{"id":1527,"date":"2025-09-04T09:33:16","date_gmt":"2025-09-04T08:33:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?p=1527"},"modified":"2025-09-04T09:33:16","modified_gmt":"2025-09-04T08:33:16","slug":"our-first-ever-2-week-cruise-and-how-pos-arvia-is-a-dream-for-our-neurodivergent-family","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?p=1527","title":{"rendered":"Our first EVER 2 week cruise and how P&#038;O&#8217;s Arvia is a dream for our neurodivergent family!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"738\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.57-AM.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1561\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.57-AM.png 738w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.57-AM-300x220.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 738px) 100vw, 738px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to planning a holiday that meets ALL of our individual needs as a family its either Disneyland , a Cruise or Center Parcs that feel like a safe bet for us. But, we have NEVER been brave enough to face two whole weeks away. The medical prep, clothes washing and length of time from OUR familiar has always put me off. I can now happily say&#8230;. I had nothing to worry about!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The kids Grandma ( Ians mum) generously treated us, Ians sister and her daughter  to a wonderful two week Mediterranean cruise for we are ENORMOUSLY grateful . Although you wont see them alot in our public content ( they don&#8217;t fancy being TikTok famous just yet;)  ) We shared a wonderful two weeks as a family of 9 and it is a memory that we will share forever with utter joy! Getting to spend so much time with our beautiful niece and seeing our children care for her was breathtaking. The games nights, the food and the laughs were truly AWESOME!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"734\" height=\"561\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.23.44-AM.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1562\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.23.44-AM.png 734w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.23.44-AM-300x229.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 734px) 100vw, 734px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"729\" height=\"513\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.13-AM.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1564\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.13-AM.png 729w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.24.13-AM-300x211.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 729px) 100vw, 729px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As always, we like to share our experiences and the things we learned to help you on your next neurodivergent family journey so&#8230; here&#8217;s what we learned and why we at Awesome Archie non profit  HIGHLY recommend Arvia for your family!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Arvia is the newest Excel-class ship and takes family fun to the next level \u2014 blending sun-soaked adventure with <em>child-focused brilliance<\/em>. For me that is key , happy kids means a happy me!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.24-AM-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1566\" width=\"589\" height=\"775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.24-AM-1.png 433w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.24-AM-1-228x300.png 228w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019ve got little explorers, screen-loving tweens, or sensory-seeking neurodivergent children, Arvia makes it easier to say \u201cyes\u201d to a holiday where everyone actually gets to relax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong> Kids\u2019 Clubs That <em>Actually<\/em> Understand Kids<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>P&amp;O\u2019s Reef clubs are broken down by age, and they are <em>free of charge<\/em>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li><strong>Splashers (2\u20134 years)<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Surfers (5\u20138 years)<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Scubas (9\u201312 years)<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>H2O (13\u201317 years)<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>These are so more than just babysitting services. The staff are friendly, energetic, and trained to engage children through fun, inclusive activities like arts and crafts, games, themed nights, and movie sessions. For children who need more structure or sensory-friendly environments, the team is usually happy to accommodate if you speak with them in advance. My neice Mollie went into surfers kids club every day and absolutely LOVED it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> <em>Top tip:<\/em> Let them know if your child is neurodivergent or needs adjustments \u2014 many parents report a thoughtful and flexible response!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Altitude Adventure Zone \u2013 Ropes, Golf &amp; Laser Tag!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Arvia brings action-packed outdoor fun to the seas with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li><strong>The Altitude Skywalk (ropes course)<\/strong> \u2013 thrill-seeking kids (and grown-ups) will love it&#8230;.WE DID IT!<\/li><li><strong>Altitude Mini Golf<\/strong> \u2013 great for family bonding and gentle competition. AWESOME FUN!<\/li><li><strong>Altitude Splash Valley<\/strong> \u2013 a splash-tastic water play area that\u2019s ideal for hot afternoons. LUSH ON THE HOT DAYS.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s perfect for burning off energy while sailing through the sunshine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong> Onboard Cinema &amp; Shows Made for All Ages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Arvia\u2019s Ocean Studios cinema plays a mix of new releases and family-friendly favorites in a quiet, comfortable environment \u2014 great for downtime. And the Headliners Theater puts on West-End style shows and performances that are often suitable (and exciting!) for older children and teens. HANDS DOWN our favorite shows were those given by The Animal Guyz. I am going to write a blog dedicated to them and the work that they do as it deserves more than just a para on here! Keep your eyes peeled for that  soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Food Freedom \u2013 Archie and Herbie had so much choice!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From The Quays (a casual dining area with a mix of global street food) to pizza and pasta favourites, there\u2019s something for every palate \u2014 including picky ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li>Simple, child-friendly menus<\/li><li>Buffet options for independence<\/li><li>Allergen and dietary-awareness from staff (just let them know!)<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Some venues like The Beach House are super relaxed and family-friendly, so no worries if you\u2019ve got noisy little ones of kids that struggle to whisper like Arch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong> Cabin Comfort &amp; Safe Spaces<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cabins are thoughtfully laid out with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li>Bunk beds or sofa beds for kids<\/li><li>Private balconies in some rooms \u2014 perfect for sensory breaks , we used our daily!<\/li><li>TV and movie options for chilled evenings<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When we needed a moment away from the crowds we just headed back to your cabin for a cool-down and a reset. We brought comfort items from home (teddies, fidgets, blankets) to make it feel familiar and we soon settled in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We had a room with a small covered balcony which meant that even in our wind down time, I could sit and hear the ocean and feel the sun while the boys chilled on their tablet or played chess. AWESOME!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Sensory-Friendly Tips for Neurodivergent Families<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While Arvia isn\u2019t exclusively set up for neurodivergent children, many families have found it easier than expected to navigate with the right preparation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li><strong>Priority check-in<\/strong> is available \u2014 let them know your needs ahead of time.<\/li><li>Quiet corners can be found around the ship for breaks.<\/li><li>Speak to the kids&#8217; club team about any access or sensory needs \u2014 they often go the extra mile.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Bonus idea:<\/em> Bring noise-cancelling headphones, familiar snacks, and visuals\/schedules to help with transitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For us, Arvia isn\u2019t just a ship \u2014 it\u2019s a <strong>floating holiday village<\/strong> packed with imagination, activity, and opportunities to connect as a family. Whether your child wants to climb, splash, chill, or create, there\u2019s something for every energy level and every personality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not always easy to find a holiday that meets the needs of <em>every member of the family<\/em>, but P&amp;O\u2019s Arvia comes impressively close \u2014 and for that, we\u2019re THRILLED!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>See you again next summer Arvia!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"327\" height=\"564\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.27.23-AM.png\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"1567\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.27.23-AM.png\" data-link=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?attachment_id=1567\" class=\"wp-image-1567\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.27.23-AM.png 327w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.27.23-AM-174x300.png 174w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 327px) 100vw, 327px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"437\" height=\"564\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.56-AM.png\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"1568\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.56-AM.png\" data-link=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?attachment_id=1568\" class=\"wp-image-1568\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.56-AM.png 437w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.56-AM-232x300.png 232w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 437px) 100vw, 437px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"437\" height=\"564\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.48-AM.png\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"1569\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.48-AM.png\" data-link=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?attachment_id=1569\" class=\"wp-image-1569\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.48-AM.png 437w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.48-AM-232x300.png 232w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 437px) 100vw, 437px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"718\" height=\"570\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.15-AM-1.png\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"1570\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.15-AM-1.png\" data-link=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?attachment_id=1570\" class=\"wp-image-1570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.15-AM-1.png 718w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.26.15-AM-1-300x238.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 718px) 100vw, 718px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"433\" height=\"570\" src=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.37-AM-1.png\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"1571\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.37-AM-1.png\" data-link=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?attachment_id=1571\" class=\"wp-image-1571\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.37-AM-1.png 433w, https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Screenshot-2025-09-04-9.25.37-AM-1-228x300.png 228w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 433px) 100vw, 433px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When it comes to planning a holiday that meets ALL of our individual needs as a family its either Disneyland , a Cruise or Center Parcs that feel like a safe bet for us. But, we have NEVER been brave enough to face two whole weeks away. The medical prep, clothes washing and length of &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/?p=1527\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Our first EVER 2 week cruise and how P&#038;O&#8217;s Arvia is a dream for our neurodivergent family!&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1527"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1527"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1527\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1572,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1527\/revisions\/1572"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1527"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1527"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.awesomearchie.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1527"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}