Cruise Vacation Tips: Shore Excursions for Young Children and Babies
Once you’ve booked a cruise and start to look at shore excursions you may be surprised (or disappointed) to learn that many excursions are open only to children over a certain age. Typically that’s 8 and up. If you’re cruising with a baby or younger child you may be left out. But don’t get discouraged! There are shore excursions available anywhere you go for little ones!
The Basics
When you’re traveling with little ones you have more things to take into consideration – and more things to pack. Before departure assess what you’ll be doing both on board and on port. Should you take your large stroller or will an umbrella stroller do the trick? If you’re planning to do any shore excursions that involve driving should you bring a car seat? Many countries have seat belt laws that are very different to US regulations and will not provide these. You may be comfortable with holding your little one in the car, but if not be sure you bring everything you’ll need. You also will want to have any swim diapers, sunscreen and other outdoor needs for your toddler.
The Caribbean
One low-cost and low-key excursion is a trip to the beach. Cruise lines offer transportation to and from popular beaches. They also may offer cabana rentals, chair rentals, and umbrellas. These might be a really good option to consider if you want to spend a day at the beach but you know your little one may need to nap or just get out of the sun. You can always visit beaches on your own as well. Many islands also have kid-friendly hiking trails and other natural wonders to take in. Another popular activity is swimming with dolphins but you’ll find these experiences typically have an age requirement attached. Instead of dolphins check out a turtle farm or wildlife refuge. Nearly every Caribbean island has something of this nature.
Europe
Disney’s Mediterranean cruises offer kids a glimpse into the cultures of Europe without dragging them through museums and historical sites. A hybrid program allows kids to take a short tour with their parents in places like Rome, and then partner up with the youth counselors for activities while parents can continue their Rome experience. Because Europe’s ports are in major cities you also will have easy access to whatever that city has to offer kids. If you don’t see something on the cruise sponsored excursions do a little outside research to find a different option. Zoos, amusement parks, and hands on museums are all ideas to consider. Just be sure you leave enough time to get back to your cruise ship.
If you plan to book any organized excursions be sure to ask for reduced rates for smaller children. You may be able take smaller children along with you and not have to pay any additional fees. Or, you may discover the cost to take your baby along is just not worth taking the excursion itself. Don’t forget many onboard activities during port days. It may be easier and more relaxing just to stay onboard and participate in activities than to disembark.