Well what we did was we reserved meeting space or conference rooms

On the first night I usually set up a meet and greet that lasts for about an hour or two. People can eat a little (not much) and then head on over to dinner. This is a good time to do recognitions and rememberances as well

On longer cruises(7 or more days) I go ahead and ask my clients if they want to spread the family gatherings out. So one day to meet and greet, another to do recognitions and rememberances, and even to do a farewell party so that people can exchange numbers and the like.

I always, always, always recommend that you start planning about 12-18 months ahead. The prices will be much lower and there is still plenty of availability