January 19, 2013 - FANTASY 7 Night Western Cruise

[peabean30]

I should have added that I tend to be chilly most of the time

 

[Tinkybell14]

Hhas anyone cruised in January before? I am trying to determine what to pack for the days at sea.

We did the Magic last year in Jan. Leaving the port was a bit cool, but the next morning when we woke up it was great. I am like you...always cold. I will tell you that there is no shortage of air conditioning onboard and I was often cool in the theater and the dining rooms. I think you could adjust the temp in your stateroom (can't remember for sure though) and it was not cold out at sea except if it was a breezy day. It still wasn't a cold breeze, it just didn't let the sun "stick" to you if you know what I mean. During the day I was always fine in either my swimsuit and a cover-up or capris and a short sleeve blouse. It rained on pirate night and we were caught on the upper deck with no shelter, so that was COLD! I just pack the things I would wear in fall and spring rather than the heat of summer and I was fine. Light jacket for evenings outside and a nice sweater for the dining rooms were the heaviest things I took. FYI, my husband is always hot (of course) and he thought the dining rooms were warm. I think it's a difference of the amount of clothes we wear. He was in slacks and a jacket w/ socks and shoes and I had on sleeveless cocktail dresses and sandals.

The cruise last year went to St Thomas and it was a dreary day. Not cold, but overcast and a bit breezy. We did get in the water, but it was cold and took a while to ease in. The other stop was in St Maarten. We mostly shopped there and it was warmer, but still very cold water when we did get in. The COLDEST water was at Castaway. The entire place was beautiful, but I couldn't fully relax in the water because if my kids splashed any part of me that was dry, I got goosebumps!

Still even with all that, we are cruising again in January. It was not unbearable, just not the ideal temp for me. FYI, my kids were absolutely fine the entire time. They never complained about being cold, so it might have just been me.

So, really long post to basically say...temperature is a matter of opinion. Make sure to bring something you can layer with and you should be fine.

 

[peabean30]

We did the Magic last year in Jan. Leaving the port was a bit cool, but the next morning when we woke up it was great. I am like you...always cold. I will tell you that there is no shortage of air conditioning onboard and I was often cool in the theater and the dining rooms. I think you could adjust the temp in your stateroom (can't remember for sure though) and it was not cold out at sea except if it was a breezy day. It still wasn't a cold breeze, it just didn't let the sun "stick" to you if you know what I mean. During the day I was always fine in either my swimsuit and a cover-up or capris and a short sleeve blouse. It rained on pirate night and we were caught on the upper deck with no shelter, so that was COLD! I just pack the things I would wear in fall and spring rather than the heat of summer and I was fine. Light jacket for evenings outside and a nice sweater for the dining rooms were the heaviest things I took. FYI, my husband is always hot (of course) and he thought the dining rooms were warm. I think it's a difference of the amount of clothes we wear. He was in slacks and a jacket w/ socks and shoes and I had on sleeveless cocktail dresses and sandals.

The cruise last year went to St Thomas and it was a dreary day. Not cold, but overcast and a bit breezy. We did get in the water, but it was cold and took a while to ease in. The other stop was in St Maarten. We mostly shopped there and it was warmer, but still very cold water when we did get in. The COLDEST water was at Castaway. The entire place was beautiful, but I couldn't fully relax in the water because if my kids splashed any part of me that was dry, I got goosebumps!

Still even with all that, we are cruising again in January. It was not unbearable, just not the ideal temp for me. FYI, my kids were absolutely fine the entire time. They never complained about being cold, so it might have just been me.

So, really long post to basically say...temperature is a matter of opinion. Make sure to bring something you can layer with and you should be fine.

Thanks so much! That was exactly what I was thinking, but need to be reassured!
Huge help

 

[WDW Princess 71]

I've cruised 3 times in January and 1 time in February as far as winter months go. It is such a hit or miss time of year, but I still enjoy it because I love getting away from nasty winter New Jersey at this time of year. 2 of my January cruises, it was beautiful/spending the day poolside in Florida the day before the cruise. Then, on the day we got off both of those cruises back in FL, temps were in the 30s and even the 20s the one time! It was dreadful but glad we were just going home and not to WDW in those temps. Last year when I cruised in Feb, it was warm 70s the day precruise and then only 50 on embarkation day- needless to say I had pretty much the entire quiet cove pool area to myself! I was one of the few brave enough to enjoy a semi covered lounge chair and the hot tub.

On all of my winter cruises, I've always been poolside all day, and in summer clothes at night, never cold. The water in the Caribbean is definitely warmer than at CC. It is not nearly enjoyable at CC in January as it is in warmer months as far as water goes, but once you are in you can still have a good time. The only time I've ever been cold on a sea day was on the Panama cruise on the last day up the Mexican/CA coast from Cabo to LA, it was so breezy it was difficult to be outdoors.

I have a track record of escaping horrible cold and snow weather just in time out of NJ before getting to a warm FL so I'm hoping my tradition continues next week! I want to be HOT HOT HOT on this cruise!

 

[horric29]

I've cruised 3 times in January and 1 time in February as far as winter months go. It is such a hit or miss time of year, but I still enjoy it because I love getting away from nasty winter New Jersey at this time of year. 2 of my January cruises, it was beautiful/spending the day poolside in Florida the day before the cruise. Then, on the day we got off both of those cruises back in FL, temps were in the 30s and even the 20s the one time! It was dreadful but glad we were just going home and not to WDW in those temps. Last year when I cruised in Feb, it was warm 70s the day precruise and then only 50 on embarkation day- needless to say I had pretty much the entire quiet cove pool area to myself! I was one of the few brave enough to enjoy a semi covered lounge chair and the hot tub.

On all of my winter cruises, I've always been poolside all day, and in summer clothes at night, never cold. The water in the Caribbean is definitely warmer than at CC. It is not nearly enjoyable at CC in January as it is in warmer months as far as water goes, but once you are in you can still have a good time. The only time I've ever been cold on a sea day was on the Panama cruise on the last day up the Mexican/CA coast from Cabo to LA, it was so breezy it was difficult to be outdoors.

I have a track record of escaping horrible cold and snow weather just in time out of NJ before getting to a warm FL so I'm hoping my tradition continues next week! I want to be HOT HOT HOT on this cruise!

Yea, I would put the note out there that many of us are used to the Jersey Shore and Maryland Shore (OC Maryland here) and the early/late season 68 degree water... LOL... I said to my wife last night, "it looks like we are taking the cool weather", she says, "yea but, the water will still be warmer than Jersey or MD"... Right on!

I just looked at the long range weather for the ports (again long range) and it's nice, high 70's to low 80's... Perfect in my book!

 

[horric29]

Please bring the colder temps with you! Please!!!! I am dying here. Kids haven't touched their "winter clothing". Hoping at least mornings and evenings will be brisk on the boat!

It hit 88!

I would loooooove to have 80 degree temps up here right now...

 

[AbsyBabsy]

OK gang - have to call my DCL mix girl tomorrow - here is what I have:

2 Tinkybell
2 Nurse2011
1 WDW Prinecess71 depending upon time due to Palo and Remy
2 PricessJewel
? Peabean20 don't know how many
7 Checkett
2 H0rric29
2 or 1 Stacecakes - depending on getting babysitting time
2 cruislover
2 Absybabsy

Total of 21 to 22 for sure. We need 25 and I will need full names and cabin numbers. Your onboard account will be charged even if you do not show up. I am going to try to plan it between lunch and dinner hours for first day at sea. Please update with suggestions.

For those of you on the fence, it is a ball! I am not a big drinker - usually only have one or two drinks during the entire cruise - but the private mixology is not about drinking, you learn to make the drinks behind the bar, rotating around so everyone gets a chance to make a drink and meet others. We laughed so hard during our in June that I remember it as one of the highlights of the cruise.

WDW Princess71-what day.time are your ressies?

Can't wait to see everyone!

 

[peabean30]

OK gang - have to call my DCL mix girl tomorrow - here is what I have:

2 Tinkybell
2 Nurse2011
1 WDW Prinecess71 depending upon time due to Palo and Remy
2 PricessJewel
? Peabean20 don't know how many
7 Checkett
2 H0rric29
2 or 1 Stacecakes - depending on getting babysitting time
2 cruislover
2 Absybabsy

Total of 21 to 22 for sure. We need 25 and I will need full names and cabin numbers. Your onboard account will be charged even if you do not show up. I am going to try to plan it between lunch and dinner hours for first day at sea. Please update with suggestions.

For those of you on the fence, it is a ball! I am not a big drinker - usually only have one or two drinks during the entire cruise - but the private mixology is not about drinking, you learn to make the drinks behind the bar, rotating around so everyone gets a chance to make a drink and meet others. We laughed so hard during our in June that I remember it as one of the highlights of the cruise.

WDW Princess71-what day.time are your ressies?

Can't wait to see everyone!

I should be down for 3...
Room 7064: Amy Robitaille, Justin Anniuk
Room 7062 : Joann Anniuk

 

[horric29]

OK gang - have to call my DCL mix girl tomorrow - here is what I have:

2 Tinkybell
2 Nurse2011
1 WDW Prinecess71 depending upon time due to Palo and Remy
2 PricessJewel
? Peabean20 don't know how many
7 Checkett
2 H0rric29
2 or 1 Stacecakes - depending on getting babysitting time
2 cruislover
2 Absybabsy

Total of 21 to 22 for sure. We need 25 and I will need full names and cabin numbers. Your onboard account will be charged even if you do not show up. I am going to try to plan it between lunch and dinner hours for first day at sea. Please update with suggestions.

For those of you on the fence, it is a ball! I am not a big drinker - usually only have one or two drinks during the entire cruise - but the private mixology is not about drinking, you learn to make the drinks behind the bar, rotating around so everyone gets a chance to make a drink and meet others. We laughed so hard during our in June that I remember it as one of the highlights of the cruise.

WDW Princess71-what day.time are your ressies?

Can't wait to see everyone!

Shoot, I thought we had more also... Well regardless... I'll drop you the full names and cabin # on Facebook for the two of us, I'd rather not post that here since this is an ever-lasting record on the web... LOL

 

[WDW Princess 71]

Yea, I would put the note out there that many of us are used to the Jersey Shore and Maryland Shore (OC Maryland here) and the early/late season 68 degree water... LOL... I said to my wife last night, "it looks like we are taking the cool weather", she says, "yea but, the water will still be warmer than Jersey or MD"... Right on!

I just looked at the long range weather for the ports (again long range) and it's nice, high 70's to low 80's... Perfect in my book!

I totally agree. Coldest water at CC is still warmer than our NJ shore water is all summer. I am fine once I'm in since thats what I'm used to at home, its just so much more enjoyable in warmer months like when I went in May this year, so easy to just step right in!

OK gang - have to call my DCL mix girl tomorrow - here is what I have:

2 Tinkybell
2 Nurse2011
1 WDW Prinecess71 depending upon time due to Palo and Remy
2 PricessJewel
? Peabean20 don't know how many
7 Checkett
2 H0rric29
2 or 1 Stacecakes - depending on getting babysitting time
2 cruislover
2 Absybabsy

Total of 21 to 22 for sure. We need 25 and I will need full names and cabin numbers. Your onboard account will be charged even if you do not show up. I am going to try to plan it between lunch and dinner hours for first day at sea. Please update with suggestions.

For those of you on the fence, it is a ball! I am not a big drinker - usually only have one or two drinks during the entire cruise - but the private mixology is not about drinking, you learn to make the drinks behind the bar, rotating around so everyone gets a chance to make a drink and meet others. We laughed so hard during our in June that I remember it as one of the highlights of the cruise.

WDW Princess71-what day.time are your ressies?

Can't wait to see everyone!

My brunches are at 10:00 AM on the 1st sea day (Sun) and 11:30 AM on the 2nd sea day (Thurs). For me to participate it would have to be at least 3 hours after my brunch time so I don't feel rushed. I like the idea of having it around 3:00 PM, between lunch and dinner like you said- so its not too close to people getting ready for dinner with early seating, nor is it too early for those who want to enjoy lunch hours. I will PM you my name and stateroom number.

 

[Jennifer AS]

Where do you meet for the Walking Ship tour?

 

[Jeisur]

Where do you meet for the Walking Ship tour?

I tHINK it is deck 3 forward? Near the snack bars for the big theater. Check your navigator when you check in. It should on the first page. Usually the schedule doesn't start until 2pm bit there should be a 1pm and 2pm tour. We are doing the 1pm one.

 

[sailingSoon]

Check back today! My in-laws vacated 10568 and got a concierge room. They have been waiting for a while to get upgraded and finally got the call that a room was available!


H&J (jeisur (2)) Are now in 12004 not 10568.

This change will be reflected on the list delivered to your staterooms the first day. I am not sending out updates at this point.

We got our stateroom # - it's 7685. Thanks for your patience and for accommodating us! We can't wait to set sail!

 

[hosburg]

Where can I find the time at which we can arrive at the port?

 

[AbsyBabsy]

Okay gang - DCL has contacted the ship and asked for a 3pm private mixology for Sunday 1/20.

If you have not yet sent me your info - please PM me ASAP so I can provide DCL with the info. I need full names and cabin numbers. Even if we do not have 25 people, we can pay a little extra and be short!

Looks like it will be a go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[mtmama2]

I have plans for almost every port except for Cozumel. Since we are there for a nice long stretch, we have decided to do something on our own. We are looking at Chankanaab (which I have done before) but thought it would be good for first timer husband and son; "Hire a Driver for the Day", Mr. Sanchos, Money Bar, or Nachi Cocum. It seems there are so many great options, I'm having a hard time deciding. I thought I would ask the DIS board crew and see what everyone else is doing, especially those with pre-schooler aged children. By the way everyone- ONE WEEK AWAY!!! YAY!!!!!

 

[JMMwish]

Next week at this time we'll be getting ready to head to Port Canaveral. Cruised with Disney several times...just trying to learn about the Fish Hook Extenders...can anyone tell me more about how you sign up...still trying to navigate this discussion board. looks like i can't do it this cruise but will want to for next one.
thanks!
Jill
traveling with husband Jason, Sydney (4) and Olivia (2)

 

[cruzlover]

Okay gang - DCL has contacted the ship and asked for a 3pm private mixology for Sunday 1/20.

If you have not yet sent me your info - please PM me ASAP so I can provide DCL with the info. I need full names and cabin numbers. Even if we do not have 25 people, we can pay a little extra and be short!

Looks like it will be a go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What is the cost?

 

[WDW Princess 71]

I would also like to know the cost of the mixology before having it officially charged to my account. I'm not sure I'm ok with paying a little extra if we don't have 25 people. Since they already offer mixology for all cruisers to sign up for anyway, I'm not sure why we would pay more for a private one unless its a lot better? Is it longer or more drinks included or something?

 

[peabean30]

Got the fish extender and pillowcase I ordered of Etsy today...super excited!!!