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ULTIMATE INDULGENCE
In terms of being “the biggest” in cruise, Royal Caribbean’s new
Symphony of the Seas
, the largest cruise ship in the world, has
the winning title. A 10-storey slide and a 12-metre-long surf
simulator are only two among a myriad of exciting activities
onboard this vessel, which is also home to an ice skating rink,
a rock wall, and its own laser tag studio. But still, la
pièce de
résistance
may be the Ultimate Family Suite, two-level
accommodations fit for a family of eight. The “ultimate” features
abound: A floor-to-ceiling Lego wall, an in-suite slide, a private
cinema, a wrap-around balcony and a butler are all included.
SWEET BLISS
You’ll be hard-pressed to get your kids off the new
Norwegian
Bliss
, because this ship is a destination in and of itself. There
are connecting staterooms to accommodate large families,
but chances are, you won’t be spending much time in your
suite, anyway. Enjoy some friendly competition at the
two-level, 300-metre-long electric-car racetrack, or go
head-to-head down the two multi-storey waterslides at the
onboard AquaPark. And if that’s not enough affable rivalry,
guests of all ages will no doubt enjoy the space
station-themed laser tag venue on the top deck.
ROOM TO BREATHE
Given its connecting stateroom options and two-bedroom
Family Suites, it’s safe to say that Princess Cruises is appealing
to families across its fleet. But while the motivations for
vacationing with loved ones is to create memories together,
sometimes a little time apart is good for everyone, too.
Recognizing this, Princess has developed a variety of different
programs to appeal to its range of guests; a spa-inspired
top-deck retreat called Sanctuary is reserved just for adults,
while kids, youth and teen clubs offer specially-designed
activities for cruisers aged three to 17.
LIVING ON THE EDGE
The most defining feature of the new
Celebrity
Edge
– scheduled to take its inaugural voyage in
November 2018 – is its Magic Carpet, a mobile platform
that will act somewhat like an elevator, floating from one
deck to the next. On one level, it will be an open-air dining
venue, while on another, an extension of the pool area.
And though this venue may be best enjoyed by the adults
in the family, there’s plenty for younger travellers to look
forward to as well. Fabulous Kids’ Camp experiences
available onboard the
Edge
will offer curious minds
the opportunity to partake in exciting and educational
activities that focus on science and technology, art,
and culinary creations.
ACROSS GENERATIONS
Known for its appeal to multi-generational groups,
Holland America Line has been evolving its programming
and onboard offerings to best serve its passengers. In fact,
staterooms built specifically for families – originally launched
with the
ms Koningsdam
in 2016 – will be carried over to its
newest ship,
ms Nieuw Statendam
, scheduled to set sail in
December 2018. Fine dining, casinos and onboard
entertainment will certainly appeal to more mature
travellers, while the Club HAL program will continue to
entertain guests aged three to 12-years-old. Meanwhile,
The Loft, an adult-free zone with music, games and movies,
is made especially for teens.
Are you looking for the latest and greatest at-sea experiences the whole
family can enjoy? Here’s what’s new in the world of family cruising…
By Charlotte New
NEWS:
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Ultimate Family Vacations | SPRING 2018
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