British Isles cruise with two little ones

[jrose41]

Hello,

We are taking a British Isles cruise with my 4-year-old and 1-year-old next year. Going to probably do the Princess Cruises since they seem to have the best itinerary for the British Isles (looking at the 12-day). Anyone have any better itineraries please let me know I am flexible at this point I just can't find any other cruise lines with that similar itinerary. We book next month. My main question is the mini-suite vs. suite which is best with two children. The balcony staterooms just seem too small. The only thing I am finding most of the mini-suites already sold out for next Summer I am hoping our travel agent will have better luck. Anyone have any experience with suites on cruise ships and traveling with two kids would be much appreciated.

 

We took our then 2-year-old daughter on a Alaskan cruise last summer taking Norwegian Cruise Line so this will be our first cruise with two children. Never been on Princess Cruise Lines but looking forward to seeing Ireland, Scotland and some of France with my girls and hubby. My parents and brother and his girlfriend are going too so we will have lots of help with the girls. Also my three-year-old just got potty-trained a few days ago (we have been working on this for awhile and I am so proud of her) so I only have to bring one set of diapers for my 1-year-old. :)

[bearette]

It depends on the ship but the biggest difference is the size and amenities. If you book a suite you usually get a butler or concierge. Also a suite gets a tub, but it don't think all mini suites get one ( don't usually sail in one so not sure). Usually things like priority boarding and depending on the cruise line bonus points toward a higher loyalty reward level, but mini suites don't count towards these.

 

With it so far in advance I would book the category you can afford and feel comfortable in now and hope for a price drop closer to (that will get you that suite or Grand suite).

 

Itineraries are subjective so I would pick a location and then check out which ship and price YOU like that goes there. For me I don't care where it goes I am just happy to be on board, but all things being equal with kids the amenities my kids can enjoy will win out.

[Essiesmom]

Mini-suite would have plenty of space, foldout couch for the 47/o and room for a crib for the toddler. Balcony cabins do not have a sofa, so 4y/o would be relegated to an upper, which might not suit. EM