Panama Canal Eastbound Sept. 14, 2013--it'll be WONDER-ful

[CrusinLattas]

Egads! I've got my passport out... I best be getting busy I suppose.

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

With school starting and getting everyone's travel packets out before I leave town for three weeks packing was one thing I could check off - I still have a long list of to-do's before I'm ready!

 

[MPS516]

 

[denamo]

Thanks for the FYI denamo!

Since you have experience at Galveston, I think we should take your advice. So do you think we should meet up onboard at one of your suggested locations and then disembark at the same time, or would it easier to find a meet location after we disembark?

Having never organized shared transportation before, I am relying on others to bring up concerns so we can address them before hand.

We went out of Galveston on the Magic in October and disembarkment was different than in Cape Canaveral - it was easier just to deal with our own bags vs. use the porters and it was less organized. Deck 3 was crazy crowded. I would bet customs might even be longer since we are not doing the same port departure and arrival. There are some concrete benches outside the port terminal that were less crowded. I think it might be challenging trying to stay together through the lines in the baggage area. They might have it down better this year - but I wouldn't count on it.

We have cruised both Royal Caribbean and Disney out of Galveston. I really don't know why, but disembarkation always seems a bit unstructured there. When we've cruised during Christmas or New Year's it tough because there is a lot of Mexico travelers. Customs takes a bit longer due to the international traffic.

On our Disney cruise, we didn't have to go through customs because we had been at WDW prior to getting back to Galveston, and it was still kind of crazy.

I really think it would be difficult to get 24+ post cruise transportation passengers in a group while on board. Probably better to designate a time and an area outside. Probably need some type of designation (i.e. sign, flag, lei) so we know this group is the post Ran/Can transportation group. I'd be willing to make and pack signs to use. Maybe if 3 or 4 of us had signs, we could catch everyone.

Usually, my hubby goes and gets the car while I wait with the luggage outside. The port has had us go to the left as we exit the terminal. Not sure where we will need to go for buses since we just drive when we cruise from Galveston.

Randy, Please let me know if you need signs made. Happy to help. If you want to send me a PM that will be fine.

 

[twokats]

We have cruised both Royal Caribbean and Disney out of Galveston. I really don't know why, but disembarkation always seems a bit unstructured there. When we've cruised during Christmas or New Year's it tough because there is a lot of Mexico travelers. Customs takes a bit longer due to the international traffic.

On our Disney cruise, we didn't have to go through customs because we had been at WDW prior to getting back to Galveston, and it was still kind of crazy.

I really think it would be difficult to get 24+ post cruise transportation passengers in a group while on board. Probably better to designate an area outside. Probably need some type of designation (i.e. sign, flag, lei) so we know this group is the post Ran/Can transportation group. I'd be willing to make and pack signs to use. Maybe if 3 or 4 of us had signs, we could catch everyone.

Usually, my hubby goes and gets the car while I wait with the luggage outside. The port has had us go to the left as we exit the terminal. Not sure where we will need to go for buses since we just drive when we leave from Galveston.

Randy, Please let me know if you need signs made. Happy to help. If you want to send me a PM that will be fine.

When we cruised the Magic in Galveston in February, when we arrived the ones leaving the cruise that had just came in were going to the left (the left as they were leaving the building, our right as we were standing in front of it, just for a little bit of confusion) and we were directed over to the right (or left if you are looking at the terminal)!! It was not that bad the morning we were there and I did not think it was too bad when we came back. We were in line for a little while for customs, but we found our bags very easily, and we did use a porter to help us. We used lighthouse parking that time and they had showed us before we left where they would pick us up and we went straight there and did not have any trouble. There is the one area where buses and shuttles pick people up, so I would think if you look for the name there should not be an issue.
We will hope with lots of pixie dust and prayers for that scenario.

 

[denamo]

When we cruised the Magic in Galveston in February, when we arrived the ones leaving the cruise that had just came in were going to the left (the left as they were leaving the building, our right as we were standing in front of it, just for a little bit of confusion) and we were directed over to the right (or left if you are looking at the terminal)!! It was not that bad the morning we were there and I did not think it was too bad when we came back. We were in line for a little while for customs, but we found our bags very easily, and we did use a porter to help us. We used lighthouse parking that time and they had showed us before we left where they would pick us up and we went straight there and did not have any trouble. There is the one area where buses and shuttles pick people up, so I would think if you look for the name there should not be an issue. Good to know.


We will hope with lots of pixie dust and prayers for that scenario.
Love it!

Thanks Kathy. The last few times we've cruised out of Galveston, we've used the parking in old warehouses that are right across the street. DH just walks across the street to get the car. I've just never paid any attention to buses coming and going. Guess I'm in a daze trying to face reality after cruising.

 

[MPS516]

Those of you doing Disneyland on the 13th will get to stay out till 1am for the Unleash the Villains, nice break.

 

[twokats]

Those of you doing Disneyland on the 13th will get to stay out till 1am for the Unleash the Villains, nice break.

I noticed that today on my copy of AllEars

 

[RanCan]

We went out of Galveston on the Magic in October and disembarkment was different than in Cape Canaveral - it was easier just to deal with our own bags vs. use the porters and it was less organized. Deck 3 was crazy crowded. I would bet customs might even be longer since we are not doing the same port departure and arrival. There are some concrete benches outside the port terminal that were less crowded. I think it might be challenging trying to stay together through the lines in the baggage area. They might have it down better this year - but I wouldn't count on it.

We have cruised both Royal Caribbean and Disney out of Galveston. I really don't know why, but disembarkation always seems a bit unstructured there. When we've cruised during Christmas or New Year's it tough because there is a lot of Mexico travelers. Customs takes a bit longer due to the international traffic.

I really think it would be difficult to get 24+ post cruise transportation passengers in a group while on board. Probably better to designate a time and an area outside. Probably need some type of designation (i.e. sign, flag, lei) so we know this group is the post Ran/Can transportation group. I'd be willing to make and pack signs to use. Maybe if 3 or 4 of us had signs, we could catch everyone.

Usually, my hubby goes and gets the car while I wait with the luggage outside. The port has had us go to the left as we exit the terminal. Not sure where we will need to go for buses since we just drive when we cruise from Galveston.

Randy, Please let me know if you need signs made. Happy to help. If you want to send me a PM that will be fine.

When we cruised the Magic in Galveston in February, when we arrived the ones leaving the cruise that had just came in were going to the left (the left as they were leaving the building, our right as we were standing in front of it, just for a little bit of confusion) and we were directed over to the right (or left if you are looking at the terminal)!! It was not that bad the morning we were there and I did not think it was too bad when we came back. We were in line for a little while for customs, but we found our bags very easily, and we did use a porter to help us. We used lighthouse parking that time and they had showed us before we left where they would pick us up and we went straight there and did not have any trouble. There is the one area where buses and shuttles pick people up, so I would think if you look for the name there should not be an issue.
We will hope with lots of pixie dust and prayers for that scenario.

Okay, denamo please make us the signs...maybe "RANCAN HOBBY" unless you can think of something better. Thank you!!!

Lets plan on meeting outside and everyone look for the signs.

I will contact Sam's and see where they have picked up this size group in the past and update you all accordingly. Thanks to all!

 

[Denine]

Feeling like a hamster on a wheel?

LOL! Sometimes!

 

[AlisonM]

I have seen on other boards that some groups have a stateroom tour. Would anyone be interested in this?

What we would need is just a few volunteers to allow their staterooms to be part of the tour and hopefully we would get to see most of the categories (Walt Disney Suite anyone)???? I have a Cat 4.

It would be a great opportunity to see other staterooms for future cruise planning.

Also if anyone is like me I have to admit I always do try and catch a quick glance when walking along the corridors when the stewards have the door open! Would maybe stop that bad habit!

If anyone is interested let me know either here or by PM.

 

[alirob]

Right I have all the Postcards/Recipes and my FE's as per the list.

Do we have a number of participants for the wine?

Have to pack the wine in the suitcase for travel internationally so want to make sure I have enough and don't exceed the Customs limits between us.

 

[twokats]

Right I have all the Postcards/Recipes and my FE's as per the list.

Do we have a number of participants for the wine?

Have to pack the wine in the suitcase for travel internationally so want to make sure I have enough and don't exceed the Customs limits between us.

There are 27 people in the 13 staterooms that are of legal age to be able to participate. Since we are only tasting, that does not involve more than 1 bottle does it? That is all I am bringing.

 

[WAMUMOF4]

Right I have all the Postcards/Recipes and my FE's as per the list.

Do we have a number of participants for the wine?

Have to pack the wine in the suitcase for travel internationally so want to make sure I have enough and don't exceed the Customs limits between us.

We are only allowed to take 1 bottle each into the USA I assume it's the same for you as it is from Australia.

 

[alirob]

We are only allowed to take 1 bottle each into the USA I assume it's the same for you as it is from Australia.

Yes it is - I understand they will let 3 bottles in for 2 people and the duty is minimal or they don't bother as it is only 2250ml and we are allowed 2000ml. If I need more than 2 bottles I was going to order it online to be sent to the hotel as still not sure if I trust those wine skins. Has anyone else tried packing wine in their cases before?

 

[twokats]

For those that are in the Postcard/Recipe Exchange, the cabin count is now 15 cabins.

For those in either the Postcard/Recipe Exchange and FE Exchange that do not have cabin numbers, please let me know as soon as you know.

Thanks!

 

[WAMUMOF4]

Yes it is - I understand they will let 3 bottles in for 2 people and the duty is minimal or they don't bother as it is only 2250ml and we are allowed 2000ml. If I need more than 2 bottles I was going to order it online to be sent to the hotel as still not sure if I trust those wine skins. Has anyone else tried packing wine in their cases before?

I was going to cheat and buy it there we couldn't believe how many Aussie wines are for sale in the USA and how much cheaper they are
But DH wants to bring some region specific wine so I think I'll be packing it in a suitcase, we have brought back alcohol in our checked in bags the last 2 years it's been fine I just wrapped it in a towel.

 

[Denine]

We will only be bringing one bottle. Not sure what to bring though; something we like or something local. The local wines tend to be sweet, we don't like sweet. What do you all want me to bring?

 

[twokats]

We will only be bringing one bottle. Not sure what to bring though; something we like or something local. The local wines tend to be sweet, we don't like sweet. What do you all want me to bring?

Since I don't usually drink wine, I have no favorite and I am bringing a regional favorite of my niece's from a local winery.

I would think if you have a favorite that you think is unique and not available possibly for everyone, bring that one, but it is totally your choice as far as I am concerned.

 

[TeriFromNC]

Hi Everyone!
This is also my first post, and also happy to be here!
Traveling with my DD, who is a Disney Cast Member. She is helping me celebrate receiving my BA in sustainability, as of last Sunday.

I've been reading as fast as I can. LOL
I know the...FE is closed, but what is it please?
I also have stacks of books, and will bring what I can.

We fly home from IAH. Is anyone else going there, and wanting to share a ride?

SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!

Teri

Very happy to have found this group! We booked this cruise a while ago on our last Disney cruise and can't wait to spend such a long vacation on the Wonder.

I have been lucky enough to sail with Disney many times but never joined a meet up group so I am excited to meet other Disney cruisers!

We are a family of 5:

Alison
Richard
Holly 15
Jack 11
Ben 7

Stateroom 8538

 

[AlisonM]

Hi Everyone!
This is also my first post, and also happy to be here!
Traveling with my DD, who is a Disney Cast Member. She is helping me celebrate receiving my BA in sustainability, as of last Sunday.

I've been reading as fast as I can. LOL
I know the...FE is closed, but what is it please?
I also have stacks of books, and will bring what I can.

We fly home from IAH. Is anyone else going there, and wanting to share a ride?

SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!

Teri

Welcome Teri. You will love the Disney Wonder
Congratulations on the BA!