First time on DCL - booking window opening What (if anything) will I be able to and should I book?

[pixiedust2u]

We are first time cruises on DCL. So that means last to be able to prebooked dining reservations, etc. Our booking window opens in a few weeks. We are on the Wish for early December.
What should we aim to book in advance… and honestly will anything even be left?
We have two kids 8&5 - do we reserve kids club in advance?
We are considering staying on board while in port at Nassau- is there any chance at all of booking spa treatments for this day or should I assume they will all be gone?
Should I assume there will be no appointments left for BBB? If so we may do at WDW before our cruise…
It’s is a Very Merrytime Cruise- will there be any events I should look for to book?

Thanks !!

 

[Mommb]

You do not need to reserve time in the Oceaneers Club — just drop your kids off whenever you or they want to go.

I would guess some spa treatments would be available. If nothing shows up on your booking date, keep checking in case of cancellations, and check at the spa once you board. I have always been able to book treatments after boarding the Magic, Wonder, and Dream.

BBB could fill in advance; I have never tried for a spot on the ship, so I don’t know how many are available or how quickly they fill.

What to try to book depends on what you want. There may be adult dining an alcoholic beverage tastings available. I wouldn’t count on Olaf’s party or cabanas at Castaway Cay being available, but you could get lucky.

I hope someone who has done or will be doing a Very Merrytime Cruise can share what has been available for booking.

 

[gismo1554]

The things you are likely to struggle to get would be things like speciality dining (as everyone seems to be struggling with this at the moment especially for the Wish) and Olafs picnic ($$$ kids event). Spa treatments are still available on my cruise and we are at under 45 days now so everyone can book etc. Most of the tastings were sold out when first timer booking opened but as people have changed their plans some have popped up.

 

[lanejudy]

Just to point out...there is PLENTY to do onboard even if you are shut out of the pre-booking activities. Repeat cruisers tend to talk up the tastings and dining and such, but on our first cruise we didn't prebook anything and still had a terrific time.

 

[nikem3]

Just to point out...there is PLENTY to do onboard even if you are shut out of the pre-booking activities. Repeat cruisers tend to talk up the tastings and dining and such, but on our first cruise we didn't prebook anything and still had a terrific time.

I'll echo this sentiment. We booked a cruise 2 weeks prior to sailing date and most things were sold out. However, there were plenty of activities especially for a first time cruiser. I wouldn't worry too much about specialty dining since you've never experienced the other restaurants. You'll have plenty to do and will probably be scrambling to find time for all the activities listed anyways.