Any advice on cruising with a baby?

Question

We are going on our first cruise in April on Carnival. We have no idea what to expect. Any helpful hints, ideas, advice on cruising with kids? ages are 12, 10 and 6 months. What kind of clothes do we need to pack? Are there certain places in the ship you have to dress nicer than others? Thanks :) oh - and we're going to the Bahamas

Answer 1

best advise don't take them...  leave the kids with grandma ! ! ! !

Answer 2

The older kids will have a great time.  They have so many planned activities for them through Camp Carnival.  If you are willing to pay the fees they also have babysitting service.  

Advice, don't let the kids get overly tired.  They can become a real chore then, and that is easy for them to do when they are w/o their usual rountine.  

Pack, usual summer attire, and nice clothing for the evening.  

Have fun!

Answer 3

i believe that they will have a lot of things for the children to do. and it will be very hot there but just in case of a Lil rain pack some spring jackets but and really you wouldn't know how nice others dress because they have different styles or what ever style that you have they might of all ready been past that style but yes it is always nice to dress the best when you step n some where new you and the kids and yes i think that there would be other opportunities for the kids

Answer 4

Bring a SMALL inflatable kiddie pool - cram it in the shower then you can use like a bath tub for the baby.  I first took my son when he was 10 mos old and this worked fine.  Also, plan to bring your own pack and play.  The ship cribs are kinda nasty - plus, your pack n play will be familiar to your baby, both in sight and smell.  I know it is 1 more thing to take, but totally worth it IMHO.  My "baby" is now 6 and has cruised 12 times!

Answer 5

There is a camp carnival, which your children can be looked after, but otherwise, while they arent there, i would recommend keeping them with you at all times. there are dangerous people. ive gone cruising twice before. both in carnival.

Answer 6

The 10 and 12 year old will be entertained for sure. There is lots to do for kids on cruises. If you do decide to do formal night with the kids, Just about any nice outfit will do for them. The one thing I have noticed about someone who brings a baby is they like to have pictures taken with the baby. You can even set up a special session of picture taking with your kids and your baby. Pack only summer clothes for all of you as it will be hot and humid. One more thing, if you do not want to dress up and go to the dinning room, you can eat in the buffet wearing casual clothes, just no swim suits there.