8/15/09-Eastern-Tortola Treasure Seekers #4

[Andrew DEREK UK]

I guess I should stop lurking and post. I do see some familiar names.

We are booked for this cruise. We have 3 cabins: Me, DH and our 5 kids (DS 12, DD 10 (turning 11 onboard), DD 9, twin DD's 2) and our 2 nieces and nephew (21, 19 and 18).

Can't wait!!!!
Jess

Welcome Jess, also let the kids know they have a thread as well to post and get to know each other.



http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2132411

 

[MephamKickliner09]

I guess I should stop lurking and post. I do see some familiar names.

We are booked for this cruise. We have 3 cabins: Me, DH and our 5 kids (DS 12, DD 10 (turning 11 onboard), DD 9, twin DD's 2) and our 2 nieces and nephew (21, 19 and 18).

Can't wait!!!!
Jess

Welcome Aboard!!!! my name is Samantha and im 17.

 

[jbm02]

Seeing as the cruise is getting closer and closer and closer
I think it is time to get going on planning !!!
(1) We are driving to Port Canaveral after spending a week at Myrtle Beach. What time should we try to get to the port to avoid the crowds ?
(2) Due to booking a little late, we have late dining. Do you think that would be a problem with twin 7 year-olds ? In regards to the shows and activities at the kids club ? Can I get that changed at the port ?
(3) Can we request a dining rotation and if so what would be the best ? Bear in mind we want to do Palo supper and brunch.
(4) What is the difference between Formal and Semi-formal ? Do my 3 boys and I require suits ? It would be to get my teenager to wear a tie and jacket !!
(5) We are in cabin 8088 ( cat.4) is it a good location ? What about noise ?
(6) Trying to figure out how mauch $$$ to bring. What do I require cash for that I cannot charge to my account ?
(7) Considering that we will spending 7 days together at the beach prior to the cruise and considering that my twins just loved the kids club on our last cruise (NCL), me and the misses would love some us time and some nice meals without the disruptions twins offer..does Disney do a good job of feeding the kids in the clubs ? Or should we feed them first and bring them to the clubs ?
(8) Considering all there is to do ( meals , shows, character signings, pools, sunning, movies, bars / clubs, excursions ) I don't think there are enough hours in a day. If I have to eliminate something, what would you suggest ? (except meals )
(9) Will our standard luggage fit under the beds ?
(10) Can we bring drinks onboard such as water, juices, soft drinks, wine ?
(11) Palo, when is a good day for the supper and brunch ?

Thanks for all your help !!

Hi Tony
I just wanted to let you know that we did late dining on our first cruise with a 6 and 9 yo. (we booked over a year in advance and STILL didn't get main dining so don't beat yourself up over "booking late and not getting main dining". Sometimes it just doesn't matter when you book!) The kids had a great time. They got alot of personal attention from our servers. With late dining, you go to the shows first and then to dinner. Late dining also gave us a little more wiggle room when returning to the boat on port days. Really, the only downside for us is that DCL sometimes schedules family dances, socials etc in the lounge bar and it seemed like the time for these conflicted with our dinner schedule. But there was so much to do on board that it really wasn't a big loss. So don't fret too much about late dining (I did - and wish I didn't!!)
We're planning on getting to the port around 10AM too.
See you in August!
Jude

 

[jbm02]

I guess I should stop lurking and post. I do see some familiar names.

We are booked for this cruise. We have 3 cabins: Me, DH and our 5 kids (DS 12, DD 10 (turning 11 onboard), DD 9, twin DD's 2) and our 2 nieces and nephew (21, 19 and 18).

Can't wait!!!!
Jess

Hi Jess
Just wanted to say welcome!! MY DD is right between yours - she'll turn 10 right after the cruise. I think there will be lots of 9, 10 and 11 yo DDs around!! DS is a little older than yours - he'll be 14 at cruise time.
I am SOOO ready for this cruise.
Take Care
Jude

 

[uncw89]

woohoo I'm paid in full and just made my shuttle reservations! Now to try to book my excursions Sat night and I will be set. Time is starting to go by fast now!

 

[allforpooh]

Hi All,

Its been awhile, so I thought I would drop in and see what is happening and its a good thing I did since I forgot that we needed to be paid in full before making any reservations. Just sent Carol an email so hopefully I can get that taken care of tonight.

We are trying to decide on what to do in Tortola, most of the group would like to do the Dolphin thing, anyone here have info or feedback on that excursion?

We are doing going to Morning Star Beach - St Thomas and maybe the 5K run on the Cay. Elin(16) runs Cross County in HS so this will be a good run for her since she will be missing the week of training. I might even try to get in gear so I can run or walk this.

I am with everyone else trying to lose a few pounds before the trip, this was a really long winter here in Michigan.

We are all getting really excited, I just started looking at pictures for our door magnets...

Thanks,
Denise

 

[jbm02]

Timmy will be turning 14 right after the cruise.

Do you mind sharing how you are doing the baths on your own? We have been looking into the two ferries, and a private company. Based on the reviews I have been reading the Disney tour is just too short. I am really unsure on what we are going to do.

Princessh
Sorry for the delay in responding - I was searching for the information on this (not very computer savvy!) The thread to look for is:

Tortoal Excursions Review: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2111502

If that doesn't work, I cut and pasted some of the information:

Let me provide a suggestion. I recently returned from a terrific cruise on the Carnival Freedom. One of our stops was Tortola. We chose to do The Baths on Virgin Gorda on our own. If you plan to do the Baths, I can recommend highly enough do not use an excursion!

***
Let me explain what we did and then I can explain the why.
We walked off the ship around the secured area and about 4-5 blocks (we felt very safe) to the ferry landing. (You could theoretically take a cab if you did not want to walk). At the ferry we bought tickets to the Baths from Speedy's. Included in those tickets were the ferry ride and taxis once on VG (the ferry does not drop you off directly at the Baths)

We took the 30 minute or so Ferry ride over. We picked up the taxi and arrived at the national park. We walked down the trail, through the rock formations and spend maybe an hour at Devils Bay. On our way back (you must retrace your steps to return back), we encountered the cruise ship excursions. It was wall to wall people. A 10 minute trek down the trail to the rocks must have been three to four times that amount of time for those poor souls. And instead of having room to roam, explore and observe, it was a line of people waiting for the train in front of them to move along a little more - it was like a long line at a Disney Park!

So - my recommendation - go on your own (it costs half what the cruise line charges) and go on the first ferry of the day. You'll enjoy the experience so much more and save a bundle . Oh - and the 5 year olds would LOVE the Baths - and going on your own, there is no age restriction. Simply get Speedy's ferry schedule online (you can even buy online at a discount) and you will be good (you have to take the ferry on the ship's excursions anyway!).
__________________
Scott in TX

And here's a second one:

I too was on the Tortola cruise. This was my family's first time to any of the islands, but my DH and I are pretty confident travelers, so we did everything on our own. We also did this with a 4 yrs little girl.

The Baths: We got off the ship and just as someone said previously, there were very sweet ladies providing information about the island and how to get where you wanted to go. We had an idea of where we were going, but wanted to verify. The ferry to catch to Virgin Gorda was about 4 blocks to the left of the ship once you disembark. Now there lots of taxi drivers, but just keep saying, no thank you. They were all very nice and didn't push. Once you get to the end of the blocks, there's a stop there (with a stoplight to come soon), turn left and to Speedy's. They have ferry's leaving about every hour and half. Speedy's has a website for times (but once there we saw they had additional times). We bought $30 p/p roundtrip to Virgin Gorda and discounted Speedy's taxi for $8 p/p roundtrip to the Baths. Our 4 yr was free for both the ferry and taxi. They have different type of ferries. The one we took there and back were both very nice and looked like local business commuters. It was about 30/45 minute ferry. Met our taxi shuttle and headed to the Baths. Don't attempt to walk it - it's way too far. Once at the top of the Baths, we hiked down the easier path to the Bath Beach, went through the caves and came out onto Devil's Bay Beach. It was beautiful. Just remember, if you do this route, do all your potty stops, food eating and anything else before you start through caves. Because there is nothing on Devil's Bay Beach. We carried everything with us. DH and I each had backpack. We had a great time exploring the caves and spending time on the beach. It was beautiful and happy we did it. The best snorkling was on the left side of Devil's Bay Beach near where the bouys are tied up. Because we did this on our own, we spent a few hours on the beach and then up the Devil's Bay Beach path. Yes, it was a more treacherous patch and longer, but we just took our time and our little had no problem with any part of it. She even commented as how beautiful it was with cactus and lizards. We wore our Keene sandals (hiking, walking, and water shoes). No socks needed, but they also were not wet before we started our hike up. Once up at the top by the restaurant Tops of the Baths, there is a little foot wash just outside the restaurant. Not much to it, but it worked. Oh, and there is an additional little sandwich/ice cream shop at the top in addition the restaurant. We didn't even notice it until we were about to leave. Anyway, our speedy taxi was there on time and we were off back the ferry back to Tortola. We didn't really see Tortola, but maybe next time.

Sorry for the detail, just wanted to share for those of you who wanted to do the Baths on their own. And yes it is possible to do with 4 yr. old. She walked it all except for our walk back from the ferry to the ship. She got to sit on DH shoulders, she was tired. If you have any questions, I'll answer as best as I can. Enjoy your cruise.


Hope that helps!!!
Jude

 

[kritter]

Hello Everyone....

How is everyone....????

 

[princessh]

Princessh
Sorry for the delay in responding - I was searching for the information on this (not very computer savvy!) The thread to look for is:

Tortoal Excursions Review: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2111502

If that doesn't work, I cut and pasted some of the information:

Let me provide a suggestion. I recently returned from a terrific cruise on the Carnival Freedom. One of our stops was Tortola. We chose to do The Baths on Virgin Gorda on our own. If you plan to do the Baths, I can recommend highly enough do not use an excursion!

***
Let me explain what we did and then I can explain the why.
We walked off the ship around the secured area and about 4-5 blocks (we felt very safe) to the ferry landing. (You could theoretically take a cab if you did not want to walk). At the ferry we bought tickets to the Baths from Speedy's. Included in those tickets were the ferry ride and taxis once on VG (the ferry does not drop you off directly at the Baths)

We took the 30 minute or so Ferry ride over. We picked up the taxi and arrived at the national park. We walked down the trail, through the rock formations and spend maybe an hour at Devils Bay. On our way back (you must retrace your steps to return back), we encountered the cruise ship excursions. It was wall to wall people. A 10 minute trek down the trail to the rocks must have been three to four times that amount of time for those poor souls. And instead of having room to roam, explore and observe, it was a line of people waiting for the train in front of them to move along a little more - it was like a long line at a Disney Park!

So - my recommendation - go on your own (it costs half what the cruise line charges) and go on the first ferry of the day. You'll enjoy the experience so much more and save a bundle . Oh - and the 5 year olds would LOVE the Baths - and going on your own, there is no age restriction. Simply get Speedy's ferry schedule online (you can even buy online at a discount) and you will be good (you have to take the ferry on the ship's excursions anyway!).
__________________
Scott in TX

And here's a second one:

I too was on the Tortola cruise. This was my family's first time to any of the islands, but my DH and I are pretty confident travelers, so we did everything on our own. We also did this with a 4 yrs little girl.

The Baths: We got off the ship and just as someone said previously, there were very sweet ladies providing information about the island and how to get where you wanted to go. We had an idea of where we were going, but wanted to verify. The ferry to catch to Virgin Gorda was about 4 blocks to the left of the ship once you disembark. Now there lots of taxi drivers, but just keep saying, no thank you. They were all very nice and didn't push. Once you get to the end of the blocks, there's a stop there (with a stoplight to come soon), turn left and to Speedy's. They have ferry's leaving about every hour and half. Speedy's has a website for times (but once there we saw they had additional times). We bought $30 p/p roundtrip to Virgin Gorda and discounted Speedy's taxi for $8 p/p roundtrip to the Baths. Our 4 yr was free for both the ferry and taxi. They have different type of ferries. The one we took there and back were both very nice and looked like local business commuters. It was about 30/45 minute ferry. Met our taxi shuttle and headed to the Baths. Don't attempt to walk it - it's way too far. Once at the top of the Baths, we hiked down the easier path to the Bath Beach, went through the caves and came out onto Devil's Bay Beach. It was beautiful. Just remember, if you do this route, do all your potty stops, food eating and anything else before you start through caves. Because there is nothing on Devil's Bay Beach. We carried everything with us. DH and I each had backpack. We had a great time exploring the caves and spending time on the beach. It was beautiful and happy we did it. The best snorkling was on the left side of Devil's Bay Beach near where the bouys are tied up. Because we did this on our own, we spent a few hours on the beach and then up the Devil's Bay Beach path. Yes, it was a more treacherous patch and longer, but we just took our time and our little had no problem with any part of it. She even commented as how beautiful it was with cactus and lizards. We wore our Keene sandals (hiking, walking, and water shoes). No socks needed, but they also were not wet before we started our hike up. Once up at the top by the restaurant Tops of the Baths, there is a little foot wash just outside the restaurant. Not much to it, but it worked. Oh, and there is an additional little sandwich/ice cream shop at the top in addition the restaurant. We didn't even notice it until we were about to leave. Anyway, our speedy taxi was there on time and we were off back the ferry back to Tortola. We didn't really see Tortola, but maybe next time.

Sorry for the detail, just wanted to share for those of you who wanted to do the Baths on their own. And yes it is possible to do with 4 yr. old. She walked it all except for our walk back from the ferry to the ship. She got to sit on DH shoulders, she was tired. If you have any questions, I'll answer as best as I can. Enjoy your cruise.


Hope that helps!!!
Jude

Thanks so much for the info! It does sound like a much cheaper option. I like the idea of having more time to explore!

 

[jenanderson]

(2) Due to booking a little late, we have late dining. Do you think that would be a problem with twin 7 year-olds ? In regards to the shows and activities at the kids club ? Can I get that changed at the port ?

Just wanted to let you know that on our last cruise we had late dining with the 2 kids (DD10 and DS7 at the time). We loved almost everything about it - the only down side was the same as what Jude said, not much time to do the family events in the evening. We actually chose the late dining this time around.

Hope a variety of opinions help you out!
Jen

 

[kritter]

Is anyone planning on purchasing Annual Passes to WDW anytime soon???

 

[jenanderson]

(8) Considering all there is to do ( meals , shows, character signings, pools, sunning, movies, bars / clubs, excursions ) I don't think there are enough hours in a day. If I have to eliminate something, what would you suggest ? (except meals )

Do not sleep!!!!

Love the answer....Do not sleep!!!

That is classic! I keep wondering the same question that Tony asked - how do I fit it all in and now I know that it is simple...do not sleep!

 

[jenanderson]

I guess I should stop lurking and post. I do see some familiar names.

We are booked for this cruise. We have 3 cabins: Me, DH and our 5 kids (DS 12, DD 10 (turning 11 onboard), DD 9, twin DD's 2) and our 2 nieces and nephew (21, 19 and 18).

Can't wait!!!!
Jess

Hey there Jess! Welcome to our cruise thread!!! I will send you a PM to give you information about our cruise web site.

Talk with you soon!
Jen

 

[kritter]

Hi jen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jenanderson]

Hi jen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey there Kristen...you are up late! I was just trying to post a little before going to bed. I had wanted to update the web site tonight but simply ran out of time.

It was good to see you posting again...life here has been really crazy but I planned on sending you a PM to see how things are going for you.

We will have to chat soon!

Jen

 

[kritter]

Hey there Kristen...you are up late! I was just trying to post a little before going to bed. I had wanted to update the web site tonight but simply ran out of time.

It was good to see you posting again...life here has been really crazy but I planned on sending you a PM to see how things are going for you.

We will have to chat soon!

Jen

Jen,

I know I was watching the Season Finale of Grey's!!!! Do you watch it????

I have been soooooooo busy......Yes, we will have to chat sometime soon........

We are getting excited for the cruise!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[MICKEY'S DREAMERS]

Hi everyone !!!!!!!

HOPE YOU ALL ARE FINE & DREAMING !!!!!!!!!

I've had some rough time here (my good friend's sister died a week ago ) ... I just could not come on here and be cheerful ...

Anyway now we feel better ; this Sunday Marco & I will be booking our excursions and "things" for the cruise !!!!

WOW !! lots of activity going on here !!
LOVE those Navigators someone posted the link to ... WOW !!! I'm spending lot of time searching all those little details ... which make me feel on vacation already !!!

I'm also loving the info about SPA (THANKS !! ) , I might try the scalp massage + blow/dry for the formal night !!! Not sure I can book on line though ... I guess I'll have to visit the Salon on imbarkation day ...

I've read on Passporter site not-so-good reviews about Road Town / land tours ... (which we would like to try ...)

BUT they all say WONDERFUL THINGS about boating / beaches/ drinking ... so those of us with lots of BEACH/SEA time in mind should have a blast !!! .

Is anyone buying online those photo packages at Shutters ? is it cheaper than purchase on board ? is it refundable ??

Better go , I have loads of papers to correct /mark : end of school term will be here in 3 weeks !!

CIAO ALL , laura

 

[Melcatfish]

Is anyone buying online those photo packages at Shutters ? is it cheaper than purchase on board ? is it refundable ??

Better go , I have loads of papers to correct /mark : end of school term will be here in 3 weeks !!

CIAO ALL , laura

Hi Laura,

I believe I read that the photo packages are the same price as onboard, they have just made them available so if you have any friends or family who want to purchase you a package they can be done as a gift.

Sorry to hear about your friends sister, I know what you mean about it not being easy to come online and be cheerful. Sending all my best wishes to you and of course your friend.

I have to be up at 5 a.m. on Sunday if I want to be online when reservations open - what time will it be with you Laura?

Mel
x

 

[MICKEY'S DREAMERS]

Hi Laura,

I believe I read that the photo packages are the same price as onboard, they have just made them available so if you have any friends or family who want to purchase you a package they can be done as a gift.



I have to be up at 5 a.m. on Sunday if I want to be online when reservations open - what time will it be with you Laura?

Mel
x

THANKS !!!
I need to feel happy these days !!!


I guess we'll wait and see DURING THE CRUISE how many photos we have ... and then decide what package suits us best : my Mom LOVES formal photos and I'll be sure to buy her a few of those formal portraits !!

WE in Italy should wake up at 6.00 AM on Sunday - but I'm sure DGH Marco will NOT want to have such an early wake up !!! ... I'll try anyway to talk him into it ... cooking a delicious risotto ... HE loves any risotto I can think of ... THIS one has to be irresistible !!!!

We do not wish to reserve Palo though ( had too much of Palo on last cruise , DGH wants a break this time !!) ...
We only have to book excursions on Tortola and St Thomas !!

I'm getting EXCITED just thinking of it !!!!

What are you booking Mel ?

laura

 

[jenanderson]

THANKS !!!
I need to feel happy these days !!!


I guess we'll wait and see DURING THE CRUISE how many photos we have ... and then decide what package suits us best : my Mom LOVES formal photos and I'll be sure to buy her a few of those formal portraits !!

WE in Italy should wake up at 6.00 AM on Sunday - but I'm sure DGH Marco will NOT want to have such an early wake up !!! ... I'll try anyway to talk him into it ... cooking a delicious risotto ... HE loves any risotto I can think of ... THIS one has to be irresistible !!!!

We do not wish to reserve Palo though ( had too much of Palo on last cruise , DGH wants a break this time !!) ...
We only have to book excursions on Tortola and St Thomas !!

I'm getting EXCITED just thinking of it !!!!

What are you booking Mel ?

laura

Good Morning Laura (although I am sure it is not morning there!)

I feel bad that I did not update the website and the blog these past couple of days...I have been crazy busy but promise to get to it tonight. I know that brings you some cheer.

I have to figure out what time I can log in to book things this weekend. I am thinking it is at 11:00 p.m.? I am a morning person so I would rather get up early to do the booking...if I have to stay up later than 11:00 it might not happen.

We are going to try to book Palo for brunch and supper. I still have NO idea what we are going to do in St. Thomas DH and I are going to have to get serious about planning that one.

If anyone has St. Thomas recommendations...we would love them! We want sand, sun, and a very little bill!

Hope your day is great! I am off to teach...

Jen