What can I do ahead of time

[sandiedog]

For those of you veterans - I'm cruising in April. What are the things I can take care of now to avoid long lines on the ship. I know i can book excursions now - but what about reservations for Palo's or the spa?
Also- what are the best times for first time Disney cruiser - what are the secrets we need to know to make it a smoother week? I've seen some things - take your own snorkeling gear, wine, etc. What else?

[SC Minnie]

sandiedog-
You've got a good start by reading the boards! Welcome by the way!

You can't book Palos or the spa until you board. We were one of the first ones to board when we sailed in January. We went to the buffet at Topsiders then off to the ressies scramble. Palos was no problem but we waited a little longer before going to the spa so we didn't get our first choice. Do those two things as soon as you finish your lunch. If you have the two way radios and can split up and that will help too.

I don't think there are any 'best times' for Palos because you are going to always 'miss' something. We had late seating so we made a ressie for Palos as 6:00 then went to our regular dinner to sit while DD7 ate ( we had to have dessert though!!)

Read the navigator when you get it at the port and see what it going on where. Print out the older navigators from Dave's and Barb's sites. That way you can kind of tell what activities are generally repeated during the week and decide what day you want to do them.

Most of all relax - have fun- and realize you will not be able to do and see everything! You will HAVE to book another cuise!!LOL

[Sandiebean]

When are you going, Sandiedog? We're going on the April 25th Wonder.

Sandie :D