Any "Dawn" families for march 14?

We are bringing our 5, 9 and 11 year old on the Bahamas cruise March 14, 2004. Does anyone recommend booking the dolphin encounter online? (What then happens if they switch days in the Bahamas as they sometimes do according to the seas..is your money gone because it's not protected by the cruise ship?)
Also, does anyone know if the pools are available to swim in immediately out of New York..even in the cold? The kids love this idea!!

We walked around the entire ship our first night out of NYC, exploring, and we didn't see anyone swimming, but then, it was SO cold! But we didn't see anyone there to stop people from swimming. There are jacuzzi's in the pool area, nice and warm, but still, when you get out!!!! We DID see folks using them. Can't believe your kids would want to swim, especially in this frigid weather! Hope it warms up a bit for your voyage out. Have a great time! The Dawn is such a lovely ship!!!

[disneylynn]

Hi OB
We did the dolphin encounter and it was the best thing we did all week.
Try and book it through the ship early . You have 24 hours to cancel.
I think you have to be 6 years old to get in the water .( watching is still real fun)
It cost $30.00 to watch.
The boat ride over is beautful.
Your kids will have a great time.
p.s. bring a underwater camera
Lynn

We will be sailing on the Dawn on 2/29 with 4 adults and 4 toddlers! I was wondering how to pack? Is it very cold on the first day at sea or does it warm up a bit? Also, when does it start getting cold again on the way back?

DId your children go to the Kid's Club? Any information would be greatly appeciated!

Thanks,

Andrea