Can you take a newborn on a cruise? One of the many questions parents ponder is whether they can take a newborn on a cruise. It can indeed be a memorable experience for the whole family, but it comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Parents often have concerns about the safety, logistics, and overall feasibility of cruising with an infant. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about taking a newborn on a cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cruising with a Newborn
Age Restrictions and Policies
Most cruise lines have age restrictions for infants and newborns, usually requiring infants to be at least six months old to sail, though policies can vary.
- MSC Cruises: Children under a certain age are not permitted on MSC Cruises. Reservations for children less than six months are not accepted. In rare instances, the age limit is one year, particularly on longer cruises. In light of the nature and length of the cruise itineraries, certain regulations are in place to guarantee the security and well-being of younger guests.
- Royal Caribbean: Permits babies aged six to twelve months to go on cruises as long as there aren’t too many back-to-back sea days in the itinerary. Infants must be 12 months old or older at the beginning of the voyage for itineraries that include three consecutive sea days. Under this new definition, families with infants who do not fulfill this age limit on cruises with three straight sea days will not be permitted to board the ship. The purpose of this regulation is to protect infants’ safety and welfare during extended seafaring voyages, when access to medical services may be restricted.
- Princess Cruises: Depending on where the cruise is going, different minimum ages apply to passengers. The minimum age for cruises to Alaska, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, and the Trans-Canal region is six months. But the minimum age for all other cruises is twelve months. This policy takes into account the climate, medical facilities, and nature of the cruise itinerary to ensure the safety and comfort of newborns and young children.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: For most cruises, passengers must be six months old or older on the day of boarding. However, guests must be at least twelve months old on the day of boarding if the cruise involves three or more days at sea in a row. This regulation protects infants’ health and safety during extended seafaring voyages, when access to medical services may be restricted.
- Carnival: When a baby boards the ship to set sail, they must be at least six months old. However, children must be at least 12 months old when they board a cruise for transoceanic crossings and remote itineraries that include more than two continuous sea days. This policy protects young travelers’ safety and comfort, particularly when they are traveling at sea for extended periods of time and may not have easy access to medical facilities.
- Celebrity Cruises: Infants must be at least six months old to travel on most Celebrity Cruises. However, children must be at least 12 months old on transatlantic, transpacific, and some South American trips, as well as for voyages that spend three or more days at sea in a row. This policy is in place to protect infants and young children’s safety and wellbeing, particularly on longer trips or those that spend a lot of time at sea, where access to medical facilities may be restricted.
Additionally, cruise lines often require certain documentation for infants, such as a birth certificate and a passport, depending on the itinerary.
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Types of Cruises Unsuitable for Babies
- Adult-exclusive Cruises: Certain cruise lines and vessels cater exclusively to adults, making them unsuitable for families with babies.
- Luxury Cruises: Ultra-luxury cruise ships are often frequented by retired couples rather than families, making them less conducive to a baby-friendly atmosphere.
- Party Cruises: Events like “festivals at sea” and college spring break cruises in the US are geared towards partying rather than family-friendly activities, making them inappropriate for babies.
Accommodations and Amenities
Accommodations and amenities for families traveling with newborns are carefully designed to cater to their needs. Cruise lines offer a range of options, including staterooms equipped with cribs or pack ‘n plays, ensuring babies have a safe and comfortable place to sleep. Additionally, amenities such as baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units are provided to make parents’ lives easier. Some cruise lines go the extra mile by offering babysitting services or nurseries, providing parents with the opportunity to enjoy some adult time while ensuring their little one is well cared for. These thoughtful accommodations and amenities allow families to relax and enjoy their cruise experience to the fullest.
These cruise lines are recommended by The Cruise Web for families cruising with a baby due to the following reasons:
- MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises offers a range of amenities and services for babies, including baby clubs with dedicated activities and facilities, a baby care service where children can be looked after by qualified staff, and modern, fun, and educational toys selected by the Osservatorio Chicco, Baby Research Center.
- Royal Caribbean: Royal Caribbean provides accommodation for families with newborns, such as staterooms with cribs or pack ‘n plays. They also offer amenities like baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units. Additionally, they provide babysitting services and nurseries for parents to enjoy adult time.
- Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises offers accommodation for families with babies, including cribs and pack ‘n play in staterooms. They also provide amenities like baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units. Babysitting services are available for parents who wish to have some time to themselves.
- Norwegian Cruises: Norwegian Cruises provides accommodations for families with newborns, such as staterooms with cribs or pack ‘n plays. They also offer amenities like baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units. Parents can also take advantage of babysitting services for some adult time.
- Carnival: Carnival offers accommodation for families with babies, including staterooms with cribs or pack ‘n plays. They also provide amenities like baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units. Babysitting services are available for parents who want to have some time to themselves.
- Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises offers accommodation for families with newborns, including staterooms with cribs or pack ‘n plays. They also offer amenities like baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and diaper disposal units. Babysitting services are available for parents who want to have some time to themselves.
Tips for Cruising with a Newborn
- Plan and pack strategically: In addition to essentials like diapers, wipes, and formula, consider bringing extra clothing, blankets, and baby-safe sunscreen. It is also wise to pack a first-aid kit with items like an infant pain reliever, a thermometer, and bandages.
- Create a comfortable sleeping environment: Bring along familiar items from home, such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, to help your baby feel secure and comfortable in their sleeping space onboard. Consider bringing a portable crib or bassinet if your cruise line does not provide one.
- Stay flexible with your schedule: While it is important to stick to your baby’s routine as much as possible, be prepared to adjust your plans as needed to accommodate their needs. Allow for plenty of downtime and relaxation for both you and your baby.
- Take advantage of onboard resources: Many cruise lines offer amenities specifically designed for families with infants, such as diaper-changing stations, bottle warmers, and baby-friendly dining options. Take advantage of these resources to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
- Communicate with cruise staff: Do not hesitate to reach out to the ship’s staff if you have any questions or concerns about traveling with your newborn. They are there to assist you and ensure that you have a pleasant experience onboard.
While cruising with a newborn requires careful planning and consideration, it can be a rewarding experience for families. By understanding the age restrictions, accommodations, and amenities available, parents can make informed decisions about whether cruising with a newborn is right for them.
Ready to plan your cruise with a newborn? Contact Cruise Web today to speak with a personal cruise consultant. Our experts can help you navigate the booking process and ensure you have everything you need for a smooth experience. Call us at 1-800-377-9383 or email us at reply@cruiseweb.com to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cruising with a Newborn
Q: Can I take my newborn on a cruise?
A: Most cruise lines have age restrictions for infants, typically requiring them to be at least six months old to sail. However, policies can vary, so it is best to check with the cruise line before booking.
Q: Are there any cruises specifically designed for families with newborns?
A: While there are no cruises specifically designed for families with newborns, many cruise lines offer accommodations and amenities for families traveling with infants, such as staterooms with cribs or pack ‘n plays, baby bathtubs, and diaper disposal units.
Q: What should I pack for my newborn on a cruise?
A: It is important to pack all the essentials for your baby, including diapers, wipes, formula or baby food, bottles, and any medications your baby may need. It is also a clever idea to bring along familiar items from home, such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, to help your baby feel secure and comfortable.
Q: Are there any activities for newborns on a cruise?
A: While there may not be specific activities for newborns, many cruise lines offer family-friendly activities that cater to all age groups, including infants. Look for activities that you can enjoy as a family.
Q: Are there any cruise lines that cater specifically to families with newborns?
A: While there are no cruise lines that cater specifically to families with newborns, some cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises, are recommended for families cruising with a baby due to their accommodations and amenities for infants.
Q: What should I do if my baby gets sick on the cruise?
A: Cruise ships are equipped with medical facilities and services, including specialist pediatric telemedicine support, to provide medical attention to passengers, including infants. Familiarize yourself with the ship’s medical facilities and services in case your baby needs medical attention.
Q: Can I bring my own baby food and supplies on the cruise?
A: Yes, you can bring your own baby food and supplies on the cruise. It is a good idea to pack all the essentials for your baby to ensure their comfort and well-being during the cruise.