Luxury cruise holidays aren't just for grownups anymore. You can put together a fun filled family holiday that is all inclusive and available on a floating resort.

What do you think of when you think of holidaying on a cruise ship? Do you think of long, languid days stretched out on a chaise lounge, sipping daiquiris and reading a good novel? Certainly, if this is your idea of a good time, a cruise ship can provide it. However, if you want to have a holiday that is fun for the whole family, buying a family holiday package on a cruise ship can provide just that.

Something for the Kids – and Mum and Dad, Too

Cruise lines seek to keep customers happy. To that end, they have expanded their offerings so that there is something for everyone. There are cruise packages geared just for couples or honeymooners, and there are P&O Cruise Deals and Cunard Cruise Deals meant to include the whole family -- including those under the age of 12.

Check Before you Make Your Reservations

Make sure you check a particular cruise's itinerary before you book passage to make sure there are suitable activities for children under the age of 12. Companies tailor different cruise packages to different groups of people. Some will be suitable for just couples or singles, and some will be suitable for families, including young children. Therefore, make sure you take a look at all the offerings available before you book your cruise ship reservation.

What Activities are Available for Young Children?

Cruise ships that have activities specially geared for young children often have entertainment directors specifically for the younger crowd. You will find special games for children, as well as arcade rooms and other special "kids only" areas. These family-friendly cruises will also include special activities geared specifically for children. It is important to note that, even though your children will likely be supervised by adults during these activities, you should check to make sure it is okay to leave your child alone with a particular group before you do so. Many staff are perfectly happy to provide entertainment and direction for children, but do not consider childcare part of their duties and won't specifically be supervising children.

Childcare

That said, many of these family-friendly cruise ships also have childcare facilities on board. This gives you the ability to leave your children in the care of experienced childcare workers should you and your spouse choose to go off for a little bit of time by yourself. Do check to make sure that the cruise you choose offers childcare facilities as part of the package.

Family-Friendly Activities on Shore

If you choose to disembark and go on shore for the day, many of the destinations visited by cruise ships include sites you can see with the entire family. Some, for example, offer water parks, hiking, biking, or rock climbing as just some of the activities available. Again, check a particular ship's itinerary before you make your reservations.