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Family Cruises: Charting Your Course
Young passengers play computer games at Carnival Valor's Camp Carnival, which is aimed at ages 2 to 11.
(By Andy Newman/carnival Cruise Line)
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TOP ATTRACTIONS: In summer, kids can take magic lessons, learn about navigation and other behind-the-scenes activities through the X-Club, participate in an all-ages masquerade parade, junior Olympics, talent shows and a pirate treasure hunt. Science Journey programs include pirate lore, astronomy and a look at "natural phenomena and human disasters."
GENERAL VIBE: Plenty to do, and no condescension: Kids can make good use of their time on the high seas.
MORE INFO: 800-647-2251, http:/
Crystal
WHERE THEY GO: Itineraries in Europe and the Mediterranean, North America, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, South America, Pacific and Indian oceans, ranging from six days to the 106-day Full World Cruise.
SAMPLE COST: Seven- and 10-day fall Mexican Riviera cruises start at $1,295 per person, double occupancy. Children 11 and younger pay 50 percent of the minimum fare when accompanied by two full-fare paying adults. Throughout the year, the line occasionally has special promotions in which children can sail free when sharing a room with two adults.
THE BASICS: Kids' activities on this luxury line are offered for three age groups: 3 to 7, 8 to 12, and 13 to 17 . . . Activities are determined in part by the number of children on board . . . From the Web site: "Parents should be aware that our Junior Activities Program is not to be used in lieu of a baby-sitting service" . . . No babies younger than 6 months without parental waiver. . . Line reserves the right to restrict the number of those under age 3 aboard ships . . . Bring your own stroller . . . Complimentary soft drinks . . . Babysitting in stateroom, $7.50 an hour for one child, $10 for two, $12.50 for three; call 24 hours ahead.
TOP ATTRACTIONS: Lots of relatively low-key activities are offered for kids -- just no big whoops like on some of the other lines. Tours of the galley (where kids can decorate their own pastries), backstage area (including dressing rooms) and bridge are offered.
GENERAL VIBE: Web site states, "While Crystal Cruises' clientele is comprised mostly of mature travelers who prefer a refined and luxurious cruise experience, we offer a children's playroom and baby-sitting services on all cruises."
MORE INFO: 800-804-1500, http:/
Cunard
WHERE THEY GO: From U.S. ports, three- to 109-day trips on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2: Atlantic crossings, world tours, trips to Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean, and Africa.
SAMPLE COST: QM2's 12-day "Explorer's Caribbean" cruise departs New York Dec. 8. The fare is $1,799 per person, based on double occupancy, so a family of four pays $7,196.
THE BASICS: Specific activities/play hours are designated in five age ranges: 1 to 2, 3 to 6, 7 to 12, 12 to 14, and 15 to 17; a shipboard area on the QM2 called the Zone has low-key activities for kids 7 to 12 . . . For the younger ones, there's the Play Zone, which the Web site describes as "a well-run camp"; toddlers are watched over by British nannies . . . On the QE2, the Nursery is geared to kids 7 and younger, and the Club 2000 and Teen Center for older children. In honor of the fleet's British heritage, kids can take tea daily . . . No babies younger than a year on transatlantic crossings; shorter voyages can accommodate babies as young as 6 months . . . Bring your own stroller. . . Four days' worth of sodas for $3.95 per person plus 15 percent tip . . . Baby-sitting (with snack) only during scheduled adult meals and activities. No in-stateroom baby-sitting.
