Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Competition on the High Seas!

There's been a lot of buzz this past week regarding what Disney character you are most like. Many chose a Princess, a good number picked from the "Fab Five", and there were even a few unexpected choices like Tramp and the Cheshire Cat. This got me thinking, and I'm glad the Cruise Line Mom application did not ask, because I don't think Gaston would be the most flattering choice, but let me explain. Gaston can be described as egotistical, self-centered, arrogant, rude, I could go on. However, I look at him as driven, focused and very competitive, which is actually the point of this post, COMPETITION!


I am competitive. There, I said it. If you want to get me motivated, just say "I bet I can do this better that you, or faster than you", whatever. It's on baby! This trait runs through my family, so when the 3 generations are all gathered, look out! The rivalry does not end at home, oh no, we take it on vacation. Fortunately, the Disney Cruise Line offers many outlets to match brains and brawn, within our family, and against other cruisers.

Brawn:

  •      All four ships offer a sports deck. Up on the top decks you will find a netted off area complete with basketball hoops, soccer goals and a volleyball net. Bring your family or join in a pick up game while enjoying the breathtaking view. If you are sailing on the Fantasy or Dream, the Goofy Sports Deck also offers mini golf and sports simulators.
  •     You don't really need much brawn for these games, but they are my family favorite; shuffleboard, ping-pong and foosball. We spent hours on Deck 4 showing our teens how the game of shuffleboard is done, and they in turn cleaned our clocks in foosball. Our wins cancelled each other out, no bragging rights here.
  •      Deck 4 has a jogging track. Early mornings, this spot is crowded with the serious runners, followed throughout the day with people like me who "walk with purpose". Just try to pass me, I dare you! If you keep a sharp eye out, you may even see Commodore Tom running the deck incognito. OK, I confess, he did lap me darn it.
  •      Saving the best competition for last, the Castaway Cay 5K, and it's FREE!  Runners are let off the boat first, get a quick photo with Goofy and then off for a run/walk to parts of the island many never venture out to see. The run takes you down the airstrip, around the bike path and to the adult beach. Take in the beautiful surroundings mixed in with themed Disney touches such as treasure chests, cannons, and "abandoned" ship parts. This is a timed race, just in case you wanted a little side wager with your family or friends.
Brains:
  •      Trivia. Every day there is one or more trivia contests. The family games are all themed; Disney Trivia, Ultimate Disney Trivia, Disney Music Trivia...you get the idea. Even though it's for adults and kids, there are still quite a few difficult questions. Did you know Donald Duck has 3 nieces? Do you know their names? Let's just say no points for us on that question. Adult trivia has a broad range of topics from 80's music (we rocked that category) to movie quotes to  pub quizzes. I was very disappointed not to win any adult contests, until the host announced the team that kept winning was on the second half of their back to back cruise so they have heard all the questions before. I demand a rematch!!!
  •      Get loud and crazy with your family at one of the many games or contests you can find on all of the Disney ships. There is sure to be something for everyone. Show off your wicked moves at the Family Dance Party, juggle flip-flops at the Family Talent Show or sing a song at Family Superstar Karaoke. However, if a trophy or medal is what you're after, then head over to Family Fusion, Mirror Mirror, or So You Think You Know Your Family. If you plan on bringing home the bling, better bring speed and your Disney knowledge.


  •      Even the youngest cruisers get in on the competition with Jack-Jack's Diaper Dash. A 20 ft crawl across the atrium on a padded mat, and a DCL bib to the winning baby. So much cute in one place. I don't know if it's more fun to watch the babies or the parents trying to get their child to move in the right direction, or at all for that matter.

Even after all the trash talking is done and bragging gets old, there are still plenty of laughs and hugs to go around. After all, there are no losers on a Disney cruise, just winners in training.


Kelly is a Disney Gal who loves finding fun and adventure on the High Seas aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Whether it's pampering, parasailing or the unlimited Diet Coke, she enjoys all the ships have to offer. She is currently wearing down Commodore Tom to allow her to blow any of the ships' musical horns. As of now, he is disinclined to acquiesce. To learn more about Kelly, click here.

5 comments:

  1. Great post Kelly! I love all of the activities that you guys get involved with on your cruises. Getting the family together for a little friendly competition is a memory maker for sure!

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    1. Thanks Tricia! Forgot to mention my son's absolute favorite, the "I bet I can eat more ice cream than you" contest.

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  2. Just love this Kelly!! Can't wait to go on a Disney Cruise! We are so blessed to have you as our DCL specialist!

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    1. Aww, thanks Gayle! <3 As soon as you can, grab your kids and grandkids and be prepared to sail on the trip of a lifetime!

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  3. Loved your post Kelly! Although you think of "things" like this being available on the cruise you don't really take the time to learn about them. This was a great tutorial, thank you!

    Suz

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