Kevin and I just got back from our first Buddy Cruise, and it was amazing! We spent eight days at sea on the Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas, along with other Villages friends. Even though we were a little worried at first because of Hurricane Helene, the storm only delayed us by five hours, and it didn’t ruin our fun. We ate (a lot!), danced, watched shows, went swimming, ice-skated, and, of course, had plenty of frozen yogurt.
Between all the fun, we attended some Buddy seminars. In the first seminar, we were welcomed and found out that Buddy Cruise has been around since 2008! It’s great to know that so many families come back year after year to join in.
One of the seminars we attended was called *Love Map*, which gave advice for couples. We learned that it’s important to regularly check in with each other and ask meaningful questions, especially when times are tough. There was another great session on using “I” Statements to communicate your needs in a respectful way, which helps build trust in relationships.
Kevin and I did notice that some activities weren’t exactly our speed, and we felt there could’ve been more events to help people meet each other, especially for the Buddies. So, we made our own fun by chatting with other families and enjoying everything the ship had to offer. We skipped the early morning coffee meetups and didn’t bother with shore excursions, choosing instead to explore the ship without the crowds.
One challenge we faced was that the Royal Caribbean app didn’t show Best Buddy Cruise events, so we had to use a paper calendar, which wasn’t super convenient. But I’m sure those who are more organized didn’t mind!
What is Buddy Cruise?
Buddy Cruise is a non-profit organization that creates educational and fun opportunities for families, while also promoting awareness, advocacy, and inclusion for people with special needs. Each year, they hold an amazing conference at sea, where families can learn, connect, and have a great time together. Their mission is to raise awareness and encourage acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome and other special needs.
Want to Join the Next Cruise?
If you’re interested in joining the next Buddy Cruise, mark your calendar! It’s a seven-day Western Caribbean trip that departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on October 26, 2025. Here’s how you can join:
- Call Buddy Cruise at 1-877-239-2789 x3 to get a special booking discount.
- Book your stateroom on the Royal Caribbean “Oasis of the Seas”.
- Register your cabin with Buddy Cruise to fully participate in their events. There’s an $80 conference fee per cabin.
Everyone in your room will get a Buddy Cruise ID badge, which gives you access to all Buddy Cruise workshops, events, and activities!
For more info, visit the Best Buddy Cruise website and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Story by Debbie Jenkins
