Ahoy Connie!
I'm excited to hear you've planned your first pixie-dusted vacation with Disney Cruise Line - you're in for a magical voyage! Your family is sure to enjoy all the new enhancements aboard the re-imagined Disney Magic - make sure to check out the
AquaDunk slide! (If you're adventurous enough to be splashed down four decks and out over the edge of the ship and back!)
Our families are very similar - we have two girls, and they were the exact same ages as yours on one of our past cruises. Our oldest is also quite shy when it comes to making new friends, and we had the same concerns. On the first afternoon of the cruise, the Kids Clubs have Open House and a get-together where they create their own activity schedules. I encourage you to have her attend these events - she may surprise you and be really excited about the fun activities and events they have available! Let the Disney Youth Counselors know about your concerns - they will make sure to help her feel right at home. Give her a chance to meet the other tweens aboard and see what Edge is all about. Our daughter was hesitant at first, but ended up making some special friends and having the time of her life. By the time we cruised again, she couldn't wait to head to Vibe - all by herself!
Reassure her that you'll be spending plenty of time together as a family, and let her give Edge a try - it will hopefully be a great experience for her, and give you a moment to enjoy a little adult time onboard. (Maybe a visit to
Senses Spa and Salon?)
I hope you have the most magical vacation ever aboard Disney Cruise Line - please come back with any questions, we're happy to help!
Anchors Aweigh! - Diane W.