Hey Deb,
As a veteran Disney cruiser, I know that I would love any "lists" that you use to pack with. Also, any comments on jackets, sweaters and how cool it gets in the evening or early morning? Or in general, any more packing comments?
My packing tips.
I split up everyone's clothes among all the suitcases. Swimsuits get split, underwear gets split. That way if you lose a luggage, no one person loses all their clothes.
Did you know that rolling clothes can help minimize wrinkles? Underwear can be stuffed into shoes?
I bring tons of ziplocks (or buy some at Walmart there). The suits/water shoes will be sandy.
Sweaters are a must. The night will be cold and windy on the ship. And the ship can actually get really cold inside as well. I bought a white disney sweat jacket when I was on there. The shops do have some clothes if you forget something.
I would bring 3-4 swimsuits--minimum of 2 each. That leaves one to dry and one to wear. Downy sheets are a great room freshener. Those little suction hooks can be great to hang drying swimsuits on in the shower.
We use the tv to spend a half hour before bed to slideshow our pics of the day. It allows me to delete those that didn't come out and it gives the kids some good settle down time. Bring enough digital space to allow for the weeks worth of pictures.
If you want to line up for character pictures in the atrium--the line usually starts 15 minutes before. If you see a guy standing around with a huge, professional camera--chances are a character is coming. Ask him who, when and where.
Anyone in concierge level, the concierge meet I think leaving St. Thomas is a pretty good treat. The snacks are good and the drinks are NOT watered down. Mickey also stops by around then, so bring your camera.
Packing lists----I would sit down and write out everything. Underwear-7, socks-7, shampoo, conditioner, etc. Check things off as you put them in your suitcase and then pack your list. RE-check things off as you pack the last night.
Do NOT pack your meds, tickets, passports, etc. I know--you know--but someone always does it.
Make 2 copies of your passport/drivers lic. Give one to your emergency contact and another put in the safe of your room. If something gets stolen, it will help in replacing it. Color copy of data page. Oh yeah---bring an old library card, gift card, etc. A few of them if you have them laying around the house--something with an magnetic strip on it. The safes are locked and unlocked with them. DO NOT use your credit cards for this. The magnetic strip can and usually does get damaged. We used our hotel key from Universal from our stays before the cruise.
Want something for your kids to do in the am while everyone is getting ready? The ship has movies and cd's that can be checked out for the cruise. Do this day one as they are gone quick and not returned usually until the end.
We pack a "plug in game" or two in the kid's carry-ons. They can sit and play it while we are getting ready in the morning. And, it saves on visiting the arcade.
Checking kids in and out of the club----the first night is crazy and your wait could be a good 5 minutes or more. They get their braclets and the computer information is checked. Be patient. Also, remember you can't check in or out during transition times---no exceptions. So, don't forget to plan your time around them. If you have a palo ressie and you have to wait 15 minutes while they are moving between places, you will be late. But, if you hit the place before the transition at the last 5 minutes, you will have time to spare. Also, plan around busy times---at night around dinner/shows, etc are busy.
Make sure bed is cleared of any stuffed animals, etc each morning. Jen lost her bunny beanie baby on one April cruise.
I can't think of any other tips that aren't on the big list on the main board. I start writing my list a few days before the cruise. I can show it to you then.
Just remember, don't freak out too much if you forget something. The islands aren't uninhabited. You should be able to get anything you miss either on the boat or on an island.
I hope this helps.
Deb