Written by P&O Cruises Australia
We may be in the middle of a lockdown on the Northern Beaches, but that’s not stopping us from looking to the future and thinking about what to do for future school holidays. A cruise seems like a win-win: as parents, you get to enjoy some quiet time while your little ones stay occupied with fun school holiday activities for hours on end. We’re handing it over to the experts at P&O Cruises. Here, they break down 10 reasons why your kids will love cruising.
#1 Two words: Kids Club!
Every ship has four age-specific kids clubs and the cost for participation is included in your fare.
The four clubs are:
- Turtle Cove: 2 years – 5 years
- Shark Shack: 6 years – 9 years
- HQ: 10 years – 13 years
- HQ+: 14 years – 17 years
Each club has its own area on board that’s decked out with age-appropriate games and activities. P&O Cruises also offers late-night babysitting (charges apply) which means you can have date night any time you like.
#2 Making new friends
Kids Club is a fantastic way for them to meet other Cruiselings their own age, and the fun on board games and activities will help forge strong friendships. Who knows, they might go home with a few penpals or make new lifelong friends!
#3 Multiple pools to enjoy
Any parent will tell you that a pool can provide endless entertainment for kids. If your little ones love the water, they’ll have a ball making a splash in the pool.
#4 Interactive adventure park
For the thrill-seeking kids with energy to burn, it’s hard to go past P&O Edge Adventure Park. Available on all ships, Edge Adventure Park is a guaranteed good time. The kids will have amazing stories about rock climbing, playing laser tag and jumping on the flying fox to zipline across the top deck of the ship. They can even try tight rope walking and “walking the plank,” Pirates of the Caribbean style.
#5 Shore tours are a sure win
Most cruises stop at a couple of ports where you can disembark and go explore for the day. While you can do your own thing, shore tours are a great way to experience the best the destination has to offer. The options vary by cruise and destination, but there are always a variety of holiday activities for kids to suit all ages and abilities. Depending on the destination, you could sign up for a guided tour, workshop or scenic railway ride, or watersports like snorkelling.
#6 Creative activities and talent shows
Who says a holiday can’t double as a learning opportunity? Each ship has plenty of cruise activities for kids, including singing or Teens can create their very own Teen Jam. Your kids will not only have the opportunity to learn new creative skills, and can then perform for guests in our talent shows!
#7 Plenty of opportunities to play sports
Whether your kids are athletic or simply love being active, they’ll have a ton of fun playing ping pong, lawn bowls, and will be able to enjoy the various sports courts with their newfound friends from Kids Club!
#8 Eating options for everyone
P&O has a range of family-friendly dining options. With select restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, you’ll find most cuisines onboard. With so many options, you’re bound to find a favourite that caters to even the fussiest eaters. And if your kids are on the adventurous side, challenge them to try a new type of food every day. Many cruises offer specialty dining experiences as well, which you can book in advance for an additional fee.
#9 Family-friendly entertainment
The entertainment doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. After dinner, you’ll be able to nab seats to live shows that are appropriate for the whole family. Dancing, theatre, comedy — you name it! The shows and entertainment vary by cruise, so be sure to check the schedule when you hop aboard and don’t forget to check The Good Times, P&O’s daily newsletter to find out what is happening every day.
#10 They’ll get plenty of attention
At P&O Cruises, we’re committed to delivering cruises the entire family can enjoy. Our team is there to make sure all kids onboard get the attention and care they need to have a great experience on the cruise. That way, they’ll not only have a holiday to remember, but you’ll have the chance to properly unwind and relax.
Book a 2022 or 2023 cruise now and save Sold on the idea of a cruise for the school holidays? Head to P&O’s website to explore their 2022 cruise deals and kid-friendly holiday packages.