It's time to start thinking about taking your family on a cruise vacation.
Once you book your cruise during this three-month money-saving period, you'll begin picturing that magical day when you've bid a fond bon voyage to those on land and you can begin relaxing on the gentle sea waters.
Of course, if you want to book a family cruise, you need to choose a cruise line that actually specializes and caters to families.
"Choosing the right cruise is not just about price or itinerary, it is about finding the right 'fit' for a traveler's needs," said Muffett Grubb of Cruise Holidays in Knoxville, Tennessee.
"Every cruise line has a different personality, just like hotel chains do. Finding the right personality fit for clients is like a matchmaking process: What amenities are important in the stateroom? What ship amenities are important? What type and level of activities? How does the overall vibe of the ship match the clients' vacation personality?"
Grubb suggests looking at past travel history such as: What did the client like and dislike about previous vacations?
"What do they like to do on vacation can lend clues on how to find the right fit?" said Grubb. "Travel agents want to maximize the cruise experience for clients, and choosing the right cruise line is a big part of that overall experience."
Once you have a cruise line, make sure it has everything you need for your family.
When selecting a family cruise, it is best to look for a cruise line and ship that has activities for guests of all the age groups traveling.
"For example, if it is a multi-gen cruise, Grandma and Grandpa might like the casino, the shows or even shuffle-board, where the parents might like the sports bar, dance club, spa or to see a comedy show," said Kim DalPonte Owner of Pixie Dust & Paradise Travel in Chicago, Illinois.
"Your teens might want to zipline, climb a rock wall, learn to surf or play video games, while toddlers like to play in the splash areas and at the kids' camp. It is important to find a ship that everyone will enjoy."
DalPonte also suggests you book a pre-night stay near whatever port you are sailing from: "This is so you can get to the port and onto the ship earlier than most guests, and so you don't have to worry about delays or canceled flights due to weather. It just makes the travel day less stressful."
She also recommends purchasing travel insurance just in case something should happen to a family member or weather could derail your plans: "I personally prefer to book with a third-party supplier than the cruise line, as I feel it usually has better coverage."
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