June 7, 2011 Alaska

[chernabogfamily]

Hi! I'm ldconley's daughter. She already put us on the list but I thought I'd come say hi. I'm 15 and this is my 4th cruise (3rd DCL). I'm really excited for Alaska!

Hello!

[DenaLuvsDisney]

We only needed our passports for our Bahamas cruise in March. We didn't even get off the ship in Nassau.

Thanks, I was confused when I read the cruise doc.:upsidedow

[chernabogfamily]

It seems that quite a few of us are staying at the Pan Pacific the night before the cruise. Would anyone be interested in doing a "Meet" the evening before in part of the hotel lobby area? A quick way to get to know each other before bumping elbows all cruise long.:):)

[lenzs4]

I have misplaced my research....

Does anyone on this cruise know the best way to get from Amtrack to the Canada place hotel area? I am at the Sutton Place Hotel and can not seem to find my list of transportation options.

Also, if anyone happens to have Bellingham info - I am looking into transportation options there as well!

[*tinker*bell*]

I have misplaced my research....

Does anyone on this cruise know the best way to get from Amtrack to the Canada place hotel area? I am at the Sutton Place Hotel and can not seem to find my list of transportation options.

Also, if anyone happens to have Bellingham info - I am looking into transportation options there as well!

You could take the Skytrain, Amtrak is located basically across the street from the Main Street Science World station, and then get off at Burrard Station and walk up Burrard Street I think it's three blocks up to the hotel? I can try and make you a couple maps if you would like later, have a couple errands to run first.

Otherwise your best bet would be to take a taxi however as I always use public transit downtown I'm not sure how much that would cost, somewhere between $10 and $20? I suppose the best method will depend on how much luggage you have, luggage can be a pain to haul around! Hope that helps let me know if you have any other questions!

[disneypoor]

Hi! I'm ldconley's daughter. She already put us on the list but I thought I'd come say hi. I'm 15 and this is my 4th cruise (3rd DCL). I'm really excited for Alaska!
Hi! I have a daughter, Brianna, that is 16. She hasn't been on the DIS forever, but maybe the two of you will meet on the ship. We are looking forward to this cruise and cannot wait to see Alaska!:goodvibes

[rewhitingjr]

The itinerary posted on page one of this board / thread shows Ketchikan 10:30 - 7:30PM. Is this right?

According to the Cruise Ship Calendar for Ketchikan (http://www.experienceketchikan.com/support-files/cruise-ship-calendar-ketchikan.pdf), it shows Disney Wonder in port from 1:30 - 8:00 PM.

The Wonder will be one of five ships scheduled to arrive in Ketchikan on Sunday (Carnival Spirit, Infinity, Amsterdam, Radiance of the Seas).

I would love it if we had more time in port. How can we verifiy the 10:30 AM arrival time?

Thanks.

[chernabogfamily]

The itinerary posted on page one of this board / thread shows Ketchikan 10:30 - 7:30PM. Is this right?

According to the Cruise Ship Calendar for Ketchikan (http://www.experienceketchikan.com/support-files/cruise-ship-calendar-ketchikan.pdf), it shows Disney Wonder in port from 1:30 - 8:00 PM.

The Wonder will be one of five ships scheduled to arrive in Ketchikan on Sunday (Carnival Spirit, Infinity, Amsterdam, Radiance of the Seas).

I would love it if we had more time in port. How can we verifiy the 10:30 AM arrival time?

Thanks.

My cruise documents and the DCL website both say 1:30-7:30. Maybe the post was just a typo.

["Got Disney"]

Howdy everyone...saw in another thread that you were questioning about the weather....here is a link that will help you with that...and many other questions....hope this helps

http://www.al-cruise.com/FAQ.php

What is the best time to go on an Alaskan Cruise?
What are good side trips/land excursions for various ports?
What is the temperature on an Alaska cruise? Is it quite cold, given the glaciers and icebergs?
What will I need to wear on an Alaska cruise? Will I need to pack my winter clothes and a cold weather jacket?
What is the best pre or post cruise tour out of Vancouver?
Where is the best place to view bald eagles in Alaska?
Where is the best place to view bears on other wildlife in Alaska?
I don’t have much extra in my budget for shore excursions (and some run over $300 per person!) What are some fun yet inexpensive things to do while in port?
Is it true that not all cruise ships stop in Glacier Bay National Park? I heard that this was one of the most beautiful spots in Alaska and want to see it.
My favorite cruise line does not stop in glacier Bay. What is a good alternative destination?
What about icebergs? Aren’t they dangerous? Will we see any?


also here is my thread link...if you go to page #1 of our thread I have tons of links and info you might find helpful :thumbsup2

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2294276

[disneypoor]

Thank you so much, Got Disney!:goodvibes I've enjoyed reading through the questions and answers in your first link as well as your thread. I was shocked to see the question about someone that had a DUI. I can't believe they could keep you from entering Canada due to a DUI or shoplifting charge. I bet people never think of that when they book an Alaskan cruise!

I did notice that if you fly into Vancouver, you will likely wait in long lines for customs. We booked our air with Disney, but I'm assuming we'll wait in the same lines as everyone else and that the Disney shuttle will just pick us up once we get through?

Thanks again for all of the helpful info! A little over three weeks and we'll be sailing Alaska!:woohoo:

Susan

[pixie3]

It seems that quite a few of us are staying at the Pan Pacific the night before the cruise. Would anyone be interested in doing a "Meet" the evening before in part of the hotel lobby area? A quick way to get to know each other before bumping elbows all cruise long.:):)

That is a great idea!!! :thumbsup2

My cruise documents and the DCL website both say 1:30-7:30. Maybe the post was just a typo.

YEP, my bad! I was looking at a sheet that was old! My docs say 1:40 - 7:30

[pixie3]

HELLO!

FISH EXTENDER GAME IS GOING TO BE CLOSING!

PLEASE CHECK YOUR FISH STATUS ON THE FIRST PAGE TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE LISTED AS PARTICIPATING OR NOT PARTICIPATING. LET ME KNOW IF I HAVE YOU MARKED INCORRECTLY.

IF YOU WERE THINKING ABOUT IT, NOW IS THE TIME TO JOIN! IT IS A LOT OF FUN. IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE A CRAFTY GIFT, IT CAN BE AS SIMPLE AS CANDY BARS.

THANK YOU! LOOKING FORWARD TO OUR CRUISE TOGETHER!!! :cool1:

[pixie3]

also here is my thread link...if you go to page #1 of our thread I have tons of links and info you might find helpful :thumbsup2

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2294276

Thank you! That is great information. :thumbsup2

[WvT3rd]

As much as we would like to, we have decided we can't do the fish extender : ( Too much happening in the next three weeks. But we would love to meet fellow DISer's

Oh and remember, right before sailing it's all hands on deck - so put your wavy hands down onto the floor!

Walter

[fliplover101]

Hi! I'm ldconley's daughter. She already put us on the list but I thought I'd come say hi. I'm 15 and this is my 4th cruise (3rd DCL). I'm really excited for Alaska!

Welcome!

[WvT3rd]

Hi everyone -

Since I haven't seen it mentioned on any of the trip reports I've read, does anyone know if there are any theme nights? Pirates out of the Caribbean, for instance? Just in case I need to pack accordingly : )

Thanks
Walter

:cool1:

[fliplover101]

Hi everyone -

Since I haven't seen it mentioned on any of the trip reports I've read, does anyone know if there are any theme nights? Pirates out of the Caribbean, for instance? Just in case I need to pack accordingly : )

Thanks
Walter

:cool1:

From some of the blogs, it looks like there is still a Pirates night, and that some people dressed up, but no fireworks and a lot of it was moved inside because of the cold. Is it just me, or does it seem a little strange to be doing a pirates party in the middle of Alaska? :confused3

[WvT3rd]

From some of the blogs, it looks like there is still a Pirates night, and that some people dressed up, but no fireworks and a lot of it was moved inside because of the cold. Is it just me, or does it seem a little strange to be doing a pirates party in the middle of Alaska? :confused3



What, you never heard of the phrase "on stranger tides"? What could be stranger than having a pirates party in Alaska? : )

[rewhitingjr]

Ship Mate applications released today an Android app that provides a vast amount of information available about the Disney Wonder, detailed deck plan, itinerary for Alaska June 7th and a countdown timer.

http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/05/16/disney-cruise-ship-mate-app-for-android/

Check it out.

[DisneyPaul4]

Pixie3 -

Thanks for your work coordinating Fish Extender.

Here is an update for DisneyPaul4 (#18 on the list):

Daughter name: Brenna rather than Breana
Stateroom: 2142

[pixie3]

Is it just me, or does it seem a little strange to be doing a pirates party in the middle of Alaska? :confused3

I didn't think it was a good idea, but thats just me!

Pixie3 -

Thanks for your work coordinating Fish Extender.

Here is an update for DisneyPaul4 (#18 on the list):

Daughter name: Brenna rather than Breana
Stateroom: 2142

Your welcome! Gotcha! :thumbsup2

[ldconley]

Is it just me, or does it seem a little strange to be doing a pirates party in the middle of Alaska? :confused3

I think it is strange too, but they did it on our MR and Baltic cruises too. I guess they just do the same theme on all of the cruises just with or without fireworks depending on where you are. We did not have fireworks on the Baltic cruise either.

[pixie3]

Maybe we should have a Meet on the ship. Typically the meets are after the drill and before/during the sail away party on the top deck starboard (right) side. I'll be there. I'll just yell out "anyone here a diser"!!

[rewhitingjr]

A couple of my good friends have decided to join us for this cruise. They are Kim & Bob and their 2 boys Robert (14) & Dylan (12). I think she wants to join in on the Fish Extender. Has a cut-off date been set?

Do you have a stateroom assigned yet? Looking to finish FE gifts. Thanks.

[rewhitingjr]

I'm still reading through all the pages but I wanted to add us: Will, Shannon and Samara (2). We are super duper excited to be going on another Disney cruise (our 3rd; daughter's FIRST!). Wife and I will be celebrating 11 years of marriage. And anytime we go on a Disney trip, we are celebrating our princess. :goodvibes. She's always so much fun! I'd like to participate in the fish extender funness. I really think my daughter will enjoy both giving and receiving the FE gifts. Just need to read up a bit on the FE's and of course get one. ;)

OK...back to reading....
:surfweb:

Trying to finish FE gifts. Do you have a stateroom number? Thanks.

[*tinker*bell*]

Do you have a stateroom assigned yet? Looking to finish FE gifts. Thanks.

Trying to finish FE gifts. Do you have a stateroom number? Thanks.

I'm wondering this as well I've finished my FE gifts and want to keep them in stateroom order to make delivery easier

A quick question, I'm going to be having injections everyday for a while so I will be bringing pre filled syringes on the trip, same as the syringes used for insulin just a different medication, does anyone know if I need a doctors note to bring them through customs?

Super excited less than three weeks! And I'm doing my last *fingers crossed* chemo treatment right now! :woohoo:

ETA I answered my own question so nvm! and a meet at the sail away party sounds fun :)

[wselman]

Hi there. First cruise EVER. We are clueless. Wendy (DW), David (DH), Max 9 (DS), Rowan 3 (DS). Stateroom 8028. From Scottsdale, AZ. Thanks!

[wselman]

Oh, and we are late (clueless, remember), but FISH sounds fun, so count us in.

[jarudinski]

Do you have a stateroom assigned yet? Looking to finish FE gifts. Thanks.

I haven't talked to them in a little bit (had surgery a few weeks ago so I have been a little out of it). I will give them a call tommorrow and let you know. Thanks.

[lenzs4]

Is the FE list posted in the beginning current and final? I am finishing my gifts and want to make sure every room is included.
Shirley

[Evette]

I've been away from the Disboards for awhile, we were in California for 10 days, somewhat unexpectedly. We went when my DH Mother was placed in Hospice care due to liver failure. We got there on Thursday the 12th and she passed away early Sunday morning the 15th.:sad: We had the Funeral on Wednesday the 18th and we arrived home last night. We got to spend time with our 3 sons who live in Anaheim and saw many family members, that was the good part of the trip. We are definitely looking forward to this cruise vacation!

It seems that quite a few of us are staying at the Pan Pacific the night before the cruise. Would anyone be interested in doing a "Meet" the evening before in part of the hotel lobby area? A quick way to get to know each other before bumping elbows all cruise long.:):)

I think a "Meet" would be fun the night before the cruise. :)

Super excited less than three weeks! And I'm doing my last *fingers crossed* chemo treatment right now! :woohoo:


Congrats on your last chemo treatment! Hope all is going well. :flower3:

Hi there. First cruise EVER. We are clueless. Wendy (DW), David (DH), Max 9 (DS), Rowan 3 (DS). Stateroom 8028. From Scottsdale, AZ. Thanks!
:welcome: I know you and your family will have a "Wonder"ful time on the cruise!

We only have 13 more days until we head out on this vacation so I really need to get busy! Can't wait to get on the ship in just 15 more days!:cheer2: I hope you all have a great Monday!

[jarudinski]

A couple of my good friends have decided to join us for this cruise. They are Kim & Bob and their 2 boys Robert (14) & Dylan (12). I think she wants to join in on the Fish Extender. Has a cut-off date been set?

My friends, The Sawlers are in Stateroom 7508. And Dylan is actually 13, not 12.

Thanks,
Julie

[pixie3]

Hi there. First cruise EVER. We are clueless. Wendy (DW), David (DH), Max 9 (DS), Rowan 3 (DS). Stateroom 8028. From Scottsdale, AZ. Thanks!

:welcome: If you are clueless, the DIS is a great place for information. :thumbsup2
I've added you to the front page. LOOOOVE Scottsdale!!


Oh, and we are late (clueless, remember), but FISH sounds fun, so count us in.

FE is closed now. You could participate, but it is likely you will not receive gifts from everyone. Sometimes if people have extras, they will throw one your way.

Is the FE list posted in the beginning current and final? I am finishing my gifts and want to make sure every room is included.
Shirley

Yes. It is complete. We are just waiting on one more room number for WILLFUL.

I've been away from the Disboards for awhile, we were in California for 10 days, somewhat unexpectedly. We went when my DH Mother was placed in Hospice care due to liver failure. We got there on Thursday the 12th and she passed away early Sunday morning the 15th.:sad: We had the Funeral on Wednesday the 18th and we arrived home last night. We got to spend time with our 3 sons who live in Anaheim and saw many family members, that was the good part of the trip. We are definitely looking forward to this cruise vacation!

Evette, I am so sorry for your loss. :sad1:

My friends, The Sawlers are in Stateroom 7508. And Dylan is actually 13, not 12.


Thanks,
Julie

Got it! :thumbsup2

On your spreadsheet, your missing Tinkerbell's stateroom number, which I think is 7009. Thanks!

[pixie3]

:cool1:

[jarudinski]

On your spreadsheet, your missing Tinkerbell's stateroom number, which I think is 7009. Thanks!

Updated the spreadsheet as well :cheer2:

[wselman]

Hi. Thanks for adding our names to the lists. As far as FISH goes, as we are scrambling to pack, I see now why there is a cutoff. Kinda hard to think about making an FE and cool FE gifts at the same time as thinking about whether or not everybody in our family has adequate footwear for the trip! We don't mean to make waves. :) Will try to do FISH next time.

Small thing, but DS spells name R-O-W-A-N. Unusual, I know.

We aren't staying at the Pan Pacific. Look forward to meeting up onboard.

We looove Scottsdale too, but will be happy for a summertime break!

W-

[chernabogfamily]

Hi. Thanks for adding our names to the lists. As far as FISH goes, as we are scrambling to pack, I see now why there is a cutoff. Kinda hard to think about making an FE and cool FE gifts at the same time as thinking about whether or not everybody in our family has adequate footwear for the trip! We don't mean to make waves. :) Will try to do FISH next time.

Small thing, but DS spells name R-O-W-A-N. Unusual, I know.

We aren't staying at the Pan Pacific. Look forward to meeting up onboard.

We looove Scottsdale too, but will be happy for a summertime break!

W-

I had some extras, so I have FE gifts for you all! :yay:

[jarudinski]

Hi. Thanks for adding our names to the lists. As far as FISH goes, as we are scrambling to pack, I see now why there is a cutoff. Kinda hard to think about making an FE and cool FE gifts at the same time as thinking about whether or not everybody in our family has adequate footwear for the trip! We don't mean to make waves. :) Will try to do FISH next time.

Small thing, but DS spells name R-O-W-A-N. Unusual, I know.

We aren't staying at the Pan Pacific. Look forward to meeting up onboard.

We looove Scottsdale too, but will be happy for a summertime break!

W-

We lived in Scottsdale for 2 years. I love the desert. =). I am still making my FE gifts, so I should have enough for you guys as well =)


Just a general question about the FE for Pixie3 .. are we going to have a designated time to deliver gifts (beg, middle, end cruise etc) or is it a when ever you want type of deal .. I am only asking cause I need to give out my gifts on the first day of cruise .. the earlier the better .. lol

Thanks,
Julie

[*tinker*bell*]

I've been away from the Disboards for awhile, we were in California for 10 days, somewhat unexpectedly. We went when my DH Mother was placed in Hospice care due to liver failure. We got there on Thursday the 12th and she passed away early Sunday morning the 15th.:sad: We had the Funeral on Wednesday the 18th and we arrived home last night. We got to spend time with our 3 sons who live in Anaheim and saw many family members, that was the good part of the trip. We are definitely looking forward to this cruise vacation!

Congrats on your last chemo treatment! Hope all is going well. :flower3:

:hug: Sorry for your loss sounds like you will really need the vacay! only 13 days till we sail!!! Thanks for the congrats, things are okay... :rotfl: that doesn't sound very promising does it, playing a waiting game right now to see whats next, and I have developed a clot in my lung which sucks but it's not the end of the world


Hi. Thanks for adding our names to the lists. As far as FISH goes, as we are scrambling to pack, I see now why there is a cutoff. Kinda hard to think about making an FE and cool FE gifts at the same time as thinking about whether or not everybody in our family has adequate footwear for the trip! We don't mean to make waves. :) Will try to do FISH next time.

Small thing, but DS spells name R-O-W-A-N. Unusual, I know.

We aren't staying at the Pan Pacific. Look forward to meeting up onboard.

We looove Scottsdale too, but will be happy for a summertime break!

W-

I have some extra stuff I can throw together for ya'll too :thumbsup2

[pixie3]

Hi. Thanks for adding our names to the lists. As far as FISH goes, as we are scrambling to pack, I see now why there is a cutoff. Kinda hard to think about making an FE and cool FE gifts at the same time as thinking about whether or not everybody in our family has adequate footwear for the trip! We don't mean to make waves. :) Will try to do FISH next time.

Small thing, but DS spells name R-O-W-A-N. Unusual, I know.


Okay, I changed the name (sorry about that).

In addition, some of us have some extra FE SOOOO, if you would like to participate you could (again, I couldn't guarantee one from every person at this point). FE doesn't have to be complicated or homemade. If you would like I could add you as a "IF YOU HAVE EXTRA THROW SOME THEIR WAY". Totally up to you! Let me know if you change your mind and decide to try.




Just a general question about the FE for Pixie3 .. are we going to have a designated time to deliver gifts (beg, middle, end cruise etc) or is it a when ever you want type of deal .. I am only asking cause I need to give out my gifts on the first day of cruise .. the earlier the better .. lol

Thanks,
Julie
I'M GOING TO SAY NO. LETS DO IT WHEN WE WANT. HOWEVER, IF SOMEONE HAS SOMETHING THAT DOESN'T NEED TO BE GIVEN OUT "FOR THE CRUISE", TRY TO WAIT SO THAT FE COMES THROUGHOUT THE CRUISE AND NOT JUST ON THE FIRST AND SECOND DAY.

[pixie3]

Also, I wanted to let all of you FEers know that I have PM'd Willfull for his stateroom number. Some of you have been asking.

I'm excited! Yippy!:banana::cool1::woohoo:

[wselman]

Aaaaaaw, you are all very sweet. Well, the kids are now out of school and "in quarantine"--not taking chances with them getting sick. Gotta fill their days somehow with some fun projects...soooo FE it is...for the kids' sake. Totally understand that some or most people are past this project now. No worries there.

Yep, we live out among the scorpions and the rattlesnakes. Good thing it is beautiful.

Anyone starting to feel that pre-trip, pre-packing panicky feeling? And isn't it funny how that all fades away once you are actually enroute?

[chernabogfamily]

:hug: Sorry for your loss sounds like you will really need the vacay! only 13 days till we sail!!! Thanks for the congrats, things are okay... :rotfl: that doesn't sound very promising does it, playing a waiting game right now to see whats next, and I have developed a clot in my lung which sucks but it's not the end of the world

Hope you feel better for the cruise. :hug: Maybe the crisp clean glacial air will renew your spirits! :hug:
Can't wait to meet you all!! And see you in a just over a week!

[chernabogfamily]

Aaaaaaw, you are all very sweet. Well, the kids are now out of school and "in quarantine"--not taking chances with them getting sick. Gotta fill their days somehow with some fun projects...soooo FE it is...for the kids' sake. Totally understand that some or most people are past this project now. No worries there.

Yep, we live out among the scorpions and the rattlesnakes. Good thing it is beautiful.

We lived in Tucson for years (I was stationed at Davis-Monthan AFB). Arizona is so beautiful, but I missed grass and thunderstorms. I've made up for that lack of thunderstorms this week though. I'll be happy to leave Missouri and head to the sea!

[fliplover101]

Maybe we should have a Meet on the ship. Typically the meets are after the drill and before/during the sail away party on the top deck starboard (right) side. I'll be there. I'll just yell out "anyone here a diser"!!

A meet onboard sounds like a lot of fun! Especially since we won't be able to come to the hotel meet up - we're going to be spending the day up in Whistler and driving back that evening. Can't wait to meet all of you! 11 Days!!!!!! :yay:

[disneypoor]

Aaaaaaw, you are all very sweet. Well, the kids are now out of school and "in quarantine"--not taking chances with them getting sick. Gotta fill their days somehow with some fun projects...soooo FE it is...for the kids' sake. Totally understand that some or most people are past this project now. No worries there.

Yep, we live out among the scorpions and the rattlesnakes. Good thing it is beautiful.

Anyone starting to feel that pre-trip, pre-packing panicky feeling? And isn't it funny how that all fades away once you are actually enroute?

I'm definitely getting that pre-trip, pre-packing panicky feeling!:rotfl: I used to love the packing and preparing, and now it just plain stresses me out! Can't wait to get in the car and head to the airport. I'm trying not to get quite as uptight with this cruise as I normally do. My husband tip toed into the room I was packing in before we left for Hawaii (and I'll admit, I was definitely "on edge") and he laughed and said, "tell me why we pay money for this?":lmao: I try to keep that in the back of my mind so my family doesn't start their vacation off with bad thoughts about mom.:rotfl2: Can't wait to get this trip started though and looking forward to seeing beautiful Alaska!

[wselman]

[QUOTE=Evette;41212611]I've been away from the Disboards for awhile, we were in California for 10 days, somewhat unexpectedly. We went when my DH Mother was placed in Hospice care due to liver failure. We got there on Thursday the 12th and she passed away early Sunday morning the 15th.:sad: We had the Funeral on Wednesday the 18th and we arrived home last night. We got to spend time with our 3 sons who live in Anaheim and saw many family members, that was the good part of the trip. We are definitely looking forward to this cruise vacation!

Very sorry to hear about your loss.

[*tinker*bell*]

Hope you feel better for the cruise. :hug: Maybe the crisp clean glacial air will renew your spirits! :hug:
Can't wait to meet you all!! And see you in a just over a week!

We are super excited to meet ya too! I'm sure I will feel awesome already very excited! My grandma ordered a digital SLR camera with her airmiles for the trip it should get to us on Thursday! can't wait!!! I may be heading up to Whistler tomorrow so I can post some photos if anyone would like

SUPER EXCITED!!!! :banana::banana::banana:

[DenaLuvsDisney]

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2School is out for the summer. We are so excited about our upcoming cruise.

[Evette]

Evette, I am so sorry for your loss. :sad1:


Thank you!:flower3:

:hug: Sorry for your loss sounds like you will really need the vacay! only 13 days till we sail!!! Thanks for the congrats, things are okay... :rotfl: that doesn't sound very promising does it, playing a waiting game right now to see whats next, and I have developed a clot in my lung which sucks but it's not the end of the world

Thank you, we really are looking forward to this vacation! We fly to Seattle one week from tonight. :woohoo:How are you doing? I hope the clot in your lung is dissolving and not giving you any problems.:goodvibes


Very sorry to hear about your loss.

Thank you very much!:)

[disneypoor]

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2School is out for the summer. We are so excited about our upcoming cruise.

Yeah!:banana: We got out really early this year so we've been off for over a week already. What time did you say your flight was scheduled to leave KC? We are flying Delta out of KC, and I think our flight leaves around 7:00 a.m. It's going to be an EARLY morning for us next Monday but we're still excited for it to get here!:cool1:

Susan

[TEGIS]

Hi Everyone!

We just found these boards and wanted to post a quick hello before sailing next week. :banana:

We're from the Bay Area California and are super excited for the cruise and to meet new friends! We have three children: Griffin - 5, Sophie - 3, and Isla - 6 mos. :dance3: I teach 7th grade science and my husband is in software/internet.

Is there a meet scheduled somewhere? I'll quickly read through the posts and gather as much valuable info as I can.

See you all soon!
Thai, Elice, Griffin, Sophie, and Isla (TEGIS)

[disneypoor]

Hi Everyone!

We just found these boards and wanted to post a quick hello before sailing next week. :banana:

We're from the Bay Area California and are super excited for the cruise and to meet new friends! We have three children: Griffin - 5, Sophie - 3, and Isla - 6 mos. :dance3: I teach 7th grade science and my husband is in software/internet.

Is there a meet scheduled somewhere? I'll quickly read through the posts and gather as much valuable info as I can.

See you all soon!
Thai, Elice, Griffin, Sophie, and Isla (TEGIS)

Welcome!:wave2: Glad you'll be joining us. Can't believe it's almost here but as excited as can be! Now, the packing needs to begin around my house. I told my kiddos that we are cleaning this house top to bottom and then getting the suitcases out. We'll see how today goes!

Susan

[Evette]

Hi Everyone!

We just found these boards and wanted to post a quick hello before sailing next week. :banana:

We're from the Bay Area California and are super excited for the cruise and to meet new friends! We have three children: Griffin - 5, Sophie - 3, and Isla - 6 mos. :dance3: I teach 7th grade science and my husband is in software/internet.

Is there a meet scheduled somewhere? I'll quickly read through the posts and gather as much valuable info as I can.

See you all soon!
Thai, Elice, Griffin, Sophie, and Isla (TEGIS)

:wave2: and :welcome: So glad you're sailing :sail:with us!

[Evette]

Can't believe it's almost here but as excited as can be! Now, the packing needs to begin around my house.
Susan

I know the feeling, we leave on Sunday for Seattle and the packing has not started yet.:eek: I hope to start a staging area in my livingroom today as a place to gather what we need to pack. Not sure how many suitcases we will need since I really don't want to do laundry on the ship. We spend 1 night in Seattle near the airport and one night in Vancouver before the cruise and then we are spending 4 days with friends in the Seattle area after the cruise, we will be gone for almost 2 weeks so I must pack accordingly. I think planning for many different weather possibilities poses the greatest challenge.

[fabulousoldshoes]

We're going crazy at my house. I have exams this week and the last day of school is Thursday, then me and my mom are going to Nashville on Friday and we come back on Sunday and then fly out on Monday.

We have to have everything packed for both by Thursday.... :S

Plus my mom is still working on our FE gifts AND making the actualy FE....

[TEGIS]

Welcome!:wave2: Glad you'll be joining us. Can't believe it's almost here but as excited as can be! Now, the packing needs to begin around my house. I told my kiddos that we are cleaning this house top to bottom and then getting the suitcases out. We'll see how today goes!

Susan

"I told my kiddos that we are cleaning this house top to bottom and then getting the suitcases out."

-- BRILLIANT! What a great idea; I'm going to tell my kids the same thing!

Anyone have any packing tips -- special things to bring especially on an Alaskan cruise?

I've been searching the boards and internet in general and so far I've found:
1. binoculars
2. chapstick/lotion because the air is dry

Thanks!
Elice -- I'm sooooooo excited! :woohoo:

[willful]

Also, I wanted to let all of you FEers know that I have PM'd Willfull for his stateroom number. Some of you have been asking.


Sorry! Sorry! Sorry!

I've been so busy with work during May with 2 big software upgrades at New Orleans and Houston. For me the month of May was a blur!!! But now I get to focus on this upcoming AWESOME trip!!!! :cool1: :cool1: We leave Friday morning for Seattle. :woohoo:

I replied to Pixie3's PM but I will include my stateroom number here too. It is 2079. Still hoping for upgrade but I doubt it. :( I'm very sorry if i caused any grief in anyone's planning!

On the first page my daughter, Samara, is incorrectly listed as "DH".

We are super EXCITED the cruise is almost here!!! :banana: :banana:

[*tinker*bell*]

One Week!!!! :banana::banana::banana: and the weather has been nice every Tuesday since the Wonder has starting porting here in Vancouver! Today is no exception it is FINALLY starting to warm up (better late than never? :confused3) and it is a beautiful sunny day today! Hope this week fly's by... except for the two very important Hockey games this week Go Canucks Go! :cheer2:

[willful]

One Week!!!! :banana::banana::banana: and the weather has been nice every Tuesday since the Wonder has starting porting here in Vancouver! Today is no exception it is FINALLY starting to warm up (better late than never? :confused3) and it is a beautiful sunny day today! Hope this week fly's by... except for the two very important Hockey games this week Go Canucks Go! :cheer2:

YAAAYY!!! Keep that nice weather going!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1: We'll be there Sunday!!!! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Go Canucks!

[disneypoor]

"I told my kiddos that we are cleaning this house top to bottom and then getting the suitcases out."

-- BRILLIANT! What a great idea; I'm going to tell my kids the same thing!

Anyone have any packing tips -- special things to bring especially on an Alaskan cruise?

I've been searching the boards and internet in general and so far I've found:
1. binoculars
2. chapstick/lotion because the air is dry

Thanks!
Elice -- I'm sooooooo excited! :woohoo:
I'm not above bribery, Elice!:rotfl2: I use vacation time as a way to get DEEP cleaning done. My son is an awesome cleaner and probably cleans better than I do, so I love it when he's willing to help. My daughter has wonderful qualities but cleaning isn't one of them. She pushes things under furniture and throws clean clothes in the dirty clothes hamper. I have to keep an eye on her when she's cleaning.:lmao:

As for packing, one thing that I added to my list after reading through other posts was an umbrella. I'm usually not one to carry an umbrella, but if we're at Tracy Arm and it's raining, I want to make sure I can stand outside somewhere to watch since I don't have a verandah this time around. :sad1: I also got 25 one dollar bills for tips for room service today. I'm also packing layers this time (tshirts, sweatshirts, gloves, hats, etc.). Other than that, I think the rest of the stuff on my list is pretty standard.

Evette--I'm turning our dining room table into a packing station! Hope we don't have company before we leave!:rotfl:

Susan

[disneypoor]

One Week!!!! :banana::banana::banana: and the weather has been nice every Tuesday since the Wonder has starting porting here in Vancouver! Today is no exception it is FINALLY starting to warm up (better late than never? :confused3) and it is a beautiful sunny day today! Hope this week fly's by... except for the two very important Hockey games this week Go Canucks Go! :cheer2:

So glad to hear the weather has been nice! It's great to have someone in Vancouver to keep us posted!:thumbsup2 We're starting to get so excited! I can't believe it's really almost here. We booked this cruise so long ago. I remember thinking it would never get here and now here it is!:cool1: I have found myself thinking about this trip every Tuesday since the first Alaska sailing! Woot! Woot!

Susan

[DenaLuvsDisney]

Yeah!:banana: We got out really early this year so we've been off for over a week already. What time did you say your flight was scheduled to leave KC? We are flying Delta out of KC, and I think our flight leaves around 7:00 a.m. It's going to be an EARLY morning for us next Monday but we're still excited for it to get here!:cool1:

Susan

Our flight is with United Airlines and we fly out at 10:00 AM, it will be an early morning for us as well since we have a 2 hour drive to the airport.

[pixie3]

I'm definitely getting that pre-trip, pre-packing panicky feeling!:rotfl: I used to love the packing and preparing, and now it just plain stresses me out!

I'm with you. I hate this feeling! :scared1:

Hi Everyone!

We just found these boards and wanted to post a quick hello before sailing next week. :banana:

We're from the Bay Area California and are super excited for the cruise and to meet new friends! We have three children: Griffin - 5, Sophie - 3, and Isla - 6 mos. :dance3: I teach 7th grade science and my husband is in software/internet.

Is there a meet scheduled somewhere? I'll quickly read through the posts and gather as much valuable info as I can.

See you all soon!
Thai, Elice, Griffin, Sophie, and Isla (TEGIS)

Hello. :welcome:
I'll add you to our list on the first page!

I think we are going to try to have a meet after the drill and before/during the sail away party on the top deck starboard (right) side.

I know the feeling, we leave on Sunday for Seattle and the packing has not started yet.:eek: I think planning for many different weather possibilities poses the greatest challenge.

We leave Saturday morning and I haven't started. You are right, the weather possibilities do pose the greatest challenge.

Sorry! Sorry! Sorry!

I replied to Pixie3's PM but I will include my stateroom number here too. It is 2079. Still hoping for upgrade but I doubt it. :( I'm very sorry if i caused any grief in anyone's planning!

On the first page my daughter, Samara, is incorrectly listed as "DH".



You're all good! I just wanted to make sure we had your room number before people started their vacations.

DH :rotfl2: fixed that!!!

Hope this week fly's by... except for the two very important Hockey games this week Go Canucks Go! :cheer2:

My Penguins are out, so I'll cheer for you! We thought about getting tickets for Saturday, but we fly in at 4 and the game starts at 5.

[pixie3]

FE ALERT: In case any of you missed it.....Wselman decided to join FE past the cut off date with the understanding that they may not receive an FE from everyone. HOWEVER, if you have any extras, (a few of us already said we did) I'm sure they would greatly appreciate it!!!! Their room number is posted on the first page. Thank You!
:fish::fish::fish::fish:

[*tinker*bell*]

So glad to hear the weather has been nice! It's great to have someone in Vancouver to keep us posted!:thumbsup2 We're starting to get so excited! I can't believe it's really almost here. We booked this cruise so long ago. I remember thinking it would never get here and now here it is!:cool1: I have found myself thinking about this trip every Tuesday since the first Alaska sailing! Woot! Woot!

Susan
:goodvibes it's supposed to rain tomorrow but then be sunny for the rest of the week/weekend up to 22 degrees... which is... about 72 F so pretty warm! I don't know how you dealt with booking so far out! I too have been thinking about it every Tuesday, always watch the ship sail away on the news :rotfl:


My Penguins are out, so I'll cheer for you! We thought about getting tickets for Saturday, but we fly in at 4 and the game starts at 5.

:thumbsup2 gotta love 'em Canucks, interesting fact: the year Montreal won the cup, the year before they had the Olympics, same with Calgary, so it's our turn now! and wow tickets are pretty hard to come by! They were talking about them on the news and said they went from $300 for the nosebleeds up to $3000 thats more than the cruise :scared1: I stick to the big screens downtown/a restaurant or just stay home and watch it! there is a game in Boston on the 6th so both nights the city will be NUTS! long waits in any restaurant with a TV and lots of honking/cheering ect I kinda hope we lose at least one game so I can be downtown when we win the cup!!!!! They better play the games on the ship, I believe I read somewhere saying they were going to *fingers crossed*

[wselman]

"I told my kiddos that we are cleaning this house top to bottom and then getting the suitcases out."

-- BRILLIANT! What a great idea; I'm going to tell my kids the same thing!

Anyone have any packing tips -- special things to bring especially on an Alaskan cruise?

I've been searching the boards and internet in general and so far I've found:
1. binoculars
2. chapstick/lotion because the air is dry

Thanks!
Elice -- I'm sooooooo excited! :woohoo:


People seem to love 'em or hate 'em, but I really like the Travel Space Bags. I find them useful for compressing certain clothes (especially kids clothes, socks, underwear) and for dirty clothes. The bags are somewhat fragile and don't last forever--maybe a couple of trips, but they can really squish items down. And if I'm careful in how I pack them, t-shirts and such don't really wrinkle.

[willful]

:goodvibes it's supposed to rain tomorrow but then be sunny for the rest of the week/weekend up to 22 degrees... which is... about 72 F so pretty warm! I don't know how you dealt with booking so far out! I too have been thinking about it every Tuesday, always watch the ship sail away on the news :rotfl:


Sweet! :cool1: :banana: Hope the nice warm weather holds out. Thanks for the update.

I too have been thinking about it every Tuesday. I can't believe how far out I booked this trip! We book most of our trips about 3 - 6months in advance. This I think we booked over a year ago.

People seem to love 'em or hate 'em, but I really like the Travel Space Bags. I find them useful for compressing certain clothes (especially kids clothes, socks, underwear) and for dirty clothes. The bags are somewhat fragile and don't last forever--maybe a couple of trips, but they can really squish items down. And if I'm careful in how I pack them, t-shirts and such don't really wrinkle.

We use Travel Space bags for our trips. We love them! They are amazing. Help to keep clothes protected and organized. Unfortunately they can contribute to over packing. :eek:

[Evette]

I also got 25 one dollar bills for tips for room service today. I'm also packing layers this time (tshirts, sweatshirts, gloves, hats, etc.). Other than that, I think the rest of the stuff on my list is pretty standard.
Evette--I'm turning our dining room table into a packing station! Hope we don't have company before we leave!:rotfl:Susan
I need to get to the bank on Saturday and I will get money for tips then too. I know we will need $1's but not sure how much other cash to get. We will need to tip bus drivers, guides, etc. Oh, well, I'm sure I'll figure it out. We went to Target last night and my diningroom table has all the travel stuff we bought on it. I guess if we want to eat on it today I'll need to move it to the livingroom! Luckily I'm not expecting company because the livingroom will be a mess. I really need to do laundry:laundy: but being on the disbards is much more fun.! :rotfl:


So glad to hear the weather has been nice! It's great to have someone in Vancouver to keep us posted!:thumbsup2 We're starting to get so excited! I can't believe it's really almost here. We booked this cruise so long ago. I remember thinking it would never get here and now here it is!:cool1: I have found myself thinking about this trip every Tuesday since the first Alaska sailing! Woot! Woot!

Susan
I've been checking the weather for Vancouver (all our ports actually), we arrive there on Monday and so far it is supposed to be partly cloudy with a high of 66 degrees. On Tuesday, also partly cloudy with a high of 62. Hope it stays that way!:thumbsup2 I watched the Wonder come into Vancouver and leave the port yesterday on the live webcam, can't believe in only 6 days it will be our turn. :cool1:
People seem to love 'em or hate 'em, but I really like the Travel Space Bags. I find them useful for compressing certain clothes (especially kids clothes, socks, underwear) and for dirty clothes. The bags are somewhat fragile and don't last forever--maybe a couple of trips, but they can really squish items down. And if I'm careful in how I pack them, t-shirts and such don't really wrinkle.

For our last couple of trips I have used a packing folder and packing cubes I purchased thru ebags. I really like these. The packing folder helps keep wrinkles away, and the cubes are a great way to organize!

I too have been thinking about it every Tuesday. I can't believe how far out I booked this trip! We book most of our trips about 3 - 6months in advance. This I think we booked over a year ago.

I can't believe the trip is so close! We booked it 21 months ago while on our first DCL cruise in Sept. 2009. It seems as though it would never get here and now I've got to scramble to make sure we are ready to go by Sunday.:eek:

[jilljill]

Just curious if anyone on here is doing the ABD add-on and if you have rec'd any paperwork from ABD? Just trying to find out what sort of info they send out ahead of time.

thanks

[disneypoor]

Well, I'm driving myself nuts, so I decided to begin a trip report to help time fly by until we leave for this trip. If anyone is interested in following along, here is the link:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2732013

I got my vehicle completely cleaned out today, got all of the bedding washed, washed all of the rugs, and even went to the store to stock up on some food for the rest of this week as well as a few travel items. Tomorrow I'm going to try to get the floors all cleaned (I know I have issues!) and actually get the suitcases out of the closet. My son has a basketball tournament in Kansas City all weekend, and we have a birthday party for my sister's twins Sunday night, so I'm starting to panic a bit.:scared1:

So, what do I do when I panic? I get on the DIS and start a darn trip report. Sometimes I'm not the sharpest crayon in the box.:rotfl: Oh well, it will be fun. So glad to hear the weather is looking good for us! Bring on Monday morning! Did I mention we have to be on the road for the airport by 4:30 a.m. at the latest? I'll be like the commercial for Disney World where the dad can't sleep anyways.:woohoo:

Susan

[willful]

haha...Susan, I love your excitement and energy. I wish I had the urge (or the time) to clean before we leave on a trip. Seems we're just a mess of nervousness and then the house becomes EVEN MORE messy than usual... ugh :(

Good luck with all the getting ready! I'm off to ready your trip report. :surfweb:

:goodvibes

[disneypoor]

haha...Susan, I love your excitement and energy. I wish I had the urge (or the time) to clean before we leave on a trip. Seems we're just a mess of nervousness and then the house becomes EVEN MORE messy than usual... ugh :(

Good luck with all the getting ready! I'm off to ready your trip report. :surfweb:

:goodvibes
Well, did I tell you I have issues?:rotfl2: Honestly, even during the school year when I'm working full time, I still do all of this crazy stuff. I just can't leave the house messy. I'm okay with actually living in the house messy. I just don't want someone to come in while I'm gone and see how we REALLY live.:lmao: And, I clean my car out ALL the time. I can't stand for it to be dirty. I probably do need an intervention but I figure there has to be worse addictions besides cleaning, right?:rolleyes1

Looking forward to this trip. Just got off of weather.com and it looks pretty good for us. My son's basketball was canceled for tonight because we're having icky weather, so I get to stay home. YEAH!:)

[PrincessKat625]

Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

Looking forward to meet other Disney enthusists! I'm an extreme Disney lover who has only (just today) discovered these message boards. I've been to WDW and DL several times each, and have had the good fortune to also travel to Hong Kong Disneyland (so fun!). This will be my first ever cruise (and it's Disney!) - I'm really looking forward to having a great time.

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!

[*tinker*bell*]

Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

Looking forward to meet other Disney enthusists! I'm an extreme Disney lover who has only (just today) discovered these message boards. I've been to WDW and DL several times each, and have had the good fortune to also travel to Hong Kong Disneyland (so fun!). This will be my first ever cruise (and it's Disney!) - I'm really looking forward to having a great time.

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!

:welcome:

[willful]

Well, did I tell you I have issues?:rotfl2: Honestly, even during the school year when I'm working full time, I still do all of this crazy stuff. I just can't leave the house messy. I'm okay with actually living in the house messy. I just don't want someone to come in while I'm gone and see how we REALLY live.:lmao: And, I clean my car out ALL the time. I can't stand for it to be dirty. I probably do need an intervention but I figure there has to be worse addictions besides cleaning, right?:rolleyes1

Looking forward to this trip. Just got off of weather.com and it looks pretty good for us. My son's basketball was canceled for tonight because we're having icky weather, so I get to stay home. YEAH!:)

I hear ya about the crazy stuff...I seem to always be doing crazy stuff... Which unfortunately leads to the messy house. :( I hate have the house a mess but it seems to "just happen" right before we leave. (Must be those messy gnomes. :rotfl2: )

Yay for staying home...unfortunately for me after putting my daughter to bed I had to deal with a production work issue. :headache: But now a quick bite to eat and pack to packing and getting ready!!

Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

Looking forward to meet other Disney enthusists! I'm an extreme Disney lover who has only (just today) discovered these message boards. I've been to WDW and DL several times each, and have had the good fortune to also travel to Hong Kong Disneyland (so fun!). This will be my first ever cruise (and it's Disney!) - I'm really looking forward to having a great time.

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!

Hi Kat. :welcome: Glad you stopped by here! That's pretty sweet deal!! I'm jealous that you've been to HK Disneyland. :goodvibes I've wanted to go for soooo long!!!

[disneypoor]

Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

Looking forward to meet other Disney enthusists! I'm an extreme Disney lover who has only (just today) discovered these message boards. I've been to WDW and DL several times each, and have had the good fortune to also travel to Hong Kong Disneyland (so fun!). This will be my first ever cruise (and it's Disney!) - I'm really looking forward to having a great time.

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!

Welcome! We're glad to have you!:grouphug:

Susan

[chernabogfamily]

Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

Looking forward to meet other Disney enthusists! I'm an extreme Disney lover who has only (just today) discovered these message boards. I've been to WDW and DL several times each, and have had the good fortune to also travel to Hong Kong Disneyland (so fun!). This will be my first ever cruise (and it's Disney!) - I'm really looking forward to having a great time.

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!

:banana::banana:The singing bananas and I say WELCOME! :banana::banana:

How exciting- that you only have to work part-time. I had a close friend who was a nanny, she got to go to Hawaii a few times and to Paris (the family only had her work part-time, so she got wonderful vacations out of it as well). I'm sure the 2 girls (7 & 9) will meet my daughter (she's 7 almost 8) either in the lab or club.

Can't wait! Only 3 days until we leave for Vancouver! ...must get packing...

[willful]

Can't wait! Only 3 days until we leave for Vancouver! ...must get packing...

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
We leave tomorrow morning!!!!!!!

Already checked in with Southwest and got our A boarding!!! :cool1: :cool1:

...must finish packing...

:lmao:

[PrincessKat625]

Thanks for the welcomes! Much appreciated!!!

What are people's plans for the formal/semi-formal nights? How dressy is everyone getting? I think I've convinced the family to participate, but we definitely don't want to go out and buy formal attire. The girls have plenty of holiday dresses they can select from...but what about for the adults? would a cocktail/party dress that was used for a corporate holiday party be okay for formal night?

[jarudinski]

Thanks for the welcomes! Much appreciated!!!

What are people's plans for the formal/semi-formal nights? How dressy is everyone getting? I think I've convinced the family to participate, but we definitely don't want to go out and buy formal attire. The girls have plenty of holiday dresses they can select from...but what about for the adults? would a cocktail/party dress that was used for a corporate holiday party be okay for formal night?

Disney is pretty lax on the requirements, I have seen people wear jeans to dinner on the formal and semi formal night and they have never been turned away. On the flip side I have also seen people in ball gowns and tuxes :). We dress somewhere in the middle. My girls 7 & 12 usually wear their holiday dresses to dinner. I have a couple dresses which are not formal ball gowns but still nice. My husband who does not like to dress up will wear his slacks and polo shirts.

About the Fish Exchange, I have all mine made and am in the process of packing .. We are leaving tommorrow afternoon as soon as the girls get home from school. I will try and make a few more tonight or tommorrow morning, but no guarantees .. will have to see how hectic everything gets. :)

[PrincessKat625]

About the Fish Exchange, I have all mine made and am in the process of packing .. We are leaving tommorrow afternoon as soon as the girls get home from school. I will try and make a few more tonight or tommorrow morning, but no guarantees .. will have to see how hectic everything gets. :)

Thanks Julie, for your feedback about the attire - well noted!

I realize I'm super late in the game for the Fish Exchange. I'm not even sure I'll have time to make something to put up, so I think I'm too late to get in on all the action. though I have an idea for little gifts, so I just might spy the list and drop some surprises off :woohoo:

[willful]

Thanks for the welcomes! Much appreciated!!!

What are people's plans for the formal/semi-formal nights? How dressy is everyone getting? I think I've convinced the family to participate, but we definitely don't want to go out and buy formal attire. The girls have plenty of holiday dresses they can select from...but what about for the adults? would a cocktail/party dress that was used for a corporate holiday party be okay for formal night?

I agree with jarudinski. It's kinda whatever you want. Some people like to dress up in high style...while others say it's their vacation and they don't want to dress up. I wore nice suit (dress shirt, jacket, tie, etc) for both formal/semi-formal. I had thought about renting a tux (to save on packing space and to dress up a bit) but it seems I waiting too long and there's really nothing left. :(

My daughter (2) is wearing this amazing dress one of her grandmothers purchased for her. It is quite fancy but not overly so. (Besides it's so much fun to dress up little kids, right? :goodvibes ) My wife did buy new dresses. LOL I don't think they are overly fancy. What you described should be fine. There will be picture opportunities so it's really all about what you want to be photographed in...and matching the others in your photos.

I'm reviewing our FE gifts tonight. We think we'll have extras. I'll know more later tonight.

[pixie3]

I just can't leave the house messy. I'm okay with actually living in the house messy. I just don't want someone to come in while I'm gone and see how we REALLY live.:lmao:

:rotfl2: I think like that, too! Also, it is nice to come home to a clean house!


Hi there, I'm a newbie, so I hope I sign up for this correctly...

I'm Kat, and I'm traveling as a part-time babysitter/nanny to a family (mother, father, girl 9, girl 7, boy 4).

I would like to try to get in on the fish extender "game", but do realize we're past the deadline. I'm going to read up on it, and still try to make them for the kids anyways. We will have two rooms on board, but I don't have that information (the family has it).

As I am single, and only babysitting/nannying part-time, I would love to meet other people!



I realize I'm super late in the game for the Fish Exchange. I'm not even sure I'll have time to make something to put up, so I think I'm too late to get in on all the action. though I have an idea for little gifts, so I just might spy the list and drop some surprises off :woohoo:

:welcome: Glad your on board! An old friend of ours was a nanny as she got to go to some amazing places. She was with one family for a very long time, so she was more like a member of that family.

You probably are too late for fish. A lot of people are packed and leaving soon. If you end up doing something and if any of us have extras, I am sure some of us would try to throw some your way. Anyway, if we did throw you extras, we would need the room number.

[pixie3]

FEers! I thought of one more thing. I am going to keep a dry erase board on my door (8516) for room changes. If you get a room change at the last minute, write it on my door. If you are delivering gifts and can not find someone on your list (ie. no fish extender on the listed room number) that person probably had a room change and I will have them listed on my door as I get that information.
:woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish:

[chernabogfamily]

Thanks for the welcomes! Much appreciated!!!

What are people's plans for the formal/semi-formal nights? How dressy is everyone getting? I think I've convinced the family to participate, but we definitely don't want to go out and buy formal attire. The girls have plenty of holiday dresses they can select from...but what about for the adults? would a cocktail/party dress that was used for a corporate holiday party be okay for formal night?

That would be perfect for formal night. You'll see all types of outfits on the cruise. Some go all out, others do more of a semi-formal (with cocktail style dresses and business casual for guys), while others choose to not participate. Our family likes to participate in all the festivities. That's part of the reason why we like cruises (it's our little escapism back to the glamour days of steamer trunks and cruising). We will be in formal attire (but only because we already own the items from a prior cruise and event). I think quite a few of us are planning to dress for the occassion, so go for it!!

[willful]

FEers! I thought of one more thing. I am going to keep a dry erase board on my door (8516) for room changes. If you get a room change at the last minute, write it on my door. If you are delivering gifts and can not find someone on your list (ie. no fish extender on the listed room number) that person probably had a room change and I will have them listed on my door as I get that information.
:woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish:

Good idea! :thumbsup2

I'm still holding out hope for a room change (upgrade)!!!! :goodvibes

[pixie3]

Good idea! :thumbsup2

I'm still holding out hope for a room change (upgrade)!!!! :goodvibes

HAHA I know you are. I had you in mind! :wizard:

That would be perfect for formal night. You'll see all types of outfits on the cruise. Some go all out, others do more of a semi-formal (with cocktail style dresses and business casual for guys), while others choose to not participate. Our family likes to participate in all the festivities. That's part of the reason why we like cruises (it's our little escapism back to the glamour days of steamer trunks and cruising). We will be in formal attire (but only because we already own the items from a prior cruise and event). I think quite a few of us are planning to dress for the occassion, so go for it!!

Thats how I feel about it. We go formal, because we like to. Do what you like. You will see outfits that are all over the board.

[willful]

HAHA I know you are. I had you in mind! :wizard:



niiiice... :lmao:

I thought I read that some deals were had for upgrading at check-in. So here's hoping! If not, no biggie, just means with a smaller room, need to be out and about on the ship more! ;)

Which I plan to do anyways...

I just kept reading people comment on how nice a verandah was on Tracy Arm day.

SSSOOOO difficult to concentrate on work today!!!!!!

[Prose]

Nothing new going on here except PACKING!!! I just wanted to post to see my ticker....:yay:

[PrincessKat625]

my family is also hoping for an upgrade when we check in at port. For now, we have inside staterooms (gasp! - is it really that bad? I know there's no outside light, but I reckon we won't be spending that much time in the rooms.

I get a little more excited as the days go by. I'm babysitting/nannying for my sister and her husband - so I'm not a nanny by trade. I have a full time job in corporate america, and this is a big escape for me too. My sister and BIL really just wanted to ensure that they get their alone time, but on the same token, I'll be able to have some freedom as well. As a single gal, I never would have been able to go on a Disney cruise otherwise, so I'm glad to take care of the kids for the opportunity to go!

[chernabogfamily]

my family is also hoping for an upgrade when we check in at port. For now, we have inside staterooms (gasp! - is it really that bad? I know there's no outside light, but I reckon we won't be spending that much time in the rooms.

We've had inside staterooms before. They aren't bad at all, just no window. Which, with how early sunrise is and late sunset is in Alaska, will be very nice to keep your sleep rhythms regular. One trick we used was to bring a fabric/vinyl over-the-door shoe holder (they are inexpensive at WalMart) and hook it on the outside of the bathroom door. It saved us from having shoes everywhere and held other items as well. It saved a ton of space in the stateroom

I get a little more excited as the days go by. I'm babysitting/nannying for my sister and her husband - so I'm not a nanny by trade. I have a full time job in corporate america, and this is a big escape for me too. My sister and BIL really just wanted to ensure that they get their alone time, but on the same token, I'll be able to have some freedom as well. As a single gal, I never would have been able to go on a Disney cruise otherwise, so I'm glad to take care of the kids for the opportunity to go!

That is so awesome that you are traveling with your family! How wonderful to see Alaska with relatives around you to share it with.

[DenaLuvsDisney]

FEers! I thought of one more thing. I am going to keep a dry erase board on my door (8516) for room changes. If you get a room change at the last minute, write it on my door. If you are delivering gifts and can not find someone on your list (ie. no fish extender on the listed room number) that person probably had a room change and I will have them listed on my door as I get that information.
:woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish::woohoo::fish:

Thanks for this note, I was wondering what would happen if there was an room change for someone. Now we will just hope that it is not you;)

[disneypoor]

Is everyone frantically packing like I am?:scared1: My son has been playing in a basketball tournament all day today, and wouldn't you know it, they got first. Now, normally I'd be excited about that, but what that means is that now I will have to be there until roughly 7:30 tomorrow night, and it's an hour away! Luckily, I'll have a little time in the morning to try to finish up packing and get some last minute stuff done around the house. We leave for the airport at 4:15 a.m. Monday morning. Debating on whether or not I should even go to bed tomorrow night.:rotfl:

Looking forward to this cruise and hoping everyone is packed and ready to go!:thumbsup2

Susan

[pixie3]

Well, I am now in Vancouver. Yippy! When I got to the hotel, it was surrounded by Canuck fans singing "Oh Canada"! They have a big screen TV right outside of our hotel.

I was up until 3 last night packing and up early packing some more. We almost missed our flight.

Have safe travels!!!!!!! :yay:

[*tinker*bell*]

Well, I am now in Vancouver. Yippy! When I got to the hotel, it was surrounded by Canuck fans singing "Oh Canada"! They have a big screen TV right outside of our hotel.

I was up until 3 last night packing and up early packing some more. We almost missed our flight.

Have safe travels!!!!!!! :yay:

Did you just hear everyone go nuts? lol awesome game!!!

I shall be downtown tomorrow (hoping to see Wicked at the Queen E) so if anyone sees a girl with a lgmh on her purse come say hi!

[disneypoor]

Well, I am now in Vancouver. Yippy! When I got to the hotel, it was surrounded by Canuck fans singing "Oh Canada"! They have a big screen TV right outside of our hotel.

I was up until 3 last night packing and up early packing some more. We almost missed our flight.

Have safe travels!!!!!!! :yay:

Glad you made it safe and sound and didn't miss your flight!:cool1: I will likely be up til 3 or so tomorrow night as well! See you real soon!:thumbsup2

[chernabogfamily]

:banana::banana: We leave for the airport to start our journey to Vancouver in 2 hours! I can't wait!:banana::banana:

We'll all be on the ship soon! pirate:
Safe travels to everyone.

[jilljill]

Just curious if anyone on here is doing the ABD add-on and if you have rec'd any paperwork from ABD? Just trying to find out what sort of info they send out ahead of time.

thanks

I take it no one on here is doing the ABD add-on for the cruise?!? :confused3

[disneypoor]

I take it no one on here is doing the ABD add-on for the cruise?!? :confused3

Sorry! I saw your post but I couldn't be of any help because we're not doing it. I'm not sure I've read of any of our fellow cruisers that were doing it either. ??? Hope you find the answers you're looking for.:goodvibes

Susan

[Dayub]

Packing today, leaving for Vancouver tomorrow morning. I caught up with the posts and have extra FE gifts for wselman. Does anyone know if the meet is still on between the drill and the sail away party?? My DD never got on the Teen post but she is 13 and going into 8th grade if anyone else has teens that age. See everyone on Tuesday... :yay:

[disneypoor]

Our packing is done!:cool1: I'm headed out the door for a basketball tournament for my son, and then bright and early in the morning (4 a.m.) we're headed to the airport.:worship: Safe travels everyone! See you on the Wonder!

Susan

[pixie3]

Did you just hear everyone go nuts? lol awesome game!!!

I shall be downtown tomorrow (hoping to see Wicked at the Queen E) so if anyone sees a girl with a lgmh on her purse come say hi!

I thought we were crazy...... You people are nuts!!!!! Town was packed. There were people everywhere! The game was awesome! Today we went to Capilano and they had "Go Canucks Go" across the bridge.

[pixie3]

Packing today, leaving for Vancouver tomorrow morning. I caught up with the posts and have extra FE gifts for wselman. Does anyone know if the meet is still on between the drill and the sail away party??


Yes. Trying to meet on upper starboard deck midship after drill!

[wselman]

Packing today, leaving for Vancouver tomorrow morning. I caught up with the posts and have extra FE gifts for wselman.

Thank you in advance! We got ours done, too. Amazingly.

Safe journey!

[*tinker*bell*]

I take it no one on here is doing the ABD add-on for the cruise?!? :confused3

I am not nor have I noticed anyone posting that they are :confused3 HTH

[jilljill]

I am not nor have I noticed anyone posting that they are :confused3 HTH

thanks for the answer - have a great cruise

[*tinker*bell*]

I thought we were crazy...... You people are nuts!!!!! Town was packed. There were people everywhere! The game was awesome! Today we went to Capilano and they had "Go Canucks Go" across the bridge.

:lmao: yes we LOVE our hockey!!! it's everywhere!!! Just wait till Monday, they are opening Rogers arena to people to watch the away game there ($10 apparently dunno if tickets are still available or if they are selling them there for anyone interested) and according to the parrot who is predicting the games... and has so far been right but who knows... it is a parrot... we win game three :woohoo:

ETA RUIN THE BRUINS!!!

[ldconley]

Made it to Vancouver last night. Walked around the pier. Cannot wait to see it today with the Wonder there. Looking forward to meeting everyone in a few hours. :yay:

[pjc4925]

I want to send a thank you to everyone who participated in the Fish Extender. My daughter was so excited to get back to her room each night. There are many talented DIS'ers out there. We especially loved the autograph book with the pictures of each of the characters.

Thanks for a great cruise, sorry I didn't get a chance to meet anyone on this one.

Paul

[DenaLuvsDisney]

We are now back home in Kansas. We had a great time on the cruise. The FE game was awesome. My girls loved it! Next time I will know not to pack up my FE so early, thanks for leaving the gifts tuck in our Fish. We were sorry to miss the meeting of the group. We were turned around about which side of the boat to go on.

I have a couple of days to rest up before we are off again to go to church camp in the HOT Arkansas sun. We will be wishing for that AK weather in no time.

Thanks again for all the wonderful gifts.

Dena and the girls

[twinmom108]

Hi, we're going on the Disney Wonder to Alaska in a few weeks. Welcome home! I was wondering if you wouldn't mind answering some questions.

Checking in @ the port:

What time did you get there & how long was the process & the wait before you were finally on Board?

What time did they start the checking in process?

Is the checking in process any better organized than previously reported by early Alaskan cruisers?


Weather:

What weather (temps, rain, etc.) did you experience over the week.

Did any of the temps. allow you to wear shorts? If so on board or ports?

How much of the time did you have to bundle/layer up? just on board or ports too?

Other:

What was your most favorite thing you did the week of your cruise?

Hope you all had a marvelous time! :goodvibes Thanks is advance for any questions you might answer.

[lenzs4]

Hi, we're going on the Disney Wonder to Alaska in a few weeks. Welcome home! I was wondering if you wouldn't mind answering some questions.

Checking in @ the port:

What time did you get there & how long was the process & the wait before you were finally on Board?

What time did they start the checking in process?

Is the checking in process any better organized than previously reported by early Alaskan cruisers?


Weather:

What weather (temps, rain, etc.) did you experience over the week.

Did any of the temps. allow you to wear shorts? If so on board or ports?

How much of the time did you have to bundle/layer up? just on board or ports too?

Other:

What was your most favorite thing you did the week of your cruise?

Hope you all had a marvelous time! :goodvibes Thanks is advance for any questions you might answer.

We got there around 10:30 - simply because we were up and ready!! They opened the doors at 11 and the line moved very quickly. I think it must be getting better!
Weather - not one drop of rain the entire time we were there. Vancouver was having a "heat wave" so light weight pants and jacket were all we needed. The first night and next day of the cruise were windy so I was cold while outside - needed levi's and sweater with a jacket. From then on light pants and jacket were all I needed but I did see people in shorts (I am from AZ so there hot weather was like my winter!!) I would say it probably ranged from 50 - 70 most of the time. I overpacked the sweatshirts and warm clothes and we did not wear most of them.

Favorite excusion: Zipline in Skagway - they were great!!! Although the glsacier walk was great on Mendenhall as well...

Favorite on the ship: Getting and giving of FE gifts, and the viewing of Tracy Arm from balcony - so peaceful and relaxing... Usually BINGO is our family favorite but this cruise it was all about calling the numbers and getting it over with... Like bingo anywhere else in the world. We did not enjoy it like we have in the past and rarely played because of it. I hope that next time we cruise, they bring the Disney magic back to the game...


THANK YOU to all the FE participants!!! We loved it. Last time we participated in a group of 20 we got a total of 3 gifts in return so I wasn't sure how it would be on this cruise. Not only did everyone participate, the creativity was amazing. The kids absolutely loved everything and were so excited to get goodies everytime they got to the room!!!

[willful]

Hi, we're going on the Disney Wonder to Alaska in a few weeks. Welcome home! I was wondering if you wouldn't mind answering some questions.

Hope you all had a marvelous time! :goodvibes Thanks is advance for any questions you might answer.

Awesome!! congrats!!! You will have an AMAZING time!!!! We just arrived home late last night...did not want to wake up for work today (especially since we have messy house from frantic packing... :eek: )

But on to your questions:

Checking in @ the port:

What time did you get there & how long was the process & the wait before you were finally on Board?

We arrived late...around 2pm and we got through quickly! There was barely any one there. Of course that meant we rushed through our Beach Blanket Buffet lunch...partly because we stopped to drop off some bags (and stroller) at room.

I heard from another at our table that coming in earlier it was a bit hectic.

What time did they start the checking in process?

I heard 11am.

Is the checking in process any better organized than previously reported by early Alaskan cruisers?
Seems a bit. We came late so can't give 1st hand knowledge. Going late was fine for us. I wish we had arrived earlier because it seems we missed seeing Mickey and Minnie. :(

But we had SO MANY more photo opportunities!

Weather:

What weather (temps, rain, etc.) did you experience over the week.
We were extremely blessed all trip with surprisingly great weather! That's what the locals would tell us...

In Vancouver, the 2 days before the cruise we had mid to high 70s.

In Alaska, at Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan we had probably 60s for high... 50s for lows... No rain!! :goodvibes We missed the Ketchikan rain...thank goodness for arriving later in the day. Our tour guide/bus driver told us it had rained in the morning. On shore excursions, I wore Columbia long sleeve shirts (in their outdoor/hiking section). But truthfully hoodies, long sleeve t-shirts, or fleeces would've done nicely. This is what most people wore. I did wear Under Armour Cold Gear long sleeve t-shirt on our Juneau excursion because we were doing a whale watching excursion and would be on the water. When those boats move...they move!! But an amazing excursion!!

Sea days it was COLD and windy!!! Save your warm clothes: hats, gloves, hoodies, coats etc for the sea days if you plan to be on Deck 9 or even Deck 10. One of the days I went up to Deck 10 and was getting knocked around by the wind. Crazy but fun (kinda) ... At night on sea days it'd get very cold that we would rush out and back in. lol But Tracy Arm day, we had nice weather. At one point it sprinkled a bit and got a bit windy...I did put on a jacket for a bit.

Did any of the temps. allow you to wear shorts? If so on board or ports?

I wore shorts in Seattle the weekend before the cruise (we stayed there few days before going to Vancouver BC). I didn't wear any on the cruise...except in doors. Forgot to mention that above but the first and last days of the cruise it was H-O-T hot!! oh my... For others it might've been comfortable though but I tend to be a warmer person. And I also like my bedroom/stateroom a bit colder (68 degrees)...felt like it was around 75-78 that first and last day. I didn't see too many wearing shorts...mostly young boys and teens. I probably would've worn shorts on the Skagway day...but decided on jeans as a just in case it got cold...which it never did. I did see some people in Juneau wearing shorts (can't remember if they were locals or tourists)

On board the ship, inside it's very warm. You take your chance on Deck 9 and definitely Deck 10. :rotfl2:

How much of the time did you have to bundle/layer up? just on board or ports too?
Jut on board. I tend to be pretty warm person :goodvibes But Pirate night...wheeee boy! That was cold! Not a big turn out because of that (which was fine because our family got front row). I believe it was the first day at sea (Wednesday) that it was EXTREMELY windy!!! I tried to play a bit of soccer...but it was like a Charlie Brown incident...lol... I'd go to kick the ball...the wind would blow away the ball and I'd WHIIIIIF!!

At night, all the CMs working the quick service stands were bundled up. I felt so bad for them. It'd get windy and cold at night there out in the open. The beverage stations weren't too bad...but the hot chocolate station would get buys on the colder times. LOL


Other:

What was your most favorite thing you did the week of your cruise?
Hard to choose!! I think probably my daughter with the characters! If you like characters, keep a look-out. They post times in the Navigator but we'd see them roaming the ship. We saw Goofy, Stitch, Ariel, Peter Pan, and Cinderella just by chance!

My daughter (2 years old) got to ride up in the elevator with Goofy!! Holding his hand and getting tickled by him. :goodvibes :goodvibes So awesome!! Just by chance...my wife and daughter were going up to the pool and Goofy and CM got their elevator.

Another night, my daughter was escorted by Ariel down from Deck 5 to Deck 3 to take a picture at the Ariel statue in front of Tritons. I did tell Ariel that we had been looking for her and that my daughter made us take a picture of her in front of the statue every night. LOL So Ariel, said let's go take a picture there together!! Magical! :wizard: My daughter still talks about that...and that we saw Ariel on the last night and she said "Swim over her, little guppy and let's take a picture."

The Yukon Expedition excursion at Skagway was incredible and the best of the 3 we took overall. We had a very knowledgable and entertaining driver. Amazing views. He stopped several times for pictures (something I feared we wouldn't do on an excursion purchased through the ship)...even taking family photos for us. The dog musher camp was neat and a fav of my daughter. She got to pet puppies and goats and even feed them! Then we took the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad down into Skagway. AMAZING!!!! I easily filled a digital photo card that day!! :goodvibes

The other must-do I HIGHLY recommend is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack show in Ketchikan!!!!! What a fun time!! I thought it might be boring but NOT the case. Not only are those guys skilled, but they are very entertaining!!! They had us laughing, cheering ... and even booing (in good spirit) for the opposing team. Great family fun. And it was a short walk from the ship.

Speaking of Ketchikan day...what a mess!! Why they had that night as semi-formal night is beyond me. We had to rush back after the Lumberjack show to make dinner (we had 1st seating) and even then we were an hour late. Thankfully we had very good server, who was understanding...and we also ate quickly because we didn't want to delay him (too much) from getting ready for the 2nd seating. Our dining room was only 1/2 filled and maybe only a 1/4 were dressed semi-formal. Most people seemed to be like us, rushing back and went straight to dinner from their excursion. It didn't help that we delayed to disembark...we were told because Celebrity left port late by the shore excursion team.

The shows were fantastic! Meeting new people was great! Since we have a 2 year old, we tended to meet others with kids. My daughter is VERY sociable with other kids.

Seeing our daughter dance all other ship...not just at dance parties. She'd hear music and start to dance!

Alaska is AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!!! I loved every moment seeing the scenery of Alaska. WOW!!!

Oh, we saw a little bear on the side of the road in Skagway!

Other quick thoughts:

Laundry is much better than it was about 2 years ago...at least in terms you can use your room key for purchasing soap and using the machines. No needing coins. :thumbsup2

Not a lot of people on our cruise that dressed up for formal night. I wore a nice suit (with tie) and was a bit overdressed (at least compared to the others at our table). I saw maybe 3 people in tuxes. The women were more likely to be dressed in nice, fancy dresses.

The 10pm 'Til We Meet Again party is great way to cap vacation. Don't miss it!! You to see all the characters (and show people)...then 15 minutes for pictures. My daughter and I ran around and got Ariel, Captain Mickey, Mininie, Donald and Daisy (in sailing outfits) and Stitch (right at the "buzzer"). Fun daddy-daughter time. :goodvibes Then they line up again and you get big picture (or i took video) as we say "goodnight" to them. Bitter sweet but fun

Also be prepared for the last day...ugh... I hated the debarkation process. Maybe it was because I was tired...maybe because we had too much stuff with us... But that was worst of trip! Everyone has to be out of their rooms early...and they just mill around the ship. Made it very difficult to navigate. We unfortunately needed to get change/money from Guest Services and purchase our photos from Shutters (ran out of time last night b/c of show, party and packing). My suggestion is to limit what you carry off, go to breakfast and just sit there til you're called off ship (or they kick you out for 2nd seating?) I guess unless you're on the early flights out of Vancouver.

Sorry if this was long. LOL Hope this helped. Let me know if you have any further questions! Glad to help!!!! :thumbsup2

[willful]

THANK YOU to all the FE participants!!! We loved it. Last time we participated in a group of 20 we got a total of 3 gifts in return so I wasn't sure how it would be on this cruise. Not only did everyone participate, the creativity was amazing. The kids absolutely loved everything and were so excited to get goodies everytime they got to the room!!!

I agree about the FE! Thank you to all the participants!!! My 2 year old daughter loved the gifts!!! The glacier silly-puddy like stuff became a favorite of hers and she shared it with some kids on an excursion. She loved the little pony and barbie too among the other age appropriate items. :goodvibes

I too was amazed at everyone's creativity...especially since we didn't create anything. :( We ran out of time so we gave out store bought items. But with some thoughts. though. :) So hopefully they were well received. It was our first time participating. Next time, I want to be as creative as those on this cruise!!! :thumbsup2

[twinmom108]

We got there around 10:30 - simply because we were up and ready!! They opened the doors at 11 and the line moved very quickly. I think it must be getting better!
Weather - not one drop of rain the entire time we were there. Vancouver was having a "heat wave" so light weight pants and jacket were all we needed. The first night and next day of the cruise were windy so I was cold while outside - needed levi's and sweater with a jacket. From then on light pants and jacket were all I needed but I did see people in shorts (I am from AZ so there hot weather was like my winter!!) I would say it probably ranged from 50 - 70 most of the time. I overpacked the sweatshirts and warm clothes and we did not wear most of them.

Favorite excusion: Zipline in Skagway - they were great!!! Although the glsacier walk was great on Mendenhall as well...

Favorite on the ship: Getting and giving of FE gifts, and the viewing of Tracy Arm from balcony - so peaceful and relaxing... Usually BINGO is our family favorite but this cruise it was all about calling the numbers and getting it over with... Like bingo anywhere else in the world. We did not enjoy it like we have in the past and rarely played because of it. I hope that next time we cruise, they bring the Disney magic back to the game...




This is great info, thanks for posting. We too will be doing a Zipline in Skagway, which one did you do? We're doing the Mamoth Waterfalls Zipline.

We are going to the Mendenhall Glacier too, but we're not doing the nature walk. I'm glad you all had fun with your FE. Dh & I chose not to do it this time because it would mean adding another piece of checked luggage & we'll already be Schlepping around as much luggage as we can handle, not to mention trying to keep a handle on a budget that seems to want to sprint out of control. :rotfl:

[twinmom108]

Awesome!! congrats!!! You will have an AMAZING time!!!! We just arrived home late last night...did not want to wake up for work today (especially since we have messy house from frantic packing... :eek: )
Sorry if this was long. LOL Hope this helped. Let me know if you have any further questions! Glad to help!!!! :thumbsup2

Amazing post - great info - too long - not a chance - very helpful. :thumbsup2

But on to your questions:

Checking in @ the port:

What time did you get there & how long was the process & the wait before you were finally on Board?

We arrived late...around 2pm and we got through quickly! There was barely any one there. Of course that meant we rushed through our Beach Blanket Buffet lunch...partly because we stopped to drop off some bags (and stroller) at room.

I heard from another at our table that coming in earlier it was a bit hectic.

What time did they start the checking in process?

I heard 11am.

We have 10:30 checkin, but I guess that does mean waiting if it doesn't open till 11 am. I like the idea of waiting so you can just walk on the ship, but then I feel like I'm missing something & not getting my moneys worth. Not sure what we'll do. Hoping the process is better than for the earlier Alaskan cruisers especially if we do decide to go first thing.

[ Going late was fine for us. I wish we had arrived earlier because it seems we missed seeing Mickey and Minnie. :(

But we had SO MANY more photo opportunities! Wonderful!

Weather:

What weather (temps, rain, etc.) did you experience over the week.
We were extremely blessed all trip with surprisingly great weather! That's what the locals would tell us...

In Vancouver, the 2 days before the cruise we had mid to high 70s.

In Alaska, at Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan we had probably 60s for high... 50s for lows... No rain!! :goodvibes We missed the Ketchikan rain...thank goodness for arriving later in the day. Our tour guide/bus driver told us it had rained in the morning. On shore excursions, I wore Columbia long sleeve shirts (in their outdoor/hiking section). But truthfully hoodies, long sleeve t-shirts, or fleeces would've done nicely. This is what most people wore. I did wear Under Armour Cold Gear long sleeve t-shirt on our Juneau excursion because we were doing a whale watching excursion and would be on the water. When those boats move...they move!! But an amazing excursion!!

Sea days it was COLD and windy!!! Save your warm clothes: hats, gloves, hoodies, coats etc for the sea days if you plan to be on Deck 9 or even Deck 10. One of the days I went up to Deck 10 and was getting knocked around by the wind. Crazy but fun (kinda) ... At night on sea days it'd get very cold that we would rush out and back in. lol But Tracy Arm day, we had nice weather. At one point it sprinkled a bit and got a bit windy...I did put on a jacket for a bit.

Looks like I DO need to pack a variety of clothing. I don't do well in nippy windy weather & I do want to spend time outside on deck because we do not have a balcony.

Did any of the temps. allow you to wear shorts? If so on board or ports?

I wore shorts in Seattle the weekend before the cruise (we stayed there few days before going to Vancouver BC). I didn't wear any on the cruise...except in doors. Forgot to mention that above but the first and last days of the cruise it was H-O-T hot!! oh my... For others it might've been comfortable though but I tend to be a warmer person. And I also like my bedroom/stateroom a bit colder (68 degrees)...felt like it was around 75-78 that first and last day. I didn't see too many wearing shorts...mostly young boys and teens. I probably would've worn shorts on the Skagway day...but decided on jeans as a just in case it got cold...which it never did. I did see some people in Juneau wearing shorts (can't remember if they were locals or tourists)

On board the ship, inside it's very warm. You take your chance on Deck 9 and definitely Deck 10. :rotfl2:

How much of the time did you have to bundle/layer up? just on board or ports too?
Jut on board. I tend to be pretty warm person :goodvibes But Pirate night...wheeee boy! That was cold! Not a big turn out because of that (which was fine because our family got front row). I believe it was the first day at sea (Wednesday) that it was EXTREMELY windy!!! I tried to play a bit of soccer...but it was like a Charlie Brown incident...lol... I'd go to kick the ball...the wind would blow away the ball and I'd WHIIIIIF!!

At night, all the CMs working the quick service stands were bundled up. I felt so bad for them. It'd get windy and cold at night there out in the open. The beverage stations weren't too bad...but the hot chocolate station would get buys on the colder times. LOL


Other:

What was your most favorite thing you did the week of your cruise?
Hard to choose!! I think probably my daughter with the characters! If you like characters, keep a look-out. They post times in the Navigator but we'd see them roaming the ship. We saw Goofy, Stitch, Ariel, Peter Pan, and Cinderella just by chance!

Saw them by chance, you mean they were just walking around? I think my heart would skip a beat if I saw Peter Pan when I wasn't expecting to see him & Mickey too. It's fun to see any of them!!

My daughter (2 years old) got to ride up in the elevator with Goofy!! Holding his hand and getting tickled by him. :goodvibes :goodvibes So awesome!! Just by chance...my wife and daughter were going up to the pool and Goofy and CM got their elevator.

That is wonderful - what a great memory!!

Another night, my daughter was escorted by Ariel down from Deck 5 to Deck 3 to take a picture at the Ariel statue in front of Tritons. I did tell Ariel that we had been looking for her and that my daughter made us take a picture of her in front of the statue every night. LOL So Ariel, said let's go take a picture there together!! Magical! :wizard: My daughter still talks about that...and that we saw Ariel on the last night and she said "Swim over her, little guppy and let's take a picture."

Much pixie dust for you & your family, how amazing! :cloud9:

The Yukon Expedition excursion at Skagway was incredible and the best of the 3 we took overall. We had a very knowledgable and entertaining driver. Amazing views. He stopped several times for pictures (something I feared we wouldn't do on an excursion purchased through the ship)...even taking family photos for us. The dog musher camp was neat and a fav of my daughter. She got to pet puppies and goats and even feed them! Then we took the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad down into Skagway. AMAZING!!!! I easily filled a digital photo card that day!! :goodvibes

Too Cool :cool1: In Skagway we're doing White Pass Rail & Suspension Bridge the the Mamoth Waterfall Zipline.

The other must-do I HIGHLY recommend is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack show in Ketchikan!!!!! What a fun time!! I thought it might be boring but NOT the case. Not only are those guys skilled, but they are very entertaining!!! They had us laughing, cheering ... and even booing (in good spirit) for the opposing team. Great family fun. And it was a short walk from the ship.

We'll be catching a Lumberjack show in Vancouver - probably not as good as the one in Ketchikan. We're doing a Floatplane/ boat ride into the Fjords in Ketchikan.

Speaking of Ketchikan day...what a mess!! Why they had that night as semi-formal night is beyond me. We had to rush back after the Lumberjack show to make dinner (we had 1st seating) and even then we were an hour late. Thankfully we had very good server, who was understanding...and we also ate quickly because we didn't want to delay him (too much) from getting ready for the 2nd seating. Our dining room was only 1/2 filled and maybe only a 1/4 were dressed semi-formal. Most people seemed to be like us, rushing back and went straight to dinner from their excursion. It didn't help that we delayed to disembark...we were told because Celebrity left port late by the shore excursion team.

Our excursion gets back @ 7:30 when it's all aboard, so if it is semi-formal night - well we might just have to come as we are & I'll be fine with that. Got to do what you gotta do.

The shows were fantastic! Meeting new people was great! Since we have a 2 year old, we tended to meet others with kids. My daughter is VERY sociable with other kids.

Once for Golden Mickey's is enough for me. Haven't seen Toy Story yet - not sure If we will. The shows won't be as big of a draw for us as we're celebrating our 20th Anniversary & it's just DH & Me. Now Disney Dreams - that's a not to miss for me, Could watch it over & over. Is Peter Pan still the main character? I love it at the end when Mickey & Peter hug. (It brings tears to my eyes every time!) My two favorites! I heard that on the dream ship that Peter is not a main character in that show. That's so sad. :sad1:

Seeing our daughter dance all other ship...not just at dance parties. She'd hear music and start to dance!

That sounds wonderful I hope you shot alot of video clips.

Alaska is AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!!! I loved every moment seeing the scenery of Alaska. WOW!!!

Oh, we saw a little bear on the side of the road in Skagway!

Other quick thoughts:

Laundry is much better than it was about 2 years ago...at least in terms you can use your room key for purchasing soap and using the machines. No needing coins. :thumbsup2

In October we were on the Wonder & we could use the room key then. I did have trouble with the washers starting, though & was triple charged in some of the time. No problem with getting the overcharges reversed. As for soap I bring the Purex all in one sheets. Packs great.

Not a lot of people on our cruise that dressed up for formal night. I wore a nice suit (with tie) and was a bit overdressed (at least compared to the others at our table). I saw maybe 3 people in tuxes. The women were more likely to be dressed in nice, fancy dresses.

Formal Night is our actual anniversary date so DH & I are dressing up. We'll be in the main dining that night because we're doing Palo Brunch earlier that day. Plus we're doing the couples massage that day too.

The 10pm 'Til We Meet Again party is great way to cap vacation. Don't miss it!! You to see all the characters (and show people)...then 15 minutes for pictures. My daughter and I ran around and got Ariel, Captain Mickey, Mininie, Donald and Daisy (in sailing outfits) and Stitch (right at the "buzzer"). Fun daddy-daughter time. :goodvibes Then they line up again and you get big picture (or i took video) as we say "goodnight" to them. Bitter sweet but fun

I hope to catch this party too. It will depend on if I'm done packing yet. lol

Also be prepared for the last day...ugh... I hated the debarkation process. Maybe it was because I was tired...maybe because we had too much stuff with us... But that was worst of trip! Everyone has to be out of their rooms early...and they just mill around the ship. Made it very difficult to navigate. We unfortunately needed to get change/money from Guest Services and purchase our photos from Shutters (ran out of time last night b/c of show, party and packing). My suggestion is to limit what you carry off, go to breakfast and just sit there til you're called off ship (or they kick you out for 2nd seating?) I guess unless you're on the early flights out of Vancouver

UGH - debarkation is the worst. Especially since that is the end of our fabulous trip & we'll be going back to reality. We have a late afternoon flight so we'll be in no hurry to get off.

Did you fly home the same day or did you stay in Vancouver for a few days? We're going to be in Vancouver for a week before our cruise & plan to watch the Wonder sail out while knowing we'll be on it the next time it sails. :woohoo: I might even bring my sons Mickey hands. Were you in Vancouver when the riots hit? We'll be staying in Downtown just a few blocks from the areas that were hit by rioters. We're hoping things will be cleaned up & back to normal by the time we go.

Thanks for all your info! It sounds like it's going to be one of our most memorable vacations & hopefully in a good way. :goodvibes

[lenzs4]

This is great info, thanks for posting. We too will be doing a Zipline in Skagway, which one did you do? We're doing the Mamoth Waterfalls Zipline.

We are going to the Mendenhall Glacier too, but we're not doing the nature walk. I'm glad you all had fun with your FE. Dh & I chose not to do it this time because it would mean adding another piece of checked luggage & we'll already be Schlepping around as much luggage as we can handle, not to mention trying to keep a handle on a budget that seems to want to sprint out of control. :rotfl:

Yes we did the Mammoth Waterfalls Zipline. They were really great and let us video our zips and helped us take photos. After we finished, the base camp is located with the dog sledding mushers camp so we got to hold the pups as well. It was great. Granted we didn't get to hold them as long as those on that excursion, we still got to hold them!

[twinmom108]

Yes we did the Mammoth Waterfalls Zipline. They were really great and let us video our zips and helped us take photos. After we finished, the base camp is located with the dog sledding mushers camp so we got to hold the pups as well. It was great. Granted we didn't get to hold them as long as those on that excursion, we still got to hold them!

I am such a sucker for puppies. ;) I hope they will let us do that to! Just a few minutes with them & holding them will do me good. Is the place where the ziplines are beautiful? I've seen some of their youtube videos & it looks gorgeous. Did you zipline on the really long one? If so how was it & how fast do you really go?

[lenzs4]

I am such a sucker for puppies. ;) I hope they will let us do that to! Just a few minutes with them & holding them will do me good. Is the place where the ziplines are beautiful? I've seen some of their youtube videos & it looks gorgeous. Did you zipline on the really long one? If so how was it & how fast do you really go?

The long one was called the marathon. It was great. I held the video camera and took a movie of the zip on that one. It was 750 feet and took about 35 seconds. It was the longest but slowest zip. The rest were faster speeds but not so fast that my ten year old was ever scared and she hates roller coasters.
The area was very pretty. Loved the waterfalls.
Kudos to our instructors Casey and Tom!

[Dayub]

Hello everyone... the cruise was wonderful.. Thanks to everyone for all the FE gifts.. Everyone did such a great job on them... Sorry we did not get to meet anyone in person. I looked for everyone after the life boat drill but must have not been in the right area. I did not write it down and was trying to remember where we were supposed to meet.

Anyway, great cruise...

Deb

[khristy68]

We're back home now and I have to say we couldn't have had a better trip. This was our first time doing the FE and it was terrific. Thanks to all that participated. We looked forward to returning to our cabin throughout the cruise in anticipation of what might be waiting in the FE for us. Such great ideas people had! We're definitely going to participate on our next cruise (yes, there's already a next one - 3/27/12 Western Caribbean on the Magic).

As for our cruise itself, we had a terrific time. We couldn't ask for better weather. 4 days in Vancouver, 7 on the ship, and 3 more in Seattle at the end and we only saw a few hours worth of rain the entire time. Unheard of. A few of our observations:


Boarding was quick and easy once we got to the port. Vancouver isn't as easy to navigate as Port Canaveral was. We had difficulty unloading and finding our way to the terminal, but once there it all went well.
Tracy's Arm was beautiful. We took up positon on the starboard aft part of deck 10 and had terrific views
Skagway was nice. We did the train and Liarsville camp tour. The train was fun but the camp was a waste of time. We were there about 90 minutes but there wasn't much to do. There was a 15 minute skit put on, but the rest was pretty boring. I would recommend skipping this.
We did the whale watching and glacier in Juneau with the salmon bake lunch. I highly recommend this excursion. We saw quite a few whales, eagles, and sea lions during the whale watching part of the tour. The boat driver even went way out of his planned route to get us up next to a pod of Orcas. This was the best part of the day! Lunch was good but because we spent extra time on the water, we only had about 40 minutes at the glacier. Not enough time to see everything there. We were so busy with the excursion that we never really saw much of Juneau itself. Maybe next trip!
The Totem tour and Lumberjack show in Ketchikan was fun. It was a bit overpriced for what you got, but it was a good time. The only negative comment I could make is the boat got to Ketchikan too late in the day. By the time they cleared us to get off it was nearly 2pm. The tour ended around 6 and not much was still open in town since it was a Sunday night. Kind of disappointing. On top of it, we had to rush back on board to make our early seating for dinner. We barely got in before they stopped serving. The dining rooms were fairly empty though for the first seating. The timing was unfortunate too. It was semi-formal night, which we were looking forward too, as well as Lobster night. We made it to the dining room but just wore what we had on in port. The rushed end to the day kind of put a damper on our mood.
Sea days were great and there was always plenty to do. Our daughter loved the Oceaneer's Lab and spent a lot of time there.
Disney needs to rethink the whole Pirate's night activity. It doesn't really make sense in Alaskan waters. Also, the deck party was a complete bust. The sun was still up at 10pm and it was too chilly on deck for much fun. The crew threw their hearts into the party, but there weren't more than 100 people on deck when we went up there.


It was a great cruise! Thanks again to everyone for all the terrific FE gifts.

Khristy