Cruising for a stress-free family holiday

Cruising for a stress-free family holiday

There was a time when cruising was synonymous with elderly retired couples – but that’s not the case any more.

Increasing numbers of young people, including young families, are opting for a holiday onboard a ship.

But wait, you say, doesn’t being contained in essentially one location, with no way of escape, for days on end, fill parents with utter dread?

Doesn’t being on-board with the kids just end up meaning you’re hassled by cries of “I’m bored”?

Well no, apparently not.

Seeing a whole new market, the world’s biggest cruises lines are investing in facilities specifically for babies and young children with the aim of making a stay on the seas child-friendly.

Many even provide family cruising guides offering advice.

“We want to make the process as smooth and as stress-free as possible for parents,” says Cruise1st.co.uk managing director Dan Townsley.

“That’s why we work with the best cruise lines who offer exceptional facilities and services specifically for the youngest members of the family, and even for hard-to-please teens and tweens.”

THE TOP FIVE FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHIPS

Here are five of the best ships for a family retreat, according to Cruise1st.co.uk.

* P&O Ventura: offers a free night nursery; you can leave young ones between 6pm and 2am.

* Norwegian Breakaway: there’s a free kids club that includes visits from Nickelodeon characters, workout sessions and crafts.

* Disney Dream: you can benefit from childcare services both on port days and days at sea allowing you to pursue your own interests without dragging reluctant youngsters along.

* Allure of the Seas: offers childcare services and a program for babies as young as six months.

* Queen Mary II: they serve a special menu ideally suited to children’s favourite meals.

THE TOP FIVE FAMILY-FRIENDLY CRUISE TIPS

*A family cruise can be a pricey option for those on a budget so make sure you do your homework to get the best deal.

* Remember shops on board may not have all the medicines you require so pack your own emergency kit.

* If your kids are impatient and restless, check how long journeys are when booking excursions.

* For fussy eaters, contemplate the food options before you book.

* A cabin with a balcony will allow you to enjoy the sea air while keeping an eye on your sleeping baby.

* Check carefully when choosing your ideal cruise as some charge extra for babysitting facilities.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

    Latest comments
    1. If you like cruising and you must also fly. Don’t bother. If it’s land-based and you travel locally that’s fine. if you really must travel and have relatives. Leave the child with them, otherwise stay home until the child is older. Then you could consider Disney cruises. They are by far the best. Not only for children but also for adults! The other cruise lines cannot match the services they have for children! One word of advice. Don’t book cabins with a balcony if you have young children. You may never see them again if you don’t supervise them. Happy cruising.

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