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Fire breaks out on Disney Wonder ship due to electrical short in the speaker system

A  small fire broke out onboard the Disney Wonder ship Wednesday night, November 23, due to an electrical short in the speaker system.

The fire was on a speaker high up behind the Funnel Vision screen. Initially, the smoke was rising, and then progressively larger flames were visible.

The fire was not directly close to guests, but the screen/speaker are mounted on the ship's funnel that houses the teen club Vibe ( Deck 11 ).

DCL-Disney Cruise Line firefighters reported to the accident scene and quickly put out the fire. They closed off the cruise decks around the fire.

All areas were open within a few hours.

The 1999-built MS Disney Wonder is DCL's second liner - with sistership Disney Magic (1998). Wonder has Disney's signature sleek design, black hull, two matching red funnels, and yellow Disney insignias. The indoor decoration is in both Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Wonder is among the industry's best family-friendly passenger ships, with numerous entertainment and dining options and regularly scheduled programs targeting not only the kids but the whole family. Families can go together to the evening stage revues, game shows, or themed workshops.

At the time of the accident, the ship was on a 7-day, round-trip Very Merrytime Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego CA .

For more Disney Wonder incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page .

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DCL Fan is your source for Disney Cruise Line Information, News, and Discounts

Fire Breaks Out on Disney Wonder Forcing Deck Evacuation

Reports are emerging of a fire that broke out on the Disney Wonder last Wednesday evening that caused the eventual evacuation of decks 9 and 10. It was Pirate Night aboard the western-based Disney Cruise Liner when flames were seen escaping from the speaker on the upper right side of the Deck 9 outdoor movie screen. Guests sharing accounts on social media have noted how well the situation was handled, saying that Disney crew members stayed calm and collected, keeping guests feeling the same way during the evacuation.

At no time were there any flames near guests, and no injuries were reported. The ship is still on track to complete its current itinerary and didn’t experience any delays as a result of the incident.

About Post Author

Zoë Wood is a travel writer from Sydney, Australia.

After her first visit to Disneyland at the age of 6, she has spent her years frequently visiting Disney Parks and traveling around the world.

Zoë is the mother of two children and has a lot of experience in traveling long distances with kids and special needs.

Join Zoë as she lets you in on all the tips, tricks, anecdotes, and embarrassments that arise from her family adventures.

See author's posts

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Video shows scary moments after a cruise ship caught fire

Passengers aboard a cruise ship docked in Grand Turk Island got a surprise that wasn’t on the itinerary Thursday.

As photos and video taken aboard the Carnival Freedom illustrate, black smoke and flames poured out of the ship’s funnel as passengers donned life jackets and were evacuated from the vessel’s upper decks.  

"On Thursday morning while in port at Grand Turk, Carnival Freedom’s emergency response team quickly activated and extinguished a fire inside the ship’s funnel," said the cruise line in a statement . "All guests and crew are safe, and all other ship, hotel, and guest services, along with safety equipment are fully functioning."

According to the statement, most of the ship's 2,504 passengers were ashore at the time the fire broke out.

Plans were soon made to get all guests back to Port Canaveral in Florida, where they originally set sail from Monday for what was meant to be a 5-day cruise. But since Freedom won't be seaworthy in time for an already delayed departure, those arrangements required the cancellation of another Carnival cruise.

"Carnival Conquest’s next cruise, departing May 27 from Miami has been cancelled and that ship will be deployed to Grand Turk to transport Freedom guests back to Port Canaveral," the company explained. "Carnival Conquest will arrive to Grand Turk on Saturday, May 28 and guests aboard Carnival Freedom will transfer to Carnival Conquest for the voyage back to Port Canaveral, arriving on Monday, May 30."

Carnival Freedom's next scheduled cruise, originally planned for Saturday, has also been cancelled.

Repairs are set to begin on the ship's funnel after all passengers are off the ship.

The statement closed, noting, "Carnival apologized to all those guests who are impacted and offered special thanks to the crew who handled the situation on the ship effectively and according to safety protocols."

It remains unclear what caused the fire.

Ree Hines is a freelance writer and editor who covers pop culture, lifestyle stories and trending news. She’s also a soul-music loving, coffee-obsessed member of both Team Cat and Team Dog. Ree lives in Tampa, Florida, and is a regular contributor to TODAY.com.

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Passengers aboard carnival cruise ship that caught fire return to port canaveral, cruise line sends separate ship to bring passengers back to florida.

Mark Lehman , Reporter

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – Passengers of a Carnival cruise ship that caught fire last week returned Monday to Port Canaveral on a different ship.

The Carnival Freedom was docked Thursday in Grand Turk when flames erupted from the smokestack, according to the cruise line.

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No one was injured in the fire, which caused heavy damage to the ship’s funnel.

The Carnival Conquest was sent to retrieve the passengers aboard Freedom, which was evacuated after the fire.

Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line’s senior manager of public relations, released a statement on Thursday.

“Carnival Freedom’s emergency response team quickly activated and extinguished a fire inside the ship’s funnel while the ship was in Grand Turk,” Lupoli said. “All guests and crew are safe, and the ship’s guests were cleared by local authorities to go ashore. We continue to assess the situation. Carnival Freedom left Port Canaveral on Monday on a five-day cruise.”

Pictures posted last week on Twitter show smoke and flames coming from the right fin of Freedom’s smokestack.

The ship was due to return to Port Canaveral on Saturday.

On Friday, Carnival said the May 28, June 2 and June 6 departures of the Carnival Freedom have been canceled.

After bringing passengers to Port Canaveral, Carnival Conquest will return to Miami and its departure will be delayed by one day to May 31, the cruise line said.

Carnival is giving passengers a $100 onboard credit, extending the beverage and Wi-Fi packages for those who bought them, and giving everyone a 50% future cruise credit. The company says it will also waive additional port parking fees and reimburse for independent air expenses up to $200 per person.

HAPPENING NOW: The Carnival Conquest is docking at Port Canaveral. Onboard are thousands of passengers who were on the Carnival Freedom when the ship’s funnel caught fire. pic.twitter.com/yGWaKhijfA — Mark Lehman (@MarkLehman6) May 30, 2022

Copyright 2022 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Mark lehman.

Mark Lehman became a News 6 reporter in July 2014, but he's been a Central Florida journalist and part of the News 6 team for much longer. While most people are fast asleep in their bed, Mark starts his day overnight by searching for news on the streets of Central Florida.

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Specialty Cruises

Fireworks cruise.

Fun for all ages, nighttime cruises provide the perfect opportunity to watch Luminous The Symphony of Us or Happily Ever After  right from the water. These brilliant fireworks spectaculars add an amazing "wow" factor to your cruise!

From the comfort of a chartered boat, your party can set sail for International Gateway near World Showcase Lagoon to watch the skies light up over EPCOT . Or, embark on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake near  Magic Kingdom park —with synchronized audio onboard to fully immerse you in the moment. It’s an incredible finale to the festivities!

Departure Locations Depart from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts to experience Luminous The Symphony of Us or sail from the following marinas to view Happily Ever After:

• Contemporary Marina
• Polynesian Marina
• Grand Floridian Marina
• Fort Wilderness Marina
• Wilderness Lodge Marina

What’s Included Each cruise is accompanied by a captain and includes assorted snacks and soft drinks. Festive banners and balloons are also included in the cost and can be requested at the time of booking.

Pricing Prices start at $449—plus tax. Prices vary by date. Boats seat up to 10 Guests.

Reservations To reserve a cruise, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. Learn when advance reservations can be made .

Please note—in rare instances, fireworks shows may be rescheduled or canceled. Please refer to the entertainment schedule to confirm showtimes 2 weeks prior to your reservation and check again the day of your reservation.

Important Details Before you book, please be aware of the following information:

• Please arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to fireworks start time.
• Boats are not equipped with full-size dining tables. A cocktail table is provided.
• For Guests with limited mobility, wheelchair/ECV transfer is necessary.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.

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Celebration at the top – sip, savor, sparkle, custom-designed celebrations & gatherings, disney private vip tours, safety, accessibility and guest policies.

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .

First Time Disney Cruise Tips: The Complete Guide

If you’re already a fan of the Disney theme parks , you might have wondered what cruising with Disney is like. Maybe you’ve never even cruised before — a whopping 40% of Disney Cruise passengers say they wouldn’t have even considered cruising if Disney Cruise Line didn’t exist.

So what’s it like cruising with Disney? And what do first-time cruisers need to know ? Here, we’ll cover the basics so you can decide if a Disney Cruise is right for you!

In a rush? Check out the 💡 Key Takeaways at the end of each section

Magic Onboard   |  Costs   |  Ports   |   Itineraries   |  Ships Staterooms   |  Dining   |  Requirements   |  How to Book

Prefer to Speak With Someone? Connect with a Vacationeer Who Specializes in First Time Cruisers.

Magic Onboard: What Makes Disney Cruises Special?

Image © Disney

Perhaps you’re wondering what’s the big deal about cruising with Disney. Or maybe you have taken another cruise before and aren’t sure if Disney will be that different. Here are a few quick highlights of the things that make a Disney Cruise special, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cruiser.

Disney Characters

It’s no surprise that Disney ships host Disney characters throughout the journey. It starts with a sail-away party and continues with traditional character meet-and-greets each day. You’ll have many opportunities to see Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Pluto, plenty of princesses, and a smattering of other beloved characters.

Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Disney’s private island in the Bahamas offers a special getaway for passengers on select cruises. Castaway Cay (pronounced “key”) offers dedicated beaches for families and adults, plenty of fun recreation such as snorkeling and water slides, and free meals on-site. You’re sure to have a great day in the sun!

Meanwhile, Disney’s newest private port,  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , is currently under construction in Eleuthera, Bahamas. It is expected to welcome its first guests in Summer 2024.

Disney introduced the cruise industry’s first-ever fireworks at sea. It won’t quite be the same as what you’d see inside Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, but it’s still quite impressive. Note that not every voyage offers fireworks.

Kids, Tween, and Teen Clubs

Many cruise lines offer a kids club, but Disney’s are (not surprisingly) among the most impressive. Disney doesn’t have casinos on its ships, so they have room to devote nearly an entire deck just to younger cruisers. Children will get a special wristband on the first day and can use it to check themselves into the clubs whenever they like. Clubs are divided into specific age groups so everyone has an ideal experience.

The Oceaneer Club (ages 3-10) features extensively themed play areas and character interactions. This is where most kids spend the majority of their cruise — even eating lunch there! The Kid’s Club on each ship is a little different, but they’re all great fun. There’s even a kid’s club on Castaway Cay! It’s no wonder we consider Disney to be the best cruise line for kids !

For older kids, Edge (ages 11-14) gives tweens a high-tech hangout of their own. Teens can visit Vibe (ages 14-17), a venue that runs the gamut from chill relaxation to energetic dance parties.

Best of all, these spaces (and many more) are already included in the cost of your cruise!

For the tiniest cruisers (up to age 3), the “it’s a small world” nursery! offers babysitter-style daycare for an additional fee.

Not Just for Kids

Worried that you won’t be able to escape the kids on your Disney Cruise? You’ll be happy to learn that each ship contains spaces limited to those ages 18 and up. Relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove pool, or dance the night away at each ship’s entertainment district, featuring several nightclubs and lounges. Many adults enjoy relaxing at Senses Spa and its Rainforest Rooms . There are even adult-exclusive dining options. You don’t need to have kids to take a Disney Cruise — there’s plenty for adults to enjoy onboard !

Unique Dining

Most meals are included in the cost of your cruise and you’re never far from a snack throughout the day. There’s even free room service 24/7!

Disney is unique in that most non-alcoholic drinks are included in your fare — most other cruise lines require you to buy a separate drink package even for sodas. Alcohol and specialty drinks still cost extra on a Disney cruise.

Disney cruise ships feature a unique “ Rotational Dining ” concept in which you dine at a different restaurant each night but your servers travel along with you. You’ll have the same dining staff each night, so they’ll get to know you and your preferences. Some restaurants even feature live entertainment or character dining during your meal!

Themed Nights and Themed Cruises

Disney holds special themed nights on many of its cruises, going far beyond usual cruise line mainstays such as Formal Night.

For example, some Disney cruises have a Pirate Night where everyone dresses up as pirates, enjoys a special meal, and then heads up to the pool deck for a pirate-themed party.

Sometimes an entire Disney Cruise can be themed . One popular offering is the Halloween on the High Seas cruise, which includes a giant pumpkin tree in the ship atrium, costume parties, and trick-or-treating. Very Merrytime cruises bring the holidays onboard, with Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, and visits from Santa.

Family-Friendly Staterooms

Extra care was put into the design of your stateroom (your “hotel room” on the ship). You’ll find space-maximizing designs like hideaway bedding, under-bed storage space, and room dividers. Most stateroom bathrooms are in a split configuration that allows two people to get ready at the same time.

Water Rides and Pools

Most Disney ships have unique water coaster style attractions which propel you along on a raft or let you plunge down a steep drop. There are also plenty of pools and splash zones.

Broadway-Style Shows and Live Entertainment

Each night offers live entertainment, including Broadway-style shows featuring Disney characters. Some are stage adaptations of Disney films such as Frozen or Tangled , while others are entirely original. Admission is free — there are no assigned seats, so all you have to do is show up, sit wherever you like, and enjoy the show! Each show is presented twice nightly, so you won’t have to miss dinner.

Free Movies

Cinema buffs will enjoy the unlimited free movies onboard. No ticket needed — just drop in and catch the latest from Disney, Marvel, PIXAR, and LucasFilm! Should you be cruising during the release of a highly-anticipated Disney film, you’ll be treated to a Prem-EAR at Sea !

Navigate with the App

The convenient and free Disney Cruise Line Navigator app lets you count down to your trip and then chart your course onboard with planning tools, deck plans, daily schedules, and even a chat function to reach fellow cruisers.

Download the app before you get onboard and you can use it for free — just follow the on-screen instructions to avoid data charges. Separate Wi-Fi connectivity is sold onboard the ships should you desire to keep up with emails and social media.

A Cashless Experience Onboard

No need to carry your wallet everywhere — all your purchases onboard and at Castaway Cay (except for postage stamps) are conveniently charged right back to your room account. Just settle up at the end of your cruise.

Castaway Club

Cruisers are automatically enrolled in DCL’s loyalty program, the Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club . Starting with your second Disney Cruise, you’ll receive gifts in your stateroom, earlier booking windows for onboard activities, and other perks for being a repeat passenger.

💡 Key Takeaways for First Time Cruisers

✔️  The special magic of a Disney Cruise goes far beyond just seeing Disney characters

✔️  Disney offers kids, teens, and adults their own dedicated spaces, so families can have together time and alone time

✔️  Live entertainment is presented every night onboard, with three Broadway-style shows plus additional entertainment

✔️  Innovations like rotational dining and fireworks at sea offer an experience you won’t find on other cruise lines

✔️  Disney cruises include extras that other cruise lines may charge extra for

There’s So Much That Makes a Disney Cruise Special. Ready to Experience It All?

Cost of a Disney Cruise

Cost is obviously a major consideration for people considering a Disney Cruise. Let’s look into what’s included and how much you’ll pay.

What’s Included in the Cost

Cruises aren’t truly all-inclusive , but they’re close! Your cruise fare includes your stateroom, most meals (including room service), most non-alcoholic drinks, live entertainment, pools & water slides, most onboard activities, and taxes & fees.

You’ll need to pay extra for specialty dining, specialty drinks, off-ship activities, tips, and souvenirs, among other things. Getting to the ship (airfare, ground transport) and optional travel insurance is also extra.

Read More: What is Included on a Disney Cruise – and What Isn’t?

Cost of Disney Versus Other Cruise Lines

There’s no denying that Disney is one of the more expensive cruise lines . A similar cruise on another cruise line will almost always be cheaper than cruising with Disney.

• On the Disney Wish : $2,880
• On Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas : $2,370

You’ll have to decide if what you get when cruising with Disney is worth the additional expense . Disney Cruises may cost more when compared to Royal Caribbean , Princess , Norwegian , or Carnival , but many families still wouldn’t cruise with anyone else.

Cost of Disney Cruise Versus Disney World

Comparing the cost of a Disney Cruise to a Disney World vacation is a bit difficult, because there are so many variables and differences between the two. For example, Disney World requires theme park tickets while a Disney Cruise includes all meals.

• 4-Night Cruise to Nassau and Castaway Cay in Oceanview Stateroom: $4,902, meals included
• 4 Nights in Disney Moderate Resort Preferred Room, with Tickets: $4,241, meals extra

There are plenty of ways to make both options cheaper, and there are ways to make them both costlier. If you’re trying to decide between the two, reach out to a Disney travel agent who can run some comparisons for your situation.

Read More: Disney Cruise Versus Disney World

Cost Factors

Several factors contribute to the cost of a Disney Cruise:

Departure Port and Itinerary

It’s no surprise that a 4-night cruise will cost more than a 3-night cruise. More nights cost more money.

• 3-Night Cruise: $1,988+
• 4-Night Cruise: $2,554+

Destinations matter, too. Some ports are more expensive to visit than others and some itineraries are simply more popular and command higher prices.

• Western Caribbean Cruise: $3,372+
• Norwegian Fjords cruise: $5,423+

Stateroom Type and Location

The type of stateroom — and its location on the ship — affects the price paid. A “better” stateroom generally costs more.

• Inside (no view) stateroom: $2,564+
• Oceanview (window) stateroom: $2,780+

Who is Traveling

Cruise fares are per-person . The first two people in a stateroom always pay full price for the type of stateroom they’re staying in.

The remaining people pay a reduced rate based on their ages: adult (13+), child (3-12), and infant (2 or younger) . These rates usually don’t change much (if at all), no matter the type of stateroom.

• First two adults: $1,329 each
• 15-year-old: $759
• 7-year-old: $728
• 2-year-old: $401

Prices are based on double occupancy. Solo travelers should expect to pay almost as much as two adults would have paid.

• Total for Two Adults: $1,404+
• Total for One Adult: $1,178+

Time of Year

Cruises are typically more expensive during popular months — such as summer and spring break.

• In January 2024: $2,128+
• In April 2024: $4,810+

Other Factors

Like airfare, cruise prices can change as the travel date approaches. You might find last-minute deals , but prices are often cheapest when they are first released. 2023 cruises and 2024 cruises are already bookable, and some 2025 cruises  are also accepting bookings.

Waiting to book may also mean that cheaper types of staterooms are booked, so only more-expensive categories are left. The best sail dates can even sell out, meaning you have to pick another.

And special events onboard the ship, such as Very Merrytime cruises and Halloween on the High Seas cruises may command higher prices.

Read More: How Much Is a Disney Cruise?

When calculating the cost of a Disney Cruise, don’t forget gratuities (tips). It is customary on a cruise to pay gratuities to dining room staff and stateroom hosts (housekeeping). These amounts are not included in your cruise fare.

On Disney Cruise Line, the standard gratuity rate is $14.50 per passenger, per night (plus a little more if you’re staying in a Concierge room). This will be automatically charged to your stateroom account at the end of the cruise unless you visit Guest Services to adjust the amount (or pre-pay it).

Tips for other crew, such as bartenders and porters, is at your discretion and separate from the standard gratuities described above.

Read More: How Does Tipping Work on a Disney Cruise

Onboard Credits

One way to make your cruise money go further is using an Onboard Credit , which is somewhat like a rebate.

Onboard Credits don’t directly reduce your cruise fare, but they act as money that can be used while onboard the ship to purchase things that cost extra — souvenirs, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, and even gratuities for the crew.

Some travel agencies offer up to $1,000 in onboard credit for Disney Cruises. Most travel agencies don’t charge any planning fees to book cruises through them, so it truly is free money for those already planning a cruise.

Read More: Disney Cruise Onboard Credit

✔️  Basic expenses such as lodging, most food and non-alcoholic drinks, and most activities are included in the cruise fare

✔️  Disney cruises generally cost more than other cruise lines, due to being a premium experience

✔️  Prices are based in part on the type of cruise, type of room, time of year, and who is traveling

✔️  Booking early gives you the best chance at getting the room and sail date you want at the lowest price

✔️  Book through a travel agency to receive an Onboard Credit (money to use while onboard the ship)

Get a Personalized Price Quote and Onboard Credit

Cruise pricing can be confusing and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Fortunately, you can get free help planning your Disney Cruise from the Disney experts at The Vacationeer !

Working with an Earmarked Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner  such as The Vacationeer is the best way for first-timers to plan a cruise .

You’ll have one, dedicated agent from start to finish — no giant call centers and waiting forever on hold! Your Vacationeer will answer your questions , share great advice , and help you find a cruise that fulfills your dreams and respects your budget .

When you’re ready, they’ll book your reservation , set up your payment plan , and help you keep track of important dates along the way.

Best of all, they provide a generous Onboard Credit of up to $1,000 .

Their services are completely free , and there’s absolutely no obligation to book  when you contact them.

Departure Ports: Where to Start Your Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line sails from 19 departure ports around the world. If you want to take a Disney Cruise, you’ll need to get to one of these locations to board the ship.

Florida Departure Ports

• Port Canaveral, FL
• Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), FL

Other U.S. Departure Ports

• Galveston, Texas
• Honolulu, Hawaii
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• New York, New York
• San Diego, California
• San Juan, Puerto Rico

International Departure Ports

• Auckland, New Zealand
• Barcelona, Spain
• Brisbane (Queensland), Australia
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Dover, England
• Melbourne (Victoria), Australia
• Sydney (New South Wales), Australia
• Southampton, England
• Vancouver, Canada

It’s tempting to just book a Disney Cruise that starts close to home; but you might need to travel to a far-away port to get a certain type of cruise, your preferred time of year, or your preferred Disney Cruise ship.

For example, Disney’s Alaska cruises start only in Vancouver. Galveston hosts Disney ships during winter only, not summer ( Florida is the only state that hosts Disney cruises every month of the year) . And the popular new Disney Wish cruise ship sails only from Port Canaveral.

Port Canaveral — Disney’s Home Port

Port Canaveral, Florida is the Disney cruise departure port that’s closest to Walt Disney World, about 60-90 minutes away. It’s close enough that many people choose to bundle some time at Disney World with a Disney Cruise.

Multiple Disney Cruises sail from Port Canaveral each week, year-round. The port is so busy that Disney has its own private cruise terminal building there.

Port Everglades — Disney’s Second Home Port

Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida becomes a second year-round home port for Disney Cruise Line in late 2023. The Disney Dream will be the first Disney cruise ship assigned to there, starting November 2023. At least one more ship is expected to join by 2025, and Disney will likely build its own dedicated terminal there.

Getting to the Departure Port

Most people take flights to reach the city of their departure port. We strongly suggest you fly in a day early and spend the night at a hotel. This helps prevent missing your cruise due to a flight delay. (Your return flight home shouldn’t be too early, either, in case of port delays.)

Disney has agreements with hotels near each departure port; you can stay a night or two before/after your cruise and bundle the hotel reservation in with your cruise reservation. Of course, you can also stay at any hotel you like by booking separately.

Disney also sells ground transfers that will get you from select airports to the departure port, and to/from Disney Cruise Line’s approved hotels. Or, you can take a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or a shuttle.

If you’re driving yourself to the port, you’ll have to pay for extended parking onsite. Port parking prices are set by the Port Authority, not by Disney.

✔️  You’ll need to find a balance between a departure port that’s easy to get to — and one that hosts the kind of cruise you want to take

✔️  Some ports host Disney Cruise departures year-round. Others might only host a Disney ship for a short time each year.

✔️  It’s wise to fly in a day early so flight delays don’t cause you to miss the ship

✔️  You can add pre/post cruise hotel stays and ground transportation to your cruise reservation

Get One-on-One Help Planning Your Cruise

Disney Cruise Itineraries: Where the Ship Goes

A big part of booking your Disney Cruise is picking your itinerary — which ship you’re on, when/where the cruise begins, where it goes, and how long it lasts.

Picking a Cruise

You can choose short 2-night jaunts or longer cruises lasting up to two weeks. 3-, 4-, and 7-night itineraries are the most common.

As for where to travel, there are numerous possibilities. The most popular — Bahamas cruises and Caribbean cruises — are offered year-round.

Bahamas cruises are a perennial favorite

Other options are offered only at certain times. Alaska cruises happen in the summer to avoid the worst of the cold weather. And at least one Disney ship spends part of the year cruising in Europe .

It’s not just warm-weather destinations — sail through misty fjords on an Alaska cruise with Disney

Additional options include Hawaii cruises , Mexico, the Pacific Coast, Canada, Bermuda, the South Pacific, and New Zealand / Australia.

There are even a few one-way cruises, which start in one location and end in another. These include Transatlantic, Transpacific, and Panama Canal cruises.

Read More: Best Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

Ports-of-Call

There’s enough to do onboard the ship to keep you busy from breakfast to bedtime, but cruising is also a great way to experience other parts of the world. After all, where else but on a cruise does your hotel move to a different city each day?

Any time your ship visits a port-of-call (a stop during your cruise), you’ll be able to leave the ship for a few hours to go exploring. There’s no charge to leave the ship, but you’ll pay for any activities you do while you’re there.

Just be sure to make note of what time the ship will be leaving — you don’t want to be left behind!

Read More: Where Does the Disney Cruise Go?

Castaway Cay

Disney has its own private island in the Bahamas. Castaway Cay  is included as a stop on many Bahamas and Caribbean Cruises. The island is so popular among Disney Cruise passengers that a few cruises offer two stops at Castaway Cay.

Because Castaway Cay is Disney’s own island, you won’t be competing for beach space with passengers from another cruise line — Disney doesn’t even bring two of its own ships there on the same day.

Highlights include a family-friendly beach, an adults-only beach, a kids club, water slides, all-you-can-eat BBQ, and all types of water recreation. There’s lots to do and enjoy on the island!

Read More: Castaway Cay — Disney’s Private Island

Port Adventures

Although it’s free to leave the ship and explore on your own, you might choose to take a Port Adventure . This is a paid activity, usually organized by a tour operator who has an agreement with Disney. Some cruise lines call these shore excursions .

Port Adventures can be as simple as transportation and admission to a nearby tourist attraction, or as complex as a guided tour with special activities and a meal. Popular Bahamas and Caribbean Excursions include everything from dolphin interactions to Jamaica “Bobsled” rides.  Alaska cruise excursions allow you to ride the White Pass Railway through Yukon territory or take a helicopter flight to land on a glacier. Castle tours are popular excursions on European departures. Or explore volcanoes on a Hawaiian cruise excursion.

You can book similar experiences on your own, but there’s a huge benefit to booking Port Adventures through Disney: if your Disney-arranged tour runs late, they’ll hold the ship at the port — or pay for you to catch up to the ship at the next port!

Many itineraries include at least one Day at Sea. The ship won’t stop at any ports that day — you’ll just stay out on the open ocean. It’s a fantastic way to relax without feeling like you’re missing anything! Catch a free movie, watch a show, try a new restaurant, go swimming, or just order room service and stay in bed!

✔️ Your cruise will visit different ports, allowing you to exit the ship and experience a new area and culture.

✔️ Choose to visit the Bahamas, Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Hawaii, or many others.

✔️  You can explore on your own, or pay for prearranged activities called Port Adventures

✔️  Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a popular stop on many Bahamas and Caribbean Cruises

✔️  A Day at Sea lets you enjoy the ship without missing anything on shore

Need Help Picking an Itinerary? A Vacationeer can help!

Disney Cruise Ships

Image © Disney / Kent Phillips

Your Disney Cruise ship is almost like a floating city. Onboard, you’ll find hotel-style guest rooms, restaurants, nightclubs & lounges, theaters, shops, pools & water slides, and even a medical center.

Disney has five ships to choose from , with three more under construction. We’ve listed them here alphabetically.

Disney Dream

The Disney Dream was the third ship in the fleet, first sailing in 2011. It has 1,250 Guest Staterooms for 4,000 passengers and is similar in size to the Disney Fantasy . It is significantly larger than the Disney Magic .

Itineraries: Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Europe, Transatlantic

Departure Ports: Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New York, San Juan, Southampton

Rotational Dining: Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, Royal Palace

Adult-Exclusive Dining: Palo, Remy

Broadway-Style Shows: Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s Believe, The Golden Mickeys

Youth Clubs: Edge, “it’s a small world” nursery!, Oceaneer Club, Occeaneer Lab, Vibe

Oceaneer Club Features: Andy’s Room, Disney Infinity Game Room, Pixie Hollow, Star Wars – Millennium Falcon, Disney’s Once Upon a Time, Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, Jedi Training – Experience the Force

Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy was the fourth ship in the fleet, first sailing in 2012. It has 1,250 Guest Staterooms for 4,000 passengers and is similar in size to the Disney Dream .

Itineraries: Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean

Departure Ports: Port Canaveral

Rotational Dining: Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, Royal Court

Broadway-Style Shows: Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s Believe, Frozen – A Musical Spectacular

Youth Clubs: Edge, “it’s a small world” nursery!, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Vibe

Oceaneer Club Features: Andy’s Room, Star Wars – Command Post, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Pixie Hollow, Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, Woody’s Roundup, Doctor Strange – Defy the Dark Dimension

Disney Magic

The Disney Magic was the first ship in the fleet, first sailing in 1998. It has 877 Guest Staterooms for 2,713 passengers and is similar in size to the Disney Wonder .

Itineraries: Bahamas, Mexico, Panama Canal

Departure Ports: Galveston, Miami, New Orleans, San Diego, San Juan

Rotational Dining: Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, Rapunzel’s Royal Table

Adult-Exclusive Dining: Palo

Broadway-Style Shows: Disney Dreams – an Enchanted Classic, Tangled – The Musical, Twice Charmed – An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story

Oceaneer Club Features: Andy’s Room, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Disney Junior, Pixie Hollow, Thor Becoming Worthy, Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Disney Royal Academy, Join the Lion Guard

Disney Wish

The Disney Wish was the fifth ship in the fleet, first sailing in 2022. It has 1,254 Guest Staterooms for 4,000 passengers.

Itineraries: Bahamas

Rotational Dining: 1923, Arendelle – A Frozen Dining Adventure, Worlds of Marvel

Adult-Exclusive Dining: Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, Palo Steakhouse

Broadway-Style Shows: Disney Seas the Adventure, Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, The Little Mermaid

Youth Clubs: Edge, “it’s a small world” nursery!, Oceaneer Club, The Hideaway, Vibe

Oceaneer Club Features: Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars – Cargo Bay, Fairytale Hall, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck.

Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder was the second ship in the fleet, first sailing in 1999. It has 877 Guest Staterooms for 2,713 passengers and is similar in size to the Disney Magic .

Itineraries: Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, New Zealand and Australia, Pacific Coast, South Pacific

Departure Ports: Auckland, Brisbane, Honolulu, Melbourne, San Diego, Sydney, Vancouver

Rotational Dining: Animator’s Palate, Tiana’s Place, Triton’s

Broadway-Style Shows: Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, Frozen – A Musical Spectacular, The Golden Mickeys

Oceaneer Club Features: Andy’s Room, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Disney Junior, Frozen Adventures, Captain America’s Super Hero 101, Mickey’s Roadster Racers, Join the Lion Guard

Future Ships

Disney is building three more cruise ships , which will eventually bring the total fleet size to eight.

The Disney Treasure will become the sixth ship in the fleet in December 2024 and should be similar in size and design to the Disney Wish .

Disney has purchased the partially-constructed Global Dream and will convert it into the new Disney Adventure  by 2025. This ship will be based in Singapore for at least five years.

The Disney Destiny , an additional custom-built ship (similar to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure ), is also expected to join the fleet in 2025.

✔️  There are five Disney Cruise Ships to pick from, with more being built

✔️  Each ship offers different itineraries and leaves from different departure ports

✔️  The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are smaller ships, while the rest of the fleet is significantly larger

✔️  Each ship has unique elements not found anywhere else in the fleet

Ready to Book? Vacationeers are standing by!

Staterooms (Cabins)

Your stateroom is your “hotel room” on the ship. It’s your own private space to sleep and relax onboard. Disney designed its staterooms thoughtfully, with sensible layouts and extra storage space that’s perfect for families. You’ll have a stateroom host who provides daily housekeeping and a nightly turndown service.

What’s in a Stateroom?

Your stateroom includes these amenities and more:

• A traditional bed, usually queen-sized, designed to sleep two
• A sleeper sofa (plus a pull-down upper berth and/or Murphy bed in rooms holding 4-5 people)
• A private bathroom, usually in a split design which lets two people get ready at the same time
• A mini-fridge
• A television
• A desk or table
• Drawers, closets, and other storage space
• An in-room safe

Some staterooms even include (locking) internal doors that allow you to reach a neighboring room without going into the hallway — a great option if you’re sailing with extended family or as part of a group cruise .

Four Types of Staterooms

There are four main types of staterooms to pick from, and the price changes based on what you pick.

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms do not offer any direct outside view. These are the smallest and least expensive rooms onboard the ship.

An Inside Stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

Oceanview Staterooms

Oceanview staterooms have at least one window, called a porthole, that lets you look out from your room. The window does not open.

The giant porthole featured in some oceanview staterooms on the Disney Dream | Image © Disney

Verandah Staterooms

Verandah staterooms have private balconies that let you step outside your room to enjoy the fresh ocean air.

A stateroom verandah onboard the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

Concierge Staterooms

Concierge staterooms are either oceanview or verandah, but add in additional perks and benefits . They may be a traditional room, a one- or two-bedroom suite, or even an astounding multi-story room. These are the costliest rooms onboard the ship.

The stunning Concierge Wish Tower Suite stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

Picking Your Stateroom

To pick a stateroom for your cruise, you first need to select the Type of stateroom.

Next, you’ll pick a stateroom Category , which is based on room size, layout, and occupancy.

Then, you’ll pick a Subcategory , which is based mainly on location within the ship — forward (toward the front), midship (toward the middle), or aft (toward the back), and whether you want to be on an upper or lower deck.

Finally, you’ll pick the exact stateroom you’ll be staying in. This is one of the big ways that reserving a cruise stateroom differs from reserving a hotel room.

There are lots of things to consider when picking a stateroom. You’ll want to study the ship’s deck plans (or get help from a travel agent) to decide what’s best for you.

Read More: Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise

✔️  A Stateroom is your private “hotel room” on the ship

✔️  There are different types of staterooms: Inside (no view), Oceanview (window), Verandah (balcony), and Concierge (window or balcony plus extra service)

✔️  Your choice of stateroom affects the cost of your cruise

✔️  You’re usually able to pick the exact stateroom you’ll stay in

Get Free Stateroom Advice from a Disney Cruise Expert

Because you pick your exact stateroom on a cruise, you’ll want to make sure you’re thinking of everything before choosing.

Get free guidance from The Vacationeer ! They’ll discuss costs , help you choose, and book your stateroom for you at no additional charge !

They’ll even give you a free Onboard Credit of up to $1,000 to use toward purchases on the ship!

You’re never under any obligation to book, so there’s no risk in contacting them!

Dining on Disney Cruises

If you go hungry on a cruise ship, you have only yourself to blame! There’s plenty of food available 24/7, most of which is already included in the cost of your cruise.

Dinner (Rotational Dining)

The nightly dinner service is a highlight for most Disney Cruisers. Each ship has different restaurants — some offer just a meal service while others add in live entertainment.

Oaken, Elsa, and Olaf toast Anna and Kristoff’s engagement at Arendelle – A Frozen Dining Adventure

Dinner when you cruise with Disney includes something called rotational dining . Passengers are pre-scheduled to visit a different restaurant each night of the cruise — no need to make separate reservations. The same servers travel with you to each restaurant; by the end of the cruise they’ll know you well enough to have your favorite drinks ready and remember how you like your steak.

When you make your cruise reservation, you’ll pick your dining time — either Main Dining (around 5:30 PM) or Second/Late Dining (around 8:15 PM). Want Second Dining but are concerned about the kids? Servers will expedite children’s meals if requested, and Oceaneer Club representatives come to the dining room to take the kids while the grownups continue eating.

You may be seated with another group ; if so, it will be the same people for the entire cruise. Some families love this because they can make new friends — but if you want to be seated at a private table with no other guests, ask your travel agent to note that request on your reservation.

Your dinner is already included in the cost of the cruise, so it’s a great way to try something different. Fearlessly order the escargot or pate — if you don’t like it, you can always get something else at no charge.

You’ll never know if you like Escargot unless you try it!

Even “complicated” foods like crab legs and lobster are served in a way that’s easy for novices to eat. Can’t decide between steak or chicken? Get both ! Your crew will happily serve you two entrees or bring three desserts.

There’s usually at least one optional dress-up night / formal night during dinner. If you don’t want to participate, you can always pick an alternate dinner option.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Alternate Dinners

Breakfast and Lunch onboard are less “rigid” than dinner. Each ship features a buffet-style restaurant where you don’t have to show up at a set time and can sit wherever you like.

Marceline Market on the Disney Wish

This same location also typically serves an “alternate” dinner if you’re just not that impressed by your assigned restaurant’s menu.

One of the usual dinner restaurants may also offer breakfast or lunch on some days of the cruise. These can be a more-relaxed meal than the often-lively buffet restaurant.

Adult-Exclusive Dining ($)

Each ship has at least one adult-exclusive restaurant which offers elegant meals for an additional fee. Reservations are required, and a dress code applies. Service is mainly at dinner, with an occasional brunch offering.

Lumiere leads the way to Enchanté, an adult-exclusive restaurant on the Disney Wish

Snacks can always be found on the pool deck — food windows offer up everything from chicken tenders to hot dogs to pizza to BBQ or Tex-Mex (offerings vary by ship). And there are free ice cream cones, too!

You don’t need to purchase a drink package if all you want is soda, milk, juice, or standard coffees/teas. They’re included at no additional charge — just fill up at one of the complimentary drink stations onboard the ship.

Specialty beverages (smoothies, iced coffees, etc.) and alcohol cost extra.

Room Service

Room service operates 24/7 and is included in the price of your cruise (but please tip the crew member who brings it to you).

The menu is relatively simple, but not sparse. You’ll find salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches, wings, fruit/cheese trays, cookies, and cake, among other offerings. Canned sodas and packaged candies are also offered, but cost extra.

You can get breakfast through room service, but it’s mainly pastries and cereals — no eggs, bacon, or oatmeal. Room service shuts down on the last night of the cruise, so you will not be able to get room service breakfast before you leave the ship at the end of the cruise.

Lounges and Bars ($)

There are plenty of lounges and bars on each ship. These can be simple places to get a drink, lively dance clubs, or highly themed experiences such as a Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge.

No wretched hive of scum and villainy here! Hyperspace Lounge offers amazing views.

Offerings vary by ship. Most drinks here cost extra, but you can purchase optional drink packages to help ease the cost.

Read More: Food on Disney Cruise Line

✔️  Most meals and non-alcoholic drinks are already included in your cost. Alcohol and specialty treats cost extra.

✔️  Breakfast and Lunch are casual meals with buffet-style service

✔️  You pick a dinner time when you book your cruise. You’re automatically assigned a different restaurant each night.

✔️  You have the same servers at each dinner

✔️  Youth Activities Counselors pick up children from Late Dining so parents can continue eating

✔️  You might be seated with other cruisers at dinner unless you request otherwise

✔️  Snacks, room service, and lounges fill in the gaps between meal times

Questions About Dining? Consult a Specialist

Requirements for Booking & Cruising

Booking and boarding a cruise is a bit more complex than booking and checking into a hotel.

What’s Needed to Book a Disney Cruise

When you’re ready to book a cruise, you’ll need to have some information handy.

First, you’ll need to know exactly which cruise you want to take .

You’ll also need to know who is traveling . “Guessing” now and modifying later can be complicated and costly.

For each passenger, you’ll need:

• Legal name (exactly as it appears on government-issued ID)
• Country of Citizenship
• Phone Number

Infant/Pregnancy Restrictions

Infants must be at least six months old on the day the cruise begins. For Transatlantic and Panama Canal cruises, the minimum age is 1 year old.

Passengers who enter their 24th week of pregnancy before or during their cruise may not sail.

Neither a doctor’s medical statement nor a waiver of liability will be accepted.

When do You Pay for Your Cruise?

You’ll usually only need to pay a deposit (typically 20%) when you book; you might even be able to hold a spot for 2 or 3 days before the deposit is due. Either way, once your deposit is paid, you can pay the balance on your own schedule . There is a final payment deadline and you won’t be able to book any onboard activities until you’ve paid in full.

If you need to modify or cancel, do so before cancellation penalties begin. Some last-minute bookings must be paid in full right away and have strict cancellation rules.

Requirements to Board a Disney Cruise

Cruising is a method of international travel. You’ll need to present proof of citizenship and proof of identification  to board.

Accepted Documents

Some cruises allow U.S. citizens to board with only a Government-issued photo ID and an official copy of a birth certificate . There are very specific requirements for this — check the information provided with your cruise booking.

The best option is to have a passport. If you have a mid-cruise emergency or miss the ship at a port-of-call, you will  need a passport to board a plane.

Read More: Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?

Boarding the Ship for the First Time

Ahead of your cruise, you’ll be able to do Online Check-In to complete and print important documents . By all means do so — it’s no fun doing paperwork at the terminal! You’ll also pick a port arrival time during this step.

You’re allowed to have both checked bags and carry-on bags . You’ll receive airline-style luggage tags in the mail prior to your cruise — put those on any bags you want to check at the port, then give the bags to a Porter at the terminal (don’t forget to tip) . Those bags won’t be delivered to your stateroom until later on the first night, so be sure your carry-on contains any medicines, sunscreen, swimsuits, etc. that you’ll need for the first afternoon and evening. I like to give those items their own section on my Disney Cruise packing list to make sure I don’t accidentally put anything important in the wrong bag.

Passengers and bags undergo security screening at the terminal , so don’t pack or bring any prohibited items . You’ll then head to a check-in counter for a quick security photo, basic health questionnaire, and other necessary info. Then you’ll wait until your boarding group is called.

Once you board the ship, you’ll be able to access most areas right away, but your stateroom may not be ready until mid-afternoon.

Exiting the Ship at the End of Your Cruise

On the last night of the cruise, you’ll have the option to have your checked bags picked up and delivered directly into the terminal.

If you DO let them pick up your luggage, everything must be packed and placed outside your room by a certain time (which might be during your dinner). You won’t see your bag again until you’re off the ship, so be sure not to pack anything you’ll need prior to that — shoes, undies, medicine, etc. You’ll be given new luggage tags to place on each bag. Breakfast on the last morning of your cruise will take place at a set time, at the same restaurant you were assigned to dine at on the night before.

If you DO NOT have them pick up your luggage, you’ll be taking part in Express Walk Off . You will be responsible for getting all of your luggage off the ship with no help. You’ll need to leave the ship as soon as the Express Walk Off announcement is made, as early as 7:00 AM. Those doing Express Walk Off skip their scheduled breakfast on the last morning, though there are usually some pastries and coffee available somewhere on the ship.

Either way , you’ll need to clear Customs at the port after you exit the ship. You’ll receive a declaration form in your stateroom on the last night. Take some time to fill it out then — it’s no fun, but it’s even less fun to have to rush to do it the next morning.

If you’re not doing Express Walk Off, you’ll head to breakfast at the designated time and place. Then, you wait for the announcement that you’re clear to leave the ship, and off you go.

And that’s it! Your first cruise with Disney is sadly over – but it’s already time to start dreaming about the next one!

✔️  Make sure you’ve gathered all of the necessary information before you book your cruise

✔️  You usually only need to pay a deposit to book, with the remaining balance due later

✔️  Be prepared to provide photo ID and proof of citizenship to board

✔️  Consider getting a passport, even if your cruise doesn’t require one

How to Book Your First Disney Cruise

There are many ways to book a Disney Cruise , including directly through Disney Cruise Line’s website or phone number.

But for first time cruisers , you’ll get the best service and guidance by booking through an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner such as The Vacationeer.

Here’s why:

• Free help planning your Cruise — there’s no charge to book with The Vacationeer and they’ll walk you through every big decision
• The best prices — they know all the  ways to save , so you’ll never pay more than if you’d booked it yourself
• The best discounts — they can help with  Military discounts , Florida resident rates , and more
• One dedicated agent from start to finish — no huge call centers and no waiting on hold ( unlike major wholesalers )
• Expert advice from frequent cruisers — your agent knows the ships because they sail on them, too
• They’re First Cruise experts — Vacationeers book thousands of trips each year and specialize in helping first-timers
• Up to $1,000 to use onboard — get a free Onboard Credit for Port Adventures, gratuities, souvenirs, and more
• Land and Sea Specialists — Want to spend some time at Disney World, too? Your Vacationeer handles it all!

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Disney+ and national geographic unveil galápagos islands giveaway for earth day: here’s how to enter.

Disney+ subscribers can score a trip to the Galápagos Islands with Nat Geo experts.

By Rudie Obias

Rudie Obias

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Disney+ is one of the most popular streaming services out right now, especially with its National Geographic originals — such as Earth Moods , Animals up Close With Bertie Gregory , Life Below Zero , The Space Race and Wild Yellowstone — that aim inform, educate and entertain its subscribers. While there are already plenty of perks and deals with a Disney+ subscription , the streamer is upping the ante with a contest to get a free cruise to the Galápagos Islands for Earth Day, thanks to Nat Geo.

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Verizon inks deal for free disney streaming bundle for some unlimited customers, animal rescue gives couple new purpose in 'billy & molly: an otter love story' trailer (exclusive).

The giveaway is part of Nat Geo’s ourHOME Collection of nature docuseries, originals and short films — including Secrets of Elephants , Queens , Dolphin Reef , The Olympic Elk and Fire of Love — on Disney+ that’s designed to celebrate Earth Month .

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