First time Cruise, young family...lots of questions!

[disneyoc4]

Hi all!
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We just booked our first Disney cruise for our family late in 2005 and was wondering if any tips and info could be provided?

:unsure:

Is it better to get to Orlando Int'l aiport the day before or is a red eye type deal OK? We will be using the Disney Transfer service so I understand they will tag bags and if we go red eye best time to arrive is about 9:30AM at the airport so they take bags directly from plane to ship. If we get there the day before, we have to handle bags to hotel.....

We are taking the 7 day Western Carribean trip...what shore excursions/side trips are recommended? When do you book those?

When can you make restaurant reservations? How early?

When do you get a package showing all what is available both on the ship and out at the ports?

:unsure:

Is it impossible to get cabin upgrades after purchase? Guess that depends on availabilty at the time of the cruise...are they always sold out? http://www.wdisneyw.com/ubb/tongue.gif

Anyone have any experience re: motion sickness with children? How to prevent?

:unsure:

Any general tips, input would be appreciated as we haven't done this before...thanks all!!! http://www.wdisneyw.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[woobie]

Getting to Orlando the day before is definately helpful. You can stay at the hotel right in the airport, then just go downstairs to meet the DCL rep for transfers. If you travel the same day, you could be exhausted by the time you get on the ship. I've also heard horror stories about families who had the airlines change flight times, etc., and they were much later getting on the ship than they wanted.

The only food ressies you need to make is Palo (adults only). You can only book that once you're on the ship. I suggest going directly to the signup area for this once on board.

Cabin upgrades are possible, but don't count on it. You could pay for an upgrade if you really want one. No, the ship is not always full.

My kids have been too young to do excursions, so I can't help you there. We've also not experienced motion sickness.

You will have a blast!

Woobie

[SorcererMickey]

Welcome to the boards!!!

http://disneyguest.com/images/boards/welcome.jpg

You will have a great time on the DCL. Our last Disney Cruise was the Western 7-Day. I have a trip report here:

DCL - 7 Day Western Trip Report (http://www.wdisneyw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=26984)

Also, have a look at the links on my signature for additional photos.

If you have any more questions, we'll be more than happy to help you!