Cruising with a baby - is it a good idea?
When you ask people about cruising with a baby, the reaction is mixed. You’re not guaranteed to be close to a hospital, you’re in one small room, there’s no facilities for babies, and so the list goes on. So, is taking a baby on the high seas a good idea?
Last month, I set sail on my first cruise with a tot in tow, a week’s trip to Spain, Portugal and Guernsey, sailing out of Southampton. I was already a cruise convert – and now I’m a kids-on-cruise convert too. Here’s why.
Sailing out of Southampton is so easy
We had a relaxed morning ensuring we had everything we needed packed and ready to go. And by everything, I mean six suitcases, a pram laden with bags for life, and a baby walker. You’re not flying, so luggage is unlimited. Times vary, but our ship, P&O’s Ventura, was all aboard by 4pm. Plenty of time for pitstops en route and a panic-free first day. By the by, I’d fly-cruise too, but for ease, being able to jump in the car with the entire contents of your house and pile it straight into your cabin on the other end is just brilliant.
Having a baby means VIP treatment
Carting Lois round with us was basically like having Mariah Carey along for the ride. The staff were rushing to do everything for us, making a massive fuss of her, catering to her every whim, and not so much as an eyeroll when she chucked her dinner everywhere. Many of the staff on board are far away from their own children, and so love the opportunity to entertain babies and little ones.
Family-friendly dining
Something we were really worried about prior to sailing was how it would work with dining. I love the a la carte options, and I just didn’t know how a baby would fit into the mix. In honesty, a baby in a more sophisticated atmosphere probably wouldn’t be conducive to a relaxing experience. But the buffets were incredible. Sampling (read: throwing) lots of different foods, from full cooked breakfasts to traditional roasts, authentic Asian dishes, delicious puds and lots of fresh fruit and veg did wonders for her weaning. Most lines offer a dedicated kids tea too – ours was 5-6pm and had favourites like soup, mac ‘n’ cheese, sandwiches and baby jars. Highchairs, plastic plates and baby cutlery are on hand too.
The chance to feel like a human again
I know most holidays mean you’ll get your room cleaned up, and your food cooked for you, but a cruise is that and then some. You literally need think about nothing – top notch kids facilities and kid’s clubs with trained staff, a spotlessly clean environment, a massive wealth of entertainment and activities, attentive service, something for even the faddiest eater. Add into the mix incredible extras like a night nursery where you can leave your sleeping little one while you enjoy dinner and a West End show. An amazing spa! And all the fresh sea air you need to get them to sleep (all to the good when you’re in the same room as them). It’s absolutely a holiday for everyone.
Like with everything baby-related, there are always things you need to think about. Most cruises have a minimum sailing age of six months, and on itineraries where you’re spending three or more consecutive nights at sea, this increases to 12 months. P&O’s Ventura had a dedicated baby splash pool – but some lines insist your baby is potty-trained before going for a dip.
Feeling inspired to hit the high seas? I’ve cruised extensively and love chatting everything sailing-related, so drop me a line and find your perfect trip today.