Cruising is our favorite family vacation and we would definitely recommend it. To answer your questions:

1. I think watching our kids enjoy all the different ports enhanced the enjoyment rather than deterred. However, if you do chose an excursion that wouldn't be good for your young kids, it is an option to keep them in the kids club on the ship. This is something we've never done, as we'll have plenty of time when they're older to enjoy the activities they can't do now.

2. We absolutely felt comfortable leaving the kids in the kids club. Often the club offers a phone to parents so that you/the club can stay in touch at all times, if necessary. The first day of the cruise you will receive an itinerary with all the kids club activities. We always let our kids chose what they want to be in camp for. They usually spend a couple hours there on sea days. They love it, it's just that there is always so much more to do.

3. We love Carnival. Mostly because it's the cheapest. The best ships for kids are Sunshine, Breeze, Dream, and Magic. These ships have the ropes course and water park. Also, Carnival is the only line that will accept kids in the kids club at the age of 2. Most other lines only allow age 3 and over.

4. We've taken our kids on three cruises in the past three years (ever since our youngest turned 2). We can't wait for our next one, which will be a family reunion.