Sept. 14, 7 Day Roll Call

[ruvidu]

It is only 5 months from tomorrow but who's counting? We Are?
Past postings for this date have shown only a couple of responses so let's try again.
Looking forward to meeting all who are going.

Russ and Vivian

[Stepherella]

Hi, My fiancee and I will be on that cruise. It will be our honeymoon and our first cruise! We are really exited about it.
-Stephanie:cool:

[ruvidu]

You will love the Magic and it should be a fantastic honeymoon. My son and his wife did the 4 day Land and 3 day cruise package on the Wonder for their honeymoon.
It looks like we will not have a big crowd. Maybe we will meet.
Have you made excursion plans yet?

[Stepherella]

We have looked at excursions and gotten some ideas. I don't want to spend too much on them, so except for Cozumel, I think we will try to do our own thing. In Key West, I figure it would be fine to go out on our own. I want to go to Hell, when we go to Grand Caymen, and perhaps spend some time on seven mile beach. In Cozumel, we are thinking about the horseback riding excursion. I am waiting to see what others do on the western itinerary and what advice they may have. What excursions are you doing?
-Stephanie:)

[ruvidu]

We plan on doing Key West on our own. I do want to be at Mallory Sq. at sunset. I want to have my picture made at the Southern Post point in the US. Just relax and walk is our plan.
In Cozumel we don't know. A day at a beach sounds good.
In Grand Cayman we want to do the Stingray City snorkle trip.
At Castaway Cay I want my hammock on the beach with a can of Red Stripe.
Did you decide on first or second seating? We have sat with honeymooners before. They seem to like to sit young newly weds with us on these trips. It is always a pleasure.
We are on deck 6 with veranda, how about you?

If we keep posting this post may stay on the front page long enough for someone else to see it.

[rgionet]

I'm on the 7 day Sept 14th cruise too!!!! I will be cruising with my DH, my twin 3yr old DS and my inlaws!! This will be our 2nd Disney cruise. Last April we did the 7 day Eastern caribbean on the Magic. I can't wait to get on the ship!

Renee
:D

[ruvidu]

That makes 3 families. Maybe we will all get upgraded.

[Stepherella]

We have requested second seating. We will be on deck 2 in a category 10, about midship. We have looked at a lot of pictures of the ship that others have posted, I can't wait to explore it!
-Stephanie

[ruvidu]

Stephanie,
You will fall in love with the Magic as soon you step on board and they call your name. Smile because they will be making your picture. Look up and to the left and you should see Mickey and Minnie dressed in their nautical outfits waving at you.
You won't be able to take it all in at once so don't try. We usually head straight to our room and drop our bags and then head to Topsiders for lunch. They tell you they won't be ready but they have been every We like to get an outside table near the rail so we can see everything going on. You can see the shuttle assembly building at Kennedy Space Center from there. It is a view. Giant steamed shrimp and cold Mango soup just for starters.
You will probably have the Luminaires, Antimators Palate, Parrot Cay dinner rotation. As a party of two that is what we have had every cruise so far. We love Luminaires and could eat there every night.
I am sure Renee will back me up on this. Renee, what's your favorite resturant on board? We sat with a couple from Boston on last years trip. They have since moved to New Hampshire.
If you two would like to exchange e-mail addresses let us know and we can do it. Any questions or anything to help let us know.
Russ and Viv

[catts5]

Hi,

We are going on the Sept. 14 Western!!! We are a family of 4, 2 teenagers and also my brothers family of 5 are going. We can hardly wait.:bounce:

[Stepherella]

Ruvidu,
Thanks for all the kind words. We really look forward to the cruise and get excited when hearing details. I have been reading forums on this board since last (2001) January. I have learned so much about wdw and dcl. I love logging on and reading the posts.

-Stephanie:)

[ruvidu]

Tell us about you. Where are you coming from? Is this your first Magical cruise? Any excursion plans? Early or late seating?

[catts5]

Ruvidu,

This will be our very first cruise!! My brother talked me into it. I get motion sickness so thought I would NEVER do a cruise. My brother is from WI and we are from Seattle, WA. We all signed up for the early seating. Haven't decied on any excursions yet. Trying to keep expenses down so might only go for something in Cozumel. Want to see ruins. We will just do stuff on our own.

Between our two familes will have children aged: 17, 15, 14,13,12 and us adults are all in our 40's. Kids are all girls except the 15 yr old. Poor guy!!

Have learned so much from this board!!:bounce: :jester: :Pinkbounc

[rgionet]

The Magic is incredible!!! We loved Animator's Palate (the boys liked all the color and music!) and Parrot's Cay. Since the boys were not yet two the last time we went to Topsiders Buffet for dinner a few times. That was much easier than getting the whole clan all dressed up especially on the formal nights. The food was great of course!
I love walking around the ship and hearing the piped in Disney music and the ship's horn is great! My husband is nowhere near the Disney freak that I am but he loved the cruise and was especially excited about the ESPN club!
This cruise our sons will be old enough to go into the Oceaneer's Club. We are looking forward to being able to do some snorkeling and sightseeing while they play in the club.
We haven't decided which excursions we will do yet, but we are thinking of planning some on our own to save money.
The only part of hate about going on a Disney cruise is getting off the boat when the 7 days are up!! We are going to spend 4 days in WDW this time when we finish the cruise because I want to see the 100 years celebration. I can't wait!

Renee

[paulc]

Just to let you know that some of your colonial cousins from across the pond also look on the Dusney cruise Threads.
Myself and my wife are due on the 14 Sept cruise to celebrate our silver wedding. We have been to WDW several times before but this is the first cruise. Still as long as Mickey is there that will do for me.

[ruvidu]

Hello Paulc,
Yes, we may be cousins. My family, originally Pettypools, came from Pool, England.
You are now the winner of the prize for traveling the futherest distance to sail with us. I think the UK is further than Seattle from Port Canaveral.
Congrats on your upcoming 25th anniversary. If you let the wait staff know it is your anniversary they will all gather around and sing "Happy Anniversary" to you and bring you cake. I hope we are there to join in on the chorus.
I hope we get to meet some time on board. My e-mail is published here. If we can be of help in any way please let us know.
Renee, we did Wilderness Lodge the first week of Dec. We were there for Walt's birthday. We love DW and plan on going back in Dec. of 2003.
I agree with you so much on hating to leave the ship. Every time we have done so we look back as we leave wondering how long it will be until we get back.
Our plans for this trip are to drive down on Thursday, stay in Orlando, eat at Downtown Disney, go to Sea World on Friday and then go to our hotel at Cocoa Beach for Friday night. We had enough points with Hilton and Holiday Inn that we are staying those two nights for free.
Russ and Viv

[whytcrystal]

HI! My husband and I are taking the Sept. 14 cruise too! I was so excited about it that my Brother-in-Law and Sister-In-Law decided to book also. WE CAN'T WAIT!! This will be our first honeymoon after 17 years of marriage.

Does anyone know if snorkeling is within walking distance of the ship in Cozumel and Grand Caymens? We would like to snorkel longer than the Excursions offer.


Dave and Christy:Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

I have not seen a thing about that subject posted. I will do some searching and see what I can find.
Glad you are finally getting that honeymoon after all these years. Don't forget to tell the head waiter so they will sing to you.
Is this the first cruise for you?
Russ and Viv

[ruvidu]

http://www.cozumelmycozumel.com/Pages/Beaches.htm
This has some good info on snorkleing in Cozumel and how to get there.
Hope it helps,
Russ

[rgionet]

Thanks Ruvidu!! That looks like a great site for info. My DH and I wanted to do some snorkeling without having to pay Disney excursion prices! Thanks for the info - this will help save more money for drinks and shopping on the ship!

Renee

[whytcrystal]

Thanks Rividu


The site on Cozumel is great! I even ordered one of the maps that was advertised.


Do you know how I can get the count down clock.

[ruvidu]

No, I have not had time to check that out. I am off the rest of the week so I should be able to get that for us. We have one in the kitchen that counts down. You can get it from shorttimersclock.com. We are counting down to our next vacation which is trip to Edisto Island here in SC in June. We will then reset it for Sept. 14.
All of you may like this site as well http://www.cayo.net/keywest/
it has some good info and maps on Key West plus links to other sites one of which is a Key West Forum.
I will work on that signature countdown clock and get back with you.
Hey to all who stop here. We are getting close.
Russ:smooth:

[Kaa]

Our plans are still a little up in the air, but we are hoping to cruise on Sept 14th. We will be bringing our son who will be 8 at the time. This will be my fourth cruise and my husband's and son's third cruise.

I think we will be able to get plenty of answers from those great people sailing before us. At least we will have four months to ask the questions!

[ruvidu]

Where in The Great State Of Texas?
My Aunt and Grandmother live in Dallas, my cousin in Austin.
A great state we love to visit.

[Kaa]

I live in Lake Jackson, which is 50 miles south of Houston. I also have family in Austin!

[ruvidu]

Found you in my Atlas. Close to the coast and everything. Glad you signed on and hope you and yours can join us.
And as the song says "God Blessed Texas".
Russ (a cowboy at heart)

[ruvidu]

Do you know how I can get the count down clock.
I spent about an hour tracing through all of threads and replies to finally find the code and then a note saying they have disabled the codes.
Sorry, Russ

[RellingTwin]

Thanks for that link Russ. Great site! I am glad to see you are getting some fellow cruisers to join your thread. We almost booked the 9/14 cruise, but the school calander dictated the 9/28 trip. Shadow is doing great! She is going to the vet next week for "THE" operation!LOL! She says "woof woof" to her mommy and daddy:D

[ruvidu]

Hey Mary and Family,
Good to hear from you,
No need to plan a trip on the Magic after this crew gets back. We are going to use up all the goodies on board. Just take a look at this thread, they are coming from near and far to sail with us.
I am glad you liked the link. I am going to post any here that I may find plus start putting them on my web site when I get time.
Send us a photo of Shadow when you can. My new email is posted on this thread. Her Mama is getting bigger every day after her "no more puppies sugery". We are counting down to Edisto for June and then the biggie.
For those who are lurking and wondering what we are chatting about, Shadow is a beautiful yellow Lab that Mary and family adopted out of our litter last year.
Best To All
Russ, Viv, Reese, and Bubba

[westjones]

We are going too! Our twins will be turning 9 on the trip. I haven't started counting yet because we are going to Disney World next week, so after that trip, I will be dreaming of the cruise!!!! :cool: (This will be our 3rd Disney Cruise, but first 7 day).

Debra

[rgionet]

It's a twin invasion!!
Sounds like we have quite a group cruising so far!!
:D

Renee

[ruvidu]

Glad to add you and your family to our cruise list. Where are you coming from? If you liked the 3 day cruise, you will love the 7.
Russ and Viv

[westjones]

We are coming from Indiana.

I am really anxious to hear reviews of the western cruise. We are really looking forward to going.

Debra

[DeniseHop]

My husband and I will be on this cruise. First timers

[ruvidu]

As you can tell by my signature, the countdown clocks are working again.

Easy to do.

Russ

[Donna G]

Add us to the list of Sept.14th cruisers.

We can't wait for our second cruise with Disney. In Sept. of 2000 we did the 3 day park and 4 day cruise and just LOVED the ship so much we decided when we did it again we HAD to do the 7 days.

Our Boys were 12 (twins) and 14 last time, all three of them had an awesome time and can't wait to sail once again. I think the twins are looking forward to it the most since last time they couldn't hang out with the teens. This time they will be 14 and will have the same freedom as the oldest did last time.


Family of 5 from Illinois!

[rgionet]

Ruvidu,

we are traveling with 3 year old twin sons (not daughters)!!!

Renee
:)

[RellingTwin]

Gee, Maybe we should have booked this cruise insteed of the 9/28 since I will be going with MY twin and her family. (we are
41 years old). I made a joke last year about there being an "All
Twin" cruise!! Looks like this one is it!

[ruvidu]

Sorry about that mistake.

[westjones]

We just got back from a week at Disney at Fort Wilderness. NOW I am going to start counting down to our cruise.

I can't believe we did this, I never thought I would.....but we joined the Disney Vacation Club! I have read that a lot of you guys are in it, and I have heard from two other members who live here and they like it. I sure hope we won't be sorry! :)

I am going to 'bank' my points this year and year them with next year's points for another cruise! I think we are starting a tradition of spending our twin's birthday on the cruise. This year will be the third time we celebrated their birthday on the cruise, and next year, we are already planning to go for the forth time for their 10th birthday.

So I am EXCITED!!! And I can't wait to hear reviews of the Western Cruise next month after the first one.
Debra

[westjones]

I heard a rumor that they are going to add some new shows on the cruises. Has anyone else heard this? I hope they have some new ones by the Sept. 14th cruise. This is our third cruise and it would be nice to see some new shows (as long as the keep Disney Dreams!!!).
Debra

[ruvidu]

I am in complete agreement. I like the Disney Magic show. We have seen it three times as well but Hercules is getting old.

I wish I could spend my birthday on the Magic each year.

[DeniseHop]

My DH (both 40 something) and I will be celebrating our 3rd anniversary on September 17. We live in Massachusetts and both work in New Hampshire. Counting down the days until we leave!!!

[ruvidu]

Congrats on the upcoming anniversary. I hope we get to celebrate it with you.
Looks like Miss Vivian and I will be the only Southerners on this cruise. All you folks from the cold states better bring an interperter so you can understand us.
I am trying to make up a state by state list and hope to post it soon.
Where is everyone staying the night before?

[catts5]

Hi,

After making and cancelling at least 3 ressies at other places, we have finally decided. We will be staying at the Radisson near the port. We managed to get one of the $99 specials.
We also will be renting a car from Avis.

Do you believe its now MAY??? getting closer!!

Cheryl
:earsgirl: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Here is who we are by state. I will update this list as more info and cruisers are posted.

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

IN westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin sons will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws.

Mass. DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

NH whytcrystal – She is traveling with her husband of 17 years for their first honeymoon.
They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

Wash. catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.

[rgionet]

Wow we are getting quite a list going!!

Denisehop - where in Mass do you live?


Renee

[DeniseHop]

We live in Salisbury, right on the New Hampshire border. We are about 3 miles from the beach.

[ruvidu]

I have noticed several charters available in Grand Caymans for snorkeling and lunch. One does Stingray Sandbar and then two other stops. Lunch is included, Would any of you be interested in one of these in lieu of a DCL excursion? I'm not looking for anything definitive, just kind of thinking out loud about it and getting some ideas.
Russ

[rgionet]

Ruvidu,

My husband and I are looking to do some snorkeling also!! I was hoping to find a more inexpensive way than the DCL excursion so this sounds like a great idea to me!

Renee

[ruvidu]

I will go ahead and line up some prices and capacities and post them here I work weekends and am off during the week so I should be able to find out somthing this week. I just figured it would be less expensive and allow us to spend time snorkling where we wanted. It may be a let down but it's worth a shot.
I'll post the findings.
Have a great week.
Russ

[rgionet]

sounds great Russ!!! Thanks for doing the legwork!!

Renee

[whytcrystal]

David will be doing the Atlantis thing but I am interested Russ, thanks for 'taking care of us'. Also, for your cruise list, my brother-in-law's and sister-in-law's names are Pete and Doreen White.:Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :jester:

[ruvidu]

I will ammend the list adding their names.
I really hope this charter works out.
To what time did you set your countdown clock? Looks like you are getting there about 6 in the morning. You may have to save me a place in line.
Russ

[whytcrystal]

I am flying out at 6 so as a parent of a teenage son (who isn't going on this trip) - that is when my vacation starts. Our plane arrives from Cleveland at 11:18, do you think that will be enough time to get on board before we sail?:Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :jester:

[ruvidu]

I don't blame you for the time you set your clock.

It will take you about 30-40 minutes to get out of MCO and then about a 1 hour drive to port. That should put you in the terminal around 1 PM if I remember right. The doors to the ship normally open around 12:30 and the ship doesn't leave until 5PM. You should have plenty of time. We hope to be one of the first ones through the doors.
What kind of transportation are you using to the terminal from MCO?
Russ

[whytcrystal]

DCL transport, I booked it with the cruise. :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :jester:

[westjones]

It is actually starting to seem like time is getting close for our cruise. I am getting EXCITED! I can't wait to hear reports on the Western Cruise. I am so glad my twins (daughters) are having their birthday on the week of a Western Cruise.

OK, just 4 more months to go! And summers go so fast, it will be here in no time!!!!
DJ

[ruvidu]

Seeing the Magic coming in to Key West yesterday put the "Want To" in us real bad. We were surprised that Mallory Square was not more crowded than it was. I am still working on maybe getting a snorkel charter in Grand Cayman. Hope to have some numbers this week. If I can't get a charter I will post all of the sites I found that do the snorkle tours. We have pretty much decided against any of the Disney excursions.
I have also been checking a lot of the TA cruise sites. Seems there are a lot of rooms left on this cruise. Not crowded would be good.

Think September


Russ and Miss Vivian

[rgionet]

I can't wait!!! Now that the 1st Western Cruise is underway I am getting so excited!!
Ruvidu,
we have pretty much decided against the DCL excursions also and will probably just make up our own to save money. I am interested in hearing what excursions Western cruisers are doing on their own and what they recommend.


Renee

[ruvidu]

I have downloaded and printed the Navigators. I have searched the net for good deals. I have read every Western trip report published and this is what I have come up with.


7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise
We will drive down from SC to the Orlando area on Thursday. We plan to have dinner at Downtown Disney and then do Sea World on Friday. We will then drive over to Port Canaveral where we have ressies at the Hampton Inn for Friday night.

Sat Travel to Port Canaveral to depart at 5 p.m.
We plan to arrive at the terminal around 10:30 (can’t get in any earlier) and wait in line to get on board.

Sun Arrive in Key West at 12 p.m., depart at midnight
http://www.conchtourtrain.com/?source=floridakeys_com We are going to do the Conch Train tour as soon as we can get off the ship. You can purchase your tickets on line for $20 while DCL gets $22. We then plan to do the Walking Tour of Duvall St. http://seekeywest.com/
I would really like to get to Margaritaville and Hogs Breath Saloon for T-shirts and maybe just one Corona or Margarita.

Mon Enjoy relaxation and fun at sea.
Look for us by the adult pool. I noticed that they are offering a behind the scenes look at the Disney Theater. We will probably do this and then probably have lunch at Topsiders.. Hercules the Muse-Ical is the play for tonight. We will probably miss that.

Tue Arrive in Grand Cayman at 7 a.m., depart at 5 p.m.
http://www.captainmarvins.com/



Half-day Excursion: 10 AM to 1 PM, or 2 PM to 5 PM, seven days a week (add 15 minutes each way for ground transportation)
 Stingray City sandbar, where you may feed and swim with the 'rays
 Snorkel at the beautiful Coral Gardens
 Snorkel at the incredible Barrier Reef!
 Price: US$39/ages 12 and over; US$22/ages 4-11; under age 4, free!
 Price includes round-trip transportation from the Waterfront Centre, or from your condo or hotel on Seven Mile Beach, PLUS snorkel gear, life vest (optional), food for the stingrays, and icewater and fruit punch on board the boat.

This is our planned excursion at Grand Cayman. We plan to do the 10 AM trip, come back to the ship for a shower and lunch. We will then hit the shops looking for a bargain. From the posts I have read so far there are not many good deals to be had.


Wed Arrive in Cozumel at 11 a.m., depart at midnight
http://www.mrsanchos.com/mr_sanchos/front.htm
Have not fully decided yet but this was suggested by Darwin91 who went on the 5/11 cruise. See her trip report at this link. http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=206818
Looks like a real nice place. I would like to find the hammocks I have read about. That is my souvenir of choice from here.




Thu The magic of a day at sea
Laying by the pool eating ice cream and fruit from Scoops. Maybe go to another behind the scenes tour if I am not too tired.

Fri Arrive at Castaway Cay at 7 a.m., depart at 5 p.m.
We are usually a couple of the first ones off of the ship here. It is Miss Vivian’s favorite place on earth. We will spend the day at the Adult beach

Sat Arrive at Port Canaveral at 6 a.m., debark the ship at 8:30 a.m.
We will probably have a light breakfast outside of Topsiders and then be one of the first to disembark. It will be a 9 hour drive home and I have to be at work at Noon Sunday.



I know this looks we are anal but we are really getting excited about this trip. Anyone else got their plans made?
Wesjones - I know you are because I saw your thread looking for Webpages.

Russ and Vivian:jester: :Pinkbounc

[westjones]

Oh I can't wait!!!! I was at the movies today with my daughters to see "Spirit" (I know, not a Disney movie but VERY good) and I just looked at one of them and said, "I can't wait until er go on our cruise!!!!" She smiled and said "ME TOO!"

BTW, where did you get the navigators? I haven't seen them yet and I really want to see them!!!

Thanks!
DJ

[ruvidu]

http://www.*****************/
Great Stuff
Enjoy,
Russ

[westjones]

Thanks! I just finished printing them off! I hope Barb can get copies of the Kids' Navigators too. I see she is on the Western Cruise right now. Lucky! I'm jealous!!!
DJ

[whytcrystal]

Does anyone know where I can get a postcard for the 9/14 cruise? Others have said they called disney for the 50 credit w/o the card. I have tried w/o luck. Any help will be appreciated!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :jester:

[whytcrystal]

All-
I just received a postcard!! Hurray!

I can't wait for this cruise, it is almost less than 100 days! I began counting at 11 months!


:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

While we are really excited about the cruise we are also excited about our upcoming beach vacation next week. We will be going to Edisto Island here in SC. It is a rustic kind of place with no motels, just houses, enforced lights out at 10 PM (turtle nesting) and 20 MPH speed limits. When we get back from there we will begain getting ready for the cruise.
Glad you found a postcard whytcrystal. I tried to find the one they sent us but to no avail. We are getting a $200 shipboard credit for early booking. We can use it.
Have a great day all.

Russ and Miss Vivian

[catts5]

ruvidu:

How early do you need to book to receive the "early booking" credit??

How early did you book your cruise?? And how then did you get the credit. Do you have to call Disney??

Cheryl:Pinkbounc :bounce: :jester:

[ruvidu]

We cruised in May of 2000 and booked in June of 2000 as soon as we heard about the Western route. I wish I could remember the specifics. Seems like it was a combination returning cruiser and early booking special. Our bill at the end of last May's cruise touched 1 grand so this $200 won't go far. I have booked the last two cruises through Disney. They seem to do a better job than any TA around here.
Wish I could be more informative.
100 Days? Can you believe it?

[whytcrystal]

Catts5-
The postcard is a $50 credit for being a first-time cruiser. They are given to Castaway Members after their first cruise (you are automattically a Castaway Member after the first cruise). They are then supposed to send the card to Disney with the name of a new cruiser. Boost business. There is a subject on this forum for people interested in giving or receiving one of these. I can't remeber the name of the subject but it is on the first page.
See you on the cruise! Too bad about the 15 year-old dealing with all those girls. I am not taking my son, he is 16.

Good Luck!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[westjones]

Hey, it is getting closer and closer. I find myself thinking about our cruise all the time now. It is almost like a dream! Is everyone else getting excited?
DJ

[ruvidu]

Our cruise was all we talked about today as we drove back from our beach vacation. I know I bored our neighbors this past week telling them about the Disney Magic.
3 Months From Today.
Russ and Miss Vivian

[catts5]

My husband was cranky with me yesterday and when I asked him why, he said ,"all you talk about is the cruise and I'm tired of hearing about it. I'll get excited when it gets closer"

Can you imagine!!! How can he not be excited now!!!!
I have to talk to someone about it!!

I have most of our trips planned and am waiting patiently for the day to call Disney to book parasailing on Castaway cay. This is the only excursion we are doing through Disney because we have no other choice.

Glad to know others are as exicted as I am!!

Cheryl

[whytcrystal]

Now I know I'm not alone! Can't stop thinking about it. I am reading all I can get my hands on. I sometimes think I overplan.
My husband's cranky at me too Cheryl! I picked someone up at the airport friday and new on 92 days from that day I would be there!!! I DON"T EVEN NEED MY CLOCK, I'VE GOT THE COUNTDOWN IN MY HEAD!!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[pmouse13]

My husband and two (of 4...!!!) kids are going on our first Disney cruise on September 14th. The kids are girl - age 10, and boy who will have just turned 7. I am so excited and so is my husband. It is a surprise for the kids so it is killing us not to be able to discuss it openly. We are staying at the Radisson the night before. After the cruise we are spending two nights at the Swan and Dolphin. Haven't decided what excursions to do yet. I feel like I better hurry up and decide!!! Any one else with children the same as mine going?

Paula

[jazzygirl512]

:p

Hi Ruvidu and fellow 9/14/02 Cruisers

This will be our 3rd 7 Day Cruise on the Magic. We are a family of 4. I'm Jackie, my husband is William and my 2 girls are Jasmine, 13 and Brandi 10.

We're looking forward to the Western. If any of the families have teenagers, my daughter Jasmine started a post on the teen board. Her screen name Jazzygirl512.

This way, the children can acquaint themselves before boarding.

Hurry up 9/14. I truly miss that boat.

Jackie

Hello again.

My mistake. I posted under my childs screen name. I guess she was on the boards before me.

My screen name is Jazzbran - Jackie

My daughter is jazzygirl512 - Jasmine

[ruvidu]

Glad to hear you are joining us. I will add you to our list and repost it here later this evening.
As I have told the other newbies, you are going to love the Magic.
Miss Vivian and I are looking forward to meeting you and your family.

Russ:jester: :Pinkbounc

[ruvidu]

June 19 Updated list.

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CT Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

Windermere, Fl - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

Hotlanta, GA, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Portland, Maine Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws.

Mass. DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

NH whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

Wash. catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.


If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[Carol RN]

Hi...our cruisin' group is a party of 20. We are from Connecticut. Our dinner seating is first. The breakdown of our party is:

14 adults, 4 teens (3 girls: two will be 14, one will be 13, and 1 boy, age 16), and two toddlers age 2 1/2 and 1 1/2).

The adults are me, my husband, my parents, my mother-in-law, my two sisters and their husbands, my brother and his fiancee, my sister-in-law and her husband, and the mother-in-law of one of my sister's.

We have seven staterooms booked, (looking forward to the verandah this time!). This will be my family's, one of my sister's family's, and my mother-in-law's second 7-day Disney Magic cruise. For everyone else, it will be their first Disney cruise.

We are flying down on Friday night and staying at a hotel near the airport since we don't land until around 9 p.m. Looking forward to experiencing the Western itinerary and hoping it's as good as the Eastern!

:earsboy:

[ruvidu]

Just wondering where you are in Conn. We lived there, New London, while I was in the Navy.
I know you and your family will have a ball on the cruise. We are so jealous of the big families that travel together.
Looks like I need to do another update.
Russ

[westjones]

Just to clarify, I have twin girls, not twin boys. They will be celebrating their 9th birthday on the cruise (this will be their third birthday celebration on the cruise).

On another thread they mentioned that if DU books 8 rooms or more on a single cruise we get a surprise gift in our room. With all those listed on this cruise, maybe we will hit the 8 rooms after all! I realize not everyone books with DU, but it seems like several on this board do that.

Oh I can't wait! I am still trying to figure out our excursions.
DJ

[ruvidu]

Westjones - I corrected my mistake on your write up.

Carol RN - You and your party are listed.

I have a question for all of you who are bringing children. How do you take them out of school for a week? Do you have to get special permission from the schools or are they bringing their books and lesson plans?

How did each of you book your trip, TA, DCL, DU or other?

I would also like to know the price ranges for adults in the Cat. 5 and 6 in our group. We are paying $1419 each for a Cat. 6. That is not including insurance.

In 3 months we will all be together on the Magic. That seems incredible to us looking at the list and how far some of you are traveling. Again, we hope to meet each of you.


Russ and Miss Vivian :jester: :Pinkbounc

[Stepherella]

I am getting really excited about our cruise. It will be our first! It is great to hear about all of the different people who will be on the cruise. I booked ours through DU.

-Stephanie

[westjones]

We homeschool, so we don't have difficulty with taking our children. But the others that I asked about this said they talked with the school, and the younger kids seemed to keep a journal. I am sure the older ones had some sort of homework.

I am interested in this too because I am thinking of sending one of my twins to school (one doesn't seem to be doing very well with homeschool, and the other is doing great). One of the reasons we homeschooled was so we could travel more easily. If one of the girls does go to school, we are going to have to make a lot of adjustments in our schedules. So I am curious too, just how easy it was to arrange with the school for children to go on the trip.

Oh, and we booked through DU. This is our first time using them. I used AAA before and did not have a good experience with them (but we made it). I also booked directly through DCL last time. This is our third cruise, and DU did offer us a better price than DCL.

DJ

[ruvidu]

Just out of curiosity I tried booking a 9/14 DCL cruise through Expedia, Travelocity, DCL, Orbitz and DU yesterday. This is the results for requesting a Cat. 6 for 2.
Expedia - $2713 - No Gurarenteed Cabin
Travelocity - $2987
DCL - $2987
Orbits - $2698 No Guarented Cabin
DU - Sold Out, Offered 10/9 as alternate

Our $2838 with $200 shipboard credit still looks pretty good.
Russ

[Kaa]

I have taken my son out of school in September for the last two years to cruise. They are usually still doing review work during this month, so he doesn't miss anything new. I go to his teacher and ask if it is possible to get his work in advance. He takes time each afternoon to do some of the work sent with us and returns to school with everything done. Any work not sent along is completed as homework the week following the cruise. He is going to be in the 3rd grade this year and maybe his teacher will ask for a journal as well.

[rgionet]

We booked directly with DCL back in July to take advantage of the Castaway Club credit (our first Disney cruise was April 2001). We are paying $2704 for category 6 for 2 adults and $3563 for category 6 for 2 adults and 2 children (includes taxes but not insurance). I'm surprised that the prices aren't even higher to book now.

[ruvidu]

I booked a year before you for exactly the same Cat and end up paying more. We are getting the shipboard credit but the price should still be constant if booked through DCL. I may call them tomorrow and see if there is a discount I missed.

Kaa- Did yall decide to go with us?

Russ

[catts5]

Hi all,

We have taken our kids out of school for a week about 5 or 6 times. We like to travel in the off season to avoid crowds, long lines etc. All you need to do is give a note to the teachers notifying them of the dates. If any work can be done before hand they will give it to the kids otherwise you have a week after returning to make up any missed work. We usually go at the beginning of the year when they are reviewing so as to not miss any new stuff.

We booked our trip through a TA in Jan. My brother was the one who went in to get prices and called me and convinced me to do this. I did call Costco to get a quote to compare and they were about $100 more than the TA price.

I am ready to do this!!!

Cheryl

[ruvidu]

I did not mean to come off as nosey asking about the kids but we were just curious.
Our son is 33 and we are kind of out of touch with the school system today.
I agree with you that the first of Sept. is the time to travel. We love it. We plan to do an Alaskan cruise next Sept.

We like booking with Disney because they seem to have the answers to the questions we ask. We let them handle our trip to MK this past Dec. and everything was waiting on us just like it was supposed to be. Candlelight processional, Mickey's Party and all dinner ressies. They may cost a little more but they have not let us down yet.
We used two different TAs for our first two cruises and they just did not seem to have it all together. If we called them they had to call Disney.

Russ

[Kaa]

I won't know until mid-August if we will be joining you, but I am pretty confident we will be on the 9/14 cruise!

[rgionet]

Welcome aboard Tammy!!! The more the merrier!

[westjones]

Yes, we seem to have a pretty good size group going from the list. That's Great!!! I can't tell you just have excited I am about our cruise. I think about it every day. It is nice to have something so special to look forward too!
DJ

[whytcrystal]

Hi All!


It keeps getting closer!


Russ, you asked just the question I was thinking. My son will be a junior in Sept. and I couldn't convince him to take the time off. I guess that's a good thing since he wants to go to a good college.


As for booking, I went through DCL, I know you can sometimes do better elsewhere but my mother had a bad expierence with a TA going out of business after she paid for a cruise two years ago. And she is still fighting for her money.

Thank you for the extensive info you are keeping for all of us. I should probably tell you.. whytcrystal is Christy and David White. We have first seating. Don't know if we'll show up for dinner in Key West since I want to see the sunset.

I am looking forward to the quiet sunrises on deck the most! I am an early riser (5 am even on weekends). I love my morning time. Just solitude, coffee and a chair.

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[westjones]

My understanding with Dreams Unlimited is that the money goes directly to DCL and that papers come directly from there. So I think that even if (for some reason) they went out of business, our reservations are still safe. At least that is my understanding. They gave me a better price than DCL did (I used AAA the first time, DCL directly the second time, and this time we are using DU).

DJ

[westjones]

Has anyone figured out the date that we can begin making reservations for our excursions for this cruise? Do you know what time they start taking reservations?
Thanks!
DJ

[ruvidu]

Hey Crystal, welcome to the sunrise club. I am up most mornings at home by 5:30 AM. Miss Vivian has to be at the daycare by 6:30 so I just get up and fix the breakfast. I saw the sunrise every morning last week while on vacation. It was beautiful.
In Key West we are thinking about having a room service dinner so we can eat on the varanda and watch the sunset. We have never missed a meal in the resturants but this seems like a special time. I updated the list with your name and dinning time.

Westjones
I think I read you can make excursion 60 days in advance. I don't think we are doing any Disney excursions this trip so I have not looked that hard.

GETTING EXCITED HERE!!!

[ruvidu]

Shore Excursions

Disney Cruise Lines, like all other cruise lines, offer guided trips to some of the more popular destinations at their ports of call. I'm not personally a fan of group excursions... I prefer to explore and not be herded around. But shore excursions have their benefits... all you have to do is show up. You don't have to worry about how to get around.

You can now book shore excursions up to 60 days in advance of your sailing date after you've paid the full balance on your fare. If you want to book one or more of the most popular excursions, you would be well served to mark your calendar so you can call 1-877-566-0968 (toll-free in the United States) on the 60th day before your sail date.

If you don't want to make up your mind until you're onboard, you can visit the Shore Excursions desk on Deck 3 at the Atrium. But you can review these Excursion descriptions to start planning.

Dave From Marietta does a great job.
Russ

[ruvidu]

This thread lists some good info on beaches and saving money at Grand Cayman.

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=222464

[Windermere]

so why were we on page 4!!!!!!

I didn't want to just say 'bump'

[ruvidu]

Windermere - Are you a 9/14 cruiser. If so we need to add you to our list.

We have such a small group that we just keep getting pushed to the back.

Steph - How's the wedding plans going? We are all counting down to a vacation and you two are counting down to a new life together. Hey, we are excited for you.

Everybody check in and say HI.
Russ

[Stepherella]

Hi everyone. Only 2 & 1/2 months to go. I can't wait.
I keep changing my mind on what I want to do for excursions, except in Key West, where we will wander on our own.

Ruvidu- The wedding plans are going well, thanks for asking. We are doing a lot of backyard work at my parents house, where we will have the wedding. Eisley's dad just called the other night from Brazil to tell us that he is coming to our wedding. He finally got a visa to the US. (Eisley, my fiancee, is originally from Brazil, though he is now an American citizen).:D

-Stephanie

[eshannon]

We are actually booked on the September 28th cruise, but have been thinking of changing to September 14th. Have been posting and getting to know the people on the other thread about the Sept. 28th cruise. They all sound really nice but most have cruised together before. There is quite a big group.

My DH and DS age 11 will be cruising this time. We were on the Eastern in Feb. and my son won the Who Wants to be a Mouseketeer game. All the way to the top! So he won another seven night cruise. Since he won it, we are taking him by himself. OUr other kids are 18 ( off to college) 14 (she doesn't want to go anyway) and six. He is staying home with Nana.


We are avid pin traders (even my son) and enjoy looking at all the different pins. I am planning on checking the reservations tomorrow. Are any of you staying at the Radisson the night before? Look forward to hearing from you . We have the late seating currently and will request it again. :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[ruvidu]

Won a seven day cruise while on a seven day cruise. I think I had a dream like that once or twice. Congrats.
Let me know if you decide to switch over to our cruise and I will add you to the list.

Step, Glad to hear future FIL is going to make it. I know you are getting excited.
As an EX wedding photographer let me say. Don't worry yourself sick about a perfect wedding. If somthing goes wrong you will probably be the only person who ever knows it. The flowers will be there, the reception will be a ball and your cake the most beautiful. It was that way with every wedding we ever shot.
Russ

[Windermere]

Yes, DH and I will be cruising 9/14 and 9/21. I could have sworn we checked in here before.
Any wine lovers on our cruise?
By the way, last year I cruised with most of the 9/28 bunch and next year we will be all together again. A fun bunch. We just couldn't book that late this year. Have a wedding to do on the day the get off. Oh well, next year is Cruisetoberfest II.

[ruvidu]

I am going to add you to our list. I checked back and could find no mention of you before. I hope we get to meet you on the cruise. List is now on page 6.
Russ

[djy252]

Hi Everyone...

This is my first cruise ever...I am going with my DH and 18 yr. son. We are meeting about 30 other people my DH use to work with. It will also be our 4th Ann. while on the cruise. We are all coming from Buffalo NY. I think we have the early seating for dinner and we have no other plans at all. Just to have the best time. I am sooo excited and nervous at the same time...I just hope I dont get sea scik....See you's all in September!!!


:earsgirl: :earsgirl: :jester:

[ruvidu]

WoW, now our ship is filling up.
Glad to have you on our cruise. I belive you are the first from NY. I will add you to our list. If there is any more info you want to add, just let me know.

Russ

PS
It's y'all not you's.
Just kidding, love the way y'all talk.

[ruvidu]

NEW UPDATED LIST BY LOCATION
June 19 Updated list.

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CT Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

FL, Orlando - bdurrett and his wife, Bobby & Marielle, will be celebrating their 10th anniversary with us. First time Magic cruisers

Fl, Windermere - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

Hotlanta, GA, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Portland, Maine Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws.

Mass. DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

NH whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

NY, Tonawanda- DJY252 and her husband, 18 year old son and 27 other people are sailing and will celebrating their 4th anniversary.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

Wash. catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.


If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[westjones]

Is it time yet?????? Now it is only 2 months away (well almost). I am getting SO anxious. This will be our third cruise, but I can tell already that things are going to be VERY different on this 7 day than it was on our 4 or 3 day. We never did shore excursions, but I have them all picked out for each stop. I can't wait until I can book them so I know for sure we can get on the ones we want.

I am also VERY excited to learn about room service (never tried it before). I am already planning cookies and milk for our bedtime snacks :p .

I keep telling myself it will be here before we know it. Right!?!
Debra

[catts5]

I have my calendar marked for the 16th - that is when we can make our reservations with Disney. That is 60 days away!!! Wow, I can hardly stand it!! We too are going to order room service. Cookies, milk, tomato soup, pbjs, tuna sandwich, everything I have read here. Oh, don't forget the cheese and crackers!! You can order that and take it in the movies with you.

I just made our reservations with Eagle Ray for Cozumel. We are going to do discover scuba with them.

Before you know it we will be packing!!!

Glad someone is as excited as I am!!

Cheryl

[westjones]

I forgot about the Cheese & Crackers. When I looked at the menu on Barb's website, I didn't see it listed. Is this just something you aske for even though it isn't on the menu? My picky daughter would really like that. She prefers simple foods (apples, crackers, cheese, etc.).

I have the 16th marked on my calendar too. I really want to get into the Stingray City excursion. My twins would love it! DH wants to go on the submarine.....I am not so crazy about that, but I am going to do it anyway. And we are all excited about sailing at Key West. I even talked my family into trying the banana boat rides at Castaway Cay! It looks like fun!

So once my excursions at booked, I will be even more excited!
:cool:

Debra

[ruvidu]

Yep, we paid them so I guess we will be there.
We have been practicing for shipboard life this week. We bought a spa last week and have been laying around in it and also eating too much food. Of course I have a broken foot right now so I can't do much else. It had been broken for 5 weeks before I finally went to the doctor. You know how hard headed men are.
I don't know if we will prebook any excursions or not. I am leaning towards doing them all on our own this trip. I liked the looks of the Red Baron charter trips to Sting Ray City. Anyone else looking at them?
We were just talking yesterday about how fast Summer seems to go by once the 4th is over. We looked at each other and said "Bring It On".
We have to get by the "Hallmark Ornament Premeire" next week before Miss Vivian will really get excited. She has her list ready for that. If it were not for Hallmark and Disney I could probably retire.
I was looking at the menu's the other night on one of the web sites and got to thinking about Cream Brule. I guess I spelled that right. I am going to order two of those the first night.
We have only done room service once in three trips. We may do more this year. Then again I fear I might miss meeting someone new if I am in the room.

Good to hear from both of you,
Russ and Vivian

[catts5]

Yes, I had read on this board that you should ask for whatever you want even if its not on the menu. I am surprised the cheese and crackers are not listed. It sounds like it is a popular item. I bet we will be able to get it.

We too are doing the bananna boats on CC as well as parasailing. All other excursions we are doing on our own. We are renting a van on Grand Cayman.

Cheryl

[whytcrystal]

We're on page three!!! Sorry about the foot Russ, hope the spa feels good on it. No cast I am guessing. Well, just a short time left! I bought my book today to read on the plane. Now I have to find my 'cruise book'.


Talk to you all soon.

Christy
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Have you been reading the "What Book Are You Taking" thread on this board? It has some great ideas. I have read about everything I had planned to take.
No cast, just a ski boot looking thing.
My wife brought out all of last year's cruise photos and other things to start her scrapbook. She said she could not go on this cruise until that scrapbook is finished. We had a ball looking at the formal photos, menus and other memory restorers.

ALL RIGHT, I AM GOING TO ASK THE QUESTION. DOES ANYONE WANT TO TRY TO MEET ON BOARD OR WILL WE JUST LURK AROUND WONDERING IF THAT IS OLE WHAT'S THEIR NAME?

I assure you all that I will be easy to find. I am a 225 pound white haired man with a big white mustache. I can usually be located by my orange Clemson ball cap. We will be at the terminal early and will be on deck 10 for the party after drill. I know I would like to meet all you folk from those cold states.
I am hoping to eat dinner on Friday night at Grills in Port Canaveral so that is another place to find me.

Alright, let's get this thread back on page 1 where it belongs.

Russ
:jester:
Miss Vivian
:Pinkbounc

[rgionet]

Ruvidu - we will be at the terminal early also!!! I will be the one chasing the twin tornadoes around the terminal!!!

I can't wait to go!!!!!!:)

[ruvidu]

Are we getting ready? You bet.
I bought me a new pair of Nike sandals today for the cruise. On sale at our Belks store for $20 which was half price. I have never had sandals before, just filpflops. I started to say thongs but that may bring on some bad visuals with the desription of myself from yesterday.
Miss Vivian has been looking at web sites trying to find bargins to be had.

Renee - I will be on the lookout for you and the twins. Of course I belive half the cruise is going to be twins.

My son and his wife started planning a 4 day Wonder cruise for January. I looked at the prices and started wondering "could we do two in 4 months?". Wish I hadn't bought the spa now.


Can't Wait. It is a lot closer now than we all first started communicating.

Russ

[bdurrett]

I wanted to add us to the list of folks going on the September 14th cruise. We are going for our 10th anniversary. I went on a cruise in 1983 to the Bahamas and my wife has never gone on one. We are going without our kids. We babysat our friends' kids for their tenth anniversary trip to Hawaii and so they are reciprocating for our cruise.

We live in Orlando, Florida. We spent the weekend at the Radission next to Port Canaveral just for fun a couple of months ago. We watched the Magic leave and drove around and looked at all the ships.

We are planning on doing the trolley excursion in Key West and one of the snorkling ones in Grand Cayman. Marielle, my wife, isn't keen on the idea of having sting rays brushing up against her. I think we will just do our own thing in Cozumel.

- Bobby

:bounce:

[ruvidu]

We are glad to add you to elite list of fine people traveling together on the 9/14 cruise. I will be adding you to our travel list. If there is anything you wish to add, please let me know. We too are planning on doing the trolly tour in Key West and the snorkle tour with the stingrays in Grand Cayman. I am arguing for Mr. Sancho's beach in Cozumel. Will you be late or early dinning? I ask because you will probably have the LAP rotation and would be in the dinning room with us if you have the late. Have a great week.

Russ and Miss Vivian

[bdurrett]

Thanks for your reply. We signed up for the early sitting. I think we preferenced a table of six.

Marielle is looking forward to the thing where they show you how things are done behind the scenes cooking on the ship. I think I'm mainly looking forward to hanging out in a deck chair and enjoying the view of the ocean.

Of course, we are looking forward to the food.

But mainly, with three small children (7,5, and 1) we are looking forward to some time away! We just have to explain to them that mommies and daddies need to get away sometimes even if it is a Disney ship with a bunch of kid things on it. They have been to Disney World and Disney Land a few times so they aren't totally Disney deprived.

It will be great to meet you and the other folks.

- Bobby Durrett

[ruvidu]

Bobby,
My wife and I did the Behind The Scenes "Galley Tour" last year. It was great. We stood in line about 30 minutes to do it but feel like it was worth it.
You will love the food.
We too will be spending a good deal of time on deck relaxing and enjoying. You may want to bring a personel CD or Tape player. They seem to pipe in new age type flute and piano music in the adult pool area most of the time. That was our one negative comment. Check out the chairs on deck 4 for sitting in the shade and catching a quick nap.
We too hope to get to meet you. If there are any questions about the ship or anththing we can help with please let us know.

Russ:jester: & Miss Vivian:Pinkbounc

[bdurrett]

I guess we do a have few questions. The first is just what time to get to Port Canaveral. We will be driving our van from Orlando and parking it there. I figure we should shoot for arriving at 11 am. I understand that around 12:30 we should be able to get on board, but not into our rooms. Then I guess we are supposed to go wait in line for reservations at Palos. Does that sound reasonable to you? How long to you think we would have to wait in line? Is there any point to getting there any earlier?

Second I guess it is unclear what we would have to wear at the formal dinners. I was planning to bring a blue blazer with a tie.
What about for my wife?

Thanks for your help,
Bobby

[ruvidu]

We will be staying at the Hampton Inn at Port Canaveral and will probably get to the terminal between 10:30 and 11. They have alway opened the doors to the ship around 12:15 - 12:30 on our previous cruises. Yes, there will be a long line, lots of children and excited grownups like us. The line moves fast once the doors open. We usually start standing in line when it gets half way across the terminal. In the past we have always went straight to our room, dropped our luggage and then head to Topsiders for lunch. In our previous 3 cruises we have never made a reservation. We have always enjoyed our table companions company and the food that was available at the resturants. We may do Palos this time. We are still talking about it.
Now, on the questions of formal and semi-formal. If you watch these boards you will see that discussed as much as bringing your Coke and beer mugs back for a second cruise.
What I do is - bring a black suit, a pair of tan slacks and a blue blazer. On formal nights I wear the suit and white shirt with tie, on semi-formal night I wear the suit with a grey shirt with tie. On other nights I wear the slacks/blazer, sometimes with and sometimes without the tie. It depends on what resturant we have and on what night. For the ladies - my wife wears I guess what you would call party dresses, nothing long and slinky or real formal. If your wife would like to ask her specific questions tell her to drop us an email at russpoole@charter.net . There really is no wrong thing to wear on those nights. We have seen it all. We really try to look good (gets harder every year) for the photos but you will see all kinds of clothing. Hope this helps.
Russ and Miss Vivian

[bdurrett]

Thanks for the info. It pretty much jives with what I had already thought. We were planning to just bring the nicest clothes we have and wear that at the formal and semi-formal nights. I gather we wont get kicked out if I'm wearing a tie and Marielle has on a dress. We really didn't want to go buy a fancy outfit just to meet the dress code, or rent a tux. That is our preference, anyway.

Thanks again,
Bobby

[ruvidu]

We got our shore excursion info today outlining how to make the advance ressies. Anybody else?

Russ and Miss Vivian

[rgionet]

Yes we got ours a few days ago!!!! It's finally getting close!!

[KarenNY]

I just made our final payment, so I guess we're official. Katholyn (nativetxn) and I will be on the Sept 14 Magic. She has such a sweet DH to let her cruise with me :D

[ruvidu]

Have you been watching this thread to see if you really wanted to go with us or not? I bet you two are really looking forward to this arn't you.

I will add you to the list. If there ss there any other info you would like to add, let me know.

To All who cruise with us:
I saw some green leis in a party store today. A good many of the DISers wear them as an ID during the embarkation party. I will get us a case of 50 if you will come by and get them from us at the terminal. We are driving down and it will be no problem. We may have more than 50 now. I better go back and recount.
Russ

[rgionet]

FINAL PAYMENT MADE!!!!!!!

Yay - I suppose it is too early to start packing!!! :cool:

Good idea with the green leis Russ!!! It will be easier to find us all!

[ruvidu]

Here we are again. Two months from today we will be in Key West. I hope all are well and looking as forward to this trip as we are.
NEW UPDATED LIST BY LOCATION

UPDATED 7/16/02

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CO - Eva & RJ will be coming from Denver with their two children 4 & 8. It is their first cruise and they will have late seating.

CT - Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

FL - Orlando - bdurrett and his wife, Bobby & Marielle, will be celebrating their 10th anniversary with us. First time Magic cruisers

Fl - Windermere - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

GA - Atlanta, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN - westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL - Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Maine - Portland - Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws. Add another brother-in-law on 7/16.

Mass - DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

Mich - Katholyn (nativetxn) will be joining her friend from NY, Karen, for their cruise.

NH - whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

NY - Tonawanda- DJY252 and her husband, 18 year old son and 27 other people are sailing and will celebrating their 4th anniversary.

NY - KarenNY and her friend Katholyn (nativetexan) will be joining us.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC - ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX - Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

Wash - catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.

AS OF TODAY WE HAVE 106 DISERS SIGNED UP FOR OUR CRUISE. FIRST 48 TO SEE ME IN THE TERMINAL WILL GET LEIS.

If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[westjones]

I got my shore excursion info today! I think we FINALLY figured out what we want to do. To simplify things, we are going to just use Disney and not try to do any on our own. But I am hoping we can go exploring a little on our own at each port when not on our excursions.

Does anyone know if there are things within walking distance?

OH BOY, I am getting SO excited!!!!
Debra

[Eva & RJ]

I've been reading this site for months now and share all of the excitement over this trip! Our family will be on the Magic for our 1st Disney Cruise (10 year anniversary) and our 4 and 8 year old's are counting the days. We are looking for beach time but wonder if the expense for a Disney sponsored shore excursion is worth it? Or could we do it as well on our own? Any advice out there? (I'm also looking for great jewelry deals/stores on Cozumel---don't tell my husband...). Thanks!

[ruvidu]

You and RJ are welcombe to our group. With the children you make 105 people who have signed up.
I think we are going to go to Mr. Sanchos Beach in Cozumel. We definatly have to be back in time for Miss Vivian to shop for silver.
http://mrsanchos.com
I have also read about taking a cab to 7 mile beach at Cayman.

I will get you added to the list tomorrow. Right now I am off to bed. I have been out of work for 4 weeks with a broken foot but tomorrow I return.
Where will you be coming from and early or late seating?

Good to have you on board.

Russ and Miss Vivian

[Eva & RJ]

We're from Denver and we always eat late so this will be no exception! (Late seating...) Why did you pick out Mr. Sancho's?:sunny: :sunny:

[ruvidu]

#1 - it got some good reviews from some of the first folks to go on the Western.
#2 - it looks like a fun place and is cheap as in free.
#3 - we can take a taxi and then come back and shop which is Miss Vivian's favorite excursion.

I will add you to the list as our first CO. cruisers. I must be the only person in SC who know about this cruise.

[westjones]

Just booked our excursions. Did you see there are now 3 options to go to Stingray City. I like the new one that takes you on the tour of the island first (and now includes 7 mile island) and then goes to the Stingrays last.

Now I can relax and just look forward to the cruise! After all the talk about the stingrays on this list it got us all excited, and then we were worried it would book up very fast. I guess that is why they added this third option/tour.
DJ

[rgionet]

Sorry Russ I have another one to add! My brother in law will now be joining us on the cruise as well!

[whytcrystal]

EVERYTHING'S DONE, YEAH!! I booked our excursions yesterday. We decided to use Disney to make it easier. Just one excursion per island to allow for some free time. We will do the Trolley on Keywest, 7 mile Sail and snorkel on GC and the Fury Cat,Snorkel and Beach Party on Cozumel. With everything now complete I think I have time to make a gown.


:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Would you take Miss Vivian under your wing while on board ship? We have a sewing machine but it is an antique and is used for a table. I hope we get to see your creation.

Our excursions will be:
Key West - Trolly (non Disney) using coupons from web site.
Grand Cayman - Capt. Marvin to snorkle with the Stingrays.
Cozumel - Probably Mr. Sanchos beach and then shopping.
Castaway Cay - Two floats reserved to use on the adult beach.

Less than 60 days now.
:jester: :Pinkbounc

[whytcrystal]

Russ-
Miss Vivian's machine probably gets as much use as mine. I bought it 13 years ago (of course I promised David I would USE all the bells and whistles). I still have material from the toddler outfits I 'was' going to make for my 16 year old. :D
It is getting more use lately. I made a gown for a Holiday Party this winter. I figure if I post here that I am making one - I better.
David and I probably won't be one of the first 48 but I do have an outfit picked out. Since you discribed yourself so well I will do the same. I will have on a navy blue pooh shirt from the Disney store that says, 'wishes do come true'. I will also have on a purple Disney hat. I will be the short round one.



See ya'll soon!




:bounce::Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[whytcrystal]

We're on page one! Let's see if we can stay here for the next 58 days! :bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[catts5]

We have purchased lanyards for our group. Now we need to get a hole punch and I have a question. Will the small, cheap hole punch be strong enough to do the job on our KTTW cards?? I don't have any idea how thick the cards are. Anyone know??

We are ALL counting down now!!!!

Cheryl:Pinkbounc : :earseek: :sunny: :wave::bounce:

[ruvidu]

Those KTTWC are no where as thick as a credit cart. I think you could punch through it easily.
By the way, read a bad review of Mr. Sanchos Beach on the trip reports. I may end up on 7 mile beach. Miss Vivian is getting nervous because I am not using DCL. Anybody else using Capt. Marvin? They have been getting some good reviews.

We are at 104.2 degrees here today on one of my thermometers. How about you up North cruisers. How is it there?

[rgionet]

It's 90 here in MA, but SO humid. We are supposed to be getting thundershowers later.

A regular hole punch should work fine for your KTTW card. We cruised on Carnival in December and that is what they used to hole punch our room key (same as KTTW card).

[bdurrett]

Here in Orlando it is blazing hot. I guess the temperature is 95 now, but it was stifling when I went out for a walk over lunch.

- Bobby

[RellingTwin]

Russ, what did you hear bad about Mr Shanchos? I was planning on taking the family there.
Also...there is one other person in SC who knows about the cruise;) ;)

[ruvidu]

From Trip Report 6/22 Magic part 2.

"Afterlunch we took a taxi to Mr Sanchos beach. Wasn't very good. Chairs on the beach were full and the tables by the bar you have to order. The sand is very rocky and is hard to walk on. We only stayed about an hour and took a cab back to the ship and hung out by the pool."

That's one good report and one bad. Their web site make it look good.

What are you doing in Cozumel?

We are coming down your way one more time this summer. We are going to camp at Edisto SP next month hoping to see some turtles hatch.

Hello to the family and Shadow.

Russ and Vivian

[westjones]

We are doing the submarine excursion. DH thinks it will be neat (I just hope they have plenty of air......I am not as thrilled by the idea, but it is only 2 hours).

DJ

[ruvidu]

I was stationed at the submarine base in New London, CN. while in the Navy. They tried to get me to ride those things for over a year. I am so glad it was volunteer. I'm sure your tour will be very enjoyable.

[RellingTwin]

Russ, DBIL is going diving, I had planned on horseback riding with Sister and D Neice, but we are having 2rn thoughts. Most reports are just so-so. Most of the comments are about how HOT it is in the jungle. Also read the horses are not in the best condition. And finally, if the ship is unable to dock...we lose our 50% deposit. SO...now we are looking at spending the day at the beach. If you hear anything about the riding while you are in Cozumel please let me know.

I hope the weather cools off for your camping trip next month. We had a heat index of 108 today!

Shadow says WOOF WOOF WOOF (hello to mommy,daddy,grandma and Grandpa)

[ruvidu]

http://www.cozumelinsider.com/
This is another web site I found on another discussion board. Looks to have some more good info on Cozumel.

Mary,
Check out Cruisecritic and go to ports of call and then Cozumel. Several good replies about Mr. Sanchos.

Russ

[catts5]

Thanks for your responses to my hole punch inquiry!!

We are doing a snorkel/discover scuba trip on Cozumel with Eagle Ray Divers. They have recommended a beach that is sandy and more laid back than Mr. Sanchos. It is called Nachi Cocom. It has a pool in case you get tired of salt water. It has a restaurant and water toys etc. I think we will go there.

Cheryl

[ruvidu]

Nachi Cocom is listed in the Beach Comparison chart on the web site above. Looks very comparable to Mr. Sanchos.

[KarenNY]

Russ, have you booked your snorkle trip with Capt Marvin's? I've done the sting ray snorkle before ( as a ship excusion on a Celebrity cruise) and would love to do it again. I think I've talked Kath into trying it. So far the only thing we've planned is the trolley tour (non-DCL) in Key West.

[ruvidu]

No, I was going to wait a week or two. Want me to book for four when I do?
The trolly tour sounds good doesn't it? I always said I would do the Conch Train when I got to KW but the Trolly sounds better. Are you getting your tickets on line and saving $?
Russ

[KarenNY]

I did the Conch Train Tour a few years ago. It was nice but I like the idea of being able to get off during the tour, which the Trolley allows you to do. You save 10% by purchasing your tickets on-line, right?

[eshannon]

Hello all,
I am on the 9/28 cruise but have been reading your thread too! Where is the web sight for the trolley tour? Are there any other web sights about Key WEst? We were kinda thinking about staying on the ship. Thanks Elaine

[ruvidu]

http://www.fla-keys.com/keywest/thingstodo.htm

You will find info on the Trolly and Conch train here. I am going to order mine from the internet.
Hope this helps.

[whytcrystal]

Russ (I see we are both up early this AM) -

I have read good things about Cptn Marvin's excursions other places on the boards. I am sure you will have a good time.
For the trolley, is it an all day pass? I spoke with Disney about their excursion and they said no, once you got off you had to purchase another to use for the rest of the day. If it is an all day pass on my own perhaps I should rethink this.





:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Yes, that was the selling point with us. While the Conch train gives the tour once and you get off the Trolly does the same thing and you can get on and off as many times as you like.
As for up early - every morning at 5:30. Yes, even on the Magic. I hate to "burn daylight" John Wayne in the Cowboys.

Russ

[whytcrystal]

I definetly (sp) think that's the better way to go. I am confused though because if Disney contracts with others for their excursions why would the all day thing apply to them? No bother worrying about it - I will just change it.


Thanks Russ!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[KarenNY]

The Conch Train doesn not stop during the tour. The Trolley allows you to get off and on at any of the stops while you make 1 complete loop. It is not an unlimited all-day pass. You only go around once. It is the same tour DCL offers, but you save money when you book yourself on-line.

[ruvidu]

A quote from their site: Tour at your own pace! Old Town Trolley Tours® allows you to get off at any of our convenient stops. When you're ready, just re-board and it's on with the tour. Spend as much time as you like as you make one complete loop.

One complete loop is the key phrase here. I misread.

Whytcrystal - Hope my misreading did not cause you a problem.

Thanks Karen

We're still doing the trolly. In fact I am going to order the tickets now.

Russ

[whytcrystal]

No worries. I will leave it as it is and if I see something I want to further explore I will walk back or take a cab (or bike). I can use the excercise!! Who knows, anything is subject to change! This is hurricane season, isn't it?

:confused:

I will still be happy if I spend the week not leaving the ship.



:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Well, I ordered the tickets for the Trolly in KW and sent Capt. Marvin my Credit Card # for two places on the morning snorkle trip. A total of $104.00 for two excursions for two people. That is a saving of $30 for what DCL wanted for the same thing. I may have enough $ left to buy a sombrero. I am now going to reserve two floats for Castaway Cay and that will complete my excursion ressies.

Anybody planning on booking their next cruise while we are on this one?

[KarenNY]

Which snorkle trip did you booK, Russ? We're leaning toward going with Capt Marvin but can't decide which one.

[ruvidu]

I booked for the 8:30 AM 2 hour snorkle trip. That should leave Miss Vivian enough time to look around town.
I have skin cancer problems so I have to go out early, limit my exposure and get my little white hiney back under the shade. I have been slowed down but not stopped.

[bdurrett]

We are bringing hats, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen.

Do you think people will laugh at us if I wear the baseball caps I got free in the mail as a promotional thing from Microsoft? They are black with things like "Referee", "Juggler" and "Chaparone" on them.

I just like them because they are big enough!

Anyway, that is our sun preparation. My wife got little clip-on sunglasses that go over her regular glasses.

- Bobby

:cool:

[ruvidu]

I will have two types of SPF 40 sunscreen with me plus several hats. That Carribean sun will burn you up if you are not careful. I love strange and different style hats. I will be on the lookout for yours. What do we care if people laugh at us? We will never see these people again unless we all get together and do it again next year. How's that for planning ahead?

[whytcrystal]

David and I will be rebooking during the cruise. Just trying to pin down a date. We will be bringing DS on the next one. We are actually considering Dec. 2004. This will be his 18th B'Day and his senior year.

I started tannning this week so I can get a base and then I will still plan on wearing a 30 to 45 spf on the cruise.

Russ- Is it necessary to reserve the floats now? Based on your experience, do they run out??

Does anyone know if there is someplace close to the pier in GC to by a Tortuga Rum Cake? I saw them making it on a magazine show up here called Chronicle and I would like to pick up one or two.

I am also hoping to buy a Tanzanite piece of jewelry if anyone knows where there are some deals. I have read there are some places in Nassua but I am not sure about the Western Cruise.




:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

As far as I know, no you probably do not need to reserve the floats on CC. It is just become our favorite thing to lay on those big thick floats and drift around in the mornings before it gets too hot. We just didn't want to take a chance in not being able to get one.

http://209.27.61.145/retail/index.php Try this site. It shows two locations in Georgtown I believe where you can get the cakes..
Here's another http://www.tortugarums.com/

Don't know a thing about the Tanzanite. I will keep my ears and search engines open.

I know we are planning on doing Alaska next Sept. so I don't know if we can work in another 7 day DCL cruise next year. We may book a 4 day.

Good night all, We just got in from shooting a friends weddding and we are beat.

[ruvidu]

Just found this and thought some of you may be interested.
http://caymanislandsdiscounts.com/FreeBeaches.htm

Russ

[ruvidu]

I just found this and thought some of you may need it to make your plans for the evening of 9/15/02 in Key West. That will give us about two hours between sunset and all aboard.

Sunset 7:31 p.m.
End civil twilight 7:54 p.m.

Hope it helps.
Russ

[whytcrystal]

Russ-

Took your lead and reserved our floats for CC. Thank you for the sunset times, I have been meaning to check my Farmer's Almanac.

Will I be able to complete a 6pm dinner seating and still make the sunset or should I find another alternative for dinner?


:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[westjones]

It seemed like it took a long time for dinner.....I was wondering about the sunset too. Gee, that is going to be hard to fit in dinner AND the sunset with early seating.

[ruvidu]

having dinner at either Topsiders that evening or in our room on the varanda. If you could get a table on the port (left) side of the outside dinning area it would be beautiful. If our dinning schedule holds true to past arrangements we will be in Animators Palate that night and they have no windows. I really hate to miss having dinner with the other couples but that sunset is one thing to I have on my to do list. I hope we have time to see all the acts on Mallory Sq. before going back on board as well. The trick dogs and tightrope walker are said to be good.
So much to see and so little time. We are talking about throwing a tent in our truck and go to KW for a couple of days next year. Some of our friends think we are crazy to even own a tent in our mid 50s.
I hope we have a beautiful day in CC, especially for those of you have have never been there. You can lie on those floats side by side and you barely move. Not a lot of wind or sea movement. You can look over the side and see fish swim by.
I'll keep looking for info for us. I am at work now and have internet access here. If all the presses are running I have a good day. If not, don't look for input from me.

Have a great day,
Russ

[bdurrett]

I don't want to sound negative here, but we have some friends who gave us a pretty bad report on Key West. They kind of discouraged us from going off the boat there. I think their point is that there is a lot of drugs et. al. and suspicious looking people hanging around. They didn't like it anyway. We figured a day tour would be okay, but I think we had in mind to spend the evening on the boat and skip the Mallory Square sunset thing.

Have you heard from any of the earlier Western cruises what they thought about Key West at night?

Thanks,
Bobby

[westjones]

I would think all would be fine during the day. We are going sailing. I am sure the sunset will be beautiful from the top deck of the ship. I simply love the ship.....if it were up to me, we wouldn't do any excursions at all and just stay on board. But DH wants to do something at each port. So that is what we plan to do. One thing, and then go back on board to enjoy the 'not so full' ship for awhile.

DJ

[westjones]

I would think all would be fine during the day. We are going sailing. I am sure the sunset will be beautiful from the top deck of the ship. I simply love the ship.....if it were up to me, we wouldn't do any excursions at all and just stay on board. But DH wants to do something at each port. So that is what we plan to do. One thing, and then go back on board to enjoy the 'not so full' ship for awhile.

DJ

[ruvidu]

Westjones - Miss Vivian was reading your reply over my shoulder and said she felt exactly the same way. Not me. I too want to experience it all, the good and the bad, the pretty and the ugly. I have walked the streets of Hong Kong, Singapore, Yakooska, Japan and even Olongopo City in the Phillipines. I love seeing what's out there. That said, we will probably be on the ship when it gets dark. I only have one vote in this house and Miss Vivian has the other two.
I did get my trolly tickets yesterday and it came with a great map of Key West and all the stops the trolly makes. We are trying to decide where to get off and on and how much walking we want to do.
I also received confirmation on our stingray snorkle trip with Capt. Marvin.
We have printed out all of the Western Cruise Navigators and are going through them with Highligters, she is blue and I am pink, marking the things we want to do on board ship.
If we get any more excited we may be committed before we get to leave.
Anyone else excited?

Russ and Miss Vivian

[catts5]

I can't sleep at night!!! I will be pretty exhausted before we even leave!! We got our confirmation for our excursions on Castaway Cay. I read the boards several times a day and I check and recheck my Avis rental!! Everything is done but I keep trying to do more!! I just hope my expectations won't be too high. Part of the excitement is waiting to see my brother again. We only see each other once a year. I am so looking forward to lounging in the sun with a cool drink and chatting with my "bro"!!

We may all be committed together soon!!

By the way, ruvidu, I admire the way you adore Miss Vivian!!

See you all soon,
Cheryl

[westjones]

You won't be disappointed.

Our first cruise, we got up at 2:00 am to catch our plane, hours and hours of delays got up on the ship at about 2:00 that afternoon in the middle of a hurricane (I forget the name, that was in 2000). We were starving because we didn't have time to eat on the planes and didn't have layovers anywhere (just stuck sitting on the plane), so we went up to topsiders to eat and the only seats were outside. We sat 'in the rain' trying to eat while our food got soggy. We were exhausted, so we thought we would take a nap, only to awaken by the loud speaker telling us to go to the mandatory drill. Then I went to sign up my kids for the kids club and I was SO exhausted by that time that I must have been mumbling "I'm so tired" because the lady in front of me turned around and asked me if I was OK :o .

That night, we got a good night's sleep and woke up the next morning and found ourselves surrounded by magic! DH and I both could not believe that after the 'start' we had, that we ended up having the best vacation of our lives! So much so that we went back again last year (both times on our twin daughters' birthday). We had an even better time last year (we drove this time and got a good night's sleep before we got on the ship!). We didn't want it to end!!!! So DH (who is VERY frugal and rarely ever splurges on things....the cruise was my idea) said, 'Let's make it a family tradition! That's bring the girls on the DCL every year for their birthday!" I couldn't believe my ears! I asked him if he was serious, and he said yes!

So this year we are going all out and doing the 7 day cruise! So if you see two adorable little girls getting birthday cake at the early seating on Thursday of the cruise.....but is probably my daughters! This will be their third birthday celebrated on DCL and they will be turning 9 (gee, if they weren't twins, I guess we would have to cruise twice a year!)
:D

DJ

[ruvidu]

westjones- I loved that trip report about the rain, delays and all. Isn't it amazing how the Magic can make all things seem right after a few hours. On the first cruise I lost my wallet on the way to the room. On the second cruise I lost my glasses. Never found either but had a ball anyway. I just put my book at the end of my lounge chair and read it from about 3 feet away. The wallet was returned 16 months later. Someone found it on board ship and turned it in. Money, cards, liscense and all were still there. In all of our trips we have never had any rain on any day. I did check today about booking a 4 day cruise in Dec. 2003. We want to go back to DW and stay at WL again and then drive over to the ship and see in decorated fro Christmas as well. Looks like the cost for two of us right now would be $2497. Thats cat 10 room on ship and standard room at WL and includes Park Hopper Pass at DW. 8 days of Disney for $310 per day. Not too bad.

catt5 - I love Miss Vivian more each day. It's just on her good days that I really adore her. She has been a great friend and partner for 34+ years. I envey those of you who can bring families and share this experience with them. I am the only one of my family that knows how to have a good time.
As Jimmy Buffett says "If we wern't all crazy, we would all go insane".
I have been listening to a lot of Buffett in the last couple of weeks preparing myself for this trip.

Take care all.

Russ

[whytcrystal]

I am sooo relating to all of you! Can't wait to meet.

Russ- My MIL and FIL went to GC two years ago and did the Sting Ray City Snorkel. I asked the other day if it was Captian Marvel and they said, 'Yes'. They absolutely RAVE about this trip. Is lunch included on teh trip you will be taking? It was on theirs and along with the many foods they had, they also had Conch.
Had lunch with my SIL today and we are talking each other into going parasailing! .:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

I think you have to do the 1/2 day trip to get the lunch. I would probably do that the next time if this trip goes good. We just want to make sure we have time to do everything.

As for the parasailing - DO IT!!!!
Remember "This is not a dress rehersal, this is our only chance." Miss Vivian and I try to live up to this quote. We don't plan to leave our son anything when we die but a thick scrapbook. He knows this and thinks it's great. He and his wife are doing the same.

Looking very forward to meeting all of you too.

Russ

[ruvidu]

Bumped to the front so I can remember where it is.

NEW UPDATED LIST BY LOCATION

UPDATED 7/16/02

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CO - Eva & RJ will be coming from Denver with their two children 4 & 8. It is their first cruise and they will have late seating.

CT - Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

FL - Orlando - bdurrett and his wife, Bobby & Marielle, will be celebrating their 10th anniversary with us. First time Magic cruisers

Fl - Windermere - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

GA - Atlanta, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN - westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL - Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Maine - Portland - Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws. Add another brother-in-law on 7/16.

Mass - DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

Mich - Katholyn (nativetxn) will be joining her friend from NY, Karen, for their cruise.

NH - whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

NY - Tonawanda- DJY252 and her husband, 18 year old son and 27 other people are sailing and will celebrating their 4th anniversary.

NY - KarenNY and her friend Katholyn (nativetexan) will be joining us.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC - ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX - Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

Wash - catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.

AS OF TODAY WE HAVE 106 DISERS SIGNED UP FOR OUR CRUISE. FIRST 48 TO SEE ME IN THE TERMINAL WILL GET LEIS.

If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[westjones]

So Russ, how do we find you got get our Leis? My daughters would love it!

Oh I am getting SO excited! It is almost August! Then it is just one more month!
Debra
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[djy252]

Hi....Today my 18yr old son told me he did NOT want to go on the cruise with us. It broke my heart. But after along talk I cant force him into going so I had to call and switch all my reservations. I will be getting a refund minus $159.00 for penalty fees for cancelling. We are also staying at the Caribbean Beach at disney for 4 days after the cruise. I am soooo excited but I still want to cry that my baby wont be with us. My hubby says now we have a second honeymoon. Well I will see you's all in 51 days.

Bye.....Denise:earsgirl: :earsboy: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[ruvidu]

Westjones

5'10", 220 pounds, white headed with big white mustache. I will be wearing an orange shirt, kahki shorts and carrying a shopping bag with Ruvidu on the side of it. Think you can find me?

DJY252 - Sorry to hear your son will not be joining you. Sounds like you and DH have decided to make the best of the situation though.

I was in a local Hallmark store today and purchased a great travel journal half price. It has places for why you are making the trip and how you plan for it. A place for all the names of the people you meet. A place to log in each roll of film you shoot. A very nice book to keep notes in. At the back is a section to write in what you would do different next time. Y'all may want to keep your eyes open in your local Hallmark stores.


Good night all,
It is hot tub time.

[djy252]

Hello again...I just wnated to share with everyone a deal on a hotel I got for the night before the cruise. It is at the Radisson which is right across the I understand for $59.00 a nite. It is called the Fall Special. I tried to do it online but it wouldnt take my phone number so I had to call. Hope someone can use this info. If anyone knows of any good rental car deals going on at this time please let me know. My email address is....djy252@aol.com


See you's all soon......Denise:earsgirl: :earsboy: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[bdurrett]

We stayed at the radisson just for fun one weekend and liked it. We got the $59 rate as well. It has a really big swimming pool with a waterfall you can swim under.

- bobby

[KarenNY]

Now, I'm really getting excited. I just booked a tandem parasail in Key West with Fury Catamarans. We're also planning a snorkle trip with Capt Marvin's in Grand Cayman

[ruvidu]

Did you book the same Capt. Marvin that we did or are you going half day?
Russ

[KarenNY]

I think we're going to do the half day. Kath is booking it.

[TxJasmine]

Hello everyone!

I've been "lurking" off and on for the last month or so, but just didn't get a chance to post until now.

My husband, 7 yr old daughter, 5 yr old son, and I will be on the Sept. 14 Magic. We are really looking forward to it! We did the 3 day Wonder in '99, and the 7 day Magic (Eastern) last Sept. We are especially excited about the Western because it is a great itinerary.

Please add us to your list. We are coming from TX.

Thanks!

[ruvidu]

Ok, Jasmine, her husband, son and daughter are joining us now. I will get you added to the list. If there is any other info you would like to get added for your little piece of history here, let me know. I have to ask "Where from in Texas"? I have had my new Texans (new football team) ball cap on today and have a lot of comments. I love Texas.

Our itinerary has changed. With air fare prices dropping nearly 50% we have decided to fly instead of drive. We will be connecting with Delta flight 1999 in Atlanta which will arrrive in MCO arund 10:00 am on the 12th. We are renting a car from Avis, picking it up at MCO, turning it in Sat. at the Raddison at Port Canaveral. We will be using DCL transfers to go back to MCO on 21st. Is anyone else coming in early? I hope to still be able to pack 50 leis in my suitcase. By the way, Miss Vivian thinks I am crazy.
If any of you are flying and have not checked ticket prices lately you may want to do so. The two of us are flying in from SC roundtrip for $330.

Gotta go help with dinner,
Russ:jester:

[kinicki]

Hello All,

My girlfriend and I will be on the cruise so please add us to the list. We are from Boston and This will be our second disney cruise. Our first one was the inaugral 7 day back in 2000. After the cruise we will be off to WDW for a couple of days at PO-FQ. We will be flying from Boston nostop to MCO on the day. We got a great rate of $149 per person roundtrip the other day on AA. We are both in our mid twenties and we both love to cruise Disney Style.

On the ship we be staying in a Cat.11 on deck seven. No window but that's ok..See you on the ship

[ruvidu]

Welcome to our travel group.
You will love POFQ. We stayed there a couple of years ago. Our son and his wife will be staying there in Jan.
I will get you added to the list tonight and bump the list up front for everyone. Look us up in the terminal if you can.
Early or late seating?
See you there.

Russ and Miss Vivian

[rgionet]

I am from Mass also!!! We live about an hour outside of Boston in Leominster. We will be flying down the morning of the cruise out of Providence. We should be arriving in Orlando around 10:20 and renting a car from Avis. After the cruise we will be renting a car from Avis and heading over to the Polynesian for 4 nights. The day we get in from the cruise my husband will be heading over to Disney's Wide World of Sports to join his softball team. They are playing in the World Series of Softball that weekend! Can't wait to meet everyone!!

[TxJasmine]

Ruvidu,

We live in the D/FW area. My kids are native Texans, DH from Houston, but I've only been here for 9 yrs. (originally from CA and CO - which I still miss).

We will be flying in to MCO or Tampa on Fri night and driving to the port on Sat. We have late seating, but we are waitlisted for early. We sure hope we'll get it!

[ruvidu]

My favorite Aunt lives in Dallas, off Abrams, and we have been there a couple of times. May come out again this year. Love the long horn cow statues down town. If we lived there, we would have season tickets for the Mesqiute Rodeo. I know I spelled that wrong. Thanks for the reply. I hope to meet y'all on board the Magic.
Russ

[kinicki]

Hi rgionet

I live in Copley Square but I work in Worcester, near where you live. I have late seating and reserved all of the excursions. Has anybody heard anything good or bad about the kayaking adventure in Cozumel. We reserved that and was just wondering. We are also doing the trolley tour in key west and stingray city in Grand caymem.

[Windermere]

DH is originally from Southbridge, MA (near Sturbridge). His parents used to work for American Optical there.

[ruvidu]

Have not heard a thing about the kayacking. Did you book your excursions through DCL or on your own? I ask because we too are doing the Trolly and Stingray City.
You better believe you got a good airfare. That is the same thing we are paying to fly from SC.

Still looking for some more SC folks.

Russ

[whytcrystal]

Dh and I did well on airfare also. We got 132.00 RT from MHT to MCO. we do have to stop in Cinncinati but we will still get in by 11:20.

It's getting sooooo close!!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Our List Keeps Growing

NEW UPDATED LIST BY LOCATION

UPDATED 8/02/02

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CO - Eva & RJ will be coming from Denver with their two children 4 & 8. It is their first cruise and they will have late seating.

CT - Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

FL - Orlando - bdurrett and his wife, Bobby & Marielle, will be celebrating their 10th anniversary with us. First time Magic cruisers

Fl - Windermere - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

GA - Atlanta, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN - westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL - Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 14 year old son and twin 12 year old boys.

Maine - Portland - Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws. Add another brother-in-law on 7/16.

Mass - DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

Mass - Kinicki and girlfriend are coming from the Boston area. This will be their second 7 day cruise and they are going to WDW afterwards.

Mich - Katholyn (nativetxn) will be joining her friend from NY, Karen, for their cruise.

NH - whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

NY - Tonawanda- DJY252 and her husband, 18 year old son and 27 other people are sailing and will celebrating their 4th anniversary.

NY - KarenNY and her friend Katholyn (nativetexan) will be joining us.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC - ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX - Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

TxJasmine - her husband and two children, daugter 7 and son, 5, are flying in from the DFW area of TX. They have done a 3 day and a 7 day Eastern.

Wash - catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.

AS OF TODAY WE HAVE 118 DISERS SIGNED UP FOR OUR CRUISE.

If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[whytcrystal]

I stayed home from work today and Fed Ex came with my Cruise Documents!! What a perfect 'get well present'!



:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Congrats. Our door bell just rang and it was UPS delivering some shirts. Don't wear the docs out looking at them Crystal. They have to last 6 more weeks.
Russ

[catts5]

I just knew thats what you were gonna say!!!! I've been reading the board and know that the Sept. 5 cruisers have been getting theirs and knew we would be close behind. Congrats. Still waiting for mine!! Come on FedEx!!!

See ya all real soon!!

Cheryl:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :bounce: :bounce: :earseek: :wave:

P.S. Get all your sickies out now so your feeling great for the cruise!! Hope your feeling better!!

[ruvidu]

I just got in and they were laying on the table. My son was over using the computer and had signed for them. YEAH. We are getting close.

Our itinerary has changed some what.
We are now flying. We have decided to stay in Orlando for two nights, $50 per night at the Holiday Inn-Main Gate, and then drive over to the port on Sat. morning. We were going to use our Hampton Inn points to stay at Port Canavaveral but decided to use them this fall at Gettysburg. We will be turning in our rental car at the Radisson and taking the shuttle from there. We plan on trying to catch the first shuttle over. I am still going to try and get the leis and put them in a space bag for the trip.
We are going to Charleston, SC for my birthday next week and staying downtown in the Historic District which is our favorite place in this part of the world. Gotta get my "Shrimp and Grits" fix before we head to the Magic.

Have a great day all. We already have!

Russ:jester: and Miss Vivian:Pinkbounc

[pmouse13]

I have been reading all the great posts on this thread and I can't tell you how excired I am. My husband and I have been whispering about this vacation for nearly a year. We are surprising our two older kids ....the silence is killing me. Thank god for these boards. I saw that Crystal from New Hampshire got her cruise Docs. I live in Maine so I sure hope to get ours soon. I warned my husband not to open any packages in front of the kids. We haven't decided on excursions yet. We are leaning towards the trolly tour and the stingray trip. I was interested in the parasailing but neither of my two kids meet the minimun weight restriction and I really don't want to exclude them from the fun. Oh well, thanks for letting me ramble. By the way Russ, what color leis are you bringing? Maybe I will try to find some on my own so that we have them when we arrive.

[ruvidu]

The leis are green. It is not the lime green disers are supposed to wear but it is green.
I will be happy to add you to our cruise list and hope to meet you before or onboard.
How old are the kiddies (for the list)?
By the way, if you have read my posts you know you can order your trolly tickets on line and save $.
Keep us posted on your activities and we won't tell the kids.
Is it your first DCL cruise?
Russ

[whytcrystal]

Paula

The docs actually come in a box- it is about 6x2x3. What is your flight itinery (sp)?


See you soon
Christy-Lynn


:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

I checked and I had already added you and your family sometime earlier. This 50 + brain does not function well all the time. Keep us posted on your plans.

Crystal,
What are doing to keep yourself sane for the next 5 weeks? I believe you are one that is as excited as Miss Vivian and myself.

Russ

[westjones]

I saw the UPS truck in my neighborhood yesterday, but he didn't stop at my house! BOO HOO!!! We haven't gotten our documents yet.

Maybe today.

Debra

[ruvidu]

westjones,
Your Docs should be delivered by FedEx. That is who Disney is contracted with if I am not mistaken.
It was great opening them and looking even though we knew exactly what would be in there. All of the names and address were right too.
Hope you get them today.

[bdurrett]

We had to pick up ours at the travel agent, AAA in our case.
It was nice. Our agent gave us a photo album with a travel theme as a little gift.

I do have a couple of questions since this is my first time on DCL.

One is, do I need to fill out the Bahamas immigration form? I guess you just check other island and put Castaway Cay. Or is it needed?

Also, I was reading up on the different places to eat et. al. and I was wondering what the deal was with breakfast and lunch. Are the dining rooms open for those meals? Or do you eat at the buffets, etc.

I'm sure we will find out those answers once we get there, but I am curious about the answers.

Thanks,
Bobby

[ruvidu]

I think the Bahamas immigration form is because we get off at Castaway Cay. Disney owns it but it is still under the Bahamian government and rules Someone correct me if I am wrong. Sure they will.

I know Luminaires is open for a sit down breakfast and I think maybe one other is as well. We always do Topsiders. We love to eat outside at home as well as when we travel and it fits our needs. You can look for us most mornings at the center table as far aft as you can go outside of Topsiders. We had talked about doing a sit down breakfast one morning this trip. You will also get an invite to a character breakfast (Parrot Cay) one morning as well. Be sure and do this.
Russ

[pmouse13]

Russ,
I will look for some greens leis. Thanks. And YES, this is our first DLC cruise. WE where supposed to go last October but I found out I was pregnant a few months before hand so we dicided to postpone the trip. That's why it's a surprise. I didn't want the kids to dissapointed if plan needed to be changed again.

Crystal,
We are flying out of Manchester Friday prior to the cruise. We are leaving at about 8:20 Am. We fly Southwest non-stop. How about you? Still haven't received the Doc's. Maybe today before I leave for work?????;)

[whytcrystal]

Russ-
I have enough to keep me busy. Along with wearing out my Frommers and the Navigators I am finishing up Mists of Avalon so I can bring a new book and I still have to sew one more dress (one is done but the zipper!), we have 1 more camping trip, have to do some yard work and the job that will take me the longest.....

I have used my carry on as a catch-all for everything I want to bring. I have to sort it out, it has meds, 2 originals of both birth certificates, confirmations for flight and cruise, quarters, phone cards......you get the idea. You are correct - I share your excitement. But I will try to stay busy enough so the time goes by quick.

Paula-
We are flying out on Delta Sat. at 5:45am. Your plane goes over my place of employment as it comes off the runway- I'll wave! Manchester is a nice airport, easy to get in and out of and small. It is 20 min. from my house so it is convenient too. Have a safe trip. I am also going to get a few leis. We have a camping trip when we get back and are having a Carribean Theme in honor of our cruise.



See y'all soon!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[pmouse13]

Christy-lynn, (sorry...I just realized that your name is not Crystal)

We are staying the night before in Manchester...I am currently booked at the Super8. Do you have any input for me. It was between that and the Econo lodge. They both had the least exspensive rate. We are looking for clean and close to the airport. Any feed back is appreciated. I will be sure to wave back.....I will be the one smiling ear to ear. Actually, I hate to fly so I will be the one gripping the seat holding on for dear life. I just keep telling myself it will all be worth it.

[whytcrystal]

Paula-
The super 8 is only about 5 min. to the airport. You are close to several convenience stores, McD's, Subway, Dunkin donuts and a Quik Kava (coffee). The next exit north are many things. The Mall of NH, Chuckie Cheese (for the kids), movies, grocery stores, All kinds of stores and other resturants including the 99, TGI Fridays, Olive Garden... you get the idea. The Super 8 is relatively new, I don;t believe they have a pool but you will get a decent night's sleep. If you need more info do not hesitate to ask.:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

Christy

[pmouse13]

Christy-lynn,
Does it appear to be clean? That is rally my biggest concern.

Still no cruise Doc's. I am starting to go crazy. I have reached a stand still and I need something to get me going again. The cruise doc's would be just perfect right about now. We are heading out for the weekend tomorrow. I hope they don't decide to deliver them then. Does any one know if you have to sign for them or will they just leave them? I am sure this has been posted some where but I just can't remember ( my memory went out hte window when I gave birth to child number 4:)

[djy252]

Hello Everyone....

I got my cruise docs on Tuesday and I am sooo excited I am always on the Disboard my husband said I will be able to become a cruise director....lol

Well last nite after work I went on and found out that the Caribbean Beach is gonna be closed after our cruise and we have reservations there for 5 days. With what I read it says to wait until they contact you and they will give you good deals. I dont know how long I can wait. What if there are no room available when they do contact me. Oh well I guess I'm gonna have to try to be patient. Im sure Walt wouldnt let them do that to me...lol

See yous all soon.....I cant wait.

- Denise:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :earsgirl: :earsboy:

[whytcrystal]

Paula-
I have never been in it but it is well kept up on the outside and as I siad it is new. Maybe 4 years? There is not much landscaping because it is in a business industrial-type district (lots of pavement). Soemone at wotrk told me there is a good Pizza place in front that delivers. Yes, you do have to sign for your cruise docs.

Does anyone know why Coranado Springs isn't an offered Resort for the 3 and 4 day packages? We stayed there in 1997 and LOVED it. Well, it was our first trip to Disney too.
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[btbwalczak]

Russ,

Add another party of five to your list of cruisers! This list includes myself, my husband, our 3 year old daughter and my husband's parents. I will also be 20 weeks pregnant with number 2! We are traveling from Wisconsin (Milwaukee area) arriving in Orlando about noon on the 14th. Because of our 3 year old, we requested early dinner seating.

All of us are first time Disney cruisers so bear with me if I have silly questions.

Can't wait to meet some of you on the ship!

Tracey
:D

[whytcrystal]

Paula-
I have never been in it but it is well kept up on the outside and as I siad it is new. Maybe 4 years? There is not much landscaping because it is in a business industrial-type district (lots of pavement). Soemone at wotrk told me there is a good Pizza place in front that delivers. Yes, you do have to sign for your cruise docs.

Does anyone know why Coranado Springs isn't an offered Resort for the 3 and 4 day packages? We stayed there in 1997 and LOVED it. Well, it was our first trip to Disney too.
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :jester:

[ruvidu]

Did you just find the board or have you been lurking about wondering about going on vacation with this bunch?
I will get you added to the list today. Please ask questions. Anything we can do to make your trip better is why the boards are here.
Russ :jester: and Miss Vivian :Pinkbounc

[btbwalczak]

Russ and Miss Vivian,

We are new to the Disney cruise line & I just found out about the message board last week.

My husband & I will be celebrating our 5 year wedding anniversary on 9/20 & we are hoping to get into Palo's that evening. I don't think we will get to the ship until 3:00 or so that day---what are our chances of getting that Friday night reservation?

Also, we are staying in rooms 6526 & 6524. Any feedback on these rooms from anyone? The trip is actually a gift from my husbands parents so I can't really complain in any case, just wondering.

Is anyone else planning on swimming with the dolphins in Cozumel? Our 3 year old is going to love this!:D

Any tips would be appreciated!:)

Tracey

[Carol RN]

Why am I getting the feeling that my cruise group are the only ones who haven't gotten their documents yet?

Starting to get nervous..........:(

[Donna G]

Carol our's haven't arrived in Illinois yet either, we were starting to worry also. Did you book with Dreams or with another travel agent?

Also thought I might clearify that my boys are now 14 and 16. The ages you have now are what they were for our first Disney cruise. :)

Hope our documents arrive today, yours also Carol. ;)

Donna G.

[Carol RN]

Donna,

I booked through Dreams, and I'm wondering if that's what the problem is in not having yet gotten our documents.

I have a 16 yr. old son, and a soon-to-be 14 yr. old daughter who will be cruising with us.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that our docs will arrive today!

[ruvidu]

That could be the problem with the ones who have not received them. Ours did come straight from DCL and did not have to go to a TA.
I will update your list today too Donna.

Get out there and look for the FedEx truck.
Russ

[ruvidu]

Added Five More
Our List Keeps Growing

NEW UPDATED LIST BY LOCATION

UPDATED 8/09/02

Our prize for the couple traveling the longest distance to be with us goes to:
paulc traveling from the United Kingdom with his wife.
They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary while on the cruise
It will be their first cruise.

CO - Eva & RJ will be coming from Denver with their two children 4 & 8. It is their first cruise and they will have late seating.

CT - Carol RN and her family of 14 adults, 3 girls; 14, 14, 13, 1 boy 16 and 2 toddlers; 2 1/2 and 1 1/2. Staying near the airport on Friday night and they have first seating.

FL - Orlando - bdurrett and his wife, Bobby & Marielle, will be celebrating their 10th anniversary with us. First time Magic cruisers

Fl - Windermere - Windermere and her husband are joining us for the first leg of back to back, Western and Eastern cruises.

GA - Atlanta, Jazzbran (Jackie), her husband and two daughters 13 and 9 years old will be coming on board for their 3rd seven day Magic cruise. Finally, another Southerner.

IN - westjones – She, her husband and 9 year old twin daughters will be taking their 3rd cruise. It will be their first 7 day cruise.

ILL - Donna G - This family of 5 consists of Mom, Dad, a 16 year old son and twin 14 year old boys.

Maine - Portland - Pmouse (Paula), her husband, 7 year old son and 10 year old daughter will be staying at the Radisson before joining us on 9/14.

Mass. rgionet – Renee is traveling with her husband and twin 3 year old sons.
This is their second Magic cruise.
They are bringing the In-laws. Add another brother-in-law on 7/16.

Mass - DeniseHop – 40 something couple celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary on 9/17. This will be their first cruise.

Mass - Kinicki and girlfriend are coming from the Boston area. This will be their second 7 day cruise and they are going to WDW afterwards.

Mich - Katholyn (nativetxn) will be joining her friend from NY, Karen, for their cruise.

NH - whytcrystal - Cryrstal and David White – They are joining us to celebrate their honeymoon after 17 years of marriage. They are bringing Brother in Law and Sister in Law, Pete and Doreen White. They have first dinning.

NY - Tonawanda- DJY252 and her husband, 18 year old son and 27 other people are sailing and will celebrating their 4th anniversary.

NY - KarenNY and her friend Katholyn (nativetexan) will be joining us.

OR – stepherella. NOTE: WE HAVE HONEYMOONERS HERE.
This is their first cruise and they have second seating for dinner.

SC - ruvidu – Russ and Vivian are a mid 50s couple who will be on their 4th magic cruise, second 7 day.
We have second seating at dinner and will be staying at the Hampton Inn in Cocoa Beach on Friday night.

TX - Kaa Tammy – She, her husband and son may join us for this cruise. It would be her 4th and her family’s 3rd.

TxJasmine - her husband and two children, daugter 7 and son, 5, are flying in from the DFW area of TX. They have done a 3 day and a 7 day Eastern.

Wash - catt5, they are a family of 4 with two teens
This will be their first cruise and they will be staying at the Radisson on Friday night.

WI – This is catt5’s brother and family. They will total 5 with two teens and one 12 year old.

WI - btbwalczak - Tracey, her husband, her 3YO daughter and the inlaws will be joining us for their first cruise. They will be have for seating for dinner. 5TH ANNIVERSARY FOR THESE TWO.

AS OF TODAY WE HAVE 123 DISERS SIGNED UP FOR OUR CRUISE.

If anyone wants to add more info let me know.

Russ

[catts5]

I haven't received my docs, however, I know my TA has them and is getting them in the mail to me. If you booked thru a TA, DCL sends them to your TA . You then pick them up or they mail them. So, I at least know mine are on the way and everything is correct on them. MY TA checked them all out before forwarding them. My TA is in WI, since my brother booked for us, and Im is WA state.

Call your TA to see if they have received them.

See you all soon!!

Cheryl:bounce:

[pmouse13]

I still have not received our cruise documnets either. We also booked through DU. I hope they arrive soon. Has any one who has booked with a travel agent other than DCL received theirs Yet?:sunny:

[pmouse13]

I have an excursion question....hope some one can help.
After careful consideration we think we have decided what to do in Cozumel. I noticed that the DCL shore excursions list has a dolphin discovery program at Chankanaab national park. The cost it about 90.00 for kids and 110.00 for adults. I figure if i book it on my own it will be less exspensive. nI checked and it is less to book it on my own....65.00 for adults and 60.00 for children....but the problem is that it lists the days of offering as only Thursdays and Saturdays. This is for the Dolphin encounter...the same one DCL says can be booked through them. The only program the Discovery web site shows that runs daily is the swim program. So I can't book this on my own....but it appears I can book it through DCL. I guess I am a little confused about the whole thing. I don't want to book it through DCL and find out it was a mistake on their part and it's really not available on Wednesday the day we are in port. If any one can help me solve this problem please feel free to do so. The swim program sounds much more exciting but it is very exspensive. Am I making any sense here????
Thanks

[btbwalczak]

My husband (Brad) is wondering if there is any way to find out how booked the ship is (100 % booked, 80%?). Does anyone know if this is possible?:confused:

[jazzbran]

Hello everyone

We're getting closer to that date but yet no documents. My family is on alert for that FED EX Truck.

We also booked thru Dreams but I'm not too worried. I'll give it till the 8/14 then I'll make a call if they haven't arrived.

I'm always on the run with the kids so I hope we don't miss it.

I see myself spotting a FED EX Truck leaving our subdivision we me chasing it.

See you soon.
Jackie

[westjones]

We haven't gotten our yet either. But I am watching! I would think by next week they would be here. I am getting anxious!
DJ

[westjones]

We haven't gotten our yet either. But I am watching! I would think by next week they would be here. I am getting anxious!
DJ

[ruvidu]

btbwalczak - I have been looking at Internet TAs and the DCL site checking for available cabins. Looks like everything is still available except the the Cat. 4 - 1s. Maybe it won't be too crowded. I guess you could call DCL and ask.
By the way all. If you miss the FedEx truck they will leave a card for you to sign and or directions to their location to pick up the box. They will not leave it.
Russ

[pmouse13]

Any input on my shore exursion question a few posts back? If you guys can't help me figure out then I am in big trouble!!!;)

[catts5]

Things have been going so smoothly till now!! Thought all my worrying about details was done. Now I heard on the news tonight that our airline , US Airways, has filed for bankruptacy!! They say all flights will continue while they reorganize, but now I'm worried. Lets hope they can hang in there for 1 more month!!

If you guys hear any thing more about this, please let me know.

Thanks,
Cheryl:confused:

[ruvidu]

We are flying US Air as well. No wonder we got such a good deal. From the write up on CNN they expect all to be OK and to be out of bankruptcy first quarter 2003. I put it on a charge card so I know I will get my money back. We will just go back to our plan to drive down.

pmmouse13 - I have researched your question with searches in the DCL forums. I can not find anyone that has ever done this program. It seems that DCL is the only way to get this on the day we are there. Try this link to the thread I found.
http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=231174&highlight=dolphin+discovery

Wish I had better news.
Russ

[eshannon]

Hello, we are with the 9/28 cruisers but were considering 9/21 so have been lurking!! Saw your post about dolphins. I booked ours separate from DCL because DCL only offers the encounter and we wanted the actual swim. The program we are doing gives you 35 minutes actual time in the water with the dolphins. I also read about this on these boards somewhere. Their web site is: www,dolphindiscovery.com/welcome.htm

Hope this helps! Elaine

[pmouse13]

Thanks for all the information. I am going to try and book the swim program. I e-mailed them about what time slots they have available. I will wait to hear back. We arrive in port at 10:00....do you think we could make the 12:00 swim or is this cutting it too close?

Elaine,
what time did you book your swim for?
Thanks
Paula

[eshannon]

Hi Paula,

We actually made ours for 2. I think we are planning on taking a taxi to the park and looking at the beach then doing the swim. However, my dh does not want to do it and now my ds who is 11 is having second thoughts. I wonder if I do it without them if it would be as much fun? PLease let me know how it works out for you. Have fun Elaine

[ruvidu]

Some of you have asked " How will we find you".
Click on this site http://russandvivianpoole.tripod.com/ and you will see us.
Good for a laugh.
Russ