Hi, I have been lurking for about a month and have thoroughly enjoyed reading the different threads. The useful information is abundant.
I have requested a crib for our 2.5 yo but wonder how much room that will take up in our room? We have a balcony guarantee. Any thoughts on this (besides putting the crib on the balcony,

)? He could sleep on the sofa bed without a problem but we would need a bedrail and they only offer those for the top bunk. I am considering bringing my own bed rail. Thougths on this?
I have read that some folks ask the steward to put the beds together, is this something I should do before hand via phone? Can I also ask them to clear out the mini bar so I can keep some snacks and milk in there for the kiddos or is it better to bring a small cooler for that stuff? My steward is going to get a fat tip, trust me!
The only other thing that freaks me out is leaving the kids onboard for a port of call. We would love to do this for one day but I am petrified that we will be late and they will sail off with our children (on certain days, I may consider this a blessing!

). Am I a freak for worrying about this?
Many thanks,
krc
Sailing on 11/15 from San Diego!