the best disney cruise ship

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

We compare and rank to find the best disney cruise ship.

When you combine  cruises  with  Disney , something magical happens! Below we compare the five Disney Cruise Line ships to help you decide which one is best for your next getaway. So, what is the best Disney Cruise ship? Without further ado, here is our list of the top 5!

Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet

The latest industry numbers indicate that Disney Cruise Lines have a 2.3 percent share of the worldwide cruise ship market. With additional ships soon to be added to the roster, we should only expect Disney will increase its market share over the coming years.

Disney Cruise Line has 5 active ships, with three additional Disney cruise ships expected to be added by 2025.

Here is the current DCL fleet:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wish

A sixth ship, Disney Treasure, is expected to join the fleet in 2024. Disney has also announced the purchase  of the partially-constructed  Global Dream  for conversion to a new Disney ship, the Disney Adventure (launching in 2025). Finally, another custom-built ship, the Disney Destiny, is expected to also launch sometime in 2025. Once all is said and done, there will be eight ships in the fleet.

Castaway Cay  is a tropical paradise located in the Bahamas and is an  exclusive port-of-call for Disney cruise guests. Disney owns the island, so you won’t compete with non-Disney guests for reservations. In addition,  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is under construction on Eleuthera as another exclusive port-of-call.

There are lots of similarities between these Disney ships. Each one has its advantages and its magical experiences. That said, some of the entertainment, dining, amenities, activities, and destinations vary from ship to ship.

Want personalized advice on which ship is best for your vacation?

Best Disney Cruise Ships

Each of Disney’s cruise ships has its own unique history and defining characteristics. Here is our list of the best Disney cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Wish Overview

Disney Wish  is the newest Disney Cruise ship, launched in the summer of 2022. For its inaugural season, the ship focuses on 3- and 4-night Bahamian itineraries sailing from Port Canaveral (FL), with visits to Disney’s Castaway Cay and Nassau.

This ship has a length of 1,119 ft and a gross tonnage of about 144,000. The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms and boasts an onboard Guest capacity of 2,508 (at double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy). In addition, 1,555 Crew Members keep the ship running. Disney Wish currently has no sister ships – it is the first in a series of three so-called “Triton Class” Disney ships (the two sister ships are expected to be introduced in 2024 and 2025).

While we admit that the newest isn’t always the best, that’s certainly  not  the case here. Instead, the Disney Wish has quite simply  changed the game  when it comes to cruising.

Disney Wish Dining

Disney Wish offers three rotational dining restaurants, two of which offer a sort of “dinner and a show” experience.

At  Arendelle – a Frozen Dining Adventure , you’re an honored guest of Queen Anna and Kristoff as they celebrate their engagement with Norwegian-inspired cuisine and live musical performances from Elsa and Olaf.

On another night, you’ll experience  Worlds of Marvel , which offers a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, along with a little adventure in the form of Ant-Man and the Wasp demonstrating Super Hero technologies.

Finally,  1923  offers a dining experience steeped in the golden age of Hollywood. Named after the year the Disney brothers founded their first studio, you’ll enjoy the flavors of California while surrounded by relics of the early days of animation.

For those seeking an elegant (upcharged) experience, try  Palo Steakhouse  for dinner — or drop into  Hyperspace Lounge  for an intergalactic drink. And with casual dining options such as  Marceline Market  and even places to grab a Taco or some BBQ, you’ll never go hungry onboard the Disney Wish!

Disney Wish Entertainment

Disney Wish onboard activities include Disney’s first-ever “attraction at sea” called the “ AquaMouse ,” a sort of waterslide meets raft ride meets roller coaster. Live shows include Disney’s  The Little Mermaid  and  Disney’s Aladdin . And, of course, there’s a vast array of movie, nightclubs, pools, pubs, a Walt Disney theatre, and more!

Disney Wish Activities for Kids

Disney Wish offers plenty to keep the kids entertained. Train at  Marvel Super Hero Academy , visit  Star Wars Cargo Bay  or build your own coaster at the  Walt Disney Imagineering Lab .  Edge  and  Vibe  cater to tweens and teens, while  it’s a small world nursery!, Toy Story Splash Zone  and  Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck  is waiting for the tiniest travelers.

Set Sail on the Disney Wish with The Vacationeer !

2. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney Fantasy Overview

Disney Fantasy  – the sister ship of Disney Dream – was launched in 2012 as Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship. Guests can choose between a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise. This ship has a length of 1,114.8 ft and a gross tonnage is 129,750. Like Disney Dream, the Fantasy has an onboard guest capacity of 2.500 (double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy) with a crew of over 1,400.

Routes:  Port Canaveral, Florida; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas; US Virgin Islands; Castaway Cay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica.

We love Disney Fantasy , and so do other Guests!

Disney Fantasy Dining

Disney Fantasy offers Rotational dining between the always entertaining dinner show named Animation Magic at its  Animator’s Palate  restaurant. The ship’s other  dining locations  include the magical Enchanted Garden and the fairytale dining room of  Royal Court . In contrast, the casual dining options include  Cabanas , Flo’s  Café , and snacks at  Eye Scream  and  Frozone Treats . The Northern Italian cuisine of  Palo  and French-inspired  Remy provide a few upscale and intimate options for adults.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

Disney Fantasy onboard activities include a “water roller coaster” called the “AquaDuck,” the nightclub district called Europa, several pools, pubs, theatres, and more!

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s Fantasy has plenty of individual and instructor-led activities geared to kids of all ages.

3. The Disney Magic

Disney Magic Overview

Disney Magic was the first Disney cruise ship that had its maiden voyage on July 30, 1998, and has been in service ever since. It boasts a length of 984 ft, a gross tonnage of 83,338, and has 11 public decks, 875  staterooms , a crew of 945, and enough capacity for 2,700 guests.

The interior of Disney Magic is decorated in an Art Deco style, while the ship’s exterior color scheme is black, red, and white with 20 yellow lifeboats (matching the colors of Mickey Mouse). Disney Magic’s horn blasts a tune from Disney’s famous “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The ship’s Godmother is Patricia Disney, the wife of Roy E. Disney.

Routes : 4 Night Caribbean Cruises; 5, 6, 7, and 8 Night Western Caribbean Cruises; 2, 3, 4, and 8 Night Bahamian Cruises; 4, 5, 7, 9, and 12-night Mediterranean Cruises; and Special Cruises

Simply put, Disney Magic is… magical!

Disney Magic Dining

Disney Magic  offers two dining times – early and late. The Disney Cruise Line uses something they call “Rotational Dining” to ensure that guests have a chance to experience each of the ship’s themed restaurants. Regarding dining options, Disney Magic has several restaurants, and all three participate in the Rotational Dining schedule. Disney Magic’s dining locations include Lumiere’s (themed after Beauty and the Beast), Rapunzel’s Royal Table (inspired by Disney animated movie Tangled), and Animator’s Palate. In addition, Disney Magic’s  Palo restaurant  is located on the aft deck. It serves Northern Italian fare at dinnertime (18+, seats 130 guests).

Disney Magic Entertainment

The fun never stops on  Disney Magic .  There are live Broadway-style shows with your favorite Disney characters, fireworks, character meets, and movie theaters with first-run and Disney movies. The Walt Disney Theater and the Buena Vista Theater, karaoke, games, several pools, and a variety of Disney-themed deck parties, including Pirates Night and Sail-Away Celebration. The ship also boasts a massive LED screen called “Funnel Vision” and numerous lounges and bars (including  O’Gills Pub ). Keys piano bar, the Promenade Lounge, D-Lounge, and the adults-only Fathoms.

Disney Magic Activities for Kids

Disney Magic hosts a variety of  kids’ clubs  to keep the youngsters entertained, including:

-It’s a Small World Nursery is a play area for infants .

– Oceaneer Club  and the Oceaneer Lab are geared towards kids ages 3 to 12 years old. Activities include themed activities, computer games, experiments, costume dress, and more.

-The Edge is an interactive area where younger guests play (ages 11-14).

-The Vibe club is strictly for teens and offers video games, Internet, TV, music, Internet access, and social activities.

Need Help Deciding Which Ship to Pick?

4. Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Disney Dream Overview

Disney Dream  is the 3rd  Disney Cruise Line  ship operated by The Walt Disney Company and has been active since 2011. The ship currently sails three-day, four-day, and sometimes five-day cruises to the  Bahamas . It has a capacity of 2,500 (double occupancy) or 4,000 passengers maximum and has a crew of 1,458. Disney Dream is 1,114 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : With the arrival of the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream is no longer primarily based at  Port Canaveral, Florida.  It now offers 3, 4, and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Port Miami , along with multiple European itineraries of 4-11 nights departing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, and Southampton.

Overall, the Disney Dream is fantastic. It’s not our absolute favorite, but there’s really not much to complain about.

Disney Dream Dining

Disney Dream has Rotational dining where you will get to experience 3 different restaurants each night of your cruise. The ship is home to a “state-of-the-art” dinner show at  Animator’s Palate , a classic Disney fairytale feast at  Royal Palace , and  Enchanted Garden  set in a serene conservatory setting. For a more casual dining experience, head to  Cabanas  for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Or check out the pizza, chicken, burgers, and salads at  Flo’s Café . For a delicious icy treat, head to  Frozone Treats , or  Eye Scream  (an ice cream shop). The Italian-inspired Palo and the French-inspired  Remy  are both high-end, adult-only dining options. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day.

Disney Dream Entertainment

Disney Dream onboard activities include digital sports simulators, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, a volleyball court, a pitch, and a walking track.

Disney Wonder is also home to a “water roller coaster” called the AquaDuck, Mickey’s Slide, and has three pools, including the quiet cove pool. The ship also boasts two theaters: the Walt Disney Theater (live Broadway-style performances) and the Buena Vista Theater (first-run Disney movies).

Disney Dream Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, Goofy’s Sports Deck, and Vibe are geared to kids of all ages.

5. Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Disney Wonder Overview

Disney Wonder  is the second ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and made its maiden voyage in August 1999. She is constructed in a nearly identical fashion to Disney Magic. However, the ship’s interior is decorated in the Art Nouveau style rather than Art Deco. Disney Wonder has 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, a crew of roughly 950, and can accommodate 2,400 passengers. This Disney cruise ship has a length of 974 ft and a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : The routes include Alaska , Hawaii , Australia/New Zealand, and the USA’s West Coast

Still an excellent cruise ship (despite our ranking).

Disney Wonder Dining

Disney Cruise Line uses a dining rotation where guests rotate to a different restaurant each night. Guests are seated at the same table number – with the same table guests and wait staff – for every night they are on board. This creates less confusion and a friendly commodore among the guests.

Disney Wonder has three main restaurants:  Triton’s ,  Tiana’s Place,  and  Animator’s Palate .  Triton’s  features French cuisine in an Art Deco dining room,  Tiana’s Place  serves southern cooking with live jazz music, and  Animator’s Palate  is a dining show offering contemporary cuisine and Disney characters. The other main dining rooms and food options include  Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast and lunch and a casual eatery for dinner, a sandwich and salad shop called  Daisy’s de-Lites ,  Pinocchio’s Pizza , and the adult-oriented Palo, where Italian-inspired food and décor are complimented with live music.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Some of the entertainment and lifestyle highlights of Disney Wonder include Crown & Fin Pub, an adults-only British-style pub, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and the relaxing and rejuvenating Senses Spa and Salon. Check  here  for a list of all onboard activities.

Disney Wonder Activities for Kids

Like Disney Magic, Disney Wonder offers the Oceaneers Club and the Oceaneers Lab for children ages 3-10. The Club provides several TVs, costumes to play dress-up, a slide, and some counselor-led activities. The Lab is geared towards the older age ranges and offers video games, TVs, computers, cooking classes, and more.

How to Book your Disney Cruise and Receive Onboard Credit

Ready to book your Disney Cruise? Do you have any questions?  The Vacationeer  can help!

The Vacationeer offers something called “onboard credit” as a free  bonus/incentive  for booking through their agency. Onboard credit is essentially  free money  – linked to your stateroom account – that can be used to pay for nearly anything on your Disney ship or in Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. This includes drinks, meals, merchandise, activities, spa treatments, gratuity, and more.

Ask your travel agent about onboard credit  before booking a  Disney Cruise line vacation. If they don’t offer it, then hang up and find one that does! We can tell you that The Vacationeer offers the most competitive onboard credit in the business and doesn’t charge you a single penny to use their services!

See  the Vacationeer’s  Onboard Credit promotion  and our  Disney Cruise Onboard Credit  page, then  get a free quote  today!

The Vacationeer can also help you plan and book your Disney cruise on their newest Disney cruise ships – the  Disney Wish .

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

While there are no Disney cruises exclusively for adults, there are plenty of dining options, bars, excursions, and perks geared towards adults on each cruise.

The Disney Dream is our pick for the  best Disney cruise ship for adults . It offers the cosmopolitan Skyline lounge, an upscale travel-themed lounge called The Meridian, the Italian restaurant Palo, the French fine-dining of Remy, a Quiet Cove for adults, the relaxation and rejuvenation of Senses Spa , and port excursions that cater specifically to adults.

Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The best location on a Disney cruise ship for the best views (widest vistas) is the very front or the very back of the ship.

The best location on a Disney cruise ship if you are prone to getting seasick is the center part of the ship because you’ll feel the least movement there. Specifically, try to reserve Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) have better views, but the ship will sway the most the higher you go. So it’s really just personal preference.

What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

If you sail out of Port Canaveral and stop at Castaway Cay, the  starboard side is the best side of a Disney cruise ship  because it faces the beach of Port Canaveral, where you can wave to everyone on the beach as the ship sets sail. The starboard side is also  usually  the side that faces  Castaway Cay  when the ship is docked there (though this will always depend on conditions at the time of docking). The starboard side is the right-hand side of the vessel, while the port side is on the left.

Enjoy your Disney Cruise!

We hope our Best Disney Cruise Ships RANKED article gives you some suggestions.

For more Disney information, please see our  How Much Do Disney Cruises Cost ,  Last-Minute Disney Cruise ,  What’s Included and What Isn’t , Best Cruise Lines for Kids ,   Disney Cruise Customer Service ,   Why Use a Disney Travel Agent ,  Disney Payment Plans ,  Disney Transportation Map ,  and  Disney World Tips   articles.

Thank you for reading our page, and we hope you have a fantastic vacation out at sea!

Get Free Help Planning Your Cruise

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, contact our friends at   The Vacationeer .

Their services are always helpful and totally  free of charge !

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new "Encanto" live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Unique to the Magic is the teens-only Chill Spa. When it comes to dining, the ship offers eight eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ;  San Diego ;  Miami ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New Orleans ; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wish

The fifth Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Wish made its maiden voyage in July 2022. The 4,000-passenger and 1,555-crew-member ship features the first Disney attraction at sea – AquaMouse – which takes thrill-seekers through 760 feet of water tubes high above the cruise deck.

Family-friendly cabin options include Concierge, Verandah, Oceanview and Inside staterooms. Rooms feature a 43-inch flat-screen TV, ample closet space and individual climate control. For fun, kids can head to Hero Zone recreation space (inspired by the movie "The Incredibles"), Vibe (an exclusive teen space) or the onboard nursery. Guests loved the variety of kid-friendly activities.  

For adults, there are retail shops, spas, bars, live entertainment and 10 pools and water play areas – including the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. A welcome escape among older cruisers, some passengers wished the adults-only spaces were bigger.

When it comes to food, travelers can enjoy California cuisine at 1923, French cuisine at the adults-only Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement or steak at the adults-only Palo Steakhouse. The ship also has interactive dining experiences based on several Disney films. Feast at the first Frozen-themed theatrical dining – Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and enjoy Norwegian-inspired cuisine. Or, explore the Worlds of Marvel with the Avengers: Quantum Encounter, featuring international dishes alongside superheroes like Ant-Man, Captain America and more.

Disney Wish sails to the Bahamas  from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wish features Disney's first infinity pool in the Quiet Cove. Unlike Disney's other ships, the Quiet Cove is located on Deck 13 all the way in the back of the ship, so it feels more intimate and doesn't see kids walking through the space throughout the day. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Dream

Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largest ships. Highlights include the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee) and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites – like "Beauty and the Beast" – to life.

While the ship emphasizes family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon. At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult oasis with host of bars and lounges. In terms of dining, the ship offers nine themed venues including two specialty adults-only restaurants.

Staterooms also cater to cruising clans, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85 percent of cabins have ocean views or verandas. Those looking for extra space can opt for Concierge Suites, which range from 622 to 1,781 square feet.

While some recent cruisers commented that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most said it was well worth the price due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.

Disney Dream departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New York ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Southampton, England; and more for sailings in the Bahamas , Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. The cruise line also offers some transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't skip dinner at Animator's Palate and its Undersea Magic dinner show. During the meal, you'll be immersed in the world of Finding Nemo, as Crush the turtle from the movie swims by virtually to chat with families between courses. (This dinner show is also available on the Disney Fantasy ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy launched in 2012 and underwent a dry dock in 2017. The ship features activities such as Pixar Day at Sea, Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular and the 765-foot AquaDuck water ride.

Staterooms are designed with families in mind. Inside cabins can accommodate up to four guests, and over 85% of the ship's cabins have an ocean view or a veranda. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, minifridges and iPod docking stations.

Onboard entertainment is just as family-oriented, with Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee), nightly live performances and 3D movies. While younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs, adults can relax at the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy an evening at an adults-only bar or lounge.

When it comes to dining, the ship offers 10 themed dining venues, including two adults-only specialty venues, three main dining rooms and an ice cream shop: Sweet on You.

Fantasy sails from  Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida , to the Bahamas , Bermuda and a variety of ports in the Caribbean.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Between Palo and Remy is a secluded adults-only bar called Meridian. The bar is known for its martini program, where the bartenders will ask you a few questions and then whip up something off-menu for you to enjoy inside or outside on the exclusive patio. (Meridian can also be found on the Disney Dream ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wonder

The 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder debuted in 1999. It was most recently updated in 2019; the refurbishment rolled out new family-oriented amenities and entertainment offerings, like Tiana's Place with live music and southern cuisine inspired by the Disney movie, "The Princess and the Frog." 

The ship offers plenty of onboard activities, with 10 designated family areas, five youth clubs and seven adults-only spaces. While younger passengers play at age-appropriate clubs, grown-ups can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. When hunger strikes, Wonder offers six dining options, including one adults-only specialty restaurant.

Like the majority of the ship, staterooms are designed with families in mind. Interior cabins can accommodate up to four passengers, while larger suites can sleep up to seven. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs, seating areas and classic Disney designs. Recent cruisers noted the expensive cost of a trip on the Disney Wonder, but most felt the quality of service was top-notch. 

Disney Wonder departs from a range of ports throughout Australia and New Zealand, as well as  Vancouver , for sailings around the South Pacific, Mexico and Alaska. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wonder features Disney Cruise Line's only Princess and the Frog-inspired rotational dining room. Tiana's Place is themed after a jazz supper club, with a live band, Creole dishes and dancing. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship (Ranked for 2024)

Last updated on Jan 1, 2024 by Adam Bryan . This post may contain affiliate links.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the high seas on a Disney Cruise but didn’t know which ship to sail on, then this article is for you!

After sailing on all 5 Disney Cruise ships, I’ll compare every ship’s amenities, itineraries, staterooms, entertainment, kids clubs, and dining, in order to help you decide which one will be the best for your next vacation.

So with that said, let’s jump straight to my rankings of the best Disney Cruise ships!

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

Best disney cruise ships.

• What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

What Disney Cruise Ship has the Best Food?

Best disney cruise ship for toddlers, best disney cruise ship for adults.

• What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

What is the most luxurious Disney Cruise ship?

What ship has the best concierge staterooms and lounges, what is the most expensive cruise ship, what are the best disney cruise destinations, how many disney cruise ships are there, does port (left) or starboard (right) have the best views, should i go on a disney cruise before or after disney world, final thoughts.

Here are the Disney Cruise Ships ranked from best to worst, based on amenities, staterooms, dining options, and itineraries.

• Disney Wish
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Although there are a lot of similarities between these ships, each one has its own advantages and disadvantages that make them unique in their own ways. I’ll go into more detail about that in the next section.

Here is my list of Disney Cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish

As Disney Cruise Lines’ newest ship, The Disney Wish is the undisputed goat at this moment.

Yes, the layout is wonky, but the overall aesthetics, stateroom quality, immersive restaurant options, and youth clubs take this boat to the next level.

If you’re looking for the nicest staterooms, this is the ship for you.

Disney Wish Entertainment

The entertainment onboard the Disney Wish is fantastic. The two highlights are the Hero Zone and Luna, which is the main hub for all daily/nightly entertainment including bingo, game shows, and some trivia.

There are two movie theaters onboard where you can view first run Disney movies as well as some older releases.

The Walt Disney Theater is home two three Broadway-style shows – Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Disney Seas the Adventure.

You can find daily activities at Luna and Keg Compass, just to name a few.

Lastly, you can’t forget about the fireworks at sea.

Disney Wish Dining

The restaurant and food quality onboard the Disney Wish is the best of the entire fleet.

For counter service, you can grab some quick bites from the Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods which fathers fan-favorite options like pizza, burgers, chicken strips, fries, barbecue, tacos and burrito bowls, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream.

I couldn’t believe that they had all you can eat barbecue and build your own burrito bowls on board.

The Main Dining rotation is by far the most immersive thanks to World of Marvel (where Ant Man, The Wasp, and Spider-Man an appearance), Arendelle (a Frozen dining adventure), and 1923 (a glizy steakhouse). Not to mention the adults-only options are top notch at Palo Steakhouse and Enchante.

And let’s not forget about Marceline Market, which is a buffet open for breakfast and lunch. My only complaint about Marceline Market is that the seafood selection is lacking compared to Cabanas onboard the Dream and Fantasy.

In terms of bars and lounges, the Wish is home to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, which is so cool. It reminds me of a microscopic version of the Galactic Starcruiser . The Bayou is also a great place to listen to live music and snack on some beignets. There are numerous other bars located throughout the ship, but these are the two most popular.

Disney Wish for Kids

The kids clubs aboard the Disney Wish are by far the most immersive of the fleet thanks in part to Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The clubs for teens and tweens are just as cool too!

But the highlight of the boat is definitely the AquaMouse waterslide which is the first ever Disney attraction at sea.

2. Disney Dream

Prepare to be dazzled by the Disney Dream, a magnificent vessel that takes guests on an extraordinary voyage filled with imagination and luxury. With its iconic Art Deco design, innovative features, and world-class entertainment, this ship offers an enchanting experience that combines Disney storytelling with the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.

It by far has the best layout of any of the other cruise ships and is well-loved by many guests.

Disney Dream Entertainment

The signature show onboard the Disney Dream is Beauty and Beast, which is great! You can also watch Disney’s Believe which lets you relive some of Disney’s greatest movie moments onstage as well as the iconic Golden Mickeys.

You can view first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theater or even watch some movies under the stars via FunnelVision.

The Dream is also home to Marvel Day at Sea during select sailings!

Throughout the day, you can find daily activities at the D Lounge or some fun adult-only games shows at Evolution.

The best part of the Dream for adults is that there is an exclusive area filled with bars, lounges, and a nightclub in the back of the ship.

Disney Dream Dining

Food-wise, the Dream has three great rotational dining spots – Animator’s Palate (with Crush), Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden. Animators Palate is by far the most interactive dining experience onboard. And for adults, there is a Palo and Remy, which are both fantastic in their own ways.

For counter-service food, you can find pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and all you can eat ice cream.

Cabanas is probably my favorite Disney Cruise buffet due in part to it’s stone crab selection.

Disney Dream for Kids

Onboard the Disney Dream, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Goofy’s sports deck with mini-golf and an AquaDuck waterslide that’s fun for all ages (adults included).

3. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is a majestic ship combines sophisticated design, immersive entertainment, and unparalleled service to create an extraordinary vacation experience.

The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Dream as they share almost the same layout and amenities, with a few minor changes in the hard and soft product. The Fantasy currently sails 7-night western and eastern caribbean routes out of Port Canaveral, FL.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

The Disney Fantasy is home to three Broadway style shows – Aladdin, Frozen, and Disney’s Believe.

Onboard the ship, you’ll also find a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies as well as D Lounge for daily activities and game shows and a nightclub district called Europe which features several bars, lounges, and a British-mode nightclub called The Tube.

Disney Fantasy Dining

The Fantasy has identical dining locations to the Dream. The main dining restaurants are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, and Royal Court. There is also two adults-only restaurants called Remy and Palo.

For casual, quick service options, you’ll find a buffet called Cabanas, Flo’s Cafe for burgers, chicken, pizza, and salad, as well as Eye Scream Treats for unlimited ice cream.

Disney Fantasy for Kids

Onboard the Disney Fantasy, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

You’ll also find a Goofy’s Sports deck for some mini-golf

There is also a water roller coaster called the AquaDuck!

4. Disney Magic

The Disney Magic cruise ship embodies timeless Disney charm and elegance, offering a captivating experience for guests of all ages. From its classic design to its immersive entertainment and dining options, this vessel showcases the perfect blend of enchantment, adventure, and relaxation on the high seas.

The Magic can be found on Caribbean itineraries as well as those found in northern Europe.

Disney Magic Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Magic, you’ll can watch Broadway-style live shows in the Walt Disney Theater like Tangled the Musical, Disney Dreams, and Twice Charmed An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story.

There is also a Buena Vista Theater that shows first-run Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars movies.

Not to mention you’ll be able to participate in daily actives in the D Lounge or Premade Lounge during your sailing.

The adult’s only nightclub on the Magic is called Fathoms which is home to disco dance parties and adults-only game shows. You’ll also find bars and lounges scattered throughout each deck.

Disney Magic Dining

The best part about the Disney Magic is the Duck-In Diner, if you love schwarma!

Besides that, you can find three main dining restaurants – Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table, which is a Tangled-themed immersive dining experience. There is also only one adults-only restaurant called Palo.

Quick eats include Cabanas buffet, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Duck-In Diner, and Eye Scream Treats.

Disney Magic for Kids

On the Disney Magic, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Wide World of Sports which has basketball court!

5. Disney Wonder

With its classic charm and impeccable attention to detail, the Disney Wonder offers a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages. From its elegant design to its captivating entertainment and dining options, the Disney Wonder invites guests to embark on a journey filled with enchantment, imagination, and cherished memories.

The Wonder was the second ever Disney Cruise ship and currently sails the west coast of the US on itineraries for Alaska, Hawaii, Cabo, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Wonder, you’ll find a nightclub for adults called Azure, a D Lounge for daily activities, a movie theater for first run movies, and a main theater that has nightly performances of Frozen A Musical Spectacular and the Golden Mickeys.

Disney Wonder Dining

The dining options are plentiful onboard the Disney Wonder. The main dining rooms include Animator’s Palate, Tritons, and the fun and musical Tiana’s Place. If you love the Princess and the Frog, you’ll love this spot!

Adults can also dine at Palo, the only adult exclusive restaurant on board available for brunch and dinner.

For counter service, you will find burgers, pizza, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream. Unlike the Magic, there is not a place to get schwarma.

Disney Wonder for Kids

Onboard the Disney Wonder, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

There are a handful of things that you’ll find on ever Disney Cruise:

• Service – regardless of what ship you’re on, you’ll immediately notice that the world class service is consistent on all of the ships
• Movie Theater – every ship has a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies
• Pool – every ship will have a pool but the number of pools vary depending on the ship
• Room Service – regardless of stateroom or ship, you have access to complimentary room service 24/7
• Unlimited Ice Cream – you can enjoy all you can eat soft serve ice cream
• Pirate Night – you can participate in Pirate Night on every ship
• Adults-only areas – every ship has a Quiet Cove pool, bars, lounges, as well as an exclusive adults-only restaurant like Palo
• Spa – every ship has a Senses Spa, salon, and gym
• Rotational Dining – every ship has three rotating main dining rooms
• Buffet – you’ll find a buffet on ever Disney Cruise ship
• Character Meet and Greets – you can meet characters on every sailing
• Shopping – every ship has their own stores
• Key to the World Card – every guest will receive a Key to the World Card to access their stateroom and make purchase without cash
• Sail Away Deck Party – you’ll find a sail away deck party on every ship
• Youth Club – you’ll find youth clubs including a nursery onboard every ship
• Alcohol – every ship serves alcohol and each guest over the age of 21 has an alcohol allowance that they can bring onboard
• Concierge Lounge – every ship has a Concierge Lounge available exclusively for guests staying in Concierge staterooms

The Disney Wish has the best food on any Disney Cruise Ship.

Although it’s a tight race between the Magic, Wonder, and Wish, the food options on the Wish are slightly better.

From a counter service perceptive, the Wish has a taco spot and a barbecue spot, both of which can’t be found on any of their other ships.

Plus, it’s the only ship currently to have a Palo Steakhouse which I believe is far better than the normal Palo.

And in case you were wondering, the second best ship in regards to food options is the Disney Magic mainly due to one thing I love so much – schwarma.

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for toddlers (or kids in general) is the Disney Wish .

The Wish is jam packed with amazing Youth Clubs as well as some exciting areas such as the Star Wars: Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie’s Captain Deck, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Fairytale Hall, and Imagineering Lab.

Not to mention, the AquaMouse is the best waterslide on any Disney ship!

But, regardless of what ship you sail on, your kids will have so much fun thanks to the countless character meet and greet opportunities, fun Broadway-style shows, all you can eat ice cream, and fun pools.

Hands down, the best Disney Cruise Ship for adults is the Disney Dream .

The Disney Dream is home to several lounges and bars like Skyline, Pub 687, the Meridian, and Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar. The Dream also has a nightclub called Evolution which is home to adults-only live shows, dance parties, and so much more.

Although the Wish is the best ship in the fleet, it lacks a separate area for adults in the evening, similar to what you’ll find in The District. There’s just something nicer about having a separate area to drink and lounge that’s not located directly in the middle of the ship where everyone needs to pass by.

The Disney Dream also has a nice Quiet Cove area for adults as well as a very scenic Senses Spa, Salon, and gym area.

And when it comes to food, adults can dine at both Palo and Remy (no kids allowed).

What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

If you’re looking to cruise on a budget , the cheapest ship with the lowest priced itineraries can be found on the Disney Magic .

Although prices will vary depending on the time of year you choose to sail, most itineraries on the Disney Magic appear to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the ones on the Dream and Wish.

Honestly, you can use these strategies to make any Disney Cruise affordable.

The most luxurious Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wish . The sheer quality of suites (including the Wish Tower Suite), high-end shopping, superior Concierge Lounge and sundeck, as well as the dining options, and makes it a true masterpiece.

In terms of luxury, nothing else comes close, at the moment.

The best Concierge Lounge and stateroom options can be found on the Disney Wish .

The Wish’s Concierge Lounge and private sundeck is massive and completely blows the other ships’ out of the water.

Not to mention the quality, size, and style of Concierge Suites found on the Wish is significantly nicer and larger than the ones found on any of the other ships.

That said, the perks , benefits, and service you receive as a Concierge guest are completely identical on every ship.

Technically speaking, the most expensive cruise ship has nothing to do with the ship itself but instead the itineraries it follows, as well as the stateroom that you stay in .

Generally speaking, the most expensive destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe (Mediterranean, Greece, and Norway).

If you sail decide to book a Concierge Stateroom, you’ll notice the significant price different between the next highest room category (Verandah).

That said, The Wish appears to cost more for sailings to the Bahamas cruises compared to the Dream when it previously sailed the same route from Port Canaveral.

Everyone’s opinion will be very different, but based on my own personal sailing experience, these are my favorite destinations ranked:

• Mediterranean (out of Barcelona)
• Western Caribbean

My bucket list includes sailings to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Norway, and Cabo.

There are currently 5 Disney Cruise Ships sailing with two more on the way. The next ship that’s going to start sailing in 2024 is named The Treasure.

The names are:

This strictly depends on what destinations your ship is sailing to. But from personal experience, the Starboard side always seems to have the better views. Not to mention, you can see the fireworks at sea from your stateroom balcony if you are on the Starboard side.

When leaving out of Port Canaveral, the best side will be the Starboard (right) side because it faces the beach in Castaway Cay , as well as the beach when leaving Port Canaveral. When in Nassau, Bahamas, the best side of the boat is Port (left) because gives you the best view of the island.

If it were up to me, I would 100% go on a Disney Cruise after a Disney World vacation .

As fun as Disney World is, it can be pretty stressful and tiring with all of the planning, itinerary-building , walking, heat exhaustion, etc.

Disney Cruises, on the other hand, are the exact opposite . Cruising is more peaceful, there’s less walking involved, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

That’s why I recommend that you always start with Disney World and then end with a Disney Cruise.

And there you have it!

We’ve sailed through the rankings and comparisons of all five magnificent Disney cruise ships. From the timeless elegance of the Disney Magic to the dazzling innovation of the Disney Dream, the enchanting Disney Fantasy, the classic charm of the Disney Wonder, and the majestic nature of the Disney Wish, each ship offers a unique and unforgettable voyage.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, luxurious indulgence, or the perfect blend of Disney magic and relaxation, there’s a ship waiting to fulfill your dreams on the high seas.

So, set your course, plan your voyage , pack your bags , and embark on a Disney cruise experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

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About Adam Bryan

Hey what's up, I'm Adam, founder of Urban Tastebud Disney and I spend most of my days eating (and researching, but mostly eating) around Disney Parks to create useful travel planning content that will help you maximize your time and money at Disney.

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Which is the best Disney cruise? 6 ships ranked

Water slides, dance parties and firework displays are all included when mickey & co take to the high seas.

I knew a Disney cruise would be unlike any other the moment I first stepped onto the ship in Port Canaveral, Florida. Mickey and Minnie Mouse waved us on board as the ship’s horn blasted the first seven notes of When You Wish Upon a Star , signalling our departure. With themed dining, characters at every turn and extensive entertainment on offer, Disney Cruise Line brings all the magic of its theme parks to the sea. The fleet now includes five ships — with a sixth due in late 2024 — offering itineraries across the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska and Australia, including several that call at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Here is your guide to each ship to help choose the right one for your family.

1. Disney Wish

Best for fans of Frozen Launched in 2022, Disney’s newest ship has modernised the cruise line with its swish top-level suites themed on princess movies and immersive dining experiences. There is also a thrilling ride through 230m of winding tubes that culminates with a splash into a lazy river. The ship is also a must-book for any devoted fans of Elsa as it includes the world’s first Frozen -themed theatrical dining experience featuring musical performances, special effects and interactions with the film’s characters. Disney Wish is also the only ship to offer under-12s the chance to share a picnic with Olaf and his Frozen friends, while the on-board kids’ club hosts even more Frozen -themed games in specially designed rooms. Those less keen on princesses won’t miss out. Guests can dine alongside Ant-Man and the Wasp at the Avengers: Quantum Core restaurant, watch new films in two cinemas or cool off in ten pools and water play areas inspired by Mickey and friends.

disneyholidays.co.uk

2. Disney Wonder

Best for Alaskan sailings Fancy spotting glaciers, whales and forests rather than white-sand beaches and palm trees? Then you’ll love Disney Wonder, which offers Alaskan itineraries throughout the summer and was also Disney Cruise Line’s first ship to sail in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Ships sail from Vancouver and cruise along the Stikine Icecap against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and glaciers before dropping anchor in ports including Ketchikan and Alaska’s state capital Juneau. The ship itself is a little smaller than most of the fleet — carrying up to 2,713 passengers rather than 4,000 — making it a little less overwhelming for first-time cruisers. It has all the usual DCL touches though, including handy rotational dining which ensures every guest is automatically allocated a spot in each of three themed dining venues on board so no one misses out. You’ll even have the same waiting staff each night. Reservations include Disney Wonder’s two exclusive restaurants, Triton for French fine dining and the lively Tiana’s Palace with its live jazz music, Creole dishes and characters from The Princess and the Frog .

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3. disney fantasy.

Best for longer Caribbean itineraries Disney Cruise Line is known for its handy three-night itineraries in the Caribbean and Bahamas, ideal if you’re trying cruising for the first time with kids or relaxing after Florida’s theme parks. If a little more R&R is needed, opt for a sailing on the Disney Fantasy which offers five, six, seven and ten-night Caribbean cruises for extended relaxation. Fancy a little more excitement? Optional shore excursions include all-terrain buggy rides in Cozumel, Mexico; ziplining in Antigua; and even flyboarding in St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. All itineraries also call at Disney’s own private island, Castaway Cay in the Bahamas, with its white-sand beach, water sports, snorkelling lagoon with underwater Disney trail and character appearances (in beach gear, naturally). Tear yourself away from the sunlounger if you can and hire a bike — the flat, easy cycle path winds through the jungle to a lookout tower for panoramic views of the Caribbean and your ship in the distance.

4. Disney Magic

Best for first-time cruisers Mammoth cruise ships can be intimidating even for regular cruisers. DCL’s first-ever ship, the Disney Magic, is hardly small by anyone’s reckoning but, like the Disney Wonder, carries 2,713 passengers compared to 4,000 on others in the fleet. There may be fewer decks to navigate but Disney Magic still has plenty the other ships don’t, including one of the cruise line’s best water slides, AquaDunk, where the floor disappears to reveal an exhilarating near-vertical three-storey drop. Just be aware that children need to be at least 1.22m (4ft) to ride, though there is a second gentler slide to keep everyone happy. Elsewhere on Disney Magic, princess fans will be thrilled to watch an exclusive performance of Tangled: The Musical at the on-board theatre before dining at Rapunzel’s Royal Table with its character appearances, musical performances and elaborate desserts including birthday cupcake sundae and Gothel black forest tower.

5. Disney Treasure

Best for future planning Be one of the first to sail on Disney Cruise Line’s new ship by booking ahead for December 2024, when Disney Treasure will set sail on seven-night Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral. The 15-deck ship will feature a Broadway-style musical based on the blockbuster Moana , a water-coaster and a theatrical Coco -themed dining experience featuring mariachi musicians and characters from the film. Adults won’t be left out either. They can try cocktails at a lounge inspired by Disney’s Jungle Cruise attraction, visit a pub serving craft beers based on 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea or even brave the Haunted Mansion Parlor, a “haunted” bar at sea. Staterooms available include lavish suites, inspired by The Lion King and Finding Nemo , with forward-facing views and one palatial option perched high in the ship’s forward funnel with a private elevator, spiral staircase and library.

6. Disney Dream

Best for European sailings There’s no longer any need to endure a long-haul flight to set sail with Mickey. Disney Dream launched European itineraries in summer 2023, with voyages from Civitavecchia (Rome), Barcelona and Southampton. Destinations along the way include the medieval port of La Rochelle in France, the fjord-flanked fishing town of Alesund in Norway, and the hip Spanish city of Bilbao with its tiny pintxos bars, walkable old town and Guggenheim Museum. Back on board, there’s plenty to entertain the family including an elaborate sweet shop, Goofy-themed mini-golf, basketball courts and a poolside big screen showing Disney films all day. Mini-Disney lovers get nearly an entire deck of dedicated children’s space to roam, including a vast kids’ club where Star Wars fans can pilot a life-sized Millennium Falcon and a beauty salon for makeovers to transform children into princesses and knights. But it’s the AquaDuck water-coaster that’s the biggest draw, as riders are whizzed down a four-deck drop and 13ft off the side of the ship on an inflatable raft.

• Best luxury cruise lines for 2024 • Best all-inclusive cruises

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Disney Cruises: The Complete Guide

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Table of Contents

About Disney Cruise Line cruises

Disney cruise line prices, disney cruise line loyalty program: castaway club, what is the best disney cruise line ship.

Disney has a massive global footprint across its theme parks, films and merchandise. And it doesn’t stop there. Among its many offerings is the Disney Cruise Line, whose fleet of five ships sails all over the world.

Family-friendly but with adults-only areas, Disney cruises offer some of the most comprehensive cruise options around. Let’s break down everything there is to know about the Disney Cruise Line, including pricing, destinations and its loyalty program.

You can always expect some magic from Disney, and there is no exception when sailing on Disney Cruise Line. Although its fleet is small, it offers a high-end, family-friendly experience for guests. Here’s a quick overview of Disney Cruise Line’s key features.

Cabin types: Disney Cruise Line offers all the usual cabin types, including inside, oceanview, verandah and concierge-level rooms . Disney Cruise Line’s cabins are larger than average and designed for families, with split bathrooms and privacy curtains. Their largest rooms can accommodate up to seven guests. 

Main U.S. routes: Disney has several departure points from within the United States, including options from San Diego, New York City, Miami, and Galveston, Texas. However, its most frequent departures are from Port Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida, to the Bahamas and the Caribbean or from Vancouver, British Columbia to Alaska.

Loyalty program: Disney Cruise Line offers the Castaway Club to repeat guests. It has four membership levels — Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl. The first level is earned by completing a single cruise. 

» Learn more: Disney Cruise Review — Mickey at Sea Gets an A+

Disney Cruise Line destinations

Although Disney currently operates only five ships, the cruise line still manages to cover most of the world. Here are the locations you can currently sail on a Disney cruise:

New Zealand.

Pacific Coast. 

Panama Canal.

South Pacific. 

Transatlantic. 

Cruises are available in a variety of lengths, from three nights up to 15 nights.

Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than the average cruise. Currently, for example, the cheapest cruise departing from Port Canaveral is a three-night trip to the Bahamas, which costs $1,958 for two guests.

And you’ll pay more to take a "special occasion" Disney cruise. The same three-night Bahamas cruise sailing during Disney's Silver Anniversary at Sea starts at $2,345 for two guests.

When it comes to timing, standard logic applies. The high season will cost more, especially during holidays and the summer break.

The cheapest rate we found — the previously-mentioned $1,958 — is for a cruise in late January, a time when those with school-aged children might have trouble getting away. Meanwhile, the most expensive period for this cruise takes place over the Christmas holiday and rings in at $3,737 for an inside stateroom.

For all destinations, if you’d like to save money, avoid peak periods and search all available dates to find the lowest rates . This is true even on less popular cruises, such as those sailing up to Alaska .

The cheapest cost for two guests to Alaska from Vancouver is $2,983 in mid-September, while the same cruise will cost you $4,607 if you sail over the Fourth of July holiday.

One-way positioning cruises — that is, those that end in a different location from where they started — are often much cheaper per night than standard round-trip cruises.

What’s included

Disney cruises are more inclusive than most cruises. You don’t, for example, need to pay extra for soft drinks on a Disney cruise like you would on Norwegian Cruise Line . You’re also entitled to complimentary room service 24/7, unlike on Virgin Voyages, where you'll be charged a $5 fee for each delivery.

Here are more inclusions you can expect.

Live, high-quality entertainment.

Large staterooms (designed for parties of up to three guests).

Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay (on most Bahamas and Caribbean cruises).

Upscale restaurants, quick-service dining, poolside snacks and room service.

Adults-only lounges and pool areas.

Waterslides (on some ships).

» Learn more: How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Disney isn’t known for its loyalty programs. For example, there is no frequent traveler program associated with staying at one of its resorts or frequenting its parks. However, Disney Cruise Line rewards repeat customers with various benefits, including a complimentary specialty dinner, free photo downloads and an exclusive terminal check-in area.

Castaway Club levels

The Castaway Club levels are Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl.

How to earn : Sail on one cruise.

Best benefits : Book cruises one day before the general public, online activity planning 90 days before sailing, check in 33 days early, exclusive terminal check-in.

How to earn : Sail on five to nine cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises two days before the general public, online activity planning 105 days before sailing, check in 35 days early, onboard reception, special discounts. 

How to earn : Sail on 10 to 24 cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises three days before the general public, online activity planning 120 days before sailing, check in 38 days early, complimentary specialty dinner.

How to earn : Sail on 25+ cruises. 

Best benefits : Book cruises four days before the general public, online activity planning 123 days before sailing, check in 40 days early, complimentary unlimited digital photo package. 

» Learn more: Which is cheaper, Disney World or a Disney cruise?

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and certainly its best. It just launched in the summer of 2022. Among its many amenities, guests can find the first-ever Disney attraction at sea. It’s a 760-foot water slide filled with show scenes, lighting, music and more that touches down into a lazy river.

The Disney Wish also has dedicated areas themed for "Frozen," the Marvel Universe and "Star Wars."

In addition, the Disney Wish has all the regular amenities you’d expect on a Disney cruise, including live entertainment, pools and spacious staterooms.

Disney Cruise Line does not offer free Wi-Fi. Instead, it has three levels of packages from which to choose:

Stay Connected: $10 per day for the entire cruise or $12 per day for a 24-hour period.

Basic Surf: $20 per day for the entire cruise or $24 per day for a 24-hour period.

Premium Surf: $30 per day for the entire cruise or $36 per day for a 24-hour period.

These packages are available on the Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream. The Disney Wonder still operates on the old data-usage Wi-Fi packages.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer the standard drink package other cruise lines offer. Drink packages allow you to pay a flat-rate price and drink as much alcohol as you’d like.

Instead, you’ll either pay per drink or purchase bundled quantities onboard. It’s also possible to purchase a specialty beer mug at the pub onboard, which can then be refilled across the ship. Much like Disney’s popcorn buckets, your beer mugs entitle you to cheaper refills on all your beer.

In the past, Disney Cruise Line required that you be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 before sailing, but this is no longer the case. Guests departing from the United States are not required to do either, though the cruise line highly encourages you to get vaccinated before sailing.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and

Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip

is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

(Top photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

This article is your complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise ship for your Disney Cruise Line (DCL) vacation! Disney has been bringing magic to the high seas since 1998 by giving guests new ways to enjoy a Disney vacation. Since the inaugural ship, the Disney Magic set sail, there have been 4 additional ships added to the DCL fleet for a total of 5 ships. But that garners the question, which Disney Cruise ship is the best? And while no Disney ship is a bad Disney ship, some ships offer experiences that are catered to different groups of people. This means that depending on what ship you book your next cruise on, you could have more or less to do depending on how you want to vacation!

In this complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise, we are going to break down each ship and give you our list of Disney Cruise ships ranked. DCL has already announced three new ships on the docket with one in the process of being made. This new ship, the Disney Treasure, is scheduled to set sail in the summer of 2024. So be sure to check back here as we may have a new answer to what is the best Disney Cruise ship .

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip to Disney World for your Discounted Disney Cruise Line vacation , be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the cheapest Walt Disney World vacation packages!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

Best Disney Cruise Ships Overview

From enjoying an almost all-inclusive vacation, to taking in the sights of open water mixed with the magic of Disney. There is no other vacation like a Disney Cruise Line vacation . Currently, there are 5 ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. From oldest to newest there the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Drea, & Disney Wish. But which ship is the best Disney ship? As a current member of the Disney Castaway Club, I can confidently tell you that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . And not just because it’s the newest!

What is the B est Disney Cruise Ship?

• The Disney Wish gets the Golden Mickey Award for being the best Disney Cruise ship. With its ample adult-only spaces, unique kids clubs, weather-controlled recreation area, and one-of-a-kind Funnel Suite , this ship is hands down the best Disney Cruise .

All 5 Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

• Disney Magic
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Wish

Let it be known that while this is an article on all 5 of the D isney ships ranked , it was almost impossible to do so. Each ship is carefully crafted to fit an ideal vacation. So no matter if you want to relax, explore, sleep in, or celebrate a milestone with or without kids, there will be a ship that’s better for you. I’ll break down the reasons why each ship landed where it did and what you can expect out of the best Disney cruises.

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All 5 Disney Ships Ranked – Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Best?

#5 – disney magic.

Destinations:   Caribbean, Bahamian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:   2 – 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  875

Dining Options:   On Disney Magic, the main rotational dining locations include Lumiere’s, Rapunzel’s Royal Table, & Animator’s Palate. For quick bites throughout the day, you can enjoy food from Duck-In Diner, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Preludes, & Frozone Treats. Additional add-on dining includes the 18+ restaurant Palo and the character dining experience Royal Court Royal Tea. Other dining options include the ship’s everyday buffet located on Deck 9 called Cabanas, as well as 24-hour room service. 

Entertainment Options:  Broadway-style shows including Tangled: The Musical, Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, and Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic. Other live entertainment venues are the Buena Vista Theater, Soul Cat Lounge, Fathoms, Keys, & D Lounge.

Activities for Kids: Kiddos  6 months – 3 years, kids can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:   While the Disney Magic comes in last place on our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked , we highly recommend this ship if it’s your first time cruising or you prefer to have a consolidated vacation experience. Since this is the first ship in the Disney fleet, it is the smallest. Everything on this ship is easy to access which makes for a stress-free, low-planned vacation. This ship can be a great option and should be in consideration for the best Disney Cruise ship for families . While there is another ship that I’ve given that title to, the Disney Magic comes in a close second! 

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#4 – Disney Fantasy

Destinations:  Caribbean & Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  5, 6, 7, & 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1,250

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Sweet on You, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, & Senses Juice Bar. Like the Disney Magic, the all-day buffet is Cabanas located on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the adult-only restaurants Remy & Palo as well as the all-ages character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Fantasy’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s Believe, & Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Vista Cafe, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater.

Activities for Kids: Little ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  When I mentioned earlier that  ranking Disney Cruise ships was like splitting hairs and this is the perfect example. The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream meaning it is nearly identical. The second newest DCL ship falls in 4th place because of the entertainment and destination options. However, this ship is still one of the best Disney Ships for visiting Disney’s private island. While its destinations offer a relaxing cruise experience, the ship docks at limited ports. The downfall of Frozen being the main show on the Fantasy is that it is now outdone by the Arendelle dining experience on the new Disney Wish.

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#3 – Disney Wonder

Destinations:  Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, & South Pacific Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, & 10 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Tiana’s Palace, Triton’s, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Daisy De-Lites, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Pete’s Boiler Bites, & Preludes. Cabanas, the all-day buffet is located on Deck 8. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the 18+ restaurants Palo as well as the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wonder’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, & The Golden Mickey’s. Other locations with entertainment include Azure, D Lounge, the Buena Vista Theater, & Cadillac Lounge.

Activities for Kids:  On the Disney Wonder, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  For a while, the Disney Wonder held the number 2 spot on our list of  D isney Cruise ranking  solely for its magnificent destinations. This ship hands down gets the award for the best Disney Cruise ship with the best views. An Alaskan Cruise is regarded as one of the most breathtaking cruises anyone can take. And with the route the Disney Wonder takes, it’s no wonder it’s the oldest ship this high on the list which is the best Disney Cruise ship. To make ranking Disney Cruise ships even more difficult, the Wonder will be the first in the DCL fleet to travel the South Pacific!

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#2 – Disney Dream

Destinations:  Bahamian, European, Norwegian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, & 13 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining includes Venellope’s Sweets & Treats, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, Senses Juice Bar, & Preludes. Being the Disney Fantasy’s sister ship there is also the Cabanas buffet on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ restaurants Remy & Palo and the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  The Broadway-style shows include The Golden Mickey’s, Disney’s Believe, & Beauty and the Beast. Other entertainment includes Vista Cafe, District Lounge, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater, & Evolution.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Dream, l ittle ones aged 6 months – 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview: I am partial to the Disney Dream since it was my  first ever Disney Cruise. The only reason it is now number 2 on the list to discover  which Disney ship is the best is for its newly added destinations. Until 2022, the Dream sailed the Bahamas stopping at Nassau and Castaway Cay. With Disney Wish now taking that sailing location, the Dream has taken on many European and Mediterranean destinations. But the prized possession of this ship is the Beauty and the Beast show. In 2018, the show was named the Best Theatrical Performance by the esteemed International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). It became the first cruise ship production to ever secure this honor.

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#1 – Disney Wish – The B est Disney Cruise Ship

Destinations: Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3 & 4 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1.254

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include 1923, Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , & Worlds of Marvel. Quick Service dining options are Inside Out: Joyful Sweets, Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods, Wheezy’s Freezies, Keg & Compass, & Cove Cafe. The buffet on the Disney Wish is named Marceline Market. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ Enchante & Palo Steakhouse and the character dining option Olaf’s Royal Picnic. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wish’s Broadway-style shows include Disney Seas the Adventure, The Little Mermaid, & Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Nightingale’s, Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, The Bayou, & Luna.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Wish, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe and The Hideaway areas to enjoy. 

Overview:  I can say with confidence that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . It has an almost endless amount of options to keep guests of all ages busy on its sailings. But it is also by far the most beautifully designed ship in the entire fleet. This is the first ship Disney has veered from the classic “golden age” of cruise liners theme and went with a more mid-century modern interior design. This easily also makes it the nicest Disney cruise ship . It also has many firsts for the cruise line industry. Most notably being the first Disney attraction at sea and the first ever Funnel Suite. That’s right, there is a 2-story almost 2,000-square-foot room in the forward funnel.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship Categories 

If our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked  shows us anything is that each Disney Cruise Line vacation has something for everyone. But if you’re looking for a specific type of vacation, I’ve taken some popular vacation experiences and assigned which ship I think is the best Disney Cruise ship for that experience. I enjoy taking Disney Cruise Line vacations for the food and the relaxing experiences a cruise can offer. It all comes down to personal preference! Below you’ll find which Disney Cruise is the best for food, families, adults, & for visiting Castaway Cay!

What is the Best Disney Cruise for Food?

• The Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise Line ship for foodies. Not only does it have the most restaurants of any Disney ship, but it also has the largest variety of food options to enjoy! The ship has 17 dining options and that doesn’t include lounges that serve snacks! Of those 17 options, you can enjoy almost every type of cuisine you can think of! But I would be remiss to mention that you can enjoy unlimited Premium Mickey Bars on every Disney Cruise ship! That alone makes every ship the best Disney Cruise ship.

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Families?

• Families will find the  best Disney ship  for their vacation to be the Disney Magic. While it’s important to note that every DCL ship is designed with families in mind, this ship is easier to navigate, sails close to the continental US, and has the benefits of every other ship in the fleet. One of the other main reasons this is the best Disney Cruise ship for families is for the ship-specific locations of  Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Tangled: The Musical, and Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story. 

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

• By far the  best Disney Cruise ship for adults is the Disney Wish. It has the most adult-only areas and the most adult-designed areas of any Disney ship! I will say that if you’re an adult wishing to enjoy the best spa on a Disney Cruise ship, look into sailing on the Dream of Fantasy. I enjoyed their Senses Spa more than the Wish simply due to the fact the spa on the Wish is located indoors. With the amount of adult-only locations coupled with a more secluded adults-only section of the ship, the Disney Wish takes the cake for the best Disney Cruise ship for adults.

Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Castaway Cay?

• Once again, we have the say the  best Disney Cruise ship for Castaway Cay  is the Disney Wish. With an extremely close second place to the Disney Fantasy. While about 97% of Disney Fantasy cruises stop at Castaway Cay, 100% of the Disney Wish cruises will dock at Disney’s private island. There will be more options to visit Disney’s private islands with the opening of its new port Lighthouse Point in 2024.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship FAQ

Q: Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: For the best views on a Disney cruise ship, you should aim for the very front or the very back of the ship. But if you’re sailing on the Disney Wonder, you will have no bad view since it is the D isney Cruise’s best ship  for views. However, if you are prone to getting seasick and want to minimize movement, the center part of the ship is the best location. For instance, consider reserving Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Being in these midship areas will help reduce the feeling of motion and potential seasickness during your cruise.

Q: What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: The best deck on a Disney ship is going to be two floors below the buffet. There is no doubt you will be heading to the buffet on your cruise. Make life easier by staying closer to the one thing you know you will use every day other than your room! We recommend staying two floors below and getting a stateroom near the stairwell. The elevators will be crowded and usually have a line during peak dining times. So having access to the stairwell will make getting to the buffet easier. It’s also better to not stay right under the restaurant because of the heavy foot traffic and early morning cleaning/set up of the buffet.

Q: What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: This comes down to preference on what you want to look at when you’re docked at port. If you stay on the Starboard side or the right side of the ship, you will face away from the dock. If you stay on the left or Port Side of the ship, you will face whatever port you’re at. I enjoy staying on the port side of the ship. This way I’m able to watch the vessel pull in and out of port and also watch people disembark or embark the ship.

Q: Are all Disney Cruises the same?

A: No, all Disney cruises are not the same. While the ships have been released in classes and the classes of ships are built similarly, they are not the same. The Disney Magic and Wonder are one class, the Disney Dream and Fantasy are another, and the Disney Wish and soon-to-be Disney Treasure are one class. The themes of the ships are completely different as well as the restaurants, shows, ports of call, and even themed nights can vary by vessel.

Q: Is the Disney Dream bigger than Disney Magic?

A: Yes, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are larger than the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic. Being the first ships in the DCL fleet, the Wonder and Magic are smaller than the newer ships. The Magic and Wonder come in at a total length of 965 feet while the Dream and Fantasy measure a whopping 1,115 feet long. But all dwarf in comparison to the newest ship, the Disney Wish. The newest ship to the fleet measures a staggering 1,119 feet in length.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

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Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at  Theme Park Today ,  as well!

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Kurt Gillman

Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

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Ranking The Best Disney Cruise Ships For 2023

By Lisa Gilmore Leave a Comment

You’ve resolved to travel more, to get out of your home, your neighborhood, and even your town. You may have even resolved to travel beyond the Disney Parks and see more of the world beyond EPCOT’s World Showcase. That’s right — you’re taking a Disney Cruise !

The Disney Wish

But how do you choose which ship to cruise on? Now that Disney’s fleet has expanded to five ships ( soon to be six !), you might be struggling to decide which ship is right for you and your family. And since Disney Cruises are quite the investment of your family vacation dollars, that is an important decision. So, we’re here to help you break it down!

The  Disney Cruise Line  fleet is comprised of  five world-class ships : the  Disney Magic , the  Disney Wonder , the  Disney Dream , the  Disney Fantasy,  and the newest ship in the fleet: the  Disney Wish .   The fleet will be joined by the  Disney Treasure in 2024! They all sail to different ports and in different areas of the world, so just your itinerary of WHERE you want to travel will narrow down your selection quite a bit.

And if you’re also restricted on cruising dates, well, that will also help narrow down your options. For example, if your travel plans have you cruisin’ around Europe, then you’ll be sailing on the Disney Dream — because that’s the only ship that currently sails in Europe.

Not a bad view

But we’re gonna take travel dates and travel destinations off of the table and JUST look at the ships and what the ships have to offer. We’re gonna rank all five ships based off of some standard criteria so YOU know which ship will best fit your needs and the needs of your family.

Best Cruise for Food

Best cruise for adults, best cruise for kids, best cruise for teens.

• Best Cruise for Recreation 
• Best Cruise for Entertainment 

Mickey and Minnie on the Disney Wish!

So, now that you have an idea of what this is all about, let’s dig into these ships! We have a full overview of everything the ships have to offer , and now we’re highlight the ships that top each category of fun, food, and frivolity!

Sometimes evaluating food, restaurants, and dining experiences on Disney Cruise ships can be difficult because many of them offer the same options. All of the ships have a sort of food court-style quick service options on the top deck, near the pools. You can find fine dining options like Palo or Remy (or both) on most of the ships. And Animator’s Palate has become a Disney Cruise dining icon on the ships. So, how do you distinguish “best food” on the ships when so many options are so similar on most of the ships?

Animator’s Palate restaurant

Now, consider this a good thing! It’s difficult to decide the best and that means that when selecting your cruise, you don’t have to worry about FOMO! If your cruise destination has you sailing on the Disney Wonder instead of the Disney Dream because so many experiences are similar across the fleet, that means that you won’t be missing much (if anything).

Now we know that makes us sound like we’re teasing you. “Hey DFB, you said you’d give the Best Cruise for Food, and now you’re saying it’s all good. What’s the deal?” Ok, ok, we hear you! There IS a Best Cruise for Food — the standout in this category is the Disney Wish .

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise and it has SO many dining options, some are similar to experiences on other ships, and some are completely unique to the Wish! And there’s just MORE to choose from!

Food on the Disney Wish

The Wish has the traditional Disney Cruise Line three dining room rotational dining service which rotates among three brand new dining stories: Worlds of Marvel , 1923 , and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure .  These new dining experiences are unique, fun, engaging and let’s face it, delicious! You’ll also find the poolside quick service options that you’ve come to expect on a Disney Cruise, but the quality of these locations on the Wish just stands apart from the other ships.

Who knew Ant-Man was such a good cook?

The Wish just also goes above and beyond in some other categories, like having some great spots to snag specialty coffee orders, for those who need a latte while they cruise, you can pick up your caffeine fix at Wishing Star Cafe and also in Marceline Market (the top deck buffet service), both in addition to the Cove Bar & Café you can find on all of the Disney ships. The same can be said of the bars and lounges, the Wish has NINE (well, TEN if you include Hook’s Barbery , which will serve up some rum while you get your beard trimmed)! There’s even a $5,000 cocktail you can get at the exclusive Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge .

Awesome Cast Members!

The Disney Wish wins the food category, but that doesn’t mean that the other ships are losers. You’ll still have amazing and memorable meals aboard any of Disney’s ships. But, if you’re going to pick a cruise just based on the food alone, and you don’t care where or when you cruise, then you’ll want the Disney Wish.

All of the Disney Wish Restaurants

Disney Cruises are great for families and kids, but they make amazing vacations and retreats for adults, as well. Whether you’re traveling solo, with some pals, on your honeymoon or anniversary, or with your family but just getting a break from the younger members of your crew, the Disney Cruise ships offer fun, relaxation, and luxury for grown-ups.

You just read all about which cruise wins for food and you’re thinking, with ten bars and lounges, that the Wish has to top the Adults category, too, don’t you? Well, SURPRISE, it’s up there but didn’t win this round.

Who edged out their sister ships on this category? The  Disney Fantasy .

Disney Fantasy

As mentioned above, many of the ships offer overlapping experiences and offerings, so you’ll find adult-only areas, pools, lounges, spas, and decks on all of the ships. But what sets the Fantasy apart from her sisters is that her over-18 options are conveniently located in the same general section of the ship. The adult dining options of Palo,  Meridian , and Remy are snuggled together at the aft of Deck 12, but Deck 4 seems to be created with adults in mind with seven variously themed bars and lounges ( Vista Cafe, D Lounge, Ooh La La, La Piazza, O’Gills Pub, Skyline, and The Tube ), not to mention Tiffany & Co gift shop for those looking for some duty-free jewelry purchases.

Ooh Laa Laa

Again, you’ll find adult-only sections on every Disney Cruise. However, if your cruise plans are centered around a grown-up adventure, then you might want to see where the Fantasy will take you!

Disney Fantasy Cruising: 2023 Restaurant Guide

Well, this is all Disney Cruises, isn’t it? If Disney is known for anything, it’s quality entertainment for kids, so you know you’re kids are gonna have a good time on a Disney Cruise. But is any one ship a little better at this than the others?

Oceaneer Club

All of the ships have kids-only areas that are age specific with activities and entertainment tailored to that age-range. These Disney Oceaneer Clubs and Oceaneer Labs are on all of the cruise ships, but there are different themes and Disney stories utilized on each ship. But one ship pulls ahead of its peers in this category: The Disney Wish .

The Wish is really a benefactor of its older siblings. The Wish started her cruising career in 2022, nearly 24 years after the first official Disney Cruise ship, The Disney Magic. That’s 24 years for Imagineers, technology, and research to optimize the best possible experience and space for little cruisers to enjoy. And they’ve really done their homework and it begins before they even enter the Oceaneer space — at the entrance, which is A SLIDE! Parents check their kiddos into the Club on Deck 3, and then they SLIDE DOWN to Deck 2, where the club is located (sorry, it’s a kids-only slide, no adults allowed).

You can enter the Disney Wish kids’ area through a SLIDE!

The Oceaneer Club has multiple spaces where kids can choose to hang out and participate in different activities. There’s a stage in the hub of the club where there will be special shows and character appearances. And then it breaks off into different themed areas like  Fairytale Hall for fans of Disney royalty; Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids participate in hands-on activities;  Marvel Super Hero Academy for those Avengers-in-training; Star Wars Cargo Bay for those force-sensitive in the family; and Mickey & Minnie’s Captain’s Deck with an indoor playground set for getting some of that youthful energy out.

Oceaneer Lab

And while it’s not located in the Oceaneer Club, but you can’t forget about Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where kids can get transformed into their favorite Disney characters! And other kid-loved spaces like pools, waterslides….er water-coasters, the Hero Zone , and well, you know, the whole rest of the ship.

The Disney Wish includes an Imagineering Lab for kids!

So the Wish is the best cruise for kids, but another thing to consider is the best cruise ship for adults with kids and we’d consider the Magic or the Wonder would fit that role as those ships are smaller, easier to navigate, and overall just a bit less complicated. So, this is kind of a “yes, but” answer, but still something worth considering!

Explore the Kids Clubs on the New Disney Cruise Ship — The Wish

Let’s look at that teen stereotype of kinda moody, a little sassy, too “grown up” for cartoons, but still a little goofy and definitely not shouldering the burden of student-loan debt or a mortgage, but dealing with the nuances of maintaining their cool in a virtual universe of social media. Can Disney find something to appeal to the complex creatures that are human teenagers? Is there anything on a Disney Cruise ship that might entice a teen to put down their phone (or adults too for that matter, you know who you are), and have dinner with their family, watch a show, participate in a game, or even make some new friends and actually talk to them IRL (that’s “in real life” for you grown-ups out there) rather than just communicating through text?

Disney had their work cut out for them to find new and engaging ways to reach the ever-evolving interests or teenagers. And as technology, culture, and trends seems to change every five years, that is a daunting task to remain relevant for this dynamic group of cruisers. Yet, they managed to do it! (Disney, you are really a place where dreams come true!) But which ship did it best?

We’re starting to sound like a bit of a broken record, but we like the Disney Wish and Disney’s Dream and Fantasy (since they have the same options).

Disney Wish’s indoor or weather-controlled Hero Zone  is a multi-use space for so many activities. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it’s especially great for teens. It’s not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Hero Zone ©Disney

The Wish is the only ship to have The Hideaway for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill , a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

Learn All of the Disney Wish Secrets

Best cruise for recreation (pools & spa).

For all of these categories, we can honestly say, “all of the ships are great, but this one just squeaks out ahead”, but not for this category. When it comes to the best Disney Cruise ship for Recreation (we’re talking pools and spas), The  Disney Wish is the clear front runner.

Aaaaahh….

Now, yes, you will find plenty of pools and a luxurious spa on each and every one of the Disney Cruise ships, but the Wish just does them bigger, better, and more! The AquaMouse   is not your average poolside, or even your cruise-specific “over the edge of boat” slide, it’s a complete water attraction! You’ll get in a 2-seater ride vehicle and go up into a tunnel that will take you into the world of Disney animated shorts, either “Scuba Scramble” or “Swiss Meltdown” as your story, and you’ll see the story playing out on the screens around you!

Beyond the epic water coaster, there are a total of  10 pools and water play areas , in fact — each named after a Disney character! And for the little ones, there’s a  Toy Story Splash Zone , which has  Toy Story characters that squirt water!  Quiet Cove  is an  adults-only area of the deck , where you’ll find an infinity pool, whirlpool spa, and bar.

Toy Story Splash Zone

And the Spa?! The Senses Spa is on all of the Cruise Ships, but on the Disney Wish, there are all of the luxurious indoor treatment areas and an outdoor rainforest relaxation space. Unique to the ship is Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever ice lounge for thermal therapies, plus other treatments like  heated ergonomic loungers.  There are also multiple different rooms to use like the  sauna , steam room , and frigidarium, or the cold room.

Other Cruises have the Bibbidi Bobbiti Boutiques for little ones to get the royal treatment, but only the Wish has Hook’s Barbery, where dapper folks can get spiffed up in a setting reminiscent of a cigar room, and could also sip on a nice cognac or rum in the process. It’s a BARber shop, get it?

Hook’s Barbery

Will you get the chance to pamper yourself and relax on other Disney cruises? Yes. But if your final destination is relaxation decadence, then you want the Wish.

The Most Relaxing Spots on Disney’s New Cruise Ship

Best cruise for entertainment (clubs, shows, and characters).

Disney Cruise Line also offers  free movies in multiple spots – out on the funnel vision screen near the pools, as well as in the movie theater on the ship. The movie theater even offers runs of new movies that are currently out in theaters. There are also  Broadway-style shows in the theater onboard the ship. Typically these large productions are offered more than once a night. Each ship has its own unique performances.

Walt Disney Theatre

In the ship’s Atriums, Disney Characters meet and interact with guests throughout the day, and the ships all set off evening fireworks. And there are spaces onboard for quizzes, trivia, and games for families or just adults to enjoy. The ships are all floating entertainment centers! But a few of them offer a bit more in this category.

The Disney Dream and Fantasy both host the Midship Detective Agency, an interactive game taking guests all around the ship to solve a mystery. There are three different mystery options involving Mickey and friends, characters from Disney’s 101 Dalmations, or the Muppets. And we do love a good Muppet Caper!

Disney Cruise Line Atrium

The Disney Wish  has learned from its older siblings and created a unique Atrium Stage which hosts unique character shows throughout the cruise and character meet-and-greet opportunities. It also has its own interactive game aboard, Disney Unchartered Adventure.  Disney Unchartered Adventure is its own interactive game using the Play Disney Parks app and AR technology on your mobile device to play games and interact with your favorite Disney characters.

So, which ship comes out on top? We lean toward the Dream and Fantasy . We love the Midship Detective Agency and how families can play it together or individuals can play it solo. Plus, Muppets. ‘Nough said.

SNEAK PEEK at Pixar Characters Coming to Disney Cruise Line Soon

Like we’ve said about a hundred times already, there’s no such thing as a  bad Disney Cruise. Your ship will provide you with impeccable service, special memories, amazing food, fun activities, and relaxation galore, no matter when or where you cruise. But if you’re looking for some very specific onboard experiences, these categories may help you find the right ship for you and your family.

Disney Dream

And remember, in 2024, the new Disney Treasure will launch and may upset this whole list! Disney also recently acquired another ship which will receive a Disney makeover and debut sometime in 2025 . Looking to cruise to Alaska? Get all the details here. 

We’ll keep you posted on how these new additions to the Disney fleet stack up, so make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to keep up with all of the Disney Cruise Line and Disney Parks information!

Join the DFB Newsletter  to get all the breaking news right in your inbox!  Click here to Subscribe!

What you need to know about disney cruise line, learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Which Disney Cruise ship is YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!

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Disney Cruise Ships Ranked, According to DCL Experts

If you are interested in Disney Cruise Line, you have likely wondered: how are Disney cruise ships ranked by experts? What Disney cruise ship is the best? When you are interested in going on a Disney Cruise Line (DCL) trip, you want to book the best ship for your vacation, after all.

We spoke to six Disney Cruise Line experts to find out the answers. Our experts are all Platinum Castaway Club members who have been on 10+ Disney Cruises. (That is a lot!) They're also all in the DCL arena as either podcasters, bloggers, travel agents specializing in DCL, or a combination of those jobs.

Be sure to read to the end because we link to some fun Disney Cruise Line merchandise to gear up and get excited for your cruises!

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Disney Cruise Ships Ranked Overview

“Best” Disney cruise ship and Disney cruise ships ranked are subjective, of course. Answers vary according to what you're most interested in during your cruises. For instance, what's the best Disney cruise ship for entertainment venues? How are Disney cruise ships ranked if you're traveling with little kids versus teenagers?

Skip Ahead per category Disney cruise ships ranked Winners:

• Best Disney Cruise Ship, Overall
• Best Food on a Disney Cruise Ship
• Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids

Best of Disney cruise Line in additional Categories:

• Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs
• Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions

Disney Cruise Line Experts weigh in on:

• Adventures by Disney River Cruises
• Fun DCL Questions for the Experts
• Who are the Experts? Meet them here!

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Ship, Overall Winner ⭐️

The winner(s) may surprise you! We expected the clear winner to be Disney Wish, the fleet's newest, “shiniest” ship. However, it wasn't!

Disney Wish received 4 votes of 6, while Disney Magic and Fantasy received 1 vote each. Many of our DCL experts' selections for Best Disney Cruise Line Ship were tied to the onboard offerings and the itineraries.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, & FANTASY ✨

Onboard offerings (like venues and restaurants) rarely change unless the ship is dry-docked and undergo interior redesigns. The itineraries often (but not always) change yearly depending on where the ship is based.

Scott (from DCL Blog) has been on all of Disney's cruise ships multiple times (including Disney Wish), but Disney Magic remains his favorite. The size of the ship is a winner for him, along with the memories he and his family have made on 11 sailings on Magic, encompassing wonderful destinations.

Brian and Sam (from DCL Duo) like Wish best. While they admit the adult areas need some work and currently itineraries are limited, they like the number of new experiences onboard, high quality of cuisine offerings, and overall quality of the ship.

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders Blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) agree with this notion. They like Disney Wish because of its experiences that you won't find on other ships in the fleet.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel) enjoys Disney Fantasy's AquaDuck waterslide. She also likes the longer itineraries offered, preferring longer cruises over short ones. She loves the ability to stay at Walt Disney World before or after the cruise. The Fantasy adult dining and lounge areas take the cake for her!

Please read to the end of the post for further bio information on all of our DCL experts!

⭐️ Best Food on a Disney Cruise Line Ship ⭐️

The choice is unanimous: Disney Wish wins!

Our DCL experts agree on the winner. They have all sailed on Disney Wish, some numerous times. Not only does the Wish have the best dining venues — including Enchanté — but also the best quality of cuisine.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH ✨

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) add, “The quick service options at Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on the pool deck really sets the Disney Wish apart. There are so many options. We especially love the barbecue and cantina, both things you can't find on any of the other ships!”

💫 DCL Experts Best Disney Cruise Line Food Experience

We also asked our DCL experts to reminisce about their favorite Disney Cruise Line dining experience to date. Here's what they had to say:

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo):

Remy dinner on our very first Disney cruise aboard the Fantasy was our most memorable meal. We were traveling with two other couples and were able to eat dinner in the Remy wine room. The food was excellent, the wine was plentiful, and the evening was all the more magical because we shared it with friends.

Scott (Disney Cruise Line Blog):

It's impossible to single out one aspect that made dining at Remy (Dream/Fantasy) outstanding. From service to the dishes, each aspect of our numerous Remy dinner experiences has been excellent.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel):

Palo Steakhouse on the Disney Wish served course by course in our Wish Tower Suite!

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel):

Arendelle on the Disney Wish became an immediate favorite for us! We were so impressed with the musical performances and the entertainment. The food was outstanding as well. This is a great meal the whole family will enjoy!

⬇︎ Download our Freebie: A PDF to Help You Decide What Ship is Best for Your Disney Cruise Vacation!

Download our Free “Best of Disney Cruise Line” PDF to Help You Vacation Plan

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⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids ⭐️

Here are the blocks of ages for each category:

• Adults: 18+
• Teenagers: 14 to 17
• Tweens: 11 to 14
• Children: ages 3 to 12
• Infants and toddlers: 6 months to 3 years

💫 Best DCL Ship for Adults

We know firsthand that you don't have to have kids (or travel with them) to enjoy Disney Cruise Line. In fact, we share why Disney Cruise Line is great for adults traveling without kids . As such, we asked our DCL experts which Disney cruise ship is the best for adults.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY FANTASY ✨

Three of our four experts agree that Disney Fantasy is the clear winner, whether you're traveling as adults-only for a “regular” vacation or your honeymoon.

The adult spaces are superb. And to make things extra convenient, the adult dining restaurants and adult district are located in the same general area of the ship. This includes its clubs, lounges, and bars.

The upper deck's adults-only areas on Disney Fantasy also come out on top, with the Quiet Cove's hot tubs nearby and a swim-up bar in the pool. (What adult craving a drink doesn't love that convenience?)

The longer itineraries offered on Disney Fantasy make it ideal for adults looking for a longer getaway. It's hard for traveling parents to take their kids out of school for an extended period of time if it's not a holiday.

If you're looking for a great Rainforest Room to hang out at the spa for a few hours, the Fantasy has one a cut above the classic ships but not as good as the Wish.

If you are cruising with kids and want a happy medium, consider Disney Wish, which offers the best of both worlds: there's a lot to keep kids occupied and checked into childcare while adults break off to have some fun. However, keep in mind that the adult areas on Disney Wish are more spread out, and the pool is smaller and with only one hot tub.

That being said, the Wish also has a great concierge sundeck and lounge if you're interested in booking Concierge-level stateroom, and these perks are an important consideration for you.

💫 DCL Winner for Teenagers

Teenagers love to hang out in groups, make new friends while cruising, and find teenager-centric spots on Disney ships. There wasn't a clear winner here from our Disney Cruise Line experts; they appreciate what Disney Wish, Fantasy, and Dream have to offer this age group.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, FANTASY & DREAM ✨

Disney Wish's air-conditioned “Hero Zone” is great for its indoor games. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it's especially great for teens. It's not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Vibe, a teen-exclusive youth club for ages 14 to 17, is on every Disney ship though its design differs across the fleet.

The Wish exclusively has “The Hideaway” for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill, a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

💫 Best DCL Ship for Children

If you're sailing with children ages 3 to 14, which is the best Disney ship? Two of our experts agree that Disney Wish is the winner, while two others agree that other ships have something to offer too.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH (BUT OTHER SHIPS HAVE GREAT PERKS) ✨

Scott (DCL Blog) shares that Disney's Oceaneer Club for ages 3 to 12 are similar across the fleet, though each ship has its own unique twist on a franchise theme: Princess/Fairytale, Marvel, and Star Wars. The Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3 to 12, is currently an option on every ship except Wish.

He shares that two ships have an added feature that's a bonus for children if you sail on Dream or Fantasy: Midship Detective Agency is a game that takes you around to various decks to solve mysteries.

The new Augmented Reality (AR) experience on Wish might change Scott's opinion once it is rolled out, but it's currently unavailable.

Josh and Brittany (Fairtyale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) take Scott's notion of The Oceaneer Club and raise it a level to Disney Wish's offering.

They share that the creators of Disney Wish took two decades of Disney Cruise Line experience and guest feedback to create the ultimate onboard Oceaneer Club on Deck 2. There's an entrance for kids to literally slide into the club from the Grand Hall. (So cool! Can adults use the slide too? The answer is yes !)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) confirm that they couldn't pry their son away from the new kids club on Disney Wish.

The Edge is available for kids aged 11 through 14. This tween-exclusive is available across the Disney fleet.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Infants and Toddlers

The nice thing about little ones from ages 6 months to 3 years is they're not too hard to please. Understandably, parents are likely harder to satisfy! (Infants need to be at least one year old to be checked into “it's a small world” nursery! on Transatlantic, Hawaii, and Panama Canal itineraries.)

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, WONDER & MAGIC ✨

As our DCL experts point out, there's a bit of yin and yang here, with smaller and bigger ships having their own advantages.

That is to say that the smaller ships' sizes (Wonder and Magic) make sailing with little ones a bit more manageable. Getting to and from “it's a small world” nursery! (available on all ships) and the adults-only areas after you drop them off at daycare take less time.

Yet a big ship like Wish has a bigger nursery space (the cruise arguably will have more kids needing daycare on it too). Wish also has a Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck play area for kids ages 3 to 6, with a Pixar-themed bathroom with smaller toilets and hand driers designed specifically for them.

⭐️ Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs ⭐️

💫 best disney cruise line ship entertainment venues.

We all know that Disney does entertainment best. But which DCL ships come out on top? According to our experts, Fantasy, Dream, and Wonder win.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY FANTASY, DREAM & WONDER ✨

Fantasy and Dream group all of the lounge venues in one area on Deck 4 Aft, which is adults-only come night time. There's a good variety of lounges to boot.

They also have the best entertainment venues, with a balcony inside the Walt Disney Theater, adding to its feeling of grandeur. “The Buena Vista Theater has a classic art deco style and feels big compared to the movie theaters on the other ships,” says Josh and Brittany.

Karen shares some of those sentiments, adding, “Europa or the District on the Fantasy or Dream are great adults-only areas in the evening. I love the atmosphere at Skyline. It feels like having a cocktail with my friends in my own living room.”

Brian and Sam are partial to the Azure lounge, unique to Disney Wonder. They enjoy its great views and atmosphere, which they like better than The Tube (Disney Fantasy) and Evolution (Disney Wonder) lounges on Dream-Class ships.

💫 Best Shows and Recurring Special Events on Disney Cruise Line

The results vary here! To us, this is great news because it means that the huge team of creatives that come together to produce a live stage show are appreciated across the board.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, DREAM & FANTASY ✨

Favorites shows from our DCL experts include:

• Seas the Adventure (musical on Disney Wish)
• Tangled: The Musical (Disney Magic)
• Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream)
• Frozen (Disney Wonder and Fantasy)

Some of our experts also noted they particularly enjoy Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Magic and the Pirate Parlay Deck Party onboard Disney Wish.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Shops and Senses Spa

Five of our six DCL experts agree that Disney Wish has the best spa. (Senses Spa is for guests 18 and older.) It's also the only ship with an outdoor area of the rainforest space, while the Rainforest Room on other ships is indoors only.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH (SPA) ✨

Additionally, Disney Wish's spa features an ice lounge for some cold treatment therapy (which reminds us of the unique rooms Celebrity Cruises has in its spa on their Edge class ships, like a Crystallarium) and has treatment rooms replete with personal whirlpools.

You can also sign up for any number of treatments, from a fire and ice manicure to a bamboo massage. (We had a bamboo massage in the Princess Cruises Lotus Spa and had never heard of it before then – they're awesome if you like a lot of pressure on your muscles!)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) note that shopping is best on the Dream Class ships (Dream and Fantasy) but admit that Disney Wish has the most high-end retail.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY DREAM & FANTASY (SHOPPING) ✨

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions ⭐️

💫 best activities on castaway cay.

Thousands of people sail on Disney Cruise Line each year, excited to experience Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay.

There is plenty to do there, including sailing, laying out on the beach, some shopping, and recreating at the Pelican Plunge water-playground area. What do our DCL experts enjoy most about this fabulous little island?

✨ WINNERS: BBQ at COOKIE'S, CABANA RELAXATION, & SNORKELING ✨

Brittany and Josh love to have BBQ at Cookie's! The barbecue lunch is always a highlight of their Castaway Cay day.

Karen looks forward to relaxing in a cabana. Otherwise, she enjoys indulging in a Konk Kooler on Serenity Bay, an adult beverage made with rum and fruit juice. Cheers to that! (Don't forget to bring your reusable straw to the island to be an eco-conscious cruiser and leave no trace.)

Brian and Sam concur: they love hanging out in a Castaway Cay cabana!

Scott likes to snorkel in the Castaway Cay lagoon. From 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea memorabilia to Mickey and Minnie statuettes, you can find all sorts of Disney treasures underneath the water. You can either rent gear from Gil's Fins and Boats on Castaway Cay to snorkel or bring your own .

💫 Best Excursions Offered by Disney Cruise Line

Speaking of Castaway Cay and snorkeling, three of our DCL experts weighed in on the best excursions offered by Disney Cruise Line.

✨ STANDOUTS: CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES & ACTIVITIES ✨

Scott expanded on his favorite Castaway Cay activity, adding that snorkeling, biking, and tube rentals at Castaway Cay, though not really a port adventure, are great for exploring all aspects of the island in one trip.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around the island and reach the observation tower (because otherwise, it's a long walk to get there) while still having time to relax.

Sam and Brian enjoy parasailing on Castaway Cay. Some of their other favorite excursions during their many DCL cruises include Magan’s Bay Beach Break at St. Thomas and the dolphin encounter in Cabo San Lucas.

They are hoping a well-known favorite of other DCL cruisers, the hike to Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, Norway, lives up to the hype when they go this summer!

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Itinerary

Largely influenced by the itineraries our DCL experts have experienced, we asked what their favorite DCL itinerary has been. Naturally, more time on the ship is better, so it's no surprise all our experts' answers included longer itineraries!

✨ WINNER: 11-DAY+ ITINERARIES, VARIOUS LOCATIONS ✨

Karen, Brian, and Sam loved the 11-night Southern Caribbean cruise on Disney Fantasy. Karen sailed in June 2017, while Brian and Sam went in 2019. Scott enjoyed his 11-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise on Disney Magic in June 2015.

Brittany and Josh love the Transatlantic sailings. They have done this itinerary several times and love stopping at the unique ports and spending much more time on the ship with plenty of Days at Sea!

The ports on a Transatlantic vary year to year, but most recently, the itinerary included ports in Portugal and Spain. Up until 2022, all of Disney's Transatlantic cruises were on Disney Magic, but the Disney Dream took over the European summer sailing, including Transatlantics, in 2023.

⭐️ Our DCL Experts Weigh in on Adventures by Disney River Cruises ⭐️

Here at Sometimes Sailing, we adore small ship adventures. River cruises are a favorite of Mikkel and Dan's. We couldn't resist asking our six DCL experts to give us their thoughts on Adventures by Disney River Cruises, a partnership between Disney and AmaWaterways.

➜ We discussed river cruise experiences on DCL Duo, episode 178 , if you want to give it a listen.

Josh and Brittany took an Adventures by Disney river cruise on the Danube River this summer and were wowed.

They admit river cruises are very different from ocean cruises ; while Disney Cruise Line is about the ships and the onboard experiences, a river cruise is about the destinations. The two experiences are completely different.

Karen admits she could write a whole essay on Adventures by Disney cruises. (Luckily, our website has a category for river cruises !) She agrees they are incredible yet very different than DCL. She says they are a fantastic way to see Europe up close.

Perhaps you're like Scott and have thought about booking a river cruise. He says they're very intriguing, and it's a vacation he'll eventually take!

Sam and Brian took the plunge and secured their first river cruise adventure; they go on their first river cruise with their son Nathan next Christmas. (We are SO excited for them to see the incredible Christmas markets in Europe on a river cruise !)

⭐️ Fun Questions for our DCL Experts ⭐️

Our last questions for our DCL experts were more playful in nature. We asked them about their most memorable DCL Special Event experience and their opinion about what would make Disney Cruise Line even  better .

💫 Most Memorable Disney Cruise Line Special Event

Though the special events tend to be once-in-a-lifetime, we asked our DCL experts what their favorite special events have been with DCL. If you're like us, you'll surely have DCL envy reading their answers.

✨ DISNEY WISH PREVIEW, CHRISTENING, & MAIDEN VOYAGE PERFORMANCE FROM JODI BENSON (VOICE OF ARIEL), & DISNEY DREAM INAUGURAL CRUISE ✨

Josh and Brittany have attended some truly memorable Disney Cruise Line firsts. They were able to sail on the Disney Wish Enchanted Showcase Preview Cruise before the ship's Maiden Voyage. As two of the first people to sail on the ship, they said it was amazing to experience a decade of changes that Disney Cruise Line brought to their latest ship.

They toured all the different staterooms (including Wish's Tower Suite and one of its stunning Royal Suites) and were some of the first to preview everything Wish offers. Josh was also on the Disney Dream christening cruise in 2011.

Scott fondly looks back on the Disney Wish Christening in Port Canaveral. Captain Minnie was in attendance, of course!

Brian and Sam loved seeing Jodi Benson perform in the main theater on the Wish Maiden Voyage. She's the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid.

Mikkel met Ms. Benson years ago on a DVC cruise (Roy E. Disney was on that cruise, too); she's a sweetheart!

💫 What Would Make Disney Cruise Line Even Better?

No matter how amazing we all think Disney Cruise Line is, there is always room for improvement. Who better to ask than those who know DCL ships best?

✨ BIGGER HOT TUBS, IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY/INTERNET, A SPECIALTY RESTAURANT FOR FAMILIES, ADDITIONAL SMALLER SHIPS (LIKE MAGIC & WONDER) ✨

Sentiments include simple things like accounting for larger hot tubs and improved technology implementation into the cruise experience.

(We couldn't agree more – we never understand why a major company, like Disney, is plagued with tech issues, from the DCL and Walt Disney World websites crashing to interruptions during the Disney Cruise Line Check-in process . It's not uncommon for cruise lines to have buggy apps (like Princess Cruises' MedallionClass app ), and Disney's app is no exception; it doesn't always work onboard.)

Other dreams from our DCL experts to improve Disney Cruise Line are loftier yet not unachievable. A specialty restaurant for families would be wonderful. And another hope is for additional smaller ships, around the size of the Magic and Wonder, to be in DCL's future.

Meet the DCL Experts

We spoke to the best of the best when it comes to DCL cruising. We're so grateful for their expert opinions on our Best Disney Cruise Ship categories above.

Collectively, our DCL expert panelists have been on 100 Disney cruises. We'll repeat that: NINETY-NINE CRUISES ! WHOA.

When you add Dan and me in the mix, the DCL number breaks 100+! (We're in the Gold Castaway Club category for 5+ cruises, not Platinum…yet!)

Our panel of experts mentioned above, includes:

• Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders & Wish Upon a Star With Us travel
• Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo
• Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding
• Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

Find out what makes them Disney Cruises Line experts below.

🪄 Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us

This Disney-loving couple is the blogger team behind the website Fairytale Wonders . They have incredible knowledge of Disney theme parks, resorts, and of course, Disney Cruise Line.

What's more, is that they don't just love DCL – they fell in love on a Disney Cruise too, where they met years ago while sailing with their families. They even got engaged at Disney's Aulani resort in Hawaii!

A personal gush here: I adore them, and we originally met after they contacted me to photograph their DCL wedding in 2019. I've often gone to them for my own Disney questions and advice. And, like the sweethearts they are, they always thoroughly answer and provide valuable insight into things we hadn't thought of.

Josh is also a Disney travel agent at Wish Upon a Star With Us , so be sure to reach out if you need to book a DCL vacation! Josh has been on 25 Disney Cruises (which puts him at the elite and newly created “Pearl” Castaway Club level, higher than Platinum), and Brittany has been on 19.

🪄 Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo

The “duo” behind the podcast is Brian and Sam, who have been podcasting about Disney Cruise Line for years.

We've been fortunate enough to be their podcast guests on several episodes, broadening the horizons of their Disney Cruise Line listeners to educate them on river cruises and even Mikkel's time at Imagineering.

Brian, Sam, and their son, Nathan, have been on 16 cruises, which will quickly reach 25 by next November. (As we write this…they're on a Disney Cruise!)

You'll find their Disney podcast episode archives on their website or your favorite podcast app, as well as links to their DCL vlog entries, blog posts, and even a link to their DCL Duo Etsy shop . They are also to thank for introducing us to Paul Thornton, who writes the Joy of Cruising books .

🪄 Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding

Karen came into our lives in a wonderful Disney way: through Brian and Sam's DCL Duo podcast!

We loved listening to her Disney Wish review while on Wish's inaugural voyage with DCL Duo. We were in awe when we listened to episode 227, where she describes what it was like to be the first family to stay in the Tower Suite on Disney Wish after winning a travel agent lottery onboard. HOW COOL?!

From how Karen talked about Disney Cruise Line ships, we instantly knew she was an expert. This was confirmed when we reached out, and she shared she's been on 13 DCL cruises.

Karen is another great resource for booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation over at My Path Unwinding Travel ; don't hesitate to reach out!

🪄 Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

This DCL expert has his own podcast, where he talks about his experience on over 31 cruises (that's a whopping 162 nights across DCL's five ships – wow) and interviews others who have Disney experiences of their own.

He also runs the well-known website Disney Cruise Line Blog . Scott was first mentioned on our site back when we put together a list of the best Cruise Podcasts . We've been following along ever since. He doesn't podcast as frequently as DCL Duo, however, his info is always valuable.

His blog is always up to date with the latest DCL news, including casting calls, DCL itinerary news, restaurant reviews, Castaway Cay info, and more. Scott has been interviewed as a DCL expert for countless newspapers and is in the Joy of Cruising as well.

Disney Cruise Line Blog puts together an annual DCL Blog Group Cruise, which is a fantastic vacation to consider if you want to travel with other passionate DCL cruisers.

⭐️ DCL Merchandise & Products for Your Cruise ⭐️

Sure, you can get merch on the ship…but did you know you can get Disney Cruise Line shirts, tumblers, Mickey ears, and such before you sail?

Here are a few places to shop:

• Click here to see the searches for Disney Cruise Line on Etsy . (Artists sell super cute nautical-themed Mickey ears, custom Disney cruise totes, and DCL shirts.)
• We put together this special list of fun Disney Cruise Line items that we recommend, which includes some essentials like the handheld pocket fan we swear by. Also check out our Cruise Essentials list.

If you're not already a member of Amazon Prime, we highly recommend it! Here's a link for a FREE 30-day Amazon Prime trial , where you can enjoy free two-day shipping, free Kindle books, special discounts on products, and more.

Also, just a note that we bring along a pocket hotspot when we cruise to connect in ports. It won't work if you're in the middle of the ocean, but it works in most major ports and costs way less than Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi packages .

We travel with a Solis hotspot we travel with, and this explains why we love it . Use code “SOMETIMESHOME” to save 10%!

⭐️ In Conclusion: Disney Cruise Ships Ranked and The Best DCL Has to Offer ⭐️

It was so much fun to ask experts who have made careers out of their passion for Disney Cruise Line these questions and get their input on what makes all aspects of Disney Cruise Line “the best.”

Whether you're watching Disney's amazing Broadway-quality shows, riding the AquaDuck at night or relaxing in the spa Rainforest Room (some of their favorite things to do) there is no doubt you'll have a blast on your Disney Cruise Line vacation no matter what ship or itinerary you choose.

Do you have a favorite Disney Cruise Line ship or experience? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Don't forget to sign up for our free printable to help you choose what Disney Cruise Line ship is best for you based on the winners in this post.

Love Disney Cruises? Read this next:

• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know
• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 
• Disney Wish Design Details Guests Will Gush Over on DCL

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing The Best Disney Cruise Ship

Robin Hutson

November 3, 2022

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Which Disney cruise ship is the best for you?

I struggled whether or not cruising was for us, and I convinced my husband that we should try it.  We have a few cruises under our belts now, and we are still trying to figure out if we are “cruise” people. Given the industry awards they win and the age of my youngest, Disney Cruise Line was the obvious choice to try first.

The cruising market continues to expand so much— and so many parents now consider it one the easiest and relaxing ways for families to travel. It’s a big moving resort where you only unpack once.

Only one close friend of mine had been on a Disney cruise before I took one. She’s the least Disney person I know, and yet she said it was a fabulous, relaxing vacation that was ideal for grandparents, parents, and kids to take together.

But one of the most impressive endorsements I heard was from very glamorous Italian food and wine writer I met by a resort pool who lived in Costa Smeralda. She said the food on the Disney cruises impressed her. That is a strong endorsement.

I have asked several travel experts to ask to help my over planning, over researching brain. Enjoy their excellent advice.

Disney Cruise Reviews: the good and the meh

Eric Stoen, of Travel Babbo , has wonderful taste in luxury hotels he visits on his world travels with his kids, and he took his family on three Disney Cruises.

“Our cruises were all about the European ports, and we liked pretty much all of our stops, from Italy to Greece to Norway to Iceland. If you want to see a lot of great destinations and not have to pack/unpack in between, cruises work well.

Having said that, the Disney Magic was designed for warm weather cruising and our northern European cruise wasn’t great — it was too cold for people to be outside or use the pool deck, so the ship felt crowded and chaotic — especially at breakfast and when trying to see movies/shows. 



The major knock against cruising is that you’re only seeing a small (touristy) area, and you don’t have time to explore or interact with the local culture. I enjoy seeing a little of some new places with the kids and then deciding where we want to return.

So really our cruises have been previews of future vacations. Now we spend two weeks on a Greek island every other summer rather than seeing a crowded island for a day off of a ship.

For us, after three 12-night cruises, the Disney elements got repetitive – the soundtracks, menus, character signings, etc. But no regrets – it was those cruise days that led us to making Greece a standard vacation destination.”

Which is the best Disney ship?

The best Disney ships really depend on when and where you want to cruise. The cruise can serve as a replacement for a relaxing resort vacation or facilitate touring a new area like Europe, Canada, and Alaska.

Since I like to do slower, live-like-a-local travel when I visit Europe, I knew we wanted a cruise that was more of a beach resort vacation.

The Disney Wish, the newest ship to launch will sail three and four night Bahamas cruises stating in June 2022. The Disney Fantasy generally sails seven nights alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. These ships remain at Port Canaveral near Orlando year round, though the Disney Wish hasn’t yet posted itineraries after September 2022.

The Disney Dream has moved to the port of Miami.

In the summer months, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder sail in Europe and Alaska, respectively. The Wonder then sails some West coast and Baja Mexico itineraries before crossing the Panama Canal. It then sails out of Galveston, Texas.

The Magic returns from Europe to sail out of New York in the fall, then heads down to Miami for the winter months with a brief side trip for a San Juan sailing.

What about the new Disney cruise ships?

The Disney Wish is the newest ship in the fleet, entering service in 2022. And before that. the Dismey Fantasy is the newest. It is also the most recently refurbished, having undergone an extensive dry dock in May 2017 that added a Tiffany Jewelry Store, a Star Wars play station, and ice cream parlor.

The Wonder has been in service since 1999 and was recently reimagined with extensive updates at the end of 2016.

There are two more Disney ships announced that will join the fleet in 2023 and beyond.

The Dream and Fantasy have about fifty percent more the staterooms as the Magic and Wonder, 1,250 to 875, respectively.

The new Disney cruise ships coming are larger in size but capped at 1,250 staterooms according to existing reports. Two of these new ships will start at Port Canaveral alongside the Fantasy. The third ship has not been announced, but rumors say it may be docked in Asia.

JOIN THE  LUXURY DISNEY WORLD  FACEBOOK GROUP WHERE WE CAN ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT PLANNING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION.

How long are disney cruises.

The right cruise length for you depends on the itinerary, your budget, where and when you want to go.

Cruises range from two-night (West Coast only) to 14 nights, with most three, four, five, and seven nights.

First time cruisers can easily add a three or four night Bahamian cruise from Orlando’s closest port, Port Canaveral, to try it out.

Disney’s three-day cruises on the Dream typically fall over a weekend, while the four-day cruises embark on Mondays from Port Canaveral. Most parents enjoy visiting the theme parks first and relaxing on the cruise afterwards.

Read our planning guide with the most important Disney Cruise Tips prior to Embarkation Day.

Disney cruise itineraries.

Bahamas cruises are Disney’s most common and run year round. Three, four, and five night cruises from Port Canaveral and Miami stop in Nassau and Castaway Cay. Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island near Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas.

This destination is so popular that some cruises stop at Castaway Cay twice, and this is called a “double dip” cruise.

Marvel Day at Sea & Star Wars Day at Sea

Marvel and Star Wars theme cruises are on specific sailings. They are not themed for the entire cruise but have special days with activities, shows, and character greets geared toward the theme. Passengers sport their hero and Star Wars t-shirts or costumes on the designated day.

Halloween on the High Seas, and Very Merrytime Cruises

Holiday themed cruises offer special events like gingerbread making, holiday carols, and the Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party. Disney’s characters dress in the appropriate seasonal theme and host Halloween or Christmas parties . Trick or treating, costume contests, and Santa Claus are included.

Some of Halloween and Christmas themed cruises overlap with the Marvel Day at Sea cruises, so you can get two different enhanced character and seasonal experiences on the same cruise.

What if you don’t care at all about Disney characters?

Characters are just one part of Disney Cruise Line. If you don’t seek them out, you rarely see any unless you hang out in the main atrium. They sometimes show up unannounced in various locations like the kids’ clubs.

Disney has great service, staterooms, food, family activities and entertainment that contribute to the numerous awards they have earned.

What’s so great about Disney’s kids programming?

The Oceaneers Club and Lab are for potty trained 3 year olds to 12 year olds. There are tween and teen clubs, nurseries for the diaper wearing crowd, and a huge adult-only section on the boats to enjoy while your kids are in said spaces.

Most kids don’t want to leave when parents pick them up for the night. We once tried to collect my son at 8:45PM, and he shooed us away. My husband went back to get him at 9:30PM, and when he returned to our stateroom, he had an energy about him that he had just attended either a rave or a motivational sales conference. He was pumped and had had the time of his life.

Children between the ages of 10 and 12 may not be as enamored with the clubs when the group entertainment is geared for younger children. The tween and teen clubs are better suited, but the tween club starts at age 11.

What about families with food allergies on Disney Cruises?

We’ve been very impressed with how well the staff of accommodated our food allergies and dietary restrictions on our cruise. In addition to notifying cast members in advance of specific allergies, we found that our rotational dining servers got to know our restrictions, but even when we ventured away from the dining rooms, cast members told us what we could have at the Castaway Cay lunch buffet in advance. And when we dined in the adult-only restaurants, the chefs made custom dishes when the menu could not be easily modified.

All four ships have Disney’s unique rotational dining concept where guests have dinner in three uniquely themed restaurants throughout the cruise, and the dining room staff rotates with them so they stay in tuned to the guest’s needs and requests.

Choosing the best stateroom category on your Disney ship

Selecting a stateroom depends on budget, number of passengers, and how you wish to cruise. Some inside cabins offer a unique “virtual porthole” with real time views of the ocean. Some staterooms have expanded verandahs.

If you’ve never cruised before, many recommend a midship cabin that is on a lower deck to feel less motion of the ship. On the larger ships, there is not usually a significant difference in how you experience the motion from area to area. Cabins to avoid for light sleepers include those immediately under the pool decks where cast members move deck chairs at awkward hours.

Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine is a regular cruiser with Disney, so I asked for her advice on staterooms.

“When we go on a Disney Cruise, we like to stay in a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah. It includes a queen bed, a sofa bed, and a pull down bed (creating bunk beds). If you have three kids, the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah has a wall pull-down bed, too.

We love having the verandah – it’s such a nice place to sit, have a cup of coffee, and enjoy the ocean.

Our stateroom attendants have been so helpful during our cruises. In addition to cleaning and preparing our rooms, our attendants also talk to us about what is going on during the day and things we can’t miss. I’m always so impressed with how quickly they learn our names.”

Is the Disney Cruise concierge level worth it?

Concierge staterooms provide an extra level of service before and during your cruise as well as private areas and amenities onboard. Concierge guests receive priority for reserving Port Adventures and onboard experiences before any other passengers.

The most popular perk besides the Concierge Lounges is that Concierge level guests get first access to reserve cabanas at Castaway Cay, and very few remain for non-concierge passengers. Read about sailing concierge and see if the price is worth it to you.

Priority boarding and disembarkation means concierge guests can do both more on their own schedule compared to other guests who are assigned check-in times. They essentially never have to stand in the Disney Cruise lines at customer service because the concierge hosts will address virtually all questions and needs.

Concierge cabins have extra amenities and a different décor. The suites have a few additional privileges like in-room dining from the main restaurants. This perk matters because the in-room dining menu is least impressive part of the food experience on the Disney Cruise ships.

The Magic and Wonder did not have designated concierge lounges or sundecks until recently. Now all four ships have updated concierge areas.

Read our complete guide to whether or not the concierge level is worth it.

Are there any Disney Cruise deals?

Disney Cruise Line prices are lowest when Disney announces the cruises and itineraries well before a year in advance. Prices creep up slowly until embarkation. If there are empty rooms, Disney cruise discounts are for to members of the military and Florida residents.

Booking with a travel advisor (Luxe Recess can book your entire cruise) offer onboard credits that can add up for free money to spend on spa treatments, drinks, and shore excursions.

Occasionally there are promotions to encourage bookings on sail dates open to the public.

And Disney offers passengers a discount an onboard credit if you book a cruise or a “placeholder” on a future cruise while on board. Unfortunately, concierge level rooms do not qualify for this discount.

Repositioning cruises are always the best deal based on one’s daily rate. These are one-way cruises to get the ship from one port to another. They can be long, and they are typically during the school year, so they are bests for families with young children.

Why Disney Cruise Line?

Amber Mamian of Global Munchkins has taken her five children on several cruises and tried all of the major lines.

“Disney Cruise Line has the best family entertainment and kids clubs for children 9 & under. Their Broadway style shows, onboard activities, and kids club counselors are far better (and much more organized) than any other cruise line we have sailed with. That said if you have older children or enjoy adult time at the casino than you might want to consider Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean.”

Ready to try something new?

Luxe Recess is a full service travel agency , and I can walk you through every decision and help plan every detail from pre-cruise nights and transportation to onboard experiences. I love sending my client families pre-cruise surprises for your kids. The anticipation is nearly as good as the cruise!

This guide on Disney Cruise tips will walk you through all of the choices you need to make before booking and planning your cruise. Where do you stay the night before, how do you get to the port, and what are fish extenders? We’ll tell you.

Subscribe so you can stay up to date on all of our Disney Dream cruise coverage, photography, and video.

We can book your cruise vacation as part of a 5-star Disney vacation, our specialty.

A five-star new york weekend at the mark hotel and the guide to central park with kids, the omni orlando at championsgate: the best kept secret near disney world, 6 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to choosing the best disney cruise ship”.

Great tips. I had no idea deals could be had. Do you think there’s much in the way of teen programming?

Teens really love the cruises as much as the little kids. The longer cruises allow teens and tweens to make real friendships in their group activities.

Jody, my teens love Disney cruises! We recently sailed on the Disney Fantasy for 11 nights. My 14 year old son was quite busy with other teens in a wide range of organized and independent activities both in and out of Vibe (the teen club). They swam (Vibe has it’s own pool!), rode the AquaDuck, watched movies (the newest Pirates movie even Prem”eared” on the ship), went to shows, played foosball, scavenger hunts, hung out talking, took photos with characters, on and on….! My daughter just turned 18 before the cruise. She missed being part of Vibe but also had a blast with the 18-20 year old group and getting to enjoy the adult areas for the first time.

I’ve only heard great things about Disney cruises from friends. I’m not a huge fan of cruising but if I went, I’d give them a try although now convincing my teen to do a Disney cruise might be a tough sell as she thinks she is too old for Disney.

Amazing info here! I haven’t been on a Disney Cruise but know a lot of people who have and they loved it!

Thank you so much for including us. Disney Cruise Line is one of our kids all time favorite vacations. I love their world-class service, incredible kids program (that kids actually want to go to, in fact never leave) and their broadway style shows are the perfect way to end the day. Oh, and awesome fireworks too! Thanks for putting together such an awesome resource.

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Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023

Disney cruises are popular for many reasons – for their family-friendly amenities, attention to detail, and commitment to providing family magic.

If you are a regular reader here, you know that I’m an avid cruiser on the Disney Cruise Line. After three sailings on the Disney Fantasy , one on the Disney Wonder , seven on the Disney Dream , and one on the Disney Magic , I’ve had the chance to experience Disney’s newest ship – the Disney Wish , twice. If you are considering a trip on the Disney Cruise Line, you may be wondering what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship for your family vacation.

It’s difficult to answer that without looking at the various itineraries as well as comparing the sizes, restaurants, amenities, and more on the Disney Cruise ships. Here are our comparisons.

Disclosure: I’ve been on one complimentary media preview cruise as well as two cruises as part of Disney Social Media Moms. The rest of my cruises were at my own cost. All opinions are my own.

Check prices of Disney Cruise Line Sailings here .

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Ships

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you’ll definitely want to look at the various itineraries offered. After all, a Mediterranean cruise is much, much different than an Alaskan cruise. Itinerary and ports of call really should be your first consideration when deciding which ship on the Disney Cruise Line fleet you’ll want to sail on.

The Disney Fantasy always leaves from the Port Canaveral cruise port and sails on seven-day itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay .

The Fantasy’s sister ship, the Disney Dream, used to leave from Port Canaveral but now departs from Miami for part of the year. The Dream also has sailings from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan, New York, and Europe.

The other two ships, the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have typically traveled around a bit more. Itineraries (especially in the winter) change year by year, but the Wonder typically goes to Alaska, while the Magic has itineraries departing from San Diego, Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan.

Miami cruise port to Castaway Cay and Key West . That itinerary was so much fun, and the four-day trip was the perfect amount of time for our girls’ trip.

Once you look at the itineraries, you’ll definitely have a good idea of which Disney Cruise Line ship you’ll want to be on, especially if you plan to travel on an itinerary that only one ship offers.

Size of the Disney Cruise Ships

There are currently three different classes of Disney Cruise Ships. The original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are called the Magic class and are smaller. These ships accommodate a maximum of 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the Dream class ships, which accommodate a maximum of 4,000 passengers. The new Triton Class ships (the Disney Wish) also accommodate 4,000 but are a bit bigger in Gross Tonnage.

The smaller ships definitely do feel more intimate but don’t have as many amenities.

Restaurants on the Disney Cruise Ships

While all of the dining rooms on the Disney Cruise Line are fun and offer lots of delicious food options, they do vary by ship. Animator’s Palate, as well as the premium, adult-only Palo, are offered on all original four ships.

Each of the original four ships has a French-themed restaurant, although the names and themes are different. There are also three incredibly fun-themed restaurants – Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder , Arendelle on the Disney Wish, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. In addition to dinner, you’ll also be entertained while eating at these three restaurants. 

Each of the ships offers free ice cream, as well as a premium coffee bar. They all have various snack options available throughout the day, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The Disney Dream also offers a premium ice cream/dessert spot, called Vanellope’s. Everything in Vanellope’s is offered at an additional fee.

In addition to Palo, there are other adult-only restaurants on some of the ships. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream offer Remy, while the Disney Wish has Enchante.

For breakfast and lunch, each of the four original ships has the Cabanas buffet, with both indoor and outdoor seating. On the Wish, there’s Marceline Market, which is similar to a buffet but with servers plating the food.

Bars and Lounges on the Disney Cruise Ships

While most people travel with kids on the Disney Cruise Line, there are still bars and lounges that adults can enjoy. Since many kids will likely spend much of their time in the phenomenal kids’ clubs on board, adults will have lots of opportunities to visit the adult-only areas.

The Disney Fantasy offers a whole area of the ship called Europa, filled with European-themed bars and lounges. Ooh La La, a champagne bar, is my personal favorite.

The Disney Dream ship features the District, which is similar to Europa. It’s located in the same area of the ship, and has similar bars. Instead of Ooh La La, their champagne bar is called Pink. My favorite bar of all the ships is the Meridian Lounge, which is located between Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic also have bars and lounges. The Wonder has the After Hours adult area with several lounges. In most cases, the bars and lounges are open to kids during the day, but are adult only in the evenings.

On the Wish, two of my favorite bars are the Bayou, and Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. These two themed, unique lounges are great for a drink before or after dinner.

Programming at these bars, including games and entertainment, is sometimes offered – check your Disney Cruise Line app for details.

Staterooms on the Disney Cruise Ships

While there are some differences between the staterooms on the ships, for the most part, they are very much alike. They offer similar features, and while they are small, they are also comfortable.

My family of four regularly stays in a Deluxe Family Stateroom with Verandah, and we find it to be enough room. We don’t spend too much time in the room because there’s so much to do on the ship.

The Disney Wish, Disney’s newest ship, offers even more concierge rooms than any of the other Disney cruise ships.

Amenities on the Disney Cruise Ships

All of the ships offer a number of amenities that families will love. These ships were clearly built with families in mind.

Each ship offers a pool deck with splash areas and the Funnel Vision signature television screen showing Disney movies throughout the day. On the Disney Fantasy and Dream, you’ll also be able to go on the Aquaduck water coaster. It’s so much fun, and you’ll want to go more than once.

While the Disney Magic and Wonder don’t have the AquaDuck, the Disney Magic does have the AquaDunk, a high-speed water slide tube. The Disney Wish has a new coaster, called the AquaMouse.

There are also sports decks with various amenities, depending on the ship. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have sports simulators, but you’ll need to make reservations for that in advance.

The ships also all have kids’ clubs, Senses spas , hot tubs, shops, and much more. I also recommend walking around the ship when you first arrive so you can learn about everything that is available to you.

Activities on the Disney Cruise Ships

Each of the ships offers lots of activities, including first-run Disney movies in the movie theater (the Wish has two theaters) and Broadway-style stage live shows in the Walt Disney Theater. The shows do vary by ship, but I’ve seen all of them and everyone is fantastic.

My favorite show is currently Frozen, which plays on the Wonder.  A close runner-up to that is a new Beauty and the Beast show that runs on the Disney Dream. Other newer shows are Aladdin on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish, the Little Mermaid on the Disney Wish, and Tangled on the Disney Magic. 

Other activities include family and adult game shows, beverage-tasting seminars, Bingo, and animation classes. There are also Disney character greetings on every ship. Check the Navigatornapp to see the full schedule of events.

Ships typically have a pirate night during one night of the cruise. It’s so much fun – definitely go to the fireworks if there’s a pirate night during your cruise. 

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream, kids will love the Midship Detective Agency. This free game lets you become a detective while finding clues throughout the midship section of the boat. When my kids were younger, we’d accompany them on their quest. Once they were a bit older, they loved the freedom of doing it on their own.  

The Disney Wish has a new augmented reality experience, called Disney Uncharted Adventure. It works with the app, and ends with a live event.

So, what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?

My personal favorite is the Disney Fantasy, the second-newest ship in the fleet (for now). However, that was the first Disney ship that I traveled on, so I’m not sure if that’s why it’s my favorite.

Others really love the Magic. As a smaller ship, it’s definitely more quaint and it’s easier to walk around. I do love the shows on the Magic, as well as the restaurants.

It’s really hard to say which is the best Disney cruise ship because they are all great!

What is your favorite Disney Cruise ship?

See our Disney Cruise Line comparison story here .

Frequently Asked Questions

All of the ships have teen clubs and other great amenities. My teens loved the Disney Wish, which also has the Hero Zone which is where you can play basketball, ping pong, and other sports indoors. But when choosing a ship for teens, I’d focus on the itinerary first.

As someone who sometimes cruises without my kids, I appreciate the adult-only sections. My favorite adult-only area is Satellite Falls, an outdoor sun deck area that is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. I also really love the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa on the Disney Wish. While all of the ships have Rainforest Rooms (for an additional fee), the one on the Wish is the largest and has a great outdoor area.

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

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Disney's Newest Cruise Ship Is Its Best Ever — Here's Why

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Wish, sets sail on its maiden voyage this month, and we took it for a test cruise.

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

Disney Cruise Line 's newest ship is different — and that's why we love it. The company was voted the best large-ship ocean cruise line in Travel + Leisure 's 2022 World's Best Awards , and the new Disney Wish is its best vessel yet.

The quintessentially Disney touches that make this cruise line so popular — appearances from Mickey and pals, a deck party with fireworks, themed dining and spaces for all ages, and attentive service from every cast member — are all there. But the Disney Wish elevates the Disney Cruise Line experience with a balance of sophistication and whimsy.

When speaking with Imagineers and Disney Cruise Line leaders on board, they explained the ship's motif of enchantment — a concept integral to many classic Disney films — found in the staterooms, restaurants, recreation areas, and castle-like Grand Hall, the first place guests encounter when boarding on embarkation day.

Walking on board the Disney Wish and entering the Grand Hall feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The large, atrium-like space features soaring columns that lead up to a constellation-speckled ceiling, with a chandelier reminiscent of Cinderella's ball gown at the center and a statue of the heroine herself at the bottom of the staircase. You might even spot a princess or prince waving from the balcony as you walk inside the bright and beautiful space. The tone for the cruise is set here, as you find yourself instantly immersed in the whimsical world of Disney storytelling in an upscale, modern setting that appeals to all ages.

And when we say there's something for guests of all ages, we mean it. With its newest ship, Disney has mastered the art of combining characters, film franchises, and experiences that kids, teens, young families, and even adults traveling without children will enjoy. From the adorable It's a Small World-themed nursery to the tween and teen-focused Edge and Vibe spaces, there are engaging spaces for children from six months to 17 years old. And Disney's Oceaneer Club, accessed by slide from the Grand Hall, includes Marvel, Star Wars , and princess-inspired areas, along with a Mickey playground and the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids can learn Imagineering secrets and participate in STEAM-infused activities.

As I walked through the space with Laura Cabo, portfolio creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, she pointed out each unique touch that makes the Oceaneer Club such a fun and immersive environment for children, down to tiny details that only a trained eye could spot.

That attention to detail is evident throughout the adults' spaces, too. Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge is perhaps the most hotly anticipated bar on board the Disney Wish , with cocktails inspired by the planets that guests see through the viewport — when they're not blasting through hyperspace, that is.

Cocktail menus at Nightingale's, a piano bar with "Cinderella"-inspired touches, and The Bayou, a beautiful lounge with "The Princess and the Frog" influences, are delightful and diverse, with fun drinks featuring unique elements. In fact, throughout the ship, you'll find tasty, on-trend cocktails — think popsicle-infused spritzes, smoke bubble-topped libations, and sparkly drinks with edible glitter. And it's not all smoke and bubbles — Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by chef Arnaud Lallement offer fine dining for adults only, in a charming setting inspired by "Beauty and the Beast."

We had the chance to enjoy a meal from the esteemed three-Michelin-starred chef, and the tasting menu — starring some dishes you may find at his highly regarded restaurant in Champagne, France — was delicious, alongside a view of the limitless ocean right outside the panoramic windows. Untangled Salon, Hook's Barbery, Senses Spa, Senses Fitness center, and the adults-only deck and pool area offer more grown-up entertainment and relaxation, proving that a Disney cruise is just as fun for adults.

Family-friendly spaces throughout the ship boast a number of Disney firsts: AquaMouse, the first-ever Disney attraction at sea; Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Disney's first Frozen -themed dining experience featuring singing, dancing, and an adorable Olaf; Worlds of Marvel, the first Marvel dining adventure; and a Broadway-style adaptation of "The Little Mermaid."

There's also the first-of-its-kind two-story Wish Tower Suite, located in the ship's forward funnel and themed to "Moana," with accommodations for up to eight guests. Plus, there are four beautiful Royal Suites and more concierge-level staterooms and suites. No matter the room type, though, guests will enjoy intelligently designed staterooms with fairy-tale touches — even the hallway carpets incorporate symbols from movies like "Tangled" and "Cinderella." And while cute and whimsical, these movie-inspired details aren't over-the-top; the rooms still feel modern, upscale, and bright.

Over the last two years, travel has been challenging, and in many ways, a cruise on the Disney Wish feels like a reprieve from the stress of family vacation planning. I love researching and planning trips, but there's something so relaxing about stepping onto a ship and knowing that everything will be taken care of, from meal planning to child care. And the Disney Wish — with its Michelin-worthy cuisine, beautiful suites, high-caliber entertainment, and fantastical touches — feels like a high-end experience.

The Disney Wish sets sail on its maiden voyage on July 14, 2022, offering three- and four-night itineraries from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Castaway Cay — Disney's private island — in the Bahamas . The ship is the first of three new vessels to be built through 2025 at the Meyer Werft shipyard. We don't have details on these ships yet, but with the Wish sailing the high seas, Disney Cruise Line's future looks pretty magical.

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Disney Cruise Ships

The Best Disney Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise Ships    |    New Disney Cruise Ships    |    Disney Cruise Overview     Disney Wish    |    Disney Fantasy    |    Disney Wonder    |    Disney Magic    |    Disney Dream |    Disney Treasure

Introducing my detailed guide to each Disney Cruise Line ship!

In one place, I have brought together everything there is to know about each Disney Cruise ship.

In this complete Disney Cruise Ship guide, you’ll learn about different stateroom categories, dining options, all the entertainment and fun, and so much more.

The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of five ships: Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , Disney Dream,   Disney Fantasy, and the newest addition, the Disney Wish .

Additionally, a sixth ship, Disney Treasure , has been announced and is expected to be seaworthy some time in 2024.

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships, as are the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.  Both pairs of sister ships are similar in size as well as some features but they are definitely not twins.

Even though the sister’s have similarities, each of Disney’s five ships features different designs, deck plans , restaurants, entertainment, and activities onboard to make every voyage unique.

Disney Cruise Line is now well-established as a leader in the highly competitive cruise industry, having set itself apart by providing the most unique sailing experience on the seas.

Now...let's meet the ships!

The Disney Cruise Line Fleet of Ships

Use the following Disney Cruise ships comparison chart to help learn which is the best Disney Cruise ship for your vacation.

How to Use this Disney Cruise Ships Comparison Chart

You can use this handy information sheet to compare Disney ships by size, capacity, tonnage, staff, and age.

While this is all useful information to have, I highly recommend you click through the button on each ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet to get a fully-detailed guide that goes way beyond the sizes of the ships.

Compare Disney Cruise Ships

Disney magic.

Image: Flickr

• Passenger Capacity: 2700
• Staterooms : 877
• Entered Service : July 1998
• Sister Ship : Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder

Img: Flickr

• Passenger Capacity : 2700
• Staterooms : 875
• Entered Service : August 1999
• Sister Ship : Disney Magic

Disney Dream

• Passenger Capacity : 4,000
• Crew : 1,400
• Staterooms : 1,250
• Entered Service : January 2011
• Sister Ship : Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy

• Entered Service : March 2012
• Sister Ship : Disney Dream

Disney Wish

• Staterooms : 1,254
• Entered Service : July 2022

Disney Treasure

• Estimated Passenger Capacity : ~4,000
• Estimated Crew : ~1,400
• Estimated Staterooms : ~1,250
• Expected Maiden Voyage : 2024

Three New Disney Cruise Ships

Disney cruise line has announced three new ships.

I nspiring speculation and excitement amongst crazed DCL fans like us, Disney Cruise Line has announced they are building three new cruise ships .

Image: Disney Parks

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The Best Disney Cruise Ships for Your Next Vacation

Jan 21, 2024 | Disney , Travel Articles | 1 comment

When you combine cruises with Disney Travel, something fantastic happens! The following newest Disney travel article compares the five  best Disney Cruise Line vessels  to help you choose which  Disney ship  is ideal for your next Disney Wish Travel Destination.

The Disney Cruise Line has 8 great  cruise ships , each uniquely wonderful in its own way. If you’re looking for the best overall  Disney cruise ship , the clear choice is the  Disney Dream . This vessel offers luxurious accommodations and the widest range of activities and amenities of any  Disney ship . If you’re looking for the best value, the  Disney Magic Cruise  is a great option – it’s one of the smaller ships in the fleet but still offers plenty of fun for the whole family.

For an unforgettable experience, sail on the  Disney Wonder Cruise to Alaska  and witness some of the most stunning scenery in the World.

And finally, the newest ship in the fleet, the  Disney Wish . A true masterpiece and perfect for anyone who wants to experience the very best that Disney has to offer. Whichever ship you choose, you’re sure to have a magical time!

In No Particular Order, Here Are The Top 5 Disney Cruise 2024 Ships.

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Below we have an all-Disney cruise ship names comparison chart as well.

• Disney Cruise Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Cruise Wish
• Disney Cruise Treasure
• Disney Adventure
• New Disney Cruise Destiny

#1 The Best Overall – Disney Magic Cruise Ship

The Disney Magic is a great overall cruise ship for a few reasons. It offers luxurious accommodations, plenty of activities, and a wide range of amenities. It’s also one of the smaller ships in the fleet, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for the best value.

The Magic Cruise of Disney has 11 decks, 8 pools, 19 restaurants, and a whole host of other activities to keep you entertained. It can accommodate up to 4,000 passengers and 1,458 crew members.

Disney Magic Cruises is a great choice for adults, families, couples, or groups of friends. There’s something for everyone on this ship!

Entertainment On The Disney Magic Cruise Ship

The Magic Cruise Ship offers a wide variety of entertainment options for the whole family. From Broadway-style shows and movies to live music and dance clubs, there’s something for everyone on board. And with Disney characters present throughout the ship, you’re sure to have a magical time.

From dazzling live shows to surprise Disney Character encounters, every moment on Disney Magic is more memorable than the last.

The Walt Disney Theatre becomes a theatre for tales from around the world. During Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, revisit Disney’s classic princess tale and rejoice in believing during Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic.

You may also catch a performance of Tangled: The Musical, which transforms the on-screen animated characters into real people and transports you to Rapunzel’s enchanted realm.

Fireworks at Sea

Most cruises include fireworks to light up the night—it’s a vivid journey of color, light, and song at sea.

First Run Movies

Check out the newest Disney movies at the Buena Vista Theatre, or enjoy a classic outdoor screening.

Character Greetings

More than 20 Disney characters will surprise guests at kids’ clubs and during unpredictable encounters on the ship.

Recreation on The Magic Cruise Ship

At Disney Magic, everyone may have their ideal trip. Adults-only hotspots, children’s clubs, family fun—on every ship sailing with Disney Cruise Line, you’ll find something to pique your interest.

For The Adults

Kids are off having fun, so Adults 18 years and older can enjoy some peace and tranquility at adults-only locations and activities—including pampering and relaxation at Senses Spa & Salon, intimate dining at Palo, late-night dancing at Fathoms, and live piano music at Keys.

Youth Clubs

Children may let their imaginations soar in innovative worlds fueled by Disney storytelling at the Edge, a club for tweens that is open all day. Edge, a club for tweens, features video games, music, and movies all day long. Teens can socialize at Vibe, an adults-free loft-inspired space where dancing and karaoke rule the night.

Fun Disney Cruise Ship For Families

The whole family may enjoy fun-filled activities like Disney trivia, bingo, deck parties, game shows, and more. Test your knowledge during Disney trivia or try your hand at bingo. Then join the fun at a family-favorite deck party—complete with Disney Characters, dancing,

At Aqualab, Goofy’s Pool, and Nephews’ Splash Zone, the kids and family can splash about while parents relax in Quiet Cove Pool’s serenity. Thrill-seekers will not want to miss AquaDunk, the thrilling drop-out waterslide located high above the Forward Funnel.

Sports And Fitness

At the full-service gym, home to cutting-edge weight equipment, specialized lessons, and stunning ocean vistas, you’ll be delighted to stay in shape while on holiday.

Planning to Travel on a Disney Cruise for a family of 4? Contact Blissfu Travel Escapes!

These expert travel planners will help you find the  lowest possible cost per person  and even give you free Information

Dining on The Magic Cruise Ship

The Magic Cruise Ship offers a wide variety of dining options for the whole family. From fine dining to casual cafes, there’s something for everyone on board. And with Disney Characters present throughout the ship, you’re sure to have a magical time.

Fine Dining

Palo is an adults-only restaurant serving up Italian specialties like ravioli Alla Panna and lemon rosemary chicken.

Casual Dining

Rapunzel’s Royal Table is a family-friendly buffet featuring a variety of international cuisine. You can also enjoy pizza and burgers at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria or ice cream at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats.

The Magic Cruise Ship Rooms and Suites

The Magic Cruise Ship offers a wide variety of rooms and suites to accommodate your needs. You’ll find the perfect space for your family from deluxe staterooms to suites with private balconies.

Concierge Level Rooms and Suites

The Concierge Level offers an array of amenities and services, including priority check-in, concierge service, and exclusive access to the Concierge Lounge. Guests staying in concierge-level rooms and suites will also enjoy complimentary laundry service.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms

Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms offer plenty of space for the whole family, with two bathrooms, a sitting area, and a private balcony.

Inside Staterooms

The Magic Cruise Ship also offers Inside Staterooms for guests who prefer to be closer to the action. These staterooms offer a cozy space to relax after a busy day of exploring the ship.

# 02 – An Unforgettable Experience – The Disney Wonder Cruise

The Disney Wonder is a cruise ship owned and operated by the Disney Cruise Line, part of The Walt Disney Company. The second ship to enter service for the company, it sailed its maiden voyage on August 15, 1999. It is nearly identical in construction to its sister ship, the Disney Magic Cruise.

At 76,000 gross tons and 964 feet in length, the Disney Wonder is slightly larger than the original Magic Kingdom castle at Walt Disney World. It can accommodate 2,713 passengers and has a crew of 945. The interior design of the ship was overseen by Roy O. Disney, nephew of Walt Disney.

The Cruise Wonder of Disney offers a wide variety of activities and amenities for guests of all ages. For families, there are pool parties, game shows, deck parties, and more. For adults, there is a full-service gym, concierge services, and a variety of dining options. And for kids, there is an onboard daycare center and a kids’ club.

No matter your age, you’re sure to have a magical time at the Disney Wonder.

Disney Wonder departs from a range of ports, including Galveston, Texas, and San Diego, California. It sails to destinations in Alaska, the Caribbean, and more.

Disney Wonder Cruise Itineraries

Includes the Bahamas, the Caribbean Wonder Cruise, the Alaska Wonder Cruise, and the US’s West Coast Cruises.

You can explore the sunny Caribbean, visit ancient ruins in Mexico, or experience the beauty of Alaska. No matter where you go, you’re sure to have a magical time. On board the ship, you’ll find all your favorite Disney characters and enjoy world-class entertainment.

There’s never a dull moment on a Disney Wonder cruise. So set sail on your next adventure and let Disney take you to places you’ve only dreamed of.

Disney Wonder Dining

Guests on board the Disney Wonder will experience a dining rotation where they are seated at different restaurants each night, but always with the same table number and wait staff. This creates less confusion for everyone involved as well as fosters an environment of comfort amongst fellow passengers that often leads to friendships forming!

Disney Wonder Has Three main Restaurants: 

• Triton’s  features French cuisine in an Art Deco dining room, 
• Tiana’s Place  serves southern cooking with live jazz music
• Animator’s Palate  is a dining show offering contemporary cuisine and Disney characters. 
• The other dining and food options include  Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast and lunch and a casual eatery for dinner, a sandwich and salad shop called  Daisy’s de-Lites, Pinocchio’s Pizza , and the adult-oriented Palo where Italian-inspired food and décor are complimented with live music.

Disney Wonder Cruise Activities For Kids

The Oceaneers Club and Lab on board the Disney Wonder is a great place for kids of 3-12 ages. It offers activities like dress-up stages, slides (with lots of room at both ends!), TV sets where you can watch your favorite shows while playing games or learning how to cook food from some very interesting courses offered by qualified counselors who will guide them through every step in an interactive lesson plan designed just right so they’ll never feel bored!

# 03 – The Best Value – The Disney Dream Cruise

The Disney Dream is one of the company’s largest ships, with a capacity of 4500 passengers. As a bonus, this particular boat also includes virtual sports simulators and theatric performances that bring beloved animated characters like Beauty & The Beast to life!

Disney Dream is the 3rd Disney Cruise Line cruise ship operated by The Walt Disney Company. It has been active since 2011 and currently sails three-day, four-day, and sometimes five-day cruises to the Bahamas. It has a capacity of 2,500 (double occupancy) or 4,000 passengers maximum and has a crew of 1,458. Disney Dream is 1,114 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

There are five family-focused entertainment areas on board but parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool or Senses spa/salon where they will find all sorts of delicious food options available in nine themed venues including two specialty restaurants just perfect if you’re looking forward to some alone time while your kids explore other parts of the ship with their new found friends!

Amenities for Disney Cruise First Timers

New passengers on board the Disney Dream Cruise will be greeted with plenty of amenities to make their first experience an enjoyable one. Not only does this ship offer great staterooms and several dining options, but there’s also a couch that turns into two beds if needed!

For those looking for more space- Concierge Suites range from 622 -781 sq ft which offers even greater comfort while still being able to stay connected thanks to its location near main thoroughfares throughout the embarking process or when returning from a day of touring an awesome port.

Now that you know a little more about the Disney Dream Cruise, we hope that you’ll consider sailing with us soon! We offer many itineraries to choose from so that you can find the perfect voyage for your family. Visit our website or give us a call today to learn more!

Disney Dream Cruise Itineraries ( Bahamas )

The Disney Dream operates from Port Canaveral, Florida. It now provides 3, 4, and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Miami with several European itineraries of 4 to 11 nights departing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, and Southampton.

Overall, the Disney Dream is a fantastic cruise ship. It’s not our top pick, but there isn’t much to complain about.

Disney Dream Dining

On the Disney Dream, you will get to experience 3 different restaurants each night of your cruise through Rotational Dining. The ship is home to many amazing dining experiences such as a “state-of-the-art” dinner show at Animator’s Palate, a classic Disney fairytale feast at Royal Palace, and an elegant dining experience following nature at Enchanted Garden.

For a more casual meal, visit places like  Cabanas for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Or check out one of the Cafés on board like Flo’s café which offers pizza chicken burgers and salads. And afterward don’t forget to stop by Frozone Treats or Eye Scream for some delicious icy treats!

The Palo and Remy restaurants serve high-end Italian and French cuisine respectively and are both adults only. In-room dining is available 24/7.

Disney Dream Cruise Entertainment

Disney Dream onboard activities include digital sports simulators, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, a volleyball court, a pitch, and a walking track.

The Disney Wonder cruise ship is a floating resort with an exhilarating array of amenities. For those who love the water, there are even exciting attractions like “water roller coasters” and slides! In addition to two cinemas that screen live Broadway-style performances or first-run Disney films (depending upon what you prefer), this luxurious vessel has three pools including one entitled AquaDuck which features interactive games for children as well.

Disney Dream Activities For Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe are geared to kids of all ages.

• Midship Detective Agency
• Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats
• Mickey’s Slide
• Funnel Vision
• Kids Only Clubs (New Releases on the Ship)
• Live Show at Walt Disney Theatre
• Pirate Night (Meet Characters During Your Disney Cruise)

# 04 Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

The Disney Fantasy is a ship with many features for family-friendly travelers. The launch date was May 19th, 2012 and it went through an extensive dry dock in 2017 to add new ones like the Marvel Super Heroes Academy which teaches children about science fiction movies; there’s also Star Wars merchandise available at this location alongside other popular brands such as Nike or Tiffany & Co.

To keep everyone in the family entertained, Disney Fantasy offers Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee), nightly live performances, and 3-D movies. While our younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs supervised by our experienced staff, adults can relax at the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy an evening at one of the six bars and lounges that are adults only.

The Fantasy cruise ship offers 10 themed dining venues, including two adults-only specialty restaurants, three main dining rooms, and an ice cream shop. The ship sails from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida to the Bahamas and various ports in the Caribbean.

Disney Fantasy Overview

Disney Fantasy – the sister ship of Disney Dream – was launched in 2012 as Disney Cruise Lines’ latest offering. Guests can choose between a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise. This beautiful vessel has a length of 1,114.8 ft and a gross tonnage is 129,750, like its sibling Disney Dream, the cruise ship boasts an onboard guest capacity of 2.500 (double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy.) The courteous staff of over 1,400 are eager to serve guests during their voyage.

Disney Fantasy Itineraries

Port Canaveral, Florida; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas; US Virgin Islands; Castaway Cay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica.

We love Disney Fantasy and so do other Guests!

9-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise

DEPARTS FROM:  Barcelona

DESTINATION:  At Sea, Athens (Piraeus), Barcelona, Cephalonia, Greek Isle, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Naples, Provence (Marseille), Rome (Civitavecchia), Santorini

5-Night Bahamian Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Nassau, Bahamas, 2 stops at Disney Castaway Cay

6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Castaway Cay

7-night Western Europe Cruise

DESTINATION:  At Sea, Barcelona, Lisbon, London (Southampton), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), Seville (Cadiz), Vigo

7-night Mediterranean Cruise

DESTINATION:  At Sea, Barcelona, Cannes, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Rome (Civitavecchia), Toulon

7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise with Puerto Rico

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Disney Castaway Cay

7-Night Eastern Caribbean with St. Maarten from Port Canaveral, FL

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Disney Castaway Cay

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica, Disney Castaway Cay

8-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto; Disney Castaway Cay

10-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendijk, Bonaire; St. John’s, Antigua; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Disney Castaway Cay

8-Night Bermuda and Bahamian Cruise

Ports of Call :  Port Canaveral; King’s Wharf; Nassau; Castaway Cay

Disney Fantasy Dining

The Disney Fantasy offers Rotational Dining, which is a hilarious dinner show dubbed Animation Magic. Animator’s Palate restaurant. The ship’s other dining locations include the magical Enchanted Garden and fairytale dining room of Royal Court while the casual dining options include Cabanas,  Flo’s Café, and snacks at Eye Scream and Frozone Treats. The Northern Italian cuisine of  Palo  and French-inspired  Remy  provide a few upscale and intimate options for adults.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

Disney Fantasy onboard activities include a “water roller coaster” called the “AquaDuck,” the nightclub district called Europa, several pools, pubs, theatres, and more!

Character Meet & Entertainment

Once aboard, you may encounter a variety of characters. The positions and timings of the character locations may alter, so check your Personal Navigator (a daily summary of your activities) or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for the current lineup. There is also a digital board in the Lobby Atrium displaying information.

Characters are subject to change, but these are the ones you are most likely to see:

• Mickey Mouse
• Minnie Mouse
• Donald Duck
• Chip ‘n Dale
• Queen Elsa (reservation required)
• Princess Anna (reservation required)

Here are the locations where the characters gather:

• Lobby Atrium
• Gangway 
• Disney’s Oceaneer Lab 
• Disney’s Oceaneer Club
• Donald’s Pool area

GOODBYE PARTY WITH CHARACTERS

The night before guests disembark, they can say goodbye to characters with the Sea Ya’ Real Soon! Party in the Atrium Lobby.

FROZEN  MEET AND GREET

You can meet Anna and Elsa, but you’ll need tickets to do so.  You can make reservations online at My Cruise Activities within your booking window or you can visit Guest Services when on board.

PRINCESS GATHERING

Princess appearances vary based on schedule and ship, but they could include Belle, Aurora, Rapunzel, Tiana, Ariel, Cinderella, and Snow White. 

When meeting Disney Princesses, you’ll need a reservation.  You can book a time slot at My Cruise Activities within your booking window or you can visit Guest Services when on board.

CHARACTER RESERVATIONS

Guests can attend every ticketed character event, including the Princess Gathering and the  Frozen  Meet and Greet  once per cruise.

Once your cruise is paid in full, you can make reservations online within your booking window, which is determined by your Castaway Club membership level: 

• First-time guests : 75 days before the sail date
• Silver Castaway Club Member : 90 days before the sail date
• Gold Castaway Club Member : 105 days before the sail date
• Concierge Guests and Platinum Castaway Club members : 120 days before sail

LIVE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT ON DISNEY’S FANTASY

• FROZEN , A MUSICAL SPECTACULAR
• DISNEY’S BELIEVE
• DISNEY’S ALADDIN — A MUSICAL SPECTACULAR

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s Fantasy cruise ship has plenty of individual and instructor-led activities geared to kids of all ages.

# 05 – The Newest and Most Luxurious Ship: The Disney Wish

The Disney Wish is the fifth and most luxurious Disney cruise ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, with a capacity of 4,000 passengers. After Disney Magic (1998), Disney Wonder (1999), Disney Dream (2011), and Disney Fantasy (2012), Disney Wish was designed to be a long-anticipated cruise ship that launched in July 2022. To commemorate all Make-A-Wish children becoming godchildren of the Disney Wish, as a homage to nautical custom, Walt dedicated all Make-A-Wish kids as his godchildren.

Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wish is the first Triton-class ship in their fleet, as well as the largest. Their new cruise concept includes 1,254 rooms, with 90 percent of them being outside cabins. Disney Wish is now scheduled for three to four-night cruises from Port Canaveral to Nassau in The Bahamas and Castaway Cay (a private island owned by Disney).

The Disney Wish cruise is the perfect combination of innovative design and cutting-edge technology. It’s the perfect place for adults who love luxury and families who love Disney’s classic storytelling. From upscale restaurants and elegant lounges to expansive pool areas and kids’ zones, there is something for everyone on this luxurious adventure.

Restaurants and Experiences at The Disney Wish

If you love Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars as much as I do then this is the cruise for YOU! You will get to know all your favorite characters better than ever before while enjoying world-class cuisine. Plus there are always entertainment performances on board so even when we’re not eating or performing our show everyone has something fun going on around them.

The best part of the cruise for me was getting to meet all the other cruisers and crew members from around the world. No matter where you’re from or how well you know Disney, there is a place for you on this ship. I had so much fun talking with people, taking pictures, and making new friends.

Elsa and Anna join you at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure.

Dine like royalty to celebrate the engagement of Queen Anna and Kristoff from Disney’s Frozen while enjoying delicious Norwegian-inspired cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood, and sugary snowflake desserts, and find yourself singing “Let It Go” throughout the meal!

Worlds of Marvel Dining Experience

Expect a theatrical Avengers mission to unfold around you as you explore an extensive Marvel-inspired cuisine. The “Avengers: Quantum Encounter” is an interactive superhero technology demonstration operated by the visitors, led by Ant-Man and the Wasp.

1923 Old Hollywood Dining Experience – Join us for a truly unique dining experience that will transport you back in time to the golden age of Hollywood!

You’ll feel like a celebrity as you enter this luxurious restaurant that’s named after the year Walt Disney Studios was founded. If you’re looking for an amazing dining experience and impeccable service, look no further than this chic spot that celebrates the golden age of animation. Visitors can enjoy California cuisine offerings in an Old Hollywood-themed restaurant, and there is also scheduled entertainment programming taking place in one of the uniquely designed entertainment halls.

• The Luna Entertainment Hub  is a unique entertainment center with a two-story LED screen wall, stage, and bar that features popular live performances for families. During the “Villains Game Night,” guests may take part in witty quiz games, perform onstage during the “Disney Songbook” shows, or engage in an interactive “Disney Uncharted Adventure.”
• The Grand Hall  is an elegant theater on board the Disney ship, inspired by castles from fairytales. This theatre has a unique atrium stage that was created specifically for Disney productions featuring iconic characters from Cinderella. When you enter the hall, you’ll immediately feel like you’re inside of a storybook coming to life!

Adult-Only Entertainment at the Disney Wish

On a cruise, creating family memories is a lot of fun and an unforgettable experience, but sometimes you just need some personal time. Disney Wish Cruise provides several options for spending a peaceful moment alone or indulging in adult-only activities that may include drinking alcohol.

The Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge is a fantastic place to take a break from the busyness of life and relax with friends. With its creative decoration and delicious refreshments, this lounge feels like it was pulled straight out of the pages of a Star Wars book.

Whether you’re looking for great conversation or just want to enjoy a unique atmosphere, make sure to check out the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge!

If you’re looking to get away from the  hustle and bustle  of everyday life, look no further than Quiet Cove. This luxurious adults-only retreat zone on the Disney cruise line Wish Cruise ship offers an infinity pool, a poolside lounge, and plenty of opportunities for solitude.

Looking for a grown-up night out?  

Try Palo Steakhouse, where you can enjoy classic Italian cuisine and delicious wine pairings. Fall in love all over again as you dine by candlelight in our stylish interior inspired by Cogsworth from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Or stop by for a leisurely weekend brunch and choose from an array of fresh-to-order dishes.

Keg and Compass  is the perfect place to get away from your busy life and relax with some friends. Our Norwegian-inspired pub offers a variety of craft beers for you to taste, as well as comfort food options. You can also sign up for one of our beer-tasting experiences! So whether you’re looking for a casual night out or something more educational, Keg and Compass is the place for you.

Activities for the Kids at Disney Wish

From Broadway-style performances and water activities with ocean views, the Disney Wish is filled with entertainment options that children will have the best memories about for the rest of their lives.

Disney Uncharted Adventure  is a first-of-its-kind interactive encounter where characters from different universes meet to create a fun-filled experience. From Mickey and Minnie to Moana, Nemo, Princess Tiana, and Peter Pan — fan-favorite characters unite to save the world with the Disney Wish Cruise guests.

AquaMouse  is a thrilling water adventure inspired by the adventures of Mickey and Minnie. Lighting and special effects make this 760 feet of twisting slides a full experience for kids obsessed with water parks and Disney.

The Little Mermaid  at World Disney Theater is a theatrical adaptation of the 1989 animated film. Created exclusively for the Disney Wish Cruise, this Broadway-style show features innovative special effects, striking choreography, and a reimagined scenario that will surprise and amuse guests of all ages.

Water Activities  at the Disney Wish include ten pools and water play areas inspired by children’s beloved Disney characters. Check out oversized pool floaties at the Toy Story Splash Zone or spend a day going down the Slide-a-Saurus Rex family slide.

Hero Zone  is the area on the Disney Wish where computer and sports games take a new twist. From game-show-style competitions and kids-friendly fitness classes to basketball, soccer, and a variety of tabletop games, everyone can find an activity that embraces their inner superhero at Hero Zone.

The Senses Spa, an Oasis of Relaxation Aboard The Disney Wish Cruise.

A Disney cruise would be incomplete without enjoying some refreshing facials and massages. Similar to all other ships, the SPA area will give you access to a myriad of facilities. Yet what sets Disney Wish apart is that it introduces outdoor recreational areas with hot tubs and open-air fitness classes!

Here are some of the great treatments you could enjoy at Disney Wish’s SPA:

• At Rejuvenation Spa, customers could discover various injectable options, from wrinkle smoothing Dysport and skin tightening to dermal fillers and fat-freezing procedures. 
• Customized facials and peels, using products by the luxury beauty brand ELEMIS.
• Massages, aromatherapy, and acupuncture procedures for individuals and couples.
• An outdoor recreational area with sunbeds and hot tubs.
• A variety of saunas, steam rooms, and an ice lounge.

Disney Wish Cabins and Suites

Disney Wish staterooms are the industry’s most luxurious cruise accommodations that provide superior comfort for families. Every family member will find comfort and peace from spacious inside rooms to world-class concierge rooms. A wide selection of unique concierge room configurations allows travelers to enjoy the high seas in high style.

You have your pick of the following stateroom options when booking your Disney Wish experience:

• The interior features an enormous design and is near to restaurants and nightlife.
• With Oceanview, you can take in the stunning view of the ocean while listening to its calming waves.
• If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy some time in the sun, Verandah is the perfect room for you. With its sun porch and comfortable seating, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
• The Concierge rooms aboard the ship are its most luxurious accommodations, complete with premium amenities and an unobstructed view of the ocean.

For those who want to travel in luxury, Disney Wish offers an array of first-class accommodations with added services:

• The elegant One-Story Royal Suite, available as a 2-bedroom suite with an interior design reminiscent of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale, is a grand accommodation with beautiful furnishings. A private sun porch with a whirlpool tub may be accessed through open-plan living and dining areas. Get dressed in one of the two walk-in closets while enjoying the foods and beverages provided in the suite after an exciting day in the sun.
• The Concierge Wish Tower Suite is a room that was inspired by the film Moana. This suite has its entrance and windows from floor to ceiling. It can fit up to eight people comfortably, with two master bedrooms and four bathrooms in total.

How to Book a Disney Wish Cruise

If you’re interested in booking a Disney Wish cruise, go to the Disney Cruise Lines destination page and select “Disney Wish” from the ship option. From there, available dates, destinations, and departure ports will be displayed. Alternatively, you can make reservations through a third-party travel agent or by contacting customer support.

For an extra magical experience, combine your cruise with a stay at Walt Disney World Resort. By the end of 2022, seasonal cruises celebrating Halloween and Christmas will also be available for booking–all departing from Port Canaveral towards the Bahamas for three to four nights.

It’s a high-end experience to remember if you’re going on Disney Wish with your family, friends, or significant other. Exceptional entertainment, world-class dining, and Disney’s powerful storytelling make Disney Wish the industry’s most spectacular ship to explore. If you enjoy Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar films, and classic Disney tales, hurry up and reserve your place on this most elegant cruise line.

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii is the perfect place to stay for your next family vacation. With its many activities, amenities, and breathtaking views, Aulani has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Aulani offers a wide variety of activities and amenities to keep you and your family entertained throughout your stay. There are two pools, a lazy river, a water play area for kids, and an adults-only pool with a bar. For those who want to stay active, there is a fitness center, yoga classes, and even hiking and biking trails. And of course, no trip to Aulani would be complete without spending some time at the spa.

There are also a variety of dining options available, from casual counter-service to upscale restaurants. And, of course, you can’t forget about the many shops and boutiques available for some retail therapy.

Aulani is also home to a wide variety of entertainment, including live music, shows, and even a movie theater. And, of course, you can’t forget about the many character experiences available throughout the resort.

Aulani is the perfect place to stay for your next family vacation. With its many activities, amenities, and breathtaking views, Aulani has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

FAQs about Disney Cruise Lines

Is disney dream or fantasy better.

The Disney Dream is the better overall cruise ship because of its luxurious accommodations and wide range of activities and amenities. The Disney Fantasy is also a great choice for families looking for value. It’s one of the smaller ships in the fleet but still offers plenty of fun for the whole family.

What are the best Disney Cruise Ships?

The best overall Disney cruise ship is the Disney Dream. If you’re looking for value, Disney Magic is a great option. For an unforgettable experience, sail on the Disney Wonder to Alaska and witness some of the most stunning scenery.

What are the differences between the Disney Cruise Ships?

Each Disney cruise ship is unique and offers a different experience. The Disney Dream is the most luxurious ship with the widest range of activities and amenities. Disney Magic is a great value option and one of the smaller ships in the fleet. The Disney Wonder is an unforgettable experience, sailing to Alaska and witnessing some of the most stunning scenery.

What is the best time to go on a Disney Cruise?

The best time to go on Disney Cruise lines depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for the best overall experience, sail on the Disney Dream. If you’re looking for value, sail on the Disney Magic. For an unforgettable experience, sail on the Disney Wonder to Alaska.

Which side of the ship is best for Disney Cruise?

There is no definitive answer as to which side of the ship is best for a Disney Cruise. It depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in an experience.

Some people prefer to be on the port side so they can see the ports of call as they sail into them. Others prefer to be on the starboard side so they can see the sunset each night. Ultimately, it’s up to you and what you’re looking for in an experience.

Which Disney ships are the newest in 2022?

Disney Wish and the Disney Dream are the newest ships in the fleet, sailing in 2022. The Disney Wish is the most luxurious ship with the widest range of activities and amenities. The Disney Dream is a great option for families looking for value. For an unforgettable experience, sail on the Disney Wonder to Alaska.

How Much does Disney Cruise Really Cost?

The cost of a Disney cruise can vary depending on your needs and sailing preferences, but you should expect to spend  at least $1,000 for two passengers . The price can go up depending on your cabin selection, trip duration, and destination choices. 

For example, a 5-night Caribbean cruise on the popular option can average $7,760 for a family of four, or $1,940 per person, including taxes and add-on expenses. High-end cruises spanning 7-14 nights in luxury suites and fascinating ports can sometimes top $20,000.

Conclusion of Best Disney Cruise Ship 2023

The Disney Cruise Line is a great choice for families who want to enjoy a luxurious and fun-filled vacation. With five great ships to choose from, there is sure to be one that is perfect for your family. Whether you are looking for the best overall ship or the best value, the Disney Cruise Line has a ship for you. For an unforgettable experience, sail on the Disney Wonder to Alaska and witness some of the most stunning scenery. No matter which ship you choose, you are sure to have a magical time.

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Jones Family Travels

• Best Disney Cruise Ships

By Tim Jones 2 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a qualifying purchase, I will receive a small commission from those purchases.

Our family loves to cruise! One of our favorite cruise lines is Disney Cruise Line. We have been on over 30+ Disney Cruises, so we do cruise on Disney a lot. 

We are always asked, “what are the best Disney Cruise ships?” 

Ranking the Best Disney Cruise Ships

We are going to rank the Disney Cruise ships from the worst to the best.

We only focus our ranking on the ship amenities and which Disney Cruise ship is the best. We are not focusing on cruise itineraries.

The Disney Cruise Ships do sail around the world, leaving ports of call including New York City, Port Canaveral, San Juan, San Diego, Galveston, Barcelona, and more. Not all cruise ships sail to all destinations. This is something to keep in mind when picking the best Disney Cruise ship for your family vacation. 

If you are traveling to the Bahamas, you may have the option of cruising on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, or the Disney Magic. However, if you are cruising to Alaska, you will only have the option of the Disney Wonder. 

This is something to keep in mind when planning your Disney Cruise vacation. For now, let’s dive into our list of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#4 Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is one of the newest Disney Cruise ships. It is huge with over 4,000 guests! It is an amazing ship, but can often feel a little too big. However, there is a lot to love about the Disney Fantasy. Here are some of our favorites on board the Disney Fantasy.

The Aqua Duck water coaster is amazing! The entire family just loves this water roller coaster. The whole tube slide is clear, so you can look down at the pool or ship. If you are in a port of call, you can get an amazing view of the city or island.

This water slide is even more fun during the Pirate Night festivities. You can look down below at all of the Pirate Night activities on the pool deck.

The Aqua Duck is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream ships.

Larger Atrium

The are a lot of characters and shows in the atrium area. We love the atrium on the Disney Fantasy. You have a lot of space in the atrium and you have an incredible view on higher decks. Having a spacious atrium makes the character meet and greets more enjoyable. You do not feel as crowded on the Disney Fantasy.

Midship Detective Agency

The kids love the Midship Detective Agency. This game takes you throughout the Disney Fantasy. This mystery takes you to art pieces throughout the ship. Some of the art pieces will come to life. You will use these art pieces to solve crimes. There are two different games, including Muppets and 101 Dalmatians.

This “who did it” mystery will take you across the ship and on different decks. The art comes to life, as you try to solve the mystery.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate League

All of the Disney Cruise Ships have the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. During an experience at Bibbibi Bobbidi Boutique, you can transform into a princess or prince. On Pirate Night, you can turn into a Pirate or even a mermaid.

Edge and Vibe

We love the Children Programming on the Dinsey Cruise Ships. The kids love Edge (for tweens) and Vibe (for teens.) On the Disney Fantasy, these teen areas are amazing!

Vibe has their own sundeck and pool. This is the ultimate areas for tweens and teens. There is even special Open House experiences, so the whole family can check out these fun areas.

The Disney Fantasy does have a lot of amazing amenities. All of the other Disney Cruise ships have been through magical enhancements (ship updates). With these in mind, we think the other Disney Cruise ships are better than the Disney Fantasy. This is why the Disney Fantasy got the #4 spot of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#3 Disney Magic

Number three on our list of best Disney Cruise Ships is the Disney Magic. This older cruise ship accommodates around 2,400 guests. Tim and I love that it is a smaller ships. It makes it easier to get around and not as crowded. Here are some other reasons why we love the Disney Magic.

Tangled the Musical & Snuggly Duckling

The Disney Magic has a newer Broadway style show called Tangled the Musical. This show is incredible for Tangled Fans, young and old. After the show, the Tangled fun continues with the Snuggly Duckling bar with games, music, food, and fun from some funny characters. Then it continues with a special themed dinner. It is a lot of fun!

The Disney Magic is the only Disney Cruise ship with the Aqua Dunk. Get ready for a big thrill! You stand with your arms and legs crossed. You then wait for the floor to open up underneath you.

You are whisked away in a clear waterslide zooming around the ship. This is one of Tim’s favorite rides on the Disney Cruise ships.

The Aqua Dunk gets popular, so we recommend hitting this waterslide when you are in ports of call like Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) or Nassau in the Bahamas.

#2 Disney Wonder

Our 2nd favorite Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wonder. The Disney Wonder recently went through a magical enhancement and is amazing.

We love the updates to the Disney Wonder. Our favorite restaurant on board any Disney Cruise ship is on board the Disney Wonder . . .

Tiana’s Place

Frozen Adventures in the Children Programming

During the dry dock, the Disney Wonder got a new addition in the Oceaneer Club (kids club). They now have a section called Frozen Adventures. This fun area is themed after Frozen and even includes a few friends.

Frozen, A Musical Spectacular 

To continue the Frozen theming, the Disney Wonder has a new show called Frozen, A Musical Spectacular. This show truly is spectacular.

One of our favorite parts of the show is when it snows in the theater . . . yes, actual show in the islands!

With these newer additions and the smaller size of the Disney Wonder, we rank this ship as our 2nd favorite among the Disney Cruise fleet.

#1 Disney Dream

The best Disney Cruise Ship is the Disney Dream. This cruise ship is a sister ship to Disney Fantasy.

It may be the same size as the Disney Fantasy, but this ship has even better amenities. It has had a few more magical enhancements to make it even more amazing!

Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats

Do you like Wreck it Ralph? You will love this sweet shop. You can enjoy sweet treats, candy, ice cream, and gelato. This is such a fun addition to the Disney Dream.

There is a small fee for these items, so keep that in mind during your cruise.

Oceaneer’s Club & Lab with Star Wars Millennium Falcon

The kids love the Millennium Falcon in the Oceaneer’s Club, but Tim and I do, too. Throughout the Disney Cruise vacation, they offer Open Houses. This is the opportunity for the whole family to explore the Oceaneer Lab and Club. We all love sitting in Han Solo’s seat and driving the Millennium Falcon!

Beauty and the Beast Show

Disney recently hosted the opening of the Beauty and the Beast Show. This show is simply amazing! The technology and set design alone is just spectacular. You will love all of the Disney characters in this show, too. I am a huge fan of the original Beauty and the Beast movie. I am glad this new show is just as amazing!

Our entire family agrees that the Disney Dream is the #1 ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. 

New Disney Wish

We have some exciting news to come for Disney Cruise Line. In July 2022, the Disney Wish sets sail from Port Canaveral (near Disney World). This new ship looks amazing! We share the top 9 things we love about the Disney Wish.

We hope this helps you pick the best Disney Ships for your family cruise. Be sure you check out these 105 Disney Cruise tips with tons of insider tips and hacks before you set sail on your next cruise.

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Not all Disney Cruise Line cabins are created equal.

With the Disney Treasure setting sail on its maiden voyage this December, many travelers are planning trips on the newest ship of the Disney fleet in 2025 . Amongst them, some cruising newbies and even veteran travelers are likely wondering what kind of cabin — and on which deck — they should book for their adventure.

Choosing a cabin to cruise can be a bit more complicated than one might think, so we’re here to help. Taking into account everything we know about the Disney Treasure, plus experience on other Disney Cruise Line ships including the Treasure’s sister ship the Disney Wish, we’ve narrowed it down to what we think are the best and worst standard stateroom (no concierge or massive suites here) options.

Our pick for the bestselling would be a Deluxe Verandah Stateroom in the midship section of deck 8. There are several reasons to go with this room type in this area of the ship.

For starters, the verandah is a must-do if possible. Yes, it’s a bit of an upcharge, but the extra space makes the cabin feel considerably larger, and offers wonderful ocean views and a beautiful sitting space when sailing or docked, plus — as we’ll get into below — it’s very helpful for seasickness.

As for the cabin’s overall location, the midship of deck 8 is right in the “middle of the action” as it were. It’s located in the middle of the ship, about equal distance from the Great Hall and all its venues including cafes and retail that span decks 3-4-5 below, as well as the above-deck amenities including the pools and etc. upon decks 11-14. The midship location also includes easy access to both elevator banks and the staircases. In addition, deck 8 is home to Fairytale Fresh Laundry, meaning that you won’t need to lug clothes too far to get some done.

Finally, this location provides some of the best possible relief to seasickness. The verandah allows an influx of fresh air into the room, as well as actual views of the water which help dissipate seasick feelings for many. In addition, the location in the middle of the ship cuts down on the amount of rocking and movement you’ll be able to feel, which should cut down on queasiness.

While this does get our pick for best, there is one potential drawback: There will likely be a decent amount of foot traffic outside your room given the aforementioned proximity to so many of the ship’s amenities.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have our pick for the worst cabin option on the Disney Treasure: An Inside Stateroom toward the aft of deck 2.

This style of room, located in the lowest deck of the ship to feature state rooms, not only doesn’t feature a verandah, it doesn’t even have a porthole or window. This can make room feel quite claustrophobic. In addition, the lack of an outside view can increase feelings of queasiness and seasickness.

Furthermore, being located all the way down in the bowels of the ship, the area is comparatively far from from all the ship’s internal and external amenities, making it a slog to reach almost any of them, even with the elevator. There’s also a noise issue, as the hum of the engines is more audible lower on the ship, especially toward the aft portion.

However, in compassion to our best choice, Deck 2 does offer the “perk” of not much foot traffic at all, since it’s so far from the popular common areas, which definitely matters to some passengers.

While these are our opinions on “best” and “worst” options, they’re obviously open to conjecture. The “perks” that are worth extra money to some may not be so to others, and the same can be said for negatives that may be deal breakers for some and not matter to others. Stay tuned to AllEars for more on the Disney Treasure.

Disney Cruise Line Ships: Disney Treasure – Everything You Need to Know

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Which cabin would be your pick for a Disney Treasure cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise

I f your family loves Disney, a Disney cruise may be something that is on your mind. Although you won’t be experiencing any attractions or rides, you will enjoy Disney magic while experiencing the world outside of Walt Disney World. Wondering when is the best time to take a Disney cruise? Here is our guide to figuring out the best options for your family.

Disclosure: Over the years we have taken media cruises on the Disney Cruise Line, and have paid full price for many of our sailings. This post contains affiliate links (and an affiliate phone number), and if you click through or purchase through one of these links/numbers, I may be paid a commission.

When booking a Disney Cruise, I recommend booking with Get Away Today. Plus, when you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 in onboard credits! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929.

When deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise, you’ll need to look at a few factors. If you have older kids, you may be stuck with only just a few weeks of availability due to sports, work, and school commitments.

My high school/college kids are so busy that school vacations are the only times that we can travel for more than a weekend. These times are very fun to travel but are likely to be more expensive – including the airfare.

If your schedule is open, and you are looking for the best times to sail on a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary, I’d recommend May. The weather is generally nice, it’s not one of the peak times, so prices and crowds aren’t too bad.

If you have younger children who aren’t in school yet, take advantage of that time. You also won’t have to worry about hurricane season at that point.

Pricing Considerations for Your Cruise

Pricing is one of the most important factors you should consider. As you’d expect, the peak times of the year, like holidays, spring break, and other school vacations, are when you’ll often see the highest prices.

Some discounts, for military and Florida residents, for instance, are not offered on every sailing. Flexibility in booking can allow you to save some money.

It’s not just the cruise price that you should look at. If you are flying into the port or staying either a night before or a night after your cruise, the flights and hotels may also be more expensive during school vacations and holidays. So you’ll have to weigh whether the extra cost is worth the convenience of traveling during this time.

Some families choose to combine their family cruise with a trip to the theme parks for a Disney land and sea vacation . Again, this is usually a more expensive trip during holidays and school breaks – for both the parks and the cruise line.

When booking, it’s always a good idea to book early. Disney Castaway Club members can often book early when the cruise fares and itineraries are first announced. That way, you will have your choice of stateroom categories and won’t be left with the more expensive rooms, especially if you are hoping for a more affordable room category. Interior staterooms and ocean view staterooms (porthole) can be cheaper options for your trip.

If you are already taking a cruise, making onboard bookings can save you money. Your next cruise can be booked before the end of your cruise.

You can book a placeholder if you aren’t sure what itinerary you want to experience next or don’t have your available dates handy. Keep in mind that some of those benefits may have blackout dates during holidays and special events.

Also look at the price including travel insurance. It’s always a good idea to have your vacation spending protected.

Travel insurance may also cover you if you have a medical emergency (but always check coverage) A good travel agent can help you find the best rates for your dates and may even offer onboard credit.

Crowds on Your Cruise

Like prices, crowd levels are often the highest during school vacations and holidays. Although you may only be able to travel during these busy times, it’s important to understand in advance that you’ll need to make your reservations as early as possible and arrive at the airport with plenty of time. On our last cruise, we had to fly on Christmas Day, and the airport was extremely crowded with many delays.

Once your reservation is booked, based on your Castaway Club level, you should also plan your shore excursions early. If you have an especially popular port adventure, it likely will be booked up during the busy sailings. Cabanas at Castaway Cay are especially difficult to book because the demand far exceeds the supply.

Special Events at Sea

Disney Cruise Line offers some special, themed sailings that can be so much fun. These special cruises include Halloween on the High Seas, Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruise , Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, and Star Wars Day at Sea. During these sailings, you’ll experience things like a decorated cruise ship, themed shows, and special events.

Often, these sailings can be more expensive than cruises without a theme. So you’ll need to decide whether or not the special theme is worth it for your family. If you aren’t excited about the extra decor/entertainment, you may want to save money and opt for a standard cruise.

Weather/Hurricane Season

Weather is another factor in deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise. If you are planning a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary cruise, you’ll want to look at the average temperatures in the islands you’ll be visiting. These cruises are typically offered year-round, although the Bahamian temperatures tend to be cooler in the winter months.

I generally prefer the spring, summer, and fall months when cruising to the Bahamas. Even early December can be nice. Surprisingly, while the summer months are hot, they don’t feel too hot.

The southern Caribbean islands generally have warm temps year-round. It’s important to look at hurricane season, however. A tropical storm or hurricane can affect your sailing so you’ll want to keep this in mind if you decide to cruise in these months. My September sailing resulted in an extension of two extra days due to a hurricane in Florida.

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line

Some of the itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line are only offered at certain times of the year. Alaskan cruises , for example, are only offered during the late spring/summer months because of the cold weather the rest of the year.

Other limited sailings include Northern Europe and San Diego (but can vary by year). So, if you are looking to take one of those sailings, you’ll have limited options for timing.

Ages of Kids on the Disney Cruise Line

Instead of a time of year, you may be wondering what the best ages are to take a Disney Cruise with your kids. You won’t want to go when your kids are too young because they won’t be able to enjoy all of the activities and amenities.

I’d recommend waiting until your kids are old enough to enjoy the kids’ clubs. They are fantastic, and your kids will likely want to stay in the clubs for much of your time at sea. Although the regular youth clubs are open to kids 3 and up, my kids had fun in them once they were about 5 years old.

After that age, I think that any kid would enjoy sailing on the Disney Cruise Line. We recently went on a trip with our 17 and 19-year-olds, and they still have a great time sailing with Disney.

Compare itineraries and prices here .

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

The post The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Disney Cruise Line ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most activity-packed, megaresort-like Disney Cruise Line ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Disney Cruise Line ships.

The biggest Disney cruise ships are, by their very nature, the Disney ships with the most watery fun zones and other family-friendly attractions on their top decks, as well as the most restaurants, bars and showrooms. They also have the biggest array of cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in cabin and suite types.

With room for 4,000 passengers or more, the three biggest Disney Cruise Line ships — Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream — are large resorts of the sort you find at such landlocked destinations as Orlando and Las Vegas. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Disney ships for you.

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However, Disney doesn't just operate such large vessels. The family-friendly cruise brand also operates two smaller cruise ships — Disney Wonder and Disney Magic — that carry just 2,500 passengers at maximum capacity. In both cases, these vessels are 40% smaller than Disney's biggest ships. As a result, they have fewer deck-top activities and interior venues than the biggest Disney cruise ships. They also have a much more intimate feel that many Disney fans love.

The two smaller Disney cruise ships are best for vacationers who like a more intimate, less crowded resort experience.

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

To make sure that you end up on the right Disney ship for you, it pays to study which Disney ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Disney ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Disney Wish

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 144,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,508

2 (tied). Disney Fantasy

Maiden voyage: 2012 Size: 125,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,500

2 (tied). Disney Dream

Maiden voyage: 2011 Size: 125,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,500

4. Disney Wonder

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 85,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 1,750

5. Disney Magic

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 83,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 1,750

What is the biggest Disney cruise ship?

The biggest Disney Cruise Line ship is Disney Wish. At 144,000 gross tons, it's about 15% bigger than the next biggest Disney ships (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream). Unveiled in July 2022, Disney Wish is also the newest Disney cruise ship.

TPG has had staffers on Disney Wish three times over the past year to experience and review the vessel. For more on the ship and its new features, see the following guides and reviews:

• Exclusive first look: Peek inside the new Disney Wish
• 7 things about Disney Wish that surprised us
• 9 things to know about Disney Wish
• Yes, there's a $5,000 drink on Disney Wish — but it's more than a drink
• Why Disney Wish isn't just for kids
• Why Disney Wish may win over non-cruisers
• Is a concierge suite on Disney Wish worth it? We tried one to find out
• Review: The new Enchante restaurant on Disney Wish
• Review: The new Worlds of Marvel restaurant on Disney Wish

What is the smallest Disney cruise ship?

The smallest Disney Cruise Line ship is Disney Magic. At 83,000 gross tons, it's about 40% smaller than Disney's biggest cruise ship, Disney Wish.

Unveiled in 1998, Disney Magic also is the oldest Disney cruise ship. Its arrival marked the beginning of the line.

Because of its smaller size, Disney Magic offers fewer and smaller attractions than newer Disney ships such as Disney Wish. Disney Cruise Line typically uses Disney Magic as well as its similarly sized sister ship Disney Wonder for its more destination-intensive itineraries — trips where you're going to spend much of your time off the ship and onboard amenities are less important.

Disney Magic, for instance, is the ship that Disney sends to Europe every summer for itineraries that are all about exploring cities such as Barcelona and Rome (reached via the port of Civitavecchia, Italy).

Are bigger Disney cruise ships coming?

Yes — at least one. Disney Cruise Line recently bought a massive, partly finished cruise ship that originally was ordered for Asia-based Dream Cruises. At 208,000 gross tons, the vessel will be more than 40% bigger than the biggest Disney ship currently at sea.

The unfinished and as-yet-unnamed ship, which originally was designed to hold 9,000 people, became available for purchase after Dream Cruises went out of business.

Disney plans to finish construction on the vessel and operate it out of Singapore starting in 2025. The ship will sail Southeast Asia voyages that likely will be aimed at the Asia cruise market.

In announcing the purchase, Disney said the vessel would hold just 6,000 passengers, implying that the ship's cabin configurations would be redesigned.

In addition to the vessel mentioned above, Disney Cruise Line also has two sister ships to Disney Wish on order. The first to arrive will be Disney Treasure in 2024. Another vessel in the same series, known as the Triton class of ships, is on order for delivery in 2025.

The two new Triton-class vessels will be roughly the same size as Disney Wish.

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Disney cruise ships?

The biggest Disney Cruise Line ships have room for more onboard venues and attractions than the older vessels and offer a bigger-feeling resort experience.

On the three biggest Disney vessels (Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream), you'll find large water coasters careening around the top deck — a level of attraction you don't find on the two smaller Disney ships.

The three biggest Disney cruise ships also are home to kiddie waterslides, deck-top kiddie play areas and several pools a piece. The ships' insides are loaded with huge children's play areas, family entertainment and even adults-only venues.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Disney's two smaller ships are about 40% smaller than its three bigger ships and have fewer such features. They have a notably more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships. They also hold fewer people. While Disney's three biggest ships are designed to hold around 4,000 passengers with every berth full, the line's two smallest vessels (together known as the Magic class of ships) are only designed to carry about 2,500 passengers with every berth filled.

That makes the two smallest Disney ships a good choice for someone who wants to try a Disney cruise but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The smallest ships in the Disney fleet thus appeal to a subset of Disney fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also sometimes less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Disney loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the smallest ships at Disney are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Disney Wish.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
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4 Expensive Disney Cruise Options That Are Worth the Cost (and One That Isn’t)

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Taking a Disney  cruise  lets you be the prince or princess of a Disney story. Everything from your meals to onboard entertainment is taken care of, leaving you free to explore everything the ship offers.

Understanding  what’s included  in your package can help you decide where it might be worth splashing out a bit more cash for an even more enchanting experience.

While every Disney cruise comes with its share of pixie dust, some experiences are so spectacular they justify the extra investment. From princess makeovers to adult-only fine dining, prioritizing the right upgrades can elevate your cruise from memorable to once-in-a-lifetime.

Magical Makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate’s League

The  Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique  offers an opportunity for your children to transform into their favorite characters, whether that’s a prince, princess or pirate. Since you likely chose a Disney cruise for the unique Disney experience or because you or your children are fans of a character or two, it makes sense to take part in this one-of-a-kind makeover option.

Princess makeovers range from $100 to $450, with the basic “Deluxe Carriage Package” including hairstyling, shimmering makeup and face gem, princess sash and cinch sack, nail polish, and t-shirt. Pricier packages also include princess gowns, accessories, tiaras, and more. To give your princess a special experience at a lower cost, you could pack a princess dress rather than paying for the more expensive package that includes one.

For those who would like to become knights or captains, you can select a package that includes a costume, sack or backpack, hairstyling and gel, confetti, and either a sword and shield or a captain’s hat and an autograph book. These packages cost $100 for the knight and $120 for the captain. Pirate makeovers are available on special Pirate Party nights.

Beer Mug or Drink of the Day Savings Package

Although Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer an all-inclusive alcohol drink package, they do have alternatives that could be a good value if you plan to drink on your cruise. You can purchase a $17 souvenir glass beer mug that allows you to buy 21 oz of draught beer or hard cider for the price of a 16 oz beer or hard cider. This will pay for itself if you have more than around a half-dozen drinks, and you get a nifty keepsake that you can use on future cruises.

There is also an option to purchase a Drink of the Day cocktail souvenir cup that you may refill at a discounted price (and drinks of the day are already discounted). You can use these cups for drink discounts at Disney Castaway Cay as well, so don’t forget to pack your cup when you go ashore. Speaking of going ashore…

Port Adventures

A big part of cruising is going ashore during the port stops along the way. You may want to upgrade your trip by opting for  port adventure packages . These packages can include equipment rentals like bicycles, snorkels, and water tubes. They may also include cultural experiences, sightseeing, or even nature experiences like swimming with dolphins.

Booking your port adventures through Disney also offers the convenience of pre-set pricing, saving you the hassle of haggling or currency exchange. Not all the experiences are super expensive, and even splurging on a mid-range adventure will be a memorable upgrade to your cruise that reduces stress during port days.

Adult-Exclusive Dining

Every Disney Cruise ship offers dining options for adults only, so you can have a peaceful date night with your spouse while sailing. These dining options are only available for people 18 and older. The restaurant options include (depending on your ship) Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Remy, and Enchante.

After recent price increases in 2023, brunch and dinner at Palo and Palo Steakhouse will cost $50 per person for a fixed menu. Base dinner prices at Remy and Enchante are $135 per person. A la carte options are available for an 18% charge on top of the price of each item. While these meals are fairly pricey, especially considering other meals in the Dining Room are included in your ticket cost, you can’t put a dollar amount on an amazing adult-only date night.

Skip This Upgrade: Royal Court Royal Tea

One upgrade option you may have heard about is the Royal Court Royal Tea. While it’s a charming idea, especially for fans of Disney princesses, the cost is steep at $220 per child and $69 per adult.

While the description makes the Royal Tea sound charming, attendees have found it an expensive disappointment. Although it’s a popular add-on, popularity isn’t always synonymous with value. Besides, there is a completely free Princess Gathering where you can meet and greet your favorite Disney Princesses.

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