disney cruise family of the day

• Disney Cruise Line

Family of the day and magical family

By Bingo Heeler , May 27, 2023 in Disney Cruise Line

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Bingo Heeler

How do families get be pick to be family of the day and first on the Disney cruise ship during the check in at cruise terminal port. Also how families pick to be magical families on the Disney cruise ship.  I'm Saving to go on the 7-Night Western Europe Cruise from Southampton on September 1st to September 8th 2024 and staying in 1 bedroom suite stateroom concierge with myself mum. This would our second disney  cruise but the first Disney dream cruise ship on 7-Night Western Europe Cruise from Southampton, since our  first cruise on  Disney Magic 7-Night British Isles Cruise from Dover:  from September 11th to September 18th 2022 witch also stayed in an one bedroom suite concierge stateroom.

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2 minutes ago, Bingo Heeler said: How do families get be pick to be family of the day and first on the Disney cruise ship during the check in at cruise terminal port. Also how families pick to be magical families on the Disney cruise ship.  I'm Saving to go on the 7-Night Western Europe Cruise from Southampton on September 1st to September 8th 2024 and staying in 1 bedroom suite stateroom concierge with myself mum. This would our second disney  cruise but the first Disney dream cruise ship on 7-Night Western Europe Cruise from Southampton, since our  first cruise on  Disney Magic 7-Night British Isles Cruise from Dover:  from September 11th to September 18th 2022 witch also stayed in an one bedroom suite concierge stateroom.

Someone in the terminal scouts out the guests before boarding begins and selects a family for Family of the Day.  No way of knowing who it's going to be.

Don't know about "Magical Family", never heard of that one.

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How do you get to be the Disney family on the cruise ships? ”

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Meet the Panelist: Tracy, Illinois

GAWRSH! Hiya pals! I am a Goofy-loving mom of 2, who is married to my real-life Prince Charming. My family supports my passion for all things Disney. Walt Disney World was my very first vacation, when I was just 3 months old, and I recently completed my 73rd trip to a Disney location! I have been fortune enough to parasail high above the Disney Fantasy, attend opening day of Batuu, snorkel in the lagoon at Disney's Aulani, and SO MUCH MORE! I can't wait to help you plan your Disney vacation! 

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40 Disney Cruise Tips and Secrets You Should Know Before You Go

These tips will make your Disney cruise vacation even more magical.

Cruise vacations are a great way to unwind and relax in some of the most beautiful locales in the world, and a Disney cruise takes the traditional experience up a notch with unique, familiar touches and a little bit of magic. With so much to know before you set sail with Disney Cruise Line, it's easy to miss out on the most interesting facts and features.

Even if you think you know all about the ships and activities on board, you can still return to port without ever knowing about the secret sundecks, unannounced character greetings, and unexpected Mickey-shaped foods. Whether you're planning for this year or the next, prepare yourself for a hefty dose of Disney knowledge, because for you, these Disney cruise tips and secrets are no longer under wraps.

Meet the Expert

Adrianna Hwang is a planDisney panelist specializing in Disney Cruise Line.

Heather Peggs is a Disney travel expert with Castle Bound Travel Company.

Book your cruise early to get the best deal.

Disney uses a dynamic pricing system, meaning the earlier you book, the more you’ll save. Early bookings also ensure that you get your desired cabin. You can even book your next cruise while on board to save even more. The best part? This placeholder is fully refundable if plans change.

Consider booking a themed sailing. 

Disney Cruise Line offers a limited number of themed sailings, including Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea itineraries. These cruises up the ante with specialty shows and character appearances from beloved franchises, including Captain America , Toy Story , and more. You’ll also want to check out the special holiday cruises surrounding Halloween and Christmas. During these sailings, you’ll spot characters in special outfits and can enjoy themed food and beverage options, specialty entertainment, and much more. Disney Cruise Line guests love to bring themed attire to celebrate the occasion, so plan ahead if you want to partake in the fun.

Save big and let the mouse pick your room.

If you’re not picky about where your cabin is located on the ship, you can save a substantial amount of money by letting Disney pick your cabin. Just select your room type, like an inside cabin, and your specific cabin number will be assigned closer to your sail date.

See if cabin upgrades are available when you arrive at the port.

When available, cruisers may be able to snag an affordable last-minute room upgrade at the port, saving hundreds on a higher-tier room. 

Download the app before you go. 

Disney Cruise Line’s exclusive Navigator app is an absolute must-have to make the most of your time at sea. It adds convenience while taking care of practical vacation elements, like payment, online check-in, and trip modifications. This is also your go-to for pre-registering for Disney Cruise Line’s wide range of activities and keeping tabs on the daily schedule, which includes showtimes and deck parties. You can also communicate with your family and other cruise-goers for free using the app.

And don’t miss out on this convenient notification feature: “Scroll through the daily activity schedule to look for entertainment options that interest you, and be sure to click the heart icon next to any listings you don't want to miss,” planDisney panelist Adrianna Hwang tells Travel + Leisure . “If you've enabled notifications for the app, you'll receive a reminder about 15 minutes before the activity will begin. It's a really helpful feature when you lose track of time relaxing by the pool!” 

This is especially important if character meet-and-greets are a priority for you. “The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app will list character appearance times and locations so that you can be sure to catch your favorite Disney characters on board,” Hwang adds. “If you select the specific character listed in the Daily Activity Schedule within the app, you'll even see the full schedule of times to meet them throughout the cruise so that you can plan accordingly.” Hwang suggests arriving at the greet locations at least five to 10 minutes early.

Use your Castaway Club perks to book extras early. 

If you’re looking to book extras, like shore excursions and elevated dining experiences, your booking window depends on your loyalty to Disney Cruise Line. The Castaway Club is Disney’s version of a frequent cruiser program, and sailors earn status based on the number of sailings they’ve been on. Higher status translates to earlier booking windows, so Disney Cruise Line loyalists can score their desired bookings first. 

Related: What to Know About Castaway Club, Disney Cruise Line's Loyalty Program

Plan to exchange your currency onboard.

Not only does Disney Cruise Line take no commission for exchanging bills , but they'll actually honor the transaction's rate of exchange for any leftover money. Simply present your receipt prior to the end of the cruise, and they'll convert your foreign currency back to your preferred denomination at the same rate, even if the exchange rate has since changed. (Note: This only applies to bills, not coins, and there is no ATM on board.)

Bring a reusable water bottle. 

While there are water fountains and bottle refill stations on board, they can be far away from your room — and disposable bottles (not included in the fare) can add up. The tap water in each room is drinkable, but sinks are often too small to accommodate big bottles. You can bring packs of bottled water, but you'll have to carry it through embarkation — it cannot be packed with luggage — so consider bringing refillable bottles or tumblers.

See characters in their special cruise wardrobe.

Thought you knew everything there was to know about the Fab Five? Wait until you see them in their exclusive Disney Cruise Line wardrobe. Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Mickey, and Minnie wear special outfits for Pirate Night, and they also tailor their outfits to where the ship is headed that day. On Alaska sailings, expect to meet Mickey in fisherman's overalls and Minnie in a fur-lined coat; on trips through the Mediterranean Sea, Goofy dons an Italy-inspired suit. Specialty characters are also known to show up from time to time, like Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle appearing as the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus during the spooky season.

Aspiring princesses won’t want to miss the Royal Gathering.

The Royal Gathering is your chance to meet and greet with Disney royalty, like Tiana and Cinderella, all at one time and place. It’s offered on most cruise itineraries but there is a catch: while tickets are free, they are required to attend. “Complimentary tickets to the Royal Gathering are available to be booked online or through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app or Disneycruise.com 30 days before your sail date,” Hwang adds. “Take this experience to the next level for your little one by reserving a Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeover an hour or two before the Royal Gathering begins.” 

And know that the most memorable character experiences won’t be at meet-and-greets.

The lines to meet Mickey and Minnie are (amazingly!) short on Disney Cruise Line, but favorites like Daisy Duck are known to freely wander the pool and jogging track decks, playfully surprising guests and often sharing elevator rides for a once-in-a-lifetime interaction. Don't miss the character dance parties either, which allow kids and adults to line dance with Goofy and shake it off with Donald Duck for an experience that goes beyond a hug and photograph.

Order whatever you’d like to eat — and as much as you’d like. 

Disney Cruise Line’s dinnertime meal service operates on a rotating restaurant schedule, so you'll get to enjoy each restaurant the ship offers — and some more than once on longer sailings. These highly themed restaurants, like Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure on the Disney Wish , offer pre-fixe dinner menus. Torn between two entrees? Order them both. Each of your ship’s included rotational dining restaurants comes with a fixed three-course option that is all-you-care-to-enjoy.

Splurge on specialty dining. 

Standard dining is fantastic, but Disney ships also have adults-only restaurants available at an extra charge. Depending on your ship, this could include the French-focused Remy or fan-favorite Palo. While Remy and Enchante can be pricey, you can enjoy Palo for as little as $50. 

And on the Disney Wish , you won’t want to miss its newest iteration, Palo Steakhouse. “If you've sailed with Disney before, you may be familiar with Palo, but on the Wish , Palo Steakhouse is even better,” Heather Peggs, a Disney travel expert with Castle Bound Travel Company, shares with T+L. “I highly recommend trying the A5 wagyu steak, which is about a fifth of the price it would be off the ship, and it's absolutely phenomenal!”

These upgraded dining experiences are known to book up well in advance, but there is occasionally a waitlist available for canceled and missed reservations. “If you can't snag a reservation before the cruise, inquire in person on the day you embark,” Hwang adds. “Look for the activity listed as ‘Dining Reservation Changes’ to speak with a crew member about reservation availability.” 

Request the best seat in the house at dinner. 

Always dreamed of sitting by the stage at Tiana's Place on the Disney Wonder or enjoying dinner in those gorgeous Enchanted Garden booths on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy ? Well, it's not entirely luck of the draw. Nothing is guaranteed, but requests for a certain table can always be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation, and they are worth the extra phone call. Concierge guests can make seating requests to their Concierge Service Specialist before boarding as well. You never know when Disney will sprinkle a little extra magic onto your vacation.

And don’t miss the best dinner entertainment.

The dinner show at Animator's Palate is a highlight if you’re sailing on the Magic, Wonder, Dream, or Fantasy, but it's the second visit to that dining room that can't be skipped. It's called Animation Magic, and guests get to draw their own characters and see them come to life on the screens mid-meal. The incredible display is only offered on longer sailings on the Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy, so make sure you don’t skip it. Even better? Request that your rotation allows two visits to Animator's Palate that don't overlap with Pirate Night to ensure you enjoy the show.

Grab a free soda at this spot.

Soda is included during sit-down meals, but if you’re craving a thirst quencher outside of those times, go to the free-flowing beverage stations near the pools on each Disney ship.

Sip cocktails at this favorite bar. 

There are plenty of themed watering holes in the adults-only areas of the ships, but on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy , Meridian is the place to be. The upscale bar and lounge is located next door to Palo and Remy, but it is open to all adults adhering to its business casual dress code. Though known for its martinis, Meridian also offers a cigar bar, custom craft cocktails, and a gin and tonic cart, as well as a private deck hosting a picture-perfect view of nightly sunsets.

Check out the Star Wars -themed bar on the Disney Wish .

Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge is a bar exclusively found on the Disney Wish . “Whether you’re an avid Star Wars fan or just want to explore the galaxy, you will be able to enjoy delicious alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages that are simply out of this world,” adds Peggs. Reservations are no longer required, but there might be a wait, especially during peak hours; visit when the ship is in port to avoid the crowds. During the day, guests of all ages are allowed in.

It’s a multi-sensory experience in this immersive, interactive venue, and you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled in case anyone orders the $5,000 Kaiburr Crystal cocktail.  

Save on drinks during happy hour at sea. 

Be sure to check the Navigator app for daily happy hours at different bars and lounges. The exact offers vary, but they can include deals like half-off draft beer and discounts on specialty cocktails. And if you’re looking to take your cocktail knowledge to the next level, cruises also offer add-on mixology classes and tasting experiences.

Ask about the Sommelier Bin for discounted wine. 

Once a bottle of wine is opened, Disney must serve it (in its entirety) that day. Because of this, Disney ships have a sommelier bin, with opened bottles of wine served by the glass at highly discounted rates. This is your chance to sip on otherwise pricey pours at a bargain price. Now that’s Disney magic.

Or B.Y.O.B. to save money.

Looking to save a few bucks? While Disney ships offer a bevy of specialty cocktails, you can bring your own drinks — with some limitations. Hard liquor is a no-go, but each cruiser 21 years of age and up can bring two bottles of wine (or six-packs of beer) on board with them. If you’re thinking of bringing that bottle of wine with you to dinner, be aware that Disney does charge a corkage fee. You can also bring sealed bottles of water on board with you.

Take a second look at that barbershop on the Disney Wish .

Hook’s Barbery may look like any old upscale barbershop when walking by — but it’s hiding one of the best-kept secrets aboard any Disney ship. Tucked away within the salon is a hidden speakeasy-style bar serving expertly crafted cocktails, including a smoked old fashioned. Its liquor selection is extensive and surprising with rare and vintage pours.

Snack on soft serve on and off the ship.

If you’re a frequent Disney cruiser, you’re probably familiar with the line’s free-flowing soft-serve ice cream. And if the craving strikes when visiting Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, you’ll be glad to know it’s also available on the island for the ultimate sugar rush in the sun.

Get an extra-magical coffee. 

Few can resist a Mickey-shaped treat while visiting any Disney property, but the best mouse-themed treat on the ships can be found at Cove Cafe . Order a cappuccino, ask for Mickey's face on it, and prepare to enjoy your jolt of caffeine with some extra magic. It'll cost a few bucks, but the joy of sipping a “Mickeyccino” will always outshine the complimentary coffee served on board. 

Order a Mickey bar — and more — with free room service. 

You’ll be glad to know that, unlike other cruise lines, Disney Cruise Line’s room service is completely free and offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The best part? You can have an iconic Disney treat, the Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar, delivered directly to your room.

Book early if you plan to use the ship’s nursery.

Bookings open early for guests looking to take advantage of the onboard nursery. Available for an extra charge, the It’s a Small World Nursery is available to supervise your child ages six months to three years old, ideal if you’d like a quiet dinner or time to explore one of the ship’s many themed lounges without the little one in tow. And don’t forget — the other youth clubs for kids, tweens, and teens are absolutely free.

Teens can hang out in the coolest part of the ship.

Every Disney ship has a Vibe , an onboard youth club that is exclusively available for teens ages 14 to 17. There is supervision, of course, and Disney Cruise Line's famously fun activities, but it's practically a private resort for high schoolers to chill in all day and night — no parents allowed.

Explore the kids clubs during the open house. 

Activities at the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Millennium Falcon play areas are reserved for young ones, but all kids club spaces empty out for the open house, when anyone can wander in and check out Vibe's arcade games or Oceaneer Lab's high-tech designs. Don't skip out on Andy's Room, which brings Toy Story to life while making for incredible Instagram snaps. And you won’t want to miss a multi-level slide on the Disney Wish which takes you from floor to floor in the ship’s soaring lobby. “Little ones can get comfortable with and excited about areas where they will play without their grownups,” shares Hwang.

Join a secret community of friends — hiding in plain sight.

Ever seen those homemade decorations hanging beside neighbors' doors? They're called fish extenders, and they're used by a network of families who have packed small gifts, treats, and trinkets to exchange with each other throughout their trip. To get in on the fun for your next sailing, visit the DisBoards Cruise Meets forum or CruiseCritic's Roll Calls . Many times, there are Facebook groups for your exact sailing as well. This can be particularly helpful with shy kids as they can get acquainted with other cruise-goers their age ahead of their journey.

Add an Adventures by Disney trip to your vacation.

You can enhance your Disney Cruise Line experience with Adventures by Disney Escapes before or after your sailing. Experience global cities through expertly curated itineraries in Barcelona, Paris, Rome, and beyond. 

Spring for a concierge-level room and relax on a private sun deck.

There are plenty of perks that come with booking a concierge-level room — namely early access to onboard bookings, personalized service, and in-room amenities. And perhaps the best part, concierge guests have access to their own private sun and lounge deck outfitted with upscale lounge chairs, complimentary sunscreen, and chilled face towels, as well as a pool deck host who can fulfill any requests for full relaxation.

See the latest Disney movies. 

Enjoy the latest Disney releases at the on-board theater without having to buy tickets in advance. Even better? Many new Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films have 3-D showings, allowing guests to experience eye-popping effects on the high seas. Movie times are available on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. And during the holidays, classics are featured, like “Hocus Pocus” during Halloween sailings.

Skip the ports to enjoy fewer crowds at the pool.

It may be tempting to disembark and explore Jamaica or relax on Castaway Cay, but if you stay behind, you can enjoy fewer crowds at the pools. This could be your prime chance to experience the AquaMouse water coaster, the cruise line’s first attraction at sea on the Disney Wish , with little to no line.

There are also lots of activities to take advantage of on board. “I must say I'm a huge fan of staying on board even on port days to explore the array of classes, Broadway-caliber shows, and, of course, the games,” adds Peggs. “If you're looking for family-friendly options, a couple of my favorites are Bingo, which they have every day during your sailing, napkin and towel folding, bar trivia, and so much more!”

Don’t miss the musicals.

While it may be tempting to take advantage of quieter swim times in the evening, you won’t want to miss your ship’s musical offerings. Broadway-quality productions including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin” (exact offerings depend on the ship) are a must-see. “These are beautifully done and are wonderful for the entire family,” Peggs adds. “Plus, if you purchase a popcorn bucket at the beginning of the cruise, you will be able to enjoy $1.50 refills for the remainder of your cruise!”

There’s an under-the-radar design tour.

Adults 18 and up can enjoy one of the cruise line’s best walking tours. “The Art of The Theme Show Tour gives adults an insightful look into the detailed and thoughtful design of several spaces throughout the ship,” adds Hwang. “It's usually offered in the mornings and provides some fun trivia to share with anyone in your party.” 

Unwind at the spa.

You’re on vacation — it’s time to pamper yourself in the state-of-the-art spa. “If you are interested in booking a spa treatment, attend the open house before the ship sets sail,” Peggs shares. “You might get lucky and win a voucher for 10% off or possibly a facial or massage during the raffle. Speaking of savings, the more spa services you get while on board, the better the price will be. If you want to secure a spa day/week pass, be sure to book them sooner rather than later as they sell out pretty quickly!”

There’s a totally free fan-favorite activity.

If your itinerary takes you to Disney’s Castaway Cay, then you can partake in one of Disney Cruise Line’s most beloved activities, the Castaway Cay 5k — and it’s completely free to all guests. Suitable for runners and walkers alike, this on-your-own race invites you to discover Disney’s private island from a different vantage point as you travel through its stunning tropical paths. All participants receive an exclusive medal when they finish.

Not feeling well during your sailing? Disney can help.

There’s nothing worse than feeling sick on vacation. But have no fear, the mouse is here to help. Each ship is equipped with on-site medical help, and if you experience seasickness, complimentary medicine is available.

Grab every photo before the clock runs out.

Even if you skipped every character meet-and-greet, you'll still be able to cram in a week's worth of photos at "Til' We Meet Again," the goodbye show on the final night of each sailing. After a short heartwarming performance, loads of Disney characters, princesses, and theater performers will disperse throughout the crowd, posing for photos on a first-come, first-served basis. The onboard photographers will have already shut down, so you can snap as many iPhone pictures as you'd like, making for a full album in one fell swoop. This experience only lasts for around 20 minutes; you can find the exact time in the Navigator app.

Want to disembark first? Carry your own bag.

You don’t want to sour a wonderful vacation with a never-ending line simply to exit the ship. Instead of leaving your luggage out the night before, carry it off the ship yourself and arrive at your final destination without having to wait in lengthy port queues.

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

May 16, 2024

The Absolute Best Disney Cruise Tips to Save You Time & Money!

Our family absolutely loves cruising, and Disney Cruises hold a special place in all of our hearts. However, planning a Disney Cruise can be quite overwhelming. With 20 Disney Cruises under my belt, I’ve gathered the top 100 tips you need to know for a magical and stress-free experience.

From planning and budgeting to embarkation at Castaway Cay and the bittersweet debarkation, we’ve got you covered with the best Disney Cruise tips to ensure your voyage is smooth sailing .

50+ Best Disney Cruise Tips

How to Get a Deal on a Disney Cruise

• Don’t Book on the Disney Cruise Site : The site is great for researching cruises but booking directly can be costly. Instead, use a travel agent. They can match the price found on the Disney Cruise site and often offer onboard credits, sometimes up to $1000. This credit can be used for specialty dining, spa services, cocktails, shore excursions, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, or other onboard purchases. Some travel agents charge a planning fee, but our agency, Best Day Ever Vacations , will find you the best deal with no additional fee !
• Hidden Last Minute Deals Are Available on the Site : These are described as “Restricted Guaranteed” rates. You choose the type of cabin (inside, outside, verandah) but not the actual room. We have done this numerous times and always received great rooms, sometimes even connecting ones. You can check out how we booked these discounts on the Disney Magic.
• Florida Resident and Military Discounts : These discounts are available, but other discounts are hard to come by.
• The Best Way to Save Money on Your Disney Cruise : Book your next cruise while on an existing cruise to save 10% off the prevailing rate, receive an onboard credit of $200, and get a reduced deposit. Also, purchase discounted Disney gift cards if you are a Target Red Card holder to receive 5% cash back. You can save an additional 5% off your cruise by purchasing gift cards at Target. Additionally, take advantage of bonus points from your credit card company, such as the Chase Ink card, which offers 5 points for every $1 spent at office supply stores that sell Disney gift cards.
• DVC Members, Don’t Use Points to Book Your Cruise : Using points for a Disney Cruise is a terrible waste due to poor point value. It is much better to rent out your points through a service like David’s Vacation Rentals and use that money for the cruise.
• Sometimes Two Cabins Are Better Than One : If you have a family of five, booking a family cabin can be pricey. Sometimes booking two connecting rooms is cheaper than one large room, providing more space as well.
• Book Off Season : The cheapest times to cruise are when the kids are back in school. The cheapest month is September (hurricane season), so if you are willing to risk sailing during hurricane season, you can save a lot of money.
• Book Early, Book Early, Book Early : If you are looking for a specific itinerary, book it as soon as sailing dates are announced. Disney cruises rarely go down in price (except for last-minute specials), so the cheapest prices are usually right when the itinerary is released.

How to Choose the Best Room on a Disney Cruise

• All About Concierge Rooms : All five ships have concierge rooms and now have concierge lounges. These rooms get booked up the fastest, so book early. Check out the amazing experiences of having concierge level here!
• Book Your Room on the Starboard Side if You Love Fireworks : The fireworks at sea show is pretty spectacular (occurs on pirate night). If you book your room on the starboard side of the ship (right side), you can watch the fireworks from your verandah. Disney does not recommend sitting on your balcony during the fireworks, but many families do so anyway.
• The Low Down on the Secret Mini-Suite : There is a secret mini-suite that is considered an ocean-view room. On the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy on Deck 5, there are 6 cabins that sleep only 3 people. These rooms are massive compared to the normal Disney Cruise rooms and are priced at the same rate as a regular ocean-view cabin. The rooms are 5018, 5020, 5022, 5518, 5520, and 5522. These rooms get booked quickly!

Before You Board – Packing, Checking In, Booking Port Adventures & More

• Check-In Online ASAP (120 Days Before Sailing) : Embarkation times vary, but the earlier you do your online check-in, the earlier you get to board the ship, giving you more time to spend onboard. Show up at the port about 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled embarkation time. This allows time to drop off your bags with the porters, go through security, and check in, so you can embark as soon as your scheduled time slot allows. Arriving too early might result in waiting around the port, which is not very enjoyable.
• Platinum Castaway Club members and concierge guests: 120 days before sailing.
• Gold Castaway Club members: 105 days before sailing.
• Silver Castaway Club members: 90 days before sailing.
• All other guests: 75 days before sailing.

Grab our FREE Disney Cruise Packing List Printable, Click Here!

• Booking Activities : As soon as you check in, you can book dining, cabanas on Castaway Cay, shore excursions (port adventures), and spa experiences. Many of these book up fast, so book them right away.
• You Can Bring Your Own Alcohol On Board : You can bring two bottles of wine or a six-pack of beer per person. Do not pack them in your suitcase; they need to be in your carry-on for the ship.
• Decorate Your Door : This is one of those super fun Disney Cruise Tips. People love to use custom magnets and “Fish Extenders” which hang on the door and identify different members of the family. It is a fun way to place surprises for the kids and often times Disney fans share gifts and notes with other fans. Etsy is a great place to grab fun magnets and “Fish Extenders”
• Pre-Book Upgraded Dining : These dining options book up fast. The Palo Brunch is my favorite upgraded dining. For shorter 3-4 day cruises, you don’t want to miss the rotational dining, so upgrading to the Palo Brunch is perfect. On longer cruises (5 days or more), check out the fine dining at Palo & Remy.
• Allergies or Specialty Dining Needs : During online check-in, you can specify allergies and special dietary needs. The chefs and waiters are very accommodating. At every meal, a waiter will ensure you are taken care of, and there is always a chef on hand at self-service and buffet stations to provide information about ingredients.
• Pre-Book Character Experiences & Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique : The character experiences are free. Try to book them for days at sea. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique costs about $119.00.
• Booking Dining Times Tips : There are two seatings onboard Disney Cruises: Main Seating (5:45 PM-6:00 PM) and Late Seating (8:00 PM-8:15 PM). If you want the main seating, try to book it right away. Main dining is more popular, but late dining has its perks:
• Kids Club Pick-up : During late seating, the kids club can pick up your kids in the middle of dinner so that the kids can play and the adults can enjoy a relaxing meal. (Waiters know to serve the kids quickly.) The late seating is usually less busy, so you don’t have to rush to the Walt Disney Theater for a good seat, and picture lines before dinner are typically less crowded. Plus, if you have late dinner, you get a late breakfast on your final day, so you don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn.
• Many of Disney’s port adventures are offered via third parties that also sell the same excursions directly or through other third-party sites. Check out Trip Advisor’s reviews on the excursion you are considering to see if you should book outside of the cruise.
• In Nassau, Bahamas, the most popular port adventure is Atlantis. An Atlantis Day Pass typically runs $165 per person. Save money by booking a room for one night at Atlantis for as little as $199, which entitles you to 4 day passes, saving around $400.
• Also, check out the new Baha Mar Water Park, which is incredibly nice and not typically crowded.
• Plan for Pirate Night : Pirate Night is one of the best nights on the ship, with characters and guests dressed up. Find pirate costumes online before you go, as the ship’s pirate attire can be pricey. (Everyone gets a Mickey bandana at dinner.)
• Pack a Day Bag for the 1st Day : Your room might not be ready until 3 pm on the first day. Pack a day bag with a swimsuit and sunscreen so you can enjoy the day onboard the ship. (The waterslide lines are usually shortest when you first board.) You can change in the fitness center or bathrooms (which Disney keeps spotless).
• Download the Disney Navigator App : This app will inform you of everything happening onboard and includes a free chat service to communicate with your family and fellow cruisers. It’s a great tool for your cruise!
• Getting to Port Canaveral : Most Disney Cruises sail from Port Canaveral, about 40 minutes from Orlando Airport and 1 hour from Walt Disney World. Disney transportation costs $45 each way per person, which can be expensive for large parties. Additionally, Disney Cruise transportation from Disney hotels is only once per day, often resulting in being among the last to board the ship.
• Rent a Car : Rent a car and park at an offsite lot. We rented a car for $20 a day, and parking was $6 per day. We paid $180 including gas for 5 people. Disney transportation would have cost $450, saving us $270. (Consider a one-way car rental.)
• Take an Uber or Lyft : Uber XL (seats 5-7) is $125 each way, so you save $100 if there are 5 of you.
• Book Offsite Transportation : This typically runs $100 each way, offering additional savings.

Embarkation Day

You’ve made it, life is good because your vacation is about to begin!!! Woohoo! This day goes fast and sometimes can be hectic so here are our best tips so you enjoy embarkation day.

• Arrival : Arrive about 1 hour before your boarding time. This allows enough time to have your luggage handed over to the porters (tip them, they work hard), go through security, and complete the check-in process. Arriving too early may result in sitting around waiting.
• Kids Club Check-In : You can complete the majority of your kids club check-in online. Avoid doing the kids club check-in at the port unless the line is very short, as it can be very long. On embarkation day, the ship will have a few tables set up where you can bring your kids to get them all set up to enjoy the fun.
• Boarding the Ship : When you board the ship, the Disney Cast will personally announce and welcome your family by name. If you like to video, have your phone or camera ready. My kids love this part of the cruise; it’s a great memory.
• First Thing We Do On Board: Dine! : When you first board, they will direct you to the lido deck for the buffet. It can be a bit hectic, but not as hectic as many other ships’ buffets. If you’re not hungry, head over to the pool and let your kids enjoy the pool and slides while they are not busy.
• Alternative Dining Option : If you prefer to avoid the chaos of the buffet on the first day, head to one of the three dining restaurants, typically Animator’s Palate or Enchanted Garden, and enjoy a nice relaxing sit-down lunch. On the Disney Wish, the sit-down dining is typically at 1923.

Tips for While On-Board

• Bring a Water Bottle for the Water Refill Stations : There are water refill stations onboard, so bring a refillable water bottle to fill up at these stations or the soda stations, which also have a water refill option.
• Free Alcohol for Vacation Club Members : There’s a DVC Member Celebration on Embarkation Day that offers free alcoholic drinks and some giveaways. It’s a way to get you to purchase more points, but free alcohol is a nice perk!
• Sail Away Party : The sail away party is a fun event with characters dancing and music as the ship departs. It’s best to watch from the top deck as it gets crowded on the party deck, where you might have to lift your child onto your shoulders.
• Mandatory Safety Drill : Right after the sail away party is the mandatory safety drill. Head to your room to unpack and get ready for the drill when the alert goes out. Staff will guide you to the safety drill location.
• On the Disney Wish : The safety drill is now online; just visit your muster station to check in quickly.
• Buffets : Healthy dining options are available, such as egg white omelets, vegan omelets, and scrambles at the cook stations. Create your own delicious concoctions!
• Kid’s Clubs : The kid’s clubs onboard are amazing, with incredible staff, plenty of activities, and character meets. On the first day, there is an open house for exploring with your kids. After that, the kids have the club to themselves for most of the cruise.
• Pool Chairs : Pool chairs get snagged early, so wake up early to grab one on at-sea days. When in port, the pool area is usually less crowded.
• Slides : The slides can have long lines. For shorter waits, head up early, get in line on embarkation day, or return early on a port day.
• Goofy’s/Pluto’s Pajama Party is a Must for Kids!
• Don’t Miss the Broadway Shows!
• Movies : If you love popcorn, grab a refillable popcorn bucket for $7.50, with refills costing only $1.50.
• Find the Hidden Mickeys!
• Schedule a Character Wake-Up Call : You can schedule a free wake-up call where a Disney character will give you a fun wake-up message. Baymax is a favorite!
• Personal Navigator : The personal navigator used to be delivered to your room but now must be requested from your stateroom host. Grab it before dinner to plan your next day, or use the app to plan out your day.
• Enjoy Some Amazing Latte Art : Head to the Cove Cafe on Deck 11 in the Adult Area for lattes with fun Disney character art on the foam, featuring characters like Mickey, Minnie, Baby Yoda, and Baby Groot.

• Great Bar to Check Out : The Skyline Bar on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy has a rotating skyline behind the bar that changes every 15 minutes.
• Rotational Dining : Experience different restaurants each evening. Don’t miss Animator’s Palate, where the restaurant comes alive, and on the Disney Fantasy, your artwork is part of the show.
• Order a 2nd Meal at Dinner : Feel free to order an extra entrée or multiple desserts. You’re on vacation!
• Mickey Ice Cream Bars at Dinner : Although not on the menu, you can order a Mickey Ice Cream bar for a delicious treat.
• Cash-Free Living – Almost : All charges go on your key to the world card, so no need for cash onboard, but have some cash handy for additional tips on the final night.
• Laundry : Disney cruises offer laundry pick-up and dry cleaning at reasonable prices. There’s also a laundry room with washers, dryers, detergent, and ironing equipment.
• Take Lots of Photos : Capture memories of the specially themed nights; they make great keepsakes.
• Purchase Pictures Before the Final Night and Morning : It gets hectic on the final night and debarkation day. Check out your pictures on the morning of the final full day to save time. You can also pre-purchase your pictures before you board.

Castaway Cay Tips

Castaway Cay is always my favorite port. The incredible beaches, the bike rides around the island, water slides and the character dance parties are a must do for our family. Here are our best Disney Cruise tips to enjoy Castaway Cay

• Early Birds Get a Medal : Technically, you have to run a 5k on Castaway Cay to get the medal, but Mickey will have one waiting for you. Sign up beforehand (onboard or online) to participate in the 5k, and a safety meeting is required.
• Grab Breakfast on the Ship : Breakfast is not served on the island, and the buffets are not open until lunch.
• Send Some Mail from Castaway : Castaway Cay has a post office drop-box with an exclusive Castaway Cay postmark. Purchase stamps aboard the ship and mail a postcard to friends and family.
• Booking a Cabana as Soon as Possible : If you want a cabana, book it very early (usually concierge and platinum guests get them first). Here is my complete guide to the Castaway Cabanas.
• Meet Jack Sparrow : On Castaway Cay, you will find Jack Sparrow. Check your Personal Navigator for details.
• Hit the Waterslides Early : The waterslides are located right past the family beach. The lines get long later in the day, so head over early.
• Enjoy a Delicious BBQ Lunch Included in the Cruise Fare : One of the great things about Castaway Cay is that all the stuff included on the cruise ship is included here as well, including a delicious BBQ lunch. Lunch is served from 11:30 – 1:30 and offers BBQ Chicken, Ribs, Burgers, Mahi Mahi, Veggie Burgers, and some delicious side dishes.
• Excursions to Book : We book the 3-in-1 Castaway Cay Getaway Package, which includes snorkel equipment for the day, an inner tube, and bicycle rental for one hour. After dropping off our beach stuff, we head for the bikes before it gets too hot. You get to ride around the island and climb a tower with an amazing view of the island.
• Adults-Only Beach : Serenity Bay is the adults-only beach on Castaway Cay. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the spot. They have buffets at Serenity Bay, so you can relax there all day long.
• Kid’s Club on Castaway Cay : How can you enjoy Serenity Bay if you have kids? No worries. Castaway has its own kids club called Scuttle’s Cove, with the same great counselors from onboard the ship. It features a fun area with a giant whale dig for the kids.
• Character Dance Party : Every afternoon, there is a character dance party where you can do a little conga with Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto. It is so much fun for the little ones.
• Cool Off with a Little Basketball and Shuffleboard : There is a great place on Castaway called “In Da Shade” where you can shoot hoops, play ping pong, and shuffleboard under the shade. It’s also a good spot during a random downpour.

Disembarkation Tips

The saddest day of the cruise has arrived and if you don’t plan well it can be even sadder. Here are our best Disney Cruise tips to make disembarkation easy peasy.

• Buy Photos & Settle Credit Card Charges the Day Before : Make sure to review your bill and purchase photos the day before you disembark. The guest service line gets long on the last day.
• Packing Up : The night before the cruise ends, staff will collect your luggage if you leave it in the hallways. Here are a few tips to ensure you do it correctly:
• Do Not Pack Everything : If you pack everything, you’ll only have your pajamas in the morning to get off the ship, which is not ideal.
• Carry Off Your Luggage and Get Off the Ship First : The lines for disembarkation can be long. If you don’t have too much luggage, you can carry it off yourself and be among the first to leave the ship.
• A Few Options for Morning Breakfast : You will be assigned a morning breakfast with your wait staff at one of two times based on your dining time choice. Alternatively, you can head to the buffet on the pool deck, which is not very crowded on the final day.
• You Might Have to Head Up the Elevator to Get Down : With upwards of 4,000 people disembarking with luggage in hand, the elevators get packed. If you are not on the top floor, you might have to wait a while for an empty elevator. Instead, take an elevator up while it’s empty and then ride it back down.
• Smile! You had a great cruise. Even though it’s over and you might feel a bit down, remember the fun times and cherish the memories.

Grab our free Disney Cruise Tips Printable!

Map of Disney Cruise Itineraries

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Reader Interactions

January 17, 2018 at 12:17 pm

Ive never been on a Disney cruise but would like to someday. I just got invited on my first press trip cruise ..on Norwegian, so I am pretty excited! Thanks for sharing!

January 18, 2018 at 9:46 am

I’m planning on a Disney cruise in the next 2 years, so this has been PERFECT info & a great help!

January 18, 2018 at 10:33 am

Fantastic!! You will have the BEST time, let me know if you ever have any questions or if you need any help booking 🙂

January 19, 2018 at 1:59 pm

This is perfect! I’ve been trying to research all I can about a Disney trip, and this is definitely a resource I need to save.

January 20, 2018 at 8:36 am

I am so happy to hear you found it helpful. Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with. We love cruising with Disney.

January 27, 2018 at 4:26 am

We are cruising in January any tips in what kind of clothes to pack. Usually we go in May, so I pack shorts, Capri, and little sundresses. Is this still “warm enough “ clothing? Is it warm enough to swim and enjoy water activities?

January 28, 2018 at 7:33 am

Hello Beth, if you are cruising to the Caribbean the weather is still gorgeous in January with average highs in the low 80’s and lows in the 70’s. I might add a few more layers than you normally pack as it is cooler in the evenings and with those breezes onboard. But, as far as water activities go I think you will be just fine 🙂 Enjoy your cruise!

January 29, 2018 at 2:55 pm

We are taking our 3rd Disney Cruise in September this year (Halloween on the High Seas). Cruises are definitely the BEST vacations ever! Kids have so much to do and parents have just as much fun enjoying the festivities. We just took the Very Merry Holiday Cruise in December 2017 and it was FANTASTIC! Cookies and milk, story time with Mrs. Claus, tree lighting ceremony and a huge gingerbread house in the atrium so it smelled like cookies every time you are in the area.

January 29, 2018 at 3:49 pm

I’m so glad you shared that. We have always wondered how the holiday cruises were. Sounds like we need to book one!!

April 14, 2018 at 12:53 pm

If using Disney transportation from airport to Port Canaveral, Fly into Orlando airport the day before your cruise and stay at the hotel INSIDE the airport instead of a Disney park hotel. They let you check in early if you tell them you’re on a Disney cruise. We had an early morning flight to Orlando that left around 5am and got us there around 11am. We got the room right away, grabbed something to eat and went back to room to take a nap since we had been up since 3 am. Then enjoyed the hotel ammenties and dinner at the hotel. The next morning we were refreshed and not travel tired to start our vacation. After a great breakfast we took the short walk to the bus pick up and left on the first bus to the cruise terminal around 9am. If you stay at a Disney park hotel the bus pick ups start around 11am and the room costs more than the one inside the airport.You get to the terminal first, have no lines and have time to take pictures with characters, etc before boarding.

January 17, 2019 at 4:32 pm

I agree with Deann, we did this flying in from LA and it made for a much less stressful embarkation day. Just one thing I want to add if you’re flying in the night before…if you want to bring some wine/beer with you, you can use instacart to get some local alcohol for your cruise. I roamed the airport but couldn’t find any stores selling wine bottles or 6 packs for beer.

July 20, 2018 at 10:13 am

Blogging is definately not my day job. Im trying to promote my business by attempting to reveal it. But crap could it be ever difficult. I do admire your articles, and I just had to comment to give you kuddos on wonderful content and information.

January 5, 2019 at 10:01 pm

We are going on our first Disney cruise in 30 days. Looking for excursion recommendations for Cozumel, Falmouth Jamaica and Grand Cayman. We are travelling with 2 4-year old twins. Thanks in advance. I’m also using your packing list for the cruise!!

January 7, 2019 at 9:08 am

Grand Cayman has beautiful beaches, I believe one is called 7 mile beach. I also really loved Mr. Sanchos Beach Break in Cozumel. They have a play area in the beach for the kids and some nice hammocks to lounge in. Have a great trip!

March 22, 2021 at 7:35 pm

Hey !! Thanks for gathering a lot of useful information !! I was wondering how did you book your hotel room at Atlantis?? Did you use the travel agency ? I am looking at prices because I like the idea of booking a room just for the parks but the minimum I have seen $500 and something (including all fees) Thank you again !!

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How to become family of the day on DCL?

• Thread starter AmandaRN2007
• Start date Sep 1, 2015

AmandaRN2007

Earning my ears.

• Sep 1, 2015

We are going on out 2nd DC in December. I have heard of families being chosen as family of the day. Does anyone know how the families are chosen? Thank you  

PrincessShmoo

Dis veteran.

AmandaRN2007 said: We are going on out 2nd DC in December. I have heard of families being chosen as family of the day. Does anyone know how the families are chosen? Thank you Click to expand...

DIS Veteran

We were chosen to be "family of the day" on the Magic once. We had an early port arrival time. 10:30, if I recall correctly. The three of us all wore the same red Disney Cruise Line t-shirt that you can order from the Disney Store website. Our son happened to be turning 4 years old on embarkation day, but that was probably just a coincidence. After checking in at the desk, we lined up for a welcome aboard photo with Minnie and a cast member who had been watching us approached us after the picture and asked if we would like to be the "family of the day." We said sure and she asked that we stick around a general area so that she could easily find us when it was time to start the boarding process. From what I could tell, it was just a random selection. But, as PrincessShmoo pointed out, it probably helped that we were wearing matching shirts. So did the fact that our child was happy and exuberant at the time. And, seeing that the cast member had other duties to attend to until embarkation started, I imagine our early port arrival time weighed in our favor on that particular day as well.  

elephant98 said: We were chosen to be "family of the day" on the Magic once. We had an early port arrival time. 10:30, if I recall correctly. The three of us all wore the same red Disney Cruise Line t-shirt that you can order from the Disney Store website. Our son happened to be turning 4 years old on embarkation day, but that was probably just a coincidence. After checking in at the desk, we lined up for a welcome aboard photo with Minnie and a cast member who had been watching us approached us after the picture and asked if we would like to be the "family of the day." We said sure and she asked that we stick around a general area so that she could easily find us when it was time to start the boarding process. From what I could tell, it was just a random selection. But, as PrincessShmoo pointed out, it probably helped that we were wearing matching shirts. So did the fact that our child was happy and exuberant at the time. And, seeing that the cast member had other duties to attend to until embarkation started, I imagine our early port arrival time weighed in our favor on that particular day as well. Click to expand...

Yep, random and luck. If you have that something that catches a CM's eye then they will approach you. I don't think you can "try" to be family of the day. I think they look for genuine enthusiasm. MJ  

stacaka4321

Mouseketeer.

What does being the Family of the Day entail?  

• May 12, 2017

stacaka4321 said: What does being the Family of the Day entail? Click to expand...

• May 13, 2017

The one thing I think you have to do if you want to try to be family of the day, is arrive to port relatively early. Since the family of the day boards first, you clearly need to have been there in time for that. So, I would guess arriving no later than 11, and maybe even earlier than that.  

we"reofftoneverland

mmouse37 said: Yep, random and luck. If you have that something that catches a CM's eye then they will approach you. I don't think you can "try" to be family of the day. I think they look for genuine enthusiasm. MJ Click to expand...

jrabbit said: and I would add to the Genuine List Joy Wonder Happiness And in our experience the Family of the Day - were NOT wearing Matching Outfits - but I am sure that it helps. I also think that having kids in the 5 - 12 age group is also an advantage - because that "looks like a family going to Disney" Click to expand...

See the line where the sky meets the sea?

PrincessShmoo said: Yeah, sadly 2 "mature" adults traveling together are not a "family". Click to expand...

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The Ultimate Guide To Going On A Family Disney Cruise

Taking a Disney Cruise is the perfect trip for all families. They combine the child-like magic of Disney with the adult need to explore sandy beaches. 

Disney ensures that all of its trips are accessible, easy to navigate and contain fun activities for all ages. This means that families can experience all the fun and none of the hassle which comes with a vacation. 

Still, as a parent, you probably want to know all the details that go into planning, booking, and taking a Disney cruise before parting with your money.

In this guide, we will break down all of the important details you need to know – such as the cabin information, the general facilities (including laundry), the food options, entertainment, and more.

A prepared parent creates a stress-free vacation, so dive into our guide and let the relaxation begin!

📌 Pin it for later 📌

Disney Cruise Cabins And Suite Information 

Each ship is slightly different, but in general, there will be 4 different types of cabins for you to choose from. We will go through each option, so you can make the best decision for your family.

The Inside cabin is the smallest, and, as the name suggests, it is located inside the ship. This means there will be no windows looking out into the ocean. However, the room will likely have a painted window to keep the sailing theme alive for your children.

The Inside comes in four choices, Standard, Deluxe, Standard Accessible, or Deluxe Accessible.

Realistically, this option should only be chosen by those on a tight budget. The space is small and practical for a 4-person sleeping room, but not big enough for long periods. If the Inside is your only option, then be prepared to spend most of the day on the deck and not in your room.

The Deluxe has an additional 30 ft to play around with, which is why it is the best choice within the Inside collection.

Disney Cruise likes to keep the names simple. Oceanview cabins are placed near the edge of the boat, allowing them to have a window with a view of the ocean.

All Oceanview cabins are considered Deluxe; however, they have an Accessible option for those with additional needs.

Apart from the view and the size, these rooms contain the same refrigerator, LCD screen TV, spa products (such as shower gel), and WIFI (although the WiFi costs are extra).

In the Accessible suites, the bathroom has a ramp and doesn’t contain any splits. This is designed to make maneuvering easier. There are low bars around the room and bathroom and additional emergency alarm buttons near the bed.

The term “ Verandah ” means “a balcony with a roof.” This doesn’t mean that the room is open to the elements. However, you will be given a private balcony to enjoy the ocean breeze and take in the sunrise. 

If you are booking with other families, you can pick adjoining rooms and remove the partition, opening the verandah and allowing the families to mingle.

It is at this point that Disney allows larger sleeping facilities. All the Verandahs are considered Deluxe; however, the rooms which sleep five are also considered Family sized.

You may notice the rooms are called Oceanview Verandah instead of just Verandah. This is because all Verandah must have an ocean view, so to avoid confusion, some ships include both names.

Concierge Suites

A “Concierge” is normally a term that means an employee of a hotel. But on a Disney Cruise, the workers don’t sleep here. Instead, Disney has flipped the switch and named this room “ Concierge ” as it is a miniature hotel, all by itself.

The bedroom is separate from the living area, unlike all other rooms. This space sleeps five people and is 622 square feet long, almost three times the size of an Oceanview room.

The LCD TV is much larger, and you are given complimentary robes and slippers to lounge in. Most importantly, you can enjoy free WIFI up to 100 MB.

All Concierge Suites have a balcony as standard. However, if you have a large party, you may wish for the Concierge Royal Suite, which allows the balcony partition to be removed.

As you can imagine, this suite is the most expensive.

What To Know Before You Go

The Disney Cruise line has policies and requirements, just like any vacation abroad. To make sure you don’t get tripped up on the essentials, follow these guidelines and make sure you are ready for the less exciting parts of your vacation.

Required Documents

Each cruise will be traveling to different locations. Some will be staying within the United States, while others will travel to Europe and further. 

If you are an American citizen and are taking a cruise that only travels to the US States, then you can use either your state-issued birth certificate or government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) to prove your identity and ability to travel.

If you are not an American citizen or are traveling to places outside of your country, then you will need to use a passport to prove your identity and ability to travel. 

We recommend taking a passport regardless of destination. All passports must be valid for six months before the cruise starts. Read our step-by-step guide for getting your baby or child a U.S. passport . 

Instead of tipping every time you interact with a staff member, the Disney Cruise Line suggests adding your tip to the end of the bill. They suggest tipping $13.50 per guest per night; however, tipping is optional and not mandatory. 

Some areas of the cruise will automatically take a tip. For example, when you dine at The Palo & Remy, a gratuities charge of 18% is added to your bill. You may ask for this amount to be removed or add more as your prerogative. 

The Senses Spa and Salon also automatically take a tip of 18%.

Straight off the bat, we suggest NOT using Disney Cruise’s WiFi . If your package comes with free WiFi usage, use up the data, but once your allowance dries up, don’t bother paying for more.

The WiFi on the cruise is not strong, fast, or reliable. Even worse – it is expensive. The smallest package you can buy is 100 MB for $19 – roughly 4 hours of social media scrolling or 10 minutes of streaming.

The largest package you can buy is 1,000 MB (1GB) for $89 which can give you 1 hour of standard-definition Netflix viewing.

However, the money doesn’t match the quality or need, so instead, we suggest going internet-free for the vacation or re-visit the roaming charges on your devices. If your phone company doesn’t charge for roaming or gives a better price, then use your data instead.

Carry-On Drinks Policy

Disney Cruise’s drinking policy matches America’s oldest age requirement. It doesn’t matter where the cruise starts; they all follow the “21 or over” rule.

Only those aged 21 or older can bring alcohol onto the ship. 

You can bring up to 2 unopened wine bottles or six unopened beer cans onto the cruise ship. You can do this every time you enter the boat from a port.

The drinks must be part of your carry-on bags and not your suitcases or luggage and can be consumed in your cabin without charge.

If you want to drink the beverages in one of the cruise’s dining rooms, you can. However, you will be charged a $25 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking Policy

Disney does have smoking areas around the ship, however, if you smoke inside the cabin or even on the cabin balconies, you will be fined $250 .

Smoking in any unauthorized location will result in fees.

All Disney Cruise lines have a laundry room which is fantastic news for parents. It doesn’t matter if they spill food everywhere or if your child wants to wear their favorite top 5 times in a row – you can wash and dry everything as often as you want.

The only limit to the laundry is the availability and the price. Washing costs $3, drying costs $3, and detergent costs $1. You can use your own detergent and softener, and there is an iron available too. (Please note these prices are subject to change.)

There are multiple laundry rooms throughout the ship to help reduce lines and waiting times. 

Electrical Outlets

If you don’t have the correct outlet, you should bring an adaptor for your appliances.

Only use appliances of 110 volts and less than 1,500 Watts in the US outlets. The European outlets only use 220 volts and a maximum of 2,000 Watts.

Going over these numbers may result in broken equipment and fires.

Everything on the Disney Cruise is counted in US Dollars . However, the ship is considered cash-free. You don’t need to use your credit card or cash to pay for activities, food, or items. Instead, all the charges will be sent to your cabin, creating a total bill at the end of your stay.

No matter which cruise you take or which room you choose, you will have 110-volt US outlets available . That being said, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream cruises have 220-volt European outlets too.

However, before you begin your voyage, you must submit a credit card as part of your check-in process. This is so you do not spend more than your account allows. If you reach your maximum, the staff will ask you to pay the debt and to check in a new card.

Accepted credit cards are:

• Disney Visa Credit Card
• American Express
• Discover Credit Card
• Diners Club International
• Japanese Credit Bureau

All charges will be given in US dollars.

Drinking Age

The drinking age is dependent on where the cruise starts. All cruises will have an onboard drinking age of 21, however, if the trip starts and ends in a European country, parents can give consent for people between the age of 18 and 20 to drink.

Parents have to give signed consent for this to be accepted.

This change in the ruling is due to the low drinking age in European countries . 

Generally speaking, there are three dress codes on Disney cruises. These are Sea Days, Cruise Casual, and Formal Night.

Sea Days are when the sun comes out, and you wish to spend time on the top deck or the water slides. Here you can wear bathing suits, t-shirts, shorts, or anything that would seem appropriate on a family-friendly beach. However, when you go inside, you are expected to wear a cover-up with any swimwear.

Cruise Casual attire is expected at any dining event. This dress code means you can be casual but shouldn’t wear swimwear, tank tops, or anything considered “beachwear.” You don’t have to be fancy.

Formal Nights are often encouraged on long 7-night trips. In these events, you are encouraged (but not required) to wear suits, cocktail dresses, sports coats, and other similar attire. 

When attending restaurants such as Palo and Remy, you are also expected to wear evening or smart clothing.

Check out these Printable Family Travel Packing Lists to know exactly what to pack when traveling with a baby, toddler, or children.

On Ship Restaurants, Dining, And Food

There is always food and drink available on cruise ships, but depending on where you go, you will receive a different service.

Rotational Dining

No matter which cruise you pick, there will be three dining rooms available. These rooms separate breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, these experiences come with rotation staff. This means you will receive the same servers for your table no matter the day.

This type of service is designed to make sure you get the best service possible. Do you prefer a glass of wine at the start of every meal? The glass will be waiting for you. Do your children require ketchup on every plate? The sauce will be added to your meal. 

Whatever your personal preferences are, the serving staff will learn them and make sure you receive them as necessary.

Room Service

All room service is free with your stay. It doesn’t matter if you have a Concierge room or an Inside room; you will still receive the kitchen-to-door service.

However, the room you pick will create a limit on what you can order. The menu will be different on each cruise, so we cannot give you a breakdown. However, if you tick off your breakfast options the day before and display them on your door, they will arrive at the selected time ready for you.

Buffet And Grab-And-Go

The Buffet is another free service that contains ready-made foods and “grab and go” style lunches for you to eat at the restaurant or take with you as you dock.

If you don’t want the rotational dining service, you can opt for the Buffet.

Palo And Remy

Palo and Remy are two different restaurants on the Disney Cruise, some ships have both others have just one. Either way, these restaurants have an additional cost for a fine dining experience.

As a fine dining restaurant, only adults are allowed to enter this area. If you want a night away from the kids, you can hire a babysitter and book a table at the restaurant for a relaxing high-class evening.

The experience costs around $125 per person, and the drinks are extra. 

The dress code is dresses, jackets, skirts, and blouses. You can wear jeans; however, they shouldn’t be ripped. 

Coffee Shops And Snack Shops

As an odd twist, the delicious pastries and snacks aboard the Disney Cruise are often free, however, if you ask for a specialty coffee (like a latte), you’ll have to pay extra.

This is great news for the kids, as you can get them any of the snacks they dream of, but it means the adults need to watch their wallets.

The bars on Disney Cruises are designed to feel like a laid-back lounge or a live entertainment drinking area.

There is often live music and a cocktail to enjoy.

Most of these areas are off-limits to children, so again, you may need to hire a babysitter if you wish to experience these adult entertainment features.

Food on Castaway Cay – Disney’s Private Island

Castaway Cay is a restaurant on Disney’s private island; however, you can expect the same all-inclusive experience as when you are on the ship. This means that most things will be available for you regardless of the room you stay in, while others will cost you extra and be charged to your room.

Generally speaking, the options are more basic and festival-style than the food on the boat, but that’s because the experience and the games of the island are more important.

Entertainment And Activities

Of course, the main reason for taking a Disney Cruise is its entertainment. The ship is packed with fun games, experiences, and events!

Interior Attractions And Activities

For adults, the most popular indoor activity is the Spa. You can experience either a solo or a couples spa treatment which includes rejuvenating massages, body wraps, and aromatherapy.

The most popular children’s indoor activity is the “Meet Your Favorite Character” interactive experience. In this experience, you dine with the character, play games and reenact their scenes, and have chats with the stars.

Theaters And Shows

There are theaters on the cruise which allow you to watch scheduled shows. You can ask for the timetable and tell your kids when their favorite show will be ready.

However, you can also watch the live showing . Each cruise will have a handful of live performance schedules for your stay. The most popular are:

• Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular
• Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic (A cruise special)
• Tangled: The Musical
• The Golden Mickeys (A collection of classic Disney songs)
• Disney’s Believe (A cruise special)
• Frozen – A Musical Spectacular

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a performance-based tailoring experience where kids can be transformed into Royalty, such as princes and princesses, Fairytail Characters, and Pirates.

This event is extremely popular, so you should book the boutique as soon as possible. 

The Castle Package involves hair styling, a princess necklace, sash, makeup, gown, and nail polish costing $199.95.

The Captain’s package contains hair styling, a pirate costume, and a plush toy, costing $119.95.

Ultimately, there are seven styles in total you can pick from.

Deck-Top Attractions

If you want an experience that every member of your family can enjoy, then you should spend the majority of your time on the deck.

Here you can enjoy waterslides, pools, splash pads, and sporting facilities.

The waterslides wrap around the boat like a theme park. The lines might be long, but the experience will be worth it. 

There are multiple pools for you to choose from. These include a splash pool, length swimming pools, and wave machines. 

Also, the Splash Pads are little areas of water that are designed for young children to play safely in.

And the sporting facilities include basketball courts, crazy golf, and soccer pitches.

Get these  Printable Disney Games  to entertain your children while you travel to Disney World or while waiting in line at the Disney Parks.

Children’s Programs

The children’s programs are all free to use and don’t require pre-booking. Each section has its own opening times, staff on hand to play with the children, and may even experience a surprise visit from a Princess.

Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab

The Oceaneer experience is aimed at 3 to 12 years olds. The kids need to be potty trained to join this event, but they will have indoor slides to play on, video games, and mini-movies to watch.

There is also a “make your own story” theater and a soft play area.

Edge Tween Club

The Edge Tween is for kids aged 11 to 14. Here the kids can play video games, have dance parties, experience arts and crafts, and play arcade games.

The kids don’t need parental supervision while in the club, and staff will be around to watch over them.

Vibe Teen Club

In the Vibe Teen club, kids ages 14 to 17 can swim in their pool, hang out on the lounge chairs, sing karaoke, and play video games.

Babysitting

The babysitting facility that we have mentioned a couple of times already is called It’s A Small World Nursery. There will be one on any cruise ship that you join, and is designed for children ages two and younger.

What To Bring

If you wish to drop your kids off at the nursery, you need to book a slot. Ideally, you should book the usage when you plan your trip, but the earlier, the better.

Before you let the kids go, you need to bring the following items:

• Food for the child – this could be formula, milk, bottles, or pastes.
• Additional clothing in case of an accident.
• Diapers, diaper wipes, and or pull-ups.

Non-pacifier items will not be allowed into the crib. If this will be a problem for your child, you may wish to start training them out of their special toy before the vacation.

Children with Additional Needs

Children with special needs are more than welcome in the clubs or the nursery; however, the ship cannot offer them one-to-one care. A child that can explain their needs and self-assess their medication will be allowed to give their medication to the Youth Activities desk and request them when needed.

The staff will do all they can for the child, but they will not be trained in your child’s specific needs. This means you must assess the activities and your child’s abilities before entering them into the clubs or nursery facilities. 

Nursery Attractions

Inside the nursery, your children can experience a 3D replica of the “It’s a small world” attraction, which means bright lights, geometric shapes, and iconic songs along a floor-painted river.

There is also a decompression area to help those who struggle with new environments. This contains soothing images and music.

The naps room has painted walls featuring Lightning McQueen, Pocahontas, Buzz Lightyear, and more.

The playroom has story-based fun for kids to make their own stories.

Disney Cruise Loyalty Program

The Disney Cruise loyalty plan is called the Castaway Club . But instead of getting a free stay or a reduced cost, you get earlier check-ins, special discounts, and a free dinner at Palo.

However, to get all of these benefits, you need to have multiple trips on the Disney Cruise.

Silver Membership

If you have sailed with the Disney Cruise once before, you will become a Silver Membership owner. With this title, you get the following benefits:

• The ability to book the itineraries a day earlier than nonmembers.
• The ability to book cruise-based activities 90 days before you sail.
• Adverts to exclusive deals.
• A dedicated Castaway Club phone number for direct information and assistance.
• Early access to the port and early check-in.
• Access to the members-only check-in.
• A welcome back gift.

Gold Membership

To become a Gold member, you must sail with the Disney Cruise 5 times. Once you do that, you get the following benefits:

• The 1-day early booking for itineraries is upgraded to 2.
• The 90 days of online booking for cruise activities are upgraded to 105 days before sailing.
• Private onboard reception with special entertainment.
• Special discounts while onboard.

Platinum Membership

To become a Platinum member, you must sail with the Disney Cruise 10 times. This is the highest membership you can receive, and as such, you will be treated like royalty on the cruise.

As a Platinum member, you will receive all the benefits that the Silver membership gave and all the benefits that the Gold membership gave. However, you can book your itineraries three days before the general public and start planning your cruise activities 120 days before sailing. 

You also receive one more benefit – a free dinner at Palo, the 5-star restaurant.

How Does Cruising Compare To Visiting The Parks?

The main difference between the Disney cruise and the Disney parks is their rides. You cannot put a roller coaster on a cruise, so of course, this aspect is missing.

Secondly, there is just one water slide on the cruise due to the limited space the platform has. 

Thirdly, the diversity in shows is limited, again due to the smaller space.

However, if you don’t care for rides and instead want to see the live shows, eat the amazing food and explore different areas of the world simultaneously, it doesn’t matter about the limited space.

The attention to detail is the same as in the parks, so you won’t miss out on the magic. There are also fewer crowds on the cruise, and the servers get to know you. This makes the experience feel like a luxury stay rather than a packed tourist destination.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Consider A Travel Agent

Booking a cruise (any cruise) can feel overwhelming – especially if it’s your first time. If you would rather tell a professional about the important information, you care about and let them do the rest, then hire a travel agent.

They will find your best rooms, book the cruise activities, plan itineraries, and set up your dining experiences. They will then break down all the details, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

Of course, each travel agent will have its pricing bands. Depending on the booking company you use, they may help with every element or simply guide you through the essentials.

Disney World Planning Guide

The Disney World Planning Guide with Printable Worksheets will help your family plan a fun, easy, stress-free, and magical vacation to Walt Disney World. The 78 printable pages include various Disney World vacation planning information, printable worksheets, and vacation planner templates.

How Much Does A Disney Cruise Cost?

The Disney Cruise costs can range from $1,800 for a family of 4 on a four-night stay around Baja to $17,500 for a family of 4 on an 11-night stay around the Mediterranean and Greek Islands.

There are roughly 450 cruises for you to pick from, each with its geographical attractions and cruise-based experiences. There is something for everyone and a wide range of price points to suit different budgets.

Preparing for a family trip often means researching the location and figuring out what activities will be enjoyed by the most people in the family. But with the Disney Cruise, all that stress is taken care of. 

There is a myriad of choices for your family to choose from, and they can split up from each other and spend time doing the activities they enjoy.

The magic of Disney is to help parents create a beautiful vacation as easily as possible.

Taking a vacation with grandparents and extended family can provide the perfect way to have some fun, spend time together, and create shared memories and experiences. But it is important to choose the right type of multi-generational vacation for your family to be the best experience for every family member.

If you are still looking for more vacation suggestions, check out this article about Multi Generational Travel Ideas For Families . For a smooth travel experience, read The Complete Guide To Traveling With Children .

However, if you are considering a trip to Disney World with your family, then be sure to read my Tips and Tricks for Disney World and use my Walt Disney World Vacation Planner to help simplify the experience.

And remember, let’s BE Family so you can enjoy the journey!

Until next time, 💖Ruth

For more about family travel, check out these posts: Disney World Itinerary Planning: What You Need to Know Which Disney World Park Is Best? Games To Play In Line At Disney Disney World Planning Guide

BE Family Products Inc., or (BE Family Travel) participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Using any of the links on this website does NOT cost you anything but does help us continue to create content on this blog. Thank you so much for your support and for partnering with us. Let’s BE Family.

Ruth Hutchins grew up in England and now lives in North Carolina with her husband, Doug, and their two young daughters. They always loved to travel, but once having children everything changed because family travel is more complicated. Traveling with a baby may feel overwhelming to new parents. Travel with a toddler can really test your patience, and traveling with kids can lead to utter chaos. However, travel with your little ones doesn’t have to be that stressful or exhausting. On the BE Family Travel blog Ruth shares her parenting wins, and even epic failures about traveling with kids. She provides resources to help you feel empowered to plan a family vacation and travel with your children.

The Disney Cruise Family Travel Blog

Travel and Fun Things To Do

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks

Updated February 22, 2024

So, you have booked a Disney Cruise and are now looking for tips and tricks to help your cruise go smoothly.

Learn More About Your Ship

Disney Cruise Line has five ships; Magic , Wonder , Dream , Fantasy , Wish and this year, the Treasure ; each has unique features. Learn more about each ship by following the links.

Join Your Facebook Group

The first thing I recommend doing after booking a cruise is to join the Facebook group for your cruise. This will allow you to get to know some of the people you are cruising with. It is a great resource to learn more about your sailing. Usually, group members will remind you about important dates like the date to pay in full “PIF”, book excursions and onboard activities, and check-in.  You can find your cruise groups for each ship; Magic , Wonder , Dream , Fantasy , and Wish .

If you are travelling to Europe, I recommend joining The Disney Cruise Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and Europe Cruise Planning Group .

If you want to participate in the gift exchange or “ Fish Extender Exchange,.” You would sign up in your cruise group. You can find other exchanges there, like magnet and candy exchanges.

Check Out Your Stateroom

Did you book a special room like a secret porthole room on the Magic or Wonder? You can often find YouTube videos of many staterooms .

Cruise Essentials

Next up, start to think about what you need for the cruise. Check and see what I think are essentials for the cruise . If you are going to dine at any of the Adult venues (Palo and Palo’s Steakhouse, Remy’s, Enchanté), make sure you are familiar with the dress code. Disney Cruise is one of the few cruise lines with DIY laundry rooms . It is handy when travelling with kids and means you could pack less. Ensure you know the dress code for the different dining venues and specialty nights.

Book Your Activities, Excursions, and Character Meets

When your booking window opens, book what you want to do first. When you can book, activities depend on your Castaway Club status . Know which days you are in port and which excursions are available on your cruise. Book any adult dining and beverage-tasting seminars. This will also be your first chance to book time at the spa. If you are travelling with any 3 and under, book time in the nursery. If you travel with anyone 12 and under, don’t forget to check out the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique . Guests over three years old check out the Pirate League on the day of the Pirate Deck Party.

Don’t forget to book any character meets you may want to do. There will be many opportunities to meet characters on the ship, but Disney will have meetups you can pre-book. In the past, they have been for princesses and Frozen characters. You will have other choices if you go on a themed cruise, Marvel, Star Wars, or Pixar.

Learn more about Disney’s newest ship, the Wish .

Learn about Castaway Cay if your ship is stopping there. 

Explore Food and Dining Options

Are you wondering what the food choices will be on the cruise? Check out the menus . Learn about rotational dining and dining seating .

See what the dessert experience at Remy is like.

Thirty days before your cruise, you will be able to check-in . Make sure you know what identification you need and have it ready.  

Add any pre- or post- transfers or pre-pay your gratuities before you sail. 

Getting to the Port

Learn about taking Disney transfers to the port.

Prepare for Boarding Day

When your boarding day finally arrives, ensure you have all your documents, arrive at your Port Arrival Time and know what you can pack in your carry-on. Once on the ship, remember you cannot do everything. Make sure you take some time to relax and enjoy yourself .

Don’t forget to get a placeholder to book a future cruise at a discount. 

Learn about the Disney Wonder will be sailing transpacific cruises in 2023 , followed by cruises sailing from Australia and New Zealand. Also, Disney’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure , is coming in 2024.

Finally, sign up for our newsletter to keep up with the latest Disney Cruise News , Rumours , discounts and tips and tricks .

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.

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Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

14 Insanely Useful Disney Cruise Tips to Know Before You Go

October 25, 2019 //  by  Stephanie Kastan //   Leave a Comment

If you’re thinking about planning a Disney cruise, or have already booked one, these Disney cruise tips will help you get the most out of your vacation. Disney cruises are tons of fun, but, like with any vacation, you can miss out on some fun and relaxation if you don’t prepare! If you’re interested in what to pack, how to save money, or how to make the most of your time on your Disney cruise, I’ve got you covered!

Disney Cruise Line (DCL) currently has four ships: The Fantasy, the Dream, the Magic, and the Wonder. There are also more coming in the next few years! Each ship has slightly different offerings, so, whether you have kids or are a kid at heart, Disney definitely has something to offer every passenger.

Get a FREE printable 30/60/90 day Disney countdown by joining our private Disney Facebook Group and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks! 

Tips for Booking Your Disney Cruise

Best time to go.

Timing is obviously important for vacations, and this is especially true for Disney vacations! Time of year for cruising will also depend on your family’s needs and wants. For example, anytime school is in session is a good choice for a Disney cruise. Fewer people and often cheaper prices are a huge benefit to the off-season. However, if you absolutely cannot go during the school year, that’s clearly not going to work for you.

September is often hailed as the number one Disney cruise trip for best time to sail. It’s a good choice because the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the onboard pools and white sand beaches (unless you’re doing an Alaska or Europe itinerary- though warmer weather will still help these!). However, September is also during Florida’s Hurricane Season, and it can be a busy time of the season for storms (Note that in recent years both Hurricanes Irma and Dorian were in September).

If your family is looking for a specific itinerary- those have specific dates attached to them. For example, Alaska cruises only sail during the summer, for obvious reasons. Disney Cruise Line also has specialty sailings at certain times of the year- Halloween on the High Seas, Very Merrytime, Marvel Day at Sea, and Star Wars Day at Sea. If any of those strike your fancy, be sure to pay attention to which dates they’re offered.

Choosing your Stateroom

I highly recommend picking your own stateroom! This is one of my biggest Disney cruise tips. However, this can be overwhelming as there are so many options and things to consider. Fortunately, when you book through Disney, or if you go through a travel agent, you are able to view the deck plans to make an informed decision. For example, if anyone in your party experiences seasickness or motion sickness, it is absolutely crucial to pick a stateroom as close to mid-ship as you can and as low deck as you’re comfortable with.

If you are traveling with a bigger party you may be considering a suite that can sleep more people, but it is usually recommended to instead get adjoining cabins. It is actually cheaper to get two cabins than it is to get a larger suite most of the time, plus everyone will have more room (and bathrooms) to spread out.

You should also think about where you want to be in relation to everything else. There is dining on the lower desks if you want to be close to it, but usually most people think about being close to the pool deck up top. This is great if you want to be right there with the action and fun, but you should also consider volume. If you like peace and quiet when you go to bed and night, you may want to be a bit further away from the top decks. Personally, I like to cruise midship because I’d rather have the quiet at night and take an elevator to get to the pool.

Dining Times

Disney Cruise Line has a super fun dining rotation that allows guests to experience different restaurants during their sailing. There are also two dining times to pick from when you book your cruise: early and late. If you’re okay eating dinner at a later time, I highly recommend choosing this option as it will have fewer kids in the dining room (making it much quieter!) and it has the added bonus of Dine and Play. The Dine and Play program means that families at late dining can have dinner all together before the kids are taken to the kids’ clubs!

Your dining time will also impact your timing for the shows! Early dining is much more crowded, which means that most families go to the second show when they finish dinner. If you have late seating for dinner, you can see the show first and get better seats because you won’t have to rush from dinner to the theater!

Specialty Dining

Specialty dining is a total experience on Disney cruises, and one of my biggest Disney cruise tips. If you think you want to do it, book in advance! You can always cancel later but many times you’ll find that by the time of your sailing most reservations will be taken.

Palo and Remy, Italian and French themed respectively, are fine dining experiences. There is an enforced dress code, so pack accordingly! The Palo brunch is often the highest regarded meal, but I think it depends on your tastes. I am a huge sucker for brunch so the Palo brunch did win me over, but the chocolate souffle on Palo’s dinner menu is TO DIE FOR.

The specialty dining options are a flat fee, so while that does mean they’re a bit pricey, it also means you can eat as much as you want to. Just don’t fill up too much before dessert!

Character Meet and Greets

There are plenty of characters to meet onboard Disney Cruise Line (and on the private island, Castaway Cay), and just like in the parks, they’re happy to meet you and your little ones. These characters also have the great benefit of being in great, sea-worthy outfits! Eskimo Minnie on the Alaska sailings has totally stolen my heart, but Captain Mickey (and now Captain MINNIE!) are iconic.

Just like in the Disney Parks, there are designated times for meet and greats with the characters, and you’re able to reserve a spot for them before you sail! I highly recommend doing this if anyone in your party wants to meet the characters (especially the more unique characters like the Star Wars and Marvel crews on those specialty sailings), as the lines can get long and close very quickly.

But don’t worry! If you don’t reserve a time to meet the characters in advance, your cruise Navigator (delivered to your stateroom each day) will list times and locations for meet and greets. Just be sure to arrive early! 10 minutes is the recommended window to ensure you grab a spot in the line. And don’t forget your autograph books!

Tips for Making the Most of Your Disney Cruise

What to pack.

If you get motion sickness or seasickness, Dramamine is a MUST for your Disney cruise. You can find it at any drugstore or here on Amazon. Important note about Dramamine- start taking it several days BEFORE you cruise because it can take awhile to start helping you. Also, if you discover you need it after you’ve set sail, or have run out, you can find it onboard all of Disney’s ships!

For most itineraries, sunscreen is another must-pack item. I highly recommend (and encourage) going the reef-safe route, especially because these sunscreens are as effective as the non-reef safe ones are. My favorite ones are All Good and MyChelle , both of which are animal cruelty free and feel great on my skin.

I’d recommend bringing a light sweater on your Disney Cruise for dining and shows, as I find the interior of the ship can get a bit chilly with the air conditioning- especially if you’ve been in the sun all day! For those sailing on colder Disney cruises, I’d still recommend bringing a light sweater in addition to your warmer clothes.

Pins! This is one my favorite Disney cruise tips. I wish I had known to bring pins on my first Disney cruise- my husband and I are big pin traders. For those who don’t know, Disney Parks’ cast members often wear lanyards with Disney pins on them for guests to trade with. However, what I didn’t know was that during Disney Cruise sailings, there is an event held near the theater where the ship’s officers come out and trade pins with the guests! It was a great way to find some unique treasures and can be a great way to bring home a souvenir with a fun memory attached!

Another fun Disney cruise tip is to pack magnets! Why? Because Disney cruise guests often decorate their stateroom doors to show who they are, what they like, or what they’re celebrating! It’s a really fun way to get to know the people you cruise with and make a statement!

For more great ideas on what to pack, check out our post on Disney packing lists !

Bringing Booze on a Disney Cruise?

All right, adult Disney fans, this one’s for you: Disney Cruise Line allows you to pack booze in your carry-on to bring on your sailing! Honestly, I think this is a great idea for everyone. They do have limits and specifications, so be sure not to exceed them and risk losing the money you spent on the booze AND the money you’ll spend buying more onboard!

Disney Cruise Line allows you to bring two (2) bottles of wine and one (1) six-pack of beer PER PERSON in your carry-on luggage. You are also allowed to buy wine and beer while you’re in a port of call and bring it back to the ship with you! This is such a great money-saver for those who want to drink on their Disney cruise. Additionally, you can also bring wine to your dining room if you want to drink with dinner- the restaurant will charge your stateroom $25 for the uncorking fee.

Tips for Pirate Night

Pirate Night is such a fun and exciting part of Disney cruising. This event is only featured on Caribbean itineraries, so if your Disney cruise happens elsewhere then you can skip this section! Pirate Night happens up on the pool deck, and is a pirate-themed show, with dressed up characters and fireworks!

There is a buffet on the pool deck during Pirate Night, so you may opt to skip the dining room in favor of the buffet and staking out a spot for the festivities. The pool deck is PACKED during Pirate Night, so definitely get there early. Plus, it’s windy up there and you may end up getting a bit chilly (trust me) so bring your sweaters!

At dinner, you will get a Mickey banana to wear for the party, but most guests choose to dress up much more! The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique onboard the ship does offer kids’ pirate makeovers for Pirate Night, but I highly suggest packing costumes/accessories with you.

Get Connected

Honestly one of the most convenient parts about Disney Cruise Line for me and my husband was the DCL mobile phone app. If you’re wondering what my favorite Disney cruise tip is, here you go: download the app! It allows you to communicate with your party without using data or paying for wifi. No more making plans for the whole day and trying to remember what time you need to meet up with your family. Now you can message them while onboard! The app has other handy features, including a fun countdown to your cruise before you go, but it is a MUST for Disney cruising.

Embarkation Tips

Best Disney cruise tips for embarkation? Check in online is number 1! You can do this in advance and it will save you so much time at the terminal. When you check in online you can also select your arrival time- be sure to write it down! This saves you so much time in the port AND can help you get on the ship early! If you do this, definitely keep your swim gear in your carry-on so you can grab lunch and hit the pool while others board. Just make sure to still arrive one hour before your scheduled time!

For cruisers with kiddos, it’s almost always easier to sign up for the kids’ club after you board the ship. You are able to in the terminal but the lines get very long, especially compared to the ones onboard the ship.

Shore Excursion Tips

I highly recommend shore excursions if they’re in your budget! These are a great and EASY way to explore your ports of call. However, if you’ve been to one your ports of call before, this is a great time to enjoy the ship with fewer people. I live in Florida and have been fortunate enough to cruise multiple times, but the itinerary is always the Bahamas, so I usually skip Nassau to stay on board. This is when I ride the Aquaduck without waiting in line!

However, if you’re going somewhere new then I highly recommend excursions. When I do go to Nassau, my favorite thing is the Atlantis waterpark. It’s awesome! Most ports have a lot of options for you, so definitely check them out and decide on your family’s must-dos. And, if you’re going to Alaska, you’ve got to do the sled dog racing for me! That’s my dream trip. If you’re not a dog person, my mom swears by the glacier helicopter rides.

Before and After Your Disney Cruise

Transfers to and from the port.

Disney offers their buses, which are super cute, for ground transfer for a per person fee. These are an awesome option because you can check your luggage into the bus and it will be delivered to your stateroom without you having to lug it around. Trust me, the cruise terminal before embarkation is PACKED. The last thing you want is to deal with your suitcases and carry-ons and children, if you have them! Plus, bus rides are better on the environment than everyone riding individually, which is a win in my book.

If the shuttle service doesn’t work for you, Uber, Lyft, and other shuttles are all great options to get to the port. Be sure to prepare for a wait in the drop-off lane, though, as that can take awhile! There is also parking at the terminal if you want to drive your own vehicle, just know that the parking is a bit pricey and must be paid upfront.

Best Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Miami

Cape canaveral.

If you aren’t local to your port and are flying to them, I cannot say enough how much I recommend arriving a day before your cruise. It means you need to get a hotel, but it also means you won’t miss your cruise if you have flight delays or cancellations. Plus, if luggage is lost the last thing you want is to board the ship without it! Even if the airline can’t get your luggage to you in time, at least you’ll have time to pick up some necessities before you set sail.

Many Disney cruises embark from Port Canaveral or Port of Miami, so you may struggle to determine where you should stay! Port Canaveral is in the very small town of Cape Canaveral (home to the Kennedy Space Center), so if you want to stay close to the port, or maybe check out the space center, then below are a couple of good picks.

Country Inn

Canaveral Towers

If y0u’re sailing out of Port Canaveral, you also have the wonderful option of staying at Walt Disney World, which is about an hour away. Disney World is also closer to the airport and still offers ground transfer with luggage checking from the resort to the port.

If you’re sailing out of Miami, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options for hotels. Port of Miami is right by downtown Miami, it can be pretty hectic. If you’re wanting to see the sights while you’re there, hotels downtown on South Beach are your best bets (and are still close to the port). Here are my favorite choices for Miami.

For Downtown:

Guild Miami

Holiday Inn

For South Beach:

Casa Boutique

National Hotel

Gratuities are a hugely important part of budgeting for your cruise, because most cruise employees rely on tips for their income. Thankfully, gratuities for your cabin and waitstaff are automatically included in your fare so you don’t need to worry much about this on a Disney cruise! However, you have the option to go to Guest Services and adjust the amount of tips provided to your staff. You can also tip cash in most currencies at the end of your cruise if you want.

If you order room service, you will need to sign the receipt and write-in a tip amount to be charged to your cabin because this is not an automatically tipped service. If you enjoy services at the spa, specialty dining, or concierge, gratuities are also included in the price but you are able to tip on top of that if you so choose.

Now you’re ready to book and set sail on your Disney Cruise! You’re going to have a wonderful time. I hope these Disney cruise tips have helped you to feel more prepared for your vacation so that, when the time comes, all you need to do is have fun! Happy cruising!

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25+ Disney Cruise Tips to Know Before You Go

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As a seasoned Disney cruiser, I’ve learned a lot of tricks and insider secrets that can make all the difference in your cruise vacation. If you’re planning your first Disney cruise , here are some tips to help you navigate the pre-booking process, pack your bags, and make the most of your time onboard!

This post may contain affiliate links. When you click on these links, I get a small percentage back at no cost to you! For more information see my  disclosure policy .

The Best Disney Cruise Tips

A Disney Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people that can create unforgettable memories for the whole family. However, planning and executing your Disney cruise vacation requires careful consideration and preparation to ensure the best possible experience.

From packing essentials to insider knowledge, the best Disney cruise tips can help you get the most out of your vacation. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a veteran of the seas, this article will provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your next Disney cruise like a pro.

Get ready to set sail and make some magical memories with some of the best Disney Cruise tips around!

Check out prices below or get a free quote by calling 877-510-2929 and let them know Mommy Mouse Clubhouse sent you!

Pre-Cruise Tips

Preparing thoroughly before embarking on a Disney Cruise is always key. This section is all about pre-cruise tips and tricks that’ll have you feeling like a seasoned Disney cruiser before you even climb aboard.

Disney cruises are incredibly popular, and some cabins can sell out months in advance. Decide on your travel dates and book your cruise as soon as possible to secure the best room and any promotions that may be offered during that time.

Get the Best Cruise Rates

Generally, the farther out from the cruise you get, the lower the price is. As the date approaches and demand goes up, so does the price. If possible, book your cruise as soon as dates are available (usually 12-18 months in advance).

You can also get a great deal if your desired cruise date offers a guaranteed rate. These rated can be found by searching for your cruise or by clicking on “Special Offers” on the Disney Cruise Line website.

If you are interested in these rates, they do come with stipulations. Many times Disney will choose your room for you, you must pay in full at the time of booking, and there are no changes or refunds available for any reason.

I booked a cruise for my family of five with a “guaranteed with restrictions” rate and had a great experience. I saved over $2000 dollars booking two of these rooms over booking one deluxe family verandah suite .

Available Hotels Near Cape Canaveral Florida

Use a travel agent.

I always recommend using a travel agent to book your Disney Cruise. They have easy access to Disney and can take care of any problems easily that may arise. And, using a travel agent is completely free!

If you’re thinking about going on a Disney Cruise for your family, I recommend booking with my travel partner, Get Away Today. They can help you find the best ship and itinerary for your cruise vacation. I have used them many times and they have the BEST customer service. Give them a call at 877-510-2929 and mention Mommy Mouse Clubhouse sent you to get the best deals!

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is always a good idea if you’re planning an expensive cruise. Not only can it protect your investment, but it can also cover things like missed flights or medical emergencies that may occur during your trip.

Fly in a Day Early

I highly recommend booking a flight that will arrive the day before your cruise departure. This will give you time to rest up, get acclimated to the area, and avoid any travel delays due to bad weather or airline issues.

Update Passports

You will be leaving the country when you sail on a Disney Cruise , so it is important to have the proper documentation like a passport.

Make sure that your passport is up-to-date and not about to expire. If it is, you’ll want to get one or get it renewed as soon as possible. It can take anywhere from 2-3 months for this process depending on whether or not you pay to expedite.

If you are in a time crunch, I have found that you can contact your local Congressman to help you get a new or renewed passport very quickly. I had to contact our’s before our Mediterranean cruise and they were very helpful and happy to do it!

If you are on a closed-loop cruise (where you start and end in the same destination within the United States) you can use a certified copy of your birth certificate and a driver’s license, but I highly recommend a passport.

If something happens in a port or you have a medical emergency that requires a helicopter, you will have many problems if you do not have a passport.

Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

Disney Cruise Line has their own app that is essential to download before your cruise. A benefit of downloading this app early is that it will give you a fun countdown until your cruise, complete with Disney characters !

Before your cruise, the app will show the countdown, your stateroom number, any balance owed (which can be paid through the app), check-in, maps, future plans, and available excursions.

During your cruise, the app will show the schedule of activities, restaurant menus, dining times, and more! So definitely download the app as soon as you book your sailing!

Join Your Cruise Facebook Group

As soon as you book your cruise, search Facebook for the date and ship you will be sailing. There is almost always a Facebook group that includes other passengers on your cruise.

This is a great resource for your particular sailing and is also the place where you can sign up to participate in Fish Extender groups (more on that later) or magnet exchanges.

Set Up a Character Call

This is a fun one! Before your cruise, you can set up a Character Call from the Disney Cruise Line for free! A Disney character will call your child at home and let them know about their upcoming trip! It’s such an amazing way to build excitement prior to departure.

Sign Up for Fish Extenders (If you want to)

Fish Extender groups are a group of cruise guests that sign up to give each other surprise gifts throughout the cruise. They got their name from the fish-shaped hook outside each stateroom on the Fantasy, Dream, Wonder, and Magic.

Participation in these groups is totally voluntary and whether you sign up for them or not, depends on the type of vacation you want.

I have both participated and not participated in Fish Extender gift exchanges on various cruises and both have been fun! It depends on my mood whether or not I sign up or not.

Book Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

For cruisers ages 3-12, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a really fun experience . Kids can be transformed into their favorite princess, a Royal Knight, Captain Mickey or Minnie, or even a pirate!

One tip to save money at the Bibbidi Bobbidi BoutiqueYou can read all about our experience at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique here .

These appointments can fill up quickly, so if this is an activity you want to do, make an appointment as soon as you can:

• First-Time Guests: 75 days prior to sail date
• Silver Castaway Club Members: 90 days prior to sail date
• Gold Castaway Club Members: 105 days prior to sail date
• Concierge Guests and Platinum Castaway Club Members: 120 days prior to sail date

Cruise Check-In Tips

There are dates to know and procedures that are unique to cruising with Disney, so you’ll want to know these tips below to help you with the check-in process. With these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle everything from boarding groups to make reservations for certain onboard experiences.

Know When to Check-In for a Disney Cruise

Your check-in time will vary depending on how many Disney Cruises you have been on. The breakdown is as follows:

• First Time Guests: 30 days before sailing
• Silver Castaway Club: 33 days before sailing
• Gold Castaway Club: 35 days before sailing
• Platinum Castaway Club: 38 days before sailing
• Pearl Castaway Club & Concierge Guests: 40 days before sailing

Make a Reservation for the Princess Royal Gathering

The Princess Royal Gathering is a popular event on a Disney Cruise where guests get a reserved time to meet and greet the Disney Princesses. Reservations for the Princess Royal Gathering always fill up quickly, so you’ll want to get online and make a reservation for this event right at the 30 day mark (which is Eastern Standard Time)

If you are unable to secure a reservation, you can check with guest services or the Disney Navigator App as soon as you board the ship, to find out if there are any openings.

Get an Early Port Arrival Time (PAT)

When you check in for your Disney Cruise , you will be able to select your PAT or Port Arrival Time. I like to choose the earliest time that I can, so I can maximize my time on the ship!

Tips for Booking Cruise Port Adventures (Excursions)

Port Adventures (also known as excursions) will vary by cruise. The following tips & tricks will help you with making reservations for fun on the land!

Research Port Adventures Ahead of Time

You can find a list of all port adventures for your destinations at www.disneycruise.disney.go.com . I like to go through them and decide which excursions I want to do so that I’m ready when it’s time to book.

You are able to cancel Port Adventures up to 3 days before sailing and once completed, they will be charged to your onboard account.

Book Excursions As Soon As Possible

Some popular excursions sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to decide what excursions you want to participate in and book them as soon as your booking window opens up. To book, your cruise must be paid in full. Here is the excursion booking schedule:

• First-Time Cruisers: 75 days before sail date
• Silver Castaway Club Members (2nd – 5th cruise): 90 days before sail date
• Gold Castaway Club Members (6th – 10 cruise): 105 days before sail date
• Platinum Castaway Club Members (11th – 25th cruise): 120 days before sail date
• Concierge Guests & Pearl Castaway Club Members (26th+ cruise): 123 days before sail date

Check Excursion Prices with Other Companies

When planning your cruise, it is important to know that you are not limited to the excursions offered through Disney Cruise Line. There are many tour companies that offer similar excursions in most ports of call. Some even have a cheaper price tag!

Before booking, search the internet for your port and compare excursions with Disney Port Adventures to find the right one for you! During my Mediterranean cruise last summer, I did a combination of Disney Port Adventures and private tours and loved all of the experiences.

Explore On Your Own

Often times when you visit a port, you don’t even need an organized excursion. Do some research for your ports of call, but I have had luck grabbing a taxi and heading to the beach on my own.

Skip a Port and Stay on the Ship

Sometimes its worth it to skip a port and stay on the ship! This allows you to enjoy the ship with fewer people, meaning you can use the pools and water slides with no lines!

My family did this when the Disney Wonder was in port in Ensenada, Mexico as well as when the Disney Fantasy was in St. Thomas and we had a great time.

Cruise Packing Tips

When it comes to packing, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and swimwear. Disney cruise ships have multiple pools and water features, and it’s easy to spend the majority of your time outside. Read my complete Disney Cruise packing list here.

Don’t Overpack

Even though I have an extensive packing list for Disney cruises here, don’t feel like you need to bring everything, especially when it comes to clothing.

The laundry facilities are easy to use on a Disney Cruise , so I often pack half of what I think I need and plan to do laundry if necessary.

You really only need shorts and a T-shirt during the day, a couple of swimsuits and cover-ups, nice clothes for dinner, and pirate clothes!

Pack a Light Sweater

Even in tropical climates, it can get cold on the ship. I always pack a light sweater to wear in the theaters and dining rooms.

Bring a Lanyard

If this is your first cruise, you might want to think about getting a lanyard to carry your Key to the World Card. This card will be your room key, will allow you to make purchases, and will be used each time you get on or off the ship.

A lanyard is nice to help you keep track of your key card, especially for kids. Check out these cute Disney Cruise Lanyards from Amazon . If you will be going on your second Disney cruise or any cruise thereafter, Disney will give you a lanyard.

Cash for Tips

Gratuities will be charged to your card at the end of your cruise for your room attendant and diing service team, but you will need to tip the porters who collect your luggage, room service attendants, and possibly tour guides on excursions. Bring some cash in small denominations so that you can easily provide tips during your stay.

Check the Prohibited Items List

Since you will be traveling on a cruise ship, you want to make sure that the items you bring with you are approved. Disney Cruise Line has a long list of prohibited items here that you should review before packing.

Bring Your Own Pharmacy Kits

Having over-the-counter medication for common ailments can save time and money on your Disney Cruise . I like to pack my own first aid kit with motion sickness medication, ibuprofen, antihistamines, and nasal spray for allergies. This can save you time if you need to grab something quick the ship store is closed. Read my full packing list here .

Embarkation Day Tips

The day you board your Disney cruise ship is called Embarkation Day. There are many things you need to know to have a successful embarkation day, so check out the tips below.

Port Arrival Time (PAT)

Your Port Arrival Time will be assigned to you at check-in. Try to time your arrival to the port around this time to avoid a long wait in the terminal.

Disney Transportation

Disney provides paid transportation to the ports for some cruises. If you choose to use this Disney transportation option, you will not need a Port Arrival Time.

I like to print out my paperwork for Embarkation Day to have a hard copy. To board the ship, you will need the QR code with your reservation number and port arrival time that you get at the time of check-in. It is much easier for me to keep the code printed out on a piece of paper than trying to pull it up on my phone each time I need it.

Carry-On Bag

When you arrive at port, you will give your luggage to the porters and it will arrive outside your room later in the day. I like to pack a carry-on bag to store items that I want to keep with me, including my cruise paperwork and passport.

Ask to Upgrade

You might be able to upgrade your room at a lower rate when you get to the port. I have heard of many people that asked at the port if any upgrades were available and were able to move from an inside room to a verandah room or even to a concierge room for a fraction of the price of booking that room ahead of time.

Wear a Swimsuit

On embarkation day, I suggest wearing your swimsuit under your clothes. That way, you can go straight to the pool area as soon as you board and get the most out of your first day on the ship. Often you can go on the AquaDuck, AquaDunk, and AquaMouse (depending on your ship) with very short wait times.

Carry On Your Own Wine

Disney Cruise Line allows you to bring a limited amount of beer or wine onboard with you. You will need to carry this on with you (do not pack it in your luggage). Check the DCL website for specific amounts allowed an restrictions.

Bring a Case of Water

You can purchase a case of water from the “Onboard Gifts” section of the Navigator App, but it is very expensive. We usually bring a case of water with us onboard in our carry-on suitcase.

Bring Your Own Soda

Soda is included on a Disney Cruise , but it is only Coke products. If you prefer a different brand, you are welcome to bring your own soda with you onboard. Just like with alcohol, and a case of water, you will need to carry it on with you.

Swim First, Then Eat

I already mentioned wearing your swimsuit on Embarkation Day, so this tip works with that. Most people head to the buffet as soon as they board and then go swimming. You can enjoy even shorter lines if you head straight to the water slides and eat lunch when you’re done!

Find a Sail Away Spot

After attending the Sail Away Party, it’s fun to find a good spot to watch as you sail away from port. You can wave at people in port or on a neighboring cruise ship as you set sail. If you want to see some marine life, try to find a spot as far forward on the ship as you can and watch for dolphins to lead the ship out to sea!

Tour the Kids Clubs & Teen Clubs

Embarkation Day is a great time to check out the kids and teen clubs on the ship. All clubs have “open house” time on this day where anyone can go visit and see what they are all about. I like to take my kids to visit during this time so they can know what to expect.

Onboard Disney Cruise Tips

The following tips will help you with experiences while on the ship. These things are good to know so that you can be prepared and understand what is going on while you are on your cruise vacation.

Stateroom Door Decorations

It is a tradition (not a requirement) to decorate your stateroom door with cute Disney-themed magnets. You can go all out and purchase magnets from Etsy, or you can make DIY magnets yourself, which is what I did and have continued to reuse cruise after cruise!

Pirate Night

Pirate Night is one of my favorite nights on a Disney Cruise . On this night, you can dress up like a pirate! Dinner has a pirate-themed menu , and there will be a pirate show up on the pool deck.

You can make the most of this night go all out with a pirate costume (get one on Amazon or check clearance sales after Halloween) or you can put minimal effort in and just wear a T-shirt (this is what I do).

Princess Royal Gathering

For all of the little princesses out there, Disney Cruise Line offers a fun event called the Princess Gathering. In order to participate in this activity, you will need to make a reservation through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app, 30 days prior to sailing (which is actually 29 days, 59 minutes, 59 seconds).

This experience is included with the price of your cruise, but making reservations is necessary. Just be aware that reservations can go quickly! But, if you are not able to snag a reservation at 30 days, keep checking the app for cancellations or talk to guest services as soon as you board the ship.

Character Meet & Greets

Another fun tip is to participate in the onboard activities, including character meet-and-greets and trivia games. Be sure to download the Disney Cruise Line app before your trip , as it will show the schedule for each event, activity, or show.

Broadway-Style Shows

On a Disney Cruise , you will experience a different show every night from Magic shows to Broadway-caliber shows like Frozen and Beauty and the Beast. The great thing about Disney is that you do not need a reservation for these shows.

Just check the Navigator app for the show and showtime each night. If you have an early dining time, you will go to the late show. If you have a later dinner time, you will go to the early show.

Daily Activities

Once you board the ship, your Navigator app will change and you will be able to see a list of activities for each day. I like to go through the activities and tap on the heart next to the activities my family wants to do each day. That way we can easily see what activities we are interested in and the app will also send you reminders about activities that you choose. Find an example of the Disney Cruise activity schedule here .

Disconnect and Enjoy your Vacation

Take time to disconnect and enjoy your vacation. This might mean turning off your phone for a few hours or even for a full day. I find that it is so important to unplug from technology sometimes and just enjoy the moments of being with family. You’re spending a lot of money to go on a Disney Cruise so put away the distractions and have some fun!

Use Booster Seat for Shows

If you’re traveling with little ones, there are booster seats available for them to use while watching the shows and movies!

Pop-Up Hamper

I always bring a pop-up hamper to keep in our stateroom closet. This helps keep our room clean and organized and makes it super easy to do a load of laundry during the cruise!

Beware of the Spa

The spas on Disney Cruises are amazing and I enjoy getting a massage from time to time. Just beware ahead of time, that the cast member will give you a heavy sales pitch at the end to try and get you to purchase their products. Feel free to buy them if you want, but don’t feel pressure or guilt to purchase them if you don’t.

If you absolutely need to bring a stroller for your little one (I’ve been there) Disney recommends that you bring your own, but there are a few available for rent on the ship. If you bring one, try to bring a small umbrella stroller. The hallways and elevators are a tight fit!

Midship Detective Agency

If your kids are looking for something fun to do, I highly recommend the Midship Detective Agency game on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. It is a scavenger hunt-style game and it’s so much fun!

Buy Souvenirs Early

If you see something you want to buy in the gift shops onboard or at Castaway Cay, buy it. Items tend to sell out quickly (sometimes on the Day 1) and what you want might not be available the next day.

Pixie Dusting

Pixie Dusting is along the same lines as the Fish Extender gift exchange, only a lot less pressure. With Pixie Dusting, you can bring your own small gifts and treats to share with random staterooms. I actually prefer this to Fish Extenders because I can give out these surprises as I please.

Return Kids Club Wrist Band

When your kids go to the kids clubs (Oceaneer Lab & Oceaneer Club) they will be given a wristband to wear for the entire cruise, similar to a Magic Band. You are welcome to keep this wristband as a souvenir, but you will be charged around $12-13. To avoid this charge, return the wristband to the kids club on the last night of your cruise.

Book a Placeholder While Onboard

To save money on a future cruise, you can purchase a placeholder while onboard through the Navigator app. You will pay $250 which can be applied toward the deposit for a future cruise in the next two years and you will also receive 10% off the price of your sailing.

If your future cruise is 7-nights or longer, you will also get 50% off the required deposit. Should you end up not using the placeholder, your $250 will be refunded.

If you use a travel agent to book your cruises , you will want to alert them of your placeholder and have them call Disney Cruise Line to have the placeholder transferred to them within 30 days.

Disney Cruise Dining Tips

Rotational dining.

Disney Cruise Line is different than many other cruise lines when it comes to the Main Dining Room (MDR) experience. Most cruise lines have one main dining room where you will go every night for dinner unless you have a specialty dining experience booked.

With Disney, instead of heading to the same main restaurant each night, your will rotate to a different restaurant. Your dinner time will remain the same and your serving team will rotate with you as well.

Main Dining Room

When you go to the Main Dining Room for dinner, know that you can order as much or as little from each course on the dinner menu. If you want 3 appetizers and no entrée, you can go ahead and order that! Or order two desserts if that’s what you want! Your servers will be happy to get you whatever you’d like.

I also have one drink that I prefer each night (Cherry Coke Zero) so I let my serving team know that I want that each night of the cruise. This cuts down on ordering time when we arrive at the restaurant because my server has our drinks ready for us.

You can also order items from other restaurants (sometimes). On our San Diego Disney Cruise , my kids fell in love with the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae from Lumiere’s and our amazing serving team were able to get that for their dessert for the next to nights. It never hurts to ask! See everything we ate on the Disney Magic here .

Late Seating

There are two different seating times on a Disney Cruise . The Main Dining time is around 5:00 and the Late dining time is around 8:00. I have done both, but I prefer the later dining because I feel like I have more time after returning from excursions, and the dining room is generally quieter because most small children utilize the main dining time.

If you prefer the main dining time but have been assigned the later dining time, you can be placed on the waitlist. If you are not moved before your cruise, make sure to ask once you board if you can switch. It isn’t always the case, but sometimes they can accommodate the change.

Themed Restaurants

One thing that sets Disney Cruises apart from other cruise lines is the themed dining experience. Each night, guests rotate to a different restaurant with a new theme and menu.

For example, on the Disney Wonder , you have the chance to dine at Tiana’s Place, themed after the Princess and the Frog movie and the menu includes things like “Mama Odie’s Creamy Tomato Soup” and “Tiana’s Buttermilk Beignets”!

Request a Private Table

Depending on the size of your party, you may or may not be seated with another family. Some people enjoy getting to know other cruisers, but for others, this is a deal breaker. If this is something you don’t want to do, you can request to be seated at a private table and Disney will do their best to accommodate your request.

Dining with Kids

If your kids have a hard time making it through a long dinner time, you can request that your serving team deliver their kid’s meals with the adult’s appetizers.

Once the kids have finished their meals, have an adult take them to the kids club, and then finish your meal without having them lose their patience. This works well with teenagers too, I know from experience!

Popcorn Buckets

Outside the shows and movie theaters, you are able to purchase popcorn. They have refillable popcorn buckets for sale and a refill will cost around $1.50+tip.

My boys LOVE Disney Cruise popcorn, so we bring our bucket with us each time we sail. You can also bring refillable buckets purchased at Disney World or Disneyland and get the refill price as well!

DIY Ice Cream Sundaes

A perk of sailing on a Disney cruise is the unlimited ice cream cones! One thing you can do to take this up a notch is to bring your own sprinkles, chocolate chips , nuts, and chocolate syrup. Grab a cup from the soda station and make your own ice cream sundaes!

Make a Float

Along with making hour own ice cream sundaes, you can also make your own ice cream floats combining soft serve and soda!

Bring Your Own Soda Cups & Cup Holder

Disney cruises include unlimited soda, which you can get up on the pool deck. I like to bring our own reusable cups, with lids and straws, so that we can take our soda with us. There are small cups available at the soda stations, but there are no cups and straws.

I also like to bring along a cup holder (I get one from fast food restaurants) to make it easy to bring drinks with us to the movies and shows.

Drink of the Day

Each day or your cruise, Disney offers a “Drink of the Day”. You can purchase this for under $7 including tip!

Free Room Service

Room Service on a Disney Cruise is included with your cruise fare, but you will want to make sure to tip the cast member who delivers your order at least $1-$2 per item. We like to order war chocolate chip cookies and milk just before bedtime.

Secret Room Service Menu

Don’t feel like you are restricted to the Room Service Menu on the Disney Navigator App. There is also a “secret room service menu” that includes things like Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars and Uncrustables!

Order a Mickey Ice Cream Bar

Everyone loves a Mickey Ice Cream Bar at the parks, but on a Disney Cruise , you can order as many as you like! They are available for dessert in the dining rooms and also through room service.

Get Uncrustables for Excursions

For port days, I like to order some Uncrustables sandwiches (prepackaged peanut butter and jelly sandwiches) to take along with us on excursions. These are great as a snack for kids and adults alike. If you’re going to use this trick, make sure to order them the night before a store them in the refrigerator.

Breakfast & Coffee from Room Service

In every stateroom , you will find a breakfast room service menu that you can fill out and place on your stateroom door at night. You will choose a time for delivery and your order will appear in the morning!

If you are a coffee drinker, many people like to order a carafe of coffee at night and it will stay warm until morning.

Cove Cafe Pastries

Cove Cafe is the specialty coffee shop on a Disney Cruise . The coffee from Cove Cafe is not free, but the pastries are! Get as many pastries and croissants as you want, and you don’t have to purchase anything. I happen to think that these pastries are better than the ones served in Cabanas (the buffet).

Cove Cafe Card

If you do like specialty coffee-make sure to get the Cove Cafe stamp card so you can get a free coffee after your 5th paid one. Also, save your card for the next cruise and use it then, previous stamps will be honored.

Tips for Disney’s Castaway Cay

If you are going on a Caribbean Disney Cruise , you will most likely have a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Below you will find tips and tricks to maximize your time at this amazing destination!

Adult-Only Beach

If you visit Castaway Cay, make sure to spend some time on the adults-only beach, Serenity Bay. We like to drop our kids off at the kids club on the island and take the tram to Serenity Bay. It’s quiet and a great way to start the day. You can also grab lunch, or an ice cream cone, at the BBQ restaurant.

Scuttle’s Cove Kids Club

Scuttle’s Cove is an extension of the kid’s club on the ship. The same counselors from the Oceneers Club and Oceaneers Lab will be there, which helps a lot of kids feel more comfortable. At Scuttle’s Cove, you will find sand castles, games, and a small splash pad.

Cookies BBQ

Cookies BBQ is the restaurant available to guests at Castaway Cay. The food is complimentary and you will find BBQ chicken, ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs, and more! Be aware that it closes at 2:00, so be sure to grab lunch before that time.

Complimentary Strollers

We always bring our stroller from home, but if you forget or don’t have one, Disney has complimentary strollers for guests to use on Castaway Cay. These are great for those who need a little assistance getting around the island.

Snorkeling Gear

Snorkeling is really fun on Castaway Cay because there are hidden Disney gems under the water. There is snorkel gear for rent on the island, or you can bring your own. We use our masks from Amazon. You will need to use a complimentary life vest available at the rental shack.

Sunscreen with Sea Lice Repellent

Some times of the year people have complained about sea lice in the waters of Castaway Cay. I combat this by bringing sunscreen that includes sea lice repellent. I use this brand from Amazon.

Disney Cruise Debarkation Tips

The debarkation process is streamlined on a Disney Cruise. On the day you debark from the ship, you will go to breakfast around 7:00 AM if you have an early dining time, or around 8:30 if you have a late dining time. Below are some tips to help you navigate this procedure.

Express Walk-Off

For most guests, you will get a set of character-themed luggage tags on the last day of your cruise. You will fill out the tags and attach to your luggage, then set your luggage outside your room the night before debarkation.

Your stateroom host or hostess will pick up your luggage, and you will retrieve it when you get off the ship. You will be called to debark the ship by the character on your luggage tags.

If you have an early flight or don’t want to wait for your character to be called, you can do “Express Walk-Off”. To do this, you will keep your luggage with you and then debark the ship at your leisure (usually by 9:30 at the latest).

Breakfast at Cabanas or Marcelline Market

If you do not want to eat in your assigned Main Dining Room restaurant the morning of debarkation, the buffets (Cabanas and Marceline Market) are generally open until 8:30 am on debarkation day. There are fewer options on debarkation day, but it is an option for you if you prefer the buffet breakfast.

Disney Cruise Frequently Asked Questions

A Disney cruise includes a variety of amenities and activities on board, such as dining, entertainment, recreation options, a fitness center, soda, free room service, and unique experiences like character meet & greets.

Alcoholic drinks, spa services, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, shore excursions, and some restaurants.

Yes! Disney Cruise Line offers the Oceaneers Club and Oceaneers Lab for children ages 3-12, as well as Scuttle’s Cove Kids Club on Castaway Cay.

Yes, each ship has several pool areas with waterslides, hot tubs, and other family-friendly water activities.

Yes, you can bring a certain amount of beer or wine. Check the Disney Cruise Line website for current restrictions.

The cost of a Disney cruise varies depending on the length, destination, and time of year. Generally speaking, 3-4 night cruises start at around $1000 per person.

Yes and no, depending on the cruise. If the cruise is closed-loop (begins and ends in the same port) you can use a birth certificate and valid driver’s license. But I still recommend a passport. For all other cruises, a valid passport is required for all guests on Disney Cruises. Be sure to check the Disney Cruise Line website for current passport requirements.

Yes! Disney cruise ships offer a unique experience for the entire family. The ships are full of activities and amenities that you won’t find on other cruises, such as character meet & greets, Broadway-style theatre shows, pool areas with waterslides and hot tubs, kids’ clubs, and more. There is something fun for everyone!

There are actually 5 Disney cruise ships now, and more on the way! Currently sailing are the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish.

Final Thoughts

Getting ready to embark on a Disney cruise can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning and preparation, you can make sure that your last morning on board goes as smoothly as possible.

Whether you choose express walk-off or take advantage of breakfast at Cabanas or Marceline Market, following these tips will ensure that you have a stress-free and magical trip!

Good luck on your upcoming voyage, and happy sailing! If you have any questions, feel free to send me a DM on Instagram @mommymouseclubhouse!

Read My Disney Cruise Reviews:

• 4-Nights on the Disney Dream

San Diego Disney Cruise

• Mediterranean Disney Cruise

More Disney Cruise Information:

• Disney Cruise Wi-Fi Packages
• Disney Dream Menus
• What to Eat on the Disney Magic

Disney Cruise Tips

Disney Cruise: What to Expect

Are you ready for your next Disney Cruise? We have all the information you need! From itinerary and cost, to what else is included in your vacation package! 

Disney Cruise Internet (Updated New Plans)

If you’re planning a Disney Cruise, you may be wondering about the best way to stay connected while you’re at sea. Disney Cruise Line offers several different internet plans, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Disney Cruise Deluxe Family Verandah Suite (Disney Dream 8614)

I’m so excited to be giving you a tour of our Deluxe Family Verandah Suite on the Disney Dream cruise ship. Our suite was absolutely beautiful and perfect for families. It has plenty of space for all of us to relax and enjoy our vacation.

What is it like to take a San Diego Disney Cruise on the Disney Wonder? You’re about to find out! This article will take you through a quick tour of some of the ship’s highlights, and go through what each day is like on a 5 Night Itinerary to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. Follow along with us as we learn how this magical cruise works!

Day One on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Want to know what it is like to board a Disney Cruise? You are in the right place! I will show you what is required in order to board, how the boarding process works, and all about Day 1 of a Halloween on the High Seas Disney Cruise on the Disney Dream.

Disney Cruise Formal Night

Wondering what to wear on a Disney Cruise Formal Night? I’ve got you covered! See the most EPIC Disney themed suits for men and boys plus where to buy cute dresses for women and girls!

Disney Cruise Activity Schedule

Want to know what activities are scheduled on a Disney Cruise? Here is the schedule from our 4-Night cruise on the Disney Dream including screenshots from the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App!

What to Eat on the Disney Dream

Check out the menus for most Disney Cruise Line Restaurants!

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How Does Magic Kingdom Pick The Family of the Day?

Q: How does Magic Kingdom pick their family of the day? 

A: If you’re planning your first visit to the Walt Disney World you’ve probably seen Disney regulars extolling the virtues of Magic Kingdom’s morning Rope Drop ceremony.  Held daily just before the Magic Kingdom opens its gates to the public, this delightful opening show is Disney’s way of saying “Good Morning” (literally).  There’s a steam train filled with much-loved Disney characters, a brilliant musical number that sets a joyful tone for the day (don’t want to give too much away and spoil the surprise), and the Mayor comes out to officially open the park and welcome you to the Magic Kingdom.

For my family, a trip to Walt Disney World  just wouldn’t be complete without this opening ceremony, and like the Kiss Goodnight that closes the park each evening, I feel myself get emotional every time. It is definitely worth hopping on your resort buses an hour before park opening to make sure you arrive at the Magic Kingdom early enough to experience Rope Drop at least once during your time at Disney.

Rope Drop veterans will also tell you that every morning a Family of the Day is selected to join Mickey and friends to officially open the park. Hand-picked from the crowd of eager Disney visitors,  this family gets to arrive via steam train with Mickey and friends, disembark at the train station, wave to the crowds and get up close and personal with some of their favorite Disney characters.  Who knows what other fantastic experiences await them behind the scenes – it’s become the stuff of Disney lore.

But how exactly does Disney pick the Family of the Day? Though there is no clear answer, the internet is filled with posts from families who have held this coveted role.  Here are a few suggestions based on their experiences about ways that you may increase your chances of joining this elite group of Disney-loving families.

1) Arrive at the Magic Kingdom very early.   It’s no secret that the Family of the Day is usually hand-picked each morning from the families that arrive early.  After all, Disney needs time to bring you into the park, explain the opening ceremony, walk you through your role etc.  This cannot be done 10 minutes before the park opens. I recommend getting to the park at least an hour early.  You’ll find the entrance to the Magic Kingdom to be pretty empty at this point except for other families hoping to get picked!

2) Don’t have an early morning dining reservation.  It would be pretty difficult for you to be a part of Magic Kingdom’s Rope Drop ceremony if you are also meant to be having breakfast at Be Our Guest.  In the morning you’ll find a separate line for those entering the park early to have breakfast,  Cast Members, I think its pretty safe to say,will not be scouting from this line to pick participants.

3) Show your Disney enthusiasm Cast Members that select the participants for Rope Drop will be looking for enthusiastic, Disney-loving families that are already having a magical time, are celebrating a family milestone or are just generally happy to be there.  The opportunity is to make a family’s amazing day even more magical.  They won’t be seeking out the families that for whatever reason already look like they are having a terrible time and the parks haven’t even opened yet.

4. Be chatty with the Cast Members – Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with some of the Cast Members that are manning the early morning crowds.  If they have an opportunity to get to know you and your family they may just think you fit the Family of the Day bill and will choose you to be a part of the magic.

5. Dress with your  Disney-side in mind.  Though I don’t believe that by not having matching Walt Disney World t-shirts you are automatically disqualified, I do think it helps to dress the part.  This also ties in with Step 3.  If you’re enthusiastic, ready to go and are so excited to be there that you are all wearing your favorite Mickey Ears or Disney t-shirts then it can only work in your favor.  That being said, I’ve seen families get picked without a bit of Disney clothing between them so its certainly just a suggestion.

6. Be Yourself.   I’ve read more than my fair share of accounts and advice on being selected as Family of the Day that say things like “It helps to have beautiful children” or “You won’t get picked if you aren’t dressed nicely.”  This Disney lady thinks that’s a load of rubbish.  I don’t think it matters what you look like, how pretty your children are or what your background is.  Its a magical surprise bestowed on any family who is having the most amazing time of their life.  Don’t think for a minute that your family can’t or shouldn’t be selected.  But at the same time, don’t be presumptuous, try too hard or feel like you’re entitled to take part in this magical experience.  If you show up hell-bent on making sure your family is selected, its usually something I as a visitor can see right through I imagine the Cast Members are seeing the same thing.

The beautiful thing about a Disney vacation is that there is always a little bit of pixie dust just around the corner.   So if Family of the Day is on your bucket list, don those Mickey t-shirts, board your resort bus early, have your cameras at the ready and give it a shot!

Good luck! And don’t forget to check back in and share your Family of the Day experiences with us.

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

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Disney Fantasy 7 day eastern Caribbean cruise review

By: Author Morgan

Posted on Published: August 31, 2023  - Last updated: October 6, 2023

Are you considering going on a Disney cruise? Here is our complete Disney Fantasy 7 day eastern Caribbean cruise review!

My family of four recently got back from a seven day cruise on the Disney fantasy cruise ship.

We are not what you would call a Disney family – we have never been to Disney World, and really have no intention of going anytime soon – and we aren’t big cruisers either as my husband and I have each taken a couple of cruises total and they were more than a decade ago each.

So, it was kind of out of character for us to plan a Disney cruise. But, our kids are three and four now, and have never been on a true vacation before.

We decided that this was going to be the summer that we went somewhere cool with them.

After throwing around a lot of different ideas – and actually booking and then canceling a trip to Yellowstone – we settled on a Disney cruise as being the most child-friendly possible option for this age.

I’m going to take a lot of time to go into very deep detail about this cruise, and I will write a lot of other articles that will dive into very specifics about the ship and our experience, but spoiler alert – we had a great time.

This cruise was, at times, stressful and frustrating, but still pretty much the best experience we could’ve possibly had considering the age of our kids, their general demeanors, and the fact that we don’t have grandparents or cousins that can travel with us and help.

But, let’s dive into all of the details of what made our Disney cruise great, some of the pitfalls, and what I would want to know if I was booking a similar cruise for my family!

Is a Disney Cruise worth it?

Before I start breaking it down, I wanted to dive into the number one question I’ve gotten from friends and family since getting back from this cruise five days ago – is a Disney cruise worth the price?

Because, I would be lying if I didn’t tell you that Disney cruises can be more than double the cost of comparable cruises from other cruise lines.

Here’s the thing – I struggle telling people if certain things are worth it, because that is such a personal decision.

Would I go into debt to go on a Disney cruise? Absolutely not.

But, as someone who was able to comfortably pay for a Disney cruise, I definitely think that it is worth it to pay the extra compared to the other cruise lines.

I’m a little bit bougie, I like nice things, I’m willing to pay a little bit more for something clean, with a very friendly staff, that feels very safe and child friendly. That’s a Disney cruise.

To be fair, before we had kids, Sean and I could’ve gone to Europe and done something really nice with the amount of money we spent on the seven day cruise. Honestly, I think we spent more on this cruise than we spent on our two week Italian honeymoon in 2015.

But, everything is taken care of for you and we did have a lovely experience.

One of the really nice things about doing a cruise with little kids is you don’t have to worry about wasting money when you’re there.

And by that I mean maybe you wouldn’t normally take your kids to see a movie because you’re afraid that they would scream and cry, and wanna leave halfway through. On the cruise, who cares, it was included.

Maybe you wouldn’t normally order the scallops and the steak just to take a few bites and try them both. On the cruise, who cares, it was included.

Maybe you wouldn’t normally give each person in your family their own ice cream cone, you would normally share a cup or two. Everybody get one, they’re free.

I certainly would have never bought tickets for my kids to see a Broadway style show. But it’s low risk when they’re free, and, what do you know, turns out my kids love musicals and we went 5 times.

Soda is included and free. We don’t really drink soda, but I drank a few cokes on the trip just because they were there.

My point is that the all inclusive experience really is nice and feels very low risk and relaxing. And isn’t that the whole point of your vacation?

Here is everything I can think of sharing regarding our experience on the Disney Fantasy Eastern Caribbean cruise.

Booking and Planning

When doing initial research for this trip, I did a lot of googling and looking at the options for Disney cruises. We are in South Carolina and are lucky enough to be able to drive to Port Canaveral so we focused on cruises that left from that location.

There were three different Disney ships at the time that were leaving from Port Canaveral, but I didn’t really do any planning based on the ship.

Instead, I focused on the itineraries that we wanted. In this case, we wanted a seven day cruise.

I talked to a few people who thought that it was a bit aggressive to leap straight into a seven day cruise. It seems like a lot of people do a three or four night cruise as their first, especially with little kids.

But, for us, it’s over a 7 Hour drive to Port Canaveral, and Sean and I don’t work conventional jobs where we have to take vacation days or anything like that.

I found that it was about $1000 more total for a seven day cruise compared to a five day cruise, at least at the time we were booking it, and so to me it just seemed like a total no-brainer to focus on the seven day cruises.

So, the Fantasy was the only choice for seven day Caribbean cruises out of Port Canaveral with Disney cruise lines.

They alternate weekly between an eastern and western itinerary. We just ended up with the Eastern itineraries based off the week we were available.

It’s worth noting, and I’ll get into this later, that kids have to be 3 years old to go to the kids club and that is why we were so specific on the date that we could go on this cruise – we had about a two week window between Rory’s third birthday and the day they went back to school.

So, that was pretty much how we landed on the eastern Caribbean itinerary – it’s just what fit our schedule best.

Reservation process and tips for booking a Disney cruise

You have two options for booking a Disney cruise- you could book it yourself, or you can use a travel agent.

We booked our trip through an acquaintance of mine, who is a Disney travel agent. I reached out to her because I knew she did this and there was no cost for her services as she’s paid a fee from Disney directly.

I am implying no hate to her. She’s a very nice person, and I’m not speaking on all travel agents, because I literally only worked with this one person, but we got zero benefit from working with a Disney cruise travel agent.

She didn’t get us any discounts, we didn’t get any credits or gifts, she didn’t even really give us any tips or advice, all of my advice came from Reddit and Facebook.

So, don’t feel like you need to use a travel agent. You aren’t missing out on anything. If I were to book it again, I would just do it myself online like I do everything else.

When to book a Disney cruise

Based on my research, Disney cruises tend to sell out, especially during popular times like when kids are out of school.

They also limit each cruise on the number of kids in each age category that can be on board at a time.

They limit it so that if every single kid age 3 to 12 was at the kids club at once they would be below capacity. So it’s possible that a cruise you want to book will have open rooms but will not let you book a room if you have kids of a certain age.

All of that is to say, the earlier you can book your cruise, the more likely you are to get the room that you want for the best possible deal. It seems the prices only go up as you get closer to the cruise date.

Embarkation Day

Embarkation Day is the day that your cruise leaves the port. You will be assigned a time to get on the ship – this is based on your rank in the Disney system (first timer, silver, gold, platinum, etc for returning cruisers, or concierge for the high rollers).

Arrival at the port

Do not arrive before the time you are assigned. Maybe 15 minutes before to get situated, but they will not let you in the door before your time- they are strict on this.

We chose to drive from our hotel and park in the parking deck. At Port Canaveral it was $17 per day (including arrival and departure day) to park, working out to be just shy of $150 for the week.

Before parking, you can drop your suitcases (with a member of your group) at the curb and then drive to park.

We were shocked that there were hardly any cars in the deck – we got one of the first spots on the ground floor and there were tons of empty spots. You’ll see later that this made getting out when we got back very easy.

Once you have your suitcases ready, a porter will come to take your bags away. It was chaotic, and by the time I flagged a porter down, he straight up told me to my face that he does not work for Disney and he works for tips and held out his hand. I stood there for a moment and said “well I don’t have any cash” and he walked away.

When Sean came out of the garage, I told him, and he got out some cash. The guy took a bit and came back and took the cash and our bags. Do not leave your bags on the curb and walk away, instead be sure someone takes them away for you.

So, definitely bring cash and be prepared with a $20 for your bags. I get it, they will help whoever is paying the most. I just was not prepared for that, there was no option that I saw to do your own bag, and it kind of put a sour taste into my mouth right at the start of the trip.

Check-in process

After the porter graces you by taking your money and bag, your party will have to go wait in line to board the ship. This is, luckily, indoors and air conditioned.

Have your passports ready and be prepared to wait 30-60 minutes to get through the queue.

They took our passports, set up our room, and set up our MagicBands .

On the other side of that line, you will go through an x-ray machine and then ride the escalator up to the Mickey tunnel and the ship’s entrance.

You go through the Mickey tunnel, cross the bridge, and you are on the ship!

The cast members (that’s what they call employees) will announce your family and everyone claps for you as you enter the ship. It’s a nice touch and very indicative that Disney tries to make everyone feel special and celebrated.

First impressions of the ship

When you first enter the ship, you will be in the atrium, which is the lobby. The atrium is on the third floor and has two upper floors that look down on it. So, the atrium kind of includes the third, fourth and fifth floor of the Disney Fantasy cruise ship.

While the ship is large and beautiful, I do think that a lot of the fits and finishes are dated. The ship was built in 2012, so it’s not exactly old. Perhaps they were going for a “classic” look.

That being said, it is very very clean and well maintained. We had zero issues with messes or trash or broken anything on our trip.

Activities and events on embarkation day

On embarkation day, they suggest that everyone go up to the 11th floor to Cabanas, which is the buffet on the pool deck, and get lunch. It was about 1:00 by the time we got on and got up to the buffet, so we were glad to eat.

Expect the food to be very crowded day one. It was hard to get a table, so we brought our food out to the pool deck which had some empty spots.

You can get into your room after 2pm on embarkation day. Your keys will be stuck to the outside of your door and your luggage will come to your door by dinner time. Don’t be surprised if they don’t all come at one time as ours came in a couple batches.

Accommodations

The Disney Fantasy cruise ship, like most other cruise ships, has interior rooms, ocean view rooms, and rooms with a veranda. There are also suites, but I will not dive into those haha.

Our room was a family deluxe verandah state room, which is the largest non-suite room. This was room 8116 on the Disney Fantasy.

Size-wise, the room was just right. It has a queen sized bed, a sofa that folds into a twin bed, an upper bunk above the sofa that pulls down from the ceiling, and a 4th bed that folds down murphy style.

We used the queen and bunk beds. It did not feel too tight with a family of 4, even with the beds down, though we were thankful that our steward put the bed away each morning.

Location-wise, this room was perfect. I loved being on the 8th floor – it felt central but quiet. Being mid-ship meant we had no issues with motion or rocking. It was a great room!

My only feedback was that we had a port view, and if you had a starboard view, you would be able to watch the fireworks from your balcony! But, we loved looking at the port on docked days.

The bathroom

The other thing that this room had was a split bathroom. So, basically two separate, back-to-back bathrooms. One is a sink + toilet and one is a sink + shower.

This would be great if you had a lot of people wanting to get ready at once.

We are in a weird spot where our kids still need help with the bathroom and bathing and have zero modesty issues, so it felt very tight and closed off, but I see how this set up would be great for most families.

The verandah

I think that the verandah was the most used part of our room. We ate room service out there, drank wine in the chairs, watched the ship enter and leave the ports, and even interacted with Pluto onshore at Castaway.

I recognize that the balcony was a higher cost but whoooweee we loved it. It’s also really good if you’re a parent that needs a space to get away after your kids go to sleep.

Dining Experience

The Disney Fantasy had good food. It was by no means the best food of my life, but it was all consistently good. Some was great. A few things were bland or boring, but nothing was bad.

I will say that the best part of the food to me, as a mom home with 2 kids 24/7, is that I did not wash a dish or prepare a single thing for a week.

Even on vacation I am usually washing up a bit or cooking some meals. Nothing on this cruise! That, my friends, was priceless.

Main dining rooms and rotational dining

Disney serves their dinners in a rotational dining format. On the Fantasy, there are three restaurants that you rotate in between.

You will have to go into the Disney cruise navigator app to see the restaurant you are assigned to each night and your table number.

Your table number stays the same at every restaurant all week, as does your server and assistant server. The people at the tables around you stay the same too.

I thought this was really fun because you got to try different restaurants which each had a different style of food, and even when you went back to restaurant, it had a new menu each time.

On the seven day cruise, you get to try each of the three restaurants twice. The restaurant you go to the first night you will also go to on the middle night, which is pirate night, which has a pirate themed menu, so you will still get two menus at each restaurant excluding the pirate menu, to add up to seven total.

Learn more about each of the three rotational dining restaurants:

• Animator’s Palate review
• Enchanted Garden review
• Royal Court review

There’s also a buffet, which is called Cabanas, on the 11th floor near the pool deck.

We ate breakfast at Cabanas each day we didn’t have room service and had lunch there as well.

The food was pretty good for buffet, and there was a really wide selection of items.

My biggest complaint with a buffet is that I actually find it harder than a sit down restaurant with small kids.

It’s a tossup, because my kids don’t want to sit and wait for their food, but, they also aren’t going to carry a plate through the buffet.

We ended up having one adult go and take the kids and find a table – which could be really hard to do a peak times – and sit down.

At the same time, the other adult went and got food for the kids and then we had to alternate getting food for ourselves.

So the buffet was honestly kind of a lot of work, and there weren’t even servers bringing you drinks or anything.

They bused your table, so it’s not like you have to take your trash away at the end, but it was kind of an ordeal.

Poolside food

Additionally, there’s one more spot to get lunch or dinner, which is Flo’s Café, which had a “Cars” movie theme.

They had pizza, burgers, barbecue sandwiches, Panini’s, french fries, hotdogs, corn dogs, stuff like that. This was available for lunch and dinner.

We could eat at the pool deck or you could get it and take it into Cabanas and eat it there.

A lot of the food at Flo’s was actually at Cabanas too – my big feedback was that this spot usually had really short lines and I thought the pizza and burgers were pretty good so it was actually easier for us to grab lunch here with the small kids compared to dealing with a larger buffet at cabanas.

Room Service

Your final option for food is to order room service. Room service is free and included with your cruise, unless you order booze or some thing else premium.

However, we did tip a few dollars when we ordered room service.

Room service was clutch for early morning breakfasts when we had port activities starting at 7 or 8 AM.

I literally don’t know how we could’ve gotten the kids up, dressed, put on sunscreen, up to the buffet, fed, and downstairs by 7 AM. This way, we had food delivered between 6-6:30, ate it on the balcony, got dressed, and left.

Hot tip – you can get uncrustables pb&js delivered from room service with breakfast. We got 2 of these on each port day for the kids to snack on. It was CLUTCH when we didn’t make it back until 2pm or so.

Kid-friendly meal options

Everywhere on the ship is expecting kids. So, they have extensive kids menus and no one was upset by my kids poor behavior.

To be fair, my kids were not screaming or throwing food or anything but they also didn’t like sitting in their seats for a two hour dinner.

The kids menus contained things like:

• macaroni and cheese
• chicken strips
• pasta + red sauce
• mini burgers
• grilled cheese

The waitstaff also offered to bring the above kids items when they weren’t on the menu. They dig them up like magic from somewhere on the ship!

Also, kids can order adult food. The kids at the table next to us were elementary aged and ordered salads, steaks, and seafood off the full menu each night. The waiter actually cut the kids’ steak for him. I was very impressed by them!

I will also say that LOTS of little kids at dinner had tablets. We did not bring ours and, retrospectively, it might have helped with dinner time.

It’s not something we’ve ever done – screens at the table – and I’d prefer not too, but those kids seemed to do better than my screenless 3&4 year olds so who am I to judge.

Special dietary considerations

The menus at all of the restaurants had things clearly labeled that were vegetarian, gluten free, and dairy free.

The waitstaff also made a big effort to get to know our needs and preferences. For example, I don’t eat much meat, and at first he kept pushing the steak and ribs and all these meaty things and acting perplexed when I chose tofu.

Once I explained my preference to him, he shifted his recommendations and never suggested the meat to me again. Basic, but he did a good job of it!

Onboard Entertainment

The onboard entertainment was really great on our fantasy cruise.

Broadway-style shows and performances

The musical performances on the Disney Fantasy were possibly the highlight for me. I feel like we got so much value getting to see these shows, and I was truly blown away at how much my kids not only enjoyed, but appreciated them.

Each of the three shows was shown as a matinee at 12:45, then at 6:30 and at 8:30. You go to the show that is the opposite of your dinner so if you have early dinner, you go to a late show and if you have a late dinner you go to an early show.

We went to the matinee and the late show for each show. The matinee was a great way to guarantee my kids were awake for it, and each time they enjoyed it so much they begged to go back again later that night.

My kids have never seen a live show like this before in their entire lives, so it’s not like they are used to plays or Broadway. These shows were just really good.

The shows on our ship, in order of their appearance was:

• Believe – a compilation of classic Disney songs from different movies.

Aladdin was random to me, but I made sure my kids watched it leading up to the cruise so they were familiar. Y’all. It was SO GOOD. Shout out to the actor who played Aladdin (yes I looked him up!), he was so charismatic and fantastic.

Frozen was good – though we all agreed that Aladdin was stronger. (I was surprised, since my kids generally prefer Frozen, but the leads were just stronger in Aladdin).

The Believe show was cute, but once again, the song choices were all “classic” Disney movies – most my kids didn’t know. They got excited for Tiana, but they don’t know Jungle Book, Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, or many other 90s movies.

Movie Theater

One thing I don’t see mentioned enough about the Disney cruise that I want to shout out is the movie theater. They have a movie theater on board that shows Disney movies that are currently in theaters in the United States.

We were able to see Elemental. I really really wanted to see The Little Mermaid live action but the times just didn’t work with our kids schedule.

They were also showing Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan and Wendy, and some Indiana Jones something.

I was surprised that they seem to show the adult movies a lot more, and didn’t show the kids movies as much or as many times during the day.

But, if you go on a Disney cruise, definitely try and use it as a chance to catch any movie!

Deck parties and events

The ship held deck parties for sail away, which is when you leave the port on day one, pirate night when they had a little pirate show, and on the 25th anniversary they did a little Mickey show before the fireworks.

Personally, I found the deck parties lame.

They were very very crowded and I’m not one to watch Mickey Mouse dance around.

Some kids were into it, most seemed either hot and tired, or sleepy and tired, depending on the time of day.

There were some Disney adults that were really into it. I’m not gonna yuck their yum, but the deck parties just didn’t do it for me.

Family entertainment options

On the nights when there were not musical performances, there were other performers. There was a ventriloquist, a magician, and a juggler.

The only one of these that we made it to was the juggler. I’m not one to hate on artists, but I was super unimpressed with his act. My kids thought it was cool though, so I guess they were the target audience.

We did not make it to the other shows because they were at 8:30 at night and on those nights, my kids were just beat.

Port of Calls

The Eastern Caribbean itinerary included:

• Day 1: Port Canaveral
• Day 2: Sea Day
• Day 3: Sea Day
• Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• Day 5: St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
• Day 6: Sea Day
• Day 7: Castaway Cay private island
• Day 8: Port Canaveral

We loved this itinerary. Starting with Sea Days was a great way to get to know the ship.

The Virgin Islands were gorgeous with white sand and clear water.

Castaway Cay is great because everything is taken care of for you and mostly included in the cruise.

As far as the length of the cruise, we felt that 7 days was just right. I never got bored but I also did not feel rushed whatsoever.

Pool and Recreation

There are a variety of pools + water areas on the Fantasy.

The family pools

I was pretty unimpressed by the pools on the Disney Fantasy ship. There are 2 main family pools – a 3 foot deep pool and a 5 foot deep pool.

They were constantly so full with people it was like human soup, super unappealing and crowded.

We actually found a small fountain area on the side of the ship that I never found the name of – it’s next to the soda fountains – that was a huge hit with my 3 year old.

It’s worth noting that swim diapers are NOT allowed in any pools, so if your kid is not potty trained, they cannot swim at all.

There is also the Funnel Puddle in the “family area” right above the adults only pool. The fountain was never on, but my 3 year old LOVED this pool. We were always the only ones there.

It was only 6 inches deep but it was private and we ordered daiquiris and enjoyed the spot.

I felt a little awkward – it was right over the adults only section- but it was clearly marked as family pool, and I asked like 4 people and it was family friendly. It’s a hidden gem!

Adult-only areas

There are 2 adult only pools on the ship. In the very front of the ship there’s basically a 1 foot deep fountain with a seat you can sit on. We walked by here but never got in.

There is also an adults only pool with a swim up bar and 5’5″ deep section. It was nice – we went during one kids club visit – but it was very small and crowded.

Also there was a hot tub in the adults only area, but I never made it in.

Splash areas

There are 2 splash areas on the ship – Nemo’s Reef and the Aqua Lab.

My daughter LOVED Nemo’s Reef. It has all of the different Nemo fish that squirt and spray water. And, you can slide down Mr. Ray.

This was a huge hit and is what the Disney cruise should have more of – cute fun character inspired areas.

Aqua Lab is a spot where you can turn knobs and crank levers and squirt each other with water. It was fun, but it was frequently closed for too much wind.

AquaDuck water slide

The big water slide on the ship was called the AquaDuck. You have to be 42 inches to ride the AquaDuck with an adult.

My four year old was able to do it with my husband and they did it twice on the trip.

The trick is to go at low wait times, because during busy sea days, the wait can be long. They went early in the morning or later at night, because my four-year-old is not about the line.

This is the slide that goes all the way around the ship and they really really enjoyed it.

Mickey’s water slide

There is a smaller yellow waterslide that is kids only and called Mickey’s Slide.

You have to be 38 inches to ride it and have to be shorter than 5 foot five – we talked to a 12-year-old who got turned away because she was too tall.

This was a good slide and my four year-old did it twice by himself. I think he would’ve done it more if you’d had a friend with him, or if his sister had been tall enough to do it with him.

Sports and recreation options

This ship also has Goofy Golf, which is putt putt on the top deck. It was a lot of fun, we did this a few times, and my 4 year old really loved it.

There is also a basketball court, which seemed impossible to do because it was so windy.

Finally, there is a sports simulator up there on the sports deck. It’s indoors and you kick or throw actual sports balls at a screen.

You have to pay for this but it’s only like $15 for an hour, the bigger problem is getting a reservation. When we were able to sign up as first time cruisers, nothing was available.

Childcare and Kids’ Activities

The kids clubs on the Disney cruise are divided up as follows:

• 0-3 (or not potty trained) Nursery
• 3-12 Kids Club – Oceaneer’s Club & Lab
• 11-14 Edge (middle school age)
• 14-17 Vibe (high school age)
• 1820 club – for college aged >18 but too young for booze

If we are being completely honest, I was unimpressed by the kids club on this cruise. They have open houses several times throughout the cruise when adults can come and tour and check it out.

I felt that the Oceaneer’s club and lab were very screen-oriented. There were computer games, movies, and just a lot of giant TV screens on the walls. There is no playground and not a lot of toys.

They do have activities organized throughout the week, we took our kids to the kids club twice.

The first time they stayed for less than an hour and seemed to have a good time.

The second time, they stayed for one hour and when we picked them up our four-year-old son was sobbing, snot pouring down his nose, which is incredibly unlike him.

I tried to pick him up, and the woman yelled at me that I can’t touch him until he was signed out and then proceeded to sign out two other non-crying kids before signing him out while he stood there and just sobbed.

It then took them over five minutes to find my three-year-old and when they brought her out, she was crying too.

None of the employees seemed too concerned, no one, including my kids or the employees could tell me what happened, and my kids adamantly refused to go back to the kids club after that.

I heard lots of people saying that their kids didn’t want to leave the kids club. They loved it so much they even wanted to go to the kids club on the private island days and during dinner. This was not what happened for us.

Character Interactions

One of the big selling points for many people on the Disney cruise is the character interactions and the ability to get photos with characters.

I pre-paid for the photo package, so about halfway through the cruise, I decided to start waiting in these long lines to get photos with characters.

It’s worth noting that you can take pictures with the characters on your own cell phone. No problem for free.

Also, some of the best interactions that we had with characters was when we just passed them in the hallway, not waiting in a line. Shout out to Rapunzel. She was the best for this.

But, if you want to wait in line for a character that you really want to see, be prepared to line up. For example, on the second to last day, we still had not seen Stitch and my kids really love Stitch, so I waited in line 15 minutes before he was due to appear and ended up waiting for an hour total to see him.

The best strategy is definitely for one adult to grab a drink and get in line with their cell phone, and then text the rest of the group when you are close to the front of the line. This was totally cool. As long as you were doing just one group one photo you’re not really cutting the line you’ve got one spot it’s not like a ride.

Only other feedback on character meet and greets is that I think that Disney needs to take a long hard look at the characters that they feature on the ship.

It really felt to me like they were catering towards Disney adults with some of these choices.

For example, Chip and Dale were out every day. Are Chip and Dale even relevant anymore? I think not.

I would like to see Elsa and Anna, Moana, Buzz Lightyear, and more recent characters.

Here’s who we physically saw on our cruise so you can prepare your kids, so they know who these people are because my kids did not know most of these:

Classic Disney characters

• Donald duck
• Chip + Dale

All of these classic Disney characters also come out at different times wearing different outfits, such as pirate costumes or sailing clothes, so you can see them multiple times in different garb.

Other Disney Characters

• Captain Hook + Smee (pirate night only)
• Captain Jack Sparrow (pirate night only)

Cruise Staff and Service

The highlight of this cruise for me was really the Disney cruise staff, and the level of service that we were given. Everyone seemed just so genuinely happy and friendly.

Either they’re the Fakest Fakers in the world or they like what they do. Maybe it’s a mix of the two.

I will say this is a sharp contrast to customer service that we have gotten anywhere else lately and was a big relief.

I feel like this is one of the biggest things you are paying for when you pay premium for a Disney cruise – really really good service, very clean facilities, and just a very child friendly atmosphere.

Themed Experiences

There were a few themed activities on our 7 day Disney cruise.

Our cruise had two special nights – the 25th anniversary night, and pirate night.

25th anniversary night

The 25th anniversary night was because 2023 is the 25th anniversary of Disney cruise line.

They had free cocktails in the atrium before each dinner service, which was the only time we found them doing this on the whole cruise. The cocktails were kind of sickly sweet for me, so retrospectively I wish I had grabbed glasses of champagne instead of the neon blue cocktail. Regardless, it was a nice touch.

On the 25th anniversary night it was formal night, and they also did a fireworks show off the pool deck. It was nice, nothing too crazy, and it didn’t start until about 10:30 which was way too late for my kids.

Retrospectively, I wish we had a room that looked starboard so we could’ve just watch the fireworks from our balcony.

Pirate night

The other theme night was pirate night, which was about halfway through the cruise. Definitely some people went completely wild dressing up in full pirate garb.

All of the staff was talking like a pirate and really having fun with it which made it really silly.

I got this pirate gear set up for my kids and I also got inflatable pirate swords and pirate tattoos for the kids and our fish extender group, which were really fun.

My kids enjoyed getting pictures with Pirate Mickey and Minnie. These were limited costumes so the lines were very very long. Be prepared.

There was a pirate menu, which wasn’t really very stand out, and a pirate Mickey show on the pool deck after our early dinner.

They also did a Captain Jack Sparrow show around 10 p.m. followed by fireworks, but we skipped this one because the other fireworks had been such a late disaster for our kids.

Dress-up opportunities for kids

I packed two Disney costumes for each of my kids for this cruise and they did not wear them. Big waste of space. We did see a lot of little girls, wearing princess dresses, especially on the formal and semi formal nights and at the princess gathering.

I will say that lots of kids wore Frozen costumes to the Frozen show, so maybe look into what shows are on your ship and pack costumes if you have them.

Royal gathering

The princess gathering is a free event that you have to book in advance. It becomes available 30 days out from your cruise at midnight Eastern standard time. If you want to go, you need to be on your app at midnight for real. At 12:03 it was sold out.

You don’t know the times in advance, but it will be the first two days of your cruise.

This is a chance to see for princesses dedicated like a full 60 seconds with each one. You still have to wait in line, but it’s a lot shorter line.

You will see the same princesses for the rest of the cruise, this was a really easy way to see them and get autographs and start the crews out with a bang.

This is not to be confused with the paid premium tea party, which you were not going to get tickets to if you are a first time cruiser. It was sold out I think before even silver members could book excursions on our cruise.

Debarkation

After our experience getting on the ship, I expected debarkation to be a bit of a disaster. I was shocked at how well it went.

With a 5:45 dinner time, we were assigned a 7:10 AM breakfast in the restaurant where we had our final dinner the night before.

This was the only plated sit down breakfast that we went to and we had our regular waiters.

We had breakfast and were not able to go back to the room afterwards. Instead, we grabbed our carry-on bags, said goodbye and headed off the ship.

We were off the ship at 8 AM and our bags were there waiting for us sorted by the group number we were given good night before.

It was easy to grab our bags, and then we had to go through customs which was less than a 10 minute wait.

At this point, some people were hiring porters to carry their bags, and the porters literally came through customs with them. Considering the guy wanted 20 bucks to put our bags on the ship in the beginning I can’t imagine how much they were asking for for this 30 minute commitment.

Regardless, we rolled out of there with our rolly bags zero problems, straight into our car and were on the highway by 8:30 AM.

I definitely want to say that there is no problem checking our bags the night before, we were slightly worried that we might have to wait, but there was zero issue.

It was there waiting for us. The combination of checking our bags and parking in the garage made it just so super fast to get out and get going for our long drive.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

I think that the ideal audience for a Disney cruise would be a family with two elementary aged girls, who love princesses, and are independent enough to feed themselves at dinner, stay up until 11 PM for a special occasion, and are excited to meet new friends and hang out with other kids they might not know very well.

I also think that a Disney cruise would be fabulous for people with younger teens, who similarly like to make friends, and would really enjoy the independence that you could give them in the safe environment of a Disney cruise.

Also, it seems like a hit for Disney adults with cash to burn or grandparents who want to treat all of their kids and grandkids to really special trip.

We had a great time, don’t get me wrong. We will probably go on another Disney cruise, I wouldn’t be surprised if we did another one next year.

But, I think it would’ve been a lot more fun for us if we had more adults with us. Either grandparents, or preferably friends with kids pretty close in age to ours.

I think having other kids would have given our kids more confidence in the kids club and it would’ve been fun to be able to switch off with some other adults so we could do things like go to the adults only restaurant or go out after bedtime once or twice.

In conclusion, the Disney cruise is probably the most expensive way to cruise, but they sure to take care of you- it’s clean, it’s nice, it’s perfect for kids!

Any more questions about the Disney Fantasy?

Thanks for reading!

Hey there, I’m Morgan, the creative mind behind CelebratingWithKids.com! As a parent of two lively little ones, I’ve made it my mission to turn ordinary days into extraordinary adventures, sharing playful activities, thoughtful toy reviews, and delightful printables to help families celebrate every moment together. 🎉👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🎈

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How much does a Disney cruise really cost?

Editor's Note

Disney Cruise Line is known for its family-friendly cruises complete with all of your favorite Disney characters, impeccable dining, exciting entertainment and thrilling ports of call. With everything that's included on the sailings, you might be wondering how much a Disney cruise costs — and if you can afford one.

Cruises with Mickey Mouse and his pals range in price depending on many factors such as the embarkation port and destination, departure date, length of the cruise and cabin type you book. No matter which cruise you book, it will be pricey, like any Disney vacation. You'll have to determine what value you put on experiencing the "magic" of Disney.

To me, it's worth a lot. I've experienced all five ships in the Disney fleet and have sailed seven times to destinations around the Caribbean and the Mediterranean .

Here, I'm sharing how much a Disney cruise costs per ship and itinerary, any extras that are worth the additional fees and how to save money on a Disney cruise.

How much does it cost to go on a Disney cruise?

Let's be honest: A cruise on any Disney ship isn't cheap. Factors like cabin type and category, sail date, destination, length of cruise, traveling party size and if you're on a themed cruise can impact the overall cost. If you're trying to keep your costs lower, your best option is to pick a cruise on an older ship (Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) or pick a shorter cruise length.

The cheapest Disney cruise we found cost $1,000 for an inside cabin for two people on a two-night sailing on Disney Wonder in Australia. That's $250 per person per night.

If you're looking for a cheap Caribbean or Bahamian sailing, consider a three-night Bahamas cruise on Disney Magic starting at $1,500 for an inside cabin for two people. This also equates to $250 per person per day. Add in drinks, specialty dining, souvenirs and other expenses, and you can expect to spend around $2,500 in total.

On a recent sailing on the Disney Dream , my family of three and I spent five nights at sea in a balcony room and paid a grand total of $4,514.06. This total included everything from the cruise fare and pre-night hotel stay to parking and spa services.

Some examples of starting prices for each ship and its major itineraries for an inside cabin or a balcony cabin are listed below so you can get a sense of pricing across the fleet. Prices are based on double occupancy.

Disney Magic

One- to three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,500 to $2,500; balcony cabins, $1,900 to $3,300 Four-night Caribbean and Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,800 to $3,200; balcony cabins, $2,300 to $4,000 Five- to six-night Caribbean and Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,200 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,000 to $6,600 Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $2,700 to $3,300; balcony cabins, $3,800 to $4,900

Disney Wonder

Two- to three-night Australia: inside cabins, $1,000 to $2,100; balcony cabins, $1,200 to $2,800 Four-night Australia: inside cabins, $1,700 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,200 to $4,000 Seven-night Alaska: inside cabins, $3,300 to $5,000; balcony cabins, $5,900 to $10,500

Disney Dream

Three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,700 to $2,300; balcony cabins, $2,000 to $2,600 Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,100 to $3,500; balcony cabins, $2,500 to $4,000 Five-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $2,800 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,100 to $5,000 Five-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,700 to $4,000; balcony cabins, $3,200 to $4,600 Seven-night Europe and Mediterranean: inside cabins $4,400 to $6,800; balcony cabins, $5,200 to $9,500

Disney Fantasy

Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,100 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,400 to $3,400 Five- to six-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,700 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,200 to $4,900 Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $3,300 to $5,700; balcony cabins, $3,900 to $7,000

Disney Wish

Three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,000 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,500 to $3,500 Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,600 to $4,600; balcony cabins, $3,000 to $5,600

Disney Treasure

The maiden voyage is set for Dec. 21, 2024.

Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $4,200 to $5,800; balcony cabins, $5,200 to $7,000

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Where do Disney cruises sail from?

Disney Cruises depart from 15 different ports around the world, but the major ones to think about from the U.S. include:

• Fort Lauderdale
• Port Canaveral, Florida
• Galveston, Texas
• New Orleans

The major international ports Disney Cruise Line sets sail from include:

• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Melbourne, Australia
• Southampton, England
• Brisbane, Australia
• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada

Depending on the cruise you pick, getting to and from the home port can be easy or take a little longer — and that can impact the total cost of your Disney cruise.

For instance, many people drive to Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral if they already live in the southern U.S. Driving can save money versus flying, and you might not have to stay in a pre-cruise hotel if you can drive right to the port.

You will have to pay to park at the port or at a third-party parking lot. While the off-site parking lots are often cheaper, you will need to think about how to get to and from the ship, tipping the porter or driver, plus the added time to get from your car to the ship.

On the other hand, if you are taking a cruise from an international destination or flying to a domestic home port, your costs automatically go up because of flights for your family, a pre-cruise hotel, meals before the sailing, and transportation to the ship and back to the airport.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

What's included in the price of a Disney cruise?

You might pay a lot for a Disney cruise, but you get a lot for your money. The cost of a Disney cruise covers your onboard dining and most nonalcoholic drinks, an abundance of entertainment for kids and adults, onboard activities and transportation between cruise ports. Even most entertainment and food on Disney's private island Castaway Cay (and upcoming private island destination Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point) is part of the fare.

Entertainment

Most of the entertainment on board is included in the overall cost of your sailing. On your cruise, you can experience Broadway-quality shows inside the Walt Disney Theater, watch first-run movies from Disney's production companies (like Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars), listen to live music and participate in game shows in the adults-only lounges. Most itineraries feature a deck party with a fireworks show.

Kids can meet and play with their favorite Disney characters and participate in activities like karaoke. Family-friendly sun decks with pools, waterslides, splash zones and wading pools are also included in the cost.

Disney Cruise Line is known for its rotational dining evening dinner service. Families rotate through three onboard restaurants throughout the sailing, and your service team moves with you. Each of the rotational dining options is included in your cruise fare. One of the restaurants will be open for drop-in, sit-down meals during breakfast and lunch as well. Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day.

On the upper decks, quick-service food stations, soft-serve ice cream and a buffet are available. Every Disney cruise also includes unlimited coffee, tea and soda.

Accommodations

Almost every cabin across the Disney fleet features Disney's distinctive split bathroom concept. One of the bathrooms has a vanity, sink and tub-shower, plus another bathroom with a vanity, sink and toilet. Each room also has a small refrigerator, safe and hair dryer.

Every child ages 3 to 17 will have access to Disney's kids clubs on board. Youngsters ages 3-10 can enjoy Disney's Oceaneer Club and Disney's Oceaneer Lab . Tweens ages 11-14 have access to Edge, and teens ages 14-17 can chill out in Vibe.

Each kids club has dedicated counselors and a host of activities every day. The best way to see the list of activities is to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and scroll through the daily agenda. You can flag activities your kids want to attend, so you can get to the kids clubs before they start.

Adult-exclusive activities

Disney cruises are packed with family-friendly programming, but adults can find spaces and events geared just for them in the adult-only nightclubs and lounges on board. Live music, interactive games and shows are only some of the nightly activities.

Additionally, adults have a dedicated pool and hot tub area that includes a bar and coffee shop. (Drinks cost extra, but access is free). For those looking to stay fit while onboard, access to the fitness center is also included.

Castaway Cay

On most Bahamas and Caribbean sailings, you'll stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay . At the island, your family can enjoy the family beach or adult-exclusive beach (for those 18 and older).

Use of towels, beach chairs and shade umbrellas are complimentary, as are waterslides and splash zones. Live music and character appearances take place around the island. Kids and teen club activities are available on Castaway Cay — again, at no extra charge. Runners can participate in the Castaway Cay 5K and get a finisher medal.

When it's time to eat, three spots serve an included barbecue lunch, complete with soft-serve ice cream. Coffee, tea and fountain drinks are also included at Castaway Cay.

To get around the island, you can walk or use the complimentary trams.

Related: Are cruises all-inclusive? What's actually included in your cruise fare

Are there any extra Disney costs?

Even though many activities, dining options and entertainment are included in the cost of your cruise, you will find things to pay extra for on a Disney cruise. These may or may not be worth it for your family, depending on your budget and interests. Below is a list of things not included in your overall cruise fare.

Some of the cutest Disney activities are also ones that cost extra. Kids who want more time with the Disney characters might be interested in the Royal Court Royal Tea — a tea party with characters for kids ages 3 to 12. According to planDisney (Disney's online resource for vacation-planning tips) , the cost is $220 per child and $69 for anyone 13 and up. Each tea party includes a selection of tea and a two-course meal; every child gets an assortment of gifts.

Kids can also play dress-up and get a full regal or pirate (only available on Pirate Party Nights) makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, found on every Disney ship. Depending on the package you booked for your child, expect to pay $100 to $450 for each makeover.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy both have a virtual sports simulator that requires a reservation and a fee. You can play various sports, from football to golf, for either 30- or 60-minute time blocks. Cost varies based on time, sport and number of people playing.

Specialty dining and cocktails

Four specialty dining restaurants are offered across the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Exclusive to Disney Wish (and coming soon to Disney Treasure ) are Enchante and Palo Steakhouse. Expect to pay $60 to $205 plus an 18% auto-gratuity for a meal at Enchante; Palo Steakhouse is $50 for a prix-fixe meal, but an a la carte menu is also available.

On the four other Disney Cruise Line ships, Palo is also $50 for prix-fixe and offers an a la carte menu. An 18% auto-gratuity is also tacked onto your bill.

On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, Remy is also available, with the dessert experience starting at $65 without the 18% auto-gratuity, while brunch and dinner are $80 and $135 respectively, plus an additional 18% auto-gratuity.

On all ships, themed bars and lounges sling drinks. Because there's no drink package available through Disney Cruise Line, you will have to pay for each drink individually. The planDisney panel says the average drink can range from $6 to $20.

If you're looking for specialty coffee, tea or hot chocolate drinks, look for the Cove Cafe on all ships; there are also specialty counters off of the atrium on Disney Dream, Fantasy and Wish. These drinks cost anywhere from $5 to $8, depending on your order. You can also order alcoholic drinks from the coffee bars, which run the typical cocktail prices.

Outside the Walt Disney Theater or near the movie theaters on board each ship, you'll also smell the buttery goodness of freshly popped popcorn. You can buy the popcorn for an added fee to take into the shows with you. Additionally, there are some specialty popcorn buckets available for purchase on each ship; you can refill them for a discounted price every time you want to munch on the salty snack. (Specialty buckets purchased off the ships at a Disney resort or theme park are not eligible for a discounted popcorn refill.)

Additionally, each ship offers beverage-tasting seminars where you can learn how to make and taste a variety of cocktails in a given category. Seminars can range from $40 to $70 and last about an hour.

While crew gratuities on Disney Cruise Line are not included in the overall cost, some can be prepaid before you step onboard. These include gratuities to your dining room server, assistant server and head server, plus your cabin host. Disney recommends a gratuity of $14.50 per night per person, including infants and children in regular cabins. It's recommended that those in concierge cabins and suites pay $15.50, with the extra going to your cabin assistant host.

Gratuities that are not included can be paid on board. Such gratuities include anything extra you would like to give to your service team, tips on alcoholic beverages in the dining room, adult dining locations, room service and the spa. The concierge lounge team is also not included in prepaid gratuities for concierge guests, and Disney recommends $8 per night per guest.

Keep in mind that an 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs across the ship and for spa services. To make it easy while on the ship, you can charge all your gratuities to your onboard account.

If you want to bring something home from your trip — whether from a port of call or from the onboard shops — you'll want to budget for that extra cost. Souvenirs off the ship can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on what you buy. Be prepared that some shops will only take local currency; purchases at Castaway Cay shops will be charged to your onboard account.

On the ship, easy-to-transport souvenirs included trading pins, magnets and apparel. These can range anywhere from $20 to $75. Other more expensive onboard souvenirs include jewelry, luxury brand purses and wallets, and art.

Related: 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock

How do I save money on a Disney cruise?

If you're reeling from sticker shock, know you can find many ways to save money on a Disney cruise. Here are a few of my favorite money-saving tips.

Letting Disney choose your cabin can be a great way to get a deal on the cruise. These are known as guaranteed rates, and they are the cheapest fares in each category. All you have to do is pick your room type, such as inside, ocean view or balcony, and Disney picks which specific room number you get. This works best if you don't care where your room is on the ship.

If you're looking for a room upgrade , but that's not a make-it-or-break-it deal for your family, consider waiting to upgrade your room until you get to the port. If your cruise still has rooms available, you can ask at check-in about a room upgrade for a discount. The cost will be relative to the room type you originally booked and the room type you want to upgrade to. Sometimes, you can even upgrade to a concierge room or a suite, but you will need to get an early port arrival time to potentially score one of those upgrades.

Disney Cruise Line has one of the most generous alcohol policies of any big-ship cruise brand. At the start of your cruise, you can bring up to six cans of beer or two bottles of wine per person over 21 years old. Then, at each port, you can restock and bring the same alcohol allotment per person over 21 onto the ship to store in your room and enjoy. You might find that beer and wine are cheaper in port than on board — a smart way to save on your drinking expenses.

Related: Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Are Disney cruises cheaper or more expensive than other cruise lines?

Other family-friendly cruise brands include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises. While all of the family-friendly brands have pros and cons, picking the right one for your family can come down to a matter of cost. Disney is almost always the most expensive.

For example, we priced out a three-night weekend cruise departing on the same dates for Disney Wish and Royal Caribbean 's soon-to-debut Utopia of the Seas. We found that Disney was almost $500 more expensive for the same weekend, cabin type and length of sailing. Utopia of the Seas came out to $2,850.10 for two people staying in a balcony cabin, while the Disney Wish cruise, also in a balcony room, cost $3,337.20.

What Disney does best — and why many people choose to cruise with the brand — is it provides a high level of service to families, even those in the least expensive cabins. The crew on Disney ships goes above and beyond to make your vacation easy. I've seen everything from dining staff cutting kids' food and taking children to the bathroom to room hosts ensuring parents know about the parental locks on balcony doors (so kids can't just wander outside without an adult).

The extra amenities that Disney offers — such as Broadway-quality shows, character experiences and larger standard cabins — all bring the overall cruise cost up.

Disney also has a smaller fleet than all its family-friendly competitors, meaning there is less cabin inventory to sell. Plus, its ships generally carry fewer passengers. For example, Disney Wish, Disney's biggest ship, carries 4,000 people at full capacity; Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas can carry 7,600 guests at capacity. The low inventory combined with the high demand for Disney cruises means that Disney can charge higher fares and still fill ships.

Bottom line

Cruise fares with Disney can change based on factors like room type, travel party size and sailing date. The minimum price you can expect to pay for a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas starts at $1,500 for an inside cabin for two people on Disney Magic.

Disney Cruise Line includes a variety of dining experiences (including room service), soda, character meet-and-greets and Broadway-caliber entertainment in its fares; it also allows passengers to bring alcohol on board in every port of call. For these reasons, you don't necessarily have to spend much on board to have a fantastic vacation. The cruise can be a good value depending on the extras you choose to add.

The real question is whether you want to spend more on the base cruise fare to immerse yourself in the world of Disney versus paying less for another family-friendly cruise line.

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After sailing with all 5 Disney cruise ships, there's only one I'd consider traveling on again

• My family and I have sailed on all five Disney Cruise Line ships, but Disney Fantasy is my favorite.
• I love the Fantasy-exclusive venues, including a vintage-themed ice cream shop .
• Disney Fantasy also has five European-inspired nightclubs, lounges, and bars.

My family and I have sailed on all five Disney Cruise Line (DCL) ships. Although each ship offers a unique experience, there's only one I'd consider traveling on again: Disney Fantasy.

The ship, which debuted in 2012, has 14 decks and some of my favorite onboard activities, including the AquaDuck water coaster and five adults-only lounges.

Here are some of the reasons I'd travel on Disney Fantasy again.

Disney Fantasy's size is just right.

The 1,115-foot-long Fantasy is larger than the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, which are both 984 feet long and have 11 decks.

However, Disney Fantasy's separate family and adult areas make it easy to be entertained in a sea of up to 4,000 people. I love relaxing with a handful of guests in the cozy cafés and nooks or sunbathing in solitude.

I love the Fantasy-exclusive venues.

Each DCL ship has exclusives you won't find on other ships in its fleet, including restaurants and adults-only lounges.

For example, Disney Fantasy has Sweet on You, a vintage-themed ice-cream shop and confectionery inspired by classic Mickey Mouse shorts.

Other exclusives on Disney Fantasy include a Bvlgari shop and a trio of nightlife spots: Italian-style La Piazza bar, British nightclub The Tube, and French Champagne bar Ooh La La.

There's more aquatic fun on Disney Fantasy than most DLC ships.

Disney Fantasy has seven freshwater pools and water-play areas, including three family pools, two adult pools, and two splash areas. The only ship with more pools and water-play areas is Disney Wish, which has 10.

One of my favorite activities is the AquaDuck water coaster.

The AquaDuck, which is only found on this ship and Disney Dream, is a 765-foot water coaster that propels passengers in two-person rafts through a massive transparent tube.

The ride includes open-air portions that offer views of the ocean and a stomach-dropping four-deck drop.

The adults-only lounges have unique European themes.

Disney Fantasy has five European-inspired nightclubs, lounges, and bars located in one area called Europa. The Tube is a London Underground-themed venue, Ooh La La is themed around Champagne, O'Gill's is an Irish pub, and La Piazza has an Italian feel.

I also love the quiet but mesmerizing Skyline bar, which features changing "windows" of famous city skylines.

The Europa theme seamlessly flows from one venue to the next, and I love having the ability to barhop in one specific area of the ship.

I'm a fan of the ship's more subdued dining experiences.

Some Disney fans may prefer entertaining dining experiences, but I appreciate the more subdued dinners on Disney Fantasy.

I don't have children , so I appreciate being able to enjoy the Disney vibes without sitting through the over-the-top dinner dramas found on other ships.

I love visiting restaurants like the princess-themed Royal Court and the French-garden-themed Enchanted Garden. My favorite, however, is Animator's Palate, which celebrates Disney animation and is on every ship except Disney Wish.

I love relaxing in the Rainforest inside Senses Spa.

I always purchase a pass to the Rainforest within Senses Spa, which features aromatherapy showers, a steam room, and a sauna.

However, the Rainforests on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are the best because they each have two whirlpools set on a secluded ocean-view verandah. It's arguably the quietest, most relaxing part of the ship.

Overall, Disney Fantasy is my favorite ship — for now.

Right now, Disney Fantasy is my favorite ship because it has the most appealing adults-only options. From one of the best Rainforest set-ups to Europa's quintet of bars and lounges, I love spending time on this ship.

However, this could change with Disney's newest ships , Treasure and Destiny, set to embark on their maiden voyages in December 2024 and November 2025, respectively.

• Main content

Here's the lineup of restaurants, entertainment on Disney's newest cruise ship

Disney Cruise Line 's new ship, the Treasure, will feature a wide array of dining and entertainment options for all tastes and ages when it starts sailing at the end of next year.

Disney fans are already salivating about the planned offerings following the cruise line's reveal of the lineup. Adventure is the overarching theme Disney imagineers focused on in creating the venues aboard the Treasure, in honor of Walt Disney’s legendary passion for travel and exploration.

The ship, now under construction in Germany, will be based at Port Canaveral, Florida , sailing on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries starting Dec. 21, 2024. Eastern Caribbean sailings will include calls on Tortola, St. Thomas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, while Western Caribbean sailings will include calls on Cozumel, George Town and Falmouth.

Thomas Mazloum, president of new experiences portfolio and Disney Signature Experiences, said Disney Cruise Line, one of the Disney businesses he oversees, offers attractions that appeal to all ages.

"Many times, when you travel with large families ... sometimes, one or the other may always have to make a compromise to accommodate the rest of the group," Mazloum said. "But, on a Disney Cruise Line vacation, it's really a perfect environment for families, especially multigenerational travel ... Everybody can do their own thing during the day, and they come together in the evening."

Regarding the attractions on the ship, Mazloum said: "What I enjoyed the most is that I firmly believe we got it once again right in the overall feel and how we immerse our people in the amount of stories that we tell on Treasure. When you look at the amount of Disney storytelling ― classical Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars. You put all of that together. To me, it's really the perfect Disney vacation."

Here is some of what the ship will have to offer.

Dining for families or adults

The Disney Treasure will continue Disney Cruise Line’s family dining concept, where passengers experience one of three restaurant venues each night, on a rotating basis. The ship's restaurant service team accompanies passengers throughout the voyage.

These are the restaurants on the rotation:

• Plaza de Coco , a new restaurant concept for Disney Cruise Line, will be the world’s first theatrical dining experience themed to the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.” The dinner menus offer what Disney describes as "modern twists on traditional Mexican fare," coupled with entertainment, including a mariachi band, in a theater-in-the-round setting. There will be two versions of the show.
• Worlds of Marvel , an immersive Marvel-themed dining experience, celebrates Avengers characters and stories, including interaction with Spider-Man. The shows and dining are inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and there will be two versions of the show offered.
• 1923 , named for the founding year of Walt Disney Animation Studios, is themed with Disney’s animation legacy through a collection of exploration-themed artwork from both modern and classic animated films. Disney describes the menu as "the fusion of cultural flavors found throughout California and designed with families in mind."

In addition to three main family restaurants, the Treasure will feature quick-bite venues, casual dining, 24-hour room service, specialty treats, gourmet cafes and upscale dining for adults.

Another venue, Jumbeaux’s Sweets, is inspired by the ice-cream parlor featured in Disney’s “Zootopia,” and will feature more than 20 flavors of gelato, plus 16 flavors of ice cream and sorbets.

Disney's 2024 cruise plans: Disney Cruise Line reveals 2024 plans for Port Canaveral, new private island

Among the adult-exclusive food and dining venues are Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté by Chef ArnaudLallement and The Rose, all inspired by icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.”

• The Palo Steakhouse will combine Italian cuisine with a modern steakhouse in a setting inspired by Cogsworth, the story's enchanted clock.
• Disney said Enchanté will offer the most luxurious dining experience, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement. Disney said the romantic and intimate venue "will evoke the dazzling spirit of the film’s candelabra, Lumiere."
• The Rose will be a lounge at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté. Inspired by the fateful flower at the heart of the story, The Rose is designed for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail.

Another adult-focused venue will be Periscope Pub, Disney Cruise Line’s first venue inspired by Walt Disney’s 1954 film, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” and the Disney Parks attraction open at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994. In an intimate gathering space, Periscope Pub will feature a menu of craft brews and light bites, with submarine-styled interiors and a glass ceiling.

Skipper Society, featuring themed cocktails and light snacks, is designed by Disney Imagineers with the iconic Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney theme parks in mind. It will have live entertainment.

Pam Rawlins, executive producer of Walt Disney Imagineering, said Periscope Pub and Skipper Society represent the first time the cruise line is bringing themes from its park rides to its cruise ship venues.

Two cafes on the ship are themed to honor Disney Princesses Moana (Heihei Cafe) and Mulan (Jade Cricket Cafe).

Adventures for children

Aboard the Disney Treasure, children will have dedicated spaces and interactive programming for every age group — infants and toddlers, children, tweens and teens.

They will enter the worlds of favorite Disney stories in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, with immersive spaces designed to encourage exploration and discovery. Disney said the programming combines physical play and age-appropriate technology to create engaging, enriching experiences led by a team of Disney-trained counselors. Offerings include:

• Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” train to be the next generation of superheroes, joined by characters like Spider-Man, Black Panther and Ant-Man.
• Fairytale Hall is a collection of activity rooms, including Rapunzel’s Art Studio and Belle’s Library, where attendees can read and act out stories.
• At Walt Disney Imagineering Lab , attendees discover the secrets of Disney Imagineers — the masterminds behind Disney theme parks, resorts and cruise ships — with hands-on activities and experiments.
• At Star Wars: Cargo Bay , participants are immersed in their own Star Wars story as they take on the role of creature handlers and learn to manage a menagerie of exotic beings.
• Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck is a nautical playground inspired by the colors, icons and magic of Disney Cruise Line, with maritime-themed physical and sensory-style games and activities.

The ship also will have club spaces: Vibe for teens and Edge for tweens.

Entertainment venues

The Walt Disney Theatre will showcase original Broadway-style musical productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line ― “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure.” The latter features characters from Disney and Pixar stories, with renditions of iconic Disney songs. Disney has not released details of its third planned show that will be staged at that venue.

The “Aladdin”-themed Grand Hall will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space, offering shows, character encounters and musical performances. The Grand Hall also draws inspiration from places in Africa and Asia.

Sarabi ― named after the lioness matriarch from Disney’s “The Lion King” ― will be a central hub for various family daytime activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment. The two-story space will feature such games as “Match Your Mate,” “Family Time Game Show” and “Villains Game Night.”

Hero Zone will offer a sports and recreation venue where physical challenges blend with game-show-style competitions.

The Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas screening rooms will show first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm.

In discussing the diversity of characters and themes that will be found aboard the Treasure, Mazloum said: "We want to be very, very, very, very, very clear about our desire to ensure that we reflect the population that we see that visits us. It was a very clear mental effort that we use with our teams in every one of our design efforts."

AquaMouse ride, pools, spas

" AquaMouse: Curse of the Golden Egg ," Disney Cruise Line's special-effects water attraction at sea, will propel two-person ride vehicles through 760 feet of winding tubes, offering views of the ocean and the ship below. " Curse of the Golden Egg " will be one of three rotating storylines offered on AquaMouse.

The area that includes AquaMouse also will feature seven pools staggered among tiered decks, and is one of three districts on the ship offering water activities.

A separate Toy Story-themed district designed especially for families with toddlers and young children will include a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and smoothie bar.

The adult-only Quiet Cove district is set away from the bustle of family activities, and will feature an infinity pool, poolside bar and cafe.

The Treasure will feature Senses Spa , offering spa and beauty treatments, and with private treatment rooms,spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms. Senses Fitness will also offer exercise and wellness facilities.

The Treasure will have 1,256 staterooms, including 53 concierge staterooms and 23 concierge suites. Of the 1,256 staterooms, 1,133 will offer an ocean view — including 877 with a verandah. The other 123 will be inside staterooms.

With many families taking Disney cruises, the Treasure will offer the option of connecting doors that adjoin staterooms, designed to accommodate larger groups sailing together.

The concierge-level staterooms and suites will offer access to an exclusive concierge lounge with a private sun deck. Concierge-level suites will feature interiors inspired by the grasslands featured in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Lion King.”

For those who want high-level accommodation, there will be four royal suites themed to pay tribute to the faithful feline companions of daring Disney characters. These include the Bagheera Royal Suites, honoring the panther from “The Jungle Book” and the lush forests he calls home; and the Rajah Royal Suites, themed to Princess Jasmine’s protective tiger who dwells in the royal palace of Agrabah in the Disney film “Aladdin.”

And then there's the nearly 2,000-square-foot Tomorrow Tower Suite, inspired by Disney World's EPCOT theme park. The suite is set high in the ship's forward funnel and overlooks the top deck of the Treasure. It is designed for eight passengers and includes a full kitchen and a private elevator.

Dave Berman is a business editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

1st look at Disney Destiny heroes and villains-inspired cruise ship

Get your sea legs ready to set sail aboard the brand new Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line's new heroes and villains-inspired ship with themed venues and entertainment inspired by Disney, Pixar and Marvel characters.

"Good Morning America" got an early look at what to expect aboard the new vessel, which is set to make its maiden voyage in November 2025 from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

From a first-of-its-kind Pride Lands dining experience inspired by the unforgettable music of "The Lion King" to an exclusive confectionary inspired by "The Incredibles," the Disney Destiny takes a page from an array of legends and legacies.

Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Cruise Lines, said in a press release that "guests aboard our new ship will be surrounded by extraordinary storytelling paired with the signature service and family-fun adventures that are hallmarks of a Disney Cruise vacation."

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