Taking baby on Cunard

[KPNut]

Hi,

 

I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son.

 

He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars?

 

He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble).

 

Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do.

 

Thanks in advance :)

[goodsailors]

Have been on cruises with P & O, Princess and a number with Cunard and can honestly say we have never seen a baby in the main restaurants. maybe they go to the self-service restaurants, have never dined in one of those in the evening. Have seen them in the self-services restaurants for breakfast and lunch.

 

Maybe this is not much help but enjoy your cruise, QV is great and we are joining her (again), at the end of July for a Med cruise.

[KPNut]

Have been on cruises with P & O, Princess and a number with Cunard and can honestly say we have never seen a baby in the main restaurants. maybe they go to the self-service restaurants, have never dined in one of those in the evening. Have seen them in the self-services restaurants for breakfast and lunch.

 

Maybe this is not much help but enjoy your cruise, QV is great and we are joining her (again), at the end of July for a Med cruise.

 

 

Thanks for your reply. We were offered a high chair when booking, but wasn't sure if it was practical in a formal environment. Will wait and see I guess.

 

Have heard great reviews about the QV - we can't wait - seems we have chosen one of the best for our first time cruise!

[pepperrn]

Hi, I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son. He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars? He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble). Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do. Thanks in advance :)

Hi KPNut,

 

Welcome to the Cunard board,

 

If your son truly does sleep through then I can see no reason why, given his age and lack of night nursery, why you shouldn't take him into the public rooms on the ship.

 

My only hesitation about this would be respecting your fellow passengers. A sleeping baby cannot possibly cause anyone to object. But a screaming one is the very last thing I would want to encounter when dinning or having a quiet cocktail with friends in a piano bar.

 

I've known parents who "let the baby cry/scream" and carry on eating as "he'll calm down in a minute". That minute can seem like hours when someone else's child is inflicted on one.

 

But, as I said, if he sleeps as well as you say, then I would say "well done" for asking the question here and a huge Bon Voyage for your cruise on QV (Photos of her interiors via the link below).

 

With all best wishes, have a great time :)

Edited June 30, 2014 by pepperrn

[KPNut]

Hi KPNut,

 

Welcome to the Cunard board,

 

If your son truly does sleep through then I can see no reason why, given his age and lack of night nursery, why you shouldn't take him into the public rooms on the ship.

 

My only hesitation about this would be respecting your fellow passengers. I sleeping baby cannot possibly cause anyone to object. But a screaming one is the very last thing I would want to encounter when dinning or having a quiet cocktail with friends in a piano bar.

 

I've known parents who "let the baby cry/scream" and carry on eating as "he'll calm down in a minute". That minute can seem like hours when someone else's child is inflicted on one.

 

But, as I said, if he sleeps as well as you say, then I would say "well done" for asking the question here and a huge Bon Voyage for your cruise on QV (Photos of her interiors via the link below).

 

With all best wishes, have a great time :)

 

thanks Pepper for your reply. Will check out your link shortly.

 

It goes without saying, we'd never let him cry/scream - I hate seeing others do that and would be out of the room as quickly as I could pick him up and move!

 

He does truly sleep through - though I fear I may have jinxed it now! Oh well, we have a balcony room, so at least we have a nice view should we need to stay in :)

[pepperrn]

thanks Pepper for your reply. Will check out your link shortly. It goes without saying, we'd never let him cry/scream - I hate seeing others do that and would be out of the room as quickly as I could pick him up and move! He does truly sleep through - though I fear I may have jinxed it now! Oh well, we have a balcony room, so at least we have a nice view should we need to stay in :)

Hi KPNut,

 

Well you get "double points" from me! :) First you ask a good question, and then you put my mind at rest :) .

 

I hope you have the most wonderful cruise.

 

With all best wishes :)

Edited June 30, 2014 by pepperrn

[Ray66]

My son took his 7 month old baby on the QE some time ago and they ate in the Britannia Restaurant every night at first seating. He was offered a high chair which was one of those wooden ones but they thought it would be too slippy for him so they just took him in in his buggy. He was very well behaved and sometimes just fell asleep.

[KPNut]

My son took his 7 month old baby on the QE some time ago and they ate in the Britannia Restaurant every night at first seating. He was offered a high chair which was one of those wooden ones but they thought it would be too slippy for him so they just took him in in his buggy. He was very well behaved and sometimes just fell asleep.

 

That's reassuring to hear. Thank you!

[MsDeva]

Hi,

 

I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son.

 

He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars?

 

He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble).

 

Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do.

 

Thanks in advance :)

 

Hi and welcome.

 

Go and enjoy your cruise. You will have a fabulous time on the Queen Victoria and I am sure your son will also enjoy every moment. Please take little notice of the negative remarks on here.

 

Judy

[Artemis]

KPNut, welcome to the Cunard forum! FWIW, I found the pax onboard to be mostly delightful and open-minded. Sometimes, on this board, not so much--I chalk it up to the shield of anonymity. I'm sure 99% of posters, no matter how clever they believe themselves to be here, are, also, mostly delightful and open-minded in person!

 

Until another Cunarder with experience bringing babies on board replies (I do suggest you search the archives with some logical keywords), my two cents responsive to your general query is this: As Cunard attracts a clientele in search of a more formal environment, kids and babies are in the minority, and to win over your fellow pax, it would probably be best to err on the admittedly old-fashioned "children should be seen but not heard" end of the spectrum. What does that mean? Nothing more than common courtesy, really. I'm a mom of a well-traveled family, now grown up; but I certainly remember being in your position. And here's how I'd handle it. I would definitely bring my 9-month-old to dinner...provided mom or dad was willing to jump up at the first sign of inconsolable crying and leave the dining room. Ditto theatres, lectures, etc. As for bars, really?! I get the outcries from puritanical Americans, but many an English pub was a place for community gatherings, and all ages were welcome until maybe 9 or 10 PM. Sheesh. As long as your little guy is quiet, I'd say, feel free to tote him along until such hour as you detect the bar taking on a more "adults only" ambiance.

 

Cunard is a tour operator at sea that takes family money. Period. There will be some who want to glamorize the experience beyond realism. That's okay. But don't let them rain on your parade. Be respectful and courteous. In the end, your primary problem will be all the people who want to fuss over your son! What a great problem to have!

 

Bon voyage, and enjoy every moment, as it may be a while before you can do it again! 9-month-olds are a breeze. Toddlers are another story. ;) We did purely family-oriented stuff during those years--the day we returned to "real travel" when they were maybe 5 and 7 ranks up there among the happiest days of my life!

 

 

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[pmb1]

...Its our first cruise and I am finding it difficult to answer some of my queries on Cunard site. ...

Welcome aboard, KPNut. Cunard's online FAQ pages often provide more useful information than their home page or Voyage Personaliser. Give it a try.

[Salacia]

Hi,

 

I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son.

 

He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars?

 

He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble).

 

Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do.

 

Thanks in advance :)

 

Hi KPNut, yes I have see babies in the main dining room (on QM2). You certainly have every right to bring you baby to any venue that does not have an age restriction - and certain venues (like the casino and some other venues) do have age restrictions for obvious reasons.

 

Just to mention that some babies love being at sea, but like adults, some don't react all that well. Mal de Mer, loud sounds in restaurants and bars, and upset in our daily routine can put some of us in a different temperament. Happily, you have booked a balcony cabin - so you and your family will be assured of a nice quiet place to spend the evening - meanwhile, you have the run of the ship during the day.

 

Take it from an old married lady, you and your husband might find it more relaxing to enjoy the evening in your private quarters while your baby sleeps peacefully ;) However it works out for you, I wish you all a good voyage. Regards, -S.

Edited July 1, 2014 by Salacia

[luckymal]

Hi,

 

I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son.

 

He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars?

 

He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble).

 

Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do.

 

Thanks in advance :)

 

I may be old fashioned. but I do think a 9 month old child should be in a restaurant or a bar just because the parents are on holiday, parents have to sacrifice thing when they have VERY YOUNG children, also is it fair on other cruisers?

[KPNut]

I think this forum is not for me. Sadly despite a few helpful people, it seems many are rude and unhelpful. Some people clearly have nothing better to do.

 

 

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[KPNut]

However, I see the unpleasant posts have now disappeared.

 

 

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[caber]

Don`t let the nasty comments of some people put you off. I am just off Queen Elizabeth on my first Cunard cruise. I was second sitting so didn`t see any children in the dining room but there were a couple of babies and toddlers around the ship. Most of the older cruisers tend to be grandparents and will understand the work involved.

Go and enjoy your cruise and good luck with your baby. I used to take mine on holiday from a young age also.

[KPNut]

Don`t let the nasty comments of some people put you off. I am just off Queen Elizabeth on my first Cunard cruise. I was second sitting so didn`t see any children in the dining room but there were a couple of babies and toddlers around the ship. Most of the older cruisers tend to be grandparents and will understand the work involved.

 

Go and enjoy your cruise and good luck with your baby. I used to take mine on holiday from a young age also.

 

 

Great to hear! Hope you had a fab time on your cruise :)

 

 

 

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[Camgirl]

On our last cruise on QV there were several small children including at least one little lad around a year old. They were all extremely well behaved and I never heard any of them crying. The little lad was often seen asleep in his buggy around the ship. His dad would often walk around the promenade deck pushing the buggy. There was no problem with the little ones in any areas, except for all the older (mainly ladies) cooing over them all!!

One tiny girl completely stole the Ascot ball parade toddling around with her Gran holding her walking reins, with a lovely dress on and a pretty hat! She had obviously not been walking long but she trotted round and round in the parade. She was very sweet!

The little lad was just walking too and he stole the show whilst the Commodore was talking at one of the receptions. He was at the front near the stage in the corner of the Queens Room and was fascinated by the lights around the edge. He kept toddling over and quietly sitting on the edge of the stage patting the lights and looking at them. Again, he was quiet and beautifully behaved.

Don't forget, all babies cry, it is how they communicate their needs. It is the way you deal with it that will make the difference to other people around and it sounds like you have the perfect attitude.

Your son sounds as though he will fit in just fine. Your only problem might be all the cooing that he gets! Enjoy your cruise.

[pepperrn]

On our last cruise on QV there were several small children including at least one little lad around a year old. They were all extremely well behaved and I never heard any of them crying. The little lad was often seen asleep in his buggy around the ship. His dad would often walk around the promenade deck pushing the buggy. There was no problem with the little ones in any areas, except for all the older (mainly ladies) cooing over them all!! One tiny girl completely stole the Ascot ball parade toddling around with her Gran holding her walking reins, with a lovely dress on and a pretty hat! She had obviously not been walking long but she trotted round and round in the parade. She was very sweet! The little lad was just walking too and he stole the show whilst the Commodore was talking at one of the receptions. He was at the front near the stage in the corner of the Queens Room and was fascinated by the lights around the edge. He kept toddling over and quietly sitting on the edge of the stage patting the lights and looking at them. Again, he was quiet and beautifully behaved. Don't forget, all babies cry, it is how they communicate their needs. It is the way you deal with it that will make the difference to other people around and it sounds like you have the perfect attitude. Your son sounds as though he will fit in just fine. Your only problem might be all the cooing that he gets! Enjoy your cruise.

Excellent post, and very well said :) . Thank you.

[KPNut]

On our last cruise on QV there were several small children including at least one little lad around a year old. They were all extremely well behaved and I never heard any of them crying. The little lad was often seen asleep in his buggy around the ship. His dad would often walk around the promenade deck pushing the buggy. There was no problem with the little ones in any areas, except for all the older (mainly ladies) cooing over them all!!

One tiny girl completely stole the Ascot ball parade toddling around with her Gran holding her walking reins, with a lovely dress on and a pretty hat! She had obviously not been walking long but she trotted round and round in the parade. She was very sweet!

The little lad was just walking too and he stole the show whilst the Commodore was talking at one of the receptions. He was at the front near the stage in the corner of the Queens Room and was fascinated by the lights around the edge. He kept toddling over and quietly sitting on the edge of the stage patting the lights and looking at them. Again, he was quiet and beautifully behaved.

Don't forget, all babies cry, it is how they communicate their needs. It is the way you deal with it that will make the difference to other people around and it sounds like you have the perfect attitude.

Your son sounds as though he will fit in just fine. Your only problem might be all the cooing that he gets! Enjoy your cruise.

 

This post has made me very happy indeed! Thank you for taking the time to reply!

[LadyL1]

You will almost certainly find other parents in the same situation as you. Many times I have seen babies in the restaurant in the evening taken in in buggies and usually asleep. Also seen many dads leaving with the buggy for a quick push around the prom with a restless child.

Remember, this is not an adult only ship, so I hope you really enjoy yourselves as QV has a very special atmosphere. In the evening you might find some of the bars a bit tricky with the buggy as there is not always so much room , but there are plenty of areas where you can sit and be served drinks and have pleasure in watching the world go by. If you are on a "warm" cruise, the bar on the open deck in the evening is very pleasant indeed.

My grandchildren were virtually weaned on Cunard ships, and they love every trip including eating in the restaurant with the family. They are now 9 & 5 and have no problem in communicating with the more curmudgeonly persons on board. The just learn to ignore them and enjoy their time cruising!

Have a wonderful holiday.

[T5LHR]

Hi,

 

I'm new to cruising and going on QV soon with our 9 month old son.

 

He is too young for the night nursery, so was wondering if we are able to take him into the bars?

 

He is very well behaved and easily goes to sleep at his bedtime in his recliner buggy (we've been away in UK recently and he slept through holiday club entertainment no trouble).

 

Also, has anyone seen babies in the main restaurants? We have a high chair reserved, but not sure if it's the "thing" to do.

 

Thanks in advance :)

 

Hello!

 

Well, first of all… I love KP Nuts, especially the honey roast ones… So lovely and addictive… Before you know it, the bag is empty!

 

Secondly, I hope you have a wonderful trip! :) Not that I have children myself, but I know how difficult and tiring it can be having a new addition to the family.

 

By all means, take advantage of all the facilities onboard, and take all offers of assistance given. High chairs, coo-ing onlookers, doting grandparents willing to entertain whilst you sup a drink. If your little one is as well behaved and happy as you say (and, come on, at the end of the say, he is a 9 month old little boy, you can't exactly "tell" him what to do…) I am sure he will be a hit with all. I am sure that there will be the ones who would prefer that you remain locked up in your cabin all day every day, and let out for an hour to stretch your legs. But, ignore them and I am sure you will have a lovely time.

 

I work in the travel industry and frequently help parents when they bring their little bundles onboard my aircraft. I will often hold them for mum, especially if travelling alone, so she can nip to the loo, or quickly eat something. In the middle of the night, half way across the atlantic, I have sat in the galley with a 7 month old little girl, fast asleep in my arms, so her mum could have something to eat… Not everyone hates children, and I am sure you will be just fine.

 

Have a great time, and enjoy the ship, ALL of it.

 

T5

:)

[caber]

So now you see there are more nice than nasty people on this board. You will find this to be the same on the ship.

[jimmybean]

I've seen at least a few babies and toddlers on every cruise ship on which I've ever sailed. I can't remember ever hearing a fussy child crying on any ship. The setting and parade of passengers seem to be entertaining for small children.

 

When my children were young, I knew when they needed needed food, or a nap, and when they needed needed stimulation or quiet time. Mothers know these things and strategize accordingly. I'm sure that this applies to you as well.

 

I think Britannia will work fine for your family most nights. If you anticipate a fussy dinner hour, you could easily decide to eat in the buffet or order from room service one night. You aren't locked into any one dinner venue and you can change your mind at the last minute.

 

If baby gets fussy before dessert in Britannia, you could enjoy dinner there, then walk with the stroller and end up having dessert in the buffet. You will have options which you can play by ear, depending on the situation.

 

If baby is quiet and not disturbed by the dark, you and your husband should be able to attend shows at the theater. One of my children slept in the cinema--the other cried. Every child is different and every mother learns how her child will react and parents accordingly….

 

I think a baby sleeping in stroller would not be a problem in one of the bars from my perspective (I'm from the US) but I have no idea whether Cunard would have a rule against such a thing---or if they would enforce such a rule.

 

BTW, welcome to Cruise Critic. Please post your experience after your voyage so that others may learn from you. (And, try searching past Cruise Critic posts to see if other mothers have posted any tips regarding sailing with an infant).

 

Happy Happy Sailing!

[Salacia]

Partial quote

.... I can't remember ever hearing a fussy child crying on any ship...

 

That's pretty amazing. Infants, babies and children cry, sometimes at the most unexpected occasions. When they cry can't be regulated or predicted, whether they are on land or at sea, in a restaurant, theater, or an otherwise quiet funeral service where they can cry louder than any adult mourner. But that's only my observation.