Kevin, our college ds (will be 21 by the cruise) will be onboard also! From what I've heard, it looks like there will be quite a few college kids on this cruise - I think I've counted about a dozen so far!
Excellent! That makes sense I guess - most colleges are still on their winter breaks. My son doesn't go back until 24-Jan! But my two younger ones are getting pulled out of school! Yeah they are bummed - not! We went to WDW the same week this year and it wasn't so bad for them. And very low crowds at WDW at least, but I'm thinking this will be a full ship for sure!
Any opinions on cabanas on Castaway Cay? Are they worth the cost?
I've never had a Cabana - by the time it gets to my lowly ole Silver status they are always sold out, so I have never been tempted! I think you pretty much need to be concierge or Platinum status to get them. Not to say there aren't those that get lucky - but the odds are right up there with the Lotto!
Personally though, I have never regretted not having one. They are very expensive and the incremental benefit just never seemed like a good value to me. There is food, sodas and soft serve ice cream free to all and plenty of good spots to grab on the beach. I would rather spend the money on all-day Port Adventures or put it towards my bar tab (FYI - the Captain's Champagne and truffles in Ooh La La or the speciality drinks in Skyline!! - can't wait!!). But Cabanas are clearly a personal preference.
I am just worried about the weather!
So am I! But rain or shine, you will still have a great time! Keep in mind on the water the ship can move around and avoid most precipitation. The leaves only the temp and port days. And Grand Cayman and Cozumel average temps look nice - at least coming from Ohio in Jan! - and Jan is one of their drier months in the Caribbean. My only concern will be water temps at Castaway Cay.
Kevin