ThyriC

First of all, you're doing the right thing by ASKING QUESTIONS!  No question is too often asked, no question is too silly.  ASK!  The people on these forums are super nice and really do want you to enjoy your vacation!
Secondly.  Immerse yourself in @Matt 's videos and vlogs.  https://www.youtube.com/user/RoyalCaribbeanBlog/videos  This is a great resource for many commonly asked questions by first time cruisers and Royal Caribbean veterans.  
Thirdly come up with a communication system for all of your people.  Be it postit notes, whiteboards, using wifi calling/instant messaging, smoke signals, whatever.  Come up with a communication system among your people.  That way you can let them know if plans change.  Maybe you want to go to the comedy act but others want to go to the pool deck... and then your plans change to going to karaoke.  Set a postit note in the cabin or on the cabin door saying you're at a different location, or text each other saying the plans have changed.  Set a designated meet up spot.  Be it the pool bar, the windjammer, a restaurant, whatever.  Set a meeting spot so you know where to go to assemble your tribe.  
Fourth, Be organied.   Get a binder to keep you organized.  To keep your receipts for excursions, travel documents, receipts for anything, ideas of things to do onboard, whatever.  But keep your binder and keep it organized.  There are 3 ring folders or sleeves to use as tabs and pockets to organize documentation.   Personally with my cruise documentation I like having in multiple places.  One copy in my checked luggage, the originals in my binder, and pictures or scans of the originals emailed to myself.  That way in case anything happens to the most important documents, copies are readily available.  I like also keeping my packing list in the binder.  That way I know what I packed so I know what I should have when I leave.  I might be a little overorganized when it comes to packing but I'm an organizing nut.  I do the same with my charging cords.  I label them.  I have a little checkin, checkout system in a cable organizer that way I dont leave behind a charging cable.  I use packing cubes to keep my clothing and cosmetics etc organized and separated so packing up everything becomes a breeze with just packing the cubes and then depositing the cubes into my luggage.  
Fifth.  Set a spending limit for the teens.  I'd limit their seapass cards personally but that's up to you how you handle the teens and the seapass cards.  This is just so you dont get any surprise charges on your account due to the arcade or drinks or gifts or whatever.  
Sixth.  Ask questions!  And when you think you've asked too many questions, ask MORE questions!

If you've prepaid your gratuities and excursions, and you know about the drinks, be aware that they add 18% gratuity to the drinks that you purchase onboard.  
Only other extras would be specialty dining, extras that you'd get in the MDR (lobster and surf and turf can be extra), drinks in souvenir cup, souvenirs in general, extra tips that you may choose to give on those drinks you buy (over the automatic 18%), in room pay per view movies, room service surcharge and tip, any laundry or dry cleaning, special onboard experiences that have a charge.
 
But in terms of "hidden charges" if you've prepaid the gratuities and excursions, only what you choose to charge to your seapass card will appear on your final invoice.  You can keep an eye on your seapass account on your television to be sure, and then if something appears that you dont expect, dispute it with the customer service desk when you see it, rather than at the end of the cruise when there would be a long line. 
 
Wanted to add this video from @Matt 
 
 

I'm a big fan of pretty much any "tiki drink".  So your Painkillers, Zombies, Scorpions, Mai Tais etc.  They just scream "vacation!" to me.  
One of the fun things you can try with the DDP is, try a new beverage!  You say you're not a fan of vodka, but dont let that limit you.  Maybe there's a cocktail with vodka but its a secondary ingredient or its made with a combination of juices that overpower the peppery vodka taste.  Give it a go!  I'm not a big whiskey fan, but I use the DDP to try whiskey or gin cocktails that I wouldnt normally try at a bar only to not like them.  And dont be afraid to try something you've never heard of before.  Never tried a Dark and Stormy?  What better time to try one than with your DDP!  Use it to sample cocktails, and you can ask for them in a smaller glass if you're concerned about wasting.  
Another thing you can do with your cocktails that you DO know you like is amp them up with your favourite spirit.  So you say you like gin.  Ok so maybe have that tom collins made with bombay sapphire or other fave gin.  Like the lava flow with Kraken rum (its a game changer I swear there's something magical about Kraken rum)
Afraid of getting a little too buzzed?  Dont feel the alcohol pressure all the time and ask for a non alcoholic version of your favourite poolside frozen drinks.  Virgin daiquiri, pina colada, lava flow, etc.  
Dont forget the water!  A good strategy to prevent hangovers and getting too intoxicated with the DDP is make a rule for yourself.  1 bottle of water per drink.  It will slow you down and will keep you hydrated while drinking.  It also tends to fill you up as well so you dont overindulge in the alcohol.  Helps prevent DDP fatigue as well.  

I'm a big fan of pretty much any "tiki drink".  So your Painkillers, Zombies, Scorpions, Mai Tais etc.  They just scream "vacation!" to me.  
One of the fun things you can try with the DDP is, try a new beverage!  You say you're not a fan of vodka, but dont let that limit you.  Maybe there's a cocktail with vodka but its a secondary ingredient or its made with a combination of juices that overpower the peppery vodka taste.  Give it a go!  I'm not a big whiskey fan, but I use the DDP to try whiskey or gin cocktails that I wouldnt normally try at a bar only to not like them.  And dont be afraid to try something you've never heard of before.  Never tried a Dark and Stormy?  What better time to try one than with your DDP!  Use it to sample cocktails, and you can ask for them in a smaller glass if you're concerned about wasting.  
Another thing you can do with your cocktails that you DO know you like is amp them up with your favourite spirit.  So you say you like gin.  Ok so maybe have that tom collins made with bombay sapphire or other fave gin.  Like the lava flow with Kraken rum (its a game changer I swear there's something magical about Kraken rum)
Afraid of getting a little too buzzed?  Dont feel the alcohol pressure all the time and ask for a non alcoholic version of your favourite poolside frozen drinks.  Virgin daiquiri, pina colada, lava flow, etc.  
Dont forget the water!  A good strategy to prevent hangovers and getting too intoxicated with the DDP is make a rule for yourself.  1 bottle of water per drink.  It will slow you down and will keep you hydrated while drinking.  It also tends to fill you up as well so you dont overindulge in the alcohol.  Helps prevent DDP fatigue as well.  

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

All comedy shows, Love and Marriage, Quest... all FUN!
and my DH ends most evenings with a walk on the topmost deck to waltz me around humming our first dance song from our wedding under the stars.... it is magic. 

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

Don't miss the pier runners. It's an additional show that is complimentary.

My addition .... Disconnect!

Put the phone in your safe (or airplane mode if you must use it as a camera) and enjoy the company of whomever you're with. If sailing alone then go make some friends for the rest of the trip and enjoy their company.

This is so wonderful to hear.  Not that the money that they pledged wasnt already wonderful, but now the delivering of aid and the personal notes from passengers, that's just so heartwarming.

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

...the artwork around the ship. Take a different staircase, visit a floor you wouldn't normally have to go to (the artwork is unique to each ship).
...an opportunity to connect with a crew member . Yes, they are busy, but many enjoy the opportunity to share with you something that they are interested in or love.

I'm going to join in the chorus of Enjoy the sea.  Watch a sunset over the open ocean.  Watch a sunrise over the open ocean.  Meditate  (ok that's a little spiritual, sorry, its a thing I do) on the vastness of the open ocean when you're nowhere close to land.  Its absolutely awe inspiring that I get on every ship I've ever been on.  
Also, find a quiet spot on the ship.  You may have to search for one.  Maybe its the library, maybe its a nook off of the centrum, maybe its the solarium.  Maybe its in one of the specialty restaurants.  Maybe its the art gallery.  No matter the place, find a place to get away that's not your room, and its at least semi quiet.  Have a conversation about your trip, what you've done, who you've met.  Its amazing that in all of the hustle and bustle of a cruise so many forget to just take time to reflect on those experiences.
I'd also suggest, dont miss formal night.  Yes its adult prom.  But I love it.  No matter the cruise line, no matter specialty unlimited dining packages, take time to enjoy formal night.  Take pictures.  You dont get this moment many times anymore as an adult.  So make the most of it.  Get in those suits, get in those sparkly or flowy dresses or pantsuits.  Have FUN at adult prom.  Its 3 hours of your life.  Suck it up for 3 hours and then you can put on your track suit again.  

Beers tend to run around 6-8 dollars each (before the 18% gratuity that WILL be added to all bar drinks).  Wine can run the complete gamut from about 8 dollars to a ship load of money.  "basic" mixed drinks (well spirit and coke, well spirit and juice) run about 8 dollars, and "deluxe" mixed drinks (think your pina coladas, margaritas, etc) are 12-14.  
Usually the daily alcoholic beverage number you want to hit is 5 drinks per day to make the drink package "worth it".  Of course you can complicate your math with specialty coffee, sodas, mocktails, bottled water, fresh squeezed juices, etc.  
For many here on the forums, the value of the deluxe beverage package is more in the buy now and pay off your credit card over time peace of mind factor than it is being a raving group of alcoholics.  Drink package fatigue is a thing, and while you may be able to pound down 5 beverages on your first day, can you do that for the duration of your sailing?  On non sea days when you're in port longer than you're onboard the ship enjoying that beverage package?   The refreshment package (the middle one, not the just soda package) tends to be a popular option for those who may only want 1-2 alcoholic beverages a day and may be one that works for you.  Mocktails by the pool are just as tasty as their alcoholic counterparts and dont come with the drink fatigue that can come with the deluxe beverage package.
Also, your magic number for the deluxe package would be around 48 dollars per person, per day, before gratuity.  That is a good price.
 

Our best cruise was Halloween on Grandeur last year .....
 
 

@SpeedNoodles Note to self...don't book NCL...they don't carry enough food to last the duration of the cruise plus a couple extra days or People like to eat on that cruise line and will fight your for food. ? This will be a 10 Round bout for tonights meal..loser gets table scraps..Introducing in this the corner...Skinny Tim for the red corner and bubba Joe for the blue corner. ?

Beers tend to run around 6-8 dollars each (before the 18% gratuity that WILL be added to all bar drinks).  Wine can run the complete gamut from about 8 dollars to a ship load of money.  "basic" mixed drinks (well spirit and coke, well spirit and juice) run about 8 dollars, and "deluxe" mixed drinks (think your pina coladas, margaritas, etc) are 12-14.  
Usually the daily alcoholic beverage number you want to hit is 5 drinks per day to make the drink package "worth it".  Of course you can complicate your math with specialty coffee, sodas, mocktails, bottled water, fresh squeezed juices, etc.  
For many here on the forums, the value of the deluxe beverage package is more in the buy now and pay off your credit card over time peace of mind factor than it is being a raving group of alcoholics.  Drink package fatigue is a thing, and while you may be able to pound down 5 beverages on your first day, can you do that for the duration of your sailing?  On non sea days when you're in port longer than you're onboard the ship enjoying that beverage package?   The refreshment package (the middle one, not the just soda package) tends to be a popular option for those who may only want 1-2 alcoholic beverages a day and may be one that works for you.  Mocktails by the pool are just as tasty as their alcoholic counterparts and dont come with the drink fatigue that can come with the deluxe beverage package.
Also, your magic number for the deluxe package would be around 48 dollars per person, per day, before gratuity.  That is a good price.
 

According to Marinetraffic, Grandeur is past the turn to Newport News.  Looks like she's coming back home.

Update on our beloved Lady G ---- She's outside the mouth of the Chesapeake .... looks like she may be stretching her proverbial legs and working out all the kinks..... that's very good news for the folks due to leave on Thursday.
Now, will Dorian become a factor?  Time will tell .... All of us Lady G fans remember all too well,  what happened when Matthew came through ....
A lovely day in Manhattan (as opposed to Bermuda) - that's what happened.  Not to mention the clusterf%^k when the ship had to leave early because the impending closing of the bay itself.  It was called, leave now, or we're not going anywhere.

I would if I could, although, I might break a hip.  Right now she's meandering in the Patapsco River while the Carnival Pride turns over it's passengers.  Perhaps this could be a blessing in disguise considering the projected path of Dorian as it moves north.  You wouldn't want to be on a ship that's limping along when the sea is churning.

The dogs are looking for fruit. It really is such a shame that they have to throw out big garbage bags of fresh fruit that people take form the ship....we see this every time we visit Cozumel.
 

Watching cruisemapper, I've been confused by a LOT of Carnival's decisions with its ships that were in the hurricane's path. With Sunshine, Pride and Fascination.... I mean I'm sure Carnival doesnt want its passengers to have a bumpy ride or a crazy trip, but man those ships were really close to the storm's path