Hi, <BR> <BR>Our family has never taken a cruise before and we plan on taking our first this summer. We have three kids (3 1/2, 5, 7). Which type of cabin would be best for us (we're taking a Carnival ship). We were thinking of a 6A...is this a good choice? <BR> <BR>Also, what is the best way to get a good deal on the price since we'll have three kids? <BR> <BR>Any and all info appreciated. Thanks in advance. <BR> <BR>Kevin

Hi Kevin! My family just got back from a 4 night Carnival cruise. Although Carnival does have larger rooms than many cruise lines, it would be tight with 5 in a room (we've done it before though when the kids were younger) But this time we got 2 rooms side by side and it was heavenly. Our kids are older (preteen and teen) so we had them stay in one room. You'd have to have an adult in each room (sigh) if you did that. We got the lowest class 4A, I think because the rooms were about the same size. They upgraded us one level, but still an interior. I get seasick easily and wanted interior rooms, down low and in the middle of the boat, which is exactly what we got. Strangely, with the rate we got, it was only $100 more to get 2 rooms for a 4 night cruise. Love that extra space! <BR>Have fun!

Hi, Kevin. We just returned from the Carnival Paradise. We had a basic outside room for 4 on the Riviera deck. (R57) We have 2 kids- 13 and 10. I noticed a trundle bed under one of the beds so the room could accommodate 5 easily. The cabin stewards are so good that they clean the room in the morning and stow the bunks and, I assume, the trundle as well, so you would have maximum space during the day.

We also have 3 kids and are planning a trip. We inquired about the 6E room, touted as a family suite to accomodate 5. We found out the floor to ceiling windows are sealed (to keep little ones safe) but did not like that idea much. We are told the bedding is two twins that convert to a king, a sofa that becomes a bed and 2 uppers. We were offered an upgrade to and 8A or 8B balcony suite. Because of the balcony, the inside room is 185 sq ft with a 35 ft balcony. The family suite is 220 sq ft, so more inside room available. The 8A has 2 lower beds that create a queen, 2 upper beds that drop down from the wall and a trundle bed, thus giving us all beds, but without having the room full of beds during the day. I believe the 8B is the same, some have a sofa instead of the trundle. Hope this helps.

Hi Kevin:I wouldn't waste the money getting an extra room. We have traveled with our 3 girls for 4 Carnival cruises and we are going on another one in June. We have never felt crowded because you just don't spend that much time in your room with everyone together. The only time it has even been a problem is when you are all trying to dress for formal night and then sometimes I just go up to the gym to take a shower. Any other questions about traveling with kids, feel free to e-mail me. Have a real good time. Cathy