Keep an eye on the boarding line. When it starts filling up, put one person in line while the others look around. Also, just back from our first cruise. We boarded just a little before 12:00. First thing you do is get your picture made. Then they will guide you towards Parrot Cay for lunch. An option>If you have small children wanting to swim, take the elevator to deck 9. While the kids swim, you can choose to get buffet from the beach blanket or fast food from Pluto's doghouse. You can sit right by the pool and eat while the kids swim. You will beat the crowd and your children will have the pool almost by themselves for about 2 hours. It will be the least crowded time at the pools the entire trip.