Cruise family holidays

With the number of special offers growing daily, and cruise companies tripping over themselves to cater for the ever-expanding family market, family cruise holidays are a more tempting option than in the past. Though they’ll never be everyone’s cup of tea, there are many reasons to at least try one out – they let you visit several destinations on one holiday but also spend time chilling by the pool; offer activities that might include watching movies under the stars and dolphin- and whale-spotting; and provide facilities that may stretch to crèches, children’s and teen clubs, decktop climbing walls, basketball courts, surfing pools and even ice-skating – in addition to pools, gyms, spas, cinemas, theatres, shops and a choice of restaurants.

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If you’re unsure whether your kids will enjoy being on a ship for a week or more, try a ferry-based ‘mini-cruise’ such as those offered by Brittany Ferries to Spain or DFDS Seaways to Denmark and other destinations. Vessels have play areas and activities in high season, from magic shows to tours of the bridge.

Seek out a family-friendly cruise company with suitable entertainment and – crucially – other children on board who can speak the same language(s) as your own, plus play areas or rooms that are solely for children.

Make sure the dining arrangements are suitable for kids: some cruise companies allocate tables and family dinner slots, but a ship with a ‘relaxed dining’ policy is better, so you can eat when you want, and have a choice of restaurants offering food that both adults and children enjoy.

Choose your cabin wisely – it needs to be big enough, with adequate storage space and, if possible, a private balcony (invaluable for getting away from the crowds now and again, and a great spot for parents to enjoy an evening glass of wine while the children are asleep inside).

Check which currency you’ll be expected to pay in, as exchange rates may adversely affect your bill. It’s particularly worth finding out in advance if a particular operator charges in Euros for everything on board.

Make sure that a given cruise employs staff who speak good English, especially those providing childcare – it’s important that children feel happy and secure.