Newbie/California/Kids/Late Summer/Help!

[Skyguitar]

Hi folks!

 

I am located in Northern California and my family consist of 4(Me, Wife, two boys age 6 and 2).

 

Planning this year's vacation, my wife and I are kind of tired of typical theme park vacation and realized Curise might me an option.

 

Our biggest concern is for the 2 yr old boy. He walks, runs, very friendly but he is only TWO. NOT POTTY TRAINED! If this means that we have to spend 24/7 with the boy, we might just call everything off and stay home this summer. Perhaps multiple trips to park and beach instead of cruise.

 

Now I understand that there are great kids program on the ship but I'm not sure if they care for kids as young as 2 yr old who is not potty trained.

 

We only want to depart California, Long Beach or San Diego perhaps. This will save us the overall travel time and flight expense and we can just drive to Southern Cali. Park our car there and drive back after.

 

We're thinking of 4 to 7 day cruise but flexible.

 

As far as destinations, Mexico or Alaska seems to be our only optino as we are wanting California departure. Someone mentioned to us that August and September is extremly hot in Mexico. We initially thought of Mexico as I thought it would be more kid friendly with beach and all comparison to Alaska. Is it?

 

Please recommend us which SHIP.

 

Please recommend us with destination of Mexico vs. Alaska.

 

Please recommend us with Itinerary.

 

As far as my wife and I, we wouldn't mind hanging with kids during the day but really would like few hours to eat nice dinner without being disturbed by the kids.

 

I also like live music with guitar involved.

 

Perhaps little poker at late night.

 

I don't want College students spring break atmosphere. You know the wild party, single, immature people. Sorry if this sounds rude, but don't know how else to say it.

 

I like new and modern to vintage.

 

Thank you very much for reading and helping!

[cb at sea]

Most cruiselines require anyone traveling without parents to be 21-25 years old....a bit past "college frat houses"....so that's not really going to be a concern.

 

Carnival takes 2 year olds into their program...and will change diapers or help with the bathroom.

RCI doesn't take 2 year olds on most ships, but they do have babysitting in the evening most of the time. Book that as soon as you board!

 

Alaskan cruises are totally different from "beachy" cruises....folks go to Alaska to see the sights, so in most cases, the ship is simply transportation. The ship becomes more important when you are doing more relaxing, beachy things.

 

You should really talk to a travel agent...I'm sure there are plenty in Ca!!!

[Essiesmom]

A ship from a CA port that takes kids at 2yr, your only choice is Carnival. Splendor from Long Beach, or Inspiration , also from Long Beach. No Royal Caribbeann ships on West Coast except Alaska. No NCL except Alaska. NCL accepts kids at 2, but they call you to change diapers. EM

[Krazy Kruizers]

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

You really need to see a travel agent.

If you are thinking about a summer cruise -- very cruise ships sail the Mexican ports at that time.

To do an Alaskan cruise from California will require more than 7 days.

[kitty9]

Babysitting in cabin on Royal Caribbean is not cheap, $19 an hour. Carnival has group sitting from 10pm until 3 am. For your two the charge will be $10 an hour.