Compare Cruise Lines, please

[DisneyDotty]

I thought I'd go to the experts here on the Dis for my cruising question. My family of 11 (includes sister's family and parents) is thinking of taking a cruise in a couple years to celebrate several important milestones. Naturally, we'd consider DCL first, except that it doesn't have gambling (my mother's hobby! ) So, what other cruise lines would you recommend? Or will we be so enamored by Disney that the lack of slot machines wouldn't matter?
Note: the ages of kids will range from 9-17, one child is in a wheelchair, older folks are still fairly active. We would like to visit Mexico/the Caribbean.
Thanks!

 

[PatricenPete]

I just sailed with my mother and grandmother on Royal Caribbean - it was a very nice ship. I thought that RCCL's island Cocoa Cay was DEFINITELY comparable to Disney's Castaway Cay. The food and service were superb. I would definitely cruise RCCL again.

However, the rooms in DCL are definitely larger and in my opinion, the decor is much nicer. The DCL ships are just spectacular.

 

[MV_Photon]

Undoubtedly, the bias on this Forum will favor DCL.

Last year, we took the Western Caribbean route with both DCL (Cat 3 suite, w/ 2 boys) and RCCL (veranda stateroom, adults only). Both trips were fantastic.

The larger staterooms, enforced adults-only areas, exquisite Palo dining, nifty British pub, and ESPN Zone make me favor DCL.

Several adult friends have declined to cruise with us on DCL due to the absence of casino gambling aboard. Frankly, I'd prefer to just purchase a few extra lotto tickets in Florida. I doubt that adding casinos would cost DCL any business; and, the house odds would figure to improve the corporate bottom line. DCL cruisers seem to exercise their gaming passion via Bingo, which is always packed & energetic.

I have no doubt that our boys would have enjoyed RCCL's Young Adventurers programs. However, DCL adds youth-oriented production shows & movies, as well as theatrical dining (esp. Animators).

(Note: Good thing you didn't ask about our recent experience with Celebrity....)

 

[DisneyDotty]

(Note: Good thing you didn't ask about our recent experience with Celebrity....)

Hmmm....Now you have me curious....What happened?