This conversation is especially important for smaller children. While some may be super excited about celebrating Christmas on a boat, others may need some convincing to abandon their holiday routine.

Carnival, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian have several popular large ships. [3] X Research source All of the Disney Cruise Line ships hold 2,000+ passengers. [4] X Research source You can also enjoy a wide variety of other amenities on large ships, including several pools, lots of dining options, and luxury spas and gyms. [5] X Research source

Princess Cruises and Celebrity both have popular mid-size ships. [7] X Research source These ships may be less expensive to book than either large ships or small ships. [8] X Research source Mid-size ships may have less variety than larger ships, and they won’t offer the personal touch of smaller ships. However, they’ll be less crowded and will have much shorter lines to get on and off the boat. [9] X Research source

SeaDream Yacht Club and Regent Seven Seas cruises both have popular small ships. [11] X Research source

Don’t forget to look up the itinerary. It’s important to pick a cruise that’s visiting ports of call that make you excited! Since some destinations may have limited activities during the holidays, do some online searching on potential ports before you make your choice as well.

Don’t wait to buy your tickets because you’re hoping that a deal will come up. It’s best to book as early as possible, as Christmas cruises will quickly sell out. Prices will also usually go up the closer you book to the departure date.

The earlier you book, the more likely it is you’ll get the cabin you want. If you can afford it, go for a cabin with a balcony. Families may also want to book family suites with adjoining rooms.

Consider flying into the city the day or night before the cruise leaves. You don’t want to miss the cruise because of a delayed flight! If you’re traveling to or from a city that may have problems with winter weather, you may even want to arrive a few days ahead of time.

Since this cruise is all about minimizing stress, try not to let things get out of control. Your mini-celebration doesn’t have to be exactly like Christmas if that’s going to be too much work! Just do whatever makes you and your family happy.

Green or red clothing is perfect for the Christmas season. You can also pack gold or silver items if you’re hoping for a fancier look. A Santa hat or some reindeer antlers can also be fun for children and adults.

Since the cruise may be your family’s big gift this year, you can also skip gift-giving entirely!

Don’t try to sneak it on. It probably won’t work, and it may even prevent you from being allowed to board. At a minimum, your nice champagne is going to be confiscated and wasted.

Having a few small decorations in your cabin could be especially comforting for small children who may miss home during the holiday. You can probably pick these things up in your departure city right before you get on board. This will make the packing process a little easier.

Be sure to snap lots of photos among the decorations with your family members.

If there are disagreements over activities, resolve the conflict by suggesting taking turns picking each day.

Adults can also enjoy holiday-themed drink specials and holiday parties. [21] X Research source

On some ships, you may also be able to join in for some Christmas sing-alongs and storytimes.

Mid-size ships will also offer plenty of entertainment, but the theater (and the performance) may not be as large-scale. Smaller ships pride themselves on their exclusive entertainment, which is usually aimed at adults.

Most islands in the Caribbean, for example, will have lots of festivals you can attend during this time of year. Even if restaurants and shops are closed, you can still walk around and get a feel for the city.