Tips for multigenerational cruising

1. Choose a cruise ship that has something for everyone

Certain cruise lines have responded to the demand from multi-generational families by crafting experiences for all ages. On the right cruise ship, children and teens will be busy from morning until night with pools, water slides, complimentary kids clubs, character “meet and greets” with pop culture icons from the big and small screen, coloring and drawing contests, mini golf, and more. Plus, the cruise lines haven’t forgotten that parents need their space, too, with adults-only zones and quiet pool areas.

2. Plan ahead

There are several reasons agents made this recommendation – first and foremost to make sure that everyone in the family saves the dates on their calendars. Timing is also of utmost importance to ensure the group receives its top choice in staterooms, especially if they desire adjoining staterooms or a family suite, since these are generally the first to sell out on a cruise. Suites can include bathtubs for the little ones, privacy dividers, multiple bedrooms and other special features to make traveling as a group more enjoyable and convenient.

 3. Secure staterooms as close as possible

Some of the cruise ships that are most popular with families are also the largest at sea, holding well over 3,000 passengers. If the client is not reserving a family suite, it’s much easier for family members to gather together if their staterooms are in close proximity to one another. Also, adjoining staterooms are a great option, but again, because they represent a subset of total inventory, they sell out quickly and typically well before the ship is full.

4. Carefully plan dining options

Most cruise lines offer early and a late dining options in the main dining room, to which passengers are assigned prior to cruising. The early dining option often fills up first. With that knowledge,  agents recommend putting in a request for early dining as soon as possible, so that children can get to bed on time. Grandparents may also find the early dining option to be preferable.

5. Communicate clearly with the entire family

Before the trip, it may be helpful for one family member to serve as the liaison between those traveling and the travel agent. Onboard, communicate expectations for how much time you plan to spend together – and acknowledge it’s acceptable to spend some time apart.