Choosing the right ship for any age is important, but even more so when picking one that is suitable for children, toddlers and babies. Older children may want the kids clubs, some are just happy with the pool, or some might want more adventurous activities like rock climbing, ice skating etc. But what about toddlers/infants?
Some parents with children under 3 might not want to leave their children in the kids club all day, and actually just be happy with a pool that the child can use – but pick your ship and cruise line wisely, because if your child is not fully toilet trained and you haven’t done your research, you could end up on the wrong ship and may be disappointed as some cruise lines will not allow children in their pools who aren’t toilet trained.
Here is an overview of the cruise lines polices:
P&O cruises – is ok for the family friendly ships: Children are welcome to use the friendly family pools. Due to public health regulations, children in nappies, swim nappies, pull ups, or who are not completely toilet trained are only permitted to use designated pools, which are:
- Aurora – Children’s Splash pool (Deck 8 Aft) and the Terrace Pool (Deck 8 Aft)
- Azura – Children’s pools (Aft) and the Coral Pool
- Britannia – The Reef Adventure Zone and the Lido Pool
- Oceana – Children’s Pirate paddling pool
- Ventura – Children’s pool (Aft) and the Beach comber Pool
Royal Caribbean – only on certain ships: Due to public health regulations, children in nappies, swim nappies, pull-ups or who are not completely toilet trained are not allowed in the pools, whirlpools or H2O zone. Children in nappies or who are not toilet trained may use the Baby Splash Zone specially designated for them on the Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.
Princess Cruises – Not allowed: Infants and young children in diapers and/or swim diapers, and children who are not toilet trained are NOT permitted in any of the pools or spas due to public health concerns.
Celebrity Cruises – Not Allowed- Due to U.S. Health regulations, young children in nappies/pull ups (including ‘swim-safe’ varieties) may not use the pools/whirlpools. Please note that facilities and activities are limited for babies under the age of three.
MSC Cruises: Babies in nappies are not allowed in the swimming pool
NCL: If you plan to partake in water activities with your toddler make sure they are potty trained, as swim nappies are not allowed in the Kid’s Aqua Park
So my advice is check the relevant cruise lines information and policies if this could make or break your holiday with a toddler. More informationc an be found on our website in the guides and swimming pools : https://goo.gl/wl1doh or babies on board: https://goo.gl/RxU579
Have a good couple of weeks
Kerry
xx