It’s no secret that adults and children alike love and treasure the experience that family cruises can offer. Over the last few years, this type of vacation has become more and more popular with families across America.

Cruise line companies have made major strides in order to accommodate children on board. Kids clubs, activities and facilities have been created to keep the little ones entertained and families are now catered to in every imaginable way on a cruise vacation.

Which Destination Should You Choose?

Choose a place that all of your family members will enjoy, and select an ocean liner that will adequately cater to all of your needs. As a general rule, Alaska and the Caribbean tend to be child-friendly destinations. Popular destinations also include the Mediterranean, Tangier in Morocco and Mexico’s Costa Maya.

Once you have chosen a destination, research the companies that offer cruises in these areas, and find out how much it will cost for your family. It is natural to compare prices on the internet  and make informed decisions as a family.

Create an itinerary focused on the activities the ship has to offer and try not to pack too much in to each day. Set aside enough spending money for the amount of time you will be traveling.

Image by Nate Merrill, shared under a Creative Commons Licence 

Suitable Cruises for Families

Caribbean Cruises

One of the most spectacular cruises families can go on is a Caribbean Cruise to a destination like Barbados. This is a great summer vacation since ships going around this area have facilities for kids and adults of all ages.

On board The Allure of the Seas and The Oasis of the Seas are four fantastic pools, 10 hot tubs, a 3D theatre, rock-climbing walls, an ice-skating rink, two FlowRider surf simulators and a zip line. These are only a few of the things to do on board.  Kids can also be involved in entertaining and lively kids clubs, shows and parades.

Norwegian Cruises

The views in Scandinavia are simple outstanding, with colossal verdant mountains flagging picturesque valley fjords. Ships that cruise around this area often separate the activities provided for children into two age categories:  3-5 and 9-12. Children can get involved in arts and crafts, play sports and test their singing ability in karaoke competitions.

Mediterranean Cruises

Instead of going to just one country, a trip to the Mediterranean allows families to see a range of countries, such as Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul. Families can spend nights in classical and romantic European cities, which may have been impossible if they had simply gone to one destination for a holiday.