Day Cruise
Wondering what to do with the kids over a long weekend? Plan a day trip on a cruise liner. Cruise ship companies are now catering to families and want you to bring yours aboard their vessel. They have planned some kid friendly activities and have grown up activities for the adults as well.
Keep in mind that a lot of cruise companies have been struggling with the economy in the last few years along with everyone else. So there are a lot of deals waiting for you to take advantage of. If you are the kind of family who loves to spend time on and near the water a day cruise could be exactly the family get away you are looking for.
Many of these companies will offer a “third time free” if you buy two trips within a certain time frame. They will give you an extra trip for free. Then hope you and the family spend even more aboard the ship with other amenities than you would normally. Not a bad deal either way.
There will often be deals where each person 12 years of age and over can get a ticket for $99 for one full day. There are also day cruises that actually last for 3 days. These tickets will cost each person about $199 each. This will include a two night stay either on board if the ship is large enough or at a hotel near the dock.
There will be an entire list of things to do, activities available and amenities to indulge in. Sample as much as you can or keep to a few favorites. The cruise companies want you to be so busy and have so much to do that you will want to come back for more. Nobody wants you to be bored… on board.
Most of these ships will leave at about 10 AM and dock in a beautiful sunny port at about 2pm. There is the option of early boarding at 7am. This will give you lots of time to wander the decks and discover the ship’s offerings. For both kids and adults you’ll find water sports and games in the on board pools, a gym, spa, lots of different types of restaurants and shops suited to every taste. There is usually a casino somewhere on the ship as well.
One terrific aspect is the all-inclusive day cruise specials. The managers of these vessels want their customers to think about having fun and not spending money. An example is that kids get to drink Shirley Temples as often as they like for free. Even grown ups like the popular juice drink. Although may adults will opt for an alcoholic version and the house will buy the first one.
The entire industry of cruise lining is changing and day cruises are more popular than ever. They are upgrading the entertainment and music shows to more modern and hip performances. Kids and parents are responding. So, if being on a boat in a beautiful location sounds like fun to your family, it’s worth it to take a closer look at what a day cruise has to offer!