A cruise family vacation may be your best choice for the summer. Despite the general misconception that cruises are rather for the elderly, a cruise holiday has plenty to offer for people of all ages. You will get to explore some of the most beautiful places in the world in the company of your whole family.

With all the children programs and babysitting services available on many ships, a cruise family vacation will offer you the chance to unwind and spend some time on your own while your kids are in good hands. There are many holiday packages you can choose from for your cruise family vacation. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Disney Cruises. Disney cruises are very popular for a cruise family vacation due to their excellent children’s programs and activities, as well as docking at the beautiful island Castaway Cay. Each week, the company publishes “Magical Rates” on their website, offering incredible discounts. For example, you may have the luck to find a 4-night cruise in the Bahamas for as little as $479 or a 7-night cruise in the Caribbean on Easter time at $859.

There are also special discounts for children aged 3 to 12 sharing the room with their parents, while kids under three can travel for free. An infant care service is also available for a set fee, while other children programs are free.

Single Parents’ Cruise. A popular choice with single parents for a cruise family vacation is the Single Parents’ Cruise, part of the Single Parent Network. The company plans several trips every year at competitive prices and ensuring single-parent families aren’t charged with any penalties.

Royal Caribbean. The Caribbean is an attractive destination for a cruise family vacation. In June 2006, Royal Caribbean has launched a new ship, called Freedom of the Seas. The ship features plenty of fun on-board activities for children, including a water park for kids and a rock-climbing wall. You can find a 7-night cruise to the Caribbean for as low as $700 per person.

Costa Cruises. Costa is another popular cruise line offering cruise family vacations and plenty of hot deals. Kids sail free if they share the room with two adults who pay early booking rates. You can learn more about their special offers on their website.

Crystal Cruises. A top cruise line for many years, Crystal Cruises has been awarded the title of ‘World’s best Large Ship’ several times by readers’ polls. They also have special deals where children can sail for free.

Discovery Cruises. Another popular choice for a cruise family vacation, Discovery runs one-day sailings from Ft. Lauderdale to Grand Bahama, where children under six sail free. Kids can also stay free at a resort on Grand Bahama if they share the room with a paying adult. For children aged 7 to 11, the price is just $49 for the sailing and they also get to stay free at the same resort. This cruise line also has a Kids Club, where children can learn about marine life.

A cruise family vacation is a great way to spend your summer holiday and bond with your family. With all the fun programs and entertainment available on many cruise lines, you can be sure your kids will have a great time.