Overall, for a family vacation Disney can't be beat. The attention to detail and the service was awesome. The kids (age 6 and twins age 4) had a ball. We were able to utilize the kids club to take a snorkeling excursion with our older child which was really nice. We felt totally comfortable with leaving the kids in the kids club - they enjoyed all the special activities and especially all the surprise visits from the characters! Unlike visiting the parks, we felt this was a great way to experience Disney at a more relaxed pace. It also offered us the opportunity to take a break as a couple. We had connecting cabins - 1077 & 1075 - highly recommend this with parties of 5 - we had more space plus an extra bathroom and it was actually cheaper than a family stateroom. Having an inside cabins was great. We were never there! Plus dark = naps at any time of day and those cabins were at the end of the hall = minimal noise. If you want to have an almost private balcony to read or for happy hour or whatever, go to deck 4 and sit on the padded deck chairs! 5 Quick tips: 1) make Palo a priority!!! it was EXCELLENT! 2) arrive for embarkation early - we got there at 11am and would have been better off at 10am or even earlier 3) enjoy the shows and be sure to sit up front - matinees are a great option if you have young kids 4) on board duty free liquor specials can't be beat 5) use the internet on shore - about 80% cheaper than on the boat!
A few things I was glad I had packed: clothespins (for hanging wet bathing suits on the shower clothesline) ziploc bags, wine, bottled water, walkie talkies (helps to contact other family members on the boat when cell phones don't work!), costumes for pirate night (everyone is into this, including adults!)
ENJOY YOUR TRIP! It goes by way to fast...don't forget to plan in some down time!