The Secret to a Stress-Free Cruise: Arrive Early and Explore

You’ve finally packed everyone’s bags, made it through airport security, and now you’re crossing your fingers that the flight lands on time.

That kind of travel pressure can take a lot out of everyone, especially when a cruise departure is waiting on the other end. One of the simplest ways to ease that strain is to stop treating arrival day like a race.

Instead of rushing straight from the airport to the cruise terminal, you could always give your family the chance to decompress first. 

Two Vacations In One

If you want to make family travel feel less hectic, there’s a little secret you should know about: Arrive for your cruise vacation a day or two early.

That way, you won’t have to watch the clock and pray for flight schedules to go according to plan. You can settle into a hotel, let the kids burn off some energy, and start enjoying your vacation before you even set foot on your ship.

Whether you’re booking a cruise from Orlando or Tampa and want to make the most of your time in Florida, Tampa is an easy place to slow down before embarkation day. It’s one of those destinations that make it easy to ease into your trip without having to worry about how you’re going to keep the kids entertained and fed.

Stretch Your Legs Along Tampa Riverwalk

After spending hours on a plane, a packed itinerary is probably the last thing on your mind, which is why Tampa Riverwalk is so great. It’s one of the best places to explore the city for a few hours without feeling like you’re rushing from one place to the next.

The waterfront path is full of green spaces for kids to run around, playgrounds for burning off extra energy, and water pads that are a welcome relief in the warmer Florida weather. And if your crew is in the mood for some indoor fun, you can visit the Glazer Children’s Museum.

Otherwise, you can just grab some ice-cream and take a gentle stroll while you look at the boats cruise by. Bright Ice Scoop Shop on Water Street is always a win with kids.

Discover the Colorful Side of Ybor City

Ybor City is well worth adding to your Tampa plans if you’re in the mood for a place with a little character. This historic neighborhood has a completely different feel from the waterfront with its beautiful, old buildings. 

You could browse some of the quirky boutiques or grab something to eat at one of the many Spanish and Cuban-themed restaurants, with Columbia Restaurant being one of the most popular. You can even take everyone for a ride on the TECO Streetcar, which adds a bit of novelty to getting around the area. 

Where to Stay and How to Get Around

When choosing a place to stay before your cruise, hotels near Tampa Riverwalk, Downtown Tampa, and the cruise terminal are your most convenient choices. Not only are you close to the port, but all of those kid-friendly attractions are within short distances.

Tampa Marriott Water Street is a particularly popular option with families because of how close it is to the port and Tampa Riverwalk. The Barrymore Hotel is ideal, too, if you’re looking for something a bit more laid back. 

Staying in these central areas also makes it a lot easier to get around. You can easily walk to a number of attractions, but there’s also the option of a rideshare if any little legs get too tired. You can also hop aboard the TECO Streetcar or catch a water taxi for a fun travel alternative. 

Your Vacation Can Start Whenever You Want It To

Your family cruise should begin with excitement, not with everyone feeling stressed before boarding even starts. 

By giving yourself the chance to slow down and enjoy Tampa a day or two before you leave, you get to swap travel stress for waterfront walks, great food, and quality family time before you set sail. It’s one of those simple changes that helps everyone arrive at the cruise terminal feeling more rested and relaxed.