disney cruise australia tipping

Tipping on a Disney Cruise – What You Need to Know Updated 2024

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One of the things which people get very confused about is tipping on a Disney Cruise. Here we break everything down for you. It really isn’t that complicated once you know the basics.

Who do you tip on a Disney cruise and how much? How do you pay gratuities on a Disney cruise and can everyone even accept a tip?

Tipping on a Disney Cruise

When we think of tipping on a Disney cruise there are really four main Cast Member positions that you will tip. This is what is included in the automatic gratuities.

However, when we are talking about the automatic gratuities which are charged at the end of your Disney cruise, these are given to these four people:

Stateroom Host. This is the person who cleans your stateroom every day.
Server. This is your main server in your rotational dining restaurant.
Assistant Server. The is the one who will get your drinks and assist your main server.
Head Server. In each rotational dining restaurant, there are 4 head servers. You will be assigned one who will make sure you are happy with your dining experience overall.

These people work incredibly hard and rely on your gratuities to make a living. They work very long hours with little time off.

And most of the time there are smiling! Like our fabulous server Netasha who is pictured below.

Each of these four people is allocated a specified amount of automatic gratuities. You can see how these are calculated in the next section.

If you do not pre-pay them this is fine. They will simply be added to your onboard account. You can change this by either increasing or decreasing the amount – we will talk more about this later.

Do I Need Cash On A Disney Cruise?

You really don’t need cash on a Disney cruise. You will be required to link a credit card to your stateroom before you check in.

You can do this on your Disney Cruise Navigator.

You can’t use cash on a Disney Cruise to pay for things directly. Everything is charged to your Key to the World Card.

If you want to use cash or gift cards to pay your onboard account you have to visit Guest Services as soon as you board your Disney Cruise.

You simply give them the cash or the gift cards that you want to use and this will be put onto your account.

At the end of your cruise, you will need to visit Guest Services if there is a balance to pay or if you need any money back.

If you paid in cash this will be given back in cash.

If you paid with a Disney Gift Card or Rewards Card be sure to keep your card. The reason is that if you have credited it will go back on this card – not much use if you have thrown it away!

Disney Cruise Gratuities Calculator

This Disney Cruise Gratuities Calculator below shows the amounts which will automatically be added to your stateroom account.

These amounts are per person.

That includes children of any age. I know that some guests object to children being included in this.

However, consider how much more work your server probably does for your child. Or all the cleaning up that your Stateroom Host does to clean up after your toddler.

You can adjust these amounts if you want to. This can be adjusted either up or down.

They can be adjusted by visiting Guest Services and asking them to charge your account for extra or to reduce the charges.

We really do strongly suggest you don’t reduce them unless you have truly received substandard service.

If it is something to do with your dining team, always try and resolve the matter with your Head Server first.

If it is an issue with your Stateroom Host mention your issue to Guest Services or directly to your Host. Most things can be resolved.

Disney really does go above and beyond with customer service. If you encounter any problem at all, tell someone. You will probably be amazed at just how good they are when problems arise.

Disney Cruise “Hidden” Gratuities

Aside from the automatic gratuities, there are some services which you will pay an automatic tip if you incur a charge.

The two main areas where this will happen are for drinks purchases and at the spa.

Note that this is not applicable for Disney Cruises sailing from Australia and New Zealand as tips have already been included in the price of drinks, spa services, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiqu, Palo and Beverage Tastings. A tip for delivery of Room Service is still appreciated.

If you purchase a drink at any bar or in a restaurant, you will automatically be charged an additional 15% gratuity.

This will be shown on the bill that you are asked to sign. There is also space for you to add an additional gratuity if you like.

The one area where I often make the mistake of factoring in a tip is when calculating the price is at the spa. Probably because at 18% on already inflated prices this makes a big difference!

For any spa service, an 18% charge will automatically be added.

This includes the Disney Cruise Rainforest Room.

Another one that you may not realize is if you go to any of the Beverage Tasting Seminars.

Most of them cost around $25 ranging up to $38 for the Champagne Tasting. The gratuity is not automatic, but it is customary to leave at least an additional 15%.

The Cast Members are extremely knowledgeable and often very entertaining – they deserve the gratuity.

Disney Room Service Tips

Most items on the Room Service Menu are free.

There are exceptions, such as alcohol and bottled water, but mostly you will not be charged for room service.

However, it is customary to give a tip to the Cast Member who brings your food to you.

Note this is also customary on the cruises sailing out of Australia and New Zealand.

You can use cash for this – so keep some $1’s and $5’s handy in a drawer by the door. Or they will give you a bill with zero charges and you can add a gratuity if you wish.

There is no set amount to tip for room service, but I would suggest at least $1 to $2 per plate. But it really is up to you.

This is one of the only times when you might use cash to tip on a Disney cruise. The other is if you add an additional tip to any of your Servers or Stateroom Steward.

You can do this at the end of the cruise – more about that later.

Tipping at Palo and Remy

There is no automatic gratuity at the adult restaurants on a Disney cruise. However, you will most likely receive exceptional service at Palo and Remy.

An additional 18% is a suggested starting point.

Disney Cruise Concierge Tipping

How much do you tip Disney Cruise Concierge? For many years Disney Cruise Line did not give any guidelines for how much to tip if you were staying Concierge.

However, in July 2022 Disney suggested what you should tip if you are staying in Concierge.

The amount for Concierge suggested by Disney Cruise Lines is $15.50 per person per day.

This comprises:

Dining Room Server $4.75
Assistant Dining Room Server $3.75
Head Server $1.25
Stateroom Host $4.75
Assistant Stateroom Host $1

As you can see, the amounts are the same as for other guests. The extra $1 per person per day is for the Assistant Stateroom Host.

Disney also suggests an amount of $8 per stateroom guest for the Concierge Lounge Team. Therefore if there are 2 guests in your Concierge Stateroom for a 4-day cruise the suggested amount for the lounge team is $64.

The Disney Cruise Concierge Team does an exceptional job. Many guests tip more than the suggested amounts but you are under no obligation to do so.

Who You Can’t Tip on a Disney Cruise

There are certain Disney Cruise Cast Members who are not permitted to accept gratuities.

Kids Club and Nursery Staff are not permitted to accept gratuities.
Bibbidi Boppidi Boo Staff are not permitted to accept gratuities.

Tipping at the End of a Disney Cruise

On the last day of your Disney cruise, you can see all your stateroom charges on your account. This will include the automatic gratuities unless you have already prepaid them.

Your Stateroom Steward will leave some envelopes in your room. These are for your Server, Assistant Server, Head Server, and Room Steward.

Along with the envelopes, you will have a sheet of card which shows how much is going to each person. You can use these to put them in the envelopes to give to each person.

You can also use the envelopes to put additional cash in to give to your team as well.

You do not have to use the envelopes at all unless you want to.

To explain more about getting off the ship at the end of your cruise you can see this Disney Cruise Disembarkation article.

All of the automatic gratuities will be charged to your onboard account. Always double-check that you agree with your final charges.

Ideally, don’t wait until the final evening of your cruise to do this. Everyone else will be doing this, so the lines for Guest Services will be longer than at any other time on the cruise!

Do you have any questions about tipping on a Disney Cruise? Leave me a comment below and I will answer whatever questions you have.

Planning a Disney Cruise? These articles will help:

Disney Cruiser First Timer Money Mistakes to Avoid

What is the Best Time to Sail on a Disney Cruise?

How Much Does a Disney Dream Cruise Cost?

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Tuesday 30th of January 2024

Are the gratuities per day or per meal?

The gratuities are per person per day

Friday 9th of June 2023

Hi Alison, also first time cruiser on Wonder upcoming in Nov! Just wondering as I have enquired with my travel agent about prepaying gratuities, I was quoted $390 for 2 nights 2 adults + 2 kids. Does this seem right with what it would average out to at the end for 2 nights? It seemed excessive to me however wanting to prepay to reduce the uncertainty about fees at the end. Could you possibly also advise if gratuities are prepaid, does this mean come the end of the cruise you won’t pay any additional? Thanks so much for this article as it’s the only thing stressing me out as tipping is so foreign to us in Aus ???

Friday 13th of January 2023

Hi Alison We will be cruising to Melbourne-New Zealand on November 2023. Can we tip them in Australian dollar? Or it has to be a US dollar? Thank u

Monday 16th of January 2023

Thank you for your question! If you want to tip Cast Members in Australian dollars directly that will be fine. All charges on board will be in US dollars though.

Monday 31st of October 2022

Can you pay cash for the alcohol beverages plus the tip?

Monday 19th of September 2022

Do these automatically deducted gratuities amount go directly to the Servers and Host as you have detailed above or are they also divided among others? I have heard this does not go directly to these people in these amounts? Thank you.

How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise? Your Guide to Gratuities

Tipping is often a source of confusion on Disney cruises. Does gratuity come with the fare? If not, when should you tip, and how much? How does tipping work on a Disney Cruise? Here are the answers you need to know.

Note: Disney updated its standard gratuity amounts in July 2022. This article has been updated to reflect the new amounts.

Is Tipping Included in the Cost of a Disney Cruise?

The cost of a Disney cruise covers your stateroom , activities, and dining experiences (except for specialty dining). But there’s one thing that’s not included in the base price of a Disney cruise: gratuities. Even though gratuities are technically optional, it is customary to tip certain crew members, and Disney expects you to do it.

In some situations, gratuities are automatically added to your stateroom account; in others, you decide whether to tip.

When are Automatic Gratuities Added to your Account?

There are four Crew Members Disney always expects you to tip, as they serve you for the entire duration of your cruise. To simplify the tipping process, Disney automatically charges these gratuities to your onboard account at the end of your cruise (unless you have prepaid the gratuities or instructed Guest Services not to add them).

Which Crew Members Are Covered by Automatic Gratuities?

The four tipping positions associated with automatic gratuities are your stateroom host/hostess and three members of your regular dining room serving crew:

Your designated dining room server is responsible for taking care of the table service during dinner at the rotational dining restaurants .

Disney adds $4.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Server.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

For a 3-night cruise: $14.25
For a 4-night cruise: $19.00
For a 7-night cruise: $33.25

Assistant Server

This person assists your dining room server with the drinks, food, and cleanup.

Disney adds $3.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Assistant Server.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Assistant Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

For a 3-night cruise: $11.25
For a 4-night cruise: $15.00
For a 7-night cruise: $26.25

Dining Room Head Server

The Head Server acts as a maître d’. You will be assigned a Head Server, who will check in with you and ensure you are satisfied with your dining experience, and oversees the other servers.

Disney adds $1.25 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Head Server.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Head Server for the length of your cruise (in total):

For a 3-night cruise: $3.75
For a 4-night cruise: $5.00
For a 7-night cruise: $8.75

Stateroom Host/Hostess

Your Stateroom Host/Hostess is the person who cleans your stateroom every day. They are responsible for making your bed, turning it down at night, leaving chocolate, etc.

Disney adds $4.75 (per passenger, per night) in automatic gratuity for your Stateroom Host.

Here’s what you can expect to pay the Stateroom Host for the length of your cruise (in total):

For those staying in a Concierge-level room, additional tipping is customary for the Stateroom Assistant Host and the Concierge Lounge staff.

Stateroom on the Disney Dream

To calculate the total amount of automatic gratuity you are expected to pay, add up the total nightly tips for each of these four categories ($4.75 + $3.75 + 1.25 + $4.75 = $14.50 ), then multiply that by the number of people sailing (regardless of age) and by the number of nights your cruise will last.

For example, a couple on a 3-night cruise should expect to tip $87.00 ($14.50 x 2 x 3).

A family of four on a 7-night cruise will have a suggested tip of $406 ($14.50 x 4 x 7).

Most people find that Disney’s automatic gratuities process helps simplify the tipping process. However, you may wish to do things differently. You can request to adjust these amounts, pay gratuities in cash, or pre-pay before your cruise begins (see below).

Note : The Dining Room Manager may also be tipped, though most people do not. Additionally, if any of the service crew members do not provide the quality of service you expect, please let management know immediately. Disney Cruise Line will do everything it can to rectify the situation. They will also accommodate your dietary needs if you make them known before ordering.

How do you Pre-Pay Gratuities on a Disney Cruise?

Gratuities are added to your Disney cruise account automatically prior to the end of your cruise as a default. It is also possible to pay the suggested tip in advance by contacting either Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent no later than three days before the cruise starts .

If you prefer to pay for everything before you step aboard, that’s great! Just make sure you pre-pay the tips at least three days before your departure date, and you’ll have nothing to worry about on your cruise.

If you have questions about tipping on Disney cruises, want to step up your pre-payments, or wonder how much a Disney cruise will cost , it’s time to contact The Vacationeer . They can provide up to $1,000 in FREE Disney onboard credit , Disney’s best available pricing, and expert planning advice and assistance.

Can you Remove Gratuities on a Disney Cruise?

Yes, you can remove, reduce, or increase the automatic gratuities on a Disney cruise by visiting Guest Services during the cruise.

Disney automatically charges your onboard account the standard tip amounts (unless you pre-pay). No tip amount is set in stone, so Disney allows you to adjust them before the cruise ends if you want to give more or wish to give less; just contact Guest Services onboard your Disney Cruise .

How Do my Crew Members Know I Tipped Them?

At the end of your cruise, you will receive four envelopes and a sheet detailing all automatic tips that have been charged to your room folio. This sheet is perforated so you can separate the section relating to each Crew Member and place it in the envelope (along with additional cash should you desire).

You may give these envelopes directly to the serving team on the last night at dinner or at breakfast on your final morning. For your stateroom hostess, you may give the envelope to them in person or leave it in your room.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a chance to pass a tip envelope to a particular Crew Member… they’ll still receive the appropriate amount designated for them in your stateroom folio (but of course won’t get any actual cash you might have included).

Tipping Envelopes are provided at the end of your Disney Cruise

To summarize how Disney’s automatic gratuities work, you can 1. let Disney charge your account automatically, 2. pre-pay your gratuities, or 3. pass out individual envelopes with cash. It’s up to you! Just let your travel agent or Guest Services know if you wish to do something other than automatic gratuities.

Are Tips included at Palo and Remy?

Specialty dining on Disney cruises is a step above the regular dining room experience and is not included in a Disney cruise’s base price. You can choose between Palo and Remy, which both offer exquisite cuisine and an intimate setting.

Regarding tipping, an 18% gratuity will automatically be applied at dinner at Palo & Remy . However, you can also add additional gratuity if you feel that the service warrants it. For brunch, tips are included in the dining charge, but you can add gratuity if you desire . Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much to tip, but remember that the staff greatly appreciates the extra gratuity.

How Does Tipping Work at Bars and Clubs ?

Bar, beverage, wine, and deck service tabs will be automatically charged an 18% gratuity. Gratuities may be charged to your stateroom folio.

A gratuity of 18% will be automatically added to any drink ordered from a bartender, whether it is non-alcoholic or alcoholic. Sodas, bottled water, and alcohol ordered from room service will also have an automatic gratuity. Additionally, your server will add a gratuity to your bill if you order bottled water, a smoothie, or alcohol in the dining rooms.

Do you Tip for Room Service on a Disney Cruise?

Room service is one of the many perks of being on cruising with Disney . You can order anything you want, and it will be brought right to your stateroom door. Best of all, with the exception of a few packaged items and drinks, room service is complimentary. However, even though there is no charge for the food, it is customary to tip the person who brings it to your room .

You can add a tip to your onboard account when you sign the bill or give a cash tip. Most people leave a tip of at least $5. Whether or not you choose to tip is up to you.

Do you have questions about gratuities on the Disney Cruise Line? Contact the DCL experts at The Vacationeer for answers.

They can also advise you on the best Disney cruise ships , tell you which Disney Cruises depart from Florida , share their favorite Castaway Cay tips , and give you helpful ways to save money on a Disney cruise .

Contact The Vacationeer for a free, no-obligation quote today!

Are Gratuities Included for Spa Services?

Senses Spa & Salon offers a wide range of spa services, including massages, facials, and other pampering services. Unfortunately, the cost of spa services is not included in the Disney cruise nor its per-night automatic gratuities (though we still consider spa treatments at Senses to be a worthy splurge ).

That said, an 18% gratuity will automatically be applied to all spa services you receive. You do not need to add more unless you are so inclined.

Senses Spa & Salon | Image © Disney

Can you use Cash on a Disney Cruise Ship?

When planning a Disney cruise, one question that often arises is whether you can use cash onboard the ship. The answer is that all onboard purchases are charged back to your stateroom folio, but you can use cash to pay that folio. You can also give tips via cash if you wish. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

To begin with, you may use the credit card on file, American Express Travelers Cheques denominated in USD (United States Dollars), or pay with cash. Secondly, you must settle all charges before you leave the ship. This means that if you plan on using cash, you’ll need to have enough to cover your entire bill (or at least have a second payment method to use as well). Lastly, remember that gratuities are not included in your cruise fare, so you’ll need to have cash on hand to tip bus drivers, porters, tour guides, etc

When you’re off the ship at a port (except for Disney’s private island Castaway Cay ), your shipboard folio is no good for payment. Local currency or a credit/debit card is needed.

It’s generally best to bring a mix of cash and other forms of payment when cruising with Disney. That way, you’ll be prepared for anything.

How Much Do you Tip a Porter on a Disney Cruise?

Remember to bring small bills with you. This will make it easier to tip porters and bus drivers without breaking larger bills. Second, if you use Disney transportation (or any other transportation services), consider giving your bus driver a few dollars after arriving.

You should also tip people who assist you with your luggage, whether they’re unloading your bags from a bus or bringing them to your stateroom. It’s up to you how much you tip.

Should you Tip the Tour Guides on Port Adventures?

If you’re taking a Disney cruise, consider bringing some cash to tip your tour guides and drivers. While it’s not required, it’s good etiquette to show your appreciation for their service with a gratuity.

Most guides and drivers are very familiar with the customs of their home country, so they can be a valuable resource for information about what to see and do during your trip. They may also be able to provide insights into the culture that you wouldn’t get from reading a guidebook.

Tipping is generally done in cash, and US dollars are widely accepted in many foreign ports, so if you’re planning to take an excursion while on your cruise, be sure to bring some cash to show your appreciation for your guides and drivers.

How Does Tipping Work for the Concierge Level?

Prepare to tip even more if you are sailing at the concierge level . Concierge hosts rely heavily on tips, so be sure to tip generously . How much you tip is always up to you, but Disney now recommends at least $8 per passenger, per night, for the Concierge Lounge hosts. In addition, you’ll find your Concierge Stateroom Assistant Host is factored into the nightly automatic gratuities normally reserved only for the Stateroom Host and dining room staff. Remember that your concierge hosts are there to make your cruise as enjoyable as possible, so don’t hesitate to give them a little extra if they go above and beyond.

Are you expected to Tip for Disney Babysitting Services?

On a Disney Cruise, gratuity is not expected for babysitting services . However, if you feel that the babysitter did an exceptional job and you would like to show your appreciation, you may do so at your discretion.

Do you have questions? Are you ready to book your Disney Cruise? The Vacationeer can help!

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, please contact our friends at The Vacationeer . Their services are always helpful and free of charge!

We hope our How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise article will help you prepare for your magical vacation at sea. Happy sailing!

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What New Disney Cruise Ships Are Being Built?

What you need to know before you go on your Disney Cruise

Have you locked in your Disney Cruise Australia booking? Disney Cruise Lines is heading to Australia for the first time, and it’s such a great opportunity for Australians to get a taste of Disney in our own backyard. Sailing out of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from October 2023, you’ll be able to meet your favourite characters, enjoy themed dining, be in awe of Broadway-style shows, and just have an all-round magical time aboard your cruise.

No doubt this is a big investment for your family, so you’ll want to make sure to milk every magical moment from your Disney Cruise, so take in these tips, and get ready to go sailing…

Disney Cruise Australia: Everything you need to know

First up, Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App.

This is going to be your everything for when you cruise with Disney. Use it from home to plan your trip, book activities and check-in online. While on the cruise you can use it to chat with family and friends, and receive digital receipts. Download the free App here.

Next, start curating a Disney-themed outfit, or two.

If you’ve never visited a Disney park or sailed on a Disney cruise before, you should know that at anything Disney-related, people wear Disney clothing. Some will go full Disney theme the whole cruise, others a little Disney here and there, and some will opt for no Disney at all. So don’t feel pressured, because there’s no uniform of course – but I think it’s always nice to know in case you want to jump on board the Disney enthusiasm train!

Australian stores that often offer Disney clothing are Cotton On , Best & Less , Big W and Target . You can also buy custom made pieces from Etsy , or even buy from the Disney store online .

Then, get match fit for ALL the free soft serve.

How much ice cream will you consume on your trip? (Or moreso how much will the kids consume?). There is no answer. Eat as much as you like.

Be up to date with the COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

At present Disney is advising that all travelers aged 12 and over will need to be up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. Passengers with a medical exemption are permitted to travel without COVID-19 vaccination. Disney also states, “All passengers, regardless of vaccination status, 2 years of age and older must take a PCR test within 48 hours before boarding, or a self-administered rapid antigen test within 24 hours before boarding. Guests under 2 years of age do not require testing.”

Book in early for all the ‘extras’.

Disney’s Magic at Sea bookings have started opening up, so use the App to start booking any extras you want. If your cruise is stopping at a port or two, you’ll want to book your port activities ahead of time. Other extras include treatments at the spa, and fitness assessments. If you want to book at the Adult’s Only dining experience, Palo, then you’ll need to book in advance. Lastly, if you have a little Prince or Princess who wants to be transformed, book a spot at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. These generally book out quickly.

Bring-Your-Own Lanyard.

When cruising your key room card becomes your everything, it’s your credit card and room access key in one. Your room key is called “your key to the world”. It’s not that normal to carry around a bag, so most people will have their room key on a lanyard for ease. Of course it makes sense to have a Disney-themed lanyard . There are some available on the ship, but if you want to get organised, buy before you go. The ones above are from Etsy , there are loads of options.

Or pre-order a DisneyBand+.

Instead of carrying around a lanyard and card, you can opt for the DisneyBand+ (as seen above) that you can use to access your stateroom, board the ship, and also interact with parts of the ship. Note: This is a very new offering, there’s no information on whether this will be available on Disney Cruises Australia, so stay tuned for more information. On our recent trip to Disneyland we used the MagicBand+ and loved them, so I’d be keen to take on this offer (just one per family is enough for a cruise).

Know what’s included in your Disney Cruise.

You can step on board and relax, and know everything is covered (you can pay for extras if you choose). What’s included in your booking? Broadway-style entertainment, immersive dining experiences (expect singing while you dine), character meet and greets, your stateroom accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and room service, pools and waterslides, kids club, adults only pools, bar and lounges.

Pack light, it’ll be alright.

Cruise staterooms aren’t roomy. In fact they’re generally the opposite. Try to pack light so you can have more room to move about your cabin. Empty suitcases can generally be stored under beds, but if you’re only going for a few nights, a soft bag can sometimes be easier to store. Either way, don’t over pack.

But also, pack a carry on.

Once you board the ship, there will be a period where you’ll be roaming the ship and waiting to go into you room. This could be hours, so have a carry on bag with essentials while you wait. You might like to pack swimwear for the kids and yourself, and sunscreen.

Bring decorations for your stateroom door.

Yep, decorations. I know this seems OTT, but most things Disney are. When we’ve cruised before, we’ve brought a subtle decoration (a ribbon or something similar) so that the kids could recognise which room is ours – because there are rows and rows of doors. Disney Wonder’s Stateroom doors are metal, so you can decorate with magnets. There are some customisable options on Etsy which I’m currently eyeing off.

Just make sure your decorations are magnetic. Adhesive is not OK to use on the doors, and if they have any damage there will be a USD$100 fine.

Bring a little Disney Pixie Dust with you.

Pixie Dust? It’s a little Disney-style thank you for Cast Members and fellow travelers. When visiting Disney Parks we bring little Aussie-themed gifts for cast members and characters, many others will make small gifts to offer to cast members. These can be homemade crafts, little notes etc. Have some family fun and create little gifts to take along with you. Note: Homemade foods are not allowed, so don’t bring that in.

Once on the ship, indulge in the free Room Service.

It’s available 24/7 and it’s free (although some items and beverages will incur a fee). Want fries at 1am? Why not! Go for it. Other room service offerings are breakfast items, healthy burgers, hot dogs, fresh salads, appetisers, grilled salmon, and delicious desserts.

Don’t stress about dinner reservations.

You’ll be automatically assigned a restaurant to eat at each night for dinner, making sure that you rotate through each restaurant on the ship. So, there’s no need to stress about making reservations, all the work is done for you. You’ll be able to pick between a Main Seating (5:45pm) or a Late Seating.

Get in line early for Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.

The Frozen musical is going to be super popular, so line up early to assure that you get a seat. If you’re traveling with little ones, make sure to grab a booster seat on the way in through the entry doors, so you don’t have to double back.

Enjoy the free WiFi, but only once you’re out at sea.

Each stateroom will be gifted free WiFi but only up to 50MB (which isn’t much), but make sure you use your mobile reception for as long as possible, and then tap into the WiFi after that. You can purchase more data if needed.

Eat Beignets at Tiana’s Place.

It’s the hottest (literally) dessert on the ship. Beignets (ben-yays) are a donut-style dessert that is super popular at Disneyland, so I can’t wait to try these.

Don’t forget your dress code.

While most restaurants have a casual dress code, all have a strict no swimwear or tank top rule.

Tip your cast members.

Tipping isn’t something that is as common in Australia as it is in the States. Some cast members rely on tips, so do keep that in mind. Disney Cruise Lines recommend that you tip USD$14.50 per person, per night of your stay. These tips will be shared with your Stateroom Host, and your Dining Room servers.

Book your Disney Cruise Australia here.

Will you be aboard one of the Disney Cruise Australia cruises?

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A Special New Season - On Sale Now!

Disney Magic at Sea has had a spectacular inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand.

Now, a special new season is coming from October 2024 to February 2025. Booking is now open so be sure to secure your spot early!

Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney storytelling with favourite Characters, imaginative dining, Broadway-style shows and themed parties throughout your sailing. It’s all included with your cruise departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

Set sail for an unforgettable Disney Cruise Line holiday. We can’t wait to see you!

Fun for everyone

Set sail for Disney Magic at Sea, an unforgettable holiday filled with favourite friends, spectacular shows and imaginative dining

Don't let the magic sail without you!

Disney Magic at Sea brings enchantment and cherished Disney friends to our shores for a special new season from October 2024 to February 2025. We can't wait to see you !

Follow our Disney Magic at Sea socials for updates

When is Disney Magic at Sea coming to Australia & New Zealand?

Now, due to popular demand, we are excited to announce a special new season sailing in Australia and New Zealand from October 2024 to February 2025.

How many nights can you spend on Disney Magic at Sea?

Disney Magic at Sea brings enchantment and cherished Disney friends to your shores for 2 – 6 nights. Our special new season will be coming to Australia and New Zealand on 2 – 7 night sailings from October 2024 to February 2025.

Where will Disney Magic at Sea be visiting in Australia & New Zealand?

You will be able to immerse yourself in the magic of Disney storytelling with favourite Characters, imaginative dining, Broadway-style shows and themed parties from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

When and where can I book to sail on Disney Magic at Sea?

When and where can I book to sail on the Disney Magic at Sea?

Our special new season sailing from October 2024 to February 2025 is on sale now.

You can book at DisneyCruiseLine.com/AUNZ or by contacting your preferred travel agent.

Health and safety measures, ports of call and offerings may change at any time without notice. On board venues, experiences, services and offerings may be modified or limited in capacity or availability, and are subject to restrictions, cancellation or closure without notice. See disneycruise.com/updates .

Ships' Registry: The Bahamas

FAQ Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: EVERYTHING You Need to Know

First time Disney Cruisers often have A LOT of questions about how to tip on their vacation. Some guests get overwhelmed, thinking – this is new environment to me – I don’t want to seem cheap, but I also don’t want to get rooked. Which tips are required and which are optional? How does tipping physically work? And on and on and on … Never fear, we’ve got the COMPLETE scoop on what you need to know about tipping on your Disney Cruise Line sailing.

I’m on a strict budget. What’s the bare minimum I have to tip?

The bare bones Disney Cruise Line gratuity amount is currently $14.50, per person, per night, for guests staying in non-concierge staterooms.

If, for example, you’re traveling on a three-night cruise with a party of two, your total gratuity fee would be $87 ($14.50 x 2 people x 3 nights). If you’re traveling on a seven-night cruise with a party of four, your total gratuity fee would be $407 ($14.50 x 4 people x 7 nights).

This baseline amounts will be automatically added to your stateroom bill. You can choose to pay them in advance of your sailing or once you’re onboard.

If you’re having trouble figuring out what your party’s baseline tip amount will be, head over Scott Sanders’ excellent Disney Cruise Line Blog to use his DCL Tip Calculator tool .

If you’re sailing in a concierge stateroom, tipping is slightly different – I’ll cover that in a sec.

Who do those tips go to?

The breakout of the daily $14.50 is:

$4.75 for your server (your main waiter)
$3.75 for your assistant server (the waiter primarily tasked with your beverages and clearing)
$1.25 for your head server (runs the dining room)
$4.75 for your stateroom host (cleans and maintains your stateroom).

There are other situations where you’ll be tipping on the ship, the base gratuity covers these four people.

Do I really have to tip all those people? I mean, I don’t even know what the head server does?

The server, assistant server, and stateroom host are people that will be highly visible during your trip. They’ll assist you daily and you’ll observe them doing their jobs.

On the other hand, the head server position is a bit of a black box. They will likely stop by your table to greet you during dinner, but otherwise it’s not immediately clear what they do to merit a gratuity. Here’s what they’re up to: the head server is responsible for making sure that the entire dining room runs smoothly. This will impact you personally if you’ve made any special requests about your meal situation. If you want your table in a specific location, if you want to avoid sitting with strangers, if you want to make a mid-cruise change to your dining rotation, or if you’re having a problem with your table’s serving team, then the head server is the one who deals with those issues. You should tip them.

I’m from a country that doesn’t have a tipping culture, can I forgo tipping?

Can you? Maybe. (see below)

Should you? Definitely not.

The Disney Cruise Line website reads, “It is customary to give gratuities …” Tipping is the norm and you should be prepared to abide by this custom.

The DCL crew members in tipped positions have a modest base salary; the majority of their pay comes from gratuities. These folks work incredibly hard to enhance your cruise experience, with no days off for months at a time. Just pretend that it’s part of the baseline cost of your trip and move on.

I’m traveling with a baby that doesn’t eat solid food. Do I still have to pay gratuities for them?

A baby is a person, so yes.

I see that I can pre-pay these gratuities ahead of my cruise. Should I do that?

It’s really up to you. Some guests prefer to have a larger portion of their cruise expense paid in advance, often because this helps their budgeting process. Other guests like to hang onto their money as long as possible and only mete it out when required.

You can prepay tips on the DCL website. Or if you’re using a travel agent, they can do this for you.

Do I have to tip the serving team members if I won’t be eating in the main dining rooms?

Several years ago I traveled on a three-night Disney Cruise Line with a group of friends. One member of our party never ate in a main dining room. She was ill one evening and ate in her room and the other two nights our party ate at Remy and Palo.

Since my friend didn’t use the services of any of the main dining room staff, she went to Guest Services and asked to have the gratuities for those folks removed from her bill. The cruise staff gave her some solid pushback, but in the end they did remove those tips from her folio.

Why did she get pushback? It turns out that the waitstaff does much more than serve you dinner. They’re also serving meals at the pool deck buffet restaurants, in the main dining rooms during breakfast or lunch, and on Castaway Cay. In short, even if you’re not eating dinner in the main dining rooms, you’re all but certain to be using waiter services during other portions of your trip.

And again, these folks don’t make a lot of money. If you have the wherewithal to take a Disney Cruise Line vacation, the addition of a de minimus tip will mean significantly more to them than it will to you.

I love my serving team and room host. Can I tip them more that the minimum? Should I tip them more than the minimum?

If you have the funds to do so and the spirit moves you, then yes, absolutely you should tip them more. Any additional gratuities are greatly appreciated by the cruise staff.

How much extra should I tip beloved ship crew?

Ask a thousand people and you’ll get a thousand different answers. And when you get those answers, you can’t 100% be sure that what they’ve told you is true.

Given that, I’ll describe some of my own “extra tip” scenarios as well as some that I’ve seen from trusted friends and relatives:

Extra just wasn’t in the budget
The serving team was good but did nothing that merited a supplement
We skipped the main dining room several nights
We gave an extra $X per person, per night, where X is anything from $5 to $20+
We gave one member of our team (such as just the stateroom host) an extra tip (say $100) because they made our trip extra special
We gave all members of our a flat extra tip because we like to be generous
We give extra on longer sailings (7+ nights) when we really get to know our serving team, but we don’t give extra on quick 3-night sailings when we interact less with the crew members

If I want to tip extra, do I need to bring cash?

If you simply want to give extra to your four main service team members (the ones listed above) you can do that in cash. Or if you prefer not to carry much cash, you can stop by the Guest Services Desk onboard at any time and add funds to the gratuity part of your bill. Either way works.

There are, however, some other tipping situations where you will want to have cash on hand (see below).

How do tip my servers/room host? Physically, what happens?

On one of the last nights of your sailing, your stateroom host will leave you four small envelopes (labeled Server, Assistant Server, Head Server, and Stateroom Host) along with a tan-colored paper (perforated into four sections) which gives the names of your service team members and the basic tip amounts. But there are no instructions on what you’re supposed to do with these items. Guests often find this confusing.

The easiest situation is that you’re giving the baseline tip level. If you’re just giving the recommended amount, you don’t really have to do anything. Your folio (cruise bill) will be billed the standard amount (or you’ve paid the standard amount in advance) and that amount will be automatically distributed to your crew team. You can keep the summary sheet for your records or throw it out.

Other ways to approach tipping are:

If you plan to give your crew members the standard gratuities but think it feels weird to leave on the last day without handing them anything – Place the perforated strips from the summary sheet into the corresponding envelopes and hand them to the crew members on the last night of your sailing.
Place cash in the envelope(s) and hand them to your team on the last night of your cruise
Place both the perforated strip and additional cash in the envelope(s) and hand them to your team on the last night of your cruise
Add a gift card to the envelope(s) rather than cash. Some guests feel uncomfortable carrying cash and don’t want to deal with possible waits at Guest Services, but they do want to give something extra of financial value. We’ll say up front that crew members very much prefer cash, it’s easy to use in ports and to send to family members back home. But if cash is not your thing, Visa or American Express gift cards or store cards from big box locations such as Target or Walmart often appreciated.
Do any of the above and add a personal note of thanks .

Do I tip bartenders on the ship?

Bar tabs (at the coffee bars and at the traditional bars) on the Disney Cruise Line ships have an automatic 18% gratuity added. There is also a line for you to add an additional tip if you choose to give more.

Do I tip for room service?

Many of the room servic e items on DCL are available free of charge. A gratuity is optional for most room service orders; however, tipping is polite and greatly appreciated. The amount you tip is at your discretion. If you’re looking for a rule of thumb, start with $1 per item ordered or $2-3 per person and go up from there.

On a recent cruise on the Dream, my daughter and I ordered room service continental breakfast of coffee, fruit, and cereal. We tipped $5.

You can give the room service attendant cash or add a tip to the receipt you’ll get when your food is delivered.

How much should I tip at the onboard adult dining venues (Remy, Palo, Enchanté)?

There is an 18% gratuity automatically added to the price of any alcohol you purchase at the onboard adult dining venues (Remy, Enchanté, and Palo).

There is no specific amount you’re required to tip for food. That said, at a bare minimum you should tip at least 20% for the food bill. If you’re a Platinum cruiser and are getting your food comped, you should still tip at least 20% of what your food cost would have been.

My opinion only – you do you – I don’t think that bare minimum level of tipping is adequate for the impeccable service you’re getting at these restaurants. You can never go wrong by tipping more.

You can add tips to your bill at the end of your meal as you would if you were paying with a credit card at any restaurant on land.

How much should I tip at the spa?

Tipping is customary for spa and salon services. You’ll see an 18% gratuity added to your bill, but you can always add more.

Are there people I need to tip at my port?

Yes. There are porters who will take any checked luggage onto the ship for you. These folks should be tipped in cash. A typical tip is $5 for one or two suitcases, $10 for two or three suitcases, and additional multiples of that for additional bags.

Similarly, if you use the porters at disembarkation, tip them the same amounts.

And if you’ve used a car service, Uber, or bus to get to/from the port, your driver will likely need tips as well.

Should I be tipping anyone during my onshore excursions?

Most of the shore excursions are run by third party companies, not by Disney itself. The DCL website says that tipping is not required, but it is ALWAYS appreciated. Use your discretion on how much to tip based on the length of your excursion, the number of people in your party and the level of personal attention you receive.

I’m in a concierge level stateroom? Is there anything different about tipping there?

In July 2022, DCL updated its recommended baseline tips for guests staying in Concierge Level staterooms. The recommended gratuity is $15.50 per person, per night of sailing, compared to $14.50 for non-Concierge rooms. The difference is that these rooms have an Assistant Stateroom Host position tipped at $1.00 per person per night.

The breakdown is:

Dining Room Server – $4.75 per person, per night
Assistant Dining Room Server – $3.75 per person, per night
Dining Room Head Server – $1.25 per person, per night
Stateroom Host – $4.75 per person, per night
Assistant Stateroom Host – $1.00 per person, per night

Additionally, Concierge Guests often ask for guidance regarding gratuities for the Concierge Lounge Team (Concierge Managers and the Concierge Servers). Disney recommends that these folks receive a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom guest. However, it is always up to the Guest to determine what they feel is appropriate. MANY guests tip more than this baseline.

My child absolutely adores the youth activities team. Should I tip them?

Youth activities staff are not normally tipped. Indeed, they’re supposed to decline tips. That said, they are allowed to accept cash, gift cards, and small gifts if you insist three times. Adding a note written/colored by your child is a nice touch.

Are there other folks on the ship I should be tipping?

If you’re lucky enough to snag a cabana at Castaway Cay, you’ll be attended by a host who’ll bring you extra towels or sodas, give you a golf cart ride back to the ship, and generally make your life nicer. Tip these folks in cash depending on the size of your party and the level of attention you receive.

Any other helpful hints?

If you really care about your crew team, the best thing you can do to reward them is by giving them EXCELLENT (not Very Good) ratings on the comment card you’ll get on your last night onboard. These ratings are a big part of how crew members get promoted.

Also, some guests like to bring candy, American magazines, or trinkets from home to give to cruise staff. This is a nice thought, but not necessarily best practice. The crew rooms are extremely small (you’d be shocked how tiny) shared quarters. They don’t have much room for extra “stuff.” Additionally, they might have allergies or different tastes than yours. Cash really is best and gift cards are a runner up. If you want to give something else, consider it as a supplement to a gratuity and not a substitute.

Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

6 thoughts on “ FAQ Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: EVERYTHING You Need to Know ”

Quote “Disney recommends that these folks receive a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom guest. However, it is always up to the Guest to determine what they feel is appropriate. MANY guests tip more than this baseline.”.

My questions are: 1. How do you define “MANY”? 2. How do you know there are MANY? Any statistics revealed back up this statement?

“Many” is a rough guess that about 50-60% of guests give more than the suggested amount. I don’t have any hard statistics. However, we interview guests and travel agents and monitor dozens of social media groups related to Disney Cruise Line. The tipping topic comes up often. More than 50% of guests that we see/read mention tipping more than the baseline. It’s self-reported, so some of this could be bluster, but it’s enough that we feel confident that a significant subset of guests give more than the standard tip. It is, of course, entirely up to you to decide what makes sense for your situation.

Sorry – forgot the second half of your question @Julie. If you’ve purchased a Rainforest pass and are just going in to use the shower and steam rooms and relax in the lounge area, then no, there’s not really anyone to tip.

However, if you have a particularly helpful cast member who brings you extra towels or beverages or otherwise goes above and beyond, then tipping them a few dollars cash is always nice.

I thought I heard somewhere that you can tip for room service in the app. Is this true? Also, would you tip for using the Rainforest Room? If so, who would you tip?

Room service tipping on the app was something that happened early in the return to sailing after the pandemic shutdown as a way to reduce physical contact with items.

I sailed four time on three DCL ships (Dream, Magic, and Wish) in 2022. Room service tipping on the app was not offered to me on any of these trips. Instead I was presented with a paper receipt to sign, with a line available to add a tip amount, just as the practice was pre-COVID.

Great article as always.

Some items we would also add. We bring a bag of individually wrapped candies (like star burst or smarties) for the kids club hosts. They use them for team building and prizes for the department.

You can also tip just about any person on the ship as well. If you can get their name, where they are from, and what department (it helps) you can go to guest services. We found that out during our last cruise.

What To Know About Tipping & Gratuities On A Disney Cruise

by Sara Varney | Nov 29, 2021 | Disney Cruise Line | 2 comments

disney cruise line magic what to know about tipping on a disney cruise

When planning the budget for a Disney Cruise, tipping is an often overlooked category! On Disney Cruise Line, understanding how tipping and gratuities work is part of the planning process. Here is what to know about tipping on a Disney Cruise.

Tipping can be one of the most uncomfortable topics to think about when planning a Disney Cruise . And if you are not American, it may not be something you even realize is part of cruising with Disney! The Cast Members on Disney Cruise Line are the best in the cruise industry in my opinion. The way their contracts work, tipping is a huge part of their compensation.

Personally, while I may wish that we simply paid people well for the work that they do (but I digress), the cruise industry still pays their crew much less than one would make in a land-based position, with the understanding that the opportunities for tips are much higher. So who should you be tipping, and how much?

Automatic Gratuities

Tipping the four main cast member positions.

Disney Cruise Line automatically charges guests a set amount for select gratuities. These gratuities can be pre-paid prior to boarding by calling Disney Cruise Line, asking your Travel Agent to add them to your reservation, or will be added to your onboard account when you board. Currently, this amount is $13.50, per person, per night. (See breakdown below.) On the last night of your cruise, you will receive envelopes and vouchers in your room – one for each position.

Many guests choose to add additional cash in addition to the vouchers to the envelopes of Cast Members who have provided exceptional service. I honestly cannot think of a single cruise when I was not enthusiastically adding cash to most, if not all, envelopes. HOWEVER – if you disagree with the suggested amount for any reason, you can visit the Guest Services desk in the lobby to have the amount adjusted or removed.

But please – if you are having the type of issue that might lead to this, let Guest Services know as soon as possible to give them a chance to make it right. It is possible the issue to due to circumstances beyond the individual cast members control.

You then bring the envelopes to dinner on your last night to give to the Cast Members in person. Not eating in the dining room that night? No problem, just bring the envelopes to breakfast on disembarkation day. As a last resort, you can leave the envelopes with the Guest Services desk.

Stateroom Host – $4.50 per person, per night Head Server – $1 per person, per night Dining Room Server – $4.50 per person, per night Assistant Server – $3.50 per person, per night

The interior of a Verandah Stateroom on Disney Cruise Line

Other Disney Cruise Cast Members Who Receive “Automatic” Tips

Ok, so I pre-paid my gratuities. I’m done, right? Not so fast… There are a couple of other instances where tips are automatically added to your bill!

Senses Spa automatically adds an additional 18% gratuity to your bill. There is a space when you sign to add an additional amount for exceptional service. Or again, if the service was not up to your expectations, please let the front desk know.

Drinks also include an automatic 18% gratuity, whether ordered at a bar, or from a server.

Spa/Salon – 18% of service Drinks/Bartenders/Servers – 18% of total

A romantic escape awaits couples in Senses Spa & Salon on the Disney Magic. Private spa villas feature an indoor spa treatment suite connected to a private outdoor verandah with personal whirlpool hot tub, open-air shower and lounge chairs. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Other Tipping Onboard Your Disney Cruise Ship

Ok so that takes care of the automatic tips. That’s it, right? Not quite! There are a few other places where tipping is customary, if not mandatory, on Disney Cruise .

If you are staying Concierge on Disney Cruise Line (lucky!), the Concierge Staff depends almost entirely on tips for their compensation. You will receive an envelope in your room on the last night for the concierge staff, in addition to the envelopes for the four cast members listed above. Some guests utilize the Concierge staff more than others, so the amount can vary widely. (And I do mean widely – it is not uncommon for some guests to tip $100 per night.) You may also wish to tip the bartender in the Concierge Lounge.

Palo and Remy both have service fees for each guest that, in theory, are meant to cover the servers tip. HOWEVER – both Palo and Remy are fine dining experiences where the market value of the meal would be well upwards of $150 at Palo, and $300 at Remy. And if you add wine or drinks to this, the number goes even higher. This is an instance where the technically the tip may be included, but I would strongly urge adding an additional amount.

Then there is Room Service. Room service is included in the cost of your Disney Cruise, and I cannot say this strongly enough – ORDER ROOM SERVICE AT LEAST ONCE ON YOUR DISNEY CRUISE! I like to keep a stash of singles and fives in a drawer near the stateroom door. You can also add the tip to the slip when you sign for it, but I find the Cast Members who deliver room service really seem to appreciate the cash tips!

Concierge – At guest’s discretion, depends on length of cruise and level of service provided) Palo – Service charge plus gratuity at guest’s discretion Remy – Service charge plus gratuity at guest’s discretion Room Service – $3-5 per delivery (more for larger orders)

The servers at Palo are phenomenal. Photo Courtesy of Disney. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Tipping in Port and on Castaway Cay

But what about when you get off the ship in port? Or before you even board the ship? Your experience with tipping likely starts before you even board your Disney Cruise ship. A good rule of thumb is that anyone who touches your luggage should be tipped. So the porters that help you unload and check your bags when you arrive at the port and when you disembark the ship? Tip them!

Then there are the ports you will visit during your cruise, including Castaway Cay . If you will be doing an excursion while in port, be prepared to tip your Guide as well as your driver (if there is one).

On Castaway Cay, it is a MOSTLY cashless environment. The exception to this is the hair braiders and face painters that can often be found on the island. These positions are tipped in cash so be sure to bring some cash with you when you get off the ship! (Pro tip – the post office on Castaway Cay is also cash-only so if you plan to mail a postcard home postmarked Castaway Cay, you will need cash for this as well.)

Excursion Guides – 10 – 20% of the tour price per person Excursion Bus or Van Drivers – $2 – 5 per person Luggage Assistance – $2 – 5 per bag is recommended

Bring Cash On Your Disney Cruise

By this point in this post, you’ve come to realize that cash is an important thing to bring on your Disney Cruise. There is no ATM onboard so if you forget, you will need to find an ATM in a port! (And possibly pay the foreign ATM fees. Woof.) You also want to be sure that you have dollar bills, five dollar bills, etc. Because the ship is a cashless environment, they cannot make change for you in the shops. (Though I feel certain room service would be thrilled to get a $20!)

Tipping and gratuities can add up to a significant chunk of change on a Disney Cruise . But the level of service is worth every penny in my opinion!

P.S. Now that you’ve found us, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter below or in the link on the side! You can also check us out on YouTube , Facebook , and Instagram !

What to Know About Tipping and Gratuities on a Disney Cruise

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Where did you get that info of 13.50 per night? It looks like it’s about $54(!) per night for tipping per Disney website?

https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/faq/onboard-services/gratuities/

The totals on that page are for the length of the cruise. See the part on the top of the grid where it says 3-night, 4-night, 7-night?

So for example, using the 3-night cruise: $13.50 for the Dining Room Server + $10.50 for the Asst Server + $3 for the Head Server + $13.50 for the Stateroom Host/ess = $40.50 per person. Divide that by 3 nights and you get $13.50 per night! 🙂

I hope that helps! Sara

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Do I have to tip on a cruise ship? Tipping rules that confuse Aussies

Do you need to tip staff on a cruise ship? How much do you need to budget? The answer to one of the biggest questions on Australian cruisers' minds is ... complicated.

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I remember once, when I was straight out of university, catching a yellow cab in New York with a group of fellow Australians. It was a colleague’s turn to pay and he refused to tip.

After some begging from the rest of the passengers and explanations on how tipping is customary in the US, he ended up begrudgingly throwing the greenbacks we gave him at the driver. Throwing! I was horrified.

He later explained that having not grown up on a steady diet of US movies and sitcoms, he didn’t understand that for certain services in the US – taxis, room service, haircuts, even buying a drink at a bar – you always tip. He tipped generously from then on.

Tipping can be equally confusing and unexpected for cruisers. On most ships, gratuities are customary; it’s the accepted practice to supplement service crew wages. Usually around $20 a day, per guest, with the proceeds divided up among housekeeping and food and beverage crew.

See also: Never make this curtain mistake on a cruise

See also: The new rules about tipping in the USA

Butler service on luxury cruise line Silversea.

Many cruise lines have made it easier to pay, so you don’t need to spend time on your phone calculator working out that extra 15 or 20 per cent for every drink, meal or expertly cleaned stateroom. For those sailing with Viking , for example, gratuities are included in the cruise fare. Viking Australia and New Zealand managing director Michelle Black says Australian travellers are not familiar with tipping culture as it’s not a part of the Australian way of life.

“Including gratuities removes the stress for our guests.” she says. “They don’t need to worry about working out who to tip, when and how much. Including gratuities also means they are fairly distributed across all shipboard staff, including back-of-house staff who are not customer-facing.”

Other lines factor tips into the daily price. On Royal Caribbean Cruises , the automatic tip is $US14.50 (about $21), or $US17.50 (about $25) for suite guests, applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis. The tip applies to individual guests of all ages and stateroom categories. The tips are then shared among dining, bar and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes.

Royal Caribbean's cruises automatically calculate tips.

In Australian waters, some lines, including P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia , do not require tips, nor are they factored into the overall price. According to the lines, it’s a longstanding position that reflects the Australian market. Carnival’s website states: “You are welcome to reward our on-board crew for exceptional service, however tipping is not required.”

Dan Russell, general manager of Brisbane-based travel agency Clean Cruising , says clients often ask about the protocol with gratuities and how it might differ between cruise lines.

“It’s been a couple of years since Aussies have cruised, so they’re probably trying to remember how it all works,” he says.

P&O Australia ship Pacific Adventure is among those that don't require tips.

Dan doesn’t think Aussies are stingy tippers. Indeed, even when gratuities are included in a fare, they will give an additional tip for a specific service, he says.

“It could be for someone who looked after their room, or someone that looked after them at the bar every afternoon,” he says.

If you’re unsure, Dan recommends asking your travel agent and checking with the cruise line before booking.

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Everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line in Australia

September 22, 2022 by ohsobusymum 15 Comments

I’m so EXCITED! Disney Cruise Line is bringing the Disney Wonder cruise ship to Australia for the very first time! You might have noticed that the price of a Disney cruise is a little more than others currently sailing in Australia, so I thought I would break it down for you and let you know exactly what is included and everything you need to know about cruising with Disney Cruise Line in Australia.

Yes, a Disney cruise is more expensive than others available (I call that the Disney tax) and here is why. Firstly it's Disney; everything Disney attracts a higher price, but behind the Disney name comes that Disney magic at sea that can't be matched by other cruise lines. If you have ever visited a Disney Park, you will know exactly what I'm talking about when I say "Disney magic".

Disney Cruise Line is all about families, and everything on board has been designed and planned with families in mind. From having split bathrooms with bathtubs (say what?) to the activities and food choices on board. Disney is a 5-star cruise line with the magic starting the second you check in for your cruise.

I’m beyond excited about this announcement, and I will be online with thousands of you trying to secure a spot on one of the Disney cruises out of Brisbane. If you’re trying to secure a spot, I recommend you jump online to the Disney Cruise Line website and sign your account before the cruises are released on September 29th at 8 am AEST or 11 am NZDT to increase your chances of securing a booking.

Here is Everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line in Australia

What's included on a disney cruise in the price .

All food including breakfast, lunch and dinner AND room service (hello, to the famous Mickey shaped ice cream bars delivered straight to your cabin!)
Soft drinks, coffee, tea and water are served at meals and at each of the ship’s beverage stations
Snacks and ice cream throughout the ship
Entertainment including live Broadway-style productions at the Walt Disney Theatre as well as Disney movie classics and current first-run films at the Buena Vista Theatre
Kids Club (except the "It's a Small World" nursery)
Waterslides and pools
Use of the Disney app where you can make changes, book activities, view schedules and use the chat feature on board. This is handy to keep in touch with your family on board
Just about everything you could ever think of……

What's not included in the price

Alcoholic beverages
Gratuities/tips (this can be removed if requested at guest services though customary to tip in America)
Port Adventures excursions
Spa and salon services
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Babysitting in the ship’s nurseries
Photography service
Palo restaurant
24-hour self-service guest laundry facilities equipped with washers and dryers, along with detergent and complimentary ironing equipment. No coins are needed―pay using your Key to the World card

Pricing

Disney has just released prices with the focus of the ship being the “destination”.

Cruises sailing from Sydney AUD prices start from (for 2 nights on 01/11/23, based on a family of 4):

* Inside Stateroom: $2,273

* Oceanview Stateroom: $2,397

* Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah: $2,660

* Concierge Stateroom with Verandah: $4,141

Cruises sailing from Melbourne AUD prices start from (for 2 nights on 01/11/23 based on a family of 4):

Cruises sailing from Brisbane AUD prices start from for 2 nights on 20/12/23, based on family of 4):

* Inside Stateroom: $3,877

* Oceanview Stateroom: $4,107

* Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah: $4,634

* Concierge Stateroom with Verandah: $7,331

Disney Cruise Line ships have been designed with families in mind. Rooms have curtains to separate the sleeping area, which is perfect for the young ones. All rooms also have a split bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and bathtub on one side, and a toilet and sink on the other side.

Base Inside Staterooms - featuring a classic nautical motif, porthole mirror and no exterior view:

Deluxe Inside Stateroom (sleeps 3 -4)
Standard Inside Stateroom (sleeps 3 -4)

Oceanview Rooms - Enjoy more space than standard and scenic vistas through a real porthole window—or possibly 2!

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Sleeps 4)

Verandah - The most spacious non-Concierge staterooms, each with a private verandah, some with partial views.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah The room you want to book for a family of 5! (sleeps 4-5)
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (sleeps 4)
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah (sleeps 4)

Concierge - The most luxurious rooms and most expensive, each with a large private verandah and premium amenities and services.

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (sleeps 5)
Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (sleeps 7)
Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (sleeps 4)

The Food

Disney Cruise Line works on ‘rotating dining’ with 3 main dining rooms. There are also casual dining options. Disney's rotating dining means that you will rotate between the three main dining rooms during each night of your cruise, and your servers rotate with you. You will have to reserve your dining time when you book, with the main seating at 5:45pm and the second seating at 8:15pm.

Animator's Palate

Animator's Palate celebrates the art of storytelling with an interactive dinner. The restaurant will change from black and white images to colour masterpieces throughout your dining experience. Guests can draw characters and see them come to life in animation. It's a fun and interactive dinner that will soon become one of your favourites.

Tiana's Palate

Tiana's Palate is a themed restaurant based around the story of the Princess and the Frog. The style of this restaurant is a New Orleans style party with live music to keep everyone entertained. It's fun and entertaining, but loud with the live music. You can expect Southern style cuisine from steak, chicken to fish and the kid's menu will not disappoint.

Triton's is named after Ariel's father from The Little Mermaid and is the most upscale restaurant on rotational dining aboard the Disney Wonder. It's themed ‘under the sea’ with a French and American menu. Triton's is the only dining room to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Palo (extra charge)

Palo is a paid upscale restaurant that is adults only serving up Italian cuisine. It makes the perfect date night dining experience without the kids. Palo also serves brunch. You can expect to pay an extra $40USD ($60AUD) per person to dine here. You can read reviews online to see if it's worth it for you.

Casual Dining

Pinocchio's Pizza - Grab a slice of pizza throughout the day whenever you're hungry!

Eye Scream Treats - The perfect spot to grab a soft serve ice cream (eat as much as you want!)

Pete's Boiler Bites - You will find classic American food like hot dogs, tacos and burgers.

Daisy's De-Lites - Grab a salad, sandwich, wraps or some fresh fruit here

Cabanas - Cabanas serve a buffet style breakfast and lunch (hello Mickey waffles) and at dinner, transform to table service where you can enjoy a 4 course meal

Room Service - Included in the price of your cruise, room service is available 24 hours a day, for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Any room service gratuity/tips are at your discretion and should be around $1 per item

Bars and Lounges

French Quarter Lounge - A perfect stop to grab a coffee or cocktail while listening to some live music. During the day, it turns into a family friendly spot with games and activities plus character meets

Crown & Fin Pub - This is an adult only bar that resembles a British pub. You can enjoy watching sporting events and live music

Cove Cafe - This is another adults only bar that offers cocktails, wine and specialty drinks

Cadillac Lounge - Adult only exclusive in an intimate piano bar with a 1950's theme

Signals - This is located right next to the Cove pool, so it makes it the perfect place to grab a drink while lounging around the pool area

The Kids Club

The Disney Wonder has 5 options when it comes to kids clubs on board. When I say kids club, it's not your typical kids club. Disney Cruise Line kids clubs are world class with themed play areas. Kids will even have the chance to meet their favourite characters!

Oceaneer Club - Disney's Oceaneer Club is suitable for ages 3-12 years old (must be fully toilet trained). It's all about fantasy here with Andy's Room multilevel playground, Marvel Superhero Academy, Disney Junior games and a Frozen Adventure area.

Oceaneer Lab - suitable for ages 3 - 12 years old (must be fully toilet trained). With four lands to explore in the Oceaneer Lab, your kids won't want to leave (connected to the Oceaneer Club so kids can move between the 2). It's all about fun and learning with an animator's studio, captains workshop, craft studio and the wheelhouse where kids can steer the ship in any direction they please.

Edge - Suitable for ages 11-14 years old , edge provides a hangout spot for tweens to have fun and make new friends. Tweens can play video games, take selfies on the dedicated wall, do scavenger hunts, karaoke and dance on the dance floor.

Vibe - Suitable for ages 14-17 years old and is a teens only hangout! Teens will find video games, board games, dance parties and a coffee bar to serve up non alcoholic drinks.

It's a Small World nursery - Suitable for ages 6 months - 3 years old and an extra charge. Disney's trained staff will take care of the little ones and keep them entertained.

Make sure you register your children for the kids club on the first day of the cruise.

Entertainment

Mickey's Sail A Wave Party - To kick off leaving the dock, you will enjoy the most magical party to celebrate with dancing, singing and character visits

Pirate nigh t - This one is a favourite night to celebrate! Dress up as a pirate and enjoy dinner with your pirate bandana and end the night with a celebration on deck (some cruises have fireworks)

Outdoor movies on the big screen - You can enjoy an ice cream or cocktail by the pool while watching one of the Disney classics

Live shows - You won't get bored with the range of musicals and shows on board in the theatre

Fireworks - It hasn’t been announced if fireworks will be included on the Australian cruises, but we can all cross our fingers for this experience

Character meets - Meet, greet and strike a pose with some of your favourite Disney Characters! Kids of all ages can share hugs with Cinderella or goof around with Goofy. Take pictures with Mickey, Minnie and Peter Pan or collect autographs from that lovable but ever-mischievous duo, Chip 'n Dale

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique - Book an appointment at this enchanted salon where kids arrive as themselves and leave as a princess, knight or sea captain (paid)

Adults Only

Now I know when you hear Disney cruise you think kids cruise, but Disney caters to the big kids too!

Nightclubs and lounges featuring cocktails, entertainment and dancing
Quiet Cove pool is a tranquil oasis where you can swim, enjoy whirlpool spas or soak in the sun
Fitness centre, offering workout equipment, exercise and toning classes
Spa and salon offering the ultimate in serenity, pampering and personal attention
Adults-only dining at Palo, a Northern Italian-themed restaurant

Inspired by all things Disney travel? Check out my Disney travel posts.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO TO WALT DISNEY WORLD IN 2022?
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO TO DISNEYLAND IN 2022 FROM AUSTRALIA?
OUR STAY AT AULANI, DISNEY RESORT HAWAII
PLANNING A TRIP TO DISNEYLAND? HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!

I hope this post helps you plan your Disney Cruise in Australia! If you have any questions, feel free to ask or join my Disney Mums and Dads Facebook group .

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Reader Interactions

September 22, 2022 at 1:47 pm

Thanks so much for clarifying so much in this post. I'm amazed to discover while yes there are cheaper cruise options out there, this is still affordable for a family if placed on a payment plan. I only wish Stitch was on board as that would seal the deal for my little family.

September 25, 2022 at 2:14 pm

Do you need passports and proof of vaccination

ohsobusymum

September 27, 2022 at 11:38 am

I'm not sure yet. Maybe contact Disney Cruise for this information.

September 22, 2022 at 9:41 pm

How do I book? Is there a web address? Thank you.

September 25, 2022 at 11:34 am

You can book on directly on the Disney website here: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com

September 25, 2022 at 9:54 pm

Hi. Do you know vaccination requirements please? Thanks

No I don't.

Darla Connaughton

September 26, 2022 at 6:54 pm

Can you go for more than 2 nights?

September 27, 2022 at 11:39 am

Yes you sure can! Check out their website for cruise details and dates.

September 26, 2022 at 8:34 pm

If we have a family of 5 does it cost for the baby who would be 2 at time of travel if he sleeps in the parents bed?

September 27, 2022 at 11:40 am

I think so. Jump on their website and do a quote to see.

September 27, 2022 at 12:26 am

Hi. I was looking at the 2- night cruise departing Melbourne 3 nov 2023. Where does this sail to? Any idea why it’s considerably more expensive than the 2- night cruise departing Sydney on the 1st? Thanks for your detailed post- it’s very helpful!

I have no idea about that one either. Brisbane is more expensive than all of them.

June 28, 2023 at 7:47 pm

Hi, thanks so much for the great information... we have booked for the 2024 season and are so excited. I'm just wondering if the times shone for on board means that's when they let you on or everyone should be on already? So ours says 4.45pm on-board and 7.15am off .... surely we're on the boat before 4.45? And don't have to be off by 7.15? Any advice would be great 🙂 thank you in advance

June 29, 2023 at 7:43 am

When you check in via the Disney Cruise Line App, you will be able to select a boarding time. Priority boarding is always first and around 11am, so I recommend that you select the earliest time available so that you can get on board and start enjoying the ship and have lunch etc. 4:45 would be the the time that everyone has to be on the ship by, not boarding time.

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9 Things That Surprised Me Onboard Australia’s Very First Disney Cruise

Yep — you're going to have to tip!

BuzzFeed Contributor

This past week I took Australia’s first-ever Disney cruise, sailing from Sydney to Hobart — and I’m still reeling from the experience.

It felt like being on a different planet — ~a whole new world~, if you will. A world where wearing Mickey ears to breakfast, doing the limbo in a pirate outfit at dinner and running in the hallway is all considered normal.

If you’re thinking about going on a Disney cruise here in Australia, or even somewhere else, here are some of the most unexpected things I noticed:

1. the ship is very american. sorry, totally american..

It makes sense given Disney is an American company. The food was American-influenced — think grits for breakfast, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and pizza for lunch — in addition to heaps of other offerings, too.

Plus, the price of anything extra — spa treatments, alcohol or coffee from Cove Café – were all in USD. Even wording on the menu was American — so if you're searching for "rocket" you might want to try "arugula".

And yes, that means you’ll need to tip the staff.

To make it easier, a gratuity charge per person in your room is automatically added to your bill towards the end of your stay. That being said, you’re welcome to change the amount by going to the guest services desk.

2. It does get cold on the ship.

I wish I’d known to bring more jumpers onboard. The aircon is cranked up in a lot of the ship areas, which makes sense given the crowds.

3. There are heaps of cruise staff — and they’re from all over.

I was among a group of 2000-odd passengers on the Disney Wonder, which fits around 2700 passengers. There were around 1000-odd crew members onboard, representing over 60 nationalities. Disney uses rotational dining, so we got to try all the restaurants and our serving staff were the same at every venue.

4. Disney fans are passionate.

I met a group of women in the hot tub, all wearing Mickey Mouse earrings, who were on the cruise without their kids. They themselves just loved Disney. They did also say that they chose the cruise because of the quality of Disney cruise ships, pointing out that every time it’s docked at a port, people are repainting its exterior to keep it looking top-notch.

Also, one family onboard had a list of 100+ Disney cruises they’d done since 2003 pinned to their front door. Another family had boarded the ship in Vancouver and was still on the cruise — booking back-to-back trips. They’d spent a month on the ship.

5. The WiFi is good . So good that it's actually speedier on the cruise than it is at home.

It’s not cheap at around $75 AUD a day, or you can buy a package that’ll let you use it the whole trip — but it's fast. My friend took a Zoom call using it, and the video quality was crystal-clear.

6. There are loads of activities.

The ship has a total of 10 floors, and it seemed like there was activity on every level at all hours. Live piano music in the French Quarter Lounge, trivia in the D Lounge, characters signing autographs and posing for photos in all corners.

If you wanted to pack your days full of activities, you easily could. You could book an extra-charge treatment at the spa, join a free stretching or workout class at the fitness centre (my friends spotted dolphins from their treadmills!) or catch a new-release Disney film at the ship’s Buena Vista Theatre.

7. The shows are super entertaining and well-done.

I appreciate Disney, but I’m not obsessed with it. I thought watching three Disney shows over the course of the trip might be a lot, but I enjoyed them all. They’re only an hour-long and they’re made in a way that everyone from toddlers to adults will find something to like about them.

They even made it "snow" in the audience during the 'Frozen' show. I teared up a bit during the Disney Magic show, watching them perform 'Circle of Life' and 'A Whole New World' from movies I’d grown up watching. I also felt emotional seeing the fireworks on the top deck during the last night.

8. You can easily rack up heaps of extra charges.

In addition to the tips you’ll need to give staff, you’ll also need to pay extra for specialty coffee, like a flat white, or latte and alcohol. You can bring two bottles per cabin onboard though, so you could bring them onboard in Sydney and pick up two extra bottles in Hobart — or wherever your stopover is. If you're spending on the ship, keep in mind that the prices on board are all in USD, so you’re not stung at the end with a higher bill than you anticipated.

9. And finally, you'll make memories you’ll never forget.

I didn’t expect to miss life on the ship as much as I did when I was back on land. I missed all the crew members we’d come to know, sharing the stateroom with my two friends and getting excited about the day’s entertainment ahead.

Mostly, though, I missed feeling like a kid. And for that feeling alone, I’d do it all over again.

Would you venture on a Disney cruise? Or have you been on one and want to share your opinion on the experience? Let us know in the comments!

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Why Disney Magic at Sea is the perfect family holiday

For almost 70 years, its Parks have proudly been creating some of the happiest memories that families cherish for years to come. In 1998, Disney took that special brand of magic to the seas. This year, for the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line will be coming to Australia and New Zealand with Disney Magic at Sea and now, due to popular demand, a special new season will be coming from October 2024.

This is truly an epic ocean adventure for the whole family – there is something for kids, teens, parents and even the grandparents. Here’s all you need to know and why you need to book your spot today.

Experience the Disney Difference

The Disney Wonder will be the first ship from Disney Cruise Line to sail from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland. The 11-deck ship underwent a complete refurbishment in 2019 and has three swimming pools, including a kids water splash and play area, plus a double looping waterslide.

Additionally, there’s an outdoor basketball court and ping pong tables for sporty days in the sun, while the luxe Senses Spa & Salon is the perfect escape for some adult R&R.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a little extra indulgence, the exclusive Concierge-level staterooms and suites offer next-level luxury and a host of benefits.

Then there are the special touches that you won’t find on any other ship. Get a hug from Mickey Mouse, have tea with Cinderella and save the day with Spider-Man. Moreover, sing along with some of your favourite Disney tunes in blockbuster live musicals and dance the night away at rollicking, themed deck parties. Furthermore, the crew work hard to sprinkle pixie dust on every aspect of your cruise. With Disney’s signature service, it makes for a voyage like no other.

Five reasons to cruise with Disney Cruise Line in Australia

There are so many reasons why you need to be on a Disney cruise, however, here are our top five:

Enjoy showstopping Broadway-style entertainment.
Have unforgettable encounters with beloved Disney characters from Mickey and Minnie to Star Wars legends.
Experience dining that combines delicious food with signature Disney storytelling, live music and interactive entertainment.
There is fun for everyone with areas for family get-togethers, dedicated kids’ clubs and secluded adults-only retreats.
Spread out in spacious staterooms and suites to suit the whole family, including multigenerational groups.

Enjoy spectacular entertainment

A whole new world of entertainment awaits on board Disney Magic at Sea. From musicals to deck parties and the chance to share stories (or cross swords) with some of your favourite Characters, you’ll find yourself in a Disney fantasy.

Moreover, step into the Walt Disney Theatre on the Disney Wonder and you’ll feel as though you’ve arrived on Broadway. The whole family will enjoy Frozen, A Musical Spectacular where Frozen is brought to the stage with state-of-the-art technology for performances that will captivate. in addition, you’ll also be able to enjoy Disney Dreams: An Enchanted Classic where you’ll be moved and inspired by the power of dreams. And revel in Golden Mickeys that brings a touch of Hollywood glamour to Disney Magic at Sea on cruises of three or more nights, where you’re encouraged to dress up for the red-carpet arrivals. Furthermore, the best part is that this is all included in your cruise fare!

Throughout you’re Disney cruise you can enjoy various Deck Parties made for everyone. On select itineraries you can celebrate the start of your Disney adventure with Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Party! where you won’t be able to resist the dancefloor. On cruises of four or more nights, you can enjoy Pirate Night featuring swashbuckling fun and a boisterous deck parties.

Disney’s ships are the only ones where you may see Belle, Woody, Spider-Man, or Chewbacca (and of course Mickey and Minnie) wandering the decks. Interacting with famous Disney Characters is just a part of every day on board and it has the power to create magic in unexpected moments. Kids and adults alike will get a thrill when they recognise a childhood favourite.

Food made for everyone

There are delicious moments waiting for you on board Disney Magic at Sea, from the unique Rotational Dining system in the main restaurants to all the Mickey-shaped ice cream you can eat. The majority of your dining options (including all three main restaurants and most casual dining spots and room-service items) are included in the fare.

Tiana’s Place is a raucous celebration of Southern American cuisine where you can tuck into hearty plates of bouillabaisse and buttermilk beignets while tapping your toes to the swinging sounds of a New Orleans live jazz band. The state-of-the-art technology in Animator’s Palate brings Disney Characters to life before your eyes, with Sorcerer Mickey transforming the black and white interior into a riot of colour. The menu here is a fresh fusion of Pacific Island, Asian and Californian cuisine. Triton’s , named after Ariel’s father in The Little Mermaid , offers fine dining with a Franco-American twist, plating up duck confit and three-cheese lobster macaroni.

Disney Cruise Line does things a little differently. Rotational Dining ensures that all Guests get to dine at each of the main restaurants at least once during their cruise. Using the Navigator App, each Guest is assigned a restaurant schedule and table number for each day. Your wait staff move with you each night, so they’ll get to know you and your preferences.

Dress in your best for an evening at Palo , an adult-exclusive restaurant that’s a slice of Venetian elegance at sea serving northern Italian cuisine. While Palo isn’t included in your cruise fare, the opulent design, with gold inlays and paintings of Venice, accompanied by live piano music makes for a memorable night out and is well worth the extra charge.

There are plenty of casual dining and snack options throughout the ship such as Cabanas. Or feast with room service which is available 24 hours a day so you’ll never go hungry. The best part? Most of these items are included in your cruise fare.

You won’t be short of things to do on a Disney Magic at Sea voyage where there’s fun to be had for all the family.

There are dedicated spaces for water fun, kids’ clubs, sports on deck and much more.

As well as the everyday princess encounters and superhero high fives, there are imaginative kids’ clubs where every cruise is a fantasy playground for toddlers, teens and everyone in between. All of these areas are open late with full supervision, so parents (and grandparents) can take the day off. The best part, these too are included in your cruise fare.

Goofy’s Pool is the centre of family fun, an onboard oasis with a main pool and two whirlpools surrounded by plenty of deckchairs. It’s also the spot for poolside movies on the big screen and interactive games. Shoot some hoops on the basketball court or challenge your family to a ping pong tournament on the Sports Deck. If you’d prefer something more sedate, the Buena Vista Theatre screens new releases and classic Disney movies every day.

Sometimes the best part of holidaying together is spending time apart and there are plenty of adult-exclusive areas on board for just that purpose. The Quiet Cove Pool is a hidden retreat where you can sip cocktails in teak deckchairs, soak in the whirlpools or swim a few sedate laps.

Sweet dreams

Whether you’re cruising as a couple, travelling with the kids or bringing the grandparents, there’s a Disney stateroom to suit you.

On a Disney cruise, your stateroom becomes a home away from home, the perfect place to relax and recharge before another busy day at sea. All rooms feature a Premium Plush Euro-top mattress, 300-thread-count cotton sheets, 22” LCD TV, fridge and individual climate control. Custom artwork and linens bring a little Disney magic to your private retreat. There are a number of adjoining rooms, accessible staterooms across all categories and split bathrooms that allow for multiple people to get ready at once. They range from an Inside Stateroom and Oceanview Stateroom to your own little piece of oceanfront in a Verandah Stateroom, so there is something to suit every budget.

Splash out and book one of the luxurious Concierge Stateroom and Suites that feature multiple bathrooms and a whirlpool tub, a fully stocked wet bar, walk-in wardrobes and more. The indulgent Royal Suite is the ultimate in Disney decadence at sea, sleeping up to seven people. Concierge guests can book onboard activities and services up to 120 days prior to departure be it restaurant reservation, spa treatment, Port Adventure, spot in the nursery or special family event. Then there is the Concierge Lounge, an exclusive hideaway to relax, use the internet, have a snack, and sip on complimentary beer or wine during the daily happy hours.

Set sail sail on your Disney Magic at Sea cruise

A Disney Cruise Line holiday truly is the most magical experience coming to Australian and New Zealand shores this year where there is something for everyone. The Disney Wonder will sail from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland with a mix of short itineraries where you’ll get to spend the whole time on the ship, longer loops that take in one or two ports, one-way journeys, and 6-7 night itineraries.

There is still limited availability on the first ever sailings, and with a special new season from October 2024 to February 2025 now available to book, be sure to get in quick to secure your spot today! To book your Disney Magic at Sea holiday, click here.

To see the full mini-mag we produced with Disney Cruise Line, click here

Two-night sailings may have modified or limited entertainment and dining offerings. Additional costs may be required for some experiences and may need to be booked in advance. See the website and check closer to the sailing date for more.

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There are four issues per year, with each issue is packed full of must-read features, including cruise news, reviews, destination guides and the most enticing itineraries.

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Tipping on a Cruise

How much and who on your cruise should be tipped? When and how should tips be given? The whole custom can be the source of considerable anxiety.

Tipping guidelines vary slightly from line to line and are detailed on each cruise ship profile on this site. Generally, you should plan to tip your room steward $5.50 to $6.50 per person, per day, and plan an equal amount for your dining room waiter, and half of that for the busboy.

On most ships, tip the maitre d' or dining room captain only if you ask for special favors or table-side service; $5 to $10 is normal. Bartenders and wine stewards are tipped 15 to 18 percent, but many cruise lines will automatically add this gratuity to your bar or beverage bill. Check the bill to see how it is handled. Also, tips for special services such as salon & spa treatments and room service are left to the discretion of the guest, depending on services rendered.

Individual ship profiles found under the "Ships & Ratings" heading above will provide precise guidelines for tipping on any ship. Guidelines will be repeated onboard, probably by your ship's cruise director. Gratuities are placed in envelopes from your cabin's stationery supply. Generally, passengers on cruises of 10 days or less will tip at the end of the cruise. On longer voyages, tipping weekly may be the norm.

In order to make tipping as convenient as possible, many cruise lines including Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, MSC Cruises, Norwegian, Oceania, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Viking and Windstar now charge gratuities to your account automatically. If you feel this amount needs to be adjusted, whether increased or decreased, arrangements can be made onboard the ship, generally at the end of your cruise.

Some lines do not encourage tipping, including American Cruise Lines, American Queen Voyages, Azamara, Emerald, Hurtigruten, Paul Gauguin, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas, Ritz-Carlton, Scenic, Seabourn, SeaDream, Silversea and Virgin Voyages. Crew members are reportedly higher paid and not tip dependent. Some passengers tip anyway for outstanding service or special favors.

Tips on Tipping

Cabin steward $5.50 to $6.50 per person per day

Waiter $5.50 to $6.50 per person per day

Assistant waiter $3.50 to $4.50 per person per day

Bartender, wine and deck stewards 15-18% of the bill

Maitre d' $5.00 to $10.00 tip for each special service

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.

Disney Magic at Sea

Sail close to home from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Auckland while immersed in the magic of Disney—complete with beloved Characters, themed dining, Broadway-style shows, action-packed kids clubs and fun-filled deck parties.

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One-of-a-Kind Disney Entertainment

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Chef’s recommendation.

Tiana, along with 2 Cast Members, perform with a band on stage

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Disney Cast Life

Tips for Beginning a Disney Career

by Ashley Jones , Communications Manager, Walt Disney World Resort

With the May 3 deadline for applying to work at Walt Disney World through the Fall 2024 Disney College Program quickly approaching, we thought it’d be a perfect time to share a few secrets of success from seven of the thousands of Disney executives and leaders who have their dream careers after starting as interns.

Disney Programs like the Disney College Program have led cast members to career opportunities throughout all areas of Disney, from theme parks to entertainment to sports and beyond, and it could be the start of your dream career, too!

Debbie Hart, Vice President, Food & Beverage and Merchandise Lines of Business, Walt Disney World

Years at Disney: 33

First role: Merchandise Hostess in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Favorite part of her internship: “I have so many favorites, including:

Meeting people and making friends from all over the world – literally!
Learning guest service and delivering hospitality that is above and beyond .
Embracing the power of our Disney brand and ensuring we deliver magical and memorable experiences.
Having FUN and discovering that work can be joyful when you are able to do what you LOVE!”

Why she loves working at Disney: “It really is the Disney Difference. There are so many benefits to being a cast member, including career opportunities, cast discounts, wellness offerings and of course the lifelong friendships we make along the way.”

Advice to future interns: “Enjoy every moment. Adventure is in front of you and Disney is full of opportunity, you are the author of your Disney story – your story can be more than you ever dreamed. Dream BIG!”

Audrey Hauser, Controls Software Development Principal, Walt Disney Imagineering

Years at Disney: 7

First role: Fairy Godmother in Training at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Favorite part of her internships: “I learned how our frontline operations work, which helps me now when I’m developing software for new attractions. I also had access to intern programs that broadened my network and introduced me to areas of engineering within Disney that I never would’ve known about.”

Why she loves working at Disney: “I’ve always been interested in technology and engineering as well as art, and at Disney I can do both . Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway was the first big new attraction that I worked on; I’d always dreamed of working with our Audio-Animatronics figures, and helping bring Mickey’s first ride to life was a dream come true.”

Advice to future interns: “Once you have your foot in the door, you’ll have so many opportunities to network and learn about other roles. Reach out to people, because nine times out of ten, they’re going to be willing to talk to you .”

Ketan Sardeshmukh, Director, Transportation Operations, Walt Disney World

Years at Disney: 18

First role: Industrial Engineering Intern

Favorite part of his internship: “I spent so much time getting to know others and learning how important this company is to so many people. Living in the program housing felt a lot like dorm life, too, which I loved.”

Why he loves working at Disney: “I love being on teams and working together to figure out how we can solve problems — we get to do that all the time and that’s why I’ve stayed here for over 20 years.”

Advice to future interns: “Understand what a good job is and try your best to do it. If I had just gone through the motions instead of fully embracing the thing I was being asked to do and everything around me, I don’t think I would’ve learned the things that I was supposed to learn.”

Ronke Olatunji, Senior Manager, Groups Events and Services, Disney Cruise Line

Years at Disney: 20

First role: Front Desk Hostess at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Favorite part of her internship: “I love the College Program! It gave me a career I didn’t even know was possible and experiences I didn’t know I could have. I’ve had a lot of only-at-Disney moments. I even took classes and earned my ‘ducktorate’.”

Why she loves working at Disney: “I get to show up in a space with people that want to be around me and each other. Disney has allowed me to just be my true self, and I’m appreciated for it.”

Advice to future interns: “I learned very quickly to not put any limitations on yourself, because you don’t know what you don’t know. The great thing about our organization is if you are inquisitive and you ask questions, people will help you. ”

Punam Dayabhai-Jairambhai, Director, Premium Services, Walt Disney World

Years with Disney: 25

First role: Merchandise and Outdoor Vending Hostess in the United Kingdom Pavilion at EPCOT

Favorite part of her internship: “Living and working together with people from all over the world! I can honestly say those connections will last you a lifetime. You create deep-rooted friendships. And on your days off, you get to experience the theme parks yourself , and then you get to tell people about that. You’re learning about the product and having fun at the same time.”

Why she loves working at Disney: “I’ve been able to raise my hand for things. This is an amazing company where you can learn to do different things and not be boxed into one specific type of role. You just have to put in the effort and show the curiosity and courage to say ‘I want to learn and do more.’ ”

Advice to future interns: “Learn as much as you can. Grow. Embrace every experience and build those great relationships. The brand you start creating for yourself now will follow you wherever you go, whether you stay with this company or go elsewhere.”

Sarah Riles, Vice President, Magic Kingdom Park

Years at Disney: 25

Favorite part of her internship: “When I came to Disney to do my internship, I didn’t know anyone, I had never been to Orlando and I had never been to Disney, so I felt completely overwhelmed. Thankfully, I quickly realized what an incredible opportunity I had and loved it so much I made the decision to extend my internship. I met so many people who I’m still friends with today and best of all, I realized I could do what I love for a company that I love.”

Why she loves working at Disney: “Disney is a big company with endless opportunities. It’s a company with a welcoming culture that allows you to find your passion, gain new experiences and meet inspiring people along the way .”

Advice for future interns: “You all bring a fresh perspective, excitement for learning and a passion for our brand. No matter what role you are in, you’ll learn how to serve others, solve problems, be a leader amongst your peers and provide the best guest service . Work hard, have fun, and make memories and connections. No matter whether you continue to work here or go on to do other things, the lessons you learn will influence you far beyond today.”

John Dent, Director, Worldwide Auditing Publications and Projects, Walt Disney World

John Dent, Director, Worldwide Auditing Publications and Projects, Worldwide Safety Assurance

Years with Disney: 34

First role: Attractions Host in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park

Favorite part of his internship: “I still say that my Disney internship was probably one of the best jobs I’ve ever had. It may seem simple, but it involved teamwork, managing success and failure, problem solving and learning the business. One of the big rewards for me was exposure to our senior leadership and the lessons they took time to share. They were approachable and genuine and understood the business … and now I’m proud to be the one that passes on those lessons to future leaders.”

Why he loves working at Disney: “The people I meet and the passion we all have are the differentiator. The connections you make through the College Program and within Disney can lead to a lot of other places. The company has grown so much over the past 34 years, and there are hundreds of paths you can take advantage of. ”

Advice to future interns: “The Disney College Program is a great catalyst to figure out what you really want. Don’t hold back. Take full advantage of the time you’re given and realize that the company is equally — if not more — interested in seeing you succeed.”

Topics: Disney Cast Life

Hi! My name is Kayla and I completely agree with Brad in the above comment about how to get your foot in the door if you are already in your career and can’t do an internship anymore. I graduated in the fall of 2022 and have been networking via LinkedIn and checking the Disney careers site daily to find opportunities. I am in the marketing/advertising field and because I graduated in 2022, and 24 years old, I am early in my career. I have a little over a year of marketing experience but am not sure what the correct path is to try to get my foot in the door for an entry level position with Disney. I have gotten on zoom with multiple senior/department heads and they have told me that I’m doing the right things by networking, but I have also applied for almost 30 jobs on the Disney careers website and always get denied. I’m not sure what to do differently and would just love some guidance!

To whom it May concern, Good morning, I’m a big Disney fan. I lived in Quebec for 54 years and now I live in British Columbia, Canada’ and I’ve been visiting you for at least a dozen times. I am at the stage of putting into practice the motto “if you can dream it, you can do it” and realizing My biggest dream of working for you this summer. I am 55 years old and I am a teacher. I’m getting older, I told myself that it’s time that I dared to live my dream. As I am on summer leave, I am available to work 6 to 7 weeks. I wish I was in the parks. I speak French and that is an asset because many Quebecers will visit you in the summer and we have difficulty with their English. I’m doing well in English. I can sell popcorn, cashier in stores, usher for shows or restaurants, be at the entrance to households or parks… I am not looking for a specific job. I am open and I adapt very well. For me this magical experience is very important. If it is not possible to work for you, I am available to volunteer. Please forward my message to the correct department and follow up on my request. Good to you! « If you can dream it, you can do it! » Quote of Walter Disney

Great piece! I wish I could redo my college program experience with the wisdom I have now! Content idea for you: How about a piece on how mid-career professionals can get their foot in the door? And another piece on people wanting a late-career opportunity or second-career opportunity?

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IMAGES

Tipping on a Disney Cruise
Disney Cruise Tipping Guide: The Last One Will Shock You!
Welcome to our Disney Cruise tipping guide! We get many questions about
Tipping on a Disney Cruise
Tipping on a Disney Cruise
Guide to Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: All you need to know

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DISNEY CRUISE TIPS AND TRICKS

COMMENTS

Tipping on a Disney Cruise
For many years Disney Cruise Line did not give any guidelines for how much to tip if you were staying Concierge. However, in July 2022 Disney suggested what you should tip if you are staying in Concierge. The amount for Concierge suggested by Disney Cruise Lines is $15.50 per person per day. This comprises:
How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise? Your Guide to Gratuities
To summarize how Disney's automatic gratuities work, you can 1. let Disney charge your account automatically, 2. pre-pay your gratuities, or 3. pass out individual envelopes with cash. It's up to you! Just let your travel agent or Guest Services know if you wish to do something other than automatic gratuities.
Are Gratuities Include with Cruise Price
It is customary to give gratuities in recognition of exceptional service, which you'll receive in abundance aboard the ship. We recommend a gratuity amount of $14.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest, including infants and children. Pre-Paid Gratuities are distributed to the Crew Members who take care of you in the following roles: Dining ...
Disney Cruise Australia
Tipping isn't something that is as common in Australia as it is in the States. Some cast members rely on tips, so do keep that in mind. Disney Cruise Lines recommend that you tip USD$14.50 per person, per night of your stay. These tips will be shared with your Stateroom Host, and your Dining Room servers. Book your Disney Cruise Australia here.
Disney Cruise Gratuities
How much do I tip? Disney Cruise Line advises a baseline amount of $14.50 per night, per each guest. This includes infants and toddlers as well. For example, our family of four on a 7-night voyage would pay a total of $406 in baseline gratuities ($14.50 x 4 people = $58 per day. $58 x 7 nights = $406).
Disney Magic at Sea
Disney Magic at Sea has had a spectacular inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand. Now, due to popular demand, we are excited to announce a special new season sailing in Australia and New Zealand from October 2024 to February 2025. For the first time, Disney Cruise Line is coming to the shores of Australia and New Zealand for Disney Magic ...
FAQ Tipping on Disney Cruise Line: EVERYTHING You Need to Know
The bare bones Disney Cruise Line gratuity amount is currently $14.50, per person, per night, for guests staying in non-concierge staterooms. If, for example, you're traveling on a three-night cruise with a party of two, your total gratuity fee would be $87 ($14.50 x 2 people x 3 nights). If you're traveling on a seven-night cruise with a ...
Ultimate Guide to Tipping on Cruise
Nov 16 2023. 1. Figuring out which of your cruise staff to give gratuities and how much you should give can be a conundrum. But cruise lines have removed the guess work and applying crew appreciation amounts to your stateroom account. Costs vary depending on the stateroom category. Also, tipping fees - averaging US$15-$20 - are generally ...
What To Know About Tipping & Gratuities On A Disney Cruise
Disney Cruise Line automatically charges guests a set amount for select gratuities. These gratuities can be pre-paid prior to boarding by calling Disney Cruise Line, asking your Travel Agent to add them to your reservation, or will be added to your onboard account when you board. Currently, this amount is $13.50, per person, per night.
The Ultimate Guide to Tipping on a Cruise
Should you choose to, for a seven-night cruise, consider tipping about $2 to $3 per person, per day. If you are in a suite or aboard a luxury cruise, you may have a butler assigned to your room. Since they typically have more duties to meet, a good guideline, is a supplementary tip of $3 to $5 per night, per person.
Tipping on a Cruise: Your Complete Big-Ship Tip Guide
Disney Cruise Line gratuities start at $14.50 per person, per night for regular cabins and rise to $15.50 per person, per night for Concierge-class and Suite guests. This applies to all guests. Tips can either be prepaid up to three days prior to the start of your Disney cruise or will be automatically charged to onboard accounts. To adjust the amount of your automatic tips or to tip ...
Do I have to tip on a cruise ship? Tipping rules that confuse Aussies
In Australian waters, some lines, including P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia, do not require tips, nor are they factored into the overall price.According to the lines, it's a longstanding position that reflects the Australian market. Carnival's website states: "You are welcome to reward our on-board crew for exceptional service, however tipping is not required."
Everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line in Australia
Disney Cruise Line is bringing the Disney Wonder cruise ship to Australia for the very first time! ... Any room service gratuity/tips are at your discretion and should be around $1 per item. Bars and Lounges. French Quarter Lounge - A perfect stop to grab a coffee or cocktail while listening to some live music. During the day, it turns into a ...
9 Things That Surprised Me Onboard Australia's Very First Disney Cruise
Also, one family onboard had a list of 100+ Disney cruises they'd done since 2003 pinned to their front door. Another family had boarded the ship in Vancouver and was still on the cruise ...
Tipping on a Cruise: Your Complete Big-Ship Tip Guide
Disney Cruise Line gratuities start at $14.50 per person, per night for regular cabins and rise to $15.50 per person, per night for Concierge-class and Suite guests. This applies to all guests ...
Know Before You Go
New Zealand. Disney Cruise Line continues to recommend that all Guests become fully vaccinated before sailing and encourages unvaccinated Guests to take a COVID-19 self-test 2 days prior to their cruise. Should you test positive, please contact a member of our reservation team for assistance. Guests from Australia may call 180-071-8515.
The complete guide to cruise gratuities and tipping
Daily gratuity charge: US$14.99. Note: Passengers in suites pay US$17.99. Passengers on the line's two all-inclusive ships, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, pay higher rates. Additional charges: A 20 percent gratuity is added to bar bills, the bills at extra-charge specialty restaurants and for services at ship spas.
Tipping on a Disney Cruise
While Disney stresses that the amount of a tip is up to the customer, it does suggest baseline for minimum tips. Dining room servers and stateroom hosts should be tipped $4 per guest per night. A single traveler would pay $12 for a three-night cruise, $16 for four nights and $28 for a seven-night cruise. Multiply that number by the number of ...
Disney Cruise Australia: Everything you need to know- Cruise Passenger
Sep 19 2023. For almost 70 years, its Parks have proudly been creating some of the happiest memories that families cherish for years to come. In 1998, Disney took that special brand of magic to the seas. This year, for the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line will be coming to Australia and New Zealand with Disney Magic at Sea and now, due to ...
Disney Wonder in Australia tips! : r/dcl
During the day there are a bunch of activities to drop in on, including: Learn to draw a Disney character. Various crafts (origami, draw a design onto a drawstring bag, etc) Karaoke. Trivia in the English style pub. Tour of the ship (do this) If you like beer, then you can buy a beer card/souvenir beer mug.
Australia Cruises: Tipping on a Cruise
Tipping guidelines vary slightly from line to line and are detailed on each cruise ship profile on this site. Generally, you should plan to tip your room steward $5.50 to $6.50 per person, per day, and plan an equal amount for your dining room waiter, and half of that for the busboy. On most ships, tip the maitre d' or dining room captain only ...
Best Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets
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. Prices for a one-way cruise, San Juan to Fort Lauderdale.
New Zealand & Australia Cruises
Disney Cruise Line introduces new 2024 and 2025 cruise itineraries from New Zealand and Australia. Visit Disney.com. Skip Navigation. United States (English) ... New Zealand and Australia. Pacific Coast. Panama Canal. South Pacific. Transatlantic. Shore Excursions. Port Adventures. Pre- and Post-Cruise. Departure Ports. Hotel Stays.
Tips for Beginning a Disney Career
With the May 3 deadline for applying to work at Walt Disney World through the Fall 2024 Disney College Program quickly approaching, we thought it'd be a perfect time to share a few secrets of success from seven of the thousands of Disney executives and leaders who have their dream careers after starting as interns. Disney Programs like the Disney College Program have led cast members to ...