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A family cruise is the ultimate relaxation for harried parents with small children. Once you’ve taken care of the costs and ditched your baggage, there’s nothing to stop you leaving your worries at the port. The whole point of child-friendly cruise lines is that while parents are enjoying the delights of the ship’s bar, sun loungers or Italian lessons, they can relax in the knowledge that their little angels are being entertained by the professionals, making friends and generally having the time of their lives. There are, however, a couple of things you can remember to do before embarking which will mean the rest of your cruise is plain sailing.
Don’t forget the bare necessities
Yes, large cruise ships have shops on board, if not entire malls, dedicated to luxury (parents, read: frivolous) items like watches, perfume and chocolates. It’s best to pack the essentials rather than rely on finding them on board. To save space on packing, avoid bringing bulky toys; instead pack light inflatables, a cheap, robust digital camera, crayons and coloring books. An outfit a day is excessive: remember there will be laundry facilities on board, but don’t scrimp on the following: first aid items, baby wipes, zip lock bags, snack foods and, crucially, a comfort blanket or teddy.
Forget about shore excursions
Cruises do offer a service to help passengers make the most of their excursions, but you’ll find you can tailor your experience better to your own needs by researching the destination in advance and investing in a guidebook. Not only will you have a more unique experience, you avoid the crowds and any extra fees.
Anticipate the sun
Caribbean cruises are a popular choice with young families, but if you’re about to board your dream tropical voyage, there’s no excuse for forgetting the sun cream. Pack lightly-colored clothes, which reflect the sun’s heat, and floppy hats or caps for everyone. It’s been found most people don’t use enough sun cream to protect themselves; bring enough high SPF cream that you can comfortably layer it on throughout the day, for every day of your trip.
Know what’s included
Most family cruises include soft drinks, meals in the main dining area, kids’ activities and gym entry for free. Other activities come with a price tag. Trade costly extras for the cheap alternatives; use the communal laundry instead of room service, drink alcohol at happy hour to avoid being stung by a $20 cocktail and take advantage of special deals on spa packages and educational courses.
Setting sail on a family cruise can be the perfect way to relax, reconnect with your partner and children, and consolidate the costs of a vacation into one easy payment. Do a little research before you leave, pack savvy and plan ahead to get the most out of your time away.
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