An amazing family vacation

Have you heard the acronym “SKI” Holiday? 

Rather than leaving it all to the kids, today’s Baby Boomers are choosing to “Spend the Kid’s Inheritance” and share in creating travel memories with their extended families.

Multi-generational travel is fast becoming a popular way to create family unity and to “share the wealth,” so to speak. It’s unique in that it requires some finesse to properly address the different expectations, requirements and limitations of the different age groups represented in a large family group. 

One perfect option is the Oasis class ships of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. 

Imagine a ship of such vast proportions and diversity that it houses seven distinct "neighbourhoods." Truly a destination in itself, the Oasis class ships offer activities, culinary experiences, entertainment and accommodations to suit every budget and expectation.

There is something for everyone with complimentary Youth Programs crafted for specific age groups ranging from three to 17.

Kids can be a part of the evening Talent Show, take part in ship-wide scavenger hunts, compete in rock climbing or hangout in the very cool Teen Lounge. All the age appropriate activities are chaperoned by professionally trained staff, each holding a minimum of a four-year degree in education or similar field. 

RCCL is the first autism friendly cruise line, offering special programs, initiatives and dietary options for families living with autism.

Everyone will enjoy the amazing complimentary activities onboard as well. Ziplines, FlowRiders, Rock Climbing Walls, Sky Diving Simulators are but a few of the adventures awaiting the young and young at heart participants!

There are over 15 dining venues aboard the Oasis Class ships, eight of which are complimentary. My Family Time Dining allows for expedited dining for the kids who are then collected by the Adventure Ocean staff for a fun night of fun while the parents relax and continue their meal.

While the kids play, the adults can, too. Live stage shows featuring Broadway productions of Grease, Mama Mia and CATS to name but a few.  Live music and comedy shows. 

You can take in high-dive aquatic shows and ice-skating extravaganzas, work out in a state-of-the-art fitness facility with trained staff and the newest fitness classes. Indulge at the full-service spa for the ultimate relaxation.

The misconception is that ships of this size will feel overcrowded. The reality is that the space ratio to passenger is equal to or better than the mid-size ships. Granted, ships of this size can rarely dock in destination, but they have the whole “tendering” situation down to a science.

For the discerning clientele, the Royal Class suites deliver the thrill of all the ship’s experiences with the amenities and luxury of the world’s finest resorts. Room categories within this Royal level range from Junior Suite to the luxurious Four Bedroom Family Suite that can accommodate up to 14 family members comfortably. Indulge with the Ultimate Star service. 

Your Royal Genie takes your VIP status ship wide. Fully inclusive dining at all venues, Front of the Line access to all the shipboard activities, priority seating at all the shows and complimentary beverage packages.

We haven’t even mentioned the itineraries. Then again, with ships that have this much to offer, you may simply choose to stay aboard. 

Check out the Oasis class ships of RCCL for your Ultimate Family Vacation.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.