Christmas Cruise on Jewel of the Sea

[NKsDogWalker]

My grandmother died in 2011 and left our family alittle money. Instead of spending it on something material my mom decided to treat the family to a 5 day cruise. She didn't tell us what cruise line but I did alittle research and figured it out. I am a planner and get major anxiety when I "fly by the seat of my pants" LOL Soooooo.... I know we are going on the Jewel of the Seas for Christmas.

 

I have a few questions:

 

Do they do something special for Christmas? Like a special meal or special Christmas themed shows?

 

My dad hates waiting in line (like makes everyone around him miserable when he has to wait... I get my anxiety from him... lucky me). What is the earliest we can get to the port and get checked in?

 

Any suggestions on where to park at the Tampa port?

 

I am sure I will have more questions before the time comes. The ship is beautiful and I am very excited. Memere (my grandmother) will be watching over us as we enjoy some family time.

[orville99]

My grandmother died in 2011 and left our family alittle money. Instead of spending it on something material my mom decided to treat the family to a 5 day cruise. She didn't tell us what cruise line but I did alittle research and figured it out. I am a planner and get major anxiety when I "fly by the seat of my pants" LOL Soooooo.... I know we are going on the Jewel of the Seas for Christmas.

 

I have a few questions:

 

Do they do something special for Christmas? Like a special meal or special Christmas themed shows?

 

My dad hates waiting in line (like makes everyone around him miserable when he has to wait... I get my anxiety from him... lucky me). What is the earliest we can get to the port and get checked in?

 

Any suggestions on where to park at the Tampa port?

 

I am sure I will have more questions before the time comes. The ship is beautiful and I am very excited. Memere (my grandmother) will be watching over us as we enjoy some family time.

Parking is right across the street from the terminal in a five level garage. We usually get to the terminal around 10:30 and are onboard by 11:45. Santa shows up on Christmas and every kid gets a gift. The ship is completely decorated with a huge tree in the centrum and a gingerbread village by the casino.

[referee]

First, sorry for your loss. I think she'll be happy to know your on a great cruise vacation. I don't know if they have a special dinner or show, but, the ship will probably be decorated in early December. We usually get to the port bet. 10:30 & 11;00 am. If there are no delays, you'll probably be onboard by 11:20. Parking at the port of Tampa is great. You can drop passengers and luggage at porters, and either use valet or drive across street and park yourself.(Personally, we use valet, just a few dollars more and well worth it. IMO)

[bionicman97]

Don't know about Special for Christmas, but the ship will be decorated.

 

We usually arrive at Port of Tampa just before 11am, usually on the ship in less than 30 minutes.

 

We usually use the valet parking, few extra dollars with less hassle.

 

Sorry for your loss.

 

Hope you enjoy your cruise :)

[luvdisney2010]

We sailed in January 2012. We found it rather easy getting on the ship. We got there around 11:00 or so, our wait was about like the PP. It was a very easy process.