Like floating resorts, cruise ships bring the journey and the destination together into one exciting adventure. Listed alphabetically, the following cruises are best for families with children, and include luxurious amenities, and a host of entertainment, dining and recreation suitable for everyone in the family, as well as the added advantage of stopping at new ports and sightseeing. But one of the nicest things about being on a ship with the kids is knowing they are not far from you at any given time.

Carnival Cruise Lines

The Carnival Breeze will be Carnival Cruise Lines’ largest ship ever based in South Florida (courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines)

Carnival Cruise Lines’ mega ships are known as “fun ships” with good reason. From the moment you step aboard one of these magnificent vessels, throughout the entire trip, including ports and destinations, up to the time you disembark at the end of your holiday, you are in for an extraordinary voyage. The Carnival Dream class ships are our top picks with outstanding amenities for the entire family.

The 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze is the newest ship to join the fleet alongside the Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic in the Carnival Dream class ships. All boast an endless array of exciting attractions and activities, with most of the outdoor recreation taking place amid sweeping vistas of the shimmering sea. Play a round of miniature golf, shoot hoops on the basketball court, play volleyball, soccer, ping-pong and foosball. Jog around the track, workout at the fitness center, or just relax at the spa or salon. Carnival Breeze and Carnival Magic also feature a ropes course for those who thrive on challenges, as well as an outdoor weightlifting area with fitness equipment.

The WaterWorks aqua park is packed with slides, fountains, splash pools, spray elements and a giant tipping bucket (photo by Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines)

There are swimming pools, whirlpools, a WaterWorks water park with thrilling slides, geysers, fountains, splash pools, and spray elements, a 24-hour video arcade, a SeaSide Theater with a giant outdoor screen, a host of Broadway-style entertainment, shows, music, galleries, shopping, bars, delicious dining options and restaurants, and so much more.

Children ages 2-11 can enjoy the many engaging supervised activities at Camp Carnival that are organized by age groups and include a variety of amusements like story-telling and crafts, to board games, video games, scavenger hunts, tournaments and lots more. Teens and ‘tweens’ have their own age appropriate fun as well with movies, games, sports and music, to name a few, at Club O2 and the supervised Circle “C.” And best of all, the youth programs are all included. Group babysitting is also available at Camp Carnival for children under 12 late nights from 10pm-3am, and on port days until noon, giving parents extra time to themselves.

For more information on Carnival Cruises visit their website at www.carnival.com

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is one of the youngest fleets and one of the best for families with children (courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

You don’t need to be famous to board one of Celebrity Cruises’ stellar ships. But you certainly will be treated as though you are. Although this cruise line is one of the youngest fleets among the majors, its reputation is among the best.

With so many activities to choose from for the whole family, you’ll never hear the words “I’m bored” from the kids. There are lawn games like bocce, croquet, and golf putting, to basketball, ping-pong, and a slew of interactive video games, to pool games like volleyball, to trivia contests, dancing competitions, a host of lessons, classes and lectures, food and wine tastings and activities, to a fitness center with classes, a spa with revitalizing treatments, to simply lounging on the deck and soaking up the sun and fresh sea breeze.

Celebrity Cruises has dedicated programs for kids that are age appropriate and lots of fun (courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

Kids have their own dedicated programs designed just for them and arranged by age groups: Toddler Time for little ones under 3 years old, Shipmates for ages 3-5, Cadets for ages 6-8, Ensigns for ages 9-11, and Teens for ages 12-17. With activities like sports, games, interactive toys, arts and crafts, karaoke, music, treasure hunts, movies and theme parties, the fun is endless and very entertaining. A variety of LeapFrog® interactive toys can also be checked out for private use. Both group babysitting and private in-stateroom babysitting (for children over 12 months) is available for a nominal fee so that parents can enjoy some time to themselves.

While the kids are safely supervised and happily entertained, parents can explore the exciting world of entertainment that Celebrity Cruises has to offer. From Broadway style productions, to riveting circus shows with acrobats and aerialists, to magicians, comedians, singers, concerts, dancing, theme parties and more, the pulsating energy is infectious.

For more information on Celebrity Cruises visit their website at www.celebritycruises.com

Cunard

Cunard’s luxury is reminiscent of a glittering bygone era (courtesy of Cunard Line)

Cunard is a European-based luxury liner that is reminiscent of a glittering bygone era with its gracious hospitality, posh décor, and overall grandeur. It is quintessential opulence in every detail. But fear not. Its splendor is very warm and inviting, and welcoming to families with children. Our top picks are the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria.

Children and teens ages 2-17 have complimentary programs led by highly competent and qualified staff. Age-appropriate supervised activities are planned to ensure that kids have as much fun as their parents. Everything from arts and crafts, to games, books, toys and puzzles, to movies and shows in the Royal Court Theater, to an outdoor play area, to afternoon tea in the British tradition, and so much more are included.  There is even a night nursery for little ones 12-23 months that is open from 6-11pm, so that parents can enjoy the evenings out.

This planetarium aboard the Queen Mary 2 is the only one like it at sea (courtesy of Cunard Line)

Recreation, dining and entertainment are as posh as the liner, with a fitness center and classes, sports courts, spa, music and theater productions, glamorous balls, daily program activities like painting, dancing and various lessons, to swimming pools (including a dedicated children’s pool on the Queen Mary 2), whirlpools, bars, lounges and restaurants, and so much more. The Queen Mary 2 even has a planetarium aboard – the only one like it at sea. For those who like a taste of the finest in this life, Cunard makes for an unforgettable experience.

For more information on Cunard visit their website at www.cunard.com

Disney Cruise Line

The Disney Cruise Line blends the elegant grace of early 20th century transatlantic ocean liners with contemporary design (courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

Mention the word “Disney” to a child, and images of beloved characters, magical wands, castles, and happily ever afters dance in their vivid imaginations. Now combine that with an exemplary cruise line and you have a winning combination for the whole family that includes sensational Disney shows, acts and live entertainment, daily character greetings, special themed parties with stunts, effects, music and dancing, spectacular fireworks displays, activities galore for all age groups, delicious dining with family-friendly cuisine, and exciting itineraries.

Children ages 3-17 have a deck designed just for them in mind with areas, activities, and age appropriate programs including the ever inspiring Disney story classics with timeless characters, toys and artifacts for exploring and imaginative play, movies, games and interactive digital fun, crafts, music, computer games and much more. There is also a full-service nursery for infants and toddlers ages 12 weeks to 3 years that provides a safe, nurturing environment for the youngest guests, giving parents a break to enjoy the wonderful amenities on board, including a spa and salon.

The Disney Dream debuted AquaDuck – the first ever shipboard water coaster stretching 765 feet long and spanning four decks high (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Most of the Disney Bahamian and Caribbean cruises stop at Castaway Cay, a lovely private island exclusive to Disney Cruise guests with pristine beaches, crystalline waters, water sports and snorkeling, two water play areas, animal encounters, various tours, fishing and more. There is even free childcare on the island in a spacious supervised area called Scuttle’s Cove.

This award winning cruise line has the water coaster “AquaDuck” on board the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy ships that stretches an exhilarating 765 feet, whisking guests around the top deck through a clear tube with views of the open sea. There are character themed swimming pools on all the ships, water play areas called “AquaLab” on the Disney Fantasy and “Nemo’s Reef” aboard Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy with delightful geysers, pop jets and spray elements for lots of splashing fun. Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy also boast a sports deck with a miniature golf course, volleyball and basketball court, and virtual sports simulators, while the sports decks on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder feature basketball, ping pong, shuffleboard, and a running track, all with gorgeous panoramic views of the sea.

For more information on Disney Cruises visit their website at www.disneycruise.disney.go.com

Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Epic at sea makes a stunning sight (courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)

The Norwegian Epic lives up to its name in every way. This impressive vessel transports passengers on a floating land of enchantment and thrills. With itineraries to the Caribbean and Europe, one can visit a host of exciting ports with the utmost of ease and comfort.  Just be prepared because you won’t want your cruising holiday to end.

This amazing ship offers plenty to see and do for everyone in the family. There is world-class entertainment and performers like the acclaimed Blue Man Group, Cirque Dreams with their spectacular acrobatic feats, magic shows, comedy theater, casino, musical concerts, Nickelodeon Slime Time Live challenges and game competitions, Nickelodeon Character Breakfasts with favorite characters from the popular network channel, and lots more. The Epic boasts a variety of over 20 dining choices from classic steakhouse fare, to savory Italian, French and Chinese cuisine, to pizza, burgers, sushi, salads, and many kids’ favorites so even the most finicky eaters are satisfied.

The Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park is just one of the many exciting recreational activities aboard this fantastic ship (courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)

There are plenty of on-board activities including a bowling alley, a sports complex with a rock climbing wall, full-sized basketball court, batting cage, 24-foot climbing cage, jogging track, spa, fitness center, video arcade, kid’s centers, and lots more. Kids and grown-ups of all ages will love splashing around in the Aqua Park with three water slides, two swimming pools, and five hot tubs for soaking. There is even an Aqua Park Kid’s Pool with mini slides, geysers and fountains for the little ones. Complimentary supervised kid’s programs offer age appropriate activities that engage children from ages 2-17, so that mom and dad can have their own fun while knowing their kids are safely entertained.

For more information on Norwegian Cruise Line visit their website at www.ncl.com

Princess Cruises

A calm sea captures the glittering reflection of the ship at dusk (courtesy of Princess Cruises)

Many people remember Princess Cruises from the popular television show “The Love Boat.” It was certainly a big hit and quickly enchanted viewers with the idea of cruising vacations. How could one resist the allure of the ship sailing into the sunset with its many comforts and conveniences, all surrounded by an endless glittering sea? Since then, this cruise line has only gotten better with time, and is now one of the largest cruise lines on the planet.

Kids are happily entertained with activities like arts and crafts at the Youth Centers aboard Princess Cruises (courtesy of Princess Cruises)

Princess Cruises is renowned for its fantastic itineraries to over 300 ports worldwide, delicious dining, exclusive amenities, and a host of wonderful recreational activities for the whole family including a variety of sports like basketball, volleyball, miniature golf, ping pong and shuffleboard, to swimming pools, a splash pool for kids, video arcade (on some ships) enrichment lectures and classes, spa and fitness center, casino, boutiques, and a host of exciting nightlife entertainment with shows, movies, parties, comedy and dancing.

Most of the ships have Youth Centers led by qualified counselors with supervised activities for children ages 3-12. These programs are designed with age-appropriate enrichment and fun, from arts and crafts, to board games, video games, scavenger hunts, theme nights, movies, sports, music, pizza parties, karaoke, and pajama nights, to name a few. For older kids ages 13-17 there are Teen Lounges with activities like talent shows, video games, movies, dance parties, and more.

For more information on Princess Cruises visit their website at www.princess.com

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas is the world’s largest cruise ship (courtesy of Royal Caribbean International)

Royal Caribbean Cruises are fit for a king and queen and their entire family, down to the littlest prince or princess. Our top family and kid friendly choices are the Oasis class and Freedom class ships. There is little one cannot do on this floating nirvana. From riding waves on their 40-foot FlowRider surf simulator, to rock climbing, ice skating, miniature golfing, a sports zone, fitness classes, zip lining across the deck, in-line skating track, jogging track, lots of swimming pools, an arcade, Aqua Theater, carousel, a boxing rink, shopping, dining, loads of entertainment, fabulous shore excursions, and an H2O Zone water park with slides, geysers, fountains, and pools, and lots more, guests will find something to fit their fancy at any given moment (amenities and activities vary by ship).

The Oasis class ships offer an exclusive experience unlike any other: 7 distinct neighborhoods to visit that include Central Park with its lush gardens and winding paths, shops and restaurants, to the Boardwalk with a classic painted hand-carved wooden carousel, shops and eateries, to the Royal Promenade and more. The Oasis class, Freedom class, and Voyager class ships also boast the popular DreamWorks Experience including 3D movies, exhilarating aqua and ice shows with stunts and acrobatics, parades, and favorite characters including Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, and Puss In Boots.

Royal Caribbean International’s H20 Zone water park boasts slides, geysers, fountains, pools and more (courtesy of Royal Caribbean International)

The complimentary Adventure Ocean® Youth Program ensures that children of all ages – from infants to teens – will never be bored as they participate in a variety of exciting age-specific programs and activities like scavenger hunts, science experiments, pajama nights, theme parties, karaoke, sports and game tournaments, digital interactive activities, fine arts, a teen spa, games and crafts. In-room babysitting is also available for children ages 1 and older, to give parents a night out (at hourly rates). The sitters even bring along toys and games to keep the little ones happily engaged.

Parents have their own variety of activities to choose from in addition to the wide array of on-board amenities. From interesting guest lecturers, to jewelry making and scrap-booking, to dance and language classes, cooking demonstrations, wine tasting, casino, spa, salon and medi-spa services, guests are sure to return home a little more knowledgeable and rejuvenated than before.

For more information on Royal Caribbean visit their website at www.royalcaribbean.com

Related Articles:

Crusing For Families
Cruising the Eastern Caribbean
Celebrity Millennium Alaska Cruise
Regent Seven Seas Alaskan Cruise

The following top water parks (listed alphabetically) are exciting hot spots to cool off when the weather heats up. Some are even open year-round, and make thrilling getaways for the entire family.

Atlantis – Paradise Island, Bahamas

Stunning sea creatures glide through simulated ruins of Atlantis in Paradise Island, Bahamas

Themed after the fabled lost city of Atlantis, this resort captures its allure perfectly with an amazing water park, various marine habitats, aquarium exhibits, numerous swimming pools, beaches, sea animal encounters, rock climbing, dining and entertainment, and an abundance of activities for the entire family. The Aquaventure Water Park boasts 141 acres of water slides, rides, swimming pools galore, a river ride with swelling rapids and waves, and a children’s fort, all interconnected and immersed in the surrounding Caribbean’s lush environment. Younger children will especially love the Mayan-themed water playground with its pool, gentle slides, fountains, rope bridges, water cannons and more soaking elements for lots of entertaining fun. For more information visit their website at www.atlantis.com/thingstodo/waterpark.aspx

Chimelong Water Park – Guangzhou, China

This lazy river is one of the many attractions at Chimelong Water Park

The Chimelong Group in Guangzhou, China has been hailed as China’s Orlando with its many fantastic theme parks, hotels, restaurants, shopping, and sports and recreation activities, all connected by a cable car rail that circles the resort area, transporting guests with ease. Chimelong Water Park rests on close to 100 acres and boasts exciting rides and attractions suitable for the whole family. There are slides galore for zipping down, a lazy river with fountains and scenic views including the Ice Age Tunnel that transports floating visitors back in time with its exciting visual displays and effects, a huge wave pool sized at close to 2½ acres for a seaworthy experience, bowl and tornado rides, and two water towns for splashing around among spraying toys and other water play elements certain to offer hours of fun for everyone.  For more information visit their website at www.chimelong.com/enpark/waterparty_jcwd.shtml

Las Cascadas Water Park – Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Las Cascadas in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico has lots of fun family activities

Founded in 1985, Las Cascadas Water Park is a lovely family escape set among the tropical Caribbean landscape in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Its translated Spanish name means “the cascades” or “the waterfalls,” which is very fitting for a lush water park. Visitors can enjoy floating down the winding lazy river, rushing through a roaring rapids ride, bobbing along in the massive wave pool, and zipping down various chutes, slides and tubes including Aquatic Tunnel, Marine Serpent, and Twister. Younger children have their own play area with shallow pool and lots of fun water play elements for splashing, squirting and wading. Las Cascadas is open year-round except during the rainy months of October and November.

Noah’s Ark WaterPark – Wisconsin, USA

The biggest water park in the USA also has bumper boats (courtesy Noah's Ark Waterpark)

Known as the biggest water park in the USA, Noah’s Ark sits on an expansive 70 acres in the Wisconsin Dells and is open Memorial Day to Labor Day for a long summer season of water fun. With so many rides and attractions, there is something here for everyone in the family. Large wave pools, lazy rivers, 49 exciting water slides, a miniature golf course, bumper boats, a 4-D Movie Theater and more. Four children’s water play areas keep younger guests entertained with plenty of interactive splashing activities like water cannons, fountains, geysers, gentle rides and slides, swings and more.  And when you need a break from the sun for some indoor fun, three arcades await with many popular favorites from Skee Ball to Space Invaders. For more information visit their website at www.noahsarkwaterpark.com.

Noah’s Ark Waterpark was also featured in our Top 10 Best Waterparks in the United States.

Sandcastle Water Park – Blackpool, United Kingdom

Sandcastle Water Park in Blackpool is the UK's largest indoor water park

Located in the popular entertaining seaside town of Blackpool in the United Kingdom, Sandcastle Water Park boasts more than 18 slides and attractions including a lazy river, wave pool, a children’s fort with water cannons, mini slides, and water play elements, a children’s treehouse with interactive soaking jets and games, a shallow tranquil lagoon for younger children to splash about, and much more. It is also home to the world’s longest indoor water coaster ride Masterblaster. While in Blackpool, make sure to also visit Pleasure Beach Blackpool – one of Europe’s best amusement parks. For more information on Sandcastle Water Park, visit their website at www.sandcastle-waterpark.co.uk

Schlitterbahn – New Braunfels, USA

Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Squirt 'n Sliden Kids Area (courtesy Schlitterbahn New Braunfels)

Schlitterbahn has a fabulous reputation among water parks with good reason. With four locations to choose from – Galveston Island, South Padre Island, New Braunfels and Kansas City – visitors are in for a real treat.  Our top choice is the New Braunfels, Texas location with more than 65 acres of splashing fun in their water coasters, chutes, rides, slides, lazy rivers, activity pools, wave pools, and much more. Children will love the many water playgrounds to choose from with pint-sized slides, fountains, sprayers, games, and shallow pools that provide hours of interactive fun. There is even a heated swim-up bar for sipping while you soak. For more information on the Schlitterbahn water parks visit their website at www.schlitterbahn.com

The Schlitterbahn waterparks were also featured in our Top 10 Best Waterparks in the United States.

Sunway Lagoon – Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

Sunway Lagoon is home to five terrific theme parks including the popular water park

Sunway Lagoon in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, is actually five theme parks in one exciting destination: a wildlife park with over 150 species of animals, a Scream Park for those who thrive on fear and horror-themed attractions, Extreme Park for those who love to meet a variety of challenges including bungee jumping, archery, wall-climbing and ATV off-roading, the Amusement Park with its rides and games arcade, and the Water Park for hours of splashing fun. Rides, slides, and an interactive water playground offer great entertainment for the whole family. There is even a large man-made surf beach complete with palm trees and golden sand. Relax, play volleyball or soccer, or hone surfing skills on the FlowRider surf simulator. For more information visit their website at www.sunwaylagoon.com

Tropical Islands – Krausnick, Germany

Tropical Islands in Krausnick, Germany has a South Pacific feel with its island decor

This year-round resort is a man-made tropical getaway in Krausnick, Germany. Its sultry atmosphere lures visitors with lush landscaping, a large beach, a rainforest with exotic wildlife, Balinese lagoon, waterfalls, balloon rides, miniature golf, restaurants, shops and much more. Four water slides of varying levels await to thrill guests at the water slide tower, while the expansive sandy Tropical Sea beach and Bali lagoon invite loungers, sunbathers, or those who enjoy swimming in the water. Children will love exploring the fun games and activities at the Tropino Club for Kids with its jungle gym style climbing apparatus, paddle boats, toys and organized activities. For more information visit their website at www.tropical-islands.de/en

Wet n’ Wild Water World – Queensland, Australia

Wet n' Wild Water World in Queensland, Australia is open all year round

Wet n’ Wild Water World in Queensland, Australia is open year round with exciting attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Thrill seekers will love the adrenaline rush from extreme rides like Kamikaze, Tornado, Blackhole, and Mach 5, with their high speed adventures. There are raft rides, slides, looping tube rides, raging rapids, hot and cold whirlpools, a lazy river and much more. The wave pool offers guests close to 800,000 gallons of soaking fun in the gently rolling surf.  Additional thrills include ziplining above the park and soaring on the skycoaster.  Younger children will enjoy their own adventures in Buccaneer Bay where they can explore the water playground and its pirate themed interactive elements including a giant tipping bucket, slides, fountains and more. For more information on this water park visit their website at www.wetnwild.myfun.com.au

World Water Park – Edmonton, Canada

World Water Park is located inside the Edmonton Mall in Canada

World Waterpark is located inside the Edmonton Mall in Edmonton, Canada, which is one of the world’s biggest shopping malls. This indoor oasis is heated to a comfortable 86 degrees year round, and boasts a huge wave pool, an 80 foot bungee tower, and slides for all thrill levels from beginners to intermediate, advanced and extreme.  A large play structure entices children with pipes, slides, water buckets, pull ropes, walk ropes, and a large bucket that tips over to spill water on squealing guests below. Toddlers and small children can also enjoy the dolphin themed water park with its many water toys, gentle slides, and splashing elements built for little ones. For more information on this water park visit their website at www.wem.ca/#/play/theme-parks-attractions/world-waterpark

That's one big cruise ship!

Cruising is a wonderful way to introduce your kids to international travel. You only have to unpack once, and you can relax and enjoy yourselves while others take care of everything from cooking your meals to cleaning your room. My Cruises for Families article is filled with tips for parents considering a cruise with their children. In 2008, my family took a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean on the Carnival Glory.

The Ship

The Carnival Glory in port

The Carnival Glory was breathtaking. Although some people do not care for the “Vegas glitz” décor scheme that Carnival uses, I just love the soaring atrium, glass elevators and sparkling lights. Carnival has long been one of our favorite cruise lines, and the Glory lived up to our high expectations. Unfortunately, we were running late and nearly missed the ship! At the time, we lived about three hours from the port. I always recommend that people spend the night before a cruise in a nearby hotel, but for some reason we didn’t take our own advice. Thanks to construction traffic and other hurdles, we arrived at the port with less than 30 minutes to spare. All of the shoreside staff members were very nice, and helped us rush through check-in procedures in time to board the ship.

Once we were finally on board, we had just enough time to check out our cabin and grab some quick lunch at the Welcome Aboard buffet before the mandatory lifeboat drill. The drill was short, and almost before we knew it, the cruise was underway. We found a spot on deck, where the party was in full swing. Sailaway is a big deal, so make sure you are outside.

Dinner is one of our favorite parts of any cruise. We always ask for late seating (around 8:15 p.m.) and a large table. We were seated on the main floor at a table for eight. Our tablemates were very nice and we hit it off well, but we had the impression that they were somewhat conservative. That notion was blown out the window on formal night, though. One of the men arrived wearing a jacket and tie, stating that his wife insisted that he should make the effort. Once we had all seen him, he proceeded to remove the jacket and tie, telling us that he had to be comfortable to eat. We all laughed, and one by one every guy at the table removed their ties and jackets! It was fun and perfectly appropriate.

Nassau, Bahamas

The interactive Pirate Museum in Nassau, Bahamas

We’ve been to the Bahamas several times, so we decided not to sign up for any major shore excursions. Instead, we opted for a bus tour of the city and a return trip to the Pirate Museum. If your kids are into pirates at all, do not miss this museum! It’s a fun walk-through of a port town and pirate ship, with plenty of interactive displays and photo opportunities. The bus tour was a lot of fun as well, and taught us some things we didn’t know about the city’s history. Make sure you leave some time in your schedule for shopping at the Straw Market, and be prepared to haggle on prices. Dad has long hair and a beard, and all the salespeople kept calling him Jesus (or Bob Marley, oddly enough!).

St. Thomas, USVI

I was stunned by the beauty of St. Thomas

There’s some history behind our trip to St. Thomas. My dad visited back in the late 1970s, when he was in the Navy. While he was there, he bought some items at a small shop called Mr. Tablecloth. Now, he was so smitten with that particular shop that he never stopped talking about it. One day, he was going to show me Mr. Tablecloth. So of course Mr. Tablecloth was at the very top of our to-do list in St. Thomas. However, there was also a long list of shore excursions that we wanted to do. So we booked an extremely packed day in St. Thomas.

When we stepped off the ship, my jaw hit the ground. My absolute favorite city in the world is New Orleans, but I also adore small beach towns. St. Thomas was both. From the architecture to the people to the laid-back energy, I was completely smitten. I still don’t understand why Dad never told me about the REST of St. Thomas, beyond Mr. Tablecloth.

First up was the Pirate boat. It was advertised as a combination water taxi and history tour on a small boat. We didn’t have a lot of time before our next planned adventure, but we had all-day passes for the Pirate boat, so we headed over. It was so much fun! We were the only ones on the boat, so the driver gave us an abbreviated harbor tour and assured us we could get the full tour when we came back. I just love small boats, and it was great to chat with the locals.

On the way to our next scheduled excursion, we were waylaid by a time share rep. I’m sure you’ve seen these guys; they stop you on the street to offer you a gift for sitting through a presentation. We didn’t have a lot of time, but something made me stop anyway. While talking to the rep, it came out that we were from New Orleans and had relocated after Hurricane Katrina. When we showed up to the presentation, it turned out that the manager was also from New Orleans. Rather than make us sit through the talk, he handed us our prize (a free 3 day/2 night vacation) and sent us on our way! He was a very nice guy.

We sat down on the floor of the Caribbean Sea

Back on the street, it was time for our next excursion–a submarine tour! I was extremely excited for this one, and it did not disappoint. We actually dropped to the sea floor and sat there for a few minutes watching the sea life go by as Yellow Submarine played over the loudspeaker. A few people got nervous when the song switched to the Jaws theme, but we saw only one small shark.

We finally made it to Mr. Tablecloth, and it really was a neat store. I bought a hand crocheted white dress, and we picked up a new tablecloth. The sales staff was friendly, prices were staggeringly low, and the sheer amount of inventory was mind boggling. After our shopping stop, we headed back to the Pirate boat, where a young, very cute guide let me drive the boat through the harbor! It was such a quintessential Caribbean moment.

Overlooking the Glory from Paradise Point

We finished up the day at Paradise Point. It’s a tramway up the mountain directly across from the cruise terminal. There are shops and restaurants at the top, generally with at least one live musician playing. Our cruise director had warned us not to get distracted and lose track of time at Paradise Point, but we did exactly that! So did a bunch of other people, though. We all piled onto the tram to go down and rushed back to the ship. Dad uses a cane when he’s not on his travel scooter, so we weren’t able to go too fast. We made it on board with a couple hot on our heels. As soon as they were on, the gangway snapped shut and the ship departed! Talk about cutting it close!

St. Maarten

St. Maarten (aka St. Martin) was just a lot of fun. Unfortunately I didn’t get any photos that day because we didn’t have a waterproof camera. Our big adventure in St. Maarten was a short version of the America’s Cup Regatta! They divide the crowd into two groups and take everyone out on boats that have actually participated in the regatta.

Each boat has a crew of three professionals, but everyone on the tour is assigned a job. I took “medium duty,” which involved turning a winch to move one of the sails. Dad took “light duty,” which involved passing out canned beverages to everyone and working the stopwatch at the beginning and end of the race! Kids are welcome if accompanied by their parents, and the tour is suitable for the disabled, provided you can hang on to a rope with at least one hand. Our captain knew more dirty tricks than the other captain, so our team won the race!

After the tour, I had to get a bit of work done, as I was on a deadline. So we jumped on a water taxi to downtown, where we located a library. It was a challenge to figure out the French keyboard, but I managed to get my work done on time. By that point it was pretty late, so we wandered through the waterfront and headed back to the ship.

What We Learned

Even in this outfit, I was boiling hot

The Caribbean in August is hot. I know that should go without saying, but we’re from the South. We’re used to summer heat. But that much further south, it was the kind of hot and humid where you step outside and are instantly soaked in sweat. Dress in thin, light-colored clothing and carry plenty of water. The ships generally sell big bottles on the gangway. They’re expensive, but worth every penny. If you need to buy water in port, pick it up from an actual store. There are rumors that some of the water stands actually refill bottles from a hose and pass them off as “bottled water.” Whether or not that’s true, it’s not worth taking a chance. There are plenty of grocery stores and convenience stores in every port.

We were out on a small boat off St. Thomas

Cruise ship Shore Excursion desks are great sources of information for average, healthy young adults. But they are generally unaware of whether kids, people outside traditional height and weight categories, and disabled people are able to participate in a specific tour. For instance, the America’s Cup Regatta excursion was listed as moderately strenuous. Due to his health limitations, Dad nearly didn’t sign up. As it turns out, even those in a wheelchair can be accommodated with advance notice. If you want to participate in a specific activity, a bit of internet research can usually provide the name of the tour provider. Call or email the company directly with any questions you might have.

The Eastern Caribbean is a fantastic itinerary for families of all ages. Filled with history and culture, reasonably safe and generally clean, the ports truly offer something for everyone. Meanwhile, the cruise experience softens some of the edges of international travel, allowing your family to maintain your daily routine.

“Mommy, the sand is pink!” and it is in Bermuda, because this is not your average volcanic beach. Here, the sand is but finely crushed calcium shells, coral skeletons, and tiny critters called Foraminifera with dark red skeletons, which are native to Bermuda’s reefs. But your kids won’t care why the beaches are mainly pink, just that the sand is powder soft, great for castle building, and easy on children’s feet. They’ll also find the shell hunting delightful, and that the aqua water beyond those beautiful sands can be as warm as 85 degrees in summer and a cooler but still fairly temperate 65 in the winter months. The whole family will enjoy becoming beach babies here.

Your family will also enjoy Bermuda’s bustling port town and capitol, Hamilton. Easy walking, shop browsing, and fun historical sites abound. One caveat – no automobiles for rent. While taxis and buses are easily available, mopeds are the rental vehicle of choice on this small island, and won’t be appropriate for those with smaller children in tow.

Of course you may never want to leave the Pompano Beach Resort. This is a relaxing, inclusive resort. From villas to suites to adjoining rooms, you’ll find something luxurious to fit your family; shoulder season rates often reveal surprising bargains. The resort has a private beach with umbrellas and loungers, and a wonderfully shallow, clear waterfront. We were able to wade out hundreds of yards at low tide in the gentle sea. You can literally look down and see fish swimming along the sand. The hotel also has noodles and rafts available for floating for the older kids.

A short walk from the town of Hamilton is the Edgehill Manor Bed and Breakfast, an excellent value year round with a pleasant, simple breakfast served daily. The rooms all have either terraces or balconies, and a small pool is a relaxing treat. Kids are welcomed and a family of four can fit comfortably in a room with bed and pull out day bed.

Vacation rentals also abound with a range in pricing from top end luxury to bargain. Because we like a kitchen at least part of the time, we stayed at the Sunflower, near Hamilton which has two separate guest studios and is at the very reasonable end of the price spectrum.

In Hamilton, you’ll also find well preserved Fort Hamilton. Tunnels and ramparts to explore, cannons to climb, and a great view of the harbor; plus a fascinating military museum. Another pleasurable stop is rightly named Pleasure Point, a pristine park with another gorgeous view. There are shops to browse on Front Street with art and carved cedar, bathing suits, hand crafted toys, and English cashmere among the wares. Front Street’s buildings are painted like pastel-rainbows, and have a festive atmosphere any time of day. Once a week, Front Street is closed to traffic for a lively mix of fair, market, and entertainment called Harbor Nights. There’s music, jugglers, and street food for the whole family.

Looking for more solid fare? Said to be the pub that the television show Cheers based its ambiance on, the tourist friendly Hog Penny has delicious fish chowder, and is a solid dining stop. Restaurant Primavera has tasty pastas and attentive wait-staff. A waiter here demonstrated magic tricks involving spoons, forks, and a salt shaker just to keep the kids occupied until the pastas arrived.

Other sights to see: what’s called the “bird cage” near Queen Street is the spot where Hamilton’s traffic officers create a ballet in Bermuda shorts and organize a busy intersection; the fine collection in the Bermuda Historical museum, and St. Anthony’s picturesque pink church. There’s that color pink again – which leads us back to the place you may be spending most of your family time in Bermuda, on a pink sand beach.

The town of St. George also houses the fascinating Tucker House Museum, which gives you a personal look at a well known colonial family through their belongings and portraits. Our favorite in-town sight was the Unfinished Cathedral. You get the feeling of being inside a ruin from a distant time, but it’s actually a church from the 1870′s. Builders ran out of funds, and now instead of a roof there’s sky, and instead of a floor there’s grass. A great and peaceful spot for the kids to run around or nap with you in the shadows cast by the standing walls.

Dining in St. George? Tavern by the Sea has outdoor tables with a harbor view, casual food including pizza, and a relaxed atmosphere. Accommodations in this area are limited to a few B & B’s and vacation rentals.

One last beach suggestion as we head into the Bermuda sunset – also pleasurably pink, every night we were there – the justifiably famous Horseshoe Beach, large with sugar-fine soft sand. You can take a coastal walk of about one mile along the sand or from a path above it for more beautiful views and access to smaller beach coves in the same area.