A fun time!
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 4/26/10
My family just concluded a three-day cruise on the Disney Wonder and decided to take part in the Stingray adventure. It was definitely something that would interest our two beach and science-minded boys (4 and 7) and the price was reasonable. We had read reviews and were a bit anxious about a sand flea attack, but decided to take the risk: it paid off.
From start to finish, it was a positive experience. We were prepped and informed by the Disney team before they entrusted us to the Blackbeard crew, who courteously and quickly led us to the Coral II, a somewhat weathered yet clean and well-maintained ferry that departed on time. We were fortunate to be a in small group of 45, so we were easily able to find seats and enjoy the 30-minute ride.
Once we arrived at the island, we were kindly greeted by the Stingray team of about 3 people and were encouraged to find chairs. The beach was clean and the water was absolutely beautiful. After my family and I situated ourselves under a palm tree, we were called to the protected lagoon where the rays were penned. The snorkels and vests were in good working order, clean, and neatly arrayed on tables. The process of getting into our gear was painless, and the team gave us helpful pointers and safety tips.
There were many rays swimming in the feeding lagoon, all de-barbed, and they seemed to know lunch was coming. The feeding was exciting, a little nerve-wracking for wimps like myself, but my children had a blast. They attempted tos snorkel, too, and were amnazed at how many fish were circulating about the lagoon.
After spending 30 minutesd with the rays, lunch service began. It was simple fare, hot dogs, burgers, grilled chicken breast sandwiches and chips, but the eating area was clean and well-swept, and the one person in charge of the food preparation worked expediently.
We spent very little money on the island-just $12 on drinks at the "Bacardi Bar", although there were the usual tourist sundries for sale. In addition, I recommend that you bring cash-we charged the drinks and somehow circumvented the "$50 charge minimum".
This was a happy, relaxing, well-priced day trip that lived up to its promises. And there was not a sand flea or fly in sight on the April morning we visited the island.