If you ever feel like you’re running out of ideas when it comes to planning family holidays, know that you’re not alone.
Beaches are fun, but only for so long, and if you’ve been dreaming about a vacation where you don’t need to plan every meal and activity, dream no more! It can be a reality.
Enter: the British Isles cruise.
Why More Families Are Choosing a British Isles Cruise
When it comes to planning a holiday that keeps everyone happy, more and more families are discovering the magic of the British Isles.
Booking your cruise isn’t just about setting sail; it’s about choosing an experience where the journey is the destination.
Instead of juggling multiple hotel bookings, transport schedules, and kid-friendly activities in every city, a cruise offers an all-in-one, stress-free package. You only pack once, but get to wake up to a new adventure every day.
This could mean anything from exploring Scottish castles, spotting puffins off the Irish coast, or enjoying Cornish cream tea in a seaside village.
The beauty of family-friendly cruises is that there’s something on board for people of all ages. Kids’ clubs keep your little ones entertained, teen zones are actually fun, and parents can sit back and relax.
Add in all-inclusive dining, family-friendly entertainment, and beautiful views, and it’s not hard to see why so many families are trading in the usual beach holiday for a cruise.
What You Can Expect to See On a British Isles Cruise
A cruise around this stunning region is packed with picture-perfect scenery. You might be thinking of grey skies and rainy weather, but this isn’t the case.
Some stops you can look forward to depending on the cruise route you choose include:
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh Castle, the cobbled Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat are just a few of the sites you will see if you stop over in Edinburgh. And, if your timing is right, you may even be able to catch the Edinburgh Festival or Royal Military Tattoo.
Dublin, Ireland
If you love the idea of local pubs, friendly locals, and fascinating history, you’ll love Dublin. Be sure to see the iconic Book of Kells at Trinity College, take a walk along the River Liffey, and visit the Guinness Storehouse – there are family-friendly options too.
The Scottish Highlands and Isles
This area is wild, rugged, and simply breathtaking. Jump off the boat to see the Isle of Skye and Inverness (where you might spot dolphins), visit ancient ruins, or even go on a Loch Ness Monster hunt.
Liverpool, England
Families love Liverpool for the vibrant docks, museums, and maritime history, while music fans can take a walk in the footsteps of The Beatles.
Guernsey or the Isle of Scilly
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, look for itineraries that include these peaceful islands. The coastlines are dramatic and there are plenty of hidden coves to explore – it’s the perfect blend of a stress-free cruise and a beach holiday.
What to Pack for Your Cruise
Since you’ll be spending a lot of time on the ship, it’s best to think carefully about what to pack. Here are some recommendations:
- Layered clothing. Think T-shirts, sweaters, and a warm waterproof jacket. Don’t forget some comfortable walking shoes.
- Backpacks. If you’re travelling with younger kids, backpacks can really come in handy. Throw in some reusable water bottles too.
- Binoculars. Make sure that you have the chance to spot all of the amazing wildlife, even from afar.
- Plug adaptors. Some cruises have UK plugs, while others have EU plugs, so come prepared.
- Swimsuits and sandals. You and your kids will have plenty of opportunities to swim, even onboard the cruise.
- Motion sickness remedies. If you’ve never been on a cruise before, have some motion sickness bands or remedies on hand.
Time to Sail Away
A British Isles cruise has everything you need for a memorable family holiday, plus you can finally relax knowing that almost everything is well taken care of. This is one vacation that will please everyone!
