first timer, single mom, need help!!

[pclaire]

Hi - I'm thinking of booking a cruise for my daughter (age 7) and I next summer and any help / advice would be greatly appreciated. We are looking at the 7 day west coast mexico cruise. I know there aren't any reviews, but what do you think about the ports of call for kids? Also, have any single parents done a Disney Cruise? Are the kids sufficiently occupied that a parent can relax at all? (other vacations have been stressful to say the least - think major meltdown at Sea World). Also, what decks are the best, what rooms, etc. thanks in advance!!

 

[PoohJen]

Relax, you'll find all your answers on these threads!

First off, go to www.disneycruise.com and order the free dvd - your daughter will love watching it! And look at www.dcltribute.com/navigators for sample daily activity lists; there's even some specifically for your child's age group. This will give you an idea of whether she'll like the kids-only activities.

We specifically picked DCL b/c of the kids programming being available from 9-midnite - that gives us time to do family stuff and time for the kids to do their own thing while we enjoy some adult activities (or even just some peace and quiet!). And we know DCL's kids' clubs will be top quality. I also know my kids love stuff like that, but if you don't think your daughter will want to spend time in the clubs, then you may not have as much "relax" time as you'd like.

As to your other questions, I'm sure you'll get some great responses here!

Good luck and Happy Planning!

 

[DisneyBill]

Welcome to the DIS! Keep reading these boards and order the DCL video, you'll learn a bunch, and have answers to questions you didn't know you had.

There are PLENTY of ways for your child to be entertained onboard the ship. You won't want to vacation any other way in the future.

 

[hsteacher]

I have traveled with my kids alone several times due to my husband's job commitment not lining up with my vacations (Im a teacher) and I had the same concerns on my first cruise. In actuality, both my kids spent tons of time in the clubs (including my then 15 yo DD) but my son, who was 8 on the first cruise needed to be reintroduced to me as I rarely ever saw him. At one time, I told my daughter to find him and at least let me see his face! As for me being alone, it was really no problem. I told the TA to tell DCL to put me at a table with other people as I doubted my kids would be eating with me and they did a great job each time. There are probably people that didn't have a good experieince but I have. And yes, I had plenty of time to catch the sun on Deck 10, read several books, and take a nap too! Enjoy!

 

[florida sun]

Hi

I am a single mum, and took my daughter 13 on our first cruise this past August. We both enjoyed it so much that I have booked another one for next August again just the 2 of us. My daughter joined the teen club and I thought I would be left wondering what to do with myself. It was quite the opposite as I found plenty to do, shopping, eating, entertainment etc, it was also very relaxing. Sometimes my daughter wanted to stay with me and again that was great as we saw the shows and went to the cinema amongst other things, all were fantastic.

I fully understand your concerns but my advice to any other single parents wondering if they should go on a Disney Cruise is absolutley yes go. You will have a wonderful time.

 

[tink1663]

Hi, I can not speak from experience but will soon be able to. I have booked our first cruise for this November and I too am a single parent. I know what you mean about the melt down syndrome. I really feel that a cruise gives you the right balance for both kids and adults. I too feel my children may need to reminded that I am still on the same ship with them. And, if for some strange reason they dislike the clubs that is okay too.(except for my night at Palo's) They one thing I have asked of them is that we eat dinner and go to the 3 shows together. After that thay can choose where they want to be. From what I've read they have a singles meet on board also. I have read many posts from single people who cruise with Disney. I say GO FOR IT and you won't be dissappointed.