CraftyNeighbor

Hi, I am considering a transpacific cruise with a friend on Quantum of the Seas this September-October. This is a DREAM CRUISE for me, but I have a lot of questions! 

• Other than it being twice as long as my previous cruises, what other considerations do I need to keep in mind?
  • How many formal nights?
  • What's the weather like?  Is it safe to pack shorts onboard?
  • Will it be warm enough to swim onboard?
  • What items that I don't normally take on a 7-night cruise will I wish I had?
• This cruise has stops and ends in Japan.
  • Is there a way to find out the range of costs for excursions? I can't seem to find anything on RCCL's website unless I'm already booked
  • What will the weather be like in Japan in October?
  • Are there any special considerations I will need to keep in mind as a tourist in Japan?
• Anything else you can add that would be helpful would be greatly appreciated! 

This will be my first long cruise, and of course my first repositioning, so I'm a little nervous to book it, but it's something I've wanted to do for a long time and the price is so tempting!

Thanks in advance!

Thanks FunSunSea!

We are on the northbound, but I'm sure it will be the same!  Thanks!

Thanks for the info!  Is there only ONE "dress up or not" night? 

Can someone tell me which night is the "White" night on the Jewel?  Also I know there are no "formal" nights, but there is still a dress-up night, right?  When is that?  Trying to plan for our group.