Welcome Aboard
. And what a way to spend your tax refund!!
For our first cruise we winged it. Didn't have a clue about these boards. After many cruises, we know what works for our family.
As far as determining what you might want to do and what to expect I would start by reading several of the trip reports on the cruise trip report board.
As far as general (and specific information) you should reference these web sites:
Castaway Club (they've been on over 35 DCL cruises!! - we've lost count)
Dave's Disney Cruise Line Tribute Site
Magical Disney Cruise Guide (click on one of the links on the left of the page
The Official Disney Cruise Line Web Site
And then finally, when you have more specific questions (tipping, dress code, excursions, etc, etc, etc) be sure to ask them here because
You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers!!
Here's the best advice anyone can give:
*Don't stress too much on the details.
*Don't know everything there is to know about the cruise because you want to be overjoyed by the magic that happens and not constently be looking for it in specific places and times (surprises are nice!!)
*Relax and have fun. You can't do it all (thats why there WILL be a next time) so don't try!!!
Now here are a few details...
*There is lunch on the ship on embarkation day
*There are characters in the terminal before boarding
*They take your picture just before you board the ship. We've always purchased it because it's a great rememberance of the trip.
*Take the stairs - you'll gain less weight, be able to eat more and get to where you are going faster than by taking the lifts (elevators)
*Remember to tip everyone you are supposed to tip - they are working very, very hard to make this a memorable vacation