Watching Wishes Options with 1st Timer

[4under4]

I'm taking my parents when we go back in August. I took my Dad a couple years ago, but my Mom couldn't make that trip. So this is her first time, his second. I booked the Dessert Party when I took my Dad, and I was sooooo happy because it rained off and on the entire evening.

On this trip, I really want them both to experience & enjoy Wishes, but I have some hurdles. Mom is Type 2 diabetic, so that rules out the dessert party. The Pirates Cruise (or a Private cruise, which is actually less expensive for our group) is where I'm leaning, but I'm not 100% convinced it will give them the "real" experience [that makes me cry]. I also thought about getting FP+ but it seems that it's hit or miss on snagging those, and we will be a group of 8, so I hate to hang my hat on getting lucky. DH truly HATES dealing with the crowds / mass exodus afterwards, so he would be happy if we just watched from the beach at CR after our dinner at Chef Mickey. Of course factor all of this with the risk of weather, and it becomes even more confusing. Uggggg.

I would love to hear from anyone that has actually taken the Pirate Cruise or a Private Cruise... how would you compare the experience to watching Wishes from the park? Are the pontoons covered in case of rain?

Any other suggestions????

 

[mesaboy2]

I'm taking my parents when we go back in August. I took my Dad a couple years ago, but my Mom couldn't make that trip. So this is her first time, his second. I booked the Dessert Party when I took my Dad, and I sooooo happy because it rained off and on the entire evening.

On this trip, I really want them both to experience & enjoy Wishes, but I have some hurdles. Mom is Type 2 diabetic, so that rules out the dessert party. The Pirates Cruise (or a Private cruise, which is actually less expensive for our group) is where I'm leaning, but I'm not 100% convinced it will give them the "real" experience [that makes me cry]. I also thought about getting FP+ but it seems that it's hit or miss on snagging those, and we will be a group of 8, so I hate to hang my hat on getting lucky. DH truly HATES dealing with the crowds / mass exodus afterwards, so he would be happy if we just watched from the beach at CR after our dinner at Chef Mickey. Of course factor all of this with the risk of weather, and it becomes even more confusing. Uggggg.

I would love to hear from anyone that has actually taken the Pirate Cruise or a Private Cruise... how would you compare the experience to watching Wishes from the park? Are the pontoons covered in case of rain?

Any other suggestions????

I would not discount this possibility just yet, availability looks better of late. Still, a party of 8 may be a tall order.

 

[Sargeant Tibbs]

There are no sugar free desserts on the Dessert Party buffet?

 

[4under4]

They don't put them out, but my understanding is that you can request them. I just didn't think that would be a great solution for us. She's pretty careful about her numbers, and tries to avoid "fake" sugar as much as possible. Even too much fruit is a no-no for her.

 

[4under4]

Bump. Anyone with more thoughts about the pontoons?