which line better fo multigenerational cruise?

[hb mom]

I want to take my toddler and my parents on a 4 day cruise to Mexico in February. This will be the grandparents first cruise and my goal is to show them the wonderful world of cruising. They are 70 and my son will be 1 month shy of 3. Which ship would be best? Carnival's Ecstasy or RCI's Monarch of the Seas? I've cruised both and although Carnival tickets are cheaper I'm wondering about the potential party atmosphere aboard their ship- even though this is not a weekend cruise. My parents are not gamblers.

[Gatormama]

Definately do the Monarch. We did a multigenerational on the Enchantment in march. Carnival is much more of a party atmosphere . Monarch has a play area for your little one. Now, Carnival does have a kids program for 2-3 year olds but they have to be potty trained. In my opion, Monarch is a little more family orientated at that time of year.

Hi hb mom:
I'm the family cruise editor here. I think Royal Caribbean has a better atmosphere for non-partiers and their youth program is tops. However, their youth program is for those three years and older who are potty trained. Most lines are pretty strict about making sure kids are three and older in order to participate (and the youth counselors have your DOB info, etc. so they'll know if you're lying!) Once in a while, they'll bend the rule, but often they don't.
Carnival, on the other hand, also has a very good youth program and it is for those two years and older. Counselors DO change diapers of those in the youth program.
Let me know if you have any add'l q's.
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor

From all I have heard and read, go with Royal Caribbean.