I've done the cruise 3 times. My boys LOVED it. My main tip is to go EARLY the first morning to the Kid's Area. My boys were 1st and got to cut the ribbon - when they returned to the cabin they had loads of goodies and a signed pic. My boys loved the kids' programming so much they resented when I got them out. You will have to take them in the pool, and on Castaway Cay they don't have water access in the kids' programming area. My boys weren't all that into the beach at Castaway Cay, so I'd suggest booking adult stuff on the island with a clear conscience - the kids will be having a blast! I am not a beachy person, but learned that Castaway Cay is HEAVEN. The adult area is perfection - quiet, calm, with cabana boys bringing you frozen drinks. Lucky, lucky you!