Are you considering a family vacation for spring or summer break? A cruise, aboard a beautifully appointed ship, includes all meals, entertainment and accommodations and is a great vacation value. Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival and Disney Cruise Line are just some of the choices for a fantastic family cruise. If you wish to sail a luxury line with your family, Crystal Cruises is the line for you.

 

Ships offer many activities to participate in as a family. Some of these include pools, fitness center, ice skating, rock climbing wall, surf simulator, bowling, library, first run movies, card rooms, shopping, enrichment classes and more. There are several family dining choices, from casual pizza and burgers to fine dining in the ship’s dining rooms and specialty restaurants.

 

For the younger set, most cruise lines offer age appropriate children’s programs which are included in the cruise fare. On Disney Cruise Line, children might dress up as pirates and go on treasure hunts. Royal Caribbean offers exclusive programs designed by Fisher Price for their younger sailors. Evening activities include pajama parties and pizza parties. These programs are supervised by trained cruise staff, and your children generally have access to you by pager. On many cruise lines, teenagers have their own areas of the ship. Carnival offers the only Coca-Cola bar at sea for teenagers. Norwegian Cruise Line has a special night club and “mocktail” bar just for teens. 

 

Cruise ships have a lot to offer adults as well. Adults can take advantage of the activities mentioned earlier, or just relax on deck in a lounge chair. For active adults, cruise lines now offer golf simulators, basketball courts and inline skating. There are also casinos, wine tastings, computer classes, pottery classes, cooking demonstrations and scrap booking.

 

And what about the ports of call? The most popular family destinations include the Caribbean where families can enjoy the sun and surf, Alaska’s scenic beauty and wildlife or Europe’s historical sights.

 

With today’s busy schedules, cruising offers your family the opportunity to spend quality time together. If you are interested in sailing with your extended family, you have the added benefit of group rates and special amenities. With the diverse choices on a ship including organized programs for children and teens, various dining options and a different port of call every day, your family will want to make cruising a yearly event.