First timers with 7 yo twins- excursion ?s and more

[nmjunko]

Hi-

We just booked the Explorer of the Seas for April 26, 2003 (last minute thing). We go to Labadee, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.

As a first time cruiser on a budget, I'm petrified that we are going to spend a huge amount of money on extra expenses! Like, the soda cards- is it one per person or per family? And excursions- I'm trying to keep those costs low, too!

The kids are strong swimmers, so we will be doing the sting rays in Grand Cayman and snorkeling at Chankanaab. We have our own snorkeling gear, so that will help a lot, I hope! Maybe, maybe the dolphin encounter- if it's not sold out- still not sure about that.

Do you have suggestions that aren't too expensive for the other ports? My daughter also wants to get her hair braided- how much is that and where is the best place to have that done? How long do the braids last?

Any other tips for saving money (besides not going on a cruise in the first place )

Thanks so much!

-June

[Nanatravel]

You have chosen a nice itineary for first timer with children:
Labadee: no expenses need to be incurred here. Relax, snorkel from shore with your equipment. lounges are free, food buffet is free and there should be punch, lemonade and possibly iced tea at the Buffet Pavilion. Since this sounds like your 1st. stop at RCI's private island, your daughter may wish to get her hair braided here. Bring your own comb. They charge by the braid (you may wish to just have a few done in front). Average cost is $2 per braid (I believe). This process may hurt, so make sure she really wants to have it done!
Ocho Rios- this is the only port where I would spend the extra money on a ship's tour - Dunn's River Falls is highly recommended. The kids will love it. The water may be cold, but the air will be warm.
Grand Cayman - contact Capt. Marvin or Capt. Brian on line to reserve their private tour. It will cost you a lot less. They will provide the snorkel equipment if you don't go out and buy it or want to take it with you. If you have time after Sting Ray City, just take a taxi to Seven Mile beach and get let off at one of the hotels.
Cozumel - take a taxi @ $12 one way per taxi not per person to Chankanaab. Pay admittance ($8 pp??) and have a great day. Keep in mind the sun will be really hot. Go early and return to the ship for a late day lunch. You can then go into town for shopping if you still have any energy left! If you decide to skip the park, then you could taxi or rent a car to Playa San Franciso beach. Just ask the driver to return for you at a specified time.

Soda Card is per person. Skip it and bring sports water bottles for everyone. There will be juices, punch and lemonade available free at the buffet area. Fill your bottle with ice then juice at the buffet area.

Arcade expenses: Although the twins are only 7, I know my grand kids love the games. This will add up quick. Johnnie Rockets and Ice cream treats may be additional charge too.
Bon voyage

$

[LisaK]

i agree totally with Nana, she has some great ideas. You might want to purchase the soda card for yourself, you can buy one card and get one soda at a time as many times as you like.

Do book the excursions on your own as you save money and first rate trips with fewer people.

In Grand Cayman we did both a beach horseback ride and stingray city, both were great excursions. We booked with Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions Guide and the coordinated them for us.

[nmjunko]

Thanks everyone! You've been really helpful!

-June

I'm the family cruise editor here. I suggest reading my article "Back to the Beach" on this site for suggestions on beaches to go to independently versus spending tons of money on excursions sold through the cruise line. Why don't you buy a Caribbean guide book and do a little research on what you can see on your own in the each port rather than just booking shore excursions which get very expensive for a family of four.
Your 7 year olds will love the Explorer -- so many active, fun things to do! My daughter has been on 12 cruises and she loved the Adventure's (sister ship) youth progrma the best.
SMooth sailing!
Luisa Frey GAynor