What is the best age for a child to start cruising?

My daughter, Ella turned 3 last week and it got me thinking about if she would enjoy cruising and if I was ready to take her! Once your child turns 3 you do notice that the toys get better and there is much more choice of activities. It is similar with cruising?

The magic age is 3 to go to the kids club and participate in the activities without parents being present. It is all about insurance and the amount of training the staff receive. So I think it is a perfect age for her 1^st cruise.

Most cruise lines have a minimum age of 6 months before children can cruise and only the big ships offer specific activities and baby-sitting for babies and tots. Imagine all the stuff you have to take too? You can have supplies delivered or buy on-board but it can be pricey.

So which cruises lines are best for children’s facilities? Royal Caribbean, NCL, Carnival, Disney, P&O and Princess and the ones I would recommend and some ships are much more geared up than others. Most offer specific spaces with club like activities including arts and craft, science, sports and parties. My daughter would love all of these activities!

I think I would have to change how we dine in the evening! Ella would not be happy to sit through all the courses at diner! No fear there are plenty of other options. Turning up early to anytime dining is a really good option if you still enjoy the dining experience or opting for the speciality dining.

There is also the buffet which can be a lovely option if you have a picky eater! The choice is amazing and you can keep going back and trying different things.

If I wanted a treat then I would feed Ella early, drop her off at the kids club and dine on our own.

Room service is another option but it does depend on the size of your cabin. I would opt for a balcony especially in warm climates and enjoy diner under the stars!

How old were your children on their first cruise?

What would you recommend?

I would love to hear from you

Thanks so much for reading

Rosie xxx