The whole family is already super-excited about getting onboard. There is so much to do and see and experience, and everyone is raring to go. Think Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises and Norwegian Cruiselines. Carnival Cruises “FUN” Ships or MSC’s kid focussed programs. There is Disney, Princess Cruiselines, Captain Cook and so many more on offer… this is absolutely going to be the best family cruise ever!
This is no peaceful, relaxing cruise holiday like you used to have when you first met your other half. Your first family cruise is likely to be full on fun and go, go, go. The kids are so great – they are energetic, curious creatures that are into absolutely everything… and we mean EVERYTHING.
The great thing is that a cruise ship has everything right there to keep littlies and biggies engaged, happy and occupied. From making new friends in kid’s club, to scrubbed down & brushed up, pinkie’s in the air afternoon tea to screaming louder than anyone thought possible on a flying fox as they soar high above the ship!
Here are some suggestions just in case you need to point the kids in a new direction. Pus they may also give you and your significant other some time-out for a little R&R of your own.
Family Experiences (or what to do?)
Family time is your focus for a family cruise. You’ll want to spend time having fun together as you sail between destinations. Onboard ship you are sure to have a good variety of experiences ready and waiting (depending on your ship). These include all you can eat buffets and a wide range of activities including scream-worthy slides and splash-able waterparks, basketball, pool volleyball, bingo, tennis, golf, shuffleboard, dancing, lawn bowls, table tennis, skittles, board games like monopoly & scrabble, cards, activity & adventure parks with flying fox, parachutes, flying or surf simulators, climbing walls, roller skating, ice skating and (thank goodness) somewhere to crash at the end of the day.
No Adults Allowed
We are taking kids clubs. Almost all cruise ships will have a tailored, age specific kids club to ensure maximum fun for all. Your kids will have the opportunity to make new friends, get involved in games and talent shows, meet the captain and crew, have parties and the freedom to do what all kids like to do with no adults allowed. Check out the Kids Club on embarkation day to find out what is available and when. More often than not your kids are going to want to join in as soon as they see the other kids. Then it’s up to you to organise “family time” vs “parent time”, sorry, I mean “kid time”.
Babysitting services are often available onboard as well, either in cabin or at a specific location. This is great for that special late-night dinner or stroll in the moonlight with your partner – good for at least once on the cruise.
Hi-5 for WiFi
In today’s fast-paced high-tech age of ipads & smartphones, videos and xbox, today’s child has a need factor that can only be met by a digital device. Most ships will offer an onboard selection of video games, tv, dvd and xbox action for your tiny tech-heads, not to mention access to the internet via WiFi.
Ask your cruise specialist what devices are onboard and bring along everyone’s favourite games – that way they will have something they are used to, as well as something they can share with new friends.
Just keep abreast of any costs involved as WiFi and roaming on your smartphone.
Personally though, I find that the good old favourites work well when you are waiting to get into the dining room or riding an elevator or relaxing in the pool – a particular favourite is iSpy or “I went on a holiday and saw…” or 20 questions. Perfect for family downtime. (See more non-tech games that you can play anywhere here: http://wp.me/p25HXz-19x)
Family Time
Let’s face it. Kids just want to spend time with you. And you really want to spend time with them too. After all, it’s the reason you brought them along – right? To have some real quality family time together.
OK – so let’s get onboard with that and embrace the many experiences available on a cruise ship. It’s a chance to really enjoy being a family, together, away from the daily stresses of life. To get to know your kids, build the family unit, share new things and see them laugh and smile.
Let’s have fun! This is going to be THE BEST FAMILY HOLIDAY EVER! And we haven’t even mentioned the amazing destinations you will see and visit while cruising!
For more savvy advice from our Cruise Solutions Specialists, or to book your next family cruise call us now on 1300 657 948.
How much fun was your first family cruise? Send us your snaps and/or tell us your story at travelstory@cruisemegastore.com.au