Galveston 04/06/13 Caribbean Cruise

[mawhite424]

Originally Posted by texfinn

How about excursions? Has anyone booked something non-DCL in Cozumel? Am tempted to book Nachi Cocum or one of those but not sure.

If you read through the posts in this thread there are several ideas for Coz. We're hopping a cab and going to Chankannab National Park. We did the dolphin excursion through DCL last time, but this time we're just going on our own and snorkeling, watching the sea lion/manatee shows, etc. There's a lot to do there for not much $$.

I'm still trying to decide on Grand Cayman. I want to do the stingray city, but not sure the 4-yr old will be up for it. I might just go for it, and if she gets scared, she and I can hang out and watch the other two handling the rays! We used Capt. Marvin last time, but I've heard Moby Dick is really good.

[Sam Carre]

Originally Posted by mawhite424

Sam, if you go to the zoo, make sure to see the shoebill storks! They have two of them, male and female, and they are amazing birds! They look almost prehistoric. Very cool and HUGE!! Also, the two red pandas are worth seeing. The Houston zoo has come a long way in the past 10 years or so. Go early if you can, or go in the late afternoon to beat the crowds.

Another fun thing to do is the Downtown Aquarium. It's actually a restaurant built around an aquarium, and they also have some white tigers on display. You have to pay extra for the white tigers, but it's well worth it. You can do one or the other or both. You don't have to eat at the restaurant to do the tigers.

Hi Mary, thanks for the info, would love to do something, I have never been to Houston before.

Can I ask some advice, we are currently booked in an inside stateroom, I am thinking about changing reservation to a deluxe oceanview stateroom with navigator's verandah, is it worth the extra money? Is it safe with a 3.5 year old? It's our 1st ever cruise not sure what to do for the best.

[mawhite424]

Originally Posted by Sam Carre

Hi Mary, thanks for the info, would love to do something, I have never been to Houston before.

Can I ask some advice, we are currently booked in an inside stateroom, I am thinking about changing reservation to a deluxe oceanview stateroom with navigator's verandah, is it worth the extra money? Is it safe with a 3.5 year old? It's our 1st ever cruise not sure what to do for the best.

personally, I love sitting outside in the morning/evening so a verandah is important to me, but some people love the inside rooms because they don't spend time on the verandah, and depending on the cost (not sure how much more it would be for you) it might or might not be worth it. I think it's subjective . I haven't seen the navigator verandahs, but the regular ones have plexiglass that comes up pretty high. My grandkids have strict instructions not to stand on the furniture so I think it's very safe. I will have my almost 4-yr old granddaughter with me, and I'm not worried at all.

[mawhite424]

Sam, I just looked at the pictures of the navigator verandah - so cute!! It looks pretty high. I'm sure DCL put a lot of thought into the safety concerns.

Regarding the zoo, maybe judge it by the weather. If it's hot, go to the aquarium! There's quite a bit to do/see for little ones. There's a big ferris wheel that overlooks Houston, and some other rides that aren't too crazy. Also, there's an area where you can put your hands in the water and touch some sea life. FUN!!!!

[mkymselover]

Originally Posted by mawhite424

If you read through the posts in this thread there are several ideas for Coz. We're hopping a cab and going to Chankannab National Park. We did the dolphin excursion through DCL last time, but this time we're just going on our own and snorkeling, watching the sea lion/manatee shows, etc. There's a lot to do there for not much $$.

I'm still trying to decide on Grand Cayman. I want to do the stingray city, but not sure the 4-yr old will be up for it. I might just go for it, and if she gets scared, she and I can hang out and watch the other two handling the rays! We used Capt. Marvin last time, but I've heard Moby Dick is really good.

I too was looking into Chankannab National Park...seemed like a fun place for kiddos! And I am also going to do the stingray with my family and my kiddos are 6, 4, and 2 (almost 3) My kids have no idea that we are doing this trip, but I have asked them, if they could swim with dolphins or stingrays would they do it? And my two oldest said yes! So we will see. All 3 of my kids are "fish" so I am hoping that they will enjoy it. I am thinking of going and getting them water wings just to be on the safe side.

[texfinn]

Originally Posted by Mageemommy

So I have a few concerns, you guys know I am going on this trip with just myself and 7 year old son. I am trying to schedule things for him while maintaining family time at dinner every night. I think that meeting and speaking with you guys is going to help me a lot. Does disney schedule me and my son with other single parents at dinner. I don't want to fill lie the third wheel on a Party of 5. I am jut extremely nervous about doing it all.
So for now. I am sinking me mind into the fish extender

I think you will be ok. I sailed last May with my two kids (no DH) but I did link my dinner reservation with other friends I met from the DIS on the first cruise I took. I am pretty sure they will sit you with other single parents/grandparents sailing solo with kids. I was nervous sailing without my DH but in the end, was really nice. No stress in having to figure out what he wanted to do - it was all my choice, my decision. I really enjoyed it!

Originally Posted by mawhite424

Maybe look over the FE list and see if someone fits your family, and pm them to see if they want to join you for dinner? Just a thought! You're welcome to sit with us, but I'm a grandmom, not a mom (well, at least not to these kids!) and there will be 3 kiddoes with me, not just 1.

is there an FE list already? I might have missed the link reading through previous posts.

Originally Posted by mawhite424

If you read through the posts in this thread there are several ideas for Coz. We're hopping a cab and going to Chankannab National Park. We did the dolphin excursion through DCL last time, but this time we're just going on our own and snorkeling, watching the sea lion/manatee shows, etc. There's a lot to do there for not much $$.

I'm still trying to decide on Grand Cayman. I want to do the stingray city, but not sure the 4-yr old will be up for it. I might just go for it, and if she gets scared, she and I can hang out and watch the other two handling the rays! We used Capt. Marvin last time, but I've heard Moby Dick is really good.

Thanks! found some other ideas.

We went to Stingray City in 2009 - I think with Capt Marvin. Was a GREAT tour! I think I did it with DCL and only took my DD who was 7 at the time. She was scared at first and then once she got in the water, got over it quickly. I was tempted to do that again but both kids want to swim with the dolphins so leaning towards that in GC.

Originally Posted by Sam Carre

Can I ask some advice, we are currently booked in an inside stateroom, I am thinking about changing reservation to a deluxe oceanview stateroom with navigator's verandah, is it worth the extra money? Is it safe with a 3.5 year old? It's our 1st ever cruise not sure what to do for the best.

I stayed in an inside room last year with both kids. I loved that it forced me to get out and enjoy the ship. It was a bit cramped (me and 2 kids, one of which is a preteen girl) but manageable and would do it again if the price was right.

The first time we sailed, DS was 4 and DD was 7. We had a verandah and no problems. The deck is high, just be mindful not to leave the door unlocked when you aren't out there. the locks are very tricky (even for adults) so no chance the 3.5 yr old would figure it out. We are booked in a verandah and am looking forward to the morning coffee (and evening glass of wine) out there!

Originally Posted by mkymselover

I too was looking into Chankannab National Park...seemed like a fun place for kiddos! And I am also going to do the stingray with my family and my kiddos are 6, 4, and 2 (almost 3) My kids have no idea that we are doing this trip, but I have asked them, if they could swim with dolphins or stingrays would they do it? And my two oldest said yes! So we will see. All 3 of my kids are "fish" so I am hoping that they will enjoy it. I am thinking of going and getting them water wings just to be on the safe side.

Need to look into Chankannab Park - seems like a popular option!

[threeprincessesmom]

Originally Posted by Mageemommy

Thanks for the info.
Also I put you on the FE list! Thanks for joining us!! We should have lots of fun!
Mikka

Thanks Mikka! I just found out our room number is 8562
Kara

[threeprincessesmom]

Originally Posted by Mageemommy

This is something that I haven't yet figured out myself
I need to very soon. I would like a hotel that we can stay Friday night and leave our car park at the hotel till return for our start Saturday night. To be honest, I haven't been doing a great job finding out this part! If I hear anything, I will let you know!

I know the Hotel Galvez and the Hilton have shuttle service, both very nice

[mawhite424]

Originally Posted by texfinn

We are booked in a verandah and am looking forward to the morning coffee (and evening glass of wine) out there!

My kinda girl. Love my coffee AND my wine on the verandah!

Mikka (mageemommy) is the keeper of the FE list. She has so kindly agreed to organize the FE!! Yay Mikka!!!

[Taysmimi]

Mageemommy


Could not private message you. My dyslexia must have popped up, we are in 7612, 7614, and 7616.

BTW...I can not wait for my first cup of coffee on the veranda!

[Mageemommy]

Originally Posted by threeprincessesmom

Thanks Mikka! I just found out our room number is 8562
Kara

Originally Posted by threeprincessesmom

I know the Hotel Galvez and the Hilton have shuttle service, both very nice

Thanks.. I need to make a reservation. hahaha....I am a bit behind But I am getting excited!

[Mageemommy]

Originally Posted by Taysmimi

Mageemommy


Could not private message you. My dyslexia must have popped up, we are in 7612, 7614, and 7616.

BTW...I can not wait for my first cup of coffee on the veranda!

Sounds like me! No worries though, I got your correct cabins down! I am looking forward to coffee on the veranda as well. It is going to be so peaceful.

[Mageemommy]

Texfinn,
We would love to have you a part of the FE. Just pm or post the names and ages of those in your cabin and your cabin number if you have it. I will add you to the list! I will post updated lists as we get closer to our sail date. We will divide up the group to keep it stress free and fun for everyone (and to make sure we all don't have to bring 5 extra suitcases!!) Let me know.

[tictoc]

Originally Posted by texfinn

That's exactly what I am looking for too. I'll let you know what I found out. I know the Wyndham is usually an option but they are sold out that night .

This is a great option for a park and cruise hotel.

[Mageemommy]

Ok guys. We have a little over 2 months! Here is the updated list that I have gotten so far. Look it over and make sure it is correct for everyone in your cabin. If there is anything at all you would like to add, please let me know. I will post updated list every few weeks.


Ryleigh'smom2004- Liz
Husband- Mike
Ryleigh (Girl)-9
Cohen (Boy)-2
Grandma- Lauren
Cabin-2083

Mawhite424 -Mary
Sam-11
Jonas (Boy)-8
Stella-3, almost 4

Okstategrads -Kim
Husband- Craig
Kathryn(Girl)-8
Carson (Boy)-7
Cabin-7003

Klayresmom- Cristin
Husband-Bryon
Klayre(Girl)-10

Mageemommy- Mikka (loves mary poppins)
Jude(Boy)-7 (celebrating 8th bday, loves pirates of caribbean, mickey)
Cabin-7016 (we had a cabin change)

reneaterry- Renea
Husband- Wesley
Chloe (girl)-6
Riley (girl)-3
Cabin-7558

Ronniegintx- Ronnie
Husband- Donald
Kari (Girl)-15
Genna (Girl)-8

Mkymselover- Amy (loves Mickey Mouse)
Husband-Greg
Olivia (Girl)-6 (loves stitch and bambi)
Ashlyn (Girl)-4 ( loves princesses and minnie)
Broderick (Boy) 2/almost 3 (mater and lightning mcqueen)
Cabin-8044




Threeprincessesmom-Kara (belle and mary poppins)
Husband-Scott (pirates of the caribbean, tiger, pooh)
Emma (Girl)-13 ( pirates of the caribbean, belle and pocahontas)
Sophie (girl)-10 (tianna)
Arrie(girl)-6 (celebrating her bday, tinkerbell, cinderella, rapunzel)
Cabin- 8562

Taysmimi-Sue/Mimi (First Disney experience)
Husband-David/Papa (First Disney experience)
Douglas/uncle uggie-(20) (First Disney cruise)
Cabin-7616

Cabin 7614:
David Jr. (Taylor’s Dad)
Sam (Taylor’s Mom)

Cabin 7612:
Sandy/Umma
Amanda/Nana
Princess Taylor-4-(first cruise)

Nishijb-names tba 2 cabins
DW
DD
DD
DS
Granparents x2


As of now...
Adults-28
Children-22
Cabins-14

I know this is starting to be a lot of cabins. We will be splitting the group up. Anyone have ideas on how? Or those that have done this before, what worked out best for you?
And I looked over this thread a ton, but IF I forgot anyone on the list, please don't take it personal, this first timer is figuring it out as she goes.. Just let me know.

Also I know some of you are still thinking about it. Let me know when you want in.
Talk to you all soon. HAPPY FRIDAY!!!
Mikka