<p>DH and I took a 3-day Carnival cruise 2 weeks ago. I was worried that there would be too many spring break partiers. While there were some, they were a fairly small group that kept to themselves. The passengers were actually a very diverse group any way you looked at them - age, nationality, etc. There were a wide variety of activities from waterslides and mini-golf to art auctions. I think Carnival has changed from its party reputation, but a lot of people don’t realize it yet. The “elegant” night was still pretty informal. Despite what cruise critic says, we didn’t need a tux and evening gown. The only add-ons were drinks and the tip. I found it to be far more economical than an all-inclusive resort.</p>
<p>Novelisto -</p>
<p>When I went on the Disney Cruise, there was one beach option for families on the private island and it was literally crammed with people. Like a public beach in a major metro area (not the landscape, of course, just the number of bodies per square foot). There were a few activities, but nothing special. I have no knowledge of another option for adults, since I went with children (probably like most people who go on Disney cruises).</p>
<p>As for the steerage leaving the boat each morning, whether we signed up in advance or later than we should, leaving a huge cruise ship for any excursion in the morning is like entering a stadium for a major league football game. Sometimes you might hear people make a “mooooo” sound in the crowd, for fun. When you exit, you then get to jump on a bus, shuttle, or into a cab to extend yourself even more before relaxing. This might be OK for certain travelers, but it is an important image for newbies to consider. I am unaware of any major cruise line with big ships that has multiple ways to exit the boat at port in the mornings. </p>
<p>As for walking three or four streets away from the dock-areas, travelers will not find even close to the most charming parts of most desirable island destinations. I have been to many islands in the Caribbean, and this is my two cents. As for pricier options like Seabourn, I was sufficiently turned off after the Disney cruise never to try any of them. I do not remember, though, that the Disney prices were particularly inexpensive. I am confident that travelers sensitive to crowds can find much more upscale ways to travel involving land alone for the same price or less. I think certain types of people like cruises. I am not among them.</p>
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<p>On the private island, my kids wanted to go to the Kids Club because they were having some kind of treasure hunt (they were pretty young when we went), so we went to the Adults only side of the island. You have to take a little train to get over there. It was HEAVEN, quiet, not crowded, very very nice. I didn’t notice the family beach being as overcrowded as you are describing, but we cruised Disney in 2000. Hard to believe it was that long ago!</p>
<p>We had a great cruise on Disney, but spideygirl is right, it is one of the pricier cruises.</p>
<p>I like cruising once in a while. DH does not care for it at all.</p>