Are Infants Free on Cruises?

Are Infants Free on Cruises?

Planning a family vacation with a baby can be exciting, but it often comes with a bunch of questions. One of the biggest ones for new parents thinking about a cruise is: “Are infants free on cruises?” Let’s dive into this topic and explore everything you need to know about cruising with your little one.

Quick Answer

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Some cruise lines offer free fares for infants, while others provide discounts. Policies vary widely between cruise lines and can depend on factors like the specific itinerary and cabin type.

Understanding Cruise Line Policies

Before you start packing those tiny swimsuits and baby sunhats, it’s important to understand that different cruise lines have different rules when it comes to infant passengers. Let’s break it down:

MSC Cruises: A Baby-Friendly Option

If you’re looking for a cruise line that’s extra kind to your wallet when it comes to bringing baby along, MSC Cruises might be your best bet. They’re known for being one of the most infant-friendly options out there. Here’s why:

• Children under two years old can cruise for free on many itineraries, especially in the Caribbean.
• MSC has teamed up with Chicco, a well-known baby product company, to provide amenities like bottle warmers, strollers, and high chairs.
• This partnership means you can pack lighter, knowing that many baby essentials will be waiting for you onboard.

Cunard Line: Nighttime Freedom for Parents

Cunard offers a tempting deal for parents who want a bit of evening freedom:

• Infants between six months and two years can sail for free when they’re the third or fourth guest in a stateroom.
• They provide a free night nursery, allowing parents to enjoy an evening out while their baby sleeps under professional care.

Disney Cruise Line: Magic for the Whole Family

Disney is synonymous with family fun, and their cruise line is no exception:

• Infants under three get reduced rates, usually about half the child fare.
• Disney cruises are famous for their family-friendly amenities, including nurseries, play areas, and special dining options for young children.
• Character meet-and-greets can create magical moments, even for the tiniest cruisers.

P&O Cruises: Flexible Infant Rates

P&O Cruises offers a middle-ground approach:

• Infants under two years old can travel at a reduced rate.
• The exact discount varies depending on the specific cruise.
• While not free, it’s usually a significant saving compared to the full fare.

Costa Cruises: Almost Free, But Not Quite

Costa Cruises has an interesting policy:

• They don’t charge a cruise fare for children under 18, including infants.
• However, port fees and taxes still apply, so it’s not entirely free.
• Always factor these additional costs into your budget when planning.

Other Popular Cruise Lines

Here’s a quick rundown of policies for some other well-known cruise lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Infants are typically charged as the third or fourth passenger in a cabin, with discounts available but no free fare.
• Royal Caribbean: Similar to Carnival, infants are charged as additional guests with possible discounts.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers discounted rates for infants in the same manner as Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

Hidden Costs to Keep in Mind

Even when cruise lines offer free or discounted fares for infants, there might be some extra costs that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared:

• Gratuities: Some cruise lines charge daily gratuities for all passengers, including infants. This can add up over a week-long cruise.
• Port Fees and Taxes: Even if the cruise fare is waived, you might still need to pay port fees and taxes for your little one.
• Babysitting Services: While many cruise lines offer babysitting and nursery services, these often come at an extra cost. It’s worth checking the prices beforehand if you plan to use these services.

Preparing for Your Baby’s First Cruise

Once you’ve figured out the cost aspect, it’s time to start preparing for the cruise itself. Here are some tips to make your journey smoother:

Sleeping Arrangements

Getting good sleep is crucial for a happy baby (and happy parents!). Here’s what you need to know:

• Most cruise lines provide portable cribs (similar to Pack ‘n Plays) upon request. Be sure to ask for one when booking your cruise.
• If you have an older infant, they might be able to sleep on pullout sofas or rollaway cots.
• Consider bringing your baby’s favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel at home in the new environment.

Feeding Your Little One

Keeping your baby well-fed on a cruise doesn’t have to be difficult:

• Check with your cruise line about their policies on baby food. Some lines, like Disney and Cunard, will mash or puree food for infants.
• If your cruise line doesn’t offer this service, you can bring pre-packaged baby food onboard.
• For bottle-fed babies, most cruise lines provide bottle warmers, but it’s always good to double-check.

Bath Time at Sea

Bathing a baby in a cruise ship cabin can be tricky, but there are ways to make it work:

• Cruise cabins typically have shower-only bathrooms, which can be challenging for bathing infants.
• Consider bringing an inflatable tub for easier baby bathing.
• Alternatively, you can use the removable shower head for a gentle spray-down.

A Personal Cruising Tale

Let me share a quick story from my own experience cruising with an infant. When my daughter was just 8 months old, we decided to take the plunge and book a Caribbean cruise with MSC. I was nervous about how she’d handle the new environment, but I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth the whole experience was.

The staff went above and beyond to make us comfortable. They provided a crib, high chair, and even baby-proofed our cabin upon request. One evening, as we were having dinner in the main dining room, our little one started to fuss. Before I could even stand up, a waiter appeared with a warm bottle of milk, as if by magic. It turned out they had noticed us preparing bottles earlier and took note of our usual feeding times. That level of attentiveness made all the difference in our trip.

This experience taught me that with the right preparation and choice of cruise line, traveling with an infant can be not just manageable, but truly enjoyable.

Tips for a Smooth Sailing Experience

Here are some additional tips to help ensure your cruise with an infant goes as smoothly as possible:

1. Pack smart: Bring more diapers, wipes, and clothes than you think you’ll need. It’s better to be over-prepared than caught short at sea.
2. Consider your itinerary: Choose a cruise with fewer sea days and more port stops. This gives you the option to get off the ship if your baby gets restless.
3. Book a balcony room: If your budget allows, a balcony can be a lifesaver. It gives you a place to relax while the baby naps without feeling cooped up.
4. Bring a baby carrier: A comfortable baby carrier can be invaluable for shore excursions and walking around the ship.
5. Stick to your routine: Try to maintain your baby’s usual sleep and feeding schedule as much as possible to minimize disruption.

Making the Most of Your Family Cruise

Remember, a cruise with an infant is a different experience from an adults-only getaway, but it can be just as rewarding. Here are some ways to make the most of your trip:

• Take advantage of onboard amenities: Many cruise lines offer parent-baby classes, sensory play areas, and even baby swim sessions.
• Connect with other families: Look for organized meet-ups for families with infants. It’s a great way to make new friends and share tips.
• Capture the memories: Don’t forget to take lots of photos. Your baby might not remember the trip, but you’ll cherish these early family vacation memories.

Wrapping Up: Is Cruising with an Infant Right for You?

So, are infants free on cruises? As we’ve seen, the answer varies. While some cruise lines offer free fares for the littlest passengers, others provide discounts or charge reduced rates. The key is to do your research and choose a cruise line that aligns with your family’s needs and budget.

Cruising with an infant can be a wonderful way to introduce your little one to the joys of travel. With the right preparation and expectations, it can be a relaxing and memorable experience for the whole family. Remember to check the specific policies of your chosen cruise line, pack smart, and most importantly, be ready to make some amazing memories with your little sailor.

Have you cruised with an infant before? Or are you planning your first family cruise? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below. Bon voyage!