Going on a cruise with children-share your exerience

We planned an Alaskan cruise this summer...sort of a 'family' reunion with our family in the States. Has anyone been on one of these with small children? I have a 4 yr old and 2 yr old. I have second thoughts now about going and wondering if it would be any fun with such small children. Never been on one myself. Please share your experiences and any preparations/tips. Thanks!

Depends. Do they have activities for their age group aboard? If yes, it should be ok.


It's always more work with kids, but that's true anywhere. At least on a cruise ship you don't have to think of the logistics much.

Cruising is the BEST way to travel with young children. We're a cruise fanatic family.... since my kids are 1 year of age, we cruised. I found it was the most enjoyable way of travelling... if I could afford it, I cruise everywhere with my kids !


Alaskan cruise is nice, but even though it was summer, it was still cold. The shore excursions are nice, but not all are suitable. We wanted to do the white water rafting, with my kids, we couldn't.


Depending on which cruise line you are with, Princess and RC are very good with kids' club... your four year old would have a fun time, but I never left my kids with the kids club much... there are always SO much to do on the ship..... never enough time. The great thing is cruise ships do so much for your kid's meals, you just have to ask, you will get it. You never have to pack, sleep, and wake up for breakfast, and you go on shore!


Bring warm clothes for the kids esp.

I did a cruise with my partner and little one just before we moved to Singapore, and the thing I found most helpful (really with any sort of travel) is a good baby carrier. It means that when your little one gets tired of walking around you can pop them on and still get around and see the sights without your arms getting sore (or having to take a pram - as if!).


My toddler is 2 and I use the ergo carrier, which is so good for big bubs as it's really comfy and puts all their weight on your hips (not your neck or shoulders). I bought mine through babes in arms who are based in australia but ship to hong kong and singapore at a really good rate. I just convinced my friend to buy one and she loves it too!!

hi there, what a coincidence, even we're going to alaska for a cruise this summer - for a family reunion. We're booked on Princess Cruises which is terrific for kids and I agree with KateKam's feedback - a cruise ship is a city which makes for interesting explorations in addition to fascinating port calls !.


enjoy