Travel: Seven Tips for Cruising with Kids

We’ve considered taking a cruise with the kids several times since the prices are reasonable and we live in Florida, near several major ports. Since we’re a family of five, our vacations must be reasonably priced and offer everyone in the family something to do. Recently we took a five day cruise aboard the Disney Dream and had a magical, amazing experience. It was our first cruise with the kids so we had a few things to learn in the process.  Hopefully we can cruise again, soon, and try other cruise lines. Although once you do a Disney Cruise, it’s hard to imagine anything better. If you’re deciding between Disney Cruise Lines and something else, definitely book Disney. You will have the time of your life! 

Family cruising is a great option for families of all sizes when you consider the costs and opportunities for everyone to have fun. We worried about motion sickness but no one suffered any nausea or other symptoms at all during the cruise. The cost of the cruise was reasonable when you consider how much food we had and unlimited entertainment. Also, you can’t beat the mostly fixed costs of the trip. Helped to keep a vacation on budget.

Seven Tips for Planning Your Family Cruise With Kids:

1. Get the most for your money and cruise by taking your cruise during the off season. The low season depends on where you are cruising to. Also, travel sites offer great last minute deals on cruises. If you’re flexible or don’t plan far in advance (like me!) then watch prices and sign up for deal alerts.
2. Packing for the cruise. You’ll want to pack several bathing suits, sunscreen, bug spray, waters,
3. Arrive early on the day of departure. I had no idea that we could have enjoyed the ship for five hours before we departed. Although you may not be able check into your cabin, you can always enjoy the facilities available or walk around and get your bearings. We arrived early only by chance and it was awesome. Your luggage won’t be delivered to your cabin so if you plan to arrive early, back a carry-on bag with change of clothes or other items. Don’t forget your camera, medicines, chargers, maybe even snacks. If you arrive late the ship will leave without you and unless you have travel insurance and a good reason, you’ve lost out on all your money.
4. Plan time away from the kids. Yes, it’s a family vacation but a little time away from the kids never hurt anyone. Plus, the kid only activities are amazing. My kids actually wanted to spend less time with us since the Kids’ Clubhouse had everything from special events, “field-trips,” meals, and more. The Disney Dream had a kid-free zone that we took part in. 
5. Book or RSVP to any special dinners, events, excursions etc as soon as you book the cruise. Special activities book fast and can be reserved weeks in advance. Plan these events with the kids as their two cents should help make the vacation a good one for everyone. 
6. Review the daily schedule each night. You’ll get the next day’s schedule each evening. The Dream calls it the Personal Navigator and it was full of important info.  Take a moment to review it and plan activities, shows, parties, etc. You’ll also know where dinner will be located, what time, weather, etc.  The first time I took a cruise I totally missed this until the last day. I was so bummed when I found out I missed some great events.
7. Check if your cruise accepts cash or requires a credit card for incidentals. The Disney Dream does not accept any cash on board. Although meals and general activities were covered by the cost of the cruise, alcohol, photos, souvenirs, etc. are not covered. We had to place a major credit card for these incidentals and our room key served as our form of payment while on board.