Can someone tell about a Pirate cruise?

[mlbretscher]

I was just wondering what is a Pirate cruise (where/when & cost). I have a DS who is 9 who would probably like a change of pace (ie: something without a princess) from what may appeal to his younger sisters age 4 & 7. Any info would be greatly appreciated! Also, do this book fast in off peak season?

 

[momm2four]

My two sons (7 and 5.5 at the time) went on this in October. THey loved it. I believe the cost was $25 and they are taken out on a pontoon boat for about two hours. The CM's stopped at different beaches looking for treasure which they eventually found. Lots of beads/baubles/toys that my sons had a great time looking through after the cruise. THey are given a bagged lunch (PB&J sandwich, juice, ricekrispy treat and I don't know if there was anything else). The CM really got into their part, and when one CM "pirate" was being "selfish" with the treasure, she was left behind and not allowed to join the cruise until she apologized. My boys thought that was great.

It was money well spent and when we go back in October 2005, all four of mine will be old enough to go, so there's two wonderful hours of relaxation for my DH and me!

Lori P.

 

[3for Me]

These cruises do book up quickly - even in the off season. I would advise making a PS as soon as you are within your window of time .

You also need to give a credit card # to guarantee the reservation. You must cancel 24hrs. in advance or your card will be charged.

 

[Reflection]

My daughter (age 10) did this activity during our recent weeklong stay. She enjoyed it, but I have noticed over the past couple of years the ages of the children are getting younger. She was concerned that there might not be anyone her age participating. In my daughter's group, most of the children looked to be in 4-6 year-old range; there were no more than 3-4 nine and ten-year-olds.

 

[mlbretscher]

Thanks for all the info, but one more question if I may. Do parents go too? or is it just the kids?

 

[KathyR]

Just the kids get to go.

My kids still remember their cruise they took when they were just turned 3 and 5 (3 years ago). It was the highlight of that trip, and I still hear in detail about now and then. So you know it meant alot to them

They have wanted to go again both trips we have taken since, but I never signed them up. This year they are going again and boy are they excited

 

[nativetxn]

Welcome to the DIS <b>mlbretscher</b>. I'm very glad you found us.

I'm going to move this over to our resorts board for you. The Pirate's Cruise is booked through the Grand Floridian and I imagine you will find some terrific information there.

Katholyn

 

[Janet2k]

From the official WDW website:

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Name: Disney's Pirate Adventure
Location: Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Description: Offers children ages 4-10 a pirate adventure, complete with bandanas, following clues and searching Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon for buried treasure. Two cast members, including a lifeguard, accompany the group. Includes PB&J lunch with Gummy Bears, Rice Krispy treats and fruit punch box. Children must be potty trained, no pull-ups. Must cancel 24 hours in advance or pay full price.
Hours: Monday and Thursday 9:30 am - 11:30am, sign up at 9:15am
Information: (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).
- - - - - - -

A picture is worth a thousand words: click here for my Pirate Cruise on-line photo album.

My daughter loves all three of the GF's children's activities, especially the Pirate Cruise. Yo ho! Yo ho!

 

[sters]

Disney recently bumped the minimum age from 3 to 4 and the cost from $25 to $30.

 

[pnelson]

My 9 year old son did not like this too much. He had to buddy up and hold hands with another boy-He didn't like that at all. He said it was okay, but I got the impression that the group was just too young for him and he felt out of place. I think he would have preferred a fishing excursion or just renting a mouseboat for the money. He said he liked it, but felt a little silly singing the pirate songs, etc. I think it really depends on the age of the group-If it is mostly 3-4 year olds, a 9-10 year old would feel a little out of place.