My son's best friend's parents have invited my son on a cruise this summer. Altho I believe I do trust the family I am not so sure I want him to go. No telling what could happen!! He is 16 years old. Has anyone ever been on one of the cruise ships and could give me any information what it was like. I wonder how safe it is. How well does the crew watch what is going on with the passingers. I remember back hearing some bad stories. On the other hand I would love for my child to have oppertunity to travel and grow and see the world. What do you think?
[question posted by devideddi]
responses and comments:
hhmm i think you should let your kid go.. cruises are safe.... i wouldnot get any experiences but my hubby went on cruise at his annual party and they had lots of fun there... so dont worry it would be safe... [sj_chaudhry]
ok, I'm feeling a little bit more positive about it now. Thanks you guys [devideddi]
My husband and I went on a cruise a few years ago and it was fantastic! I would advise it to everyone to experience it at least once! Don't worry about your son. They have people all over the boat to cater to your every need. Oh and be sure to call it a boat, they frawn on it being called a ship for some reason?They make you feel as though you are royalty. The only thing that I would caution you about would be when they get off the boat to shop or take tours, I would suggest he doesn't do it alone. I don't know where his cruise is going but some of the port towns are a little rough around the edges. The people are interested in one thing and that is to make a buck and they really push you. My 23 year old niece went to Casumel and luckily she knew enough to take a buddy along shopping. Even at that the men were hitting on them, so they went back to the boat. Being a guy he probably wouldn't have as much trouble that way, but they are really aggessive to sell you something. It no doubt would be an excellent experience for him! I would love to go again! [DeeBloomers]
that's ok , I know what she ment about boat/ship. Thanks guys for responding. And thanks for the tip about the locals!! I am gonna be sure and talk to him about this. (if he goes) [devideddi]
My family and I (me, my husband, and our 4 young sons) went on a Cruise vacation a couple of years ago. I will just say this...the entire trip I was pertrified that one of my children were going to fall overboard. There are not many crew people out on the decks, and it would be so easy for someone to fall into the ocean unnoticed. Of course, my husband and I kept our children close to us at all times, but I do remember seeing other children running around unsupervised. I get heart palpitations just thinking about it....As for your son, you are the only one who can decide if he is mature enough to handle going on a cruise without you. If you feel that he is responsible enough to realize that there are serious dangers, and that he needs to be very careful, then you should consider letting him go. My only concern is that most 16 year old boys enjoy acting like goof balls with their friends, so I would be worried that he would get carried away with being silly, and something bad would happen. Good luck on making your decision! [Sarah1977]
wow, we must be long lost soul mates/friend or something, you think just like me. I would be thinking the same thing about the children on a ship or actually anywhere. I also keep my kids close. Of course the two are 16 and 18 but our 7 year old does not go out of my site. Even at home she does not go outside without one of us and we are semi-fenced in yard and live on dead end road. You just never know...I see kids in neighborhood younger than her out playing in the streets by themselves, I couldn't do things that way. And about the 16 year old I was just thinking bout ...well he does have a good head on his shoulder....and if pretty mature for age...never been in trouble. But he is a boy and they can get to playing and doing dare kind of stuff and maybe roudy...kinda like you said,getting goofy. !! Thanks alot for responding! [devideddi]
I've been on two cruises. One when I was 13 and another when I was 14, They were quite fun. It was a positive experience, and I got to visit islands that I probably never would have cared to visited if not for those cruises. You should let your son go and experience this, but I can't really decide that for you. [crizack]
thanks very much for your input, I appreciate that. [devideddi]
I never been to a cruise but i really want to try. Im not a boat person but watching the scenes and activities during the cruise makes me so excited. I really wanted to try the cruise at hongkong where they will travel to singapore and bangkok. [kitkat_ofiana]
no.it must be great i been to.have u? [Rexx99]
I have never had the pleasure of going on a cruise. [devideddi]
Oh, I believe they are safe enough. But I suffer from sea sickness. The thought of taking dramamine the whole trip doesn't appeal to me. And then I start thinking what will I do if I am sick the whole time.. I just don't dare try it for those reasons. Now so many people are getting sick on cruises, I am definately passing for now anyway. [mari61960]
yes, I know what you mean. My mom gets sea sick when she flys so she won't do it much. When she does have to she stocks up on dramamine.!! [devideddi]
i never been on a cruise ship [Aloeli]
Then there wasn't much point posting. I have been on a cruise ship. I can only speak for my own experience and I don't mind admitting that mine was probably a budget cruise, but I thought the staff were excellent. Safety was always a prime concern with crew. All ships have trained medical staff that includes a Doctor and registered Nurse. I think all cruise ships have scanning technology to scan passengers on and off the ship when at port. A great pastime onboard was to assemble around the designated leaving time as the ships tannoy would call out peoples names that had not scanned back in. we could watch them racing back through the port and applaude and jeer them aboard. There is also a wealth of information on the web. If you know the name of the ship you could check it out on this website - www.shiphappens.com [Gruzzle]
Well, I think you should allow your boy to go with them. I think, you and I, we love and care about our life much more than anyone else! They won't go on a dangerous trip to risk their life. So your boy will not be in any danger! Catch the opportunity! [loitran]
I had a great time when I went on a Carnival cruise. They have a lot of stuff to do, and it is a blast. I think he will be ok. If it were my daughter I would let her go as long as the parents were good people and I could be sure that there would be no chance of my daughter having a male roomate in her cabin. I think you should let him go. He will need formal wear for one night at least to experience that dinner, but we didn't go every night. There were just too many other things we wanted to do, and you can be sure that you won't go hungry on a cruise ship. [jenalyn]
Once, for one night. Not the usual cruise ship you are talking of. I wouldn't trust other people to look after my children properly in thes circumstances [katyzzz]
let your son experience to be one of the passengers in the cruise.he will e happy you permit him but of course he must be careful..dont woory he was with his bestfriend and the parents i think he will be guided by them.actually im not yet been in a cruise ship.how i wish i could be their!i let myself enjoy and feel free.even if you heard bad news not all the times have a accidents in a cruise.if its yor time already and be ready for it if its not just enjoy and let god be with you always. [chryss]
cruise are safe for small journey. [junior07]
Yes its safe, Im fifteen years old, LOL! im a year younger than he is. Its safe, during preschool, mine was called Wonder World. We had lifejackets, EXPENSIVE cruise, but just required parent permission slip, and so we ate good food, and we got to see dolphins jump and beautiful water. But the air smelled a little oceanic nasty. Ugh, I remember some people got sick three days later. Buts its okay.I never got sick on that cruise. [Mecboy]
No never have been on one. I would get sea sick.... [chimex4real2k2]
My husband and I went on a Meditterenean cruise for our honeymoon and it was the best trip ever. But I am totally afraid to go on these cruises now because of so many norovirus outbreaks. Gosh, that would most definitely ruin a great trip. [mbs730]
I have not been on a cruise ship. I imagine it is a lot of fun, But I think I would have some real hesitations letting my son experience that freedom in the absence of his parents. Are your friends going to be a parent to your son on the trip? very important question. [djbtol]
My husband spends half his life on a ship, though not quite as comfortable as a cruise ship :-) Think about it this way... would you let your son fly? Granted they're on the sea longer than they would be in the air, but the chances of something happening are probably the same, if not less. If you think HE is responsible enough, go for it. [kesfylstra]
A few years ago, out of the blue, my ex and his gf decided they were taking my girls along with them on a Disney Cruise. Like you, I was hesitant because they wanted to do this "first class all the way" trip and I would have to provide fancy outfits and all, including for New Year's Eve. I did my best to suppress my worries (and stretch my holiday budget!) because I knew I couldn't give them the same opportunity any time soon. As it turns out, they had a blast! The ship had specific areas and activities geared to the age ranges of the kids, from very young to older teens. Even pools were slotted for the different ages. When my younger daughter was taken to an activity, they gave my ex a pager. When the activity was over or, if she needed anything, they would page him. The crew was absolutely beyond reproach when it came to the young people. The girls LOVED the trip... the only problems were those that arose between them and my ex and his mother (who they also took on the trip -- I think she was meant to be like the built-in babysitter because the girls didn't get to stay with their father... they were put in a cabin with his mother and that didn't work out well at all). They told me many times how nice the crew was, how the meal service folks were so kind and remembered you at your sittings (as in the case of food allergies or anything of that sort) and that they would bend over backwards to do whatever you needed. I even got an email from each of them from the ship (it's available, so you *might* be able to keep in touch with your son for your own peace of mind... it can be expensive, though, to let you know ahead of time). All in all, it was quite the experience for them and they won't forget it. If you feel comfortable with the family (and what a generous invitation they've extended!), I think you might want to consider letting your son go. If they are going with a reputable cruise line, which I presume they are, I bet he'd have an amazing time! [thinkingoutloud]
I have been and hope to go this year with my husband and son (theire first time) Since its your first cruise maybe you all should spend time together or atleast have a system of contacting each other. But I feel cruise ships are pretty safe Have fun [essanmommy]
actually we are going on one in about 23 days. We are going to the caribbian. I am so excited. I am not sure if i would let my child go. It would depend if i knew the parents and felt they are responsible. [firemansgirl001]
I would not let my son go on a cruise ship. Have you been watching the news lately. [Gambler2]
I have never been on a cruise but I would also be very cautious about letting him go with someone else. [lucy02]
Oh how lucky for your son. I know as a mother you are concerned but wow what an opportunity for him. If you trust the family he is going with then you should not be concerned. Why not sit down with the parents and tell them you concerns maybe they can put you mind at ease. Where will he go?? I am hoping to get on a cruise in aug 2008 for my 20th anniversary so i am sooooo interested in hearing where he will go. [kakuemmom]
Since your son is 16 I would say let him go and have fun. If you are like me you will not be able to do anything like this for your children for some time if ever. I would love for my children to have an opportunity like this. A cruise ship is something that I always wanted to do and could never afford it. I think that your son is probably old enough to handle a trip like this and be just fine. My son is 16 also and I try to let him do things when he is invited as I think that all the experiences will help him grow in life. Let him go. [cwgrlsarefun]
well i havent so i cant be to much of help to you, but i do think that if the friends parents are going to be there, that at least he COULD be safe. only if the parents dont spend their time "canoodling" in thier cabin instead of watching the boys. the ting you might want to think about, is that i heard that if someone is sick on the ship, that it would be VERY easy for everyone else to get it due to the closness ppl would be to one another. hope this helps you decide. [thewolf777]
We just went on a cruise in Sept. Is was great the sercurity getting on the ship and getting off was great but as for on the ship it self I didn't see any. We where on the cruise for 7 days, we had a balcony room and I was worried myself because of all the storys there are cleaners and staff walking around until about 10:00 after that we never seen any but I find it safe we did not drink at all. It is a great expenence and we are planning another on the same cruise line in 2009 or 2010. It was the carnvail victory. Hope this helps. [kawillow74]
no i ahvent Been Yet in Any Criuse [rahulmig]
Yes, i had seen a cruise, but i havent been on cruise ever. [ankagar]
No I have never been nor do I ever want to go on a cruise ship. I wouldn't go if you gave me 10 Billion dollars or more. [Celanith]
I'd say let him go. It is really safe on the ship. The ship is huge & about 10 floors tall. It's like a multilevel apartment complex, with luxury amenities. I think age 16 would be ok to go, as long as he is supervised. [favorgrays]
no, but i want to if somebody asked me to join them [najwan9]
Ye......... i went to a cruise ship in Singapore........it was my first and I really enjoyrd it............I liked the food very much. [sarkar1]
ohhh mom let him go to his destiny he'll be alright. no matter how old he is he's always going to be your little boy or first born if thats the case. all parents think like this hate to see them go but then your glad they left now you got a spare room or hey no waiting for the bathroom. then it hits your now bored with no kids around.been there going through that now. you still have some time left with him so have a break and let him go have abit of fun give him your camera with promise to bring home some nice pics for you to see how much fun he had and what he did. remember when you were that age if you can lol would you have gone given the opportunity sure you would. let him spread his wings abit he might surprise you... [NewHeart]
i havent yet got such a chance in my life but i am sure i will do it once. [pyadiki]
I went on a cruise when I was 12. My entire family went (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc). We left from Ft Lauderdale, and went to Nassau, Bahamas. It was only a three day cruise. It was on Fiesta Cruise Lines, but I don't remember the ship. I loved it. I won $30 dollars on a nickel slot machine (they had a small casino for kids). That's 600 nickels. To a kid, that looked like a lot of money. I had a cousin who was 18. He brought a friend with him, and they met a couple of girls, but I wouldn't leave them alone. Once we were 5 miles out (international waters) he bought a Long Island Tea and gave it to me. I passed out in the girls' room, and they got to mess around with their lady friends. When we got back in port, it took forever to debark, so I went to the theater and watched 'Out of Africa' while everyone else stood in line. To this day, it's one of my favorite movies. So even though this was almost twenty years ago, I still have some great and vivid memories from my only cruise. I highly recommend it. [dubaibab]
My husband and I were quite amazed when we went on a cruise that we didn't see more children. It was an all adult cruise and were sure we would be the ones who would wind up with the screaming kids at the table next to us every night. We went on the cruise as a vacation for some alone time from our 4 kids. We were so amazed that we asked about it and were given the information on the activities planned for the kids of different ages. I don't think you have anything to worry about if you trust the family he would be going with. Ask them if they have any information on the cruise activities they have planned for the teens. The crew members really do look after the kids. I would let my child go. [Mommamea]
not yet but i am dying to go on one but i should decide about it [sarfaraz_ahmedh]
I think you should let him go. You need to trust him. I've been on a few cruises and they are lovely. He's not going to fall overboard. [linzmcwilliams]
I have never been on a cruise shop would would have been happy if I would have got such an opportunity. I understand your feelings as a mother but I really feel that you should allow your son. [raveena]
no man...i have never been in a cruise ship and its one of my greatest dreams to get a ride on a cruiser ship. [jithinsb]
no but i would like to go onit as the whole world inthe middle of the sea, that wld be enjoying a great experience.. [whozefa]
i haven't but i want to experience that. [cradleOFjheffd]
Nope I have not been in any cruise ship but it is always up to parents if they want to allow their child to go. If you feel you are not comfortable that your son will be away then dont let him go. [anne_143god]
it is cool that u can send ur kid for his trip and this is a period that ur son can make his decisions without u he can know how to manage situations so let him go [erdsethu]
i have never been on the ship. it would be a great experience. I wish icould be on my journey one day. [phon4u]
nope i had never been in a cruise before and this is because my family cant support it and they only travel with car. it is nice to hav experience on every matters. travel with airplane, or cruise, its a nice experience, even my fren who is same age as me now, he travel in cruise to singapore instead of driving to singapore =.= [samseiko]
Yes i have been on a cruise ship once at Singapore.. SUPERSTAR LIBRA ... Its an experience you dont want your child to miss... LET HIM GO AND HAVE FUN THERE and believe me it's SAFE! [aalekh12]
yes i went from florida to the bahammas, brail, and cuba, loved it [fayzah]
i've never been on a cruise before . bu ma friends have been on them. what they tell me is that is quite safe and quite an experience and i would suggest that dont let your son miss it [ameenmaj]
I'm actually planning a cruise for my honeymoon coming up. I'm going with royal carribean, since I've heard that Carnival is more of a 'party boat'. [tams85]
No i haven't yet been to a cruise ship but i am planning to celebrate my daughter 1st birthday on the cruise. [sameer2cute]
I think you should let him go. Life is about experience. I've never been on a cruise myself but know many who have and they say its a good time. Lots of food to eat and activites to do. The only bad thing I hear of once in awhile is the people getting sick on them. But really with all the ships that sail everyday the chances of that happening to him I think would be rare. [plantit1]
No, I haven't been on a cruise ship but I've love to get one in the near future. Because I think it is great for couples and honeymooners. During the day you can enjoy secluded beached or romantic villages, one can enjoy fine dining, overlooking the ocean at night. It's really such a great experience, too [eman123]
I've been on a cruise ship twice, and let me just say that from my experience, it is very, very safe. There are crew members everywhere, and always help or advice arouthe corner if there is any concern. I went when I was 11, and when I was 16, and there are plenty of teen activities, where they are supervised and have a lot of fun. People mainly keep to their own group, and he's going to be with his friends parents, who I'm sure are going to keep him extra safe. Besides, he's going with his friend, so AT WORST, they're going to be walking around in a group of 2. It's wonderful experience, and you really have nothing to worry about, as long as you trust the parents that he is going with and you trust that your son is responsible. In my opinion, let him go and see the world and grow a little. It is a once in a lifetime experience! [Kaorin]
i think that your son is very lucky to have that oppurtunity! i think that cruise ships are safe... the crew are very attentive to the passengers.. but if you feel bad about your son going, then 'mom's intuition'.... don't let him... :) [dracone]
Well i have not been on the Cruise ship any time ,i heard it is a wonderful experience to travel once.One day i will please do pray for that. [Bhutto]
i have never been on a cruise ship. [ambuvs]
well i never went to any cruise ship [samraf]
U can let ur kid go, i have never travelled in a cruise ship but have many times travelled in passeger ships for transportation. These days the ships are really really safe, after famous incidents like titanic n yarmouth castle, lot of norms are frame and imposed, all ships follw them. also a ship has got lot of crew members so they really know wats happening with the passegers.dont let this golden opputunity go by..plz plz send him, (coz till now i never traveled in a cruise only passenger liners. safety in cruisers are much better than passengers + the luxary ) [deepuj]
I think this would be a great opportunity for him. I have been on cruises a couple of times and I have always thought it was great. As long as you trust the family I think it would be ok. I dont know how well I would say that the crew members watch whats going on. But I think he would have a great time [corimcl]
I have not gone to cruise but I have information that there all are good people, there enjoys everybody, in cruise people comes to enjoy without any disturbance, there have all the types of facilities, and all good mannered staff, dont worry about that, if you want to get more info go to www.curise.com or any cruise related site will give all information [deepak31]
i think you shoeld let him, its such a good experienced... [alaine_bubbles]
I would love to go on a cruise. I have never been on a cruise ship before but I have heard a lot about it. Don't worry your child will be safe.Let him go, he may not have an opportunity to go any other time. [tw99384]
Are the parents partyers? Do they drink? I have a set of friends that goes on cruises all the time and basically it is to party. They tell me that they and everyone else stays drunk the entire time. Sixteen is a difficult age and when kids start wanting to "do it their way". The ports of some of these ships are very dangerous. Aruba is horrible and lots of cruises used to stop there but don't anymore because people wouldn't get off the boat. The Bahamas and Cozumel, usual stops for Eastern Cruises are okay but only if you stay very close to the boat. I don't think I would let my son go without my supervision, but I'm not very trusting that anyone else is going to put my child's best interests first like I would. [SouthernRain]
i never travelled in cruize........but have a small idea 2 travel.................i 2 don't know abt cruise................................i wanted 2 know abt da details of cruise can any one say? [rahul_krishna69]
I have never been on a cruise ship but I would definitely love to go someday because I have always seen such things on television and movies. It definitely would be a journey and an experience that I should enjoy and live someday. It would be all fun, enjoyment,excitement, thrill and adventure. I would wait for the best time to come! [The_Sexy_Kid]
no but i would love to some day. [Brandi06]
I have never been on a cruise ship but I would love to go on one someday! I think it'd be a lot of fun as well as relaxing. U'd be able to see some gorgeous places and forget about ur troubles! [FraYFaN09]
ehhh...how old is your son? i dont think i'd let my daughters go on a cruise ship without me and their father. i'd just feel safer that way because i know i'd have an eye on them all the time and im not sure another family would. especially if they get involved in their own fun. [AmberNormandin]
During highschool my band that I was in we went on one. It was so much fun. There is a part for underage kids and they have tons of things to do. I felt so safe when I went cause they had adults watching you always though. [angelastreit]
I have never been on a cruiseship, but a family friend works for a cruiseline and they are very safe. yes you hear these horror stories ever now and then, but those are once or twice for the hundreds of cruises that go out. your son will be safe [Datingtheplayer]
I have not being on a cruise ship but one of my friend had been there. He said it was a great experience and i should also go on it. He also said that its like living on a hotel in the sea. It is safe. I think u should give ur child a chance to enjoy it. [aryaman]
thats a fantastic opportunity that your child is having.i always wanted to go ona cruise.so far no one has invited me and i hope that one day i would be able to earn enough to go.as far as safety is concerned i am sure that you can always talk with your friends parents as well as the customer rep on the ship and allay your doubts.hope your son has a fantastic trip! http://www.starcruises.com/ http://www.cruise.com/ http://www.cruiselinesindia.com/ [scorpius]
Never been on a cruise ship but I think it should be safe and fun. [urameshi]
i have travelled in cruise. they are very safe. u can send ur kid for this journey. h'll learn how to stay alone if he is travelling to unknown places and with strangers all around. [bhavesh80]
i have never been on one but i would love to. [prashanth_vv]
No not till now.....but hopw will hve a chance to be on a cruise ship...but again didnt even think of doing so........lets see wehre the time takes me in the near future....... [prashantbhargav]
nope. but someday i will if i can go to bahamas. i hope so. [michaelco]
Nope but will love to go on one someday... [abhax123]
Ok here is my opinion on this. Montel had cruise ship nightmares on this morning. They had a family who's son went on a cruise and he had been drinking. One of the bars cut him off so he just walked down the hall to another bar and got another drink. The cameras show that he laid in a beach chair for about 2 hours, got up and was sick on the deck. So he proceeded to lean over the bar to be sick again. Well he fell in and lost his life. The poor parents were so devastated. There was a woman on the show that is fighting for more regulations on these cruise ships. She had been sexually assults on a ship and nothing was done. Nobody would take responsibility or take up the case. So I would say no but then again I am over protective. [coolcatzz]
i would make sure there is adult supervision for him.. and that he never went anywhere on the cruise ship alone. It could be a great experience for him. [lpetges]
I think he will be fine let him go. If he has that kind of opportuntity he should grab it. I havent been on a cruise yet but am planning to go in acouple of months it is so exciting. [TerryZ]
i have not been on a cruise myself but have heard from my friends that it is quite good.n dont think so its dangerous or anything [gamerz_84]
I have only been once on a Disney cruise for 4 days. We loved it! But if it were my son (and I do have one who is almost 15 years old) I would not allow him to go on a cruise with another family. I'm pretty conservative with things like that though. I really don't like him to even spend the night out at a friends house because there is just too much trouble that they can get into if totally unsupervised. At a friends house or on vacation with a friend's family you really would have no idea of what those toher parents would be willing to allow. Plus they are going to be on vacation and the parents will probably be even more lax on the cruise than they woudl be at home because they are not going to want to be arguing with their child (and yours) those aprents want your child to go along so that they can relax and not have to deal with their own son while on the cruise. I'd guess that as long as they see the boys at meals that they'd just let the boys go off and do whatever they want day or night. And actually now that I think of it I bet the kids woudl even be in their own room on the cruise away from the parents too. Do you know about that aspect of the planned cruise? I definitely wouldn't let my son go on that trip. It's not doing your son any justice to allow him access to get into major trouble or danger. I know it seems like a nice opportunity for him but it's just not worth the risk in my opinion. Good Luck deciding. [monica1216]
no yet not but i heard that it is very thrilling & good experience.if anyone got chance grap it & enjoy travelling in the sea. [654077]
No I haven't, my husband and I have talked about it but I get the "willies" -- haven't quite figured out why - but I would like to overcome it and have the experience. Regarding your concerns with your son, sixteen is such a wonderful and painful age one of the "in between" years. You know your son, how much you trust him, his level of maturity etc. You have already said you trust the family who has invited him. It is obvious that you love and care for your son and wise of you to be concerned and seek extra information. One of the things about "news", is that we rarely if ever hear about all the wonderful things - we do how ever get bombarded with negative and the sensational, and unfortunately we can always believe everything we read either - 2 sides and all. I would sit down and have a good talk with my son about the trip. I would set guidelines and boundaries that are fair such as setting a curfew for him to abide by etc. No going on shore, into port alone or without adult supervision, etc. I would review the "talking and trusting" strangers etc. etc. I would then have the family over and review everything with them - so everyone is on the same page of understanding. I would ask the family to add anything they would like etc. I would make sure that the family had all emergency contact information etc., make sure I had the schedule, phones etc. from them. And after all of that I would rejoice, and celebrate with my son for having to have the opportunity to do this, one I may never have been able to provide. I would load him up with a ton of film, and kiss on the forehead (don't forget mom, I'm 16) and say Von Bonage!!!!! .. Good luck. It's wonderful, best wishes to you and your son. ;) [OOHCUTE2340]
I don;t think there should be any problems with you sending your son aboard a cruise ship. Firstly you are not sending him alone but with company and it is not that the company you are sending him with is young blood they too are mature to take control of various situation that may come their way. S let him go an d have fun. [liciagomes]
I've cruised the mideteranean before. I trhink this part of the world is awsome for cruising. Especially, from Italy to Monte Negro [sala94]
sorry, I haven't this chance... [cndrskr]
My husband will not go on one. I always thought they sounded nice until he told me that he has a friend who went on a cruise ship and did not liked it and could not leave until the cruise ended because it was to expensive to get off the cruise ship! [kimlot]
I have donr every type of travel except by water. I am kind of scare and nervous about it. some movies have just scared me out of it. but i think that i will give it a try one day soon. [samwilliams06]
Cruises are the most fun! I would feel pretty safe letting my child go on a cruise IF he had strict supervision during the port excursions. There's not too much trouble while you're on the ship but once you dock somewhere, depending where it is, there is an opportunity to worry. On the ship, you don't need to carry cash (you can set up a spending account to charge things) but at the ports you're on your own. [coffeecup]
I have yet to be on a cruise or travel much at all in my 25 years. Although i know he is only 16 and you are terrified for him as any mother would be. I think that in all fairness that you should let hime live and have his own experiences to learn from. Let him see the world and you will see that even you will be grateful that you did! [ronita34]
The end decision is up to you. A cruise is definitely a trip to remember. If the family that he would be going with has your trust and you know that they would not let the boys run wild, then I would probably let him go. He does need to understand the dangers that can occur while on the ship though. With that said, I think the positives FAR outweigh the negatives. The ports are the worst part of it, I think. Local people at the ports know that there are tourists with money. They will try to sell anything. Drugs, alcohol, you name it. Just inform your son what to expect and what you will tolerate and wont. [laurawarde]
Thats a tough one. I have been on a cruise ship, and it was safe to me. I mean, if you really think about it, there is danger in everything we do. Someone could come in my work right now and do something crazy. But that doesn't keep me from going to work. If you trust his family, I would say let him go. Its a really great time, and a great experience. You actually do meet lots of nice people and there are tons of activities to do on the ship. Most cruise ships offer special activities for teens while the adults are involved in something else. They are always chaparoened and give the kiddies something enjoyable to do for everyone. No matter where I was on the cruise boat, except my own room of course, I could always easily find a crew member who was willing to help with anything. Check out some cruise line websites to see what they have to say. I was on a Carnival Cruise, and my family has been on Royal Carribean. [loub020]
no have never been in a cruise ship..i would like to,but i think its too borring...only oldies going to cruises:) [Angelinka]
I am 28 and never been on a cruise ship. I have always wanted to go on one, but can never afford it. Im sure they are safe and nice. If your 16 year old wants to go id say let him go if his best friends parents are going to be there. If he were going alone that may be a different story. Best of luck to you. [contusion12878]
no not yet. but I ll hope to go around after 2 years. because I am kind of busy. but I like to spend more time in this kind of ship with my bf for vacation. I think this will be good trip and thank you for remember us bout this worth things. [shemb1]
No I have never been but would love to or I would just love to be able to afford to go LOL... OK I have seen things on TLC I think that was the channel where the people goes on the ship and never gets off like the fall over board or something I know that this does not happen that often but still I watched it so I would not allow my kid to go. [barbiedoll1973_tn]
though i have never been on a cruise ship i would recommend letting your son go. technically he is more likely to get injured driving to the cruise ship than while actually on it which shows they are safe. an oppertunity like this shouldn't be missed. [Alexc123]
Ask his friend's parents for more information about the cruise so that you can do research on it. I went on a cruise with my family a few years ago, and it was amazing. Everything was taken care of. Of course I got sea-sick alot, especially during dinner. The ship travels alot faster at night, and when you're sitting down at the restaurant, you can really feel it. But the food was unbelievable! the activities were fun, the ports you go to are beautiful. You meet amazing people that are enjoying themselves too, and of course the staff is very helpful and friendly. I am planning to go on another one some time in the future. I think you should let him go, at least there will be some adult supervision.Just make sure you get all his friends information as well. [sindai]
no i hv not so much money to get over an cruse but i want to feel all the world through cruise [buntyu19]
You can stay calm about cruise ships, don't be so worried about cruises! Your son will enjoy very much the cruise! I went two times in cruise in the mediterranean sea, they went very well! I spend really good moments of my life there! Ships where so big, wonderful, unforgettable! I enjoyed cruises, disco, sauna, shows and dancing aboard. I suggest you to go with your son! you will enjoy for sure the cruise and you will have no problems! Crew watch very carefully people that go in cruise and passengers that come abord! Don't stay worried and let your son enjoy that cruise at least! [Opteron]
I went on a cruise with my best friend at 18. It was fun but we were a little apprehensive about meeting strangers. If you know this family well and are sure they will know where your son is all the time and will be with them then it should be fine. I would not want my child to go if they are letting these kids loose. [kareng]
ya i have been on a cruise....its really amazing ...it my ultimate goal in life to buy a yatch and go with my gf a months vacation...... [vivin_k]
i have never been but i heard besides the alchohal its pretty fun and well suprivised [rnjanet4]
i hav`e been on a cruise... its a once in a lifetime experience! [catchsharad]
Unfortunatelly i haven´t had the chance to go on a cruise ship yet,but it is a dream that i have and that i want to achieve on a near future of my life.I think that must a experience very beautiful and we cannot forget. [costadinov]
I have never gone on a cruise ship, but it is one of those things I would like to do. I have though about applying to work on one, since I am a Reflexologist, Tarot Card reader, seated massuer,dancer, cook & musician. One or all of those skills would come in handy. 16 is old enough to get married( my sister was married then), why not a cruise. [michaelkaer]
I think this would be a grave disappointment if you didn't let your son go on this cruise, as long as you trust the parents...Nothing is going to happen on a cruise ship that wouldn't happen on the street down from your house, we can't live our lifes in fear of the what if's that will not get us anywhere...I have been on a scuba diving cruise and let me tell you, it was an experience of a livetime and I am so glad that I took the opportunity to do that...Please really think about this, do some research on the cruise ship and go from there but again I think this would be a live time experience for your son and you should let him have that... [mnflower]
Well, I've been in a few cruises myself, and it is pretty safe. The first time i was 16 and had a blast, even though I was with my parents, but there were a lot of kids my age. There had a lot of activities for all ages. I would tell you that if he is going with his friend's parents, pretty much he'll be safe. Of course I understand your concerns, but most of the time, nothing really bad happens there! I would give him the oportunity to travel and enjoy the experience and see the world! [berlinlife]
well! i didn,t been 2 cruiseships.but i wanna try it.whenever i,ill got da oppertunity i,ill try it... [9676276]
No, but I've been dreaming to take a cruise. [yamiboo]
no but i hope to go one one someday. in another thought i am afraid to sail, with all thats happening on them. but it would be nice [sarah22]
I have been on a few crises. They are all wonderful. Lots and lots of activities for all ages. However, the kids are pretty much on thier own, the crew does not watch them. [margieanneart]
this is actually one of dreams, i wanna be inside a cruise ship with my boyfriend. [bev_arch_20]
no not yet.... but will b travelling on a cruise within 2 yrs.... [dihearted]
go with him. you want be sorry. [hotpink4u]
well you are luck that your son is going by cruise who get that oppourtyunity,if i get i will go mylink:www.freewebs.com/mylotmoney [whattobegood000]
I've been in cruise with the italian "Costa Crociere" last year. I had visit Barcellona, malaga, casablanca, Agadir, Canarie island, madeira. The life on board is boring, I didn't see the moment of disembark in the harbour and to visit the beutiful site. The excursions are very interesting but are expensive. [scooby_13]
I only spent 2X12 hours on a ship. It was such a big nice experience for me I will never forget. The best place in the world to sleep is the ship. I know that a cruise is much different , but I would go if somebody invited me... For maximum only a week. After one week I probably would be bored with it. [Dolcerina]