Universal before cruise?

[jillmom2]

We are arriving early friday (9:00 a.m.) Feb 17 before our Eastern Cruise on Feb 18. My kids have never been to Universal. Is it possible to do either the studios or Islands of Adv. ( definately not both) in one day? Would we be rushing to see it all? If we do this, should we still try to drive over to the port that night? or stay in Orlando and drive over to the port for about 10-10:30 a.m. on Sat.? Any advice appreciated. My boys will be 8 and 12 at the time if that helps. We are also not leaving until Sunday so we may do the other park in Saturday after the cruise?

 

[Mmketeer]

Hi,

I don't know about with kids, but DH and I have done both parks at Universal in one day (but, not both on the same day). Best tip on that is stay at one of the Lowes Resorts right on property and you'll get a front of the line pass. For example, the HULK coaster wasa 45 min. wait, DH and I walked up to a special line with our room ID card and waited only 8 minutes! It save alot of time waiting in lines at the parks! Lowes resorts are not cheap though and run around $200 and up a night. Check on the DIS Forum under the Universal Posts for more information, tips and deals for both Universal and their "offical' onsite resorts.

On a presonal note...I wouldn't go to Universal when I was setting sail on DCCL. I would do Universal on a trip that I was say sailing RCL or Carnival instead. Cause' I would want to start getting in the Disney spirit before I got on board. And, theirs no better place on land in Florida to that then anywhere on Disney property including Downtown Disney Where their's no entrance fees!