First cruise...HELP!

[DeutchPrinzessin]

Hi! First time poster on the dis, going on my first Disney Cruise (and first Caribbean cruise), and I am hopelessly lost and overwhelmed! I'm an old pro on planning a WDW vacation, but have
no idea where to start for this cruise (October, 2013; Western Caribbean on the Fantasy). It will be me, my husband, and my 5 year old daughter. Any recommendations on excursions? What's better, Remus or Palo? Any tips/advice will be SO much appreciated!

[DeutchPrinzessin]

Remys, not Remus (autocorrect, sorry!)

[jcarwash]

For Western excursions, here's what I reserved for my family with a younger child:

- Grand Cayman: Family Beach Day at Tiki Beach (unfortunately this entire port was canceled due to weather, so I can't tell you how it was).
- Costa Maya: no planned excursion; just walked to the port shopping area and walked around. That was sufficient for us. There is a large free-to-use pool there.
- Cozumel: Beach Break at Playa Mia. This one was pricey but a good visit. You go to an inclusive beach/water park with lunch and open bar. You have a private beach area with several water activities (paddle boats, canoes, etc.) included) and there is a brand new pool and kiddie splash area.

On the adult dining, my opinion is to try Palo (the less expensive choice) to see if you like stepping out of the main dining rotation. I haven't been to Remy so I can't say which one is "better" -- but they way they have it set up, (menu and pricing) they aren't supposed to be equal choices.

Also, you should join your "cruise meet" thread. You can meet other cruisers and find out about the Fish Extenders (gift giving among cruisers). Look here for your cruise link:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2819399