Christmas Decorations in Western Caribbean Ports?

[Richfield Autopia]

We're considering a Western Caribbean cruise on the Magic for the week before Christmas 2005. I'm concerned about the weather in December. Also, the itinerary, main stage shows, and menus will be a repeat of our Western Caribbean cruise on the Magic a few months ago. I'm trying to talk myself into it by reasoning that we've never cruised at Christmas time before, and that this will make it a whole new expereince.

I'm sure the ship and Castaway Cay will be festive. I confirmed that by searching this board.

How are Key West, Cozumel, and Grand Caymen? Really Christmasy, or just some decorations in retail stores?

Anything else that will help me justify a December 2005 cruise?

 

[TheWog]

we have pictures of red velvet bows on palm trees in St. Thomas.... kind of funny for us to see that. Sorry can't help you on Western ports though.

 

[jgalecpa]

We did the Xmas week western this year.

It was a ball and I hightly recommend it.

One of my favorite pictures is DW and DD's standing in their shorts and tops in 88 degree temps on Xmas eve.

In the back is a Display featuring Santa and his reindeer, A beautiful Mexican Flag, and the ship in the harbor in the far background.

There were enough decorations to make you feel Christmas-y.

I can tell you that even though our girls are in their teens, it was one of the most unforgettable xmas's ever.

We did not bring a lot of presents on board, only Xmas stockings we filled the night before. To our suprise, the girls bought stuff on board and when Mom & Dad opened their stockings Santa had surprises even for us!

I will never forget Dec 25, 2004. It was an at sea day. I awoke for my daily 630 walk on deck four.

Usually, people start coming out about 7 am.

Not that day. The ship was very quiet until about 730 - 8am. People were obviously doing their own things in their cabins.

Then, all of these beautiful Disney children emerged from their cabins. Up in the atrium was the best Santa you ever saw. (Of course, he came down that huge "chimney" called a smokestack).

He had a present for everyone that came to see him. Santa had many helpers, including Goofy!

Many of the kids were dressed up in princess outfits, buzz light year, etc.

I spoke to one dad and he said that because of space limitations, they brought only one "nice" item per child. He said their kids played with that item and appreciated it so much more than if it was just one of 20 items they get.

We also got to watch the crew celebrate their holiday by finidng other CM's and exchanging small items. Remember, they are home.


I did not see anyone who longed for something that wasn't right there.

Family, Love, and Santa

Jim