But it s easy to get into the mood when most of the 3,000 other passengers seem to be enjoying thems

It s that old family holiday conundrum somewhere the kids will love but where the parents can also relax. Good weather, good food, good fun. But how about throwing in a visit to some of Europe s most historic cities too?
Whether it s speeding down the 101m (334ft) Twister slide, car rental salt lake city airport competing with a friend on the 72m (235ft) twin Speedway Splash chutes, taking in a film on a giant screen as you laze by the pool or enjoying the comedy club, piano bar or pub the emphasis is very much on fun.
But it s easy to get into the mood when most of the 3,000 other passengers seem to be enjoying themselves. And, away from the noise and bright colours, there are some peaceful, relaxing and surprisingly elegant areas. Adults can chill out away from children in the three-deck Serenity area, enjoy exquisite Asian food in the Ji Ji restaurant or treat themselves car rental salt lake city airport to a relaxing massage in the spa.
On deck, you can choose between a rum or tequila bar or try a pint of a draught Red Frog beer. Of course, there s plenty for the children to do as well. Besides the waterslides, a ropes course, car rental salt lake city airport sports square and a huge drenching bucket, there are clubs and facilities for every age. And you needn t worry about the quality of the fast food, whether it s the freshly made burgers and burritos by the pool or hand-thrown pizza available 24 hours a day.
With this much to do, you might be tempted to stay on the 102,000-tonne ship for the entire cruise. But this would mean missing out on the chance to catch up on history, culture and beauty in such places as Marseille, Florence, Pisa, Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Mount Etna and Dubrovnik. There s even a shore excursion that includes a papal audience.
Back on ship, there s plenty to do in the evening, whether it s trying out the Alchemy Bar, where you can write out a prescription for your perfect cocktail, or taking in the spectacular entertainment in the Liquid Lounge.
Cruise enthusiasts like to say there s a ship out there for everyone. If you have a young family and like to travel in ease with restaurants, bars and entertainment all to hand, this could be the one for you.
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Dave has been a journalist for 35 years, rising from a reporter on a regional newspaper to senior jobs on national titles. He is currently deputy editor of Metro, Britain's third biggest daily paper. He began writing about cruising in 2005.
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