1-11-07 Wonder- Anyone else?

[stac719]

We will be heading from the cold Pittsburgh area on the Jan. 11, 2007, 3-day Wonder for our very first cruise. It's a Christmas surprise for my sons, ages 12 & 9. I can't wait to see their faces Christmas morning!!
Anyone else going?
Stacy

[first timers]

We will be heading from the cold Pittsburgh area on the Jan. 11, 2007, 3-day Wonder for our very first cruise. It's a Christmas surprise for my sons, ages 12 & 9. I can't wait to see their faces Christmas morning!!
Anyone else going?
Stacy

We are going on the Wonder for this cruise too. We are in sunny Central Florida. We are looking forward to seeing the changes from dry dock. Alex and Carolyn

[first timers]

We have cruised on several cruise lines, but we keep coming back to DCL. The crew is great and the ships are wonderful. There is alot to do for adults and kids. If we can answer any questions, let us know. Alex and Carolyn

[stac719]

Thanks Alex & Carolyn for replying to my post. It looks like we may have the boat to ourselves! Do you know if the cruises are usually crowded during the time we are going? I was just curious. I have heard the water can be too chilly to swim in during Jan., but for us in the 'Burgh, 70s & 80s are perfect swimming weather!
Stacy

[first timers]

Thanks Alex & Carolyn for replying to my post. It looks like we may have the boat to ourselves! Do you know if the cruises are usually crowded during the time we are going? I was just curious. I have heard the water can be too chilly to swim in during Jan., but for us in the 'Burgh, 70s & 80s are perfect swimming weather!
Stacy

The Carribean is never too cold to swim. Sometimes the air temp is cool when you get out of the water. Late Jan. and early Feb. are a slower time of the year. We may see a fair number of Disney employees onboard as they get a good deal to sail in the off-peak times. There may not be too many kids either which means those kids who are onboard will get more individual attention from the cruise staff and availability for computers in the Oceaneer Lab. The Lab is great fun for the kids. Alex and Carolyn

[beckywdwcruiser]

My fiance and I will be on the 1/11/07 Wonder cruise for our honeymoon. We're getting married on the 6th, going to WDW for a few days, and then we'll be on the cruise.

It will be my fiance's first cruise and just my second (I went on a Carnival cruise years ago with my parents).

[first timers]

My fiance and I will be on the 1/11/07 Wonder cruise for our honeymoon. We're getting married on the 6th, going to WDW for a few days, and then we'll be on the cruise.

It will be my fiance's first cruise and just my second (I went on a Carnival cruise years ago with my parents).

Congradulations on your marraige. You picked a great way to celebrate. Be sure to book dinner at Palo's one night. You can book Palos' on line and it's well worth the extra fee. It's like a 5 star restaurant. Alex and Carolyn

[first timers]

Where is everyone? I was hoping there would be a few more Disers on this cruise. :confused3 :confused3 :confused3 Alex

[Whoop01]

We are also on this cruise as part of our Land & Sea Honeymoon. WE are both first time cruisers. I have been to Disney before but this is her first time to Disney World.

[first timers]

We are also on this cruise as part of our Land & Sea Honeymoon. WE are both first time cruisers. I have been to Disney before but this is her first time to Disney World.

Welcome aboard. You have the best of both worlds, Disney on land and sea! We just celebrated my birthday by eating and drinking our way around EPCOT for the wine and food festival. Each park has something different to offer. At EPCOT if you do Soarin and Test track, go early and use the fast pass. Test track often has a 90 min wait and Soarin can be 90 min plus. If you go to MGM studios, make sure you see Fantasmic. Animal kingdom closes at 6PM and has no after dark activities. Onboard the Wonder try to get to Palos and check out the spa. You can make reservations online either 60 or 90 days before the cruise. Whatever you decide to do- have a WONDERful time. Alex and Carolyn
:jumping3: :jumping3: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce:

[first timers]

Happy Thanksgiving. Alex and Carolyn

[stac719]

Happy Thanksgiving, to you too, Alex & Carolyn and rest of the DISers. I'm really starting to think that we'll have the boat to ourselves based on the number of posts on this thread! I'm getting so excited and can't wait til Christmas morning to give my sons their big surprise!
Stacy

[Whoop01]

What is the best night for Palo on this cruise? I have tried to book online and it does not do anything when I click continue.

[BroadwayGirl]

My friend Linda and I just booked on this cruise. This will be my 5th trip on the Wonder. Athough we are friends, Linda and I keep very different schedules, so I'd love to meet up with some other DISers to have people to hang out with in the evenings at the nightclubs and such.

Alex and Carolyn, you guys are semi-neighbors, lol. I used to live off of Maitland Blvd but now live near Seaworld.

Congratulations to both sets of DIS honeymooners on the cruise. :)

[LindaBabe]

My friend Linda and I just booked on this cruise. This will be my 5th trip on the Wonder. Athough we are friends, Linda and I keep very different schedules, so I'd love to meet up with some other DISers to have people to hang out with in the evenings at the nightclubs and such.

Alex and Carolyn, you guys are semi-neighbors, lol. I used to live off of Maitland Blvd but now live near Seaworld.

Congratulations to both sets of DIS honeymooners on the cruise. :)

Wasn't that nice of her NOT to say that her friend is older than dirt? (The truth :rotfl2: ) I just like my fun earlier in the day - you'll see me at Sunrise on deck 10!

Congrats to the DISney Honeymooners - WHAT a great way to start a new year!

[LindaBabe]

BUMPING so we don't drop to page 2!

[the6allens]

We are booked for this cruise! This will be a first for everyone in our family ~ we're taking our 4 kids with us to celebrate our 15th anniversary. We've been to the Disney parks couple of times, but I always wanted to go on a Disney Cruise. Our kids are VERY excited....

I wish I could have kept the cruise as a surprise for Christmas, but we just couldn't help ourselves and we told the kids MONTHS ago. We've been counting down the days, and can't believe it's almost here!!!

[stac719]

I'm so glad to see more people posting to this thread! Welcome all of you!
I just got our cruise documents today and I'm esctatic. I have been tempted to tell my sons about the surprise, but I am committed to waiting until Christmas morning! This is the longest I've kept any secret my entire life.
I am also looking forward to some much needed R&R after the holiday.
And, LindaBabe, I'll join you for the early sun!
But my DBF and I will happily join all of you for fun in the evening while my sons are enjoying the club! And, congrats to the6allens on their anniversary!
Stacy

[LindaBabe]

So, how old are all the kids?

[BroadwayGirl]

Wasn't that nice of her NOT to say that her friend is older than dirt? (The truth :rotfl2: ) I just like my fun earlier in the day - you'll see me at Sunrise on deck 10!

Congrats to the DISney Honeymooners - WHAT a great way to start a new year!
You are NOT older than dirt!!!

And I might be seen at Sunrise :sunny: too, that will just be before I go to bed. :rotfl:

[the6allens]

Our boys are 14, 11 and 7, and our little girl will turn 2 two weeks after the cruise.

Only 29 days till we set sail!!!! But who's counting???

[first timers]

My friend Linda and I just booked on this cruise. This will be my 5th trip on the Wonder. Athough we are friends, Linda and I keep very different schedules, so I'd love to meet up with some other DISers to have people to hang out with in the evenings at the nightclubs and such.

Alex and Carolyn, you guys are semi-neighbors, lol. I used to live off of Maitland Blvd but now live near Seaworld.

Congratulations to both sets of DIS honeymooners on the cruise. :)

Welcome. It's nice to see that there are a few others on the cruise. We used to live in Altamonte Springs. The company I work for is just off Maitland Blvd and I-4. It's a small world (after all). Alex

[first timers]

Wasn't that nice of her NOT to say that her friend is older than dirt? (The truth :rotfl2: ) I just like my fun earlier in the day - you'll see me at Sunrise on deck 10!

Congrats to the DISney Honeymooners - WHAT a great way to start a new year!

If you are up early, you might see us walking on deck 4 in the mornings. Alex

[first timers]

We've been counting down the days, and can't believe it's almost here!!!

We are counting down too. For us this is a reward for the Goofy Challenge for the Disney Marathon weekend Jan 7 and 8. We will power walk the half marathon on Sat.and the marathon on Sun. We figure about three hours Sat and 6 1/2 hours on Sun. We do enjoy walking. Alex

[LindaBabe]

We are counting down too. For us this is a reward for the Goofy Challenge for the Disney Marathon weekend Jan 7 and 8. We will power walk the half marathon on Sat.and the marathon on Sun. We figure about three hours Sat and 6 1/2 hours on Sun. We do enjoy walking. Alex


You'll DESERVE a break after that!! Y'll see me on an ecv in the family meet area at the sign of T on both Saturday and Sunday. I "mom" about 20 participants, several of whom are doing the Goofy. If you'll PM me your bib numbers, and I'll put you on my cell phone race result text list!

And I might be seen at Sunrise too, that will just be before I go to bed.

THIS is one of the reasons she's such a great friend - she shows me a side of shipboard life I will NEVER manage to stay awake for myself. :rotfl:

[The LK 4]

:cool1: We just booked this cruise tonight!!! We are so excited! We cruised once before as a family - June '05 DCL 4 night.

My name is Laura, DH is Lenny, DS Logan is 13, and DD Leah is 11. :wave2:

[stac719]

Welcome aboard! I am getting ready to tape the Travel channel show about the DCL. I am going to make it part of the surprise package for my sons Christmas morning gift. I truly feel like a little kid again as excited as I am about the trip! I'm also glad to see there will be kids on board close to my sons' ages - I just know they will have a blast.
Stacy

[The LK 4]

BTW, Stacy.....we are from Pittsburgh, also! Cranberry Twp!

[LindaBabe]

Welcome LK4! Good Morning, All!

What do you have planned for excursions in Nassau? Any?

I'd like to visit the Retreat (Bahamian National Trust garden) but Cable beach calls to me too. And I'd like the adventure of eating conch fritters on Arawak Cay . . .

Last time, I took the number 10 bus and walked up to Ardestra gardens. It was a cheap outing ($2 rt for the bus and $12 for the "zoo") and resulted in my favorite photo of the trip - me with a parrot on my head and a cockatoo on my hand.

Happy Day, All!

[stac719]

Wow, Cranberry Twp., I just traveled by there last weekend, as my sister lives in Beaver Falls. Cranberry is a great area and growing so rapidly. We actually live in Washington County, about 40 min. from the city. How about this warm weather we're having? Feels like spring! Yinz guys Stillers fans?

LindaBabe,
The only thing we have planned in Nassau is the Dolphin Excursion, which I thought my sons would love (OK, I wanted to do it, too!) Have you ever done this and was it worth the time and money?
Have a great day (yinz guys!)

[The LK 4]

Yep, we're Stillers fans n'at. ;) I'm originally from West Mifflin, and two of my sisters live in Bethel Park.

I need to get moving with my planning! :cool1: We did the Atlantis tour on our last cruise. I may check into the Dolphin encounter as well.

Nice to meet all of you! :wave:

[the6allens]

We're doing the Atlantis tour, and I'm thinking we'll keep it easy (since we have a one year old!) and do the glass bottom boat at Castaway Cay. I want to keep the rest of the day free so we can wander the island. Not sure what to expect, but I'm positive we'll find SOMETHING to do!

[LindaBabe]

My dh & I did our dolphin swim at Seaworld, Discovery Cove. It was WONDERFUL, so you have a lot to look forward to. His remark was - it was the best day EVER!

[BroadwayGirl]

Speaking of excursions, has anyone done either of the snorkeling excursions out of Nassau? I'm thinking of splurging on one of them but I don't know which one to choose. My other choice for a splurge is the fishing excursion from Castaway Cay - is anyone planning to do that?

[The LK 4]

Last time, I took the number 10 bus and walked up to Ardestra gardens. It was a cheap outing ($2 rt for the bus and $12 for the "zoo") and resulted in my favorite photo of the trip - me with a parrot on my head and a cockatoo on my hand.


I was just reading about the Ardestra gardens tour. Your way is MUCH cheaper! Any problems with the bus system? It is pretty uncomplicated? The only extra things I would get from the DCL excursion would be a tour of the city, and is that really worth an additional $23/per person?? I think the kids might be just as happy riding the bus and visiting the gardens.

Our party has also grown in size! :) Now, my MIL, SIL, and 7 year old niece are going to join us. :cool1:

[LindaBabe]

The bus is a "jitney" - more like a large van than the city buses you're used to in the United States. You need exact change in American dollars - when you get in you tell the driver where you want to get off and give over the money.

Traffic goes in the "wrong" direction, so remember to cross the street. You want number 10 (Cable Beach) going left to right as you stand with your back to the straw market to get to Ardestra, and the reverse to get back. It's about a 15 minute uphill walk to the gardens from the bus stop.

I remember being a little scared coming back because I was afraid the bus wouldn't come, but, of course, it did ;-)

Surely SOMEONE has signed up for one of those snorkle trips, B'way Girl, even if they aren't DISers. I hope you find someone fun!

[LindaBabe]

WEll, it certainly IS quiet around here!

[BroadwayGirl]

WEll, it certainly IS quiet around here!
Sorry...I've been working and singing and getting ready to go home for Christmas.

Doesn't seem like anyone here is planning on any of the more active excursions in Nassau so how about CC? Will anyone be snorkeling? I usually have to snorkel by myself when I go as I never seem to find traveling companions who are as fishy as I am, lol. I would literally be happy spending hours out in the water. I've only ever snorkeled in the sheltered area off the family beach though. I've heard there can be some really cool fish and stuff over at Serenity Bay but bc of safety concerns I've never checked it out.

Also are there any Bingo fans? I always like to try to catch one game of Bingo during my cruises. It is the closest I get to gambling.

[LindaBabe]

Sorry! I forget other people have lives outside of Disney. Of COURSE you're busy! We chose not to be, so I have plenty of time to obsess over this trip. lol

There's a snorkel tour off of Castaway Cay where you go out to the area on a sail boat - you might find like minded people on that one! Or the rose Island snorkle on Nassau . . . I'd be tempted just to go along for the ride on Castaway Cay, if it was an afternoon cruise, but OH, how a hammock calls my name . . .

[The LK 4]

Good morning! We've been busy with Christmas preparations, and also cruise planning. My SIL has now decided to pull my 15y/o nephew out of school to join us, so I had to get his airfare and cruise reservations taken care of last night. I love the planning, but these last minute additions are making me :crazy: !!

Linda - thanks for the info on the Ardestra Gardens tour. Is the walk up the hill a difficult trip? I'm just wondering how my MIL will handle it.

This morning, I'm working on my packing list. I remember from last time that the over the door shoe holder and clothes pins were great tips. We took along a power strip but didn't really need it. Anyone have any other great "must haves" for the packing list?

[LindaBabe]

I use a cane, and have asthma, so I had to stop a few times, but it wasn't a bad hill and there was interesting vegetation to look at. You could also take a taxi since you have a family group. Some young girls I met there who were staying in Nassau said the snack bar had some of the most reasonably priced food in town.

We just got back off the 7 day Eastern - used the shoe holder, would have used clothes pins if i'da had them, and didn't take or need a power strip.

I also used ziplock bags to put ice in the 'cooler' with a hand towel on the bottom to catch any drips and in case I needed an ice pack for foot cramps.

Was glad I had a popup hamper from the dollar store for dirty clothes, too.

Wish I had had a molded cardboard cup holder from dunkin donuts or something to put cups in to carry from drink station. (I only have one free hand because of the cane)

[LindaBabe]

Is anyone doing Door Signs? I think I'll do one for us, because it will be easier for me to find our cabin. Besides . . . I'm BORED!

[The LK 4]

I spent almost all day yesterday :blush: reading the door signs threads and putting a few things together. Yep - we'll have them!

[PammyK]

oops...

[LindaBabe]

OH, Are you a new one, Miss K? Welcome!

[The LK 4]

LOL - I didn't think I recognized her from earlier in this thread!

[LindaBabe]

Maybe she got on the wrong thread?

[stac719]

Good evening! As I am up to my elbows trying to make Christmas cookies, help my sons with homework and write a story on deadline, my mind is only on this cruise!! I am also debating about what to do about our Palo night. We are on 2nd dinner rotation and are scheduled for Palo Saturday night, which is also Pirate night, right? I don't want to miss Palo, but I'd hate to miss the Pirate party, too. Any suggestions on how to get to do both? Thank you!

[LindaBabe]

Good evening! As I am up to my elbows trying to make Christmas cookies, help my sons with homework and write a story on deadline, my mind is only on this cruise!! I am also debating about what to do about our Palo night. We are on 2nd dinner rotation and are scheduled for Palo Saturday night, which is also Pirate night, right? I don't want to miss Palo, but I'd hate to miss the Pirate party, too. Any suggestions on how to get to do both? Thank you!

I'm not a lover of the Pirate party or the pirate menu, but I do have a suggestion - why not book your PALO dinner for around 6 pm - then you'll be done by about 8, and can visit your regular rotation to see the menu /bandana / hillarity and still make the deck party.

[the6allens]

OK guys, as this is our first cruise, PLEASE give me some insight on this pirate party stuff. Do we need to bring pirate costumes for our kids to wear? Do adults wear costumes too? Is the pirate night held during dinner, or is it a seperate event?

[stac719]

I'd also like to know the time for the Pirate party. I am going to take LindaBabe's advice (thank you!) and switch our Palo dinner to 6 so we can do both. Just FYI, I found a cute Pirates of the Caribbean outfit set at Wal-Mart for my DS9. Since th DVD is out for Christmas, it's a good time to find Pirates gear. I don't think my DS12 will get dressed up though!

[LindaBabe]

Some people do dress - or else wear a pirate tee shirt - more kids than adults but you always have the adults that like to play dressup.

At dinner, the menu comes on an ancient page, and they have pirate bandanas etc. A little bit of hoopla at dinner, but the main deal is on deck 9 about 9 pm. The kids love it. It's both too loud and too crowded for my taste, but I'm - er ok, not quite older than dirt. lol

[LindaBabe]

Have a smooth trip home, BroadwayGirl! See you SOON :-)

[Whoop01]

When should I expect to get documents in the mail?

[LindaBabe]

Hi Whoop - welcome aboard.

uh given the holidays, i guess probably by the end of the first week of January. If you filled your docs out on line, you don't need most of the packet anyway - except the luggage tags, but even them you can get at port, if you have to.

[LindaBabe]

bump up

[LindaBabe]

Good NEws! Docs came TODAY!!!!!

[beckywdwcruiser]

Exciting! I hope our cruise docs come soon, too! We're headed out of town to see family for the holidays tomorrow (then we'll have to get in gear to get everything ready for the wedding when we get back). So Happy Holidays and Happy New Year everyone!!! (I'm thinking we'll be exhausted by the time the cruise starts, so you'll probably find us sipping Bahama Mamas by the Quiet Cove Pool). :)

[LindaBabe]

We want to see wedding photos! Have a great holiday, all!

[LindaBabe]

Glad Christmas is over? I am tired - cook for two days and the meal gets eaten in 2 hours or less. Now, only New Years to go (I'm NOT cooking) and then Let the Packing begin!

Sleep well fellow cruisers. Sleep well!

[LindaBabe]

17 days 4 hours 35 minutes

[first timers]

Some people do dress - or else wear a pirate tee shirt - more kids than adults but you always have the adults that like to play dressup.


Haven't posted in a while. Been very busy at work and with holiday activities.

We do dress up for Pirate Day/Night. Pirate t-shirt for the day, pirate outfit for the evening. We often are on deck 9 back near the bar or on deck 10 by the stack. It is a bit less noisy there and you can see the craziness and fireworks from there. Alex

[first timers]

Good NEws! Docs came TODAY!!!!!

We have our docs as well. We will be at WDW for the marathon weekend and a few days before the cruise. Hope the Florida weather is a bit less rainy than it is now. Alex

[LindaBabe]

Yeah and less cold would be appreciated too. Last marathon we absolutely FROZE! Spent the whole afternoon after the half in our monorail view room at the Polynesian, warming up. this year, staying at POP, so the 'getting around' will be less easy.

[the6allens]

Hi all - we finally got our cruise docs!!

Just wondering...did anyone purchase the trip insurance? Do we REALLY need it??

[BroadwayGirl]

Good NEws! Docs came TODAY!!!!!
They did? LOL I wonder if you got all our docs or whether I'll have something waiting when I get home tomorrow night.

I'm trying to find some Pirate inspired clothes to wear for Pirate night. At the very least I have a pirate babushka to wear on my head. :)

[The LK 4]

Hi all - we finally got our cruise docs!!

Just wondering...did anyone purchase the trip insurance? Do we REALLY need it??

We did not purchase it. Obviously, I'm hoping we made a wise choice! :) We're flying in the night before, so hopefully even if we have a delayed flight, we'll still be there in plenty of time.

[BroadwayGirl]

Hi all - we finally got our cruise docs!!

Just wondering...did anyone purchase the trip insurance? Do we REALLY need it??
We originally included insurance but then dropped it within the allowable time period because I live in FL and Linda will be in FL for about a week before the cruise so we don't have to worry about travel delays/problems. :) However, I do normally advocate getting the insurance - it is something that seems really expensive until you need it and don't have it. And of course nobody thinks they will have a problem with their trip so everyone says, "Oh, I'm going no matter what so I don't need insurance." But remember, it doesn't just cover cxl and interruption. For a cruise it also provides medical transportation if needed. I'm honestly not as familiar with the DCL insurance coverage but if it is anything like the WDTC coverage it also provides a healthy amount for lost/stolen/damaged luggage, $500 for delayed luggage, $10K in medical expenses, etc.

[LindaBabe]

They did? LOL I wonder if you got all our docs or whether I'll have something waiting when I get home tomorrow night.

I'm trying to find some Pirate inspired clothes to wear for Pirate night. At the very least I have a pirate babushka to wear on my head. :)

HI! Nice to see you!! I only got my own luggage tags, so my assumption is -- You should have docs waiting for you.

Usually, I get insurance -- for a long cruise especially and I'll tell you why. Some friends of ours were on the 7 day eastern when her father died. They had to fly home from St. Thomas. Insurance would have helped them a LOT, but they didn't have it.

On a 3 day, I figure, the world's not going to end if I'm not home for three days.

Two weeks TOMORROW!

[EliseSara]

We're doing the Atlantis tour, and I'm thinking we'll keep it easy (since we have a one year old!) and do the glass bottom boat at Castaway Cay. I want to keep the rest of the day free so we can wander the island. Not sure what to expect, but I'm positive we'll find SOMETHING to do!


We're going on this cruise too, and we also have a one year old. His name is Nathan, and dd, who is almost 4, is Sophie. We're staying on the ship the day we are in Nassau. I am going to try to get Sophie into the kids programs, and I reserved a slot for Nathan in the baby program, and a facial for me!

Nice to meet you all!
Elise

[The LK 4]

:welcome: Elise!

[LindaBabe]

Welcome Elise & family! Enjoy that facial! (I talked myself out of one because I know i'll need a treet later in the winter when the cruise is but a distant memory.)

[EliseSara]

Does anyone know anything about purchasing diapers or baby food on the cruise? How about getting yogurt and applesauce and other mushy foods that I can feed the baby? Is it readily available?

[LindaBabe]

I think I'd pack the diapers and the baby food. They do sell both, but at prices you don't want to pay, and what they have may not be your brand. Besides - when you've used up what you brought, you're left with room for souvenirs!

We just cruised with friends who had a 7 month old - who was, to say the least, a happy eater. I believe he would have eaten one more container per meal than mom brought - the sea air you know - She had a mesh fabric gizmo into which she stuffed watermelon. The baby sucked it out with no risk of chunks or seeds. He'd go through a bowlful at dinner and she had no trouble getting it, albeit not always fast enough to satisfy the little chow hound.

[dizneygirl3]

We are cruising for the first time on the 1-11-07 Wonder, we surprised the kids(DS 4, DD8) on Christmas morning. We will be at the BWV for 2 days prior, driving to Port Canaveral, then returning to BWV for 8 days. I'm too excited to sleep:cool1:
Jackie

[stac719]

Welcome EliseSara & Dizneygirl3 & good evening to everyone!
I also surprised my DS 12 & 9 Christmas morning. Needless to say, it was the best surprise ever!
I think it's great we're going on our first cruise right after Christmas. While everyone is starting to get the post-Christmas blues, I can't wait to get all of the decorations and lights packed away!
I also have a question for those that have been to Castaway Cay before - I didn't schedule any excursions, but is it OK if we decide to do something to plan when we get on the island? I was thinking that just a day to relax and let the kids have free time would be the perfect way to spend the day there, but I would feel bad if they missed something really fun because I didn't schedule it.
Any suggestions would be appreciated!
Have a great night!
Stacy

[LindaBabe]

Hi Disneygirl3! Won't you and Stac tell us HOW you surprised your kids? It will be a head start on your trip reports!

B'way girl? Are you home yet??

[stac719]

I'm so glad you asked LindaBabe! It was so much fun. I had a big box with new swimming trunks and pirate stuff on top. They were confused until they got to the bottom of the box and read a poem I wrote about the cruise and saw the cruise documents and DVD. I was crying as they read the poem and started shrieking in delight. My DS12 called every relative he has to share the news. It was one of my most memorable Christmases ever! This trip is like a dream come true for us and the first really big vacation we've ever taken as a family. So I am so excited for them!

I am going to start packing this weekend as I feel so behind the rest of you!
I know this may have been asked before a zillion times, but do I need to pack a hairdryer and shampoo/conditioner?

Thanks! Have a great day!
Stacy

[The LK 4]

:welcome: Jackie!

Shampoo, conditioner, and a hair dryer are all supplied in your room. However, I don't remember the hair dryer as being too powerful, so we did bring one from home as a back up.

We'll be docked in Nassau this time in two weeks! :cool1:

I've made a packing list, but haven't done any "gathering" yet. I need to get my DD moving to see what she has to wear for the dinners. I was going to try and find some tropical shirts to wear for pirate night, but I couldn't find anything in the stores this time of the year.

[stac719]

Thank you! I also need to find some tropical/Pirate stuff for myself and DBF. I did see in the new Avon catalog a pair of adorable Mickey Mouse flip-flops that would be great for lounging around the pool. I packed away most of our summer attire, so I will have to dig out the shorts and sandals. It is a chore that I don't mind at all as we usually don't see that stuff again until May!

[ready to sail]

:cool1: We just booked this cruise tonight!!! We are so excited! We cruised once before as a family - June '05 DCL 4 night.

My name is Laura, DH is Lenny, DS Logan is 13, and DD Leah is 11. :wave2:



We just booked less than a week ago -- last minute decision. My oldest daughter is 11 will be 12 in March. Maybe she and Leah could meet up. Ariana's a dancer and competes gymnastics although dance is her passion.
See you on the cruise!

[ready to sail]

Yeah and less cold would be appreciated too. Last marathon we absolutely FROZE! Spent the whole afternoon after the half in our monorail view room at the Polynesian, warming up. this year, staying at POP, so the 'getting around' will be less easy.


We will be staying at the Polynesian prior to the cruise. Anything important I should know about ahead of time? Remember I have 3 kids-11,9,6.
Thanks.

[The LK 4]

We just booked less than a week ago -- last minute decision. My oldest daughter is 11 will be 12 in March. Maybe she and Leah could meet up. Ariana's a dancer and competes gymnastics although dance is her passion.
See you on the cruise!

Leah would love to meet a new friend onboard! Is Ariana signed up for the Oceaneer's Lab? We should pick a time to meet during or right after the sailaway party. We'll be dancing on the Goofy pool stage. :dance3:

Here's a picture of Logan and Leah:

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid212/pac89bd416ba1be48aad0de569bf3b508/ed5a7780.jpg

[The LK 4]

Here's a picture of the entire LK 4 family from last Easter at Disneyland. :)

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid204/p8be315c7542c72834c294bffda7b572a/ef5d5594.jpg

Please stop and say "Hi" if you spot me onboard!

[ready to sail]

[QUOTE=The LK 4;16125107]Leah would love to meet a new friend onboard! Is Ariana signed up for the Oceaneer's Lab? We should pick a time to meet during or right after the sailaway party. We'll be dancing on the Goofy pool stage. :dance3:

Here's a picture of Logan and Leah:



We haven't signed up for anything yet. How do you sign up for the Oceaneer's Lab? We're new to the Disney Cruise and this is our kids' first cruise -- our 2nd. We're not sure how anything works.

[The LK 4]

If you go to Disney's website and get to the cruise section, you can enter your cruise confirmation number. You can then pre-register the kids for the kids clubs, fill out some of your cruise documents, and sign up for excursions. It will make life a little easier and less hectic that first day.

[BroadwayGirl]

I remembered one more item for packing lists - a battery operated scented oil fan or some other type of air freshener. This makes the bathroom a much more pleasant place to visit. :) Due to outlet constraints, I do not recommend a plug-in type freshener. If you like holiday scents, check out the holiday clearance sections at Target or Walmart for sweet bargains. I know my company store had the Yankee Candle air fresheners for 50% off in the holiday scents so you might check for bargains at Yankee Candle as well.

[LindaBabe]

Stacy that sounds so FUN! :thumbsup2 I hope you took photos of the reaction when they got to the bottom of that box!

Well, no QUESTION but what I'm packing this weekend - while I was at the scrapbook store at a crop last night my friends called me. We were originally flying out on two different flights on Thursday morning - but she got a "ding" from south west for Wednesday night and did I want to change?

Heck YEAH! and saved $120 on my ticket!!!! :woohoo:

Now, how cold will it be in Florida during the next two weeks?

[stac719]

That's great LindaBabe! We are also flying in on Wed. on Southwest. While I'm not a big fan of their boarding process, the price was just too good to pass up. We're staying at the Hyatt @ the airport. I'm hoping it's nice in Orlando, too, but it's been unusually warm here in the 50s, low 60s and we are wearing light jackets and shorts! So anything in the 70s is summer-time for us and we'll take it!
Have a safe and Happy New Year to all of you!
Stacy

[BroadwayGirl]

I'm getting really excited about the cruise, and was wondering if any of my fellow DISers would be interested in planning to meet up during the cruise? I was thinking maybe we could plan meeting before or after the Sail Away deck party?

Also, for the first time cruisers I wanted to recommend attending the Shopping in Paradise presentation in the movie theatre. They usually have lots of free giveaways like hats, tote bags, frisbees, etc. If you plan to visit the shops in Nassau you can also get coupons and prize drawing cards for many of the jewelry shops. I can't afford to buy anything but some places do have free stuff they give you for visiting if you bring the card from your shopping host.

[ready to sail]

:goodvibes
Hope everyone has a great New Year!

Not too much longer until we cruise. We are actually doing a land package prior to the cruise. We leave on the 7th and will be staying at the Polynesian. Anyone know anything about the Polynesian?


:laundy:
I've got lots of laundry and packing to do...
Anyone know what the weather's supposed to be like? Should we be packing tank tops or just tee shirts?


Lori

[LindaBabe]

Happy New year Everybody!

Ready to sail - you've checked out the polynesian on the resort board, right? And read the information on the Polynesian on Allearsnet.com?

Read those things and they should fix you right up to enjoy your stay!

[first timers]

:woohoo:

Now, how cold will it be in Florida during the next two weeks?

Weather reports for next weekend (6&7th) is highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. There is some rain mixed in the 10 day forcast, but only 30-40% chance. Hopefully the warm temps will hang around for the cruise. Alex

[ready to sail]

Happy New year Everybody!

Ready to sail - you've checked out the polynesian on the resort board, right? And read the information on the Polynesian on Allearsnet.com?

Read those things and they should fix you right up to enjoy your stay!



Thanks! No, I haven't, but I will.

[ready to sail]

LK 4 Family:

Ariana and her sister, Hadley (9) are now registered for the Oceaneer's Lab.
I also registered their brother for the Oceaneer's Club.
We are currently searching for shore excursions. Thinking of the aquarium/beach one in Nassau. Not sure yet about Castaway Cay. We leave on Sunday (land) so I have some shopping and packing to do.

Lori

[ready to sail]

Is there a beach at Naussau where we can just hang and have fun? Is there a fee or is it open to anyone?

Lori

[LindaBabe]

Several beaches - the one i've heard most about is Cable Beach but do check the Nassau thread on the forum. Cable is accessable by taxi or the number 10 bus.

You really don't need to do an excursion on Castaway Cay to have fun - that's a GREAT beach and lots for families.

Cold and rainy here. C'mon Florida SUNSHINE!

[LindaBabe]

I'm leaving for the world right after work tonight! Got a great "DING" on southwest - saved me $120.

Happy days, all!!

[The LK 4]

I'm getting really excited about the cruise, and was wondering if any of my fellow DISers would be interested in planning to meet up during the cruise? I was thinking maybe we could plan meeting before or after the Sail Away deck party?


Sounds like a great idea! I'd love to meet up for a few minutes to say hello. Any suggestions for a good time after the deck party? On my other Disney cruise, we met up on deck 10, Starboard side, overlooking the Goofy Pool. The pool is on deck 9, so we would be on the deck right above it. While looking at the Ariel view screen, the screen would be to your left and the ocean to your right.

Safe travels, Linda! :)

[BroadwayGirl]

Sounds like a great idea! I'd love to meet up for a few minutes to say hello. Any suggestions for a good time after the deck party? On my other Disney cruise, we met up on deck 10, Starboard side, overlooking the Goofy Pool. The pool is on deck 9, so we would be on the deck right above it. While looking at the Ariel view screen, the screen would be to your left and the ocean to your right.

Safe travels, Linda! :)
I know the area you are talking about - sounds like a good place. According to the navigators posted around the internet it looks like the deck party ends at 17:15. Would planning to meet around that time be okay for folks who have main seating for dinner? It won't be a problem for me because I anticipate I'll get late seating but I know one of the main seating rotations is at 17:30.

As an alternative, what about that same location immediately following the lifeboat drill? This way we'll be close enough to enjoy the festivities and if there are some (older) kids who are getting bored they can go downstairs to deck 9 with mom and dad still being able to keep an eye on them from above.

[The LK 4]

After the lifeboat drill sounds good. That will give the early diners enough time to meet, go to the sailaway party, and get ready for dinner.

I'll be wearing my gray DCL t-shirt. I think I also have a lime green DIS button.

Recap:

MEET: After the lifeboat drill (approx. 4:15~4:30?), on deck 10, Starboard side, overlooking the Goofy Pool.

:cool1: I'm looking forward to meeting everyone! :cool1:

If you've never been to a DIS meet before, please don't be nervous! Stop by, take a minute, and say HELLO. It's always nice to spot familiar faces around the ship.

[LindaBabe]

Oh, Boy! What fun! I didn't pack my lime green shirt though :confused3

[BroadwayGirl]

Oh, Boy! What fun! I didn't pack my lime green shirt though :confused3
Well, if I do some laundry this week I'll make sure I have a lime green shirt for you, lol.

Unless it is cold, I'll probably be wearing a chocolate brown, cap sleeve eyelet blouse with a denim skort or khaki shorts. If I change my outfit, I'll try to post here, lol.

Yay! I'm getting so excited! :)

[The LK 4]

BTW, do you know how hard it is to find jean capris in the middle of winter??? :sad2: Sigh.....

[BroadwayGirl]

BTW, do you know how hard it is to find jean capris in the middle of winter??? :sad2: Sigh.....
Ugh...I hate trying to find something out of season. Even here in FL it can be a bit difficult. Have you tried online sites? http://landsend.com/overstocks has cropped jeans - not quite as short as capri, but fairly close. They actually have a wide variety of capris and crops on clearance right now.

[The LK 4]

Thanks! I'll check it out.

BTW BroadwayGirl, I love, love, LOVE "Wicked"!!!! :goodvibes I was fortunate enough to see it twice when it was here in Pittsburgh this summer. Can't wait to see it again!

[leo178]

OK, I am getting excited. Lisa Oh reporting for the roll call. Holidays over and full steam ahead. One week and I’m on board, towing three 18-22 yr olds. I need some adult company!


I’m not much of a DIS poster (mainly lurk and glean info), but I’ll plan to meet after the lifeboat drill (deck 10, starboard) and wear my Disney WWTBAM Play it! shirt. I was a winner and this is my free cruise!

Also we always play bingo. So see you there.

[The LK 4]

. I was a winner and this is my free cruise!


That's awesome!! I can't wait to hear your story! :)

Welcome, Lisa!

[stac719]

Hi everyone!
I am having packing issues! I always tend to overpack and I spent way too long today at work going over the thread that lists all of the packing tips & essentials. But since it is only a 3 day, I know I won't need that much, but I'm so afraid not to pack enough! I am also not sure how dressy we should get for Palo!
I think I have just spent way too much time over-analyzing this.
Anyone have any suggestions on what the must need items would be?
Thanks for any help!

Also - count me in for the meet (but I don't know what I'll be wearing as I can't figure out what to pack, lol!)
I also hope none of you mind if I possibly include the meet with DISers in a story I will be writing about our trip for the newspaper I work at!
Stacy

[BroadwayGirl]

OK, I am getting excited. Lisa Oh reporting for the roll call. Holidays over and full steam ahead. One week and I’m on board, towing three 18-22 yr olds. I need some adult company!


I’m not much of a DIS poster (mainly lurk and glean info), but I’ll plan to meet after the lifeboat drill (deck 10, starboard) and wear my Disney WWTBAM Play it! shirt. I was a winner and this is my free cruise!

Also we always play bingo. So see you there.
Hi Lisa!
Congratulations! I made it to the million point question once but didn't get it right - that was back when the grand prize was a trip to NYC to meet Regis. I bow down :worship: to your superior trivia knowledge. When I moved a couple years ago, one of the bags I gave to Goodwill was filled with WWTBAM Play It! hats and polo shirts, lol. I think there were about 6 of each, not including the ones I kept for myself or gave to my nephews.

I'm glad to find another Bingo player - it is probably my biggest cruise vice. Can't wait to meet you on the ship. :)

[BroadwayGirl]

Hi everyone!
I am having packing issues! I always tend to overpack and I spent way too long today at work going over the thread that lists all of the packing tips & essentials. But since it is only a 3 day, I know I won't need that much, but I'm so afraid not to pack enough! I am also not sure how dressy we should get for Palo!
I think I have just spent way too much time over-analyzing this.
Anyone have any suggestions on what the must need items would be?
Thanks for any help!

Also - count me in for the meet (but I don't know what I'll be wearing as I can't figure out what to pack, lol!)
I also hope none of you mind if I possibly include the meet with DISers in a story I will be writing about our trip for the newspaper I work at!
Stacy
For Nighttime:
my biggest recommendation is pick mix and match items in the same color palette so you only have to bring one pair of dress shoes. Other than that, a simple dress or skirt/blouse combo will be fine for dining at Palo. I'm a fan of dressing for dinner every night but that is not necessary any longer.
dress shoes to match the above although I find a pair of sparkly flipflips is more comfortable and works just as well.
"club" clothes if you plan to enjoy the parties at Wavebands and prefer to wear something different than your daytime stuff.
an evening wrap or sweater depending on how you plan to dress for dinner.
Comfy jammies for sleeping.

For daytime:
2 swimming costumes because it stinks to try to put on a wet bathing suit.
A cover up for walking to/from the swimming pool.
2 or 3 pair of shorts or capris in neutral colors to match any top you bring.
3 or 4 casual tops. Prints and vibrant colors are fine since you'll have neutral bottoms to coordinate.
casual sandals or flip flops for traveling to the pool.
sneakers or comfortable walking shoes for visiting Nassau, working out, and shore excursions. Crocs or other lightweight waterproof shoes are a good option.
A casual jacket/sweater in case it gets chilly.
A wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun's burning rays.
appropriate foundation garments.

Obviously, the men in your party will need the male equivalent of any female specific items, lol.

Of course, I ALWAYS overpack but since I don't have to fly, no big deal. I enjoy going out to the clubs after dinner if I can find someone to hang out with so I tend to change after dinner. During the day, except when I'm in Nassau, I tend to live in my skirtini and coverup. I have a lovely long jersey coverup that can take me anywhere on the ship without my feeling inappropriately dressed.

As far as other items to bring you'll need your normal toiletries of course. In addition, you may want to consider bringing a hanging shoe bag to organize small items, an extension cord (for items like curling irons, electric razors or laptop computers), a portable air freshener in case of unpleasant odors, a "beach safe" waterproof container to carry your ID and KTTW cards while swimming and a handful of zip top plastic bags in assorted sizes. Then you just need your normal vacation items like cameras and stuff.

I hope this helped instead of making your packing process worse. Good luck!

[stac719]

Thank you so much Broadway Girl!! Your suggestions were just what I needed!

[BroadwayGirl]

Argh! I am so annoyed. My bag tags and documents were supposedly delivered on 12/20 - the day I left to go home for Christmas. When I got home on the 28th they weren't anywhere to be seen. How frustrating! Now I have to try to see if anyone in the complex has them.

Other than that, I've got a bunch of laundry to do before I can finish packing. Hope everyone's final planning and packing is going well. And I think I recall we have some DIS honeymooners on the cruise so I hope the wedding plans go off perfectly. :)

[the6allens]

Thanks Broadwaygirl, for the great packing tips...getting our suitcases out today to start packing, and I printed out your suggestions to make sure I don't forget anything.

FIVE DAYS TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[EliseSara]

We will be staying at the Polynesian prior to the cruise. Anything important I should know about ahead of time? Remember I have 3 kids-11,9,6.
Thanks.

We'll be staying at the Poly too! Tomorrow!!!

[ready to sail]

The limo comes in 5 hours! Disney World, here we come! We will be at the meet & greet after the lifeboat drill. See you soon!

Lori:banana:

[stac719]

Welcome back everyone! Sorry I missed the meet - so much going on and my sons were just beside themselves with excitement. I did post a trip report - I'd love to hear how all of your trips were!
Stacy

[ready to sail]

Where do you post a trip report?

[LindaBabe]

Here, or on the cruise trip reports board. Hope you had fun!