10-5-02 Magic Cruise

[goofysgirl]

Come on out all you shy cruisers! Who is with us? With the exception of Carla and around 38 other people, this sounds like a Ghost Cruise! Come out Come out wherever you are!:Pinkbounc

[regi]

hey, maybe we will have the boat to ourselves. no lines, undivided attention from cm's, any seat we want at the shows... may not be so bad.

[abitjaded]

Free upgrades to the Walt and Roy suites.....

Carla

[diznynut]

The start of a second thread and still no new cruisers! This may be a really fun time for all with all the attention we will be getting!

The diznynut dad. :smooth: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[abitjaded]

And all the ice cream we want, no waiting in line....

Carla

[goofysgirl]

Anyone know where we can get real numers of people on the ship? I noticed that Cat 4-12 are still available, but the cost of the cruise has gone up not down recently. Doesn't look like Disney is too worried about filling the ship. And to think I booked this cruise in April 2000, just to make sure I got what I wanted. The last two times we cruised it was in July and August so I guess I just expected the rush through all months. Silly me.

[abitjaded]

Maybe prices are going up because of the "early booking" time passing? We got prices lower than the brochure might suggest by booking in January.

[ganurse]

if it helps we are thinking about going..our first anniversary is oct 6 and we have a res but we have to decide by next week...just got back on an april 20 cruise

[abitjaded]

Join us! We can divide the lobster among 40 people and still be pigs!

Carla

[diznynut]

Okay. Has anyone else noticed that the roll call for Oct. 19th is 29 pages. Maybe we really are the only ones on the ship. Are there any other 31/2- 4 year olds out there or will my son be alone in the oceaneer club? I sure wish it was already time to go.

[diznynut]

Bump

[goofysgirl]

Everyone is kidding right? I can not belive that we are it! All of you cruisers can't be that shy. Looks like we won't have to worry about lounge chairs. Can we all eat at one table in the dining room? Sure should be cozy.................

[abitjaded]

Dreaming of October 5th. Snowed here today. I knew there was a good reason why I had not planted my tomatoes yet.

[goofysgirl]

AACK SNOW! I lost some of my petunias to a frost two nights ago, but we are slowly warming up. We are going to WDW in July so I will be really ready for this October 5th cruise. I'll be singing Disney songs for the next 6 months. Can't wait, hope you warm up soon Carla. Just think of those suttle breezes in the hammock on Castaway Cay!:cool:

[regi]

I am so surprised there aren't more people going. Maybe everyone is worried about hurricanes. I guess we won't have to wait too long to get on board and reservations at Palo's should be a breeze. Lucky us.

[diznynut]

bumpping, Any More??????

[blackgauldron]

We will go with you.

Who are whe :

Sonja & Patrick form Belgium - Europe.

[regi]

welcome aboard, sonja & patrick. :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[abitjaded]

OOOHHH! Sonja and Patrick, welcome. One of the things I want to buy in St Martin is Belgian chocolate! The best in the world.

[blackgauldron]

Glad to hear you know our chocolate.

Have you ever taste a beer from Belgium, our beers are even better than our chocolate.

Are their any tips you can give us, this is our first cruise.

I know our English is not that good, but I hope you can read it.

Sonja & Patrick.

[abitjaded]

Your English is fine, has to be better than my French or German. I'm not much of a beer drinker, maybe from growing up in Colorado, home of Coors beer which I think is icky. My DH and I have not cruised (NCL) since our honeymoon, over ten years and two kids ago. We did go to St Marten and St Thomas on that cruise. On St Marten we rented a car and went to Orient Beach, then Marigot to buy French wine and fruit and Phillipsburg to buy Carribean music tapes. On St Thomas, we also rented a car and went to Coki Beach (which we found small and crowded) and visited the Aquarium, which was phenominal. We are snorkelers and divers, and this was the first time we saw black coral in situ. We then visited Magen's Bay which is a nice beach, but no snorkeling. This time I would like to snorkel at Turtle Cove and shop at St Tom and beach hop to good snorkel beaches on our own at St Mart. We hope to bee-line off the ship at Castaway Cay and snorkel before the crowds churn up the water, 'course, since this seems to be a 'ghost cruise' the 40 of us won't kick up the sand too badly. Then bag some bicycles and and check out the old drug runner's landing strip. Other cruisers, any plans yet?

Carla

[blackgauldron]

Thanks.

we don't have any plans yet.

[blackgauldron]

Here are two things we really want to do: relax and taste some good food.

Sonja & Patrick.

[cinda65]

Me, me, me - I'm going too!! Can't wait!

[goofysgirl]

ALL RIGHT!!!!! LOOKS LIKE SOME ADDITIONAL CRUISERS. WE HAVEN'T MADE ANY PLANS YET, BUT I WILL TELL YOU WE WILL BE RIGHT BEHIND YOU ON GETTING OFF THE SHIP EARLY AND HITTING THE BEACH AND SNORKELING. MY 12 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER DOESN'T LIKE TO SNORKLE, BUT I'M SURE SHE CAN FIND SOMETHING SHE LIKES IN THAT TROPICAL PARADISE. I HAVE MIXED EMOTIONS ON THE COUTDOWN OF THIS CRUISE. I REALLY CAN'T WAIT TO GO, BUT I WILL ALSO TURN 45 ON CASTAWAY CAY. I GUESS IF I HAVE TO GET OLD THAT SEEEMS LIKE A GOOD PLACE TO DO IT...... OKAY, I'M HAPPY AGAIN, CAN'T WAIT FOR THOSE TROPICAL BREEZES. GLAD SONJA AND PATRICK ARE JOINING US ALONG WITH CINDA65!!!!!!!!

[abitjaded]

Am I already on your ignore lists? LOL, check your user control panel for private messages!

Carla

[abitjaded]

Goofysgirl, if it is any consolation DH and I turn 50 in Nov-Dec. It is not so bad. Yes, yes I know, too old to have such little kids, but... My DH and I are in science and we concur that anyone in science does the family thing way behind everyone else. We'll throw you a party! Has your daughter (12) had a snorkeling lesson with a proper fitting mask? We have found having your own well-fitted gear can make all the difference in the world in enjoyment. We have often hauled a whole suitcase filled with nothing but masks, fins, snorkels and towels on trips. A pain, but worth the effort we feel.

Carla

[abitjaded]

OK, we have ucralum, blackgauldron, diznynut, goofysgirl, regi, cinda65 and maybe ganurse. Any more? Are all the women nurses 'cept me????;) ;) ;)

Carla

[blackgauldron]

Are all the women nurses 'cept me????;) ;) ;)



Are we on a cruise or on a sailing hospital?

Patrick & Sonja

[goofysgirl]

With two dangerous food allergies in our family, it will be a pleasure to be among so many medical people. I am an office manager for Dun & Bradstreet, I can bandage a scraped knee though!!! Hope I will still fit with the "IN" crowd. I am looking on the web site, looks like there is still a lot of availability, wonder why we are the ghost ship. The week before and the week after us on the eastern itnerary is pretty full. Oh well, I'm sure when we finally get there we will be sailing with alot of other disney nuts!

[abitjaded]

Allergic to what, goofysgirl? Our little DS had a bout of it earlier this winter, still haven't nailed the culprit, scary, scary.

We went to the Lion King stage play yesterday, it was a lot of fun. Really great costumes, done by the same woman who did the Animal Kingdom parade animals. Save your pennies ($$$ as much or more than a day at WDW) and go see it if it comes to somewhere near you. Kept the 6 and 8 yo enthralled, too.

Carla

[diznynut]

Originally posted by goofysgirl
The week before and the week after us on the eastern itnerary is pretty full.

I know that the eastern on the 19th is during fall break here in Oklahoma. In our group of 9 we will have 2 nurses, 1 respiratory therapist, 1 lab tech and 1 phys. assistant. Is it time to go yet?

[abitjaded]

Just a reminder to those extending their trip to WDW. PS ressies can be made 120 days in advance at any Epcot or hotel sit-down restaurant, Breakfastosaurus and Rainforest at AK, MGM breakfast and lunch or Victoria and Albert's.

Carla

[ucralum]

Thanks for the PS reminder, Carla--I need to check with the ever-efficient Cathy from DU to see what she's got for us!

BTW, no nurses here--I've been an elementary school teacher for 19 years and my husband is a finance manager for a defense contractor. I have two cousins and a sister-in-law who are nurses, though!:)

[dvcmagic]

We are also cruising on the October 5 sailing of the Magic. There will be a total of 8 of us cruising. :Pinkbounc
DH and myself, DD (17), DD (15), DD (13), DS (9), MIL and FIL.

Now that school is out I can concentrate on planning our trip. I have found so much helpful information on this board. I wish I had found this site prior to our first cruise in 1999.

[Dancind]

I just booked this cruise, and found this thread! This will be our first cruise of any kind, ever. We were considering the Dec. 20 Western cruise (we have some free airline tickets to use and plenty of DVC points), but just couldn't stand the thought of a full to the brim ship for our first cruise, and wanted a little warmer weather. My DD will miss only 3 days of 6th grade due to fall break. Not good, but not too bad. This should be nice, if it's really as empty as you all think! It will be me (Disney lover, business type), DH (homebrewer & General Contractor), and DD 11 1/2 (dancer, brainiac, would have LOVED the turtle farm at Grand Cayman). Good tip about the snorkeling gear, that will help her I think. We will be in 6150 with late seating for dinner. Also booked two nights at BCV after, coming home on the 14th. Now, how am I going to get anything else done until time to go?

[dvcmagic]

dancind! My girls are also dancers! My youngest daughter will be 13 in June. I am hoping she will be able to go to oceanears lab and not just common grounds. We are in cabins 7004 & 7006 connecting rooms(but still hoping for an upgrade)!:D

We are also members of DVC and just love Disney!

I have taken the kids out of school many times for a Disney Vacation. The Teachers never have a problem with it. I feel family time is as important as school time.

[abitjaded]

Dacind and DVC magic join the group! Dacind is in late seating, we are in early (not just for the kids, but me, too, I fade early). Anyone else? What restaurants are folks thinking of booking at WDW extensions? Hope, hope, hope for longer hours at the parks, especially since Columbus Day weekend follows our cruise.

[goofysgirl]

DVC Magic and Dacind, glad to hear you have some kids going on this cruise. I thought that my girls and abitjaded sons would be mighty lonely on our trip. We also have late seating, we just can't seem to get it all together in time for the early seating. My girls are 8, 12, and 14. I took them out of school for the week, but this is only the second time they will be on vacation with their grandparents, and I think this is very important. I'm sure we will find some valuable info on this trip to share in school. Looking forward to meeting everyone. Oh, Carla, I'm not sure on the extended hours in Oct, they have cut their hours all across the board. The parks don't open before 9 and are closing at 9 and 10 in July this year, but you can always hope.We will be at OKW in just 2 and 1/2 weeks can't wait for a little Disney!:)

[abitjaded]

Sigh, yes I hope for longer hours. But I guess I will be happy if they just do not cut them more (we were there the week hours and early entry went belly-up last October with no warning.) We were just going to get four-day hoppers, but maybe a couple flex features would help, just so we do not spend every evening at Epcot....

Carla

[diznynut]

Hi everyone. Welcome aboard DVC Magic and Dacind. We also have early seating so maybe we'll see you around Carla. We usually go to WDW during the fall and have never experienced extened hours in the evening. I don't think we'll make ps ressies prior to going. We have always had good luck getting in at EPCOT the day we go there. Has anyone tried the Garden Grille for lunch? We normally go to Norway, but want to try something new this trip. We also are going to try and do the Fantasmic package at MGM and eat at Hollywood and Vine. JUst typing this has me longing to be there. Looking forward to putting faces with names.
Shondra

[abitjaded]

We never had lunch at Garden Grille, at least not in the present frying pan incarnation, but breakfast was a tradition for us, loved it. Gone now, because of the cut-backs, but Chip and Dale once TPed the restaurant with the recycled paper towel. We ate at Hollywood and Vine last trip and I was underwhelmed, gimmie grapefruit cake and fish at Brown Derby! (I even have the recipe and make the cake for a Disney 'hit').

We have hit just about every restaurant at WDW. My SIL and DN are coming along for their first trip and I have been trying to decide on the best restaurant in each park, one day per park... San Angel for atmosphere at Epcot, Breakfastousaurus then Boma for AK, Brown Derby-Fantasmic at MGM (just for me, figure there are more fun, like Sci-Fi, but, see above!), and...hmmmm... MK, maybe hop the monorail and hit dinner at Calif Grill or O'Hana or Kona or.....boat to Artist Point, how can we only go four days.... :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

Carla

[Twinave]

You have a great thread going. Sounds like a nice quite cruise. My family and my sister's family will be getting off the Magic on Oct. 5th. We hope to stay at the Raddison one more time before heading home on Sunday. There is a Shuttle launch scheduled for Sunday the 6th. Would LOVE to see that. Anyway, enjoy, enjoy!!:cool:

[kizzmequik]

We will be on the 10/05/02 cruise. It will be our first ever and I have so many ?????? I would like to email someone directly that has been before. If some one is intrested in helping please email me at kizzmequik@mchsi.com

Thank you

Lea Ann:D

[abitjaded]

Welcome aboard kizzmequik, your profile says chef, ohhhh...what are you planning on ordering for meals? Have been to WDW many times, but not DCL cruised.

Carla

[kizzmequik]

Hello, Yes I was there in 73 and 77 then I went with a friend in Nov of 00, Husband and youngest 3 sons Nov 01 and with oldaest Daughter and her boyfriend in March 02. I guess I have the bug now. This will be our last trip for a few years with children in college and expecting a grandbaby. I dont really care what I eat as long as someone else is cooking it!!!

Can you bypass the formal nights and eat somewhere else we are going to have 4 teens with us and I just cant see buying all of the clothes we would need. They just dont have much call for formal and they are all growing so fast. We eat good food all of the time so as it is a treat we really wont feel to bad if we miss out on one or two special meals.

This whole trip has added up faster then I ever thought it could so I was wondering if anyone has been to the ports and just spent the day relaxing? Is there much to do if you are not going on the side trips? Also do you know if wheelchairs are available if needed, my Mom is going and has some trouble going long distances.

Ok I know this sounds dumb but I have never even seen a ship how far is it from one end to the other in terms of say blocks? I am trying to decide how my Mother will do walking to dinner and things.

Lea Ann

[goofysgirl]

Lea Ann,
We have never been on the 7 day cruise, but we have been on two four days. I have seen people dressed very formal and then I have seen people in shorts in the dining rooms. No one seems to be out of place not matter what they have on. I believe that Topsider's has a buffet instead of the formal nights if you wish. My girls will dress in sun dresses or something a little pretty, but they will not have on gowns or anything like that. They are just not the type to use formals often.

I am not sure Disney has wheelchairs available, but you might want to check directly with DCL. While the ship is large I think that it a 1/4 mile all the way around deck 4. You can stroll leisurely and there are places to rest if your Mom should need.

We plan on doing the beaches by ourselves to help defray costs also. Don't forget the ship serves all day at port so if you want you can do a little sightseeing, come back to the ship and eat and then depart for some more adventure, oir you don't ever have to leave the ship! Relax and enjoy, once you are on the ship for about five minutes, this Disney calm comes over you and nothing else seems to matter.

:smooth:

[abitjaded]

Lea Ann,

My mother will be on the trip also. She is 84 and has some osteoporosis related spinal fractures. She can do just fine on foot some days, but others not, and certainly I do not want her walking great distances on a rolling ship. We are planning on buying a transporter wheelchair, not the type with large back wheels, simply four small wheels. Please go to the disABILITIES group, I bumped a thread with my questions (see post "is there a disability guide for cruise". There is little info on DCL for wheelchair needs. They do have some wheelchairs for loaners, but it sounds nowhere near as organized as the parks, hence our decision to bring our own (still searching ebay to get a deal, probably end up buying new, about $250). disABILITIES also has info about rentals in the area. Call DCL special services (I called DCL 1-800 and they transferred me) with any specific questions, they seem to be willing to ask around and try and get some answer. There are other web sites that have some trip reports on wheelchair needs on cruises (sadly DCL, maybe due to the younger population of the cruisers, appears worse in some respects). Check out cruisecritic.com. Some lines even have stair crawlers and their personnel will assist on and off ship whereas DCL will not. If you email me direct I can also forward some info from private emails I have received. I am still working on shore questions. I will let you know what I learn. Have some info, let me know what you may be interested in and I'll tell you what, if anything I know.

As to formal, my kids are going to wear white shirts, black pants (the cargo type that zip off to shorts, multi purpose) and nice vests (I am making them-cheap), good enough. There are lots of threads here on this, just search using "formal".


Carla

[kizzmequik]

Thank you for all of the good info!! It really helps

lea ann

[Dancind]

Bumping this thread back up, maybe we'll find more cruisers. We will be staying at the Radisson after arriving late on Oct. 4, anyone else? We'll be making a liquor run Sat. morning, need to find out where. Since we have an 11 yo daughter, I'm assuming we will have the PLAPLAP dinner rotation, late seating. What plans have you all made for the excursions? We are taking snorkeling equipment, so will probably look for some local tours that will allow a little more time for snorkeling than the Disney excursions. Come on, everyone, time for updates! Diana

[abitjaded]

Update Denver,

Cough, cough, gag. Heyman fire, winds northerly.

Carla

[abitjaded]

Since we have some special needs, we do not want a huge shore excursion, I am working on a private boat for snorkeling off St. Thomas, hopefully Capella Islands part of the Nat'l Park, south of Charlotte Amalie, details will follow. Would anyone be interested in joining us? DCL runs trips to Turtle Cove here, groups of six or a large boat. So far I know price would be about $650 for the boat, taking up to 18, could come out cheaper than the DCL and hopefully less regimented. I have the NPS book that shows this area, looks like good reefs.
Carla

[abitjaded]

Jean at shoretrips.com has been great! check out this site. She has sent me the following info on the trips they offer:

Hi Carla,
....wonderful boat captains who operate private sailing and snorkel trips. Unfortunately, they are both licensed by the Coast Guard to only take 6 people and because sail boats travel at a much slower pace, they would not be able to go to Buck Island....I have also heard back from the operator of the snorkel trip.....his answer to me:

The youngest and oldest probably would not enjoy the trip based on the assumption that their will be other people on the boat with other needs and wants.
It sounds to me like they should consider a private charter. That way they could choose the spot that they would all be comfortable in. Buck Island is such a destination that could accommodate the various needs of the family.

To charter his boat, an 18 passenger, diesel powered monohull, 30' long vessel from 8am-12noon would cost $657.00. Quite a bit more than if you were to buy spaces on the regular snorkel trip.
I know that these are probably not the answers that you were hoping for. You could still book the trip you were originally inquiring about, but Buck Island is not one of the stops on their regular itinerary.
Please let me know if there's anything else I can look into for you.
Sincerely,
Jean

additional info:

"This trip is run by an excellent dive shop on St. Thomas and they would pick you up at the cruise pier. Water, ice and a cooler is provided on board. You could bring your own drinks or for an additional charge (let me know if you're interested and I'll get the exact price), they could provide sodas, fruit punch and oranges). The trip time would be approximately 8am - noon. The dive shop operator tells me that the snorkel sites would be in and around the coves of Buck Island, where the water is calm and the visibility is up to 100 feet. There is a shipwreck, the top of which is in about 20 feet of water. I have added the charter for the whole boat onto our website, in the "other" category, as we already have it priced as a charter because there is a minimum of 6 to run this trip.

Carla

[goofysgirl]

Anyone else joining us?

[kizzmequik]

Well we will not be joining you now. My husband has decided he has had enough Micky and so we are swithing to another cruise line. Have a wonderful time!!

[diznynut]

Sorry to hear you will be switching to another cruise line. I guess that is six less on our cruise. :( :( :(

[diznynut]

Just moving us back up!

[abitjaded]

Hey all. 90 day reservation time if extending your trip to WDW!

We just got back from a work-vacation. Drove 2,000 miles from Denver to Tucson. Incredible Petrified Forest, Walnut Canyon, Casa Grande, Montezuma's Castle, Sonoran Desert and Mesa Verde. Kids have five new Ranger badges and picked up lots of trash and learned about the ancient peoples of the West to earn them! Sad stuff, though, the West is so dry and burning (and hot 112 degrees F) that parts of the Nat'l Parks have closed to protect them, but the great part is you get to do things folks normally book years in advance, because tourists have stayed away in droves! BUT the best news of all, RAIN the last few days, the dry washes in New Mex and Arizona were flowing!!!!! (And Mom got to veg by the pool for four days in Tucson while DH went to a conference, and the kids swam and got their snorkel technique down to perfection.)

Back to reality and Cruise-planning-escapism.

Carla

[abitjaded]

A private charter from Jean at Shoretrips, the charter goes to Buck Island, we may be at 10 persons, any more??? Getting cheaper than the Disney charter if we can get a few more takers.

Originally posted by abitjaded



"To charter his boat, an 18 passenger, diesel powered monohull, 30' long vessel from 8am-12noon would cost $657.00. Quite a bit more than if you were to buy spaces on the regular snorkel trip.

This trip is run by an excellent dive shop on St. Thomas and they would pick you up at the cruise pier. Water, ice and a cooler is provided on board. You could bring your own drinks or for an additional charge (let me know if you're interested and I'll get the exact price), they could provide sodas, fruit punch and oranges). The trip time would be approximately 8am - noon. The dive shop operator tells me that the snorkel sites would be in and around the coves of Buck Island, where the water is calm and the visibility is up to 100 feet. There is a shipwreck, the top of which is in about 20 feet of water. I have added the charter for the whole boat onto our website, in the "other" category, as we already have it priced as a charter because there is a minimum of 6 to run this trip.

Carla

[abitjaded]

C'mon guys, let's add a little drivel here! Bump, bump!

I booked our restaurants yesterday for our four day WDW extension post-cruise. Got a really nice chatty CM on the Disney Club 1-800 number. We booked Garden Grill for Epcot the first day (hoping to move dinner to Brown Derby with reserved Fantasmic seating), then O'Hana after MK closing, Boma after AK closing and finally, breakfast at MGM's Holly and Vine, although we may not make this, Delta wants a fortune to move our flight to later in the day. I'm looking forward to introducing DSIL and DN to WDW. We are still planning on staying at the Swan, but we are also holding a ressie at All Stars, hoping that the AKL or some other great resort will come down for October. Lots of speculation on when rates after October second will be published. Lots of folks were hoping (on the Resort board) that rates would come out Monday, but no luck. Ah... memories of Alligator Bayou and free character breakfast on Fall Fantasy for $60 a day.... Now dreaming of grapefruit cake and souffle....

Carla:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[ucralum]

I'm getting excited--planning to make final pmt. Friday. I get anxious to just be done with it, but if I wait 'til Fri. I won't have to pay the cc bill until September!

We arrive at the Beach Club on the 1st. Cathy from Dreams is taking care of PSs..she got Jeff on the Pirate Cruise on Oct. 3 (he LOVED it last trip.) My folks fly in on Friday the 4th, so we'll meet up with them on the Magic.

It finally seems like it's getting close!:)

[diznynut]

We will probably make our final payment next week. Decided not to make in PS's for this trip, we will just go to guest relations at the parks and see what is available. As a matter of fact, we have decided not to even plan out what day we will do each park. Formal wear is now taken care of and I am so excited about getting really dressed up for those 2 nights. There are some days I wake up and think I can't wait for vacation to be here and then I realize the quicker it is here the quicker it will be over. Can't wait 14 days of pure Disney is sure to be bliss.
Shondra

[abitjaded]

Shondra, you must have done some shopping! Did you get something new for formal night? We bought my husband a serious plain black suit, gold shirt and maroon tie. I made my kids vests and bow ties from pieced gold, maroon and black plaids. I have some gold silk that my Dad bought 30 years ago in Hong Kong that I will hopefully get made into a dress for me. Got my Mom a couple great outfits at Nordstrom's rack in golds and blacks. My SIL has started to shop for her formal wear, but I can see my nephew showing up in shorts and tennies ;) . We should look like the "nitwits on vacation" as one member of our family says.

I made our park ressies based on September's schedule, hoping that hours after the cruise will be extended since it is a three day holiday:( .

Carla

[Dancind]

Well, I've been shopping. My DH now has a very spiffy Perry Ellis tux with a couple of vests, and I have a new gown. I ordered it from Stylebug on-line. It's gorgeous, but a little low-cut! Oh well, at least DH will like it! Diana

[diznynut]

Hi all. Yes Carla we have done some serious shopping. Trever has been on ebay and got some pretty good deals on vest and ties. I think he has purchased 4 in all and the guys in our group are planning to share the vest and rent tux's from cruise line formal. Us girls have 2 formals a piece and all we lack now is a tux for DS. We bought one in May on ebay even a size bigger, but he seems to have hit a growth spurt. We used to plan every aspect of our vacation, but now we like to just get up and decide what to do that day. The only day we really know what is planned is Friday the 4th. That will be rest day, so we won't be tired after 5 days of the parks. What dinner seating does everyone have? We have early. I sure hope they don't keep the new test times. 6PM was perfect for us. Shondra

[abitjaded]

We have early dinner seating. I'm out of the loop, what were the test times? Can't decide if I want to add two more dresses or just bring my standard LBD for Palo and semi-formal night, I keep cruising the stores for some kind of semi-formal dress that I could wear all my silver South-West jewelry with. I keep picturing a turquoise sheath in silk, but cannot locate one. Got a couple bathing suits at Newport News online dirt cheap, since one of the kids brought home an art project (hidden in a shorts pocket) that dyed all my suits purple. I also got a great fringed silk shawl in gold and white and a purse in white silk, better Scotch Guard these puppies before the kids get their mitts on them. Anyone ever Scotch Guarded silk before?

Carla

NEW COUNTDOWN: Retire December 20, 2002!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce::

[diznynut]

Have you not seen the post on test dinner times? Apparently the next 4 cruises will have early seating at 5:30 and late seating at 7:45. 5:30 just seems a little early for me. I thought 6pm was wonderful. Still trying to decide what other clothes to bring. Congratulations on retiring this year Carla. I know you must be excited. I have been in nursing for 11 years now and although I love what I do retirement is only a dream for now. Can't complain though I only work 3 12hr. shifts per week. Just talking about it makes me ready for vacation.
Shondra

[abitjaded]

Bumping to get melcal and dvcmagic to join in.

Carla

[melcal308]

well add 3 more couples, 6 more kids, and 1 teenager. still lookin for more teens on this cruise. cant wait only 2 & 1/2months away.

melcal :cool:

[abitjaded]

Welcome melcal! I think your group doubles the number going;) .

Diana, I had never heard of stylebug. Cool...did you get an Escada gown reduced to $1000 from $4000????:bounce: After I graduated from college I worked briefly in a designer department of a large store (hated it, all I did was hang up clothes that people tried on then dumped in a heap, women can be such slobs). Are the clothes at stylebug sized like designer clothes? i.e. a size 8 is really a 10?

Carla

[Dancind]

Nope, no Escada for me! I do love those Badgley Mischka gowns, though. I bought a "Victoria" gown for less than $150. And they seem to run small, so check measurements if you go that route. Diana

[abitjaded]

My experience is that designer clothes don't run small, they just lie about the size. All those rich women may think they are a size 8 , but to those of us who shop at real stores, like the French chain Targhea (aka Target) they are a size 10-12:rolleyes:

Are we enough for a DIS meet on board? Anyone have any suggestions?

Carla

[Dancind]

Anyone staying at the Radisson the night before? We're getting in late, but a breakfast meet would be fun. If not, how about right after the sailaway party? Diana

[abitjaded]

Did anyone else get a brochure about the shore excursions? We have not. We also double checked with our travel agent, she messed up our cabins, we have two near what we originally booked, but now we have two that are marked by Dave as being noisy. Not only that, but the TA did not change our insurance coverage from the third week in Oct, which we had originally booked, to this cruise, we had to straighten all that mess out! Double check your ressies, the final payment time draws nigh!

[ucralum]

Carla, we made our final payment on July 13. We haven't received anything from Disney re excursions, but Dreams immediately e-mailed us a form for them. Of course they can't be booked until August 6th, but I'm ready!:)

[Californiaamy]

I'm so glad to find a thread for this cruise and meet you all! We've just put down our initial payment for the 10/5/2002 eastern 7-day cruise. We are first time D-cruisers, and I've never been on one before at all. We have one child who'll be three (and potty trained!) by the time we set sail.

I have so many questions but I'll try and restrain myself...first and foremost, we want to get into the first seating (with a three year-old who can't make it to 8pm to eat -- and I've heard about the move for the 7:45 second seating but that's still pretty late) and are on the wait list. Any advice?

[Californiaamy]

....and....(sorry, I'm new to this posting stuff) we did get a shore excursion list in the mail, however. So they should be available. What I have had trouble getting is the brochure!

[diznynut]

Welcome aboard Californiaamy and welcome to the boards also. I don't know much about the excursions except they are pricey. We plan on doing the islands on our own. We also have a 3 yr old. He will be just shy of 4 when we cruise. Carla, We haven't recieved anything about cruise excursions yet either and have already made our final payment. It definitely is getting closer.
Shondra

[twhipple]

I have been reading this post for a long time and finally decided to join in. DH and I will be going on our first cruise with all of you. I can't wait. I have learned a lot of useful information from everyone.

[Twinave]

bump

[Dancind]

Perhaps more proof that we are on a ghost cruise... Travelzoo lists a special for certain fall Eastern cruises on the Magic. $549 per person, based on quadruple occupancy, category 11. Diana

[abitjaded]

Interesting, when we tried to straighten out our cabin mess directly with DCL, we could not get back the cabins we were told we first had, the DCL agent said the "trip was pretty full". I thought DCL never discounted cruises at the last minute? C'mon DCL free UPGRADES for all!!!!!

[abitjaded]

Californiaamy, welcome. I think you have to request the early seating during the ressies rush, looks like the old Navigators show to do this in Sessions. deck 3 forward between 2:00-3:00 on Saturday. Post this to the general board and I bet you'll get some experienced advice.

twhipple, welcome to you too.

Twinave??? are you coming with us or just bumping because we are such a fascinating group :rolleyes:

Got a couple copies of the shore excursion flyers from our TA finally. Trying to decide, will probably take the private shoretrips to Buck Island, and just rent a van or cab on St. Maarten. We have been to both Islands before, but it has been a long time. Gotta find someplace good to snorkel on StM. :Pinkbounc

[Californiaamy]

abitjaded, thanks for the info on trying to change the dining to first seating...I'll cruise the boards some more and see if I find anyone else asking, as well.

There must be a somewhat-full house if the early seating is full -- you'd think it would be a bunch of cruisers with little kids that would otherwise be sleeping in their milk at 8:30 (like us - any others out there?) that all requested the first seating, but maybe there's a ton of seniors on board, and that why we're not hearing from them online!

Does it matter how many DISers we have to meet? Hey, let's get it together...you're all invited to our room! We'll be in 5xxx... :)

OK, I give, what the heck does "bump" mean?

[Dancind]

Californiaamy, what are the odds? We're going to be next door ! Welcome aboard, neighbor! We have late seating. Any time a thread gets a new post, it gets moved to the top of the category, in this case, the DCL Cruise Message Board. Bumped up, if you will, hence "bump". Diana

[goofysgirl]

If you look at the web site it looks like the only cat that is not available is 12. Price hasn't changed much. I am still hoping that they will discount or upgrade. I booked this cruise two years ago because I was worried about availability. Silly me. Oh, and have I been shopping. The girls found gowns in Filene's super sale. DH has a new spiffy suit and I am searching for the perfect shawl. I never new bargin hunting could be so much fun! And to all those formal flame throwers HA!

[abitjaded]

Going, going....

Jean at Shoretrips has a trip for us if there are any other takers. The morning of our stop in St Tom we can charter a boat. My math stinks Dancind, we can charter it for $299 for six, plus $58 for any number above that, we so far have 10 takers at $531. Or we can have the whole boat, up to 18, for $657, that would be 36.50 a person, (yipes, the math still is strange),cheaper than DCL and sounds like they would meet us at the dock and allow a bit more snorkel and beach, two snorkel sites and shelling! DCL has two trips here, either for six max or a cast of thousands. The trip is half day and gives us time to shop or check a few sightseeing venues.

Advanced snorkel trip:

http://www.shoretrips.com/common/search3.asp?rcode=CAR&lcode=STT

am going to book the whole thing, figure this way we are not at the mercy of others. If you are interested in joining our trip, PM me or email me.

Californiaamy, think your cabin would hold us all? Might be kinda like the old Volkswagon trick, or how many goldfish can you swallow.....

[Californiaamy]

OK gals -- dancind and goofysgirl -- we'll only have each other to blame for noise! ;) Have your DH bring the beermaking stuff...my DH has done some too and will help drink it!

I have been searching for the purrrrrrfect new bathing suit for those 8 lbs I have to lose (who said they got one at newport news online?) but couldn't find exactly what I was looking for there. nordstroms.com had the best I liked, but any other recommendations as to good selections? I'd love to be able to pick my top and bottom as separates...

abitjaded, yes, it is the VW theory -- there's always room for more!:p And depending if DH is golfing in St. Thomas, I may join your snorkel trip. I will know better next week.

amy

[abitjaded]

Hey,

I was the one who suggested Newportnews. They also had bathing suit separates. Lands End also has separates online (or did). Last year I got a great suit at Lord and Taylor (they have great 75% off sales, at the moment they are 50% off as are most of the department stores around here).

Blackgauldron, from Belgium ,were also into beer, but anyone heard from them in a while?

I finished making my dress for formal night, from Hong Kong silk my dad bought years ago, and well.. Amy, eight pounds to lose, you lucky dog. Not only do I need to lose some, what will be left needs to be relocated. Tried on a bunch of my old LBDs and same result.

Carla

[Dancind]

Here's my philosphy on bathing suits: if it covers you, buy it! I like evening gowns better, they cover more! My DD and I went shopping at Macy's and Foley's last week, and then had a fashion show for Dad. Is anyone taking TWO gowns, one for formal night and one for semi-formal night? Wow, the sales were so good. Carla, I think we might find more snorkelers as it gets closer to trip time, it sounds like a great trip! We may be like you, Amy, but at St. Martins. My DH might do the Scuba Dive excursion. If that's the case, I'm thinking shopping, and I'd really like to see Marigot. Don't think DH will bring the beer making equipment, but we will probably be buying a few bottles of any microbrew beer we can find before we get on the ship (and wine for me). I'm glad we don't have adjoining cabins, but that would have worked well for a party! OK, who's been on the Magic or Wonder? There must be a cozy spot where we can meet, where kids are allowed, but there's also a bar? Diana

[Dancind]

Re-reading my posts, I sound like such a lush! We're not that bad really! The only thing I can handle is wine, and usually not more than two glasses a night. Wondering how I can make that second glass last if we go dancing... Diana

[Californiaamy]

Diana,

you're right, I should probably go with the most coverage! :)

As for the formal/semi-formal night, I think I have one long gown that will work, and one cocktail dress that will work for the other night. Don't let me loose on the sales!

Are you divers, too? We are probably going to dive at St. Maarten, I think. I have been to St. Thomas and St. John before (waaaaaayyy back when) but still would like the chance to explore both St. T and St. M and at least WINDOW shop....

But I feel guilty leaving the rug rat on the ship, so one of those submarine rides for him may be in order.

We'll pack some home brew, too, and find a spot to open it...maybe secret deck on 7? No bar there, but are you not allowed to uncork your own stuff in a "public" spot?

and I was just thinking I sounded like a lush. But I'd rather bring a nicer bottle of wine than what they most likely have and at a reasonable price...

amy

[Dancind]

My DH is getting re-certified at scuba diving before we go, I'm not involved. Our daughter will be taking lessons too, but she won't be certified. So it's snorkeling for us! Amy, check your PM's. Diana

[twhipple]

Carla, DH and I may be interested in the trip on St. Thomas. We're still trying to decide what to do there. On St. Martin we're going it alone to the French side. I hear the food in Grand Case is wonderful.

Dancind and Californiaamy, are you both into wine? I collect wine and will be having a wine tasting three weeks before we cruise! I don't drink a lot, but LOVE to drink wine:teeth:

I've got to find those sales. I need to get a new suit (down 17 pounds so far!).

[Dancind]

A wine collector! I used to have a small collection, even a wine vault, but my taste began to outstrip my budget! So what have you decided to do on the cruise? Pay the corkage fee or buy the package? Your opinion of the wines on the packages would be worthwhile. I do want to do a couple of the tastings on the cruise, sounds like fun and I think you get a pin! Hope you decide to snorkel at St. Thomas, our family of three is going too. (OK, you all may notice that I edit a lot of my messages. Seems I don't see typos when they're in that little box.) Diana

[twhipple]

Yes, I have a small collection of about 300 bottles. Mostly from California that I have hand-picked on my travels.

As for the wine package, I will pass. I don't want to get the lower priced package. I have had most of them. There's nothing wrong with the wines, I just have a hard time with the price. Even with the corkage fees I could spend a lot less. I definitely plan to get the Muscat that others have spoke of on the boards. Muscat is my favorite. But I'm also into anything red. Our plan is to take a towncar to WDW (we're staying at the Swan for three nights before the cruise) and stop and buy wine in Florida for the trip. I can't wait to get some french wines in St. Martin.

I also noticed on the sample Navigators that there are some wine events some of the evenings. I think they will be more fun than the tasting. It sounds like the tasting is pretty basic. Mine however, will not be basic!!

DH and I will do the wine tasting on Sunday (if it's still offered then). In addition to my wine collecting, I also love to entertain so I will be going to all of the Art of Entertaining classes. DH wants to do all the behind the scenes gatherings.
Tracy

[abitjaded]

My DH and I checked out the wines offered on both the standard and the premium wine package. Our local wine buyer showed us what they had. By the time you buy at your store, then add the corkage fee, it prices pretty much the same. By the bottle may be cheaper, especially for the premium wines. The packages, if you drink a bit of all, come in at reasonable, plus you do not have to haul the stuff. Coming back from France once with too many temptations, I can vouch for the sense of purchasing on board. Another poster had mentioned that the Fess Parker and one other were special just for Walt's 100 birthday, not obtainable elsewhere.

On our previous cruise we had purchased some wine in Marigot, StM. You could get some good things. Just be aware that multiple warnings have been posted about making sure the wine has been stored well, it can age very fast in the heat of the tropics. The motion of the ship also increases aeration of the wine and speeds ageing.

Carla

[abitjaded]

I have emailed Jean at Shoretrips to book the whole boat for 18 for the morning of October 9 in StT. So far we are 10?

Carla

[abitjaded]

For those of us extending the trip to WDW the park hours for October are posted:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/waltdisneyworld/parksandmore/parkhours/parkhoursindex?id=SEAllParksLocationCrit&date=102002


This web site has both the regular and the premium wine packages listed:

http://psiklops.brinkster.net/Trips/ShowDoc.aspx?TripDateID=1&DocumentID=15

And last, the Buck Island trip is up to 12!

Carla

P.S. Tracey, what restaurants are you going to visit in Grand Case? I have read that this is also a pretty nice beach that may even have some decent snorkeling. Any more info?

[twhipple]

I'm waiting to get the info. I know two people who go to St. Martin a lot and recommended going there. One of them is getting some more info for me. She said the best beach to go to is Bikini Beach. When I get more info, I'll pass it along.

Can't wait to snorkel on St. Thomas/Buck Island!

Tracy

[abitjaded]

Page 7 for us? Ye GADS, bump.

Bought two more dresses, Dillard's had a great sale. Probably should have bought another suitcase, too.

Carla

[twhipple]

In Grand Case, it was suggested that we go to il Nepttuno, an Italian restaurant on the water, close to the beach. There or Calmos (don't know about the spelling). At Calmos you can sit right on the beach and get food and drink. The other two suggestions were for dinner, at which time we plan to be back on the ship. My friend also told me to go eat on Bikini Beach because it's fun and outside, but I don't think we'll make it there.

I got my shore excursion info from my TA Monday. Thanks to Carla I now have to buy some underwater cameras! Can't wait! We weren't planning on snorkeling, but know it will be a blast!:Pinkbounc

[abitjaded]

Trying to revive our thread with trivia.

We have been trying some of the wines from the cheaper wine package.

Mondavi Coastal Merlot: O.K. if you are not tooooo picky.

Camelot Pinot Noir: O.K. if you are not toooooooo picky.

Danzante Sangiovese, 1997: Surprisingly good for the price!

Carla Archival info: won't do the Grigio, hate the stuff, Asti, good and tasty, great hangover material, the "Champagne" is fine.

[twhipple]

I found some great deals on swimwear at Kohls and Boston Store. I'm not usually a big shopper but I had a great time last weekend finding deals.

As for the wine packages, if we were to do one of the packages, we would probably choose the premium package. It's not that we're too picky, I just like the choices better. I also don't think that we would drink 7 bottles during the week. I don't want to have to carry home any from the ship because I'm already planning on bring home rum!!! Once we went to California and tried to save money by carrying back 14 bottles of wine. Nothing broke in our luggage but it sure was heavy!!

[abitjaded]

We are leaning toward the premium package also. Figure if the Fairytail Cuvee and the Fess Parker are for Walt's 100 they might be worth carring home. Also love the Conundrum, good turkey and fish wine. Since we have four adults (plus a 21 yo DN) we figure we could do justice to the package. Just hope I convince DH not to order Cabernet EVERY night.

The sales here are just about tapped out. I keep going though, not that I need anything, but there still might be something I just have to have. I just hope my little guys do not add an inch or two, otherwise we may have to do some shopping for them. The little one just hit Space Mountain height (ewww... but hopefully DH and DN will take them on). One more major shopping trip to the dive shop to replace some snorkel stuff lost in a sewage flood, and for Slap Straps for the kids, then I MUST stay out of the stores.

Carla

[diznynut]

Just bumping. 6 weeks to go. Is everybody ready? Anybody recieve doc's yet? Shondra

[Dancind]

No cruise docs here in NM yet. I think we are ready, except for some alterations and hemming to our new dresses! Oh, and I've got to write a note to the mid-school principal for the three days of school my DD will miss.

Carla, I know that the Fess Parker Chardonnay can be purchased at some of the gift shops around WDW for $16, which might be cheaper than buying it on the ship to take home. Maybe not all the gift shops, but for sure the ones that carry groceries for the DVC resorts. Just saw it at the shop in Beach Club. Diana

[abitjaded]

Hmmm..Wines, thanks for the info about the Fess. I guess our wine haul-on will mostly depend on how much other stuff we have to carry. We added another bag, went to the dive store and they were having a sale so we added a large back-pack net bag that will hold all the masks, fins and snorkels, plus the fish card, anti-fog, kleenex in baggies (don't forget that for blowing noses after snorkeling), waterproof holders....

For those joining us on the snorkel trip to Buck, my credit card is supposedly charged, but I do not have the bill yet. If those who are already confirmed want to pay 36.50 each now (the price divvied among 18) PM me and I'll send my address. Still room if we have any new lurking (fess up).

Still have to get an over the door shoe holder and lose 5 pounds around the middle.

[blackgauldron]

Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that we received our documents today.

[dvcmagic]

Fed Ex just delivered our cruise documents for the October 5 sailing of the Magic.

So...looking forward to a magical cruise! :Pinkbounc

[regi]

now i am really getting excited!! i hope our docs come soon, too. only 39 days left.

http://www.aaa-clipart.com/data/anim2/dance/an19.gifhttp://www.aaa-clipart.com/data/anim2/dance/an19.gifhttp://www.aaa-clipart.com/data/anim2/dance/an19.gif

[Dancind]

FedEx takes forever to get to NM. It has to go through Dallas and Denver, sometimes to CA! Not looking for ours today, but I hope soon! Anyone going on the Eagle catamaran excursion on St. Martin? Diana

[regi]

Anyone else get their docs?? I am hoping to get mine soon.

[Californiaamy]

Yes, here in Atlanta we just received them in the last hour! Yippee, I'm so excited...

I haven't opened them yet as I have a few more hours of work to do here at my PC before I allow myself the pleasure!:Pinkbounc

[abitjaded]

Got Docs, but where's the beef? Wasn't there supposed to be a 300 page book with info to keep us entertained? Ooops, guess that was Entropy, Dave and Barb.;)

[twhipple]

My TA just e-mailed me and said they were in, but she has to review them first :( . I hope I get them before the weekend.

I also found out since we booked through AAA travel, we'll get soda mugs free! That's less I have to carry on!

[BethC]

Hi all!

Just thought I'd chime in that I am booked for this cruise as well. It will be just me and my mother - no husband or kids this time around!!

We just got our docs today, it must be getting close now! Looking forward to meeting you!

[abitjaded]

Yahoo Beth and Mom, welcome to the ghost cruise!

[regi]

beth,
my mother and i are doing the cruise together, too. hope to see you there. still no docs here :( :( :( :( :( :(

[Dancind]

Ours haven't arrived yet either. Guess I will be calling DVC early next week. Diana

[goofysgirl]

Whooooooooooooooooo Hooooooooooooooo Got all of our docs yesterday. They were all mailed under seperate cover. They messed up on the cabin arragements. They put my M-in-Law and F-in-law connecting to our room. The kids are way on the other side............Guess I'll call and try to get them changed around. I think I might just start packing this weekend. DH has to work on Monday, so the girls and I will be all alone....... Guess we can hit the mall and look for some more great deals. At this rate I will be broke by the time I get on the ship! Oh well you only live once! Looking forward to meeting y'all.
:cool: ;) :bounce: :Pinkbounc :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[Shooter]

Looking forward to our very first cruise ever.

Am nervous about everything and have been surfing the web all night the last two nights and this forum has really helped. Thank you all.

Will probably post Please Hold Our Hand topic in a couple of weeks.

Would like to meet all of you there :)

[diznynut]

Welcome aboard Shooter. Still no doc's here, but hopefully later this week. Dresses have had their alterations. Getting closer and can't wait. Have we organized a meet yet? Shondra

[regi]

travel agent has our docs and we should be getting them tomorrow. cant wait. hope i get a chance to meet everyone.

[abitjaded]

Where shall we try to meet? First full day at sea?

[Dancind]

No docs in NM yet. I actually called DVC, they checked with DCL, and we got the official "1-2 weeks prior". Oh well, maybe they're waiting to see if they need to upgrade us! I've been checking Travelocity for this cruise, lots of cabins still available, including SIX category 7's!

Carla, did you get my last two e-mails? You need to e-mail again so I'm sure I have the right address!

OK, how about lunch on Sunday, first full day at sea? We could pick a time range and restaurant. Does anyone have a lime green boa to bring?

Last question, are any of you into pin trading?

Diana

[abitjaded]

Diana, I PMd you.

I was going to throw in some lime green shirts for my boys, but no boa here. Lunch would be a good meeting place, I thought the menus for lunch in Lumiere's sounded yummy. I'm hoping to get brunch at Palo for the second sea day, and tea on the last sea day.

Carla

[Dancind]

That sounds good! According to the Navigator's for 7-27 Eastern, Lumiere's serves lunch from 11:30-1:30. Now we just need to know how big of a table to ask for. Do you think our kids will want to have lunch with us, or might they be too busy at the Clubs? Diana

[abitjaded]

I'm hoping my boys will join us for most meals, looks like their major activities will be done by 11:15-11:45 (least according to the old Navigators) for the first sea day. Or maybe having kids at the meet will scare some away??? How 'bout it you single folks? I figure if more than a few of us show up, we can confine families to one area and adults-sans-rug-rats to another?

Carla

[diznynut]

Hi all. We picked up our documents yesterday from the travel agent. Now it seems like a reality. We leave in 20 days, not that I'm counting. Lunch sounds like a great meet place. I am not sure if our whole party will attend, but I'll work on it. It is also my hope that our son will eat all meals with us. So count on at least one small child. Looking forward to meeting everyone. Shondra

[twhipple]

DH and I will join you for lunch. Carla your idea of trying to separate kids and adults sounds good, but we can handle it either way. No boas here.

Talking about getting excited, I have a countdown calendar with meals and things to do mapped out and on the fridge. I also have a calendar at work with the number of work days left until vacation (only 14!!). One bag is packed and I'm starting to accummulate clothes in the spare bedroom. :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[goofysgirl]

We will meet you guys for lunch. I have no idea what my children will be doing, but either with our without is fine with me. Can't wait.

[twhipple]

I called DCL today to make my ressies for Palo (White Glove Treatment). I was talked into doing brunch on Sunday morning, but we'll still join you for lunch (maybe just a soda for us though!).

[BethC]

We'd love to meet everyone for lunch, definitely count us in!

:)

[Dancind]

Finally got cruise docs today! No upgrade, darn. So how does 12:30 lunch sound? I wonder if we can "reserve" a table. Diana

[diznynut]

We would love to meet for lunch, but 12:30 is a little late for us. Maybe we will just stop in to say hello. We leave in 2 weeks. I can't wait for WDW and DCL. Hope all of you that were going to WDW also were able to get your passes prior to the price increase. Shondra

[abitjaded]

How about 12:00 for lunch? Is there a "cocktail" area outside Lumiere's where we could gather even earlier, or meet if you want to skip lunch? Just cannot tell from the map.

RANT ABOUT PETTY THING IGNORE IF YOU HATE WHINING:

We did not buy our park tickets in advance because we wanted length-of-stay-type with the last day lopped off. Well, with the ticket prices hiked and now a dirty little trick on Disney's part (Disney Club discounts ONLY in advance, meaning you have to pay for the first and last days, and only through their CRO, not available if you booked Swan or Dolphin direct):mad: we should have purchased in advance. I wasn't the only one who was steamed, I could tell the agent at the Swolphin was steamed, too. She said these new policies have been in place for a week and they "are having issues about it that they cannot get resolved". It seems so dumb on Disney's part to do something that gets them $50 more out of our party of seven that is so obvious. Why not keep the discounts and raise the general price of the tickets to cover what is lost from the Disney Club. After all the Disney Club should represent the repeat customers who are a bit more savvy. So cheap....It isn't like we are not already spending a fortune.

[abitjaded]

IT PAYS TO WHINE!!!!! Early entry is back, at least for the first two weeks in October! See this thread!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?threadid=265593

Hmm.....now we have to rework our schedule, this is well worth more planning!

[Californiaamy]

Dancind,

I went to Disneyland earlier this month and stocked up on some Disneyland pins since I heard that pin-trading might be fun on board -- I have never done pin-trading before, and I went waaaaayyyyy over board (no pun intended!) on what I bought, but I am looking forward to it!

And yes, lunch would be great, it will probably be without DH and DS for me.

[abitjaded]

Speaking of pins, I wonder if there is anything on the ship that sets off the 100 Years of Magic Pins?

[melcal308]

does anybody know if there are hangers in the staterooms? Have dresses to hang up and was just wonder if anyone knows if there are or not. thanks. cant wait only 12 more days for us.

mel

[diznynut]

Mel- There are a few hangers in the closet. I don't remember how many, maybe 5. We plan on taking a few extra with us.
Carla- There is not a lounge outside of Lumiere's, But the promanade lounge is close by. I know what you mean about ticket prices. We have had annual passes for years. The policy used to be you could purchase new passes, but they didn't go into effect until your fist day of use. Just found out today that we now have an anniversary date and the passes are good from that date on even if we don't plan on going for a while. Is Disney just trying to run away there clients? I just don't understand. I thought thier numbers were still low.
We can't wait to try and meet everyone. We leave this Saturday for WDW. So I won't be on the boards after Friday. If we don't hear something about a meet prior to then, I will stop try to stop by Lumiere's on Sunday. Shondra

[Dancind]

Hi everyone. Carla, thanks for the info on the excursion. I hope we don't get diverted from St. Thomas due to weather! There is a special pin on DCL for the 100 years celebration, it's a spinner and looks like a ship compass. It is not limited, so should be available. Amy, we'll see you at pin trading! Beware, pins are a big black hole, but they sure are fun. My DD and I do it together, that makes it even more fun. If you found any cute Tinkerbell pins at DL, we'll trade with you! So are we on for lunch at 12? Diana

[abitjaded]

We'll try to make lunch to meet you all. I have been avoiding thoughts about weather, I turn down the radio on NPR when I hear hurricane. I figure I have paid my dues hurricane-wise on vacations, so we all will be safe (Tropical Storm Gordon in Miami in and out for a week, deluges in Orlando during worst fire-drought on record, etc.) Bought some ginger extract and some meclizine, have benadryl chewable, will travel! Ordered goodies through Shirley, bought the shoe bag, pillowcases and multi-color Sharpies, fresh dye job this coming weekend and got my first manicure and pedicure ever. I've been ironing for a week, now if I can just cram it all in the suitcases....

[goofysgirl]

I am a wreck!!! My stress level has reached new heights. I have planned this vacation for 2 years and now with just a few days left to go, I am a MESS. My house looks like a bomb hit it. I have nothing packed. I am usually an easy going vaca person, but this time I just seem to be coming apart at the seams, I am worried over things I can't control.....Get those hurricaines out of our way! Gowns are overflowing the garment bags. I suddenly have reservations about the kids having their own room. I think I have started a mid-life crisis here. I think I will have a glass of wine and take a deep breath, but I might look funny doing that at my desk at 10:30 in the morning. I am thinking that a week at WDW would have been a lot less worrisome. Maybe because that is my home away from home. Anyway if I survive I will look forward to meeting y'all.
Cindy
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[Californiaamy]

Cindy --

It's five o'clock in London and six o'clock in Paris, so you can set your drink time to their clock, if you want! Just take a deep breath -- my theory is packing takes as much time as you give it...if you give it only a day, then that's when you get it done. If you pack for weeks, then that's how long it will take!

I hope those hurricanes go away, too!

[twhipple]

I too have been concerned about Lili and what's next to come. Dramamine is packed already though! Haircut is scheduled for tomorrow and my morning at the spa (pedicure, manicure and facial) will be Friday. I'm very well organized, but starting to stress about work getting done before I go. Only 3 1/2 more work days :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

We'll try to make lunch after our brunch at Palos. I should be able to find Carla now that I know what you look like. Still looks like we have a fairly deserted ship.

[abitjaded]

Just to make sure, Dancind, Shooter, twhipple and abitjaded families, 15 total, are going on the St Thomas snorkel tour. I sent a pix and copy of the Shore Trip voucher to all (Brain yours went as email attachment today). Meet at the pier at 8:30 by the St Thomas Dive Shop member with a sign with my name. Hopefully we can all figure out a place right after customs clearing to meet sooner. Leave a message for our stateroom, I think you all have my last name. See you!

Cindy, I know what you mean, you should see my house! I also have a million things to do at work and home. In the process I totally spaced a meeting I was supposed to be at last night. Now I have an added round of telephone apologies to add to my over-booked schedule.

Carla

[Californiaamy]

It can't be too much of a ghost cruise....curious about this, I went onto Yahoo travel where we first looked at available rooms when booking, and they list about 8 available rooms (give or take) in each of the categories 4-11 that they show, so that still seems like it's a fairly high occupancy rate (above 90%). OK, so what can we do to increase our chance for a......dare I say it?...... UPGRADE??????

Thanks for the info about the hangers, my husband is a hanger hog. This also made me think...are there hair dryers in the bathrooms or must we pack our own?

I also remember seeing a picture of a stateroom where someone had packed one of those over-the-door shoe holders to hold toiletries, etc on the bathroom door, as the counter space is limited. I wanted to go back and look at it but can't find it now....any body else know where this is at?

It's raining Isidore in Atlanta, hopefully Lili will go away soon....:(

[Dancind]

Amy, do a search for "packing" on the DCL board, there have been lots of threads about taking an over the door shoe holder. I'm a little more worried about Kyle than Lili. He's in the middle of the Atlantic heading slowly West, and has just been upgraded to a hurricane. Well, he's got 9 days to get his business done and get out of our way! Diana

[abitjaded]

Amy, there are hair dryers in the rooms but there is a funny picture on the platinum site that demonstrates how wimpy they are. Most people bring their own, I have only seen one out of many posts that felt the dryers supplied could get the job done.

Carla

[melcal308]

Thanks for the info on the hangers only a little over a week and we will all be just chillin. lol. :smooth:

[abitjaded]

Hey, looks like NASA is planning on sending up the shuttle between 2-6 P.M. on October 2. I know some of you will already be there. Maybe there is something positive about hurricanes in the area, delay until the afternoon of October 5??? But I bet the traffic would then become a nightmare!

http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/schedule/mixfleet.htm

Carla

[diznynut]

We are off to bed, it's time to go. They are coming to get us for the airport at 5 a.m. Off to WDW. We can't wait to meet you all next week.

Trever & Shondra

[KellyC]

Hi
Could someone going on this cruise please do me a favor?? I know it sounds very strange, but I would like to know if the beds can be moved in the staterooms. I have booked a cat. 11 for next year, and I prefer a different set up for the beds (can't afford a better category, which has the set up I want). DCL says the beds can't be moved, but I know that they move them together and apart, so I can't imagine that you wouldn't be able to turn them too!! Please, please someone check while you are on the cruise and let me know by email or a post to this board.
THANK YOU AND HAVE A GREAT TIME!!! :)

[abitjaded]

Where do you want to move the beds to?

Carla

[Californiaamy]

Anyone interested in going to Coral World in St. Thomas but not on the DCL excursion? I want to do this on my own with DS who is 3. I didn't think he'd really care for the "island tour" part of the trip (although this could be just the drive to and from coral world!) and you can also hang out at the beautiful beach next door on your own time table.

Coral World has lockers and showers, and Coki Beach, where it is located, is a nice calm beach to wade in, by all reports. You can pack a lunch or there are two fast-food type restaurants that are decently priced as well.

Let me know!

[Shooter]

Help! Help! Help!

I thought I had everything figured out and as I got looking at some things, I realized that I don't have a clue.

It's about dining and rotations and dressing. I know, I know we been over it a hundred times but I am DIS"board"functional.

Tropical night is Tuesday right? So do we go into the resturant that is up on our rotation dressed in festive tropical island wear even if it's Lumiere's? What if we want to go to Palo's that night? Lose the Parrothead digs and wear my suit. DW nice dress?

Let's go over the two "formal" nights. One is Sunday and one is Thursday. Do we show up again to the resturant that we are scheduled for that night in formal/semi formal wear? Even if it's Animators? Or are these three nights all held somewhere different away from the roatation resturants?

Please help this newbie! I was just starting to be able to handle the scare of hurricanes but now I'm thinking of just staying at the Econo Lodge in Cocoa Beach all week I'm so confused.

And this formal stuff. Trust me, we dress up all the time at this house and it's not a big deal but do DW & I have to look like we're going to the prom and 8 year old DS look like he's a ring bearer? I just hate over or under packing. I'm one of those anal hubbies that has to make sure evrything is mapped out.

Please at least help for my DW & DS's sake.

[Dancind]

Hi Shooter, welcome aboard. There are LOTS of threads on this board about what to wear, but here's some short answers. Yes, you stick to the restaurant rotation on the "special" nights, so you may be going formal at say, Parrot Cay, and tropical at Lumiere's. I think that even if you go to Palo's on tropical night, jacket is suggested. If you have the dress-up duds for formal and informal nights, bring them. There have been posts about the percentage of tuxedos, dress suits, sports jackets, etc. that are seen on these nights, but I don't remember what they were. I don't think you are expected to buy a suit or rent a tux for your 8 yo, but a shirt, slacks, and tie would be appropriate. Seems the formal and informal night pictures of the family are everyone's favorite. And try to join us for lunch on Sunday! Diana

[Shooter]

Dancind,

Thank you so much for the help.

We would love to meet you for lunch on Sunday. I didn't catch where and when?

thank you all so much and I look forward to meeting you all.

[Dancind]

I think we're planning for Lumiere's at 12. It's up a few posts now, but I think that's the concensus? Diana

[abitjaded]

A miracle, I think the stuff WILL fit in the suitcases! The joy of packing for five, four of whom are packing impaired.

[goofysgirl]

Carla,
YOU GO GIRL! I know the feeling. We have colorguard and dancing to attend before we pack and we are leaving on Thursday night after work. Guess who will be packing those suckers at 2AM? Anyway we are almost there.....................I can see the Pixie Dust starting to swirl around, or that just might be my killer dustballs! See you soon.
Cindy:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[abitjaded]

No, those are my killer dustballs. DS 6 just got up and is complaining about an upset stomach, plus he looks kinda grey...Please, no, no!

Carla

[holly dolly]

I just wanted to say hello to all of the 10-5 cruisers. It is just going to be me and my dad on this vacation and we are so excited for ouy first ever Disney Cruise:p It would be sooo cool if the shuttle would launch on Sat!!!!!!

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[abitjaded]

Welcome holly dolly and daddy. Join us for lunch!

[twhipple]

Well we leave tomrrow morning. All packed, just have a couple more things to do. We'll look for all of you on Sunday around noon at Lumieres. I assume we'll be done with brunch by then :teeth:

Can't wait! :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[BethC]

We're not leaving until Friday, but it sounds like a lot of you are headed out soon. Hope everyone has a good trip and we'll plan on meeting everyone for lunch at Lumieres on Sunday.

Keep an eye out for my mom and I - we'll both be wearing our DIS lanyards.

4 MORE DAYS!!!!!