Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Tips for Families

2007-11-24T20:07:00.000-08:00

We wanted to share some tips on Disney cruises and how the whole family can have a blast, enjoy! We didn't realize that they are a great family vacation where your children can have kid fun and adults can do their own thing! Here are just a few of the magical amenities you'll enjoy throughout your trip. Entertainment for all ages, day and night, including spectacular original Disney stage shows.

Just for kids (ages 3-12): oceans of activities and adventures.

Just for teens (ages 13-17): special programs and a "teens-only" hangout.

Just for adults: exclusive areas like a spa and fitness center and other adult handout that you wouldn't think would be on a Disney Cruise ship!

There are 11 decks full of kids programs, teen areas, pools, sports, family fun, plenty of entertainment or relaxation, and more. There's a giant video wall with wireless controllers, private listening rooms with video and audio equipment, flat-screen personal computers loaded with "family-safe" software, animation programs and activities you won't find anywhere else.

Disney cruises also feature family-size staterooms, first-rate kids' programs, a private island playground, and great entertainment including live productions to name a few highlights. The cruise line caters to a niche family market meaning there's no gambling and entertainment is family-oriented and Mickey and Minnie mingle with young guests throughout the voyage.

We learned this firsthand last spring when my own extended family traveled on the Disney Magic. Members of the family who like to be active during the day or party into the night can do so while anyone who gets tired can easily return to the stateroom for a rest without worrying that they're disturbing the fun of the others.

If you are looking for a different type of vacation that the entire family can enjoy, a Disney cruise is certainly one to consider. Besides the beautiful ships and unique dining, they has created an entire vacation at sea with the entire family in mind. With an adults only, teens only, and kids only areas, as well as family events, there really was something for everybody to do.

Only a Disney cruise captivates every member of the family and provides precious time to cherish together. From swim-time fun at Goofy's Pool and festive parties on deck to family-friendly comedians on stage and fantastic game shows in Studio Sea. On board activities to exhilarating onshore excursions, a Disney cruise is all about sharing moments together. Imagine all of the activities included on a family cruise mixed in with magically appearing characters.

They know family time must be balanced with the personal vacation goals of individual family members, so they pride themselves on providing different degrees of family interaction. If you can afford to take your family to Walt Disney World for a week, then you easily have the means to go on a seven-day family cruise without the huge lines and crowds! So for a vacation you'll always remember, take your family, take your love, take yourself and perhaps experience the sheer joy of being a kid again.

Tips for Choosing Disney Cruise Lines!

2007-11-23T18:44:00.000-08:00

Recommended by Voice Of Dingchao

Disney Cruises lines are something you'll never forget, read on to see some difference between the Disney Wonder and the Disney magic!

Disney currently operates two ships: the Disney Magic, which was launched in 1998 and mainly used for 7-night cruises and special itineraries; and the Disney Wonder, which was launched in 1999 and is primarily used for 3- and 4-night cruises. The only difference between the two ships is primarily the itinerary that you choose.

Each ship has a grand dining room as well as others offering different cuisines, along with snack bars that are open from morning to night. The ships are spotless and the delightful staff meet the high standards set by Disney cast members in the theme parks.

Both Disney ships have nightclubs, shops, spas, fitness centers, and kids programs...but no casinos. They have 11 decks and all you'd expect for a "floating resort". Each ship, the Disney Magic cruise ship and the Disney Wonder have 875 rooms and 945 crew on board.

When you get on each ship you get the Disney Mug for 35 bucks then you can drink all the soft drinks for free. Disney's Oceaneer Club for ages 3 to 7 features fun and fantasy in a play area designed like Captain Hook's ship. For teens 13 to 17, both ships feature teen-only spaces for the teens to gather, have privacy, listen to music, watch movies, connect to the internet, or just hang out.

Adults can also enjoy the various nightclubs and lounges that are on both ships and their own private beach at Serenity Bay on Disney's private island, a secluded beach for adults where the only sound is of the waves lapping the shore.

Disney Cruises have the best kids activity area at sea, filling nearly an entire deck of the ship with supervised programs for age-specific groups of children and teens. Don't worry, even while on board both Disney ships have planned activities for kids of all ages, plus there are huge pools and other amenities.

Many individuals, including parents, believe that cruise ships are not designed for children, but that is simply not true. A big plus for families on cruise ships is that youth and teen programs are free from 9 am all day and night.

Disney issues every passenger a "Key to the World" card that allows you unlimited entry and exit from the ship as well as the ability to charge for everything onboard, from merchandise, food, and specialty drinks. Pagers are obtainable to parents with children in the programming areas so that they're never out of reach while enjoying the ship's adults-only areas. The ships have 3 pool areas; kids only pool (NO parents allowed), family pool, and adults only pool with jacuzzi's.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic cruise ships are like floating fantasy resorts, specially designed with clever programming, original dining, outstanding entertainment, one-of-a-kind activities that appeal to kids and adults, spacious staterooms, and impeccable Disney-style service!

By Mike DeJona

Disney's 'Nemo' makes a splash on ice

2007-11-23T03:59:00.000-08:00

If you think fish and ice don't mix, you need to head to Reunion Arena this weekend for Finding Nemo. Disney on Ice has once again crafted a recipe for child-entertaining success, creating a real splash by merging all the right elements in one happy sea.

The costumes are gorgeous. They are outrageously creative, and the vibrant array of colors turns an arena full of ice skaters into an ocean full of familiar aquatic friends. And once you train your vision to look at the fish's eyes rather then the skater's, the illusion is amazing.

The choreography is great fun. Each number has its own vibe, giving personality to the characters and realism to the species. The skilled skaters looked as if they were having an awfully good time, whether precision skating, performing aerial acrobatics or simply spinning, dancing and gliding across the ice.

The show stealer in this production is definitely Dory, from Ellen DeGeneres' familiar voice to the adorable and so characteristically Dory movements as she "swims" all over the big blue. Both the kid and the adult audience members seemed tickled by her witty words and on-ice antics.

The show's design elements brought the audience deep beneath the waves right alongside Nemo and his fine finned friends. The ice is bathed in light, washed in a bounty of blues. A huge projection screen adds both depth and movement. And inventive set pieces change the scenes from ocean to aquarium and back seamlessly.

The prettiest moments in the show belong to the jellyfish. In an almost dreamlike sequence, angelic music plays as Dory and Marlin try to dodge the lovely cotton-candylike creatures. Skaters with swaths of fabric waves take to the ice to the sounds of ethereal music until Dory awakens from her jellyfish-sting-induced snooze.

And that's when the show's most adorable scene begins as the turtles take the ice. And as the giant Crush looks on, Squirt and 11 of his tiny turtle friends "swim" and play and even do headstands in the East Australian Current. They are utterly charming up until the very last moment they ride the waves out of sight.

The show is so much fun. Adults chuckled at the wordplay. Kids oohed and aahed at the giant whale, the exploding "land mines" and the volcanic ring of fire. Disney knows how to create stories that families love and has proved yet again the ability to breathe life into those stories not only on film but also on ice.

Recommended by Voice Of Dingchao.

Disney’s ‘Jungle Cruise’ Takes Shape

2007-11-20T06:03:00.000-08:00

In the same vein as Disney’s transformation of the Disneyland attraction “Pirates of the Caribbean” from ride to movie, Walt Disney Pictures is currently developing the script for a “Jungle Cruise” movie. Box Office Mojo recently talked to WDP Chairman Dick Cook, and he had this to say about the project:

“There will be a family involved. The skipper will play a very important role. He’ll be more of an Indiana Jones kind of guy, with a little Jack Sparrow in him, who’s going to be able to take this family on an adventure that they never dreamed they were going to be on when they first got on board. In true Disney fashion, it will definitely have the adventure and the intensity—but also the heart and the fun. We hope we have a good outline of where we want to go and what we want to do with it in the next year.”

I can only hope that by having a “family involved,” they don’t mean that it will be anything like the absolutely cringe-inducing The Haunted Mansion film. Not Eddie Murphy’s finest hour.

Disney Cruise Activities - What You Can Do On A Disney Cruise

2007-11-17T23:52:00.000-08:00

Kids and teens (especially) often rate Disney cruises very highly as a vacation experience, they have much more opportunity to interact with other children their own ages because there are babysitting and hosted activities for youngsters of all ages available nearly around the clock.

There's always a safe and fun-filled place for the kids while you're enjoying adult activities. Separate areas and activities created for cruisers of every age welcome you to find fun and relaxation in the heart of paradise. Many activities are tied to kids' favorite Disney Characters and stories.

There's a giant video wall with wireless controllers, private listening rooms with video and audio equipment, flat-screen personal computers loaded with "family-safe" software, animation programs and activities you won't find anywhere else. Children have their own games and parties in the Oceaneer Lab and Oceaneer Club, teenagers have dances, sporting challenges, and mixers in Common Grounds, and there are also plenty of adult-only activities.

There's not a lot of drinking, gambling, and singles activities, as you might find on many other cruise lines. Kids who love meeting the characters will find that they show up during children's programming activities, appear at character breakfasts and teas, and are in many of the shows. We were impressed with the way the way the cruises "educational" activities engaged the young cruise passengers, two of which were our children, ages 8 and 7.

You must visit the Tropical Rain Shower for completely decadent spa treatments for one of your "adult vacation" onboard activities. Your kids can enjoy the best entertainment and activities available in the Oceaneer's Club and Lab while you get pampered. The teens love the 24x7 pizza and ice cream, dancing and other activities.

Aboard the Disney Magic or the Disney Wonder, specially designed areas and activities let families play together and separately, creating magical memories that last a lifetime. Just check them into youth activities with trained counselors. I thought I would be leery about letting my children go to the activities without me, but once I got on board I let go of my worries and had a wonderful time!

Castaway Cay is a private island owned by Disney that has gorgeous white sandy beaches and is filled with a plethora of activities for kids and adults alike. YOu can climb the ropes of the aquatic playground, swim and snorkel in the sparkling sea, play volleyball on the shore or in the water - there are more family activities than you can count at this glorious, fun-filled beach.

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Disney Cruise Line Receives Top Honor from Conde Nast

2007-11-10T22:31:00.000-08:00

Disney Cruise Line was recently recognized as the No. 3 cruise experience at the 20th Annual Readers' Choice Awards for Conde Nast Traveler magazine in New York City. Up against some of the most distinguished lines in the cruise industry, the family-focused cruise experience rounded out the top three in the "Large Cruise Ship" category just behind Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas, who placed No. 1 and No. 2, respectively.

The Conde Nast Readers' Choice Awards recognize the best in travel for resorts, destinations, airlines, cruise lines and car rental agencies. This year's results were derived from one of the largest independent polls of travel consumers through questionnaires delivered randomly to readers of the April and May issues. Complete results of the awards will be in the November issue of the magazine, out on newsstands October 25.

Known for bringing family travel to the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line continues to raise the bar on the cruise experience, with specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family, allowing for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The accolades from the esteemed travel community that voted on these awards is a further testament to the success of the

Disney Cruise Line business.

"We are delighted to be recognized by such an esteemed travel community," said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. "This award is a testament to the continued dedication in creating an unparalleled family cruise vacation. Families know they can trust us to provide a quality, immersive Disney experience."

Disney Cruise Line has received nearly 50 distinguished awards and recognitions from the travel industry since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment, to youth activities and spa facilities. Just this year, Disney Cruise Line earned several additional top honors including:

Conde Nast Traveler - Rated the Disney Magic® and the Disney Wonder® in the top 10 of the "Top 80 Cruise Ships in the World" and named Disney Cruise Line on their "Gold List", which recognizes the top 10 in overall best experience.
Conde Nast Traveler - Ranked the Vista Spa and Salon as the #3 cruise line spa.
Porthole Cruise - Awarded Disney Cruise Line with a Readers' Choice Award.
TravelAge West - Recognized Disney Cruise Line with two Editor's Pick WAVE awards for best overall spa facility and best onboard entertainment.
AAA - Awarded Disney Cruise Line with the "Preferred Partner of the Year" designation for surpassing excellence in providing products and services to AAA and its membership.
Travel + Leisure - Ranked Disney Cruise Line No. 4 in the "Large-Ship" cruise line category.

Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry, providing a cruise experience for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children's activities, the ships offer something for every member of the family. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it had not been for the Disney brand.

Just this spring, Disney announced the expansion of its cruise business, signing a contract with Meyer Werft shipyard, of Papenburg, Germany, to build two new ships, scheduled for delivery in 2011 and 2012.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line ventured to Europe, offering 10- and 11-night Mediterranean itineraries to Spain, Italy and France this summer. The extremely successful itineraries created a brand new family cruise experience by combining the history and culture of Europe with the fun of a Disney cruise.

Next summer (2008), Disney Cruise Line will again return to the Port of Los Angeles for another stint of seven-night Mexican Riviera itineraries, following a wildly successful summer in 2005.

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Disney Cruise Line Recognized As A Top Cruise Experience

2007-10-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

Disney Cruise Line continues to gain top honors in the cruise industry, most recently being named to Travel + Leisure magazine's "World's Best" awards.

Based on reader surveys of thousands of world travelers, the Travel + Leisure "World's Best" awards recognize the best cities, hotels, islands, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters and car-rental agencies each year. Disney Cruise Line ranked No. 4 in the "Large-Ship" cruise line category. The ranking was determined from answers given by readers when asked to rate cruise lines on cabins, food, service, itineraries, destinations, activities and value.

Up against industry staples known for the best in cruising, Disney Cruise Line has continued moving up on the Travel + Leisure list each year, earning top honors and further confirming a niche position as a family product.

Disney Cruise Line has received nearly 50 distinguished awards and recognitions from the travel industry, since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment, to youth activities and spa facilities.

Just this year, Disney Cruise Line earned seven additional top honors including:

Conde Nast Traveler � Rated the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder in the top 10 of the "Top 80 Cruise Ships in the World" and named Disney Cruise Line on their "Gold List", which recognizes the top 10 in overall best experience.

Conde Nast Traveler � Ranked the Vista Spa and Salon as the #3 cruise line spa.

Porthole Cruise � Awarded Disney Cruise Line with a Readers' Choice Award.

TravelAge West � Recognized Disney Cruise Line with two Editor's Pick WAVE awards for best overall spa facility and best onboard entertainment.

AAA � Awarded Disney Cruise Line with the "Preferred Partner of the Year" designation for surpassing excellence in providing products and services to AAA and its membership.

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Disney Cruise Line to Offer Magical Express Service

2007-10-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Last week Disney Cruise Line announced that they will now be offering a check-in service for airlines that will allow passengers to get their boarding passes and drop off their luggage before they even leave the ship. The new system began testing the system on the Disney Wonder during the summer, and then they brought the service to the Disney Magic last month. They expect the program to be fully running by the end of year.

Passengers have been able to have bags brought to directly to the cruise ships upon arrival but the new option to have this done on the return trip home is what is really impressive. Having to deal with customs and border protection can be a real headache, but the technology involved in implementing to service is what some, like Craig Mateer, are calling "stunning". Mateer is the president of Bags, Inc., the company in charge of Disney's check-in service. "What you're able to do is, through a satellite system, check in passengers on the ship while they're at sea," he said.

Disney isn't the only one trying out this type of service. Carnival Corp. says that they are trying it out at Port Canaveral. Royal Caribbean is offering a more limited version of the service.

The service will only be available to domestic travelers, just like the Magical Express service. It is also limited to specific airlines. Currently, those airlines participating in both the Magical Express and the Cruise Line include AirTran Airways, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. Jet Blue and US Airways have yet to sign up with the cruise line. They are expected, however, to be signed up within a month.

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Delight in the 'Magic' and 'Wonder' of the Holidays Aboard Disney Cruise Line

2007-09-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

From the happy haunts of Halloween through the revelry of the new year, guests will discover an extra dose of pixie dust aboard Disney Cruise Line this holiday season. From traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts to "snowflake" sightings and seasonal caroling, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will sparkle with the joy of the holiday season.

The festivities begin on the Oct. 27 and 28 sailings, where guests can take part in some Halloween fun. Children will enjoy a trail of candy stations that culminates in a dance party on the top deck and special costume parties in each of the youth activity areas. For adults, there's a dance party and costume contest with prizes for costume categories such as best group, most original and most Disney. With Halloween decorations throughout the ship and scary – as well as not-so-scary – movies playing in various venues, children of all ages will enjoy a uniquely Disney twist on this autumn tradition.

Then, beginning in late November, the spirit of the season will surround cruise guests from the moment they arrive at Port Canaveral, Fla. Disney characters decked out in their finest holiday attire will welcome guests to the lavishly decorated private cruise terminal. Onboard, the festivities continue with special themed activities, decorations, and even a transformed winter wonderland on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

On Thanksgiving Day, guests will delight in a traditional Thanksgiving feast complete with roast turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. After enjoying as much as they care to eat, guests can relax in a deck chair or partake in some of the many shipboard activities such as themed craft projects for the children. To top off the festivities, Mickey and Minnie will don their Thanksgiving costumes.

After Thanksgiving, guests will discover continued holiday cheer along with:

A nearly three-deck-tall tree festooned with decorations in the atrium lobby, where "snow" flurries fall and a tree-lighting ceremony occurs.

A Christmas Day visit from Santa Goofy, with surprises for all the kids.

International holiday caroling by crew members from around the globe (exclusively on the Christmas cruises).

Special family time for designing and decorating gingerbread houses.

A reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by Mrs. Claus.

Traditional holiday feasts in Disney's three themed dining rooms (Christmas cruises only).

Multiple faith and interdenominational holiday services (Christmas and Hanukkah cruises only).

A ship-wide party to ring in 2008 and a New Year's Day tailgate party.

The holiday fun even extends to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. When the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder arrive at the sandy Bahamian isle just after Thanksgiving, the island will be transformed into a Magical Wonderland – a "snowy" holiday hideaway. "Snow" flurries will fall like magic, Christmas trees will glow and carolers will croon. Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, wearing shell noses and tropical attire, will greet guests with a sleigh full of presents. The tram that transports guests across the 1,000-acre island will be reindeer themed, complete with antlers and tail. At the beach, kids can dive into holiday-themed activities that include making candy cane reindeer, paper plate angels and snowflake mobiles.

The festivities begin on the Disney Magic on a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise departing on Nov. 24, and on a special four-night Bahamian cruise leaving Nov. 21. Guests wishing to spend the Christmas holiday onboard Disney Cruise Line can enjoy a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise beginning Dec. 22, or a four-night Bahamian cruise departing Dec. 23.

From an extra treat on Halloween to a magical holiday season Thanksgiving through the New Year, Disney Cruise Line guests will cherish the memories made on board the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.

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Disney Cruise Line flag flies at German shipyard

2007-09-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

The Disney Cruise Line celebrated the official opening of an office at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany this week with a ceremonial hoisting of its colors at the facility’s entrance. For the next five years, the Disney Cruise Line flag will fly at the Meyer Werft shipyard, and full-time Disney Cruise Line Cast Members and Disney Imagineers will work alongside the Meyer Werft team to deliver two new Disney ships in 2011 and 2012.

“This is an exciting time as we take the first step in our new build process” said Frank de Heer, Vice President of New Ship Development for Walt Disney Imagineering. “Meyer Werft’s expertise and fine craftsmanship combined with classic Disney artistry and storytelling will ensure that our ships will be among the finest at sea.”

“This is a special moment for Disney Cruise Line,” said Fabio DiMarco, Director of New Build, Marine and Technical Design for Disney Cruise Line. “We are so happy to be here and fly our flag proudly at the Meyer Werft shipyard.”

“We are honored to welcome Disney Cruise Line to Papenburg,” said Bernard Meyer, CEO of Meyer Werft shipyard. “We look forward to building these magnificent ships with Disney, and together bringing new levels of innovation to cruise passengers around the world.”

Meyer Werft entered into a contract with Disney Cruise Line in April of this year to construct the two new vessels.

Disney Cruise Line currently has two 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder, which each have 875 staterooms. The two news ships will be significantly larger at 124,000-tons with 1,250 staterooms.

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Talk of the Bay: Disney ships could cruise into Tampa Bay

2007-09-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

Disney Cruise Line may move some of its ships out of Port Canaveral on Florida's east coast, and executives have looked over Tampa as a possible home. Disney expects to double its fleet to four ships by 2012. The cruise line likes Port Canaveral as it's the closest to Walt Disney World, which is important because many customers combine three-and four-night cruises with stays at the theme parks. But the cruise line needs to consider other home ports and itineraries for the larger fleet, a spokeswoman said. Disney officials came to Tampa to confirm the port could handle their vessels, said port director Richard Wainio. Tom Wolber, the cruise line's operations chief, told the Orlando Sentinel that Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the nation's No. 1 and No. 3 cruise ports, are "obviously other alternatives."

Urban Bank strays outside its niche

Black Entertainment Television's Robert L. Johnson founded Urban Trust Bank last year with the idea of providing "financial services to diverse and underserved urban communities." But Johnson's first foray into the Tampa Bay market will be in two of its most rural sections: Gibsonton and Palmetto. Urban Trust plans to open two branches in Wal-Mart Supercenters in those two communities in late October. Johnson started Urban Trust by buying and renaming Metro Bank of Orlando last year with the goal of opening 11 branches by 2008.

Stay in touch with your stuff via Web

Want to keep your eyes on your home and business while on vacation? Next month, Eyesthere, a digital security solutions provider, is opening its first independently owned location in the country in Tampa. Eyesthere systems provide 24-hour live video surveillance viewable from any Web browser or supported PDA. The store, at 2019 E Palm Ave., will be the first of 20 planned for Florida. The 1,500-square-foot store will open in mid-October.

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Disney Legend, Ralph Kent, Passes Away

2007-09-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

Disney Legend Ralph Kent, passed away this morning in Orlando Florida.

Ralph Kent, a fan of Disney films since his childhood and dreamed that he would one day meet Walt Disney and work for him. In 1963 his dream came true when he was hired has a marketing production assistant at Disneyland.

He developed market materials for Disneyland's Jungle Cruise, Enchanted Tiki Room and other classic attractions, and went on to create training materials for attractions at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair. In 1965, Walt Disney gave him the honor of designing the first limited-edition Mickey Mouse watch for adults. This was the watch that Walt presented to 25 of his top executives. He also spent time as director of Walt Disney Imagineering East, overseeing Florida staff support for EPCOT Center and Tokyo Disneyland. He retired from the Walt Disney Company in May, 2004 after 41 years, however, he never lost touch with his roots. He continued consulting on special projects. He was inducted as a Disney Legend and has a window on Main Street facing Cinderella Castle.

Ralph was a dear friend to us, and an amazing artist. More importantly, he was a fantastic person. He was always ready with a warm smile and his quick wit. He impacted so many lives positively and his legacy will continue to do the same.

His funeral will be Saturday, September 15, 2007 at the Kingdom of the Jehovah Witnesses Hall in Kissimmee. The address is: 1525 Mill Slough Road, Kissimmee, Florida. Time TBD.

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Disney Cruise Line to double fleet

2007-09-22T00:52:00.000-07:00

Disney Cruise Line is to double in size from two to four ships by 2012.

The new vessels will be significantly larger at 124,000-tons with 1,250 cabins compared with the existing two 83,000-ton ships - Disney Magic and Disney Wonder - which each have 875 cabins.

The ships are to be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg and will be delivered in delivered in 2011 and 2012.

Meyer Werft entered into a contract with Disney Cruise Line in April to construct the two new vessels. The value has not been disclosed.

by Phil Davies
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Disney Cruise Line flag flies at German shipyard

2007-09-22T00:49:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 21, 2007

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You and Your Kids Will Love Cheap Disney Cruises

2007-09-19T16:40:00.000-07:00

Finding a cheap Disney cruise to take the family on isn't impossible—it just takes a little time and determination. A Disney cruise will most definitely keep your kids entertained. As a parent, seeing your kids have days filled with so much fun that they fall exhausted into bed each night is a great experience. And it's made even more wonderful on a Disney cruise because you don't have to pick up after your little ones!

First, remember the general rules for saving money on cruises, because this applies to Disney cruises as well. Ships are highly packed during spring break, the summer vacation period, and around holidays. If you can travel at times other than these, you can almost guarantee yourself some savings.

Try to find a departure port that's less than a day's drive from where you live. No flight needed, no overnight stay. If you do have to fly to your departure port, compare the full cost of the cruise with airfare included against the cost without airfare. Many times you can book airfare cheaper on your own, especially if you have companion tickets or air miles to help defray the cost.

Make a list of what you'll pack ahead of time. Pack layers—an undershirt, a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, and a windbreaker, for example. Lay out the toiletries you'll need, and double-check everything before it goes in the suitcase. Buying toothpaste, sunscreen or sunglasses aboard ship can really cut into your fun money. Take either your own camera or several disposable ones to avoid having to pay for the expensive shipboard photos.

Keep track of what you spend on board! Cruise ships are going the way of the casinos and giving you cards instead of allowing you to pay cash for drinks, gambling, tips and the like. Why? Because it's easier for you to spend money when it's not "real". Besides, with cash you can reward exceptional service or let it be known your attendant can do better, before the trip is over.

But the bulk of your vacation money will be spent on the cruise itself. How do you help keep the cost cheap, while still finding an enjoyable Disney vacation? Do your first searching on the Internet, and be flexible with your dates, if possible. Cruise prices change according to market demand, and even one week's difference in departure date can save a hundred dollars or more per ticket.

Check directly with the cruise provider. Disney itself offers specials on its web page. You can search for various departure and destination locations, and compare prices on different dates. Sometimes great deals, called "Magical Rates" are on the home page. If not, type that phrase into the search box in the upper-right hand corner, followed by your destination ("Magical rates Caribbean") and you'll get a long list of offers.

Check with Disney specialists. They often compile listings of Disney-related bargains, and that can include cruises. Some focus on the parks, but also cruise information.

And finally, don't forget to check Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, Kayak, and the other travel search engines. You may find a hidden bargain there. A cheap Disney cruise need only be cheap in the amount you pay for your family's vacation. The experience will most assuredly be priceless.

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Disney Cruise - Just Why Go On One?

2007-09-08T08:36:00.000-07:00

A cruise is a cruise is a cruise ... right? Well, not quite. With so many options to choose from when it comes to going on a cruise vacation, almost every cruise experience can be very different. That may be especially true of a Disney Cruise maybe largely because of the kind of images the very name "Disney" evokes - images of fun, laughter, playfulness, innocence ...

And that is probably why there is no gambling on a Disney Cruise. That just does not fit in with the Disney image. So if one of the reasons you want to go on a cruise is gambling, then a Disney cruise may not be the right option for you. That, or you have to be willing to forego gambling and explore the ship's myriad other attractions ...

Apart from that, here is ...

What makes the Disney Cruise Special

Kids ! Kids ! Kids ! : Disney cruise ships are all about wholesome family entertainment and on every one of their ships, you may expect to see almost an entire deck dedicated just for activities for kids where they are supervised and can enjoy activities designed for their age group.

Spacious staterooms : You may expect to see spacious staterooms - a lot more spacious than what could be available on other ships. And a very large percentage of these have ocean views and a one and a half bathroom - something that may be an industry first.

A visit to Castaway Cay : Castaway Cay is a private island owned by Disney that has gorgeous white sandy beaches and is filled with a plethora of activities for kids and adults alike. Since this island is reserved exclusively for guests of Disney Cruise, most of the activities are designed to complement the Disney experience.

That is not all - there is even a beach exclusively for kids on the island at Scuttles Cove where they can have lots of fun while being supervised.

And there are lots of activities to engage the attention of your teen too. A teens only coffee house with a large screen TV, a lounge, on board programs on movie-making, photography, comedy and more.

A Disney Cruise is a cruise vacation like no other and no matter what your age is, the chid in you might be delighted by the wonderful experience!

If you really are keen to go on a disney cruise, you might want to reserve shore excursions and other activities online. You might want to check out all the reservations you might want to make beforehand by visiting Disney Cruise's website.

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Disney Cruise - Taking the Magical Family Cruise Vacation

2007-09-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Cruising can be an affordable vacation alternative, and a Disney cruise will offer you a vacation experience like no other. Disney cruises are very popular options for families with children of all ages. Disney also handles the ship as well as the ability to charge for everything onboard, from merchandise, food, and specialty drinks.

Disney's passenger terminals are new and modern, featuring short check-in lines. From swimming at Goofy’s Pool, party events, and the wonderful entertainment available, a Disney cruise is a great family vacation where your children can have their fun and adults can do their own thing. The Disney Cruise is a great option for families, where you can get to see the characters in a smaller setting such as character breakfasts.

Disney has subsequently decided they wanted more control over their cruises and created the Disney Cruise Line offers the most comprehensive and entertaining children programs afloat with over 15,000 square feet of space dedicated to them. Disney Cruise Line ships were designed with specific areas and activities to entertain and delight adults, families and children alike by creating the ultimate vacation experience that every member of the family thinks is especially for them. Disney Cruise Line loves kids also shows it loves their parents that bring them onboard.

Whether you are a first-time cruiser or an expert cruise vacation expert, you really can’t beat the Disney brand. You can’t really compare Disney to other cruise lines, simply because it does so many things differently. With its two smokestacks, long bow and black-and-white paint, it actually looks more like a traditional cruise liner than many of the newer cruise ships. On of Disney Cruise Line's ship, the Disney Wonder, goes round trip from Port Canaveral to the Port of Nassau and to Disney's private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay. Disney cruises are in a class by themselves compared to other cruise ships in its size and class.

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The Disney Cruise Vacation - The Inside Information On All The Fun

2007-09-03T08:20:00.001-07:00

Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned cruise vacation veteran, the Disney cruise is one vacation experience like no other. The Disney cruise line provides an amazing time for kids, but the adults will have just as much fun. While the kids are off enjoying all the Disney cruise ship has to offer, adults can enjoy a nice range of on-board activities, amenities, and areas reserved exclusively for them. The ship is not just a kids romper room, a Disney Cruise is a good option that offers first-rate facilities and activities for every age group.

What about the cost of a Disney cruise?

The Disney cruise allows you to keep your wallet inside your trousers, most things included in its all inclusive Disney cruise package. Cruising can be an affordable travel alternative; a Disney cruise is a fun way for your and your family to either separate or congregate. A Disney cruise package can be far less then some cruises and they will go out of their way to take care of anyone's needs.

What kinds of activities are available on a Disney cruise vacation?

Suffice it to say, you're going to experience some incredible onboard activities. As you'd expect from Disney, families will find special facilities and activities with the Disney Cruise Line, all beautifully executed and played out in precision. One of the best highlights of any Disney Cruise is the exciting day spent on Disney's own private island paradise, Castaway Cay. Get out and stretch your legs and go for a swim on this beautiful mini island paradise. You can choose from a variety of activities for all ages at Castaway Cay to add to your Disney Cruise Line vacation fun.

What about all that cruise vacation food?

One thing that brings many folks to a cruise is the quality and quantity of the food. It's hard to keep your waistline after sampling all the cruise line has to offer from their kitchens. The food is plentiful and diverse and staff is friendly. With food and drinks abundant and overflowing, along with being available 24/7, you can have a glutenous experience.

The Disney cruise is an amazing cruise to experience, and even an amazing all around vacation. The cruise vacation is great for all members of your family and worth looking into. The Disney Cruise is, by far, a vacation experience for young and old to enjoy and have a boat load of fun.

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Disney Cruise Ships Offer Something for the Entire Family

2007-09-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a different type of vacation that the entire family can enjoy, a Disney cruise is certainly one to consider. Of the many cruise lines that are on the ocean today, few can cater to every age and preference as well as the Disney Company can. Disney Cruises makes it possible for even families with young children to enjoy a vacation at sea with complete comfort and entertainment available for everyone. You can take a quick trek to the Bahamas or spend a week in the Caribbean and Mexico. For longer vacations, there are Mediterranean and transatlantic itineraries available as well. No matter where you want to go, Disney Cruises will get you there in plenty of style and fun.

The Ships of Disney Cruises

Currently, Disney Cruises has two ships in its fleet; the Wonder and the Magic. These two ships are sister ships meaning that they are similar in size and structure. The ships were created in the style of the classic cruise liner, and this timeless elegance is found throughout the interior and exterior of the ships. The only difference between the two ships is primarily the itinerary that you choose. In 2011 and 2012, Disney plans to add two more ships to its fleet that will be considerably larger than the current ships. While the Wonder and the Magic hold about 2400 guests, the new ships will hold up to 4000. There has not yet been information about what the itineraries will be for these new additions, but you can bet that there will be considerable excitement when these new Disney cruise ships make their debut.

Unusual Dining on Disney Cruises

One of the features that makes Disney cruises unique is their rotational dining system. Instead of one large dining room, or two matching dining areas, Disney provides three unique dining experiences that are all completely enhanced with the Disney magic. Each night, you get to try out a new dining room to enjoy the ambiance and menus that each area offers. The really exciting part of this rotational dining idea is that your wait staff travels with you to the various locations. So while you are checking out the splendor and beauty of each dining area, your wait staff will come right along side you, remembering your drinks of choice and exactly how you like your food cooked and served. It is truly an advantage for families traveling with children, since the kids never have time to get bored at meals with new things to look at every night!

Besides the beautiful ships and unique dining, Disney cruises has created an entire vacation at sea with the entire family in mind. State rooms are bigger, and there are family suites available to house groups of four or five. Entertainment is consistently up to the Disney standard, and is always family friendly. You will never be at a loss for things to do, or places to see. Try a Disney cruise for your next family vacation and watch the magic come alive.

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Disney Cruise Line Sail Away Party Countdown 09-07-06 Wonder

2007-09-02T07:58:00.000-07:00

The countdown sail-away on the Disney Wonder 10-Day cruise. Shot by my friend, DIZNYLND

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Disney Cruise Vacation: A Child Best Option

2007-09-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

Cruises are becoming more and more popular with families. However, some parents are opting out of cruises for more “traditional” family vacations because of fears that there may not be enough appropriate entertainment or other children on board. Of course, not all cruises are family-friendly, but many cruise lines are now offering cruises especially for families.

What To Do?

Family-friendly cruises should have many different activities planned for children as well. Generally, they will be based on the ages and interests of the children booked. These activities may include pastimes like painting and crafts, learning projects designed to teach the children about the locations that they will be visiting, and time to talk and share with other kids. Most of these activities are designed to be done without parents so the adults will have ample time to do the things they would like to do.

Most family-friendly cruises will offer you the ability to take your kids into pools designed just for them. Or, there will be room for them to run and play. The locations that they stop at may also be fun filled for the kids on board.

If you want to be assured your children are well catered for, take a ride on the Disney Cruise Line.

Sailing with Mickey Mouse and his friends is always a fun for children. Disney goes beyond the call of duty to create magic for the entire family. The ship itself is designed with the Disney fan in mind, with a vibrantly colored ship and many of the favorite things associated with the Disney association.

There is a 15-foot statue of Goofy and Donald Duck on the front of the Disney Wonder, Disney's second cruise liner. The Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic each offer a different ambiance, but is completely Disney-themed.

The shows performed are much like you would see at Disney World and the food on board is delicious, with incredible diversity, but still enough for those picky eaters. Without doubt, Disney Cruise Line creates a wonderful family cruise that is worth every dime.

When you are planning a family vacation with your children, make sure to book a trip that is full of the activities that your kids love. With the Disney Cruise Lines, you are going to find a wide range of activities offered to them but enough to keep you busy as well.

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