Cruising is known as one of the top family vacation options today. Who better to give you the inside scoop about cruising with kids than the amazing crew members who know how to make each voyage fun, safe, and magical? I had the opportunity to sit down with several cruise line crew members and ask them some questions about cruising with kids and learn some behind-the-scenes insights and tips on making your next family cruise the trip of a lifetime. Let’s dive in!
What are some of the benefits of cruising with kids that make it unique and stand out above other vacation options?
Entertainment Host:
“From the moment you walk in, you are greeted by excited crew members who introduce you by name over the loud speaker. This moment makes the kids feel so incredibly special. This feeling continues throughout your time onboard with all the different entertainment and activity offerings for each age group, from babies to adults.”
Entertainment Activities Manager:
“Out of all the cruises I have worked on, I always ask the same question: “What was your favorite part of the cruise?” I am expecting to hear “The Shows! The Characters, the pool!” But nope, it is always about the food…and who gives it to them! That’s right, the dining staff are always the ones who make the most magic! On my ship, they do rotational dining and the same dining staff follow you to a new restaurant each night. Your staff remembers your favorite drinks, food, name, what you did the day before and asks what you are doing tonight! They are exceptional with kids, playing riddles, games, sometimes magic tricks with the whole family! Nobody makes more magic than they do. This brings cruisers’ experience to a whole new level!”
Youth Activities Host:
“In my opinion, the kid’s clubs are one of the most unique things about cruising. This makes it such a great vacation option for families. The kids have such a blast with all the fun games, activities, and new friends they are making. The characters even make special visits to the kids’ clubs and spend extra time reading stories and making memories with the kids. The fact that the parents can be sure their kids are not only safe and looked after but are also having the time of their lives is such an awesome and healthy way to have some balance between family fun and grown-up alone time too!”
Can you tell us about the safety measures implemented onboard to ensure children stay safe?
Entertainment Host:
“As a mother, safety for my children is my top priority, and I trust that whether my kids are in the kid’s club, swimming in the pool, or dining, all the crew members have my child’s best interest in mind. If you have children with allergies or food intolerances, the dining crew members are very experienced and helpful with helping accommodate and facilitate communication between the chef and the guests so everyone can be safe and comfortable and make sure everyone has something to eat.”
Entertainment Activities Manager:
“Every single crew member goes through extensive background checks and all sorts of safety training and testing, no matter what their role is. On every single cruise, there are mandatory safety drills for all passengers, including children. You will learn about the emergency procedures, like where to go in case of an emergency, where to find your life jackets, and how to use them. There are also medical facilities with professionals that are there to handle any sort of medical emergency that can happen on board.”
Youth Activities Host:
“Safety is absolutely the number one priority of every single crew member onboard the ships. When it comes to kids, safety and security are especially important. On our ships, children have wristbands that help to make sure they are properly accounted for while participating in activities and can also be utilized in case they get separated from their parents. In the kid’s clubs, parents must be there to sign their kids in and out, so nobody can wander off.”
What tips and tricks would you tell parents who are about to set sail on their first family cruise?
Entertainment Host:
“If you want to be selected to participate in any game shows, make sure you act excited AND respectful when they look for audience participation. It is most likely you are to be chosen to get on stage if you showcase a lot of personality but are not being rude to those around you. If you want to participate in any special events (like Pirate Night) make sure you are dressed for the part! Put on your absolute best over-the-top attire and you and your family are sure to stand out and be selected to participate.”
Entertainment Activities Manager:
“Take advantage of complimentary items that are available for little ones onboard such as diaper disposal units, strollers, bottle warmers, sterilizers, cribs, and playpens. The restaurants have highchairs to use and if you ask, they can bring you pureed veggies. On our private island, complimentary wagons are also available to help carry your kids and belongings around the island and through the sand. You never know what special things may be available, so it is always best to ask.”
Youth Activities Host:
“If you are sailing on one of the Disney ships and are unable to make the nightly Broadway-style shows (or have to leave early if your kids are not up for it) you can watch the shows live from your stateroom on the TV! This way you never have to miss out on the nightly entertainment. Another fun way to entertain the kids if you are in your stateroom room is to give Mickey Mouse a call on your stateroom telephone! Most cruise ship walls are magnetic too so bringing some magnetic toys is a terrific way to entertain little ones if you are in your room.”
There you have it! Hearing from the crew really shows just how cruising makes vacations a special and safe option for families of all ages. Set sail on your next cruise to find out for yourself why cruising with your kids is the ultimate family vacation. With amazing youth programs, safety measures, and endless entertainment options, you will make memories that will last a lifetime. Reach out to me to start planning you and your family’s next adventure today!
Happy sailing!