Halloween 2011. Oct 29th on the Magic

[jnadelman]

We booked for 2011 while on during 2009. I have been waiting for someone to start the thread and I have waited long enough. Not sure if I started this right or not.

For 2009 we had a great bunch. We had weekly online chats, matching t-shirts, 2 pre-cruise meets over the summer, a great set of FE cabins, and most important, a great cruise.

Hoping 2011 is even better.

Jeff

[IrishCowboy]

I have added your thread to the cruise meet list :thumbsup2

[sumlee]

Hello!

Count us in! This will be our very first Disney cruise (well, my mom and dad have been on one, but it will be the first for the rest of us) and we couldn't be more excited!!! There will be seven of us total. Here's our group:

ME (31):earsgirl:, DH (33):earsboy:, DS (9)pirate:, DS (6)pirate:, DD (3)princess:, Nana:earsgirl:, Papa:earsboy:

[jnadelman]

Welcome sunlee.
This will be our second. Can't wait to start talking to people

I have a DS who will be 9 and a DD who will be 6 (at the time of the cruise)

[gomagic]

My mom and I will be on this one.

[jnadelman]

Where is everyone????

[PurdyBertnie]

My mom and I just got off a 5-night cruise on the wonder and we rebooked while onboard for this cruise. Can't wait for this one!!! Very excited to be sailing over Halloween!!!!

[auntyaba]

I'm Brittany's mom (Robin) looking forward to this next cruise, this will be our first time on the Magic anxious to see how the ships compare. Anyone done this itinerary before?

[webcreatrix]

I'm so excited. I just booked this cruise for me and my daughter who will turn 21 on October 29th, 2011! Woohoo!

[TifffanyD]

We are joining you all! :cool1::cool1:

Well I've said that in 2 other threads so far and have since changed dates :lmao: - but hopefully this time sticks! :thumbsup2

We are doing the Halloween cruise this year (in 76 days! :sail:) so I can report back on how it was. The week includes my husband's birthday, so that is why we are doing the same week both years.

:bday: to the others celebrating as well! party:

[schimj]

Hi all...I'm the previously mentioned husband in TifffanyD's post. This will be our 5th DCL sailing if all trips currently booked go through, and our 7th cruise over all. Maybe we'll have better luck getting excursions and Palo times we wanted this October on board since it won't be Jersey Week for this cruise in '11.

[princesspiglet]

Hi all! We are booked on this cruise for 2011. It will be our first DCL cruise. DD will be almost 9 when we go and loves Halloween, so super excited for this!

[jnadelman]

Hi all...I'm the previously mentioned husband in TifffanyD's post. This will be our 5th DCL sailing if all trips currently booked go through, and our 7th cruise over all. Maybe we'll have better luck getting excursions and Palo times we wanted this October on board since it won't be Jersey Week for this cruise in '11.

Sorry to disappoint you, but this is indeed Jersey Week in 2011. Jersey week is the first Thursday/Friday of Nov. This cruise does overlap with that.

[TifffanyD]

Sorry to disappoint you, but this is indeed Jersey Week in 2011. Jersey week is the first Thursday/Friday of Nov. This cruise does overlap with that.

Are you sure? It looks like it is later next year:

From: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/

Jersey Week will be the weeks beginning

October 30, 2010
November 5, 2011
November 3, 2012


Also, from NJEA's site (http://www.njea.org/teaching-and-learning/pdo-convention):

Future Convention dates
November 10-11, 2011
November 8-9, 2012


Do you have some other information?

[jnadelman]

Tiffany, thank you so much.
We are in NJ and thought that Jersey week was simply the first Thu/Fri of Nov, not the first full week.
We booked the wrong cruise!!!!!!

Now I need to see if we can change it and still get a decent room.
Uh-Oh.

[TifffanyD]

Tiffany, thank you so much.
We are in NJ and thought that Jersey week was simply the first Thu/Fri of Nov, not the first full week.
We booked the wrong cruise!!!!!!

Now I need to see if we can change it and still get a decent room.
Uh-Oh.

Glad I could help. I would bet you will still be ok - good luck!

[jnadelman]

By everyone. Have a great cruise in a year. Maybe we will see you as you leave and we arrive. We moved our dates to the next week.

[Momto3cuties]

We wanted to pop over and say hello! We just booked our first Disney Cruise and are so excited to be sailing over Halloween, too! We have 3 kids who will be 7 (DS), 4 (DS), and 2 (DD) at the time of our cruise. Hoping they will like Flounders/Clubs so that DH and I can have a little alone time (we would be happy to have 1 hour a day of adult time), as this cruise is to celebrate our 10th anniversary!
We'd also be interested in doing a FE - read a lot about it and its sounds fun! I would be more than happy to organize it all.
Can't wait to hear all about the Halloween cruise this year, Tiffany!

[gomagic]

Have a great cruise everyone. We just changed from this cruise to a B2B on the Dream.

[acourtwdw]

HI everyone :)

We just moved from our Oct 1 to this cruise so that we could use our DVC points to bring our parents.

I'm Annette and will be traveling with my Dsis (Amanda), DDad (Clare) and DMom (Lorraine). We most recently did the WBTA (AMAZING!!!!). This will be my 10th cruise (unless I can sneak another in) and the 'rents 3rd. They haven't done a 7 day since 02.

I am looking forward to this since we haven't done the Western before. We've done the Eastern twice. The rest were 3 or 4 nights with the exception of the WBTA.

I can't wait to get to know everyone. If anyone has any questions, please feel to ask.

Annette :)

[acourtwdw]

Is there anyone on this thread????????????

[sumlee]

Hey TiffanyD - How was your Halloween cruise this year! I'm DYING for a report! :cheer2:

[TifffanyD]

Hey TiffanyD - How was your Halloween cruise this year! I'm DYING for a report! :cheer2:

Hi sumlee! I am originally from Ohio as well! Up in the Cleveland area!!

Our cruise was fantastic! I will do a quick recap - just for you!

We drove to Port Canaveral from Tampa and got caught in an embarkation/debarkation mixup. We only had to wait a short while before they started letting people in. Lines for check in were efficient and then we were left to wait with our (*now in color!*) navigators!

We got the dining rotation that we wanted so we just hung around until our room was ready. Our room was fine... schimj said it smelled slightly smokey but I thought it was ok. Great location and we didn't hear much noise the entire cruise.

The show this night included 2 variety acts (Kevin Johnson the ventriloquist and Alfred & Seymour the hip hop comedians) along with some Disney stuff inbetween. This show was funny and entertaining (we saw Alfred & Seymour's adult show and it was boooooooooooring but Kevin Johnson's family cabaret was really funny!)

We met our servers and they were GREAT the entire cruise!! We never really "met" our stateroom host. We saw several of them near our room throughout the cruise and all said hi so we weren't sure which was ours :confused3. No problems with them tho!

First port was in Key West. It was HOT with just a little bit of sprinkling rain for relief. We walked to the southernmost point and back and did some shopping along the way. We did NOT see inappropriate things on the street. Fantasy Fest apparently ends the Saturday before halloween so everyone was tired out and there wasn't much going on. Since it was halloween, we saw some costumes, but nothing bad. The Blonde Giraffe key lime place was closed for vacation until mid November. We did get some frozen key lime pie at the key lime pie factory, and it was quite yummy. Expensive tho! (Like $5+ for one not-large piece which we split). We had brunch at Palo this day before we left so the pie was the only thing we ate until dinner! We were quite full-in-the-belly.

Second port was Grand Cayman. We didn't do an excursion - just walked around this day as well. Note to anyone going to Margaritaville - this is like the ONE place that puts their prices in cayman dollars and not american dollars. And the conversion was 1.55 us dollars to cayman dollars. Which means an already overpriced shrimp app, margarita, and dacquiri became obnoxiously overpriced after conversion... $40 for that!! We did some shopping and walked all the way down to the craft market and got some soap and salt water taffy. We'd been here in June and did the island tour which was FANTASTIC but we didn't feel we needed to do it again. We also stopped in every tortuga shop we saw and sampled rum cakes - so that was basically lunch :hippie:

3rd port was Cozumel. We had booked Nachi Cocom so we grabbed a taxi. It was $16 for 1-4 passengers... so we paid $20 one way. I was a little nervous about doing this alone and the safety of mexican taxis and stuff... but I had worried for nothing. The taxi stand was clean, fast, and all the fares were written on a big board. Nachi was great... the food was just ok but the drinks were good and plentiful (especially if you sat at the swim up bar). The chairs are not that comfy but you can rent a float pad for around $7 per person that can be used on the chair and also in the ocean (we didn't do this but maybe next time we would). Secretariat was playing this night at 515 and I wanted to see that so we ended up leaving here around 3ish. Taxi back was waiting for us and was quick. The ship stopped at the Punta Langosta pier... which had a lot more dive-shopping (crappy little souvenir stores) and not the usual port shops as the other pier. The other pier is way nicer, but this one does have the Hard Rock Cafe and Margaritaville... if that is what you are looking for.

Last stop was Castaway Cay, of course. We were closing in on a storm so it was chilly, a little sprinkley, and REALLY WINDY this day :scared1: We just hung around the beach a bit... nothing special. Later in the evening the boat was rocking a LOT. All 3rd party rentals were cancelled at Castaway due to the winds.

Halloween on board was cute... it seemed there was a trick or treat trail plus they had characters in costumes. Brent was in costume too. There were a couple of special desserts at dinner but they were not advertised... our server just happened to bring one. The disers had another trick or treat thing they organized along with a treasure hunt at Nachi Cocom (we didn't do these since we have no kids... but I heard they went well)

Weather was pretty great except for the tail end. Castaway Cay was windy like I said and then the day we got off the boat was COLD. We went to downtown disney and I had only left sandals out so that's what I wore. It was chilly tho... and it is still pretty cold down here but should be warming up later in the week.

The shows were entertaining. I already told you about the first show and that we had Secretariat as a movie night. We also had the Twice Charmed and Villains shows... neither of which I had seen before. They were both very nice - altho I got shot with a clump of confetti or something during villains and it stung for like 10 minutes and was sore for a few days after. There was also the Disney Dreams show... we want to the matinee (2pm) showing of this but had to leave early as we had high tea at Palo at 3. This was really cute too. The final night show was another 2 variety acts mixed with some disney stuff. The disney stuff was cute enough but the variety acts were terrible (a magician who tried to be funny and a country singer who tried to be funny). This was the worst show of the night - just cause the variety acts were soooo bad

Dining was great - I loved my food pretty much every night. We did brunch, tea, and dinner at Palo. While each one was enjoyable... we don't feel the need to redo any on this next cruise as it's so near. We missed the Animator's show night. The lobster on lobster night was HUGE. The baked alaska was delicious (it was my first time trying it!)

We also did a martini tasting, which was very nice and was held in Sessions. We stuck around after cause I saw they had mixed up some extra martinis and, sure enough, they did laps and kept handing them out til they were gone ;)

We went to the DVC members meeting but it was PACKED (half the ship were dvc members) and started late so we had to leave to get to Palo Brunch. We also went to the DVC meeting for non-members to see what it was and to take my in-laws (and try to win the prize). We didn't win but we did end up adding on points at Aulani before the trip was over! :cheer2:

We did the Rasul treatment and it was ok but apparently ours was broken our something cause in reading on the boards our steam room should have actually been steamy and hot and we should have gotten champagne and the rainforest room. Boo!

I bought one of the adorable Dooney & Bourke cruiseline exclusive bags on board - that was my big purchase of the trip (not counting DVC)!

Issues: Not enough hammocks at Castaway Cay (especially adult beach). We got wrong charges on our account because they don't really require a key to the world card to charge... they can just go off the room number. Getting shot with the cannon during villains tonight. 3/4 of our party got pretty sick afterwards (maybe from the weather, germs... who knows)

Overall it was a GREAT cruise and I can't wait to do the same one next year! Anything else you want to ask specifically?? WOW I wrote a lot!!

[SCDizneyDawn]

HI!! :wave2:

We just booked this cruise, we were also on the October 30.2010 sailing and had an awesome time, so we booked this as soon as we got home!
We got a sideways Cat 11 cabin, foward on deck 6, so very exctied that we go the type cabin we wanted! We were also in a sideways Cat 11 on our recent cruise, liked the layout (we have stayed in a Cat 11 aft 3 times, rm 6641) and the forward location so that is what we asked for again! :cool1:

I am Dawn, and my hubby is Brian. We live in Kissimmee, Fl and I work for Fl Hospital Celebration and DH works at Epcot!

hope this tread starts getting a little more active soon:thumbsup2

[TifffanyD]

HI!! :wave2:

We just booked this cruise, we were also on the October 30.2010 sailing and had an awesome time, so we booked this as soon as we got home!
We got a sideways Cat 11 cabin, foward on deck 6, so very exctied that we go the type cabin we wanted! We were also in a sideways Cat 11 on our recent cruise, liked the layout (we have stayed in a Cat 11 aft 3 times, rm 6641) and the forward location so that is what we asked for again! :cool1:

I am Dawn, and my hubby is Brian. We live in Kissimmee, Fl and I work for Fl Hospital Celebration and DH works at Epcot!

hope this tread starts getting a little more active soon:thumbsup2

Hey Dawn!! Wasn't that Halloween cruise awesome?? I hope this one next year is just as fun! But without the windy day at the end :)

[SCDizneyDawn]

Hi Tiffany! It was a great trip! I also hope we can skip the weather the last two days of this cruise on the next one!

[clj1410]

HI!! :wave2:

We just booked this cruise, we were also on the October 30.2010 sailing and had an awesome time, so we booked this as soon as we got home!
We got a sideways Cat 11 cabin, foward on deck 6, so very exctied that we go the type cabin we wanted! We were also in a sideways Cat 11 on our recent cruise, liked the layout (we have stayed in a Cat 11 aft 3 times, rm 6641) and the forward location so that is what we asked for again! :cool1:

I am Dawn, and my hubby is Brian. We live in Kissimmee, Fl and I work for Fl Hospital Celebration and DH works at Epcot!

hope this tread starts getting a little more active soon:thumbsup2

We were also on the Halloween sailing, we had an awesome time! We rebooked for the same cruise next year...which i now have to change after reading this thread, as Jersey week, is a week later than usual!

Bit dissappointed as we loved Halloween onboard, but on the upside we will do the Eastern instead!

Can you tell me which rooms are the 11 sideways?

[glindamood]

Hello everyone! I booked a fake date while on a B2B in 2009 and just had it moved to this trip today. We are sailing on the Wonder this Thursday but I have to have something to look forward to when I get off - or will need to become a stowaway. I am looking forward to being on the Magic for Halloween and meeting all the DISers as well.

[SCDizneyDawn]

Hi! Welcome to our very quiet thread! Hope it will eventually get more active!

Hello everyone! I booked a fake date while on a B2B in 2009 and just had it moved to this trip today. We are sailing on the Wonder this Thursday but I have to have something to look forward to when I get off - or will need to become a stowaway. I am looking forward to being on the Magic for Halloween and meeting all the DISers as well.

[MommaMouse411]

i thought I posted something in here but maybe I didn't, I couldn't find the post to subscribe..

well I will be booking this cruise in february..and I wanted to check out the thread..so far its quiet but I wonder if its because everyone wants to experience the dream instead...I will be in April 2012...but am excited to do a 7day..

its going to be me, DS3 , DS1, and DSS (step sister) 15...we all just did the 4day wonder in december and had a fantastic time..

[storms71]

This is our second cruise same time last year had a blast coudnt wait to book the next one plan on going same time in 2012 on the fantasy.

[MommaMouse411]

This is our second cruise same time last year had a blast coudnt wait to book the next one plan on going same time in 2012 on the fantasy.

hello!! I'm hoping this thread gets more lively :confused3

[storms71]

I pick this week last year because my wife birthday is the 31 and my sons is nov3 so we get to celebrate both they had such a good time we decided to go again we were going to go a week earlier for eastern carribean but we really like the cruise we had last year maybe another year

[MommaMouse411]

I would've preferred the eastern cruise as well but I can't travel the week ...plus i love grand cayman so its kind of cool to be able to get back over there..

[MommaMouse411]

okay I'm officially booked...not the best location for a cabin but whatever I just want to be on the ship!!!!! I'm super excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[storms71]

Where is your room located we are on deck 2 I believe 2111

[MommaMouse411]

its an inside cabin its 6319....forward of ship...deck 6....I wish I can afford verandah again..but we'll see maybe as we get closer they will offer a Florida Resident discount like they did for me on my December cruise...cross fingers...

[storms71]

Hope you get the discount we choose an inside room to save for next year we are going to go on the Dream in Aug and Fantasy same time next year

[glindamood]

Hello everyone! We always do an inside forward on deck 6, sometimes a sideways and sometimes not. I would rather cruise every year in an inside than every other in a verandah. But, with only DH and myself, it is enough room.

Snowing here in Michigan and I can't even get out for work, how sad :rotfl:!

[MommaMouse411]

I agree...I rather be wherever I can be on any of the Disney ships :thumbsup2...and I'm doing the Dream in April of 2012 so thats why for sure if I don't get a Fl Discount I won't be moving up in categories for both trips...

ah but it was so nice to have the verandah...it made the room brighter and more like we were on vacation.. sigh...lol

[glindamood]

I agree...I rather be wherever I can be on any of the Disney ships :thumbsup2...and I'm doing the Dream in April of 2012 so thats why for sure if I don't get a Fl Discount I won't be moving up in categories for both trips...

ah but it was so nice to have the verandah...it made the room brighter and more like we were on vacation.. sigh...lol

I can totally understand, and with your children as young as they are and naps - it give you a space to be during nap time. We are so rarely in our cabin other than to sleep or change clothes (which is true for us with or without a verandah) an inside is a good fit for us - but, as with all things in live YMMV.

So, there are not so many of us on this trip yet. I hope that changes - or we will have no excuses for not meeting up at some point on board ;). With all those that went on the PC, there were still some I never saw - or met anyway. Makes me sad.

Well, someone is doing my drive as I type so I guess I will head into the office. Have a good one and stay safe.

[storms71]

We will definatly have to set up a meet I will be going with my wife and 13year olad son who will turn 14 during the cruise.

[MommaMouse411]

Yes a meet will be cool...I'm wondering if there won't be alot of folks on this cruise since the Dream has a cruise around the same time...I think that will be better for us.

[glindamood]

Happy Thursday everyone! Sunny and nippy here but no new snow.

I have no idea if the Dream is our compatition or what the deal is. To be honest, I have no desire to sail on the Dream - I prefer longer cruises and I guess we will have to wait for the Fantasy to find out what the new ships have to offer.

Have a great day everyone. And if we have any lurkers, please join in on the fun.

[storms71]

Last year there was quite a few people on the cruise due to jersey week but this year I think jearsey week is the following week. I know a couple of people that will be on the dream at the same time I agree I perfer the longer cruise but next year i will be going on a 4 day dream and a 7 day Fantasy.

[MommaMouse411]

well I wouldn't mind if it wasn't crowded...less potential for bad service (since I've been reading not so good reviews of the magic lately)

[glindamood]

well I wouldn't mind if it wasn't crowded...less potential for bad service (since I've been reading not so good reviews of the magic lately)

Having just done the Wonder PC cruise - I can attest to some of the comments that have been made on the boards. There are SO MANY new cast members and it takes time to learn how to do their jobs. I will say that our cabin steward and dining team were phenominal but we got lucky and none of those folks were new. Now the cooks - that is a different story. It has to be the same on all three ships since they pulled so many from the Wonder and Magic. As with all things new, it will take some time for everyone to get up to speed but I expect by the time we cruise things will be humming along as they always have.

[MommaMouse411]

@ Gail...that's kind of what I was thinking...if you haven't found your rhythm by october then you should'nt be working on a cruise line!! my only worry is that if my kids are with me for dinner that we get our food at a good pace because I have a short window of oppurtunity to keep my kids sane; and confined to chair!!

[glindamood]

@ Gail...that's kind of what I was thinking...if you haven't found your rhythm by october then you should'nt be working on a cruise line!! my only worry is that if my kids are with me for dinner that we get our food at a good pace because I have a short window of oppurtunity to keep my kids sane; and confined to chair!!

How old are your children? You do know that started that Dine and Play option where the counselors from the clubs come to the dining room and pick them up, right?? Could be it is a different name but I saw several do that on my last cruise on the Magic. But, if you have teens with antsy pants, I guess that isn't an option. Disney really does try and think of everything!

[MommaMouse411]

my boys are little..2yr old and 9month old now...but they'll be 3 & 1 in april.

when my oldest one was 1yrs old, he and I would go eat out all the time..I never had an issue with him..but now that hes older he gets bored easily and once he's done eating he'll start acting up.

my baby I think he'll be okay but I'll do what I did last time on the Wonder, and book a couple hours in nursery a day.

the last trip they did fine during dinner because they SLEPT the whole time lol...and one day I think they were both in the nursery. So I was never able to get into a panic mode.

is anyone going to do a MNSSHP the day before the cruise? I"m assuming that they will have it that friday the 28th..I hope!

[storms71]

I wouldnt worry about the service you can ask your server to bring the dinners right away and they will take care of you espically with small children. Poeple in nature like to complain some people think they are paying good money and they want everything to be perfect. You sometimnes have to have patience and enjoy your on vacation and take time to enjoy.

[glindamood]

my boys are little..2yr old and 9month old now...but they'll be 3 & 1 in april.

when my oldest one was 1yrs old, he and I would go eat out all the time..I never had an issue with him..but now that hes older he gets bored easily and once he's done eating he'll start acting up.

my baby I think he'll be okay but I'll do what I did last time on the Wonder, and book a couple hours in nursery a day.

the last trip they did fine during dinner because they SLEPT the whole time lol...and one day I think they were both in the nursery. So I was never able to get into a panic mode.

is anyone going to do a MNSSHP the day before the cruise? I"m assuming that they will have it that friday the 28th..I hope!

I should have looked closer at your avatar and figured they were really young - sorry. They do try very hard to get families with young children through quickly.

We have talked about MNSSHP and we have talked about doing a day at Epcot. I love the parades and fireworks but then there is the Food and Wine festival as well as Soarin (my abosolute fave) but I have been pricing airfare from Thursday through Saturday so we will see what we see for Friday. If it was warm - I would even consider one of the water parks.

[MommaMouse411]

ahh the Food & Wine...I have yet to do that..but I know I won't be able to with my boys...too crowded :( my mother went couple years ago and she was scared because people were sooooo drunk lol and she was not used to seeing this at Disney World. She even said the people were YELLING at the bar tenders and she felt liike she was at a big ole Frat Party...so I figured if I go it would have to be SOLO or with another adult..

[glindamood]

We have done the F&W many times and have never experience inappripriate behavior. That totally blows my mind. It would take a lot to get wasted there as they serve only sample size things.

[MommaMouse411]

yea I was amazed that she witnessed this type of behavior...especially the person yelling at a bartender..

On my last cruise I had started buying stuff a year in advance...and I pretty much have all that stuff new and in good condition...

welll I have started this again :(

I found a cool sarong on ebay and bought it for $12!!

and I have started to look for things...now I have to admit I am a bargain-shop-a-holic.

I noticed the swimwear is out but what I do is I wait till the end of the season and I buy bigger sizes..so my boys already have 2 new swimsuits a piece for this cruise..but I'm thinking for my april 2012 cruise..:laughing:


I also saw on someones TR that they bought this resort for a day at Cayman Islands...and I think I'm going to do that...they paid like $40 a person and they got a room for the day on the beach or something like that...I went to the website and the site was under construction for Cayman but looked through the Nassau resort for a day pricing and its the same thing (this might be done for my april cruise)...but I'm waiting for the contact person to email me back with pricing & details.

I'll post the info in case anyone else is interested.

[glindamood]

Keep us posted on the resort deal. A beach day would be good for us too.

Well, I had a productive day, other then the post I did last night that seems to have gone to LaLa Land. Booked our airfare to MCO and back for this trip -heading out on Tuesday so will have 3 days to play in the parks, or somewhere. MK and Epcot for sure but don't know about the other. We have a one bedroom at OKW. Gotta love those points!!!

[MommaMouse411]

Here's the email I got from the resortforaday.com concerning Grand Cayman

Dear Marisol,



So glad you contacted me. (Please pardon our appearance as our new site is under construction).



Yes, we have an awesome option in Grand Cayman for cruisers! We have an exclusive arrangement with the Westin Casuarina Resort & Spa, a magnificent luxury resort on pristine Seven Mile Beach.



Come play for a day and enjoy the Westin’s pools, whirlpool, pool and beach chairs, towels, use of the Hibiscus Spa facilities, workout room and exclusive access to Seven Mile Beach.



In Grand Cayman, there are no all inclusive resorts. So, lunch or snacks are purchased separately. They offer a choice of casual poolside grill or sit down restaurant. The Westin requires that all visitors have a guest room in order to enjoy the pools, beaches and all guest amenities, so you have a LUXURY ROOM TO ENJOY FOR THE DAY, TOO! Here is the link, check out this beautiful beach resort at http://www.westincasuarina.com



Our exclusive Westin Casuarina Cruise Pass is $149 (our special introductory price). Each Resort Pass is valid for up to FOUR guests. (With four guests that’s under $38 per person for a full day luxury shore excursion! Lounge chairs, towels are included as well). The Westin is a convenient 10 to 15 minute cab ride from the Georgetown port. (We do not include the taxi transfer so you can arrive and depart when most convenient).



If you are seeking a more serene, highly memorable “daycation”, where you’ll be far from the crowds, I suggest our Westin Resort Pass. All reservations are on a request basis so the moment I know you are interested I will request a pass for you. (Please include your visit date, number of guests and name of ship).



Please let me know! Thank you.



Kim Green, Your Daycation Expert

Come play for a day when your ship's in port

(631) 630-3907

JamaicaForaDay

BahamasForaDay

GrandCaymanForaDay

BarbadosForaDay

[glindamood]

While $38 per person is not bad, the $149 is kind of high - for that I would do Native Way again with the stingrays. But thanks for sharing. You have a beautiful name by the way :).

Got my OKW ressie squared around - had originally booked Wed-Sat but the airfare was better for Tuesday so that has been taken care of at this point.

[MommaMouse411]

yea it is high when you only need to pay for two people..but I think I might be taking that route because I don't want to do anything else but hang out on 7mile Beach..and having a room will be good to take some time away from the sun...assuming its sunny and hot during that time...it better be!!!

I don't know I won't make my decision yet till summer time.

[glindamood]

I do not have much desire to do 7 Mile Beach with Disney although I guess it is an option for us. It is nice not to have to worry about transportation and all but I am sure we could get there for less than what they are charging. They also offer helmet diving in Grand Cayman (which we did in Aruba last month and it was awesome) but that is a pricey option as well. We have lots of time to think about it.

Warm here (for here anyway) - in the mid 40's so the snow is shrinking. Our hot water tank died yesterday so on the hunt (best be a quick hunt, I am not taking any cold showers) for a new one. WAY too many options but we will hopefully have that all resolved in the next several days.

[MommaMouse411]

Gail isn't that how it goes...things break down at the wrong time...

[glindamood]

We have lived in that house since 97 and it was not new when we purchased it so I guess it really does not owe us anything. I just think some warning would have been nice. Then again, better that than the furnace;)!

[sumlee]

TiffanyD - Thanks so much for the awseome trip report! Sorry I didn't comment on it earlier - I obviously haven't been here on the board for a long time! Sounds like you had a great trip! Reading it made me even more excited for our cruise coming up! Thanks again!

[sumlee]

Hey everyone! I haven't been here for a while, so I had a lot of reading to catch up on! We are super excited! We can't wait for October to come. We just bought our plane tickets and will be flying in on the Sunday before the cruise to catch 5 days at DisneyWorld (we've never been)! Not sure where we'll be staying yet. Maybe Port Orleans? We are planning on doing MNSSHP one of the nights, probably a weeknight for smaller crowds.

Sounds like people are starting to think of excursions. We're thinking of walking/exploring/shopping in Key West, doing some scuba in Grand Cayman, and booking a Tulum ruins tour in Cozumel. I guess we'll do whatever the kids want to do in Castaway Cay. I hope we have good weather!

We also have exciting news - we are expecting a baby girl in May, so we will be bringing another little princess with us on the ship. princess: She will be 5 months old at the time. Any advice for cruising with an infant?

[glindamood]

Hey everyone! I haven't been here for a while, so I had a lot of reading to catch up on! We are super excited! We can't wait for October to come. We just bought our plane tickets and will be flying in on the Sunday before the cruise to catch 5 days at DisneyWorld (we've never been)! Not sure where we'll be staying yet. Maybe Port Orleans? We are planning on doing MNSSHP one of the nights, probably a weeknight for smaller crowds.

Sounds like people are starting to think of excursions. We're thinking of walking/exploring/shopping in Key West, doing some scuba in Grand Cayman, and booking a Tulum ruins tour in Cozumel. I guess we'll do whatever the kids want to do in Castaway Cay. I hope we have good weather!

We also have exciting news - we are expecting a baby girl in May, so we will be bringing another little princess with us on the ship. princess: She will be 5 months old at the time. Any advice for cruising with an infant?

Congrats! What a blessing!! I have no advice for cruising with infants as my baby is going to be 22 soon (and the oldest one 30) but it will all work out. The only thing I have read is to be sure to book your time in Flounders if you are going to use that as it fills quickly - from what I have read.

Well, our nice weather is gone - no snow but it was back in the 30's this morning and where it belongs for February I guess. And, I have hot water - now that is a blessing too.

[MommaMouse411]

Sumlee I brought my baby at 8months on the ship..it wasn't easy but it was still mad fun! I used the nursery at least couple hours a day...but I enjoyed having the baby with me...you should read my TR to see how my vacay went with the two boys...

[sumlee]

Sumlee I brought my baby at 8months on the ship..it wasn't easy but it was still mad fun! I used the nursery at least couple hours a day...but I enjoyed having the baby with me...you should read my TR to see how my vacay went with the two boys...

Thanks, MommaMouse! Going to check out your trip report right now! :thumbsup2

[SCDizneyDawn]

Hi everyone! :wave: Been a while since I came back to check on this tread! Looks like we finally have some chatter, that is great!

To anyone considering the Westin in GC here is a recent review with a trip to the Westin
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2636519

I am not sure if any of you saw my report from our Magic Cruise this past Oct 30, 2010, but here it is:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2629653

Unfortunately we forgot to bring the camera, so we have no pictures!

The best thing we did the whole week was our trip to Rum Point in GC. I loved :lovestruc it and we will be returning. I think it is a great price at $59 pp because it includes lunch and all transportation. But the trip is about 1hour to get to the beach, can be a long trip for some, so that is important to consider if you are thinking of the trip.
Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

[glindamood]

Hi Dawn. I agree - Rum Point is gorgeous and the food is good as well - really good. We did the Rays, Reef and Rum Point with NativeWay on our first visit to GC and totally enjoyed it.

To anyone that is interested in snorkeling om GC - we took an excursion with DCL in 2009 and snorkeled right in front of where the ships all anchor - I was so disappointed to see where they were taking us. But, that was truly awesome snorkeling - lots to see.

As far as Nachi goes - we were supposed to take a family reunion cruise last year on Princess and I had booked Nachi for my family along with snorkeling. Well, Grandma fell and broke her hip right before final payment was due so we opted not to go on the cruise. I emailed them that we would not be going (the documentation clearly states no refunds unless your ship does not dock), not expecting a refund but letting them know they had open spots and low and behold, I did get a credit with them for future visits. I intend to use that for this trip. I was pleased they let me roll it over. So that takes care of our plans in Cozumel.

[MommaMouse411]

@ Gail...I was thinking of doing Nachi resort at Cozumel..but it looks like my cousins are backing out of the cruise and wanting to do the april 2012 cruise with me instead...so I'll be alone with the boys and I was thinking of NOT getting off at Cozumel. I don't know yet...:confused3

[glindamood]

@ Gail...I was thinking of doing Nachi resort at Cozumel..but it looks like my cousins are backing out of the cruise and wanting to do the april 2012 cruise with me instead...so I'll be alone with the boys and I was thinking of NOT getting off at Cozumel. I don't know yet...:confused3

I will say, the beach is gorgeous but the drop off goes rather quickly. This is DH heading out to snorkel and watch how quickly it gets deep. I don't know if it was just that way where he went in or all the way down the beach.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w19/glindamood/101_0272.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w19/glindamood/101_0273.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w19/glindamood/101_0274.jpg

There were a few children in the pool but grade school kids.

[MommaMouse411]

wow look at the water...so clean looking!

I wasn't too crazy about cozumel when I went there several years ago..so that's why I'm thinking I'm going to stay on the ship...I'm hoping that everybody will get off at Cozumel and then my son and I can have the mickey pool to ourselves!! My little one will probably be in nursery since he will be too little to go in the pool.

so far, for Key West I think we are going to get off for a little bit...want to take the boys to see the butterfly conservatory but that's about it..no real interest at Key West.

my only wish is that when we get to Castaway Cay that is is HOT and SUNNY!!!

[glindamood]

Nachi was gorgeous, the service and food top notch, clean and most importantly, not crowded. I would just worry about your little ones in the water, unless that drop off has been evened out some. My biggest issue is that darn 'mall' that you have to walk through to get out.

I am with you on Key West, we did the tram ride the last time we were there and it is interesting but I have never been there when it was below 90 degrees. The first time we walked all the way to the southern most point and I thought I would die before we got back. I went into shops just to cool off. That is one long haul. You might try the tram - your children would be free.

[storms71]

I was wondering about Rum Point Beach we went to 7mile beach last year and we were not to thrilled the food was real expensive I think we are going to Rum Point beach this year. Also looking to go to beach in Cozumel this year and we did the walk last year in key west and it took it toll we are going to rent one of those electric cars this year to drive around.

[glindamood]

I have been to Rum Point Beach but it was part of a tour and included lunch so I am of no help as to what the prices were, beside the fact that it was at least 5 years ago. Have you all explored Cruise Critic? They have an entire section on ports and may have a price list there as well as some possible other options.

Not much new here - except the hot water heater. The guy came out twice last week, once to check out the structure and tell us if we could do a tankless or one of the newer high effeciency heaters but to redo the venting it would have been $1000 plus the price of the tank. Sorry, I have a Disney addiction and that just didn't make much sense. So, he fixed what was wrong with the existing one (like a band aid) and he came back yesterday and installed the new, standard one. I must say, I was impressed.

[MommaMouse411]

I think for the most part when I go on a disney cruise I will probably hang out on the ship rather than get off at port, especially if I'm going to be by myself with the boys. My kids father has a crazy job, so its hard for him to commit to going with us on a cruise..thats happened last time..he was so disappointed he had to back out of the cruise.

Once the boys are older then we'll be more adventurous.

But i love cruises. and I think I'm going to be a platinum cruiser :rotfl:

also have we discussed participating in a Fish Extender?

[glindamood]

You are brave to head out with 2 small children. I agree that the ship is a destination in and of itself - love it as well but I do enjoy the ports, to some extent anyway. Do you have to travel far to get to the port?

I just booked Nachi so that takes care of our Cozumel day. If I do a ship day on a port day, it may very well be Key West. It is interesting but that heat is opressive to me. Funny how the first think I remember there is the heat. DH doesn't want to do the trolly so if any walking is done - it will be to a close by bar.

FE - well, I went looking to purchase a new one on ebay yesterday so I hope we do. And I really, really, REALLY hope we get more DISer's joining us. I must say, this is the smallest group I have ever been involved with. Our PC went to 5 threads and there were over 130 cabins. Oh well, it is early and others will join in.

[glindamood]

Forgot to add - platinum cruiser is possible, doable and a great goal. I made it on the first leg of our B2B in 2009.

[MommaMouse411]

I do alot of things by ourselves...since technically the dad and I are not "together". but I sort of like it that way..to have that quality time with my kids. When I was on the Wonder, like I really enjoyed my time..I didn't have to clean, cook, walk the dog, take calls from work, so my kids were soo happy. The baby didn't want to let me go. You know it felt nice to devote my total attention to them and to also enjoy the "vacation".

I do hope the thread does grow...I was thinking of how I wanted to make my next FE. Last time I made it a little too big. This time I have the measurements and I want to make it halloween themed...check out our boarding shirt disign:

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Magnets/Cruise%20Disigns/th_HauntedMagic2.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Magnets/Cruise%20Disigns/HauntedMagic2.jpg)

[glindamood]

Open mouth, insert foot, take a big bite! So sorry. My bad! And my face is red too. But I still give you lots of credit for heading out alone on such a big trip. I used to drive from Kentucky to northern Ohio by myself with 2 small children, one that I was still nursing and thought nothing of it. And that was before cell phones. Wow, that is pretty amazing come to think of it myself.

Cute graphic! I can't sew a lick - well, maybe a button, so I ordered mine when we went on the Southern back in 2004 maybe and embellished it but it is pretty sad and dreary so there is someone on ebay that makes them so I think I wiil just look her up. Or rework mine. Decisions, decisions!

[MommaMouse411]

at gail...why you insert ur foot? lol no worries...I am still nursing my little one as well...and yes it is amazing the things we can do when we put our minds to it!!!!!

I didn't sew my FE...i used fabric glue...and it did the job!!!

http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/th_DSCN5164.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/DSCN5164.jpg)

[glindamood]

Glue, sew - it is all good!

I booked Nachi today but no snorkeling. I figure by the time we could make it there comfortably (and without me freaking out that we are late), we would have eaten some of that all you can eat food and drunk some of that all you can drink and it probably wasn't such a good idea to go out and snorkel. I guess if I want a snorkeling day I better do something in GC.

[MommaMouse411]

I've snorkeled in Cozumel too..it was pretty neat..

I remember when I went one of the guys in the group that I went with was getting like strep throat and he went to the nurse on the ship (carnival)...anyways he was like they are crazy what they wanted to charge him for meds so he said screw it..we got to cozumel and he asked a local and basically he got a z pack there for like $5. lol...he was better in like two days...We did this ATV excursion through the "JUNGLE"..that was cool. then after that we went to the beach and snorkeled..it was a pretty long day there...but I just remembered that I was like eh I wouldn't be sad if I never came back here again.

[glindamood]

This will be our third time in Cozumel. We took a tour the first time (pre-arranged taxi) with another couple and it was nice. Not my favorite place either but I do like Nachi - especially since they only let 100 people in. I am all for beach days, but then I only have to keep an eye on DH and he doesn't move too fast anymore :lmao:.

[MommaMouse411]

Well I had some time so I will start the list:

If you are interested in participating in the Fish Extender Gift Exchange, please provide ages of the children, and who you are traveling with ie dh40 (husband 40), Ds 4 (Son), DD 3 (daughter). This information helps us decide what to buy or make that’s age/gender appropriate.

cut off date to participate in FE is Sept 15th

JonetteA, DH, & DD3 participating Cabin 6056

MommaMouse411 (Marisol), DS3 (Miguel) DS1 (Manuel) participating Cabin #6319

Sumlee (Summer), DH (Bryan), DS9 (Andrew), DS6 (Logan), DD3 (Hannah), DD5mo (Clair). Nana (Tena), Papa (Kevin) participating Cabin #5022 & #5024

acourtwdw (41), Dsister (43), participating Cabin 6000

acourtDdad (66) and Dmom (65) participating Cabin #2021

GlindaMood (Gail) & DH (david) participating Cabin #5150

Sailworkless (steve)& DW (staci), DD11(michele), DD9 (jessica), DD5(julia), DS8(antonio)Participating cabin 7004/7006

Meagon2222 (Barb) & DH (Jim), DS7 (Spencer), DS6 (Christian) participating Cabin #8542
I
Higginsfamily(Desiree), DH(Roger) and DD5(McKenna) participating Cabin #6146

SMFFMS (Shannon), DH , DD(14), DS(5). Participating Cabin #2133

Cricketmom participating Cabin #6142

skyman8963 (Skyler), DW (Jamie), DS9 (Ethan), DS4 (Caden) participating Cabin #1038


TimmerK & DH (Tim & Tracey) participating Cabin #5650

B521028 (Tammy) & DH (David) participating Cabin 6618

Kamgen (Kamy), DH (Stephen), DS6 (Ryan), DS4 (Liam) participating Cabin #6109

Mika & DD13 (Imani), DD9 (Skylar)participating Cabin #2052

Jastza (Kathie) & DH (Scott), DD(16) Stephie, DS(12) Zac participating cabin 8040

NYANA (Ana), DH (Rudy) and DMom(Ada), DDad(Felix) participating Cabin #6612 & 6614

Maxxumuser (Bill), DW(Carol), and DS6 (Stephen) participating Cabin 5638

[storms71]

Here is my info i would like to participate also just need to know what to do
DD-39
DW-38(39 on Oct31)
DS-13(14 on Nov 3)

[MommaMouse411]

Storm..

Fish extenders exchanges are fun...if you've never done it you have to do it at least once..

so first thing...there is a "fish" ornament outside of your cabin door. and supposedly this is where CM attach any memos to you...but we here on the disboards have used that ornament to hang what we call a FISH EXTENDER...its is basically like a hanging organizer (Made of fabric)...see my post a few posts above...some people make them, others buy them on ebay (just search fish extenders), and some get real creative..I saw one on here that a woman, made it out of tshirts...the idea is that it shoudl have pockets so we can put gifts in them

and the gifts can be homemade or just something bought...for instance...I bought alot of things at the Dollar Store for the toddlers/teens in my group on my last cruise..that ranged from Disney Coloring Books, Disney Crayons, Disney Word Searches, Disney Giant Pencils, Disney Pens, disney stickers, disney dry erase boards, disney chalk boards, disney pool toys, disney sand toys. I also bought pirate beads for the adults and I also bought disney tote bags and candy and glow sticks/bracelets...Now this was my first one so I just went CRAZY on gifts...but I wasn't the only one.


Alot of people made the gifts and I thought that was awesome, these were some of the things people made:

Christmas ornaments
custom magnets
soap
picture frames
custom note pads
custom pens
custom cds (disney cruise music)

As some of the stuff was also Pirate related and non Disney related...

So we go to each cabin that is participating and we drop off the gifts...some people do it at the beginning of the cruise some the last night of the cruise...but its really fun to get back to your cabin and find gifts for everyone...

also some people do one gift per cabin and some people do one gift per person, and some splurge more on the kiddies in the group (my kids got alot of things!!)...its TOTALLY up to you...

no matter what you give it is always APPRECIATED!!!!

[storms71]

Sounds fun I cant wait to do this I will have my wife help she loves to do crafts and to be creative.

[glindamood]

:scared1::scared1::scared1:Page four??? No way!

Thanks for the updated FE list. Hopefully it will continue to grow.

Wow, it has been 24 hours and we don't have any new snow - that is some kind of record and it can keep right up.

[MommaMouse411]

@ gail..I heard it was raining up there (chicago area)...and down south they have like tornado warnings...crazy...

[glindamood]

I live quite a bit north of Chicago - takes a little over an hour to fly there from here. If you use your own map of Michigan (your left hand), Cadillac is round the base of your fingernail on your ring finger. Sun is shining at the moment and we got none of the rain, freezing drizzle that they had predicted. I would rather have a foot of new snow than freezing rain - nasty stuff.

[glindamood]

We were falling off page four so here is a friendly bump to get us back to page one.

[prettypinkbows]

Hi everyone! :flower3:

Me and my mom will be on this cruise also! This is our very first Disney Cruise though we have been on other cruises and to Disney several times :goodvibes

Hope to see everyone there!

[glindamood]

Hi everyone! :flower3:

Me and my mom will be on this cruise also! This is our very first Disney Cruise though we have been on other cruises and to Disney several times :goodvibes

Hope to see everyone there!

:welcome: to our group. We are going to have an awesome time!!!

[sumlee]

MommaMouse - We'd love to join the Exchange! Here's our info:
Me (sumlee) - 31
DH - 33
DS - 9
DS - 6
DD - 3
DD - 5months
Nana
Papa

Thanks for organizing this! I LOVE your shirt logo, BTW!! Awesome!

[storms71]

Welcome to the Haloween Cruise was on last year and had a blast that was my first cruise here is my info
Me-39
DW-39
DS-14
Lets all have a ball

[MommaMouse411]

hey everyone..hope all is well...i just came back from chicago on a family emergency trip..my grandmas not doing so well but I had to come back to work so I'm just kind of bummed out...I missed the disboards last week cuz I sure could've used some pixie dust...

I am still trying to see if my cousins are going to come with me on this cruise. she's still interested but we'll see...

[MommaMouse411]

hey where's everybody at? I can't be the only one counting down the days to the cruise..

[acourtwdw]

Well I had some time so I will start the list:

If you are interested in participating in the Fish Extender Gift Exchange, please provide ages of the children, and who you are traveling with ie dh40 (husband 40), Ds 4 (Son), DD 3 (daughter). This information helps us decide what to buy or make that’s age/gender appropriate.

Once we get closer to the 75days, we’ll need to start adding cabin #’s.

Please let me know if you are not participating as well. Thanks


MommaMouse411 (34), DS4 (at that time), DS3 (at that time)participating

Sumlee 31, DH33, DS9, DS6, DD3, DD5mo. Nana, Papa participating

Purdybertine & Auntyaba (Daughter/Mother)

Webcreatix & DD21

TiffanyD & Schimj (Wife/Husband)

PrincessPiglet, DH, DD9

Momto3cuties 38, DH40, DS7, DS4, DD2 (at time of sailing)

ACourtWDW, DS13, DDad, Dmom Should be acourtwdw (41), Dsister (43), Ddad (66) and Dmom (65)

ScdizneyDawn & DH

GlindaMood & DH

Storms71 39, DW39, DS14 Participating
See correction above for FE

[MommaMouse411]

@AcourtWDW...got it!!

[glindamood]

I am here but have been working on the WDW portion of our trip. I just wish they would release the hours and all so I can figure out our dining.

We will participate in the FE so what else do you need to know. Cabin number is 6311, I am Gail and DH is David and we currently appear to be the oldsters at 57 each.

[MommaMouse411]

oh no I just talked to my boss about my time off this year and told him about my cruise in oct..and he said him, hmm..we have some events that we are thinking of having in october..I said its halloween week, we never have events that week!! of course this will be the year...I will be so upset soooo upset if I have to go another time!!!!! :eek:

[glindamood]

oh no I just talked to my boss about my time off this year and told him about my cruise in oct..and he said him, hmm..we have some events that we are thinking of having in october..I said its halloween week, we never have events that week!! of course this will be the year...I will be so upset soooo upset if I have to go another time!!!!! :eek:

:scared1: Oh NOOOOOOOOO! So sorry to hear that. Maybe the even will change...

[MommaMouse411]

typically the event is the weekend before halloween, and I always take off for halloween but I go to WDW for like 4days...I should know more by next month..so cross fingers because I wouldn't be able to do it in November either :( I would almost have to see if I can do something in August/September..that'll suck!!!

[kamgen]

We just booked this cruise! We are a
Kamy (me)
Stephen (DH)
Ryan (DS will be 6yrs old)
Liam (DS age 4 almost 5)

We are very excited! My mom is also joining us and maybe my aunt too!

[MommaMouse411]

Welcome Kamy...do you want me to add you to our Fish Extender List?

[kamgen]

Not sure if we are going to do it yet! But thanks so much. We did it last year and it took a lot of our time, so we are debating! :confused3

Anyone ever cruise over Halloween before???

[MommaMouse411]

I cruised on carnival for halloween and I had a blast then..Ive read some trip reports of people who went on the same cruise last year and it looked like fun.

Im thinking about costumes now..we are looking to be cowboys..

[storms71]

Welcome Kammy and family name is Stephen also and Dw-Joann and DS-Stephen 13 turning 14 on cruise was on same cruise last year and had a great time Halloween was awesome had a great time I know you and your family will enjoy

[MommaMouse411]

I cannot wait for this cruise to come...I'm still waiting to find out if I can still vacation this week...

I already have most of my disigns for my magnets and I am only making one set of tshirts for us...

and there might be a possibility that my step sister will go with us...I told her she has till July because if this is a go for me, I'm paying my cruise off so I can book my palo brunch/dinner and nursery times.


yesterday I was looking at the menus for the Magic..and I wrote down everything I wanted to eat....I AM SO REQUESTING 3 LOBSTER TAILS...and they can call me Miss Piggy if they want to...

I was going to buy tuxedos for the boys for Captains Dinner but I saw some pictures and noticed the kids were in suits. So yesterday I did some scouting for suits for the boys...and found some really cheap priced ones at Ross. however I didn't buy because I wanted matching sets.

Let's see...I am checking disneystore.com..to see when they are going to put the swimwear on sale..i have my eye on the mickey mouse long sleeve rashguard/swim short set...right now it'll be $60 to buy two sets!!!!!! so I'm hoping they go to $9.99 a piece soon.

I was also kicking myself for not buying two mickey head jack o lanterns for trick or treating at MNSHHP & the Cruise..so I'm hoping that they'll have them back at Walgreens for $4.99!!

[kamgen]

My mom says she is eating 3 lobster tails too!!! :laughing:

We are excited about this cruise...but it feels so far away!! Cannot wait!

[MommaMouse411]

@ Kamy...it seems long away but like before you know it its July..then I make my payment so I can book my palos/nursery...then after that its PRE TRIP REPORT TIME. :cool1:

I want to try Palos HIgh Tea...just to say I did it..but I have to do Dinner and brunch but I don't want to take up too much time just eating away on days at sea...lol...

[kamgen]

I love Palo High Tea! Totally worth it and something to at least try once. I love brunch...it is my favorite meal on the ship!!!! We skipped dinner last time because it was only a 4nt sailing. This time I want to do dinner! :goodvibes

[glindamood]

We just booked this cruise! We are a
Kamy (me)
Stephen (DH)
Ryan (DS will be 6yrs old)
Liam (DS age 4 almost 5)

We are very excited! My mom is also joining us and maybe my aunt too!

:welcome: Kamy and family - so great to have you joining us!

I have been MIA - work has been super busy and I just have not had time to DIS - hate it when that happens! :scared1:

[sailworkless]

We just found out we'll be on this cruise. Our first on DCL. Myself, my wife, and our four kids (DDs 11,9,5 DS 8). This trip is my son's wish from Make A Wish Foundation. I've just started researching DCL to find out anything we can to make this trip fantastic. I'm not sure who's more excited the kids or me!

Steve

[glindamood]

We just found out we'll be on this cruise. Our first on DCL. Myself, my wife, and our four kids (DDs 11,9,5 DS 8). This trip is my son's wish from Make A Wish Foundation. I've just started researching DCL to find out anything we can to make this trip fantastic. I'm not sure who's more excited the kids or me!

Steve

Welcome Steve and family. You are all going to have an awesome time!

[glindamood]

I love Palo High Tea! Totally worth it and something to at least try once. I love brunch...it is my favorite meal on the ship!!!! We skipped dinner last time because it was only a 4nt sailing. This time I want to do dinner! :goodvibes

So I need to try High Tea again? I did this with my Mom when we sailed in 2002 and was not impressed. But I will agree that brunch is (hands down) the best meal on the ship. My absolute favorite. Dinner is nice but I miss the meals in the dining room so we do not always do that one.

[MommaMouse411]

Welcome steve!!! I think the parents/adults are always more excited than the kids..

Yesterday we went to Animal Kingdom and had a terrific time..tomorrow I will be going to Magic Kingdom.

My son's bday was yesterday and my little one's tomorrow..Animal Kingdom never disappoints..but on my way home I was thinking..I really wish they would do something with Dinoland..something better..how about some dinosaurs!!! or there's just something UN-Done about this park..and I honestly wish there were more animals..more exotic animals..anyways...but its still my 2nd fave park..


I ended up only buying seasonal passes..I think that's good enough for now...but it was so great to know that I can whenever I want other than block out dates..which I think its ok to not be there smack dab in middle of summer here in florida..

[MEAGON2222]

we will also be on this cruise my self, my husband and 2 sons 6 and 7 years old

[MommaMouse411]

welcome Meagon2222

I am utterly exhausted..just came from Magic Kingdom yesterday..open to close...my kids and I had a blast..and you know what it wasn't packed!!! How wonderful is it to go on a weekday!!!!! I almost wished I had Mondays and Tuesdays off so I can use that as my to thing with the boys day..

We met Angelica from POTC4..she looked great!! didn't look exactly like penelope cruz but she at least looked latina :)

We missed the spectromagic parade because my sons wanted to dance the night away with chip dale and friends...my 3yr old is so funny..he just likes to hang out next to them. but those characters only dance wit the girls...and they just pat my son on his head..its like hey no fair

and I just realized that Stitch does talk....he said aloha in "Stitch" voice to my son!! I was like what!!! I thought that was awesome..

anyway...I'm exhausted at work and I can't function...can't wait till next month to go for my birthday...I'm going to Epcot and DHS..gotta catch the Flower Garden Festival before its over.

:surfweb:

[storms71]

Welcome aboard too the 2 new familys get ready to have some fun and enjoy.
The best news came last week with DCL coming to New York know I will be going twice next year once in August and again in Nov.
We will be on the Magic in Aug and Fantasy in Nov I am so excited.
But first have to get through this year with a trip in August to AKL and all the parks then in Oct on DCL.
My son tells me that I love Disney to much but I told him dont you and you will do the same with your kids and then he said Dad you are right and I also love Disney so I cant say anything. Nothing better then spending time with your family around anything Disney!!!!

[MommaMouse411]

@ Storm...I hear you...I have the most fun with my kids at Disney...I still get soo excited when I'm there...I cannot wait till the cruise...I was just imagining it yesterday, walking into the atrium and looking at everything in awe...going to over to guest services, getting money on my account, then going to register my son in oceanneers club...then going to our cabin and taking pictures..then going to go eat at Topsiders, then going to the pool then getting our lifevests, then seeing the sail away party and then eating at Lumiere's. then seeing a show, then buying souvenirs..then picking up my kids from nursery/club..then going to bed smiling because we got 6 more days of this!!!

[sailworkless]

MommaMouse - It sounds like we should just have you plan out our trip for us, you've got a definite plan!

I've quickly become obsessed with these boards. I know it'll be next to impossible to not have a great trip, but I'm determined to make sure we don't leave any fun on the table. My wife has already started to give me the look that says "you're nuts, I'm humoring you, and I'm stuck with you". It's gonna be a long 6 months til we go.

One of my biggest questions so far is what to do for shore excursions. We are sure we want to get off the ship and see things, just not sure what. It's a bit challenging since our kids range from 5-11. If anyone has any suggestions, I'm all ears - (ha ha, get it?)

This is surely the earliest I've started thinking about Halloween costumes.

I'd also say to put us down to participate in the FE. The kids will have a blast with both the giving and receiving part of it.

Sail

[glindamood]

@ Storm...I hear you...I have the most fun with my kids at Disney...I still get soo excited when I'm there...I cannot wait till the cruise...I was just imagining it yesterday, walking into the atrium and looking at everything in awe...going to over to guest services, getting money on my account, then going to register my son in oceanneers club...then going to our cabin and taking pictures..then going to go eat at Topsiders, then going to the pool then getting our lifevests, then seeing the sail away party and then eating at Lumiere's. then seeing a show, then buying souvenirs..then picking up my kids from nursery/club..then going to bed smiling because we got 6 more days of this!!!

You don't have to put lifevests on anymore - they changed that. I was shocked when we sailed on the Wonder in January and we did not have to wear them to the drill. But, it was nice not to have to stand in the heat with them on and then go back to the cabin afterwards to get rid of them.

MommaMouse - It sounds like we should just have you plan out our trip for us, you've got a definite plan!

I've quickly become obsessed with these boards. I know it'll be next to impossible to not have a great trip, but I'm determined to make sure we don't leave any fun on the table. My wife has already started to give me the look that says "you're nuts, I'm humoring you, and I'm stuck with you". It's gonna be a long 6 months til we go.

One of my biggest questions so far is what to do for shore excursions. We are sure we want to get off the ship and see things, just not sure what. It's a bit challenging since our kids range from 5-11. If anyone has any suggestions, I'm all ears - (ha ha, get it?)

This is surely the earliest I've started thinking about Halloween costumes.

I'd also say to put us down to participate in the FE. The kids will have a blast with both the giving and receiving part of it.

Sail

Excursions - this is our 4th Western and there is lots to do. We have done the trolley in Key West - nice that it shows/tells you all around and about town and you can get off and on at whatever spot you would like along the way. The Southern Most Point is a great photo op - and a long walk if you choose to get there via foot power. Otherwise, we have just wandered around town, very easy to get around. I think we are going to do the sunset sail this time - it is one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen.

Cozumel - we have done a taxi tour around the island that we arranged prior to sailing (not a DCL excursion) and we have been to Nachi Cocum which is an all inclusive beach experience - yep, all the food and drink you can handle. My favorite thing about them is that it is a pretty quiet environment, the beach is beautiful and they only allow a certain number of people in. We are going again this time.

Grand Cayman - If everyone in your group is adventurous, go to Stingray City. One of the most awesome things I have ever done - EVER (and I am in my mid-50's). DCL goes and there are several companies outside that you can book through as well. We go with Nativeway and do their Rays, Reef and Rum Point (singrays, snorkeling and beach with lunch) tour.

Anyone looking to do some research - have you been to Cruise Critic (www.cruisecritic.com)? They have boards with a section on ports of call so you can research what is available outside of what DCL offers (which is generally expensive but we do them sometimes too).

[sailworkless]

Thanks for the info Gail. I guess I'll add cruisecritic to my newest obsession!

I've been to Key West once, but it's been over 20 years so no real memories of it. I think I read something about a butterfly place there. Doesn't sound too adventurous.

My wife and I were in GC about 5 years ago on a Carnival cruise. We did the turtle refuge/farm, saw Hell, and ate about 20 pounds of rum cake samples before getting on the boat early amid 10-12 ft seas. (Not sure how much rum my kids can hold, though. :rotfl2:) Stingrays and snorkeling might be tough, kids aren't too comfortable in open water. Gotta make some progress in swimming lessons this summer!

Never been to Cozumel. I'm not sure if we're all gonna want to spend a day on the beach there, when we have CC coming up as the next stop. My wife wants to see things - not sure what things, just things.

More reading to do.

Sail

[MommaMouse411]

wow so wait we don't have to go get our vests?????????????? that would alleviate so much drama...on the cruise they did let me stay by the doorway and they let me leave before the drill was over so I was able to send my stepsister to the cabin to drop off the vests...and we had a good spot for the sail away party..


as for excursions

Grand Cayman we are just going to do the 7mile beach..might rent a room so we can have some cover from the heat...

at key west, we might get off and go to butterfly conservatory...

at cozumel I'm not sure..I'm thinking I will stay on the ship...I almost want to stay on the ship when we get to the keys too..I would rather us be safe onboard playing in the pool..

I'v e been to cozumel before and I'm not missing out on anything (don't get me wrong if my kids were much older we would be doing something in cozumel)


Grand Cayman I love it there..I don't know why...I can't wait to be there..I just wish they didn't kick out all the ships by 5pm... :(

[sailworkless]

GC was absolutely crazy on our first cruise. They were shutting down tender operations early because of the storm coming in. I believe the last tenders were to leave by 3pm. We caught one at about 2 and the seas were already in the 10 foot range. We had some friends who were on the last tender. They spent over 3 hours bouncing around on it before they could get them aboard. The tender broke one of the gangplanks off the ship. All of the ships in the port were trying to work together to create a makeshift seawall to try to block waves while one ship would try to gather their passengers. After trying that for awhile, we steamed around to the backside of the island to try to use it as a seawall. The poor folks on the tender had no food or water, were totally soaked, and many of them were VERY sick. As I recall, it was well after 6pm before they managed to get everybody aboard.

That night seas were in the 16 to 18 foot range. Dining room was less than 1/3 full, all shows cancelled. Luckily, my wife and I weren't sick at all, but boy was the ship rolling.

The next day, we were supposed to dock in Jamaica. We steamed by, waved, and kept going. Way too rough to put it in the dock. Our 5 day cruise was virtually a cruise to nowhere - we were off the ship in GC for about 5 hours.

Funny thing is we still look at that trip as fantastic. Hoping our DCL trip is even better.

[glindamood]

wow so wait we don't have to go get our vests?????????????? that would alleviate so much drama...on the cruise they did let me stay by the doorway and they let me leave before the drill was over so I was able to send my stepsister to the cabin to drop off the vests...and we had a good spot for the sail away party..


as for excursions

Grand Cayman we are just going to do the 7mile beach..might rent a room so we can have some cover from the heat...

at key west, we might get off and go to butterfly conservatory...

at cozumel I'm not sure..I'm thinking I will stay on the ship...I almost want to stay on the ship when we get to the keys too..I would rather us be safe onboard playing in the pool..

I'v e been to cozumel before and I'm not missing out on anything (don't get me wrong if my kids were much older we would be doing something in cozumel)


Grand Cayman I love it there..I don't know why...I can't wait to be there..I just wish they didn't kick out all the ships by 5pm... :(

It was very odd going to a safety drill sans life vests. I always figured it was a good way to have everyone check yet again that what was in the closet was appropriate for everyone in the cabin, everyone knew how to put them on and that they were in proper working order. For all I know, I did the PC cruise with 2 kid vests (and I was not kid sized when I was a kid) as we never even looked.

And, sailworkless, that is a pretty scary GC story. DH has HUGE motion/rocking issues. I should by stock in the company that manufactures Bonine. He would have been beyond green and probably I would have as well.

Raining here - at least it isn't snow but oh, wait - that is predicted for tomorrow. The piles are finally all gone from our yard and around the driveway but I can still see white in the woods behind the house. Guess the rain will help in getting rid of that.

[MommaMouse411]

GC was absolutely crazy on our first cruise. They were shutting down tender operations early because of the storm coming in. I believe the last tenders were to leave by 3pm. We caught one at about 2 and the seas were already in the 10 foot range. We had some friends who were on the last tender. They spent over 3 hours bouncing around on it before they could get them aboard. The tender broke one of the gangplanks off the ship. All of the ships in the port were trying to work together to create a makeshift seawall to try to block waves while one ship would try to gather their passengers. After trying that for awhile, we steamed around to the backside of the island to try to use it as a seawall. The poor folks on the tender had no food or water, were totally soaked, and many of them were VERY sick. As I recall, it was well after 6pm before they managed to get everybody aboard.

That night seas were in the 16 to 18 foot range. Dining room was less than 1/3 full, all shows cancelled. Luckily, my wife and I weren't sick at all, but boy was the ship rolling.

The next day, we were supposed to dock in Jamaica. We steamed by, waved, and kept going. Way too rough to put it in the dock. Our 5 day cruise was virtually a cruise to nowhere - we were off the ship in GC for about 5 hours.

Funny thing is we still look at that trip as fantastic. Hoping our DCL trip is even better.

I would've been miserable if I had the kids!!!! me by myself I would've chalked it up as an adventure!

[MommaMouse411]

so I got the date to our event that we always do in october and it is scheduled for the 22nd of Oct!!!!! Vacation is still on!!!:cool1:

ice cream and cake and cake, ice cream and cake and cake..:banana:

[glindamood]

so I got the date to our event that we always do in october and it is scheduled for the 22nd of Oct!!!!! Vacation is still on!!!:cool1:

ice cream and cake and cake, ice cream and cake and cake..:banana:

:banana::banana::banana::dance3::banana::banana:

And a sailing you will go!

[MommaMouse411]

:banana::cool1::banana::cool1:


i know

[MEAGON2222]

we will be cruising on that cruse too. Fifth for me and my husband fourth for our sons 6 and 7.

[MEAGON2222]

we would like to be included in the fish extender exchange for this trip

[glindamood]

we will be cruising on that cruse too. Fifth for me and my husband fourth for our sons 6 and 7.

:welcome: to our merry little band of Halloween cruisers. We are going to have an awesome time.

Happy Tuesday! I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying spring. We are in the midst of massive April showers :umbrella: right now but no where what the south has been experiencing. I can't beleive that Sunday is May 1st already. We leave six months from yesterday - it will be here before I know it.

Have a great day everyone!

[acourtwdw]

Just wanted to see my new tickers!

Is anyone doing WDW before or after the cruise? I think we are flying down on Wednesday and staying until the Wednesday after the cruise. We want to spend some time doing the Food and Wine Festival.

[glindamood]

Just wanted to see my new tickers!

Is anyone doing WDW before or after the cruise? I think we are flying down on Wednesday and staying until the Wednesday after the cruise. We want to spend some time doing the Food and Wine Festival.

Someone else from MI we live in Cadillac! That doesn't happen often enough.

Yes, we are heading down on Tuesday with our oldest DS and his wife, staying at Villas at Wilderness Lodge but we are heading home after the cruise.

[MommaMouse411]

oooooh Acourt...you're doing the hawaiin cruise...Ic an't wait to hear the trip reports on these...I'm not booking anything for 2013 until my 2012 Dream cruise...whatever it is I do it will be on the Fantasy..


the only day I'm doing before my cruise is MNSSHP on the 28th...and I will not be doing WDW after. I love going to WDW during oct but I am substituting my oct WDW with a cruise.

[glindamood]

[QUOTE=MommaMouse411;40900988]oooooh Acourt...you're doing the hawaiin cruise...Ic an't wait to hear the trip reports on these...I'm not booking anything for 2013 until my 2012 Dream cruise...whatever it is I do it will be on the Fantasy.. QUOTE]

I didn't book anything when we were on the PC in January and I have kicked myself black and blue - I should have done one with the intention of moving it when they released the 2012 itineraries. Depending on the finances - you could book this time and then move it as the discounts and OBC will transfer. I will do at least one if not two when we are onboard in October - too many is better than not enough.

[sailworkless]

MommaMouse,

Could you kindly put our family down for the FE?

Thanks,
Sail

[sailworkless]

I've read a lot about people booking while onboard. I have a few (possibly dumb) questions.

1. It appears that many people just use this as a place holder, then change to a date that works later on. Is that correct? Is there a charge for changing? or a penalty for canceling?

2. I know you are allowed to put down a smaller deposit and you get an OBC. Is the OBC for use on the future cruise or the current cruise? Do you get any discount on the booking itself? and if so, how does that transfer if you change the dates to a cruise with a different rate?

I just thought I'd ask the veterans here, instead of broadcasting my ignorance to the entire forum community.

Thanks,
Sail

[glindamood]

I've read a lot about people booking while onboard. I have a few (possibly dumb) questions.

1. It appears that many people just use this as a place holder, then change to a date that works later on. Is that correct? Is there a charge for changing? or a penalty for canceling?

2. I know you are allowed to put down a smaller deposit and you get an OBC. Is the OBC for use on the future cruise or the current cruise? Do you get any discount on the booking itself? and if so, how does that transfer if you change the dates to a cruise with a different rate?

I just thought I'd ask the veterans here, instead of broadcasting my ignorance to the entire forum community.

Thanks,
Sail

First - no questions are dumb so always ask. This is what I understand.

1. Book a date (and price shop even that cruise as your deposit is based on the price of your cruise) and, as long as you make changes before your final cruise payment is due, there is no penalty. I will tell you that if you forget - DCL doesn't seem to show any mercy and you will loose your deposit. If you decide that you won't cruise DCL again, there is no penalty for canceling either. You can also transfer that booking multiple times if necessary.

2. If you book onboard, the current offer is 10% off the price of the cruise and you only owe half of the deposit. If you transfer that cruise to another one, it all remains the same (other than it is discounted from the current selling price of the new cruise). That is my understanding. OBC is for the new booking will transfer as well but that is based on your Castaway Club level.

My best advice is book as early as possible (unless you are a Florida resident) as DCL pricing only goes in one direction - and that is up!

[sailworkless]

Thanks Gail! That all makes sense now.

Sail

[MommaMouse411]

alright...MNSSHP dates are out!!!!:banana:

[MommaMouse411]

sailworkless...

done!

:wizard:

[NYAna]

Hi everyone!

My name is Ana. My husband, Rudy, and I will be on this cruise too. We just got around to booking it this past week. This will be our third cruise with Disney.

We will be staying on Deck 6. Oh, my parents are coming along too. They have never been on a Disney Cruise but I bet they will love it as much as we do. We don't have children.

[glindamood]

Hi everyone!

My name is Ana. My husband, Rudy, and I will be on this cruise too. We just got around to booking it this past week. This will be our third cruise with Disney.

We will be staying on Deck 6. Oh, my parents are coming along too. They have never been on a Disney Cruise but I bet they will love it as much as we do. We don't have children.

:welcome: Ana, Rudy and your parents too. I bet they love it too.

Happy Tuesday everyone! At least it isn't Monday anymore.

[acourtwdw]

Hi everyone!

My name is Ana. My husband, Rudy, and I will be on this cruise too. We just got around to booking it this past week. This will be our third cruise with Disney.

We will be staying on Deck 6. Oh, my parents are coming along too. They have never been on a Disney Cruise but I bet they will love it as much as we do. We don't have children.

Welcome Ana and family!!

[storms71]

Welcome Ana and family ejoy the trip get ready fro a great time.:cool1:

[sumlee]

[QUOTE=acourtwdw;40882832]

Is anyone doing WDW before or after the cruise? I think we are flying down on Wednesday and staying until the Wednesday after the cruise. We want to spend some time doing the Food and Wine Festival.[/

We will be flying down on the Sunday before the cruise and spending 5 days at WDW, staying at POR. :cool1: I just bought Our MNSSHP tickets for the 27th! Yay!!! This will be our first trip to WDW!

[sumlee]

Welcome Anna!

[acourtwdw]

Our current plan is to fly down on 10/26 and do MNSSHP on 10/27. Staying at either BWV or OKW. Then cruise. Back to BWV or OKW and do MVMCP on 11/8. Then leave on 11/9. That way we get both Hween and Xmas in one vacation :)

[glindamood]

Our current plan is to fly down on 10/26 and do MNSSHP on 10/27. Staying at either BWV or OKW. Then cruise. Back to BWV or OKW and do MVMCP on 11/8. Then leave on 11/9. That way we get both Hween and Xmas in one vacation :)

That is certainly the best of ALL worlds!

We fly on 10/25 for a stay at Villas at Wilderness Lodge and the F&W Festival with our oldest DS and his DW. They will head back home on 10/29 while we rent a car and drive to port, unless of course I talk myself into taking the bus. Time will tell on that one. Sadly, we had home on 11/05 since I took a huge vacation chunk on our PC trip this past January and I have just run out of time.

I hope all of you mom's are having a very happy Mother's Day!

[sumlee]

Our current plan is to fly down on 10/26 and do MNSSHP on 10/27. Staying at either BWV or OKW. Then cruise. Back to BWV or OKW and do MVMCP on 11/8. Then leave on 11/9. That way we get both Hween and Xmas in one vacation :)

Haloween and Chritmas! I like the way you think! :thumbsup2 We will be joining you at MNSSHP on the 27th! :banana:

[MommaMouse411]

I so cannot wait till this cruise...I keep thinking about what kind of formal attire I want to wear...and I was thinking of buying my boys tuxedos but I think I'm going to take them to the nursery/oceannears club and go to dinner by myself that night.

you know I didn't even know which day we come back...so I'm assuming is 11/5 saturday lol..well thats good then I can stop at Animal Kingdom for a few and then go home and rest all up on Sunday.

[sailworkless]

I'm also really looking forward to this trip. I'm kind of jealous of everyone who has the time to stop at WDW before and/or after. I guess I won't complain too much, though.:)

Just found out our flight plans today. We are flying in on Friday 28th and spending the night at the MCO Hyatt. Transfering to PC via Disney on Sat. am.
After the cruise, we head right to the airport for a 1:30pm flight. No problems with timing, I just wish we could stay longer.

[MommaMouse411]

the mco hyatt is cool. i flew out of mco last week and was like wow theres a friggine hotel in the airport..and theres like shops for every major theme park...kind of cool.

[sailworkless]

I think I read somewhere that we can check in and get a boarding number right at the hotel, so we don't have to do it at the port. Anyone know if I'm out of my mind (again)?

It'll also be nice not to have to deal with our luggage at all. It'll be hard enough to keep track of the kids.

[NYAna]

Thanks everyone. We are so excited about going.

Question... Does anyone know how decorated the ship is for Halloween? My friend and her 6 year old will be joining us and she is worried that he will be freaked out! He hates halloween and gets very scared at anything decorated for halloween. Anyone know if it is just celebrated on Halloween Day or is it during the whole cruise? We might have to switch out dates.

Thanks!

[MommaMouse411]

hey Ana...I believe its just real basic decoration..nothing scary..I know they trick or treat on halloween. and have a costume contest.

[glindamood]

I have a question regarding Halloween. Do the adults dress up for dinner on Halloween? And then, since Halloween is Monday and that is also our first sea day and traditionally Formal Night - anyone have any ideas on how they will handle that?

[MommaMouse411]

I don't know about the dining/halloween night...if its Formal night that would be silly..cuz I wasn't planning on changing out of my costume. That's too much work. I hope its not Formal Night.

I've read TR from that week..but the adults of the TR's had went to Palo..and they were dressed up (not in costumes)...however, some of the women wore like costume hats (witch hats)..

[glindamood]

Maybe that will be our Palo night. So long as I can get Sunday brunch, it would work out just fine. And then I would not have to figure out costumes.

[MommaMouse411]

so I think I figured out what we will do when we get to Cayman Island! the turtle farm (boatswain's adventure marina)...I'm probably going to go with the Disney excursion vs doing it ourselves.I'm not 100% yet..as I am reading mixed reviews...and I haven't checked the disboards for reviews yet either..


So far: I have to save for our MNSSHP tickets, our friday night stay in Orlando, and one excursion. TIPS and Souvenirs I already have saved :)

[glindamood]

so I think I figured out what we will do when we get to Cayman Island! the turtle farm (boatswain's adventure marina)...I'm probably going to go with the Disney excursion vs doing it ourselves.I'm not 100% yet..as I am reading mixed reviews...and I haven't checked the disboards for reviews yet either..


So far: I have to save for our MNSSHP tickets, our friday night stay in Orlando, and one excursion. TIPS and Souvenirs I already have saved :)

We went there the last time we were in GC as part of a city and stingray tour with an outside vendor and it was really interesting. When my boys were younger, they would have enjoyed it a LOT so that is an excellant choice.

I think we are going to do Rays, Reef and Rum Point with Native Way again - awesome tour and experience and you can't beat the price, plus you are on a smaller boat so not trying to fight 100 of our closest friends trying to get off and in the water.

[MommaMouse411]

Gail I emailed the turtle farm..and basically it will be cheaper for me to go through them!!! and its a free shuttle from the port to the farm. Seems like it'll be a good fit for us...I was really wanting to go on the beach a bit but this will do.

and I'm still leaning towards staying on the ship when we dock at KW & Cozumel.

[glindamood]

Gail I emailed the turtle farm..and basically it will be cheaper for me to go through them!!! and its a free shuttle from the port to the farm. Seems like it'll be a good fit for us...I was really wanting to go on the beach a bit but this will do.

and I'm still leaning towards staying on the ship when we dock at KW & Cozumel.

Sound like a plan!

[sailworkless]

Gail I emailed the turtle farm..and basically it will be cheaper for me to go through them!!! and its a free shuttle from the port to the farm. Seems like it'll be a good fit for us...I was really wanting to go on the beach a bit but this will do.

and I'm still leaning towards staying on the ship when we dock at KW & Cozumel.

We enjoyed the turtle farm when we went. It was pretty low key, as I recall. You could definitely pick how much info you wanted. You could just wander around and look if you wanted. We really liked being able to pick up some of the smaller turtles. I would think your boys might really enjoy that (don't all boys like grabbing animals?)

We haven't decided what we're going to do at GC yet. Most of the snorkle/ray tours are out because our kids aren't too comfortable/safe in the water. It's hard to do anything while trying to keep all four of their heads above water. We may end up at the turtle farm, also. Have thought about the pirate ship thing, but have heard some pretty mixed reviews. Still kicking around ideas.

For Key West, I think we'll try the trolley pass and just wander doing the tourist thing until everyone is tired out. Still have no idea about Cozumel. I was thinking of the beach club place, but we'll be spending a beach day at CC. I don't know if the kids will get sick of sand and sea. Decisions, decisions.

[sailworkless]

I just found out our cabins. Super excited to see we did get connecting cabins! I was a bit worried my wife and I would be in separate cabins with 2 kids each if we had adjoining.

So, any good or bad things about forward deck 7 port side? As far as I'm concerned, it's on the ship - it can't be too bad of a spot!!

[glindamood]

I just found out our cabins. Super excited to see we did get connecting cabins! I was a bit worried my wife and I would be in separate cabins with 2 kids each if we had adjoining.

So, any good or bad things about forward deck 7 port side? As far as I'm concerned, it's on the ship - it can't be too bad of a spot!!

My favorite spots are in front of the forward elevators or behind the aft elevators as (to us) there is less foot traffic. We are generally forward on deck 6 and LOVE it. You should only have hall traffic for those rooms in front of you since the hall dead ends. For us, that far forward is just 3 flights up to the Quiet Cove which, on sea days, is where we spend most of our time. I also find the forward/aft elevators much less crowded than the midship ones.

[glindamood]

Page 5:scared1::scared1::scared1:?? What is up with that?

Exciting cruise week for us - I upgraded us yesterday to a 6A! We have not had a verandah in a long time and will enjoy it. Now DH wants to bring the blender so he can make drinks to enjoy on it:rotfl2:. We shall see. Since we are renting a car to drive to the port from WDW, a grocery stop is certainly possible for us.

Have a great weekend everyone.

[glindamood]

Well I had some time so I will start the list:

If you are interested in participating in the Fish Extender Gift Exchange, please provide ages of the children, and who you are traveling with ie dh40 (husband 40), Ds 4 (Son), DD 3 (daughter). This information helps us decide what to buy or make that’s age/gender appropriate.

Once we get closer to the 75days, we’ll need to start adding cabin #’s.

Please let me know if you are not participating as well. Thanks


MommaMouse411 (34), DS4 (at that time), DS3 (at that time)participating

Sumlee 31, DH33, DS9, DS6, DD3, DD5mo. Nana, Papa participating

Purdybertine & Auntyaba (Daughter/Mother)

Webcreatix & DD21

TiffanyD & Schimj (Wife/Husband)participating

PrincessPiglet, DH, DD9

Momto3cuties 38, DH40, DS7, DS4, DD2 (at time of sailing)

acourtwdw (41), Dsister (43), Ddad (66) and Dmom (65) participating

ScdizneyDawn & DH

GlindaMood & DH

Storms71 39, DW39, DS14 Participating

Sailworkless & DW, DD11, DD9, DD5, DS8Participating

Meagon2222 & DH, DS6, DS7

We (Gail and David) are participating.

[MommaMouse411]

Hey Gail..

I'm showing page 12?

and I was also wondering if anybody will be planning on Palos Dinner. I would like to do but have to do by myself..if anybody is doing a solo dinner I can try and book for the same time and day (4th day on)....and maybe we can be seated together.

last time I ate by myself for Palo Brunch, I ate pretty fast..the waiter told me to slow down LOL...

[glindamood]

Hey Gail..

I'm showing page 12?

and I was also wondering if anybody will be planning on Palos Dinner. I would like to do but have to do by myself..if anybody is doing a solo dinner I can try and book for the same time and day (4th day on)....and maybe we can be seated together.

last time I ate by myself for Palo Brunch, I ate pretty fast..the waiter told me to slow down LOL...

I meant we were 5 pages back from the first one.

My guess is that we won't do Palo dinner - DH likes the dining rooms so I will use my freebee for brunch. Plus, I need to save up for Remy on the Fantasy next year. Based on how expensive that is, must be I need to book a few more cruises so I can skip Palo dinner and save some more money. Suppose DH would go for that?? Can't fault a girl for trying.

[MommaMouse411]

that's why I wanted to do a 7 day..so I can make sure I eat at all 3 restaurants, DO the pirate buffett and eat at Palos for dinner.

I didn't want to do the brunch again..although it was very friggin good...

I to will be dining at Remy on my Dream Cruise in April...but won't be doing any Palo dining.

there's so many dishes on the Palos Dinner Menu..I'm going to eat it all. and I can do it too..I have 11 things I want to eat...ELEVEN..:eek:

[glindamood]

that's why I wanted to do a 7 day..so I can make sure I eat at all 3 restaurants, DO the pirate buffett and eat at Palos for dinner.

I didn't want to do the brunch again..although it was very friggin good...

I to will be dining at Remy on my Dream Cruise in April...but won't be doing any Palo dining.

there's so many dishes on the Palos Dinner Menu..I'm going to eat it all. and I can do it too..I have 11 things I want to eat...ELEVEN..:eek:

This is cruise number 13 (hoping that isn't an omen of some sort) and I much prefer brunch to dinner - we think that is hands down the best meal on the ship. But, to decide that, you need to experience it all first.

[MommaMouse411]

Yea I changed my mind I want to eat off the Pirates menu not the buffett.

13 cruises so you're like Plantinum..

[sumlee]

Hello All!
I just wanted to announce the arrival of our newest little cruise mate. Claire Rose was born on Monday, May 9th at 4:23pm. She can't wait to cruise with us this October!

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/sumlee/claire/BabyClaire034.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/sumlee/claire/BabyClaire054.jpg

[glindamood]

Summer - she is absolutely beautiful - and you look radiant yourself. And what a lovely name - Claire Rose. I have goosebumps. Blessings to all of you.

[MommaMouse411]

HOW PRECIOUS! GOD BLESS HER!!!

yes I agree with Gail, You look great!!! and am glad everything is going well! :yay:

[glindamood]

:scared1: Found us on page 4 again. We certainly are a quiet group.

RAINING here, I need to go to the bank, hate to waste the gas to drive 2 blocks but don't want to spend the rest of my afternoon looking like a drowned rat either. At least it isn't beating on the window anymore. And, I should be most thankful that I don't live where all the horrible storms have been - how awful, I can not even imagine.

[MommaMouse411]

hola gail!! I just subscribe to the thread so I can find it easier..

well I started my pre trip report for this cruise and I'm already driving myself crazy...

I booked a chef mickey's breakfast for oct 28th, 11:20am. I already requested the day off so we plan to arrive to WDW around 10:30ish..and after we eat we will probably head over to Magic Kingdom., then of course MNSHHP...I'm like dying to buy the tickets already for MNSHHP.. :( but am waiting to AFTER I Pay for my cruise.

I almost booked the Cinderella's Royal Table but I'm going to do this for our christmas trip...so we'll do CRT then MVMCP.

and I really really should start thinking about FE gifts...I'm just having a hard time trying to figure out how to do what I want to do!!!

[glindamood]

I subscribed as well - we are just quiet. After being on the PC cruise when we went though 3 or 4 threads because it was so active, it just takes getting used to.

Hi, my name is Gail and I am addicted to DCL and the DIS. :rotfl2: Actually, I couldn't think of a better addiction.

[NYAna]

Congrats Sumlee!

Your baby is so cute. I know how excited you are! I'm a Labor and Delivery Nurse. Hope all went well which it looks like it did. You'll remember that moment forever.

Congrats again!

Ana :goodvibes

[MommaMouse411]

Gail! I'm right there with you!!! but like I said I think everybody is going to be on the Dream this week....maybe we'll have the ship to our selves!!!!!!:banana:

[glindamood]

I am all for a less crowded ship but my guess is that DCL will do Florida resident (good for you), military and cast member rates to fill the ship. We shall see.

[MommaMouse411]

I hope so...ahhh to be on a verandah again...:dance3:

[glindamood]

I just don't understand why they can't have Michigan resident rates??? :confused3:confused3 Sounds logical to me anyway.

DH is off working with the Scouts at Culvers to raise money for the troop which left me home to pack for the weekend. This weather is so weird, it makes it hard to pack - we never even got to 50 today but 60's to 70's to 80's over the weekend. What a range to try and plan for - and then there is the gamble that the weatherman will even be right.

Have a great weekend everyone - safe travels if you are traveling and if not - enjoy home, hearth and maybe the BBQ grill.

[MommaMouse411]

no travelling here as I have to work on Monday..:sick:

its going to be hot and muggy for us in FLA!!!

Safe trip Gail!!

[glindamood]

Made it home safe and sound early Monday evening. I have my dogs all back and things are good here. It even cooled off some.

DH and I have been kicking around our plan for brunch - makes it hard not knowing when the Castaway Club gathering is. Guess I will just book it for later in the morning and take it as it is. 30 more days and I can book!!!

Have a good week everyone - it is hump day already.

[MommaMouse411]

I know you lucky you can book early...I think I can book mid july...I think...I forgot what my TA said. but I have it in my head if I paid mid july i can book then.

I am going to be so nervous when its August!!!

Well it doesn't seem like our FE list is going to get any longer...should I put a cut off date around end of August?

[glindamood]

I know you lucky you can book early...I think I can book mid july...I think...I forgot what my TA said. but I have it in my head if I paid mid july i can book then.

I am going to be so nervous when its August!!!

Well it doesn't seem like our FE list is going to get any longer...should I put a cut off date around end of August?

If you look at your reservation on the DCL site, it will tell you when you can begin to make reservations. I am not 'due' until the same time as everyone else but if I want to make any reservations ahead of time, we all have to pay first.

Cutoff for FE - my guess is that this group will grow when we get closer. I have no issue with not deciding on that until we see how it goes - as in sometime in September maybe. I like working with a solid number but I always feel bad for those that join in late.

[MommaMouse411]

Yea I remember asking my TA because I believe payment is due mid Aug...so I remember planning on paying it off in July so I can book my Palo Dinner and Nursery Times. I don't have my confirmation # for disney just the Dreams Unlimited pin..

[Dixielady908]

Afternoon:

Just booked this cruise this morning. I was originally booked on the Dream back 2 back for the 10-30-11 sailing, but we decided we wanted to do more island stops....so since I had my airfare already, we just moved over to this cruise.

My name is Denise and traveling with Wally....no kids.....
looking forward to this cruise (or any cruise) :rotfl: and getting to know you all a little more in the next few months.


Denise

[MommaMouse411]

hey Dixie Lady aka Denise :cool1: welcome to the HAPPY HAUNTS Cruise Meet lol :lmao: I just threw that in there...not the name of our meet ...

[glindamood]

Yea I remember asking my TA because I believe payment is due mid Aug...so I remember planning on paying it off in July so I can book my Palo Dinner and Nursery Times. I don't have my confirmation # for disney just the Dreams Unlimited pin..

I have used DU before and I knew what my DCL ressie number was. How can you make your reservations for Palo and whatever excursion on the DCL website if you don't have it? OK, done being nosey - sorry, didn't mean to offend.

Afternoon:

Just booked this cruise this morning. I was originally booked on the Dream back 2 back for the 10-30-11 sailing, but we decided we wanted to do more island stops....so since I had my airfare already, we just moved over to this cruise.

My name is Denise and traveling with Wally....no kids.....
looking forward to this cruise (or any cruise) :rotfl: and getting to know you all a little more in the next few months.


Denise

:welcome: Denise and Wally. Happy you are joining us! We are a quiet group but we are going to have a great time.

[glindamood]

Yea I remember asking my TA because I believe payment is due mid Aug...so I remember planning on paying it off in July so I can book my Palo Dinner and Nursery Times. I don't have my confirmation # for disney just the Dreams Unlimited pin..

I am an idiot. You don't need your DCL ressie if you sign in through the Castaway Club link. You need to know your Castaway Club number to do it that way but it lists your previous cruises as well as anything that you have booked.

[MommaMouse411]

Gail I sent my TA an email asking for confirmation #...then I logged onto their site and used their client services and there was my confirmation # (Where's the embarrassed emoticon at!)...

so I can book on July 31st :cool1:

[glindamood]

Gail I sent my TA an email asking for confirmation #...then I logged onto their site and used their client services and there was my confirmation # (Where's the embarrassed emoticon at!)...

so I can book on July 31st :cool1:

:banana::banana:

[sailworkless]

You guys inspired me to get back to planning for our excursions. I just looked at our reservations and found that the cabin with my son in it has a booking date of July 1 (I believe it's early because of Make A Wish), the other, connecting cabin, has a date of August 15.

I sure hope they'll change it so they are both July 1. I'll feel a lot better when we figure out some of what we're going to do.

My DDs 9 & 11 are worried because there aren't really any girls their ages on this thread yet. I'm having a hard time convincing them there will be a bunch of girls in their age ranges on the trip. Apparently, to them, these boards are the official ship manifest.:lmao:

[glindamood]

You guys inspired me to get back to planning for our excursions. I just looked at our reservations and found that the cabin with my son in it has a booking date of July 1 (I believe it's early because of Make A Wish), the other, connecting cabin, has a date of August 15.

I sure hope they'll change it so they are both July 1. I'll feel a lot better when we figure out some of what we're going to do.

My DDs 9 & 11 are worried because there aren't really any girls their ages on this thread yet. I'm having a hard time convincing them there will be a bunch of girls in their age ranges on the trip. Apparently, to them, these boards are the official ship manifest.:lmao:

Too cute - I am sure there will be lots of girls their age. But I can also bet that it is fun for them to get to meet new girls here.

My planning is all done, well, except for trying to figure out when to do brunch. The rest will just all fall into place - Cozumel and Grand Cayman are taken care of, Key West is just exploring - and the winery and CC is just a beach day. Flights are purchased but Delta has changed both outbound and return from what I booked so there still could be some 'excitement' there. We are staying at Villas at Wilderness Lodge from the 25th to the 29th, ADR;s are made and I have a car rented to get us to the port. No MNNSHP for us this time.

[MommaMouse411]

Sailworkless...there will be other girls their ages...I'm sure of it! my stepsister came with me last time..lucky there was a girl her age in our dis group...and they still keep in touch..but they made friends with other kids quickly.


Gail!~ must be nice to not have to plan so much!! I was just calculating the tips for that week's cruise!!! I might have to pick up a part time job just for the tips :lmao:

[glindamood]

Gail!~ must be nice to not have to plan so much!! I was just calculating the tips for that week's cruise!!! I might have to pick up a part time job just for the tips :lmao:

I love the planning and miss it once it is over. I do a budget first (that includes those tips) and see what else we want to do with an estimated cost (drinks, tips (including room service tips), excursions, souvineers, Palo and what I think it will cost me to book another two cruises and then plan my savings accordingly. I try really hard not to end up with anything on the plastic when we come home. I did great on the PC cruise (should have booked 2 cruises then, idiot that I am) and intend to manage this time as well. I just have to be careful with purchases between our trips and the like but it feels so good to me to do it that way.

[MommaMouse411]

thats what I was doing yesterday..calculating how much money we will need for the whole trip:

I have to get mnsshp tickets, overnight stay, cruise terminal parking, souvenirs, 1 excursion, tips (including room service tipping), food/drinks, Palo, Nursery Times (believe it or not I spent about $$$ on sodas and snacks at Walt Disney Theatre!) and since this trip is so close to Christmas..I have to make sure I have money left to do what I always do for Christmas!!!! (4 days at WDW including MVMCP!, 1 day at Seaworld, 1 day at Busch gardens, and since Legoland will open in Oct, 1 day in Legoland!) The good thing is I have passes to all (Except Legoland, I will buy when opening gets closer).

Its really tough to save money for all this but if I don't travel and do these things, I would go nutz!

[glindamood]

thats what I was doing yesterday..calculating how much money we will need for the whole trip:

I have to get mnsshp tickets, overnight stay, cruise terminal parking, souvenirs, 1 excursion, tips (including room service tipping), food/drinks, Palo, Nursery Times (believe it or not I spent about $$$ on sodas and snacks at Walt Disney Theatre!) and since this trip is so close to Christmas..I have to make sure I have money left to do what I always do for Christmas!!!! (4 days at WDW including MVMCP!, 1 day at Seaworld, 1 day at Busch gardens, and since Legoland will open in Oct, 1 day in Legoland!) The good thing is I have passes to all (Except Legoland, I will buy when opening gets closer).

Its really tough to save money for all this but if I don't travel and do these things, I would go nutz!

I get jealous that you can do both Florida Resident Rates (you are watching, right?) and park passes at a discounted price too. I really do not have much desire to move to Florida but, from a Disney perspecitve, it would be benificial.

But, that aside, not only do I have a budget for this trip but youngest DS is getting married next August and we have a trip on the Fantasy booked so my budget is pretty far reaching.

[MommaMouse411]

my mother said I should just move to orlando and work at disney since most of my money goes to them anyways :confused3

[glindamood]

my mother said I should just move to orlando and work at disney since most of my money goes to them anyways :confused3

I would happily work for Disney but it would require a large move for me and, while the grandchildren are currently furry and four-legged, someday that won't be the case and I would like to be around for that. You don't live too far do you??

[sailworkless]

Gail/MommaMouse,

Reading your plans is making me so jealous. We were just discussing last night how there's virtually no way we'll be able to do another trip like this for years. We brought our two oldest to WDW when they were 5 and 7. Even that was a pretty big budget hit. I don't think an onboard booking is in our future:sad2:


We settled on Boatswains in GC last night. I don't see any way that we're booking it through Disney, though. $92 for 10&up, $72 for 3-9. We can buy the tix directly from Boatswains for $45 for DW and I and $25 for the 4 kids. Plus, there's a 20% discount for online tix purchases. Boatswains says they have transport to and from the port, too. I don't understand what Disney has included that could make it worth more than 3X the cost.

For Cozumel, it's the ruins at San Gervasio and the Discover Mexico Cultural Park. We're thinking of doing Disney on this one. Haven't looked into doing it on our own, yet.

I assume the big plus for booking through Disney is help catching the ship if something goes terribly wrong and you miss departure. Do you agree?

I think we've decided to wander on own in KW. I have made everyone know I will not be pleasant unless I get a piece of chocolate covered, frozen key lime pie on a stick. My DW and DD11 really want to go the the southernmost point marker.

CC is going to be a total beach day. It appears we can get bikes or whatever else on the spot, so no sense trying to plan it. I do want to run the CC 5K - do you know if they still do that in any form?

Waiting on this cruise is making me feel like a 6 year old waiting for Christmas...'It's never going to get here!!!!!!!'

[MommaMouse411]

SailworkLess..My kids and I are doing Boatswain as well. I was going back and forth emailing Boatswain so I was suprised at the amount DCL was charging..I think I heard the DCL excursion involves a Guide? Idk..But I don't need a guide, I just want to check out the turtles...and its only for 4hrs, so we plan to be first one off ship and then back @ noonish and back on board!!

my perspective for this trip...stay on the ship as much as possible...I can see it now...everyone at Cozumel..my kids and I lounging around!! Playing in the splash pad, and swimming in the pool...I think I'm going to come home from this trip a LAZY BUM...

Gail I live like an hour away... :wizard: (last time with FL Residents DIscount Dreams Unlimited contacted me about the verandah upgrade, so that's what I'm hoping happens!!)

I cannot imagine living anywhere else now that I have kids...I'm not only addicted to DIsney, but seaworld, busch gardens, and zoos. and just travelling to different beaches....now with Legoland opening I really have no reason to move....if I HAD to move it would be to California :hippie: even if I've never been there before.



my goal is to try and do a LAND & SEA in 2013 or 2014...I really want to go to Disneyland and Alaska DCL.

[glindamood]

Gail/MommaMouse,

Reading your plans is making me so jealous. We were just discussing last night how there's virtually no way we'll be able to do another trip like this for years. We brought our two oldest to WDW when they were 5 and 7. Even that was a pretty big budget hit. I don't think an onboard booking is in our future:sad2:


We settled on Boatswains in GC last night. I don't see any way that we're booking it through Disney, though. $92 for 10&up, $72 for 3-9. We can buy the tix directly from Boatswains for $45 for DW and I and $25 for the 4 kids. Plus, there's a 20% discount for online tix purchases. Boatswains says they have transport to and from the port, too. I don't understand what Disney has included that could make it worth more than 3X the cost.

For Cozumel, it's the ruins at San Gervasio and the Discover Mexico Cultural Park. We're thinking of doing Disney on this one. Haven't looked into doing it on our own, yet.

I assume the big plus for booking through Disney is help catching the ship if something goes terribly wrong and you miss departure. Do you agree?

I think we've decided to wander on own in KW. I have made everyone know I will not be pleasant unless I get a piece of chocolate covered, frozen key lime pie on a stick. My DW and DD11 really want to go the the southernmost point marker.

CC is going to be a total beach day. It appears we can get bikes or whatever else on the spot, so no sense trying to plan it. I do want to run the CC 5K - do you know if they still do that in any form?

Waiting on this cruise is making me feel like a 6 year old waiting for Christmas...'It's never going to get here!!!!!!!'

You are correct on booking a DCL excursion - the ship will not leave until you are back. Boatswain's is close by and you shouldn't have any issues returning, even if you have to rent a cab or something. We did it with NativeWay and I am all for promoting the island excursion companies. They do an outstanding job and if word gets out that they had a group miss their ship, it would not be good business for them so I just use Cruise Critic as a resourse and search people out. I would LOVE to do the Tulum Ruins in Cozumel but DH would get sicker than a dog on the boat ride over so Nachi, here we come! We are all going to have the best time. I am trying hard not to wish my time away but I could be packed and ready tomorrow!!

SailworkLess..My kids and I are doing Boatswain as well. I was going back and forth emailing Boatswain so I was suprised at the amount DCL was charging..I think I heard the DCL excursion involves a Guide? Idk..But I don't need a guide, I just want to check out the turtles...and its only for 4hrs, so we plan to be first one off ship and then back @ noonish and back on board!!

my perspective for this trip...stay on the ship as much as possible...I can see it now...everyone at Cozumel..my kids and I lounging around!! Playing in the splash pad, and swimming in the pool...I think I'm going to come home from this trip a LAZY BUM...

Gail I live like an hour away... :wizard: (last time with FL Residents DIscount Dreams Unlimited contacted me about the verandah upgrade, so that's what I'm hoping happens!!)

I cannot imagine living anywhere else now that I have kids...I'm not only addicted to DIsney, but seaworld, busch gardens, and zoos. and just travelling to different beaches....now with Legoland opening I really have no reason to move....if I HAD to move it would be to California :hippie: even if I've never been there before.



my goal is to try and do a LAND & SEA in 2013 or 2014...I really want to go to Disneyland and Alaska DCL.

I have been to CA twice but just LA area - no DL. I have no desire to live there. In all my years (and I would be pretty old) I have never seen such traffic and so many people (I have been to NYC and that wasn't as bad).

[sailworkless]

You are correct on booking a DCL excursion - the ship will not leave until you are back. Boatswain's is close by and you shouldn't have any issues returning, even if you have to rent a cab or something. We did it with NativeWay and I am all for promoting the island excursion companies. They do an outstanding job and if word gets out that they had a group miss their ship, it would not be good business for them so I just use Cruise Critic as a resourse and search people out. I would LOVE to do the Tulum Ruins in Cozumel but DH would get sicker than a dog on the boat ride over so Nachi, here we come! We are all going to have the best time. I am trying hard not to wish my time away but I could be packed and ready tomorrow!!

We really wanted to do Tulum as well, my 5 and 8 year old would not approve. I think it's 45 minutes on a ferry, then over an hour on a bus, all to look at 'some stones'. We need something on a much smaller and closer scale.

[MommaMouse411]

wow 1 1/2 to get to one place...NO WAY...I would be too scared to travel out that far from a port :eek:

[Dixielady908]

So since I am the "new kid on the block" do you have a cruise mate list going? Just curious....or any type of meets being planned?


Talking excursions Wally and I were talking last night and decided this eveing that in Cozumel we are going to do the Jeep tour...Key West, thinking of just doing on conch train ride tour...I did that back in 2008 but he wasnt with me, went with one of my girlfriends...figured he would like seeing Key West, but I agree with sailworkless, I did not get a keylime last time I was there, this is my goal on this cruise......I'm just sayin:):thumbsup2

[glindamood]

wow 1 1/2 to get to one place...NO WAY...I would be too scared to travel out that far from a port :eek:

In this case, it would be with DCL so there wouldn't be any issues (at least I would do it with DCL). When we wernt to Costa Rico on the PC trip in January, our bus trips were a little over an hour - if not 1-1/2 hours. Most of them involved that kind of travel time.

[glindamood]

So since I am the "new kid on the block" do you have a cruise mate list going? Just curious....or any type of meets being planned?


Talking excursions Wally and I were talking last night and decided this eveing that in Cozumel we are going to do the Jeep tour...Key West, thinking of just doing on conch train ride tour...I did that back in 2008 but he wasnt with me, went with one of my girlfriends...figured he would like seeing Key West, but I agree with sailworkless, I did not get a keylime last time I was there, this is my goal on this cruise......I'm just sayin:):thumbsup2

MammaMouse411 is keeping the FE list. It is also posted earlier in the thread. I certainly hope we do a meet but I don't think we have decided on a time/place. Suggestions anyone?

[MommaMouse411]

normally I think everyone meets @ 3pm in promenade lounge..gives us time to check our rooms and then time to go to Drill..


Dixie in my siggy I have a link to the FE list...Fish Extender List...

[glindamood]

normally I think everyone meets @ 3pm in promenade lounge..gives us time to check our rooms and then time to go to Drill..

We have met up on deck as well in the past - by the pool so people can watch their children in the pool and meet. We tried on deck 9 once, back by the drink station but we really created a bottleneck so I don't think I would suggest that. PL seems to be the best place.

[Dixielady908]

afternoon:

Still deciding about the FE.....but the last couple of cruises I went on we had a nice meet in the promanade lounge around 2:30-3PM ish...we also did a "gift" from where we live....

I will have to contact some of my past cruisers to "remind":rolleyes1 me how we did this...(not that I'm forgetful or anything) but it was an little inexpensive gift from our local area....
if after I get all the facts and anyone is interested in doing this, I would be more than happy to keep the list of this.....

gotta run
Denise:banana:

[glindamood]

afternoon:

Still deciding about the FE.....but the last couple of cruises I went on we had a nice meet in the promanade lounge around 2:30-3PM ish...we also did a "gift" from where we live....

I will have to contact some of my past cruisers to "remind":rolleyes1 me how we did this...(not that I'm forgetful or anything) but it was an little inexpensive gift from our local area....
if after I get all the facts and anyone is interested in doing this, I would be more than happy to keep the list of this.....

gotta run
Denise:banana:

I have participated in 'white elephant' type exchanges that were something from 'home', postcard exchanges (this is lots of fun) and Secret Mickey's along with FE's. We can do anything we would like to do.

[glindamood]

Happy Saturday everyone! Hope you are all enjoying your weekend. Youngest DS and his DGF are here for the weekend so we have had lots of fun visiting and eating. Sunny and warm here.

Take care! In 21 weeks it will be our turn (and considering I booked this cruise in November of 2009, I have not been waiting too long!

[glindamood]

Happy Sunday everyone! Nice weekend here and spent time visiting with DS and his fiance - the wedding is next August :scared1:. How is it that that all of my children are old enough to be married. Impossible!

DH and his Boy Scout troop are in the yard cleaning out the scout trailer - dogs are going bonkers, which in turn is making me :crazy: but hopefully they will be done soon. DH leaves for scout camp tomorrow for the summer so it will be pretty quiet around here. With gas as expensive as it is, I won't go every weekend, that is for sure.

Our Magical Express tickets came Friday. Just blew me away. Delta could change our flights another three or four times but I guess that isn't all that important. I do wonder how we are supposed to use one ticket - when we land about 4 hours apart. Guess I shall call and ask but must not be that big a deal - we didn't even get ours the last time we flew in for a cruise and there wasn't an issue - other than we had to get our bags. Oh well, I have lots of luggage tags so no worries there.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

[Dixielady908]

Happy Sunday evening:

Well I guess I shouldnt say that...tomorrow is monday and back to work:scared:

But I just wanted to bring up again, if anyone is interested in doing a gift exchange at the meet party...let me know. I did this on past cruises and we had a good time with it.

Again, just an inexpensive gift...(around 10.00 or under) from our hometown...just throw names in a "hat" and pick....thats all...kinda helps to get to know who we have been chatting with over the months....

Let me know who is interested and I will keep a list of the names....

I have been working on my door signs this weekend...well I have been thinking about what I want done, then I have my son do all the work:) He is a grapic designer by trade...and since I paid his college bill, this is my payback:rotfl: he is never happy about this.....he already asked me a month or so back, if he had to make more door signs for me...:confused: ummmm yes....

Well I hope everyone had a great weekend...weather here was beautiful and are expecting a nice week...

later
:banana::banana::banana:

[MommaMouse411]

hey Dixie..I'm cool with the white elephant thing. sounds like itll be fun...

[glindamood]

Another participant for the hometown gift exchange here - might be more homestate'ish' but it will be something interesting.

Had a good rest of my Sunday. Babysat the granddog and his parents came and got him and then stayed for dinner. That granddog is back this weekend too as they are headed out again. I will see if I can't get a picture of all three of them and post it so you all can see.

Enjoy your Monday - thank heaven they only come once a week!

[Dixielady908]

Hello All!
I just wanted to announce the arrival of our newest little cruise mate. Claire Rose was born on Monday, May 9th at 4:23pm. She can't wait to cruise with us this October!

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/sumlee/claire/BabyClaire034.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/sumlee/claire/BabyClaire054.jpg

Wow, this is a slow thread..the 2008 cruise I went on 4 months out we were like on thrread 4 or 5....I guess we were just a super chatty group....

Summer congrats on your new arrival...she's beautiful....love all her hair.

Denise:banana::banana:

[MommaMouse411]

I know Dixie its quiet...I went to DHS Saturday with my boys...here's some pics..I'm going to add them to my pretrip..


http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8180.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8180.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8174.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8174.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8156.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8156.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8120.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8120.jpg)

[glindamood]

I know Dixie its quiet...I went to DHS Saturday with my boys...here's some pics..I'm going to add them to my pretrip..


http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8180.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8180.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8174.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8174.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8156.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8156.jpg)
http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/th_DSCN8120.jpg (http://i997.photobucket.com/albums/af93/Traviesa1000rr/Miguel%20and%20Manuel%20Pictures/DSCN8120.jpg)

SOOOOO cute!

[Dixielady908]

Cute pic's.

Once we get some closer, more excitement kicks in and hopefully it will get some busier.:thumbsup2

:banana::banana:

[glindamood]

Happy Tuesday everyone! HOT here (by my standards) and muggy but I guess it is June so I will try and not whine. We leave 20 weeks from today! One would think I hadn't been on DCL in years when in fact it has only been six months.

So, take care and enjoy your day!

[MommaMouse411]

my kids had fun..and now my oldest wants to play star wars all the time !

[Dixielady908]

Happy Tuesday everyone! HOT here (by my standards) and muggy but I guess it is June so I will try and not whine. We leave 20 weeks from today! One would think I hadn't been on DCL in years when in fact it has only been six months.

So, take care and enjoy your day!

Hot here also 95 today....however, I am not going to complain either since we waited soooo long for warm weather...thru that aweful winter...so I am going to enjoy it:goodvibes

I havent been on a cruise since 2008....so you can say I am very ready for this cruise. Went on the western last time right after thanksgiving we were unable to tender in grand cayman, so I am hoping we can this time as I did not get to go there last.....
However, the best part of that trip, my girlfriend who went with me...we were at castaway, serenity bay, just laying on our hammocks soaking up the sun and all of a sudden she flips and falls off the hammock:confused: I minute laying there the next laying on the gound:rotfl: It was hysterical....but I didnt get a picture....:lmao: that was a good day!!!:thumbsup2

gotta run
denise:banana::banana::banana:

[glindamood]

You are a lot warmer than we are - we are probably 250 miles north of Chicago besides being east. It is only in the 80's here but the humidity that we got yesterday after the rain is gone so not so bad.

And now everyone knows why I do not lie in hammocks as that is exactly where I would end up, face down with a mouthful of sand.

[MommaMouse411]

lol I would die laughing if that happened to me. :rotfl2:

it'll be a long time before I make it out to serenity bay

[glindamood]

Hot here also 95 today....however, I am not going to complain either since we waited soooo long for warm weather...thru that aweful winter...so I am going to enjoy it:goodvibes

I havent been on a cruise since 2008....so you can say I am very ready for this cruise. Went on the western last time right after thanksgiving we were unable to tender in grand cayman, so I am hoping we can this time as I did not get to go there last.....
However, the best part of that trip, my girlfriend who went with me...we were at castaway, serenity bay, just laying on our hammocks soaking up the sun and all of a sudden she flips and falls off the hammock:confused: I minute laying there the next laying on the gound:rotfl: It was hysterical....but I didnt get a picture....:lmao: that was a good day!!!:thumbsup2

gotta run
denise:banana::banana::banana:


It appears that I LIED (unintentional) as it is 93! And, I will whine, that is just too warm, unless of course it is accompanied by cool tropical breezes ;).

[shasess]

Hi Everyone! My family will be joining you on this cruise as well. It will be me, DH, DD15 and DstepD8. This will be our 3rd Disney cruise. We are all very excited! :cool1:

[glindamood]

Hi Everyone! My family will be joining you on this cruise as well. It wil be me, DH, DD15 and DstepD8. This will be our 3rd Disney cruise. We are all very excited! :cool1:

:welcome: to the Shasess Family! Sorry - couldn't resist, the heat is getting to me. Happy to have you joining us.

[Dixielady908]

Hi Everyone! My family will be joining you on this cruise as well. It wil be me, DH, DD15 and DstepD8. This will be our 3rd Disney cruise. We are all very excited! :cool1:

Welcome Shasess & family....

My name is Denise and traveling with Wally....no kids....I just booked this last week....its a long story I was originally on the Dream and bumped over here instead....so we should have a great time.....

Please keep posting....looking forward to getting to know you in the next few months.

Thats ok Gail......anything after 80 something dosnt matter....hot is hot!!:eek::laughing:

[NYAna]

He is a grapic designer by trade...and since I paid his college bill, this is my payback:rotfl:

Very funny Dixielandy! :rotfl2:

[shasess]

Good Morning everyone!
I know I saw this mentioned in an earlier post but does everyone already have their excursions planned for each port? I'm not 100% sure what we are doing yet. I think that we might do the Adventure park in Cozumel or Nachi Cocom. My DH and I did the Adventure Park excursion with RCCL and we really enjoyed it. My DD15 really wants to do a dolphin swim so that might be something that we do with her in Grand Cayman.

[NYAna]

Hi everyone,

I have no clue as to what we want to do at each port of call. I have been very busy since I booked our cruise for this October but now I want to get with the program and start planning! It's just me (36), hubby (40) and parents (mom 70 - step-dad 68). This will the first time hubby and I go without kids (not our kids). We don't have any. So don't know what to do for just us and our parents (much older). Any suggestions?

I can't wait to book Palo. Yum!

[Dixielady908]

Hi everyone,

I have no clue as to what we want to do at each port of call. I have been very busy since I booked our cruise for this October but now I want to get with the program and start planning! It's just me (36), hubby (40) and parents (mom 70 - step-dad 68). This will the first time hubby and I go without kids (not our kids). We don't have any. So don't know what to do for just us and our parents (much older). Any suggestions?

I can't wait to book Palo. Yum!


Wally and I are planning in Cozumel to do the Jeep excersion...from what I read, if your parents are in good health, they should be able to do this its mostly driving (stick) but a good way to see of the sights and island.
Grand Cayman not sure what we are doing.... Key West thinking of doing the conch train ride around town, I did that last time, but Wally wasnt with me, so might do it again so he can see Key west....Oh yeah and Keylime pie...that was another miss last time, this time gonna get me some keylime:thumbsup2

I know we are 4 months out, and I really am not looking forward to holidays or winter yet, but I really am sooooo ready for this cruise.

gotta run
Denise:banana::banana:

[glindamood]

Good Morning everyone!
I know I saw this mentioned in an earlier post but does everyone already have their excursions planned for each port? I'm not 100% sure what we are doing yet. I think that we might do the Adventure park in Cozumel or Nachi Cocom. My DH and I did the Adventure Park excursion with RCCL and we really enjoyed it. My DD15 really wants to do a dolphin swim so that might be something that we do with her in Grand Cayman.

Hi everyone,

I have no clue as to what we want to do at each port of call. I have been very busy since I booked our cruise for this October but now I want to get with the program and start planning! It's just me (36), hubby (40) and parents (mom 70 - step-dad 68). This will the first time hubby and I go without kids (not our kids). We don't have any. So don't know what to do for just us and our parents (much older). Any suggestions?

I can't wait to book Palo. Yum!

It is just DH and me on this trip - we are doing Nachi in Cozumel (LOVE that beach), Rays, Reef and Rum Point in Grand Cayman with Nativeway and nothing in Key West. I would like to walk to the winery but we shall see - if we choose to do brunch that day, might not do anything if it is super hot and humid (which it has been everytime we have ever been there).

Ana - what do your folks like to do? The bus tour in KW is nice plus you can get your tickets online for a discounted price. You can get off and on the bus at any stop. On our first trip to Cozumel, we took a taxi tour on our own and saw the sights, including the Tequila factory. Now that we have been to Nachi Cocum (all inclusive beach that only sells 'x' number of tickets for the day) we just go there - super nice beach, great service and good food/drink.
In Grand Cayman we have done Nativeway tours several times - very reputible and always had a good tour. Have you ever visited the Cruise Critic boards? They have different destination boards that are great for researching options.

[Dixielady908]

For Palo are you doing dinner or brunch???

I did the dinner in 2006 but I thought it was ok, I didnt think there was a lot of options....I really like their brunch..so i think we will just do a brunch...


:banana:

[glindamood]

For Palo are you doing dinner or brunch???

I did the dinner in 2006 but I thought it was ok, I didnt think there was a lot of options....I really like their brunch..so i think we will just do a brunch...


:banana:

DH isn't a fan of dinner either but would eat brunch up there every day possible. I enjoy dinner myself but also think that brunch is about the best meal on the ship. I am really thinking we will do this on Sunday.

[NYAna]

For Palo are you doing dinner or brunch???

I did the dinner in 2006 but I thought it was ok, I didnt think there was a lot of options....I really like their brunch..so i think we will just do a brunch...


:banana:

My husband and I have had dinner at Palo and liked it, although we haven't had brunch there. Because of the great reviews for brunch... I think this time we will have brunch there instead.

However, I would like for my parents to have dinner there too but I am afraid of reserving dinner for one of the nights that we may miss out on one of the other themed restaurants. I want my parents to have dinner at each of the themed restaurants as well since they are special in their own way.

[NYAna]

It is just DH and me on this trip - we are doing Nachi in Cozumel (LOVE that beach), Rays, Reef and Rum Point in Grand Cayman with Nativeway and nothing in Key West. I would like to walk to the winery but we shall see - if we choose to do brunch that day, might not do anything if it is super hot and humid (which it has been everytime we have ever been there).

Ana - what do your folks like to do? The bus tour in KW is nice plus you can get your tickets online for a discounted price. You can get off and on the bus at any stop. On our first trip to Cozumel, we took a taxi tour on our own and saw the sights, including the Tequila factory. Now that we have been to Nachi Cocum (all inclusive beach that only sells 'x' number of tickets for the day) we just go there - super nice beach, great service and good food/drink.
In Grand Cayman we have done Nativeway tours several times - very reputible and always had a good tour. Have you ever visited the Cruise Critic boards? They have different destination boards that are great for researching options.

Thanks. My parents are very active and are willing to do anything. My step-dad drives stick so the Jeep would be great. They love to see nature. Those are the types of things we would like to do with them.

[sailworkless]

Wow, I feel like I'm in the minority here - one of the few traveling with kids on Disney. Who would have thought?

Our kids range from 5 -11. None of them are super adventurous, especially around water, so it kind of limits our options for excursions. We're going to do Key West on our own, Boatswains Turtle Farm in GC, Tulum/Discover Mexico Park in Cozumel, and a simple beach day at CC.

I've been leaning towards booking brunch at Palo for DW and myself. Hoping to do it on one of the sea days.

My son (8) wants to 'hurry up the summer' so he can go on the cruise. I guess my excitement is finally wearing off on someone in the family.:thumbsup2

Welcome to the new posters, it's nice to have some more people around here.

[MommaMouse411]

@ sailworkless...I'm travelling with Little ONES..so I'm really in the minority!!!!

Hey Shasess!! glad you made it over here!!


I wasn't going to do brunch at Palos on this trip...but now with all this mention of it...ugh I might just have to do it!!


I plan on doing Palos dinner on the 4th night...we'll see.

[glindamood]

Thanks. My parents are very active and are willing to do anything. My step-dad drives stick so the Jeep would be great. They love to see nature. Those are the types of things we would like to do with them.

It is so nice that they are so active and love to do things. I will say, the stingray trip is one of the highlights of my life - absolutely amazing. I am sure you will all have a great time.

[Dixielady908]

What time dining does everyone have?

Wally and I have early dining....he goes to bed very early, he is up at 2am and leaves for work at 4am and dosnt get home until 4pm...very long day for him...so his body cannot adjust to the late dinner....if anyone is interested maybe we can link reservations....better to sit with someone we kinda know than with someone we dont....:rolleyes:

think I'm gonna book brunch on the first sea day...I think its monday but cant remember...yumm

my plans for castaway just laying in a hammock and letting the servers bring me drinks....ahhhhh now thats the life...!!!

Denise:banana::banana: