Help...Excursion Suggestions on 7 Day Western

[KyMattDisney]

Hi there...we will be first time cruisers in July 2006 on the 7 Day Western Cruise. The total group will be:

Me: DW, 38 can't wait to cruise first time
DH: 39
DSister: 39
DBIL: 42
DM & DF: 66 and 63
DFriend: Adoptive Aunt and sister's best friend, 39
DSons: 11 & 6
DNephew: 11
DNieces: 9 & 6

Everyone is thrilled to go. My dad has some limitations with his knee (knee replacement surgery, 2 years ago) but not looking to all stay together.....also wanted to make sure we are not running from excursions to excursions..would like to sightsee the islands as wells.

Any thoughts?
Key West, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Castaway....thanks!!!!!!

Barb, NJ

 

[Kim&Chris]

HI, we're doing the same cruise in May. For the Cayman day, we're going to book a stingray excursion with Captain Marvin. They are very highly recommended (many Dis'ers loved this excursion).

As for Cozumel, we're planning on spending the day at either Mr. Sancho's beach or Paradise Beach. Thanks to Hurricane Wilma, it's still unclear as to whether or not Disney will actually be going to Cozumel, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

You can do a Google search for all the stuff I've mentioned for prices, etc.

 

[lbgraves]

Welcome to the cruise boards! We have a forum loaded with trip reports. http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=10 If you do a search for "western", "Key", "Cayman", or "Cozumel" you will find lots of reports with great information. You can also do an advanced search for titles only for those words & read threads specifically about them. Have fun planning! Lots of people have done tours on their own much cheaper than thru DCL. With that many people you should be able to book a boat in some ports.

 

[glindamood]

We were in Grand Cayman just before Christmas and did the Nativeway excursion to Stingray City. They met us right at the pier - very simple and we had the most awesome time - incredible. We all had the opportunity to snorkel as well as hold and feed the rays. GREAT time was had by all.

 

[Chuckles]

Stingray City is a MUST-SEE in Grand Cayman. We booked a private charter and had a magnificent experience, however as a first-time cruiser you may be more comfortable booking through DCL. Capt Marvin's consistantly receives good reviews for service.

Thoroughly enjoyed catamaran racing in Key West and still had time to walk the tourist district for shopping and snacks/lunch.

Difficult to recommend anything for Cozumel given recent hurricane damage. In the past, jungle-jeep tours have been a favorite. Christmas 2003, we had wonderful time on Fury catamaran(snorkling, private beach party, etc) followed by dinner, drinks and shopping at shopping mall across street from the pier. (Carlos & Charlie's, Sr Frogs, etc.)

Have fun!

 

[TheWog]

Stingray City in Grand Cayman. A must do for all in your party.

www.cozumelhomes.com is a dune buggy adventure for some in your party, while the rest can hang out at Paradise Beach.

Key West. There are electric cars to rent and you can check the town out for yourself or rent a jet ski for an island tour.

 

[churchlady]

We're doing the Western in May, also. I love collecting all the great excursion tips!