For me, the main reason I've chosen DCL for our last two cruises is the childcare and kid's clubs. It's the only line that really has anything for toddlers, even though you have to book and pay for under 3's. I also love the entertainment and activities, which is far better than any other cruise line I've tried. Their service is excellent, yes, but compared to other cruises I've been on it's about equal, not way above and beyond. As for "magic", well that is completely subjective! Watching my child's eyes light up when she met Minnie Mouse on her way to dinner is pretty magical. But so was watching her take her first steps in the lounge of a Celebrity ship while the whole staff stopped and clapped for her was pretty magical too.
Our next cruise coming up is our last with a two year old, and I'm going to be seriously considering other lines when I have older kids. There are a few extras on DCL, but not enough to make up for a huge price difference for me, especially on cruises during the school holidays. Also, their 2014 itineraries don't interest me a whole lot, so if they don't start offering something more interesting they're going to lose me.
My basic rule of thumb is that DCL is worth paying a little more, but not a lot more. I've seen GT rates that were around $100 per day per person; that would be worthwhile to me if the dates and last minute arrangements worked out. I've also seen summer rates that were more than double other ships. No way could I drink enough soda to make that worthwhile!
Good luck deciding and happy travels!
Our next cruise coming up is our last with a two year old, and I'm going to be seriously considering other lines when I have older kids. There are a few extras on DCL, but not enough to make up for a huge price difference for me, especially on cruises during the school holidays. Also, their 2014 itineraries don't interest me a whole lot, so if they don't start offering something more interesting they're going to lose me.
My basic rule of thumb is that DCL is worth paying a little more, but not a lot more. I've seen GT rates that were around $100 per day per person; that would be worthwhile to me if the dates and last minute arrangements worked out. I've also seen summer rates that were more than double other ships. No way could I drink enough soda to make that worthwhile!
Good luck deciding and happy travels!