Twenty Questions

[DDreamer]

We're just starting to plan a family cruise on the Wonder for 4 nights (that's all our finances will allow for although I'd rather go for 7 nights!!!!!) and I was curious to know everyone's favorite time of year to go. We just got back from a cruise two weeks ago and said we would never go in January again because it was too cold. We want it to be warm and with the least chance of rain possible. We're not concerned about crowds-in our opinion the more people equals more FUN!!. What about rates too? When are the best deals going on? I would like all input (good and bad) so we can plan the best family vacation possible with our three kids (2,10 and 10). Also, is it better to get two adjoining rooms or is a family suite big enough for all 5 of us? Sorry so many questions--I just want to make sure I plan the best possible vacation. Thanks in advance to all of you!!!!!!!!!!

 

[goofysgal]

I agree with you--we just got back also and are rethinking our next date because we've had 12/27/03 booked since last April. We loved cruising in April and are considering changing to that date again (during the kids spring break). It was warm enough to swim in the pool and at Castaway Cay but not so hot you were uncomfortable. I would recommend two adjoining rooms so you have 2 baths for the 5 of you to use.

 

[goofysgal]

I agree with you--we just got back also and are rethinking our next date because we've had 12/27/03 booked since last April. We loved cruising in April and are considering changing to that date again (during the kids spring break). It was warm enough to swim in the pool and at Castaway Cay but not so hot you were uncomfortable. I would recommend two adjoining rooms so you have 2 baths for the 5 of you to use.

 

[Dukesfamily]

O.K. Here goes what I know,

From my experience we like September and October. Weather is great, and the pricing is less expensive. However, there is more of a chance for big storms and possible huricanes because the water is warm. I can't stand cold water. This year we went around thanksgiving and I had a hard time getting in the water. Summer is always good but you are going to pay for that.

The family suite is big enough for all five, and I do like the Veranda. If you were going on a Seven day I would say go with the suite. We have and currently do have the cat 10 adjoining rooms with the secret porthole. the extra room is great. We have 3 DD and trying to use the bathroom with 4 girls is awful, even if they are split. The adjoining rooms are perfect for a large family. The kids get one room and mom and dad get the other. This way you get the privacy if you need it and you have less conjestion when everyone is dressing at the same time.

The verandah is superb, but on a four or three night you just do not use it alot. Plus my DW thinks one of the girls just might fall off. They have that nice little table that the girls use for a step. So she was pretty paranoid the first time we had it.

No mater what you choose, you can't go wrong.

 

[DOCTORRICK]

Certainly would be more privacy and room to move with 2 rooms. BUT! much more expensive, because the first 2 guests in each room pay the adult price, regardless of age. Thus you would be paying 4 adult cruise fares, and 1 (much much lower) kids fare, versus, 2 (slightly higher due to higher catagory) adult fare, and 3 kids fares.
It's up to you whether the privacy and extra room is worth the cost.

 

[Dukesfamily]

We are saving $400 this fall but getting 2 cat10s versus one cat4

 

[alexandrew]

Definitely October...lowest pricing...warm weather...although it is hurricane season, no big deal

 

[DOCTORRICK]

If you are planning a land-sea package, I have always felt that October was the best month for the parks, based on combinations of low crowds, great weather, and off peak prices.

 

[Michelle]

I have had absolutely the best weather in October as well, but have had to be rerouted due to hurricanes. If you're willing to gamble with that then October is great, still warm but not unbearably hot.

 

[kimtenn]

We usually vacation in September, and have cruised twice in September with no problems. We have no children and we like cruising that month because the weather is plenty warm enough and the prices are very low. Granted, you are in hurricane season, but we've never had any daytime storms during our cruises -- just one on our first evening at sea.