I was tickled pink with how well my research and planning paid off this cruise (March 18 Dream) vs last year (same time frame). A little knlwedge goes a long way. Here was our plan, and how it turned out.
- our carry-ons were packed as lightly as possible, with bathing suits and goggles right at the top. In fact, I meant to tell my 13 year old AquaDuck fan to wear his trunks for the drive to the port!
- Were pleased to have an 11:00-11:30 port arrival. We arrived on time, were processed quickly, received boarding #4 and basically proceeded to the ship as soon as we made our way towards "the ears" (entry).
- we bypassed the picture taking as we do not generally buy pictures...and we figured there would be lots of other opportunities. We were on a mission!
- We were welcomed warmly, listened patiently to the CM who told us about going to Cabanas etc...and then completely ignored her instructions.
- we dashed to the elevator, straight up to Deck 11, made a minor miscue on washroom selection for changing (added a few steps) as my DH and DS went off to change.
- By 11:50, they were second in line for the AquaDuck and it opened a few minutes after they hit the line. In those few minutes, the line did grow, but it was totally manageable (and got longer because no one was riding yet). They were held on deck, rather than waiting on the stairs.
- by 12:30, our entire party was seated in Enchanted Garden, contemplating a lovely buffet lunch and all AquaDuck riders had had enough rides - for now. Minutes later, my kids were tucking into roast beef, lamb and shrimp...mmmm..., the server was cutting up the meat for the kids...he came back to do amazing magic tricks...ah, yes...we were off to a good start.
If this is your first cruise on the Dream, take a peek at the deck plan so you'll be familiar. It's a bit intimidating at first.
Have fun!
). Perhaps the double dip cruises attract that subset of cruisers.
