Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers more than your regular Caribbean journey. With stops in Shanghai, Barcelona and even St. Petersburg, families will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting cities around the world while taking advantage of Regent Seven Seas Cruises' onboard enrichment programs. Best of all, children under 17 sail free on select ships through December 2008, so adults and kids alike can enjoy Regent's luxury cruises.

Regent Cruises provides expert hosts and unique programming to help guests pursue different interests during their voyages. For an extra fee, guests can join Regent's Circles of Interest program and participate in photography lessons, culinary workshops (pictured above) or art and architecture excursions.

Guests who sign up for the Wellness Circle learn to create gourmet meal plans, specialized fitness exercises and stress management routines that will help them continue relaxing long after their trip is over.

For kids, Regent Cruises offers a complimentary youth program. A staff of experienced and enthusiastic youth counselors supervises Club Mariner 2008. Separated into three groups for ages 5-8, 9-12 and 13-17, the program keeps children busy with an assortment of interactive activities. Parents can relax as their kids whale watch, learn to draw aquatic animals or play with Russian dolls.

Cruises to Alaska and Tahiti on the Regent's Paul Gauguin also have a special Ambassadors of the Environment (AOTE) Youth Circle of Interest, hosted by renowned naturalist Jean-Michel Cousteau. For $199 per child, young travelers will explore extraordinary natural wonders while learning about environmental sustainability.

Kids on the Alaskan cruise will have the opportunity to observe sea otters, whales and other marine animals. On the Tahitian cruise, children will go on Eco-tours that involve snorkeling safaris, stingray ballets, hiking trails, cycling and more.

Where to Next?

Of special interest with older and adult children are the two sailings to Antarctica scheduled for January of 2009 (beyond the term of this deal). Families will visit the Falkland Islands, Drake Passage and the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the expedition vessel Minerva (a totally refurbished version of the former Explorer II) in RSSC comfort, accompanied by respected naturalists, geologists, zoologists, historians and ornithologists. The two-week journey will be highlighted by complimentary Zodiac tours and enlightening shore excursions featuring abundant glacier and wildlife viewing opportunities.

With activities for travelers of all ages, Regent's cruises are a perfect for multi-generational families who want to learn as they travel.

For more information, visit Regent Seven Seas Cruises website or call 877/505-5370. To learn more about cruising with kids, read FTF's article about family programs on major cruise ships.

By Patty Lee