Choosing the right family vacation to keep both parents and kids happy can be a challenge. For those parents seeking an alternative to the traditional summer road trip or week by the seashore, a cruise might be…
Choosing the right family vacation to keep both parents and kids happy can be a challenge. For those parents seeking an alternative to the traditional summer road trip or week by the seashore, a cruise might be just the solution. In fact, a cruise was the top vacation choice for the “perfect summer trip” in a 2005 National Geographic Kids survey that polled 401 children ages eight to 14.
“Cruises are this summer’s best family vacation value,” according to Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the cruise industry’s chief marketing organization. “In addition to a sea of destinations to choose from, today’s cruise ships offer a mind-boggling variety of amenities and activities for passengers of all ages.”
For summer 2006, destinations include popular ports in the Caribbean and Mediterranean as well as lesser-known destinations in Scandinavia, Russia and Iceland. Cruises appeal to children because CLIA-member line ships combine facilities and amenities for toddlers, young children and teenagers with a comprehensive program of supervised, age-appropriate activities, plus the excitement of traveling from port to port on the high seas.
Moreover, cruises uniquely provide both family “together-time” and “alone-time.” In addition to organized activities, kids can enjoy Internet access, water parks and video jukeboxes in dedicated private clubs. Meanwhile, parents can stretch out on adults-only sundecks and in relaxing hot tubs, or take in a couples’ massage or enrichment class. On summer nights, babysitting services let grown-ups “paint the town,” including dining, dancing and moonlit walks on deck.
According to the National Geographic Kids survey, 35 percent of children said cruises were their most popular choice. Beaches ranked second (17%), followed by amusement parks (17%), big cities (5%), lakes (3%), and summer camp (2%).
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
