Any thoughts on taking a Christmas cruise with an extended family ages 14 thru 84 on the Windsurf (Windstar line). Will there be enough for the younger members of the family to do? Also any thoughts on the eldery getting around the ship?

IMO, this is neither a good ship for elderly folks or families. These ships are designed for and attract a sophisticated, more adventurous traveller looking for a high quality yet casual experience. Activities are very limited, cabins small and there is not much at all to do onboard.

You would be happier on a larger ship for this type of vacation.

Can you define adventure? WHat would we be missing out on beside shows and clubs? Would princess line be a better choice? Looking forward to your opinions since we need to book this week - help!!!

Princess or RC would be a better choise. Whatever you decide, don't book with cruise line directly, find a good TA instead. You will get a discount, better service, and your price will be watched for any possible reduction after you book. You may e-mail my agent Alex at [email protected].

Wind Surf has elevators, but it's not a good choice for anyone with even a slight mobility impairment. Stairways are steep and there are areas of the ship where you have to step over raised thresholds--including bathrooms and even in the passageways leading to the cabins.

The 14-year old will be bored stiff unless he/she is an independent minded teen and can handle not having other teenagers around.

I agree with kfusto... Wind Surf caters to a more active traveler. Most are not necessarily super-young, but they are generally interested in soft adventure tours and activities (kayaking, scuba diving, other watersports). Evening entertainment consists of small combos for dancing/listening and a tiny casino. The single 'show' on a typical cruise is put on by the crew (quite entertaining, but not the usual cruise ship razzle-dazzle). Most passengers prefer to socialize or relax. The daily schedule of activities is a single page, mostly consisting of reminders of when the restaurants, bars, casino, and shop will be open. Passengers really like that--it's very laid back.

Princess or Royal Caribbean would be a far better choice for a family with such a wide age span.

Linda Coffman
Author, Fodor's The Complete Guide to Caribbean Cruises

Having been on several Windstar HAL and Princess, I would agree that there isn't much for young folks to do...the boat is a sailing vessel, and as such, can be a bit rough at times. Great for anyone up to and included active seniors who are entirely mobile and have good sense of balance, but I would think that you might enjoy one of the smaller vessels more, not necessarily the huge big ships. There are lots to choose from, especially if you are getting an early start.