Just back from the Sept. 24th sailing on the Dream. No real tips. We saw plenty of characters just hanging out on the multiple decks midship atrium. They rotated through the different characters so you could see everyone. Never saw any lines. They also made other appearances around the ship. Walked by a few just out and about. The princesses had you stand behind them as the photographer took your photo. The fab 5 and others you stood in front of and took your own photo with them.