Illuminations Cruise and a Baby

[scanne]

I'm hoping to be able to be lucky and get an Illuminations cruise for our trip in August. We will have a one year old in our party. Right now (at 9 mos. old) he really isn't startled or afraid of much. We've also been showing him our videos of past WDW trips with fireworks and Fantasmic!

Anyway, has anyone ever taken a little one on a fireworks cruise? What was the experience like? I'd love any and all opinions......even those that are going to tell me that it will be too noisy for the baby.

Thank you!!!!!!!

 

[jel0511]

Regardless of the noise, I wouldn't do it. Illuminations starts at 9:00, by the time it's over, you cruise back and get off the boat it's going to be at least 10:00. Then you have to make it back to the WL, not a good recipe with a one year old, in my opinion. I know when my children are tired, the last thing they want to hear are LOUD noises. You might end up with one VERY cranky child, and it might make an unplesant expensive experience for all.

 

[scanne]

Lori,

I had thought of that, BUT my son doesn't go to sleep until 9:30 or 10 at night. I know that could change between now and August, but he's always up late. Also, loud noised, presently don't bother him. He was with me and my DH during a the musical Bye Bye Birdie that I directed and it was quite loud. He fell asleep for about 45 minutes during the performances and wasn't cranky at all. So I'm thinking he'll either be awake to enjoy the show or be asleep on me or his daddy.

I appreciate your opinion...in fact I was hoping to get both sides of the coin if you know what I mean.

I will continue to think about what you said and see how he is when he gets a little older. I can also always cancel the cruise if we find he does not respond well to the loud "booms" of the fireworks at MK or Fantasmic.

Thanks again!!!!

 

[nativetxn]

I put a copy of this post on our Disney for Families board too. If you want to check for any replies that may be there you will find them <b>HERE</b>

 

[SCOTTNJ]

You will be able to take a stroller right on the pontoon boat. However, children do have to wear a life jacket. Call to make sure they have life jackets for 1 year olds.

My bet, after a long day, your little one is going to sleep right through it.

Book the cruise.

 

[rrunnels]

We did an illuminations cruise for my niece's 6 year birthday. It was great and we enjoyed it. A few observations -- we had a 3 year old, 2 6 year olds and a nine year old. The 3 year old had to be comforted during the fireworks and cried a little at first (he was very tired from a Disney day.) The birthday girl had to be entertained to be kept awake until the fireworks started. The three youngest fell asleep on the boat ride back to the Yacht club. Even the oldest was very cranky and tired by the time it was all over. A day in the parks can be quite draining. By the time we drove back to our resort (TIP: if possible, drive to the yacht club so your car will be waiting for you when you get done), we had to carry all the children up and put them to bed. In other words, by the time we were all done with the cruise, the kids were completely drained. All that said, it was definitely worth it.