A Cruise with Kids: Is it a Good or Bad Idea?

Cruises are fantastic. The combination of exploring exotic destinations and enjoying onboard amenities at the same time is incredibly appealing – but how does the picture shift if children are in the quotation? Staying on a luxurious ship can be a source of both excitement and apprehension for parents, as there may be concerns about safety, entertainment options, and the overall suitability of the experience for kids. So, is it a good idea? Or rather not?

How Convenient are Cruises?

Here in the UK, we are blessed with a huge amount of different cruise ports. Well, after all, we are an island, so there are opportunities galore. No matter where in the kingdom you are, there’s going to be one close by. We even sport one of the biggest and busiest in Europe, with cruises setting off from Southampton across the entire globe. Knowing this, cruise ships provide a relatively hassle-free way to travel with kids – especially as they come with all-inclusive packages that cover accommodation, meals, and entertainment in one. That’s everything you need in one place, which means no stress of planning or logistics. 

What About Entertainment?

Many cruise lines offer a plethora of family-friendly activities and amenities specifically designed to entertain children of all ages. From supervised kids’ clubs and water parks to onboard theatres and game rooms, there’s no shortage of options to keep little ones entertained throughout the entire voyage. With hosted workshops, shore excursions and onboard activities, there are also unique educational opportunities for kids to learn about different cultures, history, and marine life. 

Knowing that little guests will be on board, they are additionally equipped with stringent safety measures and protocols to ensure the well-being of, well, not only them but, of course, all passengers. From trained staff and emergency procedures to secure onboard facilities, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their kids are in a safe environment while at sea, that is taking them into consideration. 

So, What Are the Cons?

But while cruise ships offer a wide range of amenities, they also have some challenges that might need to be dealt with – starting with the limited amount of space. They can, at times, feel cramped, especially during peak seasons, and parents and children alike might find it difficult to navigate crowded areas with strollers or keep restless kids occupied in confined spaces for extended periods.

Being on a ship, a common concern is, of course, motion sickness – both for children and adults –, so remedies and precautions should be taken to minimise discomfort.

And though, as mentioned, most cruise liners offer supervised kids’ clubs and childcare services, availability may be limited during certain times or even require additional fees. Especially in peak season, policies and arrangements should be checked in advance to not be caught off guard. Similarly, if your kid’s a picky eater or needs dietary restrictions, let the cruise provider know in advance – most lines are happy to accommodate.

Ultimately, whether a cruise with kids is a good or bad idea depends on the individual preferences and priorities of each family. While some may relish the opportunity to bond this way, others may find it overwhelming or unsuitable. It can be a fantastic experience, but make sure to communicate as an entire family to check your needs and preferences.

This is a collaborative post.