A live trip report - DCL Magic Western 8-12 Updated through End of Cruise
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jd99
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Woke up early today to get the tender to GC. As first time cruisers we were worried about the process, given the 2 year old and all. We reported to the theater at about 7:40 and within 2 or 3 minutes were headed for a tender. We actually got off the boat in GC at 8 a.m. on the dot.
Took a taxi to the Westin GC where we had booked a day room. So glad we did this. We had stayed at this resort about 3 years ago and had a great time. It was great again. The pool is fantastic, the beach perfect and the water wonderful. Having the room was nice for DD2 to take a quick snooze late morning and we had lunch by the pool as well as taking advantage of th swim-up bar. We were able to take quick showers before heading back too. All in all a great day and worth the price (114 plus tax).
Tendering back looked scary as the line was around the corner past the port. We got on line and actually made it onto the tender that was docked there - it was the big ol boat. Took a while getting off it onto the ship but nothing terrible.
Had some time to go to the Goofy pool and listen to music as we sailed away from GC. Dinner tonight was in Animator's and for the first time all trip our wait staff got it right (mostly) with the timing. But I was surprised when I asked for something slightly off menu for DD7 that we got turned up noses and an "Sorry I can't" rather than an "I'll see what I can do" as so many on the boards have reported.
Went to Studio Sea for a comedy show that we enjoyed, especially DD7. Then on to Twice Charmed at 8:30 p.m. where both kids fell asleep.
Now for my editorial comment of the day -- many people advised me to not travel with the 2 1/2 year old, even suggesting we leave her at home since she wouldn't enjoy it nor would she remember it. She may not remember it but she is enjoying the cruise. We are getting a lot of the "tv kid face" when she sees a character she likes -- she won't touch 'em but loves waving and blowing kisses. Now the 7 1/2 year old is a different story. She was SO hyped up for the cruise, I think something is disappointing her and thus she is grouchier than normal and really not enjoying herself as much as I thought she would. Go figure.
And my second editorial comment. For those of you who say they hit the parks first then cruise because it's so relaxing. HUH? I am glad we are doing it the other way around because I think I can relax more when we are at WDW because we don't try to do everything every day which is what I feel like I should be doing here.
Me, I have my sea legs. Hooray. Now I can start enjoying the cocktails a bit.
and let THAT make me disoriented.
All in all a pretty nice day. Cozumel is tomorrow and we think we are just going to hit a beach for a couple of hours.
Until then...
Took a taxi to the Westin GC where we had booked a day room. So glad we did this. We had stayed at this resort about 3 years ago and had a great time. It was great again. The pool is fantastic, the beach perfect and the water wonderful. Having the room was nice for DD2 to take a quick snooze late morning and we had lunch by the pool as well as taking advantage of th swim-up bar. We were able to take quick showers before heading back too. All in all a great day and worth the price (114 plus tax).
Tendering back looked scary as the line was around the corner past the port. We got on line and actually made it onto the tender that was docked there - it was the big ol boat. Took a while getting off it onto the ship but nothing terrible.
Had some time to go to the Goofy pool and listen to music as we sailed away from GC. Dinner tonight was in Animator's and for the first time all trip our wait staff got it right (mostly) with the timing. But I was surprised when I asked for something slightly off menu for DD7 that we got turned up noses and an "Sorry I can't" rather than an "I'll see what I can do" as so many on the boards have reported.
Went to Studio Sea for a comedy show that we enjoyed, especially DD7. Then on to Twice Charmed at 8:30 p.m. where both kids fell asleep.
Now for my editorial comment of the day -- many people advised me to not travel with the 2 1/2 year old, even suggesting we leave her at home since she wouldn't enjoy it nor would she remember it. She may not remember it but she is enjoying the cruise. We are getting a lot of the "tv kid face" when she sees a character she likes -- she won't touch 'em but loves waving and blowing kisses. Now the 7 1/2 year old is a different story. She was SO hyped up for the cruise, I think something is disappointing her and thus she is grouchier than normal and really not enjoying herself as much as I thought she would. Go figure.
And my second editorial comment. For those of you who say they hit the parks first then cruise because it's so relaxing. HUH? I am glad we are doing it the other way around because I think I can relax more when we are at WDW because we don't try to do everything every day which is what I feel like I should be doing here.
Me, I have my sea legs. Hooray. Now I can start enjoying the cocktails a bit.
and let THAT make me disoriented. All in all a pretty nice day. Cozumel is tomorrow and we think we are just going to hit a beach for a couple of hours.
Until then...
Jeff - Thanks for the live reports. We are first time cruisers and leave 9.2.06. 
I'm sorry to hear that you were a little under the weather and I do hope that everything eases up. My DD is 7 and my DS is 3. Therefore, I am going to be reading up a lot on how the little ones fare through all the excitement. 
That is the one thing that worries me - overexhausted children 
Mine tend to get very grumpy and then have meltdowns.
I'm sorry to hear that you were a little under the weather and I do hope that everything eases up. My DD is 7 and my DS is 3. Therefore, I am going to be reading up a lot on how the little ones fare through all the excitement. That is the one thing that worries me - overexhausted children Mine tend to get very grumpy and then have meltdowns. Jeff-Glad that things seem to be getting better for you. We are first time cruisers set to depart in Jan of 07. We will also be traveling with two little ones. I am interested in the day rooms at GC. This might be very useful for us. Can anyone out there give me some insight on this?? Any help would be much appreciated. Hope the rest of your trip is fantastic!! Brian
Dixielady908
Grandma's Little Princess
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Glad to hear you finally got your sea legs. Now I'm worried. I'm like you, all the roller coasters been on boats before normally I can handle pretty much. Now I'm worried if I'll get seasick. But it seems like your having a great time and hope this continues for you and your family. Thanks for taking the time to give us your live reports. Have an enjoyable cruise and your day at castaway....
Denise
jd99
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Reminder: Jeff, DW, DD7 and DD2
What a day we had. It was absolutely fantastic. We considered not even getting off the ship in Cozumel due to the intense sun & the need to take a break but boy am I glad we didn't do that.
Started the day (for the first time I might add) at Topsiders' buffet. I was shocked at the variety and quality of the food. I was expecting a "downscale" buffet but no way. This was top notch, no lines, great service - just good stuff.
The Tender process today was a bit more tedious only in that we were directed (as non-excursion folks) to either the forward or aft gangways. When we got to the aft gangway they sent us back to forward. A bit frustrating but no huge deal. Again, the process itself of getting on and off the tenders was much easier than I imagined. The damage in Cozumel is about what i expected based on what I have read and heard. But the spirit of the people is great. Our cab driver said, "though we may have lost our piers and some buildings what we will always have is that beautiful water and our people." Great cab ride from the pier (for $13 US plus tip) to Paradise Beach.
I gotta tell you that i was torn about going there. I had read lots of great stuff, but also just enough bad reviews to be skeptical. We had the BEST time. Swam, played, used floats, used the trampoline (even me), and kayaked. Paid the 24 bucks for the bracelets ($8 x 3) and also bought a few beers (3 Dos XX) and some chips and salsa and our total bill including the bracelets was $40 even. The service was outstanding and the beach was pretty. Yes, there are some rocks on one side, but you merely have to walk about 10 feet (yes feet, not yards) to the right to get around them. No biggie at all.
Cab and Tender back easy.
Back to the top deck to rinse all the salt off in the pools. I even hit the Cove Pool for the first time. Sweet. Dinner was at Parrott Cay and it was one of the better meals of the trip. We also squeezed in trivia at the Promenade Lounge before dinner, a game show and karaoke (a bit painful but DD7 loved it) at Studio Sea and then it was time for the Pirate Party on Deck 9.
This party lived up to the hype. It was very fun and even though DD2 slept through it and DD7 and DW left just before it was over because DD7 was fading fast, we had a great time.
This was our best day of the cruise all around and we spent the entire day together as a family -- which makes it all the more special. Don't look now but I'm starting to like this cruising thing and even slipped by the rebooking desk!
Tomorrow is a day at sea, but we have so many plans already, its scary... even some alone time for DW and I with a short afternoon break while kids are in clubs and dinner at Palo.
Until then...
What a day we had. It was absolutely fantastic. We considered not even getting off the ship in Cozumel due to the intense sun & the need to take a break but boy am I glad we didn't do that.
Started the day (for the first time I might add) at Topsiders' buffet. I was shocked at the variety and quality of the food. I was expecting a "downscale" buffet but no way. This was top notch, no lines, great service - just good stuff.
The Tender process today was a bit more tedious only in that we were directed (as non-excursion folks) to either the forward or aft gangways. When we got to the aft gangway they sent us back to forward. A bit frustrating but no huge deal. Again, the process itself of getting on and off the tenders was much easier than I imagined. The damage in Cozumel is about what i expected based on what I have read and heard. But the spirit of the people is great. Our cab driver said, "though we may have lost our piers and some buildings what we will always have is that beautiful water and our people." Great cab ride from the pier (for $13 US plus tip) to Paradise Beach.
I gotta tell you that i was torn about going there. I had read lots of great stuff, but also just enough bad reviews to be skeptical. We had the BEST time. Swam, played, used floats, used the trampoline (even me), and kayaked. Paid the 24 bucks for the bracelets ($8 x 3) and also bought a few beers (3 Dos XX) and some chips and salsa and our total bill including the bracelets was $40 even. The service was outstanding and the beach was pretty. Yes, there are some rocks on one side, but you merely have to walk about 10 feet (yes feet, not yards) to the right to get around them. No biggie at all.
Cab and Tender back easy.
Back to the top deck to rinse all the salt off in the pools. I even hit the Cove Pool for the first time. Sweet. Dinner was at Parrott Cay and it was one of the better meals of the trip. We also squeezed in trivia at the Promenade Lounge before dinner, a game show and karaoke (a bit painful but DD7 loved it) at Studio Sea and then it was time for the Pirate Party on Deck 9.
This party lived up to the hype. It was very fun and even though DD2 slept through it and DD7 and DW left just before it was over because DD7 was fading fast, we had a great time.
This was our best day of the cruise all around and we spent the entire day together as a family -- which makes it all the more special. Don't look now but I'm starting to like this cruising thing and even slipped by the rebooking desk!
Tomorrow is a day at sea, but we have so many plans already, its scary... even some alone time for DW and I with a short afternoon break while kids are in clubs and dinner at Palo.
Until then...
Jillpie
Can you package some Main St. music and send it to
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Yay Jeff!!! What a turnaround of events. Yes, Cozumel is awesome and the people are fantastic. I'm so glad you had such a great day. Sea days are even better. Here's hopin tomorrow tops today. 
We'll be waiting!
Yes, Cozumel is awesome and the people are fantastic. I'm so glad you had such a great day. Sea days are even better. Here's hopin tomorrow tops today. We'll be waiting!
jd99
DIS Veteran
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Reminder: Jeff, DW, DD7 and DD2
For those who have stuck it out this long, I thank you for bearing with me. Long story short, another GREAT day. We have really found our groove as a family. DD2 even was ASKING to go to Flounders today. I think we're in shock as much as anything else since it really didn't seem like this was going to be our cup of tea - or at least mine.
To cut the suspense now (again for those patient enough to still be reading) I booked another cruise today - a four day/3 day back to back in June. We may adjust that to just the 4 day and team it with some time at the parks, but haven't decided yet. Most important was getting the discount now. Prices sure have gone up but we're hooked now.
A brief recap of our day: We all slept in a bit today and then breakfast at Topsiders was once again good. DD7 wanted to get to the club for a 10 a.m. detective program and DD2 easily went to Flounders. DW and I went to Cove Cafe for frozen coffee drinks and then to Cove Pool to just hang out. It was a short time but fun nonetheless. Had a quick and light lunch in Parrot Cay (seafood buffet) that was quite good but our eating skills are running out of steam.
Now for those who have cruised before, you are going to think we're nuts. But we had Palo reserved for tonight but canceled and changed our Flounders time to a bit later. That's because the sweet spot for our family has been that period from dinner (5:30 p.m.) to after the comedy or gameshow program in Studio Sea (8:30 p.m.) Anything after that is a crapshoot. So we thought we'd take advantage and have family fun then have some couples fun later.
The rest of the day was great too. We went to Disney Dreams at 2 p.m. matinee. Really fun show. Kids loved it. Then the girls all had Tea with Wendy at 3, i had another massage at 3:45 and then we were all to meet at WD Theater for the Kids program "graduation." What a FUN program that was. By now it was time for dinner. See what I mean about eating. And we were in Lumiere's tonight and it was Lobster night. Very good meal followed by Who Wants to be a Mousketeer in Studio Sea. Then we had Flounders time reserved and as I mentioned DD2 was excited about it. We figured she'd be asleep by the time we picked her up at 10:30 p.m. since she really hadn't lasted much past nine all week. DD7 went to the club and DW and I explored the adult clubs (just checked them out as all were in transition time) before settling on Cove Cafe and some champagne. Finally met FirstMickey and her husband who both hail from our hometown. Wish we would have met them sooner. Great people.
Went and picked up kids and don't ya know that DD2 was awake and playing when we arrived. But both kids were tired and are now sleeping as I file this report.
To those who have asked questions, I will answer when i return home next week as I am trying to keep my internet time to a minimum. I'll also be filing a post-trip roundup of some tips and and advice - questions that I didn't know enough to ask and opinions about some stuff that doesn't always make it to these boards.
We are excited about Castaway Cay tomorrrow. Can't wait to see it.
Until then......
For those who have stuck it out this long, I thank you for bearing with me. Long story short, another GREAT day. We have really found our groove as a family. DD2 even was ASKING to go to Flounders today. I think we're in shock as much as anything else since it really didn't seem like this was going to be our cup of tea - or at least mine.
To cut the suspense now (again for those patient enough to still be reading) I booked another cruise today - a four day/3 day back to back in June. We may adjust that to just the 4 day and team it with some time at the parks, but haven't decided yet. Most important was getting the discount now. Prices sure have gone up but we're hooked now.
A brief recap of our day: We all slept in a bit today and then breakfast at Topsiders was once again good. DD7 wanted to get to the club for a 10 a.m. detective program and DD2 easily went to Flounders. DW and I went to Cove Cafe for frozen coffee drinks and then to Cove Pool to just hang out. It was a short time but fun nonetheless. Had a quick and light lunch in Parrot Cay (seafood buffet) that was quite good but our eating skills are running out of steam.
Now for those who have cruised before, you are going to think we're nuts. But we had Palo reserved for tonight but canceled and changed our Flounders time to a bit later. That's because the sweet spot for our family has been that period from dinner (5:30 p.m.) to after the comedy or gameshow program in Studio Sea (8:30 p.m.) Anything after that is a crapshoot. So we thought we'd take advantage and have family fun then have some couples fun later.
The rest of the day was great too. We went to Disney Dreams at 2 p.m. matinee. Really fun show. Kids loved it. Then the girls all had Tea with Wendy at 3, i had another massage at 3:45 and then we were all to meet at WD Theater for the Kids program "graduation." What a FUN program that was. By now it was time for dinner. See what I mean about eating. And we were in Lumiere's tonight and it was Lobster night. Very good meal followed by Who Wants to be a Mousketeer in Studio Sea. Then we had Flounders time reserved and as I mentioned DD2 was excited about it. We figured she'd be asleep by the time we picked her up at 10:30 p.m. since she really hadn't lasted much past nine all week. DD7 went to the club and DW and I explored the adult clubs (just checked them out as all were in transition time) before settling on Cove Cafe and some champagne. Finally met FirstMickey and her husband who both hail from our hometown. Wish we would have met them sooner. Great people.
Went and picked up kids and don't ya know that DD2 was awake and playing when we arrived. But both kids were tired and are now sleeping as I file this report.
To those who have asked questions, I will answer when i return home next week as I am trying to keep my internet time to a minimum. I'll also be filing a post-trip roundup of some tips and and advice - questions that I didn't know enough to ask and opinions about some stuff that doesn't always make it to these boards.
We are excited about Castaway Cay tomorrrow. Can't wait to see it.
Until then......
AJA55
My very special Custom Title has gone away..sad.
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Thanks Jeff
nice to read a report from a first timer. Havent been on a Disney cruise but Im thinking about booking. Only been on one cruise and thought it was just OK. Am looking forward to your tips at the end of the trip.
lindaso
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Thank you for taking the time to write up this report. We will be cruising for the first time this November so it's helpful to read the report of a first time cruiser.
I love the idea about a day room for GC. How is the beach there? I think my kids would like the option of going from beach to pool. And I like the option of a room with A/C when my 4 year old has had enough but no one else is ready to pack it in.
Looking forward to reading the rest. Enjoy the rest of your vacation.
I love the idea about a day room for GC. How is the beach there? I think my kids would like the option of going from beach to pool. And I like the option of a room with A/C when my 4 year old has had enough but no one else is ready to pack it in.
Looking forward to reading the rest. Enjoy the rest of your vacation.
eeyorefan80
Earning My Ears
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Great report. We're thinking of doing this same cruise for our honeymoon 
firstmickey
Riddle Goddess of Chaos
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Jeff, we really enjoyed meeting you on Thursday night! Im glad things got better for you later in the trip.
What a wonderful time......I will hopefully be starting my report soon!
Enjoy your time at the Poly. (cause reality sucks back here now! )
Back to Pittsburgh Gray! 
What a wonderful time......I will hopefully be starting my report soon!
Enjoy your time at the Poly. (cause reality sucks back here now! )
Back to Pittsburgh Gray! 
MAGICinMYHEART
<font color=FF0066<b>WL Vet</b><br><font color=gre
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Jeff
I'm so sorry that your first few days weren't very MAGICAL, but I'm glad everything came together later during the cruise.
We enjoyed meeting your family and I was glad you did get to visit Palo for brunch.
I can't wait to here about your trip to WDW hope your stay is wonderful.
(Did you enjoy your Pluto pin I found?)
Ciao for now
Beckie
I'm so sorry that your first few days weren't very MAGICAL, but I'm glad everything came together later during the cruise.
We enjoyed meeting your family and I was glad you did get to visit Palo for brunch.
I can't wait to here about your trip to WDW hope your stay is wonderful.
(Did you enjoy your Pluto pin I found?)
Ciao for now
Beckie
eyeronic
Earning My Ears
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Hi Jeff! Your live trip report is awesome. DH and I took our first Disney Magic cruise before we had kids and loved it. We're looking forward to our next one with DS3 and DS8mos (will be 10 mos) in October.
I have a few questions. Take your time in answering them. No rush! You need to recuperate.
1. Did you book Flounders ahead of time? Was it easy to book as you go?
2. Did you bring a stroller?
3. Did the dining rooms have a high chair/booster ready for your DD at your table?
Thanks. I'm sure I'll have more questions later.
DH and I took our first Disney Magic cruise before we had kids and loved it. We're looking forward to our next one with DS3 and DS8mos (will be 10 mos) in October.I have a few questions. Take your time in answering them. No rush! You need to recuperate.
1. Did you book Flounders ahead of time? Was it easy to book as you go?
2. Did you bring a stroller?
3. Did the dining rooms have a high chair/booster ready for your DD at your table?
Thanks. I'm sure I'll have more questions later.
jd99
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Reminder: Me: Jeff, DW, DD7 and DD2
First off, I'm so sorry it has taken me so long to post this. I wrote it on the bus on the way from the port to the Poly but just signed on tonight to the net as we leave for home tomorrow. But I thought I'd finish up. Once I'm home and less "scrumbled" as we say in my family, I'll answer ALL the questions posted here so far and any others that come later.
Wow now that we are into our groove, vacation is nearly over. But for today its Castaway Cay. A very impressive site as we pulled into port. It truly looks from the sea like a beautiful resort island with Coconut Palms lining the beaches, beautiful clear water in so many shades of blue and long expanses of white sand beaches.
We had breakfast at Parrot Cayy today as we were a bit Topsidered out. We actually pulled into the port as we were at breakfast and I went with the girls to the window to watch the docking process and look at the island. Then we were in a race to get off the ship along with a few thousand of our closest friends. Again an easy process to get off the ship, collect our towels and walk to the family beach. Thanks to those for the tips of keep walking and youll find space. There are plenty of spaces with chairs, umbrellas, palm tree shade and hammocks. We found a nice one just down from the big covered pavilion (Gumbo Limbo). Spent about 2 hours frolicking in the water before heading up for lunch because of my 12:30 p.m. parasailing time.
Clouds started to roll in during lunch and I left to go to Marges Barges for my parasailing time. By now clouds were thick, thunder in the distance. Uh-oh. By the time I walked to Marges they had canceled my parasailing and most of the rest of the days. No rescheduling possible so I was a bit bummed since this was the one excursion I really wanted to do as I have parasailed on almost every tropical vacation I have ever taken.
Went back to find the family just as the lightening and thunder intensified, the winds picked up and the rain started. We spent more than an hour under the pavilion, but it wasnt too bad as DD7 was able to get her hair braided which she couldnt get an appointment on the ship for. So she was happy. It cleared up and we spent just about another 90 minutes or 2 hours swimming and having fun together. Then some shopping (cool beach towels), and back to the ship this time on the tram as we were all hot and tired. I really loved the fact that Castaway Cay had strollers and wagons you could use on the island. It helped us immensely. The only thing I was disappointed in was that the water got a bit cloudy in the afternoon not sure if it was due to the crowds, the storm or both.
Back on the ship, a quick trip to the Mickey Pool so DD7 could get more waterslide time in, then we went to get ready for dinner in Animators. Tonight was tip night so the service staff was especially attentive. Its all good though because thats just the way it works. We tipped all the folks who needed tipped. One side note: I noticed a few more empty tables than normal and couldnt help but think that this was because folks didnt want to give tips. Maybe I am too suspicious and if thats not the case, Im sorry for bringing it up. But these folks, good or bad, make their living on the tips. Our server, while we didnt love him, mostly because of his inconsistency, had 3 kids back home in the Phillipines. I cant imagine leaving my family for months at a time to earn a living but this was his reality. So we tipped him according to the guidelines though in a normal circumstance I may have cut a few bucks off. Dinner was fine, the show at dinner- parade of flags was nice too.
Back to the room to finish as much packing as possible to put our bags out for pickup so that we weren't rushing at 10:45 p.m. As mentioned earlier, we packed WAY too much so our seven bags took up a lot of space in the hallway, but all in all it wasn't too painful.
From here, DD7 wanted to buy herself a gift so I went to the CRAZY shops. But nothing was scarier than Shutters with so many people pushing and shoving and just TOO many people overall. DW went back much later to redo our package from what we had originally purchased.
Then we met DW and DD2 for the final show Remember the Magic. VERY sentimental show but it got me good. The comedienne/ventriloquist (I cant remember her name) was fantastic. I have actually never heard DD7 laugh as loud and long at anything before in my life. All in all a great show. DD2 fell asleep (but not before she saw her favorite Blue Princess, aka Cinderella). She really fell in love with the princesses on this trip.
After putting the kids down, DW went back out to shop a bit then finish off shutters stuff and then back to the room for a good night's sleep. The best thing that happened to us in the dining room was our head server told us to not rush in the morning to be there at 6:30 if we didn't need to...and to show up at 8 for breakfast. So we were able to sleep without worrying about it all. DW saw a bit of the "til we meet again" show and I was jealous.
The next morning was very uneventful. We woke up, got ready, got to breakfast by 8, got off the ship. A porter found all of our bags, took us through customs and onto the bus to the Poly. A very easy process.
Unlike some who posted, I found the crew to be VERY friendly on the way out. Cruise Director Andy took time to talk to anyone who wanted to chat. CMs waved Mickey hands, and everyone had that "disney magic."
As I am finishing this up on my last night at the Poly during a post-cruise trip to WDW, I will say that NOTHING matches the customer service on the cruise. I didn't realize it until getting here and having pretty spotty service, when I always imagined it to be perfect at the resorts and parks. Not goin to post a post-cruise trip report. We've had a blast...stayed in a renovated Poly room after having to haggle a bit on check in and the rooms are fantastic.
When I return home - perhaps this weekend - I will post a wrapup on this report and a "Tips" report on the regular cruise board.
We're now dreaming of another cruise, this time a four-day cruise, currently booked for June 2007.
To the poster who said I was hooked now, you are RIGHT on the money.
First off, I'm so sorry it has taken me so long to post this. I wrote it on the bus on the way from the port to the Poly but just signed on tonight to the net as we leave for home tomorrow. But I thought I'd finish up. Once I'm home and less "scrumbled" as we say in my family, I'll answer ALL the questions posted here so far and any others that come later.
Wow now that we are into our groove, vacation is nearly over. But for today its Castaway Cay. A very impressive site as we pulled into port. It truly looks from the sea like a beautiful resort island with Coconut Palms lining the beaches, beautiful clear water in so many shades of blue and long expanses of white sand beaches.
We had breakfast at Parrot Cayy today as we were a bit Topsidered out. We actually pulled into the port as we were at breakfast and I went with the girls to the window to watch the docking process and look at the island. Then we were in a race to get off the ship along with a few thousand of our closest friends. Again an easy process to get off the ship, collect our towels and walk to the family beach. Thanks to those for the tips of keep walking and youll find space. There are plenty of spaces with chairs, umbrellas, palm tree shade and hammocks. We found a nice one just down from the big covered pavilion (Gumbo Limbo). Spent about 2 hours frolicking in the water before heading up for lunch because of my 12:30 p.m. parasailing time.
Clouds started to roll in during lunch and I left to go to Marges Barges for my parasailing time. By now clouds were thick, thunder in the distance. Uh-oh. By the time I walked to Marges they had canceled my parasailing and most of the rest of the days. No rescheduling possible so I was a bit bummed since this was the one excursion I really wanted to do as I have parasailed on almost every tropical vacation I have ever taken.
Went back to find the family just as the lightening and thunder intensified, the winds picked up and the rain started. We spent more than an hour under the pavilion, but it wasnt too bad as DD7 was able to get her hair braided which she couldnt get an appointment on the ship for. So she was happy. It cleared up and we spent just about another 90 minutes or 2 hours swimming and having fun together. Then some shopping (cool beach towels), and back to the ship this time on the tram as we were all hot and tired. I really loved the fact that Castaway Cay had strollers and wagons you could use on the island. It helped us immensely. The only thing I was disappointed in was that the water got a bit cloudy in the afternoon not sure if it was due to the crowds, the storm or both.
Back on the ship, a quick trip to the Mickey Pool so DD7 could get more waterslide time in, then we went to get ready for dinner in Animators. Tonight was tip night so the service staff was especially attentive. Its all good though because thats just the way it works. We tipped all the folks who needed tipped. One side note: I noticed a few more empty tables than normal and couldnt help but think that this was because folks didnt want to give tips. Maybe I am too suspicious and if thats not the case, Im sorry for bringing it up. But these folks, good or bad, make their living on the tips. Our server, while we didnt love him, mostly because of his inconsistency, had 3 kids back home in the Phillipines. I cant imagine leaving my family for months at a time to earn a living but this was his reality. So we tipped him according to the guidelines though in a normal circumstance I may have cut a few bucks off. Dinner was fine, the show at dinner- parade of flags was nice too.
Back to the room to finish as much packing as possible to put our bags out for pickup so that we weren't rushing at 10:45 p.m. As mentioned earlier, we packed WAY too much so our seven bags took up a lot of space in the hallway, but all in all it wasn't too painful.
From here, DD7 wanted to buy herself a gift so I went to the CRAZY shops. But nothing was scarier than Shutters with so many people pushing and shoving and just TOO many people overall. DW went back much later to redo our package from what we had originally purchased.
Then we met DW and DD2 for the final show Remember the Magic. VERY sentimental show but it got me good. The comedienne/ventriloquist (I cant remember her name) was fantastic. I have actually never heard DD7 laugh as loud and long at anything before in my life. All in all a great show. DD2 fell asleep (but not before she saw her favorite Blue Princess, aka Cinderella). She really fell in love with the princesses on this trip.
After putting the kids down, DW went back out to shop a bit then finish off shutters stuff and then back to the room for a good night's sleep. The best thing that happened to us in the dining room was our head server told us to not rush in the morning to be there at 6:30 if we didn't need to...and to show up at 8 for breakfast. So we were able to sleep without worrying about it all. DW saw a bit of the "til we meet again" show and I was jealous.
The next morning was very uneventful. We woke up, got ready, got to breakfast by 8, got off the ship. A porter found all of our bags, took us through customs and onto the bus to the Poly. A very easy process.
Unlike some who posted, I found the crew to be VERY friendly on the way out. Cruise Director Andy took time to talk to anyone who wanted to chat. CMs waved Mickey hands, and everyone had that "disney magic."
As I am finishing this up on my last night at the Poly during a post-cruise trip to WDW, I will say that NOTHING matches the customer service on the cruise. I didn't realize it until getting here and having pretty spotty service, when I always imagined it to be perfect at the resorts and parks. Not goin to post a post-cruise trip report. We've had a blast...stayed in a renovated Poly room after having to haggle a bit on check in and the rooms are fantastic.
When I return home - perhaps this weekend - I will post a wrapup on this report and a "Tips" report on the regular cruise board.
We're now dreaming of another cruise, this time a four-day cruise, currently booked for June 2007.
To the poster who said I was hooked now, you are RIGHT on the money.
indimini
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Mar 4, 2006
- Messages
- 219
Jeff,
Thanks for posting your cruise report. We sailed w/ you this week, but I don't think we crossed paths (perhaps at one of the DIS meets? - so many new faces it's hard for me to remember.)
It is fun to read back thru your report and remember our trip - it's funny that we got off the ship only 5 days ago and the trip seems both very distant and yet very vivid in my memory. We're booked for a 4 day in Sept 07, with some park action to follow. Only 1 year and 1 month to go........
Thanks for posting your cruise report. We sailed w/ you this week, but I don't think we crossed paths (perhaps at one of the DIS meets? - so many new faces it's hard for me to remember.)
It is fun to read back thru your report and remember our trip - it's funny that we got off the ship only 5 days ago and the trip seems both very distant and yet very vivid in my memory. We're booked for a 4 day in Sept 07, with some park action to follow. Only 1 year and 1 month to go........
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