Best Recommendations: Family Cruises
Cruising has changed for the better in recent years. No longer is cruising for the "newlywed and nearly dead". Just like hotels and cars, cruises are not a one-size-fit-all experience. Some cruises aren't designed for families with children while others are specifically designed with families in mind. In recent years, ships are being built specifically for multi-generational families (grandparents, adult kids, grandkids, and extended family). Expanded kids and teen areas, family-friendly venues, waterparks, and lots of unique at sea experiences are what you can expect on the new generation of cruise ships.
Here are my best recommendations for family cruises what will surely exceed everyone's expectations:
Royal Caribbean's Oasis-Class ships
(Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony and Wonder of the Seas)
These sister ships are currently the largest afloat and have a ton of activities, entertainment, and amenities for all ages. Beautifully designed with different 'neighborhoods', these ships have changed the cruising industry forever. Upscale restaurants, world class shopping (including the first Coach store at sea), zip lining, boardwalk with Merry-go-round, and a unique Aqua Theater are just some of the amenities found on these amazing ships. Until recently, these were the only two ships with Broadway shows including Chicago The Musical (Allure of the Seas) and Hairspray (Oasis of the Seas). These ships are large but have so much activity at any one time that it never feels overly crowded. These ships are great for families of all ages, and especially for those who are active by nature (rock-climbing, Flo, and zip lining just to
Royal Caribbean does an exceptional job with the pre-teen and teen centers (you will be rock stars in your teens eyes by taking them on either of these ships). As a whole, Royal Caribbean is the best option for families with pre-teen and teenaged children.
The room options on the Oasis-Class ships offer a huge variety for every family size. There are suites that accommodate up to 8, and two-story Loft Suites that feel more like loft apartments in an urban area vs on a cruise ship.
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Royal Caribbean's Quantum-Class Ships
( Quantum, Anthem, Ovation, Spectrum and Odyssey of the Seas )
Royal Caribbean has done it again! With the inaugural sail in November 2014, the Quantum of the Seas does not disappoint! Considered the first ever SmartShip®, the Quantum-Class vessel is a game-changer in the cruise industry. From the boarding process, fastest internet at sea, bumper cars, and simulated sky diving, the Quantum-class ship is an absolute marvel. After sailing on board for a couple of nights, I consider this ship the perfect blend between Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Celebrity's Solstice Class of ships. It's by far the most upscale ship Royal Caribbean has ever built.
Check out photos of the Quantum on my Facebook page from my recent cruise
Get a glimpse of this new Smart Ship. Prepare to be Wowed!
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Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Breakaway
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Escape
Norwegian has stepped up its game in the family cruising market with these ships. These ships are built with entertainment in mind - there's something for every age group. It all started onboard Norwegian Epic with entertainment including the Blue Man Group, Cirque Dreams & Dinner, Legends in Concert (impersonators), and their White Hot Party. Then, more recently, the entertainment was taken to another level onboard both Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, and even more so with the Norwegian Escape. Sailing from various ports including New York, Miami, Port Canaveral, and several European embarkation ports, these ships include amazing Broadway shows, and 678 Oceanplace - a 3 level entertainment space decked out with bars, nightlife, shopping, and dining venues. All of these ships have a ton of family-friendly experiences such as bowling alleys, incredible waterslides, and Norwegian's signature Freestyle Cruising experience.
The room options onboard these ships are as wide a variety as the entertainment options. The Haven Suite, which are often referred to a 'ship within a ship', offers luxury accommodations set apart from the masses. These suites include key card access, concierge services, and its own shared pool/lounge area. These ships also have the Studio rooms (designed for solo passengers) which is perfect for family members who want their own rooms without breaking the bank.
See what your family can experience on one of the best family cruises such as the Norwegian Breakaway:
