Looking for ideas for Caribbean or Florida trip for large family

[joyzilli]

I'm looking for ideas for a family vacation in the Caribbean or Florida. Family consists of 10 adults and 8 children (7 and under). Originally considered a Disney Cruise but rethinking because of logistics of flying and then getting to the port (we live in the Northeast). I've been to Aruba several times and am considering renting rooms, but unsure how to handle the dinners with so many people. We are looking for a more relaxing vacation where the kids can enjoy each other. I'm not sure if the cruise would be relaxing. Would love some ideas! Thank you

 

[Seaport104]

Check out Marriott Ocean Pointe in Palm Beach area, FL. You can fly into FLL (approx. 40 min drive) or PBI (15 min drive). Units available from studio to 3BR. Nice large resort for families.

For Carribean, Marriott Aruba Surf Club. I had a family reunion vacation of 25 people in Aruba and dinners were all booked in advance so they can accommodate us.

 

[joyzilli]

Thank you! We've been to the Surf club quite a few times, without all the family members. It's always been a chore to get a chair in the morning, can't imagine for 18 people. But it's definitely kid friendly.

 

[vacation dreaming]

The logistics of getting to the port from airport are easy. Disney provides transportation (for a fee) but there are several transportation companies which also offer private transportation which might be cheaper if you all arrive at the same time. I would say the logistics of getting to the port is not harder than getting everyone to a timeshare. As for if the cruise would be relaxing, it depends. My family enjoys the ease of all meals being provided and food on demand for kids whenever they want. No grocery shopping, cleaning up, etc. I don’t know if you have been on Disney cruises before but they really have something for everyone.

 

[joyzilli]

The logistics of getting to the port from airport are easy. Disney provides transportation (for a fee) but there are several transportation companies which also offer private transportation which might be cheaper if you all arrive at the same time. I would say the logistics of getting to the port is not harder than getting everyone to a timeshare. As for if the cruise would be relaxing, it depends. My family enjoys the ease of all meals being provided and food on demand for kids whenever they want. No grocery shopping, cleaning up, etc. I don’t know if you have been on Disney cruises before but they really have something for everyone.

Oh that's good to know about the transportation companies to the port. That would make it easier than having to rent cars for sure. The only Disney cruise I've been on was a Members only cruise, so no kids. We haven't ruled it out yet, just looking into other options as well. Thanks for your input

 

[vacation dreaming]

Oh that's good to know about the transportation companies to the port. That would make it easier than having to rent cars for sure. The only Disney cruise I've been on was a Members only cruise, so no kids. We haven't ruled it out yet, just looking into other options as well. Thanks for your input

I should add though that flying in the day of the cruise is not recommended due to possible flight delays and that does add to the complexity. If you are looking at a cruise out of Port Canaveral, the Orlando airport Hyatt is an option for spending the night if you fly in a day early. Plenty of hotels near the port as well, it just depends on your priorities. And if you are a Costco member, they offer rebates on the Disney cruises if you book thru them.

 

[noreenkate]

Check out Marriott Ocean Pointe in Palm Beach area, FL. You can fly into FLL (approx. 40 min drive) or PBI (15 min drive). Units available from studio to 3BR. Nice large resort for families.

Thank you! We've been to the Surf club quite a few times, without all the family members. It's always been a chore to get a chair in the morning, can't imagine for 18 people. But it's definitely kid friendly.

we spent thanksgiving week at Marriott Ocean Pointe- out of a 7 day stay 2 of us were able to get chairs 1 time….We had a fabulous stay but if pool time is the goal chairs nearby are difficult but the beach is pretty easy as it’s an outside rental company.

 

[Hindsite]

If you can find a sensible route to St Kitts that's a good option, they have 2 and 3 bed villas and share the site with a Marriott resort hotel, so there is a selection of restaurants on site, as well as a few a short walk away and a supermarket just across the road.

 

[easyrider]

We did an Orlando trip with a group of 19 family members. Everyone enjoyed the trip. Disney World was the main attraction. The water parks were what I liked. I think it was Typhoon Lagoon for the win. We spent two days there and three days in the park.

Bill

 

[joyzilli]

If you can find a sensible route to St Kitts that's a good option, they have 2 and 3 bed villas and share the site with a Marriott resort hotel, so there is a selection of restaurants on site, as well as a few a short walk away and a supermarket just across the road.

Thank you. I'll look into this

 

[joyzilli]

We did an Orlando trip with a group of 19 family members. Everyone enjoyed the trip. Disney World was the main attraction. The water parks were what I liked. I think it was Typhoon Lagoon for the win. We spent two days there and three days in the park.

Bill

Orlando is always a winner for sure with all the little kids.

 

[2rebecca]

Orlando is always a winner for sure with all the little kids.

If you go to Orlando, renting a house with a pool might be easier. Plus, you wouldn't have to get up early to find a chair. I briefly looked into doing this with my extended family. I couldn't get anyone to commit to dates so I gave up and exchanged my timeshare for my immediate family. Hopefully, your family is easier to work with.