Cruise questions

[ksun]

I've been going to Disneyland since I was 5 and am a MK, and have a bunch of WDW trips under my belt but we just booked our first Disney cruise. I'm in a lot of FB groups but I have some general questions

Meals - I know you have a seated rotating dinner. For breakfast and lunch, do you just go to Cabanas (we're on the Dream) or are there other cafes/restaurants to choose from? I know alcohol is extra, but do you pay extra for any food anywhere (besides Palo and Remy)?

I've heard you can bring in beverages in your carry ons (I've read the limit, etc). I've had bariatric surgery so I'm going to want to bring in a few protein shakes since I know my food won't be as balanced as normal and plan to carry some on. Do you just have to take that carry on with you around the ship all day until your room is ready? 

Nassau specific: has anyone been to the Pirate museum? Pirate Republic Brewing? How is the Straw Market?

How often are there characters available? Are they just the basic Fab 5 or more?

I'm sure I'll have more questions.  Thanks!

[wesleycrusher]

For beverages- we brought an 8 pack of seltzer (non alcoholic). We were prepared to carry it, but they offered to take it with our luggage and deliver it to our room, so we did that.

We were not on the Dream, but on the Fantasy you could get soft serve ice cream for free, but the hard ice cream and specialty desserts in the ice cream shop cost money. You also have to pay for popcorn/candy in the theatre and espresso drinks from the cafes.

There were tons of characters- they were out continuously, and their outfits changed throughout the cruise, depending on the character. Marvel characters, toy story, stitch, the princesses, etc.

Certain sit down restaurants were open for breakfast and lunch, if you didn't want the buffet at Cabanas. There was also a quick service type place with walk up windows by the pool with sandwiches, burgers, salads, pizza, etc.