Tomorrow is the big day. Nine of us – two moms, one dad, five children and me (Nona Cindy) – will board the NCL Breakaway in Miami for our first family cruise. The reason we have decided to do this is that my husband – Grandpa Chet – passed away unexpectedly in early May. This particular seven days, the last week of July, is the week that my daughters and their families flew in from San Diego …
The large cruise line companies undoubtedly have a myriad of activities for all ages, and they are quite popular with families because of the variety they offer. So, as a traveling family, is it worth looking at smaller ships for your next cruise vacation? Absolutely. Smaller, more niche lines are great- and they cater to those of you wanting to take a more “off the beaten path” family voyage. Believe it or not, when it comes to …
When you’re planning a family cruise, you often have to play by a different set of rules than, say, singles, childless couples, or the retired set. There’s a certain obligation to demands and schedules that’s unique to families, and it generally requires more planning and research to get the best possible deal. With that in mind, here are my best tips for getting the vacation you want, at a price that’s workable for your family finances. Pick …
My family has been blessed with many fantastic cruise vacations. We have seen dolphins and whales frolicking in the deep blue ocean while watching amazing sunsets on a Hawaiian Island cruise. This cruise was magnificent, however, young children (my boys were 3 and 5 on this cruise) have a more difficult time adapting to a major time change, because they cannot tell time. My 2 boys awakened us every morning at 3 am. The pastry chef took …
Carnival Cruise Lines has announced a new marine-themed children’s program that will be implemented fleet wide, debuting on the Carnival Freedom on May 24, 2014. “Camp Ocean” will replace Carnival’s current kid’s program (Camp Carnival) and will immerse kids aged 2-11 in ocean-inspired activities: games like Sea Creature Discovery, Marine Life Trivia, Under the Sea Mad Libs and Ocean Artifacts Memory Tray, as well as creative arts such as Design Your Own Aquarium, Make Your Own Sailboat, …
I am very pleased to share a travel diary from Bob Levinstein, CEO of CruiseCompete, as he reports on his recent family cruise aboard the NCL Epic. Read on for a discussion of his impressions and thoughts on how this ship measures up for a multigenerational cruise vacation. – Heidi A True MultiGenerational Cruise Aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Epic Would this ship be able to keep all of us happy? My mother in her 70s, my wife and …
Have you started thinking about this summer’s family vacation yet? Families really can have it all; well-designed, child friendly programs and amenities, paired with adult dining, accommodation and entertainment options… all in one place. That’s the beauty of today’s cruise experience. In fact, multi-generational- trips (with kids, parents, and grandparents) are becoming increasingly popular because of the variety of activities and amenities available on today’s ships. With something for everyone, families can participate in activities together- but …
Here’s some big news! Royal Caribbean’s ship, the Quantum of the Seas, set to launch in November 2014, has opened up pre-bookings today to Crown and Anchor Members. If you are a repeat passenger on Royal Caribbean, and are interested in finding out more about the ship or want to be among the first to book, please drop me a note at Heidi@AllThingsCruise.com. Now here’s the news and itineraries, straight from the line. Pre-booking opens to Crown …
Are you counting down? If you’re a cruise fan—specifically a Royal Caribbean fan—you probably are. Sure many families are skittish about cruising right now given Carnival’s recent performance—especially those who have never cruised. “Some people who are sitting on the fence might decide to delay the experience,” acknowledges Royal Caribbean’s Vicki Freed, senior VP of Sales. But Royal Caribbean wants you to know they’ve not only got your back but they’ll guarantee you an experience like none …
All Things Cruise is dedicated to the joy of travel. Specializing in ocean, river, ultra-luxury, small ship and expedition cruises.
Heidi, Editor-In-Chief
