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Average Weather on Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

As with any trip, please check specific weather forecasts for your destination prior to traveling. These charts will help you gauge the average weather with general temperature and rainfall expectations during your month of travel.

Average Weather Bahamas – Disney 3 and 4 night Itineraries

Average weather eastern caribbean – disney 7 night eastern itinerary, average weather western caribbean – disney 7 night western itinerary, average weather orlando – walt disney world, average weather juneau, alaska (sailing may—september), average weather mediterranean sea (sailing may—august), average weather canadian coast – st. john, average weather helsinki, finland, average weather dover, england, average weather ensanada.

Visit this page for more information on  Disney Cruise Line Ports of Call

Visit this page for   Disney Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Our Disney Cruise Line page has lots more information to help you plan.

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Disney Cruise Advice: Tips & Tricks Onboard the Ship

LAST UPDATE: 2/14/24

On this page we have collected some useful Disney Cruise advice, tips, and tricks that can help you save time and have more fun while you are on a Disney Cruise. Read the advice below and you’ll have a much better idea what to expect, even if you’ve never been on a cruise before!

Thanks to Marjorie Treger and to MouseSavers.com readers Jeff Evernham and Aileen B, who contributed some great tips.

Disney Cruise Advice & Important Things to Know

Embarkation, first-day bag packing list, staterooms and what’s in them, knowing what’s going on & planning your day, oceaneer club and oceaneer lab, edge and vibe, port days/shore excursions, useful things to pack, things you don’t need to (or should not) pack, disney cruise wear, phone and internet.

• Spa: Treatments, Products & Fitness Center

Disembarkation

Additional tips & tricks, trip reports.

Other useful Disney Cruise information pages:

• For discounts and tips on saving money on the cruise itself , visit our Disney Cruise Discount page.
• For tips and tricks that will help you plan your cruise , visit the Planning Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruises page.
• For advice that will help you with excursions, tours and activities  while in port, visit the Tips & Discounts for Port Excursions page.

“Embarkation” means getting on the ship for the first time during your cruise; “disembarkation” or “debarkation” means getting off the ship at the end of your cruise.

“Port” is the left side of the ship as you face forward; “starboard” is the right side as you face forward. “Forward” is obvious; “aft” is the rear of the ship.

Cruise lines are required to ensure that every passenger knows the safety procedures and has been physically shown where they need to muster in case of emergency. A mandatory muster drill is held in the afternoon of embarkation day, usually around 4:00 pm. Everyone must attend in order to learn the location of your lifeboat station and other safety information. The drill takes 20 minutes or less and you do not have to bring your life jacket with you.

Make sure you turn off the cellular service on your phone while you’re at sea, so you don’t end up paying through the nose for “cellular at sea” service . There is a Disney Cruise Navigator app that you can use on most iPhones and Android phones without needing to pay for internet access. The Navigator app includes activity schedules and menus, and has a kind of text message feature that seems to work much better these days. We found that notifications were showing up quickly when people messaged using the app (our experience was with iPhone, we don’t know how well Android works).

“Cay” is pronounced “key” by locals – so unless you want to sound like a novice, remember this for Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island).

Disney asks you to select a P ort Arrival Time (PAT) when you do online check-in prior to your cruise. This arrival time was not rigidly enforced in the past, but lately, Disney has been enforcing people’s PATs pretty closely, especially during the early part of the boarding process. If you get to the terminal before 12:30, you will probably not be let in to the terminal until your time arrives. After 12:30 or so, Disney seems to just let people into the terminal as long as the check-in line isn’t completely full.

Bottom line: if you want to get on the ship as early as possible, definitely be ready to check in online on the morning your check-in opens! See below for when you can check in online:

• If you are staying at an official Walt Disney World resort or at Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport the night before your cruise, AND you booked that hotel as a package with the cruise, AND you are using Disney’s bus service to the port, your port arrival time is less important, and you may not even see an option to select one when you check in. From a Disney hotel, they’re going to assign you a bus, and generally you’ll just get there when you get there and the terminal staff will be ready to process and embark that whole busload of passengers. If you’re staying at the Hyatt, there will be multiple buses and you can take the first bus they’ll let you on. In either case, it’s rare to experience much wait no matter what your port arrival time is. But if you are offered the option to pick a port arrival time at checkin, pick the earliest reasonable time, just to be on the safe side. It can’t hurt, and it might save you some waiting.
• If you are staying in a concierge level stateroom or suite , you can check in and receive your port arrival time 40 days before embarkation day. That said, your shore-side concierge will likely offer to check you in on the first day you’re eligible, so effectively you can just let them handle it and they should get you the earliest arrival time (unless they know you won’t be arriving that early).
• If you are a Pearl member of the Castaway Club (25+ previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 40 days before embarkation day. 
• If you are a Platinum member of the Castaway Club (10-24 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 38 days before embarkation day.
• If you are a Gold member of the Castaway Club (5-9 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 35 days before embarkation day.
• If you are a Silver member of the Castaway Club (1-4 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 33 days before embarkation day.
• If you have never before taken a Disney cruise, you can check in and receive your port arrival time 30 days before embarkation day.

When you arrive at Port Canaveral, you’ll hand off your bags to the dock workers. Tipping is theoretically optional, but it’s customary to tip them at least $1-$2 per bag, and we tend to tip on the high side for very helpful or friendly porters. Keep your carry-on/day bag with you. Get in line to go through check-in (during which time you’ll show your port arrival document several times), then get in line to go through security (you go through a metal detector and your carry-ons go through an x-ray).

The first people who will get on the ship are Group 1, which will usually be concierge level guests. Shortly after noon, announcements will be made for general boarding by group number. You’ll present your port arrival document as you board, have a family photo taken (or bypass the photo and get on the ship that much faster), and then your family will be announced as you arrive in the atrium of the ship. After that, the ship is yours!

Most people will head straight to lunch, and if you’re hungry, that’s a great idea. If you’ve brought your swimsuits in your day bag, this is a perfect time to enjoy the pool (or AquaDuck on the Dream or Fantasy and AquaMouse on the Wish), because the ship is still relatively empty and a lot of people will not have thought ahead. If you still need to make spa appointments, change your dinner rotation, sign up for shore excursions, book Palo, Remy or Enchanté, or book any specialty character meals or tea parties, now is the time to do that. You can also get your kids’ wristbands for the kids club. If it’s your first time on the ship, this is a good time to get a map and wander around familiarizing yourself with everything.

If you are a concierge level guest, there is a special concierge embarkation lunch, or you can go to the concierge lounge, where you can relax and enjoy a snack. You’ll be personally assisted with any bookings or changes you’d like to make (dining rotations, spa appointments, etc.)

At about 1:30-2:00, your room should be ready. Your bags will be delivered at some point in the afternoon (up until about 6:00 pm).

On the embarkation day, you won’t get access to your room until 1:30-2:00 pm, and you may not get all of your luggage until 6:00 pm (or occasionally even later), so its recommended you carry a bag that contains everything you’ll need between boarding the ship and dinner. If you want to swim or ride the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, for example, you will need all your swim stuff.

Here’s our checklist for packing our day bag. Some people like to use a rolling carry-on, but we prefer a small duffel. It’s your call; whatever you feel comfortable lugging around for an hour or two. You can also pack a small backpack for everyone to spread out the load.

• Flip-flops or water shoes (the deck can get hot )
• Reading material, iPad, videogames or other entertainment
• Camera, if you aren’t using your phone
• Medications you might need between noon and dinnertime
• Change of clothes for dinner, if what you wear to board the ship isn’t reasonable (though it almost certainly is fine, as long as it’s not a swimsuit).

The TV in your stateroom offers limited live TV programming, but a pretty extensive selection of Disney-owned movie and TV content. There is the Disney Channel, ABC and ESPN, all owned by Disney, plus some 24-hour news channels (MSNBC & Fox) and a small selection of basic cable channels. You can watch a huge variety of Disney movies and a few other family-friendly titles “on demand” (no extra charge).

Disney no longer provides the cordless Wave Phones; if you need to contact other members of your party, you are expected to use the Disney Navigator app on your phone. If you don’t have a compatible phone or don’t want to carry your phone, you have to fall back on the tried and true “let’s meet in XXX at YYY” or put a magnetic white board on your room door to exchange messages. Note that the kids club staff will only be able to contact you via the Navigator app, so if you don’t carry it around, you can’t be informed of issues with your kids.

Fire codes prevent cruise ships from having irons in staterooms, but irons are available for your use in the laundry rooms. Speaking of laundry, you can charge the cost of self-service laundry to your room key by swiping it through the readers on the washers and dryers.

Inside staterooms have no window (except the “ secret porthole ” rooms on the Wonder and Magic that are classified as inside but have an obstructed porthole). Inside staterooms on the Dream and Fantasy ships do have the “virtual porthole” that provides some light. It can be turned off with a switch by the bed. Bear in mind that on the Wonder, Magic and Wish (or on the Dream and Fantasy with the virtual porthole turned off), inside staterooms have no external light coming in to wake you up in the morning or give you a sense of what time it is. So if you’re anxious to get up and go in the morning, make sure you set an alarm or request a wake-up call.

A portable hair dryer can be found in a bag in the bathroom or in a desk drawer (call Guest Services if you can’t find it). It must be plugged into a European (220V) outlet at the desk. If you happen to be in a stateroom that also has a built-in hair dryer in the bathroom attached to the wall, we recommend leaving it alone; they don’t work well. Use the one in the drawer.

There is no longer a paper Navigator schedule given out in your stateroom, or even available from the front desk. You can only get the activity schedule via your phone or via the TV.

You can download the Navigator app for Apple or Android devices before you arrive at the embarkation port and then, once onboard, connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network—complimentary for app use only. Downloading the app does not enable general-purpose internet access – you have to pay extra for that. In addition to giving you the ship’s daily schedule, the app has some information that isn’t in the paper Navigator, including menus for the various restaurants and some other useful tidbits. 

The Navigator app also has the all-aboard time and the local number of the ship’s agent, who is your contact if you have an emergency or are running late and might miss the ship (or have missed the ship). It’s not a bad idea to write those things down on a separate piece of paper to carry with you when you’re in port, just in case you lose your phone or the Navigator app gets flaky. If you have an emergency and don’t have your phone or the info on paper, you can call the port and ask them who the port agent is for your ship, and then call Disney’s port agent to let them know what’s happening.

The Navigator app now has a FREE text messaging feature. The messaging feature is available on all five ships. You do not need to buy a data plan to send messages to other people in your party, assuming they also have a device that can run the app. We didn’t really use it much in previous years because there could be 20-30 minutes between sending and message and the recipient getting a notification on their phone, but on our most recent cruise everything worked fine. Also, if you get the newer internet service that you can leave on all the time (currently available on the Wish, Magic, Dream and Fantasy) it will work with iMessage, WhatsApp and other messengers, and it will work with SMS text messaging if everyone’s phone has Wi-Fi cellular enabled.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities Tips

If you’re curious to know what movies will be shown on your sailing before you get on the ship, call  Disney Cruise customer service (800) 951-3532 about two weeks before your cruise and ask.

Want to ride the AquaDuck water coaster on the Dream or Fantasy or the AquaMouse on the Wish? MouseSavers.com reader Bill V has this tip: “If you enjoy the AquaDuck during the day, find an EVENING to ride it as well! Riding it at night, with the red-and-white lights strobing around the tube at each of the supports, is a completely different experience than the daytime, not to be missed! Also, the lines are truly non-existent if you go during dinner or show times, far shorter than even the times when most passengers are ashore when the ship is docked–my daughter rode it one evening over a dozen times in less than 90 minutes, usually walking on with no line whatsoever.” (This advice would apply to the AquaMouse on the Wish as well.)

Some special activities require advance sign-up at Guest Services. For instance, “Tea with Wendy,” (or “Tea with Alice” or some other character) is sometimes offered on some 7-night cruises, but has limited seating, and on cruises near Christmas, there is a build-your-own-gingerbread house activity, but they have a limited number of kits available. Check for those activities (they’ll generally be listed in the Navigator app) and sign up as soon as you can. Certain popular character meetings are also now requiring advance sign-up, usually on the first day.

Theater snacks : the theaters where the movies and shows are presented have concession stands selling expensive goodies such as canned sodas, bagged popcorn and candy, which can be charged to your room key. If you want to keep costs down, go up on the pool deck to the self-serve beverage station and get FREE sodas (or lemonade, tea, etc.) to bring into the show with you. You can also usually get FREE cookies from one of the counter-service locations on the pool deck and bring those along (or order cookies from room service, for only the cost of a tip). Concierge level guests on the Dream and Fantasy can get snacks, including cans of soda and sometimes popcorn, from the lounge. The snack bar at the theater has a refillable popcorn bucket that can be refilled for the rest of your cruise at a much cheaper price, so if you like popcorn, it’s a good idea to get one at the beginning of the cruise. Some people have brought popcorn buckets from previous cruises or from Walt Disney World and had them refilled, though that may or may not be official policy.

Embarkation Day

Once you’re onboard on embarkation day, you can eat lunch in one of three locations (or the concierge lunch if you’re in a concierge stateroom): the buffet, the pool deck food outlets (burgers, pizza, etc.) or a dining room (on the Magic, the primary lunch dining room is Lumiere’s; on the Wonder, it’s Triton’s; on the Dream and Fantasy, it’s Enchanted Garden; on the Wish, it’s been 1923 or Arendelle). The primary dining room lunch is a la carte with a normal lunch menu similar to the menu served on sea days. It has a tendency to fill up pretty quickly, so if you want to eat there, get on the ship as early as possible. There is also a lunch just for concierge guests in a different dining room.

Note that if you head for the inside dining room, you will encounter multiple crew members who will try to herd you to the buffet, which can handle more people. Just tell them you’d prefer the interior dining room. 

Breakfast and Lunch

During the cruise, there are usually two or three breakfast and lunch locations with different hours (check the Navigator app for hours). You can choose from one or more full-service restaurants with open seating (just show up when you want during opening hours, and they’ll seat you), or eat at the buffet.

Dinner Rotations

Your dinner arrangements — meaning your restaurant rotation schedule, and whether you have the early or late seating for dinner — are assigned before you embark on the cruise. You can find your restaurant rotation by checking the “My Plans” section of the Navigator app. It will also show your table number and seating time, as well as the recommended dress code and menu. If you have trouble using the app, Guest Services or any of the dining locations can help you get that information. 

If you want to change your seating or your restaurant rotation, do that as soon as you embark. The location on the ship where changes can be made will be listed in the Navigator app, or just go to Guest Services and they can point you in the right direction.

If you go to your assigned restaurant for dinner each night, your servers will be the same for every night of your cruise. On longer cruises they’ll get to know you, and may even have your “usual” beverage waiting for you at your table. If you are served something you don’t like, tell the servers and they’ll bring you something else. And if you want to indulge, they’ll be happy to bring you two desserts (or two appetizers, or even two entrees)! In true Disney style, if you have a special event you are celebrating, make sure your servers know. You will get appropriate special treatment (usually a special dessert, and perhaps some singing).

We recommend not rushing to dinner. If you show up five minutes or so after they begin seating you’ll walk right in. If you show up early you’ll just have to wait in line! Don’t wait too long, though: in order to get everyone served in a timely manner, each server really needs to get all the orders from all their tables at once. If you come too late, it throws off their timing, necessitating multiple extra trips to the kitchen and long delays for everyone. Also, if you won’t be at the regular rotation dinner one night, it’s helpful to tell your server or head server in advance, so they won’t wait for you to arrive to start service for the other tables.

We also recommend having the Navigator app open to your dinner reservation and table number the first time you arrive at each restaurant, so you can be seated more easily. But if you remember your table number, you can just tell the servers.  

Each restaurant has a “special” menu that is only offered at that restaurant, which will be used on one of the nights you visit each restaurant (the same night as the show, if there is one for that restaurant). On the other nights, you’ll get “standard” menus that are the same at all three restaurants (they change every night, but each of the three restaurants gets the same menu). 

Dinner Shows

The following restaurants have special shows and menus on one night of your cruise . These shows are one of the unique entertainment experiences on a Disney cruise, so try to see them if you can! Ask at Guest Services or ask your server which night it will be for your rotation. Move your Palo, Remy or Enchante reservations or change your dinner rotation if you have to. 

• Animator’s Palate (Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy) — On the Magic & Wonder, this show allows everyone in the family to design a character and see it animated. It’s pretty neat! On the Dream & Fantasy, the show involves interacting with an animated character (Crush the sea turtle from Finding Nemo). On longer (7+ night) cruises on the Dream & Fantasy, they may also do a version of the “draw your own animated character” show on the second night you visit Animator’s Palate.
• Tiana’s Place (Wonder) — A rollicking dinner show with the characters and songs from The Princess & The Frog.
• Rapunzel’s Royal Table (Magic) — A fun musical show with characters and songs from Tangled.
• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure (Wish) — An elaborate show where you’re a guest at an engagement party for Anna and Kristoff, hosted by Wandering Oaken. Enjoy songs and characters from the two Frozen movies.
• Worlds of Marvel (Wish) — A loud action spectacle involving Ant-Man and the Wasp (and some guest Marvel characters) takes place during dinner. Most of the action is ostensibly taking place elsewhere on the ship (you watch it on screens on the walls of the restaurant), but live-action Ant-Man and the Wasp appear near the end to wave at diners.

Premium Restaurants

If you enjoy fine dining, we definitely recommend making a reservation for Palo, Remy or Enchanté, particularly on a 4-night or longer cruise. There is a small extra cost (larger for Remy and Enchanté) but it is well worth it for the cuisine, the atmosphere, and the opportunity to enjoy a nice dinner without the kids. The Remy and Enchanté dinners are especially elaborate, and are similar to meals that cost much more at Michelin starred restaurants or Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World. Palo can be found on all five Disney ships, though the menu is slightly different (and more steakhouse-oriented) on the Wish. Remy is only on the Dream and Fantasy, and Enchanté is only on the Wish.

Alternatively, consider booking the Palo, Enchanté or Remy brunch (offered usually only once or twice on most cruises). We find the premium brunches particularly fabulous and might even prefer them to dinner in Palo.

Palo, Remy and Enchanté are very popular, so book them as early as you can . If you’re not able to get a reservation in advance, check the Navigator app or ask a crew member to find the location where you can go and request a reservation onboard.

If you want to skip one of the regular rotation restaurants in order to dine in Palo, Remy or Enchanté, our suggestion is to call Disney to find out the dining rotations for your cruise and pick a night that is the second visit to a restaurant, since the first night is very likely to be that restaurant’s special menu (and will have a show, if there is a show at that restaurant). For example, if your rotation is “Enchanted Garden, Rapunzel’s Table, Rapunzel’s Table, Animator’s Palate”, pick the third night, since it is the most likely to be a “standard” menu.

Keep in mind that the dinner rotations and timing of Animator’s Palate, Tiana’s, Rapunzel’s, Marvel or Arendelle shows are subject to change, and in our experience the folks at the Disney call center don’t always have accurate information about when the show will happen. The people actually on the ship know, so if you want to be sure your premium dining doesn’t happen on a dinner show night, go to Guest Services or the dining reservation location listed in the Navigator app on the first day of your cruise and ask. If there’s a conflict, they can either reschedule your premium dinner or put you on a different main dining rotation.

Alternate Dining Options

There are always plenty of options for food: check the Navigator app to know which restaurants are open at what times.

In the past, Disney has opened up the buffet area (Cabanas or Marceline Market) for dinner on most nights of the cruise (usually all but the first night), but as a table-service venue, not a buffet. There’s no specific time, you just show up and choose from a limited menu that includes some of the same foods served in the main dining rooms (but without all the hoopla). Of late they haven’t been doing it, but all indications are that this is a temporary post-pandemic measure because of logistics issues, so it could restart any time. If you’d prefer a quieter dinner at your own dining time, ask if it’s an option on your cruise.

There are fast-food locations up on the pool deck, serving kid-friendly fast food. We think the burgers and other sandwiches on a bun are edible, and the mini-wraps are quite good. The pizza is not a highlight – the toppings are fine, but the crust is sub-par, except on the Wish, where it is pretty good. The Wish also has a barbeque window, and a Mexican food window with choose-your-own ingredient bowls, tacos and burritos (think Chipotle), and both of those options are quite good. The fruit is fruit; nothing wrong with it. The soft-serve ice cream is not very creamy, but it makes a nice snack on a hot day, and they usually rotate in some unusual flavors like mango or strawberry over the course of the cruise.

On most ships, there are some small snacks available most of the day. In the adult coffee bar, there have generally been free mini-desserts available during the day, and little antipasto nibbles during the evening, but we didn’t see them on the Wish. In the adult lounge area on the lower decks, there is usually a (small) hot snack buffet available for part of the evening, either in the pub or the hallway between the various lounges. Usually there’s something like a build-your-own nacho bar, plus some sort of hot savory like pigs in a blanket or egg rolls. Again, this little mini-buffet has not been present on the Wish. In the pub on each ship, there are about 4-6 extra-cost hot snacks & entrees you can order. Typically at least one of the pool deck food stations will be open until midnight, usually pizza. From midnight until breakfast time (6:30 or so) room service is the only food option.

On Alaska cruises, there have usually been some snacks on the front of the ship on the pool deck on the glacier-viewing day , including hot soup in small bread bowls, cookies and hot cocoa. They also usually do a special barbecue lunch that day on the deck behind the buffet, typically sausage, fish, and steak. Sometimes they have been known to serve elk or another Alaska specialty. Make sure you go out to the deck to check it out; we met many people who had no idea the cookout was happening and just ate regular buffet food instead of the fresh-grilled options just a few steps away.

Concierge guests have access to snacks and beverages (bottled water, soft drinks, coffee drinks) in the concierge lounge.

Kids’ Meals

There are kid’s menu options at all the table-service meals , but children are not limited to eating from those menus. Your servers will bring your kids whatever they want, including full adult appetizers, meals and desserts, and in fact if there’s something on the ship they can get or make, they’ll usually try to accommodate you even if it’s not on the menu. In other words, if all your kids want is french fries, that’s not a problem, assuming you’re OK with it.

It’s worth noting that asking your server to bring you something from another restaurant is not a trivial undertaking . They will almost certainly do it, because they really want guests to be happy, but don’t spring a request on them unless you really can’t find anything else for your kids to eat. And if possible, let the service staff know early if your child has specific food issues. If they know in advance that your child will only eat french fries and chicken fingers, they can have those ready each night.

If you have kids in the Oceaneer Club, they will be offered lunch and dinner if they are in the Club at the appropriate time. There are not usually a lot of choices, but what they’ll offer is going to be pretty simple and kid-friendly, like chicken nuggets and apple slices.

Two key things to be aware of: one, they usually don’t serve the kids dinner on the first night of the cruise (the day of embarkation). So if you have Palo or Remy reservations for that night, you’ll need to feed your kids yourself. Fortunately that’s easy: all you have to do is get food for the kids before or after your reservation from one of the fast-food restaurants on the pool deck. Two: be aware of when the kids are served. Meal times may be too early for your liking if you leave your kids in the Club.

Also, keep in mind that the Disney crew members will not make your kids sit down to eat. They will make sure every child is informed that food is being served, but they can’t and won’t make your children stop playing to eat, and there is one opportunity to eat for each mealtime. There are no snacks served in the club between meal times. It’s a good idea when you pick up your kids to check if they ate and if they are hungry.

Dine and Play Program

Please note : The Dine and Play program is temporarily suspended, but may return at any time. Ask about it onboard if you’re interested.

The Dine and Play program allows children to get their meals quicker and adults to check in a child for Youth Activities without leaving the dining room. The Dine and Play program is offered for families assigned to second dining, and is open to children ages 3-12. 

Here’s how it works: You arrive in the dining room and inform the server that your child would like to participate in Dine and Play. The dining room team brings the child’s meal first while serving the adults at a more leisurely pace.

About 45 minutes after seating begins, Youth Activities Counselors arrive in the dining room and sign in the child to Disney’s Oceaneer Club, eliminating the need for you to escort the child to Deck 5.

Adults are then able to enjoy the full dining experience with the knowledge that their children are having a great time in a safe, fun and comfortable environment.

Alternative approach: You can ask your server to feed the kids as fast as possible, and then have an adult walk them over to the kids club and check them in. It only takes a few minutes to get to the club and back. Some parents have told us their kids prefer this method over using Dine & Play, as you can get the kids to the club whenever they’re ready and there’s less waiting around.

Room Service

Room service is not a strong suit on Disney Cruise Line. The food, in our experience, is merely adequate. It is free (though a tip is welcomed) and convenient, though. Selection is mostly very basic and very middle-American: sandwiches, basic soups, chicken wings, a few salads, a cheese plate, burger, pizza or topped flatbreads. 

If the buffet or top deck restaurants are open, we suggest sending someone to the buffet or top deck instead of ordering room service . The selection in the buffet is much better and the food better prepared. The top deck restaurants have a more limited selection, but sending someone to the top deck for food has always resulted in hotter, fresher food when we’ve done it. That said, if you’re worn out, or come back really late from a port excursion, it’s nice to know they will bring you food any time.

Mickey bars (Mickey head shaped ice cream bars) and Smuckers Uncrustables (packaged peanut butter & jelly sandwiches) are not on the menu, but have usually been available on request.

Special orders are limited , but if you want something simple that is not on the menu, but is made with components used in items that are on the menu, such as a grilled cheese sandwich, plain salad without dressing, plain hamburger patty with no bun or just an order of french fries, they will usually make that for you on request.

Room service breakfast in the regular staterooms is a very basic Continental offering of various baked goods, cereal, milk, hot drinks and juice. There is nothing hot and no real protein, so if you like eggs and bacon in the morning, head for the buffet or whichever dining room is serving breakfast (it’s listed in the Disney Cruise Navigator app). We do sometimes use room service to get coffee delivered in the morning. Though lately we just have them deliver hot water, because we prefer the Starbucks Via packets to the ship’s reconstituted coffee product.

Guests in concierge staterooms and suites can order dinner from the rotation restaurants during regular dinner hours . Ask your concierge staff for a menu. All courses of your meal are brought at once, which doesn’t do good things for the quality of the meal, but it’s still better than the regular room service offerings. Concierge level guests can order hot breakfasts in their suites and staterooms during the cruise.

Many common beverages (including sodas) are available FREE most of the time , but there are situations where you could be charged for them. Here are the basic rules:

• The self-service drink station on the pool deck offers milk , juice , tea (hot or iced) , coffee, hot cocoa , lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  at no extra charge 24 hours a day.
• The dining rooms (including Palo, Remy and Enchanté) offer milk , juice , tea (hot or iced) , coffee , hot cocoa ,  lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  at no extra charge with meals. All other drinks can be ordered, but cost money.
• Castaway Cay offers milk , juice , tea (iced only) , lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  for free. All other cold drinks (except iced espresso drinks) can be ordered at a bar, but cost money. No hot drinks are available. 
• Room service offers milk , juice , tea (hot or iced), plain water and  coffee free. All other drinks cost money. 
• All bars (including espresso bars) charge for all beverages , except plain tap water.
• Bottled water, canned and bottled soda and soft drinks , alcoholic beverages , mocktails , smoothies, shakes  and espresso drinks (and related drinks like chai lattes) always cost money no matter where you order them.
• The fountain sodas are all Coca-Cola products (which could change any time, but Coca-Cola has had a strong partnership with Disney for many years). The bars have a wider selection of canned and bottled beverages available, at a charge.

Consider bringing your own bottled water if you think you’ll drink a lot of it on shore excursions, Castaway Cay, etc. Bottled water on the ship or Castaway Cay is expensive. Consider packing a small carry-on suitcase with just bottled water. Then on the way home you’ll have room for all those things you didn’t plan to buy. (If you are staying on concierge level on the Dream or Fantasy, bottled water is provided in the lounge without cost.)

Disney allows each adult to bring up to two 750 ml bottles of wine or six 12 oz beers onboard at embarkation and at each port visited. Bottles must be sealed and they must be in your carry-on luggage.  Spirits (rum, vodka, whiskey, etc.) are not allowed (they will be confiscated and given back to you at disembarkation).

Sealed bottles or cans of non-alcoholic beverages can be carried on in any amount that will fit through the x-ray machines (carry-on bag sized, in other words). As for coolers, Disney officially says that you can only take aboard small (12″ x 12″ x 12″ max) soft-sided coolers for keeping things like insulin and breast milk cold. In practice, soft coolers can be any size that’s small enough to fit through the x-ray machine (again, basically the size of a carry-on bag), but no hard-sided or wheeled coolers.

Disney, like all other cruise lines, does not allow any beverages in checked bags , because checked baggage is stacked up and handled roughly during the loading process, which could cause containers of liquids to break and/or leak onto other people’s luggage. They do screen for those items. If they find disallowed items, the items will be confiscated and given back at the end of the cruise.

Coffee and Tea

Regular American-style coffee on Disney ships is unfortunately not good. The “drip” coffee they serve throughout the ship is made in a machine that looks vaguely like a coffee urn, but actually produces instant coffee on demand by mixing liquid concentrate and hot water. When it’s made in a properly-calibrated machine it tastes like OK instant coffee (not as good as Starbucks Via, but better than Folger’s Crystals). If the machine is out of calibration, it can be really weak or very strong.

If you like your coffee with cream and sugar or just aren’t picky about coffee, you may be fine with the reconstituted coffee . If you like quality coffee, you may want to order espresso drinks (at extra cost), which are available at most bars and sit-down restaurants and at the bar in the Wish, Dream & Fantasy’s buffets. You might also consider bringing Starbucks Via packets if you like them. In our experience the Via is much better than the reconstituted stuff.

If you’re a tea drinker, the news is better: there are a wide variety of Twinings tea bags (regular and herbal) at the main deck drink stations and in the dining rooms. And in the dining rooms, they almost always serve tea properly, with acceptably hot water and a small pitcher of milk upon request.

The iced tea served everywhere is unsweetened reconstituted iced tea from a soda machine (Fuze brand from Coca-Cola), but you can make your own iced tea by brewing fresh hot tea and adding ice and water, and that is much better. Our recipe: put two regular black tea bags in a cup of hot water, steep three minutes, stir in sugar if desired, then pour over a full cup of ice. Add water to taste.

Most bars on the ship have espresso machines , including the adults-only Cove Cafe on the pool deck and the all-ages Promenade Lounge on deck 3 (Wonder & Magic), Vista Café on deck 4 (Dream & Fantasy), and all bars and lounges on the Wish. Espresso is also available in the main dining rooms, the premium restaurants, and the Dream, Fantasy and Wish buffets. All espresso drinks cost extra, generally about the same price as on land. If you are a regular consumer of espresso drinks, be sure to get a coffee card. Each time you buy a latte, cappucino, etc. they will mark the card. Your sixth beverage is FREE! If you don’t fill your card during the cruise, hold onto it — it can be used on a future cruise, even on a different Disney ship!

Wine Packages and Refillable Beer Mug

Disney doesn’t have any “all you can drink” packages available. You don’t really need one for sodas, since they’re included (except at bars). Alcohol and other specialty beverages are always a la carte. There are, however, two programs that could save you some money (albeit with a few caveats).

Wine Packages

This is an opportunity to pre-pay for a certain number of bottles of wine, which you can enjoy at any of the sit-down restaurants. If you don’t finish one, you can get it recorked for the next night (and they’ll take it to the next restaurant in the rotation, or you can get it brought to you at Palo, Remy or Enchanté), or you can take it with you to your room. If you don’t end up drinking them all, you can take the remainder home. Your server will usually suggest buying one bottle per cruise night, but you can buy more or less if you like. The wines are all from a set list, which changes from time to time, and usually includes about 10-12 white wines and 8-10 red wines. There are two tiers, with the more expensive one including fancier bottles of wine. The wines on the list change regularly, but we think the choices are all pretty good, with a few real winners on each list. Disney pushes these packages aggressively: a brochure will be on the table your first night, and one of your servers will offer a sales pitch the first night.

We went to the trouble a few years ago to price out all the wines on the list and compare to the average cost per bottle from the packages . The price per bottle in the packages was about $2-3 cheaper than the average price of the bottles included in the package. However, the packages typically have only 5-7 selections that sell for more than the average price, and 12-15 selections that sell for less than the average price. So if you pick random bottles from the list, you’re very likely to end up spending more (or at least not much less) by buying the package. To come out ahead, you have to consistently order from the few bottles that are higher priced.

Frankly, our opinion is that it’s not worth the trouble, at least as a money-saving strategy . If buying your dinner wine in advance will help you relax, then go ahead; you certainly won’t lose much money unless you happen to always pick the cheapest wine on the list. And if you really love a particular wine or wines that you know are higher-priced, and you plan to only drink those, the plan will save you a few bucks per bottle.

Refillable Beer Mug

This is a large 21 oz glass souvenir beer mug that you can buy at any bar for $17 (last we checked). When you get it filled (at any bar or restaurant), you get 21 ounces for the price of a 16 ounce draft beer. One nice thing is that you don’t have to cart the mug around; they’ll give you a little token you can trade for a mug at any time. So you give the token to your server and get a mug of beer, and when you’re done you can give them the mug and ask for the token back. At the end of the cruise, just stop by any bar to get a nice clean mug to take home. The selection of draft beers is pretty good, and in addition to the standard American beers, there are always a few craft beers like Widmer or Full Sail and even sometimes a cider like Strongbow. (Disney Cruise Line advertises this as a 21 oz glass, but we heard from a reader who measured it and found it actually held 20 oz when filled to the rim.)

Purely as a money-saving strategy, it’s hard to get your money’s worth out of the mug unless you really like beer. However, if you like the idea of having a Disney Cruise Line souvenir beer mug, and the price seems reasonable, then the extra beer is basically FREE. Make sure to tell your spouse that when you buy it.

Disembarkation Day

Breakfast is served on the day of disembarkation. In fact, you’ll have an assigned restaurant and time for breakfast for disembarkation, or you can choose to eat at the buffet instead. It will be a much smaller selection than during the cruise: welcome back to the real world!

Regular guests do not have access to room service on disembarkation morning. Concierge level guests can order a standard Continental breakfast from room service on disembarkation morning.

Most kids find the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3-10, to be the best part of a Disney cruise. There is a lot to do, with great hands-on organized activities going on all the time.

Signing in and out is a relatively easy process considering what needs to be done to protect the children. However, you may have to wait in line either to drop them off or pick them up. Plan at least 5 minutes for the pick up or drop off process. If your children are 8 years old or older, they can be given the ability to sign themselves in and out on their own.

The Navigator app will tell you what’s happening and where your kids are at any given time. Check the app to see if your children will be out of the Club at the time you want to sign them out – for instance, they could be up on the deck playing basketball. Using the app to plan will save you a wasted trip. Also, when the kids are moving from one location to another, they will not allow you to sign them in or out, so there can be a 10-15 minute window where you have to wait.

You can keep your child signed in to the Oceaneer Club while at Castaway Cay. They will take the kids off the ship to special play areas for supervised games and activities throughout the day. If you do this, be sure to bring your phone with you. The Wi-Fi covers much of Castaway Cay and the app tends to work OK. But if you want your kids to join you for some time on the island, make sure you know their schedule of activities. They eat lunch fairly early, and are taken back to the ship before the beach closes.

Edge is the “tween” club for ages 11-14. Vibe is the teen club for ages 14-17. A 14-year-old can access both Edge and Vibe, but they will have to register for both. Disney will sometimes be slightly flexible about the age groups for these clubs, and will sometimes allow a child that is a little younger than the target age into the older teen club if they have space in the club your child wants to attend, especially if they have a friend or sibling in the older club. This is not guaranteed, but it’s worth asking.

The Disney Cruise offers many opportunities to meet characters . You will see most of the popular characters at some point or another on the Disney Cruise. Greeting times are available in the Navigator app. The lines for character greetings usually start forming about 15 minutes before the scheduled greeting time, so if you can get there 10 minutes beforehand, you won’t have a long wait once the characters arrive.

Some popular character meetings and meals may require advance booking . There’s no charge for the character meetings, but certain breakfasts or teas with characters may have an additional fee. You should book these as early as you can online; the bookings open on the same schedule as  booking excursions and Palo/Remy/Enchanté . You can also call or stop by guest services on the first day and ask about tickets; they may hold back some slots for onboard booking. Thanks to Sarah B and Rachel P for info.

Bring your kids’ Disney costumes, if they have any. The cruise is a great opportunity to get pictures of your daughter dressed as Belle with the “real” Belle herself, without her having to wear the costume all day.

If you’re on a 7-night cruise, you may have an assigned Character Breakfast on one of the days of the cruise. You’ll get a chance for photos with all the main Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie!

Most of the character greetings will include a Disney professional photographer , so if your own photo doesn’t turn out you can still buy a memento from Shutters, the onboard photo location.

Read our tips, tricks and discounts on Port Excursions !

The list below is mostly based on reader suggestions. We have to admit, we have taken Disney cruises at various times without these, and everything went just fine. So don’t go too crazy with overpacking! But some of these are good ideas for specific needs.

• Water shoes – Always a good idea if you’ll be snorkeling or wading where there are coral reefs and sharp rocks. Also handy to protect your feet on hot sand, concrete or the pool deck; the sun can make the deck very hot and you’ll want some of these or some simple flip-flops while hanging around the pool. You can wear water shoes that are secure and not likely to come off on the AquaDuck, AquaMouse and AquaDunk, but flip-flops or water shoes that slip off easily will need to be stowed before riding.
• Safe Sea lotion – This is a lotion that protects against jellyfish, sea nettle, and seabather’s eruption , caused by jellyfish larvae that are sometimes called “sea lice.” There is actual independent research that backs this up – we’ve read it and are satisfied that it works. We want to reassure people that large jellyfish are kept out of the lagoon at Castaway Cay by netting under the water, so we’ve never heard of anyone getting a serious sting there, but people do occasionally get seabather’s eruption. At other beaches in the Bahamas and Caribbean jellyfish stings are not common, but they do happen. The peak season for jellyfish is summer (June-August) and they’re rare in winter. We actually had a very minor issue with seabather’s eruption on one trip to Castaway Cay (on some skin that didn’t have lotion; we failed to note that you need to apply some underneath the swimsuit for full protection), and we can attest that while it’s not the end of the world, it’s quite unpleasant and worth avoiding. Certainly the lotion is a cheap form of insurance, and there are formulations that include sunscreen, which you’ll need anyway. Another option is to bring some jellyfish after-sting gel  just in case, or some sources recommend hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine cream .
• Body Powder – If you’ve ever tried to wipe beach sand off your body, you know it tends to stick in an annoying manner. It turns out it sticks to your skin because of residual moisture, and if you just rub your skin with water-absorbent powder (i.e. scented cornstarch), the sand drops right off. We used to recommend a very useful little mitt that contained cornstarch-based body powder for wiping off sand. Apparently that mitt isn’t made any more, but you can get the same effect by just sprinkling the powder on a towel and wiping with that. Do make sure you’re getting plain cornstarch powder, or at least talc-free powder. Talc is not good to breathe.
• Robe – if you like to wear one in your room, you’ll need to bring your own unless you’re in a concierge room. Some people have had luck asking their stateroom attendant, but it’s not guaranteed they can get you one.
• Pop-up Hamper – We like the rectangular kind with a circular opening on the top, as opposed to the ones that look like a big round cloth-covered spring. The squarer ones seem to hold their shape better. They only weigh 8 ounces, fold down to a small circle, and fit nicely into hotel and stateroom closets.
• Dry box/case – Basically, a small waterproof box or pouch on a lanyard. Used by scuba divers and snorkelers, these are handy for any beach visit, because you can keep your ID and some money around your neck, instead of sticking valuables in your shoe and leaving them on the beach (yeah, everyone knows about THAT hiding place!)
• Clothespins – These have a variety of uses, from weighing down a shower curtain that wants to stick to you, to anchoring your beach towel to a lounge chair. You can clip your curtains together if you want to minimize light leakage in the morning. Oh, and you can use them to hang laundry up to dry, too (there’s a retractable clothesline in the bathtub).
• Night light – Particularly if you are staying in one of the Inside cabins on the Magic, Wonder or Wish, this is nice to have. It’s pitch black in those rooms when the lights are off. If you don’t want to use up a wall plug, you can get a USB light that plugs into an empty USB charger port. (It’ll also work in a laptop USB port, but not all laptops keep power to the USB ports when they go to sleep, so you’d want to check that first.) An LED flashlight or headlamp can also be handy if you need to get up in the middle of the night and don’t want to turn on lights.
• Magnets – The stateroom doors are metal (except for the doors in the concierge section of the Dream and Fantasy). You can stick magnets on them to decorate your door, and it makes it easier for your children (and you) to identify your room. Don’t bring anything you can’t bear to lose: these do get taken sometimes. Please note that you are not allowed to use any type of adhesive on your door, including removable gel adhesives that supposedly come off clean. You will be charged for any damage to the door.
• Multi-USB charger – When we have a lot of things to charge while travelling, normally we bring a  travel power strip , but as mentioned below, power strips are generally not allowed on Disney ships. Now we bring a multi-charger, which can charge 4 or more devices from one outlet. We’ve used Anker brand as well as Amazon Basics, and they’ve both been perfectly fine. You’ll need to also bring the USB cable for each device. We’d recommend getting at least a 40W model if you have anything more than just a phone or two. A 60W model typically has six outlets and might be just the thing if you have a lot of tablets and phones to charge, or you want a spare port to plug a USB night light into. Note that on the Magic and Wonder, they’ve installed a few more USA-type power outlets near the desk, and there are a couple of USB charging ports at the desk and on the alarm clock next to the bed. The Wish staterooms have tons of USB charging outlets at the desk and next to the bed, including two USB-C ports, so you can probably get by without a USB charger on that ship.
• Irons are NOT ALLOWED as they are a fire hazard. Fire is a huge danger on cruise ships. If you take an iron it will be confiscated from your luggage. Irons are available for your use in the laundry rooms.
• Rolls of quarters – In the past, these were needed for the self-service laundry onboard, but now you just swipe your room key for use of the washer, dryer, soap and dryer sheets. The cost is charged to your account.
• Over-the-door shoe organizer – Some people have used these to store toiletries or other small items. Disney now asks that you do NOT use them as they “scratch and/or disfigure stateroom doors and trim.” You will be charged for any damage.
• Seasickness medication – Unless you KNOW you get seasick on cruise ships, don’t bother bringing this. If you do get queasy, the ship’s health center or the guest services desk will give you FREE over the counter medication (generic meclizine, the ingredient in Bonine or non-drowsy Dramamine). If you get super-queasy the health center can get you prescription medication (for a fee).
• Beach towels – They are provided when you get off the ship on beach days.
• Power/outlet strip – These are not allowed on the ship. MouseSavers.com reader Christina N reports: “… they confiscated these from my bag and from others. They do not allow them as it blows circuits in the room.” Technically, they only ban extension cords, and power strips with surge protectors, but in practice people have reported having just about any kind of multi-outlet strip or adapter confiscated, because the people doing the screening don’t want to figure out whether your power strip is one of the “bad” ones. One thing not many people know is that there’s an open outlet behind the TV in most cabins on the Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy. The TVs are on a pivoting arm, so it’s easy to pull them out and expose the spare plug. Many smartphones and smaller tablets can be charged through a USB cable connected to a laptop, so if you take a USB cable you’ll only need one outlet, to plug in the laptop. Or you might want to pack a multi-USB charger like the ones mentioned above. And over time Disney has been adding USB charging ports to the outlets near the desk, so you might not need a power strip depending on how many devices you have.
• Extension cords – the only extension cords allowed on the ship are ones you can borrow from Guest Services ($50 deposit required; refunded when you return the cord). There are a limited number and availability is first-come, first-served. If you need one for a CPAP or other medical device, one will be made available, but all of the ships now have a plug next to the bed, so you shouldn’t need an extension for a CPAP. On the Wish, there are US-style plugs next to one side of the bed, and a European plug on the other side. So if you have a CPAP or other device that goes next to the bed, and you really prefer to sleep on a specific side, make sure you have the correct plug adapter and your CPAP power supply handles both 110 and 220 volt current (almost all of them do, but you should check).
• Hairdryer (maybe) – Hairdryers are provided, but the ones provided might not be up to your standards. If you’re not picky, don’t bother packing one.
• High chair / booster seat – Both are provided on request in the dining room.
• Pack and play crib – These are provided onboard (request when booking your cruise).
• Stroller (maybe) – There are some strollers available to borrow onboard (deposit required) and on Castaway Cay. However, there are a limited number and it’s first-come, first-served. If you have a little one, it’s not a bad idea to bring a small umbrella stroller along.

During the day and most evenings on the Disney Cruise Line, you can wear casual clothing. At dinner, you are asked to stick to “cruise casual.” Most men wear a collared shirt (aloha shirts and golf/polo shirts are fine) and long pants (chinos or dress slacks) or nice shorts. Most women wear a skirt, dress, nice pants or dressy capris. Disney requests no swimwear or tank tops at dinner, but in practice, dressier tank-style tops will usually be acceptable. People who show up to the main dining rooms in swimsuits are almost always asked to change.

There are times when dressing up to some extent is either required or encouraged:

• When having dinner at Palo, Remy or Enchanté, the dress code is basically “business casual plus.” Men are required to wear long pants suitable for professional work (which could include “nice” jeans), collared shirts and dressier shoes. Some men wear suits or even tuxedos. Women can wear pretty much anything “nice” that isn’t swimwear, casual t-shirts, shorts or sportswear. Semi-formal or even formal wear would not be out of place. At Brunch or Tea at either restaurant, the dress code is “cruise casual,” which basically means no shorts, swimsuits, tank tops or flip-flops.
• On 4-night or longer cruises, there will be one or two “optional dress up” nights that you can interpret how you will. Dressing up is not required, but some folks will make an effort to change for dinner. On our most recent Disney cruises we’ve seen a handful of tuxedos on dress-up nights and a few dozen men wearing jackets. A fair number of women were dressed in nicer outfits. Lots and lots of people were just in normal “cruise casual” outfits, so if you don’t like to dress up don’t feel like you’re under any obligation to do so. On the other hand, if you like to dress up, it’s a great opportunity. The crew and the Disney characters will be in nicer clothes, there will be photo stations where you can get a picture of the whole family in nice outfits, and you won’t feel overdressed in a gown or tux.
• Some people like to wear dressy or semi-formal clothing on the nights when they dine in Lumiere’s (Magic), Triton’s (Wonder) or Royal Palace/Royal Court (Dream or Fantasy), since those are the restaurants with the fanciest theming but this is not by any means required.
• Similarly, a few people like to dress in 1920’s inspired clothes when dining in 1923 on the Disney Wish. This is just a fun thing to do and not in any way required.

Where to Buy Disney Cruise Wear

If you’re looking for Disney-themed casual cruise wear (aloha shirts, etc.), a good place to look is DisneyStore.com . Unfortunately they only offer resort wear on a seasonal basis (usually spring and summer), but even in the winter it’s always worth looking to see if they have anything in the sale section.

DisneyStore.com  carries a significant amount of Disney Cruise Line clothing and other logo merchandise as well.

• See current discounts and offers for DisneyStore.com.

Your phone should still be able to reach a tower on land as long as the ship is in port, but once you are at sea, we strongly advise you to turn off international roaming and data roaming, to avoid having your phone accidentally use the “Cellular@Sea” service, which is very expensive. You can (and should) leave wi-fi turned on, so you can use Disney’s Navigator App to see the current schedules and menus and so forth.

You can also use the Disney Navigator App on your own phone to send messages to other people in your party. To get message notifications as quickly as possible, make sure that notifications are enabled for the Disney Navigator app, as well as background updates. Basically in our experience, the Navigator app needs to have all permissions set to “on,” including Location, Bluetooth, Notifications, and Background Update. You can (and perhaps should) turn those off again once your cruise has ended.

If you absolutely must use your phone to call or text while at sea, service may be available on Disney ships through the “Cellular@Sea” service. It is a very expensive form of international roaming and the ship must be 8 to 10 miles out to sea before you can access it. Most phones will just connect to Cellular@Sea without needing any special setup, but be aware that the service includes phone, text messaging, and data . If your phone is set to auto-update, you could end up on the hook for a large data charge because it decided to download a 100MB game update or something. Definitely turn off your cellular data, or set it to not use cellular data when roaming.

US phones will work in most international ports if you have turned on international roaming. You might need to arrange with your provider for that feature to be turned on in advance, but most providers have it set up by default. Depending on your provider, roaming may be very expensive (potentially over $2 per minute, and $10 or more per megabyte of data). Check with your provider for special international roaming packages, which may save you money if you plan to use your phone a lot.

Wireless internet service is available on all Disney ships . All internet is over satellite, and you shouldn’t expect speeds or responsiveness similar to what you get on land, though it’s usually good enough to send messages and emails and use Facebook and other social media.

Internet service on Disney ships is paid for by the day, and is theoretically “unlimited .” It’s pretty fast for cruise ship internet, but still slower than most land-based systems. You’re sharing bandwidth with all the other passengers and crew, so right after you leave a port, expect the internet to crawl as everyone starts posting pictures of their excursions to social media. If you have cellular internet service that works in that country (and is reasonably priced), you may want to post your pictures before you leave port via cellular rather than via wi-fi. If your cellular is flaky, get to the top deck and walk over to the side of the ship closest to land. Alternatively, wait until dinner time, when the wi-fi speeds will pick up considerably.

Prices are (so far) pretty reasonable for cruise ship internet, with a basic single-device plan that lets you use Facebook and similar apps (but not email or web) for $16/day (when purchased for the whole cruise), a fancier plan that includes email and web (but no streaming) for $24/day, and a premium plan that includes music streaming for $34/day. Video streaming is not supported on any plan , so no Netflix or Hulu. Plans cost a little more if you only buy a plan for individual days rather than the whole cruise, and there is a small discount for adding additional devices.

Spa: Treatments, Products and Fitness Center

Spa treatments are very popular and fill up early , so book them as early as you can . If you’re not able to get an appointment before you embark, go to the Spa when you get onboard and you’ll probably be able to arrange one in person.

We don’t recommend having any spa treatments done on the first (embarkation) day , because people are touring the Spa all afternoon and evening, making it busy and not very relaxing. It’s a good day to set up your future appointments, but not as good for actually having treatments done.

The changing rooms in the spa have fluffy robes for your use. Sadly, the robes are all “one size fits most” and aren’t big enough for many people. You then can choose a locker that contains a clean pair of spa sandals. The lockers allow you to set your own combination for secure storage of your personal items. We don’t find the sandals they provide very comfortable (again, they’re “one size fits most”), so we just wear a clean pair of sandals or flip-flops to our spa appointment.

You can change into your robe in the open locker room or in one of the toilet cubicles. Once you’re in your robe and sandals, an attendant will escort you to a quiet waiting room, where you can enjoy some water while you wait for your treatment. After your treatment you’ll be escorted back to the locker room, where you can use one of the spacious showers if you wish. Basic toiletries, disposable combs, etc. are provided. On the Dream and Fantasy, there is a dry sauna in the locker room that you can enjoy after your treatment for no additional charge.

If you are considering a Cabana Massage on Castaway Cay, here are a few things to consider first:

• The cabanas are rustic. There is no running water in them, so your massage therapist cannot wash her hands during your treatment. There is no air conditioning (there is a ceiling fan) or heat so it can be unpleasantly hot in the summer and uncomfortably cool in the winter.
• Your feet and lower legs will almost certainly be covered with sand by the time you get to the cabana, and there’s really no facility for removing it. (There is an outdoor shower near the waiting area, but you’ll then proceed across the sand to the cabana… you’ll get sandy again, trust us.) So the sand inevitably becomes part of the treatment. How you feel about having sandy oil rubbed into your skin is a matter of preference. And remember, the massage oil dissolves any sunscreen you’re wearing, so you’ll need to reapply it afterward, which enters the mix with the sand.
• When you envision this experience, you might think you would be relaxing to the sound of the ocean waves. Nope. The cabanas are located right above the lounge chairs along the beach (though visually separated by some plants), so you will hear the chatter of people sitting right below you.
• The Cabana Massage is billed as featuring “breathtaking views of Serenity Bay.” Well, that’s true for the massage therapist, but you’ll be lying on a table, and you won’t see the scenery from there.
• The Cabana Massage is more expensive than a regular massage in the ship’s spa, yet in many ways you are getting less for your money. If you have a massage on the ship, you’ll have access to showers, a locker room, robes and sandals, etc. With the Cabana Massages, you get none of that.

The Rainforest

The Rainforest is a lovely, relaxing co-ed spa area on each ship.

• On the Magic and Wonder , the Rainforest includes three tiled steam rooms (each a different temperature), some open showers with different scented “rain” programs and a few heated loungers.
• On the Dream and Fantasy , the Rainforest has a dry sauna, a hot steam room and a hammam (a large, tiled steam room that is less hot than the regular steam room), four scented showers with multiple “rain” programs, numerous heated loungers with views of the sea and two hot tubs on a private deck overlooking the water.
• On the Wish , the Rainforest has a dry sauna, hammam, a cryotherapy (cold) room, showers with rain programs, heated loungers, and a nice sun deck ( much larger than the one on the Dream & Fantasy) with two hot tubs and plenty of sun beds. The sun deck is tucked into the nose of the ship, one deck below the promenade, so there’s no ocean view, but you can see the sky and relax in the sun or the shade according to your preference.

You can purchase a day pass or a longer pass for the length of your cruise. A limited number of passes are sold on each sailing. Tip: the Rainforest Room is closed until around 5 on embarkation day, so you won’t typically get a lot of usage on the first day of the cruise. You may find it’s a better deal just to pay day-by-day, or ask if you can buy a shorter pass. The single-day passes for the sea day(s) will go first, followed by the full-cruise passes. A pass for the Castaway Cay day or other port day might be available same day, and could be a good alternative if you’re not interested in that port.

When you want to use the Rainforest, just tell the front desk staff at the spa and they’ll give you a wristband that opens the door to the Rainforest area. They will hold your room key while you are in the Rainforest. You then proceed to the locker room, where you can choose a locker and get a robe and sandals, if desired. A swimsuit must be worn since the Rainforest is mixed-gender.

Towels and drinking water are provided.

The spas on the Disney ships are operated by Steiner, a huge British spa company that runs spas for cruise lines and resorts. The staff do a great job performing the spa treatments, but Steiner trains them to offer product upsells at every reasonable opportunity. The result is that they almost always give cruise passengers a sales pitch on spa products. The products themselves are fine, but they are expensive and getting a sales pitch after your relaxing treatment can be annoying.

You’ll be given a “health form” before your treatment, asking about various health issues. Any issues you write on that form are used to help them sell you stuff (“Oh, I see you have very dry skin. You should try this cream.”). For that reason, unless you have an allergy or injury that directly affects your treatment , we recommend leaving the form as blank as possible .

Some people have tried writing “no sales pitch” on the form, but that is frequently ignored. Here are some other approaches we’ve used with success:

• A polite and friendly “no thank you” when they start showing the products or going through their list of recommendations is our first line of defense. That’s often the end of it! But if they start offering a second sales pitch, we make a concerned/confused face, pause for a moment, and say, again politely, “I’m really not interested, thanks.” The subtext you want to get across is that by not paying attention to your clear and polite “no,” they’re running the risk of affecting your overall satisfaction, with all that implies about things like tips and guest comment cards. You don’t need to make this explicit; the concerned face and second “no” usually does the trick.
• If they start the sales pitch while we are getting a relaxation treatment such as a massage or wrap, we usually just stay silent. We keep our  eyes closed and don’t respond to questions. Usually they quit talking, because it becomes quite awkward for them. But if they persist, we say politely, “Sorry, I’m trying to relax, and silence really helps me with that. Thanks!”
• If we are getting a haircut or pedicure, it’s harder to ignore the sales pitch. So instead we act very enthusiastic about every product they are pushing. Usually they’ll use one or more of the products on us during the service. If they offer samples we take them, with sincere thanks. When we go to check out, there is always a big stack of “suggested” products at the front desk. When they ask us what we’ll be buying, we say “oh, I want to see how the stuff I tried today works out, so I’m not buying anything right now.”
• Remember that no matter what happens, you can always change your mind about the add-on products when you check out. Until you sign the purchase slip, you haven’t purchased anything. Just say, “after thinking it over, I don’t need any products right now. Could you take these off the bill? Thanks.”

Fitness Center

A well-equipped Fitness Center can be accessed through the Spa on all of the ships. It’s usually open from early morning to fairly late – check the Navigator for specific hours. There is no charge to use the Fitness Center. The locker rooms, sauna and showers for the Fitness Center are shared with the Spa. Towels, robes and water are provided, and you can borrow an iPod shuffle if you don’t have your own iPod with you.

You never are expected to add any extra tip over and above the automatic gratuity amounts, which are listed below . You may , if you wish, add more, and you can even adjust certain tips down if you feel it’s warranted. Many people add extra gratuities purely because the service staff on a Disney cruise are extremely helpful and work very hard, but again, no one should ever make you feel like you are required to tip more.

Disney provides suggested tip amounts for the crew members who will assist you throughout the week: your server (takes your food orders for each dinner), assistant server (takes your drink orders at each dinner and delivers the food), head server (in charge of the overall dinner experience, special dietary requests and special occasions), and stateroom host/hostess (takes care of your room). As on all cruise lines, tips are the primary source of income for people working in these positions.

The suggested gratuities for your servers and stateroom host are automatically added to your stateroom bill. If you want to adjust the amount, you can go to Guest Services. Toward the end of the cruise you will be provided with slips indicating the tip amounts, which you can present to your servers during your last dinner on the cruise and leave in your room for your stateroom host. (They will get the money in their accounts whether you give them the slips or not, it’s purely a symbolic way of thanking them for their service. Don’t feel you need to do it if you don’t enjoy that kind of interaction.)

If you are staying in a concierge room, a separate form is provided to add tip for the concierge staff, with a suggested “average” tip amount. You can use your discretion to adjust it up or down based on how much help they provided your family. 

If you dine at Palo, Remy or Enchanté, many people add an additional tip to the per-person charge, though the basic charge is considered by Disney to cover the gratuity.

An automatic gratuity is added to all beverages ordered in bars and lounges; soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and bottled water from room service; and alcoholic beverages/smoothies/bottled water ordered in the dining room. There will also be a line where you can add an additional tip at your discretion.

You can add room service tips to your room bill. Even if your order costs nothing, you’ll be asked to sign a slip, and there is a space for tips on that slip. A dollar or two per item ordered is pretty common, but entirely optional.

You are allowed to give tips to crew members in cash, if you like, and they’re happy to take it in any major currency. If you have a meaningful amount of foreign currency (more than a few dollars worth) after your cruise that you’re unlikely to use anytime in the near future, feel free to leave it for your room host in addition to the automatic gratuity; they’ll be happy to get it.

As the skippers say on the world-famous Jungle Cruise, “You all have been outstanding on this cruise, but now I need you out standing on the dock!” Sadly, your cruise will eventually have to end, and Disney needs to get a few thousand people and their bags off the ship in the space of about 3 hours, so “efficiency” is the word of the day.

A few days before the end of your cruise you should be reminded to check the disembarkation instructions in the Navigator app , and you might get a paper form listing your specific disembarkation instructions. Disembarkation can feel very complicated and rushed, but it’s not that bad once you know how it works.

The first important decision is whether you want Disney to take your big luggage off the ship for you. If you have a lot of bags, or they’re unwieldy, you probably are going to want to have the bags moved for you, but if you can handle your own bags in one trip, that makes things immensely less complicated. These days we always choose to handle our own bags, but there are times we wonder whether it’d be easier to have Disney do it, usually when we’re wrestling our big roller bags down the gangplank. It’s worth trying it both ways if you go on multiple cruises, because you never can tell which one will feel easiest for you.

Whether or not you handle your own bags, you’re supposed to be completely out of your room on the final morning by 8:00 am so they can start cleaning and resetting it for the next guests (sometimes this time can change depending on the disembarkation port – check the sheet they give you or the app to make sure). This can make things logistically complicated, since if you want to do a table-service breakfast, it will be on a fixed schedule based on whether you are on the early or late dinner seating. The first breakfast seating starts early enough to get done before 8:00 am, but the later one does not. So if you plan to do table-service breakfast and you’re on late seating, you will have to take your luggage with you. Most people on late seating line up their bags in the hallway leading to the dining room. Don’t worry, no one will take your bags; your fellow guests are all far too tired. You can take smaller bags into the dining room and park them next to the table as long as they aren’t in the servers’ way. If you are planning an early breakfast in the buffet or you’re having sit-down breakfast on the earlier seating, you can just leave your bags in your room and then come back and retrieve them by 8:00 am.

Option 1: Disney Handles Your Bags

If you decide to have Disney haul your big bags to the terminal, then you’ll need to put most of your bags out the night before (typically by 10:30 pm – check the app to make sure). You need to hang on to at least one or two small bags to hold the stuff you can’t pack early, like toiletries and your pajamas. Make sure not to pack the clothes you’ll need to wear the next morning! You’ll get a set of luggage tags to put on the bags you’re putting out, and there will be a guide showing roughly when each group of bags will be ready to pick up in the terminal. For example, if you have bag tag “Donald Duck”, the sheet might say that your bags will be ready between 8:30-8:45 am. If you need to leave early to catch an flight or something, make sure you’ve got the earliest time they can give you. You can go to Guest Services to change your bag group if needed. On disembarkation morning, they will make periodic announcements about every 15 minutes, as each set of bags gets delivered to the terminal. They ask that you not leave the ship until your bag group gets called.

If you’re out of the room, but they still haven’t called your bag group, you’ll need to find somewhere to wait . In our experience, the lounges in the adult area of the ship are the most likely to have empty seats available, especially the main adult show lounge on the Magic, Wonder, Dream & Fantasy (Fathoms/Azure/Evolution/The Tube). Those are on deck 3, so you can just walk to the atrium when your group is called. On the Wish, there are fewer options on deck 3, so you may end up needing to go to another deck or sit on the floor. On the other hand, if you’re still in the dining room when they call your bag group, there’s not really any harm in waiting until you finish breakfast to disembark, assuming you don’t have transportation waiting for you. Typically they want everyone off by 9:30 am or so, so that’s your hard deadline.

When you get into the terminal, if you’re in a hurry, it’s not a bad idea to ask for a porter’s help. They’re usually lined up in the luggage area with carts, and they know the terminal well and will know if there’s any shortcuts or faster ways to get you into a cab or shuttle. They work for tips, and a typical tip is $1-2 per bag; more if they go above and beyond.

If you booked Disney’s transfers to Walt Disney World or the airport, then the timing is much more fixed. They will assign you a time to get off, and you really need to get off at that time so they can get you on the right bus. Arrange your breakfast plans accordingly.

Option 2: You Handle Your Own Bags

If you’re handling your own bags, there’s not really much you have to do the night before to prepare . Get mostly packed up the night before. Finish packing on the morning of disembarkation, get breakfast if you like, and then just leave the ship. You can leave any time after the ship is cleared, which will be 15-30 minutes after the ship is docked. They won’t necessarily announce to the whole ship that disembarkation has begun, because it’ll happen as early as 6-6:30 in the morning and they don’t want to wake everyone up with an announcement. If you can see that the ship is docked, just head down to deck 3 and wait for them to start letting folks off.

Skip the talks, except for the nature talks on the Alaska cruises, which can be excellent. The shopping talk is just a “rah-rah” for certain shops that are paying a marketing fee, and you might get a few coupons for free (junky) souvenirs. Both the shopping and disembarkation talks are replayed on the television repeatedly. Don’t waste your vacation time attending these lectures in person.

Read additional tips specific to the Disney Dream (which will also apply to the Fantasy) .

So what’s it really like to take a Disney cruise? Here are a few different perspectives on the experience:

• A look at what’s new and different on the Disney Wish , from a preview sailing in July 2022.
• A comparison of taking three cruises on three different ships in a six-month span between March and August 2014. It was rough, but somebody had to do it.
• Taking a cruise on the Disney Fantasy with a baby and a 3 ½-year-old , May 2012.
• First-hand report on the  Disney Fantasy  from March 2012: what’s new and different? See photos and learn more!
•   First impressions of the Disney Dream , from a preview sailing in January 2011.
• In summer 2007, friends of MouseSavers.com Ann and Danilo V wrote a travel blog about taking their 5 children to Europe for the summer. At the end of their trip they took a Disney Mediterranean cruise (10 nights roundtrip from Barcelona) in a Category 3 and a Category 4 stateroom. Then they did the 14-night Transatlantic cruise on the Disney Magic in the Walt Disney Suite!

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Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation? Here's what you need to know about the five Disney cruise ships, including the new Disney Wish.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Disney Magic

Disney wonder, disney dream, disney fantasy, disney wish.

There's plenty that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from its competitors — and not just the endless soft-serve ice cream, family-friendly staterooms, or being able to hug Mickey Mouse on your way to a Disney princess-themed restaurant. All five Disney cruise ships are elegantly designed and provide high-end services. With the best activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day, along with relaxing escapes for adults, Disney cruises offer plenty for the entire family.

Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program, Castaway Club, offers members exclusive benefits before and during their sailings.

From immersive dining adventures to Disney's first-ever attraction at sea, these ships present truly magical vacations that visit a number of exciting destinations. Disney Cruise Line's ports of call include places in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and, of course, Disney's private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay. And depending on when you cruise, you may be able to pick from themed itineraries for Halloween and Christmas. Here's what you need to know about Disney cruise ships, including the newest vessel, the Disney Wish .

Meet the Expert

As  Travel + Leisure' s on-staff Disney expert, I visit Disney theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships several times every year. I most recently experienced the magic of Disney Cruise Line on the inaugural sailing for the Disney Wish in 2022.

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Magic Class

Number of Staterooms: 875

As the original Disney Cruise Line vessel, the Disney Magic retains its charm while embracing a collection of modernizations and upgrades to feel good as new. This ship established Disney as the best cruise line for families , read on to see why.

Onboard Entertainment

Three Broadway-style shows are performed on the Disney Magic : "Twice Charmed," a twist on the Cinderella story; "Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic," an original show with cameos by characters like Peter Pan and Aladdin; and "Tangled: The Musical," Disney Magic’s signature show featuring stunning sets and beloved songs from the film.

In addition to nightly live entertainment throughout the ship, families can take in Marvel, Pixar, Disney, and Star Wars films currently in movie theaters at the full-size Buena Vista Theatre. On the outdoor upper decks, the Wide World of Sports offers basketball and ping pong, a selection of pools and hot tubs, and the famed AquaDunk water slide.

Exclusively For Kids

Whisk down a Slinky Dog slide in the "Toy Story"-themed Andy’s Room area, join the Lion Guard, or learn hero-worthy lessons from Thor within a Marvel Super Hero Academy — it’s all part of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, open to children ages 3 through 12. There are even more exciting Disney experiences throughout Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, Vibe teen club, and Edge tween club, all included with Disney Cruise ship sailings. (“It’s a Small World” nursery, which charges a nominal hourly rate, is also available for younger children.)

Experiences For Adults

Disney cruise ships are covered in high-end decor and thoughtful design that feel more classy and less kid-focused, but select adults-only experiences, including exclusive lounges and pools, still thrive. A collection of bars called After Hours has live music nightly at Keys, a ‘50s piano bar, and an opportunity to catch up on sports at O’Gills Pub, while Palo, a higher-end restaurant that requires a surcharge and reservation, is the ultimate date night. Don’t miss the “rainforest room” in the Disney Magic ’s Senses Spa, as well as adult beverage tasting seminars.

Disney Magic Dining

Guests on the Disney Magic cruise ship will rotate between three restaurants nightly. Rapunzel’s Royal Table provides a themed night of lively music, revelry from some Snuggly Duckling denizens, and an appearance by Rapunzel and Flynn Rider within a lantern-lined ballroom. Animator’s Palate is surrounded by mementos from Disney and Pixar animated films that “come to life” throughout dinner, and Lumiere’s channels the elegance of "Beauty and the Beast ."

Casual meals can be had at Cabanas or ordered via 24-hour room service on board the Disney Magic . Otherwise, stop by Duck-In Diner for hot dogs, chicken fingers, or a shawarma sandwich or enjoy a quick lunch at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Castaway Cay, Disney's Private Island

Inaugural Year: 1999

A trip aboard the Disney Wonder can lead to familiar tropical escapes as well as a memory-making Alaskan vacation, with all the Disney cruise goodies included on board. Repeat cruisers love this vessel for its smaller size, which makes for a more intimate trip.

Disney cruise ships are famous for their nightly shows. "Disney Dreams — an Enchanted Classic" and "The Golden Mickeys" feature best-of-the-best Disney characters and music, but "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular," which brings Anna and Elsa's story to life with Broadway-style costuming and design, is a Disney Cruise Line favorite.

When you’re not enjoying Disney cruise activities like viewing Star Wars and Marvel films currently in theatres or playing ping pong and basketball at Wide World of Sports, there are plenty of pools, hot tubs, and AquaLab water play areas to enjoy on the outer decks. There’s even Disney Wonder’s Pixar Pals Party, a fun-filled celebration with characters from "Toy Story," "Up," and more, exclusively offered on Alaskan sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

Kids ages 3 to 12 can get up close to characters they love, dancing with Woody in a "Toy Story"-themed area, taking hero training with Captain America within Marvel Super Hero Academy, or building their own Mickey Roadster Racers in a Disney Junior games area on board the Disney cruise ship, as older kids enjoy their own slate of activities in Vibe teen club and tween hang The Edge. (There is also babysitting available for small children within the “It’s a Small World” nursery at a small fee.)

Make a reservation for Palo , an adults-only restaurant serving dinner each night and brunch on most sea days, or break for a pint at Crown & Fin Pub or a cocktail at Cadillac Lounge, housed within the Disney cruise ship’s After Hours section. There are also adults-only pool and outdoor areas on the Disney Wonder cruise ship, beverage seminars, and the Senses Spa’s “rainforest room”.

Disney Wonder Dining

Grab a slice at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria by Goofy’s Pool, a snack at Pete’s Boiler Bites, or some healthy fare at Daisy’s De-Lites — or hit the buffet at Cabanas, located on four Disney cruise ships. Dinner rotations bring diners to a new restaurant each night: Enjoy the flavor and fun of New Orleans at "The Princess & The Frog"-themed Tiana’s Place ; the elegant "The Little Mermaid" - inspired Triton’s ; or Animator’s Palate , which begins black-and-white and grows to be surrounded by color with a surprise at the meal’s end.

Related: Disney Cruise Secrets and Tips You Should Know Before You Go

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Class: Dream Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,250

This Disney cruise ship boasts variety shows like "The Golden Mickeys," an onboard spectacle celebrating Disney’s famed films and songs with plenty of character appearances, but its live rendition of "Beauty and the Beast" remains a signature show of Disney Cruise Line with its unfathomable sets, costumes, and performances.

Families can take in a round of outdoor mini golf on Goofy’s Sports Deck or stay inside to play Midship Detective Agency, a trio of interactive games featuring Muppets, Mickey Mouse, or Cruella de Vil. There’s plenty of aquatic fun to be had on this Disney cruise liner as well, with Nemo’s Reef for littles, an array of pools, and the AquaDuck, an onboard “water coaster” with views of the surrounding ocean, which is a Disney Cruise family favorite.

Packed with interactive features and themed spaces, Disney’s Oceaneer Club allows kids ages 3-12 to play in a "Toy Story"-themed room, explore Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell, and take a simulated flight on the Millennium Falcon. There are also activities with characters, like Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, which lets young children play games alongside their favorite Disney characters, and more experiences within Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, tween hangs in Edge, and Vibe, a teen club with its own private pool.

Unwind at Senses Spa or indulge in upscale dining at Palo and Remy , both of which are exclusive to adults on board. (Be sure to make a reservation in advance.) Grab an after-dinner drink at Meridian, or head to The District for a bottle at Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar or drinks at Skyline, Pub 687, District Lounge, or Evolution.

Disney Dream Dining

Passengers on the Disney Dream will rotate between three different dinner eateries: elegant French fare at Enchanted Garden ; storybook fine dining at Royal Palace ; and a fully-immersive Animator’s Palate , bringing together the animated film libraries of Disney and Pixar for a meal filled with intrigue and surprise.

Order room service, hit Cabanas or Flo’s Cafe, a trio of Cars -themed eateries with chicken fingers and cheeseburgers, or grab a healthy smoothie at Senses Juice Bar or a special dessert at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats for an additional fee.

Inaugural Year: 2012

Flex that vacation muscle at Disney Fantasy’s pools, including Nemo’s Reef for children and rides on the AquaDuck, a hybrid water slide and roller coaster with 765 feet of tubes above the top deck.

Uncover a hidden world of fun with Midship Detective Agency, an all-ages interactive game utilizing screens and props hidden throughout the ship. Watch current releases in the on-board Buena Vista Theatre or play basketball or experience VR sports simulators at sea on Goofy’s Sports Deck. At night, Disney Fantasy offers live shows including "Disney’s Believe," a narrative with visits from "Cinderella," "Mary Poppins" and " Peter Pan;" "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular;" and "Disney’s Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular," the Disney ship’s headlining show.

Kids ages 3-12 can learn mystic arts from Marvel’s "Doctor Strange" in the Marvel Super Hero Academy, sing and dance with "Toy Story’s" Woody in Andy’s Room, encounter real Stormtroopers at the Star Wars : Command Post, or enjoy kid-friendly activities with Mickey Mouse and friends. There’s endless inventive fun across Disney’s Oceaneer Lab and Club, and for older kids, at Edge and Vibe clubs.

Whether you’re shopping around the ship, grabbing a gin and tonic at Meridian — or taking a beverage tasting seminar to learn more about them — there’s loads for adults to do. The Disney cruise ship offers two adults-only restaurants: Palo , which serves elegant Italian dishes, and Remy , a French coursed menu experience. Plus enjoy Europa, a collection of stylized bars including Ooh La La champagne bar and La Piazza, an Italian bar reminiscent of a carousel.

Disney Fantasy Dining

Three restaurants aboard this Disney cruise ship means something different every night, whether it’s the fairytale-inspired Royal Court , beautiful Enchanted Garden , or Animator’s Palate , which utilizes real-time interaction with a popular "Finding Nemo" character. Quick eats can be found at Cabanas restaurant and Flo’s Cafe, while fanciful sundaes at Sweet on You and shakes at Senses Juice Bar are worthwhile upgrades. (Cove Cafe, with its Mickey cappuccinos, is also a must.)

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Triton Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,254

The first ship in Disney Cruise Line's Triton class, the Wish will be joined by the new Disney Treasure , set to debut in late 2024.

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Wish , is packed with brand-new entertainment for all ages. The AquaMouse — Disney's first-ever attraction at sea — and Toy Story Splash Zone provide aquatic fun; two cozy theaters show new and favorite Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films; and the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-style shows, including a retelling of "The Little Mermaid," "Disney Seas the Adventure," and "Disney's Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular."

Exclusively for Kids

At Disney's Oceaneer Club on the Wish , kids ages three to 12 can live out their Marvel and Star Wars adventures in the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Cargo Bay, and join their favorite princesses in Fairytale Hall. In the new Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, they can discover Imagineer secrets and design their own coaster. Edge and Vibe offer organized fun for older kids.

Experiences for Adults

The Disney Wish pulls out all the stops for adults, with lots of magical experiences just for them. Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge offers intergalactic sips inspired by galaxies far, far away, The Bayou has a "Princess and the Frog"-themed menu in a beautiful setting, and The Cove includes an adults-only pool and bar. The ship also has a Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, a stunning restaurant offering a multi-course dinner that we think is totally worth the splurge. The Disney Cruise Line favorite Senses Spa is also on this ship.

Disney Wish Dining

In addition to the truly exceptional adults-only restaurants, the Disney Wish offers some delightful onboard dining for the whole family. 1923 serves California flavors in a space inspired by Old Hollywood; Worlds of Marvel features the escapades of Ant-Man and the Wasp; and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is an immersive experience with singing, dancing, and visits from everyone's favorite Frozen characters. Casual dining is available at several venues throughout the ship, including Marceline Market and Mickey and Friends Festival of Food.

Related: T+L's Review of the Disney Wish

Disney Wish Cruise Ship: Complete Guide and Review

Disney launched its fifth cruise ship in July 2022.  After a ten years with no new ships, expectations were high for the newest cruise ship in the Disney fleet.  In many ways, the Disney Wish cruise ship has completely smashed expectations; but there are a few areas where we feel that it may have fallen just a tiny bit short of its potential.

That said, we also know you want to have all the information to make your own decision and determine if it’s the right ship for you.  So, here we’ll present a complete guide to all the facts and figures of the Disney Wish.  We’ll also provide reviews of the ship and its venues. Whether you’re still planning your first Disney Cruise or are a Pearl-level Castaway Club member , there’s a lot to learn about the newest ship in the fleet!

Disney Wish Ship Overview

In many of the big categories, the Disney Wish is exactly like the other Disney Cruise ships. But once you start looking at smaller details, there are a lot of differences.

You still have four main types of passenger staterooms with lots of individual categories and subcategories.  But some of those individual categories include never-before-seen rooms like a Tower Suite that’s actually located inside one of the giant red funnels (smokestacks) on top of the ship.

There are still three main restaurants onboard for your nightly dinner rotation , but two of them feature live entertainment during your meal.

There’s still a gigantic kids club area that takes up almost an entire deck, but it’s much more intricately themed than prior offerings.

There’s still a waterslide-type ride onboard, but it adds some video animation effects to “plus up” the ride.

We’ll go in-depth below about each of these categories — and more — to help you get you bearings on the newest Disney Cruise Ship.

Let’s start with an overview and review by our favorite Disney YouTube channel, The Vacationeer:

How is the Wish Different from Other Disney Cruise Line Ships?

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships to one-another, meaning that they are more or less structurally identical to each other.  Similarly, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are sister ships.  As of 2023, the Disney Wish is distinct from all other Disney Cruise Line Ships.  Disney Wish is expected to eventually have two sister ships: the Disney Treasure is set to begin sailing in December 2024, and the Disney Destiny is expected to be completed sometime in 2025.  Separately, another Disney ship — the Disney Adventure — is also expected to join the fleet in 2025, but it will be different from all the others.

Now let’s look at some of the major elements of this fantastic new ship!

Disney Wish Staterooms

Let’s start by looking at where your own private quarters onboard the ship.  Your stateroom (passenger cabin) is the equivalent of your resort hotel room at sea, and this ship has plenty of them!

The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms.  Each of those staterooms falls into one of four primary types of rooms; each of those four types is further divided into multiple categories and subcategories.  Which category you choose will have a rather substantial impact on the cost of your cruise, so it’s wise to research ahead.

If you’ve never cruised before — or you’re just curious to see what the décor of these rooms is like — check out this general overview from The Vacationeer.

Here is a consolidated list of the room types offered onboard.  They are listed here generally from least expensive to most expensive, though there may be some price overlap among categories/subcategories.  (For a more in-depth look at each of these room types, see the descriptions and photos posted on our Disney Cruise Staterooms article).

Inside Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Inside Staterooms have no porthole window or balcony.

• 11C:   Deck 2
• 11B:   Decks 6, 7, 8
• 11A:   Decks 9, 10, 11
• 9D:   Decks 6, 7
• 9C:   Deck 8
• 9B:   Deck 2
• 9A:   Decks 7, 8

Oceanview Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Oceanview staterooms offer an outside view through a round porthole window which does not open.

• 8C:   Decks 6, 7
• 8B:   Decks 8, 9

Verandah Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Verandah staterooms offer private outside balcony which can be accessed through sliding glass doors.

• 7A:   Decks 6, 7, 8, 9
• 6B:   Decks 6, 7
• 6A:   Decks 8, 9
• 5C:  Decks 6, 7
• 5B:   Decks 8, 9
• 5A:   Deck 10
• 4E:   Decks 6, 9, 10
• 4C:   Decks 6, 7
• 4B:   Decks 8, 9
• 4A:   Decks 10, 11

Concierge Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Concierge staterooms offer extra personalized service , concierge staff, and access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge and sun deck.

• 3B:   Deck 11
• 3A:   Decks 12, 13
• 2B:   Decks 12, 13
• 2A:   Deck 12
• 1C:   Deck 10
• 1B:   Deck 13
• 1A:   Deck 14 (Wish Tower Suite)

Our Review of Disney Wish Staterooms

Our reviewers felt that the Disney Wish staterooms were generally a welcome evolution to the staterooms found onboard the Disney Dream and Fantasy.

The rooms struck a nice balance between being a simple “refresh” of the existing stateroom plans versus a more-radical “reimagining” of everything.  There was innovation to be found, but there was not necessarily any change just for the sake of changing.

With the same general features — but updated, fresher decor — they offered a bright retreat that never felt dark or enclosed.  There’s still plenty of room to stow luggage and belongings so you can truly “move in” for the length of your cruise.  Split bathrooms, which are crucial to the morning getting ready routing, remain as a standard feature in almost every category.

Some innovations came with slight drawbacks.  Compared to staterooms on earlier ships, we were happy to notice larger televisions — but with less of an ability to “articulate” them to face toward where you are sitting.  And there’s a new drawer-style refrigerator, which is perfectly fine for cans of soda, but may or may not be convenient for other items you’re chilling.

As far as cons go: the Disney Dream/Fantasy’s “magical portholes” (circular video screens with live video views of outside) sadly did not make their way to the Wish’s inside staterooms, which instead opt for giant mural-style artwork behind the bed.  And one could argue that perhaps just a bit of the “nautical” theme is gone from these stateroom versus those of the prior ships.  None of those is likely to bother you enough to make you rethink your voyage.

Ready to see all that the Disney Wish has to offer?  Get in touch with the Disney Cruise experts at  The Vacationeer .

As diamond-level Authorized Disney Vacation Planners , they book thousands of vacations every year and have agents who specialize in Disney Cruises.

Whether you need help picking a stateroom type or need help understanding what’s included in the price , their Disney Cruise experts can help you plan the perfect vacation.

There’s never any charge for their planning services, and your cruise won’t cost anything more than if you’d booked it yourself.   You might even find you save a bit thanks to The Vacationeer’s knowledge of the latest Disney travel deals (and plenty of other  money-saving tips and tricks ).

So what’re you waiting for?  Make your Disney Wish come true!

Disney Wish Dining and Lounges

Pretty much everybody knows that one of the biggest draws on any cruise ship is the food.  The Disney Wish is no exception, with three outstanding main dining restaurants, two elegant adult-only dining options, and plenty of places to grab a quick meal or a snack on the go.

Cruise Dining Tip: Thanks to the international crew and clientele of Disney Cruise Line, you’ll often find international fare onboard the cruise ships. One of the things I look forward to on every cruise is my daily breakfast; that’s because in addition to the usual bacon and eggs, I can enjoy things I can’t normally get stateside — like a hearty bowl of European muesli with dried fruits and nuts, or even an Asian-inspired breakfast fried rice and miso porridge. At dinner, I’ll eagerly try something new and maybe even a little scary because it doesn’t cost anything extra to try!  Occasionally my suspicions that I won’t like something are confirmed in no uncertain terms, but most of the time I find myself pleasantly surprised.  Turns out I absolutely love escargot — who knew?! Either way, I’ve tried something new and the worst possible outcome is one unpleasant bite that didn’t lighten my wallet by a single penny.  So go ahead… order the pâté and broaden those cultural and culinary horizons!  You might just surprise yourself with how sophisticated your palate can be!

Here’s a video overview of dining onboard the ship; below, we’ll investigate each restaurant more completely.

Rotational Dining Restaurants on the Disney Wish

Like all Disney Cruise Ships, the Disney Wish offers something called  rotational dining during the nightly dinner service — a Disney Cruise Line innovation.  Rotational dining doesn’t mean you’re sitting in a revolving restaurant.  Diners are pre-scheduled to visit a different restaurant on each night of the cruise on a schedule called a dining rotation.

You pick a dining time when you make your reservation, but otherwise there’s no need to pre-reserve your spot.  You’ll always be at (for example) table 29 during the 8:15PM seating on every night of the cruise, no matter which restaurant you’re scheduled to be in.  And you’ll have the same waitstaff for the duration of the cruise, so they’ll get to know you, bring you your favorite drinks right away, and remember how you like your steak cooked.

Dinner at these three restaurants is included in the cost of your cruise.

You may also have a chance to dine at one of these restaurants for breakfast or lunch at no additional cost, but note that the menu will vary and you won’t experience any of the “show” aspects noted in the descriptions below.

Here are the three rotational dining restaurants on the Disney Wish:

• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

One of the most eagerly-anticipated experiences onboard is Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure .  At this restaurant, you’re an honored guest of Queen Anna and Kristoff as they celebrate their engagement (right around the time that the movie Frozen 2 ends).

Of course you’ll find Norwegian-inspired cuisine and Frozen-themed items, such as the Frozen Fractals cocktail, Worth Melting For non-alcoholic specialty drink, Elsa’s Royal Baked Scallops, Sven’s Favorite Carrot Soup, Arendelle Kjottkake (meatballs), Queen Iduna’s Potato Lefse, and Norwegian Pancake Roulade for dessert.

But the real star of dinner is the live entertainment.  Thanks to a stage at the center of the dining room, you’ll enjoy a great view of live musical performances from Elsa and Olaf, along with other frozen friends.  Even Wandering Oaken wanders in.  And thanks to a little Disney magic, you’ll feel as if you’re right in the middle of the Aurora Borealis (northern lights)

Our Review of Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

Our reviewers were blown away by their experience here and ranked it as the top must-see, must-do, do-not-miss-it offering onboard.  The menu offered a nice mix that’s sure to please both those who are more adventurous eaters and those who would rather stick to things they know and love.

The food is good enough, but this experience is all about the show.

Thanks to a theatre-in-the-round setup, there’s a good view from pretty much anywhere in the dining room.  Our reviewers were seated outside of the central ring of tables, but still had a good view (with the exception of an occasional person walking between the tables and the stage).

They felt it was much better than a traditional character meal , even for jaded adults.  Compared to, say, a Cinderella’s Royal Table (Magic Kingdom) or Restaurant Akershus (EPCOT), the quality of the character entertainment and interactions is in a class by itself.  The characters sing and lead interactive activities, but also take breaks from the show to stop by and visit your table.  Even Olaf wheels in on a serving cart to delight diners (somewhat reminiscent of the table visits Remy made at EPCOT’s Chefs de France many years ago).

• Worlds of Marvel

This super hero themed restaurant offers a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  Like the Arendelle restaurant, there’s a “dinner and a show” aspect to dining at Worlds of Marvel .  You’ll also get an up-close (and maybe too personal) demonstration of Super Hero technologies, with appearances by Ant-Man and the Wasp.  Fortunately everything turns out alright in time for dessert.

Sample menu items include the Widow’s Bite cocktail, Steamed Bao Buns, Cream of Porcini Mushroom Soup, Berbere Spiced Pork Chop, Ricotta Gnocchi, and Subatomic Sticky Date Pudding.

Our Review of Worlds of Marvel

If you’re familiar with the Animator’s Palate level of interactivity onboard other Disney Cruise Ships, you’ll have the same  general idea about Worlds of Marvel.  Indeed, the Disney Wish is the first Disney cruise ship  not to have an Animator’s Palate restaurant onboard — and Worlds of Marvel is likely the closest to that type of experience you’ll find.

Our reviewers enjoyed the (admittedly limited) interactive elements of the show; much like onboard Mission: Space at EPCOT or Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll find yourself tasked with pushing a few buttons on the Quantum Core device at your table to help solve a minor catastrophe.  You’ll have video visits from several characters in the Marvel Universe (yes, the original cast); you’ll also have a brief “walk-by” visit with Ant Man and the Wasp, but don’t expect any major character interactions here.

Our reviewers felt that overall the restaurant was a slight step down versus the Frozen-themed restaurant onboard.  The décor was impressive and the food was “just fine.”

This restaurant offers a dining experience steeped in the golden age of Hollywood.  Named after the year the Disney brothers founded their first studio, you’ll enjoy the flavors of California while surrounded by relics reminiscent of the early days of animation.  You’ll be seated in either the Walt Disney section or the Roy Disney section, but no matter which you’re assigned to, you’re in for a feast for the eyes and the stomach.

Sample menu items include Hyperion Four-Cheese Tri-Color Tortelloni, Pulled Guinea Hen Corn Chowder, Italian Flat Parsley and Rosemary-crusted Rack of Lamb, Moroccan-Spiced Roasted Kabocha & Butternut Squash, Churros Calientes, and Flourless Orange Almond Cake.

Our Review of 1923

Our reviewers felts that dining at 1923 was like dining in a Disney museum (and that’s not a bad thing).  It was a treat to dine surrounded by historic sketches, tickets, and artwork.  There were lots of nostalgic and historic vibes, with an Old Hollywood menu to match.

They felt the menu was perfectly fine, but conceded that nothing they ordered reached “must do again” status.  Our group also dined at 1923 once for breakfast (as an alternative to Marceline Market) and was pleased with the offerings during that meal period.

There’s no entertainment at this restaurant; that’s not unexpected on most Disney ships — but for the Wish, it’s an outlier as the only rotational dining restaurant without a show.  As such, our reviewers felt that this was the restaurant to skip if you’re on a shorter cruise and need to pick a night to experience Palo Steakhouse or Enchanté.

Adult-Exclusive Dining on the Disney Wish

The Disney Wish boasts two fine dining establishments that are offered solely to passengers age 18+.  These dining experiences are not included in the cost of your cruise, so expect to pay a bit more for these unique experiences.  Dress codes also apply, so be sure to pack something nice to wear!

Chef Arnaud Lallement, a three Michelin Star recipient , brings world class luxurious dining onboard the Disney Wish.  This is the premier dining experience onboard, and is priced accordingly.

Enchanté offers dinner service, along with a brunch service on select days of the cruise.  For dinner, enjoy a six-course prix-fixe offering, or select from à la carte items such as Caviar, Wild Halibut, or Maine Lobster.  Menu offerings are rather limited, with a focus on artisanal quality rather than broad quantity.

• Palo Steakhouse

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast ‘s Cogsworth, Palo Steakhouse is a bit different from the Palo restaurant that is already well-known onboard the four prior Disney cruise ships.  This version takes the Italian cuisine concept and elevates it into a steakhouse.

Sample menu items include an Antipasti, a 6oz Grilled Choice Angus Beef Tenderloin, and of course the famed Palo Chocolate Soufflé.  In addition to dinner, the beloved Palo Brunch is also offered here on select days of the cruise.

Our Review of Adult-Exclusive Dining on the Disney Wish

Our reviewers were somewhat limited in their ability to experience the actual cuisine onboard at these two restaurants during their christening, inaugural, and preview cruises.  They did, however, get a chance to tour the facilities and were impressed by the decor and ambiance.

A real bonus of these two restaurants is their outstanding views.  You’ll have a great chance to enjoy sweeping views of the ocean outside the windows while dining here, something that’s mostly missing in the three main restaruants.

Casual Dining on the Disney Wish Cruise Ship

There are plenty of places to enjoy a low-key breakfast, lunch, or dinner onboard the ship.

• Marceline Market

While you might be familiar with Cabanas on the previous four Disney Cruise Line ships, the large buffet-style restaurant on Disney Wish is called Marceline Market. The overall concept is the same — plenty of variety, already cooked, and ready to serve.  It’s great spot for breakfast or lunch — and even for dinner if you’re not thrilled with the menu at your assigned rotation restaurant.

One distinction versus Cabanas is that Marceline Market is set up a bit more like a farmer’s market in that there are individual “stalls” (stations) for different types of food rather than one long buffet line.  At some of these, you’ll serve yourself — at others, a crew member will dish up your food.

Marceline Market is the go-to spot for breakfast and lunch on the ship (though one of the rotational dining restaurants is usually also open for breakfast and lunch).  Almost everything here is included with the cost of your cruise, including sodas, juices, milk, tea, and traditional coffee.  If you want one of the specialty coffees or other premium drinks prepared at the restaurant’s “cafe,” you’ll need to pay separately for those.

At night, Marceline Market transforms into an alternative option for those not interested in dining at their assigned rotational dining restaurant (especially popular for folks who don’t want to observe a semi-formal or formal night on longer cruises).  During dinner, the restaurant provides a table service experience with entrees made to order (still included in the cost of your cruise).

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

Located on Deck 11 near the main pool complex is Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods. Here, you can grab a quick bite to eat without even drying off!  The hours are usually pretty generous, too, so if you miss regular lunch and dinner hours at the other restaurants you can still find food here most of the time.  But note that no breakfast items are served here.

This group of quick-service windows offers several unique options, such as Daisy’s Pizza Pies (pizza by the slice), Donald’s Cantina (tacos and burritos), Goofy’s Grill (burgers/dogs and chicken tenders), Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue (brisket/chicken/pork), and Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream (as many soft serve ice cream cones as you can handle!).

Like Marceline Market, most of the items here are included with the cost of your cruise.  But you’ll still find specialty drinks available for purchase.

Our Review of Casual Dining on the Disney Wish

Our reviewers appreciated the variety of food offered at Marceline, and also the fact that they had a wide selection of beverages that were included without having to buy an additional beverage package like on other cruise lines.  (While Disney Cruise does offer drink packages for alcoholic beverages , it’s not necessary to purchase one just for sodas, coffee, tea, or juice — those are all already included in the cost of the cruise) .  The generous hours and wide variety of food offered kept our reviewers returning day after day to Marceline Market.

Our reviewers appreciated the convenience of Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods and also found the setup to be “super cute.”  The tacos met with approval, and others in the group who tried the barbecue were happy with their meals, too.  Both of those cuisines are first-time appearances onboard a Disney ship, so we were happy to hear they were well-executed.  They also found it to be a handy spot to stop for a quick snack when everything else was closed.

Lounges, Bars, and Snacks on the Disney Wish

The number of bars and lounges onboard the Disney Wish are almost too numerous to list (though we do, indeed, attempt to do so in our deck-by-deck guide later on this page).  Here, we’ll point out a few of the highlights.

• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge

For grown-ups wanting to get their Star Wars fix, Hyperspace Lounge is a great spot.  This adult-exclusive lounge features exotic drinks along with a starfield view out the window thanks to some video technology reminiscent of that used in Skyline onboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.  You might even notice a few familiar spaceships jetting by the windows, in between the hyperspace jumps.

Our review of Hyperspace Lounge

Our reviewers placed Hyperspace Lounge among their top three onboard experiences.

The lounge was a bit tough to get into, thanks in part to its small size and big popularity.  When our reviewers visited, there was no reservation system in place and instead it was necessary to wait one’s turn.  Most folks ended up waiting in a de facto overflow space at the nearby Bayou lounge, which was a bit of a thematic “break” from the outer space story.

As such, our reviewers recommended seeing it as early in your voyage as possible… it’s small enough (and highly-anticipated enough) that it might take a few tries to get in.  You definitely don’t wait until 9PM on the last night of your cruise.

Two of our reviewers had also experienced the Galactic Starcruiser on land at Walt Disney World, and couldn’t help but draw comparisons to that location’s Sublight Lounge .  They felt that the land offering was much better because there were fewer limitations (thanks to not being shoehorned into the available space on a ship).  Between the two, Sublight Lounge (on land) felt more real than Hyperspace Lounge (at sea).

Our reviewers noted that while the Hyperspace Lounge was impressive, you might not feel like you have to go back every night… many travelers will probably enjoy it as more of a one-off experience once on their cruise.

• Keg & Compass

Drink up at this Norwegian-inspired bar.  Keg & Compass is designed to feel like a viking ship, but with modern elements including TVs to catch up on the latest sports.  Enjoy three unique craft beers available exclusively onboard.

• Nightingale’s

Fine Wines, handcrafted cocktails, and a shimmering chandelier set the scene at this chill piano bar aboard the Disney Wish.  Your piano player might even know a few obscure Disney parks tunes if you ask politely enough.

The drinkware itself even adds to the theme of this lounge, which is inspired by Cinderella’s rendition of “Sing Sweet Nightingale” from the 1950 Disney classic movie.

Sip a cocktail in an elegant setting, replete with antique mirrors and floating rose petals.  This elegant, adult-exclusive lounge is reminiscent of the enchanted castle from Beauty and the Beast, and is the perfect prelude or postscript to a sophisticated meal at Enchanté or Palo Steakhouse.

New Orleans-inspired cocktails and refreshments are served up in this informal lounge inspired by the magical marsh Disney’s The Princess and the Frog . Among the magnolia blossoms and twinkling fireflies, you’ll find live musical performances and other events.

Room Service on Disney Wish

Many Guests are surprised to learn that Room Service is included at no additional charge on their Disney Cruise.  Almost everything on the room service menu — with the exception of a few items such as prepackaged candies or canned soft drinks — can be brought to your room at no additional charge.  Just don’t forget to tip the Crew Member who brings the food to your door.

You can typically pick from several different salads, soups, burgers, chicken tenders, sandwiches, and hot wings.  You’ll also typically find a couple of flatbreads and pasta selections.  For dessert, cookies and slices of cake/pie are the standard.  A classic DCL favorite item is the  All Hands on Deck , a cheese and fruit plate that is perfect for noshing on as you watch the ocean go by.

If you don’t mind shelling out just a bit of cash, you can add on wines, beer, sodas, specialty coffees, juices, and the like.

Our Review of Room Service on the Disney Wish

Room service on the Disney Wish (or any other Disney Cruise Ship, for that matter) is usually perfectly fine, but there’s very little chance that it’ll be the most memorable meal you have onboard.

Depending on how busy they are, you might have to wait a bit of time for your food; 20-30 minutes is a typical wait time, but it can be longer during traditional meal periods.

Because your food is making an extended trip from the kitchen to your stateroom in a cloche-covered plate — and because your plated meal might have to wait a bit for a runner to become available to bring it to you — some menu items such as french fries and hot wings might not be quite as crisp or warm as you’d like by the time they reach you.

The menu is surprisingly complete, but not necessarily the most exciting.  We’ve never had a bad meal from room service onboard Disney Cruise Line, but none of them have been particularly spectacular, either.  Consider it a somewhat utilitarian option to get food in your stomach without having to change from your bathrobe, and you’ll be set up for room service success.

Best Bets for Each Meal on the Disney Wish

Below we list each of the main meal periods onboard the ship, and your best options for each.

• Primary option: Marceline Market is where most of the ship goes for breakfast.  It offers generous hours, a very wide selection, and plenty of food so you don’t start your day hungry.  The downside of this location is that, well, it’s where most of the ship goes for breakfast.  It can feel a bit hectic at times and might even be a bit of a sensory overload that early in the day.
• Secondary option: One of the three rotational restaurants — typically 1923 — usually offers a table-service breakfast.  The menu is a bit more limited than at Marceline Market, but this can be a less-hectic option than joining the masses there.  You’ll be served at your table — no roaming around to fill your plate or find a table.  And let’s be honest — some mornings, you just need a little more quiet time before you brave all those people .
• Other options: You can opt for room service breakfast, but it’s not the best option.  Room service menu options for breakfast are extremely limited.  You won’t find any “hot breakfast” options — no eggs, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, etc.  You can get juices, coffees, pastries, cold cereals — and not much else.  Does room service breakfast have some merits?  Absolutely.  It’s delightful to have a croissant and a cup of coffee while sitting on your verandah balcony watching the sun rise — but in our view that’s sort of pre-gaming the “real” breakfast.  If you’re looking for a filling meal so you can start the day with a full tank, you’ll need to leave your room.
• Primary option:   Like at breakfast, Marceline Market wins lunch thanks to its wide variety.  You’ll find flavors from all around the world, including some you might not get to experience back home.  Iced jumbo shrimp and crab claws are a favorite item, along with freshly grilled meats and plenty of side items.  And the desserts are not to be missed.
• Secondary option: Should your idea of a perfect onboard experience include lounging by the pool all day, you’ll likely include plans to have lunch at Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods.  No need to dry off and head inside.  Just drip your way on over to the window, get your tacos or barbecue, and enjoy a quick meal.  The options are more limited than Marceline Market, but there’s still a surprising variety — great for families with a wide range of tastes.  It’s also a chance to give kids just a tiny bit of freedom (and feeling grown up) by having them go all on their own to the window to pick up their chicken tenders.  And the extended hours mean you can dine here even if you missed lunch hours at Marceline Market or get hungry before dinner time.
• Other options: Room Service is another good option for lunch, with the obvious caveat that if you’re waiting in your room for your meal, you can’t be out enjoying the ship.  But if you’re taking a midday break, it’s a decent choice.  Your menu options won’t be that exotic, but you can still get a filling meal that won’t cost you anything extra beyond a tip and maybe an optional add-on like candy or soda.
• Primary option: Your assigned rotational dining restaurant is  the place to be for dinner.  It’s the heartbeat of the Disney Cruise dining experience and your dedicated service team that follows you all voyage long can make it into something really special.  Don’t be shy… ask for two entrees.  Order three desserts. Calories don’t count on vacation!
• Secondary option: As an alternative to your pre-scheduled rotational dining restaurant, you might opt to enjoy Marceline Market.  The restaurant will be an entirely different experience than the buffet-style offerings that are the mainstay of breakfast and lunch. You’ll be seated at a table, and a server will present you a menu that features some of the most popular selections from other restaurants. This is typically a rather laid-back meal without quite as much hustle and bustle as the main dining rooms.
• Other options: Beyond the above two options, there are of course the adult-exclusive restaurants to pick from, though we’d hesitate to call them an “alternative” to your regularly-scheduled dinner; they’re a special experience in and of themselves.  Otherwise, you can always grab quick food from Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods up on the pool decks, or order room service.
• Primary option: For those off-schedule cravings, your best bet is Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods. The generous “drop in almost anytime” hours make it a great choice starting around lunch time and going into the later hours around dinner.  And, while it’s still all-you-can-eat, individual portions tend to be a bit more “snack sized,” meaning it’s easy to grab a relatively light bite to keep you going without spoiling your appetite for your next big meal.
• Secondary option: Room Service is the champ of anytime eating onboard, though you’ll certainly find a better variety at Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods.  With 24-hour operation, you’ll be able to order something from room service starting from the time you get onboard the ship all the way until around 1:30 AM on the very last morning of the cruise.  Whether you want a full meal, a midday snack, buffalo wings at 3AM, or just some cookies and milk at bedtime, it’s only a phone call away.

Most of your meals are included in the price of your cruise; but some specialty meals, alcohol, and the offerings at most bars and lounges cost extra.

Here’s a no-brainer tip on how to save money on those upcharge experiences — let somebody else pay for them!

Booking through a Disney Travel agent like The Vacationeer earns you an onboard credit that can be used to pay for drinks, specialty meals, and even spa activities and port adventures (shore excursions) .  Depending on the details of your cruise, this credit could be as much as $1,000 !

To get your free onboard credit (and free help planning your Disney Cruise), contact the Vacationeer today !

Disney Wish Pools and Water Slides

Perhaps the most-anticipated addition to water activities onboard the Disney Wish is the AquaMouse.  Following in the dripping-wet footsteps of the AquaDuck (Disney Dream & Fantasy) and the AquaDunk (Disney Magic), the AquaMouse is a waterslide-type attraction.

Guests board a small two-person raft.  That raft then slowly carries them up a lift hill, during which time video screens mounted on the wall show very brief animations, drawn in the style of the newer Mickey Mouse short cartoons.

We’ve seen a few different storylines in our rides onboard, including one taking place in an alpine ski village, and another during a scuba diving adventure.

Once you’ve enjoyed your lazy lift to the top of the ride, the lift hill ends and the raft takes off for a brief splashy downhill ride.

Our review of the AquaMouse

Our reviewers felt the AquaMouse was the logical “next step” following the AquaDuck onboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

Disney has positioned the AquaMouse as its first ever “attraction at sea,” but it’s important to remember that the logistics of being onboard a cruise ship mean you shouldn’t expect a Pirates of the Caribbean caliber attraction.

Your ride consists of about 60 seconds of “story” (delivered via short video clips while your raft slowly climbs the lift hill), followed by about 35 seconds of riding down a tube of rushing water.  It’s still a perfectly enjoyable waterslide — just don’t hear the word “attraction” and expect audio-animatronics or an it’s a small world soundtrack.

The different storylines that are offered via the video clips help to add a bit of re-ride-ability to this relatively short attraction.  Without that change, most folks would likely ride it once and be on their way.

To some extent, the AquaMouse feels a bit like Imagineers are just starting to dip their toes into the concept of blending land-style attractions with waterslides — all while working within the limitations associated with operating onboard a functioning cruise ship.

We can’t wait to see the next one after they apply the lessons learned building this one.

Pools and Splash Pads

There’s no shortage of pools and water splash zones onboard; ten, to be exact!  Deck 11 is the home to most, though you’ll also find smaller ones scattered about elsewhere.  With multiple smaller pools rather than one or two giant pools, you’re more likely to find one that better fits the vibe you’re looking for… packed with kids so younger travelers can make new friends… secluded and adult-exclusive allowing for a more-relaxing experience… and everything in between.

Note that some pools may be unavailable during portions of the cruise so they can be covered and used as stages/viewing areas for live entertainment.

We offer a full list of every pool on board further down the page in our “deck-by-deck” section.  In the meantime, here are a couple of highlights.

• Toy Story Splash Zone

For little tykes eager to make a splash, Woody, Jessie, and friends present a perfect place.  Much like the fun Finding Nemo splash zones onboard the Disney Wish and Fantasy, young kids not quite ready for the pool can splash in fountains, whisk down slides, and safely bounce around a bit on the soft padded areas while cooling off.

Adults will appreciate this pool, sundeck, and bar that’s made just for them.  We all love our family time, but there’s nothing like a little getaway just for the grown-ups while the kids are spending time at the youth clubs.

Disney Wish Kids Clubs and Teen Clubs

The wide array of onboard youth activity clubs is a big reason why we named Disney Wish as the best Disney cruise ship for kids .  Kids who’ve sailed onboard a Disney Cruise before are no doubt still talking about the time they spent at the kids clubs onboard. In what seems to be a continuing theme of this article, the Disney Wish takes the concept to an entirely new level.  Let’s explore some of these dedicated spaces:

Disney’s Oceaneer Club

To access this exclusive space, kids age 3-10 literally slide down from the Grand Hall atrium into the check-in for the day.  Once they’re here, they can pick from several distinctly themed areas.

• Marvel Super Hero Academy

Children become young Avengers, training alongside their favorite Marvel Super Heroes.  Spider-Man, Black Panther, Ant-Man and The Wasp are regulars here as kids team up, select their super suit, and battle infamous villains of the Marvel Universe.

Star Wars: Cargo Bay

Home to the Star Wars Galactic Creature Keepers adventure, kids here will become intergalactic creature handlers, feeding lifelike, interactive creatures and encountering some of the most dangerous beings in the galaxy. Don’t worry, though — with the help of Rey and Chewbacca (and the Force), everything will turn out just fine.

Fairytale Hall

Fairytales come to life in this royal retreat.  Enjoy visits from the Disney Princesses while making royal crafts at Rapunzel’s art studio, acting out stories in Belle’s Library, and crating a bit of ice magic at Anna & Elsa’s Sommerhus.

Walt Disney Imagineering Lab

This is the place for hands-on learning and fun.  A highlight is the ability to design your own virtual roller coaster, then hop inside a simulator capsule to experience it.

Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck

The youngest Oceaneers will enjoy this nautically themed play space.  Enjoy pipe slides, ship’s wheels, activities and games, and even an occasional visit from Captains Mickey and Minnie.

Our Review of the Oceaneer Club onboard the Disney Wish

Our review crew had no doubt in their mind that kids would fall in love with these spaces — because the grown-ups fell in love with them, too!

Thanks to open houses throughout the voyage, our crew spent probably more time than they’d like to admit playing along with the intergalactic adventures and super hero battles.  The slide to the kids club entrance was a big hit, too.

With so many activities and character experiences in these dedicated spaces, there’s virtually no chance of the kids coming back to the room because they’re bored!

The spot for tweens aged 11-14, Edge is a New York City inspired loft-style hangout.

Teens aged 14-17 will enjoy Vibe, a laid-back space that features movies and games.

• The Hideaway

Older teens and young adults (age 18-20) have a space designed just for them onboard the Disney Wish — the first ever on a Disney cruise ship.  With a dance floor, DJ booth, and occasional karaoke contests, this space is a great “transition” space for those not quite ready to hit the adult clubs.

it’s a small world nursery!

Infants as young as six months old — up through toddlers just shy of their third birthday — are cared for in this secure nursery onboard.  Specially-trained counselors keep everyone fed, changed, happy, entertained, and ready for visits by Disney friends.  Fees apply.

Disney Wish Entertainment and Activities

Your Disney Cruise is only as lazy as you choose to make it — there’s always something going on, so no one will ever get bored onboard!

Broadway-Style Shows

Disney Cruises have long been known for their abundant live entertainment — and especially for the Broadway-style performances staged nightly in the Walt Disney Theatre.  There are three primary shows onboard the Disney Wish, two of which were made exclusively for the new ship .

Disney Seas the Adventure

Start your cruise out right with Disney Seas the Adventure, an embarkation celebration on the first night of your cruise (not to be confused with the sail-away party that happens earlier in the day).  This nighttime performance starts out innocently enough, as Captain Minnie hands the helm over to Goofy.

The ensuing journey features a fabulous musical voyage into favorite films such as Hercules , The Princess and the Frog , Finding Nemo , Moana ,  Frozen II , and Brave .  As the show reaches its crescendo, a cavalcade of Characters leads Guests out of the theatre and into the Grand Hall for an unforgettable sendoff — the ultimate “kiss goodnight.”

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

This one-of-a-kind theatrical adaptation of the beloved 1989 Disney animated film was created exclusively for the Disney Wish.  With innovative theatrical design, dazzling special effects, and artistic choreography, the all-new script and score goes beyond the film to find new ways to delight.

Guests of all ages will delight in seeing the innovative puppets — reminiscent of those which debuted in Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Finding Nemo: The Musical and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! — which help bring favorite characters to life

Disney’s Aladdin — A Musical Spectacular

Already a favorite of those traveling onboard the Disney Fantasy cruise ship, Aladdin is also performed onboard the Disney Wish.  After all, how could you name a ship “Wish” and not have Genie represented?  Spectacular special effects and just a little magic from the lamp bring this timeless tale to the stage with music and comedy.

Pirates Rockin’ Parlay Party and Fireworks at Sea

Pirate Night holds a place of honor on many Disney Cruise itineraries, and the Disney Wish is no exception.  And once again, Disney Wish’s version seems to add just a little extra to the experience you find onboard the other ships.

The Disney Wish’s version of the pirate party features a rollicking rock-and-roll soundtrack of live music, remarkable stunts, special effects, and plenty of surprises.  The show is heralded by Captain Redd, descendant of the famous red-headed icon from the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. She and a band of head-banging buccaneers provide the soundtrack for an unforgettable night that includes Captain Jack Sparrow (you have heard of him?) and the industry-first fireworks display at sea.

Wonderland Cinema and Never Land Cinema

A Disney Cruise is a great way to catch up on the latest released from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Lucasfilm.

Onboard most Disney ships, the Buena Vista Theatre is the place to go — but continuing with the bigger and better theme, Disney Wish is home to two movie theaters: Wonderland Cinema and Never Land Cinema.

There’s no need to buy a ticket — just find a seat and enjoy the show.  A nearby snack bar sells popcorn, candy, and soft drinks (for an additional charge).

Disney Uncharted Adventure

Following in the footsteps of onboard interactive experiences such as Midship Detective Agency (onboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy), Disney Uncharted Adventure is a new first-of-its kind experience that takes classic Disney storytelling to new heights.

The story goes that an unknown evil force has attacked the Wishing Star, splitting its magic into pieces that land in far-off realms. To bring back the Star’s powers, Captain Minnie needs Guests to help navigate the ship toward these uncharted worlds.

Guests onboard join Captain Minnie, Captain Mickey, and other favorite Disney Characters on a multidimensional search for the magic across storybook worlds.  You might spot Moana, Nemo, Princess Tiana, Peter Pan, and others through your “enchanted spyglass” (which looks suspiciously like your mobile device).  But don’t worry – you won’t be staring at your phone the entire time; rather, it’s a tool used to unlock magic all around the ship.  Just be sure you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before your cruise begins.

This versatile venue hosts action-packed physical challenges and game-show-style competitions, and is home to a sports court during other hours.  Check the onboard navigator app to see what’s happening each day!

Disney Wish Spa and Salons

There’s no shortage of places onboard to be pampered.  From spa treatments to salon stylings, you’ll be able to step out in high style on the high seas.

Senses Spa and Salon

Like the other Disney Ships, Disney Wish features a Senses spa onboard .   Unlike the other ships, this one is in a league of its own.  In addition to the expected spa and beauty treatments, you can relax and unwind in the Rainforest — an indoor area with heated lounges, fountains, an aromatherapy steam room, a dry sauna and a calming pool; and an exterior area featuring shade canopies and refreshing outdoor pools.

• Untangled Salon

Untangled Salon is the perfect place to let your hair down.  This high-end salon is inspired by Rapunzel from Disney’s Tangled , and offers a wide variety of hairstyling and other treatments.

Hook’s Barbery

Gents will enjoy getting a haircut, shave, or nail/skin treatment at Hook’s Barbery.  The upscale salon is inspired by Captain Hook’s private quarters aboard the Jolly Roger from Disney’s Peter Pan .  Guests 21 and older can also enjoy a hidden bar featuring the finest whiskies, bourbon, and rum — with drinks served during treatments and during select special events.

• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Fear not, princesses in need of a magical makeover!  The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique has made its way to the Disney Wish.  Youngsters can enjoy the same royal treatment they receive on land at Walt Disney World resort, thanks to a few Fairy Godmother’s apprentices who’ve made their way to the ship.

Our Review of Spa and Salon Services Onboard the Disney Wish

Our reviewers were astounded by the experience provided by the facilities at Senses Spa and Salon onboard the Disney Wish.  The unique outdoor relaxation area sets it apart from the Senses Spas onboard any other Disney Ship.  It easily ranked as one of their top three experiences onboard, and our review crew couldn’t stop raving about it.

The Untangled Salon and Hook’s Barbery are somewhat unexpected additions to the cruise, but are nonetheless welcome.  Gentlemen will appreciate getting an old-fashioned shave (not to mention a cocktail) at Hook’s while the ladies are getting coiffed at Rapunzel’s place.  We expect that the appeal of these two locations may be somewhat limited to most travelers, though they’ll certainly be popular for those choosing to have a wedding ceremony onboard the ship.

Spa treatments and salon services cost extra, but you can offset the cost when you book through a professional Disney Travel Planner such as The Vacationeer .

The Vacationeer provides its clients with onboard credits of up to $1,000 to use toward spa/salon services and other purchases on the ship!  What’s more, there’s no charge to use their planning services , and they always make sure you get the best possible price for your cruise.

Free help planning your cruise and free funds to use while onboard — it’s win-win!

Disney Wish Itineraries and Home Port

Image © Disney

Disney Wish Home Port

For the foreseeable future, Disney Wish will sail from Port Canaveral , Florida — one of three Disney cruise departure ports in Florida and the closest port to Walt Disney World.

Disney Wish Itineraries for 2024 and 2025

For 2024  and 2025 Disney Wish is sailing on 3- and 4-night Bahamian cruises from Port Canaveral Florida. Most include a visit to Disney’s Castaway Cay and to Nassau, Bahamas.

Does this Disney ship do themed cruises?

Some sailings in Fall and Winter will be themed as Halloween on the High Seas or Very Merrytime Cruises .

Our Review of the Disney Wish Itineraries

As far as itineraries go, we’re somewhat torn as to whether these are a win or a loss.

If we’re being pragmatic about it, we recognize that these shorter Bahamian cruises have been a mainstay of Disney Cruise Line since its earliest days.  We also know that Port Canaveral, FL is Disney’s truest “home port,” with year-round departures that are within an hour’s drive or so from Disney World.

So it’s no surprise that they’d want to have the newest ship, with all its hype, right “next door” to Orlando so people can easily extend their Walt Disney World vacation by tacking on a short cruise.  It also allows Disney to tap into the huge “locals” market of Florida residents who seem to flock to the latest-and-greatest that Disney has to offer.

Let’s also not forget that Disney research recently showed that an astounding 40%+ of their passengers said they wouldn’t have even taken a cruise if Disney Cruise Line didn’t exist; so it obviously doesn’t seem to matter where the ship goes as long as Mickey’s onboard.

But on the other hand, the itineraries are honestly somewhat of a snooze compared to the exotic itineraries you can have on other Disney ships.  We know many frequent cruisers who don’t even get off the ship when it docks in Nassau.

Castaway Cay is a Guest favorite, but for repeat travelers, even it risks becoming a bit too “been there, done that.” Some savvy repeat cruisers use Castaway Cay day as their opportunity to experience onboard activities with lower crowd levels while everyone else is out on the island.  (It should be a good day to ride the AquaMouse with less of a wait).

We’d have loved to have seen some newer itineraries offered for this new ship, perhaps blending a mix of Bahamian and Caribbean nation ports together for a cruise that you can’t get on any other Disney Cruise ship at present.

We’re honestly more excited that using newer ships on these tried-and-true Bahamian/Caribbean routes will now free up the other ships to start doing different itineraries in the future.  For example, it was announced during September 2022’s D23 Expo that the Disney Wonder would begin offering at least some cruises in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific starting in late 2023.

Disney Wish Deck-by-Deck

Here’s a look at what’s located on each deck of the Disney Wish.

• Health Center
• Tender Lobbies (ship exit at ports of call)
• Fairy Tale Hall
• Mickey and Minnie’s Captain’s Deck
• Star Wars Cargo Bay
• Walt Disney Imagineering Lab
• Walt Disney Theatre (wheelchair accessible entrance)
• “it’s a small world” nursery
• Category 9B, 11C
• Grand Hall Stage
• Slide to Oceaneer Club Check-In
• Walt Disney Theatre (main entrance)
• 1923 (Roy Disney side, Walt Disney side)
• Enchanted Castle Jewels
• Once Upon a Time
• Public Restrooms
• Royal Regalia
• Treasures Untold
• Grand Hall (ship atrium lobby; ship entrance/exit on first/last day of cruise)
• Never Land Cinema
• Wonderland Cinema
• Walt Disney Theatre (balcony)
• Hook’s Barbery (also features barbershop services)
• Luna’s Libations
• Wishing Star Cafe
• Disney Vacation Club desk
• Guest Services desk
• Hook’s Barbery (also features drink service)
• Port Adventures desk
• Grand Hall (overlook)
• Shipside Promenade
• Luna (balcony)
• Enchanted Sword Cafe
• Triton Lounge
• Disney Vacation Planning desk
• Mickey’s Mainsail
• Senses Fitness
• Senses Spa Rainforest Room (indoor/outdoor)
• Service Animal Relief Area
• Shutters Portrait Studio
• Shipside Promenade (accessible only from deck 5 stairway)
• Category 4C
• Category 4E
• Category 5C
• Category 6B
• Category 7A
• Category 8C
• Category 9D
• Category 11B
• Category 9A
• Fairytale Fresh Laundry
• Category 4B
• Category 5B
• Category 6A
• Category 8B
• Category 9C
• Category 11A
• Category 1C
• Category 4A
• Category 5A
• Daisy’s Pool
• Funnel Vision
• Mickey’s Pool
• Minnie’s Pool
• Pluto’s Pool
• Inside Out: Joyful Sweets
• Marceline Market Cafe
• Daisy’s Pizza Pies
• Donald’s Cantina
• Goofy’s Grill
• Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue
• Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream
• Poolside bar (unnamed)
• The Lookout
• Dory’s Forget-Me-Knots
• Category 3B
• Donald’s Pool
• Goofy’s Pool
• Hero Zone (main entrance)
• Slide-a-saurus Rex
• Trixie’s Falls
• Concierge Lounge
• Wheezy’s Freezies
• Category 2A
• Category 2B
• Category 3A
• Hero Zone (balcony)
• Quiet Cove Pool (adults only)
• Quiet Cove Whirlpool (adults only)
• Concierge Sun Deck (Concierge Guests only)
• Sun Deck (adults only)
• Category 1B
• Chip ‘n Dale’s Pool
• Category 1A

Disney Wish Fact Sheet

Shipyard (ship’s birthplace).

Meyer Werft shipyard – Papenburg, Germany

Maiden voyage

July 14, 2022

Port Canaveral, Florida

Ship’s Registry

Approximately 144,000 gross tons

19.5 knots cruising speed

23 knots maximum speed

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)

Crew Members

Maximum capacity.

4,000 passengers

1,254 staterooms (includes 53 concierge staterooms and 23 concierge suites)

• 948 verandah staterooms (70%)
• 185 oceanview staterooms (20%)
• 121 inside staterooms (10%)

Environmental Considerations

Disney Cruise Line says The Disney Wish is estimated to be nearly 30 percent more fuel efficient and emit approximately 20 percent less greenhouse gases. DCL indicates it remains committed to investing in our current fleet by utilizing new technologies, increasing fuel efficiency, and minimizing waste, including the fleet-wide conversion in 2020 to ultra-low-sulfur fuel that exceeds international maritime regulations.

The Disney Wish’s use of Low-Emission Liquefied-Natural Gas (LNG) eliminates nearly all sulfur oxides and particulate matter emissions, reduces the emission of nitrogen oxide by approximately 37 percent, and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 20 percent compared to traditional diesel or marine fuel.

Excess heat from the engines is re-purposed to warm the super-cooled LNG so it can be used to power the ship. Cold energy from the LNG tanks is then recycled into the ship’s energy efficient air-conditioning systems. This interconnected system saves 200 tons of fuel per year.

A demand-based heating and cooling system onboard adapts in real time to deliver the ideal amount of temperature-controlled air throughout the ship while saving nearly 700 tons of fuel annually.

The hydrodynamic hull and propeller reduce the engine power needed to propel the ship, saving nearly 1,800 tons of fuel annually and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 6 percent.

The ship’s prototype installation of a 1-megawatt fuel cell (to provide additional emission-free energy for onboard systems) will be one of the largest in a marine environment and will help to better understand the feasibility of large-scale fuel cell installations onboard cruise and shipping vessels, potentially driving industry-wide adoption of the new tech.

Final Thoughts on the Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney is a cruise line that favors quality over quantity.  While other cruise lines might have dozens of ships with a new one showing up every couple of years, Disney takes its time and works to get it right.

We might have had to wait ten years for a new Disney Cruise ship, but the wait was certainly worth it.  The Disney Wish is in a class by itself, with some innovative design features and guest offerings not found anywhere else.

Are there a few things we’d like to have seen done differently?  Sure.  With ten years of waiting — not to mention all the years of extra anticipation once the ship was announced — expectations are bound to be sky high, and wishing begins to fill in the holes left by an absence of details.  But despite that, even those who are jaded to the point that they’re bored by the same old ports and the same old cruising are sure to find something here that will wow you.

Our reviewers found the Disney Wish to be the ultimate family cruise ship , cementing its spot at the top of our list of the best Disney Cruise Ships .

Then it’s time to contact The Vacationeer !

Get in touch with one of their travel agents for completely free assistance planning your vacation .  They’ll use their expertise to help you pick the best time to cruise and find the best stateroom to book at the best possible price.  They’ll even apply new discounts to your reservation as they become available!

Those benefits are just a few of the reasons to book your cruise with a Disney Travel agent , and The Vacationeer is among the best out there.

So don’t delay — call in the Disney Cruise Experts!  Call in The Vacationeer !

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26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Disney Cruise Line might be a comparatively small cruise line with just five ships, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in popularity and enthusiastic fans. It also has some unique approaches to cruising that may surprise you — whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced cruiser on a different line.

After sailing on six Disney Cruise Line voyages across four of its ships in the last few years, I've picked up a few hacks and money-saving techniques I'm happy to pass on to you. No matter if this is your first time at sea or your 99th, you can benefit from this list of 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You can find discounts on Disney Cruises

Disney cruises are generally more expensive than other family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean , but there are still ways to save money on a Disney cruise . Here are some different discounts you can find for Disney Cruise Line.

When booking a Disney cruise, your best move is to book the cruise as soon as it becomes available. You'll have the best selection of cabins and generally the best prices. Sometimes, you can find discounts closer to the sailing if certain room types aren't selling as hoped.

Sail one-way

A few times a year, Disney ships based in seasonal homeports need to head toward their next cruising region. When that happens, the ships sail one-way (aka repositioning) cruises , starting in one port and ending in a different one. You can often book these one-off sailings for less money than the normal round-trip cruises that start and end in the same spot.

For example, Disney Dream will sail a three-night cruise to move it from San Juan to Ft. Lauderdale in November. You can book a cabin with a balcony for $1,580 for two people, which is a solid price on Disney Dream. The $3,326 price tag for a concierge-level cabin is very good; those cabins usually start at close to $800 to $1,000 higher on many other three-night sailings.

Remember to factor in the cost of two one-way flights when you're calculating the savings bonus of taking a one-way cruise.

Related: Ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Let Disney pick your cabin

If you're not picky about which cabin you get, an easy way to save a substantial amount of cash on your Disney cruise is to let Disney pick your cabin for you. You select a room type (such as an inside room or one with a balcony) and then let Disney assign you to a specific cabin location closer to sailing. For your flexibility, this type of guaranteed fare comes at a discount.

In the example below, you'll see the cheapest inside cabin where you pick a specific room on the ship is $2,072, while the price starts at $1,488 if you let Disney choose which inside room you get. This type of fare comes with additional restrictions, so read the fine print carefully. I've done this multiple times and have always been happy with the room location I've received.

Upgrade your room at the port for less

Depending on the ship's occupancy, it can be cheaper to upgrade your cabin at the port right before you board than in advance. There's no guarantee a better room will be available, but it can't hurt to ask when you are checking in inside the port just before boarding if nicer rooms are available.

If higher room categories have gone unsold, the check-in staff can tell you the price to upgrade to a nicer room; they can reference a spreadsheet that outlines the upgrade rates based on your current cabin and fare. In my experience, you can save up to half the cost compared to upgrading your room in advance.

Pay with points or discounted Disney gift cards

You can pay with discounted Disney gift cards to save a little money. There are many ways to do this, but stacking credit card bonus categories with discounted gift cards that can be available at places like Sam's Club or even Target can knock around 5% off the total price without too much effort.

You can also use some types of credit card points and miles to pay for a Disney cruise. For example, you can use Capital One miles from cards such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , (see rates and fees) to cover all or part of any charge that's considered a travel expense.

The Disney Visa Card also offers some onboard savings perks and you can enjoy 0% APR for six months on your Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 19.24%-28.24%.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

2 rooms are cheaper than a suite

If your family is considering getting a suite to spread out and have more space, but are finding the prices for Disney Cruise Line suites to be prohibitively high, consider connecting staterooms instead. A family of four can expect to spend about 50% more on connecting cabins instead of all staying in one room, which is likely a lot less than buying up to a suite which can be several times the cost of a regular room.

Get free Mickey ice cream bars (and more) from room service

Unless you're staying in a concierge-level stateroom (more on that soon), room service on a Disney cruise is relatively basic. However, it's available at no extra charge, so use it as much or as little as you like.

I'm a fan of ordering room service for a quick breakfast (or that first hit of coffee) or for a fun anytime treat of Mickey ice cream bars. I often order Uncrustables from room service the night before port days to toss in my bag for the family to eat while ashore. My girls learned how to politely call to order these by the second or third day of the cruise.

It's a common courtesy to add a few dollars for a tip to the slip that you'll sign when the order is delivered.

Order as much dinner as you want

On Disney Cruise Line, you'll be assigned a dinner rotation through the three included restaurants on the ship. Your serving team will rotate with you, which is pretty fun as they get to know you and your preferences.

Since this food is all included, don't be shy. If you can't decide between the shrimp or salmon entree, try both. Order a couple of appetizers or be daring and try a dish you've never tasted before.

When it comes time for dessert, create your own sampler-platter for the table and taste them rather than limiting yourself to one selection.

You aren't locked into your assigned dining plans

If, for some reason, your assigned order of restaurants or tablemates (if you have any) aren't working out, don't be shy about asking guest services to make alterations. They will connect you with the appropriate people within the dining team to make necessary adjustments.

New movie releases are shown in the theaters

While a movie theater may sound like a strange place to spend a few hours at sea, I recommend making time to go see a new Disney movie while on your next Disney Cruise. The ships show first-run movies, so instead of heading to your local theater to see the next Marvel, Pixar or other Disney film released close to your cruise date, save some money and enjoy the movie at sea for no extra charge.

In fact, if you are at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll get to see it the same night on the ship, too.

It's cash-free on the ship — except for this

You don't need much cash while on a Disney cruise. Your "Key to the World" room key serves as your form of payment and identification on the ship. I highly recommend bringing a lanyard to keep track of this important card if it's your first Disney voyage. Return cruisers are given a lanyard in their cabin.

However, if you want to add an extra tip to your service team at the end of the cruise beyond the standard amount that's charged to your folio, it's nice to do that with cash. If you are staying in a concierge-level room, you may want to pack some extra cash for the concierge lounge hosts and the evening bartenders, too.

Your kids can (maybe) get into an older club

Disney Cruise Line divides kids into four age groups — the nursery (up to age 3), the primary kids club (3–12), a tween club (11–14) and a teen club (14–17). The clubs, other than the nursery, are complimentary, so the magic age for a Disney cruise begins once your child is at least 3 years old and potty-trained, so they can enjoy time in the kids clubs while you enjoy … whatever you want.

Once your kid is ready to age up to the next club, they can actually do that a little early with your permission. For example, my oldest was able to level up to the tween club at 10 years old and the teen club at 13 years old with a signed slip from me, so use (or hide) that information as it suits you best. I will say that once your kid levels up in those clubs, they probably won't go back much to the previous club.

Take note that the tween and teen clubs allow kids to come and go at will. If you need your child to be monitored, then they will need to stay in the main kids club, which is open through age 12.

Hit the pools early or late to avoid crowds

If you don't want to swim in a crowded pool or wait in a long line for a slide around the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, you'll need to employ some strategy. I recommend heading to the waterslide the second you board the ship if it is warm enough in your port, as that is as empty as it's going to get.

If you miss that window, mornings are also pretty empty, as are late afternoons as everyone starts to get ready for the evening. Avoid mid-day on sea days at all costs unless you like swimming with dozens of your new best friends.

You'll want to decorate your door

The cabin doors on a Disney cruise are almost all metal, so decorative magnets will stick to the doors nicely. Pack themed magnets to decorate your door. Not only is it fun to participate in this shipwide decoration, but the personalized door serves to help kids (or tired adults) find their cabin should they forget the room number.

You can keep things simple or order personalized magnets on a site like Etsy in advance of your sailing. You may see some doors that go all out and even have pouches with goodies in them. Those hanging pouches are known as fish extenders (as they hang off of a fish built into the ship). They often signify that the cabin is participating in a gift exchange with others on the cruise that they arranged beforehand on Facebook.

Your sailing has a Facebook group and it's worth joining

Speaking of Facebook, the odds are excellent that your individual sailing has a Facebook group with several hundred people in it. If you wish to participate in gift exchanges, get to know your shipmates pre-cruise or tap into a hive mind for advice on picking excursions and packing, it's a big asset to belong to a group specific to your sailing.

Go to Facebook and search for your sailing (e.g. Disney Wonder Alaska June 12 - 19). You'll likely find a "private" group that's not officially affiliated with the cruise line. Join the group to be kept in the loop and to drum up excitement for your trip before you set sail.

Soda is free if you know where to look

If you order a can of Coke in the dining room or from room service, it's going to cost you a few dollars, but you can get as much free soda as you want from the fountain. These are usually located on the pool deck and in the buffet area. Bring a refillable bottle so you can easily take your soda with you around the ship.

Check the app for happy hours

Alcohol isn't free on board, but you can find discounted drinks at happy hour. On my most recent Disney cruise, select drinks were 50% off from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the ship's pub. Check your Navigator app during your sailing to look for happy hours on your Disney cruise.

The best merchandise sells out

If you see a cool hat, sweatshirt or shirt you adore, buy it as soon as you spot it. The onboard gift shops are only open while the ship is at sea, and the popular items sell out (and generally don't get restocked while you're on board).

A Disney cruise is not just for families

There's no doubt that families make up a large portion of the Disney Cruise Line passenger base, but a Disney cruise is not just for kids . The ships cater to childless couples and friend groups with special spaces reserved just for grownups.

Each ship has an adults-only nightlife area and/or multiple bars and lounges to visit in the evening. An adults-only sun deck includes a pool and space to sunbathe. Each ship also has one or two adults-only restaurants you can retreat to at dinnertime if you want to ensure a high-end and kid-free meal. (You'll have to pay extra for these meals, however.)

Disney offers legitimately good liquor and tastings

On top of the cocktails and drinks you may expect, Disney ships offer some very high-end liquors on board. I shared a photo of the below beverage cart on Instagram while on a recent cruise and got dozens of messages from people shocked Disney would have Pappy's bourbon. That specific 23-year-old bottle goes for several hundred dollars per drink, and it's on board Disney cruise ships.

If you're looking for something more affordable, sign up for one of the various beverage-tasting classes on offer. Most of the tastings are $40 - $50, and you'll get to sample a few drinks, as well as learn more about wine, tequila, bourbon and other beverages.

You don't need to pay for motion sickness pills

If you find the motion of the ocean to be a bit more than you bargained for, head to guest services, and they will give you — and your kids — motion sickness pills free of charge.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you are feeling terrible to start battling any potential motion sickness . At the first signs of queasiness, seek out a remedy. Green apples and ginger candy are alternatives for travelers who prefer not to take medicine.

The concierge lounge is extra magical

If you want your own personal Fairy Godmother who all but ensures you get the bookings you want, the best meal times, coveted reservations at the adults-only restaurants and cabana access at Castaway Cay, then book yourself into a concierge-level cabin or suite.

You'll get all that, plus you can board the ship first and skip the lines when disembarking. Concierge guests get exclusive access to a lounge with included evening drinks and a private sun deck (with a hot tub on Disney Wish ). You can order meals from the onboard restaurants to your room, and hang out with a Disney character in the lounge one evening of the cruise.

Not to mention, you'll be staying in some of the nicest and largest accommodations on the ship.

Concierge-level rooms do not come cheap, but they're the way to go if you want cream-of-the-crop service on a Disney cruise. I'd venture that the added perks and extra booking window for specialty restaurants and Castaway Cay are most valuable on the shorter Disney cruises of three or four nights.

Related: What it's like on a $10,000 Disney Wish concierge cruise

Find your way by looking at the carpet

It can be disorienting at first to find your way around a cruise ship, but Disney makes it easy to know if you are heading forward or aft when you're in the long cabin hallways. If the carpet design is upside down, you're heading toward the back of the ship, but if it is right side up, you're heading to the front of the ship. In the photo below, the globe is the clue.

Late dinner is better

Disney cruise ships offer two dinner options — early or late seating. Your showtime for the evening entertainment is opposite your dinner; if you have an early dinner, you have the late show and vice versa.

It's logical to assume that an early dinner at 5:45 p.m., as opposed to late dinner at 8:15 p.m., is better if you have little kids. Having done both, I'd say that late dinner is vastly superior in most situations.

First, 5:45 p.m. is too early to have made the most of your day and be ready for dinner. With all there is to eat on the cruise, you might not even be hungry yet. Beyond that, if you aren't heading into the dark theater to see the show until 8:15 p.m., it can be hard for little ones to sit still or stay awake.

However, if you see the show first and then eat dinner, the servers are great about expressing your meal with little kids. It's better to do a quick dinner and then head to bed (or back to the kids club!) than an early dinner and miss the evening shows because your kid no longer has the ability to sit still.

The $45 adult restaurant is worth it

If you enjoy fine dining, book a fancy dinner at one of the adults-only restaurants. Depending on which ship you are on, there will be one or two restaurants that are reserved for adults — Palo and perhaps also Remy or Enchante .

Remy and Enchante are super-fancy and pricy, but Palo is approachable-fancy and costs an additional $45 per person for the set menu. It's 100% worth the money if you can get a booking.

You'll leave any cartoony trace of Disney behind as you leisurely indulge on beef tenderloin, sea scallops, grilled lobster with pasta, calamari and chocolate souffle.

The best character meetings aren't the posted ones

You'll find many character meet-and-greets on the itinerary for each day where it's known that Mickey, Donald or Minnie will be at a specific place at a specific time for a brief hello and a photo. Those meetups are great, but they are not the best character interactions you'll find on Disney Cruise Line.

The best time you'll have with characters will be when you least expect to see them. You might spot Goofy walking around in his pajamas, Donald waddling out on the deck or Minnie strolling the halls in her finest dress.

These encounters can't be planned or predicted, but without the lines and forced nature of a quick photo, the more free-form interaction with the characters is better than any planned photo sessions you'll find on land or sea.

All the characters come out to say goodbye on the last night

On the last night of each cruise, all of the classic characters come out to the atrium for a short time (15 - 20 minutes) so you can snap a quick photo with anyone you missed before they do their final farewell presentation. Check your app for this goodbye show, which usually occurs around 10 or 10:30 p.m.

Pro tip: If you have a specific character you want to photograph, ask a cast member setting up for the event where that character usually stands during photo time. That way, you can position yourself in the right area to snap a photo because the event can turn chaotic in a hurry.

Skip the debarkation line by carrying your own bags

Getting off the ship at the same time as thousands of other guests can be a buzzkill, so don't do that. If you can manage your own bags, don't put them out the night before and take them off the ship yourself the final morning.

That leaves you free to disembark as early as possible before the regular disembarkation begins, which might be around 7:30 a.m. or so, depending on the port, weather and other factors. You can avoid the crowds because you don't have to wait for your luggage to be assembled along with everyone else.

You can bring your own water and wine

If you want to have bottled water at the ready, bring a case of it onboard. It will need to be sealed in its original packaging and you have to carry it on (instead of having it in checked luggage), but it can be worth it if you want to save money for the truly yummy drinks.

If you enjoy wine or beer out on your veranda, you can save a little cash by bringing your own alcohol onboard , with limits. Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or a six-pack of beer (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. Again, these beverages need to be carried on and not stashed in checked bags.

You can enjoy the spa without a treatment

If you love the idea of spa-like quiet and relaxation without paying around $200+ per treatment, look into the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa, which costs much less than that per day. Depending on demand, you can book a one-day pass or get a pass that lasts the duration of your cruise. Inquire in the spa as to availability and exact pricing, but it's certainly going to be less than a spa treatment.

Each of the Disney ships has its own version of this room. On Disney Wish, the space has not only the heated loungers that are a common fixture in each of these thermal areas, but also an indoor and outdoor lounge component, a steam room, a chilled ice room and a relaxing water feature for dangling your feet.

Bottom line

You can't go wrong in booking a Disney cruise as there is already so much included and available at your fingertips. But with a little knowledge, you can skip some of the common first-timer mistakes and board like a pro, starting with your first cruise.

Related reading:

• What it's like inside the Disney Wish Star Wars-themed bar
• Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
• The best credit cards for Disney
• Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise
• Everything you need to know about Disney's loyalty program
• The 2 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

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An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

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Our first Disney cruise - temperature on ship

• Thread starter disneymom8719
• Start date Jul 21, 2023

disneymom8719

Earning my ears.

• Jul 21, 2023

DynamicDisneyDuo

Dis veteran.

Temperature tolerance is pretty subjective but yes, many people have reported they felt it was cool/chilly in the theatre. I don't find it chilly at all but my wife does so yeah...  

I usually have a light sweater and DS (8) has reported cold legs when he wears shorts in the theater, but my husband isn't bothered. I'd go pants/t-shirt for little kids.  

Wooden leg named Smith...

Bring a hoodie, sweater, or shawl. It can get cold in the theaters and dining rooms.  

Find all the ships in all the public areas way too chilly for me.  

Its a little chilly for me and I'm not generally a cold person. I tend to bring a cardigan of some sorts to bring to dinner and shows  

I have always found it cold in the theater. However, we were just on the Dream a couple of weeks ago, and the theater was not cold. I found this cruise to be the warmest in most areas. The last couple of days it felt cool in Enchanted Garden and Royal dining rooms. This was our first cruise on the Dream, so I cannot give info on past experiences on this particular ship. I think the jammies idea is great!  

It's been years, but I think I usually had a light cardigan with me at dinner, but I'm always cold and don't like the cold dry air of air conditioning. We didn't see any of the shows, so no comment on the theater temperature.  

The only time I'm been cold on a Disney ship is on deck in Alaska.  

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Age-Specific Activities – Frequently Asked Questions

How many swimming pools are on each ship, and are any for adults only?

Each of the Disney Cruise Line ships has at least 3 different Guest pools and a kids’ water play area. No matter which ship you’re on, there’s a pool geared for younger kids, another for bigger kids and families and at least one reserved just for adults.

For your comfort, pools are heated to keep the water temperature at least 75 degrees. Children’s life jackets are available in the pool areas.

• Disney Dream – Donald’s Pool, Mickey’s Pool, Nemo’s Reef, Quiet Cove Pool
• Disney Fantasy – AquaLab, Donald’s Pool, Funnel Puddle, Mickey’s Pool, Nemo’s Reef, Quiet Cover Pool, Satellite Falls
• Disney Magic – AquaLab, Goofy’s Pool, Nephew’s Splash Zone, Quiet Cove Pool
• Disney Wonder – Goofy’s Pool, Mickey’s Pool, Quiet Cove Pool

AquaLab This water-themed playground has a pool and is a great place for active fun.

Donald’s Pool Bigger kids and families can enjoy a splash, swim or just relax in the sun.

Funnel Puddle Pool Only on the Disney Fantasy, this pool offers a cool place to relax while you enjoy the view.

Goofy’s Pool This perfect family pool offers deck chairs for relaxing and a jumbo television screen.

Quiet Cove Pool Adults and Guests over age 18 can soak up some sun and cool off.

Mickey’s Pool This shallower pool gives younger sailors the perfect place to paddle and play.

Nephew’s Splash Zone Little squirts under 3 can play and giggle in the dancing water.

Nemo’s Reef For kids under 3, this is the coolest place to get wet.

Satellite Falls Only on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, adults ages 18 and older can chill beneath a gentle rain curtain.

Policies About Swim Accessories and Equipment Please note the following policies about pool toys and swim accessories:

• Swim goggles that fit only over the eyes are permitted at all pools, hot tubs and waterslides, with the exception of AquaDunk aboard the Disney Magic, where goggles are not allowed.
• Swim masks that cover the eyes and nose are permitted at all pools. They are not allowed on any slides, including AquaDuck.
• Snorkel tubes are not permitted at any pools, hot tubs or waterslides.
• Coast Guard personal flotation devices (PFDs), water wings and flotation sewn into bathing suits can be brought on board and are permitted in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
• Complimentary flotation vests are provided and may be used in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
• Floats, rafts and fun noodles cannot be brought on board and are not permitted in the pools.

Policies About Swim Diapers The United States Public Health Service requires that only children who are toilet trained are permitted to enter swimming pools and spas aboard cruise ships.

Children who are not toilet trained are welcome to enjoy Nemo's Reef, where they must wear swim diapers. Please note that swim diapers are not permitted in the pools, hot tubs or spas, the AquaDuck and the AquaLab.

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We are doing Alaska for our 6th Disney cruise. How are the ship's inside temperatures while cruising Alaska? (dining rooms, theaters, staterooms). Are we going to need different clothing options than for shore excursions? ”

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Best Disney Cruises & Cruise Ships Ranking for 2024

A s an aficionado of magical vacations, you're likely curious about the top Disney cruises and cruise ships for 2024. With Disney's renowned attention to detail and service, each ship offers its own unique charm and a myriad of enchanting experiences. Perhaps you're drawn to the Disney Dream 's immersive world or the Broadway-style shows on the Disney Fantasy . Maybe the unique onboard features of the Disney Magic attract you, or the adventures offered on the Disney Wonder . There's also the highly anticipated Disney Wish on the horizon. So, which one will make it to your travel bucket list? Let's find out.

Disney Dream Cruise Review

Stepping aboard the Disney Dream Cruise , you're immediately immersed in a magical world that promises an unforgettable voyage for both kids and adults. As one of the best Disney Cruise Line ships, it boasts sumptuous dining options, spectacular live shows, and round-the-clock room service.

Docking at Port Canaveral , you'll love Disney's Oceaneer Club . Trust the Disney Cruise reviews, your Disney Cruise Line vacation starts here.

Exploring the Disney Fantasy

Moving on from the enchanting Disney Dream, let's set sail and explore the wonders of the Disney Fantasy . Often hailed as the best Disney ship, this gem in the Disney Cruise Line fleet boasts Disney characters , Broadway-style shows, and sumptuous main dining rooms .

Despite the new Disney Wish stealing some limelight as Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Fantasy remains a standout in the Disney Cruise Line experience.

Disney Magic Ship Highlights

Let's explore the highlights of Disney Magic, a 2,713-passenger ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

Packed with unique attractions like Broadway-style musical performances , flat-screen TVs, and a table-service restaurant , it's all about the magic of Disney.

And, don't forget Caribbean cruises with excellent service.

Use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for an even better experience.

Unveiling Disney Wonder

Next on our list is Disney Wonder, one of the new ships in the Disney fleet and a sister to the newest Disney cruise ship.

You'll love the friendly cast and crew members, the rotational dining options , and the Walt Disney Theater .

With Disney Wonder, it's all about the exciting port adventures .

Get ready for a journey you won't forget aboard this amazing Disney ship.

Disney Wish: What to Expect

On the horizon of your next dream vacation, Disney Wish stands proud, promising an unparalleled cruise experience. As one of Disney's new vessels, its maiden voyage will take you through grand hall, hyperspace lounge, and the worlds of marvel.

You'll experience the frozen dining adventure, explore Disney's oceaneer club, revel in adult spaces, and relish themed dining . Disney Wish truly is an enchanting journey waiting for you.

Dining Options on Disney Cruises

After exploring the enchanting features of Disney Wish, you might be wondering about the culinary adventures that await on Disney Cruises .

From Rapunzel's Royal Table to the Royal Palace, Animator's Palate, and even dining options on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay , the best Disney cruises cater to every personal preference.

Disney's Oceaneer Club serves up enchanted classics, ensuring a magical dining experience for all.

Entertainment on Disney Ships

You'll find a world of entertainment on Disney ships. Live music fills the air, while Disney films light up screens on the pool deck.

Join the fun at the Golden Mickeys , or meet Captain America at the kids clubs. Dine amidst Toy Story sketches at Animator's Palate , or explore Disney's Oceaneer Club .

There's never a dull moment aboard, ensuring your cruise is a magical adventure.

Family-friendly Features

With family-friendly features in abundance, Disney cruise ships offer an array of amenities and activities designed to delight every member of your family. Picture setting off on a Disney adventure with young children mesmerized by Disney's Oceaneer Club .

You'll find hot tubs, Animator's Palate , Small World, and movie theaters reminiscent of Walt Disney World.

Luxurious Staterooms Breakdown

Beyond the plethora of activities and amenities for the kids, Disney's cruise ships also boast some of the most luxurious staterooms in the industry.

As a first time cruiser, you'll be blown away by the ocean view from both the classic and additional ships.

Whether dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table or Animator's Palate, the royal Caribbean feel extends beyond Disney's private island and into these sumptuous quarters.

Disney Cruise Line Ports of Call

Disney Cruise Line's ports of call offer a world of enchantment, transporting you to some of the most coveted destinations in the globe.

You'll visit various locations, including Disney's private island, Lighthouse Point , and Fort Lauderdale.

Shore excursions might include a Star Wars experience, dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table and Animator's Palate , or kid's fun at Disney's Oceaneer Club.

Specialty Cruises: Halloween and Christmas

If you're looking to add a festive touch to your voyage, consider Disney's specialty cruises : Halloween and Christmas.

Envision sailing the high seas, celebrating the holidays at Rapunzel's Royal Table or reliving a Cinderella story at the Animator's Palate .

U.S. News insider tip: Disney's private island is a treasure trove of holiday fun in the coming years, especially for kids at Disney's Oceaneer Club.

Unique Disney Cruise Activities

You'll find a plethora of unique activities on a Disney cruise that you won't experience anywhere else. From dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table to virtual sports simulators, your voyage will be packed with fun.

You can join Ariel at the Animator's Palate or play at the Oceaneer Club. Despite sailing away from San Diego, you'll feel secure with Disney's excellent health ratings.

Just wait until you see Disney's private island !

Castaway Cay: Disney's Private Island

Picture stepping off your cruise ship and onto the pristine sands of Castaway Cay, Disney's very own private island. Here's what awaits you:

• Serene beaches perfect for sandcastle building.
• Adventures at Pelican Point, snorkeling amidst hidden Disney treasures.
• Mouthwatering BBQ at Cookie's BBQ.

Isn't it time you felt the magic of Disney sprinkled on a tropical getaway?

Comparing Disney Cruise Ships

Exploring Disney's impressive fleet of cruise ships can be quite a challenging task. Each ship offers a unique blend of magical experiences . But don't fret! Whether you're a fan of the classic Disney Magic or the newer Disney Dream, each ship has its own flair.

You've got to take into account size, amenities, and character-themed experiences . So, buckle up, it's time to delve into the world of Disney cruises!

Booking Tips for 2024 Cruises

Explore the world of planning as we share some invaluable tips for booking your dream Disney cruise in 2024.

Here's how you can snag a great deal:

• Book early: The early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the best staterooms!
• Look for off-peak dates: You'll find lower prices during these times.
• Use a travel agent: They can help you navigate the best deals and discounts.

So, ready to set sail on a magical journey? Whether it's the Disney Dream , Fantasy, Magic, Wonder, or the new Wish, each ship is a treasure trove of fun. Remember to pack your sense of adventure, appetite, and your Mickey ears!

Castaway Cay awaits with its pristine beaches. Booking a 2024 cruise ? Pro tip: start early. After all, you wouldn't want to miss the boat, would you?

Happy cruising!

The post Best Disney Cruises & Cruise Ships Ranking for 2024 appeared first on Sarah Scoop EATS .

Are Cruise Ship Pools Heated? A Line by Line Guide

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are cruise ship pools heated? The truth is that some are and some aren’t, it varies line by line and ship by ship. And it is one of the most important things to know if you are cruising with toddlers or kids, or are traveling to a cold weather destination. Because if you want to use a pool you are going to need it to be heated. In this guide we will give you a line by line overview so you can pick the best ship and line for you. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Are Cruise Ship Pools Heated?

are cruise ship pools heated?

If you are traveling by cruise, one of the things you may be most looking forward to doing is relaxing by the pool on the pool deck. However it comes as a surprise to many first time cruisers that not all cruise ships have heated pools. 

In fact you will find that some cruise ship pools are in fact very very cold. The reason for that is because pool water on most cruise ships is collected from the ocean directly. Therefore it you are cruising in a very cold part of the world such as Alaska you will find that the water is very cold unless it is heated. 

So without further ado here is our cruise line guide which tells you exactly which cruise ship pools are heated. 

Note : the below information is guidance and correct at writing however ship features can change during refurbishments etc. For this reason it is always a good idea to check with the line before booking that the ship pool will still be heated for your dates of travel. 

Are Carnival cruise ship pools heated?

ULTIMATE First Time Cruise Packing List: What to Pack for a cruise

Carnival is one of the budget friendly cruise lines that you can travel on. Therefore it should come as no surprise that the Carnival Cruise ship fleet have few heated main ship pools.

For this reason if you are cruising with small children or toddlers, heading somewhere other than to Alaska and want to use a pool then Carnival may not be the best cruise line for you. 

However the following ships that are currently sailing to Alaska during the Alaska season currently have heated midship pools (check the website for most up to date info):

• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Splendour
• Carnival Spirit

Carnival Cruises also do however have some heated pools in the spa areas usually called the Cloud 9 Spa and as is usual on cruise ships there are also hot tubs which are of course heated. 

Are Celebrity Cruise Ships Heated?

Celebrity is a more premium high end cruise line however I was surprised to find that celebrity does not have heated pools as standard. 

Some Celebrity cruise shops do have some thermal spas but this usually comes at an additional cost. 

On top of the thermal spa some celebrity cruise ships also have solariums. Solariums are pools contained within a glass ceiling section of the ship. The pools here are not heated however the ambient temperature and glass ceiling warm the water so it is more comfortable to swim in than the outdoor pools.  

Again solariums are usually reserved as an adults only space. Therefore if you are cruising with kids or are cruising to Alaska or other cold weather destinations then celebrity may not be the best line for you. 

Are Disney cruise pools heated?

In my opinion Disney may have some of the best cruise ship pools for kids. As many people know unpotty trained children and babies are unable to use cruise ship pools and instead are restricted to splash pads. 

Disney has some of the best splash pads for unpotty trained children. On top of this it’s whole fleet has heated pools. Generally speaking the pools are heated to a minimum of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Are Holland America Cruise Ship Pools Heated?

Cruising with toddlers /toddler cruise packing list

Holland America is another more premium line and offers some interesting itineraries particularly in the Alaska region. And the good news is that Holland America has heated cruise pools. 

For this reason we think Holland America is one of the best lines to cruise to Alaska with. 

Are MSC Cruise ship pools heated?

Generally speaking MSC does heat their pools. 

The new MSC Euribia in fact has 3 heated outdoor pools and one indoor pool. 

GEnerally speaking I would say that MSC is a good pick for those that want to sail on a cruise ship with a heated pool. 

Are Norwegian Cruise Ships Pools Heated?

Norwegian cruise line used to be my favorite but we have had some less than perfect cruises with them recently. However my favorite thing about Norwegian cruise ships are that all the pools in their fleet are heated to between 77 and 98 degrees Fahrenheit. 

In fact when we recently cruised out of New York on the Norwegian Getaway, the temperatures were so cold it was uncomfortable to be out on the deck except for in the pool. You could see the steam rising off the pool and actually it was lovely and warm while you were in the water. 

On top of the heated outdoor pools Norwegian of course offers hot tubs on the decks and some ships have heated indoor spa pools. 

Overall I would say if you are traveling with kids or to a cold weather destination such as New York or Alaska, Norwegian may be the cruise line for you.

Are P&O Cruise Ships Heated?

P and O are an older British Cruise line (now operating in the Carnival group) and they run lots of European and Norway itineraries. As the weather is not guaranteed in these locations P&O cruises have heated pools. 

Generally speaking P&O cruise ship pools are heated to 24°C/75 degrees Fahrenheit which is very comfortable to swim in even in Norway or Alaska. 

Are Princess Cruise Pools Heated?

Princess Cruise are one of the higher end mainstream cruise lines offering a more premium experience. As such you will find that all cruise ship pools on Princess cruises are heated. 

And one of the things I love about Princess Cruise lines is that they usually offer both an indoor and an outdoor pool which are both heated. That means it doesn’t matter whether you are cruising the Caribbean or cruising to Alaska with Princess, you will always be able to use the swimming pool on board. 

In fact I would say if you want to use the swimming pool on an Alaskan Cruise that Princess might be the best line to sail with. 

Also the unusual thing about Princess cruise pools compared to other lines is that they do not use ocean water that has been filtered. Instead their pools use freshwater. 

The only time you will find that pools on Princess are cold are if the water has been entirely changed out.  On these days the water will be cooler as it gets brought up to temperature. 

Are Royal Caribbean Cruise Pools Heated?

It really depends on the ship you are sailing on in the Royal Caribbean cruise fleet as to whether or not the ship pools are heated. 

However generally speaking you should not expect heated pools on Royal Caribbean. Most ships do not have heated pools but the main exception is:

• The Independence of the Seas 

The Independence of the Seas is the only ship in the Royal Caribbean cruise fleet that has heated outdoor pools on the pool deck. In fact the Independence of the Seas has 3 heated pools on the pool deck. 

There are no other main pools heated in the fleet. Some Royal Caribbean ships will also have an indoor heated solarium pools. However these are sometimes adults only so are not useful if you want a heated pool to use with kids on Royal Caribbean. 

There are also of course hot tubs and jacuzzis on board all Royal Caribbean ships however these too are recommended for adult use only. 

Therefore if heated pools are important to you and you aren’t going on Independence of the Seas, then Royal Caribbean may not be the right choice of line for you. 

Are Virgin Cruise Pools Heated?

Virgin is one of the newer cruise lines and is also an adults only cruise line. The pools on virgin cruise line are quite small and surprisingly are unheated. However most of the itineraries that Virgin sail are in hot weather destinations and they do not sail in Alaska which may explain why none of the pools are heated. 

Are pools on cruise ships heated FAQs?

So now you know which cruise lines have heated pools we will answer your other questions about heated cruise ship pools. 

Are Alaska Cruise Ship Pools Heated?

Norwegian cruise ship in Alaska – Taking an Alaska cruise with toddlers tips

One of the most popular places to take a cruise is Alaska. In fact in my opinion one of the best ways to see Alaska is via c uise ship. So do all Alaska Cruises have heated pools? 

I am afraid they don’t. 

If you want to sail on a ship with a heated pool on a Alaska cruise then you should book with:

• Norwegian or 

as these are the only lines that will have guaranteed warm pools. 

For more information on Alaska cruises check out our related guides:

• Alaska Cruise with a baby
• Alaska Cruise with a toddler

Are Cruise Ship Pools heated in Winter?

It does not matter whether you are cruising in Winter or Summer, whether a pool is heated or not is dependent on the ship or line rather than the season. 

If you are cruising in Winter and want a heated pool then the best choices are Disney, Norwegian, Princess and certain P and O or MSC ships. 

Do Cruise Ships heading to Norway have heated pools?

Not all cruises that are running Norway cruise itineraries will have heated pools. If you are traveling to Norway or the Baltic and want a heated pool then you need to book with:

• P&O or 
• Princess. 

Do you have any other questions about cruise ship pools? Drop us a comment below and we will do our best to answer. 

Dana Billig

Monday 24th of July 2023

Carnival DOES have heated pools. On their Alaska cruises. It is clearly stated on their website.