5/31/11 -- Chilling on the Wonder

[ksoehrlein]

My family and I have "abandoned ship" and will be sailing on the Dream in March instead. I hope the rest of you have a WONDERful cruise!

[golfcane]

Just added another 5/31 thread. Sorry did not scoll through. We are DH Mark DW Danielle DD Lexi 12 and DS Zac 10. Florida folks bound for Alaska! Look forward to meeting you Kim Chuck and kids!

[4boons]

We too are booked on the May 31, 2011 Wonderful cruise through Alaska.
Traveling will be Laura, Bill and Katie (will turn 17 days before the cruise).

Bill

[wifeofgrumpy]

Hello there everybody, we're also going to be traveling on this cruise. Tammy (me) David (DH) and Hunter (DD), who will be 15 when we make this journey. I am so excited, we've talked about taking an Alaskan crusie for quite some time, was extremely pleased to be able to travel with DCL. Has anyone done an Alaskan cruise before?

[ksoehrlein]

Whoops: I forgot to give the kids' names. Mary Elizabeth (who may go by Beth, Mary, Mary Beth or something completely different by the time we set sail) is our 11-year-old and Richard is our 8-year-old. They loved the kids' clubs when we did our 3-day cruise in March, so I expect we won't see much of them in Alaska.

Did you all reserve specific staterooms or are you GTY? We will be in stateroom 6542.

How about dining? We chose second seating because we loved seeing the shows before dinner on our last two cruises. I hope the new Play N Dine thing continues through 2011. Sounds really convenient!

Tammy, I've never done an Alaskan cruise before but would you believe that my senior year advertising project was a campaign for Princess Alaskan cruises? I've wanted to go ever since. (And no, we won't mention just how many years that has been... :rolleyes1)

[4boons]

Did you all reserve specific staterooms or are you GTY? We will be in stateroom 6542.

How about dining? We chose second seating because we loved seeing the shows before dinner on our last two cruises. I hope the new Play N Dine thing continues through 2011. Sounds really convenient!



We will be in stateroom 6134 and eating at the second seating.

[golfcane]

What is Play N Dine?

[ksoehrlein]

Whoops. Just learned I called it the wrong thing. "Dine and Play" is the correct name for the program. DCL started it this year (unfortunately, just after our last cruise). When you arrive for second dining, you tell the servers that you want to participate in Dine and Play. They will put a rush on the children's meals and serve them first. Then, about 45 minutes later, counselors from the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab will swing by to escort the kids to their various programs. No need for a parent to have to leave the table to go sign them into their clubs!

[golfcane]

We went on the spring break cruise this past year and I don't recall them having that. We always have the second seating for dinner. Our kids love to order room service before we go to the show and then they are usually off to the kids club after the show. I love that on the Disney Cruise they are always looking for ways to make the trip special!

[boyspapa]

Hi all, we're also going to be traveling on this cruise :banana:. Carl (me) Donna (DW) and the grandsons (14 and 11). We've taken 2 Alaskan cruises and look forward to doing one on DCL Chat with you all later.

[4boons]

Hi all, we're also going to be traveling on this cruise :banana:. Carl (me) Donna (DW) and the grandsons (14 and 11). We've taken 2 Alaskan cruises and look forward to doing one on DCL Chat with you all later.

Welcome aboard Carl, Donna and the boys.
There will be 3 of the 4boons going to Alaska.
Bill, Laura, and Katie (turns 17 only days before we leave)

[IrishCowboy]

I have added a link to your thread on the main index page. Have a great cruise!

[4boons]

I think we need a little bump to the front of the line

[ksoehrlein]

Now that we're on the main index page, we don't have to bump. Any new cruisers should be able to find us in that thread. But I wanted to just say hi and bump the thread up a little higher anyway. ;)

I've been having a little bit of "Dream envy" ever since the new ship details were released. I'm still very excited about sailing to Alaska so I guess I'll get over it. I hope the Wonder's dry dock gives us some exciting new features to look forward to.

Are the kids/grandkids excited about the trip? We've been using our saving for the cruise as a teaching tool for the kids. I set up direct deposit at work, where a specific dollar amount goes into our savings account every Wednesday. By January 2011, we should have enough to pay for the cruise, airfare, shore excursions and incidentals unless I'm grossly underestimating. (I hope I'm not! :scared1:) Anyway, we made a chart that we can color in each week and watch our total savings grow. I'm going to try to teach the kids about compounding interest as well, which has met with mixed results thus far. Since we started saving at the end of Sept, our interest for that month was only 5 cents. Beth can't figure out why I'm so excited about the concept of interest. I can't wait to see her reaction as that measly five cents turns into "real" money!

What are the rest of you doing to stay excited for a cruise that's so darn far in the future?

[plyeng2ff]

:yay:Hello Everyone. My wife and I will also going on the Alaska cruise. I can't wait to go. Alaska has been a dream vacation for me for a long time. We will be staying on Deck 6 Aft Starboard Side. I don't remember stateroom off the top of my head. Can't wait to see all you on the Ship. :worship::cool1:

[4boons]

:yay:Hello Everyone. My wife and I will also going on the Alaska cruise. I can't wait to go. Alaska has been a dream vacation for me for a long time. We will be staying on Deck 6 Aft Starboard Side. I don't remember stateroom off the top of my head. Can't wait to see all you on the Ship. :worship::cool1:

Welcome.
There will be 3 of us DW Laura, DD Katie (17) and myself.

Bill

[plyeng2ff]

Welcome.
There will be 3 of us DW Laura, DD Katie (17) and myself.

Bill

Just the two of us DW Danielle and myself

Arthur

[ksoehrlein]

Did you guys all get a "Welcome Aboard" email yesterday? Not much we can do online yet, but it was nice to get something from Disney and to verify that my ressie is still in the system. (Paranoid much? :lmao: Who, me?)

[plyeng2ff]

No

[plyeng2ff]

Finally got my email from Disney Cruise Line


We are in the system. LOL

:donald:

[ksoehrlein]

Glad to hear it, Arthur. Sorry if I gave you a scare!

[plyeng2ff]

Glad to hear it, Arthur. Sorry if I gave you a scare!

No scare but it was nice to get the email from disney cruise line

[plyeng2ff]

Happy New Year

Just think right now it one year, four months, four weeks, and 2 days. This time next year we will only have the four months, four weeks, and two days to go.

:donald:

[ksoehrlein]

Just think right now it one year, four months, four weeks, and 2 days. This time next year we will only have the four months, four weeks, and two days to go.

LOL Great way to look at it. Happy 2010, everyone!

[auntlynne]

...What are the rest of you doing to stay excited for a cruise that's so darn far in the future?

Cruising, of course, Disney style.
April 2010: 14-night Magic Eastbound Transatlantic BTB with 11- night Mediterranean.
Jan 2011: Wonder Panama Canal Repo (so we can do this Alaskan).
Feb 2011: Dream; gotta try the Aquaduck.

...and WDW March 2010 (tagging along on my brother's business convention to do the Royal Family 5k - next year's goal is the Disney Princess Half Marathon).

My name is Lynne and I'm a Disney cruise-aholic. (Hi, Lynne). I've done 3 cruises so far: a 3-night, a 4-night (both in 2007), then Halloween 2008 7-night Western Caribbean with weather and changing ports.

I've signed up most of my family for this cruise to celebrate my 50th birthday. We've got 4 cabins for 8 people: me (50 on June 2), DF (82), Dsis Ann (51), DSIL Judy (53), Dnieces Susan (23), Julie (20), Karen (18) and Linda (15). The only living close relative we are leaving behind is my brother. He says he wants to save his vacation time for something else. I guess I haven't pointed out that this is my only 50th birthday and he is the only one not coming on this trip. :)

cabins 6633, 6635, 6637, 6628

[4boons]

Welcome aboard Lynne to you and your cast of thousands.
Looking forward to this meet picking up as we get closer to our cruise.
Bill

[plyeng2ff]

Welcome aboard Lynne

:donald:

[ksoehrlein]

Hi Lynne,

What a great way to celebrate your 50th! I hope my DH is taking notes because that's exactly how I'd love to celebrate one of my "big" birthdays.

I'll be doing the Princess Half this year, so if you have any questions as you prepare for next year's race, feel free to ask. The Royal Family 5k should be a lot of fun. Have you checked out the WISH boards? They're a great resource as you train for Disney races!

[inspcramer]

My wife and I have also book our Alaskan Cruise. Our 2nd Disney cruise on the Wonder. Tried to get our same stateroom but it was already taken but I got the room next door. Does any have any preferrences for 1st of second sitting on this cruise?

Bob

[plyeng2ff]

Welcome aboard Bob and wife. My wife and I preferred the second dining. We like to see the show before dinner.

Arthur

[Disneyfalcon]

Hi everyone! We booked a while ago, but I wasn't sure it was really going to happen. It looks like it is now, so I'll stop lurking.:)


There are 5 cabins of family and friends. Some of us would be interested in fish extenders and what not.

Dh was stationed on remote assignment (without us) for a year in Alaska, so we're all excited to go back and enjoy it as a family.


Hi Lynne!! We're on your med cruise!:cheer2:

[plyeng2ff]

Welcome aboard Disneyfalcon and family.

[Disneyfalcon]

Welcome aboard Disneyfalcon and family.

Thanks plyeng2ff!:)

[Disneyfalcon]

Oh yes, and it's way too early now, but I'd be happy to organize fish extenders when the time comes!:)

[nostalgic4disney]

Hello everyone! My husband and I are booked on the 5/31/2011 Alaska cruise. We just changed from a 2/11 MR cruise. DH really wanted to go to Alaska. researched other cruise lines but couldn't break away from DCL. This will be our second cruise. we will have the second seating. this gives us more time at port. Also sunset will be around 9:50 pm ( I research everything)- so I thought it would be nice to view the sunset after dinner. We will be 5th level, aft.

[4boons]

Welcome to nostalgic4disney and to Disneyfalcon and your cast of thousand.

Bill

[plyeng2ff]

Welcome aboard nostalgic4disney and husband. We also have second dining.

[catislander]

Hello, I'm Sherri and my DH and DD (6 at sailing) just booked. We're starboard on deck seven, just aft of midship and are booked for first seating for dinner. although we've cruised before, this is our first experience on DCL and first time to Alaska. We live in SoCal and will be driving to Vancouver and back, camping and sightseeing along the way, so it should be a pretty spectacular vacation.

[disney minnie]

We just booked this cruise and we're so excited. Santa is actually bringing this to our family for Christmas. I haven't worked out all of the details yet, but I think we will be flying into Seattle to spend a few days, take the Amtrak to Vancouver, cruise, stay in Vancouver for a few days, take the train back to Seattle, and then fly home.

Me - Elizabeth
DH - Geoffrey
DS - Preston 11 at the time of the cruise
DD - Wilson 5 at the time of the cruise

[plyeng2ff]

Hello, I'm Sherri and my DH and DD (6 at sailing) just booked. We're starboard on deck seven, just aft of midship and are booked for first seating for dinner. although we've cruised before, this is our first experience on DCL and first time to Alaska. We live in SoCal and will be driving to Vancouver and back, camping and sightseeing along the way, so it should be a pretty spectacular vacation.


Welcome aboard Sherri and DH and DD

[plyeng2ff]

We just booked this cruise and we're so excited. Santa is actually bringing this to our family for Christmas. I haven't worked out all of the details yet, but I think we will be flying into Seattle to spend a few days, take the Amtrak to Vancouver, cruise, stay in Vancouver for a few days, take the train back to Seattle, and then fly home.

Me - Elizabeth
DH - Geoffrey
DS - Preston 11 at the time of the cruise
DD - Wilson 5 at the time of the cruise

Welcome Aboard

[auntlynne]

With only 3 pages in this thread, I was able to beat the crush and gather up the info (to date) on those Chilling on the Wonder

4boons
Bill
DW Laura
Katie (17)

auntlynne
Lynne (50th b'day June 2)
DS Ann
DSIL Judy
DN Susan
DN Julie
DN Karen
DN Linda

boyspapa
Carl (me)
Donna (DW)
grandsons (14 and 11)

catislander
SoCal
Early dining
Sherri
DH and
DD (6 at sailing)


disney minnie
Elizabeth
DH Geoffrey
DS Preston (11)
DD Wilson (5)

Disneyfalcon
5 cabinsful

golfcane from FL
DH Mark
DW Danielle
DD Lexi (12)
DS Zac (10)

inspcramer
Bob
DW

ksoehrlein
6542
Late dinner
Kim
DH Chuck
DD Mary Elizabeth (11)
DS Richard (8)

nostalgic4disney
Late dining
self
DH

plyeng2ff
Arthur
DW Danielle

wifeofgrumpy
Tammy (me)
David (DH)
DD Hunter (15)

[ag73]

Hi! All
I'm a single mom of a 4 years old, I love to travel and wanted to go to Alaska. Do you think this would be a good choice for us? If we choose to book the cruise it would be for her 5th birthday. Thanks for any advice, comments, recommendation...

[ksoehrlein]

Lynne, thanks for putting the list together. Our group is getting bigger and bigger!

AG73, you might not find completely unbiased advice here. ;) I think this would be a wonderful way to spend your daughter's 5th birthday, and you are a wonderful mom for even considering it!

[4boons]

Hi! All
I'm a single mom of a 4 years old, I love to travel and wanted to go to Alaska. Do you think this would be a good choice for us? If we choose to book the cruise it would be for her 5th birthday. Thanks for any advice, comments, recommendation...

We went on our 1st Disney cruise in 1999 only 5 days after Katies 5th birthday. Katie and her big sister loved the cruise so much we had to keep going back.

During dinner in Animators Katie was having too much fun standing on her chair and pointing at all the paintings as they came alive. This caught the eye of a film crew that was on board and they came and asked us to be in the 2000 DCL marketing video.

Don't be upset if you can't get her out of the kids club long enough to see Alaska. In 2005 when she was 11 we had to keep dragging Katie out to see the Panama Canal.

Bill

[auntlynne]

Hi! All
I'm a single mom of a 4 years old, I love to travel and wanted to go to Alaska. Do you think this would be a good choice for us? If we choose to book the cruise it would be for her 5th birthday. Thanks for any advice, comments, recommendation...

Seems that a lot of children enjoying spending time in the kids' clubs - sometimes from morning to night, parents dragging them out to have "family time" at meals. And every child, each cruise, can change and do other than you expect. You may be alone much of the time or you could have a lot of mom entertaining daughter time.

I'd ask a few questions -

1. Do you (the adult) want to see the Inner Passage of Alaska for yourself? (I don't remember anything from when I was little)

2. Do any of the ports and their excursions interest you? and have activities that would entertain your 5 yo?

3. Have you gone on any vacations together recently - what were activities you enjoyed singly or together? were they action activities or more relaxing?

Just some things to get you thinking or more to muddle your decision.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hello, hello!! Can't believe I only just looked for a thread for this cruise today--we booked the day they opened up the reservations! (Of course, a holiday trip to WDW in December, a grueling tax season at work, and a 4 day cruise 2 weeks ago might have something to do with it) It's just me (Beth--the grandma wanna be) and my DH (Dave), but we love Disney, kids and all.

Been researching Alaskan cruises for about a year and when Disney finally announced they were definitely going, we just couldn't use a different cruise line. This will be our 5th or 6th cruise on DCL, all depends on whether or not we add the 4-day before the 3-day we have scheduled for December. Just gotta see the boat all dressed up for Christmas! :santa:

In my previous life, I was a military wife and we were stationed in Ketchikan for 2 years. Of course, that was nearly 30 years ago :scared1: So when I saw the current pictures, I barely recognized the place. But I never got to see the whales while we were there and you can bet I'm signing up for that excursion!!

Can't wait to meet you all and Disneyfalcon, you can put us on the FE list--I've already started stockpiling some stuff for the kidlets. We're down on Deck 2, but that could always change if we can swing an upgrade. We are also planning to fly into/out of Seattle, but haven't settled on transportation to/from Vancouver yet.

[plyeng2ff]

ONE YEAR TO GO


:dancer: party: :donald: :tigger: :sulley: :dumbo: :mickeyjum:

[disney minnie]

When will we know what excursions are offered?

[auntlynne]

ONE YEAR TO GO


Wow! I was going to check the weather for each day of our cruise; this time next year we'll be at our next-to-last night. I checked the weather for the past few days and found this:

May 31, 2010 - Vancouver Hi 63 Lo 52 sunrise 5:12 am set 9:09 pm
June 1, 2010 - At Sea - ?
June 2, 2010 - Tracy Arm Fjord
June 3, 2010 - Skagway Hi 58 Lo 41 partly cloudy sunrise 3:52 am set 10:08 pm
June 4, 2010 - Juneau Hi 63 Lo 43 showers (0.01 in) sunrise 3:58 am set 9:55 pm
June 5, 2010 - Ketchikan Hi 58 Lo 45 sunrise 4:09 am set 9:22 pm
June 6, 2010 - At Sea
June 7, 2010 - Vancouver sunrise 5:08 am set: does it matter? you're off the boat

This will be the "dry season" in the inner passage, but this is a comparative term - we could have beautiful days or overcast/rainy. And still rather cold for us not used to colder climates.

[plyeng2ff]

Wow! I was going to check the weather for each day of our cruise; this time next year we'll be at our next-to-last night. I checked the weather for the past few days and found this:

May 31, 2010 - Vancouver Hi 63 Lo 52 sunrise 5:12 am set 9:09 pm
June 1, 2010 - At Sea - ?
June 2, 2010 - Tracy Arm Fjord
June 3, 2010 - Skagway Hi 58 Lo 41 partly cloudy sunrise 3:52 am set 10:08 pm
June 4, 2010 - Juneau Hi 63 Lo 43 showers (0.01 in) sunrise 3:58 am set 9:55 pm
June 5, 2010 - Ketchikan Hi 58 Lo 45 sunrise 4:09 am set 9:22 pm
June 6, 2010 - At Sea
June 7, 2010 - Vancouver sunrise 5:08 am set: does it matter? you're off the boat

This will be the "dry season" in the inner passage, but this is a comparative term - we could have beautiful days or overcast/rainy. And still rather cold for us not used to colder climates.

My wife will love if we get weather like what they have this year. She has trouble walking when it really warm out, but high 50s and 60s will be heaven for her. The sunrise times are a little early for me. On our last cruise, my wife would wake up in the morning and see the time then wake me up to take pictures of the sunrise. I would go up on deck and she would go back to bed.

[ksoehrlein]

It is with a heavy heart that I have to abandon ship. The good news is, my family will still be doing a DCL cruise next year, but we're going with a 4-night on the Dream in March instead. It's the right thing to do money-wise and vacation-dates-wise, but I'm sorry I won't get the chance to meet you guys in person. I hope you all have a WONDERful time.

[plyeng2ff]

It is with a heavy heart that I have to abandon ship. The good news is, my family will still be doing a DCL cruise next year, but we're going with a 4-night on the Dream in March instead. It's the right thing to do money-wise and vacation-dates-wise, but I'm sorry I won't get the chance to meet you guys in person. I hope you all have a WONDERful time.

Sorry to hear the news, but I hope you and your family has wonderful time on the Dream. Please let us know how everyone likes the Dream. I am think of booking on board and the Dream is my first choice.

[auntlynne]

Sorry to see Kim go, but this long-term vacation planning is sure to create changes in plans down the road.

I am getting more excited after changing our cabin plans. We were booked on Deck 6 (2 Cat 11s and 2 Cat 6s), but have dropped my dad and SIL from our party, leaving my sister, her four daughters and me to celebrate. After hearing about the sideways 11s (and doing a cabin tour during the Transatlantic), I was able to book the 6 of us in 3 of the sideways: 5505, 5509, 5513 (3-in-a-row, despite the number jumps). Our initial cruise was in 5522 on the Wonder and we really like that area of the ship; sort of a private hallway. I think anywhere on Deck 5 would suit me fine.

Been thinking about a graphics logo for this cruise - anyone creative enough to make a Disney totem design? Seems like the right thing for this area of Alaska; maybe lumberjacks (seems there should be a picture of Goofy as one).

Lynne

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hi Lynne! I couldn't agree more that we need a graphics logo we could put in our signatures for this cruise!! I've been hanging out on this magnet thread http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2440038 There are 3 people on that thread who create the most wonderful graphics for folks! Milliepie is in the midst of moving and won't be able to do any DISigning until August, but I'm sure tjbaggot or ****** could come up with something for us. ****** seems to be exceptionally brilliant at creating great DISigns from just a few suggestions and he's already done a few large ones for Alaska. Why don't you take a turn asking?

We're finally at less than a year out!!! Only 11 1/2 more months till we sail!!!

[Anjelica]

Hi - my name is Anjelica (far stretch on my DISname..lol) and I am a Disney Cruise-a-holic.

My family and brother will be joining you folks on the May 31st, 2011 cruise. We booked this several months ago but we have another one scheduled for October of this year so I have been spending most of my cruise information time over there.

At the time of the May 31st trip our family/ages will be:

Myself - 33 **Just shy of turning 34 on the trip
DH - 38
DD - 7 turning 8 on the cruise - June 6th
DS - 4

My brother who has his own cabin room, etc. will be 26. This is actually a special trip for him as he has wanted to visit Alaska for awhile but since he is Army (Combat Engineer) it is/was hard for him to schedule time. He was severely injured in Iraq in September 2008 (He lost his right leg above the knee) so this is a trip for him and our family to spend together. He is VERY excited to go - although I was surprised he agreed to do a Disney Cruise - but as we all know it can be very adult like at times.

[auntlynne]

Welcome Anjelica and family! and another Gemini birthday person (I'm June 2nd, but the big 5-0 on the cruise).

We didn't start cruising until my youngest niece was almost 12 - so we missed out on using the kids' clubs as the reason for doing Disney cruising. My 17 yo niece says she actually prefers DCL to WDW. She was ready to get back on the Magic in Barcelona and do another 11-night Med after 25 nights of B2B TA and Med in April when volcanic ash threatened our flight home.

CrazyBoutDisney - I see you are "crazy about Star Trek," too. I asked the 2 youngest (15, 17) if they wanted to decorate the door with a Star Wars theme, and they said Yeah! but actually Star Trek.

Since Alaska is the "Last Frontier" state, I want to use that and the "Final Frontier" together for them (or let them do the creating).

I would never inflict Star Trek/Wars on the unsuspecting Disney crowd, but will have magnets for that for the girls. I know ****** has a few Star Wars + Disney character license plate designs that will fit in nicely with this.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

CrazyBoutDisney - I see you are "crazy about Star Trek," too. I asked the 2 youngest (15, 17) if they wanted to decorate the door with a Star Wars theme, and they said Yeah! but actually Star Trek.

Since Alaska is the "Last Frontier" state, I want to use that and the "Final Frontier" together for them (or let them do the creating).

I would never inflict Star Trek/Wars on the unsuspecting Disney crowd, but will have magnets for that for the girls. I know ****** has a few Star Wars + Disney character license plate designs that will fit in nicely with this.

What a great idea!! Now you've got my creative juices flowing! I will have to go through my graphics folders and see what Trek stuff I've got. Or maybe just:

"Alaska......the Last Frontier.......These are the voyages of the cruise ship Wonder, whose 7-day mission, to explore new waters, to seek out wildlife and native civilizations, to boldly go where no Disney ship has gone before..."
....with apologies to Gene Roddenberry!

[inspcramer]

Seems that a lot of children enjoying spending time in the kids' clubs - sometimes from morning to night, parents dragging them out to have "family time" at meals. And every child, each cruise, can change and do other than you expect. You may be alone much of the time or you could have a lot of mom entertaining daughter time.

I'd ask a few questions -

1. Do you (the adult) want to see the Inner Passage of Alaska for yourself? (I don't remember anything from when I was little)

2. Do any of the ports and their excursions interest you? and have activities that would entertain your 5 yo?

3. Have you gone on any vacations together recently - what were activities you enjoyed singly or together? were they action activities or more relaxing?

Just some things to get you thinking or more to muddle your decision.

Apparently the Wonder will not be doing the "Inside Passage" out of Vancourver according to another thread. The days at sea will be offshore not in the passage. Personally I don't care but some people are unhappy about it.

[auntlynne]

What a great idea!! Now you've got my creative juices flowing! I will have to go through my graphics folders and see what Trek stuff I've got. Or maybe just:

"Alaska......the Last Frontier.......These are the voyages of the cruise ship Wonder, whose 7-day mission, to explore new waters, to seek out wildlife and native civilizations, to boldly go where no Disney ship has gone before..."
....with apologies to Gene Roddenberry!

That is great! Karen should love it. Stateroom 5509 will have that on the door magnets.

Somebody has a trekkie crescent shape insignia with a Mickey Mouse head on it - that will play right into it. I found a photo of Spock eating a Mickey bar - more fodder.

[gduvall]

Is anyone starting to think about Airfare yet. We are almost at the 330 day mark to purchase tickets. Does anyone know when Disney recommends what time for departing Vancouver, after what time? I was thinking about coming in a couple days before cruise and then depart on the day the cruise ends.

[4boons]

Is anyone starting to think about Airfare yet. We are almost at the 330 day mark to purchase tickets. Does anyone know when Disney recommends what time for departing Vancouver, after what time? I was thinking about coming in a couple days before cruise and then depart on the day the cruise ends.

In the Planning Library section of the DCL website it indicates that the earliest flight departure from the Vancouver International Airport on debarkation day - 12:00 p.m.

Bill

[gduvall]

Even for Vancouver. I knew it says that for Port Canaveral. Just trying to decide, it looks like they have a 12:00 noon leaving Vancouver, if I don't make that flight, you have to wait until 6:00am the next morning.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Is anyone starting to think about Airfare yet. We are almost at the 330 day mark to purchase tickets. Does anyone know when Disney recommends what time for departing Vancouver, after what time? I was thinking about coming in a couple days before cruise and then depart on the day the cruise ends.

Do any airlines have flight information published out that far? I know most of the ones we fly only publish about 6 months out.

[gduvall]

The legacy airlines sell out 330 days. (Delta, United, American)

[inspcramer]

Air Canada has their flights listed for that period as well.

[auntlynne]

Are you flying into Vancouver or Seattle? We are thinking Seattle and then driving or shuttling up - still checking prices. We fly out of Huntsville, AL or Nashville.

[gduvall]

We are going to fly into Vancouver.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Are you flying into Vancouver or Seattle? We are thinking Seattle and then driving or shuttling up - still checking prices. We fly out of Huntsville, AL or Nashville.

Same here! We fly out of Washington DC (Dulles) and are hoping to fly to Seattle on Saturday, spend the night, and get up to Vancouver somehow on Sunday. After reading what DCL had to say about Vancouver, we decided it was someplace we'd really like to spend a little time exploring. Dave has been researching various forms of transportation between Seattle and Vancouver, but we haven't made any decisions yet. Luckily, we have plenty of time. He also found out there is a place in Vancouver we can use our DVC points, which would help save some money on lodging.

[Disneyfalcon]

We are going to fly into Seattle if it's a big price difference. Some of our fame is flying from Huntsville, Lynne, so if you find a great deal, tell me!:)

[Anjelica]

I think we are going to fly into Seattle as well that Saturday before and maybe spend 2 nights there. I can't get over how much cheaper it is for us to fly to Seattle then it is to fly to Vancouver. For a family of four we are talking close to 1000 difference, etc. I've also heard the drive up from Seattle to Vancouver is beautiful so that is tempting us as well.

We plan on staying in Vancouver the night before the trip at the Pacific Rim (rates for May 2011 aren't out yet). While I would like to explore Vancouver more with two small kids and my brother who uses a prosthetic/wheelchair it will be easier to go back when the kids are older or without kids. (I've spent alot of time in Alberta/Calagary and loved it so I am sure Vancouver is wonderful).

[Anjelica]

I was checking availability at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel in Vancouver for the night before the cruise and I am getting no availability. Seems odd since we are still 11 months out. Has anyone successfully booked the night before at that hotel?

[auntlynne]

Wonder if Disney is using the Fairmont as one of their pre-cruise hotels?

Using September prices for Southwest Nashville - Seattle (nonstop) of app $360 (August prices are $400)

vs April prices Huntsville - Vancouver nearly $700 pp - we are most likely flying SWA. (almost $1800 minus parking, gas - that almost pays for one of our rooms).

With 6 of us going, I'll be checking into renting a mini-van and leaving it in Vancouver.

If we're that close to a Stuart Anderson's Black Angus restaurant, we'll be stopping - it's my sister's favorite restaurant on the planet, I think. They are only open for dinner, so we'll need to be near Lynnwood (near Everett - home to the 747, I think - not quite halfway to Vancouver). It's a steak restaurant to which I introduced my sister in Hawaii; now she's eaten there in AZ, CA, UT, and WA (3 times on one trip).

[gduvall]

I was checking availability at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel in Vancouver for the night before the cruise and I am getting no availability. Seems odd since we are still 11 months out. Has anyone successfully booked the night before at that hotel?

Probably too far out. I was checking the Marriott, and the only one available is at the Airport. They can't be booked that far out.

[Disneyfalcon]

Wonder if Disney is using the Fairmont as one of their pre-cruise hotels?

Using September prices for Southwest Nashville - Seattle (nonstop) of app $360 (August prices are $400)

vs April prices Huntsville - Vancouver nearly $700 pp - we are most likely flying SWA. (almost $1800 minus parking, gas - that almost pays for one of our rooms).

With 6 of us going, I'll be checking into renting a mini-van and leaving it in Vancouver.

If we're that close to a Stuart Anderson's Black Angus restaurant, we'll be stopping - it's my sister's favorite restaurant on the planet, I think. They are only open for dinner, so we'll need to be near Lynnwood (near Everett - home to the 747, I think - not quite halfway to Vancouver). It's a steak restaurant to which I introduced my sister in Hawaii; now she's eaten there in AZ, CA, UT, and WA (3 times on one trip).

When we first booked the cruise, in October of 09, I checked flights from Nashville for that same week in May of 10. I wanted to see roughly what we could expect.

Vancouver was $400 each, and Seattle was only $200! If I see that again we'll jump on it. It wasn't Southwest, I'm thinking it was United?

[Anjelica]

Probably too far out. I was checking the Marriott, and the only one available is at the Airport. They can't be booked that far out.

I originally thought that as well but I can book nights before the cruise except the 30th and I can book nights after the cruise. Auntlynne may be on to something - I wonder if Disney is using that hotel for their pre-cruise package, etc.

[4boons]

I originally thought that as well but I can book nights before the cruise except the 30th and I can book nights after the cruise. Auntlynne may be on to something - I wonder if Disney is using that hotel for their pre-cruise package, etc.

I tried the Marriott & Renaissance for after the cruise (June 7-10) and discovered after talking to the hotel that both are booked this far our for large conferences. However, the concierge said they may be able to open up some rooms in the fall, so suggested I check back.

Earlier this week the Fairmont website did show room availability for night of May 30, 2011 at the Fairmont Waterfront and Fairmont Pacific Rim, but Pacific Rim was more $$$. The website was only offering me smoking rooms when I asked for AAA rate, so I wrote the concierge to get a reservation for non-smoking room at AAA rate. e-mail address for the concierge at Fairmont Waterfront is WFC@hotelstay.fairmont.com.

I admit, I didn't even ask DCL what their room rate is. We just got back from the Baltic cruise where their price on the pre-cruise hotel in London was considerably higher than I could get booking it myself. They still let us check in at the cruise desk in the hotel and handled our luggage since we paid for resort/port transfers from London to Dover, which is a 2.5 hour trip. Not sure how they'll handle transfers since the cruise terminal is connected to the hotel, but I want them to deal with getting our luggage on the ship!

Laura

[DaveH]

I have been checking hotels today. Most are only doing until May 30th. The sticker shock is a bit much. I have been checking flights. We usually fly from Dulles here in Northern Virginia. I have found Baltimore Washington enough cheaper for the drive. We may fly to Vancouver from BWI. The flights are close to Dulles to Seattle. I will be checking what Disney is going to offer also. We plan on leaving here on Saturday and doing some sightseeing before the cruise.

[plyeng2ff]

Wow I have been checking my cruise meet for a week or two and now it three more pages. I guess I got get over here more often. Welcome aboard everyone that new.

[Anjelica]

Well we just bought our tickets to Seattle (one-way) from Delta/Alaska Air. They are the only non-stop from STL scheduled then. We were originally going to fly Southwest when they were non-stop but they took their non-stop out of their schedule starting this fall. I just happen to check the flights via kayak and Delta/Alaska Air was offering one way, non-stop from STL on May 28th, 2011 for 160.xx - that's a very good rate.

[shwarren70]

Hello everyone, I'm Stephanie and I just booked this cruise for my family. It will be my DH, Lee (43 tomorrow), my DD - Aubrey (7, but 8 on the cruise), my DS, Luke (2, 3 on the cruise). We will be in 6030.

My parents will also be traveling with us... My Mom, Diane, has booked this for my Dad, Ed, as his Christmas present. They are in 6086.

We are so excited. DH and I had a cruise booked in 2002 for a 2003 cruise for our anniversary, but cancelled.... Our daughter was born in January, 2003. I didn't want to leave her at home, but wasn't ready to take a 6 month old on a cruise. So, we have scheduled this one thru DVC.

Look forward to meeting you all, and would love to do fish extenders. We will be going on the September 30th 3night/4day to Bahamas.

See you guys!!
Stephanie

[4boons]

Hello everyone, I'm Stephanie and I just booked this cruise for my family. It will be my DH, Lee (43 tomorrow), my DD - Aubrey (7, but 8 on the cruise), my DS, Luke (2, 3 on the cruise). We will be in 6030.

My parents will also be traveling with us... My Mom, Diane, has booked this for my Dad, Ed, as his Christmas present. They are in 6086.

We are so excited. DH and I had a cruise booked in 2002 for a 2003 cruise for our anniversary, but cancelled.... Our daughter was born in January, 2003. I didn't want to leave her at home, but wasn't ready to take a 6 month old on a cruise. So, we have scheduled this one thru DVC.

Look forward to meeting you all, and would love to do fish extenders. We will be going on the September 30th 3night/4day to Bahamas.

See you guys!!
Stephanie

Welcome aboard.

The thread has been slow but I hope it will start picking up as we get closer and DCL releases the shore excursions.

We too are traveling on DVC pts. and will be in 6134.

Bill

[gduvall]

Well we just bought our tickets to Seattle (one-way) from Delta/Alaska Air. They are the only non-stop from STL scheduled then. We were originally going to fly Southwest when they were non-stop but they took their non-stop out of their schedule starting this fall. I just happen to check the flights via kayak and Delta/Alaska Air was offering one way, non-stop from STL on May 28th, 2011 for 160.xx - that's a very good rate.

Have you booked your return yet. What is the eariliest to fly out of Vancouver on our last day of cruise (June 7, 2011). I called DCL and they said 12:00 noon. I can get a noon flight, but since I've never flown out of Vancouver before, not really sure. There is also a 12:59 flight, but gets me back 45 minutes later. If I don't take either of these flight, the next option is the next day since I'm flying back to the midwest.

[Anjelica]

Have you booked your return yet. What is the eariliest to fly out of Vancouver on our last day of cruise (June 7, 2011). I called DCL and they said 12:00 noon. I can get a noon flight, but since I've never flown out of Vancouver before, not really sure. There is also a 12:59 flight, but gets me back 45 minutes later. If I don't take either of these flight, the next option is the next day since I'm flying back to the midwest.

Yes - I just booked our return flight back from Seattle - NOT Vancouver as it was 350-400 one way from Vancouver (and a plane change). From Seattle - we are flying out the day after the cruise - it was $150.xx for non-stop. With a 4 and 7 year old its easier for us to fly non-stop these days.

[inspcramer]

My DW Yvonne and I are flying Air Canada out of Los Angeles the day of the cruise into Vancouver. We leave at 7 am and arrive a little before 10 am. The flight is non-stop for $179 each, each way. Flying home at 2 pm on the return. No fee for the first checked bag.

[4boons]

My DW Yvonne and I are flying Air Canada out of Los Angeles the day of the cruise into Vancouver. We leave at 7 am and arrive a little before 10 am. The flight is non-stop for $179 each, each way. Flying home at 2 pm on the return. No fee for the first checked bag.

We are booked to arrive Sat., May 28th and return on Friday, June 10th.
Air was going to be $1,250 each for a total of $3,750 so Laura booked us with frequent flyer points.

Our tentative plan is to take a float plane over to Victoria on Sunday the 29th and return to Vancouver on the 30th.

Bill

[disney minnie]

what airline are you using and how many points did it take?

[4boons]

what airline are you using and how many points did it take?

American
25,000 round trip each

[disney minnie]

We have Delta points and they are showing 40,000! I would love for it to be 25,000

[4boons]

We have Delta points and they are showing 40,000! I would love for it to be 25,000

Our original plan was to leave Friday afternoon but we would have to use 50,000 points each round trip so we changed our plans to leave on Saturday.

Bill

[disney minnie]

Unfortunately, it is showing 40,000 for the whole month. I have tried flying out of Tallahassee or Atlanta and flying into Seattle or Vancouver.

[4boons]

Unfortunately, it is showing 40,000 for the whole month. I have tried flying out of Tallahassee or Atlanta and flying into Seattle or Vancouver.

Is 40,000 Deltas version of the anytime ticket? If it is you may give it a little time and see if they release the cheaper point tickets.

At first we could only get 2 FF tickets so we thought we would book Katie and myself on points and pay cash for Laura. When we saw the cost, Laura started trying to get 3 FF tickets. She could get 3 from Dallas to Vancouver but only 2 into Dallas. Laura has "elite status" so she talked to a supervisor and got a 3rd FF ticket.

[disney minnie]

I just called and they said some less expensive point tickets may be released later.

Thanks for your help!

[Disneyfalcon]

United's tickets are 25,000 too.:)

[my three girls]

Yes - I just booked our return flight back from Seattle - NOT Vancouver as it was 350-400 one way from Vancouver (and a plane change). From Seattle - we are flying out the day after the cruise - it was $150.xx for non-stop. With a 4 and 7 year old its easier for us to fly non-stop these days.

Hi Angelica. We are also flying out of St. Louis. We've decided to wait for Southwest's fares to be published and fly into Seattle. Not sure about the return flight. But, $150 is not bad for a non-stop. Is this on Air Canada?

[Anjelica]

Hi Angelica. We are also flying out of St. Louis. We've decided to wait for Southwest's fares to be published and fly into Seattle. Not sure about the return flight. But, $150 is not bad for a non-stop. Is this on Air Canada?

It was through Delta.com - and actually the flight is through Alaska Air - Delta's partner. If you bought the tickets directly through Alaska Air then they were around 340 each way but if you bought them through Delta they were 150.xx each way.

We were originally going to fly non-stop through SW but starting this fall SW is no longer offering non-stop flights to Seattle. With two smaller kids we didn't want to change planes/layover if at all possible. I compared similar dates through SW several months ago for Memorial Day weekend and found the fares to be similar to what we ended up getting through Delta.

You may want to look at Delta/Alaska Airlines if you really want a non-stop (starting this fall they are the ONLY airlines to fly non-stop from STL to Seattle). Now this may still change but after talking with Delta if they change the flight from non-stop to layover/plane change we can get a full refund and at that point we may look at SW again.

Hope that helps!!!

Where in St. Louis are you?

[my three girls]

It was through Delta.com - and actually the flight is through Alaska Air - Delta's partner. If you bought the tickets directly through Alaska Air then they were around 340 each way but if you bought them through Delta they were 150.xx each way.

We were originally going to fly non-stop through SW but starting this fall SW is no longer offering non-stop flights to Seattle. With two smaller kids we didn't want to change planes/layover if at all possible. I compared similar dates through SW several months ago for Memorial Day weekend and found the fares to be similar to what we ended up getting through Delta.

You may want to look at Delta/Alaska Airlines if you really want a non-stop (starting this fall they are the ONLY airlines to fly non-stop from STL to Seattle). Now this may still change but after talking with Delta if they change the flight from non-stop to layover/plane change we can get a full refund and at that point we may look at SW again.

Hope that helps!!!

Where in St. Louis are you?


We live in West County (Ballwin area). I thought I heard Southwest was going to offer non-stops next year, but not sure. We also have kids (15,11,7) and would definitely prefer a non-stop. I'll check out Delta's site. Thanks for the info.

[Anjelica]

For those interested Pan Pacific just opened up their bookings through at least May 2011. This is the hotel right above the cruise terminal. They have their special offers good only through December 2010 on the website BUT if you call them they have the rates for those packages/specials for next year as well. I was able to get the Family Package promo where you book one room you get the second room for 50% off. It's a good deal if you plan on staying at Pan Pacific AND need more than 1 room.

[disney minnie]

I just booked Pan Pacific with AAA rate. 199 CAD city view before the cruise and 159 CAD after the cruise.

part harbor view before cruise was 229 CAD
full harbor view before cruise was 279 CAD

full harbor view after cruise was 239 CAD

I actually booked the full harbor view at first but then changed it and decided use the almost $600 on excursions.

[Anjelica]

I just booked Pan Pacific with AAA rate. 199 CAD city view before the cruise and 159 CAD after the cruise.

part harbor view before cruise was 229 CAD
full harbor view before cruise was 279 CAD

full harbor view after cruise was 239 CAD

I actually booked the full harbor view at first but then changed it and decided use the almost $600 on excursions.

Hmm....maybe I should call them back. Do you know what is included in the AAA rate (i.e. breakfast, etc.)?

[disney minnie]

Not sure. I was trying to hide while making the reservation since our children don't know yet and my 10 yr old is at the nosey stage. I did tell them that we were going on a cruise and asked for a cruise room, but I'm not sure what's included. I will call when the kids aren't around to get the details. If you find out first, I would love to know.

[Anjelica]

Not sure. I was trying to hide while making the reservation since our children don't know yet and my 10 yr old is at the nosey stage. I did tell them that we were going on a cruise and asked for a cruise room, but I'm not sure what's included. I will call when the kids aren't around to get the details. If you find out first, I would love to know.

Thanks!!! I did find out from my confirmation letter on the Family Package it inlcudes the following:

Family Package (2 Adults, 2 Children) includes:

Deluxe Guestroom Accommodation
Cookies and chocolate milk for children
Treasure Hunt with a prize
Complimentary in-room movie, popcorn & pop
Breakfast Buffet for 4 (2 Adults, 2 Children) in the Cafe Pacifica (6.30am - 10.am daily) per room
Access to board games and Playstation
Late Check out of 2pm
500 Airline points

Since my brother is wheelchair bound 1/2 the time we may just stick with the family package as they offer the breakfast buffet for all of us and then the in-room movie/popcorn so the kids are entertained the night before. We won't be able to sightsee as much as we want in Vancouver and kind of knew we would be "stuck" at the hotel the night before/morning before the cruise.

[disney minnie]

With AAA only the room is included.

[Anjelica]

With AAA only the room is included.

Thanks for checking - killer rate for sure!!!

[Mineu]

Hi Everyone: We just booked today-so excited :banana:. We will have two cabins on deck 6 with 2 adults, an 18 yr. old (my baby is getting old!), 17 yr old; 14 yr. old and a 12 yr. old. I also booked the Pan Pacific with that great AAA rate! Hoping for better prices on the flights-a little steep-but we want to fly into Vancouver-so may have to bite the bullet sooner rather than later... Does anyone know when the shore excursions will be released? Thanks for all of the great info so far!:worship:

[Mineu]

I just booked Pan Pacific with AAA rate. 199 CAD city view before the cruise and 159 CAD after the cruise.

part harbor view before cruise was 229 CAD
full harbor view before cruise was 279 CAD

full harbor view after cruise was 239 CAD

I actually booked the full harbor view at first but then changed it and decided use the almost $600 on excursions.

Hi: I just booked the cruise and Pan Pacific as well-I was quoted 220 pre cruise and 180 post cruise AAA rate-I'm wondering if it went up since you booked-or if I should try the family rate as we need two rooms...:confused3

[disney minnie]

Is it the same type of room? We booked the city view. If you were quoted those prices for the city view then they definetly went up.

[Mineu]

Yes-it is a city view-we're usually too tired to admire the view after a full day of travel! The agent said there was less availability on 5/30 then on 6/7-so that is why our night on 6/7 is less. I would love a better rate since I need two rooms each stay!

[Mineu]

Hi all: Just wanted to amend our cabin #'s we are now in 6511 and 6507 instead of 6515. The agent didn't understand why I wanted to switch-I told him that "small" hallway was going to seem like a football field when I had to dash over to the the other cabin in my p.j's to wake everyone up! :rotfl:

[rebeccak971]

Hi everyone, a quick post to introduce myself! My family and I will be flying in from Australia to go on our very first cruise, and a disney cruise at that! We are super excited! Travelling will be myself, my husband and our daughter who will be 4 yrs old. I've booked room 6515. Would love to hear any tips for our first disney cruise and any tips about what to see and do in vancouver - we'll be staying there a couple of days and a week or so after.

[Mineu]

Welcome :cheer2:! You'll love the Disney Cruise!! You got our old cabin-we were separated by the hallway- that's a big space to cross in my robe every morning to wake the others up :lmao:. Anyway, there are lots of great tips around. Check out the Vancouver thread and the Alaska thread as well. Welcome aboard!!

[shwarren70]

Well, flights are booked and hotel in booked... Pan Pacific. We will fly in on Saturday, May 28th and spend a couple days in the area. Our flight back to Greenville, NC doesn't leave until around 7:00 p.m. and we fly overnight home, so we will also have right much of June 7th to explore too...

[rebeccak971]

Welcome :cheer2:! You'll love the Disney Cruise!! You got our old cabin-we were separated by the hallway- that's a big space to cross in my robe every morning to wake the others up :lmao:. Anyway, there are lots of great tips around. Check out the Vancouver thread and the Alaska thread as well. Welcome aboard!!

Thanks for the welcome Mineu! I just noticed that I'd booked your old cabin! It looks like a good pick to me - I read that the sideways cabins are more spacious. I haven't paid my deposit yet, but hopefully we'll be able to stick with that cabin :) Yes I'll definitely be checking out all the tips on here in the lead up. I don't know anyone who's ever been on a disney cruise (they aren't well known here in Australia), but I'm planning on making the most of it! It's quite a big investment to fly over, but I'm hoping it will be worth every penny :yay:

[disney minnie]

We had to cancel. I hope everyone has a great time!

[Mineu]

My son's senior trip was moved-so we had to move our cruise as well-we jumped aboard the 6/14/11 sailing-post some details for me when you get back! Have a great cruise everyone!

[bamafoust]

Can't wait to meet you all in Vancouver! We (family of four: Kevin (41); Jeanne (41); DD (14) and DD (10)) are beginning to count down the days and figure out flight and accommodations before and after. This is our second Disney cruise (1st was Magic, Oct. 2007). Keep us posted! Lovin' the info!

[DaveH]

Rumor has it that DCL will start listing the shore excursions on the web site in the next few days.

[NSDisneyGirl]

Hi!!! We booked this cruise almost a year ago and are thrilled! It'll be our first Alaskan cruise and fifth Disney cruise. We have one stateroom for myself (27); my friend (we just added him to the reservation last month - it'll be his first cruise!); and my parents. We booked our flights this week, we'll be flying from Halifax to Vancouver a couple of days before the cruise and flying home the day we disembark. We're all anxiously awaiting the shore excursions to be announced! Look forward to hearing planning tips and suggestions as the time gets closer! :)

[4boons]

Hi!!! We booked this cruise almost a year ago and are thrilled! It'll be our first Alaskan cruise and fifth Disney cruise. We have one stateroom for myself (27); my friend (we just added him to the reservation last month - it'll be his first cruise!); and my parents. We booked our flights this week, we'll be flying from Halifax to Vancouver a couple of days before the cruise and flying home the day we disembark. We're all anxiously awaiting the shore excursions to be announced! Look forward to hearing planning tips and suggestions as the time gets closer! :)

Welcome aboard.
We have been off the boards for several months and only have time to drop by on occasion. Waiting for the shore excursions and then it will start feeling like it is real and we can start planning.

[shwarren70]

Hi!!! We booked this cruise almost a year ago and are thrilled! It'll be our first Alaskan cruise and fifth Disney cruise. We have one stateroom for myself (27); my friend (we just added him to the reservation last month - it'll be his first cruise!); and my parents. We booked our flights this week, we'll be flying from Halifax to Vancouver a couple of days before the cruise and flying home the day we disembark. We're all anxiously awaiting the shore excursions to be announced! Look forward to hearing planning tips and suggestions as the time gets closer! :)

Welcome aboard!

[shwarren70]

Well... I no longer have to stress about spoiling the "Christmas surprise" for my dad...

I think I had posted earlier that my mom was giving this trip to my dad for Christmas. We've had it planned and booked since the summer. I've almost messed up and said something about it several times. My dad knows that we are going, but nothing about the surprise.

Well today, on the way home, he tells my mom he needs to talk to her about something. And, then he says, "well I need to talk to you and Stephanie about something. I was thinking, how would you like to go to Alaska for your 60th birthday? Because, if you would, we need to talk to Stephanie and see if she cares if we go with them." My mom busted out laughing, and says "I don't think she would mind. That sounds good to me." And was like "well, I don't want her to think we are intruding." And then she said, "Well, she won't because she's already booked it for me to give you for Christmas. The cruise is booked, the plane tickets are booked, and the hotel is booked before hand." They looked at each other and said "Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday." It is amazing how many times they are on the same page about doing things. LOL! So, I'm glad I don't have to keep a secret anymore.

[4boons]

Well... I no longer have to stress about spoiling the "Christmas surprise" for my dad...

I think I had posted earlier that my mom was giving this trip to my dad for Christmas. We've had it planned and booked since the summer. I've almost messed up and said something about it several times. My dad knows that we are going, but nothing about the surprise.

Well today, on the way home, he tells my mom he needs to talk to her about something. And, then he says, "well I need to talk to you and Stephanie about something. I was thinking, how would you like to go to Alaska for your 60th birthday? Because, if you would, we need to talk to Stephanie and see if she cares if we go with them." My mom busted out laughing, and says "I don't think she would mind. That sounds good to me." And was like "well, I don't want her to think we are intruding." And then she said, "Well, she won't because she's already booked it for me to give you for Christmas. The cruise is booked, the plane tickets are booked, and the hotel is booked before hand." They looked at each other and said "Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday." It is amazing how many times they are on the same page about doing things. LOL! So, I'm glad I don't have to keep a secret anymore.

Great story. Thanks for sharing. :yay:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Well, after watching the Dream float out yesterday, DH & I got to talking. Seems both of us have been thinking about how we'd rather do a Dream cruise instead of going to Alaska right now. Money is tight and there are just so many things we'd want to do up north--a couple of days in Vancouver, whale watching, the train in Skagway, panning for gold, etc, etc. So, we've decided to keep saving for Alaska and we traded in this cruise for the Dream's first double dip.

Have a WONDERful cruise!

[aldapl]

I just booked this cruise tonight. It will be myself and my DS(10).

[4boons]

I just booked this cruise tonight. It will be myself and my DS(10).

Welcome aboard.
The thread has been a little slow but I expect it to pick up when we can start booking shore excursions.
Bill

[4boons]

Well, after watching the Dream float out yesterday, DH & I got to talking. Seems both of us have been thinking about how we'd rather do a Dream cruise instead of going to Alaska right now. Money is tight and there are just so many things we'd want to do up north--a couple of days in Vancouver, whale watching, the train in Skagway, panning for gold, etc, etc. So, we've decided to keep saving for Alaska and we traded in this cruise for the Dream's first double dip.

Have a WONDERful cruise!

Sorry you won't be with us in Alaska but I understand.
We hope to do the Dream in 2011 also.
Bill

[NSDisneyGirl]

Well everyone, we've past the 200 day mark :cool1: Only 197 days until we set sail! I can't wait for the shore excursions to be announced so we can really start planning :)

[gduvall]

Well everyone, we've past the 200 day mark :cool1: Only 197 days until we set sail! I can't wait for the shore excursions to be announced so we can really start planning :)

my count down clock still says 201 days, I like yours much better. Yours may be counting extra days before your cruise.

[NSDisneyGirl]

my count down clock still says 201 days, I like yours much better. Yours may be counting extra days before your cruise.

Oops! You're right - sorry :) Still exciting though! :flower3:

[gduvall]

absolutely, I changed my count down to include the two days before the cruise, when our flight actually leaves. So we're at 199. Just had to break the 200 mark.

[rebeccak971]

This is my first cruise and all, but am I right in thinking DCL is leaving it a little late to announce the shore excursions for Alaska? How far in advance do they usually announce them for new itineraries? :confused:

[auntlynne]

I was checking on an activity we want to do in Alaska - zip-lining; I contacted Alaska Canopy Adventures the other day to see if we could book directly and they said they had just received their contract from DCL to provide this activity. That's one shore excursion we know we'll be hoping to sign up for early.

If you watch Travel Channel, you may have seen them on Extreme Alaska activities.

[auntlynne]

This is my first cruise and all, but am I right in thinking DCL is leaving it a little late to announce the shore excursions for Alaska? How far in advance do they usually announce them for new itineraries? :confused:

The Mexican Riviera cruises start on Jan 23. The shore excursions showed up around Aug 17, just a little over 5 months in advance. I think we will know what they are offering before our Final Payment date (the end of January).

[Mary Ellen]

Hello - DH and I just booked this yesterday. We've done 5 Alaskan cruises before, but this will be our first DCL cruise. We're excited about trying a new cruise line. :banana:

[Disneyfalcon]

Hello - DH and I just booked this yesterday. We've done 5 Alaskan cruises before, but this will be our first DCL cruise. We're excited about trying a new cruise line. :banana:

Welcome, Mary Ellen!:)

[Mary Ellen]

Why thank you, Disneyfalcon. Good to be here.

[4boons]

Hello - DH and I just booked this yesterday. We've done 5 Alaskan cruises before, but this will be our first DCL cruise. We're excited about trying a new cruise line. :banana:

Welcome aboard.
Would appreciate any advice you have to pass on about Alaska.
Bill, Laura and Katie

[shwarren70]

Hello - DH and I just booked this yesterday. We've done 5 Alaskan cruises before, but this will be our first DCL cruise. We're excited about trying a new cruise line. :banana:

Welcome aboard... Would love to hear any advice from your previous Alaskan cruises.

[Mary Ellen]

One our favorite things we've done on other cruises was to rent a car in Skagway and drive up into the Yukon. There is beautiful scenery along the way to gorgeous Emerald Lake, where we turned around. It was 1.5-2 hrs. each way IIRC. Plenty of time to do a leisurely trip with our 12+ hrs there. It would have been another hour or so each way to continue on to Whitehorse, but the scenery isn't supposed to be as nice on this portion, so we didn't do this. You'll need to bring your passports for the border crossings and the driver can't have a Canadian driver's license. Apparently it is illegal for Canadians to drive U.S. registered cars in Canada and some have reported being turned back to Skagway at the border.

The other big thing in Skagway is the White Pass RR. We've done that and enjoyed the trip.

In Juneau our preference is to take the city bus out to Mendenhall Glacier. MUCH less $ than the cruise line's shore ex and you have more time to spend there.

Last time in Ketchikan we took a boat tour out to Misty Fjords National Park. The weather was beautiful (our 1st time there without rain) and we saw lots of whales along the way.

I've found the Alaska 'Ports of Call' forum (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=55) on the Cruise Critic to be very helpful.

Be ready with layered clothing. It can be nice and warm (we've rarely had this) or cold and wet (more the norm). Actually we've had better weather in the May/June cruises than later in the summer. We're taking knit hats and gloves. One thing we don't cruise without is silk long underwear. They take up NO space and fit quite nicely under our regular clothes. Jeans we don't take. They take too long to dry if you get wet and they weigh more compared to Dockers and the silk long johns.

If there is anything specific just ask. I might know.

This trip we're not planning on doing much off the ship. We booked because our banked DVC points have to be used by the end of September. Since this our first time on DCL we're going to enjoy the ship. I am very curious though to see what Disney offers in shore ex though. In the Med they have some NICE tours I haven't seen on other lines. Maybe they'll have something new for us here.

I must say that as a first time cruiser on DCL, they are making us feel quite unwelcome. Not being able to book Palo or shore ex until 75-days out, while others can book starting at 120-days. Not a good thing. We'd like to try Palo, but not holding our breath. :sad2:

[pouncingpluto]

Mary Ellen, I don't think you should have too much trouble booking Palo at 75-days out, honestly. Certain time slots will be taken, but there should be plenty of availability. And since no one knows their dining rotation, there's always a lot of last minute shuffling of reservations once people get on board.

Anyway, hi guys! I'm new to the thread. We booked this back in August, but with the final payment due in a month, I guess it's time to get serious!

We will be the crazy people bringing our 3-month old on her first cruise. Yes, that's right, that means I haven't actually had the baby yet. :) I'm 32 1/2 weeks pregnant, due February 17. (And, yes, we got the travel insurance!) I'm an associate at a law firm (i.e., I work a lot), and I wanted to take advantage of my maternity leave to take a nice family vacation with no interruptions.

Our original plan was to fly to Vancouver on Saturday, 5/28 (Seattle just seems like too much of a hassle to me, especially with the baby, despite the fact that Vancouver airfare from the DC area is ridiculous), but I've discovered that we have enough miles to cover the trip if we fly on Sunday, 5/29 instead. So, we'll probably do that. No hotel reservation yet... I'll probably wait until significantly closer to the time, given the uncertainty the baby introduces.

We will have early dining... but we are going to play it by ear and just do the casual dining or in-room dining whenever we need to. (Again, bc of the baby!)

[NSDisneyGirl]

Mary Ellen, I don't think you should have too much trouble booking Palo at 75-days out, honestly. Certain time slots will be taken, but there should be plenty of availability. And since no one knows their dining rotation, there's always a lot of last minute shuffling of reservations once people get on board.

Anyway, hi guys! I'm new to the thread. We booked this back in August, but with the final payment due in a month, I guess it's time to get serious!

We will be the crazy people bringing our 3-month old on her first cruise. Yes, that's right, that means I haven't actually had the baby yet. :) I'm 32 1/2 weeks pregnant, due February 17. (And, yes, we got the travel insurance!) I'm an associate at a law firm (i.e., I work a lot), and I wanted to take advantage of my maternity leave to take a nice family vacation with no interruptions.

Our original plan was to fly to Vancouver on Saturday, 5/28 (Seattle just seems like too much of a hassle to me, especially with the baby, despite the fact that Vancouver airfare from the DC area is ridiculous), but I've discovered that we have enough miles to cover the trip if we fly on Sunday, 5/29 instead. So, we'll probably do that. No hotel reservation yet... I'll probably wait until significantly closer to the time, given the uncertainty the baby introduces.

We will have early dining... but we are going to play it by ear and just do the casual dining or in-room dining whenever we need to. (Again, bc of the baby!)

Welcome aboard!!!

[NSDisneyGirl]

Excursions are posted!!! We can't wait to read through them all and start planning! Can't wait to hear everyone's thoughts, opinions and choices! :yay:

[4boons]

Excursions are posted!!! We can't wait to read through them all and start planning! Can't wait to hear everyone's thoughts, opinions and choices! :yay:

Laura, Katie and I are working through all our options and will soon post our thoughts and plans.

Welcome to all who are just joining us and look forward to meeting all.

Bill

[4boons]

I hope this helps with the packing list.
Let the planning begin

- Bill

Weather Data

May 30 Victoria, BC
Avg. min. temp. 49 F
Record min. temp. 42 F (1999)
Avg. max. temp. 67 F
Record max. temp 75F (2007)
May 2010 avg. wind 7 mph, max. 29mph/max gust 41 mph

May 31 Vancouver, BC
Avg. min. temp. 52 F
Record min. temp. 48 F (2008)
Avg. max. temp. 67 F
Record max. temp. 75 F (2007)
May 2010 avg. wind 9 mph, max. 33 mph/max gust 41 mph

June 3 Skagway, AK
Avg. min. temp. 44 F
Record min. temp. 34 F (1991)
Avg. max. temp. 59 F
Record max. temp. 79 F (1997)
June 2010 avg. wind 9 mph, max. 37 mph/max gust 51 mph

June 4 Juneau, AK
Avg. min. temp. 45 F
Record min. temp. 33 F (1971)
Avg. max. temp. 60 F
Record max. temp. 80 F (1954)
June 2010 avg. wind 7 mph, max. 31 mph/max gust 43 mph

June 5 Ketchikan, AK
Avg. min. temp. 45 F
Record min. temp. 39 F (1955)
Avg. max. temp. 60 F
Record max. temp. 79 F (1958)
June 2010 avg. wind 8 mph, max 25 mph/max gust 34 mph

June 7 Vancouver, BC
Avg. min. temp. 53 F
Record min. temp. 46 F (1999)
Avg. max. temp. 68 F
Record max. temp 73 F (1998)
June 2010 avg. wind 8 mph, max 26 mph/max gust 33 mph

[4boons]

Pre-cruise is planned and booked

Day -3 (Saturday)
Arrive Vancouver 7:20 pm
Hotel: Fairmont Waterfront

Day -2 (Sunday)
Check out of Fairmont Waterfront (leaving cruise/larger luggage with bellman)
Transfer: Prince of Whales "Adventure Crossing" from Vancouver to Victoria (transit plus whale watching)
Hotel: Fairmont Empress (same hotel we spent our honeymoon 20 yrs ago)
Touring: Parliament building, Royal BC Museum, Inner Harbor, Fishermans Wharf (still working on)

Day -1 (Monday)
Check out of Fairmont Empress
Touring: Butchart Gardens (via Gray Line West Butchart Garden Express)
Transfer: 4:00 pm Harbor Air floatplane Victoria to Vancouver
Hotel: Fairmont Waterfront
Cruise: Check in with DCL at Fairmont Waterfront for morning transfer

Day 0 (Tuesday)
Check out of Fairmont Waterfront
Transfer: DCL transfer luggage from hotel to DCL Wonder
Walk hotel to DCL Wonder (terminal opens 10am, boarding starts at 1pm, all aboard 4pm)
Stateroom 6134

[4boons]

What port adventures look good to you.
So far my choices, not necessarily those of Laura and Katie, include

Skagway:
Best of Skagway

Juneau:
Dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter

Ketchikan:
Misty Fjords Boat and floatplane Adventure
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Enhanced Show

Bill

[Disneyfalcon]

Hi everyone! We're getting closer! We haven't finalized our port excursions yet, but we already booked kayaking in Ketchikan directly through the company.

I thought I'd start a fish extender list soon. I guess I will just post an updated list of names right here in the thread every so often. The op of the thread isn't joining us anymore so they can't keep updating the first post.

If anyone else has any suggestions, just let me know! We're getting excited!:cool1:

[pouncingpluto]

I'm not sure we'll be able to decide on excursions until we log in to book them, since that's when we'll be able to log in and see what Flounder's reservations are available.

Ketchikan-- I'd like to do the Misty Fjords floatplane, but only if Flounder's is available. If not, we'll do the Misty Fjords boat and take DD with us.

Skagway-- I think the Yukon Expedition sounds great, and it's very mild, but I still think 8 hours may be a bit long for DD (either to go with us-- a long day out-- or to be at Flounder's for that long). So we might do something that's more like a half-day but similar-- railway and bus, taking DD with us.

Juneau-- Mendenhall Glacier + Whale Watching

[4boons]

Laura and I were looking through the gifts and amenities section on the DCL website. Laura wants to know where the Diet Dr. Pepper package is?

They have beer, wine and water packages but she could not find the Diet Dr. Pepper package. :rotfl2:

[alohaprincess]

Santa brought us this cruise for Christmas and we are so excited! I've already learned so much from all of you!

[4boons]

Santa brought us this cruise for Christmas and we are so excited! I've already learned so much from all of you!

Welcome aboard from the 3 of the 4boons, Bill, Laura and Katie.

[4boons]

Just a note to everyone.

Check with your credit card companies for the cards with the lowest foreign transaction fees.

When booking travels and tours in Vancouver we forgot that the Disney Visa has a higher foreign transaction fee than some of our other cards that we usually use for foreign travel.

Laura, our international travel for work expert in the family, is going to check to make sure we have the hotels booked with the card with the best foreign transaction fee.

Hope everyone is having a great week.

Bill

[lcoasterdizfan]

I booked this cruise as a solo and I am also doing the Adventures by Disney add-on package.

I am interested in participating in the FE and any other activities we can cook up.

It will be my first time in Alaska so I am trying to gather all the tips and suggestions on these boards.

It should be an amazing cruise!

Leslie

:goodvibes

[NSDisneyGirl]

What port adventures look good to you.
So far my choices, not necessarily those of Laura and Katie, include

Skagway:
Best of Skagway

Juneau:
Dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter

Ketchikan:
Misty Fjords Boat and floatplane Adventure
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Enhanced Show

Bill

Great choices! And your pre-cruise plans sound amazing!

Thanks for the weather data - that will be really helpful to decide what to take.

We're not sure on the excursions yet, we know we definitely want to try zip-lining, just not sure at which port yet, as well as a whale watching excursion - lots of decisions to make!

[NSDisneyGirl]

Santa brought us this cruise for Christmas and we are so excited! I've already learned so much from all of you!

Welcome Aboard! :)

[NSDisneyGirl]

I booked this cruise as a solo and I am also doing the Adventures by Disney add-on package.

I am interested in participating in the FE and any other activities we can cook up.

It will be my first time in Alaska so I am trying to gather all the tips and suggestions on these boards.

It should be an amazing cruise!

Leslie

:goodvibes

Welcome! :)

[shwarren70]

Santa brought us this cruise for Christmas and we are so excited! I've already learned so much from all of you!

Very Cool Christmas gift! Welcome aboard....

We also have a Caribbean cruise booked for Jan 2012 to surprise our kids with for Christmas 2011... Keeping that a secret for so long is going to be hard!

[shwarren70]

I booked this cruise as a solo and I am also doing the Adventures by Disney add-on package.

I am interested in participating in the FE and any other activities we can cook up.

It will be my first time in Alaska so I am trying to gather all the tips and suggestions on these boards.

It should be an amazing cruise!

Leslie

:goodvibes

Welcome Aboard!

[speakupjc]

My husband, myself and our 8 year old daughter will be cruising with ya'll.
Is anyone cruising with children around the same age?

[4boons]

My husband, myself and our 8 year old daughter will be cruising with ya'll.
Is anyone cruising with children around the same age?

Welcome aboard.
Sorry we can't help you out, DD will have just turned 17 days before we sail.
Bill

[speakupjc]

Thanks for the warm welcome Bill!

[Disneyfalcon]

My husband, myself and our 8 year old daughter will be cruising with ya'll.
Is anyone cruising with children around the same age?

Welcome! No kids under 12 here. Glad you're joining us!:)

[swinglim]

Party of 16 Singaporeans on this cruise! Can't wait!!

This is my second Disney Cruise and we are bringing sis inlaw and her family. And the grandparents. And my buddy's family. and her mom in law. :)

Anyone know what is the Castaway Club gift? So excited to get my first one!

[GreenAcres]

We booked this cruise during our Castaway Cay Double Dip cruise this past May. This will be our 4th DCL cruise and we are SO excited about Alaska. Right now our minds are boggled by the enormity of selecting port excursions! Who knew there would be so much to choose from!!! We are: Lisa, DH(Raymond), DD(20), and DS(almost 16 at cruise time).

[4boons]

We booked this cruise during our Castaway Cay Double Dip cruise this past May. This will be our 4th DCL cruise and we are SO excited about Alaska. Right now our minds are boggled by the enormity of selecting port excursions! Who knew there would be so much to choose from!!! We are: Lisa, DH(Raymond), DD(20), and DS(almost 16 at cruise time).

Welcome aboard, it will be nice to cruise with y'all again.

Bill, Laura and Katie

[ClaireinTN]

We are seriously thinking about this cruise, so I have been lurking on this thread. One thing that might help us decide is looking at the excursions that are being offered. I know that you all can see them but I can't find them on the DCL site. Am I just not looking in the right place, or do I need to have a reservation?

Thanks!

[4boons]

We are seriously thinking about this cruise, so I have been lurking on this thread. One thing that might help us decide is looking at the excursions that are being offered. I know that you all can see them but I can't find them on the DCL site. Am I just not looking in the right place, or do I need to have a reservation?

Thanks!

On the DCL site go to Cruises & Destinations and then to Port Adventures. From there you can look at each port.
Vancouver
Skagway
Juno
Ketchikan
I hope this helps.
Bill

[famviramontes]

Yesterday my DH decided he needed a vacation and wants to do Alaska. We can get Princess for fairly inexpensive but after much discussion everyone decided that there is nothing like Disney. I will be booking this week.

My DH, DS (17 when we sail) and myself will be on board. I can't wait to hear the ships horn as we pull out. :dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:

[4boons]

Yesterday my DH decided he needed a vacation and wants to do Alaska. We can get Princess for fairly inexpensive but after much discussion everyone decided that there is nothing like Disney. I will be booking this week.

My DH, DS (17 when we sail) and myself will be on board. I can't wait to here the ships horn as we pull out. :dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:

It appears that you chose wisely.
Welcome aboard from the Boons
Laura, Katie (17 when we sail) and Bill

[famviramontes]

Just booked and paid in full for the cruise. It looks to be a fairly full ship as we had very little choice and had to go up a category. We are in room 6110. Now to do more research on the ports. I am use to doing the Caribbean but these are very different. :)

[Anjelica]

I've been away from this thread awhile (just got back from Disneyworld so was focusing on the planning for that trip). However, after paying the balance in full today for the May 31st trip I am have come to the stark realization that this trip is sneaking up on us fast. I have to book excursions, palo, etc. in just a little more than 30 days - that is nuts.

Anyone else feel like there isn't enough time to research all the excursions?(there were sooooo many of them I couldn't believe it).

[Anjelica]

Heads up - I just got an email from Dreams Unlimited about a new promotion for this (and a few other) Alaskan cruise where Kids Sail Free if booked in a certain room category. I was completely shocked as I just found out we saved over $2000.00+ on this cruise. I paid in full this morning but DU let me know they talked to DCL and they aren't sure if they caught the adjustment in time before the charge and if not I will get a refund in the next 2-4 weeks.

CHECK IT OUT -> http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/special-offers/kids-sail-free-alaska/

[4boons]

Heads up - I just got an email from Dreams Unlimited about a new promotion for this (and a few other) Alaskan cruise where Kids Sail Free if booked in a certain room category. I was completely shocked as I just found out we saved over $2000.00+ on this cruise. I paid in full this morning but DU let me know they talked to DCL and they aren't sure if they caught the adjustment in time before the charge and if not I will get a refund in the next 2-4 weeks.

CHECK IT OUT -> http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/special-offers/kids-sail-free-alaska/

Thanks for the info. we should qualify.
Bill

[famviramontes]

Thanks for letting us know about the promotion, I just got over $1300 dollars knocked off the price. :cool1:

[adnil530]

Hi Everyone!

We just booked this cruise! We were booked on the 7/12 Alaska Cruise, but with the KSF promotion, had to switch. The kids get out of school on 5/26 so it's perfect! Moved up a category and still saved over $2800. Can't beat the price. I'll read through the posts and see what is going on over here. I am just so excited. If we hadn't switched, we were probably going to have to cancel the 7/12 cruise.

Anyway, traveling are:

Linda (me), Mike (DH), Michelle (DD15) and Laura (DD10) We have late dining and have a verandah on deck 6. This will be our 4th Disney Cruise, 2nd on the Wonder.

Looking forward to catching up on the posts and chatting with this group! And did I say that I am EXCITED!!!

Linda

[shwarren70]

Yesterday my DH decided he needed a vacation and wants to do Alaska. We can get Princess for fairly inexpensive but after much discussion everyone decided that there is nothing like Disney. I will be booking this week.

My DH, DS (17 when we sail) and myself will be on board. I can't wait to hear the ships horn as we pull out. :dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:

Welcome aboard!

Heads up - I just got an email from Dreams Unlimited about a new promotion for this (and a few other) Alaskan cruise where Kids Sail Free if booked in a certain room category. I was completely shocked as I just found out we saved over $2000.00+ on this cruise. I paid in full this morning but DU let me know they talked to DCL and they aren't sure if they caught the adjustment in time before the charge and if not I will get a refund in the next 2-4 weeks.

CHECK IT OUT -> http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/special-offers/kids-sail-free-alaska/

Thanks for the info... I am booked thru my DVC points, but had to use points for one child and pay the 2nd because we had used all of our points... I'm going to call and see if I can get it switched.

Hi Everyone!

We just booked this cruise! We were booked on the 7/12 Alaska Cruise, but with the KSF promotion, had to switch. The kids get out of school on 5/26 so it's perfect! Moved up a category and still saved over $2800. Can't beat the price. I'll read through the posts and see what is going on over here. I am just so excited. If we hadn't switched, we were probably going to have to cancel the 7/12 cruise.

Anyway, traveling are:

Linda (me), Mike (DH), Michelle (DD15) and Laura (DD10) We have late dining and have a verandah on deck 6. This will be our 4th Disney Cruise, 2nd on the Wonder.

Looking forward to catching up on the posts and chatting with this group! And did I say that I am EXCITED!!!

Linda

Welcome aboard!

[GreenAcres]

It's a great day to stock up on Alaska-wear at sierratradingpost.com...they're having an extra 20% off promotion. There are some great things for next to nothing! I bought waterproof trail shoes, base layers, and ear warmers! Well, there goes a little chunk of my KSF savings, but I feel much more prepared for any and all possible weather conditions!

[famviramontes]

:)

[famviramontes]

So I was perusing the excursions today and found snorkeling. I love to snorkel and scuba dive. My family thinks it might be a bit cold. Hmmmm, I guess it will be a little chiller than the Caribbean.:cold: I guess I will have to keep looking.:surfweb:

[4boons]

So I was perusing the excursions today and found snorkeling. I love to snorkel and scuba dive. My family thinks it might be a bit cold. Hmmmm, I guess it will be a little chiller than the Caribbean.:cold: I guess I will have to keep looking.:surfweb:

But they use a 7mm wet suit with hoods.
Still too cold for me.

[Anjelica]

There are so many excursions to choose from I'm having a hard time narrowing it down. My brother, who is Army had his right leg amputated in 2008 so he does many things in wheelchair (sometimes crutches) therefore I'm trying to balance excursions that would be interesting to our party yet mobile friendly to him. I think there is at least one excursion where my daughter and I will do without him (and he is completely cool with) is the Dog Sledding in Juneau. I am a bit confused though as there are at least three different "offerings" of Dog Sledding in Juneau but I can't tell what the main differences are.

[ruadisneyfan2]

Hi all :wave2:
I just put a 3 day 'hold' on this cruise since they released the KSF deal. I'm not sure we can swing it esp after reading about so many excursions and seeing the prices. My head is spinning. We are used to doing maybe 1 or 2 excurisons per cruise in the Caribbean. Heck, sometimes even just stay on the ship. This would be our 7th DCL cruise. How can we just sit on the ship when there is so many neat things to do here? :headache:

May I ask a few questions to those of you who've been planning a while? How much are you budgeting for excursions? Where is a good place to stay pre/post cruise? :confused3 What is proper attire for Alaska this time of year?

I'd love to be able to do this cruise but we already have a summer vacay planned to Williamsburg (relatively inexpensive but still some 'must do' things) and a b2b on the Dream in Nov. Also dh doesn't know it yet but I booked a surprise 3 nt Dream cruise for his birthday for just the 2 of us. :cloud9: The rest is all paid for but now seeing excursion prices and people talking about buying "Alaska-wear" at Sierra Trading Post and such I'm wondering if I should do this cruise when we have more time to plan. We do have miles and wouldn't have to pay for airfare.

Then again, ds will be entering HS next year and I feel like we wouldn't be able to let him miss a whole week of school if we wait, even winding down at the end of the year like this cruise.
Yet, we really do need a new driveway. From all the freezing/thawing/ice over the past 2 years, some tiny cracks grew and now it looks like a road map with so many.
:confused: :guilty: :upsidedow :scratchin

Ugh! decisions, decisions....

[pouncingpluto]

DH might buy a few things, but I'm not planning on buying any "Alaska wear" myself. I feel like the outerwear I already own will suffice. And I'll just have to choose between sneakers and wellies for each excursion.

I personally think you should do the Alaska cruise. :) It's just such a unique experience, and the KSF code is fantastic.

We don't have a set budget amount in mind for the excursions, but we're also not doing the super expensive $600 ones. We will hopefully do one floatplane one (assuming Flounder's is open, bc we don't want to take an infant on it), and that will be over $200 each. But even there, there is a less expensive boat alternative (I'm talking about Misty Fjords) that we will do if Flounder's isn't open. I think there are a lot of options to choose from that will let you have a nice experience at a variety of price points. You might want to look into booking through private companies instead of the cruiseline or into things you can do on your own.

[famviramontes]

I think the price of these excursions do seem more expensive than in other areas. I have tried looking at doing several myself but some of the companies I would want to do refer cruisers back to the cruise site and don't list prices. I usually don't book with the cruise line because it is more expensive but may have to this time. With the money we are saving, I am not feeling so bad about it.

Even though we are from Southern CA, I don't think we are going to do much buying of extra clothes. We will just layer.

The KSF makes it really hard not to go because it ends up being a great deal. Hope to see you on board.

[adnil530]

I don't plan on buying any special clothing either. May pick something up on the end of the season clearance racks that we can use next year. As I was going through the threads, someone (was it you 4Boons ?) had posted the weather data for May 30-June 7. The averages look very comfortable.

I was looking at the excursions also. With 4 people, I will have to choose very carefully as it would be easy to go way over budget. We are pretty resourceful though and can make our own fun.

I read many posts back that there was some interest in a FE. Any interest now as we are getting closer? I've always enjoyed the FE and am willing to join in or compile the list. Any body else interested???

Also, has anyone compiled data on the kids? My DD's, 15 and 10, are asking about kids their ages. Thanks!

Looking forward to this cruise and to chatting it up with all of you.

Linda

[famviramontes]

They didn't have FE's the last time we sailed, a long time ago. I just showed my son and he is already planning our FE. If others want to do it, we are in.

[4boons]

I don't plan on buying any special clothing either. May pick something up on the end of the season clearance racks that we can use next year. As I was going through the threads, someone (was it you 4Boons ?) had posted the weather data for May 30-June 7. The averages look very comfortable.

I was looking at the excursions also. With 4 people, I will have to choose very carefully as it would be easy to go way over budget. We are pretty resourceful though and can make our own fun.

I read many posts back that there was some interest in a FE. Any interest now as we are getting closer? I've always enjoyed the FE and am willing to join in or compile the list. Any body else interested???

Also, has anyone compiled data on the kids? My DD's, 15 and 10, are asking about kids their ages. Thanks!

Looking forward to this cruise and to chatting it up with all of you.

Linda

Weather
Page 10 post #144

[Disneyfalcon]

They didn't have FE's the last time we sailed, a long time ago. I just showed my son and he is already planning our FE. If others want to do it, we are in.

Awesome! I'm going to post a list of who we have sinned up so far later this week.:)

[4boons]

Awesome! I'm going to post a list of who we have sinned up so far later this week.:)

Put the 4boons down for FEs

General info.

4boons
Bill
Laura
Katie (turns 17 days before we embark)

Room 6134

Dining - second seating

[poohj80]

Just found the Kids Sail Free offer and am considering switching our August cruise to this one. Has the excursion window opened for Castaway members yet? When is final payment due (or has it passed already)?

Thanks!

[famviramontes]

FE Infor

famviramontes

OT
Stephanie
Robert (turns 17 two weeks before we sail)

Rm 6110

Second seating for dinner

[adnil530]

Awesome! I'm going to post a list of who we have sinned up so far later this week.:)


Yea!!! Sign us up!

Linda & Mike
Michelle (turns 15 on May 16)
Laura ( 10)

Second Dining
Stateroom 6618

I can't wait for the first navigators to come out either. Do you think there will be a pirate night? Fireworks? Will there be Tea with Alice? High tea at Palo's? I guess we will know about brunch and tea at Palo's when the bookings for excursions open up. I am still a Silver so I won't be able to book until 90 days out. Gold can book 105 days, Platinum 120 days out. Platinum can book tonight at midnight right? Any Platinum members sailing? Is there a High Tea at Palo's to book? We have never done the tea. Maybe this trip though.

[pouncingpluto]

Sign us up, please! Never done a FE before (this will be our fifth DCL cruise-- woohoo, Gold after this trip).

Kerry and Charles
Danielle (3 months-- unless she is born tomorrow, in which case she will be four months :) ).

6634, late dining but waitlisted for early dining

To the person who asked above-- tomorrow is the final payment deadline (for those who have already booked, of course)! I'm not sure about excursion windows-- I think ours, as silver, opens in late Feb. So the platinum or gold one might open soon.

[4boons]

Sign us up, please! Never done a FE before (this will be our fifth DCL cruise-- woohoo, Gold after this trip).

Kerry and Charles
Danielle (3 months-- unless she is born tomorrow, in which case she will be four months :) ).

6634, late dining but waitlisted for early dining

To the person who asked above-- tomorrow is the final payment deadline (for those who have already booked, of course)! I'm not sure about excursion windows-- I think ours, as silver, opens in late Feb. So the platinum or gold one might open soon.

Y'all have the other deck 6 secret veranda room.
We felt lucky to book, on the first day, the other cat 6 for a cat 7 price secret veranda room.

[auntlynne]

Awesome! I'm going to post a list of who we have sinned up so far later this week.:)

I usually ignore spelling mistakes, but this one made me laugh - I think you'll probably have to put all our names on the list of those who have sinned. :goodvibes

[auntlynne]

...I'm not sure about excursion windows-- I think ours, as silver, opens in late Feb. So the platinum or gold one might open soon.

I'm gold and its Feb 15
Based on that, the dates should be around
Platinum & Concierge: 120 days = Jan 31
Gold: 105 days = Feb 15
Silver: 90 days = March 2
Precious Newbies: 75 days = March 17

[Disneyfalcon]

I usually ignore spelling mistakes, but this one made me laugh - I think you'll probably have to put all our names on the list of those who have sinned. :goodvibes

Oh my word! I am guessing I spelled signed wrong and my ipad auto corrected!:laughing: I didn't even notice!

I will post a list of those who "signed" up later this week!!:) I'll comb through the thread as well as all the newbies who just signed up!

[pouncingpluto]

Y'all have the other deck 6 secret veranda room.
We felt lucky to book, on the first day, the other cat 6 for a cat 7 price secret veranda room.

Yeah! We love these "secret" verandah rooms. We got this one back in August. We managed to keep it when we rebooked last week due to the KSF code, though we lost our main dining seating. But we figure we're probably going to eat room service or BBB a lot anyway, with the new baby, unless she's really good at sleeping through our scheduled dinnertime. We'd rather save our Flounder's hours for excursions and Palo.

[poohj80]

I'm gold and its Feb 15
Based on that, the dates should be around
Platinum & Concierge: 120 days = Jan 31
Gold: 105 days = Feb 15
Silver: 90 days = March 2
Precious Newbies: 75 days = March 17

Thanks for the help! It's really a difficult decision as I have been reading the weather may not be as good in May as August. What to do, what to do???

[speakupjc]

We are in for the FE's if the group decides to do them. Just let us know and we will get you our information.

We are also looking for a family with child (ren) in the age range of 5-12 to sit with for dinner (second seating). Is anyone interested? Our daughter will be 8 at the time of the cruise.

[docbrown]

Just booked over the weekend!!
DH Michael, Myself Anna, DD Ale (11 almost 12 at sailing), DD Julia 8.
Late seating, and just learned today about FE and would love to join and try.
We are all so excited!

[lcoasterdizfan]

Sign me up for the FE!

It's just me sailing so here's my info:

Leslie
lcoasterdizfan
cabin 6503
second dining

Thanks for compiling the list.

[Disneyfalcon]

Okay, I made a list of cruisers and Fish Extenders! Sorry if I missed you! I'm quite sure there's some mistakes in here. If I missed you or your information isn't correct, just post below and I'll keep updating. A few people haven't posted for a while, so if you know someone isn't going now just let me know.

I'll update every few days or so until the cruise. We'll close the Fish Extender sign ups a few weeks before the cruise. I'll give everyone plenty of notice and we'll update the cabins as people's cabins change.

Cruisers:
4boons – Bill and Laura, ds Katie 17, Second dining
Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining
Aldapl – 1 adult and ds 10
Alohaprincess
Anjelica – Anjelica, dh, dd 8, ds 4, Second cabin with brother
Auntlynne – Lynne and 2 cabins of family, 5 adults, Dn Linda 15
Bamafoust – Kevin and Jeanne, dd 14, dd 10
Boyspapa – Carl and Donna, gs 14 and gs 11
Catislander – Sherri and dh, dd 6, Main dining
Disneyfalcon – Stephen and Tammy, ds 16, dd 13 and 6 cabins of friends and family, Main dining
Docbrown – Michael and Anna, dd Ale 11, dd Julia 8, Second dining
Famvirmontes – Stephanie, dh, ds Robert 17, Second dining
Gduvall
Golfcane – Mark, Danielle, dd Lexi 12, ds Zac 10
Greenacres – Lisa and Raymond, dd20, ds 16
Icoasterdizfan – Leslie, Second dining
Inspcarmer – 2 adults
Maryellen – 2 adults
Nostalgic4disney – 2 adults, Second dining
NSdisneygil – 4 adults
Plyeng2ff – Arthur and Danielle
PouncingPluto – Kerry and Charles, dd Danielle 3 mo, Main dining
Rebeccak971 – Rebecca, dh, dd 4
Shwarren70 - Stephanie and Lee, dd Aubrey 8, ds Luke 3
Shwarren70 Cabin 2 – Diane and Ed
Speakupjc – 2 adults dd8
Swinglim – Party of 16
Wifeofgrumpy – Tammy and David, ds Hunter 15


FE List
Deck 2:
Cabin 2614 - Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 16, dd 13
Cabin 2626– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, dd 15, dd 12
Cabin 2620– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 3, ds 3

Deck 6:
Cabin 6030 – Shwarren 2 adults, dd 8, ds 3
Cabin 6110 – Famviramontes 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6134 – 4boons 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6503 – Icoasterdizfan 1 adult
Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10
Cabin 6634 – Pouncing Pluto 2 adults, dd 4 months

Need cabins for:
Docbrown
Speakupjc

[gduvall]

gduvall - Greg and Tammy, DD21, and DD19. main dining

[Disneyfalcon]

gduvall - Greg and Tammy, DD21, and DD19. main dining

Got it! I'm sure there will be several updates in the next day or so, so I'll repost the list when I have a few.

[smb6]

Hi everyone.

I'm on this cruise also; I've actually been booked for a year now......

Looking at the list of fellow cruisers; I see a fair amount of you have 10 yr olds.... my dd is 10 and she will be in the kids club- I was just curious if most of you plan to keep your 10 yr olds in the kids club and not ask to put them in the new Edge?.... I've noticed a lot of folks in the cruise forum are planning to ask to move their 10 yr olds up to Edge and I'm hoping my dd will have other 10 yr olds to play with in the kids club......

Happy planning!

[speakupjc]

Speakupjc = Dance and George Brunswick plus DD8. We are on the second seating and in stateroom 5516.

Catherine will be in the kids club and enjoys playing with children of all ages. SMB6, Catherine is mature for her age and would love to play with your 10 yr old dd. I believe that your dd would enjoy playing with her as well as most kids love her.

Is anyone interested in a group brunch at Palo? We did this with fellow dissers in the Med and it was fun. There can only be 20 people in the private dining room so the first 18 people who respond will be included if I can get the ressie.

We are still looking for another family to share a table with at dinner. Is anyone interested?

[famviramontes]

Disneyfalcon, thanks for compiling the list. I am getting so excited! Having a tough week so it is definitely fun coming home to this.

Question about brunch. Is it on a sea day? If it is, my husband and I would love to join you.

[Anjelica]

Thanks Disneyfalcon for putting the list together!!!!

Well I have our Skagway excursion booked (I went outside of Disney for this one). I feel a little better I was able to finally get one of the excursions for the family pinned down. For Juneau Sydney (7) and I are going to try and do the Dog Musher for a day while hubby, ds and brother due the best of Juneau tour. I'm still unsure about Ketchikan yet.

[auntlynne]

Will you share your Skagway plans with us? Always looking for ideas.

[famviramontes]

I noticed that my husband name was left off, understandable. His name is Otilo but no one can pronounce it so everyone calls him OT.

[Disneyfalcon]

Ok, here's update number 1!:)

Cruisers:
4boons – Bill and Laura, dd Katie 17, Second dining
Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining
Aldapl – 1 adult and ds 10
Alohaprincess
Anjelica – Anjelica, dh, dd 8, ds 4, Second cabin with brother
Auntlynne – Lynne and 2 cabins of family, 5 adults, Dn Linda 15
Bamafoust – Kevin and Jeanne, dd 14, dd 10
Boyspapa – Carl and Donna, gs 14 and gs 11
Catislander – Sherri and dh, dd 6, Main dining
Disneyfalcon – Stephen and Tammy, ds 16, dd 13 and 6 cabins of friends and family, Main dining
Docbrown – Michael and Anna, dd Ale 11, dd Julia 8, Second dining
Famvirmontes – Stephanie and OT, ds Robert 17, Second dining
Gduvall – Greg and Tammy, dd 21, dd19, Main dining
Golfcane – Mark, Danielle, dd Lexi 12, ds Zac 10
Greenacres – Lisa and Raymond, dd20, ds 16
Icoasterdizfan – Leslie, Second dining
Inspcarmer – 2 adults
Maryellen – 2 adults
Nostalgic4disney – 2 adults, Second dining
NSdisneygil – 4 adults
Plyeng2ff – Arthur and Danielle
PouncingPluto – Kerry and Charles, dd Danielle 3 mo, Main dining
Rebeccak971 – Rebecca, dh, dd 4
Shwarren70 - Stephanie and Lee, dd Aubrey 8, ds Luke 3
Shwarren70 Cabin 2 – Diane and Ed
Smb6 – 2 adults, dd 10
Speakupjc – Dance and George Brunswick, dd8, Second dining
Swinglim – Party of 16
Wifeofgrumpy – Tammy and David, ds Hunter 15


FE List
Deck 2:
Cabin 2614 - Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 16, dd 13
Cabin 2626– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, dd 15, dd 12
Cabin 2620– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 3, ds 3

Deck 5:
5516 – Speakupjc – 2 adults, dd 8

Deck 6:
Cabin 6030 – Shwarren 2 adults, dd 8, ds 3
Cabin 6110 – Famviramontes 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6134 – 4boons 2 adults, dd 17
Cabin 6503 – Icoasterdizfan 1 adult
Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10
Cabin 6634 – Pouncing Pluto 2 adults, dd 4 months


Need cabin #'s for:
Docbrown

[Anjelica]

Will you share your Skagway plans with us? Always looking for ideas.

I originally contacted Dave from http://dyeadavetours.com/ as we were interested in the tours he offered. Since we have smaller children with us we ended up going with Becky from http://beyondskagwaytours.com/ - she works with Dave on his tours but is branching out as well (with Dave's blessing) to offer smaller tours which is better for us with my brother and his wheelchair and our small children.

From reading reviews Dave's tours is very good and reasonably priced - his tour bus/guide I believe fits no more than 20 people so you aren't crammed on a bus with a ton of people. http://dyeadavetours.com/tours.htm

[speakupjc]

Anyone interested in the group brunch? We have 4 but need at least 15 to try and get the private dining room at Palos?

[lcoasterdizfan]

Ok, here's update number 1!:)

Cruisers:
4boons – Bill and Laura, dd Katie 17, Second dining
Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining
Aldapl – 1 adult and ds 10
Alohaprincess
Anjelica – Anjelica, dh, dd 8, ds 4, Second cabin with brother
Auntlynne – Lynne and 2 cabins of family, 5 adults, Dn Linda 15
Bamafoust – Kevin and Jeanne, dd 14, dd 10
Boyspapa – Carl and Donna, gs 14 and gs 11
Catislander – Sherri and dh, dd 6, Main dining
Disneyfalcon – Stephen and Tammy, ds 16, dd 13 and 6 cabins of friends and family, Main dining
Docbrown – Michael and Anna, dd Ale 11, dd Julia 8, Second dining
Famvirmontes – Stephanie and OT, ds Robert 17, Second dining
Gduvall – Greg and Tammy, dd 21, dd19, Main dining
Golfcane – Mark, Danielle, dd Lexi 12, ds Zac 10
Greenacres – Lisa and Raymond, dd20, ds 16
Icoasterdizfan – Leslie, Second dining
Inspcarmer – 2 adults
Maryellen – 2 adults
Nostalgic4disney – 2 adults, Second dining
NSdisneygil – 4 adults
Plyeng2ff – Arthur and Danielle
PouncingPluto – Kerry and Charles, dd Danielle 3 mo, Main dining
Rebeccak971 – Rebecca, dh, dd 4
Shwarren70 - Stephanie and Lee, dd Aubrey 8, ds Luke 3
Shwarren70 Cabin 2 – Diane and Ed
Smb6 – 2 adults, dd 10
Speakupjc – Dance and George Brunswick, dd8, Second dining
Swinglim – Party of 16
Wifeofgrumpy – Tammy and David, ds Hunter 15


FE List
Deck 2:
Cabin 2614 - Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 16, dd 13
Cabin 2626– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, dd 15, dd 12
Cabin 2620– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 3, ds 3

Deck 5:
5516 – Speakupjc – 2 adults, dd 8

Deck 6:
Cabin 6030 – Shwarren 2 adults, dd 8, ds 3
Cabin 6110 – Famviramontes 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6134 – 4boons 2 adults, dd 17
Cabin 6503 – Icoasterdizfan 1 adult
Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10
Cabin 6634 – Pouncing Pluto 2 adults, dd 4 months


Need cabin #'s for:
Docbrown

Hi There,

Can you please correct your list to show my disboard name as Lcoasterdizfan? The first letter is an "L" not an "I". No biggie just in case someone is trying to find me on the boards.

Cabin 6503 is correct. Thanks for organizing this!

Leslie

:goodvibes

[docbrown]

Ok, here's update number 1!:)

Cruisers:
4boons – Bill and Laura, dd Katie 17, Second dining
Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining
Aldapl – 1 adult and ds 10
Alohaprincess
Anjelica – Anjelica, dh, dd 8, ds 4, Second cabin with brother
Auntlynne – Lynne and 2 cabins of family, 5 adults, Dn Linda 15
Bamafoust – Kevin and Jeanne, dd 14, dd 10
Boyspapa – Carl and Donna, gs 14 and gs 11
Catislander – Sherri and dh, dd 6, Main dining
Disneyfalcon – Stephen and Tammy, ds 16, dd 13 and 6 cabins of friends and family, Main dining
Docbrown – Michael and Anna, dd Ale 11, dd Julia 8, Second dining
Famvirmontes – Stephanie and OT, ds Robert 17, Second dining
Gduvall – Greg and Tammy, dd 21, dd19, Main dining
Golfcane – Mark, Danielle, dd Lexi 12, ds Zac 10
Greenacres – Lisa and Raymond, dd20, ds 16
Icoasterdizfan – Leslie, Second dining
Inspcarmer – 2 adults
Maryellen – 2 adults
Nostalgic4disney – 2 adults, Second dining
NSdisneygil – 4 adults
Plyeng2ff – Arthur and Danielle
PouncingPluto – Kerry and Charles, dd Danielle 3 mo, Main dining
Rebeccak971 – Rebecca, dh, dd 4
Shwarren70 - Stephanie and Lee, dd Aubrey 8, ds Luke 3
Shwarren70 Cabin 2 – Diane and Ed
Smb6 – 2 adults, dd 10
Speakupjc – Dance and George Brunswick, dd8, Second dining
Swinglim – Party of 16
Wifeofgrumpy – Tammy and David, ds Hunter 15


FE List
Deck 2:
Cabin 2614 - Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 16, dd 13
Cabin 2626– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, dd 15, dd 12
Cabin 2620– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 3, ds 3

Deck 5:
5516 – Speakupjc – 2 adults, dd 8

Deck 6:
Cabin 6030 – Shwarren 2 adults, dd 8, ds 3
Cabin 6110 – Famviramontes 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6134 – 4boons 2 adults, dd 17
Cabin 6503 – Icoasterdizfan 1 adult
Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10
Cabin 6634 – Pouncing Pluto 2 adults, dd 4 months


Need cabin #'s for:
Docbrown

docbrown cabin 7524
thank you for keeping up with all of us already! :-)

[Disneyfalcon]

Here's the updates!:)

Cruisers:
4boons – Bill and Laura, dd Katie 17, Second dining
Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining
Aldapl – 1 adult and ds 10
Alohaprincess
Anjelica – Anjelica, dh, dd 8, ds 4, Second cabin with brother
Auntlynne – Lynne and 2 cabins of family, 5 adults, Dn Linda 15
Bamafoust – Kevin and Jeanne, dd 14, dd 10
Boyspapa – Carl and Donna, gs 14 and gs 11
Catislander – Sherri and dh, dd 6, Main dining
Disneyfalcon – Stephen and Tammy, ds 16, dd 13 and 6 cabins of friends and family, Main dining
Docbrown – Michael and Anna, dd Ale 11, dd Julia 8, Second dining
Famvirmontes – Stephanie and OT, ds Robert 17, Second dining
Gduvall – Greg and Tammy, dd 21, dd19, Main dining
Golfcane – Mark, Danielle, dd Lexi 12, ds Zac 10
Greenacres – Lisa and Raymond, dd20, ds 16
Inspcarmer – 2 adults
Lcoasterdizfan – Leslie, Second dining
Maryellen – 2 adults
Nostalgic4disney – 2 adults, Second dining
NSdisneygil – 4 adults
Plyeng2ff – Arthur and Danielle
PouncingPluto – Kerry and Charles, dd Danielle 3 mo, Main dining
Rebeccak971 – Rebecca, dh, dd 4
Shwarren70 - Stephanie and Lee, dd Aubrey 8, ds Luke 3
Shwarren70 Cabin 2 – Diane and Ed
Smb6 – 2 adults, dd 10
Speakupjc – Dance and George Brunswick, dd8, Second dining
Swinglim – Party of 16
Wifeofgrumpy – Tammy and David, ds Hunter 15

FE List
Deck 2:
Cabin 2614 - Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 16, dd 13
Cabin 2626– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, dd 15, dd 12
Cabin 2620– Disneyfalcon 2 adults, ds 3, ds 3

Deck 5:
5516 – Speakupjc – 2 adults, dd 8

Deck 6:
Cabin 6030 – Shwarren 2 adults, dd 8, ds 3
Cabin 6110 – Famviramontes 2 adults, ds 17
Cabin 6134 – 4boons 2 adults, dd 17
Cabin 6503 – Lcoasterdizfan 1 adult
Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10
Cabin 6634 – Pouncing Pluto 2 adults, dd 4 months

Deck 7:
Cabin 7524 – Docbrown 2 adults, dd 11, dd 8

[smb6]

I just noticed I'm on the list of cruisers.... In addition to dd10, there is also ds13, ds12, ds8, and ds5....

[Disneyfalcon]

I just noticed I'm on the list of cruisers.... In addition to dd10, there is also ds13, ds12, ds8, and ds5....

Wow, I left off a lot of you! I'll fix that in the next update.:)

[colormedisney98]

What does ds and dd mean?

[poohj80]

What does ds and dd mean?

ds = Dear/Disney Son

dd = Dear/Disney Daughter

[colormedisney98]

Thank you :) my dad and stepmom might be taking me on the cruise, so yeah.... I was just wondering :) P.S. I'm 13 :) and your daughter looks cute :)

P.S. I'm a DD :) who has already been on 2 cruises with her mom and will be going on another in Oct. for sure

[adnil530]

Okay, I made a list of cruisers and Fish Extenders! Cruisers:

Adnil530 – Linda and Mike, dd Michelle 15, dd Laura 10, Second dining

FE List

Cabin 6618 – Adnil539 2 adults, dd 16 and dd 10


Thank you so much for organizing this:goodvibes The first entry is correct. On the FE list: Adnil530 2 adults, dd 15 and dd 10.

Thanks again for volunteering and doing an awesome job:thumbsup2

Hi everyone.

I'm on this cruise also; I've actually been booked for a year now......

Looking at the list of fellow cruisers; I see a fair amount of you have 10 yr olds.... my dd is 10 and she will be in the kids club- I was just curious if most of you plan to keep your 10 yr olds in the kids club and not ask to put them in the new Edge?.... I've noticed a lot of folks in the cruise forum are planning to ask to move their 10 yr olds up to Edge and I'm hoping my dd will have other 10 yr olds to play with in the kids club......

Happy planning!

My dd10 will be staying in the kids club. I haven't thought about moving her up. She'll be old enough on our December cruise.

~~~~

I need to get back to going through the excursions. I've made notes on a few of them and will sort them out by price and desire.

Linda

[Disneyfalcon]

I'll fix that, Linda!:)

[famviramontes]

Just booked our first excursion in Ketchikan, Southwest Sea Kayaks. Looking to do the Mendenhall Glacier Float in Juneau but still totally confused about what to do in Skagway. I think we need to do something on land.

[Anjelica]

Just booked our first excursion in Ketchikan, Southwest Sea Kayaks. Looking to do the Mendenhall Glacier Float in Juneau but still totally confused about what to do in Skagway. I think we need to do something on land.

Did you do SouthEast or Southwest (I couldn't find Southwest just southeast)? Do you have a link?

[famviramontes]

It is Southeast. http://www.kayakketchikan.com/ I read good reviews on Trip Advisors.

[Anjelica]

It is Southeast. http://www.kayakketchikan.com/ I read good reviews on Trip Advisors.

Ahhhh - I've been looking at them as well as the reviews were really good. Hubby wanted to do canoeing but I've been trying to push him towards Kayaking. I think I've got him convinced to do the Kayaking - we were looking at doing the 100PM time on that day - which time will you guys be doing?

[famviramontes]

I just did the 1:00 Orca trip.

[Anjelica]

I just did the 1:00 Orca trip.

Ahhhh - well you may have some "familiar" company...:)

[auntlynne]

Here's some info that could interest a few people (especially if trying to decide which town for which activity); a list of cruise ships in port when we are

Thursday, June 2 - Tracy Arm

- CARNIVAL SPIRIT 11:00 - 18:00
- DISNEY WONDER 12:00 - 18:00

Friday, June 3 - Skagway

- SILVER SHADOW 07:00 - 19:00
- DISNEY WONDER 07:00 - 20:00
- SEA PRINCESS 07:00 - 20:00
- CARNIVAL SPIRIT 07:00 - 21:00

Saturday, June 4 - Juneau

- SEA LION 06:00 - 23:00
- CARNIVAL SPIRIT 07:00 - 15:00
- DISNEY WONDER 07:30 - 17:00
- SILVER SHADOW 08:00 - 20:00
- ISLAND PRINCESS 08:00 - 21:00
- SEVEN SEAS NAVIGATO 13:00 - 23:00

Sunday, June 5 - Ketchikan

- CARNIVAL SPIRIT 07:00 - 13:00
- MILLENNIUM 07:00 - 15:00
- INFINITY 07:00 - 16:00
- SEA PRINCESS 09:00 - 17:00
- DISNEY WONDER 12:00 - 20:00

These times are not exact with those on our itinerary; when planning on-your-own activities, I would use the DCL times for planning.

from Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska http://www.claalaska.com/pdf/2011/All_Ports_2011.pdf

[famviramontes]

It seems like it will be very busy when we are in port.

[DMKaren]

We just booked today. Family of 4 me, DH, DD Abby 17, DD Sydney 16. This will be our 4th cruise on Disney and our first to Alaska. Looking forward to meeting everyone!

[poohj80]

I just did the 1:00 Orca trip.

I'm not cruising until later in the summer, but wondering if the excursion times don't show up online until they can actually be booked? I've looked at them previously trying to coordinate if family does two different excursions at the same time, but couldn't find times yet.

[famviramontes]

I don't think you can see times until you are able to book. I believe there are some who able to book now so they might be able to get times for you.

[famviramontes]

On our last cruise someone started a kids thread. He did meet someone he hung out with a bit. He is on the older side now but was wondering if any other of the kids/teens wanted to get one going. Anyone think their kids would be interested?

[adnil530]

On our last cruise someone started a kids thread. He did meet someone he hung out with a bit. He is on the older side now but was wondering if any other of the kids/teens wanted to get one going. Anyone think their kids would be interested?

My daughters like to meet/chat prior to the cruising also. My dd14 (15 at cruise time) met friends on the kids/teen thread and then hooked up on facebook. Our dd10 chatted on the boards and was glad to be familiar with some of the kids at port and onboard. I went ahead and started a kids/teen thread and I will have my daughters post later today.

Kids/Teen thread: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=39839515#post39839515

----

Yesterday, I was wondering how long the sun was going to be up while we cruised. These stats are for Juneau:


Date Sunrise Sunset Length of day this day

Jun 1, 2011 4:02 AM 9:50 PM 17h 47m 18s
Jun 2, 2011 4:01 AM 9:51 PM 17h 50m 02s
Jun 3, 2011 4:00 AM 9:53 PM 17h 52m 40s
Jun 4, 2011 3:59 AM 9:54 PM 17h 55m 10s
Jun 5, 2011 3:58 AM 9:55 PM 17h 57m 34s
Jun 6, 2011 3:57 AM 9:57 PM 17h 59m 50s
Jun 7, 2011 3:56 AM 9:58 PM 18h 01m 56s

17+ hours of sunlight! I'm gonna love it:yay: I'm glad I have late dining. :thumbsup2

Linda

[famviramontes]

Thanks for starting the link because I would have no idea how to do it. I will have my son post when he gets up, could be a while because we don't usually see him until about noon on Saturdays.

[adnil530]

Thanks for starting the link because I would have no idea how to do it. I will have my son post when he gets up, could be a while because we don't usually see him until about noon on Saturdays.

That is so funny. That is why I said later in day, my daughter won't emerge until "later in the day" also..:rotfl:

I see we are both in CA.

[docbrown]

Jun 4, 2011 3:59 AM 9:54 PM 17h 55m 10s

17+ hours of sunlight! I'm gonna love it:yay: I'm glad I have late dining. :thumbsup2

Linda
Silly question: How good are the shades in the cabins? i sure would hate to wake up at 4 am......:-)

[poohj80]

I don't think you can see times until you are able to book. I believe there are some who able to book now so they might be able to get times for you.


Thanks! Once I get it narrowed down, I'll post to ask about specific excursions.

[pouncingpluto]

If anyone who's able to book now could give me an idea of what hours Flounder's is open during port days, I'd be really appreciative!

[adnil530]

Silly question: How good are the shades in the cabins? i sure would hate to wake up at 4 am......:-)

From what I remember, they were heavy and covered the window/door pretty well, and you have the secondary curtain between the bed and the balcony. But my DH is an early riser so he throws them open anyway when we've got a verhanda so he can go out and enjoy his coffee. We'll see how well that goes with the temps.

Linda

[4boons]

Silly question: How good are the shades in the cabins? i sure would hate to wake up at 4 am......:-)

The curtains are thick.
In the Baltic it was daylight way into the late hours and the curtains made it so you could sleep.
We used clothes pins to make sure the curtains stayed closed.
Bill

[docbrown]

The curtains are thick.

We used clothes pins to make sure the curtains stayed closed.
Bill

Exactly what I was thinking to bring! :-) Thank you for telling me that it will work.

[catislander]

Has anyone verified our arrival time in Ketchikan? The cruise docs from my TA say 1:30, but I've seen a much earlier arrival time in several locations.

[Anjelica]

Has anyone verified our arrival time in Ketchikan? The cruise docs from my TA say 1:30, but I've seen a much earlier arrival time in several locations.

Someone had posted a link earlier to Alaskan Cruises and port times. It was interesting to see that sometimes the Wonder was in Ketchikan at 1:30 while other times it stated 11:00. For this particular cruise it had stated 11:00. Now, I originally requested a non-Disney excursion for 1:00 but after talking with the Operator we moved it to 2:00 (just in case).

[famviramontes]

My TA called and they told her 12:15.

[catislander]

I emailed with Southeast Sea Kayaks and they went to the port to find out for me. Disney will be doing alternate times on Sunday in Ketchikan; our Sunday will be noon, so I booked a 1:30 kayak trip. If there are any problems with timing on the ship's arrival, they will refund my money in full.

[auntlynne]

Thanks for verifying the Ketchikan times; this arrival does match that provided by the Alaska Cruising site I posted earlier (not the 8:30 arrival DCL had given us at some point).