Before you book a family cruise holiday, there are a few Dos and Don'ts to bear in mind:

• DO your homework; not all cruise ships are child-friendly; others have extensive kids' facilities during the school holidays but offer little to do at other times of the year. The best way to find the ship that's right for you at the time you want to travel is to consult with your travel agent.

• DO remember that agents who belong to PSARA, the Passenger Shipping Association Retail Agents scheme, are likely to be the most knowledgeable about cruising. Look for the PSARA sticker in the window, or check out the Sea-Mail service for your local cruise specialist.

• DO contact the Passenger Shipping Association at Walmer House, 288-292 Regent Street, London W1R 5HE. Telephone (UK) 0171 436 2449 for information on any aspect of cruise holidays.

• DON'T regard a children's programme as a licence to forget about the kids for a week or so - many ships won't accept children under four in children's clubs unless mum or dad comes too.

• DON'T book full day shore excursions if you have very young children; most companies insist at least one parent stays on board during a full day in port, in case a child becomes distressed.