Sept 25, 2004 - someone's gotta be coming!

[two-foxes]

Haven't seen a thread yet for it, so I am starting to wonder, who else is coming?

[Lxnme2]

:wave:

We'll be happy to see you on the 25th. This is our first cruise--it will be a long next several months!!!!

Lxnme2

:bounce: :Pinkbounc

[two-foxes]

Good deal! It is months away, but I was wondering why a thread hadn't been started yet!

Are you guys doing WDW along with this trip at all?

Lastly, where are you from in Ohio? I grew up in Lakewood/Cleveland.....although I haven't lived there for almost 15 years, it is still "home"!

[ccruz]

We will be on the 9/26/04 4-night wonder.First disney cruise can't wait!!!!! ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo :Pinkbounc :tongue:

[Lxnme2]

:D

We haven't been to WDW yet but we are looking forward to the cruise. We live close to the Summit/Cuyahoga County border so we are not far from Cleveland and the Gund. Do you still have family in this area?

Is this your first on the Magic-Western? Look forward to hearing from you.

Lxnme2

:sunny:




:chat:

[two-foxes]

lxnme2 -
yep...family in Seven Hills, Westlake and friends still in Lakewood. Just went back in Jan for a wedding and, brrrrrr, it was cold:eek: !!!!

Anyway, I am sooo not a "meet organizing" kinda person, but, as you guys start posting that you are on the 09/25, post where you will be staying the night before. It would be great for people to meet prior to cruising for either dinner the night before or breakfast the day of cruising. I think it will be fun to meet people prior to cruising, so we will have more than just our sig others or kids that we know on the ship! Nothing too formal, but just a few minutes to get aquainted, chat, and have folks to meet at the clubs or meet up with on excursions if they want!

We will be staying at the Radisson the night before.....wow, it is a LONG time away!

[Lxnme2]

January and February were cold........we had temps. in the 30s and 40s---enough to melt some ice, but our driveway is still a sheet of ice and this morning when we woke up, everything was covered in snow......very pretty, but I'm tired of winter.

I'm undecided as to flying in the night before or on the morning of. Is the Radisson at the Orlando Airport? We don't have our air transportation arranged yet either........I'm open to any helpful tips you might have in arranging for airfare.

:sunny: Lxnme2

[two-foxes]

We are at the the Radisson at port. We would rather get all of our extra travelling done at one time, be able to wake up, relax and get to the ship early. I am one for covering all the "what if's" and I would fly in the night before, without question. We just flew to San Fran last week and our flight was cancelled due to mechanical problems, so we got there about 4 hours later than we were supposed to. Just imagine if that was a day of cruising flight! Can we say stress!!!!

We have stayed at the Hyatt at MCO before and that is super convienent and pretty nice, too! Pretty pricey as well, though. Our rate at the Radisson is 89. Not great, but not too bad.

My mom worked for United for many years (the reason we moved from Cleveland), and she would always look for flights out of Detriot for people because they were often cheaper than Hopkins. But take a look at all options!

[kcashner]

We have booked 9/25/04 as our 11th cruise on the Magic. Just got off the 2/4/04, and I'm "Disney Dreaming" again.

Will be me with 13 year old DD--LOVED The Stack on Feb. cruise. The only problem with these boards is that they make me want to sail again soon!
Kathryn

[two-foxes]

jealous, jealous, jealous!!! 11!!!! Have you ever booked excursions on your own? We are looking at Eagle Ray Divers in Cozumel.....have you heard of them? We will for sure do Capt Marvins for Stingray city than thru Dcl. Any ideas?

[dzneprincess]

Hi yall! Just saw this thread! Welcome aboard! We do have a 09/26 thread started already if you would like to join in :-)
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=514387

[dzneprincess]

OOPS I am sorry I thought te OP was referring to the WONDER when I saw wonder in the sentence! LOL Have fun yall! :wave:

[socks68]

My sister and I will be on that cruise, too. We are staying at BWV Friday night before the cruise.

We sailed the Magic for the Eastern route in Jan 2002 and did the 3 day Wonder in Oct 2002 on the $99 deal that DCL offered. We are looking forward to our first Western.

Rose

[two-foxes]

Hey Socks---
Are you guys doing a few days at WDW prior to the cruise? We are coming in for WDW on 9/20 and renting points at WLV until the 24th, then (for some reason that I am regretting now!) we will be staying at port that night. Hindsight, I wish I would have gotten another nite at WDW, but I will be relieved to beable to sleep in a bit the morning of. Anyway, we only have one hundred ninety and some odd days to go....but who is counting!


If any of you cruisers have kids, this would be a good place to have them "meet" other cruisers before going! We are kidless, but always hoping to come home with a "little souvenir"!

[socks68]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by two-foxes
[B]Hey Socks---
Are you guys doing a few days at WDW prior to the cruise?

Hi,

I didn't want to fly in the morning of the cruise so we're coming in Friday instead and staying overnight at BWV. We are staying at BCV after the cruise though for two nights and flying home Monday afternoon. We want to take a look at the Food and Wine Featival since it starts the weekend we return so we added a few nights after the cruise instead of before. I'm sure I'll regret not going home right away but we've spent the last three Halloweens in WDW and can't this year because of the cruise so at least we'll get a few days in the parks and maybe there will be an early Hallowen party like last year on Sunday night.

Rose

[two-foxes]

You know, I keep trying to convince my DH to spend a day at Epcot for the food and wine fest the day we get off the 9/2, and he said, "no!!!" I can't believe it! He LOVED it when we went in 02! I still have a few months to convince him, though!

[NCRedding]

Hey Socks 68: we also did a 1/02 Eastern (1/12/02 I think) and a 10/02 3 night cruise, and now we're on this one together. We'll have extended family--my parents, my brother, & SIL; my sister & BIL; and DH, DD and I. Looking forward to it!!!

[socks68]

Originally posted by NCRedding
Hey Socks 68: we also did a 1/02 Eastern (1/12/02 I think) and a 10/02 3 night cruise, and now we're on this one together. We'll have extended family--my parents, my brother, & SIL; my sister & BIL; and DH, DD and I. Looking forward to it!!!

We were on the 1/05/02 Eastern as part of a group of 16. The October cruise left on Halloween. It's going to be strange not being part of a large group this time, but I'm looking forward to it.

[tas190]

This will be our 3rd Disney cruise on the Magic (first time for the Western) I hope I do not jinx it for all but so far we have not made it to Castaway Cay The first time a Hurrican wiped the island the second time the winds were bad and the Capt could not get into the dock, so lets hope that the third time is a charm

[two-foxes]

Third time is always a charm! Welcome! Just out of curiousity, did you sail in Sept both previous times? Regardless, you will enjoy your first visit to Castaway Cay!

Who is sailing with everyone?

[AprilN]

I figured it was finally time to stop lurking around this thread, and introduce myself. :p My DH (26) and I (28) will be sailing on the 9/25 Western, in a cat 9 stateroom on deck 2 (although we're still thinking about upgrading). This is our second Disney cruise - our first was the 2/22/03 Eastern cruise on the Magic. We loved it so much, we're back to try the other route! :teeth:

We're flying in the day before (from CA), although we're arriving around 8:30 PM. We're also planning to stay an extra night in FL after the cruise, to visit the Kennedy Space Center and hang out around WDW (no parks, just resorts). We've actually never been to WDW! :earseek: I've been visiting Disneyland all my life, however.

What is everyone thinking about for excursions? We're looking at Capt. Marvin's on Grand Cayman (the 3-hour snorkeling/stingray tour), and a non-DCL snorkeling reef tour on Cozumel. How about you?

Have a great day! :sunny:

[tas190]

Our first cruise was in Sept but the Hurrican had hit the island a week or 2 before our cruise. There was another in the area when we left, we were told that the capt would go away from if if need be, but there was never a need the weather was perfect. Our second cruise was at Christmas and we would never do it again the ship was at MAX capacity and since we had been in Sept before we could tell the difference. We home school so we normaly vacation while the rest of the world is in school.

We will have ME DH-40, DW 42 DS's 12,5,4 and DD 10

We are not sure about what we are going to do in the islands yet since we have 2 under 6 it limits us in the disney itinerary, but I have been surfing and it seems we may arrainge something else, We did promiise the children that we would do a beach stop some where other than Castaway cay, JUST ENCASE.

We live outside Atlanta, so we will drive to Jacksonville Fri stay at the Embassy suites (larger rooms and good breakfast) then drive in in the morning

[two-foxes]

For us, it is me, Jill (30) and Tim (36). This will be our second DCL
cruise, but our first 7 night. We are doing 4 nights at WDW prior to the 9/25, then following it up with the 10/02 Eastern. Alot of Disney packed into one vacation! It should hold us over for awhile!

I posted above a bit that we will most likely wander Key West, do Capt Marvins in Cayman and Eagle Ray Divers in Cozumel, booking everything on our own. We are going for our scuba certification in May, so I want to get a dive trip in Cozumel.

Any one else a diver?

[NCRedding]

Not a diver, I admire anyone who can. We'll have 8 adults ranging from 42-69 with one child, my doted upon DD who will be 12 on the cruise. We can't believe that it takes 8 adults to take one child on a cruise. I think we're planning to take the trolley or bus in Key West, see the 6 toed cats at the Hemingway House, and see what else is available. In Cayman, I want to do a stingray tour--probably on our own, not through DCL. In Cozumel, we probably need to see some Mayan ruins, since DD is missing 3 days of school for the cruise. We did a DCL excursion on our eastern cruise in 2002, and enjoyed it, but it is an awful lot of "hurry up and wait".

[HooKooDooKu]

We just updated our reservation to 9-25 and don't expect to change is (again!), so I figured it was time to chime in.

This will be our 6th cruise.

We started DCL their first year in service.
1. Magic 4 day (1st year Magic sailed)
2. Wonder 4 day (1st year Wonder sailed)
3. Magic 7 day (1st year of DCL 7 day cruises)
4. Wonder 4 day (tried out Freeport)
5. Wonder 4 day (test cruise with baby).

We originally booked for the very first DCL 7 day Western. We had to cancel when we found out DW was pregnant, and was going to be 1 week too pregnant to be allowed passage (women after 24 weeks of pregnancy are not allowed on board).

For this trip, we originally booked for a 7 day for November (we got a discount for booking while on that test cruise). But we then found out DW was pregnant, and the baby wouldn't be old enough to be allowed passage (infants must be past the age of 12 weeks to be allowed on board). When the Fall 2005 dates were announced, we transfered our discount to October 2005. But then a few weeks ago, we learned that DW has a miscarriage around the 7-8 week mark. So we decided that this time we would make sure we can go. September is early enough that even if DW gets pregnant within the next couple of months, we can still make Sept 2004. We just decided we didn't want to wait til 2005, only risk DW being pregnant and having to cancel again.

[two-foxes]

Hi, HooKooDooKu!

Welcome! Good to know we have a bunch of veteran cruisers out there! Help us 7 day newbies out!

I am sorry to hear of your loss, but you sound positive about the future of babies:cutie: !!! DH and I have been trying (for too darn long!) to have a little munchkin, and "what if we got pregnant" was always in the back of my mind when booking. I was thinking that we haven't had any luck yet, but it would figure that as soon as we book a big vacation, we'd get good baby news! Well, it hasn't happened yet, but lord knows I covered my bases with DCL/DU by asking them about cancellations and cruising while pregnant.

Where are you staying the night before?

[kcashner]

We do a lot of Sept/Oct cruising as this is a birthday week for us as well as the "off season" cheaper rates. Have never had a problem getting into Castaway (made it every time) although we have had some "creative" iteneraries due to the hurricane season. No matter where we go, it is always a wonderful vacation on the Magic!

Yes, we book our excursions on our own. I didn't do this at first, but it is a great way to save $, especially if you have kids in the 10-12 age range. DCL considers them an "adult" for excursion rates at age 10, most of the vendors start adult rates at 12 or 13. Just be sure that anything you book on your own is fully refundable (or not paid till you do it) in the event that the ship can't dock. We are 0 for 3 on Grand Cayman!!!! That is a tender port, and if the seas are too rough, they can't tender.

Nice to meet you all. Just a thought....we should plan a Disboards meet for the first day. The standard time/place is by Studio Sea about 3 or 3:30.

We haven't made our pre-cruise plans yet. We usually do a few days in the parks first...I'll work out all those details later.
Kathryn

[two-foxes]

Some one else tell me that September can not come soon enough!!!

(bad day at work....looked at the countdown timer...it seems soooo faaaaarrrrr awaaayyyy!!!!)

[HooKooDooKu]

Where are you staying the night before?

We've always stayed at the Best Western Space Shuttle Inn in Titusville.

It was the first thing in the area we ever learned about back on the first cruise we took during the first year Disney had the Magic in the water.

I only recently learned (and found) the Coco Beach area (we took a wrong turn leaving the port last time and found our selves driving thru the area.

While I think there is a Wal-Mart in the beach area too, we KNOW there is one within walking distance of the Best Western, and the area is right off the interstate (there is always those last minute things to buy or the things you forgot and remembered on the drive down).

We normally drive down the day before. Next morning, we wake up, pick up that last item we forgot the night before at WalMart, and take a leisurely drive down Hwy 1 to the port along the coast.

[Lxnme2]

:wave2: Hi to all Sept. 25, 2004, cruisers!

I check in almost daily but haven't replied in a while……My DS (who will be 13 at time of cruising) and I booked airfare and will fly in to MCO on Fri. night………we have ground transfers and look forward to this experience…….although staying at port sounds marvelous, watching the Magic sail in to port…….have a ressie at the Hyatt which our TA recommended, for convenience……..logged on their site and the Hyatt pics are beautiful to the maxx!!.……..can't help thinking how pricey---to the maxx!!……..I'm torn but not opposed to looking at other options…….......of course, if we stayed at the Hyatt, we could spend our time shopping at the Magic of Disney and Earport instead of doing the shuttle thing ::yes:: ……..decisions…..decisions......:confused: ……any recommendations from you knowledgeable, seasoned Orlando travelers?

DS doesn't want to read or post……he's trying to suppress his excitement since we have to wait sssooooooo long till the cruise… :( …..would be nice to hear from you teens……......BTW, am I the only single on this cruise?

Lxnme2 :sunny:

[two-foxes]

Lxnme2-
Glad to hear you are flying down the night before. I think it will be a big relief to not have to deal with the "what if's" of trying to get in the same day. Did you find a good deal out of Hopkins?

As far as where to stay...I am not a seasoned cruiser, but I think it is 6 to one, half dozen the other. We have gotten a day room at the Hyatt in the past, and it is convienent, but pricey. You may want to check on www.***************** for some good advice on using priceline, or try priceline for the hyatt. If you do a search, I know some folks got a killer deal on it....the danger is that you may not end up with the hyatt. But figure, if you bid on a 3 1/2 star hotel, without a shuttle icon, there is a good chance it'll be it....or something as nice, at least! We chose port as we are coming from WDW, wanted to have a relaxing night and morning, and most importantly, get some laundry done! (That can be done at WDW, but I would feel like I missing something if I do laundry there!)


I am all for a meet....as long as we have plenty of time to eat, drink!

[kcashner]

We always arrive at least the night before...just to avoid the "what ifs." I usually book an airport area hotel, 3* on Priceline, and can get it in the $30-$35 range. All of the 3*s have free shuttles to/from the airport. Yes, you might get the Hyatt, but you will get a decent hotel. All I'm really interested in is clean, close, and convenient at that point. I find we have plenty of time the next morning to get to the port.

If I'm driving, it's a different issue....better to stay in the Cocoa Beach, port area if hotel has free parking (Radisson and Quality Suites do.)

Info on Priceline bidding is at www.biddingfortravel.com.
Kathryn

[AprilN]

Kathryn,

How far out does your Priceline bid usually get accepted? I've tried several times to bid on a 3* MCO hotel for 9/24/04, but I can't seem to get anything at $30 or under. Should I wait until the cruise gets closer?

We stayed at the Marriott near MCO (through Hotwire), which was a little run-down but perfectly fine for the night before the cruise.

[chap196043]

Hello we too will be on the sept.25th magic (1ST Time Cruisers)Me my DW and DD6.
I have been checking these boards for info. and everything i've read is really helpfull THANKS!!!!:wave2:

[two-foxes]

Welcome! I am curious to know what you guys are all planning for excursions! Granted, it is a few months away, but what is everyone leaning towards?

[socks68]

DS doesn't want to read or post……he's trying to suppress his excitement since we have to wait sssooooooo long till the cruise… …..would be nice to hear from you teens……......BTW, am I the only single on this cruise?

Lxnme2

------

Hi, my sister and I are singles, too. We are really looking forward to this trip but your son is right- it does seem too far away.

Rose

[kcashner]

DD will be 13 when we are on the cruise. We sailed in Feb for her 13th birthday, and she loved THe Stack.

Priceline usually accepts bids 6 months out, although we seen to get good rates starting about 3-4 months out. The site www.biddingfortravel.com has lots of info about Priceline bidding as well as recent postings of what people have paid for which hotels. The Hyatt is nice, but very pricey when not on Priceline (hee hee). $30 is probably a little low for 3*. Usually, I can get them in the $31 - 34 range. I know that sounds picky, but $1 can make a difference.

Socks, I'm a single mom...will travel with 13 year old DD.

[mmorizio]

We're going on the 9/25 cruise wiith our best friends. Cabins 6064 & 6066. Second cruise on the Magic (8/01) for us, fifth overall. First cruise for our friends. Kinda sorta our 30th wedding anniversary cruise since we were all married in '73.

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by mmorizio
We're going on the 9/25 cruise wiith our best friends. Cabins 6064 & 6066. Second cruise on the Magic (8/01) for us, fifth overall. First cruise for our friends. Kinda sorta our 30th wedding anniversary cruise since we were all married in '73.

Welcome! I figure we should get some chatter going on here....heck we are only 100+ days away......okay, that does sound way to far away!

[dinnysuw]

Hello! we are sailing on our first ever cruise on the Magic 7 day western and I would love to talk with some other cruisers before hand! I am from Waterville, Ohio (near Toledo) and will be sailing with my husband and 9 year old twins! I must say I am a little nervous of the Hurricane season and the rocky boat people keep telling me about. Any words of comfort?
thanks
darcy:earsgirl:

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by dinnysuw
Hello! we are sailing on our first ever cruise on the Magic 7 day western and I would love to talk with some other cruisers before hand! I am from Waterville, Ohio (near Toledo) and will be sailing with my husband and 9 year old twins! I must say I am a little nervous of the Hurricane season and the rocky boat people keep telling me about. Any words of comfort?
thanks
darcy:earsgirl:

Another Buckeye! I grew up in Lakewood, my dad was born and raised in Port Clinton, mom Lakewood, grandma was born in Toledo, Aunt still lives in Catawaba Island. Okay, enough family history on me! But we also have another Ohioan aboard, Lxnme2.

I bet some others can give better experiences, but we had no issues on our 4 nighter in Oct 2002, which is still hurricane season. I am personally not too worried about it. From everything I read, the ship is super stable, and they will easily avoid any bad weather. Just because it is hurricane season, it doesn't mean we'll run into one! I have double the chance because we are doing the 10/02/04 Eastern as well. I will need motion sickness meds no matter what, as I can barely ride in a car for a bit with out getting a bit queazy.

Anyways, welcome aboard!

If any of you are interested in posting stateroom ##'s or any interests, shore excursion plans, etc, feel free! I would be nice to meet some of you folks face to face!

We will be in 6632. We plan on doing our own thing in Key West...nothing special there, but I definately want Conch Fritter's from B.O.'s (saw a special on the Travel Channel!)
We are trying to schedule a dive in Cozumel on our own, and we will book Capt Marvins or a dive in Grand Cayman.

[HooKooDooKu]

We've never had issues because of hurrican season, and that's out of five previous trips all in Sept or Oct.

[mmorizio]

The nice thing about a cruise ship is that the Captain can move it!

We were on a Carnival Cruise in August '92 the week that hurricane Andrew hit Miami Beach! (For those who don't remember, Andrew was the worst hurricane in something like 40 years).

The captain changed course a bit, and we never even got any rain. One night the sea was slightly rougher than usual, but not enough to effect anyone.

Keep in mind that the ship we were on was considerably smaller than the Magic.

The only negative effect the storm had on our cruise was that Miami Airport was packed when we flew home since it had been closed for two days.

[dinnysuw]

Thanks for the replies! two-foxes-I think it would be great to meet some of you all on board-especially the former or current BUCKEYES! Are you really doing two cruises back to back? I heard that the motion sickness bracelets are a good thing (work on pressure points) As far as dinner attire goes-are there really no shorts allowed-even for kids? I have the passporters book to help but i basically have been doing this all on my own-did you get your cabin #'s because you are paid in full? I would love to know where we are going to be! also one last thing how do you get that counter on your message.
darcy

WDW-1985 first trip at 18 yrs old
WDW-1994 first married trip (3 mos pregnant with twins!)
WDW-1998 first trip with the twins at 3 years old
WDW-2003 first trip with my 8 yr old twins, my sisters 4 year old
triplets and her 12 year old, our 8 yr old nephew and my parents-stayed in wilderness cabins-loved it!

[two-foxes]

Darcy-

Yep, 2 back to backs....we have no idea why we booked them...but the prices being lower helped...one good reason to cruise during hurricane season! Are you booked on a GTY or guarantee status? If so, that is why you haven't gotten a stateroom # yet. Although we haven't booked a GTY room, I have read you will receive your stateroom # when your docs arrive, and you also have better chances of getting an upgrade on GTY.

Dinner attire seems to be a "hot topic". There is a formal nite and a semi formal nite. There will also be a Mexacali themed nite and the other nites are casual ("no short or jeans please" per the navigator.) DCL has a suggested dress, in which some abide to the suggestion, others do not, which is what makes it a discussion point on the boards sometimes. We will dress for formal/semi formal nites...it gave me excuses to go shopping!

So as far as other great info besides these boards, try ************************ for other great info. Barb and her DH have been on over 30 DCL cruises. Click on the navigators for the western cruise and you can get a good idea of what the daily activities are like, as well as what the dinner dress is for each nite. Also, www.dcltribute.com has a link to "Entropy's Cruise Guide" which is like a DCL bible, but it will have alot of the same info as the Passporter and Barb's site.

Lastly, the counter.....go to the tech support board here, click on the thread titled FAQ's and it has the step by step instructions on how to do it. You can then test it on the Test Board.

You can learn TONS from the DIS, so check in every now and again, and see what others have posted and you can learn tons!

[two-foxes]

Geez, forgot about the banned website....

Try this, www. castawayclub .com, only no spaces in between the words. She is great resource, but since she is doing travel agent work now, her website isn't permitted here.

[kcashner]

Hi Gang!
Don't worry about September being hurricane season. The captain will take the ship away from any bad weather (if it is out there.) We've always made it to Castaway....sometimes missed other ports.

The big thing about September cruises is that you need to be willing to be flexible. It will be a great trip. Exactly where we go may vary due to weather. However, as the captain said on the PA system, "I am fully aware of the guest services component of my decisions, but only an idiot would steer a ship toward a hurricane." It is always a fun time, and the DCL staff has much experience with alternative ports (if needed).

There was one cruise where DCL didn't get into ANY ports. They had a blast on the ship, and everyone got a voucher for another cruise at no charge (too bad I wasn't on that one!)

If your heart is set on a particular port, Sept isn't the time to sail. However, if you are planning on a great time on the Magic...you're on the right ship! We've done it 10 times and have 2 more booked!
Kathryn

[Zitofamily]

Hello fellow 9-25 Magic cruisers!

I am so happy to have found you on this thread.

My DH, myself and our DD (9) and DS (5) will be sailing for the second time on the Magic. We sailed for the first time on Disney last October. The Halloween cruise. We had such a fabulous time that we rebooked while on board. We rebooked for the Spring of 2005 but decided to move up our date to 9-25 of this year. I am SO excited.

Has anyone gone through the posts on this thread and combined all the names of the members into one list? The thread we had going for our Halloween cruise last year did this and it was helpful to have all the names in one place. We also shared cabin numbers because we arranged for a trick or treat for the kids from cabin to cabin of the members of our thread. It was great fun. It was also fun to see if any of the DIS members had a cabin near yours.

I am going on a trip from June 12-23 but when I return, if nobody has done it and nobody objects, I can compile a list to get us started.

I look forward to getting to know you all before we set sail. It will be here before we know it!! I have to go back to page one and start reading all your posts now.

Thanks for starting this thread! Carlotta

[two-foxes]

Carlotta-

I have no objections, I just didn't know where to start! If you could put it together, that would be GREAT!!!!

I am sure I put it somewhere in the thread before, but .....

Tim and Jill from Colorado
Staying at the Radisson the night before (doing some days at WDW from 9/19-9/24)
Celebrating Tim's 37th BDay!

Second DCL, First Magic, Second Magic is the 10/02!

You are awesome for heading this up! I was putting the feelers out there, thanks!

[dinnysuw]

I figured it was finally time to stop lurking around this thread, and introduce myself. My DH (26) and I (28) will be sailing on the 9/25 Western, in a cat 9 stateroom on deck 2 (although we're still thinking about upgrading). This is our second Disney cruise - our first was the 2/22/03 Eastern cruise on the Magic. We loved it so much, we're back to try the other route!
Hi AprilN! we too are traveling on magic 9/25 first time crusie for us so we are very excited my DH,DD and DS we haven't sent in final payment so we don't know where we are just yet-we are cat 6 w/ verandah-i think those are on decks 5 and 6 anyways-i know there is going to be a seperate thread hopefully started with names of 9/25 cruisers. look for that one to add your name
darcy

[Lxnme2]

:wave:

Hi everyone!!!! So nice to hear from more cruisers, especially you former and current Ohioans. We are flying in the night before cruise but not finalized excursions yet.....cruise seems closer (yeah I know 100some days is still a long way off) but I'm thinking mile marker----final payment due next month. Sooooo, we.....actually, I started packing things as we think of them in our carry-ons, luggage and we have a list together.

Would like to have dinner at Palo but my son is too young to join me :( would be nice to dine with other single(s) and/or mom(s) if anyone interested. Am looking forward to meeting all of you on the Magic. We are assigned to 6514.

Lxnme2 :earsgirl: :earsboy:

[dinnysuw]

Hi everyone!!!! So nice to hear from more cruisers, especially you former and current Ohioans. We are flying in the night before cruise but not finalized excursions yet.....cruise seems closer (yeah I know 100some days is still a long way off) but I'm thinking mile marker----final payment due next month. Sooooo, we.....actually, I started packing things as we think of them in our carry-ons, luggage and we have a list together.
Hi Lxmne2! Where in Ohio are you from? We are staying at the Radisson the nite before-not getting in until 9:30pm-but thought it could be great if we could try to get some people together for breakfast before we disembark. We are sending in final payment this month and can't wait to start planning excursions! myself.DH and DS and DD both 9.
Darcy

[two-foxes]

Just booked our Capt Marvins half day snorkling trip for Grand Cayman! Whooo hooo, starting to feel "real" now! As soon as we do our open water certification for scuba, we'll book a dive trip through Eagle Ray Divers in Cozumel...for you non divers, they do snorkling, too!

Lxneme2....if we get a chance to meet up, when making ressies, you should come with Tim and I to Palo Brunch...in fact, that may be a fun adults get together for anyone who wants to join!

So, I'm throwing that out there! If anyone wants to do Brunch on a sea day...send a PM to me and we can try to coordinate a time to get ressies together!

Jill

[AprilN]

Originally posted by two-foxes Just booked our Capt Marvins half day snorkling trip for Grand Cayman!We'll be on that excursion as well - see ya there! :p We're planning a snorkel trip around Cozumel through Travelnotes/Papa Hog's, but if it doesn't work out, we'll look into Eagle Ray Divers as well.

PS - my DH spent his teenage years in Berea, OH, and his family still lives there! :teeth:

[dinnysuw]

bump

[dinnysuw]

:wave2: Please check your personal messages if you have signed onto this thread! we are trying to get a list together of fellow cruisers-and a PM has been sent to everyone who has said they are going
thanks
darcy:Pinkbounc :sunny:

[dinnysuw]

bump

[dinnysuw]

bump again!

[godisneyboat]

Hi fellow 9/25 cruiser.

Just found this thread thanks to darcy. It will be myself dw dd8 and dd 12. We did 4 day wonder two years ago same time frame and this will be first time on the 7 day. Looking soooo forward to it. At this time excursions planned are for para sail for myself and banana boat ride for all on castaway cay. We are from N.C. and plan to drive down night before. Probably will not arrive until late. We have not tried to book a room yet. stayed at raddison last time. We have been booked since last fall. we have 7005 booked at this time but might consider an upgrade at the port if any are available and the price is right. Any one know anything about this room as far as motion or noise. It is a connecting room which we did not request so I was a little supprised to get that one. Thought they might hold it for groups.

Thanks ahead of time for any info.

godisneyboat

[dinnysuw]

GODISNEYBOAT-welcome-I'm glad my link to this thread worked! If you want to PM me w/ your email address and names of family, i will add all your info to our list. there are two families so far staying at the radisson the night before (myself included) we are planning on a morning breakfast meet-a little more relaxing-and that way we'll know someone before we board. we are still planning on a disboard meet as well time and location TBA. probably a month before cruise i will email or/and PM all cruiseres info to each other. great to hear from you!
darcy
:wave:

[kcashner]

bump

[Lxnme2]

My 13yo DS wants to correspond with other teens on our cruise :chat:

I want to start a new thread just for teens to post for this Sept. 25 sailing. Is there any reason we shouldn't, for example, adults-only-allowed to post? Anyone know the answer? :confused:

[kcashner]

I don't know of any reason...we could start a 9/25 teens thread. 13 year old DD would love to talk with other teens in advance.

I called in the final payment today. It is due the day we return home from a conference, and I wanted it in before I left--one less thing to deal with on return. Can you believe we are just over 2 months away? I can't wait....I sometimes dream of the Magic!

[kcashner]

We had a huge storm and have had no electricity for 2 days, much yard clean up, etc. Everyone is fine, but the word is that we may have no power for 4 more days (yikes)! I'm Disney Dreaming really bad.....I was singing the "We Discovered the Magic" song while cleaning up the yard.

Besides, I wanted to bump up our thread......

[dinnysuw]

kcashner:
sorry to hear about your weather! just one more reason to dream Disney!:wave2:

[SINK]

Hi All:

Greetings from the West Coast. Sorry to join in so late in the game. Have been away from the DIS board for a while. Anyhow, recently firmed up the plans for the 9/25 sailing.

This will be our 5th Disney cruise. We've done both the Western and Eastern last year. This will be our 3rd cruise this year, and actually, we will be driving up from Fort Lauderdale after getting off an Eastern sailing on Celebrity's Century.

Actually Jill and Tim, we will also be on the East bound panama crossing next year.

Anyhow, looking forward to read all the previous posts (did not get a chance to do so yet) and looking forward to meeting you all on the Magical Magic.

[two-foxes]

whooohooooo! Can you tell I just looked at my countdown timer? We have had a rough month here, so our trip is even more welcoming than ever! We are headed to Utah tomorrow to complete our open water certification for scuba, so we will officially book our dive with Eagle Ray Divers in Cozumel next week!

Is anyone else doing days at WDW before the cruise? I am doing a gift through Gifts of a Lifetime for Tims birthday. They will set up the "Amazing Race" in Epcot. It ought to be lots of fun....but I had to recruite my parents and inlaws to chip in for the price of it!

SINK-
It'll be good to meet you on the cruise! We are doing the 10/02 as well and there will be 2 (or maybe more) groups on that cruise that will be on the Eastbound as well, so that is great we will get to meet more! Tim and I will have to be good and save save save for the repo, we hadn't planned on doing any more DCL trips for a few years when we booked these for this fall, but we couldn't turn down this opportunity! It'll be great!

[SINK]

Good morning All:

Hope that everyone is having a great weekend and are staying cool. Anyhow, just wanted to see if people are scheduling a get-together (a DIS meet) onboard.

[dinnysuw]

SINK-please check your Personal messages-i sent you one with all of our get together info! thanks
darcy

[kcashner]

Is there another single mom or mom travelling single who might like to join me for the Palo High Tea? I did it on our last cruise, and it was great.

A mom with a husband who doesn't want to do tea would be great too......I'm travelling with 13 year old DD on our 11th Magic cruise.

[dinnysuw]

A mom with a husband who doesn't want to do tea would be great too......I'm travelling with 13 year old DD on our 11th Magic cruise.
I would love to. although i don't drink tea I think the experience would be great! Count me in-just let me know what day you are thinking and will see if we can't work out a time!
Darcy

[mmorizio]

Hi everyone! My wife and I are sailing with friends who aren't DISers, but we still might be able to make a meet. Are there any planned yet?

...Mike
New Jersey
Second Magic cruise (1st - August '01)
Cabin 6064
Early dinner seating
Nuthin' planned so far for the ports of call

[dinnysuw]

hi Mike-I got some info from you or your wife already. as far as a set meeting-one hasn't been set yet-there has been a suggestion for one around 3:15 in front of studio sea as the sail away party is to hectic. there are also three or more families so far staying at the Radisson the night before. may be doing something then as well. we'll keep you posted. i am planning on next month sending out the names and info to all-so check your personal messages! BTW we are in 6060 looks like we'll be neighbors!
darcy

[Lxnme2]

Originally posted by kcashner
Is there another single mom or mom travelling single who might like to join me for the Palo High Tea? I did it on our last cruise, and it was great.

A mom with a husband who doesn't want to do tea would be great too......I'm travelling with 13 year old DD on our 11th Magic cruise.



I would love to join in on a Palo High Tea and thank you for the invite. Let me know when you would like to do this and whether I need to reserve a place when I board or will this be done by 1 reserving a table for all who join.

:sunny: Lxnme2

[lawsons]

Anyone traveling with a toddler? We'll be with our two-year old who loves other kids.

[dinnysuw]

Anyone traveling with a toddler? We'll be with our two-year old who loves other kids.
Lawsons if you'd like to personal message me with your info-i am gathering a list of all the cruisers-and trying to paln a dismeet. info to include:
names and ages of crusiers
stateroom
where are you from
excursins planned
email
dinner seating

[missyoh8]

We are as well going on the Sept 25th sailing.......Our second DC (first was last October on the four day). Family of 5...me 36, DH35, DD 11, DS9, DS6. We are traveling with the grandparents as well. Flying in the night before and staying at the Ron John. Haven't seen anyone else who is staying there? Would love to maybe do a meet the night before, please let us know if anyone gets that together. We are as well Buckeyes, born and bread in Columbus (and an alum!) We live in Westerville now and can't wait to take the grandparents on their FIRST cruise! Staying in 6056 and 6552..........

missyoh8

[missyoh8]

We are as well going on the Sept 25th sailing.......Our second DC (first was last October on the four day). Family of 5...me 36, DH35, DD 11, DS9, DS6. We are traveling with the grandparents as well. Flying in the night before and staying at the Ron John. Haven't seen anyone else who is staying there? Would love to maybe do a meet the night before, please let us know if anyone gets that together. We are as well Buckeyes, born and bread in Columbus (and an alum!) We live in Westerville now and can't wait to take the grandparents on their FIRST cruise! Staying in 6056 and 6552..........

missyoh8

[two-foxes]

What is up with those crazy Buckeyes!!!! (I am a transplanted one!)

We are getting oh so close, now!

Darcy, you are a saint for putting all this together! How I need this vacation!

[dinnysuw]

missyoh8 I will add you to our list-we are staying is 6060! I used to live in Upper Arlington and work in Westerville years ago whil emy sister went to med school at OSU. Nothing better then Hineygate and the Shoe on a Saturday! Gotta love the Bucks! My sign for our door will have the Buckeye emblem! I don't know of any people staying at Ron Jons -there are some of us staying at the Radisson and trying to plan a breakfast meet. will get something more concrete out next month!

Jill (two-foxes) hang in there-we are almost there.
:wave: :sunny:

[dinnysuw]

Hey all-here is a simple version of the cruise list-just to have an idea of who is coming and where everyone is. I have done a more detailed list which i will email or PM in August.

DISBOARD NAME

DINNYSUW 6060

TWO-FOXES 6632

LXNME2 6514

MMORIZIO 6064 FRIENDS IN 6066

SINK 6638

MISSYOH8 6056/6552

SOCKS 68 6134

NCRedding 5133/5138

ZITOFAMILY 5518

GODISNEYBOAT 7005

LAWSONS GTY

KCASHNER GTY

MARCYINFLORIDA GTY



ANYONE INTEREST IN PALO BRUNCH DISBOARD MEET? LET ME KNOW.

TENTATIVE DISBOARD MEET AT STUDIO SEA DAY 3:15 OR SO ON 9/25

RADISSON BREAKFAST MEET FOR THOSE STAYING LET ME KNOW!

ARE WE THER YET?

DARCY:wave2: :bounce: :Pinkbounc:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[MarcyIn Florida]

We're also on the 9/25 Magic -- we're so excited (me, dh, and 2 dds) that we can't stop talking about it every night in bed. :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[missyoh8]

:earseek:

Reading all these posts just gets me all twirked up!!!! It's nice to know everyone else is as excited as we are! We are going on another vacation next month and don't even talk about it, because the cruise is way more exciting! Life is good........

missyoh8

[HooKooDooKu]

Anyone traveling with a toddler? We'll be with our two-year old who loves other kids.

lawsons,
We'll be travelling with with a two-year old as well. Would love to see ya on board. Contact me via PM (or email if I have that turned on).

Sorry dinnysuw, I hadn't been responding to your requests because I felt too uncomfortable giving out so much information that I just didn't respond at all. Not trying to be anti-social. Hope to see you all soon on board.

[two-foxes]

Is anyone just going to wing it in Key West, or do some of you have excursions set up? We will most likely relax on the ship, but we will wander off for sure at some point to find some Konch fritters and to see some of the much talked about sites! We are all set for our Cozumel dive (not through DCL) and Capt Marvins! We finally paid in full yesterday, so it seems so much closer now!

Just one note on the meet/cruise list, realize that adding yourself doesn't commit you to anything! If you want to hang out, great! If not, we promise not to pound on your stateroom door!;) Can't wait to meet you guys....I can taste the Konch Cooler already....okay, not really, but I can imagine!

[dinnysuw]

Just one note on the meet/cruise list, realize that adding yourself doesn't commit you to anything! If you want to hang out, great! If not, we promise not to pound on your stateroom door! Can't wait to meet you guys....I can taste the Konch Cooler already....okay, not really, but I can imagine!

That's right Jill! No comittment-just handy info! There is certtainly no pressure to give any info. Meet times will be posted when planned.
darcy

[NCRedding]

Well. after much debate, half of our party is coming on the 9/25 trip. We had planned it as an extended family trip, after 2 3-night cruises together. Then my brother was diagnosed with cancer, and passed away after only 36 days. My parents and his wife feel that it would be too painful to go without him, especially since he had even talked to the oncologist about scheduling his chemo around the trip.

So, a smaller group will be going-my DH and I, and our DD 12, with my sister and her husband. Look forward to seeing you there. We're in 5138, sis is in 5133.

[missyoh8]

NCRedding, First let me extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family...........this must be a very hard time for you and my prayers are with you and your family...

I am happy for you that you are feeling courageous enough to come on the cruise. Odd to think that taking a fabulous vacation can be mentally taxing, but as some of us know....it can.

Welcome aboard!!!!!

Missyoh8

:wave2:

[SINK]

NC Reading, we are really sorry for your lost. But, glad you can join us. It should help ease the pain somewhat. I'm sure that your brother wants you guys to be happy and he could live on through you guys.

I hope you won't take it in the wrong way.

[NCRedding]

Thanks so much for the kind words. I turned to this board when we received the diagnosis, and I couldn't face my friends without sobbing. The comfort I received has been amazing. My sis and I agree that it will be difficult, but we had such good times on our other cruises, that we wanted to try. Mom and Dad just can't--they travelled with my brother and wife to and from the cruise, and were there when he talked to the oncologist. They just associate the cruise so much with David.

So, we will go and we will have a wonderful time building memories--my brother loved cruising, and was buried with his Palo ticket from the last cruise. So if you see 2 stunningly beautiful women crying over their tropical drinks, it probably will be us. (Ok, I'm just kidding about the stunningly attractive part). Can't believe it is only 60 days away!!

[missyoh8]

NCRedding I have a reccomendation for you........large dark sunglasses. Last fall, after suddenly loosing my father we cruised. I couldn't bear to watch all the Grandpa's with the kids......one afternoon I sat with my tropical drink looking "stunningly beautiful" (not unlike yourself) and watched my daughter get her hair braided while talking to an older man waiting for his grandaughter to get her hair braided. The whole time we sat and chatted I was welled with tears aching for my daughter (and me) to have this relationship with my dad . He never knew because I was wearing the largest, darkest pair of Kate Spade sunglasses you have ever seen!! Every time I saw this man on the ship with his white sweat socks and sandals I welled up and took a deep breath to hold the tears back! The whole time with those great pair of sunglasses! Just a thought for you when your out cruise shopping.......pick up a pair for your sister too!! I will definately be wearing mine.......although time has passed the tears will never stop.

Anyway my 18 year old niece tells me big sunglasses are back in style!! LOL:sunny:

[dinnysuw]

NCRedding, I had kept your name on the list with hopes that all would work out for your brother-I was so sorry and suprised to hear of his quick passing (although I am sure time stood still for you at times) my husband lost his mother suddenly two weeks before we were to leave on a family trip to Disney world last octoober. We decided to go, knowing it would be difficult but that she would of wanted us to go! I have gladly added you to the list and look forward to meeting you-I have tears in my eyes as i write this-maybe i should bring some big sunglasses too!
darcy:grouphug:

[mmorizio]

We made our excursion reservations this morning!

We're sailing with our friends from Ohio (6064-66), and now we actually have some plans. We met on the phone last wek to discuss what we wanted to do, and this morning my wife called DCL to make reservations, and was allowed to make them for all four of us:

Key West: We’re going to wing it. We may take the trolley or Conch Train tour. We would like to eat at Sloppy Joe’s, but it’s not critical.

Cozumel: We’re going on the Atlantis submarine, and will probably do some shopping first. We were in Cozumel with the kids in ’92, and the shopping there was pretty nice.

Grand Cayman: Again, we were there in ’92, and were scheduled to go to Stingray City (which everyone says is a must-do), but the boat broke down so we took a bus tour of the island instead. This time we’re doing a combined bus tour of Hell and the turtle farm, followed by a ferry out to and snorkeling at Stingray City. My wife and I already saw Hell and thought it was just OK (the postmark is the best reason to go there), but our friends have never seen it, and it will be fun to see it with the two of them.

Castaway Cay: Again, winging it. Probably just sit on the beach.

[dinnysuw]

Hey Mike, I updated your excursions on the list of cruisers. i'll get it all finalized and email or PM it to all on the list in late August.
Disney Magic Here we come!
Darcy

[missyoh8]

Do most men actually wear a tux on formal night?? On the 4 day they did not. Will my DH stick out like a sore thumb if he wears a suit?? I must say he's not bad to look at and looks pretty good in a suit! Let me know what everyone else is doing...................:smooth:

[mmorizio]

My driver's license says I'm a man, and I wore a tux on the 7-day Eastern in 2001, and I will wear one for the formal night this September. On the semi-formal night I wear a blazer and tie, and all other nights I wear a blazer and polo shirt. (Except of course for the Caribbean night, when I wear the ugliest flowered shirt that I can get away with.)

[Lxnme2]

:wave2:
Is anyone staying in the Hyatt at the airport?

If you're a AAA member, you get breakfast. :teeth:

Lxnme2

[NCRedding]

DH wore a black suit for formal nights on our eastern cruise, and that's what he plans to wear for this one. He did not stick out, in fact, more were in suits than tux (which I personally think is a shame, since I love a man in a tux--particularly George Clooney). I will probably wear my tried and true black pantsuit (looks like a long black skirt but is actually pants). DD wants a "prom"like dress, which I am just not ready for, but who knows.

Our plans: Key West--probably wing it using either the trolley or the bone island shuttle. Cayman: stingrays--either with Sotos or Nativeway. Cozumel: Not sure, want to see some ruins since we're taking DD out of school so she needs some "education", but Paradise Beach looks like so much fun. If we do the beach, I'll probably send DH to play golf.

We're driving down from NC, probably staying in GA or around Jacksonville. Wish we could get there early enough to meet at the Radison, but doesn't look like that is going to happen this trip.

Thanks for all the supportive words. I look forward to seeing you onboard. missyoh8: I had tears just reading your post.

[dinnysuw]

Do most men actually wear a tux on formal night?? On the 4 day they did not. Will my DH stick out like a sore thumb if he wears a suit?? I must say he's not bad to look at and looks pretty good in a suit! Let me know what everyone else is doing...................
DH is palnning on wearing suit and tie for formal and semi-formal-couldn't convince him to wear a tux (lucky I got an ok on the suit!) so i am not pushing it. DS (9) is wearing the same. I have two different ties and shirts but the same pants and jacket. DD and myself are doing it up a little more. I found formal dresses on clearance at Dillards for the both of us. I don't get dressed up too often, spend most of my time in scrubs-so any opportunity to "look pretty" I am taking!
Everyone please check updated post with new cruisers added-we are up to 13 now (for awhile it was 4!)
darcy
DISBOARD NAME

DINNYSUW 6060

TWO-FOXES 6632

LXNME2 6514

MMORIZIO 6064 FRIENDS IN 6066

SINK 6638

MISSYOH8 6056/6552

SOCKS 68 6134

NCRedding 5133/5138

ZITOFAMILY 5518

GODISNEYBOAT 7005

Chap196043 2100

LAWSONS GTY

KCASHNER GTY

MARCYINFLORIDA GTY

[missyoh8]

Love to hear that there will be others in suits! hmmmmmmmm Now what about me!

Thanks for the feedback!

Has anyone done the tour of the Ruins in Cozumel? Wondering if the 6 year old could tough it out?? Anyone know anything about that.

We have decided to do the Train tour in Key West.....Turtle farm and island tour in Grand Cayman.........Glass Bottom Boat in Castaway.......but don't know what to do in Cozumel? Perhaps the beach?

WOW we're under 60 days it will be here before you know it!pirate:

[two-foxes]

I go thru DIS widthdrawl Sun-Wed if I can't get to the boards when I get off work. We were handed down strict internet restrictions at work....we are permitted to view chat boards, but not permitted to post....whatever. I like my job, so I will abide by the restrictions!

NC Redding-
Although I cannot imagine your suffering due to your loss, you need to continue living....you are doing the right thing by going on your planned vacation. Dedicate parts of your trip to him, knowing he'd be loving every second of it...and he probably is checking it all out from above!

Misseyoh8-
One more vote for a suit. DH bought a super nice black suit, it is formal looking, but still just a suit. He will wear a black silk tie on formal night and a silver, black, white striped tie for semi. I was actually trying to get him to rent a tux on board, just so we wouldn't need to lug it around, but he loved the suit.

I am bouncing back and forth of what to wear for formal night....I have a slinky red dress, that has a bit of a train, but I think it may be a bit too much....heck, if I find something better, I can always resell it on ebay! I am determined not to over pack on this trip....

[dinnysuw]

Ok Dis cruise Veterans. How much should i pack really! I have read the ultimate packing list and it is still sooo much. I want to know how many shorts you are planning on packing for yourself and hubby (if applies) kids clothes i am not too worried about as their clothes are much smaller and i can pack alot in a little space for them. but what about me. other than for excursions (which are both water based) do i need shorts? you can't were them in the dining rooms right so is three enough? any help much appreciated!
Two-foxes Jill I wondered were'd you'd been! Look under 59 days!

[HooKooDooKu]

We've already decided to save the money and just pack my black suit rather than spend the money for a tux like we did for the last 7 day cruise.

I've got a matching vest and plan on getting a bow tie. I'd wear the vest and bow tie on formal nights and just the suit and regular tie for semi-formal or Palo dinning.

[two-foxes]

Darcey-
I am packing 4 pairs of shorts, about 9 Tees and or tanks, and the remaining will be dinner outfits.....cute mickey skirt and dress, one or two sundresses or skirts and some capris and one or two "wear with anything" tops Plus formal night stuff, about 3 bikinis and a jacket. Now that I am typing it, it sounds like alot....but you should see how Tim packs.....he is a woman when it comes to packing, but I will secretly take out half of what he's packed! We always have to pack a fold up duffle bag because whenever we get his suitcase weighed at the airport, it is almost always over the the 50 lb weight limit. You'd think we would have learned by now!

You'll probably want about 2-3 pairs of shorts. Figure for Saturday, any shopping you may want to do at the ports, sea days when you don't want to hang out in your bathing suit all day, or any activity you may want to go to....spa, etc. I love having a long cotton skirt that you can just pull on, too.

[missyoh8]

Keep in mind there is laundry sevice and dry cleaning available on the ship! I am not going to spend my time trying to do laundry on a trip like this, although I know there are facilities...........last cruise we sent some things out to be 'pressed only' and it was very reasonable. Keep in mind when I say "reasonable" it is all relative! I will not press anything before we go this time, I will just send out our good clothes when we get on the ship. This way I don't have to take it out of the suitcase and be disappointed that it is all wrinkled. We set them out in the morning and when we came back in the afternoon they were hanging in the closet ready to go! Just a thought for anyone who has never used this service on the cruise.

:earsgirl:

[kcashner]

First, men wear tux, suits, and sports jackets on formal night...as well as the occasional military uniform. So, no one will be out of place in a suit.

Secondly, I always pack too much. Every time, I promise that I won't, and every time, I do....even though it's usually less than the time before. I learned how little you can get away with the time DD packed her shorts from the previous summer without trying them on, and NONE fit (on a Feb. cruise!) The packing list on the site is definitely too much. Pack light--you can always send out or do a load of laundry if needed.

[chap196043]

You can add me to the list!!!!! for the Sept, 25th sailing


NAME ROOM WHO

Chap196043 2100 DW 41
DD 6
ME 44

[dinnysuw]

Chap196043-you have been added! we are up to 14! I need
input on a DISboard meeting place and time. If Radisson people want a informal meet, where do we want to meet (i know Studio Sea has been suggested at 3:15) is that good for all. Give some suggestions so I can try to come up with what is best for all. Thanks!
Darcy

DISBOARD NAME

DINNYSUW 6060

TWO-FOXES 6632

LXNME2 6514

MMORIZIO 6064 FRIENDS IN 6066

SINK 6638

MISSYOH8 6056/6552

SOCKS 68 6134

NCRedding 5133/5138

ZITOFAMILY 5518

GODISNEYBOAT 7005

Chap196043 2100

LAWSONS GTY

KCASHNER GTY

MARCYINFLORIDA GTY

AprilN

[two-foxes]

We will be arriving at the Radisson at about 9 at night from WDW, then we will be hitting the laundry room (Oh HOW FUN!!), so an evening meet would be out for us. I would love to have a light breakfast the morning of.....I read somewhere that there is a good restaruant right next to the Rad that has good prices and good food, or we could meet to eat at the Rad.

As far as the meet on the ship, I am all about meeting whenever (as long as you can drag me away from the buffet at Topsiders!)
3:15 sounds good to me at Studio Sea. I'll be the one in the wheelbarrow.....

[kcashner]

Outside Studio Sea about 3:15 is generally a good time. Disboarders are usually on board well before that with all the necessities accomplished...and there's really nothing happening till the safety drill.

Made DDs excursion reservations today--DCL was celebrating big time as tomorrow is 6 years since the first passenger cruise embarkation. Made me nostalgic as we were there...but I don't miss the July weather. On that first cruise, it was 106 degrees and we couldn't use our verandah as it was too hot. I really like September much better.

Can't wait to meet all of you!
Kathryn

[kcashner]

OK, does anyone know what is going on with our cruise? DCL is showing only cat 4 and 5 left, but some other places (AAA, All Seas) are showing a lot of availability.

This is one of our standard sailing weeks (we tend to do birthdays on the ship) and it is normally half empty at this time of year (or sells out in the 2 weeks before the cruise). I have a couple of thoughts--part of the cabins may be down for refurbishing (in Feb, 1/3 of deck 7 was closed off...the steward said they were re-doing all of the cabins, one section at a time.) A large TA group like All Seas or AAA may have taken an option on this week and be still trying to sell all they've committed to. Or it could really be selling that far ahead (but that doesn't explain why some people still show availability and DCL has opened the cruise for FL resident rates...another sign that it has openings)

Very odd....although I've seen things like this happen on the DCL site before--one week there is little or no availability, then they shuffle cabins or whatever and suddenly there's space.....

Just wondering what anyone knows.......
Kathryn

[dinnysuw]

OK, does anyone know what is going on with our cruise? DCL is showing only cat 4 and 5 left, but some other places (AAA, All Seas) are showing a lot of availability.
Kathryn, I don't know but I was wondering myself. I checked the site just to see if we were full and it showed only 3 and 4 left. Your explanation sounds like a reasonable one. since you are a GTY when do you find out your rrom? when your docs arrive? just wondering. I haven't gotten a whole lot of suggestions for a DISboard meet so it looks as if we will be going with yours-since you are the veteran. I'll try to get all that info out later in August.
darcy

[kcashner]

Documents come 2-3 weeks before sailing date if you booked your transportation yourself. It's a little tighter if you booked air thru DCL. If you booked directly thru Disney, they will be sent to you directly; otherwise they will go to your TA who will forward them to you.

On a gty, you can find your room on the DCL web site if you booked directly thru them. Otherwise, you find out your room when your docs arrive. They do still have the right to change the room clear up to boarding, but usually don't. If they do, it is usually a further upgrade (if you got one to begin with.)

We once had an assigned room and were given an upgrade free at the port--the luggage guys knew about it when we pulled in. BTW, just for everyone's info, the luggage guys do have a current (as of day of sailing) list of names and cabin numbers. If you drive or use private limo, they verify when you drop off luggage. If you use DCL transport, they verify when they unload the truck.

OK, this time I WILL remember the disboard meet! I totally forgot about it on our last cruise. I really can't wait!

[kcashner]

This is way too weird. I just checked DCL and 4 other travel sites. DCL shows cat 4 and 5 available. Orbitz has 4,5,6,7. All Seasons has more than that...etc. Each site has something different.

Oh well... I guess all I need to know is that I have a cabin on the best ship in the world. And, our favorite server will be on board. And my DD will be in The Stack and I will be in the Spa (hee hee!)

[mmorizio]

Our cruise is next month!

We booked our cabins 15 months ago, and I thought I'd never be able to say that.

[NCRedding]

we just bought DD the cutest dress for formal night, marked down to $19.99--can't even buy a church dress for that. I am getting excited.

[HooKooDooKu]

We've spent the weekend shopping the sales for cloths. We've both gotten some more shorts and shirts. Even on sale, men's dress shirts can sure be expensive.

I've still got to find and buy a bow tie. I figured I wear my suit with it's vest and a black bow tie on formal night. Then for semi-formal and Palo, just the jacket and a regular tie.

[missyoh8]

Last year we cruised in mid October........I remember waiting until mid September and getting some of the most spectacular deals on summer clothes! I have finished the kids (3 is a lot to buy for!) and am trying to wait for my husband and myself! Last year I got the bargain of the century on some Lily Pulitzer sandals at DSW for 12.99.......they were originally $178! I don't think I can top that for this trip. Although I did get my DD (11) a linen sundress for dinner one night for $1.97! Now here I go giving all my cheap secrets away! WOW, have I turned into my mother (she said it would happen).

Getting more excited by the day. I read somewhere on here to make a paper chain for the kids to count down the days, I think I will have them do that today.


:tongue: :tongue: :tongue: :tongue: :tongue: :tongue: :tongue:

Have a good week all

[two-foxes]

Foleys (Dillards) has great sales....I stopped myself from purchasing a dress I really wanted for tropical/mexicali night, still couldn't justify it, even on sale! I keep thinking, "that equals 5 drinks" or "that is the balance due on this shore excursion"...so far that is working, but I know as the month continues, sales will get better and it will be even harder!

I am asking for Disney Dollars for my birthday presents. My MIL will usually get me something strange, so at least this year I'll get something that can be put to good use (Yes, I do know it is the thought that counts, regardless!!)

[mmorizio]

It just gets better and better.

There will be a full moon on Monday, September 27 into Tuesday, Sept. 28. Moonrise that week in the western Caribbean is about 7:25pm, with the moon in transit (its highest point in the sky) about 1:10am.

Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, the moon will never be less than gibbous (80-90% disk) during the entire cruise.

[mmouse37]

Hey everyone...I know I am putting the cart before the horse...but I am really trying to rearrange my fall schedule so I can be on this cruise!!!!

Still have some more juggling to do before I can even call DCL but I am monitoring the website and other TA's prices....... who knows....maybe in a week or so I can say YES, I AM JOINING YOU GUYS!!!! This will make DCL cruise #11!!!! Hubby and I want to celebrate our 25 year anniversary (kids..20, 19, 16.. are not too happy...they will be in school)

Wish me luck!!!

MJ

[missyoh8]

Maybe others have a different perspective but I believe that AllSeas has the best rates right now. I suppose you are pretty good at getting a deal if you have done this 10x's before, you lucky dog!

We hope you can swing it! :firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo ::MickeyMo

[kcashner]

All Seas is an agency that buys up a block of cabins at a discount, and then resells them to the public. That's why they will sometimes have cabins left after DCL shows a sold out cruise. There is some sort of a policy where if they don't sell the cabins, they can return them to DCL inventory, but I'm not sure when that date is....

Right now, DCL shows only cat 4 and 5 available, but All Seas is showing a lot more open. Orbitz is showing 4,5,and 6....etc. I suspect that only the DCL computer knows what's really out there and at what price, and they're not telling!

[kcashner]

I booked my excursions today--did Captain Marvin's stingray city. We finally decided that we'd both be happier if we each did our own thing. I'm delighted...I can spa while she's teen sailing! Disney dreaming! I can taste the food in my mind.

I do miss the Magic.....

[two-foxes]

I had nightmares about our trip.....Tim and I missed every port, evidently we were not paying attention and I kept wondering, "why is it taking us days to get to Key West?" I actually woke up in a panic! Is that a bad sign???

I am getting pretty excited.....Tim just needs to finish up his open water cert (the whole mask off under water thing didn't go so good for him last time!) so we can get a dive in at Cozumel....

I broke down and bought that darn dress. But it'll look cute, right? Even if it is worth a bunch of drinks!

[dinnysuw]

Hey Jill,
It is good to know I am not the only one with freaky dreams of vacation problems! But I am a born worry wart so it isn't unusual for me! I am glad you bought the dress! I am sure it was worth it! Look at our clock! Yipee! I am more excited than my kids!
Darcy

[kcashner]

Life gets very strange....after days of our cruise showing the only availability as cat 4 and 5, I just checked again on a couple of sites. DCL is still showing only 4 and 5, but vacationstogo and orbitz are showing 4,5,6,10, and 11.....interesting, isn't it?

Is there an upgrade in store for any of us?????dreaming.....

[HooKooDooKu]

kcachner,

I think what you are seeing is the 60-day effect.

Several people had reservations, but when the day came to either pay-in-full or cancel, a certain percent have canceled and now there are a few more spots open.

From now until the cruise, you should ONLY see the number available go DOWN.

The same thing is going to happen big time 60 days before the FL-CA and CA-FL trips, and we're likely to be one of those that gives up their reservation. I've made my down payment with the sincer hopes of doing the 14 day cruise. But it's just so expensive that I think when that 60-day mark comes, we are more likely to be forced to cancel than to have the money to make finial payment.

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by HooKooDooKu
The same thing is going to happen big time 60 days before the FL-CA and CA-FL trips, and we're likely to be one of those that gives up their reservation. I've made my down payment with the sincer hopes of doing the 14 day cruise. But it's just so expensive that I think when that 60-day mark comes, we are more likely to be forced to cancel than to have the money to make finial payment.

We are in the same boat (no pun intended!) for the Eastbound repo. We are all about going, but it all depends on how the situation with the green goes. We usually only take one "big" vacation every other year, and we had this one next month booked for a while, but who could say no to holding a spot, atleast for the 14 day next year. When May rolls around, we'll see where we are at!

I gotta be honest, though, all those days at see have me a bit nervous!

[two-foxes]

Chap got his docs already.....anyone else????

So, I realize I am a bit, well say we say...ready for a vacation, but we only have 41 days (I think!) to go!

[SINK]

We will also be on the Eastbound (Aug 20th) panama crossing. But, regardless of the "green" situation. We are going! We will "borrow" to vacation if we have to.

Wow, less than 6 weeks to go until the Magic (and less than 5 weeks until our cruising schedule commenced with the Celebrity Century on Sep 18th).

[HooKooDooKu]

We will also be on the Eastbound (Aug 20th) panama crossing. But, regardless of the "green" situation. We are going! We will "borrow" to vacation if we have to.

Our booking is for the Westbound, but new developemnts may result in "green" having nothing to do with our need to cancel the trip. We'll know more in six to ten weeks.

[socks68]

I got my documents on Saturday. We used Allseas travel. It made it seem so real somehow to actually hold the brown envelope in my hands. Now I just have to remember to call about excursions.

Rose

[SINK]

Congrats to all who have received their docs.

We on the west coast have not received them. Hopefully it will arrive this week.

To the "DIS" planners for our 9/25/04 cruise, should we start firming up our meets.

[kcashner]

To those who don't have docs yet, don't panic. They usually come about 4 weeks in advance if you did not book air thru DCL, 2-3 weeks if you did book air. They will go first to your TA (if you used one), and then be forwarded to you. If you booked a gty, they may be delayed a little from the 4 weeks (but that can be good news).

Yes, it is nice to have them in your hands...but we're still more than a month out. When I get the docs, I get serious about the preparation!

[dinnysuw]

Ok Ok. I know that I am not the ONLY one fretting about the weather down south lately am I? I just read on another post from someone on the Magic now and they aren't going to GC they arrived at Cozumel at 5pm and are staying overnite and going to Nassau (YUCK) also mentioned how over 500 people boarded in Key West due to missed flights and are still without luggage! I will be soo bummed if we can't snorkel with the stingrays or swim with the dolphins (although both are refundable if ship doesn't dock) I know there is not a darn thing I can do about it, whatever happens happens. But the worrier in me is going NUTS with worry! Just wanted to know felloe cruiseres thoughts. Also, looks like we have our final list of cruisers. List and meet details will go out end of the month. BTY NO docs for me either :(
Darcy

[dinnysuw]

MARCYINFLORIDA-just wondering how things went where you live. Are things OK? Did you get het by Charley. Please post if you can and let us know. My prayers are with you and all your fellow Floridians!
Darcy

[kcashner]

Darcy--we have sailed 5 times in hurricane season (I think...maybe it's 6). Every time, we made it into CC. 2 of the cruises turned out to be "mystery cruises" but we really had a great time. We went to Key West before the Western even existed, etc. DCL sees to it that we have a great time, no matter where/if we port. Yes, it is discouraging to not have the excursions we planned, but the ship is a wonderful experience in itself. It will be magical fun, no matter what the storms do.
Kathryn

[dinnysuw]

Kathryn,
Thanks for the words of optimisim! I have read your posts where you have mentioned sailing at the same times. I imagine if you keep going back, then something has to be right! I know we chose to sail at this time and a mystery cruise wouldn't be so bad maybe after the first cruise was under our belt! My kids are so anxiously awaiting the dolphin swim (my son loves the miami dolphins solely for their name!! LOL). All I can do is keep my fingers crossed and more importantly Pray for a safe and hopefully mystery free cruise! Two-foxes Jill-How are you handling this?? Your dreams getting any weirder?? (is that a word?)
Dinnysuw
Darcy

[two-foxes]

Darcy-
Knowing we booked in hurricane season, I figure what ever happens will happen! The only excursion I really have my heart set on is the one in Antigua on the 10/02 cruise. Other than that, if I have DCL, some alcohol, good food, and a beach with some snorkling every now and again, I'll be just fine:teeth: I am hoping however, that everything is "smooth sailing", and that Charley, Earl and their friends have gotten all the huffing and puffing taken care of for a while!

No bad dreams about DCL.....had a baaaaddd flying dream last night. (Luckily I wasn't on the plane!) Nothing some in flight Xanaz won't fix! :rolleyes:

[dinnysuw]

Jill,
I think my biggest worry is the flight-bad weather delays and such and then trying desperately to get to the boat. I am so glad we are flying in the day before. We are on Spirit and had already booked. then i got an email from them about ther "syber deals" i ended up switching our returning flight (we were leaving at 11:45 am on return day) to a later flight (7:40 pm we'll rent a car and cruise orlando maybe do KSS) and ended up saving 288.88! no penalties for switching nothing. we get a travel voucher from them for future travel to anywhere they fly. My parents are moving to florida (building a home in Palm Coast) so we can certainly use it again! I have already told my parents about the Florida resident discount on cruises with Disney and my mom is already excited about next year! I just have to figure out how I should book it to get the discount, if and when it is offered. Anyone have any ideas?
Thanks
Dinnysuw
Darcy

[mmorizio]

We received our docs today.

[dinnysuw]

DINNYSUW is doing the DOCS dance!! Yipee!!!! Haven't even read it all but thought I'd pass it on! I never knew what people meant when they said they did the DOC dance-but when the doorbell rang and this little box was handed to me-I didn't know what it was. Then I looked at return address and I jumped up and screamed and did a little cha cha dance!! Hope yours will come very soon as well-I saw Mike got his! :Pinkbounc :bounce:
darcy

[two-foxes]

Darcy-Who did you book through?

Still waiting, still got plenty of time for them to come, but still waiting!!!!!!

Congrats on the docs....it makes it all seem oh so time for vacation now, huh?:p

[dinnysuw]

Jill, I booked right through DCL in April of this year. I guess I was expecting alot of paperwork to fill out. It looks like it is just one piece for each of us. the rest of the docs are in a little booklet for each traveler. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you! Disney dreaming!
darcy

[SINK]

To All 9/25/04 Magic Cruisers who are also on the Eastern Panama Crossing set sail on 8/20/05, IT's Exactly a Year Later til me meet "again". 365 days and counting.

[mmorizio]

I passed a major milestone today. I purchased my annual Vacation Paperback Novel. This year's selection is "Cruising for Murder" by Susan Sussman.

Just the thing to sit unopened in my lap while I sit on the verandah and stare at the Big Water.

[kcashner]

Sink...you are so right! I even talked to Disney today, and the date didn't hit my brain. See you in a year!!!!

BTW, they were great with the answer to a quick question for a homework problem!

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by SINK
To All 9/25/04 Magic Cruisers who are also on the Eastern Panama Crossing set sail on 8/20/05, IT's Exactly a Year Later til me meet "again". 365 days and counting.


I haven't given too much thought to the cruise next year yet...but as soon as this trip is done, I be one track minded on that one, and my DH will again think I am insane.

kcashner, I assume you've been on a Western before...any good thoughts on where to get good conch fritters in Key West???

[SINK]

Doing the cruise Doc dance.

Our nice "neighbor" called us today and inquired whether we were waiting for a package from Disney cruise lines. To my dismay/surprise, our cruise doc's were sent to a wrong address. A mistake was made by Disney Cruise Lines (since the address on all cruise doc's were wrong). Our address is 747 and Disney sent it to 474. I emailed my TA demanding an apology from Disney. This is our fifth sailing and don't understand why they would have a wrong address for us.

No wonder we did not received the Acapulco overnight information (sorry to bring this up).

Anyhow, Cruise Doc DANCE.

[dinnysuw]

Cruise list and DISboard meeting times have been sent. Please check your emails (if you allowed emails from your profile) if not check your PM. If you didn't recieve it please PM or email me back! Are we ther Yet?
dinnysuw-darcy

[SINK]

Darcy:

I did received the list. But, I don't have word perfect, so I'm unable to read it. Furthermore, I don't have the "conversion" to MS word.

[AprilN]

Doin' the doc dance here in California! Our docs were waiting in our mailbox on Friday evening, sent from our TA (Costco). We definitely weren't expecting them this soon!

I can't believe it's just over a month away. Wheeee!

[dinnysuw]

SINK check your email again-sent it a differently. Hope this works.
darcy

[SINK]

Darcy:

Thanks, got the information. Looking forward in meeting you all on Sat at 3:15 at Studio Sea.

[wnissen]

Hi September 25th cruisers!

I'm AprilN's husband, and we are looking to do an independent snorkel excursion when we arrive in Cozumel. We've settled on Papa Hog's, which offers small tours traveling to two to three reef areas for $50 a person. They have an informative web page (http://www.travelnotes.cc/cozumel/tours/snorkel.php) that also has up-to-the minute reviews (http://travelnotes.cc/reviews/view_review2.php?location_id=1&cat_name=Dive+Shops&item_name=Papa+Hogs&item_id=168&cat_id=5&ratings_val=15,17,7) from folks who have been on the excursions. It sounds great, with one hitch: if they don't get at least two more people to sign up for our afternoon tour, it won't happen! So, we figured we would see if anyone else on DIS was interested in going on this three-hour excursion in the afternoon (leaving around 1).

:boat:

See you there,
Walt

[dinnysuw]

Sorry Walt, we are booked for the dolphin encounter through an independent excursion. good luck!
darcy

[two-foxes]

Got our docs today for this cruise! I hope they get the docs for the 10/02 sent soon! I was hoping they would come together, but needless to say, this tides me over for a while now!

Darcy, I STILL can't open the document. If it isn't too much trouble could you just copy and paste it to either the PM here or just to email with no attachment? THANKS!

[NCRedding]

We got docs today also. I think I am finally getting excited about the trip. I'm trying to figure out excursions that will still let me get to all the Hard Rock cafes for pins--my new souvenir. 30 days from today is when we fly out!!

[kcashner]

DCL just opened cat 11 to more bookings....interesting, isn't it? No docs here yet......

[Lxnme2]

:confused: No docs for me yet either. My flights were cancelled and had to re-book with another airline, but it's O.K. We have good flights, will be in Orlando earlier in the day, so we can relax, play in the pool and have dinner with my Orlando friend, whom I haven't seen in some years. Looking forward to that.

Who, how and when will make the ressies for our Palo brunch and Palo tea for the ladies and are there certain days these take place? Am so looking forward to Palo brunch and tea. I can't believe we fly out in 31 days!!!!

Will see you all at the "meet" time and place on board.

[Angellelopez]

::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo

We are so excited this is our first cruise it will be myself, my husband Bill, My mother Loretta and our 2yr old daughter Jenna. We will be stayeing on Disney property at the new Pop Centry for two days prior to ship leaving we have family in Orlando area and will visit them then take the Disneyh bus to the cruise.
We have never cruised and we cannot wait.

[dinnysuw]

Angelle-Welcome to the DISboard! We have planned a meet at 3:15 (3:30) At Studio Sea on sail away day-if interested please stop buy and meet some of your fellow cruisers.
Jill-I did copy and paste on last email-will try it in private message. sorry!
did anyone see the thread about EMMASGRAMMY-how Emma her grdtr and Amanda were dilled in a house fire? They are trying to get donations going for Amanda's husband and bay (who is in critical condition) Definitely need some prayers and pixie dust their way!

[Angellelopez]

The Lopez's
Since this is my first time any suggestions on packing? Any suggestions on must do's? I cannot afford alot of excursions as money will be tight but dont want to miss out on any must do's. My daugther is two so that may be limiting. She loves fish and the water. ANy good web sites to look info on Grand Cayman and Cozumel?

This will be the celebration of my 10yr wedding anniversary. Do you all have a list of who is cruising with kids ages and room numbers?

We would love to meet everyone at the 3:15 meeting.



Angelle 30
Bill 34
Jenna 2
Loretta (Gamma) 67


__________________
Angelle Lopez

Husband Bill

:

[dinnysuw]

Angelle,
please check your Private Messages-I have copied the list for you.
this is my first time cruising as well-so it is all new. buth these boards are very useful.
Darcy

[kcashner]

Called TA today--they don't have my docs yet. I just wanted to alert them that we're leaving a week earlier than they knew as we booked several park days thru DVC.

They are now listing cat 4,6, and 11 as available, so obviously are continuing to reshuffle gtys. I'm still hoping for pixie dust.

[LimeyAngel]

Hello ... I am new to the list. Virgin poster and Disney Cruiser. I will be on the Magic on September 25th. I will be coming with a girlfriend from NW FL and staying at the Radisson the night before. We will be in room 7112 and would like to meet with you guys.

Barb

[mmouse37]

Hey everyone!!!!

I am so excited to say that I finally booked and will be sailing with all you guys on Sept. 25. We are flying into Tampa on the 23 and visiting my aunt and then staying at the Radisson the night before the cruise. Can't wait.

Having a heck of time getting decent car rentals. I have tried every code at mousesavers and still rates are much higher than last Sept.

Anyway we have late seating and are in Cat 9, Cabin 2610!!!! Hubby and I are celebrating 25 years!!!! This will be DCL cruise #11!!! I don't wish change of ports on anyone but honestly, I would not mind if we had to have a "mystery cruise"...must be the adventurer in me!!! Anyway...I am so glad to be going.

Whoppee!!!

The big cheese and me!!!

http://community.webshots.com/photo/118553635/121185570ZWCkAr

MJ

[mmouse37]

Forgot to ask to be added to the cruise list and to have it sent to me via e-mail (on my profile).

Mary Jane 45
Mike 47
Late Dining
Cabin 2610
Celebrating 25th wedding anniversary!!!!
11th DCL cruise!!!

We want to try Paradise Beach this time in Cozumel. Have no other plans set yet in other port....probably just wing it and enjoy a lot of ship time.

Oh....would anybody be interested in getting a dinner table together?? Just a thought as I know I would prefer to dine with people I know (be it virtually) than complete strangers....if anyone is interested let me know!!!

We are a very easy going couple (won't discuss politics!!!).

Anyone want to post pics so we know who is who before we sail??? Would love to meet all at the Dis meet onboard!!!

Here is Mike and me!!! The kids are upset they can't come this time!!!

http://community.webshots.com/photo/48196942/48728383IIyrEs

http://community.webshots.com/photo/76180824/76181018qjvjyh

Mike is Port Authority Policeman at the George Washington Bridge in NYC. He has been on high alert since 9/11 (he lost many friends on the PA police force that day) and I can see he is getting burned out from all the OT. I knew a DCL cruise would be just the thing he needs!!! I work at a small law office as a secretary and also work for the mouse p/t.

In just a few weeks we can experience this!!!

http://community.webshots.com/photo/76180824/76188568RrPndG

MJ

[NCRedding]

MJ: I got excellent rates from National using the Entertainment book. We're flying in the night before and staying at POP using the $49 rate. Our car for one day is $30.11 including taxes (using the upgrad coupon from the Entertainment Book). Aftre we cruise, we're staying at AKL for 2 nights--that car was$70.94 from National.

Glad you can join us. Your family looks great, and I thinks its great that you're celebrating 25 years!!

[mmouse37]

Thanks...I have not tried National yet!!!

MJ

[dinnysuw]

Mary Jane-check you PM-list has been sent to you!
darcy

[mmouse37]

Thanks Darcy!!!

Kathryn.....hey, I just checked the DCL website and now they are showing availablility in all these categories...granted not much in each category....but I think some TA's must have released some of their unsold cabins back to DCL.

Cats 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 now showing as available!!!

MJ

[Angellelopez]

I booked my car rental thru Alamo on Disney Property I go t a minivan for two days for $80.00 total. We will be staying at Pop Century for two days prior to the cruise and want to have a car to go see family. Go to Alamo web site and over to the right it says Plan Ahead Specials. They have great deals and have a location on Disney Property at the Swan Hotel.

Hope this helps you

[mmouse37]

Thanks for the tip.....I did finally book with Alamo but the rates under Plan Ahead Specials were much more than the regular rates for my ressie.

I have a wierd ressie because I am picking up the car in Tampa a few days before and want to keep it the whole time and return to Orlando. I finally got an acceptable price of $188.00 total including all taxes, etc. for the 10 day rental with Alamo. Avis, Budget and National all quoted prices between $219.00 and $294.00 for the same time period...I tried every code combo out there. With Alamo I used the Costco code and a $20.00 Costco coupon.

We will just leave the rental at the Radisson during the cruise.

We have always done the 2 one-way rentals but keeping the car the whole time is not that much more than the 2 one-ways.

Thanks everyone for your help!!

MJ

[missyoh8]

WOW, after all the planning we are almost there! I have to agree I would not mind a "mystery cruise" myself! However, good weather is a must! We are so looking forward to meeting all of you! Welcome aboard mmouse (I think that's right). Anyone have any spa indulgences that they think are spectacular on the Disney Line? Would love some feedback from the verterans. The kids are now debating a dolphin encounter.....they are a little skidish however. I think I might not bring them back from Mexico if I pay and they chicken out! Anyone have any first hand knowlege?

We are definately fired up in OHIO! Can't wait for the boat drinks!
MISSYOH8
:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:

[NCRedding]

My plan for the spa is to just get a Rainforest pass for the week. I have done the massage on CC and loved the view, hated the actual massage. I thought about doing the REAS package, but DH was not at all interested in doing a massage, so I decided to pass.

DD came home from a shopping trip with her semi-formal dress--a little too grown up at first glance, but it looks cute and appropriate on her.

Can't believe how close it is getting!!

[mmorizio]

The suitcases are up from the basement. My travel gadgets are already in mine. This weekend I'll print out my packing list (which I've been working on for the past six months).

I can almost taste the terrible coffee from the deck 9 coffee/tea station... Ah...

[dinnysuw]

Hey All!
I have an updated cruiser list with those new arrivals added on-if anyone is interested on the newer version please email me and i will get the updated one out to you!
I can feel the ocean breeze in my sleep!
darcy

[two-foxes]

I am starting to get REALLY excited! I am getting a bit ancy about being away for 3 weeks, but I have a feeling once I know the dogs and cat are taken care of, and we are finally landed in Orlando ( I HATE flying) it will all be smooth sailing. We are now waiting on the docs for the 10/02.....

So, on a non cruise related note, who has done Mission:Space and not gotten sick? I'd hate to not ride it when we are there, but I'd hate to ride it and then feel like crap! I figure I'll flip a coin and ride it at night.

[missyoh8]

We have started packing up the dining room table! We used to have a spare bedroom for packing but the children soon outnumbered us!!!!! I am glad to hear someone else actually has things IN the suitcase. NCRedding, I am having a hard time with shoes for the DD (11). What did you end up with for the dressier nights? I would love to only pack one pair for every dinner but she is in adult size and we are not ready for any type of heel just yet! What a great life I have to stay up at night and ponder such important matters...........:scratchin hmmmmmmmmmmm



Life is good,
missyoh8
:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:
:boat:

[mmouse37]

Hubby and I rode Mission Space this past May. I have to admit a felt a bit closed in...but was alright. The other people in the capsule with us bolted at the last minute so it was just Mike and I. It is an intense ride but I would do it again and we did not get sick.

If you are at all claustrophobic I would not try it since you are in a small space with a control panel only about 6 inches from your face.

I am going to try to pack my stuff in a large wheeled duffle this trip. It folds down pretty flat to store under the bed. I think it can do it.

So...who is dressing up for Pirate night!!! Hubby looked at me like I was nuts when I said I wanted to....he will probably just wear tropical but who know...maybe I will wear an eyepatch or something!!!

missoh8....want to talk about shoes....when our teen girls cruise with us shoes are a huge issue!!! I have posted this pic before on the Dis but in case you have not seen it....

http://community.webshots.com/photo/50699182/57726760txYpVs

Granted half of them were their two friends who they were sharing a cabin but all of them are not even in the pic. There were more pairs lined up on top of the sofa!! The stateroom host could not believe it. They can't come this trip so no extra shoe bag this time!!!

MJ

[mmorizio]

<<So...who is dressing up for Pirate night!!!>>

Arg! 'Tis me usual flowered shirt and slacks it will be. Looking like a pirate on vacation in Miami I will.

[wnissen]

Originally posted by mmouse37
missoh8....want to talk about shoes....when our teen girls cruise with us shoes are a huge issue!!! I have posted this pic before on the Dis but in case you have not seen it....

http://community.webshots.com/photo/50699182/57726760txYpVs

Granted half of them were their two friends who they were sharing a cabin but all of them are not even in the pic. There were more pairs lined up on top of the sofa!! The stateroom host could not believe it. They can't come this trip so no extra shoe bag this time!!!

:eek:

For the first time, a smiley looks exactly like I do! I think that is the funniest picture I've ever seen. :teeth: I counted, and I own ten pairs of shoes, versus twenty-eight pairs (for four people?) in the picture. Thanks for posting that!

Walt

[dinnysuw]

Arg! 'Tis me usual flowered shirt and slacks it will be. Looking like a pirate on vacation in Miami I will.
pirate: :p Mike, you are so funny can't wait to meet you in person. How does everyone know it is a pirate night-was it somewhere in the docs? also if i am arriving night before-do i wait to put the luggage tags that were included in the docs on until the morning of departure?
thanks
darcy

[missyoh8]

Didn't I read somewhere that there was now a coffee bar or something of the sort on the ship? Mike you are correct about the coffee being bad.....every morning I would sit on the verandah and hold a cup, enjoying the view! I was hoping there might be hope for this cruise! Maybe I should throw the 'grind and brew' in the suitcase.............

We will as well be sporting a tropical theme on pirate night. I never knew it was changed until I read it here.

Almost September, now we can all say we are "going on a cruise THIS month":earseek:

missyoh8
:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:

[NCRedding]

Love the shoe picture!! I'm sure that DD will end up taking twice as many pairs as I will. We're going to try to find some reasonable shoes--which is difficult since she wears a 9 1/2:earseek: She inherited it from me--I'm size 11--our shoes are so large we need a separate suitcase just for them!

Pirate night has taken the place of Mexicalifragalistic night; I found the menu on these boards, and it looks so much better than the Mexical... I'll be wearing tropical attire as well.

[Lxnme2]

Originally posted by NCRedding
Love the shoe picture!! I'm sure that DD will end up taking twice as many pairs as I will. We're going to try to find some reasonable shoes--which is difficult since she wears a 9 1/2:earseek: She inherited it from me--I'm size 11--our shoes are so large we need a separate suitcase just for them!

Pirate night has taken the place of Mexicalifragalistic night; I found the menu on these boards, and it looks so much better than the Mexical... I'll be wearing tropical attire as well.


:magnify: Where did you find the menu, I'd love to know what is served. Anyone with teens dressing for Pirate night?

Lxnme2

[AprilN]

Originally posted by Lxnme2
:magnify: Where did you find the menu, I'd love to know what is served. There's a scanned version of the new menu on Barb's Castaway Club site. I tried to post a direct link, but it was **** out. Looks yummy!

[AprilN]

Argh, hit quote instead of edit. :mad:

[kcashner]

I always take a pair of black sandles--they double as my shoes for formal night. Can't see packing heels for one wearing! Do the same thing for 13 year old DD. ANother trick is black tennis shoes (sneakers) for boys--they can double as dress shoes AND be useful when you get back home. Unfortunately, shoes take up way more suitcase space than I like.

I do my comfy everyday sandles (usually white), black sandles, beach shoes, and sneakers (for the workout room). I generally wear the sneakers when we board as they are the biggest!

[two-foxes]

Barb's site and Dave's site are sharing the same info....try finding the menus at www.dcltribute.com

[AprilN]

Originally posted by two-foxes
Barb's site and Dave's site are sharing the same info....try finding the menus at www.dcltribute.com I just took a look at Dave's site, and the Pirates menu doesn't appear to be added yet. Those who would like the info right now should head to Barb's site - click on Menus, then Dinner Menus/Rotations, then to the right of "Magic" is a link to the Pirates menu.

[Angellelopez]

What is Barb's Site? I am addicted to reading and learning about the cruise any other good sites please share with me. Thanks so much. I am so excited on 25 days left to go; and we will be on that beautiful ship.

Angelle :bounce:

[Angellelopez]

What is Barb's Site? I am addicted to reading and learning about the cruise any other good sites please share with me. Thanks so much. I am so excited on 25 days left to go; and we will be on that beautiful ship.

Angelle :bounce:

[AprilN]

Originally posted by Angellelopez
What is Barb's Site?Her site gets **** out on the DISboards, because she is a travel agent as well as a great resource for DCL info. If you Google for "castaway club", her site is the first link - click here (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&q=castaway+club&btnG=Google+Search). It's worth checking out!

[two-foxes]

There is also a link to her site at the dcltribute site.....just click on the "platnium" link that is in the bottom left of the home page on dcltribute....


gotta get to work!

Good day to everyone!

[mmouse37]

I just feel awful about all the cruisers coming and going this weekend.....what a mess!!!

I just checked DCL website and they are now showing availability in Cat's 7, 8, 11 with 1 cabin each in 7, 8 and 3 cabins in Cat 11 for our sailing.

MJ

[two-foxes]

Wow, Francis is looking NASTY!!!! Pray for a safe week for all in Florida. (OK, pray for clear weather for us, too!)

[CHUCKIEZOO52]

Hi guys!

This is my first time posting to this thread (I think it's my 3rd or 4th post overall!) I'm pretty much just a lurker, but I wanted to tell you all that Me and my wife will be on the Magic with you, celebrating our 1st anniversary, and that I really appreciate all of the info that you have all been posting. It's nice to know that there are other people out there that are as excited as we are! We're not much for meeting up, and we (at least me!) pretty much keep to ourselves, but if you see a big, goofy looking kid in a Penn State hat, be sure to say "Hi," it's probably me! Let's all hope that CC is still ABOVE WATER when we get there!

I have a quick question for you guys: We booked through AAA (GTY-cat6) and still haven't gotten a call about our documents. Should I be getting nervous? Thanks for any replies in advance!

Have a nice 3 weeks....we'll see ya on the boat!

[mmouse37]

welcome chuckie.....wow you guys are celebrating your 1st anniv and hubby and me are celebrating 25!!!!

Welcome to the boards...no need to worry yet about docs....they can come up to 2 weeks before sailing so you still have some time. I would hold off calling anyone...TA or DCL until after this weekend as they seem to have their hands full with the hurricane.

We are also on Cat 6 GTY.....we changed from a Cat 9.

MJ

[kcashner]

I called DCL today--we have booked a week at WDW before cruise, but since it's a separate ressie, DCL didn't know about it. With all the weather stuff, I thought I'd better tell them where they could reach us before the cruise (they commented that they had my home number--hee hee). I'm glad I'm not working there this week. They have changed phone prompts--if you are sailing on the 9/2 Wonder, press 1 now. If you are sailing on the 9/4 Magic or 9/5 Wonder, press 2 now. All others stay on the line, etc. Oh well...hope all is ok.

GTY docs tend to come last. Don't worry. They will come at about 2 weeks before cruise. The point is that MOST will be accurate at that time. They can still move your room, but a late move is always good news!

[Lxnme2]

Got our docs in my hot little hands today!!!

Took a half day vacation and was home in time to watch the courier pull in the drive with a pkg and I knew immediately what was in it. :teeth:

I hope all of you will soon receive your docs if you haven't already.

I'm keeping the Weather Channel on for updates on the lastest on Hurricane Frances. A group prayer at church last evening for the hurricane to head back out to sea to avoid harm to life.

Now there's Hurrican Ivan, right now he's far away.

Lxnme2

:jumping1: :jumping1:

[Angellelopez]

What exacly can I expect when the documents come? Is it just an itenerary? Just curious..... I am dying to get the documents but dont know what to expect.:Pinkbounc :earseek: :wave: :yo-yo: :wave2: ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo

[two-foxes]

Angellelopez-

You'll get a little rectagular box that looks like a steam trunk that has a little booklet for each traveller. In the booklet you fill out some info and it also has the itinerary and luggage tags and other info (charging, etc.) There is also info on stateroom gifts....it really just finalizes the whole "wow, we are leaving soon" feeling!

[Lxnme2]

Originally posted by Angellelopez
What exacly can I expect when the documents come? Is it just an itenerary? Just curious..... I am dying to get the documents but dont know what to expect.:Pinkbounc :earseek: :wave: :yo-yo: :wave2: ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo

Just like two-foxes said, it all comes in a neat little pkg. A booklet entitled "The Passport to Disney Magic", a "Gift" booklet, Formalwear brochure & order form, a travel booklet for each passenger, and The Bahamas Immigration Arrival/Departure Card for each passenger.

Your travel booklet contains the sailing itinerary, your ground transfer info. (and coupon if you bought the Disney transfer), cruise embarkation form, gratuity guidelines info. along with other policy info., cruise & airline contract, luggage tags, and, of course, payment authorization form for your KTTW account......and your flight info., too.

Hope that helps. My TA told me that it could arrive up to 2 weeks before our sailing.

:wave2:

Lxnme2

[Angellelopez]

I am so excited... I am like a kid that goes to a candy shop and is told they can get anything they want.... I can not wait... I hope nothing ruins our cruise all this weather has gotten me a bit conserned.

:moped: :jumping2: :charac2: :flower1: :cheer2: :thewave:

[Lxnme2]

Lxneme2....if we get a chance to meet up, when making ressies, you should come with Tim and I to Palo Brunch...in fact, that may be a fun adults get together for anyone who wants to join!

So, I'm throwing that out there! If anyone wants to do Brunch on a sea day...send a PM to me and we can try to coordinate a time to get ressies together!

Jill [/B][/QUOTE]


When would you like to have Palo Brunch? Let me know, so that I can make a Palo reservation upon boarding. Correct me please, but I think it is $10 to make the reservation.

Also, Kcashner suggested a Palo tea for any of the ladies who would like to..........let me know so I can make both of these reservations at the same time upon boarding.

Won't be long now? Is anyone packed yet?

Lxnme2

[two-foxes]

I'll shoot you a PM....

[dinnysuw]

Won't be long now? Is anyone packed yet?
Packed-I've been packed for a week!! LOL! My family thinks I am nuts. My stomach is sooo queasy thinking of the weather. Did you hear about all the changes to the cruises? 7 day extended to 9 day and 7 day cut to a 5 day? Count me in for the Palo brunch!
Darcy

[allears]

Greetings,

I finally got around to checking out this portion of the board. We, DW, DD, DS, DS are of course also on the 9/25 sailing. This was the third and final re-scheduling of our 4th Disney cruise, 1 on the Wonder the rest on the Magic. We are really excite and so looking forward to being back on board. And we're hoping all of this tropical storm activity will have had enough of itself by then and none of us will have any trouble getting to the ship. It looks pretty ugly in Florida right now, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone.

I'm sure we'll all be anxious to hear reports from Castaway Cay and how soon the Disney ships will be returning to the island. I figure we have 4 weeks (assuming we go their as scheduled on our last day) for the island to get cleaned up. I would think as long as the docking area wasn't terribly damaged the chances are good that cruises will get back there relatively quickly.

We are flying in the afternoon before and staying at the Hyatt at the air port. This will be a first for us as we flew in the same day for our last two cruises. We are also sailing with two of my wife's relatives, very speical Aunt and cousin.

Can't wait to see the changes to the ship since last years visit to dry dock and we've got the same state room as our last trip. Kind of like coming home.

socks68, we're in South Jersey just on the other side of the Walt Whitman. In fact the folks sailing with us live in south Philly. mmorizio, what part of NJ are you from.

Let's all keep our fingers crossed that the weather around Florida improves very quickly for those folks and stays that way for us. We usually cruise in February and I worry about snow storms and getting out of Philly. Now its hurricanes and getting into Florida. I guess it just makes the trip that much sweeter once you're on the ship.

I can't believe it is finally so close!

[two-foxes]

allears-

Welcome! I have been stuck to the news just waiting for some word on how damaged things are.....Since we are doing back to backs, I really just want to get to CC once on one of them! Only time will tell.

Sounds like WDW handled it all well with little damage...We are headed there in just under 2 weeks!

[fourfoxesinpa]

Less than 3 weeks now and we will be on that big ole' boat with you. The four Foxes (me, DH, DS & DD) from southeast PA are VERY excited and anxious with Frances just leaving and Ivan on the way. I've enjoyed reading the great tips and advice on the board.

Let the packing begin!!!
Jamie Fox:boat:

[two-foxes]

How funny....we are two-foxes (twofoxesinco to be exact!)

Welcome!

3:15 outside studio sea for a dis meet.....

[missyoh8]

Welcome fourfoxes..............the packing has begun!!! Found the perfect shoes for my DD (11)! We try to only take 3 pairs each so this was important (in my 'much to easy' life). Flats that are black sandals with rhinestones on them! So cute, paid too much but she will not look like she's trying to be 16! Darn if her foot were only a little bigger we could have shared. I suppose if we lined up all the shoes for a family of 5 that could still make one heck of a shoe picture.

Wondering if everyone else was doing the "what if that were us trying to get on the cruise last Saturday"? We decided we would be in Fla..........possibly riding out a hurricane but at least it would have been a story to tell. If Ivan were to become anything, I am assuming it would be over by our cruise? Anyone know?

We are so excited here. My mother in law is a little skidish about the weather, I figure a little Baileys in her coffee the morning we fly out should do the trick! (maybe a lot of baileys!)

Have a good one,
missyoh8

:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:

[dinnysuw]

missyoh8-My thoughts have been nothing but "what if" since frances came to florida. I have resolved myself to the fact that CC will not be on our itinerary. I have never done the Disney cruise so I guess I don't know what I'll be missing is a blessing in disguise. Those poor people-I have followed another thread that one cruiser explained what they had to go through to just get to Port. anyone know how PC faired? Is the DCL terminal still there?
Look at our countdown clock-I am still so excited!
Darcy

[NCRedding]

missyoh8: I found shoes for my DD on a great sale--of course, they're higher than I would like, but she actually does very well in them--she even turns cartwheels in them:rolleyes: Hopefully, our DD's can get to know each other.

I hope that our cruise will go smoothly. This will be our 4th during hurricane season, and we've never had any problems before. I am so curious about CC--guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

Getting so excited--trying to get as much work done as possible so the trip will be as stress-free as possible.

[wnissen]

quote removed

My wife and I have already resigned ourselves that after hours of 100+mph winds, Castaway Cay is not going to happen this trip. I'm sure you've read the other thread, but especially with Ivan still on the way Disney is not going to throw itself into a frenzy of restoration to get the island ready. It's sad, (especially since we might stop at CC but not get off, in order to transfer supplies and/or crew) but the ship itself is a huge amount of fun. Here's hoping for an uneventful cruise!

Walt

[kcashner]

Ok....a brief "what I know" which might answer a few of the above questions. DCL told passengers that cars at the port weren't damaged. There was water damage to some of the structures involved in docking the ships, so the port authority won't re-open the port until those have been inspected and found to be safe. The last I heard, that was to be before Thursday, so port could open on Thursday.

A friend 6 miles inland from Cocoa Beach reported that they are fine--some wind and rain, but didn't even lose power. So...it seems that the worst of the winds missed the Port area, but the waves were wicked.

As to Castaway....as a 10 time veteran, I just don't see any way this trip. They can't get it repaired that fast. The real question now is what Ivan will do and whether Key West is even a possibility. Guess we'll find out in a few weeks.

I did call DVC today (we're spending a week at WDW before cruise.) The CM said they were open for "business as usual," and had "essentially no damage."

[NCRedding]

The mood on this board lately has been getting to me. (NOt the people on this thread, but on the other threads) I've actually been obssessing today that Walt "quoted" me and I don't know why. I have resigned myself that we probably would go to CC, but was expressing curiousity regarding its condition. And, as this will be my 5th DCL cruise, I am well aware that the ship is a "huge amount of fun". I think getting pummeled by Frances today has made me a little cranky. I need this vacation!!

Walt: pretty please, remove my quote from your post--it is driving me crazy!!

I REALLY need this trip!!

[two-foxes]

Well, I am hearing all different things....evidently some on a 9/19 (4 night Wonder sailing I think) have called DCL directly and they were told that CC will be a go, as well as someone on the 10/02....so it may look good..... but I was still thinking to myself, "I wish we could just cancel. I don't think I can handle TWO mystery cruises, nor is that what I signed up for!" Heck, what are the chances of 3 nasty hurricanes! But, as Tim said, we will be sailing, being pampered and hanging out, no matter where we go! CC is the icing on the cake, for sure, but it is just another beach, when you think of it! (I had to force myself to type that!) I just want to get an idea of alternate ports, if any, we may need to go to find some dive masters!

Ooops, just realized the 5-pound-peeing-machine Copper the pup has been wandering around. I need to check and see what present he has left me in the house now! I get too engrossed in this!

I LEAVE NEXT SATURDAY!!!! and i still have so much work to do!

[wnissen]

Hi NCRedding,
I just thought that "we'll wait and see" was referring to a potential for the 25 September cruise to dock at Castaway Cay. My only point was to tell all the folks reading this thread that a Castaway Cay day is extremely unlikely given the damage from Frances and threat from Ivan. It wasn't directed at you specifically. I'm happy to remove the quote if it is upsetting.

Walt

[missyoh8]

Good Morning All!!!!!!

We in Buckeye Country are still choosing to believe Castaway Cay WILL be part of our cruise.:sunny: :sunny:

Although I must admit I am glued to the news on Ivan! We are choosing to believe we will get there. We are going to try the "self-fullfilling prophecy" method and see what happens.

Have a great day.......we'll see you all in a few weeks!

missyoh8 and family
:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:

[fourfoxesinpa]

Now the Weather Channel has Ivan headed straight for the Caymans after it goes through Cuba. Who knows where we'll be visiting on our 9/25 trip!!! Geez-Louise!

Jamie and the other Foxes
9/25 Western:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

[allears]

Well Ivan is quite the monster, but the computer models have it going all over the place. One possible path takes it right over the middle of the Bahamas.:mad: Of course with the nature of hurricanes, it's still anybody's guess.

We are the proverbial ****-eyed optomists and will hold out hope for CC until they say absolutely not. I was starting to obsess about other ports, think about shore excrusions, but I've decided, just get us on the ship and whatever happens happens. In all honesty the ship could cruise in cirlces off the coast and my family would be happy. Our favorite part of port days is how empty the ship gets.

On the plus side, even if Ivan causes trouble, it should be well out of the way and it's effects somewhat dealt with by the time we are all scheduled to sail. I just hope that poor Floridia is spared another hit. I don't wish this storm on anyone, best case is it starts heading north and keeps going.

[wnissen]

Originally posted by allears
Well Ivan is quite the monster, but the computer models have it going all over the place. One possible path takes it right over the middle of the Bahamas.:mad: Of course with the nature of hurricanes, it's still anybody's guess.

We are the proverbial ****-eyed optomists and will hold out hope for CC until they say absolutely not. I was starting to obsess about other ports, think about shore excrusions, but I've decided, just get us on the ship and whatever happens happens. In all honesty the ship could cruise in cirlces off the coast and my family would be happy. Our favorite part of port days is how empty the ship gets.


Ivan is really crazy, no? With the current projected path taking it through Grand Cayman and right next to Key West, it's now looking like we'll be on a seven-night cruise to Cozumel and back! ;)

I like your attitude, though. Whatever happens, happens. Honestly, I think we have a better chance than one of my friends from work. She is going on a "babymoon" to the Yucatan peninsula (the area right near Cozumel) and I don't know what she would do if a hurricane interrupted her vacation. At least on the ship we can go to the opposite side of the Caribbean.

Walt

P.S. Hee, hee, the disboards won't let you say "cockeyed". What if we have an urgent need to discuss Julie Andrews' accent in My Fair Lady?

P.P.S. Go Buckeyes!

[allears]

LOL, that is so funny. I never thought about that word being filtered.

Anyway, I think as long as Ivan is the last one for a couple of weeks, we'll be okay. So much depends on just how close they come to things.

One of my co-workers was in Jamacia during Charly. We were worried about them because the news made is sound like they were being hammered. She was about an hour or so from Kingston, which did get hit, but where they were it was just some rain and wind. I'm hoping Ivan misses any of our proposed ports of call. Though, like we said, new ports will be fun, and the ship is our destination.

However, I hopefully will never book a trip during hurricane season again! Way, way to stressful!

[HooKooDooKu]

The current path prediction shows Ivan hitting the little Cayman Island with hurrican force winds while the Grand Cayman Island will only get tropical storm winds.

Key West is about the same as Little Cayman, with the currenct projected path putting Key West on the edge of where hurricane force winds should hit.

The current prediction shows CC being totally spared, but the down side is that it will likely be so close (and could turn and slam CC directly) that I would think CC would have to be evacuated again for safety delaying the cleanup/repair efforts.

[mmorizio]

Allears, you have a great attitude. I wish they sold it in bottles.

Me, I'm a card-carrying pessimist. I'm sitting here stewing over hurricane Latasha!

[NCRedding]

I couldn't figure out what the **** were for, so thanks for the explanation. I was just saying today, I have no idea where I will be cruising-what a wacky weather pattern we're having.

[HooKooDooKu]

mmorizio,

Shouldn't that be Hurricane "Lisa"?

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by allears
However, I hopefully will never book a trip during hurricane season again! Way, way to stressful!

We are supposed to be on the 8/20 repo cruise next year....this is just one more reason why we may cancel.....too much money for the drama and what if's! I think we learned our lesson this time...two weeks cruising in hurricane season=not so smart.

Who woulda thunk it....Charley, Frances, Ivan....I don't like those names much anymore!

[dinnysuw]

P.P.S. Go Buckeyes!
Walt are you a transplanted Buckeye or just a fan? I am another Buckeye on this trip we have several transpanted and residents.
Jill-are you thinking of canceling both or just the 10/2 cruise-I have had so much fun talking with you I was so looking forward to meeting you and Tim! It is a tough decision!
Darcy :wave2:

[allears]

I vote for Latasha, it sounds nice and sinister. Like Boris and Natasha, causing big trouble for "Mouse" and squirl.

Our attitude is great as long as it looks like we'll get to the ship on the 25th, but could take a real nose dive if something comes up behind Ivan and messes up our departutre. But we know we have no control over the weather, though the Lord does and we keep sending up some, albeit, selfish prayers that things quiet down after Ivan and we can all get to the Magic and sail on the 25th and sail away to where ever she may take us.

Have you seen some of the encouraging posts regarding CC. It seems there may be a chance that we might still get to go there. No official word yet, just rumors of "minimal" damage. And if we are to go there on schedule, it is still three weeks away. A lot of work can be done in that time.

Counting the days and watching the waves until this next Magical and perhaps mysterious cruise.:Pinkbounc

[HooKooDooKu]

I vote for Latasha, it sounds nice and sinister. Like Boris and Natasha, causing big trouble for "Mouse" and squirl.

I say "Lisa" because if we have enough storms to get to the 'L', that's what the name is going to be.

Here's the list of names for 2003 - 2006 (http://www.boatus.com/hurricanes/names.asp)

[allears]

Sorry to jump back in so quickly, but I just saw this on the main boards....


" spoke with Debbie today at DCL and she said that it could be ready for the 9/19 sailing. She said that they didn't have to do any dredging and the damage was very moderate. she did say that the "adult" beach was a whole new beach w/ so much sand.
She also said that they did have to dredge Port Canaveral-- so I guess that is even more uncertain about the opening date.
I was encouraged. She also took our cell phone numbers for contacts in case there were last minute changes regarding our ports of departure.

Crossing my fingers that Ivan leaves us alone!"


I'm crossing my fingers!:bounce:

[allears]

HooKooDooKu


quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I vote for Latasha, it sounds nice and sinister. Like Boris and Natasha, causing big trouble for "Mouse" and squirl.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



I say "Lisa" because if we have enough storms to get to the 'L', that's what the name is going to be.


It was a joke.:jester: I know they already have the names picked out. But it is more fun to make up our own.

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by dinnysuw
Walt are you a transplanted Buckeye or just a fan? I am another Buckeye on this trip we have several transpanted and residents.
Jill-are you thinking of canceling both or just the 10/2 cruise-I have had so much fun talking with you I was so looking forward to meeting you and Tim! It is a tough decision!
Darcy :wave2:

Darcy-
We won't cancel this years cruises....although I was wishing we could for a few days! We couldn't eat that cost! Our 60 days past some time ago! If these storms persist and affect DCL for 24+ hours or something like that, we can get a full refund from trip insurance if we need to cancel....it is something like that.....

We will most likely cancel the repositioning cruise from Ca-Fl. I think I'll get my fill of cruising for a while after this, and we figured we could do 3 or 4 days at DLR, then head down to Mexican all inclusive (Cozumel or something) at about half of the $6500 cost of the repo cruise. We will make our final decision after we get back from these potential "mystery cruises!" From what I gather, the repo cruises should happen again in the next few years, plus (I'd hate to say this) we can go on a Panama Canal cruise for an insane amount less than DCL is charging on another line.

So we are an absolute go for both our hurricane cruises this year! You'll get to meet us Darcy!!!!:teeth:

[HooKooDooKu]

allears,

It was a joke. I know they already have the names picked out.

Just making sure. There's lots of people who don't realize these things.

What I don't know is what is the procedure for naming the storms (i.e. who decides) and how far in advanced are they named? (The link I included shows names through 2006).

I know that they now alternate male/female names (if A is male, then B is female and C is male) and they alternate starting with male/female (odd years start with female, even years start with male). And I seem to recall that they can re-use names, but that certain conditions lead to a name being retired, but I don't know what will retire a name. Is it the fact that the name was used?, that the name was used and reached hurrican status?, that the hurrican reached a certain strength?, or caused the loss of life? or caused more than $X amount in damage?

Well, here's a partial answer I found with a quick Google search...
Hurricane Names (http://www.fema.gov/kids/hunames.htm)

[missyoh8]

Mike I laughed right out loud!!! I am just crossing my fingers that whatever storm comes through spares CC. We can deal with anything else that might come. Funny how different people read the same boards and walk away with different perspectives. I choose to remember only the positive........forget the hurricane that seemed to be stuck right on top of CC for hours! I am really not stuck on any of the other ports. I look at it this way.......it is just an excuse to take another cruise if we don't get there!

Anyway, it is fun reading all the different opinions....

missyoh8
:firefight :earsgirl: ::MinnieMo pirate: pirate:

[MarcyIn Florida]

Originally posted by wnissen
Ivan is really crazy, no? With the current projected path taking it through Grand Cayman and right next to Key West, it's now looking like we'll be on a seven-night cruise to Cozumel and back! ;)



A tour of Mexico cruise wouldn't be so bad. :)

The only thing getting me through these 3 hurricanes is knowing I'll be on the shp, with food and babysitting at my disposal. Everything else for me -- ports, CC, etc. -- is just icing on the (lava) cake.

Marcy

[kcashner]

As to the idea that we might do 2 weeks of this mess next year on the repo cruise.....

First, we'll be sailing from the west coast--hurricanes aren't an issue there. Secondly, we've done 4 or 5 other cruises during hurricane season without any of the "mess" that's going on now. Unfortunately, this is a really bad hurricane year. I do think it's the first time that they've had extended cruises, etc. We've had some "mystery" cruises before, but DCL really goes out of their way to be sure that we have a good trip. THe funny thing is that the seas are usually very calm where we are--as the captain is taking us away from anything bad. The news that Castaway might be open for us is great--I had about written that off.

See you all soon......
Kathryn

[allears]

Hi guys,

Just two bits of good news.

First, the personal good news. Finally got our docs today! That's cool enough, but our TA called before brining them over, to tell us that we have been upgraded from a Cat 4 to a Cat 3!:bounce: Woooooohoooooooo! The screaming here still hasn't stopped!

So thes stupid storms better cut it out, cause we're on that cruise come you know what and high water.

The second piece of good new is for us all. We got an e-mail from DCL in response to one we sent a couple of days ago and here is one little piece......

"Currently, the Disney Magic sailing for September 25, 2004 will sail on the scheduled itinerary."

It sounds like CC just might be a go, barring Ivan making some sort of move over it.

There seems to be a lot of pixie dust in the air tonight!!!

[fourfoxesinpa]

At what point do I call my TA and follow up on our documents? Does a delay mean you might have received an upgrade?

Thanks!
Jamie

P.S...the TA is my cousin so I know she's not holding onto the documents but I don't want to bug her.

[wnissen]

Allears, that is great! You must feel so lucky. We were hoping for an upgrade, possibly because of people cancelling due to hurricanes, but weren't expecting it. Congrats.

And I have to admit that even I, the pessimist, am getting a little excited at the thought of Castaway Cay still being there. I figured there wasn't any sand left on the beaches, let alone having all the buildings intact with minor damage. Sounds incredible, in both senses of that word. Here's hoping.

Walt

[dinnysuw]

Hurricanes Hurricanes go away come again another day! my kids have been chanting this for the last 3 days! thought maybe if we incorporated it into our daily thoughts now and then just maybe....this along with a good power prayer to the Big Guy upstairs!!! i am convinced that i am a jinx and somehow contributed to this bizarre hurricane season-first time ever we cruise and we pick the worst season in history! oh well, great news about CC! i asked before but i think it got missed-does anyone know when we put the disney luggage tags on if we are arriving the night before cruise? do we put on after we arrive in FLA and before we board?
thanks
darcy

[mmorizio]

Originally posted by dinnysuw
Does anyone know when we put the disney luggage tags on if we are arriving the night before cruise? do we put on after we arrive in FLA and before we board?
thanks
darcy

I would leave them off until the 25th. They might confuse the airport luggage handlers, and since you can't check your luggage through to the ship unless you fly in the day of the cruise (don't ask me who does that), there's really no reason to.

The exception is if you're staying at a WDW resort and taking the DCL bus - then you can, I understand, let the front desk know what you're doing, leave your stuff in the hallway the night before, and the hotel will allegedly whisk your bags away while you sleep and send them ahead to the ship. I haven't done this myself, nor do I personally know anyone who has.

[two-foxes]

Originally posted by mmorizio
The exception is if you're staying at a WDW resort and taking the DCL bus - then you can, I understand, let the front desk know what you're doing, leave your stuff in the hallway the night before, and the hotel will allegedly whisk your bags away while you sleep and send them ahead to the ship. I haven't done this myself, nor do I personally know anyone who has.

We did this for the land/sea package.....I don't think they'll do a room pickup at a WDW resort unless you are on the package. I will say it was the easiest, least stressed trip ever doing that package.....and we did it in Oct with perfect weather!

We are short a luggage tag anyway as we have 5 suitcases for the 2 of us (1 big, 1 carryon for each of us and 1 just for our snorkle/dive gear. Those darn fins are huge!) Going past the 2 suitcase limit.....I simply refuse to rent a wet suit though (yuck!), and I love my fins!

[MickeyzGirl]

:wave2: Hello everyone. I just found this site & spent the last two hours reading all past posts. :crazy: Let me just say...I am sooo excited I can't stand it.:boat: I-Tawnya (32) :earsgirl: will be traveling with my DD-Mishayla (10) princess: & my sweetie-Chris (35):hug: . This is our 1st cruise EVER. At first I was a bit pouty:mad: because I got outvoted 2:1, no park...just cruise. But now I can't wait.:jumping1: . I would love to join in on afternoon tea & please sign Chris & I up for the brunch. My only worry is that the brunch might conflict with the character breakfast. There is no way I'll be missing "MY" main attraction. ::MickeyMo Anyone have an idea how to figure out the date of that? We are doing late seating for dinner & are traveling with a 10 yo. I know there is a way they assign these things, but I think the answer is kept with the secret location of "The Holy Grail". :confused3 M-I-C (See you real soon) Tawnya:wave:

[two-foxes]

Tawnya, I obviously can't add because I didn't realize that in 14 days or so, we'll be on the same cruise!!! I swear I have had my coffee!



OK....For anyone who wants to do the Palo brunch, I am not sure exactly how I can reserve group brunch.....We should set a time and day now....Monday the 27 at 1030 (Tim's Birthday!!!), lets say. If you want to go, send me a PM by Thursday, Sept 16. I will make a ressie for that amount when we board. PLEASE email your stateroom ## as well, in case they need that at the time of the ressie for proper billing (I promise I will not come needlessly pounding on your door for any reason!)

If I cannot get that time slot at the time of the ressie, I will call your room with the time that I was able to get. If you can't make it, it'll be your responsibility to cancel your portion of the ressie to avoid a no show charge.

If any vets have a better suggestion or past experience with this, please let me know! But I figure if we all want to do it together, this may be the best way....