Navigator - Some comments about recent cruise with a toddler

[kitkat343]

Did you have any trouble reserving times in the nursery? I realize that will depend upon the specific cruise, and how many children sail, and whether their families choose to utilize the nursery, but I am wondering in general how open they are to taking more reservations than the 20 hours? And did you have any difficulties booking the initial 20 hours during times you wanted to use them? Thanks so much - we are trying to decide between Disney and RCL for the nursery, and Disney lets you reserve prior to embarkation so it seems a bit less frightening (but much more expensive! We've never sailed either line so we are trying to figure out what would be best).

[mconthehighseas]

We went to the nursery the first evening aboard soon after sailaway, and we were able to book dinner for every night except that first night. (The nursery wasn't open for children that first night, probably to allow the staff to do a complete cleaning from the previous cruise.)

 

The cruise Zanesmommy and I were on was one where school was still in session, so the ship was not at capacity, but there were 53 toddlers on board.

 

I'll be honest with you. We picked Royal because we were in driving distance to the pier and because they have a casino. While Disney has a marvelous children's program and a lot of great amenities, Royal has something for every member of every family. They have great entertainment with Broadway quality performers and a terrific fitness program, among other things. Be sure to check what is available on the specific ships for the cruises you've selected, since not all restaurants and entertainment are available on all ships.

[tropical82]

What about the shore excursions? Any insight into what you were able to do with a toddler? (I'll also have an infant so I'm sure we'll be further limited). I saw a glass bottom boat on one of the ports so I'm thinking that's easy enough to do with a kid. May just be beach time the other port days but it'd be good to hear about experiences and beach recommendations.

[webzila]

What about the shore excursions? Any insight into what you were able to do with a toddler? (I'll also have an infant so I'm sure we'll be further limited). I saw a glass bottom boat on one of the ports so I'm thinking that's easy enough to do with a kid. May just be beach time the other port days but it'd be good to hear about experiences and beach recommendations.

 

Last trip to Cozumel with our then 2 yr old we went to Playa Mia. We went on our own, no ship excursion. It was much cheaper and faster since we did not have to wait for others. We got to the beach before most other excursions going there and left on our own whenever our kid got tired.

 

Going there and back we got a taxi van and were able to put the unfolded stroller right in the back.