Crusing with a 3 and 5 year old, any suggestions?

Question

We are going on a cruise at the end of the month with our 3 and 5 year olds sons, we will be driving from Indiana to Florida, any suggestions for them, the boys have never cruised although we cruise every year?

Answer 1

Wow!  You are brave!  I'd say leave them with Grandma!!  

Check with your cruise line.  Most large ones have Children's programs available.  Other than that, I can't help much... as our kids ALWAYS stay at Grandmas!

Answer 2

Do they get motion sickness? That may be something to keep in mind... Bring lots of towels :P

Answer 3

Our family reunion group took a 18-month old, 4 year old and 5 year old on a Carnival cruise last year.

Yes, you can take them but you will likely miss many of the cruise events you are accustomed to experiencing.

Formal night is hard to manage with little ones, they ususally don't dig the shows, casino is off limits, shore excursions are a hassle and limited for very young ones.

Using the stroller was a challenge.

However, we took our girls on their first cruise when they were 5 and 7.  We chose the Disney cruise to introduce them to cruising.  It was a good experience and Disney is set up to accomodate children of this age.

Answer 4

3 and 5 are too young for being on a cruise.  You and your husband are not going to be able to go out of the cabin after dinner since the kids programs close around 6 pm.  Baby sitting by the crew costs about $25 per hour and is not always available.

Best idea is to leave the kids with Grandma and enjoy the cruise with your husband.  

Also think of the other passengers.  They do not want to be sitting at a table with or next to small kids who are likely to be noisy and messy eaters.

Answer 5

You didn't mention what cruise line you will be sailing on but I do hope it is Disney or Carnival as they have the best children's programs for the age of your boys.

Bring toys & familiar things from home.

Call or visit their Dr, make sure you have plenty of medication, bandages, etc  since a trip to the ship's Dr. is quite costly.

Have loose, comfortable & quick drying clothing for them (and you )

Visit cruisecritic.com for numerous helpful hints :)

Have a great cruise!