TADsMommy;
Regarding the FE, the feeling from those signing up early on is that they wanted something manageable, so we have groups of 12 cabins. I was also more recently hearing that people wanted their lists finalized so they could finish up their gifting plans. Closing the FE 3 weeks before also stems from my own (possibly selfish) need behind the scenes in organizing the FE...making sure everyone on the list is still onboard, ensuring details are complete and correct, answering questions, updating lists...this is my first effort at organizing this, and it is a very big job. I want everything to go as perfectly as possible for everyone so it remains fun. I also need to have time to pack, book shuttles, arrange last minute details personally. I hope this explains the reasoning for you. We do have a "pixie dust" list for those last minute cruisers who want to have some part of the FE but aren't on a list, so please let me know your details and I can get you on it.