Cruising with Extended Family Increasing

There is no better place for families, extended families and friends to congregate than on a cruise ship. Growing closer through shared activities yet fostering your own space and privacy at the same time creates the perfect environment for reunions and anniversaries.

One of the great aspects of a cruise is the seemingly unlimited activities it offers. Great destinations, sure; but also fun and exciting events on board between ports hold the interest of guests. Lounging at the pool, taking in a first run movie, spas, casinos, fitness centers, dances, nightly entertainment and more can be enjoyed by individuals or groups as their own specific interests; then everyone convenes together for dinner to discuss the day and share experiences.

It may seem as though it would be a difficult manner to organize a family cruise or reunion. There will always be contention when getting a group together; everyone will have their own ideas on the best place to go and the best time to go there. There should always be one coordinator who makes the decisions based on the majority; that person should be the one to provide the information to others in the family and allow them to make the choice as to whether to join the majority or not.

The cruise industry has seen a huge increase in extended family cruises since the occurrence of 09/11. The trend has been recognized by all of the major cruise lines, who have been striving to encourage the new wave of families through increasing activities for all age groups. Promoting “kids sail free”, integrating kid friendly programs and events beginning at toddler age right up through age 18 shows the cruise lines’ affinity to the family cruise experience.

Planning a cruise for numerous members provides a venue for all members to gather together in one location, concentrate on their own enjoyment while still being able to gather together at the end of the day with extended family members. There is no doubt that family cruises are a win-win vacation.