Best Alternative to Disney/Miami Resident

[zymurgy1999]

OK, so we are going to need to take a break from Disney for a while. We just took our 6th cruise and with the price hikes and policy changes we just can't justify paying what they are asking any more. Unless they offer a killer FLR rate we will not be on a Disney ship for a long time. We sailed on the Oasis last year and had an OK time and craved being on the Fantasy when we ported in St. Maartin near the ship. We are looking for an alternative to Disney for our family of 5 (11yo, 9yo and 5yo). When cruising we put an emphasis on family time, as opposed to "alone" time for everyone in the family. When the kids want to do their own thing they are free to do so.

We live in Miami so any ship that leaves from FTL or MIA is preferable. I am also trying to figure out how to find the FLR deals for these other cruise lines. If someone can help me please point me in the right direction.

 

[darwinsrule]

Come over to the "Had to finally book with NCL because Disney wanted me to sell my house... lol" thread. Lot of information and fun going on.

 

[joe strummer]

2-bdrm Family Suite on the NCL Getaway!

 

[zymurgy1999]

Come over to the "Had to finally book with NCL because Disney wanted me to sell my house... lol" thread. Lot of information and fun going on.

Cool. I was stalking that one. I will head over there.

 

[MunFam]

Is there a particular reason you are hooked on cruising? We own an RV and have challenged ourselves to see every National Park in the US before our daughter graduates from high school. She is starting Kindergarten this week and we have been to 7 and we have 13 more planned over then next year. It is still relaxing, and there is nothing more magical than sitting around your campfire at night and putting your little ones to bed one by one right inside your RV. You are also giving your children the opportunity to see the wonderful National Treasures of the USA. They have Jr. Ranger programs at each park, too. Have you considered places like Great Wolf Resort with the waterparks for a family vacation or an all inclusive in the Bahamas Carribean or Mexico? Even with airfare, it can still be much more affordable.

 

[zymurgy1999]

Is there a particular reason you are hooked on cruising? We own an RV and have challenged ourselves to see every National Park in the US before our daughter graduates from high school. She is starting Kindergarten this week and we have been to 7 and we have 13 more planned over then next year. It is still relaxing, and there is nothing more magical than sitting around your campfire at night and putting your little ones to bed one by one right inside your RV. You are also giving your children the opportunity to see the wonderful National Treasures of the USA. They have Jr. Ranger programs at each park, too. Have you considered places like Great Wolf Resort with the waterparks for a family vacation or an all inclusive in the Bahamas Carribean or Mexico? Even with airfare, it can still be much more affordable.

I did the "road trip" three summers ago. One of my favorite movies in the world is the original Vacation. My experience was not quite Clark Griswoldish was, but it was not far off. I know my kids and right now cruising is the only way that both the kids and the adults can have their vacations. Nothing would make me happier then seeing the rest of the US and/or Europe, but now is not the right time with my bunch. In two years I think that my kids will be ready for something different, when they can really appreciate what they are seeing/doing.