1st time cruisers get stiffed w activities?

[neo1738]

Seems unless you have cruised w DCL or get concierge service you won't be able to book any of the good activities on or off the ship. Anyone else notice this? Always heard how great DCL is but seems all activities my 3yo can do are booked before being open to us. Even sea day activities like Royal Tea booked out before we had a chance. Am I overthinking we'll have a bored 3yo on our hands? BTW she is pretty attached to parents does go to prep but would not likely go to any kid activities minutes a parent/gparent. Thanks.

[Shmoo here]

2 hours ago, neo1738 said:

Seems unless you have cruised w DCL or get concierge service you won't be able to book any of the good activities on or off the ship. Anyone else notice this? Always heard how great DCL is but seems all activities my 3yo can do are booked before being open to us. Even sea day activities like Royal Tea booked out before we had a chance. Am I overthinking we'll have a bored 3yo on our hands? BTW she is pretty attached to parents does go to prep but would not likely go to any kid activities minutes a parent/gparent. Thanks.

IMO, of course, you won't have a bored 3 year old on your hands.  There's lots to do onboard and in ports that don't require signing up for or reservations.

 

Yes, the more popular activities get swept up by the higher loyalty cruisers, but don't give up hope.  Keep checking online every couple of days at random times.  Since DCL activities are not paid for when booked (unlike on other cruiselines) sometimes people will book an activity "just in case" and cancel and they firm up their plans.  You can also check once onboard for a wait list for activities.

 

Royal Tea isn't really a good measure of whether you'll be able to book anything, as the spaces for it are pretty limited.  

 

Also, there are Open House times in the kid's clubs where the child can attend with a parent.

Edited January 12, 2023 by Shmoo here

[Shmoo here]

duplicate

Edited January 12, 2023 by Shmoo here

[Oceansaway17]

I have heard that returning cruisers also get first chance for shore excursions.

 

I know all line like returning guests, but treat new folks well too.

[neo1738]

2 hours ago, Oceansaway17 said:

I have heard that returning cruisers also get first chance for shore excursions.

 

I know all line like returning guests, but treat new folks well too.

That is correct and there are VERY limited shore excursions for that age group. Thus we could only book 1 Island tour by car and 1 marine rehab facility nothing else was available day activities opened for new cruisers w child under like 6 years old. Disappointing to say the least. As for no charge and things opening good idea thank you. 

Edited January 12, 2023 by neo1738

[Oceansaway17]

15 hours ago, neo1738 said:

That is correct and there are VERY limited shore excursions for that age group. Thus we could only book 1 Island tour by car and 1 marine rehab facility nothing else was available day activities opened for new cruisers w child under like 6 years old. Disappointing to say the least. As for no charge and things opening good idea thank you. 

well perhaps Disney will listen to folks who complain, Then again it is Disney and they think they are perfectly right on all issues.   

[malba2366]

On 1/11/2023 at 4:30 PM, neo1738 said:

Seems unless you have cruised w DCL or get concierge service you won't be able to book any of the good activities on or off the ship. Anyone else notice this? Always heard how great DCL is but seems all activities my 3yo can do are booked before being open to us. Even sea day activities like Royal Tea booked out before we had a chance. Am I overthinking we'll have a bored 3yo on our hands? BTW she is pretty attached to parents does go to prep but would not likely go to any kid activities minutes a parent/gparent. Thanks.

 

Finished our first Disney Cruise a few weeks ago and we were able to book all the activities we wanted including Bibbidy bobbidi boutique, royal court tea, princess gathering.  The only thing that we could not get is the Castaway Cay Cabanas which is impossible unless you are concierge.  We booked the activities exactly when it opened at midnight.

[helovestrains]

I have to agree.  I logged on at midnight EST when my booking time opened and the Royal Tea Party as well as some of the other activities were sold out.  Hopefully I'll be able to get a booking for the Princess meet and greet when it opens up.  I understand the loyalty aspect when it  comes to returning guests,  but it is a little frustrating as a first timer.

[Shmoo here]

2 hours ago, helovestrains said:

I have to agree.  I logged on at midnight EST when my booking time opened and the Royal Tea Party as well as some of the other activities were sold out.  Hopefully I'll be able to get a booking for the Princess meet and greet when it opens up.  I understand the loyalty aspect when it  comes to returning guests,  but it is a little frustrating as a first timer.

Just remember, you're only a first timer once.  

[neo1738]

Yeah Royal Tea opens to new cruisers last. Other poster likely not 1st timer or got very lucky bc seems the standard is 1st timers get screwed. As for Bipidy cruise day w no royal tea or gathering was only day available for booking or after 7pm on those days?! Obviously only happen once but truly would have reconsidered if we had known all the limitations. 

[Dobby36]

when aboard the wonder in October we found everything "sold out" ahead of time. But by stopping at guest services right upon boarding we were able to get all we wanted booked(tequila tasting, makeover for the little one, and whisky tasting, etc) as it seems there are some phantom spaces available that would not appear on the app somehow.

[neo1738]

52 minutes ago, Dobby36 said:

when aboard the wonder in October we found everything "sold out" ahead of time. But by stopping at guest services right upon boarding we were able to get all we wanted booked(tequila tasting, makeover for the little one, and whisky tasting, etc) as it seems there are some phantom spaces available that would not appear on the app somehow.

Great info thanks!

[MommyOTwins]

First off, take a deep breath--it'll be fine.  99% of the fun things to do on the ship are not available to book online anyway, they are open to everyone on the ship.  We're gold cruisers and we hardly ever book stuff in advance any more.  And if you do really want something sold out on your booking day, keep checking the app because people do cancel these things (e.g., they have to cancel or move the cruise; or just decide they are over budget), and if that fails go to guest services on day one and request to be waitlisted.  .

 

As for the things that do sell out, what would you propose is the most fair way to allocate the limited spots available?  Unlike other cruise lines, Disney cruise guests tend to plan far far ahead of time, and don't mind staying up until midnight to do so.  So "first come first serve" really means it is a lottery--everyone will log on at once, some people will get lucky, and some will get out of luck.  Meaning one person could book 10 cruises and never get Royal Tea due being slow-fingered, having technical issues with the app, or unlucky, while others could book 3 cruises and get it on all 3.  It isn't really any fairer than rewarding loyal guests.  If you don't believe me, just read about what goes on at the theme parks with dining reservations and virtual queues.

Edited January 15, 2023 by MommyOTwins

[neo1738]

On 1/15/2023 at 5:59 PM, MommyOTwins said:

First off, take a deep breath--it'll be fine.  99% of the fun things to do on the ship are not available to book online anyway, they are open to everyone on the ship.  We're gold cruisers and we hardly ever book stuff in advance any more.  And if you do really want something sold out on your booking day, keep checking the app because people do cancel these things (e.g., they have to cancel or move the cruise; or just decide they are over budget), and if that fails go to guest services on day one and request to be waitlisted.  .

 

As for the things that do sell out, what would you propose is the most fair way to allocate the limited spots available?  Unlike other cruise lines, Disney cruise guests tend to plan far far ahead of time, and don't mind staying up until midnight to do so.  So "first come first serve" really means it is a lottery--everyone will log on at once, some people will get lucky, and some will get out of luck.  Meaning one person could book 10 cruises and never get Royal Tea due being slow-fingered, having technical issues with the app, or unlucky, while others could book 3 cruises and get it on all 3.  It isn't really any fairer than rewarding loyal guests.  If you don't believe me, just read about what goes on at the theme parks with dining reservations and virtual queues.

Maybe reserve x amount of spots for past and y for everyone comes to mind. At least you have a chance. As for staying up till midnight did that last night (even though had to be at work at 6a) to book royal gathering except they had a "system issue" which prevented us from booking and by time we could even try 20 min after midnight it was already sold out. We were on at 1158 and had it ready to checkout got an error then couldn't see our reservation for 15 min.  Online just said sorry reservations aren't available right now. I'm not saying there is a perfect way but as a first timer it definitely leaves a sour taste in my mouth already (guessing some others fell that way too). We'll see how it goes and I'm truly hopeful but would be lying if I didn't feel some regret already. 

[helovestrains]

As first time DCL cruisers Royal Tea was sold out when we were able to book.  A couple of spots became available the other day and we were able to secure them.   So as others have said keep checking, something might open up.  Princess Gathering bookings aren't available for us for a couple more weeks.  Hopefully there won't be any IT issues.  Staying up until 1am (12 eastern) and not getting the reservation you're looking for can be disappointing. 

[Oceansaway17]

just seems crazy to have to do stuff at midnight.  Then again, in the parks they have 7am virtual ques.

I am glad I do not need anything special when I go on my Disney cruises as I go without kids and just like the free stuff.  But feel for those who are having a hard time.

[markkw07]

I have to agree with my fellow posters...

 

Do not give up on any activity just because it's sold out on the app. We just cruised the Wish in December and the mixology class was sold out for weeks in advance online. Once onboard, we actually ran into the bartender who runs the class, and he added the 3 of us into a class. He said it always sells out weeks/months in advance, but he was happy that we asked him, he said lots of people just accept its sold out, and never ask. 

 

Never hurts to ask at the appropriate desk and be FRIENDLY to the cast members who are working these activities, and constantly check back and get to know them and they recognize you. Small stuff like this goes along ways! 

[nolatravelgirl]

Perhaps if you post what your ship/itinerary you are sailing and others can assist with activities. Ship excursions are very pricey and you can usually book a much more intimate and lower priced excursion on your own.

[anjuan]

We're frequent DCL cruisers. I hope that you don't get too disheartened because even if you can't get those activities, there are so many fun things that you don't have to book ahead of time on the ship. For example, there are a ton of other meet and greets and other activities. Also, the shows are great and you don't have to book those ahead of time like a lot of other cruise lines. It is first come first served. Like someone else said, if you tell us what ship you're on we can help you out with ideas. I recommend watching some You Tube videos of your ship to see what is onboard. I hope you enjoy your cruise!

[llachance]

Going on my next cruise in October.  I have only stayed up once (17 cruises) ever and that was to score a cabana.  Beyond that if we can reserve it when I get on line then great.  People are stressing too much about that they "have" to do on each cruise based on what they read that others "had" to do.  There is so much to do without making reservations that most are stressing out for nothing.  If you don't get the whiskey tasting then sit at the bar and ask the bar tender their opinion (they usually lead the classes), the same with wine.  Check when you board if you want a BBB reservation, if they don't have one it is really not a big deal.  Don't set expectations that may or may not be met.  Got a BBB appt once when we got on board (I am platinum and could have gotten the appt much earlier).  Surprised the grandchild with it.  There are so many times that you can see the characters that you shouldn't need a reservation.  This is supposed to be a vacation, relax and have fun.

[neo1738]

Disney Fantasy sailing Feb 18-25. Have a 3.5 yo who doesn't like being away from mom and dad w new people. Drop offs not an option w her. Also it's not so much about "have" to do but other than the normal activities on ship (Andy Playroom, water park etc there isn't much info on Character Experiences other than the app. She isn't into Pixar characters so princesses and Mickey Mouse or bust.  Just trying to maximize our time and get her the best experience.

[vacationlover16]

On 1/15/2023 at 4:59 PM, MommyOTwins said:

First off, take a deep breath--it'll be fine.  99% of the fun things to do on the ship are not available to book online anyway, they are open to everyone on the ship.  We're gold cruisers and we hardly ever book stuff in advance any more.  And if you do really want something sold out on your booking day, keep checking the app because people do cancel these things (e.g., they have to cancel or move the cruise; or just decide they are over budget), and if that fails go to guest services on day one and request to be waitlisted.  .

 

As for the things that do sell out, what would you propose is the most fair way to allocate the limited spots available?  Unlike other cruise lines, Disney cruise guests tend to plan far far ahead of time, and don't mind staying up until midnight to do so.  So "first come first serve" really means it is a lottery--everyone will log on at once, some people will get lucky, and some will get out of luck.  Meaning one person could book 10 cruises and never get Royal Tea due being slow-fingered, having technical issues with the app, or unlucky, while others could book 3 cruises and get it on all 3.  It isn't really any fairer than rewarding loyal guests.  If you don't believe me, just read about what goes on at the theme parks with dining reservations and virtual queues.

I think a fairer way is to allow folks the opportunity to book once they pay the deposit and require them to pay for the activity once they book it. IMO, with this set up folks would be more likely to only book what they really plan to do and not reserve things for the "just in case". It would cut out the staying up to midnight to book, the system crashing due to volume and itch the scratch for those who like to plan in advance because they would likely be some of the first to pay their deposit. I agree Disney guests tend to plan far in advance but I think that is because Disney makes things so complicated you almost have to if you want a certain type of vacation. I don't think anyone wants to get up at 7 am to book Genie on their vacation or stay up until midnight to book excursions.

 

I am going on my first DCL cruise in March and I agree this set up is frustrating. It won't ruin my cruise by any means but I also hate that we might have to start our cruise off in a line trying to see if we can add on some things we wanted. I would rather be exploring and enjoying the ship. 

[neo1738]

7 hours ago, vacationlover16 said:

I think a fairer way is to allow folks the opportunity to book once they pay the deposit and require them to pay for the activity once they book it. IMO, with this set up folks would be more likely to only book what they really plan to do and not reserve things for the "just in case". It would cut out the staying up to midnight to book, the system crashing due to volume and itch the scratch for those who like to plan in advance because they would likely be some of the first to pay their deposit. I agree Disney guests tend to plan far in advance but I think that is because Disney makes things so complicated you almost have to if you want a certain type of vacation. I don't think anyone wants to get up at 7 am to book Genie on their vacation or stay up until midnight to book excursions.

 

I am going on my first DCL cruise in March and I agree this set up is frustrating. It won't ruin my cruise by any means but I also hate that we might have to start our cruise off in a line trying to see if we can add on some things we wanted. I would rather be exploring and enjoying the ship. 

Completely agree. And as I said before reserve some spots for 1st time cruisers as well. 

[mtnlvr53]

On 2/5/2023 at 3:58 PM, neo1738 said:

Completely agree. And as I said before reserve some spots for 1st time cruisers as well. 

If you want them to become "second timers" I would really agree about that. Disney is very expensive compared to other cruises so you want you child/grandchild to have a good experience.

[neo1738]

So to not be the guy that complains and doesn't update everyone here is my take a couple weeks after our cruise. 

 

1) Disney does a fantastic job with the kids and activities on a whole. But they have a LOT of room for improvement in the bookings and 3-5 age group. First the Oceaneer Lab/Club. There are many 3 yo who aren't comfortable leaving their parents (or parents who actually don't mind playing with their kids!) and to only have open house for 2 hrs a day during breakfast and dinner for that age group was a disappointment. 9a and 5p. If you have the 545p dinner (which with a 3yo you better she was falling asleep most dinners) it's nearly impossible to get into there. We were able to squeeze one hr one day. There really aren't many indoor activities other than character greets for this age group. That being said we mostly used the pool but they day we did Bippidi boppiti boutique was a challenge to find indoor stuff. We ended up at the open house for Vibe teen lounge and they had coloring stuff there for her. For those that don't know you can't just go to the oceaneers club, vibe teen area, etc with your kids. It's drop off ONLY unless during "open house" hours which are usually not great times. I think they also had like 11pm-12a open house?!

 

2) Character greets - great overall. Didn't know that when the app says "15 minutes" you have to be in the line before 15 minutes or else you don't get the greet. We learned after 1 missed Daisy experience, daughter took it like a champ and we didn't make the mistake again. The characters spent a lot of time w each kid age appropriate and it was really a highlight of the trip. They weren't "all over" the ship as has been said previously (except for 1 random goofy run by and 1 random Donald congo line!) but there are a lot of times you can line up to see them. If you have more ppl in your party recommend getting in a line then having someone else line up for the next one. Character dance parties....omg she (and we for her joy) LOVED them absolutely the best for that younger age group! Definitely do it, daughter was able to get right in the middle of Chip and Dale, hold hands w Mickey and dance, etc. You'll never get that anywhere else except a Disney Cruise.

 

3) Food - ok. Thought Norweigen was better. The presentation at dinner was good but service was SLOW. Maybe because we had a full ship but we sat at 545p and finished at 745p just about every night. We started arriving to dinner 20 min early and a lot of others did to be 1st seated and try to get out a few minutes earlier because they were always behind. Having same servers was very nice, rotational dining was good for us. Food quality was lacking. Way too much horse raddish on more than 1 dish (honestly they must have got it cheap even mashed potatoes had horse raddish in them?!). Breakfast was ok but no French Toast with all those offerings?! Same foods every day at the Cabanas buffet. No variation for breakfast or lunch usually. There were a few dishes that did hit very well but usually 1 item per night maybe. I will say the chocolate lava cake was amazing! Highly recommend. Our servers usually recommended stuff and it seemed to be good. Again ok food, some great some I didn't finish (along with other family) because it was way over seasoned (see horse raddish comment) or lacking. I was surprised because I have only heard how amazing their food is. We didn't see it.

 

4) Booking activities/Ports- Huge disappointment for 1st time cruisers as you can see. Daughter didn't understand why all princesses were lined up and we couldn't get in line. Also would have loved her to get to do the tea with princesses but was never an option for us as we weren't returning or concierge. Did go straight to guest services for wait list and never got into activities. Also checked app 2x/day as did my wife and nothing ever opened. We had a full cruise which probably played into that. There are very limited ones for 3yo to attend and when we went to book there was literally only 1 or 2 options she could even do not booked. Luckily our 1st excursion was great, Tortola Island Drive and Beach break. They take you in an open air taxi around the island, to a beach for 1.5 hrs, then back around the island. Beautiful drive, narrated along the way. Beach had a strong surf but it was a little rainy that morning. We spent a little time in the water but mostly on the beach with beautiful soft white sand. We totally understand you can't control the weather so we give this one full points. Second port was St. Thomas we only had option of Coral World Comeback. It was pretty good as well, run down though definitely needs an investment in infrastructure. 3yo does a Forest School pre-k so she was all about the nature and we had a good time. Their underwater viewing area was the highlight. Still would have been nice to have more options. Castaway Key was a great time, lots of activities and another character dance party. You don't need to book anything for this port just enjoy the beach which was what we did.

 

5) Room/amenities/staff - All good. Our room was great, our stateroom host Adriann was amazing! we loved him. Honestly all of the staff are amazing and so friendly and never once did we hear "I don't know". I've never seen cleaner bathrooms, halls, etc. They keep that ship spotless Embarkation was a breeze, they got us on 45 min prior to our boarding time. Disembarking was quick as well. We enjoyed having double vanity and a separate shower from toilet area. There was a mild general sewage odor in toilet room of all our staterooms (we had 3 in the same hall a few doors apart). Not sure anything to do with that.

 

In the end would we do another Disney Cruise....probably. I was very very unhappy the first 2 full days which were at sea due to lack of indoor activities, poor food (honestly first 2 days it was bad, end of the cruise they got their act together and everything service, food etc improved). But only because we now know how everything works and the people on the ship combined with the ability to see/experience the characters in a way you can't do at the parks or other places. I will say when my daughter is a teen we would not do Disney. They just don't offer enough for the older age group for the price would rather do Royal Caribbean.

 

Edited March 13, 2023 by neo1738
Updated few things