey even more enriching. These programs tend to exist more on River Cruises as you are more immersed in each destination.
Port excursions
One of the most exciting aspects of a family cruise is the opportunity to explore new destinations at each port of call. Shore excursions offer a chance to engage in unique experiences and create unforgettable memories together.
Before your cruise, we will work together to choose excursion options at each port of call. We will need to keep a few logistics in mind including age requirements, transportation to the excursion, and timing of your day.
Keeping your family safe during your cruise
By being proactive and following some essential safety measures, you can enjoy peace of mind and a worry-free experience. Here are some important tips to keep in mind for a safe and secure family cruise.
Participate in the mandatory safety drill conducted at the beginning of your cruise. Pay close attention to the safety briefing and familiarize yourself with the location of life jackets, emergency exits, and assembly points. Involve your children in the drill, explaining the importance of following safety procedures and staying together as a family during emergencies.
Talk to your children about potential hazards such as leaning over railings, running on wet surfaces, and entering restricted areas. Set clear guidelines and rules for your children to ensure their safety onboard. Establish designated meeting points, safe areas, and appropriate behavior expectations.
Pack a small first aid kit with essential items such as band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness medication, and any necessary prescription medications for your family members.
Teach your children about personal safety measures, such as not sharing cabin numbers or personal information with strangers and being cautious when exploring the ship independently.
I also find many families with young children worry about staying in a balcony stateroom due to safety concerns – double check with me when booking your cruise, but these balcony rooms do have safety measures in place so your little ones cannot reach the locks to open the balcony doors!
Bon voyage!
Remember, a family cruise is an opportunity to create lifelong memories, so make the most of every moment. Embrace new experiences, capture precious moments, and cherish the time spent together. Whether it’s the laughter-filled activities, the breathtaking views, or the simple joy of being together, your family cruise will be a treasure trove of memories that you’ll look back on fondly for years to come. So, let go, have fun, and savor the magical moments that unfold during your voyage.
A cruise is a great option for a multi-generational vacation – celebrating a milestone birthday, anniversary, or accomplishment! We can work together to plan a group cruise for your special celebration AND you’ll receive bonus amenities on board!
