Setting Sail: Our First Family Cruise Adventure
Taking your kids on their first big trip is always special, but taking them on their first cruise, now that’s a whole different level of excitement. As a single dad, I wanted to create something unforgettable for my daughters Adelyn and Emerson. So, we packed our bags (with my help of course), boarded the Norwegian Getaway out of Miami, and set sail for the Bahamas.
From the moment we stepped onto the ship, the energy was electric. The girls’ eyes lit up as they took in the size of the ship, the pools, the music, and the endless possibilities ahead. This wasn’t just a vacation; it was an experience we’d remember forever.
And lucky for us, we had great weather. No rain and temps averaging a high of 80 and low of 77.
Life Onboard the Norwegian Getaway
The Norwegian Getaway is truly a floating city designed with families in mind. Whether you’re traveling solo with kids like I was or with a large group, there’s something for everyone.
Highlights of the Ship:
- 1 main pool and 1 pool for kids. 4 hot tubs with 2 dedicated to adults only and 5 water slides. Due to weight limit, they weren’t able to do the drop slides (min 100lbs). This area quickly became one of the girls’ favorite hangouts
- Endless dining options (trust me, no one went hungry)
- Entertainment around every corner. From live music, daily activities for everyone to pick and choose from to game shows like Deal or No Deal.
- All the ice cream you could eat
- and the list goes on….
The 90’s Show & Karaoke Stars in the Making
One of the standout moments onboard was the 90’s themed show. While gone are the broadway adaptations, this new show wasn’t a letdown. It was high-energy, nostalgic, and incredibly entertaining. Even the girls, who weren’t around in the 90s, were completely hooked. My girls even knew some of the songs as they have heard them in movies we have watched together over the last 2 years.
But the real stars of the cruise?
Adelyn and Emerson.
They absolutely killed it at karaoke, not once, but two nights in a row. Watching them get up there, full of confidence, singing their hearts out… that’s the kind of moment you don’t forget. As a parent, seeing your kids shine like that is everything.
Great Stirrup Cay: Island Paradise
Our first stop was Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island and it was stunning. Norwegian is hard at work getting their new water park up and running for July as well as a new pier to dock to. Right now, you have to take a tender to the island which only was about 10 mins.
The new Lagoon pool was so nice. It was very well done and spacious enough. The new pool includes two swim up bars. There are plenty of food avail to eat on the island that is all included.
Splash Harbor was their splash park for the younger kids which was very nice as well.
The beaches are stretched so that it can accommodate everyone that wants to take advantage of the beach. Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and plenty of space to relax or explore. The girls loved:
- Running along the beach collecting shells and white rocks which we took some unique one’s home
- Just being kids in the pool and enjoying being in the sun and having fun!
It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Even without the full water park completed, the experience was still amazing. Sometimes it’s not about having everything, it’s about making the most of what’s there.
Nassau & Blue Lagoon: The Perfect Excursion
Next stop: Nassau. Instead of staying in the busy port area, we opted for an excursion to Blue Lagoon Island, and it was absolutely the right call.
Why Blue Lagoon Was Worth It:
- Calm, shallow wading water, perfect for kids
- A peaceful, relaxing atmosphere away from crowds
- Optional inflatable water park (extra cost, but worth it if your kids love a challenge)
The girls had a blast bouncing, climbing, and laughing their way through the inflatable course. And for me, it was the perfect place to slow down, take it all in, and just enjoy being present with them.
The girls also wanted to get their hair breaded as a keepsake of being on a Bahama vacation.
Why This Trip Meant So Much
As a single dad, moments like these carry extra weight. It’s not just about the destination, it’s about connection, memories, and giving your kids experiences they’ll carry forever.
This cruise gave us:
- Quality time without distractions
- New experiences for the girls to grow from
- A chance to just have fun together
And judging by how many times they’ve already asked, “When are we going on another cruise?” I’d say it was a success!
Throughout the whole cruise, I was approached and complimented about 7 times by different people on how well behaved the girls were and how engaged I was with them. They also applauded me for doing this solo as we all know planning a trip can be stressful.
Final Thoughts: Would We Do It Again?
Absolutely.
The Norwegian Getaway delivered an unforgettable experience for our first family cruise to the Bahamas. Between the ship, the entertainment, the destinations, and those incredible moments watching my girl’s shine. It was everything I hoped for and more.
If you’re a single parent considering a cruise with your kids, take this as your sign: do it. The memories you’ll create are worth every second.
Quick Tips for First-Time Family Cruisers
- Book excursions in advance, especially popular ones like Blue Lagoon can sell out
- Let your kids try everything: shows, activities, karaoke as you never know what they’ll love
- Pack for both adventure and relaxation
- Take pictures, but also put the phone down and enjoy the moment
Next Stop? Wherever Adelyn and Emerson decide, we’re already dreaming about it.
