As families increasingly seek new ways to spend quality time together, cruising has emerged as a popular choice. However, the idea of taking children on a luxury cruise can be daunting. Chrissie McClatchie shares her insights after embarking on a Mediterranean cruise with her family, offering valuable tips for those considering a similar adventure.
Setting Sail: The Christmas Cruise Experience
On December 25, in the picturesque port of Livorno, the McClatchie family found themselves aboard Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, enjoying a festive dinner in the ship’s Amphora restaurant. The decision to swap a traditional Christmas at home in France for a seven-night cruise from Rome to Barcelona seemed perfect—until a minor incident reminded them of the challenges of traveling with young children.
Despite the initial hiccup, the family quickly adapted to the luxurious life on board. This experience highlights a common concern among parents: how to balance the needs of children with the expectations of a luxury cruise environment. With some foresight and preparation, it is possible to enjoy a family-friendly cruise without compromising on the experience.
Key Strategies for a Successful Family Cruise
Prioritize Holiday Sailings
One of the first lessons learned was the importance of timing. Cruises scheduled during school holidays, such as Christmas and New Year, are more likely to have other children on board. On the Star Legend, over a dozen of the 193 passengers were under 18, mostly traveling in multi-generational family groups. This provided the McClatchie children with playmates, enhancing their enjoyment of the cruise.
“Out of the 193 passengers onboard Star Legend, more than a dozen were under 18, the majority traveling in a multi-generational family unit.”
Stay Onboard During Port Days
While exploring new destinations is a highlight of cruising, McClatchie found value in occasionally staying on the ship while others went ashore. This decision allowed her children to enjoy the ship’s amenities without the pressure of behaving perfectly in public. The heated pool and other onboard activities provided ample entertainment, making the cruise enjoyable for both adults and children.
Plan Your Own Shore Excursions
Standard shore excursions often cater to adult interests, such as wine tastings and historical tours. To ensure the trip was enjoyable for the entire family, McClatchie organized her own excursions, including visits to Christmas markets in Monaco and a walking tour of Barcelona with strategically planned tapas stops. This approach allowed the family to experience local culture in a way that was engaging for the children.
Embrace Family Time
Luxury cruises may not offer extensive children’s programming, but they provide opportunities for family bonding. On the Star Legend, the Yacht Club lounge offered a selection of card games, puzzles, and board games. The McClatchie family found that these simple activities were more than sufficient to keep their children entertained, reducing reliance on screen time.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Positivity
Traveling with children inevitably attracts attention, not all of it positive. However, McClatchie noted that the crew’s welcoming attitude made a significant difference. Their support and friendliness left a lasting impression on her children, who fondly remembered the crew long after returning home.
“People are more positive than negative, none more so than the crew, who embrace having children onboard.”
While a luxury cruise with children may require some adjustments and patience, the experience can be deeply rewarding. By planning strategically and embracing the unique opportunities presented by small-ship cruising, families can create lasting memories together.
For those considering a family cruise, McClatchie’s experience offers a reassuring perspective: with the right approach, a luxury cruise can be an ideal setting for family adventures.
