There are many fun and educational things for kids to
do on a cruise. There is adventure, new friends, and the opportunity to
have wondrous experiences that create lasting memories. Many of the activities
kids can do onboard involve other kids, there are team sports, such as basketball,
volleyball, water sports as well as board games. There are also activities
that might incorporate the whole family. Many of the newer and larger cruise
ships have virtual reality centers that are great fun for kids and parents
alike. Some of the ships even have miniature golf courses, inline skating
tracks, ice skating (yes, ice skating, skates are available to Rent) and
parades.
For the younger kids in the family there are supervised
programs set up with youth Counselors with activities planned all through
the day. There are some days where they may not offer programs all day,
so it is best to refer to the kid's daily program. The program, for younger
kids include arts and crafts, board games, movies and storytelling.
When evening comes there are special kid's dinners, just
for kids, with the youth Counselors. The evening activities wind down approximately
10:00pm; there is often a slumber party for those who are there into the
wee hours. (During this time there is a charge for taking care of the kids.)
Don't worry parents; it is in line with the prices you would pay at home.
Infants and toddlers are welcome on cruises as well,
but be sure to discuss with your cruise consultant which cruise lines offer
special programs for the little ones. There are minimum age restrictions
for infants.
A cruise for a family is like going to camp at sea, but
Mom and Dad get to go too and enjoy the week.