Taking a Nanny on a Cruise

[PrincessShmoo]

Just wondering if there's a standard protocol. Sounds like everyone is in agreement.

Many years ago (when I was of babysitting age) my sister and I accompanied 3 families on a trip for the purpose of watching the children. While we pretty much did all the things that everyone was doing (meals, activities, etc) we were in charge of the kids. We got paid (in cash) at the end of the week.

 

[LAS2AMS]

OP needs to be aware that if the babysitter isn’t compensated, they can make a wage claim - even if it’s a verbal under-the-table transaction.

Check the laws in your state. In CA, the law specifies how babysitters are to be paid (not the rate, but double time etc.). I’ve worked with wage claims and they’re not pretty. Especially considering most of the babysitters I work with earn $300K/year and more (many near $1M). And they’re not live in, get to fly on private jets, eat gourmet meals at the top restaurants, stay in the best hotels, etc.

 

[Marthasor]

Yes, the sitter should absolutely be paid and the hours/expectations should be set prior to the trip. We took a nanny on a few trips when DS was smaller, including a DCL cruise, as DS was not comfortable in kids clubs until he was about 7 years old. We paid for all aspects of her travel (flights, own stateroom) and established her daily working hours/responsibilities prior to the trip. We paid her her full wage for her working hours. Those vacations were quite pricey for us, but worth it so DH and I could actually have a bit of a vacation.