DCL with a 6 y/o who doesn't speak English?

[Boullie]

Hey everyone!

Me and the misses are currently planning our Easter 2026 vacation, and are considering going on a cruise with our son, who will be 6 years old by then.
Living in Belgium, our native language is Dutch, and even though me and my wife speak English and French too, this isn't the case for our son.
I was wondering if there are parents here, who have similar experiences? As he doesn't have any siblings, we are worried he might feel lonely on the ship and won't be able to attend in any of the activities aimed as his age.

 

[lanejudy]

There may be a Club/Lab CM who speaks Dutch. You might also take the next year to teach him some words in English. But don’t under-estimate the children’s ability to figure out communication and play together.

 

[Girl of the South]

It’s a year away. And for better or for worse, English has become a very universal language. You really can travel the world only knowing English. Personally I would make an effort to introduce him to some Disney movies and cartoons in English. Maybe he would soak up some of the language. The ships are very visual. Only issue may be in the Kids Clubs although childhood can also be a universal language!

 

[Chipmunkmaniac]

Worst case scenario: go together during open house
Also; join the fb group of that particular geoup and launch regularly posts asking for other Flemish or Dutch kiddos

 

[cruisehopeful]

It's plenty of time to learn a little English. Also, kids will probably enjoy helping out. I don't think it'll be a problem at all.