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 landed in Bermuda to some rain but a beautiful sail in and sunrise! A family photo shoot at Horseshoe Bay Beach and a chill afternoon at The Haven pool.

My kids loved Splash Academy on NCL Getaway - find out why kids clubs can make or break a family vacation!

The Haven experience was fabulous. I’ve read so many reviews of The Haven and they can vary ship by ship. I chose an AFT cabin on the 13th deck which required us to use the elevators or stairs to access The Haven courtyard and pool, as well as the private Haven decks, restaurant and bar.

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!