Pool stuff for 4 yo and twin 17 mo olds

oneplustwo · #1 (**permalink**) September 1st, 2007, 12:05 AM

This is our first time cruising with our kids, and I'd love to hear your advice on what kind of pool stuff we need to bring (or what will be provided) for both on the ship and at the beach. We will be sailing on the Ecstasy in October, and plan to go to Chankanaab Park in Cozumel. So here are my specific questions:

1. My 4 year old DS hasn't learned how to swim. Do they provide kick boards or any other equipment on board? Do we need to bring floaties or something?

2. For the twins, we have lil' swimmers swim diapers, but I keep hearing conflicting opinions on whether or not to bring a kiddie pool for the deck, or just take them for a quick swim with us in the main pool (or just sit at the water's edge and do some splashing?). Should I bring a baby float (maybe for Chankanaab Park)?

Thanks so much!!!

Wennfred · #2 (**permalink**) September 1st, 2007, 01:27 AM

Use of the pools :

Due to United States Public Health (USPH) Regulations, we do not allow children in diapers, in swimming diapers or those not toilet-trained in the pools.

Lifeguards are not on duty.

The pools are not designed for diving.

Use of the pools by guests under 13 without adult supervision is prohibited

http://www.carnival.com/CMS/FAQs/Age..._on_Board.aspx

MrPete · #3 (**permalink**) September 1st, 2007, 06:53 AM

We never used the pools until DD was able to swim. And even then, I caught a kid holding her under water while I was right there in the pool with her.

And it is clear no one is allowed in ANY pool if they are not potty trained. Even if they have swiimies on.

darah513 · #4 (**permalink**) September 1st, 2007, 07:12 PM

My five year old had the best time pressing the shower button for the people as they needed it. There were two of them- one on either side of the pool. He did that for almost two hours. Everyone was kind and patient with him. I couldn't get him away from it.

The pool is a bit deep for the little ones. The kids would probably have to be held by you. Then again there's the diaper rule. Wish they had a kiddie pool.

MrPete · #5 (**permalink**) September 2nd, 2007, 06:57 AM

There is a kiddie pool on the Ecstasy, if fact, all of them, but you still have to be potty trained, and still no swim diapers.

lhp · #6 (**permalink**) September 2nd, 2007, 10:20 AM

Absolutely no swim diapers allowed. If your children are not potty trained, they are not allowed in any pool. (so bring your little blow up pool)
Have a great cruise!

Luanne Russo · #7 (**permalink**) September 2nd, 2007, 10:27 AM

I agree with the rest. I will tell you that the blow up pool is good for several reasons. The rooms, except the suite have only a shower. Us the pool in the bottom of the shower to bath the babies. Lots of kids are not use to a shower, and tend to freak out, so this will make it fun for them. No worries about splashing, because most of us adults tend to flood the bathroom, so they have a drain.

Luanne