Families should take into account the cruise line and the actual cruise ship that will be used on their vacation. While it may be enticing to choose the cheapest or most expensive cruise line (depending upon taste), travel expert Howard Hillman recommends using a "mid-market" cruise line rather than a "budget" or "upscale" one because that it has a more family-friendly package. Families should seek out newer, more modern ships, which will most likely have more activities for young people.
Toddlers who are not potty-trained can find it hard to experience the water activities on a cruise ship because the ship must adhere to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP). The VSP stipulates that children that are not potty-trained may not swim in the pool that is provided for general population. Parents should try to potty train toddlders before departure.
Families may think that all items they may need will be provided on the ship. However they should pack things that a cruise ship may not provide. They should keep the name and telephone number of the pediatrician of any young children close by in case of a medical emergency.
Families traveling with babies should pack items such as a rectal thermometer, diaper rash ointment and baby shampoo. Parents should carry a recent picture of their children to show to the crew and passengers in case a child should become lost or disoriented while on a large, multilevel cruise ship.
