Keep it in the Family

The dynamics of cruising has changed dramatically in recent years, I have noticed recently that there seems to be a huge demand for families and multi generational cruising, a holiday that promises endless options for family members or all ages.

New research reveals that around one in six travellers in Britain has taken a multi-generational holiday in the last year

In fact, so many multi generational families are booking cruises that accommodations such as special connecting rooms that sleep up to 10 people, these have become regular requests and customized packages for several generations of families travelling together are commonplace. For some cruise lines, extended families have become one of the fastest-growing segments of customers.

Cruises are ideal in other ways, too, what other holidays offer age-appropriate activities, dining and entertainment that include ages from 1 to 91!?

Like no other holiday cruising really does offer something for everyone. Regardless of ship size, cruises allow a mix of unstructured time to relax as well as a whole rage of on board activities and shore excursions for stimulation (and to provide a break from too much togetherness)

More and more cruisers are eager to celebrate milestone events, enrich family ties through shared experiences and bring far-flung family members together. In addition to children and grandchildren “family” often includes siblings, cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews, ranging in age from toddlers to octogenarians – not forgetting the cost-cutting benefits and shared childcare duties were also among the reasons for going on a multi-generational break

With every new ship that is  launched there is a positive  change in cabin configurations to accommodate the diverse needs of old and young, ships are expanding areas for youth activities while at the same time creating more adult-only pools and quiet areas where passengers can nap, sunbathe, or read a book.

Most cruise lines have responded to the demand from multi-generational families to include more diverse offerings for all ages in education, exercise and entertainment. On the right cruise ship children and teens will be busy from morning until night with pools, water slides, complimentary kids clubs, character “meet and greets” with pop culture icons from the big and small screen, colouring and drawing contests, mini golf, and more. Plus the cruise lines haven’t forgotten that parents need their space, too, with adults-only zones and quiet pool areas.

If you have’t cruised before either alone or with your family why not try a taster cruise, this would be an ideal Christmas present for those family members that really do already have everything, we have an offer with NCL for 1 night on their brand new ship Norwegian Escape for 27th October 2015 with a free upgrade to a Balcony cabin from £139pp – why not give it a whirl?

Have you cruised with grand parents and grand children? How did it work for you?