10 reasons to take kids on a P&O Cruise

Planned your summer holiday yet?

Ever thought about taking the kids on a cruise?

We live fairly close to Southampton where lots of the big ships sail from and it’s something I’ve always thought would be rather fun. Assuming the kids are well catered for, of course.

The question is where do you start finding out about family-friendly cruises? And how do you know if it’s the sort of holiday that’s right for you?

Bolsover Cruise is a one-stop-shop bringing together lots of premium cruise brands including P&O Cruises, Cunard Line and Fred Olsen where you’ll find all the latest deals as well as lots of information about what to expect.

We’ve teamed up with them to bring you the lowdown on P&O Cruises, so if you’re thinking of taking the kids on a cruise or – more specifically – are interested in what P&O has to offer, here’s 10 reasons to take kids on a P&O Cruise.

1. They don’t just sail across the Channel. If you thought P&O means a Dover to Calais crossing, think again. Destinations include the Canary Islands, the Azores and the Caribbean.

2. You can set sail from the UK. So there’s no need to fly anywhere first to pick up the boat (a major bonus when you’ve got kids in tow). You can sail directly from Southampton.

3. There are five dedicated family-friendly ships. So no disapproving looks from fellow holidaymakers who were hoping for an adults-only experience when they realise you’re THAT family. And this year 3,500 more child places have been added.

4. There are free holiday clubs for two to 17-year-olds. The dedicated clubs are split into four age-appropriate groups where activities include outdoor play and arts and craft and sports sessions.

5. Family cabins mean you can all stay together. And some even have two bathrooms (another bonus when you have kids!)

6. There are family-friendly excursions. Activities when the ship docks include treasure hunts, water parks, beaches and adventure trips.

7. There’s a special children’s tea. So you can eat in peace later on if you want to.

8. You might bump into James Martin or Marco Pierre-White. (Admittedly this one’s for the grown-ups, not the kids). The celebrity chefs are among P&O’s ‘Food Heroes’ who make special appearances and even host cookery classes.

9. Night nurseries. Night nurseries are available on all P&O’s family-friendly ships and they’re free of charge for children aged between six months and four-years-old. That’s right – free babysitting! And if your little one wakes up you’re contacted by pager.

10. There are deals to be had. Like half price child places on selected shore excursions. And you can’t beat a good deal.

Have you ever been on a cruise with kids in tow before? Is it something you’d consider? Or is a cruise with kids your idea of a nightmare? Either way I’d love to know!

This post was written in collaboration with Bolsover Cruise Club.