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FAMILY CRUISING HOLIDAYS
Sail into the sunset of your dreams with a cruise package that gives the kids an experience and the adults a much-needed break.
The great irony about family holidays is that in order to get away from it all, you generally have to take it all with you. Not so with the family cruise.
Luxury cruise ships genuinely offer value for money when it comes to moving a family from A to B with the most fun possible in between. Most cruise deals are inclusive, offering accommodation, meals, entertainment, activities, port charges and gratuities, meaning there are no unpleasant surprises on your credit card when you arrive home. And almost everything you need is already on board. Usually drinks and shore excursions are for your own expense – so budget accordingly
Variety is the spice of life on the high seas, so whether you are in the market for some pampering and relaxation or keen for an adventure or three, cruise ship operators aim to please. Do as much or as little as your holiday heart desires.
OUR TOP TIPS FOR YOUR FAMILY CRUISE HOLIDAY
- No two cruises are the same and some are more family friendly than others. Ask your Flight Centre consultant for the best possible advice on choosing the right trip for your family, or click here for information on cruise lines, cruise companies, onboard facilities and cabin layouts
- Cruises are one of the best multi-generational holiday options available, so consider asking the grandparents along if you’d like an extra set of hands. Many extended families book cruises to celebrate reunions.
- Most large ships run kids clubs and activity programs all year around, but double check first. Obtain a program guide and let the children rank the fun before you hop aboard.
- If you’re worried about seasickness, consult your family GP about preventative medications. But rest assures that most modern cruises are very calm, and if anything, your children may sleep better than at home.
- Take spare sets of swimming suits for the children so there’s always something to wear when the other clothes are drying off.
- Ask about the medical services available on your ship and take your own supply of infant paracetamol and anything else you regularly use at home
- Don’t skimp on travel insurance.
- Devote some time to choosing the right cabin for your family. Price is obviously a consideration, but you don’t want to spend your holiday sitting on top of each other. Some cabins have single beds, others offer double beds. Inside cabins are on the inside of the ship, so you will not have a window or view. Outside cabins generally have either portholes, windows or even private balconies. If you have very young children, a bath tub is a must.
- Squeeze a multiple-point power adaptor into your bag just in case your room only has one or two power outlets. You’ll need it for recharging cameras, shavers, cell phones, etc.
- Pack at least one set of ‘good’ clothes for each family member, as most cruises of five days or more include a formal evening or Captain’s dinner.
- Pregnant? Check your ship’s rules on accommodating expectant mums – some won’t accept women in the third trimester.
- If possible, take your young one’s stroller on board. It may come in handy when you can’t secure a high chair during mealtimes and it will make life much easier on shore excursions.
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