Epic Trip Report w/ Autistic Child details

[dhdozier]

I sailed on the Epic during Thanksgiving Week 2012 and wrote a trip report. It isn't a masterpiece by any stretch but I did include some tidbits on things that bothered my 10, a week from turning 11, yr old son. And while no 2 children with aspberger's (or without even) are the same, I have appreciated the member reviews I read here and felt I should try to help other families that need to overplan to help vacations go smoother as far as expectations and possible glitches. Hope this review is helpful to a few families (and I want to add there is no mention of kid's club in my review because #1there were alot of kids in my party so they hung out together and #2 my son was not happy to know if he checked himself in that he had to stay for 2 hours before he could leave - not knocking their policy just not good for him). The Epic was a great ship with a great crew and we enjoyed it overall. http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberre...EntryID=113140

[Izzybeff]

Originally Posted by dhdozier

I sailed on the Epic during Thanksgiving Week 2012 and wrote a trip report. It isn't a masterpiece by any stretch but I did include some tidbits on things that bothered my 10, a week from turning 11, yr old son. And while no 2 children with aspberger's (or without even) are the same, I have appreciated the member reviews I read here and felt I should try to help other families that need to overplan to help vacations go smoother as far as expectations and possible glitches. Hope this review is helpful to a few families (and I want to add there is no mention of kid's club in my review because #1there were alot of kids in my party so they hung out together and #2 my son was not happy to know if he checked himself in that he had to stay for 2 hours before he could leave - not knocking their policy just not good for him). The Epic was a great ship with a great crew and we enjoyed it overall. http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberre...EntryID=113140

I was unable to get your link to work.

[bean24]

Thanks I am about to cruise with my 3 yr old son with ASD. He has cruised before, but now he is more aware so I am very nervous.

[germanyboy]

Originally Posted by Izzybeff

I was unable to get your link to work.

Link just worked for me

[JBCall]

Thanks for the review. We are not planning on trying the Epic any time soon but it is always great too hear others opinions/thoughts who have children with Aspergers or sensory issues.

[OnlineMom]

I look forward to reading your trip report. We first cruised with our son (diagnosed with autism at age 3) when he was 6 and our daughter was 5. It quickly became our family's favorite way to vacation! He did wonderfully - both of our kids did. We have cruised many different cruiselines and have always had wonderful experiences with the staff at the kids' camps.

[crusinmama06]

Great review and I agree with how slow the dining room was!

You also gave very good advice about some of the entertainment that would be too much for kids with sensory issues. Add Manhattan Room to that list. Many people on our sailing complained how loud it was in there. It was almost painful for my daughter to be there.

One thing I have to disagree on - the casino - you don't know why kids can't play in there? It's illegal on land for kids to gamble. It's not a stretch for it to be "adult only" at sea. Let's allow the adults to have their fun too

[SuzanneH]

Wonderful review!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share with us your experiences .

[bean24]

Just wanted to update I am currently on the Gem and the kids crew has been amazing with my son. He has been having a great time and they did a great job reassuring a ASD mom.

[crusinmama06]

Originally Posted by bean24

Just wanted to update I am currently on the Gem and the kids crew has been amazing with my son. He has been having a great time and they did a great job reassuring a ASD mom.

Gem was amazing with my daughter. We loved those folks! I told them that I would need a phone - they assured me I wouldn't. (total opposite of Epic who told me I would need a phone)

They were so patient with my youngest. I am glad you are having a great time!

[RNShelli]

Sounds like you had a good time. I am cruising on the allure with my 4 autistic children ages 10, 8, 6, 6 (twins). This will be our 4th cruise with the kids and first without extended family to help out....say a prayer for those other passengers