Going on a cruise is an exciting way to spend quality time together as a family. With so many options for planning a group family cruise, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect vacation for your crew. But with some research and preparation, you and your family can have an unforgettable trip that will leave lasting memories!
And, of course, your group travel agent at Onward Travel will be with you every step of the way taking the stress out of the planning and coordination process. We’ve outlined some of our top tips on how to plan a group family cruise. Whether you’re searching for a family reunion cruise tour or getting your large gang together for a special celebration getaway, your dream cruise is just around the corner. So gather up everyone—it’s time to set sail!
1. Get Organized
Ready to plan an adventure? It’s time to get organized and make things happen!
A great way to start is to set a budget so that you can keep an eye on your finances and avoid any financial obstacles along your trip. Next, decide on your ultimate destination to get a clear idea of what you want to see and do. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, a Caribbean cruise will be an excellent option for your group. Or an Alaskan adventure may suit those looking to get out into nature and explore the great outdoors.
Once you’ve confirmed your destination, think about the top sights, attractions, and excursions you all want to see. This will help narrow down the cruise line and itinerary we can help you search for. Additionally, you will want to have some travel dates in mind that work for the entire group.
This may seem like a lot of work, but your travel agent can help with a lot of this and give excellent recommendations to make sure you are on the right track. It’s important to reach out to Onward Travel early in the planning process so you can maximize our services and find the perfect cruise for your group.
2. Research Your Options
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of cruise is right for you. Do you want a relaxing cruise or one filled with exciting activities?
Once you decide on the type of cruise you want, the next step is to find the best deal for your group. Who doesn’t love a great deal? Your group travel agent will research and compare prices to find the best cruise within your budget. Whether you prefer a tropical destination or a European adventure, you’re sure to find a cruise that fits your budget and style.
So, bring us your dream cruise ideas, and let’s start planning your perfect cruise today!
3. Choose Accommodations
We know, there are a lot of rooming options on these big ship cruises. They’re massive ships after all! When planning the type of cabins you want for your group, many times it’s easy to have each traveler choose! We can work with each individual traveler to ensure they get the perfect cabin for their budget and needs.
Alternatively, if you want to hold a certain number of cabins and have one set price, we can accommodate that too! It’s important to consider the budget and travel style of all travelers, but sometimes it can be easiest to just have one option. This will also allow us to make sure everyone is close together so you aren’t all getting lost on the ship.
Finally, don’t forget to take into account any special amenities or features that are important to you, such as a kitchenette or a private outdoor space. With a little research and careful consideration, we’ll be able to find the perfect accommodations for your family that make your vacation comfortable and memorable.
4. Consider Port Excursions
When it comes to port excursions, the possibilities are endless! But if you’re looking for destinations that offer an experience that everyone can enjoy, then you’ve come to the right place because all of our group travel agents are experts on what each destination and cruise line has to offer in terms of shore excursions.
From touring ancient ruins to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, there’s something for everyone. If you are traveling with a multi-generational family, we will be sure to curate excursions that will suit everyone’s activity level.
5. Plan Your Activities/Options Ahead of Time
Sometimes it can just be easiest to get ALL of the planning out of the way early on, especially when traveling with a group. You might want to consider planning your activities beforehand and prepaying many of the optional add-ons in advance such as drink packages, gratuities, and port transfers. Additionally, booking shows, spa treatments, and dining options in advance may not only help you save money but also saves you a lot of time.
By booking ahead, you won’t have to worry about queuing up or running out of options. Plus, you might even get some discounts or promotions that aren’t available on the spot. So, let us help you organize some of these reservations before departure!
6. Have Fun!
Embarking on a cruise is a fantastic opportunity to unwind and spend quality time with loved ones. No matter what activities you plan on doing during the trip, it’s important to remember to have fun!
The perfect way to achieve that is by relaxing and enjoying the moment with your family and friends. Try not to stress about fitting in everything in the itinerary, and instead take time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and connect with your loved ones. After all, memories created during a cruise are ones that will last a lifetime. So, kick back, sip on a mocktail, and have a blast!
Conclusion
After considering all of the information in this blog post, you can go into your group family cruise planning with a head start. With a good balance of organization, pre-planning, and an outstanding group travel agent, you’re sure to create an exciting and enjoyable experience for everyone!
Involving the whole family in the planning process beforehand is also a great way to get everyone excited about the cruise and create anticipation among family members. Whether you want to assign one group leader in the family or let everyone get involved in the planning process, Onward Travel is with you every step of the way.
