Planning a family friendly cruise or any holiday can be challenging when trying to cater to everyone’s interests. That’s why the P&O Ventura was the perfect choice for our first family holiday in June 2024. Departing from Southampton, we set sail on a 10-night adventure that included stops in Santander, Vigo, Lisbon, Porto, and La Coruña. With five of us onboard, we were a bit nervous about what to expect, but wow, this cruise turned out to be the best decision ever!
Let me take you through why the P&O Ventura is a top choice for families, whether you’re seasoned cruisers or embarking on your very first adventure.
Why P&O Ventura Is The Perfect Family Friendly Cruise for Families
The P&O Ventura is a dream come true for families on their first cruise. It’s packed with family-friendly cruise facilities, kids’ clubs, great food, and entertainment suitable for children of all ages. It also offers unbeatable value, especially if you’re looking for a holiday during the school holidays.
For us, choosing a cruise meant visiting multiple destinations without the hassle of airports and constant packing. We could relax and enjoy time together as a family, all while exploring new places. And trust me, there was something for everyone on this ship. From the younger kids to the teens and the adults, everyone had their own special activities and spaces to enjoy.
What makes the P&O Ventura stand out is how they really focus on making the cruise as stress-free as possible for families. From the moment we stepped onboard, the ship was brimming with opportunities to keep the kids entertained while also allowing us some much-needed downtime. It’s the perfect balance for a family holiday!
Our Home Away from Home: Family Friendly Cruise Cabins
When traveling with kids, having a comfortable and functional cabin is a must. We booked two inside cabins, which turned out to be a great decision. My daughter and I shared one cabin, while the boys bunked with their dad. The cabins were surprisingly spacious, with bunk beds that folded down from the walls. This was a huge bonus, as it made the cabin feel larger and allowed us more floor space. We were also able to fit all our luggage and still move around comfortably!
One thing that really stood out was how well the cabin steward took care of us. Every day, they ensured we had extra bedding and towels. They were always ready to assist with anything we needed, which made our experience even better. Having such attentive service added an extra layer of relaxation to our family cruise.
If you’re traveling with a larger family, I highly recommend considering booking balcony cabins for added space and gorgeous sea views. Imagine enjoying breakfast or an evening drink while watching the sun set over the ocean, pure bliss! However, even the inside cabins felt cosy and comfortable, a perfect base for our adventure.
Dining on Ventura: Food and Fun for All On This Family Friendly Cruise
One of the best parts of our cruise was the incredible dining options. With kids, food can be a dealbreaker, but the P&O Ventura really nailed it when it came to offering something for everyone. The main dining room was perfect for a more formal meal, with plenty of options for all tastes. The kids enjoyed the special children’s tea, served earlier in the evening. This gave them a chance to eat their favourite foods (think pasta, chicken nuggets, and plenty of ice cream) before heading off to the Reef Kids’ Club for more fun.
For adults, the variety was fantastic. From casual bites by the pool to fine dining at venues like the Glass House, there was something to satisfy every craving. I loved the early dinner option, which allowed us to enjoy some quiet adult time while the kids were off having fun.
Another bonus of cruising with P&O is the flexibility around mealtimes. No more worrying about rushing to make it to a restaurant on time, or trying to accommodate everyone’s different eating habits. With several restaurants and flexible meal options, we were always able to find a dining solution that worked for the whole family.
Endless Fun for Kids: The Reef Kids’ Club
If you’re traveling with kids, the Reef Kids’ Club is a lifesaver. Designed for kids of all ages, the club offers age-specific groups led by the amazing Reef Rangers, who are experts in keeping little ones entertained.
Our kids loved every second of it! From arts and crafts to games, and themed parties, they couldn’t get enough. The secure door entry systems gave me peace of mind, knowing the kids were safe while making new friends and having the time of their lives. The Reef Rangers were so friendly and engaged with the kids, creating a wonderful environment for them to learn, play, and make memories.
The club offers tailored activities for every age group, so whether you have toddlers or teens, there’s something for everyone. And since the Reef Kids’ Club is included in your cruise package, it’s a fantastic way to ensure your children have a great time while you get to enjoy some downtime or indulge in some adult-only activities.
Pools and Sea Days: The Best Time to Relax
Sea days were pure bliss. With no ports to visit, we had all the time in the world to relax and unwind. The kids spent hours in the designated pools, splashing around (it’s a shame they didn’t have any water slides). The pool areas were well-maintained, and there were always plenty of sun loungers available. It was the ideal spot to catch some rays and have a chilled-out family time.
For parents with younger kids, there’s also a splash zone, ensuring even toddlers can enjoy the fun. The entire pool area felt like a big playground, and there were always lots of other families to interact with. Whether you want to join in on the fun or relax while the kids are occupied, these sea days are the perfect time to make memories.
Evening Entertainment
Evenings on the P&O Ventura were just as exciting as the days. The comedians were hilarious and family-friendly, ensuring a good laugh for everyone. And the Stephen Mulhern magic show – oh my goodness, that was a highlight! Although I was a bit gutted he wasn’t there in person (we’d seen him at Butlins the year before, and wow, he was amazing!), the magic show was still incredible. It kept the whole family on the edge of our seats.
Aside from the comedy and magic shows, there were plenty of other entertainment options, from live music to West End-style productions. The whole family was entertained every night, and the kids even got to enjoy their own special events like movie nights and themed parties. After the kids were asleep, we took advantage of the Night Nursery for little ones and enjoyed some adult-only entertainment.
Exploring Port Days
One of the highlights of our trip was exploring the stunning ports of call. Each destination had its own unique charm, and the kids loved wandering through the cobblestone streets of Lisbon and sampling local treats in Porto. These days were a wonderful way to bond as a family and experience new cultures together.
The ports were well-organised, with plenty of options for excursions and shore activities. The kids loved the chance to step off the ship and explore these beautiful cities. The best part? We didn’t have to worry about the logistics of traveling between destinations, as everything was conveniently organised by the cruise line. It made exploring these amazing locations so much easier!
Tips for First-Time Family Cruisers
If you’re planning your first family cruise, here are a few tips to ensure your trip is smooth sailing:
- Book Early: To secure the best family prices, especially during the school holiday season, plan ahead.
- Pack Smart: Bring a mix of formal wear for the dress code evenings and casual outfits for day trips.
- Use the Kids’ Clubs: Trust me, your kids will love them, and you’ll appreciate the downtime!
- Consider a Balcony Cabin: If your budget allows, it’s worth the splurge for extra space and fresh air.
- Don’t Skip Registration: Make sure to complete the Reef Kids’ Club registration form early to secure your spot.
- Prepare for Port Days: Research excursions and plan ahead to maximise your time on land.
Why We’ll Be Back
Our first P&O family cruise exceeded all expectations. It was a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and family fun. The kids made lifelong memories (and lots of new friends!), and we loved the ease of traveling with everything we needed in one place.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first cruise, the P&O Ventura is a fantastic choice for families. With its family-friendly ships, great kids’ clubs, and activities for all ages, it’s a holiday you’ll never forget.
Ready to set sail? Book your next adventure today and create memories your family will cherish forever!
Caryl Ann