Aug. 21, 2004 Eastern Magic check in list

[Verandah Man]

O.K., now that we are at our two month mark, is everyone agreed to a http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/555/62DISmeet_Banner-thumb.jpg after the safety drill in the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3? I think an inside http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/555/62DISmeet_Banner-thumb.jpg is best, because you never know what the Florida weather is going to be like in August.

[disney3144]

I know this is a stupid question to ask......but does anyone have a copy of the itinerary. I want to see how long we are at each port. I just can't seem to find my copy.:(

Thanks

Jennifer

[disney3144]

Never mind everyone...I found it. I swear I should be a blonde.:p

Jennifer

[Maleficent59]

I swear I should be a blonde.
We all have days like that! (and I KNOW I could never be a natural blonde)!!! :rotfl:
DIS Meet after the safety drill in the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3

Got my vote! Can't wait!! :jumping1:

[Gayle17]

The meet after the safety drilll is fine here.
Gayle

[Credit Man]

DIS meet time and place is fine with me. As far as excursions, I don't think we are planning any. We will go to Megans Bay and shop in St. Thomas, and do a short walking tour of Old San Juan and the fort.

[Verandah Man]

I just got my excursions called in for our cruise. The only thing we finally decided on was BBR 2:30pm at CC for Angelina and myself, and a float rental for Hazel at CC. We plan on doing some other things on our own at St. Thomas and San Juan.

I hope everyone gets the excursions they wanted.

Have a MAGICal day, 60 days and counting!!!

[denise5374]

Hi All! I have been gone for a couple of days and all sorts of things are happening.....59 days!! Yippee!!!!

The DIS meet after the Safety drill is fine with me. Our family will be wearing our really COOL tshirts made by Andy, so we will see some of you at the port. I am so excited to meet you all (and a little nervous:scared: )

In St. Thomas we are renting a boat for the day (non-DCL excursion) and going snorkeling. Have no idea in San Juan, we were debating about doing no planned excursion but now I am not so sure. On Castraway Cay I am just going to sit on the beach and RELAX!!

Hope everyone is having a WONDERful summer so far!!!!:jumping1:

[DuncanLL]

We got our excursions booked OK this morning and got a fax confirmation. We'll do the 5 Star Snorkel in St Thomas and the Rainforest Tour in San Juan.

I also asked whether a cabin had been assigned - we booked a Cat. 10 GTY - never had a GTY before. Right now they have us in 2647 - not an upgrade and at the far aft of deck 2. Not sure how I feel about that... Maybe it'll change again before we sail.

After 5 previous cruises in mid-ship cabins, this one makes me nervous. Plus it's listed on Dave's site as a noisy cabin.

The Meet after the safety drill sounds OK with us.

Linda

[Shygirl]

I know this may be a dumb question. How do I reserver our excursions? I have been to the disney site over the past few days and I can't even look at our reservation. I had to call in our last payment yesterday. I hope it posted.

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

:wave: Hello to all you San Juan Sojourners. I have been reading and enjoying these boards for awhile now and feel as if I already know everyone. I've been alittle shy about posting since everyone seems to know each other so well and I've never done this before, but after reading how some people have gotten nervous about posting and about going to the Dis meet I felt like I wasn't alone. This is our second Disney cruise, first one was last October-Magic-Western, and it was the best vacation our family ever had.
Going again will be:

Myself-Debbie
DH-Steve
DD-Breanne-9
DS-Sean-almost 7
My brother-in-law-Mark
My Mom-Sarah
My Dad-John
And joining us for their first ever cruise, our friends
Stacey
George
Daughter-Sydney-9
Son-Jordon-7

And now that I've finally posted, can't wait to start talking with everyone!

[Shygirl]

Welcome Disney/Cheer Mom

I felt the same way as you did. I read these boards for months before I posted. I was welcome with Great Big open arms. It feels so nice, that we will know several people on board.

[Credit Man]

Welcome aboard, Disney/Cheer Mom. It would seem that we are almost neighbors as we live in Freehold and Our DD's are the same age.
Glad you finally posted!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Shygirl
I know this may be a dumb question. How do I reserver our excursions? I have been to the disney site over the past few days and I can't even look at our reservation. I had to call in our last payment yesterday. I hope it posted.


HI Cher,

You can reserve excurions by calling 1-877-566-0968 or you can fax in your request at 1-407-566-7031.

Andy

[Verandah Man]

Welcome Aboard nervous newcomer, Disney/Cheer Mom, we don't bite, honest!!! Glad you decided to join in on the fun!!!

Have you checked out my website at verandahman.com? We have a cruise list and photo gallery on there for the 8-21-04 cruise, just look down the left hand column on my homepage and click on 8-21-04 Cruise List

[Reignman]

Welcome aboard. Just got our CC banana boat reservations. Looks like I will be getting a new pair of glasses when I get home, right Andy.

DisMeet after the fire drill is fine by us.

Sean:jester:

[denise5374]

Welcome Disney/Cheer Mom. Glad you finally posted! I think everybody is a little nervous about this at first but pretty soon everybody feels like old freinds.

We are almost neighbors Ilive just across the river in PA! :wave:

My DD is 11 and my DS is 7 (turns 8 8/29).

Does your daughter do cheerleading?

Good to meet you!!:teeth:

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Reignman
Welcome aboard. Just got our CC banana boat reservations. Looks like I will be getting a new pair of glasses when I get home, right Andy.

DisMeet after the fire drill is fine by us.

Sean:jester:


If you did what I did last year, yep, you'll be getting a new pair of glasses!!! :laughing:

I wasn't too upset about losing mine, I needed a new pair of glasses anyhow, I just didn't enjoy walking in to the Ladies Room at the MCO airport on the way home after the cruise. :laughing:

[denise5374]

Andy,
Too bad you couldn't see anything going on in there anyway!!:laughing: Hope you didn't have to drive home:earseek:

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

:lovestruc Wow, I can feel the love already! Thanks for all the welcomes in such a short time.

Credit Man - We are in Freehold aslmost every day as my daughter cheers there. I'm sure we passed eachother in the mall.
Small world.

Verandah Man - I've only checked out your web site a million times. Love looking at the pictures. I'll be forwarding our family picture shortly.

denise5374 - My family lives in Pa. and were there quite a bit. And yes my daughter cheers 24/7. She cheers for World Cup Allstars and we do alot of traveling with this. Does your daughter cheer? :cheer2:

Thanks again for the warm welcome!

[denise5374]

Yes she cheers for the local Pop Warner football league. She has been for 5 years now...she loves it. They do a little competing, last year her squad won the Buxmont District championships, went onto NJ for the regional qualifier, they came in 5th (the top 4 get to move on). Fortunatley she only cheers in the fall, in the spring we get to enjoy softball, her season is still going as she is on the Tournament (all star) team which goes until mid-August....

I am not familair with the World Cup Allstars....is it year round? Just competition?

[Maleficent59]

I just didn't enjoy walking in to the Ladies Room at the MCO airport on the way home after the cruise.
But think about the entertainment you provided to your family and your 50,000 DIS friends!! :rotfl: :laughing: :rotfl:

Disney/Cheer Mom: welcome.

So, DIS meet after the emergency drill Saturday afternoon. How about a quick photo op formal night between first and second dining? That was one of the best photos from our cruise last year!

[Disneycrazymom]

Welcome Disney/Cheer Mom! We will have quite a fun group for our trip. Glad you are joining us! Where are we meeting on Sat? We will be happy to join in after the life boat drill! It will be fun to put faces with names!:D

[Marcotta]

We're game for the Dis meet after the drill - and this time I'm actually looking forward to it.

To agree with Sarah: yes, the formal night photo op was one of the best pics from last year's cruise - we should definitely plan it this time (at least we talk about it now so noone will miss out - last year it was spur of the moment so some of the group didn't get a chance to participate!)

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Disneycrazymom
Welcome Disney/Cheer Mom! We will have quite a fun group for our trip. Glad you are joining us! Where are we meeting on Sat? We will be happy to join in after the life boat drill! It will be fun to put faces with names!:D


Just look for the :crazy: DIS group in the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3 midship after the safety drill!!!

[Verandah Man]

I like the idea about the DIS group photo, that would be on Sunday night. Where did you meet to have your photo taken? Was is taken by one of the ship's photographer's? Sounds like a nice keepsake from the crusie!!!

[disney3144]

The DIS meet sounds good to us. Count us in. :hyper:
We booked our excursion this morning. We are scheduled for the 5 star St John Excursion. Can't wait.

Jennifer

[Colestat]

Welcome Disney/Cheer Mom. We are in NJ too. I am in Northern NJ.

DuncanLL and disney3144 - I also booked the 5 star excursion this morning. I also booked the longer Rainforest excursion. I am looking forward to them.

The Formal photo sounds like a great idea. Let us know where to meet.

[Shygirl]

Andy thanks for the info. When I called this morning to make sure they got my payment i booked the 5 star for all of us. I can't wait. :smooth:

Well if feels great to have that all taken care of.

:teeth:

[Colestat]

Hi,
I recommend that everyone check their reservations with Disney. I just checked mine (the system was finally up) and it showed that I owed an additional $254. I have been paid in full for a couple weeks. I immediately called and asked. She was not sure, she put me on hold for about 5 minutes. She came back and thanked me for calling. Apparently they have a new system (that is why the website had been down), and for some reason the new system added my shipboard credit to the amount I owe.

Everyone with shipboard credits, check your reservations and make sure that didn't happen to you.

[goingbacksoon]

Count us in for the 5-star in St. John and the "longer" rainforest excursion (the one labeled as a nature walk). Had a nice wakeup EARLY this morning for that, but it was all worth it.

A DIS photo op on formal night, and the DISmeet sound awesome. Hopefully we won't be too shy for everyone. Shelby and I will be the short couple with Andy's t-shirts on for the meet, lol.

Alan

[Marcotta]

Originally posted by Verandah Man
I like the idea about the DIS group photo, that would be on Sunday night. Where did you meet to have your photo taken? Was is taken by one of the ship's photographer's? Sounds like a nice keepsake from the crusie!!!


We did it at the same place we held the Dis meet - at the Promenade Lounge inbetween dinners. We had some significant others (I think Sarah's DMIL was one of them) who took the photos with EVERYBODY'S camera's...ha ha! Poor lady, can't even remember how many photos she took. It's one of my favorite photos from the cruise - all our new friends in their "Sunday Best."

Looks like the 5 Star Excursion is turning out to be the one not to miss

[Disneycrazymom]

Is the 5 star one that a 4 year old can go on? I did not get a list of the excursions for St. Thomas. I would like one that had some type of snorkle tour for DS and either swim or beach time for my DD. Thanks!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Disneycrazymom
Is the 5 star one that a 4 year old can go on? I did not get a list of the excursions for St. Thomas. I would like one that had some type of snorkle tour for DS and either swim or beach time for my DD. Thanks!


I copied this from the DCL website:

St. Thomas/St. John Shore Excursions

You can choose from a variety of shore excursions* in St. Thomas and St. John to add to your Disney Cruise Line® vacation fun! All shore excursions are operated by independent companies and can be reserved in advance of your cruise.



St. John Trunk Bay Beach and Snorkel Tour (5 hours)

Your scenic journey via land and sea takes you to the natural splendor of Trunk Bay. Once there, you'll have approximately 1½ hours to swim, snorkel (equipment provided) or simply relax.

Adult Price: $42 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $30 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 7:40 am


St. John Island Tour (5 hours)

The unspoiled beauty of St. John is yours to enjoy after a scenic boat ride from St. Thomas. Then, your open safari tour bus will stop at Annaberg Ruins. Breathtaking views of neighboring islands provide picture-perfect photo opportunities.

Adult Price: $39 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $29
Departure Time: 7:40 am


St. John Eco Hike (5.5 hours)

Cruise via ferry from St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, where you'll have 90 minutes to enjoy a guided 1.2-mile hike. While venturing through the lush forest, you'll enjoy stops at Lind Point Lookout and Honeymoon Beach, where you'll have time for swimming before continuing your tour to the famous Caneel Bay Plantation. Please wear tennis or hiking shoes.

Adult Price: $59 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $49 (ages 6-9)
Departure Time: 8:10 am


St. Thomas Beach Day (4.5 hours)

This jewel of a journey starts with a scenic ride to Sapphire Beach. Spend time enjoying the laid-back lifestyle of the Caribbean -- swimming and sunning (beach chairs available on a first-come, first-served basis) on a white-sand beach. This relaxing day of sun and fun includes a delicious buffet lunch.

Adult Price: $43 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $32 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 9:15 am


5-Star St. John Snorkel and Beach Adventure (4-4.5 hours)

One of our most popular adventures! After boarding the 115-foot Leylon Sneed, you'll cruise from St. Thomas to Trunk Bay, in St. John. At St. John National Park, you'll enjoy snorkeling (approximately 1 hour; instruction and equipment provided), swimming and sunbathing. After snorkeling, pause to refresh with a rum or fruit punch.

Adult Price: $45 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $32 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 7:40 am


Atlantis Submarine Adventure (2-2.5 hours)

Journey to the bottom of the sea on this unique excursion, where you'll come face-to-fin with various creatures of the deep. Aboard Atlantis XV, the world's newest and most advanced passenger submarine, your narrated journey will take you to depths of up to 90 feet, where you will see colorful exotic fish, sponge gardens and coral formations. Guests must be at least 36 inches tall to participate in this excursion.

Adult Price: $75 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $50 (ages 4-9)
Departure Times: 9:15 am, 10:15 am, 12:00 pm


Champagne Catamaran Sail and Snorkel (6 hours)

Your champagne wishes will be granted as you glide via catamaran from St. Thomas to a palm-fringed beach on St. John. Relax during the 2-hour ride between islands, then once you arrive in Honeymoon Bay, take time to snorkel (equipment provided), swim or beachcomb. A delicious champagne buffet lunch is provided after snorkeling.

Adult Price: $90 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $65 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 9:00 am


Doubloon Sail and Snorkel Tour (3.5 hours)

You'll make memories to treasure forever as you help raise the sails of the Doubloon, a 65-ft classic schooner. Sail to Turtle Cove at Buck Island, where you'll have time to snorkel (equipment provided) and swim along a coral garden. Snacks and beverages are provided.

Adult Price: $42 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $30 (ages 5-9)
Departure Times: 12:15 pm


St. John Barefoot Sail and Snorkel (4-4.5 hours)

This alluring excursion starts with a scenic drive to La Vida Marina, where you'll board the Allure to a palm-fringed beach on St. John. While at the beach, there will be time to sunbathe, swim or snorkel (equipment provided).

Adult Price: $69 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $52 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 7:45 am


Buck Island Sail and Snorkel (3.5-4 hours)

Set sail for adventure as you learn to harness the wind from a knowledgeable 2-person crew on an exclusive 6-person yacht. Drop anchor at Turtle Cove on Buck Island and snorkel among the vibrant coral gardens. Snacks and open bar are provided after snorkeling.

Adult Price: $50 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $45 (ages 5-9)
Departure Times: 8:10 am, 12:15 pm


St. Thomas Island Tour (2.5 hours)

This picture-perfect excursion is conducted via open-air safari bus, giving you an excellent vantage point to take in the natural beauty of the island. Explore St. Peter's Great House, and stop for an exceptional photo opportunity at MountainTop, the highest point on the island.

Adult Price: $33 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $23 (ages 3-9)
Departure Times: 8:00 am, 12:15 pm


Coral World and Island Drive (3.5 hours)

A world of discoveries awaits during this scenic island drive. Enjoy stops at MountainTop and Coral World, one of the most popular attractions in St. Thomas. Here, you can observe marine life without getting wet, pet a shark or touch a starfish at one of the world's few underwater observatories.

Adult Price: $39 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $29 (ages 3-9)
Departure Times: 8:00 am, 12:00 pm


Water Island Bike and Beach Adventure (3.5 hours)

Begin your two-wheeled adventure with a short boat ride to Water Island, then experience the beauty and history of this island as you explore the terrain by mountain bike. This fun-filled excursion also includes a beach stop for some swimming or relaxing after your biking excursion.

Adult Price: $59 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $N/A
Departure Time: 12:15 pm


Kayak Marine Sanctuary Tour (3.5-4 hours)

Explore the mysterious mangroves in this marine sanctuary via 2-person kayaks in the company of a guide who will help you spot points of interest along the way. Enjoy snorkeling or a walk along the beach at Bovini Point before you leisurely kayak around Bovini Bay.

Adult Price: $60 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $N/A
Departure Time: 8:20 am


Golf at Mahogany Run (5-6 hours)

Golf enthusiasts won't want to miss this above-par opportunity. Enjoy a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole, par 70 course totaling 6,022 yards. Designed by George and Tom Fazio, Mahogany Run's spectacular views make it one of the most-photographed courses in the Caribbean. This excursion includes greens fees for 18 holes, a golf cart and transportation. Rental clubs are available at the course for an additional fee.

Adult Price: $135 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $N/A
Departure Time: 8:15 am


Certified Scuba Diving Adventure (4 hours)

Take a dive! Certified divers can explore the waters of St. Thomas during this two-tank dive. A modern, motorized catamaran will serve as your transportation to the first dive site -- a vibrant reef. The first dive, normally to a maximum depth of 60 feet, will be followed by a shallower second dive, generally a shipwreck. Your scuba equipment, professional supervision and transportation are all provided; wet suit not included.

Adult Price: $89 (ages 12 and above)
Child Price: $N/A
Departure Time: 8:00 am


Charlotte Amalie Historical Walking Tour (3.5 hours)

Spectacular shopping and sightseeing! Observe a breathtaking view of Charlotte Amalie from 1,000 feet up before exploring the splendor of the 17th-century Haggensen House or Notman's Manor. Then, enjoy some time to shop in the "Mecca of Caribbean shopping."

Adult Price: $29 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $20 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 8:15 am


Captain Nautica's St. John Snorkeling Expedition (3.5-4 hours)

Climb aboard the captain's speedboat to be whisked away to a pair of incomparable snorkeling sites. Explore colorful coral formations amid abundant aquatic life - you might even spot stingrays, turtles and spotted eagle rays. Light snacks and beverages provided.

Adult Price: $65 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $55 (ages 8-9)
Departure Time: 7:50 am, 12:00 pm


Paradise Point Tramway (1 hour)

Drink in the spectacular vistas while enjoying a frozen libation from a moving room with a view! The scenic Paradise Point Tramway takes you to the top of the point, where you can enjoy the shops, nature trail and cafe - and don't miss the tropical bird shows held twice daily.

Adult Price: $15 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $7.50 (ages 6-12)
Children under 6 are free
Departure Time: At Guest leisure after 9:00 am






* All offered shore excursions are operated by independent companies. Disney Cruise Line acts only as the sales/reservation agent of the excursion operators. All excursions are subject to availability and/or cancellation based on weather, itinerary changes, and attendance. All excursion prices are subject to change without notice. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult on excursions.

[goingbacksoon]

Simple poll:

Men- Who's bringing a tux (or renting)?

(DW's can respond too for their DH's) :)

Alan

[Maleficent59]

Shelby and I will be the short couple with Andy's t-shirts on for the meet
Ooh - I don't know, I think there will lots of petite people. I think Hazel is probably the most petite! Go back and read Andy's post about Hazel and the horse riding story! :D

Don't worry about being shy - we understand. You're a biochem major! :cool2:

DH is bringing a dark suit. Gives him an occasion to bring out those nice suits he used to wear in NYC (and is way too formal for So Cal work casual)!

[Maleficent59]

Here are a couple of photos from our DIS Meet last August. My MIL took most of the group photos for the first meet (bottom) and I co-oerced some poor gentleman who was trying to go to dinner with his family to take most of the photos (with various cameras) on formal night.

I think we should consider another spot for the group photo if we get a large group. They usually have before/after dinner music in the Promenade Lounge and we created a bottleneck in the hallway. Also, the backlighting from the porthole made the original photo dark and it would have been difficult to get a wider shot (if we have more people). Perhaps we can meet in the Palo Lobby area? It's elegant and doesn't usually have lots of foot traffic. Another spot would be the stairs between decks 3 & 4 in the atrium area. If we opt for the atrium, I'm sure we can get an official DCL photographer to take a shot or two in addition to asking passersby to take photos with our cameras. We can have photos shooting either up or down the stairs from either deck (and we can fit everyone on one side). Just a couple of thoughts.

http://home.earthlink.net/~briarrose59/DIS Meet1a.JPG

http://home.earthlink.net/~briarrose59/DIS Meet2a.JPG

[Credit Man]

No tux here. Just a dark suit.

[Verandah Man]

Nice photos Sarah, thanks for posting them.

I hadn't planned on wearing a tux, but I heard from steverog's 4 year old son Thomas, that he wanted a picture taken on "formal night" with Mickey and Mr. Andy, how can I say no to that???

Kids, you gotta love 'em!!! Look at the pic below.

http://www.verandahman.com/thomasmickey.JPG
Thomas (steverog's DS) and Mickey from last year's cruise

[denise5374]

No tux here....I still have to go out a buy my DH a suit. He never wears them and we have the cruise and a wedding this fall so nows the time.

Another poll question, anybody with sons, what are your sons wearing to formal night? My DS doesn't own dress pants and HATES wearing dress shoes but I hate the thought of spending $$ for a suit when we won't wear it again before he grows out of it.

I love the idea of formal night pictures!!

I am getting SOO excited for this!!!!:hyper:

[DuncanLL]

DH will just bring a suit or sport coat. DS has a sport coat and we'll have him wear a tie on the formal night.

We're not too into getting too dressed up, but it is fun to "dress" for dinner. I always have a blast sitting in the atrium on formal night watching the array of outfits go by...

Sounds like the 5 Star in St. John is turning into a bit of a DIS excursion. Sounds fun.

Linda

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

My husband and son will both be in a tux.

My family and I are going to try SNUBA on St. Thomas. Has anyone ever done this? It sounds like alot of fun.

That picture with Mickey & Thomas is soooo cute.

[denise5374]

Disney/cheer mom,

Isn't Bon Jovi from Sayreville??:crazy: Do you know him?? HAHA

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Yes, Bon Jovi is from Sayreville and actually I have meet him and his family a couple times. Very nice people.

:rockband:

Bet you didn't think I would really answer yes to that question.

[denise5374]

OMG!!! I am so jealous!!! I have been "in love" with him since their first album came out! He is such a cutie!!!:lovestruc :laughing: :worship: :love: :rockband:

[Credit Man]

Hey Denise.
We have a pretty famous musician from Freehold too. What about us!

[denise5374]

Mike,

Who would that be??

:confused:

[Credit Man]

The "Boss"!!!

[denise5374]

Is he really from Freehold? I thought he was from...oh never mind I was having a brain dead moment!!

I need a VACATION!!! 58 days and counting.........

Sorry, Mike....didn't mean to iffend "the boss"

New Jersey the hotbed of musical talent!!!:teeth:

[Credit Man]

Yep, he was "Born in the USA"... Freehold, NJ,USA!!!

[Maleficent59]

Another poll question, anybody with sons, what are your sons wearing to formal night? My DS doesn't own dress pants and HATES wearing dress shoes but I hate the thought of spending $$ for a suit when we won't wear it again before he grows out of it.
Have you considered looking at the auctions on ebay for something in your son's size? There's a lot of time (and a lot of auctions) before August. You may be able to find something for much less than retail (like an auction from another mom whose child outgrew their formal wear after one time!).

[DuncanLL]

Ebay is a great site for boys' tuxedos. I considered it for our DS, but he has a suit that fits right now. Some on Ebay were going as low as $10.

Here's an Ebay Store that handles a lot of them:
Payless Kids Ebay Store (http://stores.ebay.com/kidspayless_W0QQsspagenameZl2QQtZkm)

Linda

[disney3144]

No tux for DH. He will be bringing a dark suit & a lighter suit. With Disney ties of course. :p

For our boys last summer, they just wore Chino pants, a shirt with a collar, & sneakers. They looked very nice.

Jennifer

[Credit Man]

This is a little off topic:D . I just came back from the Post Office and picked up the new Disney stamps. They are very cool.

[yayasi]

Just booked Parasailing on CC for DD8 and myself.



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

Anyone else parasailig on CC?

[Credit Man]

Well, cross off another week, everyone, Down to 8 weeks to go.:Pinkbounc :bounce: Have a great weekend, all!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
Well, cross off another week, everyone, Down to 8 weeks to go.:Pinkbounc :bounce: Have a great weekend, all!


8 weeks until the cruise, 7 weeks until my vacation starts!!!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :jumping1: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[Shygirl]

:p :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :earseek: ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo

We can't wait

[Gayle17]

My sister and daugher are considering the parasailing
I am too chicken to do it.

Gayle

[Colestat]

Originally posted by Verandah Man
8 weeks until the cruise, 7 weeks until my vacation starts!!!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :jumping1: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:


ME TOO!!!

[Colestat]

I just got my excursion info in the mail from Disney today. The 5 Star excursion is 4-4.5 hours long with only 45-60 minutes for snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, etc. 45-60 minutes doesn't seem worth it to me. Is St. John that far away from St. Thomas that we will need to spend over 3 hours of our excursion on the boat?

I am starting to lean towards just taking a cab to a beach on St. Thomas. My boys would like 3 hours on a beach more than a boat.

Has anyone been on the 5 Star? Is it worth it? I really wanted to see Trunk Bay, but I am very leary of going there on my own (cab, ferry, cab).

Sorry for rambling. Can anyone give me advice? I may post this the general cruise board also.
Sue

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Colestat
I just got my excursion info in the mail from Disney today. The 5 Star excursion is 4-4.5 hours long with only 45-60 minutes for snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, etc. 45-60 minutes doesn't seem worth it to me. Is St. John that far away from St. Thomas that we will need to spend over 3 hours of our excursion on the boat?

I am starting to lean towards just taking a cab to a beach on St. Thomas. My boys would like 3 hours on a beach more than a boat.

Has anyone been on the 5 Star? Is it worth it? I really wanted to see Trunk Bay, but I am very leary of going there on my own (cab, ferry, cab).

Sorry for rambling. Can anyone give me advice? I may post this the general cruise board also.
Sue



Lucky you, nothing from Disney here. :(

[Colestat]

Originally posted by Verandah Man
Lucky you, nothing from Disney here. :(

Hi Andy,
It was just the glossy brochure and price list. With the reminder to book early (60 days out). I think I should have had this info a week ago.

I don't yet have my confirmation of my excursion selections.

Sue

[Maleficent59]

It's very easy to arrange for your own transportation around St Thomas. I don't think we've ever taken a DCL excursion there. On our first trip, we talked to a few cab drivers and negotiated for one to take us on a guided tour of St Thomas. It was nice not to have a set schedule and tour. We spent a couple of hours touring the island and stopped at places that we wanted to spend extra time visiting.

Okay, I have a request. For those who have DD or DS between 8 and 10 who are interested in an email buddy, please send me a PM or email. My DD (8 - but usually hangs out with a slightly older group) :rolleyes: just expressed an interest in meeting some friends on-line (preferably ones who will go to Oceaneer's Club; maybe this time she will spend some time in the Club!). THANKS!!

-Sarah

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Colestat
Hi Andy,
It was just the glossy brochure and price list. With the reminder to book early (60 days out). I think I should have had this info a week ago.

I don't yet have my confirmation of my excursion selections.

Sue


I'd say the booklet was a little bit late, but hey, better late than never!!! LOL!!!

[Maleficent59]

Yo Andy! Did you just hit the submit key right after I hit mine?!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Maleficent59
Yo Andy! Did you just hit the submit key right after I hit mine?!

Sure looks that way, LOL!!!

[DuncanLL]

Colestat -

We've taken the 5 Star twice before. If you look at the other snorkeling excursions to St. John, none really seem to give you more than an hour to snorkle. Remember, too, that included in the 4 hours is the check-in on the ship at the meeting point, group exit off the ship and walk down the per to the Leyland Sneed.

We've enjoyed the 5 Star. We visited St. John years ago and fell in love with Trunk Bay. On this excursion, the boat anchors right off the beach. You can either jump off the back of the boat ala Jacque Cousteau, get in the water down a ladder or they run rubber dinghies to the beach and you can snorkle from there.

Our kids were 6 & 9 last time we did it and it was PLENTY of time in the water. The 6 year old even spent some time on the beach. He was tuckered out...

You can shower off on the boat when you finish. The boat ride was nice, open and airy and the crew gave a little tour of the sites as we went along.

Hope that helps. You could probably spend more time at Trunk Bay if you id it on your own, but I'm paranoid about making all the connections and ferries...

Linda

[goingbacksoon]

I know Sue hasn't got her excursion confirmations yet and neither have we, just curious if anyone has?

Didn't have the eFax handy, else I would have had the CM fax me confirmation. Too early to think straight!

Have a good weekend everyone!

Alan

[Gayle17]

My travel agent sent me a copy of my excursion confirmation.

I also got a postcard from Mickey via the Disney Cruise LIne today.

Gayle

[goingbacksoon]

So I just got the confirmation in the mail. It probably came as I was typing the other response.

[Colestat]

Still nothing here.
Sue

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Colestat
Still nothing here.
Sue


Nothing here either Sue. :(

[Shygirl]

Friday I got the excursion book and today we got the post card. So cute.

Andy,
Could you please send a post card to my step son Michael? He would love it. Both the boys read the post card today and was so excited.

Thanks

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Shygirl
Friday I got the excursion book and today we got the post card. So cute.

Andy,
Could you please send a post card to my step son Michael? He would love it. Both the boys read the post card today and was so excited.

Thanks


Any special Disney character Michael might enjoy getting a postcard from?

[lalapodip]

We received a postcard from Mickey this week! :) I just can't believe how close we are to cruising! Andy - I need to send you a PM to update our mailing address as well as our cruisers! Happy Sunday everyone!

[Credit Man]

We got the postcard on Sat. Thanks MaInCdkyE!Y!!!
Still no offical excursion info from DCL.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
We got the postcard on Sat. Thanks MaInCdkyE!Y!!!
Still no offical excursion info from DCL.

Kind of clever there Mike, LOL!!!

[denise5374]

We also got a postcard from Mickey on Saturday! Thanks!!

Also, no official excursion info here either!
:(

We still haven't decided what to do on San Juan, if anything....

[Disneycrazymom]

We got a post card too. Was it from you Andy, or is this something DCL does? It is so cute!!!!! I also have not received my official info about shore excursions. Thanks to Andy I have a list so we can decide. I am glad the cruise is close but summer is moving WAY too fast! Happy 4th to everyone!:D

[Verandah Man]

All DCL postcards are sent from Mickey!!!

We got our excursion confirmation letter in the mail today.

[Colestat]

Originally posted by Verandah Man

We got our excursion confirmation letter in the mail today.


We got ours today also. Still undecided whether we will stay with the 5 Star. I am now thinking about changing to Captain Nautica's - it stops at 2 separate snorkeling sites (twice the water time that the 5 Star has)

Has anyone ever done the Captain Nautica's excursion? If so, how was it?

[Maleficent59]

All DCL postcards are sent from Mickey!!! :wizard: Yes, it's magic! :wizard:

Shygirl: I got your PM and email. Sorry for not responding sooner.

I'm totally swamped at work. Still here in fact - just waiting for the dbase to run a report so I can go home and work with the report!! Just 10 more days of this madness and I can take a day off and catch up on sleep! Then I'll figure out the rest of the vacation plans (hope it's not too late then)!

[Disneycrazymom]

Well whoever it was from;) my DD is sleeping with it next to her on her pillow! She was very excited.::yes:: :teeth:
Thanks, Angie

[Shygirl]

I spoke with DH and we desided to stick with the 5 star. Yes it is less time than the other one, but I've read that trunk bay is the best in the world. We'd rather have the best of 1 hour than 2 hours of minamal snorkeling. :sunny:

[yayasi]

My sister-in-law and I received post card yesterday. Thanks our kids are really excited.

:thewave: :jumping1: :thewave:

[Marcotta]

We got our postcard yesterday as well from Mickey -

What a great surprise!! (I'll have to update him with our correct zip code).

Hope he (ahem, Mickey and family) has a WONDERFUL 4th of July weekend too!! What a big heart he has ;)

[goingbacksoon]

Got our postcard yesterday too.

Thanks Mick-*cough*(andy)-ey. *cough cough* Sorry, had to clear my throat there.

Alan

[Reignman]

Thanks, got our postcard as well.

It is practically July which means next month we set sail.

Sean:jester::bounce:

[ifotobonz]

Hi!

I'm new. Myself, DH, DD(9) & DS(5) will be on the 8/21/04
cruise. This is our second disney cruise and very excited.
I have been reading the boards for some time now and learning so much more than I knew last time my family cruised. Thank you guys so much.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by ifotobonz
Hi!

I'm new. Myself, DH, DD(9) & DS(5) will be on the 8/21/04
cruise. This is our second disney cruise and very excited.
I have been reading the boards for some time now and learning so much more than I knew last time my family cruised. Thank you guys so much.


Welcome Aboard Mates!!! If you would like to see who some of your fellow DIS'ers will be, take a look at my web page www.verandahman.com and look down the left hand column. click on the link for the 8-21-04 Cruise List.

If you would like to be added just send your info to: apwalters55@comcast.net and I will take care of that for you.

[Verandah Man]

Now that it is "officially" July, we can say, "WE cruise next month!!!" I love the sound of that!!!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :jumping1: :cool1: :jumping4: :jumping2: :cheer2: :thewave: :rockband: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[Credit Man]

Welcome aboard, ifotobonz! Glad you will be sailing with us.

We will see you all, NEXT month.:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[denise5374]

Welcome ifotobonz! Glad you are joining us!!!

See everybody next month!:jumping1:

[Shygirl]

Welcome ifotobonz. Glad you could join us.

:tongue: Yeah it is almost time.


Happy 4th to everyone

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Andy,

Thanks for the welcome card from the Walters family.

Could you e-mail the design that was on the front of the card so I could make a magnet out of it?

Thanks again!!


Love, Love, Love, the sound of saying we'll be cruising next month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See everyone soon.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Disney/Cheer Mom
Andy,

Thanks for the welcome card from the Walters family.

Could you e-mail the design that was on the front of the card so I could make a magnet out of it?

Thanks again!!


Love, Love, Love, the sound of saying we'll be cruising next month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See everyone soon.


I tried sending you the photo via the e-mail address I have for you, but the e-mail bounced back to me. I have sent you a few other e-mails, and I get the same thing. Let me know if the photo came through or not.

Andy

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

It did not and I sent you a PM

[goingbacksoon]

Another DISer to add to the 8-21... we're taking over the ship! Welcome ifotobonz!

Anyone have plans for the 4th? Looks like we'll be at a non-Disney park, *gasp* Knott's Berry Farm for some roller-coaster fun. No setting off our own fireworks though, they don't allow that in many places here. Too much dry grass. It used to be fun to set off fireworks on the street and see them leave a nice mark (or hole!) on the asphalt.

Alan

[Verandah Man]

We are spending Sunday afternoon at my brother Chuck's house for a BBQ and pool party.

[Disneycrazymom]

Welcome ifotobonz, glad you are joining us!

We have our local parade starting off on our street on Sunday. It is always fun to just get out of bed and walk out our door and :teeth: TA DA a parade! DH is off now building our school float and DS will be in the parade so we will have a fun 4th.:teeth:

[Credit Man]

Strike off another week. 7 more to go!

We will be at the pool during tthe day, and go to the race track to view the fireworks at night.

Have a great weekend and a wonderful 4th, everyone.

God bless America!!!

[denise5374]

We are having a retirement party for my dad on the 3rd and going to a BBQ on the 5th!

Will probably be packing up my house on the 4th!! We make settlement om 7/30!!!

Happy Birthday, America!!

[Marcotta]

Just checking in to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th!!

[Maleficent59]

Welcome Ifotobonz!

We're off to Disneyland tonight and maybe Sunday morning. Planning to take DD to La Brea Tar Pits tomorrow. We get an awesome view of several fireworks displays from our home so we'll probably be down at the neighbors' - always more fun to enjoy fireworks with friends and family! Happy 4th!

-Sarah

[yayasi]

Hope everyone has a fun and safe 4th of July.

:wave2: :wave: :goodvibes

Maleficent59: Have fun in Disneyland. Where in So Cali Do you live?

Claudia

[jweiss]

WOW....three posts in a row from Californians!!!! Marcotta..... we live in Concord CA too!!! Thought I was the only disney crazed person in these parts!!!! We are getting SOOO excited for the cruise!!!!!!

[Disneycrazymom]

Has anyone looked into a tour in San Juan not sponsered by the ship? I found a good site today and discovered a tour that does the Rainforest and Luquillo Beach. It looks good as we really wanted to do both and DD4 is too young to do the Rainforest with swimming from Disney. Does anyone know how far Luquillo Beach is from the dock? I am thinking about taking a cab? Anyone know the area at all? Thanks

[Gayle17]

Welcome Ifotobonz

Hope everyone enjoys the long weekend. We will just be hanging by the pool all weekend as long as the weather holds up. My husband is working all weekend.

Gayle

[disney3144]

Happy 4th of July everyone!!!!

Jennifer

[Marcotta]

Same to you Jennifer!

...and everyone else!!!!!!!!

[Disneycrazymom]

I just got an E-mail back from Capt. Sharon. Her ship the Winifred is available on our St Thomas day. Unfortunitaly for us it will only take 6 passengers and we are a group of 7. But if someone else is interested it I'll post her address. We have taken a charter out before on the island and it is a wonderful way to spend the day. :teeth:

[jweiss]

1. Is there a 12 step group for DIS Board addicts???
2. Is anyone else cruising 8/21/04 with young children???
3. Has anyone ever stayed on the ship for the whole week, not embarking at any of the ports?? What is it like to stay on board during port days????

Thanks!!!

[Mary Anne]

Parden me for stepping in here but you're all leaving the week-before me and I've been lurking every once in awhile to get ideas of what you are all doing and get some ideas. As it gets closer I'll be watching to see when you all start to receive your tickets, as I know mind will be only a few days down the road.

Has anyone ever stayed on the ship for the whole week, not embarking at any of the ports?? What is it like to stay on board during port days????

For what it is worth, my family has no intention of getting off the ship much. We never do on any of the cruises we've been on. (About 8 in all - this is the 2nd time on Disney) We're there to enjoy the cruise and the ship not run around on shore. Nothing wrong with that but just not our cup of tea.

We love port days when everyone gets OFF the boat. The pools are empty, we can lounge around on deck, enjoy the peace and quite and watch you all come back hot, hungry and tired from your shore excersions :lol while we're sitting there with a cold drink relaxing.

The sea days are really busy days on board ship; there is a lot going on and a lot of people doing it. Shore days, are a real vacation!

Hope you all have a great cruise.

[Credit Man]

Hi, Mary Anne! Thanks for visiting. We will try to keep the ship in good shape for you. Have a wonderful trip.

[Credit Man]

Not much action around here lately. Since we don't have our countdowns right now, 44 days to go!

[denise5374]

It still seems really far away! Not to wish my summer away but I can't wait for 8/21 to get here!!!

Hope everyone had a great Fourth of July weekend!!!

[Maleficent59]

FYI: Southwest is having their system-wide sale right now. Fares to Orlando are CHEAP! For example, RT from Philadelphia is $49 each way and RT from CA is $99 each way.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
Not much action around here lately. Since we don't have our countdowns right now, 44 days to go!



Yea, but only "37 days to go" until my vacation starts!!!!!!!!!

[jennyl772003]

jweiss,

1- This is the 12 step program!

2- How young is young? My son will be just turned 7 when we cruise. How young are yours? (I'm assuming you have some)

3-When we went last year, we excursioned at every port, except CC since we had the wedding, but this year we are really looking forward to staying on the ship. Except for maybe a brief shopping trip.

[jweiss]

So, I need to 12 step from my 12 step???????
Just get me on the ship and I'll be fine!!!!!!!!!

I meant young, as in my baby will be 6 months in August!!! I will also have my 13 yo daughter and my 12 yo neice with me. Maybe I'll have the only BABY onboard and will be able to book Flounders whenever I want......as in, run into San Juan to shop for a few hours. That would be very cool!!! (I really don't want to take the baby off the boat much, if at all, so it will be my first time not going on excursions.......)

[jweiss]

My signature is gone...... where did it go???? I tried to add a countdown (for the 2nd time) the other night, and I guess I erased everything.....

~Jennifer

[yayasi]

I guess my DS 22months will be joining your baby in Flounder. I guess they will be all alone.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by jweiss
My signature is gone...... where did it go???? I tried to add a countdown (for the 2nd time) the other night, and I guess I erased everything.....

~Jennifer


Don't be too alarmed, everyone's signature is missing. This feature has been turned off for about 48 hours (or so).

[jweiss]

Thanks Andy. I feel MUCh better now. I am quite computer illiterate and would never be able to create another one!!!

[Credit Man]

Good morning, all! Scratch off another week, 6 more to go!!
What does everyone have planned for the weekend? We are having an early birthday party for our DD Kristin at the pool tomorrow. Kristin turns 10 during our cruise. Sunday is a golf tournament followed by some family time.
Have a great weekend everyone!!

Mike

[Verandah Man]

As I was arriving home yesterday afternoon, I saw our mailman placing a rather large box near our front door. I know that DW or I had not ordered anything lately that would require such a large box, so I was very courious to see such a box. As I was picking the box up, I noticed a DisneyStore.com address label. I got in the house and opened the box, and to my amazement I found a Mickey 21" carry-on piece of luggage. Upon looking at the packing slip, I found the name of my benefactor, who just happens to be cruising with us on the 8-21-04 and 8-20-05 cruises. To say I was touched is an understatment, THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! I have attached a photo below of my very "SPECIAL" gift.

http://www.verandahman.com/Mickey%20luggage.jpg

[denise5374]

Good Morning!!
The weekend here is busy....my inlaws are coming in from out of town tomorrow and on Sunday we have my Dad's side family reunion.....Should be a good weekend!

Say Happy Birthday to Kristin from us! Enjoy!!!:bday:

[denise5374]

Andy and I were posting at the samw time...That is great piece of luggage!!

Can't wait to see it!

[Credit Man]

WOW, Andy! What a wonderful surprise. Just another example of "Pay it Forward'. Nice things happen to nice people.

[Shygirl]

Andy Very cool lugage. I wish i had it.

For the weekend we are going camping in our new blazer that we just got last night. We are going to eastern washington with no rain and lots of warm sun

DH has been wanting a blazer for years and finally got it.

Have a great weekend all. :smooth:

:sunny:

[Credit Man]

Shygirl, congratulations on the new SUV. May you have many miles of fun, and joy.

[Reignman]

Andy: Cool Bag, bet you are all ready to put it to use.

Shy Girl: I may see you in your new SUV, we live in Renton and I work in Tacoma.

Looks like another cloudy weekend for us. I am Loooooonging for the warmth of the Magic.

:sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[Maleficent59]

VM: Who said anything about being a good boy?! (see other thread) :rolleyes: Lucky you - that bag is completely sold out now (and it's cute too!) ::yes::

I'm taking a few hours off work. Made my final deadline with 2-1/2 hours to spare (considering I've been working steadily including weekends - and not procrastinating - on this for the past month, 2-1/2 hours before the deadline?!). UGH! But a big hurray - now I can start planning for the cruise!!! :Pinkbounc

[Verandah Man]

O.K., I'm waiting to see who the first person is going to be to announce that they have received their docs. Please let us know!!!
:wave2:

[Colestat]

Originally posted by Verandah Man
O.K., I'm waiting to see who the first person is going to be to announce that they have received their docs. Please let us know!!!
:wave2:

Based on when I received the excursion information, I doubt it will be me.

[goingbacksoon]

Just checking in with everyone, seeing how everyone's doing.

Nice luggage Andy! It'll be even easier to see you and Hazel at the terminal now, hehe. By the way, what excursion are you on in St. Thomas, if any?

Nice blazer shygirl, hopefully your hubby will be excited to have it now!

Been busy here, although I think Sarah takes the super-ultra-busy award. Back to TAing until a couple weeks before the cruise, new students for this session.

Alan

[jweiss]

When do docs usually arrive?? I called DCL yesterday and was told it was 10-14 days before the cruise. I don't remember it being that late in the past.... I booked onboard last year, so I had a specifiic room. (No BIG deal, as it is only a Cat 9 and not a room I knew anything much about.) I called yesterday becasue I noticed that the cabin # was not on my confirmation. they said that when I added the baby I went from a specific cabin # to "guaranteed". Now I am NERVOUS. They still didn't have me assigned. How does this work. I do not want to end up in the engine room

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Credit Man - Hope Kristin has a great party. The weather is suppose to be beautiful this weekend in our area.

Verandah Man - Like Mike said, a great example of "Pay it forward". No one deserves it more than you.

Shygirl - Good luck with the new truck. I myself am a chev girl at heart and can always be seen driving one.

Can someone let me know how I go about making reservations for Castaway Cay? Can I do it on line?

[goingbacksoon]

Jweiss -

I don't know if this has to do with anything, but I know with the computer upgrade, a lot of people who had assigned cabins were switched to GTY in the system (but their original cabin assignment will remain). This is what our TA told us, and true enough, we still have our same cabin even though our excursion confirmation said GTY on it.

Although since you added a baby (why it would matter, not sure) maybe they did switch it up for real....

Alan

[Verandah Man]

Can someone let me know how I go about making reservations for Castaway Cay? Can I do it on line?


Hi Debbie,

For excursions on Castaway Cay you can either call DCL at 1-877-566-0968 or can fax your request to 407-566-7031.

Also, your t-shirts will be going out in the mail this morning.



Hi Alan,

We have not selected any excursions for San Juan or St. Thomas, just might do a little sight seeing on our own this trip. DD and I will be doing the BBR on CC at 2:30. And no, I won't be wearing my glasses on the BBR this time, LOL!!!



When do docs usually arrive??

Last year our docs arrived three weeks before the cruise, but I know some on our cruise had received their before we received ours. Six weeks from today we sail away!!!

[Verandah Man]

I received a request from Disney/Cheer Mom for a "larger version" of the magnetic door sign that I had made and mailed out to those that I had addresses for. The larger version would measure 8.5" X 11" I have 18 sheets of magnetic paper here and would be more than happy to print some off for anyone that would be interested. All I ask is that my expenses be covered for printing and mailing them. If you are interested please let me know. We sail away in six weeks, but "my" vacation starts in five weeks!!!

:hyper: :hyper: :hyper:

I am attaching a copy of the magnetic door sign below.

http://www.verandahman.com/San%20Juan%20Sojourners%20door%20magnet.jpg

[dannyb]

Hi, everybody. I'll be logging on more frequently now that we are getting close to the trip. I'm also starting to make plans for things to do while we're ashore.

As I think I've written here before, I am not a big believer in cruise line arranged excursions. It is our experience that privately arranged trips can be more spontaneous, more fun, and much less expensive.

We've decided that, while in St. Thomas, we are going to charter a catamaran to St. Johns, do some snorkeling, some beach time, and return in time to do some shopping. There are 8 in our group, and I am sure that we'll be able to include quite a few others. Who else would like to come? Please PM me if you are interested so that I have an idea how big a boat to charter, and then I will contact you in the next few weeks to let you know how the approximate cost.

While in SJ, we have booked a private tour with a guide who has his own van. We'll be doing a walking tour, El Yanque, and if time allows, the Bacardi factory. Unfortunately, I do not believe that we are going to have room for anyone else on that trip, but if anyone else is interested in arranging something similar, I did get the name of someone who can arrange something quite similar. He is Javier Lomba. He has a 12 passenger van w/ AC. His father-in-law has a 22 passenger a/c van. I read that he charges $20/pp - - you can see how much money can be saved contracting directly with smaller vendors. His e-mail address is jjesjav@aol.com I cannot vouch for him, as I never used him or spoke w/ anyone who has. I got his contact info from the www.cruisecritic.com site.

For those considering the DVC charter to El Yanque, I would suggest that you reconsider. Linda and I took a Celebrity cruise last March that started and ended in San Juan. We had quite a bit of time after disembarking before our flight out, so we broke tradition and took the cruise line excrusion to El Yanque, because it ended at the airport. What a mistake! We were in a very large motor coach (there were actually several coaches for this excursion). DVC probably uses the same vendor. The guide droned on and on non-stop for the entire hour ride out there about Puerto Rico having the largest K-Mart in the world and similar trivia. When we finally got there, we were given only very limited time to explore this beautiful park. There were many interesting places we would have liked to have stopped, but it just wasn't an option. I would highly suggest that you arrange something on your own, or even hire a cab if you can't set something up in advance. Just be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get back to the ship, because the only advantage to taking a ship-arranged excrusion is that, if something goes wrong, they won't leave without you.

Looking forward to chatting more w/ you in the next 6 weeks and meeting all of you in August.

Dan

[dannyb]

Hi, everybody. I'll be logging on more frequently now that we are getting close to the trip. I'm also starting to make plans for things to do while we're ashore.

As I think I've written here before, I am not a big believer in cruise line arranged excursions. It is our experience that privately arranged trips can be more spontaneous, more fun, and much less expensive.

We've decided that, while in St. Thomas, we are going to charter a catamaran to St. Johns, do some snorkeling, some beach time, and return in time to do some shopping. There are 8 in our group, and I am sure that we'll be able to include quite a few others. Who else would like to come? Please PM me if you are interested so that I have an idea how big a boat to charter, and then I will contact you in the next few weeks to let you know how the approximate cost.

While in SJ, we have booked a private tour with a guide who has his own van. We'll be doing a walking tour, El Yanque, and if time allows, the Bacardi factory. Unfortunately, I do not believe that we are going to have room for anyone else on that trip, but if anyone else is interested in arranging something similar, I did get the name of someone who can arrange something quite similar. He is Javier Lomba. He has a 12 passenger van w/ AC. His father-in-law has a 22 passenger a/c van. I read that he charges $20/pp - - you can see how much money can be saved contracting directly with smaller vendors. His e-mail address is jjesjav@aol.com I cannot vouch for him, as I never used him or spoke w/ anyone who has. I got his contact info from the www.cruisecritic.com site.

For those considering the DVC charter to El Yanque, I would suggest that you reconsider. Linda and I took a Celebrity cruise last March that started and ended in San Juan. We had quite a bit of time after disembarking before our flight out, so we broke tradition and took the cruise line excrusion to El Yanque, because it ended at the airport. What a mistake! We were in a very large motor coach (there were actually several coaches for this excursion). DVC probably uses the same vendor. The guide droned on and on non-stop for the entire hour ride out there about Puerto Rico having the largest K-Mart in the world and similar trivia. When we finally got there, we were given only very limited time to explore this beautiful park. There were many interesting places we would have liked to have stopped, but it just wasn't an option. I would highly suggest that you arrange something on your own, or even hire a cab if you can't set something up in advance. Just be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get back to the ship, because the only advantage to taking a ship-arranged excrusion is that, if something goes wrong, they won't leave without you.

Looking forward to chatting more w/ you in the next 6 weeks and meeting all of you in August.

Dan

[Maleficent59]

Just made DD's and my flight and car reservations and will double check the ones and the rental cars for DH (he's coming a couple of days later). One humongous bag is packed! And DD's surprise for the trip arrived (kind of like Andy's surprise, but Pooh)! Five and a half weeks and counting!

I agree with Danny that I prefer to book excursions on my own. I'll ask DD and DH about St Thomas - thanks for the offer Danny! We don't have anything planned for that island (actually - I'm thinking about staying onboard the ship and watching movies!).

DIS meet - after the emergency drill in the Promenade Lounge. Brunch 1: Sunday. Brunch 2: TBD; I will double check the list information in the next week and may be emailing some of you. Formal night photo: where and what time?

Andy: what else are you making?! :) I have the nametags covered. I'm finishing up the logo and will print them out this week.

Am I missing anything?!

Best,
Sarah

[dannyb]

Oh, Sarah - don't stay on the ship in St. Thomas. I think it is easily the most beautiful stop on our itinerary. At the very least, take a taxi to Megan's Bay for a few hours.

Dan

[Maleficent59]

Hi Dan,

I'm not much of a beach person. Considering the fact that I grew up in California (less than a mile from a beach; we used to run on the beach for training) and now live in Southern Cal, it's kind of a shame. I agree than Megan's Bay is beautiful. I'll think about it! :)

-Sarah

[dannyb]

Originally posted by Maleficent59
Hi Dan,

I'm not much of a beach person. Considering the fact that I grew up in California (less than a mile from a beach; we used to run on the beach for training) and now live in Southern Cal, it's kind of a shame. I agree than Megan's Bay is beautiful. I'll think about it! :)

-Sarah

I love the beach bar at Megan's Bay. The local St. Thomas drink is called a Bushwacker and is wonderful - about the only frozen drink that I can handle, because it isn't too sweet. Recipes vary, but most have Bailey's Irish Cream, Kahluha, Amaretto, Grand Marinier, Vodka (or, in some recipes, rum), and lots of ice, w/ ground nutmeg on top!

I've spent quite a bit of time today researching charters. The vast majority of the available sailboats limit you to 6 people. The pricing is higher than the comparable excursions, but (IMHO) it is worth paying the extra for a more intimate group and to be able to go to less crowded places. I'm tracking down a few leads for some larger boats, and I'll let you know.

Dan

[gec117]

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. I was locked out for some reason and it has taken me almost 2 days to get reset. I have only been able to read, not post.




We will be spending the weekend at the pool, well today any way. My little one seems to have developed some stomach trouble today so tomorrow is up in the air.

We booked the El Yunque Disney excursion so I hope it works out. On St. John we are taking the island tour and hope to have time for some shopping after.

I love Andy's suitcase - that was so sweet of whomever sent it.

I am not rushing the time away because once the cruise is over my summer vacation will be and it means back to work a week later.

We just booked a trip to Calif for February break and of course Disneyland is the top destination while we are there. We have never been so I am excited.

Gayle

[Verandah Man]

Hi Gayle,

Glad to see you were able to get back on to post!!!

[Disneycrazymom]

Dan I know that the Winifred is open for our date, at least it was last week. We have 7 in our group and it will only take 6. Also the Nightwind is open for our date. We can not decide what to do in St Thomas. We have a friend who lived there for a couple years and sailed the Happy Days for a local hotel, it was SOOOO FUN to go out for the day and just relax without "paying guests" . We would like to give the kids that kind of experience too but are concerned about how Papa will do on the boat, and he can not be left on board alone. Anyway if you want e-mail address let me know, I still have them.:sunny: (We have tickets to the Cards/ Cubs game tomorrow, if anyone is watching Baseball Sunday night look for us, we'll be the ones in RED!;)

[dannyb]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Disneycrazymom
[B]Dan I know that the Winifred is open for our date, at least it was last week. We have 7 in our group and it will only take 6. Also the Nightwind is open for our date. We can not decide what to do in St Thomas. [QUOTE]

Thank you. I had found the websites for those ships.

The vast majority of the boats will take only 6 - - apparently due to US Coast Guard requirements. Options are further limited, because many of the boats are moved out of the area for hurricane season, which is already officially underway.

I am looking into New Horizons - they have a substantially larger boat and can take 20+.

I really want to get out on the water while in St. Thomas, and w/ a group of 8, it looks like it is going to be either New Horizons or one of the ship excursions.

Dan

[Marcotta]

Originally posted by Colestat
Based on when I received the excursion information, I doubt it will be me.

Glad that you got yours. Still haven't seen a thing here, thank goodness Andy and Sarah sent us the info.....

[02bBarbie]

cute magnetic sign..you do, however, realize you have San Juan spelled wrong, right?

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by 02bBarbie
cute magnetic sign..you do, however, realize you have San Juan spelled wrong, right?


I forgot to delete the old version from my pictures file, when I went to post, I selected the wrong photo. That's why I should always proof read before making a post, LOL!!! Here is the corrected version!!!

http://www.verandahman.com/San%20Juan%20Sojourners%20door%20magnet.jpg

[Shygirl]

Thanks for the coments on our blazer. It is really fun. We just got back from camping. We had a blast.

Andy, thanks for the post card. Michael received it Friday.

I can't beleive that we only have 40 days left.

The only excursion that we booked was the 5 star. We are going to play the rest by ear.

[Credit Man]

Good morning, all! Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Kristin's pool party was a hugh success, as all 8 girls had a wet and wild time.

Andy, I would love a large size door magnet if you still have the material. Just let me know what the damage is.

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Andy - My children recieved their postcards and just LOVED them. My daughter even had me laminate them for safe keeping. Thanks-again.

Mike - Good thing the pool party wasn't today. My daughter has one today at 4:00 and I have a feeling it will be cancelled.

I just made reservations for the banana boat ride on Castaway Cay and was so exceited because I was able to get all 8 of us on the same ride. Still deceiding if DD and myself are going to go para sailing.

In St. Thomas we're doing SNUBA, Coral World, and the Paradise Point Tram.

In San Juan we're going to one of the big hotels and we're going to spend the day relaxing at the pool and beach.

[dannyb]

:bounce: :bounce: SUCCESS! :bounce: :bounce:

I was able to reserve a private charter to St. John for our St. Thomas stop on Tues, Aug 24. This was quite a bit tricker than I had expected, because almost all of the private charters have smaller boats that will accomodate only 6 people. I did find an outfitter (that was recommended by a couple of the other outfitters that I had contacted) that has 2 boats that can handle significantly larger groups. They have two boats, a catamaran that can hold up to 20, and a tri-maran that can hold 25+. The one we would charter will depend upon the number of people who want to come.

We would leave at 9 and return at 4. The cost is $110/pp plus gratuity. Kids under 12 are half-price. The price includes all snorkeling equipment & instruction, a continental breakfast (fruit & banana bread), lunch buffet (lobster salad or Caribbean chicken), snacks, and an open bar. We need bring only towels and sunscreen. :sunny: I'll be paying the same rate for my group - - I'm not getting anything for putting this together. I just thought it would be fun to have our own outing!

We will stay clear of the busier beaches. The first stop will be an uninhabited island.

If we can get 20+ people signed up, then we can have the ship to ourselves. My group of 8 is going. Please contact me to sign up - either send me a PM or e-mail me at dblinn@consumerlawgroup.com If responding by e-mail, request a receipt. I get so much spam that private e-mails are not guaranteed to reach me!

Here is the website for the outfitter: http://www.daydreamervi.com

I hope that some of you can join us. :wave:

Dan, Linda, Lianne (12), Eric (10) Blinn and the Blinn & the Segal grandparents

[denise5374]

Hi all.....

As far as excursions, on St. Thomas we are chartering a small boat (it hold 6 people) from Jester Sailing. It is a 6 hour excursion for sailing snorkeling and eating.

On San Juan, we haven't figured out anything yet.

Mike, I am glad Kristens party was a success!

Andy, I would also like a full size magnet. Let me know how much $$.

I am so excited for this cruise!!:Pinkbounc :bounce:

[denise5374]

Debbie,

What hotel are you picking at San Juan? We are "Beach People" and that sounds like a great way to spend the day. If you don't mind sharing the info....

Denise

[dannyb]

Originally posted by denise5374
Hi all.....

As far as excursions, on St. Thomas we are chartering a small boat (it hold 6 people) from Jester Sailing. It is a 6 hour excursion for sailing snorkeling and eating.

I am so excited for this cruise!!:Pinkbounc :bounce:

Jester is one of the outfitters that recommended the one that I am using for the larger party. Have a great time!

Dan

[denise5374]

Jester was recommended to me by another DISer "Grumbo". I called Jester the Captain there has been great so far

Have a great time wioth your sail! The water at St. Thomas/St. John looks amazing!!!

[Maleficent59]

Hi Dan!

Sign my husband up! I just told him that I signed him up (so he wouldn't have a chance to back out of it). :teeth: I'll have to ask DD is she wants to go.

I had a migraine yesterday and it's lingering today so I'm not up for thinking about new adventures today.

Thanks so much for organizing this! Best,
Sarah

[ifotobonz]

I have just received our cruise documents from UPS this evening for our 8/21/04 cruise. So excited...
How do I go about getting someone to send my children disney cruise postcards?

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by ifotobonz
I have just received our cruise documents from UPS this evening for our 8/21/04 cruise. So excited...
How do I go about getting someone to send my children disney cruise postcards?


Congrats!!! It appears you are the first to receive their docs for our 8-21-04 cruise.

If you send me a PM with the children's names and mailing address, also who their favorite Disney characters are, I will get DCL postcards in the mail.

[jweiss]

Any feedback on beaches at San Juan?? Someone mentioned going to one of the large hotels and spending time at the pool and beach...... Were you refering to the excursion that does this, or is there a hotel you can go to on your own and not get kicked out!?!?!?!? I am still considering that excursion, but it is VERY expensive!!!
Also....Is it too late to order San Juan Sojourners T-Shirts????? Thanks!!!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by jweiss
Any feedback on beaches at San Juan?? Someone mentioned going to one of the large hotels and spending time at the pool and beach...... Were you refering to the excursion that does this, or is there a hotel you can go to on your own and not get kicked out!?!?!?!? I am still considering that excursion, but it is VERY expensive!!!
Also....Is it too late to order San Juan Sojourners T-Shirts????? Thanks!!!


Jennifer,

I still have time to whip up a few t-shirts, send me a PM or e-mail, with the sizes you need. I get mt shirts from A.C. Moore, they reange in size from children's Small (6-8), Med (10-12), Large (14-16), up through adult XXXL.

One month from today my family will be headed to Florida!!! Yipee!!!

[dannyb]

Originally posted by jweiss
Any feedback on beaches at San Juan?? Someone mentioned going to one of the large hotels and spending time at the pool and beach...... Were you refering to the excursion that does this, or is there a hotel you can go to on your own and not get kicked out!?!?!?!? I am still considering that excursion, but it is VERY expensive!!!
Also....Is it too late to order San Juan Sojourners T-Shirts????? Thanks!!!

Check out www.cruisecritic.com for ideas on hotels that will accomodate day-trippers. Some of them will give rent you a day-room. Check under the Ports of Call section of the boards there.

[disney3144]

Originally posted by ifotobonz
I have just received our cruise documents from UPS this evening for our 8/21/04 cruise. So excited...


Congratulations:hyper: Now that I know they are coming..I'm that much more excited!!:tongue:

Jennifer

[Credit Man]

WOW! Someone got their docs already, how exciting. Congratulations.

[denise5374]

Oh WOW...YOu are the first to get your docs! How Exciting!!:jumping1:

Thanks for the info on Hotels in San Juan. I will check that out.

Hey Andy, do you mind a stowaway???:teeth:

[Shygirl]

Cograts on receiving your doc. We can't wait to receive ours.:bounce:

:earsboy: ::MickeyMo :boat:

[Shygirl]

UPS lady just dropped off our cruise docs

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :tongue: :sunny: :hyper: ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo

[Credit Man]

Great news, Shygirl! I hope ours are'nt far behind.

[denise5374]

OK...now I am jealous!!

Did you book direct with DCL??

[denise5374]

Mike...Were your docs waiting for you at home?? I keep hoping that my DH would call when he got home from work and tell me they were here!!!! But he hasn't so far:(

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Shygirl
UPS lady just dropped off our cruise docs

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :tongue: :sunny: :hyper: ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo


CONGRATS!!!

I don't expect to get my docs until the end of July, that's when we got ours last year(cruising the same week this year). We booked through DVC.

[Shygirl]

We booked through DCL

[ifotobonz]

I also booked through DCL. My FIL and SIL also received their cruise papers the same day that I did. I am still waiting for my excursion info ... :) Anyway, I have already booked all the excursions that we are going to do - that I know of at this time.
Congrats to everyone so far!

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

I know this is off the subject but I'm so excieted about the phone call I got this morning I just have to share it.

Ten years ago I joined the National Marrow Donor Program with the hopes of one day being a match for someone. I was told however the chances of being a match were slim and I might never get a phone call. Well this morning that phone call came.:jumping1: I am a potential match for a 23 yr. old male with acute myelogenous leukemia. In two weeks I need to go and have some more tests done to see if I match well enough to be an actual donor for the patient. I am so filled with emotions right now that I can hardley see my computer screen though the tears. I feel so blessed to possibly be able to help someone in this way. So if everyone can say an extra prayer that I am a match and another for the patient I'd appreciate it.

Now back to cruise stuff...

Denise - In San Juan we are probably going to either the Caribe Hilton (5 min cab ride) or the Ritz or Wyndham El San Juan (15 to 20 min cab ride) It would be great if you joined us. Another family is also going and their kids are the same age as ours.

No docs here yet, but what I received this moring was even better! ::yes::

[Credit Man]

Debbie, that is wonderful! What a gift to give!! Sending prayers and PD to both you and the potential receiver.

[denise5374]

Debbie,

That is great news!! Sending prayers and PD to you and your recepient.

Also, I sent you a PM.

Denise:grouphug:

[Credit Man]

Hey, just looked at the calander...5 weeks to go!!! Have a great weekend, everyone.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
Hey, just looked at the calander...5 weeks to go!!! Have a great weekend, everyone.


Four weeks for me Mike, I'll be in Florida waiting everyone's arrival!!!

:hyper: ::yes:: :hyper: :wave2: :hyper:

[denise5374]

Actually for us it is 4weeks and 5 days since we are leaving on Thursday Aug. 19!!

Hooray!!!!

[Colestat]

Originally posted by Verandah Man
Four weeks for me Mike, I'll be in Florida waiting everyone's arrival!!!

:hyper: ::yes:: :hyper: :wave2: :hyper: ME TOO!!! 4 weeks from today!!! Hurray!!!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Colestat
ME TOO!!! 4 weeks from today!!! Hurray!!!


Sue,

Looks like you will be getting in the day before us, we fly in Saturday August 14th.

Did anyone else receive their docs???

[disney3144]

YES!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: We picked up our Docs today at the TA. YEAH!!!:teeth:

Jennifer

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by disney3144
YES!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: We picked up our Docs today at the TA. YEAH!!!:teeth:

Jennifer


CONGRATS Jennifer!!!

[dannyb]

Originally posted by Disney/Cheer Mom
I know this is off the subject but I'm so excieted about the phone call I got this morning I just have to share it.

Ten years ago I joined the National Marrow Donor Program with the hopes of one day being a match for someone. I was told however the chances of being a match were slim and I might never get a phone call. Well this morning that phone call came.:jumping1: I am a potential match for a 23 yr. old male with acute myelogenous leukemia. In two weeks I need to go and have some more tests done to see if I match well enough to be an actual donor for the patient. I am so filled with emotions right now that I can hardley see my computer screen though the tears. I feel so blessed to possibly be able to help someone in this way. So if everyone can say an extra prayer that I am a match and another for the patient I'd appreciate it.



This is a wonderful story, and I thought that I'd share a similar one that I had heard with you.

I was recently at a cousin's wedding. We live far apart, and I had not seen him for quite some time prior to the wedding, and I had never met his new bride.

At the rehearsal dinner, one of the most memorable toasts was one given by a man who had received a narrow transprant from ny new cousin-in-law. Under the rules of the transplant program, they did not learn each other's identity until a year or so after the transplant.

Well, the transplant was a complete success, and the recipient is doing very well. His famiily and my cousin's family have grown very, very close as a result of this connection. They refer to each other as their DNA family, and everyone at the wedding was very touched by my cousin-in-laws selflessness in donating and the extraordinary relationship that came from that gift of life.

About 10 years ago, I registered for the registry. I remember thinking at the time that I hoped that I would never be called, but that if I were called, then I would willingly answer. After going to that wedding, my attitude changed. I hope that I am called.

I hope for both your sakes that you are a good match.

[PinClubs]

We got our docs in the mail today!!

Kind of confused about picking them up?? If you live in Florida is there a place you can get your docs instead of receiving them in the mail.

Jeff

[disney3144]

Originally posted by PinClubs
We got our docs in the mail today!!

Kind of confused about picking them up?? If you live in Florida is there a place you can get your docs instead of receiving them in the mail.

Jeff

We booked our trip through AAA. So I had to go there to pick them up.

Jennifer

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by PinClubs
We got our docs in the mail today!!

Kind of confused about picking them up?? If you live in Florida is there a place you can get your docs instead of receiving them in the mail.

Jeff


CONGRATS on getting your docs Jeff!!!

I don't have an answer to your question, but, hopefully I will know one day as my mom is moving to Florida on July 26th. Can you say, Florida Resident Discount Rate??? Way to go mom!!!

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Andy - Got the t-shirts and love them. They look great. When I first told the guys in our party that we were wearing matching t-shirts they all made a face and kinda moaned. (Of course they knew they didn't have much of a choice when all us wives were telling them they had to wear them. ::yes:: ) But after actually seeing them, they all thought they were really nice and even said they would them after our trip. (I guess they were expecting pink with flowers.) So an extra thanks from the guys.

dannyb - Thank-you for sharing that story. Hopefully oneday I'll have a wonderful story of my own to tell.

[Verandah Man]

Always happy to help spread some Disney cheer!!!

[lalapodip]

We received our docs from UPS yesterday! :sunny:

Our vacation starts 4 weeks from today, as we journey to visit family in Raleigh... and then onto WDW on Monday, August 16....

I can't believe it's only 35 days till the Magic sails away with all of us on board!

Happy Saturday, everyone!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by lalapodip
We received our docs from UPS yesterday! :sunny:

Our vacation starts 4 weeks from today, as we journey to visit family in Raleigh... and then onto WDW on Monday, August 16....

I can't believe it's only 35 days till the Magic sails away with all of us on board!

Happy Saturday, everyone!


CONGRATS on receiving your docs!!! Yep, we sail away in 35 days!!! I can't wait!!!

[gec117]

Debbie that is such a wonderful thing you are doing.

Congrats to everyone who go their documents - nothing here yet.
I do have an email in with my travel agent to check on them, though.

It will be here before you know it.

Gayle

[Verandah Man]

Yes, in five more weeks this ship will be OURS!!!

http://www.verandahman.com/Magic%207-17-04.jpg

[Disneycrazymom]

Happy Saturday everyone!!

Debbie that is a wonderful thing you are doing. I hope you are the perfect match. You better warn them that the Disney mania may be pass through the marrow, no one knows exactly how we all get infected!;) :teeth:

No docs here yet but I am hopeful they will come soon!:teeth:

[Credit Man]

Just catching up, here. Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Andy, that picture is just beautiful and is just what I needed on this rainy Monday morning.

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
Just catching up, here. Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Andy, that picture is just beautiful and is just what I needed on this rainy Monday morning.


I know Mike, I had to go and look back at it again myself this morning!!!!!!!!!

[Maleficent59]

As of today, we have 27 DIS "families" sailing with us. Any more lurking out there? :D

Kids, we have kids! There are 38 kiddos 12 and under. Only 4 teenagers in this group?

Andy, help! I can't find my original 'cut and paste' with the brunch group's info. Thanks!

[goingbacksoon]

Wow! 27 DISers on the cruise, I didn't realize we had so many people. I guess it will be a larger DISmeet than I thought.

Sarah, we're still planning on Brunch for Sunday afternoon right? Just want to make sure so we can figure what day to have Palo dinner and high tea. Got to cover all the bases!

Alan

p.s. It's been LOVELY here in CA :) Although Sarah might beg to differ, sweltering out there inland, hehehe. Either way, the Magic is a joyous sight to see anytime.

[Maleficent59]

Update: 28 DIS families, 39 under 12's, and 6 teenagers! :wave2:

PinClubs (Jeff), it looks like you're sailing with us! Welcome! Would you mind sending your info to Andy (Verandah Man) or me so we can add you to the DIS group list? Thanks! We look forward to meeting you!

Am I missing anyone?! I'm printing out some self-adhesive name tags so I want to make sure I bring enough!

Alan, brunch will be whenever they can fit us in. If we ask for Sunday, we will not have the option of being in the banquet room. Can't be choosy when our group is so large. :D

It is HOT here! But it's not so bad when we're indoors and have the a/c running! It was ~82 when I left for work this morning!

[Maleficent59]

Another DIS family?! Ifotobonz: are you also sailing with us? Welcome! Would you mind sending your info to Andy or me so we can update the list?

Thanks! See you soon!

[jweiss]

Not sure whether or not we're on the "official" DIS list. It is I, Jennifer, older than dirt, my DD Chelsea age 13, my niece Karli, age 12, and sweet little Emilie, 6 months at cruise time, who I am in the process of adopting. We are in No. California.....it is HOT here inland, and a little breezier in the city....

Andy.....the door sign, magnets, card, and postcards are all totally AWESOME. Your "work" is so very much appreciated!!!

We STILL don't have a cabin assignment, and I'm a bit nervous about that. (I booked on-board last August, but was moved to "guarantee" status when we added the baby.

SO excited to cruise.......

[jennyl772003]

Our docs are in! :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

We will be picking them up this afternoon.

For all you planners out there, is it possible for someone to kind of summarize all the dis stuff planned? There are a lot of pages to sort through! (or point me to where such a thing exists!)

Thanks!

Jenny

[Maleficent59]

There is no "official" list so I hope everyone feels that they are welcome on the boards and at the DIS Meet (whether or not you post)! I'm organizing the data (for myself) for a few reasons: Palo brunch, name tags, and just so it's easier for me to put names to faces. With my work schedule, I only post sporadically, so I miss weeks of posts at a time. I'm going through some of the posts now to make sure that I bring enough nametags! :)

DIS Meet: right after emergency drill at the Promenade Lounge
Brunch1: Sunday morning 10:30 (on Andy's website)
Brunch2: TBD
DIS Meet: Formal night photo (need time & place)

Congrats to all who've received their docs! We're still waiting for ours. Think I need to make sure I have my air booked correctly (just changed the airports and flight info a couple of days ago)?! :eek: See you all soon!

Best,
Sarah

[Colestat]

Originally posted by jweiss

We STILL don't have a cabin assignment, and I'm a bit nervous about that. (I booked on-board last August, but was moved to "guarantee" status when we added the baby.

SO excited to cruise.......

No Cabin Assignment yet here either.
We are still on GTY status also. We have been since we booked on board last December.

I keep checking. I can't wait to find out where on the ship we will be.

[gec117]

My documents arrived this morning. I am out to relax at the pool but will read them all over later tonight.

Hope everyone is having a great day.

Gayle

[denise5374]

I just got off the phone with the Radisson and we are scheduled for the 10:30 shuttle to the Terminal!!!! YAHHOOO

Hopefully that will get us there early enough...What do you think??

By this time next month we will be in SUNNY FLORIDA!!!!

:jumping1: :cheer2: :cloud9: :thewave: :fish: :drinking: :jumping2: :jumping3:

[denise5374]

I think we had this discussion earlier but I don't want to search through all the pages of posts....for tuxes ...we have decided to rent tuxes for my DH and DS..since neither of them owns a suit it is cheper to rent a tux trhan to buy a suit and we thought it would be nioce to have a "formal" picture of the whole family. We are not "dressy" people so this is an occassion. In fact I hope I have enough "dressy" stuff to wear for dinner, I don't think jean shorts and a tshirt is approptiate LOL

Seriously, do any of the ladies wear capri to dinner(in the dining rooms) other than on formal or semi-formal nights (I have two dresses for that :teeth: ) I don't want to start a "appropriate clothing" debate here, I am just curious.

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

Denise - capris are more than fine on casual nights. When I cruised in Oct. there were lots of women with capris on. My DH and DS are also wearing tuxes, but for my son I'm actually going to buy him one(on e-bay) its cheaper than renting one for him.

[lalapodip]

We'll be in the "non-formal" minority, I think..... :) Seriously, reading through the Passport to Disney Magic, formal attire is SUGGESTED, not REQUIRED....for the Captain's Welcome Reception. We don't have a strong desire for a portrait or to dress up....but will we be the only ones? Just an "informal" question! :) Thanks.

[Credit Man]

Laura, just dark suits for the men in my family. I'm sure my two ladies will look beautiful in what ever the wear.

[denise5374]

Debbie,

My Dh and DS will be thrilled to hear they aren't the only ones.... We had debated buying vs renting but my DS doesn't have shoes or a belt or anything to go with a tux so it would have ended costing me the same amount of $$. I think the pictures will be great!!

I feel like I am going to be under-dressed in the dress that I have because I refuse to buy a dress for a cruise (especially formal) because I won't wear it again.

I am sure we will all look great !!! ANd we will have the picture to prove it!!!

[lalapodip]

Well, I'll be "under-dressed" too.....Thanks for the reply, Mike - though my significant other is leaning toward "jacket & tie optional", as in "this is vacation & I'm not putting on a tie".....plus my son (he's autistic), well, there's no way I can explain a tie to him, let alone put one on him....so will polo shirts be okay or are we heading to a different dining room?! :)

[denise5374]

Wear whatever you want...I agree with the on Vacation thing and I was of the same mindset as your DH but my Great-Aunt who is in her 80s requested a family portrait of us so I figured rather than fight the kids and DH twice about getting dressed up we would make it part of the cruise and all be dressed up! Then figured that since we were doing it might as well get pictures for my parents, my inlaws my sis and us. SInce the last family portrait was about 7 years ago.....

But I think that when you are on vacation you should do what you want and I am not there to looka t what you are wearing...I am there to enjoy myself and my family.

Denise:teeth:

[lalapodip]

Thanks, Denise - you DID put a smile on my face :teeth: when I read your reply. I am sure that your picture will be fabulous!

Can't wait to meet everyone.

[denise5374]

I know me too...it's getting close now.

My Dh called me on his way home and said "This time next month I will be sitting by a pool with a drink in my hand" What a happy thought!!

Now, we just have to make it through our house purchase next Wednesday!! And the subsequent move!! :rolleyes:

[jweiss]

We're another family for the UNDER-dressed crowd. The last two years we sort of faked it, and wore dresses, albeit they were far from "formal". We don't have anything formal about us. This year I am thinking about not even faking it and skipping the dining rooms altogether.......eat at Topsiders, etc. I can't see worrrying about getting three kids, and myself, presentable for formal nights. On the other hand, those lobster legs....... Okay, may be we'll fake it that one night...... The first time we cruised DCL we missed lobster night because we didn't want to dress up. Our waiter told us the next day we could have come dressed however we wanted. They really DO NOT care about dress code, as long as you are decent......

[jweiss]

We're another family for the UNDER-dressed crowd. The last two years we sort of faked it, and wore dresses, albeit they were far from "formal". We don't have anything formal about us. This year I am thinking about not even faking it and skipping the dining rooms altogether.......eat at Topsiders, etc. I can't see worrrying about getting three kids, and myself, presentable for formal nights. On the other hand, those lobster legs....... Okay, may be we'll fake it that one night...... The first time we cruised DCL we missed lobster night because we didn't want to dress up. Our waiter told us the next day we could have come dressed however we wanted. They really DO NOT care about dress code, as long as you are decent......

[jweiss]

We're another family for the UNDER-dressed crowd. The last two years we sort of faked it, and wore dresses, albeit they were far from "formal". We don't have anything formal about us. This year I am thinking about not even faking it and skipping the dining rooms altogether.......eat at Topsiders, etc. I can't see worrrying about getting three kids, and myself, presentable for formal nights. On the other hand, those lobster legs....... Okay, may be we'll fake it that one night...... The first time we cruised DCL we missed lobster night because we didn't want to dress up. Our waiter told us the next day we could have come dressed however we wanted. They really DO NOT care about dress code, as long as you are decent......

[gec117]

I am happy to hear that capri's are fine for those nonformal nights. I did buy 2 dresses and a skirt for the formal and semi-formal nights. I am part of the undressed crowd as well but it will be fun to dress up for a few nights. I told my husband that I will have to go on a yearly cruise to get my moneys worth of the clothes I bought for this one. He didn't want to go on this one but now I think he is sorry so he will definitely be coming on the next one.

Heather, my daughter who is cruising with us, just became engaged. I am sad to think this may be our last vacation together when she will be single. But it gives us an additional reason to savor this trip.

Can anyone tell me how the jewlery shopping is in St. Thomas (you can see where my priorities are lol). I have heard that the prices are incredible - anyone with experience on this? Thanks

Gayle

[Maleficent59]

Gayle, you're from NYC and you're asking about jewelry shopping?! :) I personally found the prices on St Thomas to be slightly lower than jewelry stores, but much higher than at the Jewelry Mart and the Diamond District. Just head over to West 47th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. ;)

[Colestat]

Hi Everyone,
We are also a non formal family. We have purchased suits for the boys and my husband. They wore them on Easter and sadly to a couple funerals this spring. I have to find something in the closet. I hate to buy something I probably won't wear again.

[goingbacksoon]

Just got the flight out there today! It seems so much closer now, and we got an awesome deal too, for coming from L.A. at least. So if you're interested and wait till the last minute like us, Southwest's sale is on until Thursday night. Just need the cruise documents now.

We'll probably be on the under-dressed side for the nonformal nights, and nearly to the nine's for formal night. So in our thinking, it evens everything out like that, lol.

I guess our meet will be in the triple digits in people, with 28 DIS families. Looking forward to meeting all of you!

Alan

[gec117]

Actually unless you know someone in the Jewelry District in NYC or are a trained gemologist you have to be very careful about what you buy - they will try and sell you anything.

Oh well, I will have fun looking there anyway.

Gayle

[Verandah Man]

One month from today,
we sail away!!!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc ::yes:: :hyper: :earseek: :goodvibes :boat: :jumping1: :jumping2: :jumping3: :jumping4: :cool1: :flower1: :cheer2: :rockband: :thewave:

[Credit Man]

Amen to that, Andy. One short month till sail away.:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[lalapodip]

WHOO HOO!! :sunny:

[denise5374]

Woo HOO!!!!:jumping1:

One month from today at this precise moment...we will be at the DCL terminal!!! Waiting (not patiently to board!!!)

YAHOO!!!

[disneymusical135]

After a stunning back to back cruise last summer, I'm coming back on the 21st to rediscover the Magic and I cannot wait


Jennifer, wow, I think we might have been on the cruise last August at the same time and I'm going to be on the 14 night panama canal cruise eastbound!!1 Congrats on your marriage!

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by disneymusical135
After a stunning back to back cruise last summer, I'm coming back on the 21st to rediscover the Magic and I cannot wait


Jennifer, wow, I think we might have been on the cruise last August at the same time and I'm going to be on the 14 night panama canal cruise eastbound!!1 Congrats on your marriage!



Chris,

Weren't you on the 8-23-03 Eastern? I think it was your user name that was left on the DISboards.com page when I posted from the Magic last August.

Anyhow, welcome to the San Juan Sojourners Cruise!!!

[denise5374]

Welcome Chris!!!

So we are up to 29 families now??

[Credit Man]

Welcome aboard, Chris. Sounds like you are a veteran cruiser.

[Credit Man]

In celebration of this being the month to the day before we sail, please join me on deck 7 aft for a little cocktail party. I have brought a tray of the peel and eat shrimp and a pitcher of Yellowbirds, the drink of the day.
Please bring some of your favorites and join me.

Mike

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by Credit Man
In celebration of this being the month to the day before we sail, please join me on deck 7 aft for a little cocktail party. I have brought a tray of the peel and eat shrimp and a pitcher of Yellowbirds, the drink of the day.
Please bring some of your favorites and join me.

Mike


Mike, since you have the shrimp, I'm bringing some orange mango soup!!!

[denise5374]

OOHHH...coktails and peel and eat shrimp and orange mango soup...I think I will bring some Chocolate Lava cake.......

The sun is shining, the ocean breeze blowing through my hair, ggod friends...Does it get any better than this???:cloud9:

[Verandah Man]

Originally posted by denise5374
OOHHH...coktails and peel and eat shrimp and orange mango soup...I think I will bring some Chocolate Lava cake.......

The sun is shining, the ocean breeze blowing through my hair, ggod friends...Does it get any better than this???:cloud9:



Oh yea, Chocolate Lava Cake is a must!!!
http://www.verandahman.com/August%2023-30,%202003%20DCL%20Cruise%20photos%20342.jpg

[denise5374]

OH Andy...

That picture is killing me.....That looks so good!!

Thanks for posting it!

[Disney/Cheer Mom]

I would love to join you guys on deck 7 for a cocktail. I know Denise is already bring chocolate cake but I would like to bring the chocolate souffle and a bottle of wine.

The sun, the ocean, good friends, no Denise it does NOT get any better than this!

[disney3144]

Originally posted by disneymusical135
After a stunning back to back cruise last summer, I'm coming back on the 21st to rediscover the Magic and I cannot wait


Jennifer, wow, I think we might have been on the cruise last August at the same time and I'm going to be on the 14 night panama canal cruise eastbound!!1 Congrats on your marriage!

We sailed last AUg 16-23. We actually got engaged last year on the ship, so of course we had to honeymoon on the ship. :p
Great to be cruising with you this year and next year. See ya in a month!!!

Jennifer

[Disneycrazymom]

I will definitly join you on deck 7. I'll bring some chocolate covered strawberries and some diet coke, so we can eat more chocolate! Is the sun setting? What a perfect way to spend the evening.:D

[denise5374]

The sun has already set her in SE PA..What a great way to spend the evening!

And boy is it hot here tonight....85 degrees at 9pm...way too hit for me!!!!

See ya next month!!!

[DuncanLL]

My ears are still ringing from the Hilary Duff concert we just went to. Now I'm sitting here in the quiet dreaming of the sound of the ocean.

Can't wait.

No documents yet, but we booked with All Seasons and don't know how they handle sending them.

Good night all.

Linda

[dannyb]

Originally posted by denise5374
I just got off the phone with the Radisson and we are scheduled for the 10:30 shuttle to the Terminal!!!! YAHHOOO

Hopefully that will get us there early enough...What do you think??

By this time next month we will be in SUNNY FLORIDA!!!!

:jumping1: :cheer2: :cloud9: :thewave: :fish: :drinking: :jumping2: :jumping3:

I am going to be on the 10:00 am shuttle. We'll probably be waiting at the terminal for a while, but I'd rather hang around there than at the hotel.

[dannyb]

Originally posted by denise5374
Debbie,

My Dh and DS will be thrilled to hear they aren't the only ones.... We had debated buying vs renting but my DS doesn't have shoes or a belt or anything to go with a tux so it would have ended costing me the same amount of $$. I think the pictures will be great!!

I feel like I am going to be under-dressed in the dress that I have because I refuse to buy a dress for a cruise (especially formal) because I won't wear it again.

I am sure we will all look great !!! ANd we will have the picture to prove it!!!

My group is going formal, except my son will not be in a tux. My recollection is that a pretty solid majority did not dress formally.