Best Cruises for the Grandchildren

As well as doing your own children a huge favour by giving them a week or two of peace and quiet, taking the grandchildren on a cruise can be a hugely rewarding experience. Their energy and exuberance can be infectious and can keep you entertained for hours. However, it is highly likely that you and the grandkids have strongly differing tastes and interests.

Here are four cruises that are perfect for all passengers, no matter the gaps in age. For more information and booking, call 0800 953 4966.

France and Spain Half Term Special

26^th October 2014 (7 Nights)

Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas

Make the most of your half-term babysitting duties by taking the grandkids on a cruise around the north of Spain and France. With four excursions packed into the seven night cruise, there is no chance that the youngsters will get bored – they might even absorb a little culture and learn something!

The Adventure of the Seas has a wide range of activities and dining options to keep everybody happy. If you can keep up with the grandkids, the ship plays host to an inline skating track that is fun and great exercise.

For the Grandparents: The Royal Promenade, complete with cafes and shops.

For the Grandchildren: The Adventure Beach – swimming pool and water slide fun!

Portugal, Gibraltar and Spain

14^th July 2014 (12 Nights)

P&O Oceana

Kick off the kids’ summer holidays with a fun, sun-soaked cruise around the Iberian with plenty of excursions for them to go and enjoy some of the best beaches that Europe has to offer. Some of the continent’s most beautiful cities are explored granting you access to almost endless culture and entertainment.

The P&O Oceana plays host to the Footlights theatre where a whole range of unique and interesting performances can be enjoyed.

For the Grandparents: The Yacht and Compass lounge contains a large dance floor where you can recapture the romance.

For the Grandkids: The Riviera Pool by night is a fantastic setting to kids to unwind and socialise with new friends.

Puffins, Waterfalls and Geysers

20^th July (11 Nights)

Fred Olsen Black Watch

If the grandchildren love nature and animals, this cruise around Iceland will be the perfect summer treat. Much of the cruise takes place in areas of natural significance, allowing passengers a unique insight into the lives of puffins whilst exploring beautiful waterfalls and geysers.

The Fred Olsen Black Watch was voted the Best for Entertainment in the 2012 Cruise Critic awards, so there is always something to keep people of all ages interested.

For the Grandparents: The Gaming Tables test your skills and nerves against blackjack dealers and roulette tables.

For the Grandkids: The comprehensive internet centre ensures that the kids can stay in touch with all their friends back home and keep up with the latest gossip.

Venice & Adriatic Explorer

30^th October (7 Nights)

Royal Caribbean Splendour of the Seas

Ideal for those with Grandchildren who are yet to start school, cruising the Adriatic whilst the weather grows milder in November. The package includes a short stay in the picturesque Italian city of Venice, offering a relaxed start to the journey.

The Splendour of the Seas contains an awe-inspiring seven-story atrium that will enchant children and grandparents alike.

For the Grandparents: The Viking Crown Lounge set above the atrium is the perfect place to watch the world go by.

For the Grandchildren: The Adventure Ocean facilities are perfectly suited to children of all ages.

Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: Trish Hartmann, Roger Wollstadt, David Stanley, U.S Fish and Wildlife Service Northeast Region