April 12, 2008, 4-12-08, 4/12/08 Eastern Magic

[Skuba2]

I searched and couldn't find a date for this cruise yet. We are booked and ready to go on our 4th and probably last Disney Cruise.

Me
DH
DD 13
DD 10
DS 6

Anyone else out there going? It is spring break for some of the northeast schools.

DG

[Skuba2]

I can't believe I am going all by myself

DG

[Happy Birthday Cat]

You're not by yourself. We are on it too. Not sure how many of our four kids will be there becuase of college schedules but we are sure that DD-13 and DS-15 will be with us.

Curious as to why this may be your last Disney Cruise?

HBC

[Skuba2]

Wow---I someone else---I'm soooo excited. LOL!! I actually stopped checking to see if anyone replied. The April 26th thread is really hopping.

My DD will be 13 when we cruise. Will your DD be 13 or is she now?

Trying to keep an eye on Jetblue and hotels opening up. I hate waiting for the chance to give them my m oney. LOL!! We usually head down on the Wed before and enjoy Universal for a few days.

Glad to see we'll have the run of the ship.

DG

[CinderellaPug]

We are booked on this cruise too!!! It will be our first Disney Cruise since our Honeymoon and we are really looking forward to it.

[Happy Birthday Cat]

My DD will be 13 when we cruise. Will your DD be 13 or is she now? We usually head down on the Wed before and enjoy Universal for a few days.


She will be 13 when we cruise, 12 now. Not sure yet when we will head down. It really depends on a number of factors that we can't control (like work).

HBC

[Happy Birthday Cat]

We are booked on this cruise too!!! It will be our first Disney Cruise since our Honeymoon and we are really looking forward to it.

I see you're from New York too. Must be a vacation week!

HBC

[CinderellaPug]

My DW and I are teachers and are unfortunately bound by the school calander.

[Skuba2]

CT here---vacation week for us also.

We'll have to get our daughters talking. Mine has managed to hook up with a dis-child on the last few cruises. The first time, they were together a lot. Last time, they met up at the lab a few times.

Just saw your question on my comment -- "our last cruise". This will be our fourth cruise with the kids. Now that our kids are getting older (particularly Christine), we want to venture over to Europe and try something different. My dh did a 2 year stint living in London and we really want to get our kids over to see the city from a non-tourist point of view. A purely personal decision--nothing to do with the Disney product. I would be happy to never take another vacation that isn't a cruise.

Cinderellapug--do you have any kids? How long have you been married?

DG

[Skuba2]

giving us a little bump.

DG

[Happy Birthday Cat]

We'll have to get our daughters talking. Mine has managed to hook up with a dis-child on the last few cruises. The first time, they were together a lot. Last time, they met up at the lab a few times.

Just saw your question on my comment -- "our last cruise". This will be our fourth cruise with the kids. Now that our kids are getting older (particularly Christine), we want to venture over to Europe and try something different. My dh did a 2 year stint living in London and we really want to get our kids over to see the city from a non-tourist point of view. A purely personal decision--nothing to do with the Disney product. I would be happy to never take another vacation that isn't a cruise.

My DD would love to talk at some point. She really likes to meet new friends on cruises and was very happy when I told her about your daughter.

As our kids get older we seem to be doing more non Disney vacations so I understand where you're coming from on the possible "last" Disney Cruise. We usually go to WDW for April vacation but this year are going someplace else and next year will do the cruise.

HBC

[Skuba2]

I just found your post. I have to subscribe to the thread. It was all the way back on page 3. LOL!

My dd is excited also. They all moaned when they heard me mention to someone else about it being possible our last cruise. I am waiting for reservations on hotels, airline and cars to open up so I can finish the trip plans. I hate how long it all takes. We do Universal before hand.

This is going to be a long year.

DG

[Happy Birthday Cat]

They all moaned when they heard me mention to someone else about it being possible our last cruise.
This is going to be a long year.

Yes it wll be but we have lots of other fun things planned between now and then. This Disney Cruise will be a special one because we had been planning it for such a long time. We are going to Universal before our New Year's trip to WDW. We like to do a couple of nights at the Hard Rock before or after a trip just like you.

HBC

[Skuba2]

Ok--we ended up on page 4. Can't have that. I am so excited spring is actually here but I can't believe April is coming tomorrow. Wow. One year until and we all know how fast that will go. I have to check on rooms to see if they opened up yet. Have you made a ressie yet for before the cruise?

DG

[Happy Birthday Cat]

Have you made a ressie yet for before the cruise?

We have not. Still not sure if we will go down the day before or a couple of days before. It will depend on work and school. We have four children (one in college) who will be going with us on this trip so we have to be more careful in our planning. It used to be easy when they were in elementary school and we could just pull them out. We may go to WDW for one night before the cruise and stay at the Boardwalk. We are DVC members and have points there.

So Skuba2, how long have you been planning this trip? I get the feeling it was for a long time like our family. We started long before reservations were even being taken.

HBC

[Skuba2]

Yep--me too. Faxed in my request just after our last cruise last July. We love cruising. It seems if you don't plan early, it is so hard to get the hotel, air and car--especially with spring break.

We haven't made it to the Disney parks and probably won't. With one daughter ADHD and my son probably somewhere on the Autism spectrum (luckily barely on the spectrum), standing in line just isn't one of my "must do's" in life. We were going at one time but Disney got rid of their front of line pass for hotel guests. That was enough to nix it for us. We hit Universal with Front of Line Pass there and the kids love it. We are going to Tampa this April break and will hit Busch Gardens which generally has short lines.

DG

[EAP'sDAD]

Well we just put our deposit down for this cruise and can't wait. It will be me DW, DD 12, DS 9, DS 7. We were suppose to go this year but DW work wouldn't allow it. This will be our first time on DCL.

[Skuba2]

Welcome!!! We are coming up on the one year mark---YEAH!!

Are your kids' ages now or when you cruise? Mine and Cat's daughter are both 12 now and will be 13 on the cruise. When we get closer, we can get them emailing eachother. It will give them someone to hang with in the clubs. That is only if she wants.

DG

[Skuba2]

Did you guys feel it? We snuck over the one year mark!!!!! With the weather in the Northeast right now, I am thinking about nothing but warm weather. Heading down to Tampa tomorrow----YEAH!!

Anybody else out there on our holiday?

DG

[EAP'sDAD]

those are the ages they will be when we travel. But I know my DD is on the mature side and she will be interested in e-mailing when we get a little closer.

[Happy Birthday Cat]

Did you guys feel it? We snuck over the one year mark!!!!! With the weather in the Northeast right now, I am thinking about nothing but warm weather. Heading down to Tampa tomorrow----YEAH!!

Anybody else out there on our holiday?

Skuba2: We faxed a request at around the same time. I'm guessing that will mean we are in the same type of room.

Yes We felt the one year mark and celebrated on the day. We were on vacation and just got back so we were celebrating anyway. It was nice to miss the bad northeastern weather.

Sounds like a few 13 year old girls so far. Welcome EAP'sDAD.

HBC

[maslex]

GOOD MORNING!!!!

Just found this thread and thought I would jump in. We too are sailing on April 12 of next year and we can't wait. This will be our 2nd cruise but first DISNEY one. We took our first cruise in August 06 aboard the Norwegian Dawn and we went to the Bahamas and Bermuda. So seeing a couple new islands this time around will be nice.

There will be a total of 7 of us (we going with our neighbors--their 1st cruise)
DH
ME
DS--11
DS--12 (these are the ages at time of sailing)

Our neighbors also have an 11yr old son.

We've always been Disney fans and once we got the taste of cruising, we thought the Disney one would be great for us. So we'll see.

This year we are heading down to WDW for 9 days the beginning of July and can't wait for that one either. While there, we'll go to Universal for one day (also seeing the Blue Man Group there---front row center baby)!!!! Never seen them yet, but I hear they put on a great show.

I see that a couple of us are from CT. Where abouts? I'm in Plainfield (northeast corner).

[Skuba2]

Welcome Maslex. Yes, we live in Connecitcut also. Probably as far away from you as can be. LOL!! We are down in Fairfield County.

We saw the Blue Man group in Vegas--just the two of us. It was fun and stupid at the same time. LOL!! You'll see what I mean. To think someone is making a fortune off of these ideas is absolutely amazing. My kids do some of their stuff everyday. It is an experience. Wear something you don't mind getting paint and stuff all over. Even if your in the back, you could get some paint on you when they do the last stunt with the paper.

We do Universal a few days prior to our cruise. We haven't done Disney yet. I am not the kind of person that does well with "planning the rides" and my kids aren't ones to put the effort in to stand in long, long, long lines. They don't do the big rides---my oldest can be a chicken.

Yes Cat, we are in one of the suites. We actually have a Cat 1 but have no clue at the moment which one. LOL! That part is sort of moot---right.

I have to start looking into hotel ressies and rental car ressies. I always forget as time goes by and end up almost not getting what I need.

Deb

[Skuba2]

Just a reminder. If anyone needs or wants a rental car---you can book now. I just booked my Van for the time I'm down there. They do go fast it being Disney/Universal area.

Deb

[momto3angels]

Hi,
We just booked our first Disney cruise for 4/12/2008 and this will be the
first time our girls cruise and we would love to get some insight as to what to expect. When we cruise the girls will be 9, 6 and 4. We got 2 connecting rooms and we hope there is enough room for the girls to run around!

Please feel free to email me with any suggestions or advice!

Thanks!

[EAP'sDAD]

We are also from Fairfield county, Norwalk to be exact.

We are going to Universal in the beginning of July for a couple of days and then heading off on a Royal Carribean cruise (had to save a little money for a 7 day next year).

[Skuba2]

Eaps---we are basically on top of you!! LOL!! We are up in Wilton. We did a cruise last July--Disney. We felt it chopped the summer so short. We'll have to meet up at the aquarium or something.

DG

[momto3angels]

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could answer a few of my questions..

1. Is there a less ex*****ve way to get to the ship from the airport then buying the transfers?

2. We might come in the day before and I was wondering if we should stay at Disney or I have read some rent a car and stay at the Radisson?

3. What time should we go to the ship?

4. Is there a problem with the water on the ship? I have read about people bringing their own bottled water.


Thanks!

[Skuba2]

Good questions. We spend the few days before at one of the Universal Resorts and go there.

We rent a car from the airport and drop it off at the Radisson at Cocoa Beach. We get a van. If you are even considering it---reserve now. Vans and cars sell out quickly. We take a limo company back from the ship to the airport. They are waiting at the port and you don't have to hassle. Some people will rent one way to the airport. Whatever you do, make sure you take into account the amount of luggage you will have. It is amazing how much luggage you end up taking. You will need enough room in whatever transportation you take to hold you and your luggage.

You can get there when they open the port at 10 am but I don't think they board until after 11 or maybe later. I believe they have characters in the terminal for a while. You can't get into the rooms (or near some people say) until 1:30 or so. Some people dress in swim suits to swim. We tend to wait until after lunch to head on. We do our liquor shopping by the Radisson on Cocoa Beach. We don't bring on water, but we do buy it on the cruise. We also bring on drink mixes to mix up lemonade for some vodka or limeade for tequila. I think the water is more a matter of taste and portability on islands.


This year planning and dreaming is going to be so exciting for you. I can't believe it is only a year. If you are even considering hotels, cars, etc, make the ressies now knowing you can cancel without penalty---making sure cancellation policy. Things run out fast on April break.

Deb

[momto3angels]

Thanks Deb...you answered them all. Now I just have to hope to find someone on these boards who will be going with a DD for my daughter to hang around with. My two younger ones will be in the same room and my older daughter (9 when we cruise) will be very reluctant to go to one of the kids clubs by herself. I don't mind if they all stay with us but I would like for them to try some of the activities. Afterall, that is why we are paying for Disney!

[Skuba2]

Well then I have good news for you---my daughter now 9 will be 10 on the cruise. She is extremely outgoing and friendly----extremely!! LOL! She is the one of my 3 that always finds someone to play with on any beach we go to. Is your daughter into Webkinz yet? If she is, you can pm me with her webkinz handle and my daughter can invite her to join her friends' list. They can visit and play games together.

Deb

[Happy Birthday Cat]

Yes Cat, we are in one of the suites. We actually have a Cat 1 but have no clue at the moment which one. LOL! That part is sort of moot---right.


I've been away for a while. Nice to see others signing on.

Small world after all Skuuba2. We are in the other Cat1 suite!

Momto3angels: We have always hired a car service to take us to the Port from either Disney, Universal or the airport. We use FLTours as they are a Dis-Board sponsor. Here's a link to their site:

http://www.fltours.com/

HBC

[Beginsters]

we will be there April 12 2008 too. Myself, DH, DD 14,DD 12,DD 7(she turns 7 six days before we leave), and DGM(grandmom). The ages of the girls are what they will be on the trip.
This is our second Disney cruise, last time it was 4 day and 3 day disney world

Less then a year.......CAN'T WAIT!!!

[Skuba2]

Hello Beginster and welcome. Sorry for not saying it earlier.

We have been both busy and exhausted. I figured out one reason I am glad I am done with having babies. We brought home a 8 month old puppy Thursday and I am soooo done with the all-nighters. Brought back some great memories of the quiet solitude of those midnight feedings, but it also brough back the memories of just how exhausted you can get with no sleep.

Back to cruise talk. I can't imagine doing a 4 day. I would think you are just getting settled when it's over. We do the 7 day with a few days prior to cruise. It makes for 10 days and I am so exhausted by the end and so ready to get home.

What is everyone's favorite thing to do on the cruise? I enjoy the day at sea and the rainforest spa. I also enjoy just laying on the verandah with my book, a drink, a pillow and my ipod. Oh to do just nothing.

Dg

[Beginsters]

Yes, a new puppy is like having a baby all over again!

When we did the 3 nights in Disney and 4 nights on the ship, we found trying to do all parks in 2 1/2 days too much! The ship was the relaxing part, but not long enough. We are really looking forward to 7 days on the ship!

As far as things I like to do on the ship.......EVERYTHING, swimming, having a drink beside the pool, going to Palos, watchng the shows, etc.....

11 months and 4 days to go!!!:banana: :cheer2:

[cvspsych]

My daughter (age 10 at sailing) and I will be on the April 12, 2008 eastern cruise. Looking forward to going-only wish it were coming sooner.

[cvspsych]

Does anyone know how single parents fare on these cruises? I am wondering if I am going to feel out of place.

[Skuba2]

Welcome. My daughter will also be age 10 at sailing and it couldn't come too soon. Although, then you'd miss the fun of anticipating.

Since I am not a single parent, I couldn't answer your question. But, if you are looking for a vacation that can give you both time with your daughter and some time by yourself and some time with other adults, then DCL can be a very enjoyable experience. The nice thing about getting on the disboard meet thread is that once you meet the people from here on your cruise, you have someone to say hi to in the hallways, someone familiar may be at the pool, you may even run across them at the show and lets not forget castaway cay. Have you started a thread on the main board about single parent cruising? I am sure you will find others.

Deb

[momto3angels]

Does anyone know what the age breakdown is for the particular kids clubs? I am just wondering if any of my 3 girls will be together?

Deb, it seems that Abbi and Jen have not had the chance to be on Webkinz at the same time. Is there a time where you think Jen might be on and I can try and get Abbi on at the same time?

Thanks!

[Skuba2]

Tell Abbi sorry. I'll pm you with times

The kids' clubs age breakdown is 3-7, 8-9, 13-17.

The 3-7 are broken down into two groups for some activities and the whole group for others. The 3-4 I believe use the club while the 5-7 go between the club and the lab. The 8-9 stay in the lab mostly, but do get to use the quest and the club a few times. The 13-17 are mostly in Quest and the stack I believe. They also go around the ship and use other parts like the sports deck, studio sea, etc.

Hope this helps. It usually works out well if they aren't together all the time. They can get so engrossed in their own age activities and making new friends. It just makes the family time together that much more fun because each child has their own stories to tell.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi all. New to Dis Boards. Just in the planning stages of our first DC:confused3 Looking at the 4/12/08 Eastern cruise. Family of 5 DH, DW, DD13, DD9 and DS5. Any advice would be great!!!! Is a Cat 4 family cabin big enough? :confused: Thanks.

[Skuba2]

My advice..book it now and decide later. Prices only go up and the deposit is refundable for non-suite rooms which I believe Cat 4 is a non-suite. They may already be sold out.

Welcome--Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Thanks for the advice!:thumbsup2 We are from Norwalk, CT also:goodvibes Three kids D12 - D8 - S4. Any other advice anyone could give this new cruiser would be great!:surfweb: Thanks!

[Skuba2]

Someone else here is from Norwalk and I am right above you in Wilton (I want to say Eapsdad if that is spelled right). Get the cruise booked and then watch for the airfare to open up. If you are going Jetblue--they start booking 9 months out. Also, if you need a van down there, then book that now too. They go quick and it is refundable.

My dd will be 13, 10 on the cruise and I have a ds who will be 6. They have gone on several Disney before and absolutely love it. As it all gets closer, we can always do a pre-cruise meet for anyone in the area. We could meet up at the Aquarium or something. It is nice to have someone you know on the cruise.

Deb

[momto3angels]

Another option would be to book 2 connecting staterooms..ours are category 10...so you and your husband have a room and your kids are in the connecting room. It also ends up to be less expensive and you then have 2 bathrooms. We are going with our 3 girls..ages 8, 5 and 3 and though we have cruised before, they have not. We took Deb's suggestion and booked our van and now are just waiting for airline reservations to open. There are also a bunch of incredibly helpful hints under the Disney Cruise Forum under the first forum "Disney Cruise Line Forum". I missed this the first few times because it was at the bottom of my screen and I did not scroll down all the way. This is where there are numerous threads covering all different topics.

Randi

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Thats what we were thinking of doing but we didn't know if it would end up costing more getting two rooms as opposed to getting the Cat 4. I haven't cruised in a number of years so does it matter what deck you are on?:confused3 Thanks again.:)

[momto3angels]

Cindy,

With the cat. 4 you get a verandah so that can be part of the savings if you book connectings rooms that do not have one. The catergory 4 for the 5 of us was almost $12,000 and 2 category 10's were a little over $6,000. We are ok without the verandah as we are apprehensive with a 3 year old being in their room and possibly getting out onto the verandah without us knowing. Plus the $6,000 savings means 2 vacations next year. :)

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

I feel the same way DS4 will be 5 by the time we cruise. But I worry about him getting out there! Thanks for the advice. I think we will try getting the adjoining staterooms!:)

[Skuba2]

I had to go to page 3 I think to find us. Bumping us up. Everyone must be busy with school ending and the nice weather starting.

Hope everyone has started their diets!!! Isn't dieting right up there with airfare, hotels, van and clothes. I know I have to start with the cruise in mind.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Still trying to decide which cruise to take Western/Eastern. Any opinions? The week of the 12th is our school vacation. How crowded is the ship? Thinking of booking two connecting rooms instead of the Cat 4 room. Any advice would be great. Thanks! First time Disney Cruiser.:yay:

[Skuba2]

I love the extra day at sea! May be moot if you don't book soon.

deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

I just booked our cruise for 04/12/08!!!!:cool1: DW, DH, DD13, DD9 and DS5. And now the countdown begins!!!!!!:woohoo:

[Skuba2]

Congrats!! The anticipation is just part of the fun. Just take a deep breath and enjoy the moment.

Deb

[DisneyMomforLife]

Hello everyone ... and Hi Cindy!! :wave2:

We are joining you all on the 4/12 Eastern sailing on the Magic next spring. :boat:

"We" are from Norwalk, CT and our cast of characters is as follows:

me - 35 :cat:
DH - 38 :firefight
DS - 17 :joker:
DD - 9 princess:

And I just realized that we will all have a birthday before we sail ...

At any rate, we are very excited to have just booked this cruise. :woohoo: It is our 2nd time sailing with Disney. Our first cruise was a 3-night on the Wonder last October and we just loved it.

Is anyone keeping a master list of who will be on the trip and ages of the kids, etc? I can do that if it's not being done yet.

Looking forward to getting to know everyone!!

Kat

[Skuba2]

I haven't started a list---if your volunteering--go for it. It looks like Norwalk/Wilton area will be vacated that week. LOL!!

Deb

[DisneyMomforLife]

Here is everyone that we have so far. If you'd like to add any info or update anything, please let me know!!

Skuba2: DH, DW, DD13, DD10, DS6 ... from Wilton, CT

HappyBirthdayCat: DH, DW, DD13, DS15 ... from Upstate NY

CinderellaPug: DH, DW ... from East Greenbush, NY

EAP'sDAD: DH, DW, DD12, DS9, DS7 ... from Norwalk, CT

Maslex: DH, DW, DS11, DS12 ... from Plainfield, CT

Momto3angels: DH, DW, DD9, DD6, DD4 ... from ?

Beginsters: DH, DW, DGM, DD14, DD12, DD7 ... from ?

cvspsych: SM, DD10 ... from ?

CindyD1: DH, DW, DD12, DD8, DS5 ... From Norwalk, CT

DisneyMomforLife: DH, DW, DS17, DD9 ... From Norwalk, CT



Kat

[Skuba2]

All I can say is a Norwalk Aquarium meet great before the cruise may just be in order for all from Norwalk/Wilton and anyone else nearby. This is too funny.

Deb

[Beginsters]

The Beginsters are from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. And we can't wait to set sail on the Magic!!!!!

That's a great idea....keeping track of everyone going. We can have a big gettogether once we all get settled on the ship.

Lynne

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi all......Thats sounds like a great idea to meet :thumbsup2 The kids are so excited already!!!!!:woohoo:

[cvspsych]

cvspsych is from Cooperstown, NY

[DisneyMomforLife]

cvspsych is from Cooperstown, NY

Really?? Are you ready for this one???

I was born in Little Falls (GULP!) and spent a lot of time in Cooperstown growing up because my grandfather lived there. I love it there. I still have family in Richfield Springs, Utica and Mohawk!

Kat

[cvspsych]

That is pretty funny-like they say it is a small world. Cooperstown is still as beautiful as ever. Tourist season is getting ready to kick in so soon it will get quite busy.

[cvspsych]

My daughter is 9 as well-she will be 10 come cruise time. Will your daughter be joining the oceaneer lab program?

[DisneyMomforLife]

It's hard not to enjoy Cooperstown ... it really is a great place.

Yes, she will be in the club. She didn't spend too much time there on our first cruise ... we only did 3 days and it seemed like not enough time for the kids club, of all things.

Have you guys decided on any tours or excursions?

kat

[cvspsych]

It's hard not to enjoy Cooperstown ... it really is a great place.

Yes, she will be in the club. She didn't spend too much time there on our first cruise ... we only did 3 days and it seemed like not enough time for the kids club, of all things.

Have you guys decided on any tours or excursions?

kat
We didn't decide on any excursions or tours-I am thinking we may just grab a cab and go to a beach and relax. If anything we would probably try snorkeling somewhere but we will decide as it gets closer. I started looking at airfares and they are already so expensive from Albany to Orlando-the times are not so great either.

[Skuba2]

We usually do the regatta race on St. Martin and the shopping race on St. Thomas. LOL!! We generally walk around St. Thomas. We aren't really beach people---more like not hot in the sun people. Castaway Cay is more than enough sand and fun time for us. Isn't there some kind of tram on St. Thomas? There was one somewhere we never got to do. There are also zip line tours on one of the islands--but not sure on this itinerary. The kids always prefer to stay on the ship. They will come off for a little while, but usually I can't get em out.

DG

[DisneyMomforLife]

We didn't decide on any excursions or tours-I am thinking we may just grab a cab and go to a beach and relax. If anything we would probably try snorkeling somewhere but we will decide as it gets closer. I started looking at airfares and they are already so expensive from Albany to Orlando-the times are not so great either.

Airfare is out already for you? We are waiting on JetBlue and they won't be available until probably September or so. Right now, they are selling only through the 2nd week in January. I'm watching it like a hawk, tho.

We will snorkel at Castaway Cay so I won't pay for it as an excursion anywhere else. My family is a hot in the sun type family so finding a nice quiet beach for the day is totally for us. We may let the kids stay back if they want to, but we didn't do it the last time we cruised so we probably won't this time, but who knows.

My main interest is to have my husband and DS17 parasail at CC. My DD9 and I did it last October and it's amazing!! I was "roped" into it because I didn't want her to not experience it just because everyone else was afraid of it and I'm so happy I went. It was great ... so now it's their turn!!!

Kat

[Skuba2]

We are also watching for Jetblue. Post a note here if/when you see them open and I'll do the same. We are going out Wed prior to do Universal a few days. I won't fly anyone else but Jetblue unless I have to. Did you know they are going out of Westchester to Orlando now? So excited not to have the drive.

I forgot CC. We do the eco tour on the jetski. MOre for the ride than the tour. The kids then hang out in the club and we did the serenity beach which we hadn't done in the past. My oldest just hung in the room and we checked in on her with walkie talkies. I think she was vacationed out at that point and had fun ordering room service.

DG

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

We are JetBlue all the way too! We tried flying to Orlando just this past April from WestChester! :thumbsup2 It was so easy going from there. :yay:

[DisneyMomforLife]

Same thing here like Cindy ... we did Westchester to Orlando and what a breeze it was. We are using Westchester to do Ft. Lauderdale in October and that will be the only way we do FL from now on!

Kat

[Skuba2]

Thought I'd try and wake everyone up. Found us on page 5 and wanted to give us a bump.

DG

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hey Skuba2...Thanks for the bump!:) We are still watching those air fares:coffee:

[Skuba2]

We can play the bump game. See who bumps the most. LOL!!

DG

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hey Skuba2....What are ages of your kids again? At the time of the cruise my kids will be DD13, DD9 and DS5....BUMP:thumbsup2

[Skuba2]

Girls 13 and 10
boy 6

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Thats great:) They are close in age. We have never cruised before and the kids are a little worried about the kid clubs. Do you know the ages of the groups? Do the groups do anything activities together?:confused3 Thanks.

[Skuba2]

http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/cruise-new/cr-stateroom-navigator.htm

Here is the link to the thread that shows some of the activities for the kids. It is in the main page of the cruise line forum. They used to have their own navigators, but they now combine the information on the bottom of the adult navigators. The ages in the club are 3 - 7 , the lab is 8 - 12 and the teens are in the stack I believe. Each of those groups is broken down into two ages. The 3-7 are broken into 3-4 and 5-7. The ages 5-7 split their time between in the club where they will combine back up with the younger group and in the lab where they are more on their own. The 8-12 also split up into two groups: 8-9 and 10-12. The 10-12 will split their time between the lab and the stack where the teens hang out. The teens now have the Quest where they can spend some of their time.

Each group will also use the whole ship basically. There is the sports deck for outdoor games, the theatre for movies, studio sea for indoor games, and the whole ship for scavenger hunts. LOL! The older kids meet up for pool activities at night.

My kids have a blast, but to be honest some do not. I can't ever get mine out of the clubs. My oldest has been through all the groups but 3-4 and my middle was in that group. You can look at the navigators to see specific activities. In the lab, there are playstation games, they make flubber, they make commercials, they draw animations and they just hang out. The younger kids do a lot of dress up, their own computer games for their age, character come visit and they do typical Kindergarten art projects. There are also late night movies in either the club or outside.

I usually have my kids pick out some activities for the cruise that they consider "must-do's" so we can arrange our stuff around them. Then, they basically go in first thing and I make them come out for dinner and lunch on most days. Like I said, my kids love the stuff they do and don't want to come out.

When it gets closer--maybe when school starts up again--they can start emailing eachother. Which school do they go to in Norwalk? I used to work for the husband of a teacher in Marvin School (I think that is where she worked). I used to work for the sidewheeler that is docked down at Calf Pasture Beach--they aren't running it this year. The owner is a friend of mine. I don't even mind meeting up with you, somewhere public of course, where the kids can meet eachother prior to the cruise.

Anyway, that is probably way more info than you wanted.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

No Thanks that was great information! We were just at Disney in April and tried one of those vacation club tours and tried to leave our kids with the kids club while we talked and toured but they didn't like it! They were thinking it was something like that! My 12 year old (will be 13) is very shy and not used to being out there on her own. That would be great if they could email eachother and maybe they will have stuff in common. My other daugher will actually be 10 four months after the cruise do you know if she could move to the 10-12 group? We are travelling with family and her cousin will be 10 at the time. My kids go to All Saints in Norwalk. We actually caught a show on last night on the Travel Channel all about the cruise so that helped for the kids to see the clubs in action too! Thanks again:)

[Skuba2]

Moving up is always a guessing game. If they have a lot of 8-9's, then they would welcome a move up to 10-12. You could call DCL and put it as a note to your reservation that you would like to move your child up. My oldest is shy also until she gets to know someone, then she is like glued to the person. Myabe hearing how much fun my kids had, they will think twice. Check out the navigators. Your other experience may have been more like babysitting, where this is more like a club. My kids even got close to some of the counselors. But, there is always a chance they won't like it. So, you have to plan for if they don't. Maybe have them pick out a few activities a day they agree to go to so you can have some adult time.

Tell them not to worry so much about it all. Too much pressure sometimes can make it worse. We will all meet up on the ship at the sailaway party. Usually the dismeet is Deck 10 above the pool right after the safety drill. I can pm you our pics so you recognize us.

Deb

[okwmember92]

:cool1: So excited! We just booked our 3rd Disney cruise, DH and I will be on your cruise (without kids, they've been on the other two). We are celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary and both of our ahem-45th Birthdays. Have a verandah on deck 6. Just introducing ourselves.

Kim

[Skuba2]

Welcome Kim! How did you get the cruise past your kids without them driving you nuts to go?! LOL!! Mine would dis-own me.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Thanks Skuba2 for all your advice!;)

[okwmember92]

Hi Deb,

The boys are 16 and 21, the 16 yr old is planning on going to Brazil for a mission trip next spring and the 21 yr old went to Turkey last summer. We decided it was our turn, especially since they've been the other times.
DH and I wanted to do something special for our 25th! Now saving our pennies for Vista Spa-aahh:cool2:

We are DVC members, obviously by my title and love using our points, last Sept DH & I had a Vero Beach cottage to ourselves. Now that got the kids going for sure.

Well, plenty of time to lurk on these boards and keep up the anticipation.

See ya, Kim

[gfolchick]

Hello, Hello!!

More cruisers from Connecticut checking in. (Trumbull)

Me
DH
DD (11 at sailing)
DS (8 at sailing)

DGM
DGF

DB
DNephew (9 at sailing)
DNephew (6 at sailing)

This will be our 4th cruise, my parents and brother's first. We haven't done the Eastern since 2001. Last cruise was Thanksgiving 2005 with a double dip at Castaway Cay. I'll miss that.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome gflochick:cool1:

[DisneyMomforLife]

Hello and welcome to gfolchick and okwmember92!!

Here is an updated list of everyone who has checked in for this sailing so far ... and the list of CT DISers just keeps growing!

Some of the ages may be off, some are current ages, some are at time of sailing but you get the general idea. If anyone thinks time of sailing ages would be better, let me know and we can get it all the same way.

Skuba2: DH, DW, DD13, DD10, DS6 ... from Wilton, CT

HappyBirthdayCat: DH, DW, DD13, DS15 ... from Upstate NY

CinderellaPug: DH, DW ... from East Greenbush, NY

EAP'sDAD: DH, DW, DD12, DS9, DS7 ... from Norwalk, CT

Maslex: DH, DW, DS11, DS12 ... from Plainfield, CT

Momto3angels: DH, DW, DD9, DD6, DD4 ... from ?

Beginsters: DH, DW, DGM, DD14, DD12, DD7 ... from ?

cvspsych: SM, DD10 ... from Cooperstown, NY

CindyD1: DH, DW, DD12, DD8, DS5 ... From Norwalk, CT

DisneyMomforLife: DH, DW, DS17, DD9 ... From Norwalk, CT

okwmember92: DH & DW only!! ... from ? - 25th anniversary celebration!

gfolchick: DW, DH, DD11, DS8, DGM, DGF, DBro, DNeph9, DNeph6 ... from Trumbull, CT


kat

[okwmember92]

Thanks for the welcome fellow cruisers, sorry that I forgot to say where we are from. We are in Central Florida, about 55min from our home to OKW home.

Kim

[dsnyfangoofy2]

We are new to DisBoards and are just checking out how to post. We have a huge group from our extended family sailing on the Magic on April 12, 2008. More details to follow.

[Skuba2]

Wow---a few new posts and it didn't tell me. Haven't been checking lately.

Welcome to the new famililies. Trumbull is right up the Merritt from me. LOL!

We are gonna be half the clubs I think---especially the older ones.

I am just trying to get throught the summer. I am still waiting for the summer lull to start and it just isn't happening.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome Dsnyfangoofy2:goodvibes How many will be travelling wtih you?

[DisneyMomforLife]

Hey everyone!!

And welcome to dsnyfangoofy2!!! Let us know who will be traveling with you and where you are from, etc and we'll get you added to the official list of DISers!

We are dying for JetBlue to release the dates for this trip. I booked our hotel for the night before and am waiting to do our car based on our flights. I might just do it anyway and change the time later if we need to.

What's everyone else been up to??

Kat

[DisneyMomforLife]

Wow---a few new posts and it didn't tell me. Haven't been checking lately.

Deb

Deb,

I've had that same issue. I haven't gotten notification on a lot of new posts. I wonder if it's a glitch in the system. :confused3

kat

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Hi, all,

I didn't list our people and ages, etc., yet because some family members are still debating if they are coming or not. (Crazy, huh??) We will have somewhere between 29 and 37 people in our group, ages ranging from 8 months to 85 years.

Our own nuclear family, DW, DH (both 53), DS16, and DS 15 just went on a Carnival cruise last October (Western Caribbean) and had a great time, but we never dreamed we would get to do a Disney Cruise. Grandma is providing this for all of her posterity, so we are SOOOOO excited! (DW and DH have also been on Holland America to Alaska.)

I'll have plenty of questions coming up and look forward to help from all of you!

P.S. All of the siblings (my hubby and his sibs) grew up in Anaheim, so we are Disney through and through!

[DisneyMomforLife]

We will have somewhere between 29 and 37 people in our group, ages ranging from 8 months to 85 years.

WOW!!! I don't know what to even say about that one!!!!

So, I found us on page 3 ... I think we can do better than that!!!

We have our reservations made for our hotel the night before the cruise. We are staying at the Residence Inn Cocoa Beach. We also have our car reserved at Budget ... STILL waiting on JetBlue!!! :sad2:

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far!! It's going so fast! :beach:

Kat

[Skuba2]

We finally got to book our hotel! We go out on the Wednesday before the cruise to Universal. They still hadn't opened up the hotels online, so I called and they are taking ressies by phone.

As far as Jetblue goes, they are now booking through end of February. So, I think the April should open up after the next few months.

Deb

[aprince&princess]

Hi everyone,

My family will also be on the April 12th cruise.

There will be myself, DH, DS13 and DD10 (that is their age at the time of the cruise)

Believe it or not, we are also from CT. New Milford to be exact.

So far we have only booked the cruise, so we still need to make arrangements for air, hotel for the night before and transportation to and from the port.

See you all on the boat!

[aprince&princess]

There was some mention of Jetblue and the Westchester airport. We just returned from a RCCL eastern trip out of Port Canaveral and flew in and out of Westchester with Air Tran. We have used Jet Blue before, but for some reason the Air Tran times worked for us, so we tried it. Just thought I would mention it since their prices were similar to Jet Blue. Except there weren't tv's in the seats, but there are satellite radio stations. We are flying in Oct, and are using Jetblue from Westchester. So we will do either one in April, depending on the flight times.

Also we rented a car from Budget at the airport that we returned right near the port. We stayed at Country Inn and Suites, which was between the Budget place and the port. Next door was the residence in and I did also see Hertz.

The budget line at the airport moved very slow, and they had a problem with my reservation showing up as a replacement car? I don't know if it was the code that I found here on the board, but the price ended up being a little higher after the guy had to rekeyed in the rental since it wasn't a replacement for another rental. Maybe I could have avoided the budget line if I had added info for an express checkin when I received my email confirmation, but I ran out of time before we went and never did it. And who knows with the computer showing as a replacement.

CI&S was a recommendation here, I have to say that it was neat and clean and everything in the room looked brand new. We arrived late since we spent the day at Seaworld, and left right after the included breakfast. But it was perfect for what we needed. Also it is a non smoking hotel. We didn't use the pool, but it also looked nice and clean.

April can't come soon enough.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome APrince&Princess....CT is taking over the ship:yay: We made our hotel and rental car just waiting for JetBlue!:rolleyes1

[Skuba2]

I have a feeling if we act quickly, we can basically take over the jetblue flight as well. LOL!! Wouldn't that be a blast!! They won't know what hit em.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

THat would be so funny!:goodvibes We could have a dis meet right on airplane:rotfl:

[gfolchick]

We booked a kids suite at Country Inn and Suites. I think Shirley said Hertz is right in front of CI&S-their prices looked comparable for a one day rental.

We're waiting for Jet Blue too, but we're flying Air Tran in a week from Westchester so I'll see how it goes if I want to fly them again. Jet Blue has some pretty off flight times out of Westchester so I'm not sure which airport we'll use. Bradley has been so expensive lately that we haven't been flying out of there much.

I found boys Pirate costumes for $15 at Party City last week pirate: Hubby and I have ours from the last cruise, just need one for my DD now.

[aprince&princess]

We did go by Hertz. It is a few buildings over from CI&S, but not far at all. They are off site at the airport. Which would just mean a shuttle bus to get to them.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Just wanted to bump us up:thumbsup2 Jet Blue is up to February:cool1:

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Just wanted to check back in and keep the thread moving.

Questions – does anyone know what the exact rotation of meals will be on the Magic for our dates??? Is it usually PLAPLAP??? How soon can you request your starting restaurant – or can you??

Our family reunion group is now up to 35. We still have one couple reluctant to join us. We have widowed grandma and widowed eldest sister (still in her 50s); seven couples; three single guys ages 25, 21, and 18; two single girls ages 25 and 19; daughters ages 17, 16, 14, 12, 10, 6, 2, and 8 months; and sons ages 16, 15, 13, 12, 11, and 9. I think that is everybody! I’m sure somebody out there has kids that will match up with some of ours!

[Skuba2]

You can always put a note on your ressie for the requested rotation. Not sure when they look at it. I think PLAP is what we had. The key is to be in Parrot Cay during the tropical night--so that is how I align it. Formal night isn't as important to us where we are because we usually head to Palo that night---means only one night of dress up.

You do have a large group. Are you doing it on your own or going through a travel agencies? It would seem with that size group, you could book a lot of excursions through private companies and save money. Your gonna need a vacation from your vacation by the end of it all. LOL!

DG

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Actually, my brother-in-law is taking care of all the bookings, through a friend-of-a-friend who is a travel agent. My job is trip prep. I'm sending e-mails each week with info and tips so that everybody is on the same page and equally prepared before we go.

I like the idea about group excursion bookings locally. I hadn't thought of that! Thanks!

We are coming from three different locations -- Utah, California, and Kansas. Most, maybe all, of us will fly in on Friday and stay the night, just to be safe.

So, do we know for sure which night is Pirate Night? That's what I want to be sure about, so we are at Parrot Cay, as you said.

Thanks for the help, and keep it coming, please!

[TaraMom22]

We will be on the April 12-19 Eastern Caribbean cruise too. This is our first Disney Cruise. We are from California, near San Jose. It is our school vacation too so I hope more Californians will venture cross country for such a great vacation. On the cruise will be me, my DH, our DD who will be 8, and our DS who will be 6. Also my mom is comming from Oregon.

I have been on 3 other cruises, but I am definitely not a cruise expert.
Greece in 1997 (our Honeymoon)
Alaska in 1998
Eastern Caribbean in 2000 (DD was 4 months old - BIG MISTAKE! :sad: :sad: )

After the last cruise disaster this is my chance to prove to DH that Cruises can be fun with kids -- fun for the kids, but more importantly that they can be fun for DH.

I can use any hints you can give me. I need to book a hotel, a car, flights, excursions, dinner time and rotation, etc. Are there clothes that we will want to have, like costumes or theme clothing? When should we fly in? Where should we stay? Anything we should plan to do or buy before getting on the ship? Timing for boarding? Any hints are appreciated.

[Skuba2]

welcome Taramom---you can find pretty much all the answers on the main board. We did a cruise with my 2nd at 2.5 and hated every minute--Carnival Cruise---it was a disaster. She is now 10 and this is her 4th Disney and we love it---so there is hope after a disaster. I would fly in the day before and get a hotel--some people get one a the port and others get one at the Hyatt at the airport. People bring on their own alcohol. We usually grab a tequila, a rum and a vodka to bring onboard. Then we grab some crystal light lime flavored, orange and pink lemonade and mix up margaritas, tequila sunrises and vodka lemonades--all sugar free and all delicious.

dsnyfan---the night schedules can be found on the navigators. They can be found on the main page in the pinned thread. You could print them out or email the link to your family and they can get some idea of the days' activities. The only Caveat I have about booking excursions on your own is that you need to be really careful about what happens if we can't dock somewhere or arrive late. Make sure they know you are on a ship and what cancellation policy they have. Hey---where in Kansas is your party from. I grew up in that neck of the woods before coming to CT. Get your hotel and car booked now as you can always cancel them. Things book up quickly. My son is 6 and he is sooooo excited to go again.

Deb

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Our Kansas kin live in Hutchinson, but have only been there a year and a half.

DBIL has the hotel and the car already booked. He's great at that!

I have some hints for folks travelling with little kids. We always tell people that if you are going to take the kids to the parks (and I think the same would hold true for the cruise) you need to make sure it is about THEM. Plan their snacks (take along their favorites), plan their naps, and plan something special for them for as soon as they wake up from their nap, so they'll wake up happy. Take little surprises for them and hand them out a couple of times each day for their good behavior. Finally, if you're comfortable with it, plan to enroll the kids in the nursery and the kid programs so the adults have some time on their own. If the kids ain't happy, ain't nobody happy on vacation! If you take care of their needs first, it's amazing how your own will fall into place.

We're lucky in our group because there are so many adults who will all be helping supervise the kids, trading them around.

Plan well and have a great time!

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Deb,

I'm a little tech-inept. Where do I find the "pinned thread" on the main page, which will give me the navigators??

We have some neighbors who just got back from the Western Carib on the Magic and we have all of their navigators, but realize our days will be different in the East.

[Skuba2]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1002071

Here is the link to the FAQ thread. It has cross links for the answers. It is a great help.

I want to say tropical night is St. Marteen which would line up with PLAP which I believe is the most sought after rotation. The Eastern was the first cruise we did on Disney about 5-6 years ago. My memory may be fading--heehee.

I am not one to ask about the bringing "costumes" because we never did. For pirate of the caribbean 2 premiere, we bought stuff on the ship like everyone else. LOL! I have seen little girls in princess dresses. My luggage is stuffed full as it is---adding costumes just didn't make sense for us.

On that note, depending on your cabin, luggage storage can be a pain. Suitcases that can be stored inside eachother is a great idea. If you know your cabin number, you can list it on the main thread and ask anyone their opinion about the cabin.

DG

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Deb,

Thanks for the link.

How soon can you find out your cabin number? I've seen people on these lists talking about their specific cabins, but on other cruises I've not found out our number until about 2 weeks out.

Bev

[Skuba2]

Bev

Are you on a guarantee status? You can request an actual cabin number. The philosophy goes that if you guarantee your status--ie Cat 6, you are more likely to get an upgrade---think they are free. But, who knows where your cabin ends up being. If the level hasn't "sold out" yet, you can request a specific cabin and IMHO it is better to do so. You can take into account noise level upstairs, closeness to elevators, etc. Mid ship is better for seasickness---that is the avoidance of it. If you really want it, you can get it in the front or back sections--LOL!!

Oh yeah---I grew up just north of KCMO and right before we moved, we lived down in Overland Park, KS. My sil is out in Iola--not sure where the heck that is but it is a hole in the wall out there. LOL

To everyone and anyone:

Once the new year rolls around--after the holiday dust has settled--the kids can all start emailing eachother and getting acquainted. That should either help get the shy kids into the camp or drive us nuts with "Can we go see them now?" What is really fun is to get a corner of the Castaway Cay beach and let all the kids play in the water together. There is a club on the island--but the younger set doesn't get to go into the water--they do sprinkler games. The benefit--the more kids get together and play, the less adults have to be out in the water playing with them---unless you want to be. Whoever is keeping the list of names, etc---don't forget to update. There is email access onboard which is a great way to announce any get togethers anyone wants to "plan" throughout the cruise. Sort of like "We are heading up to the goofy pool tomorrow morning first thing if anyone is up to joining us" or "We are heading to Bingo tonight and will try and sit in the back right corner if anyone wants to join in." Anyone can do it on this thread and no one has to feel at all obligated to join in. Absolutely no pressure whatsoever.

Ok--I'm getting totally excited--heehee. Actually, I am counting down the 2 weeks from tomorrow until school.

Deb

[aprince&princess]

Good morning everyone. Anyone else joining us for the April 12th Eastern Caribbean cruise?

[Skuba2]

LOL---just a few of us. There should be a list somewhere on this thread of names, ages and place of origin. I think Ct is winning by number of families.

Welcome

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome:thumbsup2 Another CT family here:goodvibes

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Deb,

Where north of KCMO were you? I taught at Liberty High School -- probably way before you were born -- for three years -- '76-'79. I worked one summer answering phones -- temp work -- saying, "ReMax of Overland Park, may I help you?" Memories!

I'm sending my BIL the info about getting the room numbers. I don't know if "Grandma" has paid the full amount yet, if the rooms are "guaranteed" status or what, since I'm not on that end of it, so I'll let him take it and work with it.

We got our flights -- did I say that yet? We have to fly through Minneapolis -- not my idea of fun in mid-April when Minnesota thinks it's still winter, but it was the cheapest route.

For the kids (or parents) to e-mail each other on-board do they have to buy internet time?

Thanks to those who hae the trip countdown on their messages. We tech-inepts appreciate it!!!

[Skuba2]

I wouldn't let the kids email each other while onboard--that could be expensive. What I meant was they can email eachother in the months before the cruise. There is internet access at so much a minute. It is pretty easy to use and you can post on the boards. I usually bookmark my carriers page to get to it quickly. So, any announcement can be posted here and anyone interested can check here. It was just a thought. I wouldn't get internet access just for that. My dh uses the email to keep up with work and stuff. I did also when I did work.

I am sure with all of us going that dinners are going to be a lot of kids waving at eachother and running around. LOL! I always found it so amazing how many familiar faces you see time and time again after a while.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

The key is to be in Parrot Cay during the tropical night


This is our first Disney Cruise ... Could you explain what tropical night is, when it is, and why it is key to be in Parrot Cay that night? Or if it is all explained elsewhere, could you share a link to where I can read more.

Thanks, Tara

[Skuba2]

On the Disney cruise, you rotate your dining. So, dinner each night is at one of the three different dining rooms. Your servers move with you. Each dining room has a special theme to it--Parrot Cay is tropical, Lumieres is formal and Animators Palate is theatrical. There are also theme nights during the cruise----captain's night (formal), semi-formal and tropical. There is one rotation that will put you in Parrot Cay (P) for tropical night and Lumiere (L) for formal night. That is the PLAP rotation. It just matches the night and mood with the surroundings a little better. Also, each dining room has a "show" put on by the servers on the first night you are in that room. I don't think I've ever seen Lumieres unless it is the baked alaska. We usually end up in Palo that night for some reason. That is why you often see people asking which rotation is best, what night would you miss the dining rooms for and which one would you choose to miss.

Truly, you can either go absolutely beserk planning every last detail or you can hit some of the bigger detail and wing the rest. The important thing to plan right now is a cabin number if you want one specifically, any hotel rooms that you may need before or after, any rental car or transportation to port, and any diet you may want to start. LOL. Flights are good to book now too althought if you are like the rest of us--your airline hasn't opened up the dates yet.

There are some highlighted threads on the top of the main cruise board that are chalked full of information. Also, you can search that board OR you could just start reading it. Pretty much everything is covered.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

Truly, you can either go absolutely beserk planning every last detail .....

There are some highlighted threads on the top of the main cruise board that are chalked full of information. Also, you can search that board OR you could just start reading it. Pretty much everything is covered.

Deb

OMG! So, I am definitely the type to go "absolutely beserk" researching everything. I just started reading the main cruise boards and my brain is spinning :rotfl:

I don't even have our flights yet and am already thinking about magnetic door signs and "fish extenders". I better stop reading until I get our flights, rental car and hotel.

I really went to read about before/after cruise hints. I am trying to figure out which hotel, whether to stay at the airport or the port the night before and after, etc. :confused3

[Skuba2]

It took me years to figure out what a "fish extender" was---wasn't sure I really wanted to know.

We did try to stay after one cruise at a hotel at port. The main problem we ran into was that check in wasn't until 4. We hated it--we were all so tired. We went to Kennedy space center and basically rode the bus around the tour. I was so exhausted, I just wanted to go to bed.

We fly in on Wed before the cruise and enjoy the parks. It allows us a very casual drive to port on Saturday morning. Then we fly straight out on Saturday.

I have heard good things about the Hyatt at the airport. They have the pool and it makes an easy commue to the airport.

Get those ressies booked--particularly anything in Orlando. It is a busy week and things will fill up quickly.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Does anyone know what night the Pirate Party is on? Thanks:goodvibes

[dsnyfangoofy2]

OK Skuba2 and TaraMom22 --- what ARE fish-extenders???? Don't leave the rest of us out of the loop!

I also get overwhelmed if I try to read too much from the boards at one sitting. I figure I have quite a bit of time and I'm stretching it out. I appreciate the specific hints I have found on this thread. Keep them coming!

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Skuba2,

While I was writing my last reply -- about fish-extenders -- I got a pop-up box that said I had a private message. l must have clicked something wrong, because I've not been able to access it.

Any help on how to do this??? It was about the Show-Me State.

[dsnyfangoofy2]

OK, Skuba2 -- I figured it out and got my message by going to my regular e-mail address that I used to open this board account. (I have three e-mail accounts and I don't check that one as often.) I was going to say you could still answer the question to let others know, but I think I just did! :)

[dsnyfangoofy2]

One last message from me on this personal message topic -- I found you can also access it up in the top right-hand corner of this page -- in the cute little yellow box. I'm slow, but thorough!

[Skuba2]

You are too funny. The answer to "a fish extender": There is a metal clip outside each stateroom in the shape of a fish. It is used by the crew members to leave notes, itineraries or well wishes. Some people use something to I believe clip in it to allow for additional things to attach to it as decoration.

Don't panic. You'll plan yourself to death and then you'll toss it out the window as soon as you get that first drink in your hand and the warm wind in your hair.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

OK Skuba2 and TaraMom22 --- what ARE fish-extenders???? Don't leave the rest of us out of the loop!

Bev,
You are right to not read too much all at once. When you do you realize that lots of DIS'ers do lots of things to show their excitement for the upcomming cruise. I had gone looking in the FAQ thread for some info on before and after cruise logistics. Instead I found myself reading a thread titled "Where can I find out how to make door signs for our stateroom on the cruise?" That opened my eyes to that fact that DIS'ers often decorate their metal doors with posters and such that they design and print on magnetic sheets. In that thread somebody mentioned fish-extenders and then pointed to a thread devoted to only the discussion of fish-extenders. I was so easily distracted from my purpose ;) that I followed to find that fish-extenders are things with multiple pockets that DIS'ers hang off their fish outside their door so they can do sort of a non-christmas version of secret santas with other DIS'ers that they have met in their MEET forum. Definitely not important enough of a detour that I should have let myself be distracted from my purpose of getting hotel, car and flights booked. :surfweb:

Tara

[Skuba2]

Welcome Tara to the obsession that is the disboards. It is a separate obsession all on its own but it may be coupled with a planning obsession, a Disney obsession or possibly both. There is no cure for this obsession. You think by going on a cruise, it will cure your obsession. You are wrong. It will increase your obsession to the point you will start to plan your next cruise before you last post cruise laundry is complete. For those really effected, the obsession takes hold on the ship when you realize the cruise is almost over. You will find those people camped out by the re-booking desk in an attempt to be the first in line to get relief from this obsession by booking another cruise. Alas, it will fail in the end and the whole obsession is a permanent way of life!

PS---be careful watching the Travel Channel. It has shows that are about the Disney Cruise Line experience as well as other things Disney. It will only cause excited pointing at the TV. Be afraid---be very afraid.

Deb---sorry--couldn't resist

[dsnyfangoofy2]

My DBIL just e-mailed me our cabin numbers. Since DMIL ("Grandma") is footing the bill for everyone, most people have the basic inside cabin, in the 6600s and 6100s -- sort of midships.

However, our DNephews and our family both paid the difference and upgraded to the deluxe inisde with split bath, and we two ended up on deck two. (I'm looking forward to the split bath with two teenage boys!)

I have a bit of a claustrophobia problem and have had a window on our first cruise and a verandah on our second. I don't know how I'm going to do with no window, and now being stuck on deck 2. I'm thinking of paying more and upgrading again.

From cruising before, I know you don't spend that much time in the cabin, but they have to sedate me to do an MRI in that closed little space, and I have nightmares about being in closed spaces! AARGH!

The other deluxe insides seem to be on 5 and 7, which sound much better to me, but I'm afraid they may all already be assigned. I've contaced the friend of our nephew, who is our travel agent, and asked her to see about changing.

Any advice or comments???

Bev

[Skuba2]

This is one topic I can't give advice on. We are in a suite. We tend to spend enough time in the cabin to warrant the extra room. I can often be found on my lounger on my verandah with ipod, book and drink half asleep. All the things I don't get to do at home----be a veg.

My point of view---if your cruise will be ruined by a small cabin, go bigger. If you don't care about it, then spend the money elsewhere.

deb

[TaraMom22]

:banana: YEAH! I just got all of our flights booked last night. Not an easy feat to figure all of that out.

Then I tried to figure out a rental car and :confused3 :confused3 :confused3 after a bunch of searching I gave up and went to bed.

If anybody can help, or point me to a good thread, I would greatly appreciate it.
Question #1: Which rental company is most convenient at MCO?
Question #2: Which rental company is fastest and most convenient at the port - for both drop off and pick up?
Question #3: Is $85 really the going price for a minivan per day (given we are 8 months from cruising)? That is what I found at both Budget and Hertz.
Any suggestions on how you all handle the transportation thing would be great. Remember there are 5 of us and we are comming in the day before and leaving the day after the cruise.

Thanks, Tara

[Skuba2]

I guess the first question in my mind is Are you going to use the car for anything other than to and from port? We rent a van before the cruise because we are spending three days at Universal. We rent from Avis at the airport and drop off at the Radisson near the port. My husband will drop us off and our luggage. I check us in without him and sit and wait. He takes the car and his identification and takes the car to the Radisson. Then he gets on the Avis shuttle and gets dropped off in the pier parking. He gets to walk in and find us. We show his face at the counter agent we used before and we are set. We then take a limo home. We are also a family of 5. With luggage and all of us, a van barely works. We are usually sooooo exhausted in the morning, we all snooze in the van on the way back to the airport.

If you are strictly using it for transporation to and from port--a limo may be the way to go. You can build in a liquor/grocery stop on the way to the port. $85 seems low to me---don't forget all the add on charges and fuel charges and airport charges, etc. That is a major week down there for the parks as well as the cruises (we aren't the only ones departed that morning). So, it gets very crazy at rental agencies and hotels.

Hope this helps.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

I guess the first question in my mind is Are you going to use the car for anything other than to and from port? .... $85 seems low to me.

Deb

Thanks for your reply Deb. Because we are comming from California, we get in the night before the cruise. We plan to go straight to the Residence Inn in Cocoa Beach and then use the van to pick up some drinks in the morning before going to the port.

On the way home our flight is at 8:00 am on Sunday, so we will stay at the airport Hyatt. We were planning to use the van to get to Kennedy Space Center for a tour before driving back to Orlando.

As I cosidered whether to rent a car or use a van I read some threads that indicated that DISers were able to rent cars for $40/day, so I guess I was hoping for something less than $85. I think $85 is still substantially less than a limo, but I am worried about the amount of time we will end up standing in rental car lines.

Also, there are 5 of us, so any transfer service that charges per person will obviously be more than $85 for the 5 of us. :confused3

EDITED TO ADD: I got a booking through Thrifty for $60.11 plus all those taxes and fees (total is $73) using code WMRT.

[momto3angels]

Just wanted to see if anyone is having any luck booking flights. Tickets on United and American are easily $350 and we are not used to spending that much for a direct flight from Chicago to Orlando! Southwest has not opened their flights yet so we are hoping they will be less.

Deb, thank your daughter for sending Abbi a Webkinz gift...she loved it!

[Skuba2]

Most of us from CT are waiting for Jetblue to open up the month. They are only taking booking up to Feb 08. Driving us all crazy. We may have the whole plane coming home though. LOL!!

I'm glad she got it---Jenn liked her gift too and was estatic Abbi got the gift. She hadn't seen her on the webkinz, so she thought of sending it to her to get back with her again. I had to take the whole webkinz thing away toward the end of school last year---Jenn basically couldn't concentrate on anything.

Deb

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Our TA says we can't book our dining rotation until 4 months out -- which would be December 12-ish. Does that sound right to you experienced Dis-cruisers?

[Skuba2]

You don't really "book" a rotation unless a TA can do that as a perk. You basically request the rotation that you wish to have and they try hard to work it out. You should have main seating or late seating on your ressies already though. The main seating sells out quickly. They do hold back a lot of seats.

Basically, the head waiter is the person who works out all the table assignments ahead of the cruise. They always hold back some tables to allow for changes, etc.

Deb

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Has anyone ever used or observed the use of strollers or wheelchairs on board the ship?

Grandma is mobile, but sometimes tires easily and we might want to use a wheelchair at times. We will have two infants in our group and they will often be in strollers. I know that most areas are "accessible" but I was wondering how "convenient" they are.

Also, has anyone ever borrowed the ship's strollers instead of bringing their own? I was wondering what they are like. Are they like the ones at the parks or designed for ship-board use?

I caught the tail-end of a DCL documentary on the travel channel last night. Wish I had known it was on, but I'm sure it will be there again sometime in the next 7 1/2 months! :)

[DisneyMomforLife]

Hey everyone! Looks like everyone's pretty much in full-on cruise mode with all of the preparations!!

Welcome to everyone who has joined us recently ... here is the updated list so far ... please let me know if something is missing or needs to be adjusted!!

Kat

Skuba2: DH, DW, DD13, DD10, DS6 ... from Wilton, CT

HappyBirthdayCat: DH, DW, DD13, DS15 ... from Upstate NY

CinderellaPug: DH, DW ... from East Greenbush, NY

EAP'sDAD: DH, DW, DD12, DS9, DS7 ... from Norwalk, CT

Maslex: DH, DW, DS11, DS12 ... from Plainfield, CT

Momto3angels: DH, DW, DD9, DD6, DD4 ... from ?

Beginsters: DH, DW, DGM, DD14, DD12, DD7 ... from ?

cvspsych: SM, DD10 ... from Cooperstown, NY

CindyD1: DH, DW, DD12, DD8, DS5 ... From Norwalk, CT

DisneyMomforLife: DH, DW, DS17, DD9 ... From Norwalk, CT

okwmember92: DH & DW only!! ... from central Florida - 25th anniversary celebration!

gfolchick: DW, DH, DD11, DS8, DGM, DGF, DBro, DNeph9, DNeph6 ... from Trumbull, CT

Dsnyfangoofy2: DH, DW, DS16, DS15 from Utah, Kansas and Cali … plus 35 others!!!

aprince&princess: DH, DW, DS13, DD10 from … New Milford, CT

TaraMom22: DH, DW, DD8, DS6 from Cali and DW’s MOM from Oregon

[Skuba2]

I haven't seen either being used, but I do know there have been posts about them in the past. I don't think it is impossible and I know people talked about strollers being convenient in the dining room for sleepy toddlers. I also imagine that the wait for elevators may be crazy. It is a free for all unfortunately. If you aren't agressive, you can be stuck there forever.

The one disappointment on the cruises has always been that people's manners seem to go out the window as well as some if not most of their parenting skills. I guess people forget to pack them. There are those who don't think they need to stand in line, those who think they can stand in front of you at a show while you are seated, and those who think if they don't see what their kids are doing then they must be behaving. Ugh!! It is hard to blame the kids when you see the way some of the adults act. That is one of my pet peeves in life. Manners and the notion that one is the only person in the world.

Ok--enough of that. There is always something to bring us back to reality-isn't there.

Deb

Oh yeah---thanks Kat for the list. I am amazed at all the NY/CT families.

[gfolchick]

I just went back and re-read our thread because I wasn't getting notices on a bunch of posts. SKuba2-my husband did a year over in London back in 2004. I stayed home with the kids. It looks like they have something in common.

I'm still waiting for airfare to open up. We flew AirTran from Westchester last week which worked out well. I'm flying JetBlue in October to Orlando. We think we're going to spend Saturday at Magic Kingdom on the return, get a hotel and then fly back Sunday. I know you're tired from the trip but I don't want the magic to end. Everything is inflated (price wise). I paid $79 each way for a minivan rental with Hertz. We're staying at CI&S Friday night for $159. We went on a Thanksgiving cruise in 2005 and everything was about half of what we're paying, including the cruise and we were in a Cat 6 instead of an 8.

My hubby surprised me with a trip on the Wonder in November for my b-day.:yay: I know it's a different ship but if you need me to check anything out before we go I'd be happy to do so.

[DisneyMomforLife]

Oh yeah---thanks Kat for the list. I am amazed at all the NY/CT families.

No problem ... helps us all keep organized. Isn't it crazy how it's so local right now??

gfolchick - I too noticed that I am not getting individual notification when new messages are posted ... I even went in and cleared my preferences (and it was set to get them each time) and then re-did it so we'll see what happens now. I got one notification since then ... Deb's but not yours. :confused3

Hope all is well with everyone!!

kat

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi just wanted to bump us up a little bit. :goodvibes Still waiting for Jetblue:rolleyes1 Hope all is well with everybody! Back to school for us today!:sad2: Not used to hearing that alarm ring so early!

[Skuba2]

Ugh---I didn't get up this early when I worked. We are still working on homework and it is 7:15 pm. Oh well. I did say I couldn't wait for school to start---didn't I?

The kids are happy though. Every is getting into the swing of things fast.

Yo! Jetblue----we want to give you MONEY!!!!!!!

Deb

[aprince&princess]

I thought I would give this thread a bump!

Did all the CT kids get off to school ok? My DD9 and DS13 (as of last week) also started on the 29th. And are still trying to adjust to being up early, as well as myself.

I just booked our room for CI&S for Friday night and am also waiting for Jetblue &/or Airtran flights to be released.:rolleyes1

[Skuba2]

My kids got off ok and I spent the week enjoying some quiet. Next week, our schedule gets going full steam adding afternoon activities and my day ones. I basically spent last week walking my doggie, keeping the house clean and chilling out.

Homework of course started full steam the first day with tons of review stuff and quizzes on Friday. So far so good with the un-organized 13 yr old---she is doing really well with it this year so far.

It is weird, when we all go on the cruise, school will only have about 2 months left. Does that seem like so far away or what?

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi all:goodvibes My kids got off on the 29th as well. my DS4 started Kindergarten:angel: the only had half days so far so it hasn't kicked in yet! Next week will be the real deal. Homework started right away for us too! Now I can get to all the projects that I let slip by all summer:lmao: Still waiting on that Jet blue!

[DisneyMomforLife]

Still waiting on that Jet blue!

Ugh! I called JetBlue this morning and she said that they are hoping to release the next 3 months by the middle or end of December and she's asked because many people are asking. But, I'm not sure how accurate that is because two breaths before that she said that they try to always have 6 months available at any time, so if in December they release March, April and May, they will still be short a month and gaining quickly on January! I didn't show her the slip in her logic, I'm just hoping that she's as wrong as wrong can be.

Hope everyone's settling into school nicely!!

kat

[Skuba2]

I would just keep a watch anyway. They used to have 9 months out--so either they've changed their policy or they are just tired of people asking. Part of me almost doesn't mind going out of JFK although my dh is looking forward to Westchester. Last year, we had to cancel our jetblue from the car because we got a flat tire to the airport. We had his admin book us on the first thing she could find with enough time for us to get the tire changed and to the airport. Not sure how many of those options are at Westchester. I was in tears thinking we would miss our time pre-cruise with my parents. I get emotional about that---my dad is battling and beating brain cancer. So, every time I see him is precious.

Don't forget the doggie ressies if you need one.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Just wanted to bump as up a little bit. Hope all is well with everyone! My son told his teachers that we were going on a cruise!:goodvibes The teachers thought we were going soon.....I wish:) The way he was talking they thought I was taking him out of school soon to go! They don't like when families do that:eek:

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Well, our DS14 decided to break his arm at soccer on Wednesday night. I guess it's best to get it over with now and not have it on the cruise, but he's out for the fall season and not too thrilled about that! It is a fracture of the proximal humerus, for those who might know or care.

I'm also an election judge and have been working the early voting days a few times, so my life has been full of excitement lately! I finally got to check back in to the thread today and it appears that most people have been busy, too, as there aren't many new messages.

I wanted to comment on Skuba2's remarks about manners. Amen, sister! I'm hoping things are somewhat better on Disney than they were on Carnival, but I realize some people still lose it. I'm the kind of mom who wants to know if her kids get out of line, so everybody keep an eye on them!

Does anyone have any comments about the best or worst companies for transport from the airport to the cruise terminal? I'd be glad to hear.

[ajeent]

Just thought I would finally make the committment and jump in, since I have been lurking on the DIS boards for a while. ;)


We are booked on this cruise, first one for all of us.
There will be 5 of us - me, dh, ds will be 13, ds will be 11 and my mom.
We have adjoining cabins on the 6th deck.

You all have me nervous about booking rooms, cars, airfare! I am off to book my room and car.

We will probably take Airtran from Rochester - they have available flights, but no cheap ones at this point - I think they go on sale at 6 months.
Glad to meet you all and connect with folks that don't roll their eyes at me when I talk Disney! :flower3:

[Skuba2]

Welcome!!

No rolling eyes here. LOL! The cruise is just a whole nother obsession. I am not a "Disney freak" but I am a Disney Cruise freak. LOL!! I have never taken my kids to the Disney parks. They would never survive the long lines and I just don't have enough in me to plan out a visit.

Deb

[Skuba2]

I wanted to comment on Skuba2's remarks about manners. Amen, sister! I'm hoping things are somewhat better on Disney than they were on Carnival, but I realize some people still lose it. I'm the kind of mom who wants to know if her kids get out of line, so everybody keep an eye on them!

Does anyone have any comments about the best or worst companies for transport from the airport to the cruise terminal? I'd be glad to hear.

Actually, the Disney parents may be more guilty of total loss of manners because they feel safer to let the kids just roam on a Disney Cruise because it is Disney. I just don't get it. The elevators are a real problem sometimes. They have either pushed all the buttons or they just plow on without caring who was there first-----the last one adults are also guilty of at times. We have had kids ring our doorbell and run. Of course, being in one of the suites makes you more of a target.

I think part of the result of it all is sick kids by the end of the cruise. The kids get no sleep, eat everything and anything and run around like crazy. Ok--enough from me.

As far as transportation, we have used Happy Limo going from the port to the airport and have had no issues. I hope that isn't considered an "endorsement" versus just answering a question to the moderators. We also use Avis and rent a car for the few days we are down before the cruise and drive ourselves to the port. Just remember to tell the limo companies how many people you have AND how much luggage you have. We are a family of 5, but even when we only traveled with 4 of us, we still used a stretch to make sure all our luggage fit.

My biggest problem---getting the weight off. Ugh! I need to get it under control now. I have low thyroid and it is so easy to put it on and heck to take it off. I really need to get 20 off just to hope to fit in any of my cruise clothes.

Deb

[DisneyMomforLife]

Well, our DS14 decided to break his arm at soccer on Wednesday night. :eek:

Wow, NO FUN at all. I have to say (or maybe I shouldn't - jinx possibility??) that we've never had a major injury like a broken bone or something. Now, my daughter is a huge hypochondriac and if she stubs her toe, she wraps her entire leg in an ace bandage and lays on the couch with it elevated!!! :lmao:

And of course, welcome ajeent! :hug: our first cruise was last October and it was very overwhelming. this is only our 2nd time so there's still plenty to figure out each time no matter how many times you are going!!

hope everyone has a nice day ... it's R A I N I N G here in Ct - but wait, just about everyone here is IN Connecticut so you all know that already. :thumbsup2

kat

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome ajeent!:goodvibes We are new to the whole cruise thing too! We are booked on deck 6 as well:) It will be 5 of us. me my DH, DD13, DD9 and DS5.

[Skuba2]

Ok---you can't get tooooooo excited about this, but Jetblue has added April 2008 to the calendar online BUT it is still blocked off. I can't help but feel like we are one baby step closer to the final piece of the puzzle. I hope they realize the angst they are putting us all through.

Deb

ps---if anyone is really really really really ambitious, it would be interesting to see the kids grouped by age. Maybe a project for one of the teenagers. LOL!

[DisneyMomforLife]

ps---if anyone is really really really really ambitious, it would be interesting to see the kids grouped by age. Maybe a project for one of the teenagers. LOL!

I can take care of that ... would be a handy list to have, actually. And it wouldn't be too hard at all ... :surfweb:

I'm not sure it would be 100% accurate as some people have indicated current ages vs. ages at time of cruise ... but we could do age ranges within 2 years or so of each other.

unless everyone wants to repost actual ages at time of cruise - then it would be 100%. we'll learn each others names at some point so do we want to do first names at this point as well?

my vote is reposting ages at time of cruise for better accuracy. :thumbsup2

but majority will rule, lol.

kat

[TaraMom22]

I can take care of that ... would be a handy list to have, actually. And it wouldn't be too hard at all ... :surfweb:

I'm not sure it would be 100% accurate as some people have indicated current ages vs. ages at time of cruise ... but we could do age ranges within 2 years or so of each other.

unless everyone wants to repost actual ages at time of cruise - then it would be 100%. we'll learn each others names at some point so do we want to do first names at this point as well?

my vote is reposting ages at time of cruise for better accuracy. :thumbsup2

but majority will rule, lol.

kat

I think this is a great idea. I tried to figure out who would be the same age as my kids and each time I thought I found a match it seemed they had quoted cruise age when I was thinking current or vice versa. I also think it would help to know "and a half" stuff, since barely 6 and almost 7 can be different enough to know about.

My daughter Katie will be 8 1/2 - 2nd grade
My son Michael will have just turned 6 - Kindergarten

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

DD - Melissa - will be 13 - 8th Grade
DD - Amanda -will be 9 1/2 - 4th Grade
DS - Lou -will be 5 1/2 - K

[Skuba2]

Mine will be

DD 13 (grade 8)
DD 10 (grade 5)
DS 6 (grade 1)

All have birthdays in July and August, so they will be on the older end of their age group. Although the younger two can be slightly delayed for their age---so who the heck knows which one of them they will bring with them on the cruise. LOL!

Deb

[aprince&princess]

Hi everyone,
my DS will be 13 (grade 8)
my DD will be 10 (grade 4)

So far I have booked the cruise and hotel for the night before at CI&S. I am waiting for the flights from Jetblue and then I will do flights and a car.

[ajeent]

My guys are

Will - 13 - 7th grade
Jake - 10 - 5th grade

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Has anyone ever used CWS Tours or Orlando Meet and Greet for their airport/cruise terminal transfers? If so, how do they rate?

As for the youth in our family reunion group, I started to include all the ages with 1/2s and months and such, but it got too complicated! So here is a summary of all the cousins, I think!

DS 25
DD 25
DS 21
DS 18

DD Junior
DD Junior
DS Sophomore
DS Freshman
DD 8th grade
DS 7th grade
DS 7th grade
DD 6th grade
DS 5th grade
DD 5th grade
DS 3rd grade
DD Kindergarten
DD age 2 – birthday in March
DD age 9 months – birthday in July

[Skuba2]

Hi everyone,
my DS will be 13 (grade 8)
my DD will be 10 (grade 4)

So far I have booked the cruise and hotel for the night before at CI&S. I am waiting for the flights from Jetblue and then I will do flights and a car.


If you are considering a rental car, I would suggest you book it now. Things run out very quickly. Maybe not so much since you are only 4. If you want a van, it may be too late.

DG

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Any ideas what my life will be like if my room is right under the Promenade Lounge? I imagine Disney's insulation is good. We were under a snack bar on our Carnival cruise and just occasionally heard chairs being moved about.

[Skuba2]

Ok--I am working from memory here--too lazy to look at the ship plans. I believe the promenade lounge is the lounge area leading to Parrot Cay or maybe Animators Palate. If I am thinking right, it may be mostly carpet with a small band area and dance floor. I don't ever remember seeing it crowded. It is an open area that lines the hallway.

If you do hear too much noise, you can do as we do and turn the tv to a snowy channel and use it as a noise machine. Just make sure the station doesn't turn into a regular channel in the morning.

Another suggestion, do a search of your cabin number on the main board and see if there are any reviews. If not, then post for a review.

Deb

[dsnyfangoofy2]

I'm sure glad Skuba2 Deb has answers, because all I have are questions!

Here's the next one -- or two!

Do they supply bathrobes in Cats 9, 10, and/or 11?

Do they supply beach towels when you get off the ship?

Thanks!

Bev

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Ignore those last two questions. I finally figured out how to do the "search" and found out the answers.

For others who want to know --robes are usually only available in suites, but sometimes you can request one and get one.

Towels are given as you exit at port, but they are not what you would call "beach towel" size.

[dsnyfangoofy2]

I am so excited!! I finally made a decision on our cabin. Most of our reunion group is just doing inside cabins (deck 6), but I've been very worried about my slight claustrophobia problem, so we decided to pay extra and spring for a window. (Would have loved a verandah, but we can't afford that much of a spring!) So, with what I learned from this dis board, I found a great Cat 8 on deck 7 -- 7512. It has great reviews on the boards, seems to be quiet and roomy.

Thanks, fellow dis-ers!

[gfolchick]

JET BLUE is accepting reservations for April !!! We're leaving from Westchester on Friday the 11th and returning on Sunday the 20th. Whew, I was getting a little nervous about flights. Anyone with us?

[gfolchick]

Disneyfangoofy2:
I have kids the same age/grade as you. My daughter is in 5th and my son is in 3rd.

[Skuba2]

We will be leaving on the 9th and coming back on Saturday the 19th. We need a day to unpack and get ourselves back on track before hitting full steam on Monday. I have to figure out if we want to hang around until the 4 pm flight to westchester or do we just go to JFK. It seems they would put us home about the same time---so who knows.

Thanks for the shout out though. It sure helped.

Deb

[Skuba2]

Book fast guys. The seats are all ready filling up. We ended up booking on the early flight back to white plains.

Deb

[Skuba2]

Doing the jetblue bump!!!!

DG

[DisneyMomforLife]

Thanks to my brilliant sister-in-law ----> cindyd1!! :flower3:

We hadn't checked the boards yesterday, but she happened to check jetblue and called me so we booked together and are doing the happy dance!!! :banana: :banana:
All the pieces are in place!!

Cruise? :thumbsup2
Car? :thumbsup2
Hotel? :thumbsup2
Air? :thumbsup2
Happy Kids?? :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

It felt real before, but this seals the deal for sure.

Hope everyone gets their seats soon!!!!

kat

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

I wouldn't say brilliant:rotfl2: But I am sure glad to have that over with!!!!!! Now we just have to sit and wait:sad2: or we could dance!!!!:banana:

[Skuba2]

I saw we dance. Heehee.

Anyone else joining us on the earlier (if you can call it that) saturday flight?

Deb

[dsnyfangoofy2]

We can't dance until we get our transfers figured out. Any more suggestions from anyone out there?

It takes longer when you're waiting for 35 people to get things done! One couple in our family still hasn't ordered their birth certificates, much less their passports! I'm gonna hate waving goodbye to them while they're standing on the dock!

I'm anxious to see any new Personal Navigators now that the Magic is back on this side of the pond. The website doesn't have many Eastern ones and none are recent. If anyone has any influence out there, see if you can get somebody to post them!

[DisneyMomforLife]

I saw we dance. Heehee.

Anyone else joining us on the earlier (if you can call it that) saturday flight?

Deb

:wave2: We are!!!!

kat

[TaraMom22]

We can't dance until we get our transfers figured out. Any more suggestions from anyone out there?

We decided to go the rental car route. We are coming in on Friday so will need a way to get to the port from the motel anyway. I calculated it and the rental car was a lot cheaper than any other service, though a bit less convenient. I booked the car through Thrifty. If anybody knows anything about them I would love feedback to know if we chose well.

[Skuba2]

We use Avis to get us down and hire a limo for the ride back. Avis has a drop off near the port and a shuttle back. We are heading down on Wednesday, so we use the car for a few days.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

We are on the early Friday flight!!!:yay: We booked a rental car through Budget, which also has a place near the port.

[Skuba2]

Which one did you get coming home? I am assuming the Friday is the going flight.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Yes Friday is the going out and we have the Saturday afternoon going back.

[dsnyfangoofy2]

The weekend is here! Yea!

I'm glad people are getting their transportation taken care of. I still have a nagging fear that there are going to be flight cancellations in Milwaukee like there were so many places last year. THERE HAD BETTER NOT BE!!

I have a really weird question for those who have been on the Magic before. Are their security cameras in the kids clubs and/or in other parts of the ship?

As I may have mentioned, we have some rather protective parents in our family group and they are not thrilled about leaving their kids in the kids clubs. I thought that if there were security cameras they might be more willing to allow it.

Thanks!

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Holy smokes! I can't believe my their/there typo in the previous message. And I'm a school teacher!!

My only excuse is that DS 15 was trying to get money out of me while I was typing!

[DisneyMomforLife]

Just bumping us up to try to drum up some activity!!

We haven't heard from a lot of people that were around in the beginning of the thread so hopefully they don't forget about us!!!

Hope everyone is well!!

kat

[Skuba2]

Hello Kat,

Everything is going fine. We got a second dog--Bella--who is 5 months. She is the half sister of our 13 month old. They are both black labs. So, it hasn't been boring here.

I need to get my butt going on getting the weight off. I would love to lose 20 pounds.

Other than that--just trying to keep up with life.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

I have to ensure that I got a great deal, so I occasionally check current prices for our cruise. I am sure glad I booked in March since they keep sneaking up and up. Does everybody else feel they got a good price?

I have noticed people talking about being upgraded. Does anybody know if DCL only does that to GTY prices. We were very picky about getting a balcony and an inside room right across the hall from each other so the kids can easily run back and forth. I wouldn't want them to think they were doing my mom a favor and upgrade her from her category 11 to something in a higher category but not right across the hall from us. :confused3

BTW: I LOVE these silly smile icons. I think I will post a few messages just so I can punctuate with them. :hippie: :banana: :woohoo: :yay: popcorn:: :happytv: :sad2: :laundy: pirate: :cheer2: :surfweb: :rotfl2: :coffee: :dance3:

[Skuba2]

You go crazy girl!!!

I don't think they will upgrade you without your permission. The gty's maybe since they aren't assigned a particular room. You should have your ressies linked.

As far as price goes, it does pay to book early. Price is only part of it. Getting the room you want and the other stuff you have to arrange like flights and stuff.

Deb

[ajeent]

Just checking back in. Extremely busy here!
Just booked my rental car for going down on Friday and will book limo back tomorrow. Airfares are still too high here to book.
We applied for our passports on Friday. My mom got hers within 3 weeks. Weird with all the crazy stories about how long it is taking.
That is all from our house right now! As my ds says - only half a year to go....

[cvspsych]

Just checking in on the thread. We are closing in on the 6 month mark and getting very excited. We are booked on Jet Blue out of Newburgh, NY on April 10th with a return on April 20th. We are trying to maximize our vacation:yay: We have booked our hotel rooms and rental cars so we are pretty much all set.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

We are all set with everything too!:cool1: The only thing to do now is wait!!!!!!!!!!!!:surfweb: :eek: Do you have any excursions in mind? We haven't planned any as of yet.

[dsnyfangoofy2]

I love the anticipation of a trip almost as much as the trip itself, so I've been in charge of the preparation information for our family reunion group. I've been doing one installment about every 3 weeks, and now I realize that I need to boost that up because that would only be 8 more installments! I don't think I can cover everything in only 8, which makes the 6 months seem even less of a wait!!! It's right around the corner!!!

[Skuba2]

Ok---I have totally forgotten what islands we are going to. I believe St. Martin, St. Thomas and CC--right? LOL!! We love doing the regatta on St. Martin. My oldest may be able to join us on that one this year. I don't know about St. Thomas. We have been there on several cruises and once staying for a week. We may just stay onboard that day.

We are all set except for our return trip to the airport.

DG

[cvspsych]

We have looked at the excursions, but have not decided on any particular ones. There is a part of me that is leaning toward finding a beach and relaxing for the day:beach:

[dsnyfangoofy2]

This is what I'm thinking for me, my DH, and two teen DSs.

St. Maarten -- rent a car, explore the two cultures, see the butterflies (for me) and fly through the trees at Lotterie Farm (for the teens.) If time, let the boys do some Rhino Riders.

(Shouldn't the St. Maarten day be the Pirate party day? All-aboard isn't until 7:00, but I think we'll want to be back a little earlier than that because of the party.)

St. Thomas -- take the actual DCL excursion to St. John for the Snorkeling Expedition

CC -- make it a beach day

What think ye?

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

I like the idea of sitting on a beach:goodvibes Like to check out the islands too! We would like to do the parasailing on CC. Has anyone done this? and what is the youngest age that can do this?

[okwmember92]

WOO HOO!! Ahoy, fellow cruisers! I can't believe we are at the 6 months mark, HOW EXCITING!!! DH and I keep telling each other "it will be here before you know it" Fortunately, we live only a 2 and 1/2 hr drive from the port and do not have to worry about flight arrangements. Although we do have to renew our passports, I have put DH in charge of that one, he works at the postoffice. We are thinking of doing the regatta and maybe beaching it the other days. Hope all is well with everyone. Bye for now. :cool2:

Kim

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi All just wanted to bump us up....hope all is well with eveyone! My daughter put this big picture on here and now I can't get it off!!!!! I hate to tell her that I don't like it but I can't get it off!!!!:confused3

[hannahguad]

Well, I have been a lurker :coffee: to the disboards for AWHILE. Thought I would come out of my hole and say "HI!" I am so excited to be going on out first cruise ever! My DH,Mom,DD (10)and myself will be joining all of you! I know we are on the 5th. Category 6. Can't wait to meet some of you!

Karen:banana: :yay:

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome!!!:goodvibes First Time Cruisers too! Looking forward to it.

[Fast Pass]

We just made our reservation for the 12th! We only took our first cruise in September. I guess we are now officially hooked on cruising!

I just need to know how to pack. I have been down there at the end of April but never at the start. Do I need to bring some pants?

We have never been on a 7 day before and won't be able to get our final payment in until the last day, does that mean that there will be no way we will be able to get any excursions or Palo Brunch time? We aren't interested in Palo dinner so we aren't worried about that.

Also, we wanted early dinner and they said early dinner is booked solid, is there a chance that once we get on the ship we can switch times?

Thank you for any help. By the way expect many dumb questions to come. Although I have one cruise under my belt, I still feel like a fish out of water.

[Skuba2]

There is always extra seating in the early seating. They keep some back. That should be the first place you go.

I can't wait. CC we do the jet skis if only for the ride.

I can't believe how many kids seem to be in the same age groups. We seem to be heavy in the 9-10 year olds and the 13 year olds. What fun.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

I can't remember anybody posting that they will have kids the same age as mine. My DD princess: is turning 8 in a couple of weeks, so will be almost 8 1/2 when we cruise. My DS pirate: will have just turned 6.

Anybody have a girl about 8 or a boy 5 1/2-6 at the time of our cruise?

[Skuba2]

My son is 6!!!!! He will be 6 on the cruise and is currently in first grade. LOL! This is his second cruise.

Deb

[TaraMom22]

My son is 6!!!!! He will be 6 on the cruise and is currently in first grade. LOL! This is his second cruise.

Deb

Yea! My son is in Kindergarten, but he can easily hold his own with older kids. He is almost as big as a 2nd grade boy down the street, and they play great together, so the grade difference with your son probably won't matter.

[Skuba2]

Yep, they'll be in the 5-7 group. He won't have to worry about holding his own with Ryan. Ryan is a "follow the rules" kind of kid. He can be a little quirky, but in the craziness of all the kids, they should get along fine. They will be mostly in the club and then spend time in the lab as well. My son loves video games--crash bandicoot to be exact. But, he also loves just building things and running around.

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

My son will turn 5 next week!

[ajeent]

Got our passports today - only took 2 weeks! wow!
Had some sad news. My mom, who is scheduled to come with us, was just diagnosed with Lymphoma. We don't have much info yet, but she already told the dr. that he has to cure her by April so she can come on the cruise. The lady has her priorities in order!! :)
So think positive thoughts for us, if you would!

[Fast Pass]

Sending a million pixie dust wishes!:wizard: :wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

[aprince&princess]

Got our passports today - only took 2 weeks! wow!
Had some sad news. My mom, who is scheduled to come with us, was just diagnosed with Lymphoma. We don't have much info yet, but she already told the dr. that he has to cure her by April so she can come on the cruise. The lady has her priorities in order!! :)
So think positive thoughts for us, if you would!

I am also sending pixie dust. pixiedust:pixiedust:pixiedust:

I hope everything goes well.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Sending pixie dust your way!!!princess: :flower3:

[Fast Pass]

I know I am new to this board so I hope no one minds me bumping our thread up!

[KathleenlovesMickey]

My DH and I are celebrating our 25th anniversary too. (17th) We also planned the trip and did not tell our kids until recently that we were doing this one alone. They were not to happy but once you move out.... Also we are celebrating birthdays. Have you decided on shore excursions?

[aprince&princess]

Welcome to the boards "kathleenlovesmickey". That will be a nice anniversary present! We celebrate our 18th anniversary the next week, but needed to do the cruise while the kids are off. We actually will fly home the day before our anniversary.

Fast Pass: Welcome to this board. I don't think anyone going on the cruise minds "the bump". There is one post, not sure of the post number, where they are keeping track of DISers that are going. Welcome.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Welcome to the boards:)

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Hi, all. I just caught up on all the messages I've missed. I've been a little swamped with company and other stuff.

In our group of 14 kids under the age of 18, one boy is 9 and one girl is 6. I think I put the whole list on earlier, but thought I'd repost those two for the newcomers who have similar ages.

Skuba 2 -- I'm so glad to hear your DS likes to obey the rules. If we can get everyone to do that this should be a great experience! I'm a little worried that since we have so many cousins together in our group who know each other too well, they may get a little rowdy with one another. We'll try to keep them reined in!

Sorry to hear about the lymphoma. Modern medicine, wth the help of God, can do wonders, so let's all ask for help from both.

[okwmember92]

Welcome aboard, Kathleenlovesmickey, DH & I are also traveling alone celebrating our 25th anniv and 45th birthdays!! Our actual dates are my bd is in May and dh and anniv is in Aug. We are really looking forward to our trip! Planning lots of time on our verandah, rain forest room, and quiet cove area, perhaps we'll see you around. Also planning palo's dinner and brunch.

Kim

[Fast Pass]

Is our 90 day mark January 13th?
I think it is but I have this nagging feeling that it is January 12th.
The ressies can be made at 11:00 central time,right?
Hope everyone is doing okie dokie!

[momto3angels]

Hi Everyone,
Southwest just opened up their flights through May so we were finally able to get our airline tickets and we got good flights with great prices! YA! It has been awhile since I have been on and am surprised to see how the thread has grown. I used to get an email when there were new responses but not anymore. Our kids are really looking forward to the trip and we can not wait to get through the Chicago winter so we can go on vacation!

[dsnyfangoofy2]

Oh my goodness! Today is the 13th -- which means we are LESS than 5 months until sailing!! Yea!! :banana:

[hannahguad]

I can't believe it, LESS than 5 months!?!?! Planning this cruise has taken over even the house cleaning for me-I am constantly checking the Disboards for more information! I need a handheld laptop with wireless so I at least can run the vacuum!:rotfl:

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

I can't believe it either!!! Where has the time gone!!! I remember thinking about taking this trip and then booking it....it seems like it was sooooo long ago!!! and thinking I don't know how we can wait that long:goodvibes

[aprince&princess]

It will be here before we know it.

I have most of our plans completed. I just have to book a car service to go from the airport to the port and then the port to Disney.

I am so excited, I had booked the cruise last April forgetting that my nephew was going to make his Communion next spring. So I was a little worried that it would land on one of the cruise weekends, but I just found out that it is the weekend before the cruise. I am so thrilled they don't conflict.

[DisneyMomforLife]

:wave2: Welcome, welcome, welcome to all of the newbies!! :welcome:

With less than 5 months to go, we really need to start thinking of excursions and stuff like that ... I've not given it a ton of thought because then it would feel like it was never going to get here.

The holidays are going to help sweep us through a few weeks without even realizing they went by.

In a day or two, I'm going to go back and update our list so we get current on who is who as we've had a few new people join us.

Hope everyone is doing well!!!

kat

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

:surfweb: Just waiting for our day to come!:laundy: :hourglass :coffee:

[aprince&princess]

:) Bumping.

Anyone else joining us on the April 12th cruise?

[Skuba2]

Can someone post the dates for online booking? I can't remember and I tried searching and that didn't go well.

Concierge:
CC members:
1st timers:

I do know make sure you have everything paid in full and it is posted to the account and your online account shows paid in full or you won't be able to use the system. Also, you can go through and save your preferences prior to booking---at least you used to be able to. That makes it easier and faster. Just make sure you book the more popular stuff first.

Deb

[Skuba2]

Hang on---giving us a bump!!

Deb

[aprince&princess]

If I am right for the number of days out....
1st timers are 75 days out, which would be 1/28/2008
cc members are 90 days out, which would be 1/13/2008
concierge 105 days out, which would be 12/29/2007

Let me know if the number of days out are wrong, and I will adjust the dates.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi All! Hope eveyrone had a Happy Thanksgiving!!!!:)

[Skuba2]

If I am right for the number of days out....
1st timers are 75 days out, which would be 1/28/2008
cc members are 90 days out, which would be 1/13/2008
Are concierge 120 days out? If so, then their date is 12/14/2007

Let me know if the number of days out are wrong, and I will adjust the dates.


I guess Mickey's big ears were burning. I just got my notice of online reservation ability. Concierge guests are 105 days out. So, my date is December 29th!! Yikes. I have to have it paid by then.

I am so excited. My oldest can go on the boat race in St. Martin this time. Not sure what else we will do. We tend to just enjoy the ship. Our final payments are due January 13th unless you pay earlier to make your ressies.

Take Care all!

Deb

[aprince&princess]

Deb, thanks for the concierge date. I updated my post. We are first time Disney cruisers, so we have to wait a little bit longer to book excursions. I would have loved to pick the boat race, but want to do something that we can all do and my daughter isn't old enough yet.

We were on a RC cruise in July that went to St Martin and St Thomas, so I think we might just do some shopping on our own and head to the beach for St Martin. I was thinking an excursion to St John would be nice for the St Thomas Day.

[DisneyMomforLife]

So did everyone get their travel kits in the mail??

It was so awesome to get that ... the kids tore through it (when I was done with it! LOL) ... really makes it feel like it's getting closer and closer!!

We are still trying to figure out the excursions ... I know for sure we are doing the parasailing in Castaway Cay and the Helmet Dive in St. Marteen.

:cool1:

kat

[dsnyfangoofy2]

I'm so jealous of you "upper class" cruisers! We're 1st timers on Disney so we have to wait. We haven't received anything in the mail, so I figure it's either because we booked through an agent or it isn't quite time for us yet.

NEWS! We are adding one more to our "family reunion" group. My 25-year-old niece just got engaged and, can you believe it, is planning to get married before the cruise so her hubby can come, too! So our group of 35 is now 36!

:dance3:

[aprince&princess]

We are first time cruisers with Disney also, and we received our packet today. So you should be getting one.

I tore through mine as soon as it came.

[dsnyfangoofy2]

OK -- so I just e-mailed our travel agent to see if the packets might be sent to her. I'll let you know what I find out. Thanks for the heads-up that they are being sent to everybody.

CAN YOU BELIEVE WE ARE CLOSE ENOUGH FOR THEM TO BE SENDING US STUFF????

What can I expect to find in the packet?? I can't wait!!

:woohoo:

[DisneyMomforLife]

The packet is really a travel guide ... gives you detailed info as to what excursions are available where ... packing guides ... what happens when she sets sail, ect ...

NOTHING that you don't already have accessible here on the boards, really ... but still just fun to get something from them!!

kat

[aprince&princess]

I am getting ansy waiting. It seems like forever, although it will come pretty quickly after the holidays.

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

We received our book too!:cool1: The kids want to do everything!:rotfl:

[DisneyMomforLife]

Well, I'm a little confused about something ...

any previous cruisers have experience with Coral World ... the Sea Trek? I have found conflicting info as to who can do it ...

the DCL travel guide that came says anyone 10 and over ... but the Coral World website says 8 and over but weighing a minimum of 80lbs. Now, I think an 80lb 8 yr old might be a little overweight ... my daughter is 10 and although petite, she's about 62lbs, but not "tiny" by any means ... she's pretty disappointed at the conflicting info since the DCL book says 10 - she's been wanting to do this for years.

I posted on the main boards but no one has responded ... hopefully today brings new info ... and new hope!!

kat

[aprince&princess]

Hi everyone, just bumping! :thumbsup2

[dsnyfangoofy2]

I finally got our travel kit! Yea!! (We live in Utah and our travel agent is in San Diego, so it took a while. Remember, we are a group of 36 and we are spread out across the western U.S.)

I wish I knew the answer to the question about the Sea Trek, but I don't. My best guess would be to go by the DCL info. It would seem that if they are publishing it they have to honor it. They might have a special arrangement with the company to allow the younger ages if they are with DCL.

I believe we are at FOUR MONTHS AND FOUR DAYS!!!!!! Or, calendar-wise, if I counted correctly, 18 weeks!

:cheer2:

[Skuba2]

Sorry about the conflicting information on the trek thing. I don't think it is the only conflict in the excursion department. I think that sometimes Disney may just have stricter standards for their excursions. The outsource the excursions and sometimes they do change companies. So, they make their own standards probably somewhat dictated by the insurance company they use.

I can't believe it is coming so soon. I am not sure I am ready to incorporate thinking about excursions into thinking about Christmas. Oh well---the problems we must bear. LOL!!

Deb

[cindyd1@optonline.ne]

Hi all. My daughter collects the Mickey Mouse Ears and was wondering if they have them on the ship? :confused3

[Fast Pass]

Just bumping us up!

cindyd1 (cindyd1@optonline.net), I know that they have the pirate Mickey ears. I think they might have some Captain Mickey ears but I am not sure 100%, somebody would definitely need to verify them.