— A LWTMV VACATIONGUIDE —
STRESS-FREE CRUISING WITH KIDS
When it comes to family vacations, cruising has emerged as one of the most popular and enjoyable options. With an endless array of onboard activities, diverse dining, and plenty of opportunities to explore new destinations, a cruise delivers an unforgettable experience for all ages. But planning a seamless getaway with kids in tow does require some extra consideration.
That’s where our travel experts come in. At Living With The Magic Vacations, we’ve perfected the art of family cruising, ensuring your vacation is smooth sailing from start to finish.
Here are our top tips for cruising with kids:
NOT ALL ARE CREATED EQUAL
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHIP
Not all cruise lines and ships are created equal when it comes to family-friendliness. Look for vessels with dedicated youth programming, from supervised kids’ clubs and adventure camps to interactive STEM activities and teen-only hangout spaces. Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line are particular standouts, offering an incredible variety of onboard diversions to keep kids of all ages entertained.
CONSULT ALL CALENDARS
SCHEDULE STRATEGICALLY
When selecting your cruise itinerary and dates, be mindful of school schedules and popular travel periods. Sailing during the off-season or shoulder season not only means fewer crowds, but also potential savings. Keep an eye out for special holiday-themed sailings as well, which often feature festive events and entertainment.
STAY FOCUSED & LEAVE SOME SPACE!
DON’T OVERPACK
One of the biggest benefits of cruising is the lack of luggage constraints. However, that doesn’t mean you should bring the whole house with you. Pack light, with a focus on versatile, easy-to-mix-and-match pieces. Leave plenty of room for souvenirs and any specialty items the kids might want to bring home.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
EMBRACE KID-CENTRIC PERKS
Cruise lines go above and beyond when it comes to catering to families. Take advantage of complimentary babysitting services, so parents can sneak away for couple’s time. Many ships also offer special family-style dining, with menus tailored to little ones’ tastes. And of course, the onboard waterslides, pools, and recreational activities are surefire hits.
AVOID OVERSCHEDULING
STAY FLEXIBLE & REALISTIC
Manage your expectations and avoid overscheduling. While cruise ships provide endless entertainment options, you don’t want to exhaust the kids (or yourselves!). Build in plenty of downtime to simply relax, reconnect, and let the vacation spirit take over. The beauty of cruising is that the fun can be as structured or spontaneous as you desire.
With the right planning and a positive attitude, a family cruise delivers a vacation that checks all the boxes – enriching experiences, quality time together, and lasting memories. Let our travel advisors customize the perfect itinerary tailored to your crew’s interests and needs. All aboard for an unforgettable family adventure at sea!
