The Berm of the Ocean - My DCL West Coast Experience (June 4th - 11th)

[Disneyphile]

Hi all!

I started this over at MiceChat, but wanted to cross-post it here for all of you as well. :D

I won't put a full trip report in one post, because it would take pages, plus several days, and I'm still sorting out my 800+ pictures that I took last week. So, I'm going to report stuff as I get around to it here, and answer any questions.

For starters, let me just say that you know that "WOW" feeling you experience at times? Imagine having that feeling constantly, every minute, for 7 days straight. From the moment I boarded the Magic, she lived up to her name. Once again, I was filled with wonder from days of yore. And that sense of wonder never ceased, not even for the slightest moment.

It was such a true vacation, that I even forgot what my home looked like, probably because I *was* home - there on the Magic. In fact, they even have a "Welcome Home" banner that hangs above the gangway for when you return from port excursions.

I cried when I had to leave. I could easily live there and never want to be any place else. We even joked about stowing away on one of the lifeboats.

By the first day, we made the decision to be on the repositioning cruise for when the Magic returns to the West Coast again (hopefully permanently). We even bought the plastic bank that looks like the ship so we can start saving now, and let the countdown begin. And according to one of the ship's staff, he said there just may be an "announcement" in the next couple months. He wouldn't say more, but just grinned widely with a twinkle in his eye when I told him of our plans to be on the Magic again for her return to the West Coast in the future.

So, what's in a name? With the Disney Magic - EVERYTHING.

[Disneyphile]

About an hour before the ship sets sail, everyone is required to participate in the lifeboat drill. Information is listed on the back of the stateroom doors, including how to wear your life vest and to which location you need to report. Once the alarm sounds, guests must secure their life vests and make way to their assigned locations. Cast Members are stationed throughout the walkways to assist in any questions and direct traffic.

Our meeting place happened to be Animator's Palate. As you can see from the photo below, it was quite the party. Featured are my parents and Frodo Potter, adorned in the finest "safety orange".

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/50725438.jpg

[Disneyphile]

The terminal at the Port of Los Angeles is beautifully adorned, with many bright colors, and golden Mickey head planters. Banners hang overhead, and a mariachi band plays to keep guests entertained while waiting to board. Photos are not allowed in the terminal, except at the designated character area.

We took a moment to have our picture taken with Captain Mickey.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/08e32622.jpg

[Disneyphile]

Here's a rare photo of the ramp leading onto the Magic. This photo exists only because I wasn't aware that the "no photography" rule also applied to the *outside* of the terminal as well. Ooopsie.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/c02f21bb.jpg

[Disneyphile]

The Disney Magic takes up a large portion of the cruise terminal. It can very easily be seen from the Vincent Thomas bridge, and viewed from Ports o' Call village as it sets sail to the Pacific.

Here is Frodo Potter about 5 minutes prior to departure.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/s640x480.jpg

[Disneyphile]

Cocktails are available for $4.75, only $2 more for a larger drink and you get to keep the acrylic "glass" as shown in the photo below.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/8aae6a7a.jpg

DCL also features a different "Drink of the Day" each day for $3.50, and has a 2-for-1 margarita special on Thursday.

All of the drinks use top-shelf liquors (none of that cheap stuff!), and are quite large in size. Non-alcoholic "smoothies" are also available for a cheaper price. A 15% auto-gratuity is also added to each drink to cover the tips for the bartending staff who receive no wages besides tips.

On DCL, soda is free, except at bars and clubs. The Magic features a self-service 24-hour "Beverage Station" located on Deck 9 aft as shown below.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/203e16ab.jpg

The beverage station offers sodas, hot chocolate, coffee, juice, and a variety of teas, all free of charge.

[Disneyphile]

Tuesday night was "Pirates *in* the Caribbean" theme night! All restaurants joined in the fesitivities by presenting each guest with a red pirate scarf and a "treasure map" menu. Frodo Potter and I were prepared for this evening and packed our pirate garb from ren faire. Arrrrrrr!
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/0e22109c.jpg

The servers were also decked out in pirate attire, and performed a conga line/limbo throughout the restaurant, and encouraged guest participation.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/a79c243f.jpg

Here was our head server waving the "official" flag.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/2797afa3.jpg

Later that evening, upon leaving Puerto Vallarta, there was a huge party and show on Deck 9.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/2be9cdb4.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/d6ead5b8.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/05799a0f.jpg

We carried our Captain Kermit and Captain Mickey plush, arranged so that it was Mutiny on the Magic!
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/6f2611f5.jpg

Captain Hook and his "bad" pirates invaded the ship, including a pirate who dropped from a zip line between the two stacks.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/d82d9e36.jpg

The characters came to our rescue by "blasting" Captain Hook with fireworks! The show lasted about 5 minutes, and was launched directly from the Magic. The were so large and close, you could feel the heat from them as they burst!
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/44c6c639.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/ce6a746c.jpg

There was also a late evening buffet on deck that included the best turkey legs ever, plus numerous desserts, fajitas, crepes, and chili! The set-up was completely themed and amazing.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/ae5bc3b7.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/8f060acb.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/ce9914a6.jpg

[Disneyphile]

The Magic is definitely the most beautiful ship on the seas. Here she is, parked behind the Carnival Pride in Mazatlan.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/4982a7d4.jpg

We blew our horn twice while passing them when we left port. Keep in mind the Magic's horn is very distinct and blares the first seven notes of "When You Wish Upon a Star". (It sure gives me chills when I hear it.) They waved back at us and also sang the "Mickey Mouse Club March" in response. At least they were good sports about us being on the "cool" boat.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/4fb0a443.jpg

[Disneyphile]

After passing the Carnival Pride in port at Mazatlan, we passed a large group of local citizens who came out just to see the Magic. Young and old came out to witness us leaving port, and even took pictures. Children waved and jumped, while others just looked on in awe. To me, this was a sobering moment of a real perspective - how lucky we were to be experiencing the dreams that so many will never see happen. It brought me to tears, because all I could think about is how I wish they could all have been on the ship also. And here they were, to wish *us* a Bon Voyage. I actually have this photo in a very hi-res format, and can even see some of the facial expressions on the people. Some were smiling, and some just had that look of inspiration and hope of dreams.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/a1616ea9.jpg

[Disneyphile]

The Magic is just like having a home away from home. I even forgot what our real home looked like within the very first day of the trip! I kept saying that I felt SO at home on the Magic, that I never wanted to leave.

Upon our surprise when returning from a shore excursion, it turns out that Disney feels the same way as I do, and placed a special banner over the gangway.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/c39d5819.jpg

[Disneyphile]

I'll have more tomorrow and the next several days.

Also, if any of you have some specific questions, I'll be happy to answer! :D

[Prudence]

While I'm incredibly jealous of your cruise, my first question is: where did you get your pirate coat?! Was it made for you? Is there a pattern?

[Disneyphile]

While I'm incredibly jealous of your cruise, my first question is: where did you get your pirate coat?! Was it made for you? Is there a pattern?I made it myself. It is a Simplicity Colonial men's pattern that was made without the collar. There are a lot of great patterns out there, that with slight modification can be made into incredible pirate jackets out of just about any fabric. Mine was made from a woven upholstery fabric that I found for 50 cents a yard at a fabric wholesaler. It took less than a day to complete. :D

[wendybeth]

What a fun time! I would love it if they made the West Coast cruises permanent. I 've been hearing rumors that they are seriously considering it, even the Alaska route. Keeping my fingers crossed!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Thanks for the report so far, and the pics!

Our Carnival cruise to Mexico was incredible....I can't imagine how amazing a Disney cruise would be.

[Monorail Man]

Our Carnival cruise to Mexico was incredible....I can't imagine how amazing a Disney cruise would be.


I second that. I loved my trip aboard the Carnival Pride (which is not THAT bad of a ship ;) ). I sure hope it becomes a finalized cruise over here, I'm sure a LoT cruise would be fun! :D

[Prudence]

If they move over to the west coast on a permanent basis, that's going to be my graduation present to myself. I'm starting to save my pennies....December 07/January 08.

[Not Afraid]

Thank you so MUCH for your report so far. I love the pics and it just seems like such an amazing experience!

And, what a great Pirate wench you are! ;)

[libraryvixen]

I love the pictures and the trip report. You and Frodo look happy and relaxed!! :)

Welcome back! :D

[DisneyFan25863]

How Awesome! Looks like you had a blast!

[Kevy Baby]

Your cat doesn't like GusGus's feet.

[surfinmuse]

After passing the Carnival Pride in port at Mazatlan, we passed a large group of local citizens who came out just to see the Magic. Young and old came out to witness us leaving port, and even took pictures. Children waved and jumped, while others just looked on in awe. To me, this was a sobering moment of a real perspective - how lucky we were to be experiencing the dreams that so many will never see happen. It brought me to tears, because all I could think about is how I wish they could all have been on the ship also. And here they were, to wish *us* a Bon Voyage. I actually have this photo in a very hi-res format, and can even see some of the facial expressions on the people. Some were smiling, and some just had that look of inspiration and hope of dreams.

Well-put, Disneyphile.

[Moonliner]

Did you find and any hidden mickeys on the boat? Ya know there must be some.

[Kels]

Wow! Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Looks (and sounds) like you had a fabulous time. Here's to hoping they make the west coast a permanent port. :cheers:

[mousepod]

We cruised Disney in January 2000 and have been longing to return to the Magic (or the Wonder) ever since. Thanks for the great pictures - sounds like you had an amazing time. Now where's the Disneyland -> Tokyo Disneyland or WDW -> DL Paris cruise?

[Disneyphile]

Did you find and any hidden mickeys on the boat? Ya know there must be some.Oh, there are. I have pictures of a few of 'em which I'll be posting later. I'm still sorting through pics and trying to categorize 'em. Hard to do with SO many of 'em. If I didn't have a digital camera, I'd need a second job to pay for all the developing! ;)

[Disneyphile]

Sunday night was Formal Night, and everyone was decked out in their finest, including the characters. Many photo ops were available with several different backdrops, for both professional portraits and self-photos.

Here we are just outside the Walt Disney Theater before the "Golden Mickeys" show.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/4897a00f.jpg

And here's another shot, taken in the main atrium on Deck 3. The entrance to Lumiere's is directly behind us.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b80/Disneyphile/Disney%20Cruise/7953aca5.jpg

I made my dress using a classic renaissance pattern, but with a bit more "modern" flair.

[Not Afraid]

MAN! Your dress is BEAUTIFUL! I knew it when it was just a bolt of fabric :sniff: ;)

[Disneyphile]

MAN! Your dress is BEAUTIFUL! I knew it when it was just a bolt of fabric :sniff: ;)Thanks. ;) It looks MUCH better when I have the skirt pulled down in the back though. I decided to make it extra-comfy and go for an elastic waist, but I forgot they ride up while sitting for awhile. At least there's always photo-cropping!

[Lost Boy]

What a wonderful trip you had. I only wish I could some day sail away on that ship. My sister and I went down to the terminal last Sunday and watched her sail, heard the horn, and watched that incredible pivot in place the ship does to make the turn into the Port Channel. What an amazing sight. And she is huge. I saw her clearly sailing down the channel when we went across the bridge on the way home. Dwarfed everything in the channel. We also saw that boat drill about an hour before she sailed. Then the party started and we could hear the music and DJ from the observation area across from the the ship. Then the countdown, the whistle blew its song, and off she went at 5pm on the dot. Two harbor police boats closed the channel to water traffic so she could come out and pivot into the channel. It all made me wish I was on the ship, instead of outside just watching. I am glad you had a great time and the pictures really show off everything. Thanks for sharing.

[Tito's Kitten]

I have not written on this board in a LONG time so.....

I saw you on the cruise Disneyphile! (Did that sound creepy??) I am the one from the Mouseplanet boards that was going on the cruise the same date you were. I saw you on the cruise several times but I thought it would be weird to be like "hey, I have seen your picture, Disneyphile."

We had such a blast on the trip. I had never been on a cruise before and all I can say is when can I go again? I am glad that you had a great time as well. :)


And why did you not go to the "martini tasting" while we were at sea? The wine tasting and martini tasting were fun activites especially since we did them back to back. ;) Woo-hoo Magic!!!

[alphabassettgrrl]

What amazing pictures! Sounds like it was everything you dreamed it would be! :)

Is it common for cruise ships to pivot in place on leaving a port? Our cruise ship/ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm did that kind of pivot- pulled away from the dock and rotated in place. I watched from the highest deck I was allowed. Later I got onto the next higher two decks, but we had just boarded and I didn't know the routes yet. Plus there were people around who would have told me I couldn't go there. It's pretty odd to watch something the size of a cruise ship turn nearly on a dime... I was also glad the harbor was large enough to hold her while sideways... :)

[Disneyphile]

I saw you on the cruise several times but I thought it would be weird to be like "hey, I have seen your picture, Disneyphile." Aw! I wish you would have! I don't creep-out easily. ;)

We had such a blast on the trip. It was truly incredible, wasn't it? :D

And why did you not go to the "martini tasting" while we were at sea? I can't remember what else was going on at that time - maybe we were in port? But, I remember seeing it on the Navigator and it didn't work into our schedule, but we did want to go. :(

The wine tasting and martini tasting were fun activites especially since we did them back to back. ;) Woo-hoo Magic!!!Hee-hee!!! I brought home 5 souvenir glasses from just some of that "Magic", two of which were acquired during the 2-fer margarita deal on Thursday. ;)

And, more to come soon, folks. I'm actually working on putting all the pictures, video, sounds, etc. on a special website. I have so much, and it's hard to organize it all, so it'll be a multimedia fest of cruising! :D