Why We Choose Cruises for Family Vacations (and Keep Coming Back)
- Adam Reitz
- Feb 27
- 6 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
There’s something about cruise vacations that keeps our family coming back — the excitement of exploring new destinations, the ease of having everything we need in one place, and the simple joy of spending time together at sea. From the moment we stepped onboard our first ship, we were hooked. Cruises have become our favorite way to travel as a family — stress-free, full of adventure, and packed with memories that last long after we’ve unpacked our suitcases.
1. The Moment It All Began
After our first family cruise, we promised ourselves we’d do it again someday. We had no idea that “someday” would turn into a tradition that defines how we vacation.
Our very first sailing was more than just a trip — it was a memory in motion. We were a mix of parents, kids, grandparents, and extended family all traveling together. I still remember that first embarkation-day toast with Jen while the kids ran off to play on the Lucky Climber, wide-eyed and full of excitement. That feeling — freedom mixed with connection — set the tone for what would become our favorite way to see the world.
Since then, cruising has become our family’s go-to vacation style — and here’s why it works so perfectly for us.
2. The Convenience Factor: Everything in One Place
As a parent, there’s nothing better than a vacation where everything is right at your fingertips. Meals, shows, kids’ clubs, pools, entertainment — all within walking distance. No driving from place to place. No “where are we eating tonight?” debates.
On sea days, we’d grab breakfast at the buffet, then wander up to mini golf or the pool deck without missing a beat. The kids could head off to Adventure Ocean while we enjoyed a quiet coffee on the Promenade. Everything flowed naturally — no rushing, no planning hour by hour.
That convenience is what lets us truly relax. On a cruise, I can actually take a deep breath, sip my coffee, and feel on vacation too.
3. Built-In Variety for Everyone
With kids of different ages (and plenty of adults tagging along), finding something everyone loves isn’t always easy — unless you’re on a ship. Cruises take care of the “different interests” problem before it even starts.
One kid can be climbing the rock wall, another swimming at the pool, while grandparents relax at the Solarium or catch a show. Everyone gets to do what they love, without splitting up for long.
Our Family Favorites so far:
Ship: Symphony of the Seas
Activity: Mini Golf (and the arcade — the boys’ top pick every time!)
Destination: Perfect Day at CocoCay
Whether it’s Royal Caribbean’s family-friendly fun or the magic of a Disney Cruise, ships are designed with every generation in mind — which means less stress for parents and more smiles for everyone.
4. Making Memories (Without the Overwhelm)
Cruising isn’t just about where you go — it’s about what happens while you’re there. Some of our favorite memories aren’t tied to a port, but to the little moments in between: dinner conversations that stretch into dessert, belly laughs at evening shows, or balcony sunsets that turn ordinary nights into something unforgettable.
We’ve sailed with grandparents, cousins, and friends — and somehow, a ship brings everyone together in a way that feels effortless. There’s something about being out at sea that encourages connection. Maybe it’s the slower pace, or maybe it’s just the magic of having no distractions beyond the next horizon.
It’s not about how many ports we visit; it’s about how much time we get to truly be together.
5. The Value of Cruising (Budget + Experience)
When we first compared the cost of a cruise to a weeklong resort stay, we were surprised — the cruise actually gave us more experiences for less.
With lodging, meals, entertainment, and kids’ programs all included, it’s easy to plan around a family budget. Once you’re onboard, the biggest extras to consider are souvenirs or specialty dining — and even those are optional.
Cruise Planning Tip:
Set your family budget first, then pick a ship and itinerary that fits. It’s easier than you think and you’ll know upfront exactly what’s included.
It’s one of the few vacations where “all-inclusive” actually means something, and that peace of mind is priceless for parents.
6. Adventure Without the Stress
One of the things we love most about cruising is the sense of adventure — waking up somewhere new without ever having to repack a suitcase.
On our first family cruise, we sailed from New Jersey and found ourselves exploring tropical ports we’d only dreamed about. One morning we were gazing out at the bright blue waters of Nassau, and the next, soaking up the sunshine at Perfect Day at CocoCay. The excitement of seeing new places came without the usual travel chaos — no airports, no long drives, just pure adventure with all the comforts of home onboard.
For our boys, every port was a new discovery. In Nassau, they got to experience another country for the very first time — seeing new sights, hearing new sounds, and even trying a few local treats. But the biggest milestone came at CocoCay, where they finally swam confidently on their own without float coats — a proud moment we’ll never forget.
Back onboard, the adventure continued. From ice skating and mini golf to their first rock-climbing attempt, each day brought something new. They were amazed to find real trees and plants growing in the middle of the ship’s Central Park — a floating city that taught them as much as it entertained them.
Cruising Tip:
Look for itineraries that balance fun and relaxation — like beach days paired with new experiences your family will remember long after you’re home.
7. Why We Keep Coming Back
That first cruise showed us something we didn’t expect — how naturally this type of vacation fits our family. Every day felt effortless, and every night ended with smiles (and usually ice cream). By the time we disembarked, we knew one thing for sure: this wouldn’t be our last.
Each cruise gives us something new — a fresh memory, a new milestone, or a family tradition that sticks. On our first sailing, we started hiding cruising ducks around the ship for other families to find, and it quickly became one of our favorite little traditions. We also treated ourselves to one specialty dinner, a small splurge that felt extra special with the kids all dressed up.
What’s most amazing is how cruising seems to grow with our family. On that first voyage, our boys were thrilled by the waterslides and Adventure Ocean. Now, they’re already talking about trying the rock wall again and exploring new ports when we set sail next.
With every cruise, the experience evolves — because we do, too. And that’s the beauty of it. Cruising meets you where your family is, offering something familiar and something new every single time.
Our next adventure? Canada and New England — a completely different side of cruising we can’t wait to experience together.
That first family cruise didn’t just change how we travel; it sparked something bigger for Jen. When we got home, she found herself diving deep into the world of cruising — researching, planning, and helping friends who were curious about trying it, too. What started as excitement turned into a passion, and by early 2025, she took it a step further and became a travel advisor. It’s been amazing watching her help other families discover how stress-free and rewarding cruising can be the same way it’s been for us.
8. Closing Thoughts
Each time we board a ship, it feels like coming home to our favorite kind of adventure — giving us the chance to slow down, reconnect, and experience the world together in a way no other vacation does. Between the endless activities for all ages, the nightly entertainment, and those quiet balcony sunsets, each voyage becomes another unforgettable chapter in our journey together.
If you’ve been dreaming of a trip that everyone can enjoy — without the stress — cruising might just be your perfect family getaway.
Anchored in Family,
The Cruising Reitz Crew ⚓
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