A cruise vacation is the perfect family vacation because there is something for everyone on a cruise. Parents can relax because cruise ships offer abundant food, entertainment, activities, shore excursions, and pampering options for everyone in the family to be happy.
Here are some of the reasons a cruise is my favorite family vacation, especially when we are bringing multiple generations:
Variety of Cruise Options. School holidays rule vacation schedules, but with 350 ports available all over the world you have a variety of destinations, climates and activities to choose from:
Caribbean beach vacations, Alaskan nature & wilderness tours, European history and culture, Safe & easy Mexican vacations, Exotic destinations like Asia and South Pacific
Affordability & Savings. Since food and entertainment is included in your cruise fare you can save money over a land based resort. This is especially true when traveling with children, where having a variety of food options 24/7 can be a huge cost savings. You can also budget more accurately and not be surprised by hidden and extra expenses.
Something for everyone. Cruise vacations are especially suited to multi-generational family travel. It can be so hard choosing activities that parents, grandparents, young children AND teenagers will enjoy!
- Kids Clubs and Counselors. Many Cruise ships have extensive children’s programs so Mom & Dad can relax knowing kids are entertained and safe
- Teen Lounges and areas. Cruise ships are self-contained environments so teenagers can be allowed more freedom and independence than would be safe in some cities and destinations. (A big plus for teens!)
- Adults only areas: Spas, Sports bar and Cigar lounges, Casinos, adult only pools, nightclubs and lounges. Or the luxury of reading on your own private balcony & ordering room service!
- Family friendly entertainment for the whole family to enjoy together. Broadway style shows, movies under the stars, Game shows, sports challenges. Multiple Entertainment and music options offer something for all generations in your family - from discos, to jazz to big Band
Ease of Travel. Unpack once and arrive in a new destination each morning. Cruise Ships vet and choose the best shore excursion vendors for safety and quality of shore-side activities & sightseeing.
Cruising makes crossing multiple borders easy. Sleep in the same room each night but wake up in a new country every day with no worries about customs/immigration documents, language barriers, or safe drinking water. Travel Insurance is easily available and protects your vacation investment. Good travel insurance protects you the entire vacation including trip cancellation, flight delays, missing the ship, lost luggage, health insurance and most trip interruptions.
Land and Sea Vacations are also an option. Since Orlando is the number #1 family destination in the world, many families have Orlando area theme parks on their vacation wish list. Consider combining a Land and Sea vacation and add a 3-4 day cruise departing from Port Canaveral.
Top Tip: When traveling with a family or group of 10 or more people – always use a travel advisor that specializes in cruises. A knowledgeable travel agent can save you time, money, and eliminate much of the stress involved in planning for and booking your cruise.
- Travel Advisors cost you nothing, but can access and negotiate rates and extra amenities for groups of 8 or more cabins that you cannot get directly from cruise lines.
- Advisors are experts on various ships, cruise lines and destination ports. They will help you choose the best ship and best destination for your family and provide “insider” tips for making the most of your cruise.
- Advisors also keep track of any changes, such as cruise cancellations due to unexpected engine malfunctions or itinerary changes due to weather. They are aware of differing cruise line policies and can also make suggestions that will improve your enjoyment of your cruise.
