10 Tips to Make Cruising an Enjoyable Experience for Your Kids

Book Your Cruise Journey

With kids spending most of the time in front of computers and TVs, a cruise will be a welcome change. It will allow them to get close to nature and appreciate it. However, cruising with kids can be trying. Thankfully, there are a few things that parents can do to ensure that they and their kids have a memorable cruising experience.

Make Your Child’s First-Time Cruise a Memorable Experience

1. Select a Child-Friendly Cruise Line

A cruise should be a way to relax and unwind. And, if you are traveling with kids, it is necessary that you and your kids enjoy the way you envisaged. Hence, check the cruise line carefully to ensure you choose one that is child-friendly and caters to their needs. While the most popular cruise lines have what it takes to keep kids busy, you should not disregard lesser known cruise lines and check their features too when making a decision. The cruise line should be a good match for your children’s age and interests while fitting seamlessly into your budget.

2. Make Sure the Ship Has Water Parks and Pools

Kids love spending time frolicking in the water. If you are heading on a tropical cruise, make sure the ship has swimming pools and water parks to keep your kids entertained during the day. The waterslides, splash areas, and pools will be a hit with your kids and you too will be able to enjoy yourself.

3. Keep the Itinerary Short and Sweet

If your kids are going on a cruise the first time, don’t opt for a long voyage. Book a cruise for a few days to see how your kids cope with it and then you can book a longer cruise the next time. Just make sure you prepare your kids for the cruise by telling them what to expect and the dos and don’ts.

Also, Read: What's Important Dos and Don'ts On a Cruise?

4. Get to the Port City a Day in Advance

If you are flying in from another city, it is prudent to arrive at the port city a day ahead of the departure. This way, your kids will have time to get over the stress of flying and you can rest and prepare for the cruise without getting anxious or stressed. It will also create a sense of excitement among your kids.

5. Prepare for Motion Sickness

Book your cabin with care. It is advisable to opt for a cabin located mid-ship to minimize motion and reduce the chances of seasickness. You should be prepared for your kids battling motion sickness so visit the pediatrician and find out how to prevent seasickness.

6. Encourage Kids to Use the Kids’ Club

A child-friendly cruise line will offer a kids club and you should make use of it so that you get some me-time and couple-time. The club is manned by counselors and divides children based on their age. Each group indulges in activities that are appropriate for their age. The activities include games, scavenger hunts, arts and craft, pool games and more. Most kids enjoy these clubs as it allows them to make new friends and do things they like.

Also, Read: Which Best Time to Plan Your Cruise Trip?

7. Opt for Child-Friendly Food

During the cruise, let kids enjoy child-friendly food. If your child has an allergy, make sure the room steward is aware of it. Cruise lines have a range of food options for kids, like pizzas, burgers and French fries. Allow your children to enjoy these foods while you can dine with the other adults in the dining room.

8. Select Excursions with Care

All cruise ships offer on-shore excursions. Make sure you keep your children’s interests and preferences in mind if you opt for excursions. In case your children are too young for on-shore excursions, create a sightseeing itinerary that is apt for you and your kids. You can check with the cruise line about transportation options at stop-overs so that you don’t have to arrange it.

9. Pack for Shore Excursions

Make sure you carry a backpack with essentials when heading for a shore excursion. Besides your passport, carry bottled water, snacks for kids, sunscreen, swimsuits, towels, and Ziploc bag, sunglasses, and hats. You may also want to carry a change of clothes for the kids just in case they need it.

10. Don’t Be Strict About Your Kids’ Schedule

You can make the cruise a fun experience for kids by not sticking to a schedule. Allow kids to stay up late and sleep in. Just let them decide when they are tired and want to sleep. There is always food available, so let your kids eat when they are hungry. Just make sure they drink sufficient water to stay hydrated. Otherwise, let them maintain their own schedule and have a fun and carefree time.

These are some of the tips that you can use to make cruising a fun experience for your little ones.