The dream of a family cruise can seem like just that – a dream. Here are some tips that can make cruises fun for the whole family without breaking the bank.

Destination

For a Caribbean adventure you’ll typically be looking at longer itineraries, which means more time away. If price is a factor and you have luxury on your mind, fear not as some cruise lines offer shorter trips nearer to home which allows you to make use of the luxurious ship facilities.

Research and Compare

What do you want from your cruise? Different cruise lines offer differing focuses. Decide what you’d really like from your trip, then see what company fits your needs. Knowing what’s out there and what’s on offer will help you know you’ve made the best possible choice, and that everyone will go home happy. There are lots of websites out there to help you filter down choices whilst choosing the must-have holiday features you need.

Cabin choices

If you’re used to having your space at home and away, then it’s worth paying that little bit more for everyone to have their own space. If you don’t mind a cosy family trip, you can often save money by figuratively and literally bunking up in a bunk bed-style cabin.

Go all inclusive

If your cruise has an all inclusive package, it’s worth splurging on an upgrade, as without it all the drinks and little extras soon rack up an extra few hundred to your bill. It can feel counterintuitive but having that cost out of the way before the trip means you can spend your money on tours and outings rather than drinks and snacks.

Sales, deals, and tips

There are often ways to save a few pennies on trips that can make family cruising budget-friendly. My favourites are MSC, who do what they can to make cruising affordable for the whole family. With their latest ship the MSC Euribia, under-twos cruise free while children are charged a reduced fare from £119pp. Prices are available all year round when sharing a cabin with two full-paying adults. All children’s activities are free – minus a small fee for kids to use the machines at the gaming area including an f1 simulator, virtual reality games and interactive cinema.

Facilities

Are you looking for a luxury adult trip that happens to have children’s extras, or are a holiday inclusive for all the family? There are so many choices out there within similar price brackets, but knowing what’s a must is a great place to start. I’ve always liked the MSC line, as a mother as well as a travel blogger. Family fun doesn’t always mean fun together, which is why their huge range of independent activities and clubs for children fits so well for us – the kids are thoroughly entertained, so that you will have plenty of time to go and explore the bars, spa, and shops.

Planning

This can take up so much time in the run-up to the holiday. It’s great to be spontaneous, but with small children that’s not always practical. With older children, get them involved in the choice, and help them build their excitement early. Be sure to plan extra travel time if you don’t live near the port; it may be necessary to set off the day before and have a night in a nearby hotel to save you stress on the day.