When it comes to taking a vacation on a cruise ship, seasoned travelers seem to have strong opinions on the subject, both pro and con. But there is no denying the impact the cruise industry has had on how families travel over the last several decades, and they're working overtime to appeal to kids of all ages. More and more ships are being built with state-of-the-art kids clubs, water slides, arcades, climbing walls, sports courts, and other activities designed for kids and teens. And it's working. Families now account for the second largest segment of cruise passengers behind only the retires. Yet, despite all the new family friendly features on the cruise ships, if you and your family likes to explore and get to really know each port of call; then booking a cruise may not be for you. Arriving into port in the morning and departing later that afternoon - as most cruises do - simply does not leave enough time to explore. However, one destination seems to be a notable exception, one where you can enjoy all of a ship's on board activities and facilities, and immerse yourself in the local culture: Bermuda.
What is great about a cruise to Bermuda is that on a seven night cruise, in addition to the four days at sea, you are docked on the island for three full days at Kings Wharf. This allow you plenty of opportunities to explore all the fabulous places and experiences that Bermuda has to offer in detail and at your leisure. Accommodations on the island are limited and can get pricey. With this option, you don't have to book a hotel or worry about where to dine out: the ship takes care of all that. (As someone who travels regularly with a family of four, I know how the expenses for lodging and meals can add up quickly).
With three full days on the island you will find a treasure trove of of places and activities for the whole family to enjoy. The beach at Horseshoe Bay is world famous for its pink sand and rainbow-colored reefs, and is a prime location for families to enjoy. Snorkeling is an activity the whole family can enjoy together, and the ares around Church Bay and Tobacco Bay are among the best family-friendly options you will find in North America. If the kids want a day away from the water, a trip to the Crystal and Fantasy Caves to check out the amazing stalactites and stalagmites is an awe-inspiring visit. If their is a golfer in the family, renting some clubs and playing a round at one of numerous world famous golf courses is a must. And just visiting the towns and people of the high class former British colony is a treat. Scooters are a popular and fun way to see the island. The local buses provide a good alternative, and you can buy a three day pass that will take you anywhere on the island. If you want a more scenic view, hop the ferry to Hamilton or St. George's for a great day trip.
Cruises to Bermuda are offered seasonally, with the summer months being the most popular. With cruises to Bermuda being offered from New York, Boston, and Baltimore, by Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Line. Each line offers tons of on board family activities and multiple dining options, and some of the cruise lines are running their newer, and larger ships, which will offer plenty of company for your kids to enjoy the cruise with, ( during the peak summer months there will be 300-600 kids on board cruise to Bermuda). For example, Norwegian Cruise Line places a great importance in family cruises to Bermuda by sailing their newest ship, the Norwegian Breakaway, seasonally out of New York City. The Breakaway is the ultimate in family cruising; featuring a the Aqua Park with five multistory waterslides, a three level Sports Complex, featuring a rock wall, ropes course and a miniature golf course. Other features for the kids Nickelodeon themed excitement and multi storied clubs for everyone based on age, and its all complimentary and supervised, so mom and dad can get some personnel time. Add to that, three decks of daytime and nighttime entertainment, 28 dining options, with Norwegian's famous "freestyle dining", were no set dining time or formal dress up is require. In addition the cruise has three family friendly Broadway shows and fireworks; you can see why Norwegian is targeting the family for a Bermuda cruise. With a great island with perfect weather to explore over multiple days; and great ships like the Norwegian Breakaway that offers endless shipboard activities for the entire family, this may be the perfect combination for a family cruise that everyone will love.
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