First time cruising - kids aged 6/4 - help me choose!

[CruiseFamilyCanuck]

Hi there! I’m so overwhelmed with my options for our first official family cruise! I’ve cruised with NCL on the Getaway and loved it.

 

This time, I’m 100% focused on my kids. I feel like I’ve narrowed it down to the new NCL Bliss or Carnival Horizon. I want to go brand new for our first time!

 

 

Why I’m leaning towards Carnival:

- much more family oriented

- offers my dream 8-day Southern Caribbean itinerary

- like the idea of the family harbour staterooms

 

 

I guess I’m debating because I can only compare with NCL. Does NCL come close to the kids play programming Carnival has? Is it too adult-y?

 

 

Help!! Is CCL the right choice? Should I splurge for harbour??

[Keith1010]

Hi......

 

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

 

You will get answers here but you might want to post this on both the NCL and Carnival Cruise Line boards at:

 

NCL

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=-1&f=107

 

Carnival

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=-1&f=215

 

Keith

[Bonnie J.]

I'd have no question saying go with Carnival. They are known for their great kid's program. On one Carnival cruise we were on, there was just under 1,000 kids and we rarely saw any kids! Kids have so much fun, they don't want to leave the program. And Carnival has babysitting in the evening from 9 -or is it 10- until 2 or 3 am. But not in your cabin. It is like a big slumber party when kids fall asleep. But, it is not free there is a cost. You can ask on the Carnival board here on CC. what it is.

Every cruise they have a Dr. Seuss parade around the ship with all the kids matching in it. The Cat in the Hat often leads it. It is fun to watch and the kids love being in it!

 

We no longer like NCL but never been aware of their kid's program when we cruised NCL.

[CruiseFamilyCanuck]

Thank you so much for your reply! Appreciated it. I think my mind was already made up...but thank you!! :p

[mjkacmom]

NCL kids clubs are great, probably just like carnivals. I think the kids put on a circus show, and I remember a parad3 through the ship.

[cb at sea]

NCL is just as "family friendly" as Carnival, or RCI.....no worries on whatever decision you make!

[DCLCrazy]

If you can swing it, go with Disney. It’s wonderful for both parents and kids.

 

 

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