Miracle 8/21 Sailing...Last Minute Qs

[MACE]

Hi fellow cruisers:

Well, 2 days and a wake-up and we'll be on the Miracle!

A few last minute questions:

Would the first and last shows be considered the best of the cruise and not to miss?

Will a pool be open before sailing this Saturday?

Is there a kids pool? If so, located aft?

Regarding CCL's Magic Kingdom excursion, I can't find the exact cost. Does that price include entry into the park with access to all rides? (I do know it includes a $13 voucher for a meal, is this voucher welcome at any eatery?)

I should know this BUT: is tipping automatically added to your sail/sign card at the end of the cruise?

Can you get a 'cash advance' applied to your sail/sign card, in the casino?

Finally, we love to board as early as possible. Thoughts on the earliest (pending clearing ship of previous paxs) time we can arrive at the terminal, with minimum wait time, to board as early as possible?

Thanks in advance

-MACE-

(potential M&G participant Sunday at 10:15)

[callajl]

I don't know the answers to any of the questions except for the $13 voucher meal ticket at Disneyworld. These are only good at the fast food eateries- not the sit down restaurants. There are some very good places- esp, in Epcot. Magic Kingdom has some good burger places with awesome fixins!

[JerseyJim2]

Mace,

The aft pool (Orpheus) is Adults Only. The 2 middle Lido deck pools are open to all. They may be open on the first afternoon but some ships delay this a bit.

Tips are for the room stewards and waiters are automatically added. They can be adjusted up or down at the Pursers Desk.

Cash advances on your S&S are available. However there is a 3% service charge. Better to bring traveler's cheques and cash them, as needed, at the Pursor's Desk. There is also an ATM machine but the fee is $5 (plus what your bank charges) and they often run out of cash early in the cruise.

The best time to arrive at NYPST seems to be 11AM. After that, the lines grow longer. Once on the ship, you can have lunch right away even if your stateroom is not ready. Luggage is usually delivered to the room by 7PM or so.

Jim