We picked a date from those available to us that would be as close as possible to schools and colleges being out for the summer. This enables more freepers to sign up for a nice family vacation.
We planned great lead time for this cruise/conference so that working freepers could have more than ample time to make their vacation choices for next year with their employers.
We evaluated weather considerations. Late May is not hurricane season! Swimming, snorkling and all water sports will be in warm, toasty water. I've been on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman at a time of year when the water was not comfortable temperature-wise. Tourists were sunning on the beach, but only a few hardy Europeans and little kids with no nerve-endings were splashing around close to shore.
The cruise committee did a great job in selecting this particular voyage and date. Judging from the replies here and the email/freepmail we're receiving, we rang the happy-bell with most folks!
Leni