QE2 Floating Children's Program

In past years, cruises basically attracted adults. They were considered luxurious escape plans for battle-weary parents and stressed-out executives. Although ship-board vacations still have therapeutic value in those departments, there has been an evolution in the cruise industry. Nowadays, most cruise ships like Cunard's Queen Elizabeth 2 have exceptional children's programs that are administered by professional nannies and counselors. And ever mindful of passengers who choose to leave the kids behind, QE2 and other ships have placed their childcare accommodations in areas that won't disturb the freelance passengers.

"We have a toddler, and I wouldn't think of leaving him home when my husband and I take a vacation," says Maggie Zimmer, from New Haven, CT. "We took him on a cruise when he was six months old, and it was wonderful."

According to Robert Wilkinson, manager of Travel Arrangements for Cunard, the family vacation appeal in the cruise industry has been overwhelmingly popular. Aboard QE2 are full-time nannies, nursery maids, 24-hour baby-sitting service, and full-time counselors for teenagers who do not require babysitters, but rather program directors who are comfortable in a teen-oriented environment.

"We tweak all our family programs, especially ones for teenagers," says Wilkinson. "Kids want the latest movies, video equipment, discos, and fashions."

Most important to parents is that their children are in a happy, safe environment and included in the vacation experience. The bonus is that cruise ships are in the position of fulfilling these requests with little or no extra charge for the services. Ask your local travel professional for more information about taking the whole family on your next cruise.