9/10/2012 ~ 6 WONDERful nights ~ VC to L.A.

[*tinker*bell*]

Hello All,

I am booked on this cruise as well. Coming with my mother. This will be my 8th DCL cruise, 3rd time on the Wonder. Would also love to the FE with everyone. If anyone is interested, I have a document that I have created for my last few cruises that makes delivering your FE gifts really easy. I am happy to do it again for our group here once we have decided our cut-off date and we are on that home stretch.

Happy to meet everyone!

Welcome! I'll add you onto the list, and the document sounds awesome now the cruise just needs to hurry up and get here!

 

[Tehanna]

Not that I'm excited or anything, but I'm already packed and sitting by the front door. I've been sitting here so long the neighbors thought I was a Jack O Lantern. September??? We have computers that can skip the winter months, right? I mean, if we can stream live sports, why can't we just stream right over to Summer?

I'm so glad we're not alone in our impatience for September. I think mine may extend to crazy.

I'm shopping for FE gifts, looking at formalwear. We've put together our pirate night costumes already with after Halloween sales.

I've started my plan for my iron-on canvas bag FE, and already bought materials.

I'm posting in the "how many days until your Disney Cruise" thread every day.

I've figured out our door magnet theme for each day and designed the magnets. I've hinted at a laminator for Christmas.

Yeah, I'm a big Disney Cruise Nerd right now, and I've never been on a cruise. Is this normal for anyone?

 

[cyclenut]

Also, just FYI, I'll be easy to recognize because I'm the crazy fat bald guy (well, I have some "hairs" left -- like 7) who carries around a backpack full of photo gear. I mention this because I take a lot of pictures and if you get me your email, I'll link you into my server so you can download any you like after the cruise. I can also take pix of your family for you and such, which a lot of people appreciated on our last cruise because the Disney photos, while very good, are $20 each and the price can add up fast! And I use a lot better photo equipment than cast members have, which is why we live in a shack under a bridge with a billy goat and a stick.

WELCOME!!!

LOL! Well ... there are going to be more than one crazy fat bald guys on this cruise then since I'm there. I just picked up a DSLR for our Alaska trip so I'm not quite up to backpack status yet, but I do love to carry my camera around and snap pictures. I'm sure your photo equipment is far superior to my Canon Rebel t2i as well so I'd love to take you up on your offer for a pic or two on board.

One of the highlights of sailing out of SF is crossing under the Golden Gate bridge. Crew and passengers alike will be out on deck for this occasion.

 

[bklawyer]

Fat Bald Guys, Unite! I'm a Canon shooter myself! Been a photography nut since I was a little kid. My brother had roller skates, I had a darkroom. For the most part, all Canon APS-C bodies are fairly similar and great, so you're equipment is pretty much the same as mine (they make 2 full frame models that are awesome, but they cost more than the cruise and our doghouse is already occupied....).

I can't wait for this cruise!!!! I have a list of important preparation items I prepared for our first trip on the Wonder. It really helped. If anyone wants it, please let me know and I'll email it to you or whatever.

I've got my ultimate pirate outfit all ready

This is going to be great! I wonder what the weather is likely to be??

 

[YenSid1222]

Fat Bald Guys, Unite! QUOTE]

Add me to this united group too! LOL

 

[cyclenut]

Fat Bald Guys, Unite! I'm a Canon shooter myself! Been a photography nut since I was a little kid. My brother had roller skates, I had a darkroom. For the most part, all Canon APS-C bodies are fairly similar and great, so you're equipment is pretty much the same as mine (they make 2 full frame models that are awesome, but they cost more than the cruise and our doghouse is already occupied....).

I can't wait for this cruise!!!! I have a list of important preparation items I prepared for our first trip on the Wonder. It really helped. If anyone wants it, please let me know and I'll email it to you or whatever.

I've got my ultimate pirate outfit all ready

This is going to be great! I wonder what the weather is likely to be??

In September, the weather is just starting to turn from Summer along the coast, but it is a bit hit and miss. This year, around this time, there was a storm that came down from the north along the coast, but the weather was nice on either end.

As for camera equipment, I don't have much but I did pick up an extra lens, a 50mm 1.4, which has been great. Otherwise, I just have what came in the kit I bought from Costco. 18-55 and a 55-250 lenses, case, charger and cables. I have picked up a monopod as well. I really am still learning how to use this stuff. I did have an SLR film setup years ago that I stopped using in favor of point and shoot digital for several years until I could afford a DSLR.

Here is a link to the pictures I took on board the Wonder to Alaska. Mine start the third post down.
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2781900

Not sure what we're going to do in SanFran yet.

 

[Hollywood Glitter]

In September, the weather is just starting to turn from Summer along the coast, but it is a bit hit and miss. This year, around this time, there was a storm that came down from the north along the coast, but the weather was nice on either end.

As for camera equipment, I don't have much but I did pick up an extra lens, a 50mm 1.4, which has been great. Otherwise, I just have what came in the kit I bought from Costco. 18-55 and a 55-250 lenses, case, charger and cables. I have picked up a monopod as well. I really am still learning how to use this stuff. I did have an SLR film setup years ago that I stopped using in favor of point and shoot digital for several years until I could afford a DSLR.

Here is a link to the pictures I took on board the Wonder to Alaska. Mine start the third post down.
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2781900

Not sure what we're going to do in SanFran yet.

Awesome Photos!!! I can't wait to see all the beautiful scenery

 

[Hollywood Glitter]

Hello All,

I am booked on this cruise as well. Coming with my mother. This will be my 8th DCL cruise, 3rd time on the Wonder. Would also love to the FE with everyone. If anyone is interested, I have a document that I have created for my last few cruises that makes delivering your FE gifts really easy. I am happy to do it again for our group here once we have decided our cut-off date and we are on that home stretch.

Happy to meet everyone!

I would love to get a copy of that doc. What format is it? Thanks

 

[YenSid1222]

I would love to get a copy of that doc. What format is it? Thanks

I built it as a .ppt, but can convert it into .pdf (or really whatever...).

 

[disneymom7851]

I am traveling with Yensid1222 - This will be my cruise # 6. 3 on the Magic, 1 on the Wonder and and October 2nd cruise on the DREAM. We will do Fish Extender for sure.

Glad to see so much activity already. I haven't been to San Francisco in
20+ years so I am excited. I want to go to WD Family Museum but won't take shore excursion just find our own transportation. Public transportation in San Fran is good and it is not that far to Presidio from cruise ship terminal. I am looking into Vancouver now and am trying to decide if I spend the day and go to Victoria or do the Vancouver sites. Will only have one full day there prior to sailing

 

[Sillysox]

I'm so glad we're not alone in our impatience for September. I think mine may extend to crazy.

I'm shopping for FE gifts, looking at formalwear. We've put together our pirate night costumes already with after Halloween sales.

I've started my plan for my iron-on canvas bag FE, and already bought materials.

I'm posting in the "how many days until your Disney Cruise" thread every day.

I've figured out our door magnet theme for each day and designed the magnets. I've hinted at a laminator for Christmas.

Yeah, I'm a big Disney Cruise Nerd right now, and I've never been on a cruise. Is this normal for anyone?

This is our first disney cruise, we booked in June, and I've been reading the DIS boards most days, planning FE gifts and reading every trip report I can get my hands on. I even have a countdown app on my phone. Someone said to me the other week "wow, less than a year until your trip hey?!" and I answered "294 days!!!" ...oh, and fyi, today we are at 282 days. You are not alone.

 

[bklawyer]

Can't sleep. Been talking about the cruise. I feel like I'm 12! My DW says I act like I'm 12 so this seems about right. The house is full of kids running around like maniacs - going to Disneyland today (it's an 82 minute drive from our house. Yes, I have it timed to the minute!!!!!). We're taking some kids who have never been and otherwise wouldn't be able to afford to go; just trying to brighten their Christmas. It'll be fun....if I survive!

 

[cyclenut]

Can't sleep. Been talking about the cruise. I feel like I'm 12! My DW says I act like I'm 12 so this seems about right. The house is full of kids running around like maniacs - going to Disneyland today (it's an 82 minute drive from our house. Yes, I have it timed to the minute!!!!!). We're taking some kids who have never been and otherwise wouldn't be able to afford to go; just trying to brighten their Christmas. It'll be fun....if I survive!

Hope you have a great time! DW and I are going to DL tomorrow. We stopped in once already this Christmas season but it was a short morning trip. I want to spend a little more time there and enjoy the lights at night.

I am so excited for you that you get to experience the park for the first time ... again ... through the eyes of those kids. I am a little bit jealous.

 

[lyn9856]

Also, just FYI, I'll be easy to recognize because I'm the crazy fat bald guy (well, I have some "hairs" left -- like 7) who carries around a backpack full of photo gear. I mention this because I take a lot of pictures and if you get me your email, I'll link you into my server so you can download any you like after the cruise. I can also take pix of your family for you and such, which a lot of people appreciated on our last cruise because the Disney photos, while very good, are $20 each and the price can add up fast! And I use a lot better photo equipment than cast members have, which is why we live in a shack under a bridge with a billy goat and a stick.

ha...a fellow Canon fan! I too will be the one with a very big bag of "stuff" . I will be the one with the DH carrying said stuff for me

Lyn

 

[lyn9856]

Just checking in....this cruise seems a way off still! I will get into planning mode when it is nearer

Would love to take part in the fish extender exchange, but it might be difficult with airline weight restrictions. We live in UK, and as we are staying a week in LA after the cruise, are having to take a transatlantic return and a one way internal, whichever way we do it. Will think about it.

We are cruising with our friends Lynne and Terry, who live in New York. We met on the Disney Magic WB Transatlantic 2010, and kept in touch. We met up for RCL Eastern Med this year, and so next year its our turn to cross the Pond. This time to meet them in Seattle for this B2B . So looking forward to meeting up again with them. Especially cruising Disney again! This is our 4th and 5th Disney Cruise.

We are very very lucky, as are off to Tokyo on Boxing Day, so most of my planning has been for that

Anyone else from UK?

Like the logo design. I will definitely be doing door magnets.

Looking forward to getting to know everyone as time goes on

Lyn

 

[squirrel]

I'm meeting with my TA tomorrow to book.

It will be my second cruise and the same ship from 2000. I'm taking my mom along on this Disney adventure. We will stay offsite for 4 nights so we can go to DL and DCA after the cruise.

 

[squirrel]

We've never been to SF, but it seems like there are a ton of things to do there: Alcatraz, Chinatown, Coit Tower, Golden Gate Bridge, trolley cars, Fisherman's Wharf, etc. What else sounds good to do there? We're going to Seattle for a day first, then Vancouver for a day. Anyone know what's good to check out in those cities?

I can't wait for this cruise!!!

Dave

If you can get more than a day in Vancouver, you could go to Grouse Mountain-great view. Capillano Suspension Bridge is also fun. You could head over to the North Shore and see Deep Cove (you have to arrive early if you want some Honey's Donuts). Take the Seabus over to Lonsdale Quay.

Can you tell I grew up on the North Shore?

 

[bklawyer]

I really appreciate all of the suggestions of things to do and see when we get to Canada! Thank you all so much. Someone had mentioned taking a ferry to Victoria. Any thoughts on that idea? We may be able to spend several days exploring and sightseeing before the cruise. Oh, also, does anyone know a good hotel that isn't incredibly expensive in Vancouver? (Yup, another cheap American comin' thru!)

Thanks again!

Dave

 

[squirrel]

I really appreciate all of the suggestions of things to do and see when we get to Canada! Thank you all so much. Someone had mentioned taking a ferry to Victoria. Any thoughts on that idea? We may be able to spend several days exploring and sightseeing before the cruise. Oh, also, does anyone know a good hotel that isn't incredibly expensive in Vancouver? (Yup, another cheap American comin' thru!)

Thanks again!

Dave

Will you be renting a car or relying on public transportation/cab?

The ferry to Victoria is expensive to take cars onto. It's expensive for any of the ferries! That's why my sister and I told my parents (dad really wanted) if they moved to the island we would not be coming to visit them. Mom convinced Dad to move to Chilliwack to be near us.

I'm not sure about hotels, lots of family on the North Shore and we lived there so we didn't need a hotel. I don't know if one over on the North Shore would be cheaper than Downtown or not.

 

[Sillysox]

I grew up on Vancouver Island and so am fairly familiar with Victoria. There's plenty to see and do there, it is a really pretty and quaint city. However depending on how big of a priority it is to go there for you I don't really recommend it as a day trip, unless you're willing and able to go early in the morning and return late at night, or are able to stay overnight. (if so I recommend trying local bed and breakfasts, it's a great way to go--and many of the houses are gorgeous heritage houses)

Let me explain:
My parents live on Vancouver Island, about half an hour from the ferry and I generally consider it takes me 4 hours to get from my place in Burnaby (which is half an hour(ish) from downtown Vancouver to put it in perspective) to get to my parents place. This is not total travel time, but you do need to arrive somewhat early to the ferry, even if you purchase a reservation (addtl $17-$20 above already exorbitant ferry fare depending on how far in advance you buy it) Also this reservation is only valid if you arrive at the ferry between 30-60 minutes prior to sailing. crossing time is 1 hr 35 minutes from Tsawwassen (30 minutes south of Vancouver or 1+ hour by bus) to Swartz Bay (30 minutes drive north of Victoria or 1+hour by bus), and about the same from Horseshoe Bay (30 minutes north of Vancouver, or 1+ hour by bus) to Departure Bay, Nanaimo (1.5 hours car drive north of Victoria--no public transportation other than greyhound) (all of my driving times are approximates!!)

Please note that there is no ferry that goes directly from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria. There is a ferry that goes from Port Angeles, WA to downtown Victoria, that I suppose one could take if you were flying into Seattle. I am not familiar with the logistics of getting there however, I believe it is quite a distance from Seattle. I wonder if there might even be one that goes direct from Seattle?? I don't know though.

Having said all of that, if you are prepared for the cost and travel time involved, public transit would be the cheapest way to go, and the buses are generally set up to coordinate with the ferries so getting to downtown Van and Vic is not too difficult in either case. Taking a car across is simpler, but cost of vehicle on the ferry is $47.25, each way.

There's lots to do in both cities. Victoria is set up to be more, well "Victorian" ie: has stronger British feel to it. There are double decker buses all over the place, in fact, many of the regular city buses are double decker buses, whereas, to my knowledge, the only double decker buses in Vancouver are tour buses. in the downtown Victoria area there are lot of horsedrawn carriage tours. There are also horsedrawn carriage tours in Stanley Park, Vancouver. Victoria has the parliament buildings, and a very very good museum if that is your thing. Within walking distance of these are whale watching tours, the wax museum (haven't been since I was a kid, but I thought it was cool at the time!) the famous Empress Hotel, which is cool to just walk through, and beautiful to photograph, and maybe even go for high tea (expensive). Walking along the harborfront is beautiful and there are almost always local artists selling their wares, (a comparable area near Vancouver would be Lonsdale Quay, which also has a market (north vancouver), accessible from near the cruise ship terminal via seabus, which I think is cool in itself. another similar, but even larger area that I really recommend is granville island, which is accessible by public transit (personally have always driven there--if you go, look out for the glass blower and do a beer tasting and tour at Granville Island Brewery--awesome beers). Also in the Downtown victoria area across from the Parliament Buildings is the Undersea Gardens (basically showcases local sealife) but I don't recommend it, it's small and can be done in 30 minutes or less.

So the victoria stuff above is all in the same few blocks. Not far away, (but still within easy walking distance, is the very touristy area of Government street, which has a lot of quaint shops selling things like maple syrup, local knitted sweaters, tacky moose t-shirts, etc lol. But it is a fun and pleasant walk, and I recommend a visit to Mrs. Murchies for a great selection of teas and pastries. I know there's one over here in Vancouver area, but I'm not sure where. (I would say a comparable area to visit in Vancouver would be gastown, with it's historic steamclock and associated touristy shops. It is located a short walk from the cruise ship terminal downtown)

a little further away from the harbourfront in Victoria is Craigdarroch Castle, which is small, but kind of neat to go through if that's your thing..then there's Butchart Gardens (which is much nearer to the ferry than downtown victoria--but still a drive) Butchart Gardens are really fabulous, (but expensive) and if you can go during fireworks days (Saturday evenings in the summer, until mid september) i highly recommend it, But in that case you need to get there midmorning and stay until night time when it closes. The fireworks are choreographed and included in the entry. Also viewing the gardens by night with all the different colored lights is not to be missed if you go there. The cost of entry becomes totally worth it if you can go on a fireworks day and do all of the above!

If you are interested in aquariums, I highly recommend the Vancouver Aquarium, which is fantastic. (not as extensive as SanDiego Aquarium, our larger animals include seals, sea lion(?) sea otters, belugas, dolphins, small sharks, a local giant octopus and some very cool amazonian monster fish. I would say it's well worth the visit, and you should give it 2/3 hours to tour, see some demonstrations etc. The Vancouver Aquarium is located in Stanley Park, Vancouver, which in itself is a fabulous destination. I recommend renting bikes and riding around the whole park, which takes 1.5-2 hours if you go at a leisurely rate and stop to take pictures along the way. (it's about 12 kms (7.5 miles) around) You can even rent tandem bikes, which are really fun!

For those of you interested in turn of the century period type stuff I highly recommend the Burnaby Village Museum, we are local and love to go there over and over. It is an outdoor reconstruction of a turn of the century local village, in most cases the buildings are actual heritage buildings that have been restored and moved to the location. there are interpreters dressed in period clothing that give demonstrations of what life was like at that time, to be found in the printery, the farm house, the blacksmithy, among others. There is a little charlie chaplin theatre (also one at the victoria museum incidentally) a historical working carousel, and a cafe. Photo ops are abundant. Especially as this is attached to Deer Lake park in Burnaby which is beautiful.

I could go on and on but I think this is a long enough post! lol I will add some links for info: hope they all work!

hope i made sense and sorry if this was information overload!!

http://www.bcferries.com/
http://www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/MainSite/default.aspx
http://www.translink.ca/ (vancouver public transportation)
http://bctransit.com/regions/vic/ (victoria public transportation)
http://vancouver.ca/parks/parks/stanley/
http://www.fairmont.com/empress
http://www.vanaqua.org/
http://www.butchartgardens.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1
http://www.humboldthouse.com/
http://www.dashwoodmanor.com/
http://www.beaconsfieldinn.com/
http://www.ambrosiavictoria.com/
http://www.lonsdalequay.com/
http://www.granvilleisland.com/discover-island
http://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca/