Family cruise vacations are a great way to keep the entire family entertained. There truly is something for everyone in these all-inclusive family vacations!
Everyone that knows me can tell you that I hate to make decisions. With all of the cruise options available today, I can't decide what to write about first!! Okay, I guess the first question in planning your cruise is..why? People take cruises for a variety of reasons & the reason you are going can narrow down your choices.
Family Vacation with the Kids - You need to consider the ages of all of the children going. Many cruise ships offer programs for babies & toddlers and on up. Some programs will be better than others for your kids. You also need to consider this - Is your main goal on this trip to entertain the kids or the adults? Most cruises offer so many choices that the whole family will enjoy it either way. If you are looking for something specific in your cruise, however, you should shop around until you find exactly what you want.
The top choice if you are traveling with babies and younger children is the Disney Cruise Line because they have the best children services & childcare. And while most ships offer showers only, Disney has bathtubs in every stateroom! Disney also offers entertainment especially for Tweens & Teens, making Disney the all around best pick for families with kids.
If all of the kids are tween-teen age, Royal Caribbean is great choice. Their ships are packed full of activities like rock walls, mini golf & even onboard surfing! They also have a dedicated teen room.
Family Reunion - Many families take a cruise as an opportunity to get the entire family together. I can't think of a better way to do it! You should check to see which cruise lines will offer a group rate. Keep every body's needs in mind. Some people may have disabilities or medical needs that should be considered. Again, also consider the ages of the children that will be attending before making the final decision.
If your group is primarily adults, you may want to consider a summer cruise to Alaska on a Princess Cruise! Is your family or group full of energetic fun-seekers? Maybe a Carnival Fun Ship is more your style! They have plenty to offer for children and adults, like supervised children's programs and Las Vegas style entertainment.
Romantic Vacation - You may want to select an adults only cruise, however you will not be able to find one in the US. Check into ships that do not have as much to offer children, if you prefer not to be distracted by the youngsters. Most families with kids will opt for cruises that have the most to offer for the kids. Even two adults on a romantic vacation could enjoy a great Disney Cruise, though! You may want to check into special wedding & honeymoon packages that are offered by the cruise line.
Holland America may be the best choice for an elegant & exotic vacation! While on board, relax at the spa or enjoy Culinary or Photo workshops. Once you hit shore you can explore fabulous locations like Alaska, Asia, Australia, the Mediterranean, and more!
Christian Cruises - Planning a vacation or retreat for you church group? Even if you are going alone, with family or friends, these specialty cruises are great! They offer favorite christian artists, even VeggieTales characters for the kids, and renowned Christian speakers. Enjoy all of the fun of cruising & get your spirit fed as well!
If you are interested in Christian Cruises, check out Premier Christian Cruises, they have several coming up. There will be something for everyone on the Music Boat 2009 with artists such as Mercy Me, Toby Mac, Hawk Nelson, and many more...all the concerts you want to see on the same ship!!