Tips for Stress-Free Family Sailing

Cruising experts at Panache Cruises recently unveiled 10 tips for stress-free family sailing:

• Onboard Kids Club: Look for child-friendly ships with a kids clubs.
• Check Age Requirements: Many cruise lines have a minimum age requirement, so be sure to check before booking. Most babies under 6 months of age cannot cruise.
• Entertainment: Choose a cruise line that offers regular entertainment for kids.
• Meal Times: Find a cruise line that provides kid-friendly meals and keep the onboard routine as close to at-home routines as possible.
• Read Through Cruise Itinerary: Ensure the cruise suits all members of your family and research destinations beforehand for kid-friendly activities.
• Pack a Dedicated Necessity Bag: A bag with necessities in place for little ones allows parents quick access.
• Family-Friendly Cabins: Staterooms should have enough space for the whole family and some cruise lines provide cribs and more.
• Pack a Travel-Friendly Stroller: Invest in a stroller that can fold up and store easily. Check beforehand to ensure the ships allows strollers or look to find ships with a stroller rental service.
• Book a Hotel the Night Before: For a stress-free start to the trip, book a nearby hotel for the day before departure.
• Plan Some Parent Time: Take some time for yourselves as parents.

“A cruising vacation for the whole family can be an incredibly special trip away creating some amazing memories for youngsters. But the most important thing to do before booking your cruise is to check everything is going to suit your kids, from the facilities on the ship to the ports of call and the duration of the cruise,” said James Cole, CEO, Panache Cruises. “See if there is a children’s club on-board, read up on the itinerary, entertainment, what food the restaurants offer and at what times, and check the minimum age requirements. Booking into a family-friendly stateroom, or two with adjoining doors if your children are a little older, will give you space as a group, as well as providing specific requirements such as a crib for babies. …  Preparation is key. Having your own specialist cruise advisor will help you plan your vacation to your own exacting requirements. This will give you the freedom to enjoy this special experience as a family.”