Cruising is becoming increasingly popular as the perfect option for multi-generational holidays. Royal Caribbean offer the ultimate family holiday, frequently recognised as one of the best cruise lines for families.
As someone who is firmly placed in the ‘sandwich generation’ looking after both elderly parents and children, finding a holiday that keeps both ends of the age spectrum happy is no mean feat. But cruising manages to tick many boxes.
A destination for everyone
Firstly, the destination: there is something for everyone across a wide variety of itineraries. From exploring wonderful European cities, to the ‘kick back and relax’ atmosphere of the Caribbean, to adventure-packed Alaska. We recently explored Amsterdam on one of our cruise holidays with a family group of twelve. Listening to the teenage members of the group try to convince the elders they should try cannabis lollipops is a conversation that will stick with me for many years!
Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, is described as “the perfect place to experience the thrill vs chill”. There’s waterslides, pools, and splash zones for the children, and for those who want more chill, there’s golden beaches and overwater cabanas.
A Wonder of a ship
When it comes to choosing a ship, the latest addition to Royal Caribbean’s fleet – Wonder of the Seas – epitomises the phrase “something for everyone”, whether it’s dining, activities or relaxing. Where else could you learn how to surf by catching a wave on the ground-breaking Flowrider? Or how about zip-lining? Yes, you can if you like!
For younger children, we were particularly impressed with the Wonder Playscape. Keeping children entertained is an art form that Royal Caribbean have taken very seriously. Even parents of teenagers (who we all know are notoriously hard to impress) are catered for with their own exclusive space onboard Wonder: Social 100. It’s a perfect spot to hang out with mates, with movies, juice bar and its own whirlpool.
Food glorious food
Now for the dining lowdown. There’s an abundance of choices. We loved Chops Grille and Mason Jar; both had a lovely ambience. And for a real family affair you can’t beat Johnny Rockets, the traditional American diner-style restaurant, that serves up the real American experience! The main buffet-style venue has a huge variety for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Putting on a show
Keeping the family entertained can be a costly affair when you’re on holiday. However, the inclusive nature of cruising means affordability is a key consideration, particularly when comparing it to a hotel-based holiday. The choice of shows and entertainment is vast.
A must see is the AquaTheatre. It’s the deepest pool at sea, flanked by two 30-foot diving platforms that set the scene for mesmerising dive spectaculars and show. It’s worth noting that the AquaTheatre is only available on Oasis Class ships. We watched the fabulous Ice Show, featuring an international cast of talented skaters. The Ice Show is available on Voyager, Freedom and Oasis class ships. The family will no doubt be enthralled with the many theatre production shows on offer.
Take a break – adult escapes
With children taken care of, the adults can enjoy the Solarium, offering pools and whirlpools, or head to the Vitality Fitness and Spa Centre, where guests can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in peace, knowing that the kids are having all the fun in Adventure Ocean.
Room for all the family
There’s a wide choice of staterooms to cater for all party sizes, including the two-storey Ultimate Family Suite, with your own in-suite slide, an interactive game table, and table tennis on your balcony. Not to mention a Royal Genie who’s always ready to arrange exclusive access to the best of everything onboard. It really is the ultimate family space and unlike anything in any hotel.
If the Ultimate Family Suite is a stretch on the budget, then try interconnecting rooms and the entire family can be with each other throughout the whole journey. It’s worth pointing out that on Oasis Class ships all the family can enjoy a balcony room whilst being opposite each other. On one side your balcony can overlook The Boardwalk or even Central Park Neighbourhoods, whilst on the other side, you can enjoy looking out over the ocean to your next destination!
Your turn to set sail
Royal Caribbean, with its family ‘wow factor’ has notoriously loyal followers, and over the years I’ve spoken to many people who have been bitten by the cruise bug! Cruising comes with a warning factor – once tried, it may be hard to convince the entire family to consider anything else!
Next steps
To plan or book your next holiday with the family, call the Travel Experts at Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678.
2 Responses
I am looking for a Christmas cruise for my family. We are Grandma (me) Daughter and son in law and a 18 year old granddaughter. Any suggestions you could make would be most appreciated. I saw your advert re family rooms but we must have 2 bathrooms and be able to have reasonably separate accommodation.
Thanking you
Sandra Fenton
Hi Sandra, thanks for your inquiry, a member of our team will be in touch!