Congratulations on your upcoming cruise!
I recently sat down to chat with the Youth Activities Manager aboard the Disney Magic.
There are exceptions to the age guidelines placed on youth activities. However it is at the discretion of the Youth Activities staff.
The general rule is that if a child is within 2 months of their birthday, then he/she can be placed in the upper level. There are case by case exceptions as all children develop at differing rates. The Youth staff is very well-trained to anticipate such needs.
If you feel that your children would be happier in the same group, please ask to speak with the Manager once you are aboard the ship and/or make a note on your on-line Youth Registration form.
It is often easier to get the older child accommodated at the younger level.
On the Disney Wonder, kids ages 8-12 will be in the Oceaneer Lab (younger kids are escorted over for activities such as Flubber). On the Disney Magic, kids ages 8-10 are in the Lab while ages 11-13 are in Ocean Quest on Deck 2.
I would suggest that you take a look at the
activities offered for each
age group and determine which group the boys would best enjoy together.
Finally, you may want to have the boys begin by participating in their own age groups and then if they are not having fun, ask to put them together. The counselors are excellent about doing their best to accommodate the needs of each family.
When my son was younger, he loved the Oceaneer Club. Now, we can't get him to leave the Oceaneer Lab. The Youth Activities program aboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder is excellent!