cruising with an infant

[larabee]

I have never been on a cruise before, and was considering going on a cruise around the Hawaiian islands with my husband and 2 year old. Is this a crazy thing to do with a 2 year old? Would we be able to take full advantage of all the ships activities?

[Ron Clark]

If the child is two years of age upon embarkation, he or she can use the Kids Crew facilities.
The only drawback is whether the child is potty trained or not. If not, they will give you a beeper and will beep you when the child needs changing. It's not too late to potty train your child.

[Berick1234]

Not a whole lot for a 2 year old on a ship...You would be spending more time taking care of the little one than having a good time...If you can....have the grandparents take care of the baby...and go have a Wonderful time with your spouse....I've seen parents with their little ones on board and they seemed stressed...OR, have the grandparents come
with:-)....that seems to work...then you would have alone time too....but just going alone with your spouse for a nice romantic cruise seems the best option...

Happy Cruising with any choice you make...

Bob E

[LisaP]

Hi larabee, and welcome to cruise-chat.com!

I don't think it's crazy to cruise with a 2-year old. In fact, our son had been on three cruises by the time he was 2! Bob is correct, though, in that it will not be a romantic cruise. But, it can still make for a nice family vacation.

As far as the ship, there are very few areas that are off-limits to kids. We've brought our son to the dining room, show lounge, and other areas. When in the show lounge, we sat in the back in case we had to make a quick exit. For the dining room, we practiced longer meals at home and in restaurants in the months before we left. One important note (and this applies to any ship) is that s/he will not be able to use the swimming pools unless potty trained.

We have some great memories of those early family cruises. (Emphasis on "family.") My husband and I had a good time, as well. No cleaning, cooking for a week!

If you decide to go, I'll be happy to provide some tips.