Ahoy, Melanie!
You are a vacation planner after my own heart with two upcoming sailings to look forward to aboard Disney Cruise Line! And I LOVE to hEAR you are using the Disney Parks Moms Panel to help you learn as much as you can about sailing with Captain Mickey. We hope you'll continue to find it helpful and reach out with any additional questions you may have.
My family has enjoyed dining during Second Seating for quite a while now. It gives us a little more time in the afternoon to experience all the ship has to offer or get back onboard from our day ashore. We love that the youth programming offers "Dine and Play" because it has allowed our Mouseketeers to eat with us, but not miss out on any of the fun in the youth clubs at night. This service is available on all four ships so you'll just let your dining servers know that your sailors what to participate, and they will expedite their meals. You'll love the convenience of not having to leave dinner because around 9:15 p.m., you'll see the youth staff in their brightly colored yellow shirts in each dining room.
You'll also be happy to know that there are some perks to "coming home" aboard Disney Cruise Line. Disney Vacation Club lanyards will be provided, which will be the perfect spot to hold your "Key to the World" cards. There will be a DVC magnet on your stateroom door, and a special Disney Vacation Club Members Celebration where you may pick up some more free DVC merchandise (check your cruise newsletter for the time and location once you are onboard).
Current DVC discounts include 10 percent off a digital photo package, 10 percent off a purchase of select merchandise of at least $50.00 in the shops onboard and a 20 percent discount on select (non-discounted) spa treatments on port days. These offerings are always subject to change so be sure to double-check once you are onboard.
Nancy