My First Family Cruise: What I Loved, What I’d Change & Top Tips

The Best Parts Of Our Cruise

1. The balcony cabin

If you are on the fence about a balcony, my advice is: go for it. Waking up to sea views, stepping outside with a coffee, watching the sunset from your own little slice of deck… it is worth every penny, especially on a family trip where you want a bit of breathing space.

2. Effortless daily routine

One of the joys of cruising is how easy the day feels:

• Tea and coffee ready in the cabin
• Food available whenever you fancy it
• A daily programme of activities so you can dip in and out as you like

You can be as busy or as relaxed as you want, without ever having to think about where to go next.

3. Plenty of spaces to relax or work

I loved how many different areas there were to enjoy a drink, catch up on some work, read a book or simply people‑watch. From cosy corners to more lively bars, there is always somewhere that feels “just right” for your mood.

4. Fantastic shopping

If you enjoy a browse, you will be in your element. There is a great selection of shops on board, from holiday essentials to little treats and gifts.

5. Live music and shows

The musicians and evening shows were a real highlight. It feels very special to be able to stroll from dinner to a professionally produced show in just a few minutes, without taxis or planning.

6. The spa

The spa was outstanding. For anyone who sees their holiday as a chance to properly unwind, I would absolutely recommend factoring in some spa time. It is a lovely antidote to busy family life.

7. Sailing from Southampton

For UK families, the convenience of sailing from Southampton is huge:

• No airport stress
• No luggage allowance worries
• Just drive or take a transfer, walk on, and your holiday starts

For families, this really takes a lot of pressure off.

What I’d Do Differently Next Time

Even with a brilliant experience, there are always things you’d tweak for next time:

1. Encourage the teens to join in more

I would insist my kids make more of an effort to go to the teen activities. The organised clubs and spaces are there for them, and once they join in they usually love it. It is a great way for them to meet friends and have some independence.

2. Use the à la carte breakfast more

I would eat breakfast in the à la carte restaurant more often. It is a calmer, more relaxed start to the day and feels like such a treat compared with the busier buffet.

3. Make the most of the ship’s photographer

There are professional photographers on board and I would definitely take better advantage of them next time. It is a lovely opportunity to get some high‑quality family photos while everyone is together and looking their best.

4. Re‑think the wine order

I would not order the case of wine again, as many of the bottles I originally chose ended up not being available. Next time I would be more flexible or choose by the glass on board.

My Personal Hints & Tips

A few practical things I learned that might help if you are planning your own cruise:

• Cabin key cards and kids’ cabins
  Despite what a reservation agent might say, it is usually very easy on board to switch key cards around so that teenagers can have their own cabin while still keeping things set up properly for safety and charging. Always check with reception on arrival.
• Think carefully about drinks packages
  Drinks packages can look tempting, but they only really offer value if you drink a lot every day. Be honest about your habits. For many people, paying as you go can work out better.
• Consider arranging your own excursions
  Cruise‑line excursions are convenient, but you often pay a premium for that convenience. If you are comfortable planning a bit in advance, booking your own tours or activities can be much more cost‑effective. Just be sure to allow plenty of time to get back to the ship.
• Pack magnetic hooks
  Cabins have metal walls, so magnetic hooks are incredibly useful for hanging bags, jackets, lanyards and keeping the space tidy.
• Take a dressing gown if you like one
  If you are not in a suite and you enjoy having a dressing gown, pack your own. It is one of those little comforts that makes mornings and evenings in the cabin more relaxing.

Why I Think There Is A Cruise For Everyone

One of the biggest myths about cruising is that it is “just” for a certain type of traveller. In reality, cruises come in all shapes and sizes:

• Adult‑only ships
• Smaller, more intimate ships
• Big resort‑style ships with endless facilities
• River cruises
• Expedition and adventure cruises

Even within the same cruise line, there can be a huge difference between ships, layouts and overall feel. That is exactly where my expertise comes in: matching you with the right style of ship, cabin and itinerary so that the cruise feels like it was designed for you.

Cruising is incredibly popular right now and demand just keeps growing. It is a fantastic way to see multiple destinations, unpack only once and enjoy a huge choice of dining and entertainment along the way.

I genuinely believe everyone should try a cruise at least once. With the right ship and itinerary, it can be the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery and fun for all ages.

If you would like to chat about whether a cruise might suit you, or you already have an idea but need help choosing the right ship, get in touch and I will be very happy to guide you.