Cruise Holidays of Chicago - Your Group Cruise Travel Specialists

Family Travel: Can you put a price on togetherness? 

More and more families come to the realization that cruises are perfect for family reunions and especially for multi-generational trips:

Activities

  • The multitude of activities and spots to socialize on a cruise ship encourages the camaraderie that makes family travel so enjoyable.
  • On a cruise ship, you'll have plenty of opportunity to spend time together, but also give everyone the space to spend time apart when you prefer.
  • Today's cruise ships have activities and facilities so varied that nobody will be bored.  You can be as active (rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, swimming pools, scuba diving and fantastic fitness centers) or relaxed (libraries, listening to music, art classes, lectures, reading or just sleeping in) as you  like.
  • Children's activity centers ensure that the kids will have a fantastic time - which means that (grand)parents can relax too!

Health, Safety and Security

  • Many elderly travelers tell us they enjoy the sense of security of traveling with their family.
  • For others, the access to a well-equipped medical center is an important factor.
  • Ships generally provide extensive facilities for guests with special needs, dietary restrictions, etc.
  • Cruise lines help keep an eye on your kids.  Many ships employ crew members specifically to entertain children - and to ensure that drinking ages, adult-only zones and other restrictions are respected.
  • In addition, we will help protect your family by offering travel insurance.

Dining

  • A large variety of dining options ensures that something will be available for even the pickiest eater.
  • Family meals will be hassle free - and unlike vacation homes, no need to do the dishes!

Budget

  • A cruise is more affordable than you think: your cruise fare includes accommodation, meals, entertainment, use of fitness facilities, swimming pools and of course the transportation between the various ports of call.
  • Your trip will be largely pre-paid, which means that you'll have no budgetary surprises.  With plenty of lead-time, your family members can save and pay for their cruise far in advance.
  • Even when traveling overseas, your pricing will be in US Dollars, so no need to worry about exchange differences.
  • Family members can choose from a large variety of accommodation depending on their budget or needs, while still enjoying the same restaurants, facilities and entertainment.
  • Depending on the number of guests in your group, you might be entitled to a free cruise for one or more family members.
  • Some cruise lines offer many amenities only available to family reunion cruises.  For example, the head of the family might enjoy a free upgrade or the whole family may receive wine or chocolates in the stateroom, a cocktail party, or other amenities.

What you should keep in mind

  • Book early: the number and type of amenities offered vary based on how busy a particular sailing is expected to be.  The best rates, best located staterooms and amenities are available far in advance.  We suggest you start booking your group cruise as soon as you can and ideally at least one year in advance.  But if you have last-minute plans, still give us a call, as we might be able to assist regardless.
  • Full payment for your cruise is usually required about 60-70 days before your departure, or 90 days for holiday cruises.
  • Group size: if your group falls below the minimum required number of guests, the cruise lines may cut back on all or some of the amenities offered.
  • Name changes: if one of your group members can no longer travel, you can often still substitute another family member.  The cruise lines might charge a service fee for such a name change.

Interested?  Give our group specialists a call to discuss your options: (312) 266 7447 or toll-free (888) 744 7397.