1) Did you feel like you - as adults - had to skip the better excursion trips (e.g., SCUBA, snorkeling, zip-lines) because of young children?


Yes. You'll miss out on some of the better excursions. You can leave your kids at the camp while you do the fun excursions if you want.

2) Did you feel comfortable/safe leaving children of different ages in the "kids' club" areas on the ships? How much time on the ship would you be together each day?


Yes. The staff at the kids camps have been great in my experience. They have lots of organized activities to keep the younger kids entertained. My kids preferred going to camp most days so on sea days (days that you're on the ocean, not at a port) my kids were in camp more then half the day. That gave me and my wife time to relax. We'd also put the kids in. Amp most nights so we could go to the comedians.

3) Are there specific cruise lines/ships you'd recommend (or avoid)?

I've been on Royal and Carnival and liked them both. Didn't notice any difference in food or entertainment options. We've been on a few cruises and the biggest thing I'd look for is the amenities on the ship. Some have a wave pool for surfing, a and other cool things. Some of the smaller older ships only have mini golf and pools.

4) Would you recommend a cruise as an individual family vacation? What about for a family reunion?


Yes. Lots of activities for all family members to enjoy. Waking up at a different island everyday is fun. Food is good but not great, but everyone loves all you can eat (and 24/7) pizza and ice cream.