Posts Tagged ‘Family Cruising’

The Top 3 Cruise Lines for Cruisin’ Kids

May 21st, 2012
by Amber.
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If you are like me, when I take the kiddos on a vacation I want to make sure they have a great time because honestly, then they won’t be bugging me (tee hee).

Although all of the cruise lines have fun and interactive children’s programs onboard, there are three that are going above and beyond and make my top 3 cruise lines for the kids.

  1. Well I am sure you guessed it, my first selection is Disney Cruise Line. There is really not much to say, Disney does everything well and their cruises are no different. I guess you just can’t go wrong with the character meet and greets, the Disney shows at night, and all the activities going on. Not only do they have a great kids area on their new ships, the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy, they have a water coaster! The pools are tons-o-fun and the deck parties are suitable for all ages. Here is a hint–they also have amazing Adult Only areas on the ship, so while the kids are having a blast in the kids program enjoy some kids-free time. It is a win-win for everyone!
  2. Royal Caribbean would be my next choice. On the new Oasis and Allure of the Seas they have so much to do you can’t possibly fit it all in. The surf simulating, zip lining, rock climbing wall, miniature golf, merry-go-round(yes on the cruise ship), and awesome aqua shows will make sure your kids will always be entertained. Also check out the “How to Train Your Dragon” ice show on the Allure of the Seas. The costumes are ridiculous (in a good way) and everyone can enjoy the show.
  3. Norwegian Cruise Line. On specific sailings on the Norwegian Jewel you can have a slimey time with Nickelodeon onboard. Your kids can mingle with SpongeBob, Dora, or several other characters. Be a part of slime time or if you are like me, just watch from a safe distance. Freestyle Dining is perfect for traveling with children and Nickelodeon to entertain, this is sure to make the whole family happy.

These are my top three choices when cruising with my boys. I hope you have as much fun as we do sailing the seas!

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How to Save Money and Pick the Best Stateroom for Your Family Cruise Vacation

May 7th, 2012
by Kim.
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If you are a larger family, with more than 4, you may have found it difficult to find a cruise line that can accommodate you without breaking the bank.

It can be stressful, but here are a few tips to help keep cost down.

  • Carnival Cruise Line does offer cabins for up to five passengers on some of the ships in their fleet.  The cabin setup is two lower twin beds (convertible to queen), two upper Pullman beds and a roll-away. Ships include the Destiny, Dream, Ecstasy, Elation, Fantasy, Fascination, imagination, inspiration, Paradise, Sensation, Triumph, and Victory.
  • Royal Caribbean also offers ‘Family Staterooms’ for up to 6 passengers on every ship in its fleet except for the Monarch and Majesty of the Seas. These cabins offer more square footage, two twin beds (convertible to queen), sofa and/or Pullman beds, separate sitting area, and a private bathroom with shower. TIP: Try to book these Family Cabins as early as possible, they fill very quickly!
  • Another choice for larger families is to book two cabins side-by-side, with an inter-connecting door. This is a great option as it also gives you an extra bathroom (so helpful!) and provides some privacy if you want the doors closed part of the time.
  • Or book a balcony cabin for the parents with an inside cabin directly across the hall for the children. This option works best if the children are older.
  • If you are traveling with children under 2 years of age, Norwegian Cruise Line is your best choice as they don’t charge a cruise rate for children under 2 years of age, only taxes!
  • With this in mind, some cruise lines do offer ‘Kids Sail Free’ promotions; if there are two full paying adults in the stateroom they do not charge the children a cruise rate, only taxes. These promotions are few and far between, but if you are patient and don’t have a specific time that you must travel it is a terrific way to save some on your family vacation. But book them quickly–this promotion is very popular so scoop it up while you can!

Overall a cruise vacation is an extremely affordable way to travel as a family: accommodations, food, entertainment, fun and lifetime family memories included!

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Escape on Princess With the WHOLE Family!

Feb 24th, 2012
by Michelle.
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Cruising with Princess is a great way to escape with the WHOLE family, including the kids!

Good to Know:

  • Princess welcomes all children, but facilities may vary depending on the ship. The Pacific and Ocean Princess do not have a dedicated youth and teen center. Programs are only available when 20 or more children are sailing.
  • Let Princess’ staff know of all medical and/or special needs for your children. They will make every effort to accommodate them. Please be advised that Princess Youth staff may not offer individual one-on-one supervision.
  • All youth activities are fully supervised by a Youth Activities Coordinator.
  • The ‘Junior Cruisers’ will also participate in 2 special dinner evenings where they can enjoy dinner without their parents, but get to enjoy time with their new friends and counselors.  The teens will have a formal get-together during 1 of these 2 dinner evenings. This gives them a chance to dress their best and a photographer will be available to take individual and/or group photos.
  • Please note age groups may vary depending on the ship.

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Yum!

Jan 13th, 2012
by Jeff.
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As a first time dad, you soon learn that there are a lot of new sounds that thrust themselves upon you.

It’s not just the cries, it’s everything (and yes you learn very quickly what each cry means; especially those deep guttural cries that come from your wife begging for a bit of sleep).

There are numerous breathing noises. There are the sounds of pleasure, pain and discomfort. And then there is the sound that comes from the first time you introduce your precious little one to real food.  Yum!

Now my son can’t quite say yum.  It is more like “Mmm”.  He has been eating real food for about three months now, but I can’t get enough of that sound. I love it!  He has the greatest joy known to man with each bite (especially when it is apples or pears).  I still laugh every time he eats.  Mmm.  What joy that sounds brings!

I have wondered where this joyous sound came from.  I am certain it is God’s little gift to very tired parents?  One things about this Mmm sound, it is contagious. I want whatever it is he is having.  What I am eating cannot be that good!

This got me to thinking.  Where have I heard this sound before?

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When is the Best Time to Cruise to the Caribbean?

Nov 18th, 2011
by Amber.
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This is such a hard question to answer! It really depends on what you are looking for (e.g. the best time of the year will be different for people traveling with children and people traveling without children).

The one thing that is not going to change, the Caribbean is warm and beautiful year round. Most of the ports have average temperatures in the 80’s, increasing somewhat during the summer months.

  • If you are sailing with children, then cruising during school breaks (summer vacation, spring and holiday breaks) will be the best time to ensure there will be other children on board for them to play with (leaving you with more adult time!).
  • Those adults traveling without children will probably want to try and avoid the peak summer months, spring break, and holiday breaks. This is due to the increase in children likely to be onboard, and the demand is also higher which in turn drives up the cruise price. The best time to sail for you would be fall, winter or early spring.
  • If you are looking for the best deal on price, try the fall. Not only are the prices low, the weather is a bit more bearable and ports less crowded. However, this is hurricane season (hurricane season lasts from June-November), but the cruise line will not put you in harm’s way-they route around any storm that is a concern. Travel insurance can be helpful for peace of mind. I have personally sailed several times in September and never had a problem.
  • Another great time to look for a smokin’ hot deal is January or February, especially right after the holiday season. Plus, this gets you away from the chilly weather at home!
  • No matter what your situation, your biggest asset for a seamless Caribbean cruise is a knowledgeable travel agent who will listen to your wants and needs. Find someone that will go the extra mile, and give you the personal attention you deserve. Keep in mind you do not have to go to a traditional store-front travel agency to receive this attention. There are online companies available to you that have experienced and friendly agents, just waiting to wow you with their awesome service.

No matter when you go to the Caribbean, the islands will never disappoint!

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