Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel as you seek advice on where to stay during your upcoming visit. I am so excited to hear that you are also going on a cruise. It sounds like a dream vacation to me.
While I have enjoyed several stays at both resorts, my personal favorite between the two you have mentioned is
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside. I simply adore the laid back southern charm of the resort and the buildings and rooms are among my favorite. Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside also has a select number of "royal rooms" available that add that extra touch of princess magic to your stay. I do not know if that might be something of interest to your 11 year old girls, but the rooms are super cute. They are themed to feel as if you are a personal guest of Princess Tiana with regal details throughout the room and bathroom. These rooms do need to be booked as such as they cannot simply be requested. The pool area and marina also have lots of fun
recreational options such as fishing, surrey bike rentals and more. I do also love Boatwright's Dining Hall for a delicious dinner option. I am a southern Texas gal and I love their shrimp and grits!
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is lots of fun too with its island feel. I do think its pool is more fun than the one at Disney's Port Orleans Resort. This resort also has a bit more centralized location. However, since you are not visiting any theme parks, this may not be a deciding factor.
No matter what you decide is best for your family, I wish you a magical trip full of amazing memories!
~Allison L