Who else is on the May 10, 2003 Western?

[Bbgrizzle]

Hi! Who'll be joining us on the May 10th Western? We were on the May 18th Magic and loved it so much we booked next year's cruise while we were still on board. We didn't take the kids last time, but we will for the next one. Our family includes:

Brent
Bonnie
DD Heather (9) (ages at time of cruise)
DD Caitlin (5)
DD Ainslee (22 months)

Who else will be there? Are we going to plan a DIS meet?
Bonnie:earsgirl:

[IrishCowboy]

We're currently booked for the May 17, 2003 cruise but we think we're going to change to May 10 or May 24 cruise.

Maybe we'll see you onboard!

[MFan]

We are!! We will have two other families joining us, and there are two more still considering. Of the current 3 families, there are 8 children ranging in ages (at time of cruise) from 6 months to 9 yrs old.

This is the first thread on 5/10/03 sailing that I've seen, so I don't think there is a DIS meeting planned yet. But, there is still plenty of time. (I have never planned a vacation so far ahead. I don't know how I'm going to survive the anticipation.) :confused:

[WDWLVR]

We'll (WDWLVR and MarkRG) be on the May 10th Magic along with Mark's parents.

Can't wait to visit a whole new set of ports. I'm already checking out websites and we don't leave for 11 months.

Of course our next big trip is home to Boardwalk so I don't need to do much research there.

[rmbreset]

This will be our second, our first was a land/sea on the Wonder. We are booked in cabin 6542.

Roger
Debra
DD - Claire 6 (ages at time of cruise)
DD - Allison 12

[goofytoo]

We're coming too!
It will be me- (goofytoo) Lisa DH- Bob DS- Cody 10
and DH Parents!
This is our second cruise first one was on the Wonder in 2001
I am really excited about these ports.
a Dis meet would be fun!
We will be in cabin 6572 this is the exact cabin we had on the wonder in 2000
I loved having a veranda
Lets try to keep in touch.

1983 Disneyland
1987 Disney Inn (shades of Green) Honeymoon
1992 offsite
2000 Port Orleans
2001 Disney Wonder and HRH
2002 Wilderness Lodge
2003 Magic May 10

[Hygiene99]

hi all, we scheduled to go on this cruise BUT
we also might be switching to the May 10 th cruise
but still have not decided as of yet
we have been on 4 cruises and this will be # 6 as we r going on the wonder in Dec. just to tide us over.....
so maybe we will see u all there
peter

[Bbgrizzle]

Hi everyone! Nice to meet you! :)
Just curious, is this anyone's first DCL cruise?
MFan, I agree, it is strange to have a vacation planned so far ahead. It's fine for us though, since we just got back a couple weeks ago. I'm sure we will have others join our thread as the months pass. Let's make sure we all keep in touch and help each other plan.

Bonnie
P.S. We are in stateroom #8026. If we had our way, we'd be in a category 9 again, which was fine for us. But with our family of 5, we have to be in a category 4, even though our youngest will still be in a crib. Pretty expensive for us, but worth it! :)

[MFan]

We have 5 as well, but we decided to go with 2 adjoining cat 10 cabins instead of a cat 4. Neither my DW nor I cared much for the verandah in our 2 previous cruises (4 nights & 7 nights). We think the inside cabins helps our kids to nap/sleep. Also, we are still holding out hope that my mom will be willing to join us to help out, or we may end up bringing our nanny with us. In either case, a cat 4 will no longer fit.

Another family travelling with us will be in a cat 4. I don't have their cabin number handy. I'll have to look it up and post it later...

[MFan]

Bump...

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[gfolchick]

We're sailing too. Have DD(6) at sailing and DS(3). Trying to convince our best friends to join us too. I'm so happy to be spending Mothers Day on the cruise and not in my kitchen!!

[Bbgrizzle]

Is anyone else as obsessed as me, and already starting to look at the shore excursions? What looks fun?

For those of you who have cruised with DCL before, what did you think of the kids clubs? Does anyone know what they do at Goofy's Giggle Gala? Also, does anyone have any ideas on what I can do to make my kids' first cruise extra special?

MFAN: Wow, from your siggy it appears that you're quite the cruising savante. :) How do you think DCL rates compared to the other cruise lines?

[rmbreset]

On our daughters first Disney cruise we pre-ordered the matching sailor Mickey and Minnie stuffies from the booklet, they were waiting on their beds for them when we entered the cabin.

[two4ruff]

Count us in also!

We are my husband and I and two sons, ages 7 and 10.

This is our second Disney cruise, first time western.

We are staying in a secret porthole room again and are counting down the days!!

Are we there yet???:Pinkbounc

[MFan]

Bbgrizzle,

We've been on a few cruises, but not nearly as many as some others had on this board. Here are my opinions on the cruise lines we've traveled with before.

Carnival: Great for singles, young couples without kids, and families with older child(ren) (teen or older). Marginal for families with young kids.

Although they are trying to move away from their previous tagline of a "party ship" toward a more family orientation, their primary market is still the younger set. I mean, if you want to cruise and you're a single or without kids, Carnival would still be your first pick.

Princess: Great for older couples and mature adults. Ok for young couples and families with older child(ren). Marginal for singles and families with young kids.

Princess tend to attract a more mature audience and fewer families with young kids. The programs they offer onboard are mostly geared toward adults.

DCL: Great for families with young kids and any-aged Disneyholics. Ok for families with older child(ren) (teen or older). Marginal for singles and older couples (except for Disneyholics).

In my opinion, DCL is ideal for families with younger kids (teens or younger). Although other cruise lines offer "kids programs", they usually feel like afterthoughts -- mere attempts -- whereas the DCL's ships were designed with kids in mind.

Another huge differentiator of DCL is the lack of onboard casino. All other mainstream cruise ships have onboard casinos that take up large amounts of floor space. Meanwhile, DCL dedicates those floor spaces to kids activity centers instead. Casinos generate a lot of profit for cruiselines and they helped to keep the cruise prices down. This is partially why DCL cruisers pay a premium in price.

[goofytoo]

Hi Two4ruff
I noticed our DS's will be the same age.
when does your Son turn 10?
Mine will turn 10 in February.
Did your Kids enjoy the clubs last time?
What cabin will you be in? we will be in 6572?
We are researching airfare now. We already have our room booked on the 9th at the Raddison
It will be DH's Birthday he turns 41! Oh Boy!
We stayed at the raddison last time it was awesome.
I cannot think of a better way to spend Mothers day!!!!!!
Are we planning a meet?

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

1983Disneyland
1987 Disney Inn Honeymoon
1992 offsite
2000 Port Orleans
2001 Wonder and HRH
2002 Wilderness Lodge
2003 May 10 western Yaa Hooo!

[two4ruff]

goofytoo,
My son will turn 11 in November - he really enjoyed the club last time, he tends to be a "joiner" ! My younger son prefered to hang out with us, he is not as outgoing.

We are staying in secret porthole room #5522.

We are still shopping for airfare here. Unfortunately, we don't have many options from our airport. We will probally fly in Friday and stay at the Radisson also.

I didn't realize it was Mother's Day on our cruise! Perfect!

[Goofy Girl]

We are two middle age kids (who love Disney Cruises), and this will be our 4th cruise (all Disney), and our first Western! I simply can't wait (I can't believe we booked so far out!).
Luckily we haev a WDW vacation this fall to keep us from having "withdrawal"!

[WDWLVR]

Goofy Girl,

You sound like us. My DH and I are childless but kids at heart when it comes to Disney. We booked the May 10th cruise when we were on board the Wonder this past May. In between we have a trip home to Boardwalk planned to get our WDW fix.

This will be our 4th Disney cruise as well. We've done 3-day on the Magic in '99, 7-day Eastern on the Magic in 2001, and the 4-day Wonder this past May.

[Minnee]

Bbgrizzle,

We'll be there, my DD's are so excited!! They'll be 11,9,7 when we cruise.
They loved the last cruise we took in November 2001, my 2 youngest didn't want to leave the clubs. My oldest went to the clubs when she liked what was going on, she met new friends, and they went to movies together. It was Great!!
What have you found out about shore excursions? My DD's would be happy to boogie board, or play in the sand all day.
I see your from Las Vegas, us too, have you checked any airfare yet?
Let me know what you find out!

[Bbgrizzle]

Minnee,
How neat to have someone else from Vegas on the cruise with us! And you have 3 girls too, hee hee! Don't you love it?

I haven't really checked out shore excursions too much. The ones I really want to do aren't suitable for a baby (22 months at time of cruise). I do want to do the tour of the ruins in Cozumel, and that's about it so far. What about you?

Thanks for the info on the kids clubs. My kids are pretty outgoing so I think they will love the clubs. I got copies of the children's Navigators on our last cruise, so I could show them what they would be doing if we took them on the DCL cruise. Actally, we haven't told them that we are going. We don't want to torture them with the long wait until then.

As for airfare, I've been checking on Orbitz.com and Expedia.com and they are showing flights at around $250+. When we went on our cruise in May, we found flights on Delta thru Orbitz for $129 round trip. We scarfed them up. Hopefully flights will go on sale again by then. I'll let you know if I see any good deals; you do the same, okay? :D

[Minnee]

Is everyone flying home after the cruise, or are you going to WDW for a few days? What about before the cruise?

[MFan]

It's cruise only for us and our friends. We'll fly in the day before departure and fly out the day of arrival. Can't wait...:bounce: :Pinkbounc

[gfolchick]

We're planning on arriving Friday and staying at the Radisson, and on the return renting a car and heading to Disney for the day and flying back Sunday. I don't want to take the kids out of school too much more than that. I noticed that there are already about 5 girls in the 5-7 category. My kids (and me!!) are sooooo excited. I have been picking up dressier clothes for them while they are on sale now which adds to the fun.

[Bbgrizzle]

We will probably spend a couple of days at WDW before the cruise. Doing it after the cruise would mean being there over the weekend, and we would rather avoid the crowds. ;) Hey, I just found out that my stateroom is 2 doors down from the Walt Disney suite. That's got to be a good location, huh? :)

[MFan]

Originally posted by Bbgrizzle
Hey, I just found out that my stateroom is 2 doors down from the Walt Disney suite. That's got to be a good location, huh? :)
Interesting! Are you forward or aft? One family in our party has the cabin just forward of the Walt Disney Suite. In addition to 2 older sons, they will have a 6 months old baby on this trip.

[Hygiene99]

just checking in ... we will be on this cruise , had thoughts of switching to following week but this is goood
we will fly in day before and stay at the rad.
and probably spend sat night at the boardwalk....
and come home on sunday night
this is number 6 5 is in dec. and we have no children , we did do a group brunch at Palos on our last cruise
was about 20 people or so and it was pre arranged.....
and we did also make reservations for brunch on our own for the other day .... we reallly like this route....................
peter


2 doors down from Suite love that location we had room 8502
last cruise was only down the hall from alll kinds of Suites....
we always got to see the entertainment help in the halls up there was fun......

[Bbgrizzle]

MFAN-
We are in 8026, two rooms forward from Walt's suite. Looks like your friends are our neighbors. :)

gfolchick-
When will your daughter be turning 6? My daughter, Caitlin, will be 3 weeks shy of her 6th birthday at time of sailing. Will yours be in Kindergarten this year too?

[gfolchick]

Bbgrizzle (bonnie)
My daughter turns 6 in January. She starts kindergarten in two weeks, yeah!!
I also have a son who will be one month shy of 4 and is reluctantly starting preschool next month. Any other boys in this age group going yet? He may be a problem leaving in the clubs. I hope he gets there and loves it. Hubby and I took Eastern cruise last May and Loved IT!!!

Gina

[rmbreset]

We have a daughter turning 6 in April and starting kindergarten in 2 weeks who we be on board as well, We also have a daughter who will be 12 when we set sail
-rogerb

[two4ruff]

We need more boys!! Looks like my two (8 & 11) are out numbered!!

Anyone get a good deal from the Radison? I have yet to make a reservation - guess I better get busy...

[Bbgrizzle]

Gfolchick: Were you on the Eastern cruise May of this year or last year? Which dates? We were on the May 18th Eastern.

Goofy Girl: Hey, you'll be at WDW the same time we are (Dec. 3). Where are you staying? Are you doing MVMCP? We have tickets for Dec. 5th. Our first time there for the holidays!

Hygiene99: Your group brunch at Palos--was that a DIS meet? Do you like the Western better than the Eastern?

[gfolchick]

We were on the April 28-May 5, 2001 cruise. Had a great time, but really looking forward to the new ports.

Both of my kids are so into mini golf now so we're excited to find one in Cozumel.

Haven't booked the Radisson yet for Friday, waiting for a deal, although by the looks of it so far, we may have a pretty full ship.

[bethsg]

We are booked for this cruise too. We are coming with another couple, and we are both celebrating anniversaries. We are leaving our 4 kids at home! This will be our 3rd Disney Cruise. I am looking forward to some great time at the adult pool, and at the adult nightlife activities. We have cate 11 staterooms, we went as cheap as we could.

[rmbreset]

wow , what a coincidence. We are going with another couple (my inlaws) it is there anniversary 5/10 and it is ours on 5/13 ! We both sailed on a 4-day 5/00.

[Hygiene99]

it was a Dis meet , it was on the inaugural western on May 11,2002 was a blast since the may 11 thread was started a bout a year a head of the cruise was so much fun meeting the people and all.. hope may be to pull something like that together again but we have a while ....
peter

[MFan]

Originally posted by two4ruff
We need more boys!! Looks like my two (8 & 11) are out numbered!!

We have a boy. DS will be 3 months short of 6 on cruise day. He's also starting kindergarten this fall. This will be his 3rd DCL cruise...:D

[Goofy Girl]

We have only planned the cruise, so far, but are talking about booking some time at WDW before hand. We like the WDW before, because it is a fast-paced vacation, and then the cruise allows us to "chill" before it's over! We are also considering "do we fly or drive?" Do we bring "Mom" to Florida with us (my brother lives in FL and would love to have her visit)?

We still have a lot of decisions to make!
BUT WE ARE CRUISIN! WHO-HOOOO!

[Minnee]

Just bumping up, to see if anyone else is sailing with us.:D

[goofytoo]

we have the raddison booked for may 9th we fly in at 10:00 am out of Boston
I got the 79$ rate for my inlaws and the 99$ rate for us( suite with Hot tub) Oh boy!
I used the visit florida code.
We were on the Wonder in May 2001
I can't wait for these ports It is going to be hard to make decisions on the excursions though

two4ruff My boy will be 10 on the cruise next year.
Are they broken up 10-11 or is it 9-10

anybody have all of the excusions picked out yet???
We have lots to celebrate dh turns 41 on the 9th and we will have just had out 16th
anniversary


1983 disneyland
1987 Disney Inn
1992 offsite
2000 port orleans
2001 wonder and HRH
2002 Wilderness Lodge
2003 Magic May 10, 2003:Pinkbounc

[goofytoo]

bump:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[Bbgrizzle]

Hi everyone,
Just wanted to check in and see how everyone's plans are coming along. We're down to the six month mark. Has anyone chosen their shore excursions yet? When will we be able to book them? My DD's are hoping there will be lots of other 9 and (almost) 6 year olds on this cruise :) Take care.

[bethsg]

I don't believe we can book excusions, until 60 days prior. Has anyone info or experience with the Jeep excursion? I am interested in doing it, but I hear you are teamed up with others, and then you must share the driving. I am not certain, I want to be teamed up with drivers I don't know! Other than that, I am looking at lots of R&R, and time away from my kids, who I love dearly!

[Hygiene99]

the Jeep exc.
WAS awesome. highly recommend
it looks like we will be on this cruise , we had wanted to switch but we r not going too.
Peter

[Minnee]

I've been thinking it's about time to book a room at the Raddison the night before, but it seems like the lowest price I get on the website is $129-$149. I even tried the visit florida code. Any Suggestions?
I've also been looking into alot of excursions, several have age restrictions.( I think even the jeep one, which sounded really fun)Do you wait and book with DLC or book your excursions on your own?
My DD's (and myself) Can't wait!!

[gfolchick]

I booked the Radisson already. We have a room with 2 king beds and a queen sofabed for $119/nt. I think it was called the Floribean Getaway. It wasn't available online, I booked it with the hotel directly. I didn't know how my kids would do sharing a bed so we booked the biggest room we could. I don't remember if there is a hot tub in the room-I think there may be. Getting very excited!!!!! Leaving for Disney in a week and hoping to find some small goodies to put in the kids gift baskets.

[Minnee]

We booked our Air !! Had to fly out on Thursday instead of Friday, the rates were Much better for Thursday!!
Bbgrizzle have you gotten your Air yet?
Can't wait!!

[Bbgrizzle]

Only 4 1/2 months left!

Hi Minnee! No, we haven't booked our air yet; we're too poor from Christmas :) Which airline did you use?

[two4ruff]

Hi May 10th-ers!

Airline prices in our area just took a big price drop so we finally got out tickets just last night. Our local airport, Spokane, isn't very large so our carriers are limited but we still saved $400 than if we would have booked last week...

Are you all getting excited yet???

[Minnee]

Hi Bbgrizzle,
We're on Southwest, only because our company had a trade with them. They seem to be running about the same price as everyone else. I've been checking the other airlines for months. We'll be getting in to Orlando Thursday early evening, didn't really want to pull my Dd's out of school the extra day, but to fly out Friday was going to be close to $500.00 more. Are you staying at the Radisson before the Cruise? I haven't made those reservations yet. We stayed at the Hilton Many years ago(on our honeymoon), and it wasn't that great!! Are your Dd's getting excited?
How was you Christmas trip?
We were at the Poly last December, and had a Great time!! I really love that hotel!

[Bbgrizzle]

Minnie, we didn't get to go on our Christmas WDW trip. :( We had to cancel due to hubbie's work having a huge deadline during that time (he does architecture). I forgot to change my siggie. I was sad of course, but our kids didn't know about the trip in the first place because it was going to be a surprise. We aren't telling them about the cruise either. It's hard to make them wait for so long. We'll probably tell them like 2 weeks before.

Because we didn't get to do WDW at Christmas, we are going to spend 3 days there before the cruise. So we will fly out very late on Tuesday night (at least we are planning to, we haven't purchased the air yet) and arrive at about 7:30am on Wed. We will do Mk, Epcot and MGM on Wed, Thurs and Fri and then the cruise on Saturday. We'll be staying at the Poly. I feel a little guilty about having the kids miss so much school, but I'm not too worried about it since they are both excellent students.

I still have no idea about shore excursions. It will be hard with the baby. Has anyone done the dolphin encounter? Does anyone know if you are allowed to leave a toddler in Flounders while you leave the ship for 2-3 hours?

[Hygiene99]

hi all just checking in , looks like we might be coming in early and spending time at wdw since our annual passes r going to expire .... and then go to the port on the day of the cruise...


happy new years to all peter

[Ocean]

Our party of two will be on the May 10 cruise. We're looking forward to two weeks of Mickey: we've got an Old Key West stay starting after the cruise. See you at sea!

[WDWLVR]

We'll be on the May 10th cruise along with my in-laws. Haven't booked air yet but I've been checking prices weekly.

Before we sail on the Magic we have the DVC member cruise coming up in a month - we are very lucky this year to be sailing on both ships in the same year (we only have about 30 cruises or so to catch up with Barb & Tony :) )

[Minnee]

What about travel insurance? We don't have it yet, but I would really feel better if we did. Did you have DCL's travel insurance or did you go with someone else? We didn't have it on our last cruise, thankfully we never needed it(I worried about it)! DD had her leg in a cast (from soccer), got that off 5 weeks before we left, and right after we got back, was standing on the back of a chair(goofing around), fell and broke her arm, so I know that things happen soo easily!
Excursions: I've been reading about Captain Marvins (sp?), the sting ray thing. This looks like something even the little ones can do.
Still haven't figured out where to stay before the cruise.
It's getting close!!!

[Bbgrizzle]

Okay, let's talk DIS meet.

If you would like to have one, please respond with the names of the people in your party and the ages (at time of sailing) of your children. Also include any suggestions of a time and a place to meet. I thought maybe we could have a spot for the sail away party, like deck 10, overlooking the Mickey pool. That's what a lot of other DIS-ers have done. What do you think?

Brent
Bonnie
DD Heather (9)
DD Caitlin (almost 6)
DD Ainslee (22 months)

[gfolchick]

We'd be interested in a meet too. There are four of us:
Gina
Jim
DD ~~~~~ (6)
DS ~~~~~~ (1 mo shy of 4 at cruise)

We are starting to stress because ~~~~~~ still isn't out of pull ups and I've been reading how strict they are in the clubs. We've been watching the airfares which are still high, but are leaning toward Southwest leaving Friday. (only Southwest and Delta fly directly from our airport). Hubby and I did Eastern cruise by ourselves last year so we know how wonderful Palo is and would like to enjoy a dinner without the kids at least once.
If anyone is staying Friday at the Raddison look for us by the pool.

[Minnee]

Deck 10 sounds good to me! Count us in.......

Don
Jennifer
DD ~ Hailey ~11
DD ~ Nicki ~ 9
DD ~ Delaney ~ 7(she turns 7 just before we leave)

[kangaroodle]

A meet would be fun! It will be me and my husband, My DD will be 6 and my son will be 2 weeks shy of 4 (GFOLchick---seems like our kids are the same ages!) We are also traveling with another couple and their 2 sons who are 5 (almost 6) and 3 1/2. Not sure if they'll be interested in the meet. I can't wait ! We'll be going to WDW for a few days before the cruise. Is anyone else who's doing the cruise a DVC member? Did you book using points? Talk to you all soon!:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[two4ruff]

gfolchick-
I just booked our room at the Radisson last night...

We are flying in Friday afternoon on Delta (our selections are also quite limited at our airport)

I have two boys, 11 & 8, who are not concerned at all about the hotel room, ONLY the pool....so I'm sure we'll see you there!:rolleyes:

Jill

[WDWLVR]

I'm always up for a DIS meet. :)

We are traveling with my in-laws. No kids. Not sure if we'll be able to make the sailaway meet but we'll try. Also if there are any others scheduled I'm sure those would be easier for us to make.

We are DVC members who are using points for the DVC member cruise in Feb. and cash for the May 10th cruise.

kangaroodle - if we don't make the regular meet we can meet at the DVC party!

[kangaroodle]

I didn't even know there is a DVC meet? When do they usually have it? What do you do there? That sounds like fun. I always like to meet other DVC'rs! Where is your "home"? Ours is OKW since 1995 (Got those free park passes for a few years!) It would be fun to meet. By the way, my name is Kathy! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[WDWLVR]

Hi Kathy!

We've been members since Jan. 2000 and our home is Boardwalk!

On the 7 day cruises they usually have a couple of different get togethers for DVC. One of them is more of a sales presentation geared at non DVC members to show them what DVC is. They love it when DVC members show up however because they use you to answer some of the questions. It is also a good way for new DVC members (like I was when I went to it in May 2000) to learn about what's new in DVC and how you can use your points. Everyone who comes to this got a small gift (a DVC can cozy) and it took about an hour.

The other, which is just for DVC members, is a members party. We got a DVC member hat when we walked in (everyone in our party which included my in laws who aren't DVC members, but use our points). It was in the comedy club on the ship and they had tables set up with snacks (nuts and chips) on them. Everyone got a drink (pop or wine if I remember correctly). We were welcomed, they asked general questions (who owns at OKW, Vero, Boardwalk, etc.). Then they played a game show based on Jeporardy and for who got each answer correct you got a prize (small things like luggage tags for the easy questions, beach towels and bags for the harder ones). It was a lot of fun and people had a good time.

Not sure if they use the same format any more since there are so many new members since we went back in 2000. Either way I'm sure it will be fun. See you there!

[Bbgrizzle]

Okay, so I have 6 families down who are interested in a DIS meet:

glolchick: Gina, Jim, DD (6) and DS (4)

Minnie: Don, Jennifer, DD Hailey (11), DD Nicki (9),
and DD Delany (7)

Kangaroodle: Wife, Hubby, DD (6), and DS (4)

two4ruff: Jill, DS (11), DS (8)

WDWLVR: (Maybe) Mary, Hubby

Bbgrizzle: Brent, Bonnie, Heather (9), Caitlin (almost 6), and
Ainslee (22 months)

Anyone else?

Hey, I just realized that most of us are Castaway Club members. Don't they usually have a little CC reception with the captain or something? We've only cruised once before, so we've never done this reception. Let's wear our lime green ribbons to that also, that we can meet those who can't make the DIS meet.

[TChrist05]

Hello all.....we just changed our reservation from 11/29/03 to the western 5/10 sailing....we were origionally on the 11/30/02 sailing that was cancelled....just could not wait a year to cruise on the Magic.....and to go on the western itinerary is even better...we did the eastern swing the year earlier.....so wife and I are looking forward to meeting all of our fellow DIS'ers......we booked a category 6 but they could not give us cabin number....they said it would be given when we check in at the port....bad thing is we don't know where we will be on the ship....but the good thing is we are guaranteed a category 6...but will be upgraded at the port with what is available since we were on the cancelled cruise.....so I guess that is good....and we did get to cruise for 50% off.....only 17 weeks from Saturday.....I am counting already!
Tom

[Cinderella1001]

We will be joining everybody as well. We first booked for this past December but my mother passed away and we felt that taking a cruise during her birthday month was a little soon, so we moved it to May.

Me 35, DH 36, DD 9, Sister 30, Neice 8, Brother 32, Dad 61
+3 Friends we just talked into coming along with us.

[two4ruff]

bgrizzle-
Can't forget my DH...he's coming too!!

See you then,
jill

[Bbgrizzle]

Welcome TChrist05 and Cinderella1001! I will add you to the DIS meet list.

And two4ruff's husband! :)

Minnee: I am going to PM you.

[Bbgrizzle]

Hey, how come the 5/17/03 cruise thread has 194 posts and we only have 71? Are we all just shy? :D

I know that some people don't like to share anything personal about themselves, but for those who do, tell us about yourselves! I'll start:

We live in Las Vegas, and this will be our second cruise, but the first with the kids. Brent is an architectural project coordinator. His hobbies are attending baseball games and collecting baseball cards. I (Bonnie) am a SAHM, who will be graduating from college in May (woo hoo!) with a degree in Elementary Ed. My hobbies are reading, scrapbooking, and collecting Mary Engelbreit teapots. Hmmm, we sound like boring people, don't we? :)

DD Heather (9) is in 3rd grade, loves reading and collecting American Girl stuff. DD Caitlin (5) is in Kindergarten, is an excellent reader and loves dogs and Angelina Ballerina stuff.
DD Ainslee (will be 22 months at cruise time) is still learning to talk, loves Winnie the Pooh and Dora the Explorer.

Sorry so long; was that an overshare? ;)

[WDWLVR]

I'll go next!

DH and I are dinks (dual income no kids). Really kids at heart as we both love Disney. I'm in the Direct Mail business and DH (MarkRG on the DIS) is in the Dry Cleaning business (service tech).

The May 10th cruise will be our 5th Disney cruise (our 4th is 3 weeks away - yeah). I've been on a number of other cruises in the past on other lines and Disney is far and away the best!

I love scrapbooking too - fairly new at it but I love it. Do a lot of it with the digital camera and computer.

We also love Nascar and enjoy the races on TV and in person.

On this cruise we'll also be traveling with my in-laws - that's why I'm not sure if we'll make the meet at sailaway. The in-laws look at us like we're nuts when we mention online friends :)

See you all soon!

[goofytoo]

Ok here goes.............
It will be me- Lisa 38,DH Bob 41, DS Cody 10
This is our second cruise the first was on the Wonder in May 2001
Me- Customer service team leader, Disneyaholic, loves Mickey,Goofy, and all things happy. Loves to travel- Anywhere! especially warm, sunny places
being from the chilly North we love to find the warmth.

Dh- Bob warehouse manager Loves to lay by the pool, sit in the Hot tub, play tourist
Likes classic cars especially fast ones, likes to build furniture, enjoy the outdoors

DS- Cody Loves Palystation! 100% Rough and tumble boy!
swimming anything outdoors

Hope to make at least one of the meets I will try to remember some lime green ribbons
We are flying out of Boston on May 9th and staying at the raddison on Friday night.
We are coming with our inlaws I don't think they will attend the meet.
This is there second cruise the last one was on Princess we convinced them Disney is Better!
we are booked in cabin 6572 the same as on the wonder in 2001

How many more days? 112?
1983 Disneyland
1987 Disney Inn Honeymoon May 2, 1987
1992 off site
2000 Port Orleans
2001 Wonder and HRH
2002 Wilderness Lodge
2003 Western Carribean Magic

[TChrist05]

Hey all....as I stated before my wife and I are sailing with you guys on the 5/10 Magic.....but we were scheduled to sail on the 11/30/02 Magic which was canceled....we had booked the cruise a full year in advance and when it got within two months we were banging off the walls....we planned the week cruise and then 5 nights in Disney World......so when our cruise was canceled we had to scramble....could not spend 12 nights in Disney World....so they put us on the Wonder on 12/1....it was good but not what we wanted....so we are excited....but want to keep it in check in case something else happens and we get disappointed again....not that I think anything will happen with the cruise...something on our end.....but we are really looking forward to meeting everyone....and we are getting ready to book airfare soon....watching the prices each night on the web.....unfortunately we have to fly in the day the ship leaves....so it does not leave much room for error.....anyway...it won't be long now.....
Tom:bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc

[TChrist05]

Hey all....as I stated before my wife and I are sailing with you guys on the 5/10 Magic.....but we were scheduled to sail on the 11/30/02 Magic which was canceled....we had booked the cruise a full year in advance and when it got within two months we were banging off the walls....we planned the week cruise and then 5 nights in Disney World......so when our cruise was canceled we had to scramble....could not spend 12 nights in Disney World....so they put us on the Wonder on 12/1....it was good but not what we wanted....so we are excited....but want to keep it in check in case something else happens and we get disappointed again....not that I think anything will happen with the cruise...something on our end.....but we are really looking forward to meeting everyone....and we are getting ready to book airfare soon....watching the prices each night on the web.....unfortunately we have to fly in the day the ship leaves....so it does not leave much room for error.....anyway...it won't be long now.....
Tom:bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc

[goofytoo]

Bump!
Lets here from some more of May 10 Cruisers!


:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[kangaroodle]

Hi! My name is Kathy and my husband's name is Mark. We have 2 children. Kelly, 6, is in Kindergarten (Oct b-day) and loves crafts, drawing, American girl dolls, and all things where she can run, jump and be goofy. She loves to make friends with EVERYONE. My son, Jeff, is 3 and will be about 3 weeks shy of his 4th b-day on the cruise. Jeff loves NASCAR, especially Jeff Gordon, all sports and anything that includes running and jumping. We will go to WDW for 2 days/3 nights before the cruise. We are DVC members. We live in Naperville, Illinois (southwest suburb of Chicago). I am a nurse and Mark is a carpenter. We absolutely love Disney and are also NASCAR fans. We can't wait to go on this cruise! The last cruise my husband and I went on was 10 years ago! The kids are excited about going, too and hope to meet a lot of new friends in the Kids Club. It will be fun to meet up with everyone. We are also cruising with our good friends Gordon and Rae who have 2 boys who are 5 and 3. See you all soon! Kathy:smooth: :smooth: :smooth:

[kangaroodle]

Mary, It looks like we have more in common than the DVC! Looks like we're both from Illinois and NASCAR fans, too! How old are you and your husband (if you don't mind me asking)? You'll have to let me know how the DVC cruise goes. It looked like it would be fun but WITH kids we couldn't do both.:( Where in Illinois do you live? Do you go to the races at The Chicagoland Speedway? We have been "Track Pack" holders for 3 years now. Talk to you soon. Kathy

[two4ruff]

We are a family of four - me, my husband - an Air Force paramedic, and our two sons - PJ 11 (our computer/video game expert) and Garrett, who will be 8 at cruise time.

This is our second Disney cruise. Went Eastern route last year, looking forward to the new ports.

Yes, I live with a hockey obsessed family so a cruise is my only guaranteed hockey free week!! (Until they drag our those darned nets for the ESPN Challange...:rolleyes: )

Our planned excursions are Captain Marvins in GC and the Dolphin Discovery swim in Cozumel.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

[WDWLVR]

Kathy,

Sent you a pm - we do have a lot in common!

[jeanelain]

can't wait! our party consists of me (39 yr old mom) grandma and my two daughters ages 10 and 7. the 10 year old loved the kids clubs on the 4 day and made a lot of friends. if there's anyone out there going with similar age kids maybe they can introduce themselves beforehand... we booked with dreams unlimited and got a great deal...

[kangaroodle]

Mary---I sent a pm back to you!

[Bbgrizzle]

Hey, where are

MFan
rmbreset
Hygiene99
bethsg
and Ocean?

We haven't heard from you guys in a while.

And gfolchick, Minnee, goofy too, two4ruff, Goofy Girl, you need to tell us about yourselves!

Cinderella1001, I have a daughter who is 9 also, we should hook them up. :) There aren't too many other 9 year old girls for this cruise thread.

Kangaroodle: Sending you a PM

[Goofy Girl]

We will be driving to FL the week before the cruise and spending 5 nights at OKW, leaving Mom with my brother, then on to the cruise for one glorious week.
That will be my sister, Jan and I (Judy)- both over 40 - I mean way over 40! But we are kids at heart - have been on 3 Disney cruises, and LOVE IT! I can't wait!
I am up for a meet, if we can make it.

[trampslady]

Count us in!

Just paid deposit on stateroom 2600. First time DCL cruise for me and hubby.

Me 34, disney obsessed since May 2002-first WDW visit ever!
Hubby 37, also disney obsessed!

We are planning to spend two nights at WDW prior to cruise. Of course, we have several short weekend trips to WDW planned between now and then to tide us over!!

[TChrist05]

Hello all....just 16 short weeks and counting until the cruise....we live in New York and let me tell you....it is bitterly cold here tonight....so the thought of sitting outside on our verandah on the May 10th cruise just warms us up.....and now we have plenty of time to put the plans in motion for a great DIS meeting.....and we are going to some real great places on the cruise....just cannot wait......talk to you all soon....and I will be counting down each week until we are on the MAGICAL ship!
Tom:D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc

[gfolchick]

Hi Everyone,
It's me, Gina, 35-a stay at home mom who is a huge Disney fan. Was 3 months shy of leaving Connecticut for WDW permanatly when I met my hubby. He would rather vacation there than live there.
Jim, 34-Management in IT (seriously overworked) Plays as hard as he works.
Megan-just turned 6 on Thursday, very excited about cruise. Into basketball and princesses (and Bitty Baby American Girl)
Daniel-turns 4 on June 19. Loves mini-golf. He is now fully potty trained (which was an issue for us in an earlier post). A little shy, but loves preschool so I'm hoping he'll enjoy clubs. We keep pumping him up with all the pirate merchandise he can buy onboard.
Jim and I did the Eastern cruise in May 2001 and had a ball. We're staying at the Radisson on Friday and staying somewhere in Disney area (WL?) the Saturday of our return.

[Minnee]

Hey Everybody !
We are: Me, Don, Hailey(11), Nicholle(Nicki)(9), and Delaney (6, turning 7 a few days before we cruise). This is our 2nd cruise, we did the 7 day land/sea, Nov. 2001.
We own a party rental company here in Las Vegas. The girls are into: soccer, tennis, golf, and cheerleading.
Haven't made any reservations yet for before the cruise, is everyone staying at the Radisson?

[two4ruff]

Looks like several of us are at the Radisson the night before!

Anyone booked any excursions yet?

Jill

[PixeeDust]

Hi ! Are there any 11-13 yr. old girls going?
I'll be there
:D
Thanks

[Bbgrizzle]

Hi all,

Just checking in. We've decided to tell our kids tonight about the cruise. They're going to be so excited!

I'm also wondering if anyone has ever done the Xcaret excursion?

PixeeDust: Minnee has an 11-year-old DD also. Will you be joining us at our DIS meet? How many are in your party?

trampslady: I saw your post on another thread about category 9 vs. category 6. I have stayed in a category 9, (just DH and me) and we though it was a great cabin. We would be fine in a cat. 9 every time, if DCL allowed us to be in one with 3 kids :)

TChrist05: How cold IS it right now in New York? Not to taunt you, but it's going to be 70* here tomorrow (Vegas). :D Of course, you can taunt me this summer, when it's 115* here and I'm hating life!

[Minnee]

Hey Bbgrizzle,
Sorry for the confusion, PixeeDust is my DD, she was hoping she could find someone close to her age. :D

[Bbgrizzle]

Minnee: Hee hee! You're right, I was confused!:) So, no more 11 year olds, I guess. But you know we both have DDs that are 9. At least THEY can be friends!

[TChrist05]

Well yes...it is real cold in New York right now...is is 8 degrees outside...with the wind chill is is -30...but on May 10th it will be nice and warm here and nicer on the Magic......looking forward to meeting all at the Dis meeting....we are gonna have one aren't we...talk to all soon....
Tom

[LoriV]

We sail on May 10th also. This will be our first 7-day. We have done the land/sea twice and loved it. Can't wait!!

:Pinkbounc

[two4ruff]

Welcome aboard, LoriV!!:p

[MFan]

Originally posted by Bbgrizzle
Hey, where are

MFan
rmbreset
Hygiene99
bethsg
and Ocean?

We haven't heard from you guys in a while.


I'm back. :cool:

I intentionally stayed away and tried not to think/discuss about the trip over the past few months. The wait for 5/10 was killing me... But, now that we're getting closer, I'll try to pop in more often. :p

Anyway, it's going to be me, DW, DS (5), DD (3), and DD (2), plus 3 other families with 7 more kids, ages from 1 to 8. Only 1 other family has been on DCL before. We are all coming from the SF Bay area.

Is there a separate DIS'er meeting, or do we just all try to meet at the Castaway party?

[Bbgrizzle]

For the DIS meet, we are going to meet on Deck 10 above the Goofy Pool during the sailaway party, which starts around 5:00. I will try to have a sign so we can all find each other. Then we will try to hook up at the Castaway club party (wear the lime green ribbons so that if we didn't see you during the sailaway party, we'll be able to spot you). And I hope everyone will be wearing their ribbons while waiting to board the ship, so maybe we can spot each other in line and have someone to talk to!

LoriV: Are you coming to the DIS meet? Who is in your party?

[bothofus]

I thought I'd jump in here and post, I almost got to cruise with all of you on May 10,but our schools changed their calendar system this year ,therefore we had to change cruise dates,If any of you are interested,we will be cancelling our May 10 cruise in the next day or so and it is for a Category 1,maybe one of you could grab this suite and then write a nice long trip report when you get back,let me know what I missed:(

[somall]

Myself (Sue 43), DH Mike (43), plus my parents.

Bbgrizzle - Congratulations on your upcoming graduation. I also returned to school after starting a family and understand the commitment and hard work. Sounds like a Disney Cruise will be just the thing to celebrate your achievement!! I now work in the medical field, DH is a FDNY firefighter, DD (21) is a senior in college and won't be making this trip :(

Looking forward to meeting everyone online and on the cruise

***************************
WDW - TNTC
DCL - Magic Eastern 10/00
DVC members

[kangaroodle]

I have 2 questions.....What is the Castaway Club Party and what are the lime green ribbons? I have never been on a Disney Cruise before...:confused: :confused:

[Bbgrizzle]

somall: Welcome to our thread, and thanks for the congrats. Your're right, finishing your education after starting a family is very hard!

kangaroodle: (my American Girl pal :) ) This is only my second DCL cruise so I don't really know what I'm talking about! But the return cruisers who have cruised with DCL before are now in the Castaway Club, and there is a special reception for them. I think it's with the captain. . .? :confused: Lime green ribbons I have just heard about through these boards; I've never actually seen anyone sporting one. I'm just going to get some lime green ribbon, tie it into a bow, pin it on my shirt and hope I don't look like a dork! Does anyone else here know about these things?

Also, I noticed an inconsistency on my part. Earlier in this thread, when first talking about the DIS meet, I said Deck 10 above the Mickey pool, and then later (most recently) I said the Goofy pool. Isn't the Goofy pool the one that gets covered to make the stage during the sailaway party? If so, I think we should meet on Deck 10 above the Goofy pool. That way we can see the festivities. What do you guys think?

[two4ruff]

I think deck 10 tends to be a lot less crowded, it should work out fine.

The lime green is so "out there" that we know we are members of the disboards - who else would want to wear one!:p Its also nice to see a familiar face during the cruise. After our last cruise, we ended up stuck in the airport with a couple we meet at the dismeet - made the time go a little quicker to have someone to chat with!

[Mommypoohbear]

Just booked our 1st Disney Cruise, very excited, we will also be on the May 10th Magic.

Nancy
Michael
DD - Sabrina (3) four weeks shy of 4 at time of cruise
DD - Samantha (5) will celebrate 5th birthday during cruise

I am glad that this board exists, it is wonderful to be able to plan our cruise with those who have been and enjoyed.

Thanks to All :wave:

[TChrist05]

Mommypoohbear....welcome to the group....you will have a great time on the cruise.....keep watching the boards for the count downs....it is down to 14 weeks..........
Tom(fellow New Yorker)

[Mommypoohbear]

Hello Tom,

Fellow New Yorker, or should we say neighbors, were in Lindenhurst.

I noticed in a previous post that you were watching the airfare rates before you booked. We booked this past week with Jet Blue, at a good rate $ 79 each way plus fees of course, total $ 700 round trip for 4 of us. Never flew with Jet Blue, but heard many great things about it, the TV's in each seat sound great for our two little ones, should keep them occupied for the 2 1/2 or so hours.

Arriving on Orlando at 10:50 am, from reading others posts, it seems this might make us arrive when the port is busy, I'm sure we will make the best of it considering the week we have in store for us.

We also have a GTY category 5, so we do not expect to know what cabin we will be in until a least two weeks prior.

Since we just booked, the first seating was full, so they put us in the second seating and on a waiting list for the first. Some families have posted that they prefer the late seating even with the kids, they feel there is more time for the days activities, and the children can eat with the club from 5:30 to 6:30. This option may get us some quiet dinners.

If anyone has an opinion on the late seating with children ages 4 an 3, please let me know. :confused:

[TChrist05]

We are neighbors....and we are getting real close to booking our airfare.....we usually fly Delta and the past couple of trips we flew round trip for $155. per person....it is currently $179.00 round trip...so we are gonna wait until the second week of February and if it does not come down just book it.....this is our replacement cruise from our cancelled sick cruise on 11/30/02...this will be our fourth cruise...we have cruised the last 3 years....the land and sea....the 7 day Magic eastern swing...the 4 day Wonder(in place of the 11/30 Magic sailing....it was OK...but not the 7 day) and coming up the western swing on May 10th....and by the way....my wife has flown Jet Blue and had absolutely no complaints....unfortunately for me....I cannot fly out the day before...I must fly out the day of the cruise...so if something goes wrong there is a possibility of missing the ship....but gotta have faith.....anyway...since you live in Lindenhurst I hope you shop at King Kullen...since it is the company I work for....we will talk again I am sure....14 weeks to go!
Tom:bounce: :D :Pinkbounc

[Mommypoohbear]

Hello Gflochick,

I noticed in you posts that your son will be 4 on June 19th.
My daughter Sabrina will also be 4 on June 19th.

This is our first Disney Cruise, just the four of us are going;

Nancy (36)
DH - Michael (32)
DD - Samantha (5) will celebrate 5th birthday May 15th, 2003
DD - Sabrina (3)

My girls will probably stick together in the (3-4) group with your son, Samantha may try out the older group (5-7), but I don't think Sabrina will want to be without her.

[Minnee]

100 days !!!!!


:D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :D :bounce:

[Bbgrizzle]

I noticed the same thing! Isn't it exciting? We finally told our kids about the cruise on Sunday. We made them a treasure hunt around the house, which they thought was great fun. They are so excited (it will be their first cruise) and now it is even more fun for us, being able to talk to them about it. Of course, to them 100 days is soooo far away. :)

Is anyone else doing a couple days at WDW before the cruise? If so, where are you staying?

[WDWLVR]

100 days may seem far away, but tomorrow we'll be in double digits!

Yeah! :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[Minnee]

We'll be leaving on the 8th, we don't reservations anywhere yet. We were thinking on just staying at the Radisson both days, relaxing, and playing on the beach, going to Ron Jons.
We really don't know yet..... but we did upgrade our cabin.....
Sooo excited!!!

Bbgrizzle, I'm going to send you a PM.

What about excursions...... anyone have any good ideas?

[Bbgrizzle]

Can someone please tell me what the kids have to do in the "Discover the Magic" show on the last night? Do they sing, dance, or what? Is this something that we would regret missing?

gfolchick and Kangaroodle: Did you get my PM? :)

Minnie: Which category did you upgrade to? Do you have a stateroom number assigned to you?

[Minnee]

Bbgrizzle,
We changed from 8540, cat 4 to 8534, cat 3. We figure this is a once in a life time trip, and my dh knew that I really wanted a bigger room, and my b-day is while we are cruising, so I think it's like a really nice b-day present!:D Your just right across the hall aren't you?

[two4ruff]

bgrizzle-
At the Discover the Magic show, the kids are all up on stage and sing a couple songs with the staff and a few characters. They also show a slide show of all the activities during the week in the club/lab while they are singing. All the children who attend recieve a "I Discovered the Magic" t-shirt.

My older son (10) participated last year but my younger son (6) was to shy:o

Hope that helps in your decision!

[Bbgrizzle]

Minnie: Yeah, our room is pretty close to yours; we are in #8026. We'll probably run into each other a lot :) Wow, those category 3's look nice. Which day is your birthday?

gfolchick: I sent you a PM yesterday and forgot to let you know.

[somall]

TChrist05 and Mommy Poohbear -

Hi from another Long Islander! We'll be on board along with my parents. Can't wait to get away into the sunshine!:Pinkbounc

[gfolchick]

Hey Somall, Tchrist05 and Mommy Poohbear-we're just across the sound from you, a short ferry ride. We're leaving out of JFK on JetBlue Friday. See you onboard.

[kangaroodle]

Bbgrizzle....I finally read the pm you sent me! Sent you an e-mail in return. We will also be going to WDW for a few days before the cruise. I don't know where we're staying yet...waiting for the new price codes to come out. Hopefully we'll be at the Poly. We usually stay at OKW as DVC'rs but used up all our points for the cruise! Gfolchick...sent you a pm!

[rmbreset]

Sorry, saw the post that I'd had not been heard from for a while, well I paid off the balance yesterday and booked our flights out of Albany as well. Best I could get is a 11:00 arrival at MCO on 5/10. I hope that we can get to the ship in time to make Palo reservations for 5/13 (our wedding anniv). I'm thinking most will want reservations for Mothers Day. My kids have reached the "watch the cruise video daily" mode and my wife is already sorting clothes. So we will be more than ready in 90 days !! The meet sounds good, and we will try to make it (by the pool , right ?)

Roger
Debra
DD - Claire 6
DD - Allison 12

[TChrist05]

OK all.....only 13 short weeks to go until the "Magical" cruise....before ya know it we will be sunning it on the ship!

Tom

P.S. I am getting to hate snow!

[rmbreset]

Excitement is starting to set in, we reserved out first excursion today (non-dcl), horseback riding on grand cayman. Anyone else doing this or done it in the past ?

[Bbgrizzle]

Is anyone else scheduled for the late dinner seating? We requested it because people said it was better because you don't feel so rushed. Now I'm wondering if my kids will really want to eat that late.

rmbreset: Glad to see you back. :) I sent you a PM.

[WDWLVR]

Bonnie,

I can only give you my personal opinion. DH and I have always done early seating but wanted to try late seating on the SS Member Cruise. In my opinion it was too late. I'm a morning person and at home I'm usually in bed by 10 pm as I get up at 5:30 for work.

With eating at 8:30 I found I wasn't as hungry and we didn't end dinner until after 10 and so we pretty much went back to the room.

It did give us more time in the evening to get ready etc. but for us I'm glad we went back to early seating for the May 10th cruise.

Hope this helps.

[Mommypoohbear]

Bbgrizzle,

We are scheduled for the late seating also. We booked in January, so the early seating was full, we did put ourselves on a wait list for the early seating.

We also have young children and I am a little concerned that 8:30 pm will be too late for them. DD 5 and DD 3 (just about 4)

I was told that you can request an early seating on some nights. So if your kids look like they won't make it to the late seating you can request the early seating. They will ask someone who has Palo res. if they would not mind if you use there table for the night.

[Bbgrizzle]

WDWLVR: You convinced me. I called today and got put on the waiting list for early seating. I doubt I'll get it though, because she said our cruise is full. You never know though.

When DH and I cruised alone, we really liked the late seating. Maybe it was because we are in the Pacific time zone and it just felt right to be eating later, since that's what time we would be eating at home. I know my two older Dd's would be fine, but the baby is the one I'm concerned about. She can get really cranky when she's tired!

Mommypoohbear: That's a great idea about asking to take people's table who are dining in Palo's. I hadn't heard of that, thanks! Oh well, at least if we both get rejected, maybe we'll see you in the late seating. Since we both have young kids we might both get the APL rotation.

[Minnee]

I think you can change your late dinner seating to an early one once you we get on the ship. They have one of the night club areas set up for dinner changes. Just go there As Soon As You Get on board ! It's worth a try ! I wouldn't hold my breath on the waiting list, I had a CM tell me you are better off calling every day or so. Especially at the time the payment in full is due, and people cancel. Good Luck changing, I'll keep my fingers crossed ! We debated that back and forth when we made our reservations, the TA suggested to go early, it was easier to change to late if we changed our mind.
.... It's getting closer !!!!!! :D :wave:

[Bbgrizzle]

rmbreset: sent you another PM yesterday and forgot to tell you.

Minnee: Sent you a PM too. Good suggestion about the dinner seating; I will start calling when the payment deadline arrives and hope some people canceled.

Hope everyone has a happy Valentine's Day!

[gfolchick]

Bump...
Anyone new joining us?
Final payments due soon (ok we have 3 more weeks). It's getting close! How's everyone on the East Coast surviving all the snow and cold weather? I don't know about you, but I've had enough. Bring on the Magic!!!!

[Minnee]

Time is getting closer!! 80 days seems like nothing when you book over a year early!!!!
I feel for all of you on the east coast, I lived in upstate NY and remember it well ! Hope you all are safe and WARM ! Just keep thinking about the MAGIC ! It will be here before we know it...

Anyone make any new plans? Before the cruise, excursions, after the cruise ? We're still trying to figure the excursion thing our, I'm sure our DD's would like to swim w/dolphins.

[two4ruff]

Minnee-
We have booked the dophin swim in Cozumel. It was a Christmas gift for our two boys. Also going with Captain Marvins and the stingrays.

Sounds like a episode of "Wild Kingdom" for our family!:rolleyes:

Final payment??:eek: Yikes, guess I tried to forget about that!

[TChrist05]

Hello all.....greetings from SNOWY New York.....only 23 inches of snow today so to say we are snowed in is an understatement....anyway....we have been watching the airfares from NY to Orlando for the cruise....almost booked the other day when it was $212. each...but today I checked and it was $154. round trip from JFK....flight leaves at 7:30 in the morning...we get in at 10:08....so that works out great....and the nice thing is there is a 10:30 flight also just in case something happens.....and we booked 2 nights in Disney World after the cruise....9 glorious nights in Disney.....7 on ship....2 in the World....life is good! Anyway, we are under 12 weeks....and yes...final payment real soon.....doc's will follow soon after that.....time is just flying by....looking forward to seeing you all....get the lime green ribbons ready......
Tom:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :D :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[WDWLVR]

I put through the final payment this past week. Might as well get it over with. Now we have to look into excursions.

Wanted to share something with all of you that I learned from doing the DVC Member Cruise Feb. 2-6. We did a Dis meet at Sailaway like the plan is for our May 10th cruise and let me tell you it was very hectic. I think for us on the short 4-day cruise it was the best time. Once you get up on deck and the party starts below it is really hard to hear (they really crank the music up) and it is really hard to truly meet people. We were lucky in that we had a meet at the Radisson the night before and we did buttons for the DIS folks so I got to meet a lot as we were passing them out. Many of them wore them the rest of the cruise so that's when we really got to know everyone.

If you guys still want a deck 10 meet at Sailaway we'll do our best to be there, but I thought I should warn you that it can be loud and disorganized. I'm wondering if it would be better to try and do a mini meet at Sailaway and then a quieter meet where everyone can really talk say Sunday morning before we get into Key West. Just my 2 cents.

BTW if any of you would like to read about the SS Member Cruise I posted a number of posts on the trip report board.

We've done the Wonder now we're ready for the Magic!

[Bbgrizzle]

Discount codes are out for the WDW resorts--Woo hoo! I just booked us at the Wilderness Lodge for Wed thru Sat. morning (cruise day).

WDWLVR: Hope you had a great cruise! That's a good point you brought up. We should schedule another meet for a time when it will be quieter. What does everyone think? I do think we should at least have a mini meet at sailaway the first day though, so we can make friends right from the start! My kids are so excited to meet the other kids their age.

I feel for all of you back east; I saw the news coverage. Brrrrrr!

[jeanelain]

does anyone know if anything special goes on during the cruise on mother's day?? taking my mom with me.. :Pinkbounc

[DVC Minnie]

Hi everyone,

DH and I are cruising too! We have done the eastern and are so looking forward to trying the western.

The DIS meet idea sounds great. I do agree with WDWLVR's opinion that sailaway can be very hectic and may not be a great time for us to meet. On our last cruise we did our big meet on Sunday and used the aft area on deck 7. Some of the DIS group who wanted their kids to get to know each other at the beginning of the cruise set up a small get together before sailaway. This worked out really well.

We need your opinion: On Grand Cayman we were thinking of doing the DCL Stingray City and snorkeling at 7:30 a.m., go back to the ship to clean up and have a quick roomservice lunch, then tender back to grab a cab to Hell and the turtle farm. Are we nuts?? Do you think we can make it back before the last tender?? We thought about doing the excursion that includes Stingray City, Hell and the turtle farm but that seemed too much to do in such a short period of time.

WDWLVR: We are DVCers too. We read you trip report of the SS Member Cruise....fantastic! We wanted to be there so bad but DH's schedule just didn't allow it. Hope we can make the next one.

[WDWLVR]

DVC Minnie,

Glad you liked the report on the member cruise. It was a blast. I think it has really spoiled us. We definately want to do that again!

Of course now we have our eyes set on the May cruise on the Magic! Plus I'm back to a veranda. To save points we booked a porthole room which was fine for 4 days, but on this one we are doing a Navigator Veranda and I'm looking forward to being able to sit out in the fresh air!

We are going to do the DVC excursion that includes Stingray City, Hell and the turtle farm. Barb and Tony did this on thier first Western and from what I read on their site it seems there is enough time for everything. Hell is really a quick tourist stop and the turtle farm is pretty small. They have a web site and to us from that it looks like 1/2 hour would be plenty there. I think a lot of it depends on how long you want to be in snorkeling. I'll be happy with enough exposure to say I did it but not spend tons of time in the water..

[WDWLVR]

Bonnie, are you keeping a list. I just did a quick count and it looks like we have 53 adults and 29 kids cruising from the DIS. That's even more than we had for the SS Member Cruise!

DH and I organized the meet for that and let me tell you it wore me out a bit (but in a good way). We did up buttons for everyone and ended up with 30 some bags of buttons (we had a lot of couples and very few kids on that cruise).

I love Peter's suggestion of Palo's brunch for everyone. Peter do you know who was able to set it up ahead of time?

The Deck 7 aft area is also great - especially if it is while cruising. I found on our May cruise last year that it can get very hot out there when the ship is docked, but I think it would be nice while the ship is moving (which it would be Sunday morning).

Have you thought about having a deck 5 meet on Saturday for those with kids (I'm saying Deck 5 since that is where the club and the lab is). Maybe at 3pm or so (after lunch but before the drill).

I agree that a mini meet at Sailaway can be fun - just wanted to let everyone know it can be hectic - especially with so many people. You see other people think they can use the same area :) I even had one person come up to me and ask me for one of the buttons we had and she didn't know anything about the DIS - just wanted something free!

To any of you getting in early the Radisson is a great place for a mini meet as well. We did that out by the pool. It was a little cold, but still fun. Should be much better in May. We're flying in the morning of the cruise so we'll miss that one :(

Well enough rambling - its getting late. Just wanted to share a few thoughts.

[Bbgrizzle]

Mary: You're scaring me! I sent you a PM :)

If anyone else has suggestions on a better time and place for a meet, feel free to pipe in! Also, is anyone interested in doing high tea?

[WDWLVR]

Bonnie - didn't mean to scare you. I sent you back two PM's (it wouldn't all fit in one).

High Tea is wonderful. DH and I plan on doing it and it would be nice to do that as a group if we could. I know my in-laws won't do it as they didn't care for it last time.

[Hygiene99]

hi all we r no longer going on this cruise , we have switched to october dues to a bunch of concerns ..... u all have a great cruise peter

[DVC Minnie]

WDWLVR: Thanks for the sending me to Barb and Tony's trip report and your info about Hell and the turtle farm. DH and I enjoy snorkeling, sailing and being out in the water.....so we may just do the 7:30 a.m. excursion and if time permits, go to Hell and the turtle farm on our own.

I spent some time looking at the sample western navigators on Barb and Tony's site. How are we ever going to schedule in DVC member celebration, Castaway Club social, spa, Palo brunch and high tea, etc. with only 2 1/2 days at sea.

I have done High Tea twice (once with DH and once with a group of ladies). DH would prefer to skip it for our May 10 cruise but I would be very interested in a group High Tea.

What's everyone doing in Cozumel? We are thinking about the Fury Catamarran and Beach Party.

What about Key West? We are planning to do the trolley tour on our own.

[Mommypoohbear]

Snow Snow go away, dreaming of our cruise in May !

We are trying to decide on excursions, so far we have planned for:

Key West - Western Union Schooner (day not sunset)
Grand Cayman - Nautilus Undersea Tour
Cozumel - Cozumel Beach Break


We have two young children DD 4 (turns 5 during cruise) and DD 3 (just about 4) so many excursions are too old for them.

Any suggestions are more than welcome.

[goofytoo]

We arrive at MCO at 10:20
from Boston
We plan on going to the Tiki bar I think that is what it is called for lunch
We will be hanging out by the pool at the Raddison friday afternoon and night
maybe we could see some of you there.
or the sail away party
we are going to be making ressies for brunch and dinner at Palo

We are debating on a few excursions
SNOW? what SNOW??!!!!
I am so used to looking at it I forget it is here
It has been and unbelievable winter here in southern Maine
It has been so cold
except for today it is 32 degrees that is 32 degrees warmer that it was yesterday after we had 14 inches of snow
I need my shorts and a konk cooler!!!!!!!

this is what we have so far

Key west - trolly tour (on our own)
Grand Cayman the combo one stingray city hell and turtle farm
the one that meets at 7:30
Hopefully have time to see 7 mile beach- have to see that beach!

Cozumel- would love to do Mr Sanchos not sure if we will be beached out.
but that sounds like a fun place
also thinking of the sealion show DS 10 and friend would probably like that.
xcaret that sounds perfect but I am afraid of being that far from the boat
want to go to Carlos and Charlies and do some shopping.
Oh my gosh I will have to decide.

Oh yeah, Do we get to sign up for our excursions when we pay in full?
our money is due on the 11th of march.
We have had our trip booked since 2 months after getting back from the wonder in 2001
I can't believe we are getting close.:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[rmbreset]

For our excursions we are planning to just do Old Key West on our own. At Grand Cayman we have already reserved a 9:30 horseback ride on the beach, if time permits after that we will do the turtle farm and hell. Cozumel , dolphin encounter or my family disowns me :p, we are also dinning at Palo on the 13th, DCL was kind enough to get us in ahead of time as it is our wedding anniversary. (typical above and beyond service from DCL)

[jeanelain]

my daughter is interested in finding out if anyone has a daughter her age that will be on the May 10th. She's 10 yrs. old. she chats through kids.com. her screename is chelsea

[Minnee]

Jeanelain,
I know that there's a couple girls close to you dd's age. I have a dd that is 9, and so does Bbgrizzle. If your dd would like to email my dd, just let me know.

Rmbreset,
Are you doing the Dolphin excursion thru Disney? Are you doing the Swim, or the encounter? This is something my dds Really want to do !

[rmbreset]

Minnee, we are going to do the dolphin encounter thru DCL, I would love to do the swim but one of my DD's is only 6 and we want to do it as a family.

Jeanelain, my other DD is 11 (she will be 12 in april) she would be more than happy to email your DD.

[goofytoo]

rmbreset
I tried to reply yesterday but I went in and changed my profile
so I had to re register.they sent the confirmation to my home E-mail

Do you know what happened to my thread?
I am either blind or it has dissapeared!
Thanks for the info I looked at the site it does have some good information
I want to do it all so it is hard to decide
yes, we are on this cruise too
I have a DS 10
and he is bringing a friend with him this is a surprise to him
I have it all worked out with the parents that way they won't drive us crazy.
People say we are crazy but I think it will be fun
I tried to do a search the other day but the search is down
I think it was titled something like
what do you think about bringing someone elses kid?
does anyone remember this thread?

How many days?????
I started to put some things in a pile this morning
LOOK OUT!!!!!

[TChrist05]

OK....let's start getting excited....we are now 11 weeks out....77 short days from midnight tonight....things are happening that is good...the snow is finally melting in New York...spring is 4 weeks from today....I booked my airfare the other day...$154 round trip on Delta from JFK......and I mailed my final payment yesterday(thank you Uncle Sam for my refund so quick)....so there are a lot of positives going on out there....does anyone know how crowded the ship might be....we still have no cabin number...just a guarantee of at least a category 6.....maybe they are going to surprise us and put us in a category 3....ya...I know....fat chance...but maybe they feel they owe me since we were part of the cancelled cruise on 11/30/02.....lots of luck I know....anyway all...looking forward to the DIS meet....lets get excited....have a good one....let's get some more action to this thread!
Tom

:bounce: 11 :Pinkbounc weeks:bounce: and:Pinkbounc counting!!!:D :D :D :D :D

[somall]

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

Can't wait!

[Bbgrizzle]

TChrist05: Our cruise is full. When I called DCL about switching our dining to main seating, the CM said it was completely booked. But hey, you never know--maybe they'll upgrade you to Walt's suite. :)

Mommypoohbear: Since your DD is turning 5 on the cruise, will she be in the 3-4 year old group or the 5-7 year old group? I have a DD (5) who will be very close to 6 at time of cruise.

[Mommypoohbear]

Bbgrizzle,

My DD 4 (who will turn 5 during the cruise) will most likely go in the 3-4 group with my DD 3 (who will be four weeks shy of 4 at the time of the cruise).

Samantha, DD 4 loves to make friends, and may even try the 5-7 older group out if the older activities look more interesting.

Looks like we will be in late seating unless there are many cancellations at the sixty day mark. Lately I can't seem to get my girls to bed until LATE, TOO LATE. I read in a thread about how someone would keep there kids up late for the week prior to a late seating cruise to adjust their schedule.

It may work out ok for us, on our last trip to WDW I can remember my girls up very late, even playing until closing in Magic Kingdom one evening after dinner at Ohana's. That was one evening I will always treasure, The night was clear weather was perfect, my DH and I sat under the tree in the circle at the entrance while the girls played on the brass Walt Disney and Mickey bench. The park was almost deserted and the castle changed colors behind them. Another beautiful memory thanks to Disney. :)

[Minnee]

Mommypoohbear,
Even if you don't have any luck changing your late seating at the 60 day mark, you can always try as soon as you get onboard. I've heard that they have one of the night clubs set up for dinner changes. Maybe we should say we are all with the same group, and would really like to eat close together at the same seating.

Ok, Everybody, I know it's still kinda far off, but has anyone started packing? Or maybe just getting thing together and throwing them into a duffle bag? I'm pretty sure my DH would shoot be if I started this early, but I have been trying to buy little things we may need.
Shhhh .... he doesn't know... he won't start thinking about the trip until the end of April !:D :eek:

[TChrist05]

Hey all....we have not yet started to pack but we are starting to buy the shorts, tops etc. for the cruise....nice new stuff for the cruise.....and come on all...let's really start to get into it....we are now under 11 weeks away....and nothing will go wrong with this cruise....all is well....and we will make it to every place we are supposed to go to....like I have said....we were cancelled on 11/30 cruise....so lightning does not strike twice in the same place so we will have a totally awesome and "MAGICAL" cruise. It is kind of funny, but we usually spend 4 or 5 nights in Disney World after our cruise....so I need to bring about $800.00 of spending money for incidentals....but we are spending 2 nights in the World after the cruise....so I don't know how much money to bring with us....also we are on the western swing for the first time...don't know how much money we will spend off the ship since we have never been there.....are there any bargains out there? So anyway....let's get pumped.....booked the airfare, cruise is paid off....75 days away.....life is getting good...and the snow is melting in New York.....
Tom:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :D :bounce: :Pinkbounc :D :smooth: :bounce: ;) :Pinkbounc

[Minnee]

This our first 7 day, so we don't know anything about western ports, or excursions.
It's All New To Us !!

How dressy does everyone get???
Guys... are you wearing a Tux, or just a suit and tie?
Girls... Long evening gowns, or a nice short dress? What about the kids? My dd's love to dress up - but that will fill an other whole suitcase ! There I go.. thinking about packing again:D

Is everybody out there.......... cruise time is getting closer........
where are you.........:wave:

[gfolchick]

I was wondering about the tuxes too I think we may just buy hubby a new suit (his job is now 5 day casual). I bought him Mickey cufflinks for Christmas in anticipation for formal night. I found a double breasted suit on sale for DS3 at JCPenney. DD6 is wearing Garden Party dress from American Girl (not quite to the ankle) and me, well, I'm trying to be good until the cruise so I'll be buying my formal dress somewhat last minute for size reasons. (saving all those calories for the chocolate souffle at Palo and the Strawberry Shortcake at Animators, yum!) My kids tell me everyday now that they wish they were going on the cruise tomorrow. ME TOO!!!!

[rmbreset]

since I own a tux I will be wearing it at least one night, I doubt I would rent one and would just wear a suit if I did not have this. I enjoy wearing a tux once in a while, makes for a more memorable event., just my .02

[Bbgrizzle]

Hi Minnee! I would say that if you don't already have a formal dress, don't go out and get one! On our last cruise we really fretted about formal night, but I would say that I saw VERY few tuxes and gowns. I would recommend a suit for the men and a cocktail dress for the women. Most ladies I saw were wearing a church-type dress. My girls will just wear their Easter dresses they get for this year.

gfolchick: Miss Megan will look so cute in the American girl garden party dress! I'm with you, waiting till the last minute to purchase my frock in the hopes that I'll be in a smaller size!

[WDWLVR]

My DH rented a tux on our last 7 day cruise and we got some wonderful pictures all dressed up. I'd say only about 25% of the men on that cruise wore tuxes. This time he's going to wear a suit and I'll stick with a cocktail dress.

[Minnee]

Bbgrizzle.... I was thinking the same thing..... the girls can wear their Easter dresses!!! Now it's back to the mall for that!:eek:
DH will be happy about the suit, well not happy until the tie comes off after pictures and dinner, but he'll be relieved that I'm not renting him a tux!
As for me.. the only formal dresses I have are from my bridesmaid days... and I really don't want to see those awful things again:earseek: I'll keep looking for me......

Now for packing....come on moms have you been stashing little things to keep the kids busy on the flight, or in the car? Maybe for a little surprise basket when you get on the ship? I've been thinking about it, but haven't found anything yet...

[kangaroodle]

:) :) :) Are anyone's little girls wearing "princess" dresses to formal night? My mom is going to make Kelly a Sleeping Beauty gown (pink). She can use it for dress up after the cruise. My mom was a seamstress when she was younger (still is in my opinion) so she enjoys sewing these things. I thought I had read somewhee that a lot of little girls do this. :confused: :confused:

[two4ruff]

kangaroodle-
I'm so jealous! I wish I had little girls to dress in princess outfits -that will be precious and what great pictures that will make!

I have two boys....slacks and ties aren't as exciting:rolleyes:
And I'm probably a little old to get away with the Snow White look...

[WDWLVR]

Kathy,

We've seen lots of little girls in princess outfits on formal night. Makes for some very cute pictures. They usually have a princess party (really photo's and autographs) during the day. Maybe she can wear it then as well.

[MFan]

Little girls in princess outfit is a great idea!!! I have two girls (3-1/2 and 2 at travel date), and we have Cinderella, Snow White, Tinkerbell, Belle outfits. This will save some $$. :)

Hey, two4ruff, there is an older female character in Snow White... :p :jester: ...just kidding.

I have no intention of bringing or renting a tux. I've always wore a dark business suit on formal nights. If anything, that's the majority norm. There were guys who wore top-hat and tux, as well as ones with "dated" tux, but they are definitely in the minority. I think WDWLVR's 25% is fairly accurate.

Has everyone planned out what they are doing on each island stop yet?

[two4ruff]

Mfan-
Ouch! I probably resemble one of the dwarfs more...:p


I put in my request for leave at work today, now I'm getting excited!:Pinkbounc

[WDWLVR]

We have finally made up our minds on the shore excursions:

Key West - we are doing the trolly tour on our own. If you buy the tickets ahead of time from the web site you save $2 per person off the walk-up price and $4 per person off of the Disney excursion price. Click here for info on Key West Trolly (http://www.historictours.com/keywest/)

Grand Cayman - we are going to do the Disney excursion of snorkeling with stingrays and discover Cayman. This is an early tour that should get us back about noon so we can have lunch on the ship and then do some shopping.

Cozumel - we are going to do the Disney excursion of Cozumel ruins and beach tour. This is the shorter 4 hour one. DH really wanted to do a ruins tour, but we were a little uncomfortable doing the 7 hour one.

I'm going to try and call tomorrow to book these.

What about everyone else. What do you have planned?

[Minnee]

Well, I just booked us the Radisson for Thursday & Friday Night before the Cruise.

Who else will be staying there?????

We still haven't planned anything for excursions yet. We are thinking about just wandering around in Key West. We might do Capt. Marvins, it looks fun, but it also looks a little over whelming, with all the stingrays around, the girls might get a little freaked out:eek:

What about everyone else....

[gfolchick]

Minnie,
We're at the Radisson Friday, arriving early afternoon. It will give the girls a chance to meet before the cruise. Our plans are pretty low keyed for the week:

Key West-walk around town in search of my first taste of Key Lime Pie, trolley tour and/or aquarium negotiable

Grand Cayman-Seven Mile Beach on our own

Cozumel-Mr. Sanchos Beach on our own, a round or two of mini-golf. SHOPPING

[goofytoo]

Minnee,gfolchick
We will be there Friday too!
Yes, I have to confess I am starting to do a little packing or at least gathering stuff to see what I have to buy new this year.

I have figured out what we are doing for excursions
We are doing Key west on our own.( trolley tour)
Cozumel - we are going to the park to see the sea lion show and then do some exploring on our own
Grand cayman we are doing the tour Hell, stingrays and turtlefarm
the early one.
12 more days and we can book these excursions!
one less thing to think about.
I got my passporter and have read it cover to cover

now I have to figure out which night for palos and which day for brunch
does anyone know when sunset is at Keywest in May?

[WDWLVR]

Those of you staying at the Radisson should definately try a DIS meet. We did it before our Feb cruise and got to meet about 20 people cruising with us. We spent over two hours talking first by the pool and then moved indoors (since it was cold that night). The next morning we ran into two of the couples we met, took the van over to the port with them and had a group to chat with while in line. We even all went up to lunch together. It was a great way to get the cruise started. We had very few kids in our group, but I think the early meeting would be even more helpful to them. They'll walk into the clubs already knowing each other!

[two4ruff]

We are at the Radisson also, arriving Friday afternoon!

[TChrist05]

Hello all....we are unfortunately not staying at the Radisson since we will be arriving the morning of the cruise.....but I have a question....when should we expect to receive our documents for the cruise? It is almost March....so it is right around the corner I would think.....what do you guy's think?

Tom

[MFan]

From past experiences, I don't think you'll get anything until about 3-4 weeks prior to your departure date. It may seemed to be right around the corner to you, we haven't even reached the final payment date yet. If they send anything out before then, many will be wasted expense due to last-minute cancellations.

[Minnee]

Boy, this needed to be bumped up, we were all the way on page 5!
I think it was about 3 weeks before our last cruise when we received all of our documents. But it is getting close !:bounce:

Hey, all you friday Radisson people, we should all meet out by the pool in the afternoon. Has anyone stayed there before? What is the pool like?

[TChrist05]

Hello all....wife and I went to the New York Islander game this evening....and about 9 P.M. we just looked at each other and said....10 weeks from right now we will be eating dinner on the Magic.....we have late seating....prefer early...but late is better I guess for the stop in Key West since it is a late arrival....no rushing around to get back to the ship.....anyway.....it is getting closer each day.....gotta plan the meeting when we get a little closer......talk to you all soon.....
Tom

[two4ruff]

Tom-
An Islander game? Gee, my family would be so jealous!;)

Jill

[MFan]

Has everyone decided on all their island excursions yet? We just started exploring the different choices available, and found out we're disqualified for just most of Disney's excursions due to the age of our youngest DD2 (leaving her behind is NOT an option). So, we're now looking to arrange things on our own? Any others in a similar quandry? :( :confused:

Any suggestions on things to do?

[goofytoo]

we stayed at the Raddison in May 2000.
The pool is awesome, extremely warm.
The rooms were nice this time we got a room with a jacuzi for
$99.00
we will be hanging out by the pool on friday afternoon and probably saturday morning after breakfast.
I picked up some summer clother for DS 10 he is growing like a bean and needed all new shorts.

I received info on excursions from AAA so as soon as we pay on the 11th we will be all set.
I have already picked all of our excursions.
I have a question though
we are doing the discover caymen tour that leaves at 7:30
we figure we will be done in about 4 hours

gflochick,
How much will it cost to go to 7 mile beach? Taxi? Bus?
I know there is an excursion but I thought 45$ for each person
there are 4 of us we could definitely do this cheaper on our own and eat a lunch in george town after the tour.
thanks
Lisa

[gfolchick]

goofytoo,
We were going to do it on our own. I think it's only a couple of dollars pp each way with no admission fee to the beach. There are shops along the beach to buy lunch and/or drinks. I can't locate my notes for more specifics. I'll post again when I find them.

[Minnee]

I just got the reminder for DU ..... final payment due:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc
Can't wait.....:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

Has anyone seen the info on the scavenger hunt in Key West? That looks kinda fun....

[bigtime]

Since we weill be curising over Mother's Day We were wondering if they do anything special for Mom's??

:p :Pinkbounc

[Bbgrizzle]

Minnee: Where did you learn about the scavenger hunt in Key West? That sounds fun.

MFan: We are in your situation, also having a toddler with us on the cruise. Since we don't want to leave her in Flounder's all day, we've decided not to worry too much about excursions. The kids probably won't care about them anyway. We will do the trolley in Key West, but that will probably be it. We'll just explore on our own.

bigtime: Not sure about the answer to your mother's day question, but welcome to our thread. :)

[Minnee]

Bonnie,
I saw the scavenger hunt on a thread this AM, the web address was www.keywesthunt.com . It looks fun, a way to see alot of the town, and something that you can even take the little ones with in a stroller. There's no charge for under 10. This was the first time I've seen anything on this, but.... it looks fun...
At the other ports, we'll probably just do the beach... the girls really want to swim with the dolphins, but... it's pretty $$$.

[DVC Minnie]

Hi everyone,

DH and I have decided what excursion to do.

Key West - Trolley Tour (on our own)
Grand Cayman - 7:50 a.m. Stingray City and Cayman Island Tour
Cozumel - Fury Catamaran Sail, Snorkle and Beach Party

Did everyone get the official list of excursions from DCL? and see the notation at the bottom of the Grand Cayman excursion list that states allow 1-1 1/2 hours extra travel time to get to/from your DCL excursion. I am soooo glad DCL made that statement. We were planning on doing a different excursion and attempt to do Hell and the turtle farm on our own. Doubtful we would have been able to accomplish what we wanted to do. Should we get back with time to spare, we can shop or go to a nearby beach. Thanks DCL!

What are your thoughts regarding a large group DIS meet, mini DIS meet (adults, families and/or mixed), high tea DIS group and brunch DIS group?

[bigtime]

Bdgrizzle

Thanks 66 more days , but whos' counting!!!!!!!!!!

[MFan]

Bbgrizzle,
How old is your little one(s)? We have 3 (DD5, DD3, DD2). We don't plan on using Flounder's. We've been on the Western route before with Carnival BK (before kids), so we feel quite comfortable in trying to arrange things on our own. We haven't decided on Key West yet, but we'll most likely do Stingray City and 7 Mile Beach at Cayman and the Chankanaab Park at Cozumel. We are still trying to figure out how to squeeze in scuba at Cozumel. Finally, we'll relax on the beach at Castaway.

I'm surprised DCL is not doing something special for moms. I'm sure moms is one of their key target markets. Oh well, I guess I'll have to figure something out for my DW... :smooth: Hmmm, maybe I'll let her do the scuba while I watch the kids...

[WDWLVR]

Just giving this a little http://pages.prodigy.net/gums_nine/smilies/bump.gif to the top.

We sailed on the Disney Wonder last Mothers day and I didn't see them doing anything special other than having a decorated cake saying Happy Mothers Day at the entry to each resturant. Of course that was also the day we sailed. Maybe they'll do something on the Magic since it is the first full day. Also I'm not a Mother so even if they do something I won't see it. :(

[bigtime]

THANKS MARY

thanks for the info on Mothers Day the kids are planning what they want to do special:confused: :confused: We will also be in Key West that day so... look out Margaritaville.......

[WDWLVR]

Bigtime,

Maybe you could book a spa appointment for that morning. A facial or massage. That would be a nice way for her to start the day.

[Minnee]

Has anyone received info on excursions? I saw a post from someone on the 5/17 cruise, and they had just received info in the mail on excursions...... I haven't seen anything. Also, I've read that you can book Palos, by calling ahead of time, does anyone know anything about this?? Is this something we'll get in the mail???? So many questions..... sorry:confused:

[Cinderella1001]

Minnie,

I received our excursion documents last week. We need to hurry up and decide so we can aviod the big rush on board. Yours should be in the mail soon.

[Minnee]

What's everyone doing after the cruise? We're going right home, our flight leaves about noon. How's are you all getting to the airport? I'm still working on that part too!

[WDWLVR]

We're heading straight home as well. We are doing Disney transfers both ways.

[MFan]

We have reserved a car from Avis both ways. It's quite reasonable. I think all together it'll be around $90-$100 for a full size car. It's the most inconvenient but the most flexible and arguably least expensive way of getting to & from port. Our flight home is not until later in the afternoon, so we're going to swing by WDW or outlet for lunch and some shopping. :rolleyes:

[tony3331]

hello to all --- were on board ds 10 ds 9 just booked so were in a rush what beaches do i not want to miss. did the eastern last year and it was great.

[TChrist05]

welcome to the May 10th thread.....and I see you live on Long Island...what town? I cannot help you with anything on the Western swing so I will have to defer to the experts....9 weeks from now we will be on the MAGIC!
Tom

[tony3331]

hey tom i live in islip talk to you soon have lots to do:bounce:

[tony3331]

i don't think we will be doing disney excursions can you do the stingray city on your own. we did most of our excursions on our own last trip and it worked out well had much more time to do different things really just like to find some nice beaches and hang out:)

[tony3331]

thanks for the info will be at the radisson thursday and friday keep me posted on which beaches to see thanks

[Mommypoohbear]

Welcome Tony331

This is our first DCL cruise and first western caribbean cruise so I can't offer any info on the beaches.

I have read that the Seven mile beach in Grand Cayman is nice, we will be going on the DCL excursion "Cozumel Beach Break" at the Playa Sol Beach.

Many have commented on how crowded the Playa Sol beach can get, but being from Long Island also, we feel the beach couldn't be more crowded than some here in the summer. Also the excursion offers chairs, food, beer, soda and domestic drinks, water toys, zoo, pool, playground for kids.

Since our girls are 4 and 3 we don't want to get to a beach on our own and find we have no chairs, food or restrooms nearby.

Many recommend the beach next to Playa Sol, Mr. Sanchos Beach that is less crowded, heres a link

Mr Sanchos (http://www.MrSanchos.com)

[tony3331]

now i'm really confused:D and only 60 days left oh man i have to get on the treadmill :(

[rmbreset]

hey its day 60, that means its book your excursions day !! one more sign it's getting close. We booked the Dolphin encounter and the Cayman Island tour today. We already had booked horseback riding on the beach w/Honeysuckle on Grand Cayman. So step away from the computer and make those reservations. :)

[two4ruff]

60 days also means its time to turn over my tax return and pay this baby off!:rolleyes:

Now the real countdown begins!

[MFan]

Originally posted by two4ruff
60 days also means its time to turn over my tax return and pay this baby off!:rolleyes:


That's only if you're fortunate enough to have money coming back. Some of us have to come up with tax payment in addition to the cruise... :( :(

[WDWLVR]

Made our shore excursions this morning. So that is one more thing to cross off the list.

Now I just have to concentrate on what we are going to wear etc.

[WDWLVR]

One last post this morning. Mfan I feel your pain. We not only owe (a small amount) but we have estimated tax due April 15th (a not so small amount).

But in May we cruise!

[kangaroodle]

Hi everyone! I am going to post a new thread so I can get a goo idea of how many buttons to make for our cruise. Look for it under the title "ROLL CALL for May 10th WESTERN MAGIC". This will let me know people's names and info so I can start to work on these. May 10 will be here before we know it. YIPPEEE!


Also, if there is anyone going who has a son who is 5-6 yrs old and would like a pen pal let me know. We are traveling with some friends who have a son this age. He will be 6 in July and is in Kindergarden. My daughter who is 6 already has 2 or 3...we don't want him to feel left out. Send me a PM or just respond here!

Can't wait to meet everyone!:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[Bbgrizzle]

Sorry I haven't posted for a while, we've been moving!

Mary: I received your email and will reply after this post. I'm not too picky about the DIS meet. I think someone mentioned doing it Sunday morning, but I forget where. That would be fine with us.

[WDWLVR]

Kathy,

Thanks for starting a new post for the buttons. I deleted my two messages here so that people don't get confused.

Bonnie - as for the DIS meet - let's have some fun and do a poll. I've never done one before but I'm willing to try.

[Mommypoohbear]

Test Clipart

[somall]

just booked the last of PS for pre-cruise WDW vacation, booked shore excursions, put inrequest for DIS meet buttons and just booked flights on JetBlue. Yipee!!!!!


:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[Bbgrizzle]

somall: We'll be doing a pre-cruise WDW trip too. Where are you staying? We'll be at Wilderness Lodge.

[mmouse37]

Hey all you 5/10 cruisers.....keep that ship in "ship shape" condition for all of the 5/17 cruisers!!!!! Have a fantastic cruise!!!

MJ

[somall]

Bbgrizzle: we're staying at POR. We're arriving Wed morning and plan on doing MGM on Wed, AK, Cirque and V&A on Thurs. Fri will be either MK or BB then DD at night.

[Bbgrizzle]

We need more responses to the thread about the buttons (c'mon, you know you want one!) and the poll about the DIS meet. Where is everyone hiding?

[WDWLVR]

May 10th cruisers - we sail in 8 weeks :bounce:

Have you told Kathy you want a button yet? If not here's a link to that post:

"ROLL CALL---May 10th Western MAGIC cruisers!!! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=341544)

Have you voted on the poll about when to have the DIS meet?
if not here's a link to that post:

May 10th Magic DIS meet (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=341598)

I've got our excursions booked, found out tonight what excursions the in-laws are planning, now it is time to enjoy the countdown!

[WDWLVR]

MJ

Don't worry we'll keep the ship in great shape for you. Wish you were joining us, but we know come May 17th we'll be sad and you'll be happy! :D

[Jetsgirl85]

My husband and I are counting the days until our May 10 departure on DCL Western. We have a son - 12 and a daughter - 10. It's first cruise for all of us.

Really looking forward to it. Arriving at the Radisson the night before.

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :cool:

[Minnee]

Welcome Jetsgirl85

We'll be at the Radisson the night before too. I have a daughters 7,9 & 11(almost 12).

Hopefully we'll see you out by the pool friday afternoon !

[two4ruff]

Jetsgirl85-

Welcome aboard! We too are at the Radison and have 11 and 8 year old boys and hope to meet some of you at the pool Friday.

Is it too early to pack??
:rolleyes:

[Jetsgirl85]

Yes ... we hope to meet some of you at the hotel the previous night. We're from Long Island, New York ... it seems llike maybe our kids will be spending some time together based on some of the ages. Look forward to seeing everyone.

Cris

P.S. May be too soon to pack but definitely not too soon to start seeing what fits who and buying what's needed. HURRAH !!!

[TChrist05]

Hey Jetsgirl85...welcome aboard....we are fellow Long Islanders...wife and I are going on our 4th cruise....were supposed to be on the cancelled cruise of 11/30....we live in Bellmore....where do you live? We are unfortunately flying out the morning of the cruise from JFK on Delta....should get in to Orlando at 10:00 a.m. as long as nothing goes wrong....looking forward to meeting all on the ship....
Tom

[Jetsgirl85]

Hi Tom,

We live in Suffolk County in Manorville. Hope all goes well for you that morning and you will have no trouble getting to ship.
We decided to play it safe and go the night before - just a precaution.
Hope to see you onboard.
Cris

[Bbgrizzle]

Just thought I would bump this up. I was viewing our video tapes today from our DCL cruise last May and it made me extra excited for the cruise.

Dont' you just love it at the deck party when the CMs do that little cheer: "When I say 'Disney', you say 'Magic'. Disney! (Magic!), Disney! (Magic!)"? Or when the horn sounds for the first time? <Sigh>

Can't wait!

[bigtime]

Hey folks

Add us to the list!

We are with you all the way and can't wait it will be here before we know it.

[gfolchick]

I just read a post that someone on the Eastern May 3rd sailing got their documents-Ours should be coming real soon. Only 6 more short weeks to go. Can't wait to meet everyone.

[WDWLVR]

I saw that too. Can't wait to get the documents - that's a sure sign its getting close!

[Minnee]

It is getting closer !!!
I tried to book the dolphin discovery swim yesterday, but it was full:( ! I haven't told the girls yet........
I should have thought about it earlier, but I was kinda waiting to see what the tax refund was looking like.
Has anyone else done some excursion booking?
Seems like alot of our people that were cruising with us earlier have vanished !
Not us !!! No chance of that !!!

[two4ruff]

Minnee
I scheduled our dolphin discovery in early December and there were only a few spots open then...they must be quite popular.:(

I need to start looking for shorts and swim suits for my boys, it will be nice to put away the coats and sweaters - even if its only for a week!

[kangaroodle]

OK everyone, this is it! I am making my final list up for anyone who wants buttons for our DIS meet! See WDWLVRS post on page 15 of this trhread for a link to the "button thread" or just post below. These are the people who have responded so far.........and their families........

Goofytoo
Bbgrizzle
WDWLVR
MarkRg
Two4ruff
Gfolchick
MFan
TChrist05
rmbreset
Somall
Minnee
GoofyGirl
nhtiggerfan
Nikswims

If there's anyone else who wants one....SPEAK UP! I plan to start making them in about a week or so so I want to get an accurate count so I know how many buttons I need!

6 weeks and counting!!!! YAHOO!!!!:cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool:

[WDWLVR]

Kathy,

Giving you a little http://pages.prodigy.net/gums_nine/smilies/bump.gif so that anyone else who wants a button can see it.

Thanks for doing this!

[WDWLVR]

The poll I did showed that most people prefer Saturday at 3pm for the DIS meet. Let's plan on meeting then on deck 10 - mid ship - port side. This is the deck above the goofy pool (you can look down on the pool for those who haven't been onboard yet). This is a great place (though noisy) for sailaway. At 3pm we should have it pretty much to ourselves and at least we can hear each other to do introductions (very hard to do at sailaway).

So come get your cruise off to a great start by meeting your fellow DIS'ers. It is always fun to put names to faces and you'll be amazed how you'll see each other the rest of the trip. Nice to have friendly faces on board!

Counting the days :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[Minnee]

Ok, it's getting really close.... still no doc. for me, hopefully tomorrow !
Now girls, what are you wearing for formal night? Long dresses? I haven't found anything that I like yet. Dh is wearing his suit, Dds have dresses, but nothing for me yet. Dresses are fine, long or short but I Hate nylons !!!Dd's are the same in tights:eek: Poor things just itching and scratching, I feel bad for them !
Just figured I see what you girls were wearing, and Bump this up a little.... it was too many pages back !!!

[gfolchick]

I'm leaving the longer dress at home this time. I bought "a little black dress"(got a steal on it) but it is still a little snug. I'll need a backup if I don't keep losing. Hubby is wearing a suit.

[tony3331]

wow alot of long islanders on the ship see you at the radison

[WDWLVR]

I'm doing a short dress for formal night. It's the one I wore to my BIL's wedding 5 years ago. I wore it on formal night on our last 7 day cruise and seemed to fit right in.

[TChrist05]

Hello all....has anyone received there cruise documents yet? I have been on 3 previous cruises, and I can't remember when we got the documents.....Thanks all...and looking forward to the dismeet on Saturday 5/10.....
Tom

[kpros]

TChrist05

We received ours last Friday evening via UPS. You should be getting yours soon.

Ken

[somall]

Tony3331

you're right! there are a lot of long islanders on this cruise:D

I'm a Long Islander also and I'm looking forward to meeting everyone!

Can't wait to get our documents.

[goofytoo]

Yaaa HOOOO!!!
AAA called me and I picked up my docs on my lunchhour
They look fabulous!!!
now can I really fit all of this in my suitcase????

I am bringing a long dress for formal night and am hoping to be in Palo's for semi formal.

excursions are booked!

now all I have to do is wash new stuff and be sure it all fits in the suitcase

we can't decide what to do the day we get off the ship our flight does not leave until
4:20
we were thinking maybe seaworld
anyone have any ideas???

[Minnee]

I think Sea World sounds Great. Everytime we go to San Diego, we always have to go to Sea World, My dd's Love it !!

We'll be going straight to the airport, and home:(

[Bbgrizzle]

We just got our documents today too! I haven't purchased my formal night attire yet, but it won't be a gown, I'm quite certain. Minnee, I'm with you, no nylons in the summer. I'll probalby do dressy sandals.

[gfolchick]

Hey,
I'm jealous of all you West Coasteners getting your documents already. We even paid before the due date. Did they come UPS or FEDEX?

[Bbgrizzle]

They came by UPS this time, which surprised me. Last time I had a heck of a time meeting up with the Fed Ex guy, who came 3 times and finally we had to go to the Fed Ex office and get our documents ourselves.

[two4ruff]

This west coaster is jealous too!! Nothing yet!
:rolleyes:

[Minnee]

We still haven't seen our docs yet !!! So it's not all of us from the west coast(or even Las Vegas).

We booked with Dreams, does that make a difference? Maybe if you book straight with DCL they come sooner ?

Who knows, just hope they come soon ! My dd (Nicki) told me today.... Mom I'm so excited, it's only 38 days til we leave !
I know me too !!!

[Goofy Girl]

Ours came today by UPS! And in another envelope, my Disney VISA! It has been a good day!
:cool:

[rmbreset]

Came home from work today and our docs we waiting for us !!(under an inch of new snow). question , why is there an immigration card for the bahamas in it and do i need to fill that out ??

[mmouse37]

Castaway Cay is in the Bahamas so you do need to fill it out.

MJ

[goofytoo]

I saw that in there and thought the same thing! about the bahamas imigration form

Rmbreset
It is cold here today but no snow.....
we are suppose to get some tonight
I am finally seeing all of my grass it has been covered since December 26th!
Just think how wonderful that sun is going to feel
I just can't wait to sit on my veranda in my shorts drinking my rum drink!!


:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[tony3331]

WOW THE BIG BROWN TRUCK JUST DROPED OFF OUR DOCS WE WERE WAIT LISTED FOR EARLY DINNER AND WE GOT IT:bounce: