Tips to plan your first global family cruise
Pick the Right Itinerary
When travelling with family, picking the right destinations is crucial! So, make sure you're well informed about the different cruise itineraries offered.
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If you are into the sun, sand and sea, consider the Caribbean. Prefer the cold, snow, glaciers and wildlife experience? Alaska's your best bet. Love cities, food and culture? Try the Mediterranean or Greek Isles. Like a little of both leisure and exploration? Look for itineraries that balance busy port days with lazy sea days.
Choose a Cruise liner That Works for You
There are a lot of options to consider but there are only a few that are ideal for families travelling together.
The right one should give you the feel of a floating resort, with splash pads, pools, water slides, mini golf and gaming zones, zip lines, and a variety of cuisines so every member of the family has more to see, more to do and more to enjoy.! If you're on a cruise with teenagers, look for ships that offer go-kart tracks, virtual reality zones and teen-only lounges, and score some extra brownie points with them.
Travelling with your parents and kids? Look up cruise liners that feature spas, quiet lounges, soothing live music, specialty dining, bars, award-winning productions and shows, and dedicated programs split by age.
Book Early
Start planning your cruise at least six months in advance for the best deals, choice of cabin, and early-bird perks like dining packages or excursion credits. Make sure you book a cruise line that has representatives on the ground to walk you through the options that best suit your family. Don't forget to download their app too for live updates and personalised information.
Budget-friendly family accommodation
When you're traveling with a family, the accommodation is always a big concern, especially when you're on a budget so, look up your options and prices before booking.
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Depending on how many members are traveling, you might want to consider two connecting rooms instead of a suite or a stateroom that sleeps four.
Food preferences
It can be difficult to cater to all family members tastes on a vacation. So, do check out the food options offered by different ships. Go with a ship that offers the largest food experiences — a choice of multiple cuisines including authentic Indian food, buffets, burger joints, sushi bars, pasta, tacos, fine dining, , late-night snacks – or 24-hour dining if required - and even soft-serve machines the kids can operate themselves.
Let representatives of your cruise line and the stewards know of allergies or food preferences in advance for a more personalised service.
Make a note of your to-do experiences
Travelling with distinct personalities is never easy when it comes to enjoying shared experiences so to avoid confusion and arguments, keep a list of everyone's favourite activities ready. Think beach days, wildlife tours, cooking classes, cultural shows underwater tours, etc.
Several cruise liners offer curated shore excursions for families so browse and book your top picks in advance as these fill up quickly.
Pack Light because you only unpack once
On no other vacation —be it a road trip, a plane trip or a train trip — are you given the privilege of unpacking just once! On a cruise, the ship becomes your floating home. No hassle, no stress especially for moms who spend their vacations organising and reorganising bags! Don't forget to pack comfy shoes for excursions, flip-flops, swimwear, PJs and light, breathable clothes.
Medicines — basics for an upset tummy, fever, etc.
are a must. Carry prescriptions for allergies and other conditions, in case you need refills. Do make sure your family is vaccinated as per the requirements of the countries you are cruising to.
Nothing like a cruise to give a family more of everything — more time bonding, more freedom to explore and embrace each day as per your own rhythm and more memories to make, so what's keeping you from curating the most exciting chapter for your folks?
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