Reading this forum was very helpful prior to taking a 4 day trip on the Wonder at the beginning of April 2008. 10 of us - 2 grandparents (us) 4 children (two couples) 4 grandchildren (ages 6-9). Wonderful to watch the constant amazement of both of the younger generations. This is to emphasize a few of the important clues provided in the forum:
1) Go to the pools and aquarium at the Atlantis on Paradise Island BUT do it through the Comfort Suites deal. Disney price for 4 = $500, Comfort Suites = $220 (with taxes). Room rates = $200, $179 (over 50 rate) or $159 using the Smart Traveler link shown in this forum (4 per room). Yes, upon arrival take cab ($4 pp) to Comfort Suites, check in and check out at the same time - get the card which you take to Atlantis to get your wristbands. No hassle friendly service. Enjoy the pools and slides - big slides open at 11AM. See the aquarium - a highlight. Cab back from in front of Atlantis.
2) Don't worry about your arrival time at the Port. Yes, boarding starts about 11:45 AM to Noon but arrival at 11:30 AM gets you on the ship before 12:30 PM including check-in - wristbands for Oceaneer Clubs etc. Parking is right across the street from the entry and upon return the porter takes your bags right to your car !!!
3) See all the Disney shows - fantastic - skip the two comedians if they're still there on first night.
4) Yes, the kids do enjoy the Oceaneer Club and Lab - Disney does it right for kids (grandchildren still have their wristbands on 1 1/2 weeks later).
5) Read "Jeff's Disney Cruise Line Tips and Tricks" at MouseSavers.com.
6) Bring: your own hairdryer, power strip, extension cord, digital clock, night light,pillow cases or non-logo t-shirts and sharpies to turn in to guest services in a ziploc bag to be returned signed by the characters.
7) Wi-Fi PCs do work in your room - only $75 for 250 minutes.
8) Yes - the dinner at Palo Restaurant was worth doing - if you don't get a reservation before you board - no sweat - go to Wavebands to sign up first day. Did it after lunch. The day you repeat in your restaurant cycle is day 3 (you go to the same restaurant as day 2).
9) Attend the embarkation party and the pirate party - use either deck 9 or 10. Fireworks after the pirate party.
10) Plenty of space on beaches at Castaway Cay. Several activities. Use the tram for going to and from beaches.
11) Mickey bars were great for dessert - adult or child.
12) No problem ordering multiple appetizers, entrees or desserts - too good to miss some offerings.
13) You can take liquor or wine on board in your carry on bag - no corks since you can't bring a corkscrew - room steward will provide you with a fresh bucket of ice every day - just ask.
14) Beach Blanket Buffet great for breakfast - free beverages available 24 hours a day at the rear of the ship on Deck 9. Free soft ice cream also near rear on Deck 9. Kids love the hot dog and pizza stands - also on Deck 9.
15) Keep your "Navigator" and the ship deck map with you at all times - avoids blind searches (same with Castaway Cay map when there).
16) Buying a few photos are great remembrances but take your camera everywhere !!!!
Great family vacation which will be cherished for years.
Thank you to all who took time to provide trip reports with lots of clues and to the Disney Cruise Line for a well organized cruise.
1) Go to the pools and aquarium at the Atlantis on Paradise Island BUT do it through the Comfort Suites deal. Disney price for 4 = $500, Comfort Suites = $220 (with taxes). Room rates = $200, $179 (over 50 rate) or $159 using the Smart Traveler link shown in this forum (4 per room). Yes, upon arrival take cab ($4 pp) to Comfort Suites, check in and check out at the same time - get the card which you take to Atlantis to get your wristbands. No hassle friendly service. Enjoy the pools and slides - big slides open at 11AM. See the aquarium - a highlight. Cab back from in front of Atlantis.
2) Don't worry about your arrival time at the Port. Yes, boarding starts about 11:45 AM to Noon but arrival at 11:30 AM gets you on the ship before 12:30 PM including check-in - wristbands for Oceaneer Clubs etc. Parking is right across the street from the entry and upon return the porter takes your bags right to your car !!!
3) See all the Disney shows - fantastic - skip the two comedians if they're still there on first night.
4) Yes, the kids do enjoy the Oceaneer Club and Lab - Disney does it right for kids (grandchildren still have their wristbands on 1 1/2 weeks later).
5) Read "Jeff's Disney Cruise Line Tips and Tricks" at MouseSavers.com.
6) Bring: your own hairdryer, power strip, extension cord, digital clock, night light,pillow cases or non-logo t-shirts and sharpies to turn in to guest services in a ziploc bag to be returned signed by the characters.
7) Wi-Fi PCs do work in your room - only $75 for 250 minutes.
8) Yes - the dinner at Palo Restaurant was worth doing - if you don't get a reservation before you board - no sweat - go to Wavebands to sign up first day. Did it after lunch. The day you repeat in your restaurant cycle is day 3 (you go to the same restaurant as day 2).
9) Attend the embarkation party and the pirate party - use either deck 9 or 10. Fireworks after the pirate party.
10) Plenty of space on beaches at Castaway Cay. Several activities. Use the tram for going to and from beaches.
11) Mickey bars were great for dessert - adult or child.
12) No problem ordering multiple appetizers, entrees or desserts - too good to miss some offerings.
13) You can take liquor or wine on board in your carry on bag - no corks since you can't bring a corkscrew - room steward will provide you with a fresh bucket of ice every day - just ask.
14) Beach Blanket Buffet great for breakfast - free beverages available 24 hours a day at the rear of the ship on Deck 9. Free soft ice cream also near rear on Deck 9. Kids love the hot dog and pizza stands - also on Deck 9.
15) Keep your "Navigator" and the ship deck map with you at all times - avoids blind searches (same with Castaway Cay map when there).
16) Buying a few photos are great remembrances but take your camera everywhere !!!!
Great family vacation which will be cherished for years.
Thank you to all who took time to provide trip reports with lots of clues and to the Disney Cruise Line for a well organized cruise.
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