What is the best time for stingray encounter at CC?

[dunnhorn]

Hi DISboarders...

Looking for advice/opinion on the best time to do the stingray encounter at CC. Before lunch? After lunch? There will be 4 of us and kids are 5 and 7. Thanks in advance!

 

[SeeDisney]

Well, we just returned from a 4 day Wonder cruise and I booked the 3:00 p.m. Sting Ray for my three kids and we were the only ones doing the class!!! More one on one time I say.

 

[BubblesNH]

Someone gave the advice to book 1st thing so if it rains or something comes up you have all day to rebook? We booked it for 11:00am.

 

[TiggerTails57]

We have it booked for 11am.........then early lunch.

 

[stlkeeler]

You want to book first thing because after several groups the water is very cloudy. They teach you how to walk using a shuffle step so you don't step on the rays and this causes a lot of sediment to be stirred up. You get time to snorkel afterwards and you couldn't hardly see them. Also, when we were there last year, at our 1:00 time, they weren't very hungry anymore. The CM had a hard time getting them to some into the trough-thingie to feed.

Not a very good pic but you can get an idea of how murky the water is - can't see anyones feet...

But it was still very interesting. Have a great time!

 

[momto2inKC]

We're booked for 10am. I did have 9am but didn't want to have to rush off the ship to get there in time. Should I change back to 9am or is 10 still good?

 

[ppiew]

Wondering same thing. Also, I noticed snorkel gear on kids in the picture. Is this something you need to rent separately or what?

 

[TiggerTails57]

They provide all the gear you will need. Bring some Crocs or water shoes if your feet are sensitive (little rocky bottom).
I think 10 am would be good, you don't want to have to rush. Also further back the water is clearer.