We’ve done a few multi-generational holidays now, you know, the kind where grandparents, parents, and children all head off on a trip together with high hopes of harmony and happy memories.
Sometimes it goes brilliantly. Sometimes there are slightly too many opinions flying about before you’ve even zipped up the suitcase. It’s safe to say that travelling with three (or more!) generations, takes a little extra planning, but when it works, it can be really special.
Lately, we’ve been thinking about how cruises might be one of the better ways to get everyone together without the usual stress of trying to please everyone, all of the time. And after a bit of research (thank you late-night internet rabbit holes and cruise forums), we’re kind of sold on the idea at least. Here’s why it could work for families like ours.
1. Different Activities for Different Ages All in One Place
One of the hardest parts of a multi-gen holiday is finding something everyone actually wants to do. Grandad might be up for a quiet stroll and a pint, the kids want swimming pools and snacks, and the grown-ups wouldn’t mind a spa treatment or just ten minutes of peace…
A family cruise ship caters for all of those things, and more, without anyone needing to jump in a car or plan a full day out. It means everyone can do their own thing in the morning and then meet up for dinner later, all without the “what are we doing today?” battle that sometimes kicks off before breakfast.
2. No One Has to Cook (Or Tidy Up!)
Let’s be honest, in a big family holiday cottage, someone still ends up in the kitchen most nights. Even if you plan to eat out, there’s always breakfast to sort, drinks to pour, washing up to do…
On a cruise, the food side of things is just done. There are restaurants, buffets, cafes, even room service on some ships. It makes a huge difference when no one’s in charge of feeding the whole group three times a day. Especially if you’ve got fussy eaters or different dietary needs, which most cruise lines try to accommodate.
3. Everyone Has Their Own Space
Even on a ship, it’s possible to carve out personal space. That’s something we’ve really come to value when travelling with extended family, having time together, but also the option to potter off and read a book or take a nap without feeling like you’re missing out or being antisocial.
On a cruise, you’ve got your own cabin to retreat to, and there are plenty of quiet corners for people who aren’t up for non-stop activities. Grandparents can enjoy a coffee and a crossword, the kids can let off steam at the kids’ club, and no one has to feel guilty about not doing everything together all the time.
4. Excursions That Suit a Mix of Interests
Another win for cruising with a mixed-age group: the excursions. Ports of call vary hugely depending on the cruise route, but most offer a range of options, from leisurely walking tours to beach trips or cultural spots like museums or old towns.
Not everyone needs to do the same thing, you can split off into smaller groups or just take a relaxing day on board if someone’s not up for exploring. It keeps the days fresh and gives everyone something to look forward to without too much pressure to keep up.
- You Only Unpack Once
It’s a small thing, but when you’re travelling as a group, especially with little ones, not having to pack and unpack every few days is bliss. With a cruise, your cabin is your base for the whole trip, and yet you still get to wake up somewhere new every day or two.
It’s ideal for older family members who might not want to be dragging suitcases around different hotels. And it helps keep kids settled too, they’ve got one “home” onboard where they can leave their toys, get used to the bed, and find their bedtime routine.
6. It Makes Celebrations Feel Extra Special
If you’re planning a big family holiday for a birthday, anniversary or milestone, a cruise can give it that extra sparkle without too much effort. Many families use them for special occasions, and whether or not you book anything formal, just being all together in such a different setting makes it feel memorable.
You can have dinner as a group, take some lovely family photos at sea, and actually enjoy the time together without the stress of organising activities every single day.
7. Minimal Planning Once You’re Onboard
Multi-generational holidays can take a lot of planning, meal ideas, day trips, booking transport… and then you’re still at the mercy of weather or energy levels. With a cruise, once you’re onboard, everything’s pretty much sorted.
You’ve got your meals, your accommodation, your entertainment, and your itinerary all laid out. It’s not a totally stress-free holiday (what is, with kids?!), but it does take a big chunk of the usual mental load off.
Final Thoughts
Cruising as a multi-generational holiday might not be for everyone, especially if your family prefers off-the-beaten-track adventures, but for us, the more we’ve looked into a Bolsover Cruise, the more it seems like a practical, enjoyable way to get quality time together without everyone ending the week completely frazzled.
If you’ve travelled with grandparents and children before, I’d love to hear what worked (and what didn’t). And if you’ve tried a cruise as a big family group, do let me know, especially if there are any routes or tips you’d recommend. We’re not booked just yet, but it’s definitely on the list for a future holiday that includes the whole gang.
