Has anyone ever cruised Carnival with a 2 year old toddler?

Question

I'm going on a 7 day cruise on Carnival to the Mexican Riviera with my husband, father-in-law and my just turned 2 year old son. I read the website and I know they have activities for my son's age, but I'm wondering if the toddlers really have a good time or is it just a form a babysitting. I'm also looking for some advice as to what my son and I can do while my husband and father-in-law do the shore excursions. I've been on this cruise before and would prefer to stay on the ship or at least close to the ship. Even though he probably won't remember the vacation, I want to make sure he'll have a good time. If he has a good time, then I'll have a good time. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Answer 1

We cruised with our 18-month of niece and 3 year old nephew on Carnival.

The kids club for that age group is much like a day care environment.  They have toys and activities inside an area.  While the older kids got to leave the play area for activities, this group did not.

Notables for traveling w/your young one...

- leave the huge stroller and home and take along one of the small, umbrella strollers that will fold up.  It is much easier to get around in the crowds and to use when you disembark.

- be wary of using the "crib" that Carnival offers.  The one they assigned to us was very dirty from being in storage and collapsed on the little one.

- Take Tupperware containers to grab up snacks for the little one from the breakfast buffet.

- Take plenty of baby wipes.

- Take along a night light.  The cabins are wicked dark.

- Get bottled water before your get off the ship for the little one's sippy cup.