We are cruising with our 17 and 11 yr old boys for the first time this summer. Doing all the research I can, I went to a teen cruising message board to find out what the kids like, dislike, etc. I couldn't believe all the bragging about how easy it is to get alcohol on board, hanging in the adult clubs and all the partying in the cabins. Have any of you seen this? The kids did talk about the adults being blind to all the their ilicit activities (or just bad parenting). I can't believe this is common. Do I have to worry about my kids hanging out with the other ones onboard?

Not if you watch them! If you're a poor parent at home, you'll be a poor parent at sea. I've seen 7-9 year olds running and pushing elderly people. My parents would have killed me, and the same holds true for teen agers. I've seen young people carded in lounges, casinos, and by the pool as well. I really feel that this is a minority situation unless you plan to go on Spring break. Have fun, and don't worry.

nan,
What you read in various chat rooms (including this one) you have to take with a grain of salt. Just remember kids are going to be kids no matter where they are. If yours are well behaved at home then they will be on a cruise ship. Enjoy your cruise.

Stan

Yes, I am pretty confident that my kids will be just fine on the ship. I was just so floored at what I read. I showed it to my older son and he also scoffed at me, "Right, Mom. I'm gonna become a raging alcoholic from one cruise."

Hello: I agree with the above comments. If you have no control of your kids you will have problems anywhere. My teenage son was on the Alaska cruise he is a very responsible young man. He had freedom on board with the same expectation as he would anywhere. He had free time w/out any problems but that's my son. You can keep communications w/ your kids w/ walkie-talkies. You can rent them on some cruises or take your own. Works out great . Have fun!

I agree with the other postings here about how good parents/good kids are not going to change just because they go on a cruise, however...
I think that anyone taking teenagers on a cruise ship should be aware that the bartenders/waitstaff on ships are notorious for serving alcohol to underage teens.

We took our son, 19 at the time, on a cruise. He was carded on the ship, was not allowed to buy any liquor. However, in the ports, alcohol was offered to one and all, regardless of age. My son was not a drinker ... no worry. Thank God if you have a child like mine. But, if not, stay with them in the ports!

Happy cruising!