Family Cruise - Update and ?'s

NoSooner · November 14, 2003

As expected, I've been nominated group leader for a family-reunion cruise sometime next year. I have not been on any of the bigger ships, but I think I'll have to look at the Princess Grand or RCCL's Navigator, to meet the wide range of ages and interests that will be involved.

So, here are a couple of questions.

Which lines do children enjoy the most and have good programs? We'll have children aged 6-15.

Which ships are easier to get around for those who have mobility limitations? Do the various lines allow "scooters" for those who need help getting around?

Also, how do the various lines handle Kosher dining requests?

Maybe I should have made separate posts.

PEB · November 14, 2003

Princess has kids programs but it is not what they are known for and they do limit the number of kids per sailing. RCCL is a good all around family cruise line. Carnival is known for its kids programs and the newer big ships do have a good all around atmosphere for families.

Most the newer ships should be fairly easy for people to get around in wheelchairs or the handicapped scooters. The problems are not so much in the ability to get around the ship as it is to get around the passengers. I have seen people in scooters on the ships but not sure if they were their own scooter or one they rented through someplace. I do know there are places that supply these type of things for passengers on a cruise. Your TA should be able to help you with that.

JohnG · November 14, 2003

From RCCL website Frequently Asked Questions:

We provide Weberman’s Kosher meals, which are Glatt Kosher and certified OU and NK. The meals must be ordered a minimum of 6 weeks (45 days) in advance. These meals are prepackaged, frozen meals which are all served completely sealed in their original packaging to ensure Kosher certification. Plastic cutlery is provided. In addition to the prepackaged meals we also offer freshly prepared salads and fish double wrapped and cooked in aluminum foil. These meals are served on paper plates with plastic cutlery, but are not prepared under strict Kosher supervision.

A fax or e-mail must be sent to Randi Galex at 305-539-6018 or rgalex@rccl.com in order to guarantee the meals. Without proper notification we cannot guarantee that the complete Kosher menu will be available. Please list name of guests requiring the meals, ship, sailing date and booking ID #

Carnival's FAQ's state:

Note: Kosher meals are not available.

jbond · November 15, 2003

If I was taking a bunch of 6-15 year olds on a cruise, I wouldn't hesitate to choose RCI'S Voyager class ships, like Navigator of the Seas. They have a great kids program and have the extras, no additional charge, such as miniature golf, ice skating, roller blading, rock wall climbing and Adventure Ocean. Our grandkids had a blast, they didn't want to get off the ship when it was in port.

There is also a lot of activities for adults, and the ships are absolutely incredible with two Atriums and a Royal Promenade that has to be seen to be believed.

NoSooner · November 17, 2003

Thanks for the ideas! I've looked at the shore excursions for Western itineraries and it seems like there is quite a range of activities available. I'm kind of leaning more towards Princess since I've heard some very good things about their ships, particularly how much the younger ones enjoyed their cruise. Those mini-suites look very nice, too.

sailingrose · November 18, 2003

My teens prefer the Voyager class ships rather then Princess. They could always find something to do and the Navigator and Mariner have expanded areas for all the kids.

Best of luck with what you choose.