First Cruise - Any tips?

[rob0519]

We are going on our first Disney Cruise, April 23-27. It's also our first cruise of any kind. We're sailing on the Wonder out of Miami with stops at Castaway Cay, Nassau/Atlantis and Key West. The family consists of 5 adults, all over 30 with two staterooms. We are part of a lager family group of 30-40 people who will be on the same cruise. It's my undertsanding my brother-in-law has arranged for us to sit near each other at dinner.

Any tips for first timers, regarding either on ship or off ship activities? Which to be sure to do or which would be ok to skip? Any help is appreciated.

 

[Bolna]

My most important tip to a first timer would be to try and not get overwhelmed when you get onboard on your first day. I had done a lot of research and thought I kind of knew everything, but then it was quite different to be on the ship in person than looking at pictures and reading trip reports. I wish I would have been more relaxed and just gone with the flow instead of having the feeling to check out everything at once!

Have you looked at the FAQ in this sub-forum? That should be quite helpful in answering a first timers question.

With regard to activities, it really depends on what you like. I have rarely heard someone comment on an activity that they took part in that they thought was truly bad. So if you enjoy trivia, make sure to go to a trivia session, if you are into meeting characters, go and hunt them, etc. Many people love the different tastings (mixology, martini tasting, tequila tasting etc.). Also, if you are an all adult party and like fine dining, I would recommend to have dinner at Palo. I think with your itinerary there is no sea day, so you won't have a chance for brunch there.

Don't try to do everything. Just pick a few things that interest you. It is very likely that this won't be your last cruise (most people are bit by the cruise bug after their first DCL cruise) and then you will be able to do some of the things that you did not get the first time round.

 

[Andrew C]

I would agree to dedicate 1 night for dinner at Palo. It is a great experience. And don't miss the pirate night deck party and fireworks. Very fun for both adults and kids. If you have pirate gear/costumes, be sure to pack it because a lot of people dress up.

 

[rob0519]

Thanks for the tips. I think not trying to do everything is a good one. I know the daughters are looking forward to the Pirate Night Deck Party.

 

[Tiggerfanatic]

Mixology! Best bang for your buck - cost is $15 and you get to mix and try 4 different drinks, and it is so much fun.

 

[mammaminnie]

Once you board, take a few minutes in the atrium and just savor the moment and the surroundings. The first day can be pretty hectic, and I find that it really helps get you into the mood to just take those few moments and appreciate the beautiful surroundings. After that, enjoy exploring the ship and eating lunch, but remember you don't have to see it all that first afternoon!