Navigator of the Seas-03/01/03

[jayne]

Hello--any body on the newest ship Navigator on 03/01/03? we are a family of four, daughter 11 and son soon to be 9 and they are excited about meeting children their own age and not to have to hang out with their boring parents ---Has anyone been on the Altantis submarine excursion in St. Thomas? Is it worth the price? Has anyone been on a sailing/snorkeling package? again was it worth the price? Any ideas on making the embarkment procedure and disembarkment procedure more tolerable for 2 kids that are anxious to be on board and then off the ship to get to our next stop, Walt Disney World? any advice, ideas, tips, must sees would be greatly appreciated. Needless to say---we are very excited about our 1st cruise---thanks in advance. Jayne

Dear Jayne:
Your kids are in for a great time. We were on the Adventure of the Seas last year when my daughter was almost 9 years old and she had a great time. The ships are very similar except that the Navigator's youth facilities will be even bigger than the Adventure! The youth program was great (non-stop activities) and my daughter loved the rock climbing wall, ice show, etc.
As for shore excursions, why don't you consider going to some beaches independently? You may want to read the recent article I wrote that's posted on this family section of CruiseMates.com about family friendly beaches in the Caribbean and Bahamas. You'll save a lot of money by taking a cab to a beach than by purchasing excursions for a family of four. Atlantis Semi-Sub is a fun excursion -- my daughter really enjoyed it.
I'd love to hear how you liked the trip upon your return.
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor
Family Cruise Editor