ybehome

I have a little over a year to plan. Love all the information!

We have taken this route many times. We live local we too will be cruising in December. Swimming will all be weather/temp. dependent (it was 89 degrees today). There is plenty to do for kids with out the pool. My 9 yr. has cruised since she was three and really enjoys Camp Carnival. She makes friends and loves the activities.

The boat is a bit loved, but no complaints.we have stay in suites to inside rooms. We really enjoy the shows after dinner. A big highlight was Behind the Scenes when we toured the boat on a private tour. It was worth every penny!

I live in the Anaheim area a frequenly cruise out of the San Pedro Area and worked there for 5yrs. Visiting Disneyland is very possible. The morning traffic will not be fun but in the evening it is much lighter. The return will be approximately 45 min. So the key is to be driving away from Anaheim no later than 9pm. If you are using a local driver he/she will check traffic and choose alternative routs, there are many. 1.5 hrs is more than enough time to get back.

The bigger question is is it worth the cost. I love Disney but it is a pricey item. It will be full. There is virtually no slow season. If Disney is on your bucket list, then go for it. Otherwise there are many other great things to do. Knott's Berry Farm is a fun amusement park with good rides. That time of year you will have virtually no lines. Other options close to the port include the Aquarium of the Pacific, USS Iowa with a harbor cruise.

My DD loves Camp Carnival and for the most part prefers to be there tan with us. We usually choose one late night and take advantage of Camp night owl.

I recommend nap time during the shutdown after eating lunch. Make sure you register online before arriving, makes the process much faster.

On port days, there is usually an option to let the kids stay during lunch IF you are off the boat

What a great thread. I have some new ideas, although I have read nearly everything posted. I just got my nook and am making the transition easily although I was a bit worried.

Some of my favorites

Non-Fiction

Three Cups of Tea, Stones into Schools, Greg Mortenson- non-fiction about building schools for girls in Afghanistan

Bill Bryson- Travel writer

Historical fiction

Michael and Jeff Shaara

Mystery

Everyone listed above

Hope you all keep adding as I love new ideas!