DC questions

[bridegirl]

We are long time WDW visitors and have never really ventured "off-property", but for our upcoming Thanksgiving trip, I am thinking of taking our DS, 8, to DC for the day including the dolphin swim.

- will they let us bring in our own snorkel gear? DS has a prescription mask and won't have much fun with out it.
- will it seem cold at the end of Nov? We live in sunny southern california and are not used to cold weather
- any other tips/suggestions for newbies?

Thanks.

 

[herbiesmomma]

They have prescription masks available, I don't know if you could bring yours. No flippers allowed. From what I understand it could be a bit cold at that time. I have not been down there in November. I would recommend the wetsuit if you are afraid of being cold. Keep an eye out as you walk around. They bring out different animals for close up encounters throughout the day. We got to check out a sloth. Don't miss the aviary, it's a lot of fun.

 

[Goofyisme]

I saw a couple of people bringing in their own masks and nothing was said, although the "prescription" masks they have available there seem to work quite well at least according to my wife.
Have fun on your visit.

 

[OCEAN LOVE <3]

It might be cold by the end of november because here right now is about 80 degrees and tomorrow and next week it is going to be about 70. But at nights it gets pretty chilly 40-50's.

 

[HopperFan]

Yes you can bring your own. We have been twice and both times took our own. DS has mask specially fitted for him and a special snorkel that won't take in water at top. I asked the first time, and they said no problem. Just took it the second time.

One suggestion is to get there as early as possible. First time we did and we were right in there. Second time we arrived about 20 minutes after stated time and we were in long lines for check-in and then ended up with the farthest lockers (which are not even on map but all the way left) etc. (and neither time was the park full) Really a pain to go that far for them. We like setting up "camp" in area between the coral reef and the warm water pool. Being November you may want to hit the warm water often. We can just go back and forth, and right there is the snack bar (round circle by baths), sting rays, bathrooms etc. Lots of seating by Dolphin area but then you are far from all the rest you will use most the day. Our "spot" in where the purple dot is on the map.

 

[bridegirl]

DISer's are the best. You guys always know everything.

Thanks so much for all the information - I love the map with the best spot marked!

I read all your replies and then called and booked for the Sunday before Thanksgiving. We love WDW but I'm so excited to be trying something NEW. Thanks again.

One more question - what do you do with your stuff? Lockers? Then you go get money to pay for lunch and stuff and then you go put your bag back in your locker?

Pixie dust,

Susy

 

[Goofyisme]

All food and drink are included so no need for $$ for that. Yes you do get lockers but the only thing you need to buy are souveniers and pictures. You can link a credit card to your ID that you are issued and wear. One trip to the lockers to drop stuff off and one at the end of the day to pick up.
Have a great time.

 

[HopperFan]

All food and drink are included so no need for $$ for that. Yes you do get lockers but the only thing you need to buy are souveniers and pictures. You can link a credit card to your ID that you are issued and wear. One trip to the lockers to drop stuff off and one at the end of the day to pick up.
Have a great time.

Exactly correct. They take your photo and put on your ID which is on a lanyard. We keep this on at all times tucked into our vest or wet suit. Put all your clothes and valuables in locker. We are in suits, wet gear and water shoes (you want these). If you don't have or can't find, they sell them. We bought theirs last year and they are nice. Bring a small tote to put on your chairs. They supply the towels, all you need. They also give you a packet of fish safe lotion for each. In my bag was my water cameras, my land camera - I took cheap one, sunglasses etc. Your breakfast, lunch, snacks & drinks included as well, all you can eat. (no fee for parking either). Of course going is not inexpensive so it's nice so much is included.

 

[HopperFan]

Views from my PURPLE spot on map.

To the right is the "resort" pool, meaning warm pool water. The lazy river travels through this, in the photo it is in a tunnel behind the rock / waterfalls.

To the left is the coral reef and the sting ray pools.

Straight ahead is the snack bar and bathrooms

Lazy river, I suggest you grab a couple noodles from boxes on beach to take with you. Parts are deep and nice to have something to just hold on and relax with. Wear your shoes, rough bottoms on everything.

 

[JoyMouse]

The best thing about DC, to me anyway, was that everything is included. You don't need money while you are there. We just charge the pics and souvies to the card that we attached to our ID. It was an awesome experience and I can't wait to go back.

 

[irongirlof12]

Have a wonderful time.

here are some food piccies to tempt you

We had such a wonderful time and lasting memories

 

[JoyMouse]

I'm starting to drool....