Calling all Junior Cruisers!

Carnival Imagination docked at the cruise port in Key West, Florida.
She was the first ship I ever sailed at eleven years old.
Photo Credit: http://www.shipparade.com/az/Carnival_Imagination/Carnival_Imagination_2.htm 

Can you remember when you first begin hitting the high-seas? My first cruise is a lasting memory, and I will never forget what a cruisetastic adventure I had with Carnival Cruise Line! I was eleven years old and my mother took me on Carnival Imagination in the peak of summer vacation before I went to sixth grade--we sailed to Belize City, Belize and Key West, Florida for 6 days and 5 nights! It was my mother's cruise on Carnival Victory, the year before, that got me interested in this vacation style. She wouldn't stop talking about all the amazing things on-board, I got a little jealous I have to admit. I begged her to take me on a cruise... and we know the rest to be history!

When did you start your kids cruising? I know some friends of mine started their youngsters practically out of the womb. @LetsCruiseNow began taking their kids onto cruise-liners at the age of only 18 months! They just added a new bundle of joy to their family and are anticipating another early introduction to the seven seas, with their new baby, as soon as possible! My Canadian friend, Renata Grant (@CruiseDivas), says, "My older daughter has been cruising for 10 years, since age 6, and the younger one started at age 2 and is going to be 10 this year!" As a family, they are getting ready to experience the sights and sounds of Alaska on the beautiful Disney Wonder this week!

You no longer have to ask grandma and grandpa to watch the kids when you're ready to hit the seven seas, because contemporary vessels come equipped with every toy, trinket, and tall water slide your children could only dream of! I remember when I cruised with my mother throughout my teens years, we became very close and our family bond grew to become even stronger! Use a cruise to bond as a family, it will make all the difference! To this day, when an opportunity opens, we will hit the high seas together in a heartbeat!

Do you want to know what ships would be perfect for your kids? Read this article which features and array of ships from Disney Dream, to Norwegian Epic, to Caribbean Princess, and even Celebrity Millennium! Do your research, find a ship that works best for your family, and get ready to set sail for the vacation of a lifetime! Your ship awaits, Bon Voyage!