There are certainly cruises targeting couples and adventure-seeking adults, but a large percentage of guests onboard ships are families with children under 18 years old. Statistics on cruise passenger demographics reveal that around 42% of parties include minors, and it is easy to see the attraction. Cruise vacations offer almost every activity under the sun, and there is something to do for passengers of all ages. The added bonus for parents: Many tour operators allow you to make arrangements for daycare, supervised activities, and babysitting.
However, there are always concerns when leaving your child with strangers. Just as you would at home, it is crucial to understand your options and do some research when dealing with cruise ship daycare services. There are dangers and risks that you may not expect, especially in unfamiliar territory. Retaining a Miami cruise ship injuries lawyer should be a priority if your child was hurt, but some basic information could help you reduce the threat of accidents.
Know Your Options
Even before you depart, it is useful to be aware of the different offerings for childcare on board. Of course, your options will vary depending on the cruise line, as well as your child’s age, maturity level, interests, and needs. In most cases, parents will be required to pay an hourly fee plus gratuity. Some of the arrangements offered by major cruise operators include:
- Late night group childcare, typically in the kid’s club section of the ship;
- In-cabin babysitting, when you make advance reservations;
- “Slumber party” care, usually from 10pm to 1am for toddlers up to adolescents;
- Scheduled, supervised kids activities; and,
- Childcare organized around mealtimes and food, such as pizza parties.
It is rare that cruise lines offer any babysitting services for overnight.
Doing Your Homework
Aside from knowing your options, you should conduct some basic research before leaving your child with cruise ship daycare. You will enjoy your time separate from the kids or on a shore excursion when you gather information
- Check overall cleanliness.
- Introduce yourself to managing staff at the daycare.
- Request some basics about training, education, and certifications for staff.
- Find out whether the facility requires children to be potty-trained.
- Determine if staff will handle meals or snacks for children.
- Ask about what services are offered on sea days versus port days.
Plus, you should inquire about limits on the number of children that can be in the nursery area at one time. On the one hand, you want to know because early reservations will be critical. At the same time, you do not want a situation where there are too many kids and not enough people watching over them.
Our Miami Cruise Ship Injures Attorneys Will Support Your Legal Needs
Cruise ship daycare services are generally safe, but it is important to take advantage of your options if your child was hurt. For more information about your remedies, please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA. We can set up a free consultation to discuss your case at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.