Cruising with family in mid July, where should we go?

Question

Hi, we're planning a family vacation with teens, adults and a younger child. We'd like to take a family cruise. What line and where should we go? I cruised on the Carnival Glory before going to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Nassau and loved it. I'd like to go elsewhere. What about hurricane season and mosquitos? Any other alternatives? I'm looking for a dream vacation. Thanks!

Answer 1

From the information you gave in your question, it sounds to me like you're somewhere close to the east coast.

A perfect cruise for your family in July would be Alaska - if it is financially realistic. Airfare for an Alaska cruise from the east coast runs roughly about $900 per person or higher. We always try to plan our client's trips with respect for their wallets.

As a less costly alternative, I would like to suggest a Western or Southern Carribbean cruise.

- Western Caribbean cruises sail from Florida and Gulf states, and generally visit Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel - These cruises usually offer more adventurous shore excursions.

- Southern Caribbean cruises sail from San Juan or Dominican Republic, and generally visit some combination of: St. Thomas, St. Martin, Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, Aruba, and Curacao - (this is my favorite Caribbean cruise).

Hurricane season in the Caribbean is mid-August to November. Even then, the cruise ships still operate on their full schedule, they just avoid the hurricane areas - the beauty of being able to change your direction. Since you're travel is in July, you'll have no issues.

I have been to all these destinations before, and wouldn't worry about mosquitos - rather, I'd be concerned with using enough sun block.

Some final thoughts; 1) make sure you use a good travel agent; 2) ask your travel agent to price out "Celebrity Cruise Line" for you - absolutely the best (our personal favorite!); 3) teenagers love Royal Caribbean - a lot for them there.

Also remember that Price and Value are not the same. Price is what you pay - Value is what you get for what you pay. There's a big difference.

I hope this information was helpful - Bon Voyage!

Answer 2

In July my choice would be Alaska. Try the Royal Carribean cruise from Seward to Vancouver (or vice versa). You and the children will not be dissapointed.

Go here for info - http://www.royalcaribbean.com/home.do