As families increasingly seek unique holiday experiences, luxury cruises are becoming a popular choice. However, cruising with children can present its own set of challenges and rewards. Chrissie McClatchie shares her personal insights from a family cruise on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, a journey that offered both delightful moments and unexpected hurdles.
On December 25, in the port city of Livorno, Italy, McClatchie and her family found themselves amidst a festive Christmas dinner aboard the Star Legend. The ambiance was perfect, with champagne flowing and children quietly drawing. Yet, the serenity was short-lived when a minor disagreement led to a public meltdown, reminding McClatchie of the cruise line’s minimum age policy, which they had been granted an exception to bypass.
Understanding Cruise Dynamics with Children
While many cruise lines welcome families, not all are equipped with child-friendly amenities akin to Disney or Royal Caribbean. Smaller luxury lines like Windstar offer a different experience, often without dedicated children’s programs. This dynamic can lead to a quieter environment, which some adult cruisers prefer, but it requires parents to be more proactive in planning family activities.
McClatchie’s experience highlights that small-ship cruising with children is feasible, especially with thoughtful preparation. “Prioritizing holiday sailings,” she suggests, “increases the likelihood of other children being onboard, creating natural playmates for your kids.” During their cruise, McClatchie’s daughters quickly bonded with other young passengers, enhancing their overall experience.
Strategic Planning for Family Enjoyment
One strategy McClatchie employed was staying onboard during port excursions. “It’s the kids’ holiday too,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to enjoy the ship’s amenities without constant reprimands. This approach allowed her family to enjoy quiet days by the pool, trading bustling shore excursions for peaceful onboard activities.
When venturing ashore, McClatchie recommends organizing personal excursions tailored to family interests. “Ports like Monaco and Barcelona offer plenty for kids,” she says, advocating for visits to attractions such as Christmas markets and museums. In Genoa, a family hike provided a refreshing break from the ship’s indulgence.
Embracing Family Time
Small ships may lack extensive kids’ clubs, but they offer opportunities for quality family time. McClatchie found that simple activities like card games and board games were surprisingly engaging. “Despite having movies available, our week was light on screen time,” she recalls, highlighting the value of unplugged entertainment.
Interactions with other passengers varied, but the overall reception was positive. “The crew’s warmth and acceptance made a lasting impression on my children,” McClatchie reflects. Despite occasional disapproving looks, the family felt welcomed, and the crew’s friendliness became a cherished memory.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Family Cruising
As McClatchie’s story illustrates, cruising with children requires adaptability and a sense of humor. The experience can foster lifelong memories and even inspire future travel preferences. “Our daughters are already asking when we can return,” she shares, suggesting that their early exposure to cruising may have cultivated a lasting appreciation for travel.
For families considering a cruise, McClatchie’s insights offer valuable guidance. By prioritizing holidays, planning personalized excursions, and embracing the unique dynamics of small-ship cruising, families can enjoy a rewarding and memorable voyage.
As the travel industry evolves, cruise lines may increasingly cater to family needs, balancing adult tranquility with child-friendly amenities. Until then, parents can take heart in knowing that with the right approach, a luxury cruise can be a delightful family adventure.
