Jan 10, 2015 Eastern Caribbean (St Thomas) DCL Disney Disboards Fantasy

pershing

DIS Veteran
Joined
Jul 27, 2003
Messages
1,395
I could not find another Cruise Meet thread for this cruise after doing a disboard search and a google search and scrolling through pages with control+find button, so I thought I'd start one. Not sure whats going on with the moderators not adding a sticky for 2015 yet. It's making things pretty difficult to find your 2015 cruise. However, I did google, 'Find your 2015 Fantasy.....' and 'Irish Cowboy' and was able to find his unstuck index. I apologize if there is another thread out there. I really tried to find you!

:welcome: to January 10, 2015 Fantasy Eastern Caribbean Thread!

item0_size_disney-fantasy-100493-1_zps95621365.jpg


I know its says St. Thomas but many of us are thinking St. John by Ferry when they see that and certainly San Juan, our other great stop!

We haven't booked this cruise yet, but habitually our school area here on Cape Cod has a 'Staff Developmental Day' on the Friday before MLK Day weekend, conveniently placed for a 4 day weekend. Therefore one less day of school missed and 2 extra days to drive home!

We drove to Orlando and then Miami for the 3 day Magic January 2, 2014 this past Christmas and will be doing it again. Big savings for us and we enjoyed the drive.

I like keeping the Roll Call so I'll add myself first with wishful thinking in mind:

Jan 10, 2015 Eastern Caribbean (St Thomas) Roll Call

pershing - myself and my 3 sons, ages time of cruise DS(20), DS(18), DS(16) - Cape Cod, Massachusetts
CBEW4- myself and DD, DSister, DBIL
Lizo18- DD
JulietaC
wishes0813
Downunder Minnies
mystycalchyk
Belle6000
DisKneeNewbie-DisMom, DisMom's Friend, DH, DD7, DD5
kollasch

And Here's our itinerary:

Itinerary

2015FantasyImage_zpsc5161551.jpg

7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Fantasy - Itinerary B

January 10 to January 17
Disney Fantasy

Day Port Ashore Onboard
1 Port Canaveral, Florida 3:45 p.m.
2 At Sea
3 At Sea
4 St. Thomas/St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands 8:00 a.m. 5:30 p.m.
5 San Juan, Puerto Rico 7:45 a.m. 4:45 p.m.
6 At Sea
7 Castaway Cay 9:45 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
8 Port Canaveral, Florida 7:30 a.m.

Guest ashore times and onboard times are subject to change without notice.​

This is our 9th DCL Cruise. :boat:
 
St. John Trunk Bay Beach and Snorkel Tour (5 hours)
You'll be taken by ferryboat to St. John, approximately 45 minutes, and then driven to beautiful Trunk Bay. Along the way, soak in the lush surroundings of the island. Once at Trunk Bay, you'll have the option to swim, snorkel or simply relax for approximately 1-1.5 hours. Snorkel equipment is provided.
Price: $48 (ages 10 & up) Child: $34 (ages 5-9)

St. John Island Tour (5 hours)
Enjoy the 45-minute ferry ride from St. Thomas as you come upon the unspoiled beauty of St. John, approximately three quarters of which is designated as National Parks. A safari bus will stop at both the Annaberg ruins and breathtaking views of neighboring islands.
Price: $39 (ages 10 & up) Child: $29

St. John Eco Hike (5.5 hours)
A scenic ferry from St. Thomas lets you off at Cruz Bay, where you'll have 90 minutes to enjoy a 1.2-mile hike, with stops at Lind Lookout and Honeymoon Beach where you will have approximately one hour to swim before continuing your tour to famous Caneel Bay Plantation. Please wear tennis or hiking shoes.
Price: $59 (ages 6 & up) Child: $49

5-Star St. John Snorkel and Beach Adventure (4-4.5 hours)
On this adventure, one of our most requested excursions, you'll board the 115-foot Leylon Sneed, which will transport you from St. Thomas to Trunk Bay in St. John. Once anchored, you'll have time to snorkel, swim and sunbathe. Snorkel equipment is provided, as well as fruit punch and rum punch, after snorkeling.
Price $48 (ages 10 & up) Child: $34 (ages 5-9)

St. John Barefoot Catamaran Sail & Snorkel (4-4.5 hours)
This alluring excursion starts with a a scenic drive to La Vida Marina, where you'll board the Allure to a palm-fringed beach on St. John. While at the beach, there will be time to sunbathe, swim or snorkel (equipment provided).
Price: $75 Child: $55 (ages 3-9)

Certified Scuba Diving Adventure (4 hours)
A certification card is required for all divers to explore the exciting waters of St. Thomas. Certified divers who have completed at least one dive within the past 2 years can explore the waters of St. Thomas with this two-tank dive. Your first dive goes to a vibrant reef, normally to a maximum depth of 60 feet. The second, shallower dive is usually to a shipwreck. Scuba equipment and professional supervision provided, wet suit not included.
Price: $94 (12 & up)

Doubloon Sail & Snorkel Tour (3.5 hours)
Join the excitement! Help raise the sails of Doubloon, a 65-foot classic schooner that will take you to Turtle Cove, near Buck Island. Here, you will anchor and have time to snorkel and swim among a coral garden. Snacks, beverages and snorkel equipment are included.
Price: $49 (ages 10 & up) Child: $32 (ages 5-9)

Buck Island Catamaran Sail & Snorkel (3.5-4 hours)
Learn to harness the wind from a knowledgeable two-person crew as you cruise along on an exclusive six-person yacht. Drop anchor in Turtle Cove at Buck Island and snorkel among the vibrant coral garden. Snacks and open bar are provided after snorkeling.
Price: $49 (ages 10 & up) Child: $34 (ages 5-9)

St. Thomas Island Tour (2.5 hours)
See the sights in an open-air safari bus as you take in the natural beauty of the island Enjoy the spectacular view from Peter's Great House where you will leave a self guided tour and continue your tour to Mountain Top, the highest point of the island.
Price: $35 (ages 10 & up) Child: $24 (ages 3-9)

Coral World & Island Drive (3.5 hours)
Pet a shark or starfish at one of the world's few underwater observatories, Coral World, where you can observe marine life without getting wet! Then, discover some of St. Thomas' most spectacular views on a scenic island drive.
Price: $41 (ages 10 & up) Child: $30 (ages 3-9)

Water Island Mountain Bike Adventure (3.5 hours)
Begin your two-wheeled adventure with a short boat ride to Water Island, then experience the beauty and history of this island as you explore the terrain by mountain bike. This fun-filled excursion also includes a beach stop for some swimming or relaxing after your biking excursion.
Adult Price: $69 (ages 10 & up only)

Kayak Marine Sanctuary Tour (3.5-4 hours)
One of our most interesting excursions! Kayak 45 minutes through the mangroves with a guide who will point out interesting facts along the way. You'll stop for 30 minutes at Bovoni Point, where you can snorkel or walk along the beach.
Price: $60 (ages 10 & up only)

Magen's Bay Beach Break (4.5 - 5 hours)
Head to St. Thomas' finest beach for a day in the Caribbean sun. Along the 25 minute scenic drive, you'll stop at Drake's Seat known for it's incredible views of the bay and Down Island. Next, you arrive at Magen's Bay where you can swim, stroll along the water's edge or simply relax in a beach chair. Water is provided, food is available for purchase. Floats and water toys can be rented.
Price: $44 (ages 10 & up) Child: $33 (ages 3 - 9) Children under age 3 are free

St. John Island Tour (5 - 5.5 hours)
You'll take a scenic boat ride to St. John where your tour of this beautiful island begins. Among the sites you'll visit are the Annaberg Ruins. You'll want your camera ready to capture the incomparable views from this Caribbean gem.
Price: $42 (ages 10 & up) Child: $31 (ages 0 - 9)

Teen Wild Ride (1 - 1.5 hours)
The Screamin' Eagle 700 hp turbo-charged jet boat takes you on an unforgettable ride slicing through the clear Caribbean waters. Teens will love the awesome manuevers as they fishtail, spin, and power brake on this wild ride.
Price: $52 (Ages 13 -17)

Screamin' Eagle Jet Boat (1 - 1.5 hours)
The Screamin' Eagle 700 hp turbo-charged jet boat takes you on an unforgettable ride slicing through the clear Caribbean waters. While on your 40 minute cruise, you'll make exciting 180 degree turns and fishtail in this vessel built for speed.
Price: $55 (ages 10 & up) Child: $44 (ages 5-9) No one under age 5

Cas Cay Nature Walk & Snorkel (4 - 4.5 hours)
After a brief 10 minute boat ride, you arrive at an offshore cay where your adventure begins. You'll visit a wildlife sanctuary where you can explore the delicate ecosystem. Next, you'll head to a Marine sanctuary for snorkeling in it's protected waters. Nature guides accompany you on your incredible journey through this unspoiled land. Participants must be in good physical condition. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
Price: $59 (ages 10 to 76) Child: $49 (Ages 6 - 9)

Historic Blackbeard's Hill & Walking Tour (3.5 hours)
Enjoy a scenic narrated drive ascending 1000 feet to Skyline Drive overlooking the beautiful bay of Charlotte Amalie. Next you explore the historical highlights with your guide, roam through Haggensen House or Notman's Manor, basking in their 17th century décor, before stopping to shop in the Mecca of the Caribbean, Charlotte Amalie.
Price: $31 (ages 10 & up) Child: $20 (ages 3-9)

Golf at Mahogany Run (5-6 hours)
Enjoy a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole, par 70 course totaling 6,022 yards. Designed by George and Tom Fazio, Mahogany Run's spectacular views make it one of the most-photographed courses in the Caribbean. Includes green fees for 18 holes, a golf cart and transportation. Rental clubs are available at the course for an additional fee.
Price: $164 (ages 10 & up only)

Captain Nautica's St. John Snorkeling Expedition (3.5-4 hours)
Climb aboard the captain's speedboat to be whisked away to a pair of incomparable snorkeling sites. Explore colorful coral formations amid abundant aquatic life - you might even spot stingrays, turtles and spotted eagle rays. Light snacks and beverages provided.
Adult Price: $69 (ages 10 and above) Child Price: $57 (ages 8-9)

Paradise Point Tramway (1 hour)
Drink in the spectacular vistas while enjoying a frozen libation from a moving room with a view! The scenic Paradise Point Tramway takes you to the top of the point, where you can enjoy the shops, nature trail and cafe - and don't miss the tropical bird shows held twice daily.
Adult Price: $15 (ages 10 and above) Child Price: $8 (ages 5-9)
Children under 5 are free

Please note: except where noted, shore excursions are operated by independent contractors. All excursions are subject to cancellation due to weather, itinerary changes and attendance. Excursions are booked on a first come, first served basis and are subject to availability. All prices are subject to change without notice. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

 
San Juan Shore Excursions

New & Old San Juan City Tour ( 3 hours)
San Juan is an exciting blend of old and new. This second-oldest European settlement in the New World is an intriguing destination. New San Juan's Condado and Isla Verde sections are your first stops. The skyline is dotted with modern condos and luxury resorts. Photo opportunities abound when you reach the Two Brothers Bridge known for it's spectacular views. From here, it's onto Old San Juan. You'll visit the San Cristobal Fort which was built in the 17th century, and you'll pass the El Morro Castle as well as other historical sites. Next, comes your final stop, Fortaleza Street. This is the main shopping district located in the center of Old San Juan. From here, you can either ride in the air-conditioned tour bus or stroll along the blue-cobblestone streets back to the ship. (The latter option takes twenty minutes.)
Price: Adult - $25.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $19.00 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 8:00am & 12:30pm

El Yunque Rainforest Tour ( 4.5 - 5 hours)
You'll delve into an incredible rainforest during this amazing tour. This 28,000 acre complex reaches elevations of 3,526 feet and averages 200 inches of rainfall each year. This idyllic oasis boasts of lush vegatation and is home to an intriguing assortment of wildlife, including the Puerto Rican Parrot. You'll arrive at your destination after a scenic one hour tour through picturesque villages. When you arrive at the rainforest, you'll start your tour at the Bano Grande, a crystal clear naturally formed swimming pool. Next you'll follow the trail through the Palo Colorado Forest. This area has an abundance of brilliant blossoms and verdant greens. Upon completing your hike, there's a short bus trip to the Yohaku Observation Tower. This tower overlooks the rainforest and offers the perfect vantage point for memorable photos. You'll also visit the La Coca Waterfalls, yet another ideal backdrop for some outstanding pictures. The return trip to the ship takes one hour.
Price: Adult - $30.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $25.00 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 7:45am and 12:15pm

Bacardi Rum Distillery Tour ( 3 hours)
If a visit to the world's largest rum distillery intrigues you, then this is the tour to select. Not only will you tour this amazing facility, you'll learn the history behind the development of the rum industry and it's ties to the island's sugar cane production. Located 30 minutes from the ship, you'll visit the Bacardi theater where you'll enjoy a presentation detailing the chronology of rum production. Mixologists will delight in the demonstration that follows where various cocktails will be prepared and offered for sampling. You'll next tour the museum and visit the Bacardi shops before your 30 minute ride back to the ship.
Price: Adult - $25.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Chld - $19.00 ( ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 9:00am and 12:15pm

Ocean Trail Horseback Riding ( 4 hours
An incredible experience awaits you. You'll take a one hour drive to the Hacienda Buena Vista located at the Palmas del Mar Resort. You'll first receive instruction from your equestrian guide before mounting your Puerto Rican Paso horse and embarking on your journey. You'll follow your guide as you travel along the southeast coast, viewing the island gems of Culebra and Vieques glistening in the sea. The southernmost portion of the El Yunque rainforest will also be seen in all it's tropical splendor. Upon returning to the ranch, you'll enjoy refreshments prior to your one hour drive back to the ship.PLEASE NOTE: The maximum weight limit for riders is 250 lbs.
Price: Adult - $79.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - N/A
Departure Time: 8:15am and 10:15am

Pinones Preserve Bike Tour ( 3 - 3.5 hours)
A Cyclists delight! You'll take a 30 minute ride to the Pinones section in Carolina where you'll begin your cycling adventure. Your guides will give you instructions and equip you with bottled water and helmets before you embark on this bicycle tour. You'll pedal for 1-1/2 to 2 hours along mangrove trails, oceanfront boardwalks while enjoying spectacular scenery including the Pinones Marshlands. The majority of the terrain is flat, with a slight incline. You'll want to have your bathing suit on under your cycling outfit so you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean before your 30 minute ride back to the ship. PLEASE NOTE: The maximum weight limit for riders is 300 lbs.
Price: Adult - $65.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - N/A
Departure Time: 8:45am and 12:20pm

Kayak & Snorkel Eco-Adventure ( 5 - 5.5 hours)
An exhilariting experience is in store for you. You'll take a one hour ride via bus to the town of Fajardo where the Seven Seas Beach is located. After the staff provides you with an overview as well as instructions for using the provided equipment, you're ready to gear up and begin your exploration. You'll have 2 to 2.5 hours to swim and kayak in the glistening waters of Seven Seas. The reefs are alive with beautiful corals and a thrilling array of aquatic life. Following this incredible experience is a one hour ride back to the ship. PLEASE NOTE: The maximum weight for kayaks is 250 lbs.
Price: Adult - $79.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - N/A
Departure Time: 8:45am and 10:45am

Hyatt Dorado Beach Golf ( 7 - 7.5 hours)
Both "amateur" and "pros" will find these beautiful courses to their liking. Located one hour away at the Hyatt Dorado Beach Resort, the two par 72 courses designed by Roberth Trent Jones Sr. appeal to golfers at every level. You'll be surrounded by lush landscaping and enjoy fabulous views while playing these challenging courses. A shared golf cart and greens fees are included. If you don't have your own clubs, you can rent a set of Callaways for an additional fee. Following your day on the links is a one hour ride back to the ship.
Price: Adult - $159.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - N/A
Departure Time: 7:45am

Catamaran Sail & Snorkel ( 5 - 5.5 hours)
What can be better than a day on the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean aboard a catamaran? Being able to enjoy a buffet lunch and complimentary bar during your voyage! At the end of a one hour bus ride, you'll board your catamaran for a fun filled day of surf and sun. You'll sail to a quiet beach where you'll drop anchor in shallow water. You can snorkel in depths up to 20 feet among the colorful parrotfish, arrow crabs, yellowtails and other aquatic life. If you prefer, you can simply relax under the canopy of the catamaran, or bask in the sunshine on the beach. Following your day of sailing, snorkeling and sun is a one hour ride back to the ship.
Price: Adult - $79.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $59.00 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 8:10am and 10:30am

Old San Juan Walking Tour ( 2.5 - 3 hours)
A short bus ride brings you to Old San Juan, the second oldest European settlement in the New World. Your guided tour begins at the San Felipe del Morro Fort. History will be brought to life as you're told of the lore and legend of this fascinating area. You're welcome to take photos as you visit Felia Rincon Gautier Museum, Cristo Street and Cristo's Chapel, Las Americas Museum, San Juan Cathedral, Ballaja Barracks, Dominican Convent, La Rogativa Monument and El Convento. Upon completing your guided tour, you're welcome to visit the shopping districts found at Fortaleza and Cristo streets and take the 20 minute walk back to the ship.
Price: Adult - $39.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $29.00 (ages 5-9)
Departure Time: 9:45am

Nature Walk Through La Mina Falls at the Rainforest ( 6 hours)
An unforgettable experience lies in store for you. After a one hour ride, you'll find yourself at the El Yunque Rainforest, which is the only tropical forest overseen by the U.S. Forestry Service and is the oldest forest preserve in the Western Hemisphere. This refuge is home to 240 species of plantlife, including 50 varieties of native orchids. Listen carefully and you may hear a singing tree frog. Your first stop will be El Bano Grande, a naturally formed swimming pool. From here, the Yohaku Observation Tower is your next destination offering spectacular views of the Loquillo Mountains and surrounding areas. Finally, you'll reach the La Mina Falls. You'll want to have your bathing suit on under your clothing to enjoy a refreshing swim at this incredible site. The trip back to the ship takes one hour. No strollers are allowed.
Price: Adult - $39.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $29.00 (ages 5 -9)
Departure Time: 8:10am

Bacardi Rum & Old San Juan City Tour ( 4.5 hours)
This tour combines two of San Juan's best destinations. You'll first be transported to the Bacardi distillery, the largest rum producing center in the world. After an overview of Puerto Rico's history, you'll be treated to a demonstration of cocktail making that includes sampling the delicious results. Next you'll visit Old San Juan where you can stroll along the blue-cobblestone streets and visit Fort San Cristobal. You'll end your tour at Fortaleza Street where you're welcome to shop at your leisure. You can either take a bus back to the ship or take the 20 minute walk.
Price: Adult - $69.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $49.00 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 8:30am and 12:10pm
Condado Beach Escape ( 4.5 hours)
Like the beach but prefer the amenities of a resort? Then this is the perfect excursion for you. A thirty minute trip takes you to the San Juan Marriott Resort. While here you can enjoy all that this resort has to offer. Palm lined beaches,an exceptional pool complex, waterslide, swim-up bar and showers all add up to a wonderful day in the sun. You'll have two hours to lounge on a beach chair, sip a cool drink and splash in the water while surrounded by tropical beauty. It's paradise found.
Price: Adult - $69.00 (ages 10 and above)
Price: Child - $49.00 (ages 3-9)
Departure Time: 8:30am and 12:10pm
 
Hi There!
Thanks for starting the thread. I was looking for one, too.

My daughter and I will be on this cruise along with my sister and brother-in-law. Really looking forward to San Juan!
 

I kinda got carried away with posting info about the cruise. The shore excursions turned out to be a bit much!:scared:

I'm really looking forward to San Juan also. Eight cruises with my kids on DCL and 4 Barefoot Cruises in the late 80's and not one of them stopped at San Juan, so this will be my first time.

Also, last time we were on an Eastern Cruise, we docked late at St. Thomas and couldn't take the ferry to St. John. So, that'll be new also.

Have you been to St. John before?
 
Nope, I have only been on Bahamas, Bermuda, and Western Caribbean cruises. I am looking forward to these ports, but I have to admit that I also enjoy being on the ship during port days.

Seems like you've been on lots of Disney cruises. Which do you prefer - classic or the new ones? We did a kind of B2B (a day in between and two different ships) in January. 3 Nights on The Dream, a day at The Parks, then 4 nights on The Magic. The Magic completed our Grand Slam. I did enjoy the ship but I think I like the newer ones a bit more.
 
Seems like you've been on lots of Disney cruises. Which do you prefer - classic or the new ones?

Well, I like the classic ships better for the adult pool. The rooms are bigger too on the smaller ships. The Magic was beautifully renovated. It was great to see that.

However, my teenage kids like the new ships better. More to do. My oldest is in the 18-21 Club and they meet more on the bigger ships. My younger teenagers like Vibe on the bigger ships better. There are more movies etc.

I do love Satellite Falls on the top deck of the Fantasy. :love: They should put that on the Dream also. I don't know why they didn't.
 
I have added your thread to the cruise meet list pixiedust:
Have a great cruise!
 
So Lizo18

Can I add you to our meager rolls? Have you booked?

I swore I'd never sail in January again after 2005, but here I go again!
 
We switched from the fall CC double dip to this cruise so our kid could come, as her 21st birthday gift.

We have cruised before in January without problems - what happened to your cruise in Jan 2005?
 
We switched from the fall CC double dip to this cruise so our kid could come, as her 21st birthday gift. We have cruised before in January without problems - what happened to your cruise in Jan 2005?

2005 was major snow storm up East Coast US carribean was choppy so we couldn't dock at grand Cayman or CC only Cozumel.

This past January rained and was cloudy the whole 3 days.

I'm actually on a bus to the airport right now with my parents. Going on a holland America cruise tomorrow thru 9th out of Fort Lauderdale. My dad has memory issues and my mom needs a break. So I'm going to help and give her a chance to rejuvenate.

Then it's your turn. What boat and where in 14 days?
 
Thinking about the grand marnier souffle this morning.......:love:

When we were on the 4 night Magic in January, our servers arranged to bring me one for dessert every night. That's magic! LOL


What is your favorite food/dessert on the Ships?


LuAnn
 
Thinking about the grand marnier souffle this morning.......:love:

When we were on the 4 night Magic in January, our servers arranged to bring me one for dessert every night. That's magic! LOL


What is your favorite food/dessert on the Ships?


LuAnn

Hi, I'm back from my cruise with my parents on the Eurodam with Holland America.

It was a nice cruise. Very quiet cruise without children running around. Food was NOT as good as DCL. Their Grand Marnier Souffle and Creme Brulee were not as good as DCL. Entertainment was pitiful-totally inappropriate for the age range of Holland America which is older Baby Boomers and Depression Babies. Very Sexual eighties kinda shows. Uncomfortable to watch with my elderly parents. We walked out of every show except the Magician.

Pool was always open and almost empty. So I swam alot. Half Moon Cay was very similar to Castaway Cay without the adult beach but you had to tender.
People kept saying DCL was higher, but I didn't see much of a price difference.

All in all, I'll take DCL thank you very much! :)

I'm still really excited to see San Juan also. Although Jamaica was beautiful on this trip-I'd never been there before.
 
Sorry HAL had so many negative points. My daughter and I will be on the NCL Gem in May out of New York. It will be our first time on NCL. It was a really good last minute deal with no added cost of airfare. Curious to see how it will be compared to Disney.
 
Hi! I see not many cruisers have arrived to the thread yet. And there hasn't been activiy since january, is that correct?
Anyway, I'm really exited and can't wait!!
We are from Argentina. It's our first DCL Cruise!
Hi everybody!!!
 
:welcome: JulietaC!

First DCL cruise? That's great! Any questions you have, ask away. If you have little kids, put their bathing suits on under their clothes for the first day, the pools are open right away and less crowded because people don't have access to their luggage yet.
 
Sorry HAL had so many negative points. My daughter and I will be on the NCL Gem in May out of New York. It will be our first time on NCL. It was a really good last minute deal with no added cost of airfare. Curious to see how it will be compared to Disney.


No airfare! That's a great idea!

I hope you have a really good time. I've heard NCL can be nice. I don't know anything about the Gem. Is it new, big, small?

I enjoyed going back to the Magic but the boys missed the big ships. It's all perspective I guess.
 
:welcome: JulietaC! First DCL cruise? That's great! Any questions you have, ask away. If you have little kids, put their bathing suits on under their clothes for the first day, the pools are open right away and less crowded because people don't have access to their luggage yet.
Thanks! We have a four years old daughter who will enjoy this piece of advice very much!
 
No airfare! That's a great idea!

I hope you have a really good time. I've heard NCL can be nice. I don't know anything about the Gem. Is it new, big, small?

I enjoyed going back to the Magic but the boys missed the big ships. It's all perspective I guess.



This will be our first time on The Gem, a mid sized ship - I guess more the size of The Magic than The Fantasy. A lot of people seem to be complaining about the newer mega NCL ships because there isn't much outdoor deck space. I can appreciate that, because I love walking Deck 4 on all Disney ships. Apparently, the larger NCL ships also have air quality issues due to the casino placement. I'm hearing good things about The Gem's entertainment and the ship's layout, but mixed reviews about the food. I guess that's the same whatever ship you cruise. No airfare is a nice savings and the overall pricing is definitely less than Disney. My daughter is trying to be open minded, because she is a loyal Disney cruiser. I think our hearts will always be with Disney - we are Gold level now - but it sure is nice to not always have to "break the bank" to go on vacation.

One thing I especially like is that NCL's roll call group meet up includes officers and free snacks/drinks. That would be great for Disney to do the same with our Disboard meet up groups. Maybe someone from Disney might be reading this thread and take the hint.....:goodvibes:wave2:
 

GET UP TO A $1000 SHIPBOARD CREDIT AND AN EXCLUSIVE GIFT!

If you make your Disney Cruise Line reservation with Dreams Unlimited Travel you’ll receive these incredible shipboard credits to spend on your cruise!







Receive up to $1,000 in Onboard Credit and a Gift Basket!
That’s right — when you book your Disney Cruise with Dreams Unlimited Travel, you’ll receive incredible shipboard credits to spend during your vacation!
CLICK HERE








DIS Facebook DIS youtube DIS Instagram DIS Pinterest DIS Tiktok DIS Twitter DIS Bluesky

Back
Top Bottom