Anyone for some sun? In this great guest post Lorraine from Secret Mum Blog gives us plenty of reasons to book a family cruise to the Caribbean this winter. Who’s with us?! Over to Lorraine:
Family cruise to the Caribbean
As the summer becomes a distant memory my mind automatically drifts off to sunnier climes. For me holidays are all about hot sunny days and balmy evenings – and the perfect place for that in the winter is the Caribbean! And the perfect way to see the Caribbean is by boat. A big boat – a cruise ship!
I have been lucky enough to cruise the Caribbean islands on several occasions and here are my reasons why I think it is a great winter sun family holiday option:
Sunshine
If like me you need to keep up your Vitamin D intake during the winter months then the Caribbean offers plentiful sunshine and warm (albeit humid) weather. Perfect for packing light with a family in tow and spending time outside.
Relaxed atmosphere
Cruising the Caribbean tends to be less formal than cruising in other regions such as the Med. It seems that passengers take ‘on board’ the relaxed Caribbean vibe and chill out a bit more! Also, the Caribbean is less about sightseeing and more about soaking up the local flavour.
Beaches
Nearly every port will present you with a stunning beach. Soft white sands and warm shallow waters. Perfect for sandcastle building and splashing around with the kids.
Island hopping
Sailing time between the Islands is generally short and the waters are pretty shallow which means you feel very little movement from the ship. If you or the kids are feeling nervous about feeling queasy then this is a good bet for smooth sailings.
Balmy evenings
Kids want to run free and warm evenings on board mean they can hang out in the pool until late or enjoy the outdoor facilities on the ship. Think about sitting watching the latest blockbuster movie under the stars with a cocktail in hand while the kids splash happily in the pool. #thedream
The people
The people of the Caribbean are welcoming and friendly. Families are welcomed with open arms.
The ship
Cruise ships come armed with kids clubs and entertainment a go-go! This means you can get some grown up time safe in the knowledge that the kids are safe and being entertained. I have often had to drag my daughter kicking and screaming out of the kids club so we can go ashore. Some cruise lines will allow kids to remain on board in the kids club while parents head off the ship.
Christmas and NYE
The ships go all out over the festive season. Think Santa climbing up the funnel, full Turkey feast, snow in the Atrium and glittering parties. All of this with no unwanted visitors and no mountain of washing up!
3G – multi-generational holidays
A cruise is a brilliant three generational holiday option. There is something for everyone. Kids are playing in the pool, mum is in the spa, gran is taking a dance class and grandad is taking a lecture. Granted this is a bit of stereotyping but you get the picture!
Sunshine
Did I mention the sunshine…
One question: where can be book it?! Who else is up for a family cruise to the Caribbean?
Want to read more from Lorraine? Here’s her experience of exploring Barcelona independently from a cruise.
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