Cruising with toddlers: What you really need to know!

Why cruising can work really well with a toddler

One of the biggest advantages is that you unpack once.

There’s no changing hotels every few nights, no packing the car every morning and no trying to keep a toddler entertained during a long transfer between destinations.

Your cabin stays the same while the view changes and you can see so many places during one holiday.

You also have plenty of choice when it comes to food, somewhere to have a quiet afternoon and lots of entertainment when you want it. And if your toddler needs a nap, you can head back to your cabin, before heading out again.

Of course, not every cruise is equally suited to little ones, so there are a few important decisions we can make together to find the right fit.

1. Choosing the right cruise line and ship

“Family friendly” doesn’t automatically mean “great for toddlers”.

Some ships have fantastic facilities for older children but surprisingly little for under-3s. Others have dedicated splash areas, toddler play areas or nurseries.

There’s also an important distinction between a kids’ club and a nursery. Age limits, toilet-training requirements and childcare arrangements vary between cruise lines, so we’ll look at what’s actually available for your child’s age.

Disney, Royal Caribbean, P&O and MSC all have different strengths. The best choice will depend on what matters most to you, whether that’s water play, family entertainment, childcare or simply a relaxed holiday together.

With toddlers you may even find that a ship that is more aimed at adults may suit you better. It can offer a calmer atmosphere, with facilities you will enjoy yourselves as parents, rather than a busy and lively environment full of other people's kids.

2. Finding the right cabin

With a toddler, your cabin becomes part of your holiday.

If they go to bed at 7.30pm, you probably don’t want to spend the next few hours sitting silently in the dark beside their cot!

A balcony can make a huge difference. Once your little one is asleep, you can sit outside with a drink, read a book or simply enjoy some fresh air without waking them.

But it isn't essential for everyone. We can compare the cost of an inside, ocean-view and balcony cabin, look at the sleeping arrangements and work out whether the extra space or outdoor area is worth the difference for your family.

We’ll also check whether a cot needs to be requested or other baby equipment is available, how much other luggage you are bringing such as a buggy and car seat, and the cabin layout, so you know what to expect before you travel.

3. Getting the balance right between exploring and relaxing

A cruise holiday can be busy, with ports to explore, swimming, meals, entertainment and plenty going on around the ship. But a toddler who has missed their nap can very quickly turn from delightful to difficult!

One of the lovely things about cruising is that you don't have to join organised excursions if you don't wish to, nor get off the ship at every port.

We can look at itineraries that allow plenty of downtime, as well as destinations where you can enjoy a short trip ashore without spending the whole day touring.

Sometimes, a relaxed morning exploring followed by an afternoon nap and some pool time makes for a much better holiday than trying to fit everything in.

4. Swimming and splash areas

If your toddler loves the water, the swimming facilities could be a big factor in choosing your ship.

However, pool rules are particularly important for younger children. Cruise lines have different policies around swim nappies, toilet training and access to splash areas. Some ships have dedicated facilities for little ones, while others have more limited options.

We can compare the facilities and rules before making a decision, especially if splashing about is likely to be one of the highlights of your holiday.

5. Choosing an itinerary that suits your family

For a first cruise with a toddler, a shorter sailing might be a great introduction. Alternatively, you may prefer a longer holiday with plenty of sea days and time to enjoy the ship.

There isn't one right answer.

We can look at where you'd like to visit, how long you want to travel for, whether you'd prefer to sail from the UK or fly to join your ship, and how much time you want to spend exploring ashore.

A no-fly cruise can be particularly appealing for families who would rather avoid airports and additional transfers. A fly-cruise, on the other hand, can open up some wonderful destinations and ships.

It's about finding the balance that works for you.

6. Making mealtimes easier

Toddlers can be unpredictable eaters, so having plenty of choice is a real advantage.

Buffets can be particularly useful because you can see what's available and choose a few different things without committing to a full restaurant meal. Other families may prefer the structure of a main dining room, particularly if an early dinner suits their routine.

We can look at the dining arrangements, the flexibility available and the food options on different ships, so you can choose what is likely to work best for your family.

7. Making the holiday feel manageable

There's no need to turn a family cruise into a military operation!

Familiar bedtime items, favourite snacks and a few well-chosen essentials can make travelling with a toddler easier. We can also check what the cruise line provides, including cots and high chairs, so you have a clearer idea of what you'll need to bring.

Most importantly, I'd encourage you to leave room for normal family life.

Your toddler may be just as happy playing with you, eating an ice cream and watching the ships from the balcony as they would be enjoying the latest splash park or children's attraction.

That's why I don't think you necessarily need to choose a ship with all the bells and whistles when travelling with a toddler. Sometimes, a simpler ship with the right facilities, a comfortable cabin and an itinerary that suits your family can be a much better fit.

And you might enjoy a more relaxed experience too.

So, is a cruise a good idea with a toddler? 

Yes, absolutely. But I wouldn't choose one based on the cruise line name alone.

The right cruise will depend on your child's age, the facilities you need, your preferred destinations, the cabin that suits you and the kind of holiday you want to enjoy together.

That's where I can help.

Rather than sending you a generic list of family-friendly ships, I'll help you compare the options, explain the differences and narrow things down to the cruises that genuinely suit your family and budget.

Whether you're considering your first short cruise or planning a longer family adventure, we can work through the choices together and find the right fit.

If you're thinking about cruising with your toddler, get in touch. Tell me a little about your family and the sort of holiday you're imagining, and we'll take it from there.

Call or WhatsApp: 01403 473833

anna.murrell@travelcounsellors.com