Hi, Dave!
Welcome aboard the
Disney Destiny! Your cruise is just around the corner so make sure you have completed your Online Check-in, have your Port Arrival Form ready (either printed or on your phone), and your luggage tags ready to put on your bags. Other than that, pack your Mouse Ears and it is off to Fort Lauderdale where Captains Mickey and Minnie cannot wait to welcome you onto their ship!
Once check-in at the port is completed, you may board the ship as soon as your boarding group is called. You will be welcomed by the wonderful crew then the fun begins! My first stop is usually
Marcelline Market (deck 11) where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Other offerings are available at the
Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods including my favorite: Mickey's Smokestack BBQ. While you are at lunch, take a peek at the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator App to see all the activities taking place around the ship.
After lunch, head to the
Edge, a fun hang-out for sailors ages 11-14. This a cool place for your 11-year-old to play games, watch movies, and meet new friends. There will be an Open House during those first few hours so you can check it out together. During regular hours, kids clubs are age restricted to specific age groups. This is a great chance to meet the youth counselors and find out about all the activities planned during your cruise.
Another place you will want to explore will be the
Senses Spa & Salon. My favorite part of the spa is the Rainforest Room. It is a perfect place to relax during your cruise. Inquire about pricing and spa pass options. There is usually a spa raffle, so enter for a chance to win prizes or even a spa treatment.
You may also want to check out the
Quiet Cove Pool, an area for guests age 18+ (a great place to hang out while your 'tween is at the Edge!) Now this is what comes to mind when you think of cruising! Relax in the pool, order a beverage, or just sit back and enjoy the ocean view.
Your stateroom will be ready around 1:30pm. Although your checked bags may not have been delivered yet, you can head to your stateroom, get your Key to the World cards (which will be hanging outside your room door) and begin to settle in. Your Stateroom Host/Hostess will check-in to see if you need extra towels, blankets, or have any special requests.
That first day of a cruise is truly magical so enjoy exploring the ship and getting ready to set sail. If at any time you have any questions, stop by
Guest Services and they will be happy to assist you and your family, and they will be happy to present you with a "First Cruise" button.
I have attached a video with First Timer Tips that some of my planDisney pals filmed. Take a peek - I think you will find it helpful as you plan for your cruise.
I hope you enjoy your
first cruise! There is a boatload of fun from stem to stern, so take time to enjoy all the pixie dust and magic. Bon Voyage!
Cathy