Cruise - is this a ridiculous idea...?

[Babynamechangerr]

OK, so I have 3 dc under 5, including a young baby.

The idea of taking a flight anywhere next year just fills me with horror, so I am trying to think of a holiday that doesn't limit us to being in the UK.

For those who have been on one, would this work for a family like ours? I'm thinking of the ones that go from Southampton / Dover and sail to somewhere hotter without involving any flights.

What companies should I be looking at which offer good value? I can't stay in an internal room as I have claustrophobia, I'd have to have a room with an outside window.

Thanks for any advice.

Cruises are great for families with very young children. We did one when DC were 6 and 3 and then another when they were 7 and 4.

The ease of getting on at Southampton and your holiday starting the second you get on board plus the amazing kids clubs and night crèche made for two fantastic relaxing holidays. The kids loved it.

We booked quad rooms but they do get booked up quickly. I'd imagine you would need two cabins as there are five of you. Or maybe a suite with an adjoining cabin would work.

We went with P&O on Oceana and then on Ventura ( we preferred Oceana )

You need to be aware that a lot of ships don’t allow children in swim-nappies in the pools.

P&O has a free night nursery. They are the only line I’d travel on from Southampton with a baby . We went to Norway - was fabulous. Very easy and baby friendly ports. Stress free holidays. AMA

Vacations to go only good for American lines and sometimes Italian ones. Not P&O

Infants on P&O used to be £99 not sure now? Ring them up and ask. We went to Norway for a week in May half term for £1200 all in (inc tips)

^2 adults and 1 year old

Could you drive to a campsite or Centre Parcs sort of thing in France?

Tips are included on some cruise lines now. P&O for example.