How do you keep children safe on a cruise?

How do you keep children safe on a cruise? Use the buddy system. While there isn't always safety in numbers, it's better than being alone. Have siblings/friends from your travel group stick together, or if kids are hanging out with new friends, parents might want to make a point to meet them (and their parents).

Can my kids have their own room on a cruise?

However, in general, minors under the age of 18 are required to be accompanied by a responsible adult in the same stateroom or a connecting stateroom. Some cruise lines may have family suites or cabins that can accommodate families with children. These cabins may have a separate sleeping area for children or bunk beds.

Can I take my daughter on a cruise without a passport?

Children aged 17 years and under will require a passport or Birth Certificate to travel or government issued photo ID. Children under 16 years of age, who do not have a passport or Photo ID, must have a copy of their birth certificate or their parents Medicare Card.

What is the best length of cruise for kids?

A seven-night cruise is usually the best option for a family getaway. While your wallet or schedule might require a shorter sailing or permit a longer voyage, plan a week-long vacation — at least for your first cruise or two.

Do cruise ships have safes in the cabins?

Every cruise ship cabin comes with a safe; there also are portable safes you can purchase for added security. (Crewmembers, like any hotel staff, have the ability to open your safe in the event you're locked out.)

Where do kids sleep on a cruise?

Cribs/Sleeping Areas: Cruise lines make it easier by providing a crib or sleeping area for your child at no extra charge. You should call the cruise line well in advance (2+ weeks from your cruise date) to request a crib be placed in your room.

Is it safe to have a balcony on a cruise with kids?

Safety Measures in Balcony Staterooms It would be very difficult for a small child to reach that lock unless they pulled a chair over to the door and climbed on it. The balconies also have walls and railings with plexi-glass that are at least 42 inches or taller.

Should you bring a stroller on a cruise?

You will want some kind of stroller or baby carrier for taking your child around the cruise ship and in port. Some cruise lines, like Carnival, have rentals available; MSC offers loaners. You will need to store strollers in your cabin, so we recommend bringing a small umbrella stroller, rather than a large baby jogger.

What age do kids enjoy cruises?

Cruises are fun for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to keep your toddlers entertained. Kids under the age of 3 can enjoy Toddler Time at the ship's playroom, where they'll be able to play with educational toys and interact with other kids around their age.

Can I take my child on a cruise without permission from other parent?

Most cruise lines do not require a child travel consent form if a child is traveling with only one parent. However, if parent and child do not share a last name, many lines do require you to bring your child's passport and birth certificate as legal proof that you're related.

Can kids get off at cruise ports?

Minor children 16 years of age and older may debark the ship in port without a parent or guardian. If the parent or guardian wishes to raise this age limit, they must contact the onboard Security department.

Is Royal Caribbean or Carnival more kid friendly?

Royal Caribbean wins out in most categories, but Carnival offers a solid budget- and family-friendly option. Ramsey is a freelance travel journalist covering business travel, loyalty programs and luxury travel.

What age is safe for a cruise?

Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation in order to sail. Children must be at least 12 months of age at the time of embarkation to sail on trans-ocean crossings and remote itineraries, where there are more than 2 consecutive sea days.

Should I take my 5 year old on a cruise?

The perfect age for taking your kids on a cruise is when they are old enough to be excited about the experience -- when they want to check out the ship and get excited about exploring in ports of call. Maybe they are more attracted by daily ice cream, pool time and Ping-Pong than cultural immersion, but that's OK.

Can kids get off cruise ship without passport?

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship, such as an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where he or she was born) or passport, and if 16 or older, a government ...

Is it a good idea to take kids on a cruise?

Kids can often take part in kids' club or accompany their parents to take part in the many “things to do” on a cruise ship. My kids really enjoy water slides, climbing walls and ropes courses, some of these are high above the ship, too scary for me, but they loved them.

What are the rules for kids on cruise ships?

Can kids swim on cruises?

Children who are not toilet trained (and those in diapers or swim diapers) are not allowed in any of the water facilities on board, as per United States Public Health Services. Toilet trained children should be taken on frequent bathroom breaks. Water sports include pools, spray parks, waterslides and whirlpools.

Do kids get sea sick on cruises?

What to Know About Avoiding Sea Sickness. Sea sickness isn't often a problem for kids on big cruise ships, but you do have some options to treat and prevent motion sickness, whether it is in a boat, plane, or car.

Is there a safe in your room on a cruise ship?

The safes in the staterooms are mostly electronic combination lock types that the user can set up. They are large enough to hold personal items that might be carried in a purse or handbag, such as passports, wallets, cell phones, and other small electronics. Was this content helpful?