This was our first cruise as a family and I give it at 10 out of 10! My kids loved it, I loved it. Were there things I would do differently now that I have cruised with my kids? Definitely - there are more blogs to come with new cruises we’ve taken and all the lessons I learned from our first voyage.

I found the Getaway casino to have lots of fun slot options that I thoroughly enjoyed. However, the black jack tables on cruise ships are automated 6 deck shuffle and playing at those tables was not fun.

We sailed away from NYC with a spectacular view from our Aft The Haven cabin!

First time cruising with my kids and we went in style on the NCL Getaway in The Haven! A first class experience.

Having cruised a bunch with my kiddos I have my go to essentials that make traveling with them as seamless and easy as possible. From technology to beach essentials and things that bring comfort when everyone needs chill time — check out my must have essentials!