By Sandy Klim

With summer fast approaching, there’s no better time to begin planning for a great family vacation. Cruising has never been a better value or more fun than it is today, with new ships, expanded itineraries, and great onboard and onshore activities.

Most ships are family friendly with loads of programs for kids of all ages.

The all-inclusive pricing allows you to plan your vacation with no hidden surprises. One price covers all your onboard meals, entertainment and activities, making it an affordable way to travel. There are itineraries to virtually every part of the world. Cruise Alaska, the Panama Canal, New England and Canada, Europe—your options are plentiful. Two of the most popular destinations are the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Once there, you can relax on white sandy beaches, take in some local sightseeing or go snorkeling in their legendary turquoise waters.

There are several cruise lines you can select from for your voyage. Each has its own unique onboard personality and style. Choose an itinerary and a cruise line that match your lifestyle and interests.

Disney Cruise Line
The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder cruise ships have combined the elegance of classic ocean liners from times gone by with the whimsical touches that are classic Disney. Once onboard, kids rush to the Mickey Pool with a waterslide held up by an oversized-gloved Mickey. In all, there are three pools and four whirlpools. The littlest ones can splash and play in the shallow Mickey pool. Older kids prefer the Goofy pool with its own set of whirlpool spas. Kids will love the specially created areas that let them play with others their own age. Kids check into these visually appealing and kid-friendly areas, giving mom and dad a chance to explore the ship.

Adults-only areas ensure guests have a place to have fun or just relax onboard. In the evening, enjoy a night of dancing, music and comedy at one of the ship’s “nightclubs.”

You can bask in the tropical sunshine of Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. You’ll be treated to a live steel drum band, an island barbecue and loads of activities for both kids and adults.

Carnival
The “Fun Ships” feature the bright lights, lavish shows, casino action and energy of Las Vegas. Kids will enjoy the huge pools and waterslides onboard.

Camp Carnival is a year-round supervised program for young cruisers ages two through 15. While the kids are at camp, adults can get pampered with European-style beauty treatments at the Nautica Spa, or take in an evening of dancing. You’ll never go hungry onboard. Carnival’s Total Choice dining allows you to choose from a variety of restaurant options, from elegant full-service meals in formal restaurants to more casual buffet-style dining. Youngsters will love the 24-hour pizzeria, ice cream and cookie turndown service.

Holland America
Cruisers enjoy a relaxed, refined setting in this floating “Five-Star” resort, filled with antiques and an extensive art collection. Holland America offers more spacious staterooms and a more luxurious style. Variety shows, intimate lounge acts, movies and casino action entertain adults. Club HAL features on-board activities, special menus and optional short excursions “Just for Kids.”

Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Voyager of the Seas, has introduced exciting on-board activities such as a rock-climbing wall, miniature golf course and an actual ice-skating rink. If rock climbing isn’t your style, try your luck at the Casino Royale or take in a comedy show. The Adventure Ocean program is designed for guests from three to 17 and offers activities such as Adventure Science, Adventure Art and theme parties.

Princess Cruise Line
Guests aboard Princess’ fleet are treated to intimate spaces, gracious staterooms and private balconies. You’ll be entertained with an array of daily activities. Test your golf skills in the golf simulator or on a nine-hole putting green. Learn to dance in ballroom and line-dancing classes. A backstage tour lets you learn the secrets of their award-winning production shows. In the evening, enjoy a night out “on the town” with dancing and comedy.

Junior cruisers ages three to 17 can enjoy a boatload of exciting shipboard activities with the Princess Kids’ Program. There’s plenty to do, from arts and crafts to scavenger hunts, pizza parties to disco, sports tournaments to the latest in video games.

Cruising with friends or family is one of the most effortless vacations available. Everything is at your fingertips, from restaurants to entertainment, childcare, spas, workout areas, shopping and more. Indulge yourself and get pampered at the ship’s onboard spa, choosing from one of many unique beauty treatments, facials and massages.

You’ll be completely spoiled by the numerous activities, exquisite meals and personalized service that have made cruising so popular.

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