CRUISING WITH A TODDLER FOR THE FIRST TIME

I would buy most of the items you need in Miami (rather than pack ahead). Saves on the luggage weight on the flight and you can put everything in your toddlers own suitcase. The ship doesn't care how much luggage you bring on board so get a cheap duffle bag and fill with needed items in a local walmart or kmart before you board.

I know there is controversy over kiddie "leashes" but when my now 33 year old was a toddler we lived in Coral Gables, Fl and frequented the ocean regularly. The piers and docks are tricky business for a two year old so we would use the combination backpack leash to keep him safe. Not always, but when we were in an area that if he darted away quickly as small toddlers do, we could "reel him in" before an accident happened. We went to the Keys a lot and it was impossible to carry him or use a stroller walking through piers.

My son learned to swim at 3 months via a local Red Cross program that came to your home if you had a pool. Kick to the side was their priority and if they "fell in", it became instinctive. Swimming lessons ahead of time would be worth it.

There are sites on the internet that give you tips, just Google cruising with an infant at 18 months. One thing I do know is that the refrigerators onboard are not cold enough to keep milk.

Also, the inflatable pool thing is so you can bathe your baby in the cabin, not so that she can "swim."

I was thinking about using the inflatable pool for bathing her...but I'm pretty sure there is a small inflatable tub I can purchase somewhere

Besides being very meticulous about your packing list try not to over think things. Keep thing as simple as possible, without missing necessities.

Things to remember to do pre-cruise: buy "cancel any reason" trip insurance, discuss the voyage and ports to be visited with the toddler's pediatrician, verify direct w/ cruise line the requested port-a-crib is weight appropriate for toddler or request safety rails for the daybed, and research infant/toddler friendly activities, tours, or beaches for each port.

Things to take with you: plenty of disposable diapers, a few swim diapers (for port only), sealed no refrigeration needed baby formula or food (if not eating solids), a reclining quick-fold umbrella stroller, at least 1 comfort toy/security blanket, a play-mat or blanket w/ nylon on 1 side (for floor/deck play), several bottles/sippy cups, disposable bibs, hats w/ brims, age appropriate sunscreen, pedi-meds (OTC and prescribed), and extra changes of clothing (or extra funds to use laundry service).

Things to leave at home or the car: a jogger or big carriage stroller, your pack-n-play, and car/booster seat.

Also if not already in a cabin w/ balcony investigate upgrading to 1. That way if the toddler is still napping you &/or your SO can sit outside while they sleep.

I think the idea of a small inflatable pool is to use in the bathroom to give the child a bath rather than trying to use the shower.

I do not think they are allowed on the decks, and without a way to dispose of the water I do not think they would work on a balcony.

I would call and check with the cruise line about the inflatable kiddie pool on the deck. I have never saw this done before and not sure if the cruise line would allow it. how and where do you get the water to fill it ? How and wear do you dump the water when your done ? It can not go into the big pool.

Have a safe happy cruise

We are cruising 10/14. Will definitely let you know how it goes! And same to you! She definitely is a well dressed baby haha can't wait to get her cruise attire!

Our youngest granddaughter was around 16 mos old when we cruised with the family.

An umbrella stroller is much easier to navigate than a full size one.

The room stewards are absolutely awesome with the little ones. Please consider tipping a little extra if they go above and beyond what is expected

Be prepared to change your plans if your baby gets cranky. Sometimes, just like us, they have had enough and need a nap or a change of scenery. If they become unruly or disruptive in a show or dining room, please be considerate and thoughtful of other cruisers.

Be sure to bring enough diapers, formula, food and any other specific things your baby needs. If you can find them at all on the ship, they will be very expensive.

Enjoy :) We had a great time with our grands and are planning another cruise for next June or July, depending on work schedules.

The kiddie pool is a great idea....I thought that we would have to upgrade to a suite in order to bath her...she will be 20 months and probably not potty trained. When are you cruising in Oct 2017? If it's before the 29th of Oct please let me know how thing were for your 18 month old....oh btw. congratulations on your baby girl, they are so much fun and you will be able to put her in the cutest little bathing suits.

Sorry no tips as mine are grown, but I had to say..... Congratulations on your baby girl! What a wonderful blessing! I'm sure you will get many great tips from the younger, experienced group here.

Happy Cruising!

Thank you so much. This will definitely be an experience....