Yes the aquaduck is crowded during the day (except at first, of course), but in the evening the lines are shorter and the nighttime ride is amazing. You have dinner and a show, but if you forgo the show you may have the aqueduct almost to yourself! (we did a couple of nights). But...the show is great.
Another tip: do not miss the going away party. It is almost an emotional experience, with the crowd action, the characters, the films, the music, the dancing.....
Meet and greet tickets, of course. Palo reservations at their podium if you want to do Palo. We always prefer lunch up top, the access to food is really easy and the view of the port area beautiful.
Go to the side of the ship and wave to all the onlookers who are ashore as you are pulling out of port.
At dinner, take time to make real eye contact with your servers, ask them about themselves, give them a little respect, and you have found the magic key to opening the door to an amazing experience with them during your cruise. Talk to any CM doing anything...they are all so wonderful. The counselors, waiters, room stewards, painters, deck sweepers, coffee shop staff, lounge performers, bartenders, everyone. We have a 100% success rate in engaging, interesting conversations with hundreds of crew members, and have heard some wonderful stories.
