What It’s Really Like to Consider a Cruise Holiday with Tweens

As the kids have gotten older, and by “older” I mean straddling that lovely, awkward in-between space of tweendom, we’ve found ourselves rethinking what a “family holiday” actually looks like. No longer are they thrilled by a bucket, spade, and a paddle pool (sob), but they’re also not quite at the stage where they can go off exploring independently (my nerves are not ready!).

So lately, we’ve been playing with the idea of a cruise.

Yes, a cruise. The kind I used to imagine as something my grandparents would enjoy (no offence, Nana) but that’s now had a bit of a glow-up and, surprisingly, seems to offer more for families, especially families like ours, with kids who want some freedom, but still need a bit of structure.

After a good amount of nosing around online, particularly at sites like Bolsover Cruise Club, which has a huge bank of cruise info, I realised there’s actually a lot to consider. And it’s not all deck games and dress codes.

Here’s what we’ve been mulling over as we think about whether a cruise might be the right fit for our family of five, complete with two curious, strong-minded tweens and one toddler who insists on coming everywhere too.

The Freedom Factor (But With Boundaries)

First off, and this is a big one for us, the idea of safe freedom for the kids is actually kind of appealing.

On cruise ships (especially the family-friendly ones), there’s often a fair bit for tweens to do that isn’t just about being stuck to mum or dad. From what I’ve read, there are kids’ clubs, gaming zones, pool time, and even cinema screenings or group activities specifically geared toward their age group.

While I’m still the kind of mum who likes to have eyes on everyone at all times, I do like the idea that they could have their own mini-adventures onboard without being a million miles away. The ship is a confined space, after all, and many families seem to feel comfortable giving their tweens a bit of leeway to explore once they’ve got their bearings.

It’s that kind of independence-within-reach that feels like a good next step as they grow into themselves.

Will They Get Bored?

This is always the question with my two. If it doesn’t have WiFi, snacks, or some kind of novelty attached, they’re likely to declare it “boring” before the ship even leaves port.

But cruising, especially around Northern Europe or a lovely Mediterranean cruise (two places we’ve eyed up), offers a kind of hybrid experience, bits of travel adventure mixed with the comfort of having everything in one place. A new port every day or two? That definitely ticks the novelty box. Short city stop-offs for a bit of exploring, then back to the ship to wind down. It feels like a manageable rhythm, especially for kids who want new sights without being dragged around too many museums (we’ve made that mistake before…).

Of course, we’d have to do some clever planning, picking cruise routes that include stops with good child-friendly options and not just endless historical walking tours. There’s only so much “look at this old building” a 10-year-old can take.

The Cabin Question

Now for the nitty gritty: where would we all sleep?

Cruise cabins aren’t huge, and with three kids (one of whom insists on bringing 14 stuffed animals everywhere), I’d definitely be looking into adjoining rooms or those larger “family” cabins I’ve read about. Some ships offer cabins with bunks or pull-out sofas, which sounds practical… but I’ll admit, the idea of all five of us crammed into one small room for a week gives me slight heart palpitations.

We’d need to do our homework here, and probably compromise on space versus price versus sanity. (Although I do like the idea of waking up and having the sea right outside the window.)

Is It for Us?

Honestly, I’m still undecided. I never imagined we’d be considering a cruise at this stage, but the more I look into it, the more it makes sense for this in-between phase we’re in, where the kids are growing up, but not quite grown-up, and where we’re looking for ways to holiday that don’t involve constant negotiations or someone (me) carrying four backpacks and a travel potty around all day.

There are still some things I’d want to research more, such as how much there really is to do onboard during sea days, how excursions work with younger kids in tow, and whether the cost stacks up against our usual trips.

But it’s on the table. And in a family of five, that’s saying something.

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.