first timer...what do I need to book in advance?

[Jenrausch84]

My husband and I are going on our first cruise in December and our booking window opens in a couple weeks. The travel agent mentioned knowing what we want to book beforehand since our booking window is so late. What do we need to look at to see if we want to do? I know there are some things you don't book until you're on board the ship, so I just wanted to have an idea of what I'm trying to book when I log in on booking day. Thanks!

 

[DynamicDisneyDuo]

Dining at Palo and/or Remy.

The princess gathering.

Tastings.

Excursions.

Cabana (If your cruise goes to Castaway Cay).

Not really a "booking" per se, but choosing your Port Arrival Time if you are not taking Disney transportation.

 

[Mommb]

Dining at Palo and/or Remy.

The princess gathering [and Frozen gathering]

Tastings [for alcoholic beverages]

Excursions [in ports]

Cabana (If your cruise goes to Castaway Cay)

Not really a "booking" per se, but choosing your Port Arrival Time if you are not taking Disney transportation.

In addition to those mentioned above, these can be booked in advance:
Spa treatments

Character breakfasts (cruises of 7 nights or more)

Bibbeti-Bobbity-Boutique

Nursery time for kids aged 0-3 (You can register kids aged 3-12 for the Oceaneer's Club/Lab, but can't book specific times or activities)

Everything that can be booked in advance can also be booked on board, although some, particularly adult dining, beverage tastings, and cabanas at Castaway Cay, may be full. Even those could be available, though, if there's a last-minute cancellation.

 

[g_ppetto]

You can enter some of your check in info after 8 pm Eastern time the evening before your window opens at midnight. You don't NEED to have the check in info completed when you try to reserve activities, etc. but we found it takes the pressure off trying somewhat. When midnight rolls around, sign in and reserve your activities, etc. As Mommb said, you can book activities, dining, etc. once you board. Check the Navigator you receive at the port when you check in. It will have information regarding where to go to make the reservations. It will probably be multiple locations. There are Navigators posted online. Find one that is similar to your cruise and look at the first day to see how it appears on the Navigator.

 

[Weedy]

Palo Brunch