Embarking on a family cruise is an exciting adventure, and Royal Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for families of all sizes. If you’re a family of five getting ready to set sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll share some valuable tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation for everyone.
1. Plan and Book in Advance:
To maximize your options and secure the best deals, it’s wise to plan and book your Royal Caribbean cruise well in advance. With a family of five, finding suitable accommodations can be more challenging, so early planning is essential. Consider connecting staterooms or suites that provide ample space for everyone. Although we booked pretty late (our cruise was due in full the next week). We were able to get a balcony room with a inside stateroom across that my sister stayed in with one of the kids. It worked for us–however, I do know that this wouldn’t work for a lot of families.
2. Utilize Kids’ Programs:
Royal Caribbean offers fantastic kids’ programs catering to different age groups. Take advantage of these programs to keep your children entertained and engaged while you enjoy some downtime. From adventure-filled activities to educational workshops, your kids will have a blast, and you’ll have some much-needed relaxation! We were actually so busy we didn’t get to use the kids’ programs. We also had my sister with us. She was our babysitter on board so having her replaced the kids’ programs. However, I know a lot of people love them!
3. Explore Dining Options:
Royal Caribbean boasts an array of dining options to suit every palate. Familiarize yourself with the various dining venues, including specialty restaurants, buffets, and casual eateries. Make reservations for specialty dining experiences in advance to secure your preferred dining times. Don’t forget to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions or allergies your family members may have. The first two nights we visited the Main Dining Room. Although it was a great experience, the buffet had the same offerings. We were able to quickly get all of the kids fed and enjoy our evening.
4. Pack Strategically:
Packing efficiently for a family of five can be a bit daunting. Begin by making a checklist for each family member and cross off items as you pack. Don’t forget essentials such as medications, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Consider using packing cubes to keep everyone’s belongings organized. I have a cruise packing list coming out next week!
5. Stay Connected:
To ensure smooth communication during the cruise, it’s beneficial to invest in a Royal Caribbean internet package or use the ship’s Wi-Fi. Staying connected allows you to keep track of each other’s whereabouts and make plans as a family. Plus, you can share your exciting cruise moments with friends and family back home through social media updates. As someone who posts about their daily life on social media, this was definitely something I loved having. We were able to share this between all of us as long as we logged out of the device that was using it. You can use the ship’s Wi-Fi for free and message each other which was great to keep in contact with my sister!
6. Participate in Family-Friendly Activities:
Royal Caribbean offers a plethora of family-friendly activities onboard. From water parks and swimming pools to sports facilities and live shows, there’s something for everyone. Engage in mini-golf tournaments, embark on thrilling water slides, or enjoy a Broadway-style production together. Be sure to check the daily cruise planner for a schedule of activities and plan accordingly. When you are booking, make sure and check that your ship has everything you want. Not all ships have water play areas or toddler play areas. Toddler who are still in swim diapers may not go in the pool or splash pad. Some ships have designated spots for them.
7. Explore Ports of Call:
One of the highlights of a Royal Caribbean cruise is the opportunity to explore different ports of call. Research the excursions available at each destination and choose those suitable for your family. Whether it’s snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or exploring historical landmarks, make memories together while immersing yourselves in the local culture and experiences. Our ports were Cococay and Nassau. We found a beach that was walkable through Resort For A Day and loved that option!
Embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise as a family of five can be an incredible adventure filled with fun, relaxation, and quality time. By planning ahead, utilizing kids’ programs, exploring dining options, packing strategically, staying connected, participating in family-friendly activities, and exploring ports of call, you can create lifelong memories that will be cherished by all. Bon voyage!
