December 24, 2011 Celebrating a Magical 6-Night Caribbean Christmas Cruise

[jlima]

Hi everybody!

I'm delighted to join this thread! We are sailing on the 12/24 6 night cruise - myself, DH, DS17 and DS11. This is our 4th Disney cruise and the first time we've ever spent Christmas on a vacation that wasn't a family vacation.

I've had this cruise booked since July but don't know why I didn't join this thread sooner. Can't wait!

 

[Bursley2010]

Hi everybody!

I'm delighted to join this thread! We are sailing on the 12/24 6 night cruise - myself, DH, DS17 and DS11. This is our 4th Disney cruise and the first time we've ever spent Christmas on a vacation that wasn't a family vacation.

I've had this cruise booked since July but don't know why I didn't join this thread sooner. Can't wait!

Welcome aboard! This is the first time we've ever spent Christmas on vacation when we were not visiting other family as well...only this time we're bringing most of our family along with us. Glad you could join us on this thread!

 

[scaldwel]

Sister-in-law and nephew backed out a few days ago. DB and SIL felt their 2 year DS was going to be too much to handle. He can't sleep with others in the room and would never stay still for a meal. Tried to convince them that chasing him in a tropical locale on a cruise ship would still be much more fun than being at home but there was no convincing. It had been worrying her for sometime. So looking forward to this trip. The kids are psyched. I enjoy following the thread for info for us first time cruisers!

Stephanie

 

[KaryCam]

Sister-in-law and nephew backed out a few days ago. DB and SIL felt their 2 year DS was going to be too much to handle. He can't sleep with others in the room and would never stay still for a meal. Tried to convince them that chasing him in a tropical locale on a cruise ship would still be much more fun than being at home but there was no convincing. It had been worrying her for sometime. So looking forward to this trip. The kids are psyched. I enjoy following the thread for info for us first time cruisers!
Stephanie

Stephanie
Please send me an updated FE list for your family.
I sent you a PM a few days back.
Thanks.

I know you all will have a great time even without your extended family.

 

[tinkerbell_29]

Hey everyone!! Can't believe it is just a few more weeks before we leave. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Spent these four days off relaxing and trying to get well before heading back to work on Monday. Got to call magical express they only sent us one luggage tag per a person. Even though we are shipping some things I know we will end up checking more than 3 bags.

Melissa

 

[KaryCam]

I have PM everyone on the FE List a copy of the updated list.
I am still waiting on 3 people to update their cabin numbers. Please do not post cabin numbers on this board - PM me.

If you do not know how to check or send a PM - post that here and we will help you. Thanks.

Also, I am hoping that someone will step forward and organize a Meet for all those here that want to get together.
This is my first cruise and I do not know the ship as well as many of you here.
Please think about it. We would like to see the face behind the name.
Thanks

 

[jitsb]

Hello all!!

Sorry I've been absent recently; it's been a crazy couple of weeks! But now it's time focus on and finish up preparations for the Cruise!!

So, although I'm certainly not a "veteran" seeing as this will be our 3rd cruise, I'm willing to step up and organize the Meet!

In the past, we've thought that the Promenade Lounge is a nice place to gather. It's located on Deck 3 Aft and has big, comfy chairs, a view of the ocean and a bar! What more could you ask for, eh?!

The only thing I'm a bit unsure on, as I mentioned in a previous post, is the WHEN for this thing! I guess embarking on Christmas Eve has it's disadvantages. Personally, I think it would be better to meet sooner, rather than later, so those of us (or our kids!) who hit it off will be able to utilize as much of our 6 day cruise as possible.

Those of us who've cruised before will most likely admit that embarkation day is a bit zooey, what with getting on board and trying to get settled, but unless there's any serious objections, I think that's what I'm going to push for. Seeing as the next day is Christmas, I'm thinking most of us will want to spend time with our families and doing the activities planned and then the day after that is Cozumel, a big excursion day. So it seems like the best day for our Meet and Greet will be on Christmas Eve!!

How does 4:30 sound to folks, both new and seasoned cruisers? I'm figuring that will provide enough time for people to get settled, but not push too far back into dinner/show schedules. And maybe they'll even have munchies out by then at the Lounge!

ok, so let me know what you guys think and I'll post a definitive "invite" here next week. Cheers!

 

[KaryCam]

Thanks Sarah for stepping up and thanks for the cabin number. I'll be sending updates to all on the FE list soon.

Yes, I too think we should meet the first day so that kids can get aquainted. I know there are a few boys that are 11 & 12 that my son would like to meet.
Also, if one of the FE group gets a cabin change, we need to know that quickly.

I am not sure what time the lifeboat drill is or the Sailing away party. Maybe someone remembers and can tell us. This is my only concern. Well, that, and making sure I get to the shop to purchase a Christmas ornament the first day.
We might think about meeting before those two things instead of after. (depending on what time they are) When is the latest people board and lunch is served?

Hello all!!

So, although I'm certainly not a "veteran" seeing as this will be our 3rd cruise, I'm willing to step up and organize the Meet!

In the past, we've thought that the Promenade Lounge is a nice place to gather. It's located on Deck 3 Aft and has big, comfy chairs, a view of the ocean and a bar! What more could you ask for, eh?!

The only thing I'm a bit unsure on, as I mentioned in a previous post, is the WHEN for this thing! I guess embarking on Christmas Eve has it's disadvantages. Personally, I think it would be better to meet sooner, rather than later, so those of us (or our kids!) who hit it off will be able to utilize as much of our 6 day cruise as possible.

Those of us who've cruised before will most likely admit that embarkation day is a bit zooey, what with getting on board and trying to get settled, but unless there's any serious objections, I think that's what I'm going to push for. Seeing as the next day is Christmas, I'm thinking most of us will want to spend time with our families and doing the activities planned and then the day after that is Cozumel, a big excursion day. So it seems like the best day for our Meet and Greet will be on Christmas Eve!!

How does 4:30 sound to folks, both new and seasoned cruisers? I'm figuring that will provide enough time for people to get settled, but not push too far back into dinner/show schedules. And maybe they'll even have munchies out by then at the Lounge!

ok, so let me know what you guys think and I'll post a definitive "invite" here next week. Cheers!

 

[jlima]

I got my documents today!

And, I ordered a new swimsuit today!!

Gotta find the pirate gear in the Halloween boxes - why didn't I take that out when they were out of the garage last month?

Gotta find all the door magnets from 2008 & print a few more.

Gotta make sure all the lanyards are ready to go.

I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS TRIP!!

 

[charliez]

Getting very pumped for the trip. In fact, half posting this just to see my countdown tag!!

Gotta get to work on Christmas decorations, especially for our doors!!

 

[charliez]

-

 

[TimmyTown]

Hello all!!

Sorry I've been absent recently; it's been a crazy couple of weeks! But now it's time focus on and finish up preparations for the Cruise!!

So, although I'm certainly not a "veteran" seeing as this will be our 3rd cruise, I'm willing to step up and organize the Meet!

In the past, we've thought that the Promenade Lounge is a nice place to gather. It's located on Deck 3 Aft and has big, comfy chairs, a view of the ocean and a bar! What more could you ask for, eh?!

The only thing I'm a bit unsure on, as I mentioned in a previous post, is the WHEN for this thing! I guess embarking on Christmas Eve has it's disadvantages. Personally, I think it would be better to meet sooner, rather than later, so those of us (or our kids!) who hit it off will be able to utilize as much of our 6 day cruise as possible.

Those of us who've cruised before will most likely admit that embarkation day is a bit zooey, what with getting on board and trying to get settled, but unless there's any serious objections, I think that's what I'm going to push for. Seeing as the next day is Christmas, I'm thinking most of us will want to spend time with our families and doing the activities planned and then the day after that is Cozumel, a big excursion day. So it seems like the best day for our Meet and Greet will be on Christmas Eve!!

How does 4:30 sound to folks, both new and seasoned cruisers? I'm figuring that will provide enough time for people to get settled, but not push too far back into dinner/show schedules. And maybe they'll even have munchies out by then at the Lounge!

ok, so let me know what you guys think and I'll post a definitive "invite" here next week. Cheers!

My recollection from previous cruises is that the lifeboat drill starts promptly at 4:00. Immediately thereafter, many people go to decks 9 & 10 for the "Sail Away Celebration" that starts at about 4:15 and lasts until about 5:00 when the ship pulls away from the pier. On our last Disney cruise, we attended a meet in the Promenade Lounge at 3:00 p.m. which was well-attended. As you mentioned, it was a great way, especially for the kids, to meet each other. Most people are aboard by 3:00 p.m. After the meet, people headed to their lifeboat stations for the drill and then to the upper decks for the party. Just an idea! Looking forward to seeing everyone in just over three weeks.

Thank you very much for organizing this!

TimmyTown

 

[KaryCam]

I checked a previous Navigator and it said that the Life Boat drill is at 4pm as mentioned by TimmyTown and that the Sail Away Party starts at 4:30pm.
I agree to meet at 3pm.

My recollection from previous cruises is that the lifeboat drill starts promptly at 4:00. Immediately thereafter, many people go to decks 9 & 10 for the "Sail Away Celebration" that starts at about 4:15 and lasts until about 5:00 when the ship pulls away from the pier. On our last Disney cruise, we attended a meet in the Promenade Lounge at 3:00 p.m. which was well-attended. As you mentioned, it was a great way, especially for the kids, to meet each other. Most people are aboard by 3:00 p.m. After the meet, people headed to their lifeboat stations for the drill and then to the upper decks for the party. Just an idea! Looking forward to seeing everyone in just over three weeks.
Thank you very much for organizing this!
TimmyTown

 

[Cruella 66]

Hi everyone! I had posted on here earlier about getting the small Christmas tree DCL offers. I came across another thread on here about that same subject. The person said they ordered one from the disney store that comes in a mailer. So, I just went to the Disney Store online and they actually have 2 small table top trees. The one above that comes in a mailer and another that is light. One was $29.99 and the other $26.99. I ordered both because I couldn't make up my mind. I had read also that the ones you get from DCL have to stay there as you can't take them home. I felt that was a huge waste of money. I know some cruisers here already have small ones they are bringing but for me, these'll be pre-packed from shipping, I'll just put them in my suitcase unopened, and hopefully I'll be able to get them back in the packing to get them home. I also picked up a bunch of Sweet 16 decorations from the party store instead of buying DCL's and I think I'll just go with whatever they give my daughter with a candle for a cake. She'll be thrilled either way. So, thank you everyone for your input! After next weekend I'll start to get excited...it's so hectic right now with travel games, choir performances and Christmas plays... Cindy

 

[KaryCam]

Cindy,
So glad that you found something that you like. Yes, having to leave it on the ship would be a bummer.
The birthday decorations sound nice - I know she is going to be very happy with everything.
It's been busy around here too - basketball practices, Ju-Jitsu belt testing, scouting awards night, Christmas parties, church programs, family get together, homework, work, etc. The cruise can't come fast enough - 3 weeks from today

Hi everyone! I had posted on here earlier about getting the small Christmas tree DCL offers. I came across another thread on here about that same subject. The person said they ordered one from the disney store that comes in a mailer. So, I just went to the Disney Store online and they actually have 2 small table top trees. The one above that comes in a mailer and another that is light. One was $29.99 and the other $26.99. I ordered both because I couldn't make up my mind. I had read also that the ones you get from DCL have to stay there as you can't take them home. I felt that was a huge waste of money. I know some cruisers here already have small ones they are bringing but for me, these'll be pre-packed from shipping, I'll just put them in my suitcase unopened, and hopefully I'll be able to get them back in the packing to get them home. I also picked up a bunch of Sweet 16 decorations from the party store instead of buying DCL's and I think I'll just go with whatever they give my daughter with a candle for a cake. She'll be thrilled either way. So, thank you everyone for your input! After next weekend I'll start to get excited...it's so hectic right now with travel games, choir performances and Christmas plays... Cindy

 

[tinkerbell_29]

Hi everyone only 15 more days until we leave ! I am ridiculously excited about this trip. The last time we cruised i was extremely sick and ended up having surgery shortly after the cruise. At least this time I will be able to eat and enjoy myself. Looking forward to meeting everyone in just a few more days!

Melissa

 

[jenedpey]

For our FE gifts, we ordered a supply of cruise date specific and non dated gifts based on our best guess a couple of months ago on how many people would be participating.

Since we have ended up with a smaller group than what we expected, we have some extra cruise specific dated FE gifts available to those who are interested.

If you are NOT already participating in the FE exchange, please P.M. us your cabin # if you are interested in receiving a surprise (we will hang it on the fish itself) while on the cruise.


jenedpey

 

[Princess Row]

Hey there!
I went on this cruise almost three years ago... wow time flies! but I was wondering if anyone could get me the Spicy gumbo soup recipe from one of the dinner nights. You would just have to ask your server and they could bring it over.

If anyone is willing to do this please PM me and I will send my email. It would really mean alot to me.
Thank you all so much! Have a fantastic cruise!

 

[Elfinjojo]

Hey!

sorry not been on for awhile, still having laptop probs, using a borrowed one at the moment.

So we are almost there! I have just this last three days of this week at work and then all of next week and then schools close for the holidays.

We have invited Santa to come visit us early so that the kids can celebrate christmas with extended family(and recieve the bigger of the gifts that they have asked for). We are doing the whole shebang, dinner, gifts, crackers etc. The only difference here will be no Queen's Speech at 3pm and everyone else will all be doing the last saturday before christmas shopping spree!! I know what I would rather be doing.

We are well into the Dinsey mood now as we had a surprise trip to Euro Disney last weekend for DH's 40th birthday - the surprise wasn't for him, but for us as it was he who organised it. DisneyLand Paris at Christmas is lovely, with snow flurries in mainstreet and Santa in the parades, we also saw Duffy in the parades but unfortunately missed out on a picture op with him and Mickey. We had taken my parents and DH's father along too to introduce them to our passion of Disney - I think they liked!

I am kicking myself though, as they had the most gorgeous christmas tree ornaments in the shops, but I ran out of time to get any (and they were expensive) I wanted them for the little tree I have got for our cabin, so I had to settle for some from the UK Disney shops and they are nowhere near as nice. Oh well. We did manage to get some Pirate T-shirts for the kids, we decided not to go for full costumes as the ids always decide not to wear them in the end, so thought T-shirts would be better. We couldn't get the matching ones in adult size so tonight I am trawling the net to see what I can find. I a also sorting the door magnets while I have use of the laptop!

As mentioned before about our early christmas celebrations, we will be having crackers(the pulling kind with gifts inside, jokes and paper hats?) Is this something you use at christmas aswell?

I am so looking forward to seeing how christmas is celebrated a) American style and b) disney style!!!

See ya real soon

 

[mmouse37]

Hey Everyone....

Sorry to jump onto your thread but I have some non Disboard friends going on this cruise and they want to know what the "theme" nights are....like what night is pirate night...is there a formal night, etc.

If anyone could help I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance!!!

MJ