Anyone take their family on a cruise?

[Blueface]

Originally Posted by Cigary

You will be glad to know that most cruise lines have kids areas where the crew will entertain them the whole day if you wish. I have been on Disney and Princess, Carnival, Holland America, Royal Carribean, Cunard and Celebrity.

All in all I think the best lines is with Celebrity and Princess because of the food and kids entertainment.

Totally agree on Celebrity being what I would call the favorite. However, it is likely not going to come at a cheaper price than Disney. Probably about the same.
While all the cruise lines you list do in fact have stuff for kids, the difference to me with Disney is it IS for kids. Adults will certainly enjoy also but the whole ship is designed to cater to kids whereas the others you list have programs and things for kids but not their main cup of tea. Drawback to some is they don't have a casino.

In the end, may not be OP's main focus to have a "kid" specific vacation but thought since his three kids are so young, the best thing would be a family vacation truly designed to cater to the children as the main guests. I am very familiar with all the cruise lines you mention and there is no way any of them come close to catering to kids as Disney does.

That said, they are all fun. Cruising is fun. I like it so much I have been on four this year already and have a fifth planned for this December. If money is an issue, shop online for best deals as there are many to be had right now. As an example, Royal Caribbean has a balcony on Navigator of the Seas for the first week of December for only $449 per person, regularly over $1,000 (Same ship in January is $1,800 for that room). You can also look into adjoining rooms and open the middle door.

I enjoyed the Disney Cruise with the kids. They were 6 and 5. The evening shows with the characters were amazing, the kids were riveted. Castaway Cay, Disney's private island was another highlight. The buffet was set up right by the beach and non-alcoholic drinks were free also. It was very relaxing and the kids loved the sand and sea shells. The childrens programs also give you time with the wife.

[tchariya]

If you are considering children, cruise with Princess or Disney's Big Red Boats!

go to cruisecritic.com to review them.

Princess Cruises still has a cigar lounge...and allow you to smoke on your private deck.

If 5 of you are going, you might need a mini-suite. Call the cruise line to see if they dont mind having 2 adults and 2 kids and infant in 1 room. Just remember that most rooms are tiny. you won't be spending much time in them.