Family Cruise Planning Specialist

Our granddaughter holding a sloth

No matter how big or small your family is, there is always a desire to take that relaxing vacation.  My family’s journey began in 2004 when my husband and I decided to take our 2 girls on a 4-day cruise out of LA to Catalina and Ensenada where we have never experienced such full service before. 

Our girls tried food they never would have before, enjoyed all the onboard entertainment, and they met new friends and had an amazing time on what we thought was a big ship being our first time. 

The trip set off a new annual family tradition that would carry over to our grandchildren. When people ask why we choose cruising over land packages, the one word I can use to define it all is value. 

What has value given to us as a family, that’s easy:  

1.    New family traditions - as a parent, when I think of all the money we spend on toys, games, parties, etc. while those inanimate objects may mean a lot in the beginning; however, they end up lost, broken, given away, not cared for, and in short, a waste of money.  We began an annual cruise in Feb – Mar time frame and used the money we were going to spend on those meaningless gifts and began cruising making a lifetime of memories and friendships. 

2.    The dining experiences were enriching - my oldest daughter tried lamb chops on a cruise, and it is now still one of her favorite dishes she looks forward to on cruises.  My husband absolutely loves all the various seafood options as we have tried caviar, sushi, and more.  My youngest daughter was known by name at the pizza station!! I personally enjoy the variety of cuisine that includes cultural dishes I would have never had on land.  There is always something for someone onboard to eat. 

3.    Onboard entertainment & activities were always in plenty.  The girls loves the available kids clubs, water features & pools, mini golf, one of a kind kids only experiences all while we as parents enjoyed soaking up the sun, playing trivia, attending shows, listening to live music and for family time, our favorite was always a Movie under the Stars with popcorn.  My granddaughters favorite was Bolt, the Roller Coaster at Sea. 

4.    Your new cruise family!! Our girls have made friends on cruises they have kept in contact with and speak to frequently over the past 15 years.  My husband and I have made new friends that we cruise often with, and now our oldest granddaughter is experiencing the same things her mother did. 

5.    Enriching experiences - our children have seen and have been immersed in historical, architectural, and natural significant locations in other countries.  From the ruins in Mexico, to cave tubing in Belize, riding a horse on the beach, experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, and flavors of different cultures.  Let us not forget the viewing and holding of the native wildlife such a monkeys, sloths, starfish, birds, and observing a variety of fish while snorkeling.

I know as parent(s), guardian(s), loved one(s) that there are questions when it comes to the children you are bringing onboard; questions such as:

Documentation Needed to travel

Activities onboard from sports decks to pools and more

Food Allergies / types of food available

Drink Packages for children

Medical Care

Kids Clubs / Age Groups

can my children go ashore / participate in an excursion

are there curfews onboard for children

are there video games / arcade onboard

are just to name a few.I am happy to answer all your questions and provide that peace of mind you seek as we plan that special vacation that will build memories to cherish for a lifetime.