Going on a Cruise with a Newborn

Cruises are still hugely popular when it comes to tourism, and the variety of offers and opportunities has never ceased to grow. In the past, they were mostly seen as an attraction for the elderly and the retired, but nowadays the new, modern, luxury transatlantic ships also attract young families, couples, and athletes.

Preparation is the Key

Traveling around the globe on a ship is a unique experience. But what happens when a new family member has just arrived? Despite what you might be thinking, going on a cruise with a newborn baby is possible.

Nevertheless, before making a reservation you must make sure your children will be admitted onboard. If you are traveling for three or more consecutive days, your baby must be at least 12 months of age.

Due to safety reasons, AIDA does not allow babies under 6 months onboard.

What Is the Reason for this?

The onboard medical facilities are not designed or equipped to treat little children.

Sleeping Onboard with a Newborn

In order to secure all the necessary amenities for your baby, you must reserve a crib in advance. The AIDA ships are equipped to satisfy all of your family’s needs. For example, young families can attend a “tracking meeting” on the first day of the journey. Children ages three years or above, of course, can also enjoy all the activities available at the miniclub, being well taken care of so that adults can have some time for themselves.

Some ships have special rooms for babies equipped with a variety of toys.

In the case of newborns, most cruise operators do not charge extra fees. At AIDA, children under the age of two can sleep in their parents’ cabin with no additional cost.

Babies and Children Are Welcome Onboard

All extras have been thoroughly considered: many ships have specific laundry services for the youngest ones. This is extremely useful as you need to pack strategically considering the limited space available in the cabins.

You should leave your baby monitor at home, as the ship walls are too thick for its signal to go through them. There are applications that may be an alternative and some cruises have special baby monitors available.

Packing Tips for a Cruise with a Baby Onboard

Although you must pack moderately, do not forget to bring your baby food, as you will not find any on the ship. Boilers and heaters are not allowed on board due to safety reason, but the staff will be happy to heat up your baby food for you. Tip: your best option is to bring a thermos bottle.

There are family cabins and also cabins with special connecting doors. A positive secondary effect is that the swinging caused by the waves will ensure a good night sleep for your baby.

Do not Forget your Travel Documents!

If you are traveling further away, it is crucial to bring travel documents for your children and babies. As a general rule, babies can only go on a ship accompanied by their parents or grandparents, otherwise you may encounter bureaucratic problems in some countries. A passport is usually enough for children above age 12.

Children also require an ESTA, especially when entering the United States.

Babies and Cruises Get Along Well

To summarize, it is fair to say that a cruise is one of the simplest options if you are traveling with little children, especially when compared to flights or long, boring road trips.

A good piece of advice is to seek for cruises going on calm waters, trying not to spend too many consecutive days in the sea. Due to the risk of storms, transatlantic cruises with newborn babies are not recommended, as in the case of an acute emergency, first aid helicopters will be too far.

A great advantage of going on a cruise with a newborn is that your child will always be close to you, allowing you both to enjoy a colorful, varied entertainment program.

Happy holidays!