disney cruise line tips and tricks

101 Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks

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Ready for your Disney Cruise? Cruising is definitely a different kind of vacation than any other you will take, and Disney Cruises can have some differences than other cruises you might be familiar with. If this is your first ever cruise or your first cruise Disney Cruise, these Disney Cruise tips & tricks will help you with everything you need to know. We’ve got tips about packing, boarding the ship, eating, enjoying the entertainment, and more so you can have best possible cruise experience!

There’s TONS here (and honestly more I probably could have added!), so read through it and then keep it saved to refer back to as you get ready for your cruise! I’ve done my best to break it up into section that will correspond with the stages of your cruise: planning and preparing, being on your cruise, and leaving your cruise.

Tips & Tricks for Booking Your Disney Cruise

1. book your cruise early.

Disney Cruise prices don’t tend to fluctuate. The earliest prices you can get are often going to be the best prices you can get (unless you get a great last minute deal). Prices generally only continue to go up as the cruise gets closer. Some cruises also sell out!

Also, understand how pricing works. Cruises during high-demand times (like summer and holidays) will be more expensive. Cruises on newer ships (like the Wish ) will also be more expensive.

2. Use a travel agent to book your cruise.

Travel agents are free to use and can get you the best deal. While there aren’t often big discounts for Disney Cruises, many of them do offer onboard credit, giving you money to spend on the ship.

3. Check-in online as soon as you can.

This will give you best options for port arrival times, excursions, exclusive dining reservations, and more.

4. Be prepared with documents for your online check-in.

You will need things like pictures of everyone in your party, passports, and possibly more. Gather and upload as much as you can before your actually online check-in time to cut down on the stress.

5. Book the earliest port arrival time you can.

You want to maximize the time you get to spend on your Disney Cruise! Booking an earlier port arrival time will allow you to get on the ship and start having fun hours before the ship actually leaves. You’ll be able to select your port arrival time once you check in online.

6. Download the Disney Cruise Line App.

Well before your cruise, download the app. It won’t do much before you leave, but once you link your reservation you’ll get a fun countdown. Plus, then you’ll have it all ready once you board the ship when you will REALLY need it.

7. Book everything you can online ahead of time!

Shore excursions, kids club reservations (if needed), spa appointments, specialty dining—many of these things will get booked up quickly, so book things early as much as you can. If you can’t book something ahead of time, visit Guest Services as soon as you board the ship.

8. Join a fish extender group before your cruise.

A fish extender is an pouch extension you place on the fish outside your door (a hook where Disney places your mail). You can join a fish extender group for your particular sailing on Facebook ahead of time, and then throughout the cruise you will exchange gifts with other people on your sailing by leaving the gifts in the fish extenders. This isn’t an official Disney activity, but instead a cruise tradition that fans have started, and many people love participating in it.

Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruise Packing

9. use the luggage tags provided by disney..

When you arrive at port, you will hand your bags over and then be able to board without the hassle of the luggage. But make sure you have the luggage tags Disney sent you on your bags so they know where the bags go!

10. Pack a separate embarkation carry-on bag.

Include essential documents, medications, and swimsuits (if you want to hit the pool soon after boarding). Pack anything you might need until early evening, because sometimes your regular bags will take a few hours to appear in your stateroom.

11. Don’t worry about beach packing towels.

Disney provides towels both on the pool deck and at Castaway Cay.

12. Don’t worry about packing bath products.

You won’t need to pack shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or body lotion (unless you have something super special you can’t live without). Disney provides great products in each stateroom, so no need to have it taking up space in your luggage.

13. Pack sunscreen!

You will absolutely need it. Reef safe sunscreen is always best to get in the ocean with. Our favorite is this Sun Bum spray , the Sun Bum face stick , and this COOLA scalp spray . (PS — all of these products smell so good which is the best part!)

14. Bring seasickness meds.

Be prepared if you are worried about seasickness. Bring medicine or anything else you might need. But also know that Disney ships have high-tech stabilizers and they do their best to make it a smooth ride.

15. Bring a jacket!

Even in the Caribbean it can get breezy and cool at night, and you might find some of the restaurants or theaters a little chilly too.

16. Bring an excursion bag.

Pack a small and easy-to-carry bag that you can take with you onto Castaway Cay or any other ports and excursions. You can include things like sunscreen, water, essential medications, your Key to the World card (your room key), ID, and anything else you might need off the ship.

17. Pack a lanyard.

Many people pack lanyards to keep their ID and Key to the World (room key) card on. This makes it easy to grab on your way out the door and easy to keep up with.

18. Pack a reusable water bottle.

Even though cups of water are free on your cruise, bottles of water aren’t and they can add up fast.

19. Pack your alcohol!

Drinks on a Disney Cruise can be pricey, so if you know you are going to want some, you can bring some with you. Each guest 21 years or older can bring two unopened bottles of wine or champagne or six beers in their carry-on luggage.

20. Use packing cubes!

Honestly, this is great advice for any trip, but packing cubes can help you fit more into your bag, keep everything organized, and are super easy to unpack into the drawers in your stateroom. I love these packing cubes and use them on every trip I go on.

21. Use a good packing list.

Use a packing list to make sure you’ve remembered everything! See this post for all our Disney Cruise packing tips .

Tips & Tricks for Boarding Your Disney Cruise

22. fly in the day before your cruise.

You definitely don’t want to be stressing about flight delays on the same day you have a cruise to board!

23. Don’t get to the port too early.

Ideally, you’ve booked the earliest time you can for arriving at port. But don’t arrive too much earlier than that or they may turn you away or you’ll just have to sit around and wait.

24. Get your WiFi up and running for the Disney Cruise app.

When you board the ship there will be cast members in place to instruct you on using the app. Note that you have to pay for extra WiFi, but the app is always free to use. The app will only work when you connected to the Disney Cruise ship WiFi.

25. Start figuring out the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app early.

You can use the app to see the schedule for each day, your dining rotation, chat with members of your party, and more.

26. Guest Services can help you with special bookings.

If there are special activities you were unable to book before your cruise or if you want to try to get a specialty dining reservation, head to guest services when you get on the ship and see if they can help you. Sometimes there are reservations available that hadn’t been available online.

27. Rent the baby gear you need.

If you need baby gear like a pack n’ play or a stroller, you can rent them for free at Guest Services. These are on a first-come, first-serve basis though, so do this as soon as possible once you get on the ship!

28. Head to lunch!

When you board the ship, head to lunch. While many people head to the buffet at Cabanas (or Marceline Market on the Wish), you can also eat at one of the sit-down restaurants that is offering lunch.

29. Get your muster drill done.

Recently, Disney has changed the way their muster drill works. Instead of everyone gathering at their station at once, you just have to go and check in at your station using the app during your first few hours on board. Go ahead and get it done so then you’re free to have fun!

30. Check out the Kid’s Clubs!

Your first afternoon on board, all of the kid’s clubs should be having open houses. This means you can go explore the space with your child and get all checked in with a cast member so that drop off is easy once you’re ready to actually use the kid’s club. (Pro Tip: Even if you don’t have kids, stop by just to use their awesome hand washing stations!)

31. You can go to the pool as soon as you get on the ship!

If you’ve packed your swimsuit in your carry on bag (or worn it under your clothes) you can head straight to the pool when you get on board and hopefully find it less crowded than it will be later.

32. Remember that your room may not be ready right away.

Rooms tend to be ready mid-afternoon, so you may not have access to your room as soon as you board. (Remember, they JUST had an entire cruise get OFF the ship that same morning!)

33. Your luggage may take some time to show up in your room.

Usually luggage will show up in the afternoon, but sometimes it can be into the evening. So be prepared with the things you will need in your carry-on bag.

34. The ship will feel like a maze when you first get on.

But don’t worry because soon you’ll get the hang of it. There are maps and signs to help you know your way, and spend some time on this first day just wondering around the ship getting the lay of the land (or uh…ship).

Tips & Tricks for Your Disney Cruise Stateroom

35. decorate your door with custom magnets.

This is a fun Disney Cruise tradition, and there are lots of small shops online that sell these magnets. We also love our door decorations because it makes it easier for us to find our room.

36. Pack a magnetic hook.

The doors in your state room are metal, so magnetized hooks are helpful for keeping things like lanyards, purses, etc.

37. Don’t use an over-the-door shoe organizer.

Disney has begun asking guests not to use these because they can damage the door.

38. Unpack your suitcase.

You can store empty luggage under the bed. Cruise staterooms are too small to have open suitcases lying around!

39. Disney Cruise rooms have TWO bathrooms.

This is one of my favorite features about the rooms. There is one bathroom with a sink and shower/tub, and one bathroom with a sink and toilet. This makes sharing a bathroom with family members in a small space much more manageable.

40. Your stateroom host will prepare kid’s beds.

If you have kids and need to use the fold-out beds, your stateroom host will pull them down for you each night and make them up for you each morning.

41. Get to know your state room host!

They are so kind and are there to help your experience in your stateroom be the best it can be.

Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruise Dining

42. you will be assigned restaurants on a rotating basis for dinner..

This is known as rotational dining, and you don’t want to miss it! They are truly special dining experiences. You can find your dining rotation on your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.

Looking for more dining info? These might help:

• Complete Guide to Disney Magic Restaurants + Dining
• Complete Guide to Disney Wish Restaurants + Dining

43. Your rotational dining is included in the cost of your cruise.

The only thing you may have to pay for at a standard dinner is if you order an alcoholic drink.

44. There are two different dinner seating times.

Most families with young kids prefer to be assigned the earlier dinner seating, while families with older kids or parties traveling with just adults tend to book the later dinner seating.

45. Guest Services can change your dinner time if you need to.

If you need to change your dinner seating time for some reason, talk to Guest Services about it as soon as you board the ship.

46. Your waiters will move restaurants with you each night.

This means they will really get to know you and your preferences. Maybe when you enter they’ll already have drinks out if you get the same thing every night, or if you have a special dietary need they will always be prepared for that.

47. Get to know your waiters too!

We love talking to ours and getting to know where they are from, how long they’ve been working on Disney Cruises, and just chatting! Getting to know the cast members on board really makes the cruise experience even more special.

48. You can order more than one item.

If more than one appetizer, dessert, or even entrée sounds good to you, remember that you are allowed to order more than one!

49. Quick service options are available for breakfast and lunch.

There are dining options available on the pool deck and in either Cabanas or Marceline Market (on the Wish). These are included in the price of your cruise, and are likely where you will want to grab lunch. (Although you can also choose a table service restaurant for either meal as well.)

50. Room service is included in the price of your cruise!

So take advantage for any meal or for late night snacks! Be prepared to tip though.

51. Order Mickey Premium Bars through room service!

Room service is the only place you’ll be able to find Disney’s popular ice cream treat. And truly there is nothing better than sitting on your verandah with a Mickey Premium Bar!

52. If you want to book premium-adults only dining, do so early!

Each ship has at least one adults-only dining experience. These are an additional charge. Most of them offer options for both brunch and dinner. Each ship has a version of Palo. The Dream and Fantasy also have Remy, and the Wish has Enchanté.

53. You’ll have to pay for specialty coffee.

If you want something other than the standard coffee at the restaurants, there is a coffee bar in the adults only area of the ship. The coffee here is an extra charge, but you can save money if you grab one of their coffee cards. Buy 5 drinks and the 6th is free.

Tips & Tricks for the Disney Cruise Kids Clubs

54. there are kid’s clubs for all ages.

It’s a Small World Nursery is for children under 3, The Oceaneer’s Club and Lab is for kids ages 3-12, The Edge is for kids 11-14, and The Vibe is for teens ages 14-17. Each club has age appropriate activities and special events that occur throughout the day.

55. It’s a Small World Nursery is an additional charge.

It is $9 per hour for your first child, and $8 per hour for each additional child.

56. It’s a Small World Nursery needs to be booked ahead of time.

While the other kid’s clubs allow kids to stop in whenever they want, the nursery will need to be reserved ahead of time.

57. The Oceaneer’s Club will lock your child’s Magic Band on.

Your child will need a Magic Band for their time in the Oceaneer’s Club (you will be given one), and the cast members will lock it on while they are in there, which is a great safety measure. If they don’t want to wear the Magic Band for the whole cruise, you can use small scissors or ask a cast member for help cutting it off. Then it will just get relocked each time your child comes into the club.

58. Kids in The Edge and The Vibe are free to come and go as they please.

Tweens and teens do not have to be checked in and out by an adult. However, if you have a child in an overlap age (11 or 12) who can participate in both The Edge and The Oceaneer’s Club, you will need to check them in and out of the Oceaneer’s Club still but not The Edge.

59. Scuttle’s Cove is the kid’s club on Castaway Cay.

Kids that would normally go to the Oceaneer’s Club on the ship can be checked into Scuttle’s Cove on Castaway Cay, so parents can enjoy some of the adults only areas and some kid-free beach time. Just remember to bring their Magic Band onto the island!

60. Teens can go to Teen Hideout.

There is a Teen Hideout on Castaway Cay for teens ages 14-17.

Looking for a vacation book? You might like these books set on cruise ships !

Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruise Activities, Entertainment, & Shopping

61. check your disney cruise line navigator app each day..

You’ll be able to see what going on during the day on the ship and what activities you might want to participate in. You can favorite the activities and it will create an itinerary for you.

62. Disney Cruises will have activities going on ALL THE TIME (and they often repeat).

So don’t worry if you miss something. Usually for games/trivia/etc. the event will happen more than once during the cruise.

63. Your dining time will be opposite your nighttime entertainment time.

This means if you have the early dining you can go to the late show and if you have the late dining you can go to the early show.

64. Pack your own snacks!

If you think you are going to want to snacks during shows and movies, you can bring your own. The snacks outside the theaters are not included in the price of your cruise, so you would have to buy them separately. I also think it is helpful to have some granola bars or similar snacks with you, because while food on the ship is plentiful sometimes a snack that isn’t a cookie can be harder to find.

65. Shop early!

If there are certain items you want, pick them up early. Generally, merchandise does not get restocked during the cruise, so what they have at the beginning of the cruise is what they will have for the whole cruise.

66. The shops will not always be open!

Usually, they can only be open when the ship is at sea, so plan your shopping times accordingly.

67. Be prepared for Pirate Night!

Pirate Night is a beloved tradition on Disney Cruises! You can bring you own pirate attire to wear, and you’ll find special menus at dinner, characters dressed in pirate outfits, and special nighttime entertainment. Don’t have pirate attire? No worries! On our cruise everyone got a pirate bandanna to wear at dinner.

68. Don’t miss the fireworks!

Disney’s fireworks at sea are truly magical. (And fun fact: Disney Cruise Line fireworks are made from biodegradable materials so they are environmentally friendly!)

Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruise Characters

69. characters are out all the time on disney cruises..

This makes it really easy to meet them. Just walk through the atrium at various points during the day and you will see so many different characters. Generally the times they are out will show up in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app, but you may find some surprise characters too.

70. Some character meet and greets may require a reservation.

This is usually for things like princess meet and greets. These aren’t an additional charge, but you will still need to book your spot, and you should be able to do so through the app or with Guest Services.

71. There are also character experiences you can pay for.

Some cruises offer special character experiences, like a character meal or a princess tea, for an additional cost.

72. Some of your dining rotations will include a character element/show.

Some of the dinner restaurants will include a special show with characters. For example, Rapunzel, Flynn, and the ruffians show up at Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. On the Disney Wish, Frozen characters perform at Arendelle. And of course the shows at Animator’s Palate are always a favorite!

Tips & Tricks for the Disney Cruise Pool Deck

73. towels are provided on the pool deck..

So there is no need to bring your own towels!

74. The pools will have lines to get in when it is crowded.

The lifeguards will let a certain number of people in, let them be in for a certain time, and then have them get out so the next group can get in.

75. Try to ride the popular water slides during less popular times.

Later afternoon and evening or when the ship is docked are great times to try for the slides.

76. Hit the pool either early or later.

If you want a spot by the pool, plan to be out early in the morning. But you can also sometimes wait until later in the day! We found the pool a lot less crowded in the afternoon than in the morning! I think a lot of families have kids eager to get to the pool and by the afternoon they are ready to move on to something else or head in for nap time.

77. There are several dining options available on each ship’s pool deck.

All pool deck dining is included in the price of your cruise. You’ll find things like pizza, burgers, shawarma, and BBQ depending on what ship you are on. There is also a drink station on the pool deck.

78. The pool deck can get hot in the sun!

We had to make sure to walk in the shade on the pool deck on the Disney Magic because the areas exposed to the sun got so hot. So be prepared!

Tips & Tricks for Castaway Cay

79. make sure you have your id and your room key when you leave the ship.

You will need them both to get off and get back on the ship at Castaway Cay and at any port.

80. Towels are provided.

Be sure to grab them as you exit the ship.

81. Walk to the beach from the ship.

If you walk along the path instead of taking the tram you’ll have a chance to see characters along your way! Then you can take the tram back in the afternoon when you are tired.

82. Get off the ship early and find a spot to camp out during the day.

It’s best to find your spot before it gets too crowded. We like to find chairs near the water structure where we think the kids will play the most.

83. Take advantage of the bike riding and the snorkeling.

These were some of our favorite experiences on Castaway Cay! You will have to pay to rent bikes and snorkeling gear. (For more on what do on Castaway Cay, see our Guide to Castaway Cay .)

84. You can send a postcard from Castaway Cay.

If you want to send a postcard from Castaway Cay, you can stop by the post office. You will need cash to pay for it though!

85. Lunch is served at Cookies and Cookies Too.

You’ll find a big buffet with all kinds of options and it is included in your cruise price. You’ll also find soft serve ice cream here (but it’s only open during lunch hours).

Tips & Tricks for Gratuities and Other Expenses

86. some things are not included in the price of your cruise..

While so many of your experiences and most of your dining is included in the price of your cruise, some things are not: port excursions, alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages, spa treatments, specialty dining experiences, and gratuities/tips.

87. Always pack some dollar bills.

You can use these for tips for bag porters, room service, and specialty beverages.

88. Disney will walk you through the gratuities process.

At the end of your cruise, you will find information about gratuities in your stateroom. Disney Cruise Line automatically calculates gratuities for you and charges you for them. There are slips of paper with the tip amount included that you can hand to your servers and stateroom hosts to personally thank them.

89. You can add to the standard tip amounts.

If you would like to add to the standard tip amount Disney calculates, you can visit Guest Services and they will add the additional tip and print new slips for you to hand your servers and statement host.

Tips & Tricks for Disembarkation Day

90. get your pictures at shutters before disembarkation day..

BEFORE disembarkation day, make sure you stop by Shutters to view your photos and decide on any photos you want to buy. This is best done the afternoon of your last cruise day.

91. Put your luggage out in the hallway the night before for Disney to transport off the ship.

The night before your disembarkation day, have your luggage out in the hallway by around 10 p.m. with the luggage tags you are given. This way, Disney will take your bags off the ship for you and have them waiting for you at the port the next day.

92. Pack a carry-on bag for disembarkation day.

Keep a carry-on bag with your clothes for the next day, necessary toiletries and medication. Also don’t forget shoes for the next day!

93. You will be assigned a breakfast restaurant and time.

It will be early, so be prepared. It will also be the same restaurant where you had dinner on your last night. You’ll still have your same servers, but the menu will be more limited than it is for the rest of the cruise.

94. You can also have breakfast at the ship’s buffet.

If you don’t want to dine at your assigned location, Cabana’s (or Marceline Market) is usually open with a limited breakfast buffet.

95. You will be able to leave the ship when your luggage tag group is announced.

Watch the screens around the ship to know what luggage tags have been announced. Each tag is printed with a recognizable character, so they are easy to remember.

96. If you do not have your bags out in the hallway the night before, you will be responsible for taking them off the ship.

Note that you will have to take them with you to breakfast, because once you leave the stateroom for breakfast you are “checked out” of your room so they can begin preparing it for the guests that will board later that day. (Generally you have to out of your stateroom by at least 8:00 a.m.)

Miscellaneous Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks

97. you are not allowed to bring an iron..

There is a laundry center on each ship where you can do laundry and find irons to use.

98. You are NOT allowed to bring extension cords or power strips.

We found that there are plenty of plugs in each stateroom though.

99. Internet is available on the ship but it is very expensive for not very much.

Honestly, one reason we love cruising is that it is a way to really disconnect! But remember that the WiFi will always work for you Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.

100. The Senses Salon & Spa is not run by Disney Cruise Line.

Rather it is a third party vendor. If you have an issue with the spa, you will need to contact them about it directly. Also, be prepared for them to try to sell you products.

101. Book your next cruise while on board!

If your put down a $250 deposit for your next cruise, you can save 10%. You don’t even have to have a specific sailing date, just put down a fully refundable deposit for any future sailing, and it can be applied when you book. The sailing must take place within two years though.

You May Also Like

• Disney Cruise vs. Disney World
• What To Pack for a Disney Cruise: Complete Packing List
• Things To Do on Castaway Cay: Complete Guide to Disney’s Private Island
• Guide to Disney Magic Restaurants + Dining

Related Posts:

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Disney Cruise Line Planning Tips & Tricks

LAST UPDATE: 7/17/23

On this page we have collected some useful advice, tips and tricks that can help you save time and money when you are planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Jump to:

• Cruise Information & Guidebooks

How to Save Money

• Resort Add-on vs. Booking Disney World Separately
• Tips And Tricks for Picking A Stateroom

Secret Porthole Staterooms

Secret verandah staterooms, secret connecting staterooms, category 8a “mini-suites” and oversized/open plan staterooms, hump suites & concierge staterooms, accommodating larger families, two rooms are (sometimes) better than one, trip insurance, passports and visas.

• Booking Palo/Remy, Excursions, Onboard Activities, Spa Appointments and Kids’ Club Online

Disney Cruise Line Weddings and Vow Renewals

Cruising with a disability.

Other useful Disney Cruise Line information pages:

• For discounts and tips on saving money on the cruise itself , visit our Disney Cruise Discount page.
• For advice that will help you save time and get the most out of your cruise once you are onboard , visit the DCL Onboard Advice page.
• For advice that will help you with excursions, tours and activities  while in port, visit the Tips & Discounts for Port Excursions page.

Planning a Disney Cruise: Information & Guidebooks

When you’re starting to plan a Disney cruise, the very first thing you should do is watch the FREE Disney Cruise Line Vacation Planning Videos ! They’re available to anyone online and have lots of useful info in them.

In addition to viewing the videos, which will give you a good general idea of what the Disney Cruise Line has to offer, you may want to look at a guidebook or two to get more detailed information about it. See our list of suggested guidebooks for cruises and port excursions .

There’s a lot of FREE information about the ships and getting the most from your cruise on this page and the Onboard Advice, Tips and Tricks page here on this site! We also recommend visiting the independent Disney Cruise Line Blog , which has lots of useful information, including scans of menus and daily schedules from recent cruises.

Unlike most of the other cruise lines, Disney is generally very consistent in only moving its prices one direction over time: up! Disney very rarely runs sales, and as the ship fills they will raise the price of the remaining rooms. Some very popular cruises (usually unique and new itineraries in popular destinations like Europe) can go up in price on the first day of booking! The bottom line is that booking as early as possible is the surest way to save money on a Disney cruise. Occasionally Disney will run a sale at the last minute, but you can’t be sure any particular sailing will have a sale.

Booking way ahead allows you to grab the best staterooms and have a better chance of getting the first seating at dinner (important to many families with young children). Especially for the most popular times of year (spring break, summer and Christmas, and to a lesser extent other holidays like Thanksgiving), you would be well advised to book as early as you can, because those cruises often sell out and rates for those dates will just go up and up. In the rare case the fare drops after you book, Disney is very good about adjusting it. You or your travel agent just need to call and ask for the lower rate.

Keep in mind that your  Disney cruise deposit is fully refundable up to the payment-in-full date (75 days before sailing for most 3-4 day cruises, 90 days for most 7 day cruises, longer for holiday cruises, cruises from non-US ports and for concierge-class bookings). If you think you might want to take a cruise next year (or the year after), you’d do well to get it booked right away if you can. Then you can take some time to research and plan. If later you decide it’s not going to work, cancel and get your money back. Or if you need to change the date, you can easily ask Disney or your travel agent to change it. But if you do end up taking the cruise, you’ll be happy you got it booked before the prices went up.

Other tips that can save you money:

• Sail in the off-season. The less busy parts of the year (January, early February, May, late August, September, October, and the portions of November and December that are not holiday weeks) have significantly lower fares, and the fares often don’t go up as quickly over time. Sometimes they stay pretty much the same right up until a few months before sailing.
• Keep an eye out for last-minute restricted fares . These fares (sometimes called *GT fares) are generally a very good deal, but they only happen on sailings that aren’t filling at the regular prices. They usually release them after the payment-in-full date for the cruise has passed, so you start to see them at about 1-2 months away from sailing. They often are for a very limited number of rooms, and sometimes they come and go very quickly, so if you see one for a cruise you can take, definitely pounce while you can. You can read more about these restrictions and see the current list of discounted cruises on our Disney Cruise Line Discounts & Deals page .
• Be sure to take advantage of any onboard credits that may be available. There are plenty of other specialized deals and offers for the Disney Cruise Line, too. Be sure to check and see if you qualify for any of the deals listed below.
• Save up to $1000 right off the top by using the right travel agent (in addition to any other savings). We highly recommend booking all Disney cruises through a Disney Specialist travel agent . It costs you nothing and they do all the work for you!
• Don’t buy more cabin than you need . Read our guide to picking a stateroom  for our picks for the best values in each category.
• If you can only afford an inside cabin, be sure to learn more about secret porthole rooms !
• If you will be traveling with a family of 5 or more , be sure to read about a useful tip that could save you a bundle.
• If you’re willing to take your chances, learn how you might be able to buy a cheaper cabin and score an upgrade (either free or discounted).
• get a good deal on a hotel for the night before your cruise
• find the best prices for transportation from the airport or your hotel to the cruise terminal
• save on trip insurance

Resort Add-On vs. Booking Disney World Separately

If you are considering a Resort Add-on to your cruise, which adds a stay at Walt Disney World onto your Disney cruise, keep in mind that it is almost always a better option to book the two separately.

Basically the only advantage of the Resort Add-on is convenience. With the Resort Add-on, you only check in once. When you arrive at the hotel, you are given your “Key to the World” card for the cruise, but you use your MagicBand (or Disney World RFID ticket) for everything else. That’s nice, but may not be worth hundreds of dollars to you. That’s right, sometimes you can save that much by booking a discounted room separately, and/or buying discounted tickets with the features you want, instead of what Disney dictates.

With the Resort Add-on, you can only add a full-price resort stay in a standard room before or after your cruise. You cannot :

• book anything other than a standard room (no themed or view rooms, or suites);
• get a discount on your hotel room;
• add tickets other than full-price 1-day to 5-day tickets with the Park Hopper option (no Base Tickets  or  Park Hopper Plus options are available); or
• add a Dining Plan at all (you’d have to book a separate vacation package to get a Dining Plan).

Given the total lack of flexibility and the fact that you can’t get any sort of discount, we really don’t recommend booking a Resort Add-on.

By the way, if you’re debating whether to visit Walt Disney World before or after your cruise: go before the cruise. Disney World is fun, but exhausting. If you do the cruise after your Disney World visit, you’ll have a chance to relax and you can return home rested.

Tips And Tricks For Picking A Stateroom

Disney Cruise Line has several different categories of staterooms with somewhat confusing names and descriptions. Here’s an overview of the various types and the key differences between them, with some notes on our picks for the best value.

How Important is Stateroom Location?

There are two “classic” rules of thumb about stateroom location: higher on the ship is better and closer to the center of the ship is better. In our experience, those rules of thumb are not actually very helpful.

The center of the ship does have a bit less motion when the ship is tipping forward and back in higher seas, since you’re closer to the center of the see-saw, so to speak. But big cruise ships do not as a general rule have a huge amount of motion, at least compared to smaller boats you might be used to. And even if you experience somewhat less motion in a stateroom closer to the center, during your cruise you will be roaming all over the ship to eat, watch shows and participate in activities, so one way or another you will spend a fair amount of time on the far ends of the ship. For much of the time you’re in your room, you’ll be sleeping, and research suggests that people are least bothered by motion when they are lying down. Bottom line: in our experience, most of the time the motion is going to be very minor no matter where you are on the ship. If there are rougher waters you will notice at least a little motion, but your cabin location is not going to be the most important factor in how much the motion bothers you.

Similarly, being higher on the ship doesn’t hugely improve your views or experience. You get a slightly better view from a verandah on deck 8 than on deck 5, but only slightly. In the few cases where you’d like a view from as high as possible (in port, usually), you’ll want to go up to the top deck for the best view anyway. Everything on the ship is a quick elevator ride away no matter which deck you are on.

One thing that can bother some people is vibration from the engines or electric motors. The ship has huge diesel generators on the lowest decks, and the main electric propulsion motors are in the rear, so in general, you will feel more vibration lower on the ship and closer to the rear. But you might feel at least some vibration almost anywhere on the ship. We’ve been on the lowest passenger deck, and certainly noticed mild vibration, but it hasn’t really bothered us. If you’re on a low deck in the front or rear of the ship, you might notice the sound and vibration of the lateral thrusters during early-morning docking, but that doesn’t last long under normal circumstances.

Noise from the area above, below and around your stateroom can be an issue , especially if you are a light sleeper or sensitive to sound. You should definitely take a look at what is located on the deck just above or just below your stateroom. If you are just underneath the pool deck, you may find yourself awakened very early in the morning by crew sliding deck chairs around as they prepare the pool area for the day. If you are on a lower deck just above or below a nightclub, you may find the thumping bass makes it hard to nod off in the evening. If your room is near the elevators you may hear a bit more noise from people coming and going. We have had rooms that had noise leakage, and it’s not the end of the world, but it can affect some people more than others, so consider what will bother you and what you can ignore.

As a very broad generalization, we prefer to get staterooms in the middle decks, sandwiched between two other decks with staterooms, or above or below an area that isn’t in use early in the morning or late at night. We don’t really worry about being central; if the ends are cheaper and have the room types we like, we book a room on the ends. We often try to get rooms towards the front or back that are just under or over the spa or the main dining rooms, as they don’t typically have a lot of noise in the morning and evening. But if it’s the only good room available, we’re fine with being smack-dab under the pool deck; we pack a set of earplugs just in case.

Category Numbers And Letters

All rooms are designated with a category number and letter, like “4A” or “10C.” The category number tells you the basic type of room, 1 being the fanciest concierge room and 11 being the smallest and least expensive regular room. Lower numbers typically have more amenities and features, like windows or verandahs, or may be bigger than higher-numbered categories.

• Categories 1, 2 & 3 are concierge staterooms, which come with extra perks like access to a special lounge and priority access to excursions and events.
• Categories 4, 5, 6 and 7 are verandah staterooms, which have a small private deck on the outside of the ship where you can get some fresh air and watch the ocean go by.
• Categories 8 and 9 are oceanview staterooms which have one or two portholes, which don’t open.
• Categories 10 and 11 are inside staterooms, which have no windows at all.

Within a category number, most staterooms are pretty much identical (with some exceptions mentioned below), with the letters indicating primarily how attractive the location is (according to Disney), with ‘A’ being the best. We generally recommend getting the C, D or E staterooms to save yourself some money, because the higher-lettered staterooms really aren’t significantly better. But there are a few exceptions; read on for more.

It seems like there are lots of rooms with lots of different layouts, but in reality the vast majority of regular non-concierge rooms fall into three basic interior sizes (not counting the verandah, if any). Disney doesn’t break out the size of the interior area of verandah rooms, so the verandah sizes are estimates based on measurements of room layouts and physical comparison of rooms.

Small : category 11, which are approximately 184 sq. ft. on Magic/Wonder and 169 sq. ft. on Dream/Fantasy/Wish. All sleep at least 3; some sleep 4. The space reduction relative to the next bigger size comes from not having a split bathroom and losing some of the open space in the middle of the room.

Regular : category 10, 9, 7, 6, 5 and Dream/Fantasy/Wish 4E, which have an interior area of approximately 215 sq. ft. on the Magic/Wonder, 205 sq. ft. on Dream/Fantasy, and 218 sq. ft. on Wish. All sleep at least 3; some sleep 4. Category 9 rooms have portholes with a view of the water. Category 7, 6, 5 and Dream/Fantasy 4E rooms have verandahs which vary in size, but are typically about 30-40 additional sq. ft.

Large : category 8 and 4 (except for Dream/Fantasy/Wish 4E), which have an interior area of approximately 245 sq. ft. on Magic/Wonder and 235-240 sq. ft. on Dream/Fantasy/Wish. All sleep at least 4; some sleep 5. These rooms are the same width as the regular-sized rooms, but are deeper, which makes room for an extra pull-down single bed in the ones that sleep 5. Category 8 rooms have one or two portholes with a view of the water. Category 8A rooms are extra-large, but Disney doesn’t give a specific size; we guess that they’re about 320 sq. ft. Category 4 rooms have a verandah, which varies in size, but is typically about 30-40 additional sq. ft.

Certain handicapped-accessible staterooms are also larger, but that’s mostly in the form of empty space to allow a wheelchair to move around. The accessible rooms also typically have a non-split bath (again to allow for a wheelchair) with a variety of different shower/bath combinations to deal with different kinds of physical issues.

Beyond that are the concierge rooms, some of which are larger and are covered more below. But realistically, there isn’t a lot of difference in the actual living space and amenities between a category 10 inside and a category 5 verandah, for example. The rest of the differentiation in category is all about the porthole or verandah, the location on the ship, and small differences in verandah or porthole views, which we’ll go over below.

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms have no windows or verandahs, and thus no natural light. They turn pitch black when the lights are off (night or day), which can be a plus or a minus, depending on whether you like sleeping in absolute darkness. The darkness can be a problem if you’re trying to maneuver around at night without waking up the rest of the family; we recommend bringing a small flashlight or nightlight if you book one of these rooms. These rooms are a good value for folks that don’t need a view and don’t plan to spend much time in their room. You get the same food, activities and entertainment as everyone else for much less money, and a view of the ocean is just a short elevator ride away at all times.

On the Dream & Fantasy (but not the Wish), all inside staterooms have Disney’s “virtual porthole” which is a screen with a porthole-shaped frame over it that shows you roughly the view you’d see if there wasn’t a whole bunch of ship in the way. There are four cameras mounted on the ship pointing in the four main directions (fore, aft, port and starboard) and each virtual porthole shows a view in the “correct” direction, given the wall it’s mounted on. The virtual portholes also show some “surprise” Disney characters floating or flying by about every 30 minutes, which is a nice touch. The portholes can be turned on and off. If you leave them on at night, they provide some glow (even though the view is typically black, there’s some residual light from the screen). For some people, it’s still too much light to sleep with, so if you’ve never experienced one it might be good to bring a flashlight or headlamp just in case.

11A, 11B, 11C – These are typically the cheapest rooms available. They are smaller than other staterooms, and they don’t have a split bathroom. All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. The A, B, C designation is purely Disney’s assessment of how attractive the location is, with A’s being located on upper decks or closer to midship and C’s being located on lower decks. The actual amenities are identical. 

10A, 10B, 10C – These are larger than the category 11’s, though mostly that’s just open space; they have the same basic furniture. They have a split bathroom, with one half containing a sink and shower and the other half containing a sink and toilet, each with its own door to the room. All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. The A, B, C designation is purely Disney’s assessment of how attractive the location is, with A’s being located on upper decks or closer to midship and C’s being located on lower decks. The actual amenities are identical. Frankly we don’t see enough value in these over the 11’s, though the split bath is definitely a convenience and speeds up getting ready in the morning. These rooms are not available on the Disney Wish.

Best bets for inside staterooms:

• If you want to experience a Disney cruise at the lowest possible price, 11C staterooms are hard to beat. They feel a little cramped, but honestly so do the category 10’s.  
• If you want the slightly larger space and split bath of a category 10, the 10C’s are generally the best deal, but check what’s above them to make sure it’s not going to be a noise problem.
• If you can’t get the category letter we recommend, try for the next letter in the same category  (i.e. if you can’t get a 11C, try for a 11B. If those are sold out, get a 11A, etc.). If the whole category number is sold out, check our recommendations before booking the next higher number.

Oceanview Staterooms

Oceanview staterooms have a porthole window that has a view of the ocean, as the name implies. This means you get natural light coming in, which can make the room feel brighter and cheerier, but can also make it harder to sleep past sunrise. The curtains do shut out most of the light, but some can find its way in. If you like a very dark room, we suggest bringing some clothespins to keep the curtains shut or pack a sleep mask.

9A, 9B, 9C, 9D – These are the same size as the category 10’s, and have roughly the same layout and features, but have a porthole in one wall. All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. The A, B, C, D designation is partially about Disney’s assessment of how attractive the location is, but is also about the view.

• On the Magic and Wonder, the 9D rooms on deck 1 have two small portholes instead of one large porthole , which reduces the view somewhat, but lets in a fair amount of light.
• On the Dream, Fantasy and Wish, the 9C and 9D staterooms are on the front of the ship and mostly have obstructed views . Because the wall with the porthole is slanted, you can’t necessarily see out very well. They still let in plenty of light.
• The 9D’s on all ships and 9C’s on the Dream/Fantasy/Wish are a great value if you mostly care about light rather than views.

8A, 8B, 8C, 8D – These stateroom categories are only available on the Dream, Fantasy and Wish (the Wish only has 8B & 8C). They are larger than a category 9 or 10, and all of them sleep at least 4, with some sleeping 5. The ones on the Dream & Fantasy all have at least one ultra-large porthole with a built-in seat, large enough for a child or small adult to relax in and watch the scenery go by. We don’t know yet whether the Wish version will have the porthole seat, but it’s not looking likely. These porthole seats are very appealing to kids, in our experience. The 8A rooms are oversized and have unusual layouts ( we have more details and a video below ). The B, C and D rooms are essentially identical with B’s located highest on the ship and D’s located lowest.

Best bets for oceanview staterooms:

• On the Dream, Fantasy and Wish we like the 9B’s on deck 2. They are not underneath anything loud and are the best value in a traditional oceanview room.
• On the Magic and Wonder the aft 9C’s are a similarly good deal . If you are noise-averse, avoid the forward 9C’s on the Magic/Wonder, as they are underneath the nightclub area and might have excess noise until midnight or so.
• If you don’t actually have 5 people in your party, there’s not a lot of reason to book a category 8 over a category 9 , though the porthole seats on the Dream & Fantasy are pretty nifty.
• For folks who need or want the extra room on the Dream/Fantasy/Wish, the 8C’s on deck 6 are the best deal in category 8.  
• If you can’t get the category letter we recommend, try for the next letter in the same category (i.e. if you can’t get a 9C, try for a 9B. If those are sold out, get a 9A, etc.). If the whole category number is sold out, check our recommendations before booking the next higher number.

Verandah Staterooms

Verandah staterooms have a small private outer deck, usually with two chairs and a small low table. Most have a clear plexiglas railing, allowing you to see a mostly unobstructed view of the ocean while seated. Some (mentioned below) have a solid white railing, a half-height white railing, a solid wall with a large hole, or a partial obstruction from something else on the ship. The one thing they have in common is that you can go outside and enjoy the fresh air and some kind of view. Like oceanview rooms, they can have light leakage if you don’t get the curtains closed completely. If you like a very dark room, we suggest bringing some clothespins to keep the curtains shut or pack a sleep mask.

7A – This category has gone through many names over the years, but is now just lumped in with all the other verandah room types, with a note about how 7A’s have limited views. The rooms on the Magic & Wonder with the most severe view limitations have a “navigator’s verandah,” which is an almost fully enclosed deck. A navigator’s verandah has a full floor-to-ceiling solid steel exterior wall with a large round hole in the upper half, through which you can see the ocean if you’re standing up. Not every room actually has that kind of verandah; many of them are just regular verandahs with a partially-obstructed view. All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. In either case they are identical in interior room size and amenities to a category 5 or 6.

• On the Magic and Wonder, almost all 7A’s have navigator’s verandahs  ( with a few exceptions that have a regular verandah ). You can’t really see the ocean or the horizon while sitting down in a navigator’s verandah, but you can get fresh air and sunlight, and if you are standing up your view is just as good as any other verandah room. The four “ secret verandah ” rooms are a great value, but we think the other Magic/Wonder navigator’s verandahs don’t provide much value over an oceanview, unless you need fresh air to avoid feeling claustrophobic.
• On the Dream, Fantasy and Wish, almost all 7A’s have regular verandahs with a partially obstructed view , typically from an exterior steel wall intruding on the view somewhat (the exceptions are a two rooms on the Dream & Fantasy with a tiny, but unobstructed, verandah and two rooms on the Wish with a slightly smaller verandah and no obstruction). Read more about this category on the Dream, Fantasy & Wish and our rankings of the amount of view obstructed . These are without a doubt the very best value in the verandah category on the Dream, Fantasy and Wish. Even the Dream, Fantasy or Wish 7A with the most obstructed view has a much better view than any oceanview room, and most are better than a category 6, in our opinion.

6A, 6B – These rooms are essentially identical to category 5 and 7 rooms in terms of interior room size and amenities, but have somewhat obstructed verandahs. All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. They are located toward the back of the ship on the upper decks.

• On the Magic and Wonder, category 6 cabins have a full “white wall” railing. The entire railing is a steel wall. This isn’t as obstructive as a navigator’s verandah, but it does block your view of the ocean when sitting down, so practically speaking it’s very similar. One thing to consider is that many of these have a verandah that sticks out a bit further than the decks above, giving people standing above you on the back of the ship a view of part of your verandah. All of them have portions of the verandah that are not visible from above.
• On the Dream, Fantasy & Wish, the white wall only comes about halfway up the railing , with the rest of the railing the usual plexiglas. You may be able to see the ocean while seated, depending on how tall you are and how close you sit to the railing. Some people love these as a slightly cheaper alternative to a category 5, but we feel like the loss of view makes them about equal to a category 7, so we prefer the less-expensive category 7 if they are both available.

5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 4E* (*Dream, Fantasy, & Wish version only) – These rooms are essentially identical in terms of interior room size and amenities to category 6 and 7 rooms, but have an unobstructed verandah (except the Dream/Fantasy/Wish 4E, which is a special case). All sleep at least 3 and some sleep 4. These are the most numerous of the regular-sized verandah cabins and the most commonly-booked verandahs for families of 4 or fewer. Category 5A-D are just on different decks, with 5A’s highest and 5D’s lowest.

• The Dream, Fantasy & Wish 4E’s on decks 6-10 are aft staterooms with a view of the wake , which have basically the same interior space and layout as a 5, but a larger verandah. Some people love these aft 4E cabins, as the wake is very pretty in the moonlight, and you don’t tend to get much wind. They have the same half-wall railing as the category 6’s, making them (to us) inferior to the category 7, unless the rear view makes you happy.
• The Dream & Fantasy 4E’s on deck 5 port & starboard have the same interior space as a category 5 , sleep 3 or 4 people (instead of the usual 4 or 5 you get with a category 4) and were originally categorized as 5E’s. They were upgraded to category 4 because of their large extended balconies. This is nice if you want to spread out, or get more sun. It also means people above you have a view of the extended part of your deck that pokes out further from the side of the ship. As with the aft decks, you can certainly stay in the covered section if you prefer more privacy. 

4A, 4B, 4C, 4E* (*Magic/Wonder version only) – These rooms are the largest non-concierge verandah rooms on the ship. All sleep at least 4 and some sleep 5. These cabins are the only single-room option for a family of 5 on the Magic and Wonder, and the most commonly booked option for families of 5 on the Dream and Fantasy. The category 4’s have a bit more open floor space than a category 5, but unless you need a room for 5 people, there’s no real reason to book one of these over a category 5; the amenities are identical and the difference in space is pretty trivial. The letter A-E is primarily about the location, with central and higher rooms in a pricier category.

• Category 4E’s on the Magic and Wonder have a full white-wall railing , just like the category 6A’s, but are otherwise identical to other category 4’s.

Best bets for verandah staterooms:

• There’s no good reason to pay extra for a category 4; the extra space is minimal and the amenities are identical.
• The 7A’s are a great deal, especially on the Dream, Fantasy & Wish , where they are normal verandah cabins with slightly obstructed views. The handful of partially obstructed 7A cabins on the Magic & Wonder are also a great deal if you can get them, and the “navigator verandah” 7A’s on Magic & Wonder are fine if you just want fresh air and light.
• We would only book a category 6 if the 7A’s are all sold out. That said, if the 7A’s are sold out, or you can only get the “navigator’s verandah” style and you don’t like them, category 6 rooms are a fine alternative.
• If you can’t get or don’t like category 6 or 7 , the 5C’s are, in our view, the best value on all 5 ships.
• The Wish 5Cs on deck 6 have ship equipment, lifeboats or a bumped-out deck just below their verandah which intrudes on the view of the ocean slightly; we would recommend trying to get deck 7 5C’s if possible.
• For a family of 5 on the Magic & Wonder, the 4E’s are the best single-room deal . Though if you want an unobstructed view of the ocean, move up to a 4B or higher.
• For a family of 5 on the Dream, Fantasy & Wish, the 4C’s are the best single-room deal.
• The Wish 4C’s on deck 6 that are not bumped out have lifeboats, ship equipment or a bumped-out deck just below their verandah , which intrudes on the view of the ocean slightly. We would recommend trying to get the bumped out 4C’s or deck 7 4C’s if possible. The bumped out ones are obvious on the deck plan – for example, 6074 is bumped out, but 6100 is not.
• Be sure to compare the cost of a single 5-person stateroom to a pair of staterooms , one with 2 guests and one with 3 guests. It’s usually not much more money, and occasionally it’s actually cheaper! 
• If you can’t get the category letter we recommend, try for the next letter in the same category (i.e. if you can’t get a 5C, try for a 5B. If those are sold out, get a 5A, etc.). If the whole category number is sold out, check our recommendations before booking the next higher number.

Concierge Staterooms

Concierge categories get you access to dedicated concierge staff, both before the cruise and during . As a concierge passenger, you get priority for booking any shore excursion or specialty restaurant, even prior to people who have Platinum status in the Castaway Club. Concierge passengers get priority for embarking and disembarking, as well as priority tendering in ports that require it (though keep in mind Disney visits very few ports that require tendering – Grand Cayman is the only one Disney goes to regularly). Concierge guests can use a private concierge lounge with some free food and drink available at all times, as well as a private sun deck. The rooms themselves are in some cases larger than non-concierge, but not always. All concierge guests get robes in their room, plus some extra products in their bathroom. The concierge staff will also leave special gifts in your room every day, ranging from a nice fruit plate to a limited-edition lithograph.

Whether concierge is worth the extra money is an entirely personal decision . The lounges are very nice and have a good selection of snacks and drinks available all the time, plus concierge staff ready to help you with anything you need. The rooms themselves are quite plush, especially the 1-bedroom and larger ones. The price for concierge used to be a relatively moderate upcharge, but lately a concierge room costs at least double what a similar non-concierge room costs, and often more. If you want to splurge, it’s certainly the way to go, but it’s not in our opinion twice as good an overall experience as staying in a normal verandah room. Mostly it’s about saving time and being less stressed out, because the concierge staff are there to sort out pretty much any request or problem you might have. Want a table for 2? No problem. Want to book a meeting with Anna and Elsa? No problem. Need a Remy reservation? It’s done. Most of these things are available to anyone, concierge or not, but non-concierge guests may have to wait in line or on hold for Guest Services, and concierge staff get priority for certain special events like popular meet-and-greets. You and your kids will still have to wait in line for Mickey or Cinderella; you don’t get priority for everything .

3B (Wish) – These are oceanview concierge staterooms, found only on the Wish. They have no verandah, but they do have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views, and they’re very large (357 sq. ft.). They’re all on the front of the ship on deck 11, facing forward. All of them sleep 4, and some sleep 5. They have all the same amenities and privileges as any other concierge stateroom.

3A & 3B (Dream, Fantasy, Magic & Wonder) – These are basically just large verandah rooms, essentially identical in size to a category 4, and all of them sleep 5. The decor is slightly different from the category 4’s, with fancier woods and so forth, but otherwise they’re basically the same. 

2A & 2B  – These are 1-bedroom staterooms. They all sleep 5. They are very plush and about the size of two category 4 staterooms. They have an extra half-bath off the living room area, a much larger TV in the living room, and a very nice sitting area with a nice-sized table suitable for having dinner in your room. The bedroom can be closed off from the living room area with sliding doors, giving the adult guests some extra privacy. The 2A vs. 2B designation is mostly about location. The 2A’s on the Magic & Wonder are laid out slightly differently and have a longer verandah. The single 2A on the Dream & Fantasy is on the front center of the ship and is sandwiched between the two connecting Royal suites. On the Disney Wish, the 2A’s are on deck 12 and have somewhat deeper verandahs compared to the 2B suites on deck 13.

1C  – These are 2-bedroom Royal suites, found only on the Disney Wish, called “1-Story Royal Suites with Verandah.” One of the two suites is accessible. Sleeps up to 6. They have a large living area and dining room, three full bathrooms, and a pantry and wet bar. There is a large private verandah with a whirlpool tub.

1B (Dream, Fantasy, Magic & Wonder)  – These are 2-bedroom staterooms, only found on the Magic and Wonder (though on the Dream/Fantasy you can get a connected 3A and 2A that forms a basically equivalent space). They sleep up to 7. They have two full bedrooms, each with its own bath. There is a nice sitting area and a full dining area with large table for 6.

1B (Wish) – These are 2-bedroom, 2-story Royal Suites. They stretch across two decks (12 and 13), with a spiral staircase to take you between the two levels. They sleep 6, and have two large bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a large dining and living area and two large verandahs with a private hot tub.

1A (Dream, Fantasy, Magic & Wonder) – These are the fanciest Royal suites and are priced accordingly. They sleep 7 on the Magic/Wonder and 5 on the Dream/Fantasy. The decor in these suites is luxurious and tasteful. The living area is huge with a formal dining table and sitting area, and they have a massive verandah (with a private hot tub on the Dream/Fantasy). 

1A (Wish) – This is the very exclusive, very pricey Wish Tower Suite on deck 14 & 15 in the forward stack on the ship. This is by far the most deluxe cruise stateroom Disney has ever created. There is a large living and dining area, two main bedrooms, a child’s room with two bunk beds, and a library that can be turned into a bedroom for two more. There are four full bathrooms and a half-bath off the living room. Total capacity is 8 guests. There is no verandah, but there are floor-to-ceiling windows on both decks, providing what is clearly the best stateroom view on the ship.

Best bets for concierge staterooms:

• None of these staterooms are really justifiable from a value standpoint. The current price premiums required to book them are eye-poppingly high.
• If you want extra space and a feeling of luxury, the category 2 and above have lots of extra room and amenities and feel super posh. The standard category 3 concierge verandah rooms really don’t feel much different from a category 4. The 3B Concierge Oceanviews on the Wish, though, are unique and might be a great option for someone who wants more space and doesn’t care about a verandah.
• If you primarily want access to the concierge lounge and the priority for booking cabanas and so forth, get any concierge room available; they all have equal access to all concierge services.

Want an oceanview stateroom at an inside cabin price? Book a “secret porthole” stateroom!

There are six staterooms on Deck 5 and two staterooms on Deck 6 of the Magic and the Wonder (but not on the Dream, Fantasy or Wish) that are sold as Category 10 inside staterooms, but actually are oceanview cabins with obstructed view portholes. By selecting one of these cabins, you will get some natural light and a bit of a view, while paying the lower price for an inside stateroom!

The obstruction is caused by equipment (mostly canisters that hold inflatable life rafts) in front of the portholes, and the amount by which these portholes is obstructed varies. You can typically see some ocean and some sky, but not a lot of either. Also, be aware that there may be a light on all night outside the porthole, so you’ll have to close your curtains tightly to keep it dark in the cabin.

The Secret Porthole staterooms on deck 5 are conveniently located near the kids’ activity centers, Flounder’s Reef Nursery and the Buena Vista Theater. There are relatively few passenger staterooms on this deck, so there is less potential for foot traffic and noise. (The majority of Category 10 staterooms without secret portholes can be found on lower decks and may be located under the adult nightclubs with dance floors and live bands.)

Of the eight Secret Porthole rooms, there are two pairs of connecting staterooms. For families of 5, this is an affordable alternative to booking a more pricey Category 4. We have more suggestions below about accommodating larger families on a Disney cruise .

Word has gotten out about these staterooms, so you’ll have to book well in advance to snag one.

• The cabins to request are 6006, 6506, 5020, 5520, 5022 and 5024 (connecting), 5522 and 5524 (connecting).
• 6006, 6506 have the least obstructed view; you can see the ocean clearly but the sky is mostly blocked. 5020 and 5520 have slightly more obstructions that block a fair amount of sea and sky. 5022 and 5522 are even more obstructed. 5024 and 5524 have the most obstructed view.

The “secret” here is getting a standard verandah for the price of a “navigator’s verandah.” In the best case you’re getting a rooms pretty much equivalent to a category 5, but are paying for a category 7. That can be a significant savings.

Magic & Wonder

While not as big an upgrade as the secret porthole staterooms , the secret verandah staterooms on Disney’s Magic and Wonder cruise ships give you a little more for your money. Basically these are Category 7A staterooms that have a regular verandah (a private, open-air deck accessed from your cabin), instead of the usual Category 7A “navigator’s verandah,” which is a fully enclosed deck with a large porthole.

The secret verandah staterooms were originally sold as Category 6, but were recategorized to Category 7A after Disney received complaints because they have a slight obstruction of view. The obstruction is due to their location at the very ends of the ship: an overhang curves around on one side of the verandah, obscuring the view a bit in that direction. Overall, the obsctructed view on these rooms is worlds better than on a regular Navigator’s Verandah. They also have a normal railing rather than the white-wall railing of a Category 6.

Here’s our estimate of the amount of obstruction for each of the “secret verandah” 7A rooms on the Magic & Wonder , with our assessment of most desirable on top to least desirable on the bottom (keeping in mind that a true Navigator’s Verandah obstructs about 80% of the view, so all of them are an upgrade from a regular 7A):

• Minor obstruction (20%-40%): 7120, 7620
• Significant obstruction (40%-60%): 6134, 6634

Dream, Fantasy & Wish

The Dream and Fantasy & Wish don’t actually have any Navigator’s Verandahs. The 7A rooms are the ends of rows of category 5’s and 6’s, and in fact were originally categorized as 5’s and 6’s on the Dream & Fantasy. However, the outer white panels of the ship impinge on the view from the verandahs of these rooms, in some cases to an almost trivial degree. Mostly they have a view that most people would find nearly identical to the higher-category room next door, and almost always far less obstructed than the navigator’s verandahs or white-wall verandahs on the Magic and Wonder, in the sense that they all have Plexiglas railings and you can see the ocean clearly while seated (with the exception of 5024 and 5524, where the obstruction is mostly on the lower half).

In a few cases, a category 7 has a connecting door to the category 5 or 6 stateroom next door , and if you want two connecting verandah staterooms getting this combo can save you some money, by getting (for example) a 5A and 7A instead of two 5A’s. Even if all the officially connecting rooms are booked, you can still book almost any 7A and the adjacent category 5 or 6, have the stateroom attendant open the verandah barrier between the rooms (see the next section for more) and essentially have the equivalent of two category 5 or 6 staterooms for less. Often these will book up fast, but ask a travel agent to see if a suitable pair is available.

On the Dream & Fantasy, there are two unusual “mini-verandah” rooms: 5188 and 5688. These are mirror-image aft-facing rooms on deck 5 with no view obstructions, but very small triangular verandahs. Their verandahs are too small to fit a chair, but do have a built-in bench that two thin people could fit on. They each can connect inside to a handicapped-accessible 9A stateroom next door (5186/5686), but their verandahs do not connect to the verandahs on either side of them.

On the Wish, there are also two slightly different “mini-verandah” 7A rooms: 7194 and 7690 . They’re on the aft port and starboard corners of deck 7. Because of the way the ship curves around, they have a slightly smaller, curved verandah, though not nearly as small as the mini-verandah 7A’s on the Dream & Fantasy. They face port and starboard, rather than aft, though because of the angle they have a pretty decent view aft as well. They have the normal complement of two chairs and a small table.

Here’s our estimate of the amount of obstruction or other issues for each of the 7A rooms on the Dream,   Fantasy & Wish , with our assessment of most desirable on top to least desirable on the bottom:

• Very minor obstruction (20% or less): 8022*, 8164, 8520*, 8662
• Minor obstruction (20%-40%): 7022, 7170*, 7520, 7668*, 9012, 9152*, 9164, 9512, 9652*, 9664
• Significant obstruction (40%-60%): 5024**, 5524**, 6178*, 6678*, 7182, 7680, 8176*, 8674*
• Very small verandah (but no obstruction of view): 5188*, 5688*
• Very minor obstruction (20% or less): 6174, 6674, 9172*, 9672*
• Smaller verandah (but no obstruction of view): 7194, 7690
• Minor obstruction (20%-40%): 8022, 8170*, 8520, 8668*, 9014*, 9160, 9514*, 9660
• Significant obstruction (40%-60%): 7022*, 7174, 7518*, 7670

* – Connects (inside) to adjacent category 5 or 6 stateroom

** – Obstruction across lower half; extended verandah next door both blocks view and provides neighbors clear view into your stateroom from their verandah

A semi-secret stateroom connection exists on all five ships: nearly any two (or more) adjacent verandahs along the straight sides of the ship (and many along the stern) can be connected by folding back the dividing panel. The primary exception is deck 10 on the Dream, Fantasy & Wish, which has some solid steel dividers (roughly every other one) because of structural requirements for the deck above. So about half of the verandah dividers on deck 10 open and half don’t. If it’s important to you to get two rooms with connecting verandahs, either avoid deck 10 or call Disney (or have your travel agent call) and they can tell you if any two specific rooms can connect their verandahs.

There are also a handful of non-connecting verandahs on other decks, on the “corners” of the ship where the space is just too narrow to put an divider that can open. But other than those exceptions, they all open. To connect the verandahs, ask your stateroom attendant; they have a special key that unlocks the divider. Once it’s open, the two rooms share one long verandah, and they become effectively connecting staterooms. If you have a whole bank of adjacent rooms, you can fold back all the dividers and make one really long verandah.

On Disney’s Dream and Fantasy ships, all twelve of the Category 8A Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms are oversized, with two large portholes and no split bath. Four of the 8A staterooms could be called “mini-suites” or “junior suites” because they are large and somewhat divided. There are also eight 8A staterooms that offer unique open floor plans.

“Mini-Suites”

Four of the 8A staterooms are extra-spacious and have a wall divider between two “rooms.” The “rooms” are not completely separate, because there is a large opening between them that is not closed off with a privacy curtain or door. These “mini-suite” staterooms sleep 3 people and do not have the split bathroom. The bathroom is small, with sink, toilet and standard bathtub/shower. There are two televisions: one facing the bed and one facing the single pull-out sofa. In addition, these are connecting cabins, so if you needed to accommodate up to 6 people, getting the two connecting rooms would provide you with a super-spacious layout.

If you’re having a hard time envisioning these cabins, watch this YouTube video of a Disney Fantasy mini-suite .

• The “mini-suite” cabins are 5020 and 5022 (connecting) and 5520 and 5522 (connecting).

Oversized/Open Plan Staterooms

There are eight oversized 8A cabins with open floor plans. They are laid out as one big L-shaped living/sleeping room with no privacy curtain. (The bathroom fills the “L” shape, so the overall shape is square.) All sleep 4. In some cases there is a support pole running from floor to ceiling in the center of the room. They all seem to be handicapped-accessible, although only 6014 is marked HA on the deck plans. None have the split bath: there is no tub and instead there is a large square bathroom with a curtained shower area offering no barrier at floor level, so someone in a wheelchair can roll in.

• The oversized, open-plan cabins are 5018, 5518, 6012, 6014 and 6016 (connecting, both have a pole), 6510, 6512 and 6514 (connecting, both have a pole).

Thanks to Jo and Cheryl at Small World Vacations for details.

On Disney’s Dream and Fantasy ships, a few of the 1-Bedroom Suites and Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah have larger verandahs than the others, due to a “hump” in the shape of the ship on Decks 11 and 12.

• The 1-Bedroom Suites with the larger balconies are 11002, 11006, 12000, 12006, 12012, 12506 and 12512.
• The Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah with the larger balconies are 11004, 12008, 12010, 12508 and 12510.

Note also that 1-Bedroom Suite 12000 is unique. It is situated between the two Royal Suites. A hallway entrance leads to a hallway/mini-foyer with connecting doors to the two Royal Suites. Then you enter through the actual door of the suite. This suite has the largest verandah of any of the 1-Bedrooms and faces straight forward on the ship. Note that the outer part of the verandah is not private, since guests standing in public areas of Deck 13 can look straight down at it.

Accommodating a family of 5 or more on a Disney Cruise without breaking the bank is no easy trick.

If you are cruising with a family of 5 on the Magic or the Wonder, Disney will recommend the 304-square-foot Category 4 Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, which is the smallest cabin that will sleep 5. That is not the lowest-priced option, in almost all cases.

You could book TWO connecting Category 9 Deluxe Oceanview or Category 10 Deluxe Inside staterooms instead. The combined price of two connecting lower-category staterooms is often about two-thirds to three-quarters the price of a single Family Stateroom, and you end up with more space (typically about 40% more overall), two full bathrooms, and more privacy. However, you won’t have a verandah.

If the verandah on the Category 4 is important to you, consider booking one Category 6 Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah or Category 7 Deluxe Oceanview with Navigator’s Verandah, plus one Category 9, 10 or 11 cabin. It may be cheaper, and you’ll have a lot more space, more privacy and two bathrooms. However, the staterooms will not connect.

You should also price out two connecting Category 5 cabins. It will be more expensive than the single Category 4, but not by as much as you’d think, and you’ll get a huge upgrade in space and bathroom capacity.

Any of the connecting room options are great if you have older kids. Even if your kids are small and you’re worried about them being in the next room, keep in mind that the stateroom attendant can give you a prop for the connecting doors, making the two rooms effectively one large suite. You’ll be able to hear the kids if they wake up in the night, but can close the door if you need some privacy.

For a family of 6 or more, you have a few choices. A 2-Bedroom Suite or Royal Suite will sleep up to 7. However, it will be cheaper (usually much cheaper) to book two staterooms than to book a suite.

If you are cruising with a family of 5 on the Dream, Fantasy or Wish, Disney will recommend the approximately 241-square-foot Category 8 Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom, which is the smallest cabin that will sleep 5. Generally this is in fact the cheapest option for 5 people.

However, especially in peak seasons (e.g., summer, spring break), it may be hundreds of dollars cheaper to book TWO connecting Category 11 Standard Inside staterooms instead. Alternatively, the price difference between a Category 8 Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom and TWO connecting Category 9D or 9C Deluxe Oceanview or Category 10A Deluxe Inside cabins (only on the Dream & Fantasy) may be negligible.

So always check prices both ways, and if the price difference is minimal, consider that two Category 9 Deluxe Oceanview cabins or two Category 10 Deluxe Inside cabins would give you a total of 408 square feet and two bathrooms. Two Category 11 Standard Inside cabins would give you about 338 square feet and two (non-split) bathrooms.

For a family of 6 or more, your only choice is two staterooms on the Dream or Fantasy. On the Wish, you can get concierge rooms that sleep 6, though two regular staterooms will be much cheaper.

Thanks to Mike R, Tara H and Cheryl from Small World Vacations for info!

As mentioned earlier, for a family of 5 it’s often cheaper to get two rooms rather than one, but the same logic applies (though less often) to families of 4. It can happen that the only rooms left that can handle 4 people are high-category, expensive ones. If less expensive rooms with fewer beds are available, you may be able to save money by booking two lower category rooms.

Even if you can get a single lower-category room that sleeps 4, it’s almost always worthwhile pricing out the cruise as two staterooms for comparison. Even if you don’t find a cheaper two-room option, you might be surprised to find one that’s only slightly more expensive. Unlike hotel pricing, where a second room always costs the same as the first room, cruise pricing has large supplementary fares for the 3rd and 4th occupant of a room, which makes splitting much more attractive. For example, you might find that a single room costs $3000, broken down into $1000 each for the first two guests and $500 each for the 3rd and 4th. Split into two identical staterooms of the same category you originally picked and your total fare is now $4000, or $1000 each for all 4 guests. That’s only a 33% increase in price for a 100% increase in space (and bathrooms)! Depending on the category and sailing, you’ll generally find that splitting 4 people into two staterooms of the exact same category is only 15%-40% more. And if you’re willing to make the second room a lower category, like an interior room on the same hallway, that reduces the cost even more.

If your children are small, you may want to limit yourself to connecting rooms. That makes this strategy somewhat harder on the Magic and Wonder, which have fewer overall connecting rooms. In addition, finding a set of available connecting rooms is not easy with Disney’s interface. We highly recommend using a travel agent if you want connecting rooms, as good travel agents are adept at finding connecting rooms and it’s exactly the kind of laborious task that you’d rather have someone else do for you.

If you’re willing to take your chances, consider booking a low-priced stateroom and hoping for an upgrade. For example, you could book a Category 11 “guarantee” stateroom, which means you’ll get at least a Category 11 Standard Inside cabin, but you are not immediately assigned a specific cabin. Instead, Disney Cruise Line guarantees you a room at this rate and waits to see how the ship fills up. If you are booking early and/or traveling during the off-season, this may work to your advantage. Since many people want to book the least expensive fare, the lowest fare often sells out. When that happens, Disney Cruise Line will sometimes upgrade some of the people who booked the lower fare first, in order to make cheaper rooms available for new guests.

Another trick is to request an upgrade at the port upon check-in. Depending on how full your cruise is, Disney is sometimes willing to upgrade you for a fee. Usually this fee is much less expensive than if you booked that category originally. If you are interested in trying this, get to the port early and as soon as you are in the terminal, make a beeline for the check-in desk and mention that you’re interested in paying for an upgrade. These upgrades had gotten very rare when the economy has picked back up, but when cruising restarts post-pandemic, there’s a decent chance that upgrades will become available again for at least some cruises in the offseason.

The key thing to keep in mind: upgrades are not in any way guaranteed, so don’t book a room you wouldn’t be happy staying in.

It is especially important to buy trip insurance for a cruise , because you have to pay the entire cost in advance and you won’t get a refund if you have to cancel right before your scheduled departure. With thousands of dollars at stake, it’s worth it to protect the investment.

It is absolutely critical to buy insurance if you will be taking a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season (between June 1 and November 30). While cruise ships can easily outrun and sail around hurricanes, ports and airports often close, which can affect your travel plans in a big way. If you don’t have insurance, you will be out of pocket for related expenses, such as renting a car to get to a new port or to get home from a port where you hadn’t expected to disembark. And if you can’t make it to the ship, the cruise line has the right to say “tough luck” and keep your money!

In 2016, hurricane Matthew caused significant damage in the Canaveral area and forced the closure of Port Canaveral. In 2017, Irma passed near Port Canaveral and Disney cut short several cruises and canceled several others. In 2018, hurricane Florence caused cruise ships to divert to alternate ports (not Disney, but primarily because of lucky timing). In 2019, Dorian caused Port Canaveral to be closed again and several cruises to be rescheduled and others to arrive late.

Because of these storms, people had trouble getting to their cruises or getting home afterwards because the airports were closed temporarily. Plenty of other people had to rearrange their flight dates and/or destinations, which often incurred a penalty. Some people ended up having to pay for hotel rooms when their cruises were delayed; others had to rent cars in order to get to the port. The luckiest ones never left for Florida, but still had to pay cancellation or change fees for the airfares they never used. These are exactly the kinds of expenses that trip insurance is designed to cover.

Perhaps the most important coverage included in a trip insurance policy is trip cancellation and interruption insurance , which can protect your investment if you have to cancel your cruise at the last minute (or come home early) due to illness or injury. Depending on the policy, you may also be covered if you cancel for other reasons, such as jury duty, terrorism at your destination, or even unemployment.

Emergency medical coverage and medical evacuation insurance are very important if you become ill or injured during the cruise. A lot of medical insurance policies do not cover you outside of your home country. Plus, evacuation insurance will help to pay for an emergency flight, which would be hugely expensive if you had to pay for it yourself. This can be very worthwhile, especially if you will be visiting developing countries, which is common on cruises. Personally we would not be comfortable with the care provided in most Caribbean hospitals, for instance, and would much prefer to be flown to the US for treatment.

Delayed baggage insurance will help you pay for replacement clothing if the airline sends your suitcase to Timbuktu and you need something to wear in the meantime. Supplemental baggage insurance will pay a predetermined amount if an airline or cruise line loses your luggage completely. When you consider the high cost of the formal wear you may be taking on a cruise, and how little airlines and cruise lines tend to pay for lost luggage, supplemental baggage insurance becomes a wise move. (Some higher-end credit cards provide extra baggage insurance, so check with your card issuer before paying extra for this coverage.)

Disney Cruise Line sells trip insurance, but it’s expensive and it has major exclusions: it doesn’t cover pre-existing medical conditions or air travel you arrange yourself. (Air travel arranged through Disney is covered.) You can almost always get better insurance than Disney offers, and at better rates, by buying it elsewhere.

Be aware that in most cases, trip insurance will provide slightly less coverage (usually by adding exclusions on pre-existing medical conditions) unless you buy it within about 14-21 days of paying your deposit on the cruise. So be sure to purchase it right away, once you’ve committed to the cruise.

Where to Buy Trip Insurance

• A great place to comparison-shop for trip insurance is SquareMouth , where you can see side-by-side policy information and rates for major, reputable insurance companies. We have used SquareMouth ourselves to buy trip insurance and were especially impressed with their straightforward comparison system and robust filters to help you find the specific insurance features you need. We were also impressed with their “Zero Complaint Guarantee,” where they will go to bat with the insurance company on your behalf if you have a problem. Compare policies on SquareMouth .

If you are an adult US citizen and plan to take a Disney cruise, we strongly recommend getting a passport. While according to the US State Department a passport card or an enhanced drivers license is acceptable for closed-loop (beginning and ending in same port) sea travel between the US and the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Mexico and Canada, a regular “book” passport is required to fly into or out of the US. If an emergency arises, you won’t be able to fly back to the US from an international port without a passport. Similarly, if you are delayed and miss the ship sailing, you won’t be able to fly to the next port and catch up with the ship.

Kids who are US citizens will also need passports if traveling outside the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Mexico and Canada. Kids under 16 can present a certified birth certificate as their ID when going to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Mexico and Canada, but we still highly recommend getting your kids a regular passport (NOT a passport card) for those destinations, due to the same restrictions on air travel mentioned above.

Finally, while most destinations in North America and the Caribbean will let you off the ship without a passport, you do need a full passport to get off the ship in Martinique.

About Passports

Each person in your party will need a passport. Some people have asked us about “family passports.” They have not been available for a long time. Children (even infants) must each have their own passport.

In order to get a passport, you will need:

• a certified copy of each person’s birth certificate. If you need certified copies of birth certificates and aren’t sure how to get them, a good site is VitalChek.com . Anyone not born in the US will need to provide proof of citizenship, such as a naturalization certificate.
• current, valid government-issued photo ID (such as drivers license or military ID) for each adult.
• two official passport photos. You can get these taken at many locations. Two of the cheapest places are AAA offices and Costco stores.

There are additional requirements for children. For more information on passports, including how and where to apply, visit the Department of State website.

Applying for your passports at least 3 months in advance is highly advisable. The processing time can currently take 8 weeks or more. If you need your passport sooner, you can get an expedited passport by mail directly from the Department of State by paying an extra fee of $60 plus the cost of express shipping both ways. An expedited passport takes about 2 weeks.

Most countries visited by Disney Cruise Line do not require US citizens to have a tourist visa.

Guests who purchase an organized tour in St. Petersburg, Russia will not require a Russian Tourist Visa as long as the booking is via a tour company with the appropriate licenses. All Disney shore excursions qualify, and most other excursions marketed to cruise passengers by third parties will as well. If booking a tour on your own, though, check with the tour company to make sure you won’t need a visa. Assuming you have booked with Disney or another licensed company, you will need to present the following items to the Russian Immigration officer when departing the ship:

• A valid passport for each guest
• A tour ticket from Disney or your third-party tour company for each guest
• Photocopy of the passport pages showing each guest’s picture and personal information

However, note that without a Russian Tourist Visa, visitation is limited to the period of the excursion and guests will not be permitted to leave the ship outside of the tour hours. Guests who wish to sightsee independently must obtain an individual Russian Tourist Visa before leaving home. Companies such as PassportVisasExpress.com can expedite the visa for you.

Booking Palo/Remy/Enchanté, Excursions, Onboard Activities, Spa Appointments and Kids’ Club Online

Disney Cruise Line has an online system that allows guests to make advance reservations for Palo, Remy or Enchanté (the adults-only restaurants onboard) as well as shore excursions, spa treatments, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, popular character breakfasts and meetings, and babysitting. In addition, you can do advance registration online for the kids’ clubs.

In order to use this service, your cruise must be paid in full.

• Platinum Castaway Club members (repeat Disney Cruise Line passengers who have been on 10 or more previous Disney cruises) and those who are staying in Concierge cabins can make their online reservations up to 120 days prior to embarkation. (And in fact, people staying in Concierge can tell the shoreside concierges in advance what they want, and the concierges will book them at the earliest possible point, effectively ahead of even the Platinum members.)
• Gold Castaway Club members (repeat Disney Cruise Line passengers who have been on 5-9 previous Disney cruises) can make their online reservations up to 105 days prior to embarkation.
• Silver Castaway Club members (repeat Disney Cruise Line passengers who have been 1-4 previous Disney cruises) can begin making reservations 90 days before embarking.
• All others can go online and make reservations 75 days in advance of departure.

To start making reservations online, register at DisneyCruise.com . You’ll need your cruise reservation number. Reservations open just after midnight EST, the exact number of days in advance listed above.

If you are not able to book the restaurant, shore excursion, spa treatment, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique appointment and/or babysitting time you want, try to get on the ship as early as possible on embarkation day. There will be locations on the ship where you can go in person and try to get your reservations. Some time slots are held back for onboard booking, so you have a decent chance.

Disney Cruise Line wedding packages are usually available on all cruises, but only a few weddings are allowed for each sailing: one or two on the ship, one on the island. You can hold a Disney Cruise Line wedding, commitment ceremony or vow renewal that is as small as just the two of you, or as large as 100 guests. A Disney Cruise Line wedding package is an “add-on” on top of your regular cruise fare.  Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings  offers full details on locations, guest limits and pricing.

The same information applies to a commitment ceremony or vow renewal. As far as Disney is concerned, the planning and costs for these ceremonies are all interchangeable.

• If you will have guests sharing your special day, it is easiest to have a single travel agent handle everyone’s arrangements, so that all of the names and reservation numbers can be cross-referenced as part of your wedding party. This will also help you to get group seating arrangements for dinner aboard the ship. Every attempt will be made to seat you and your guests near each other, if not at the same table.
• If you and your guests will be booking at least 8 cabins, you may qualify for group status, which brings some extra benefits. Ask your travel agent for details.

For more information, read  Disney Cruise Line’s official information on traveling with a disability .

Need a mobility aide, oxygen, baby crib or other special equipment while cruising? Special Needs at Sea is the preferred accessibility supplier for Cruise Lines International Association. Visit their website for a complete list of equipment and to reserve the items you need.

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18 Essential Disney Cruise Line Tips and Tactics

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Before our first Disney Cruise, I was like you. I wanted to know all of the Disney Cruise Line tips and tricks to help me prepare for this epic family vacation.

Not only did I want to understand what a Disney Cruise entailed, but I yearned to learn all of the details about Disney dining, the layout of the ships, and the many activities that are offered onboard.

This article features 18 of the most essential Disney Cruise Line tips that I now know every first-time cruiser needs to know.

The desire for knowing these tips may be due to the natural planner in you.

The other part is likely wanting to know how to get the most fun and enjoyment out of this expensive vacation (anyone with me?).

Either way, use our 18 awesome Disney Cruise line tips to help get the most out of your Disney Cruise Line vacation!

Table of Contents

18 Essential Disney Cruise Line Tips

1. understand ‘ship’ terminology.

Cruising is a category of travel that requires some preparation as a first-timer, especially when it comes to cruise terminology.

First of all, the Disney Fantasy, Dream, Magic, and Wonder are all referred to as ‘ships’, not ‘boats’.

“Embarkation” means getting onto the ship for the first time during your cruise. “Disembarkation” means getting off of the ship at the end of the cruise.

“Port” is the left side of the ship as you face forward. “Starboard” is the right side of the ship as you face forward.

Likewise, “Forward” is the forward part of the ship, and “Aft” is the back of the ship.

These terms will be referred to frequently during your cruise by both staff and signage as you explore your way around the ship.

Additional planning tip: If you’re ever feeling lost while onboard, just look down at the hallway carpets below your feet.

Find one of the frequently placed maps on the carpet. If the map is right-side up you are headed forward, if it is upside down you are headed aft (backward).

2. Study the ship’s layout ahead of time

Once aboard, the Disney Cruise Line ships are massive, breathtaking, and somewhat overwhelming.

Because of this, study the ship’s layout ahead of time and have a plan for where you are going to go immediately upon boarding.

Despite how prepared I thought I was, we had absolutely no idea where to go or what to do when we first stepped foot on the ship.

Further, there is no one directing you or giving you options on where to go once onboard. It is up to you to determine where to go.

I suggest printing off a map of the ship .

Learn what level and location the lunch buffet is on and go there for lunch immediately after boarding. (This is one of the Disney Fantasy cruise tips that no one told me ahead of time.)

Additional planning tip: Each Disney Cruise Line ship offers a walking tour that will be listed in the Personal Navigator.

Disney Cruise walking tours are a great way to start off your cruise. You will learn the layout of the ship as well as hear stories and trivia behind the designs of the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

3. Get a good viewing spot for the Sail Away Party

The best place to watch the Sail Away Party is on the deck above where the actual party takes place.

The balcony here is much less crowded and overlooks the stage giving you a better vantage point.

Likewise, by being on the upper deck, you will also have a better view of the surroundings while the ship departs from the cruise terminal.

Additional planning note: You should know that during the Sail Away Party, wait staff will be walking around serving drinks. Though you are feeling festive, be aware that they are NOT free.

4. Utilize the daily Personal Navigator

Another one of the top Disney Cruise Line tips is to utilize the daily Navigator.

The Personal Navigator in an invaluable newsletter that lists the day’s activities and events, as well as a lot of other valuable information.

When your stateroom attendant provides turn-down service during dinner each night, they will place a paper copy of the next day’s Personal Navigator in your stateroom.

See some fun examples of recent Personal Navigator’s here.

Additional planning tip: After dinner, go to your stateroom to pick up the new Personal Navigator. While waiting in the theater to help pass time before the evening show, read over the Navigator and plan out your next day’s activities.

5. Take advantage of freebies

Knowing what’s included in your Disney Cruise is one of the best pieces of Disney Cruise advice!

After all, there are a lot of all-inclusive perks included in your Disney Cruise Line fare. This includes things like onboard meals, activities, and shows. Other fun freebies include:

• Soda pop. Coke products are free 24 hours a day from dispensing stations located on the pool deck.
• Soft serve ice cream. Soft serve ice cream and cones are free 24 hours a day from dispensing stations located on the pool deck.
• Room service. Room service is included in the cost of a Disney Cruise (minus gratuities, of course). This can be a great way to relax on vacation. Whether it’s ordering a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for bedtime, or placing an order the night before for a wake-up breakfast, you can’t go wrong.

6. Be aware of extra charges

With the price already being very expensive, it is important to be aware of extra charges and other ways to save on a Disney Cruise.

Although Disney Cruise Line offers several all-inclusive perks and freebies, there are quite a few extras to be aware of as well. Extras include:

• Shore excursions
• Spa treatments
• Adult-only dinners and character meals
• Golf simulator
• Movie concessions . There are concessions located outside of the Buena Vista Movie Theater. The fresh popcorn, canned soda, and candy is tempting and fun but has a steep price tag.
• Coffee bar . All Disney ships have a coffee bar, the Cove Cafe. These are adult-only spaces and serve specialty drinks, signature coffee, and tea. Though the drinks are not included in the price of the cruise, all the little snacks and pastries are.

Click here for our FREE Disney Cruise Budget Planner printable worksheet! Don’t miss out on planning for any and all expenses for your upcoming Disney Cruise!

7. Know the carry-on alcohol policy

Taking advantage of Disney Cruise Line’s generous carry-on alcohol policy will save you a lot of money.

Each adult can bring on 2 bottles of wine or champagne, OR 6 12 oz. beers on board. This can be done at both embarkation and at each port visited.

You may walk around the ship carrying your own wine/beer, as well as bring it into the restaurants. Ask your room attendant or any bartender around the ship for an empty glass to use to pour your personal wine into.

8. Don’t skip out on Pirate Night

Every Disney Cruise has a Pirate Night complete with a Pirate-theme evening show, deck activities, and fireworks. It is a tradition that on this night, children and other guests dress up in pirate garb that they have brought from home.

Even if this sounds corny to you, it is a blast and the majority of cruisers participate in dressing up. You will not look or feel like a ‘nerd’ if you get dressed up; nor will you feel out of place if you do not dress up.

Additional planning tip: On Pirate Night, a red bandanna is placed in your stateroom for each member of your party.

Even if you didn’t bring a full costume, find a way to accessorize your outfit with the free bandanna. I used mine as a hair tie, the kids’ as a headband, and my husband wore it on his head.

9. Take advantage of character meet-and-greets

There are many opportunities for character meet-and-greets during your Disney Cruise itinerary.

Even when you don’t expect it, Disney characters will be positioned around the ship waiting to greet your children. Our kids got a handshake from every character without ever having to wait in long lines.

If you are looking for character experience versus Disney-themed rides, I would totally recommend a Disney Cruise over 1 day at Magic Kingdom .

Additional planning tip: note : One of the best opportunities to get up-close-and-personal with Disney characters, is during Disney VIP Character Breakfast .

The character breakfast is an additional cost and can be reserved prior to cruising.

Popular Disney characters such as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto stop at your table (and pose for photos) 1 by 1 while you and your family are eating breakfast.

Related post: 12 Reasons Why a Disney Cruise is Better Than A Disney World Vacation

10. A heads-up about the pools

Don’t get too excited about the pools on a Disney Cruise.

The pools are quite small, shallow, and crowded. Though busy, the pool area itself is great, but the pools mostly allow for wading, not actual swimming.

For this reason, consider taking advantage of any excursion off of the ship that is advertised as a “ Beach Day “. This way, the kids get the experience of swimming in the ocean versus relying solely on the pool.

11. Bring a crossbody purse

Bring a cross-body purse to carry your family’s Key to the World Cards in.

Another option is to purchase lanyards prior to the cruise or from the gift shops on the ship.

Lanyards are only given for free at check-in to Disney Castaway Members – those guests who have taken a previous Disney Cruise.

Additional planning tip: Key to the World cards go with you everywhere. They serve as your room key and onboard credit card, as well as uniquely identifies you and your dining rotation to the crew.

12. Ward off becoming ill

Bring over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen and stomach medications with you onto the ship.

If you go to the ship doctor and they have a hunch that you are sick, they will quarantine you.

13. Attend the Captain’s Reception

Go to the Captain’s Reception on the evening that it is held during your Disney Cruise itinerary.

It is so fun to get dressed up as a family and to see all of the other families mingling in the atrium with beautiful live music playing in the background.

Additional planning tip: There are free, unlimited cocktails for adults, and soda and juice choices for kids during the Captain’s Reception.

14. Eat breakfast on the ship before leaving for excursions

Take note that you cannot bring fruit, yogurt, or other perishables off of the ship with you when going to a port or on an excursion.

Many people attempt to do this in order to have free options from the ship available to them while in port.

Do not skip breakfast on the ship expecting to be able to take portable breakfast items into port with you. Perishable items will be confiscated pon getting off of the ship. This rule is in accordance with international travel laws.

15. Disney Cruise Line tips: Be early, not on time

One of the best pieces of Disney Cruise advice is to attempt to be early for events and activities, not just on time.

On port days, I suggest getting to your excursion meeting place 10-15 minutes early because the Disney Cruise Line cast members line up and seat people according to the order in which you arrive.

Arriving early means you remain at the front of all of the lines as you exit the ship, board the shuttle, and check-in for your excursion.

For this reason, instead of being on time for your excursion meeting time, consider being early.

16. Know what to expect on Castaway Cay

While Disney’s Castaway Cay in the Bahamas is a tiny island, it’s literally packed with so much to see and do.

You will most definitely want to study the do’s and don’ts of spending a day on Castaway Cay to make sure that you optimize your time here.

When debarking off of the ship to spend the day on the island of Castaway Cay, there will be beach towels to grab once off of the ship. After grabbing a towel for every member of your party and head straight to save lounge chairs.

Editor’s note: We took the Castaway Cay island shuttle and got off at the second stop, which is Pelican Plunge. This stop brings you close to the slides, snorkeling areas, bike rental, and main dining area.

17. Don’t miss the See Ya Real Soon Farewell Party

Not to be missed is the See Ya Real Soon Farwell Party that is held in the Atrium of the Disney Cruise ships on the morning of debarkation.

Watching Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the gang singing and wishing you farewell is simply the icing on the cake to this already amazing vacation.

18. Believe it!

If you’re still trying to decide between a Disney Cruise vs. Disney World vacation , a cruise would be our choice!

After all, every good and amazing thing you’ve heard about a Disney Cruise is 100% TRUE.

Soak up every detail of your surroundings and be ready to embrace the magic of this unforgettable family vacation!

What is your favorite tip that you’ve experienced or read about in terms of a taking Disney Cruise? I’d love for you to comment below! Jen

If you like this article on essential Disney Cruise Line tips, click here to read our Related Posts:

• Disney Cruise Advice: What We Learned & Why We Booked Again
• 50 Disney Fantasy Cruise Tips: Know Before You Go
• Disney Cruise vs. Disney World Vacation: 12 Ways A Disney Cruise is Better
• Disney Cruise Fare: What’s Included and What’s Not?

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Disney Cruise Secrets, Tips and Tricks

CruiseMapper's Disney Cruise Line secrets, tips, and tricks provide useful information for first-timers planning their future Walt Disney ship travel vacations. Cruise tips and tricks are handy both ashore (during the planning and booking your Disney voyage) and onboard the liner - to know what is where to save money and optimize your time at sea and in ports.

This survey is integrated with CruiseMapper's main cruise tips and tricks article.

Disney Cruise Line Secrets, Tips and Tricks

For your convenience, our collection of Disney cruise tips, tricks, and secrets are grouped in several themed sections - PLANNING , BOOKING , PACKING , EXCURSIONS-TOURS , CABINS , SHIPS , FOOD-DRINKS , FAMILIES , KIDS  and TEENS , VIDEOS .

• Upon request, the company mails its "Disney Cruise planning" DVD )free of charge). You can also get 2 free audiobooks.
• Sign up for the free 50 MB shipboard Wi-Fi on embarkation day. Read the Connect@Sea (Disney Cruise Line's internet service) explaining the program and how to minimize the amount of Internet data used on the ship. To save traffic, put your phones in airplane mode, turn off app updates.
• Traditionally, Disney cruise passengers engage in random acts of giving (called "Pixie Dust"). Bring some small token gifts for fellow passengers.
• To save money - book as early as possible. Occasionally, runs last-minute sales, but you can’t be sure any particular itinerary (and departure date) will be on sale. In case the fare drops after booking, just contact Disney and ask for the lower rate.
• Cruise deposits are fully refundable up to Disney's payment-in-full date - 75 days prior departure (3-4 day itineraries) and 90 days (7-day and longer itineraries, holiday cruises, departures from non-US ports, concierge-class stateroom bookings).

Note: For more information see CruiseMapper's  packing lists .

• Pack your own costumes (princesses and pirates) - kids need to dress up during the Pirates-themed night party. To buy costumes on the ship costs pretty much. Don't miss the Pirate Party as it ends with a fabulous fireworks display.
• Buy a ground transportation package (bus transfer ticket) for cruises from Port Canaveral . You will arrive at Orlando International Airport and then transported to Disney Cruise Terminal. The package also works the reverse way. Via "Onboard Airline Check-In" on cruise terminals in Miami and Port Canaveral, passengers receive boarding passes and check luggage prior ship disembarkation and receive their bags just after landing back home.
• Each stateroom offers plenty of under-bed storage for big suitcases (clearance over 13 inches / 33 cm). 
• Pack extra swimsuits. Those are used on many shore tours, on Castaway Cay (private island), ship's jacuzzis and swimming pools, Spa, waterslides, etc.
• Don’t pack beach towels as Disney provides them for free.

SHORE EXCURSIONS and TOURS

• At Disney’s private island  Castaway Cay is provided a complimentary shuttle. The 2nd stop is Pelican Plunge (closer to snorkeling areas and waterslides).
• Instead of booking one tour in port cities, the group travel company provides full-scale tours which “overlay” at each port, so on European cruises, you won't need to plan a thing.
• "Adventures by Disney" also offers shortened tours in major port cities prior departure.
• Be aware of the port surroundings. Map ship's location before disembarkation to know where is the terminal. Write GPS coordinates also on paper - smartphones or other devices could be stolen.
• When disembarking the ship, get a travelers pouch. Wear it around the waist (inside your pants or shirt). Put in the wallet small cash and one credit card, nothing else. In the pouch put more cash, another credit card, cabin key, ID, phone numbers.
• When disembarking the ship don't take passports, unless the country requires them. Make a color photocopy of the passport's identity page.
• When leaving the ship, put passports (and other important documents and credit cards) in the stateroom's electronic safe. If you fail to re-board the ship, Disney sends security crew to your stateroom to open the safe, retrieve the passports (documents, cards) and leave them with the company's port agent.
• Don’t wear expensive-looking accessories (watches, jewelry, handbags) and photo-video equipment when visiting poor regions (like Mexico, Caribbean) or areas known for pickpockets (Naples, Barcelona).
• Write down the phone number of Disney's port agent and take it with you. Also, have the number of local embassies and taxi company.
• Don't take unlicensed cabs - only those at taxi stands of hotels, major tourist destinations, airports, and ports.

Note: For detailed stateroom information (including "secret cabins", amenities, services, and bonus perks) follow these Disney ship links - Fantasy ,  Dream ,  Magic ,  Wonder .

• Plenty of perks are offered for concierge-level staterooms - early access to bookings, in-cabin amenities, personalized service. However, all Disney ships offer a VIP section that regular passengers usually never use. This oasis (addition to a private lounge) is outfitted with complimentary chilled face towels, sunscreens, premium deckchairs and sundeck with swimming pool.
• Cabin showers have retractable clotheslines (extending across the cubicle) for drying clothes.
• All cabins have 3 standard (American) power outlets: - 2 at the writing desk and 1 bedside.
• Cabins' flat TV offers a limited number of live programs, but an extensive selection of Disney-owned TV and movie channels - Disney Channel, ABC, ESPN, 24-hour news channel (CNN).
• In every stateroom, Disney provides “brick” style Wave Phones for use on the ship. They allow passengers to stay in touch with their families/friends. Two such phones are provided per stateroom, with 1 charger. Ashore, Wave Phones only work on Castaway Cay.
• At 4:00 pm there is a mandatory muster drill held on embarkation day on each Disney ship. Every passenger must attend to learn the locations of lifeboats and liferafts and receive various ship safety-related information. Lifeboat drills take ~30 min. Bringing life jackets (from the cabin's closet) is not required.
• Disney tells the liner leaves at 4 pm, but check-in at Port Canaveral begins at 11 am, while embarkation starts around 12 noon.
• Platinum Castaway Club members and passengers in concierge-level staterooms (including all suites) enjoy priority check-in and boarding being included in Embarkation Group 1.
• Concierge-level passengers on the ships Dream and Fantasy can visit the exclusive Concierge Lounge to relax and have free snacks. They are personally assisted with bookings and reservations.
• Stay informed about daily scheduled activities via the "Cruise Director TV Show". Each day, ship's Cruise Director records a 10-15 min video which repeats all morning (starting at 5 am).
• Pin trading is traditional on Disney ships, with pins available for purchase in the onboard shops. Locations and times are listed in the Navigator newsletter. On this special night, ship's officers gather dressed in their white uniforms, each wearing a lanyard of Disney pins.
• A good spot to watch the sail away party is Deck 10 (Magic and Wonder) and Deck 12 (Dream and Fantasy).
• On Dream and Fantasy, cabin light switches are activated via "Key to the World" cards, but alternate cards also work (like AAA or library cards).
• Use the secret navigation tricks on Disney ships and you'll never be lost. If the walkway's carpeting is right-side up (ship funnels pointing forward) you’re walking forward (to the bow). The letters on the "Key To The World" card are a reminder of the restaurants' order you’ll be visiting each night (LAC stands for Lumiere’s-Animator’s Palate-Cariocas). On Dream and Fantasy, you can keep track of your location by looking at cabin doors: port (left) rooms feature fish clips, while starboard (right) rooms feature starfish clips.
• Exchange your currency on the ship - exchanging bills is commission-free. Disney also honors the transaction’s rate of exchange for leftover money. Present the receipts before final disembarkation - Disney will convert your foreign currency back to preferred denomination at the same rate, even in case the exchange rate has changed. This only applies to bills, not coins. Disney ships don't have ATM machines.
• Ride the Aquaduck waterslide in the evening - wait lines are shorter as most passengers are at dinner or shows. Another best time with fewer lines is early on embarkation day.
• Newest movies are released in land-based theatres and on Disney ships simultaneously. Movies on the ship are complimentary.
• The dinner show at "Animator’s Palate" dining room is always a highlight, but the second visit (called "Animation Magic") is also a must. Passengers get to draw their own characters and mid-meal can see them coming to life. The show is offered on longer itineraries and on all ships.
• On all Disney's cruise itineraries are scheduled character greetings - at 5:15 pm embarkation day. If you skip character meet-and-greet, your last chance for taking photos is at the goodbye show "Til’ We Meet Again" (on the voyage's last night).
• All disembarkation and shopping talks are recorded and replayed on cabin TVs repeatedly.
• On Dream and Fantasy, the adults-only swimming pool area "Satellite Falls" are great for sunbathing and relatively uncrowded.
• Arrive at the Nightclub 15 min early before the first show to get front row seats.
• Ship's Gym ( Fitness Center) is complimentary and accessible via the Spa on all ships. Locker rooms, showers, and the sauna are shared with the Spa. Robes, towels, and water are provided free of charge. You can also borrow an iPod shuffle.

FOOD and DRINKS

• Disney ships don't have water fountains. Disposable bottles are rather expensive. The best place to fill up is at the complimentary soda machines (Deck 9 or 11). Stateroom's tap water is drinkable, but sinks are too shallow for large bottles. If you bring bottled water packs on the ship, carry them through embarkation as they can't be with the luggage.
• Soda is free on all Disney ships during dinner. On Castaway Cay, passengers get free soda on the island.
• Ask your waiter for water when he/she asks if you’d like something to drink.
• Bring alcoholic beverages because Disney allows passengers packing their own alcohol in the carry on luggage and bringing them on the ship during embarkation.
• Buy "drink of the day" or 21-oz "Disney Cruise Line Beer Mug" (USD 17) and get a refill for the price of 16-oz.
• If you buy a bottle of wine in onboard restaurants and can’t finish it, the wine is stored for you and served the next day.
• If you miss your fixed dinner seating, Cabanas (Beach Blanket on Disney Wonder) is open for dinner (excepting first and last night of the voyage) with no assigned seating.
• On Castaway Cay you can make your own ice cream sandwich. They serve large chocolate chip cookies, so take some, go to the ice cream station and make the "cool sandwich".
• Parents can use "Dine and Play" if they have late dinner seating (second assignment). Kids receive their meals earlier, then are escorted by youth counselors to their respective (age group) clubs while adults enjoy dinner.
• Kids can eat lunch or dinner in the ship's youth area. This is convenient if parents want to have a quiet dinner at specialty restaurants.
• The adults-only Cove Cafe offers complimentary snacks with the purchased coffee drinks.
• If you buy coffee frequently, ask for rewards cards. Each time you purchase a specialty coffee drink, the coffee card is punched and every 6th beverage is free. Keep the card as it can be used on future Disney cruises.
• Twinings tea bags are offered in main dining rooms and at lobby deck's beverage stations. In the dining rooms, upon request, waiters bring a pitcher of milk.
• In most adults-only lounge areas is offered hot snack buffet (for 1 hour or so) around 11 pm each night. The buffet station is either in the hallway or the area between the venues.
• On Alaskan cruises (during the "Tracy Arm Day") are offered complimentary snacks on the pool deck (forward section), including hot soup, cocoa, cookies. Behind the buffet is available BBQ lunch (sausage, steak, fish).
• At cruise ship dinner, passengers can order more than 1 entree, appetizer or dessert. Shirley Temple (Sprite with cherry) and Roy Rogers (Coke with cherry) are free with dinner.
• Off-menu items you can order during dinner include grapes, crackers, seafood platter, cheese platter.
• If you enjoyed a particular entree or dessert, ask your server to get it for you, but give a day’s notice. 
• Seasick passengers - don't miss dinner, ask your waiter for a portable meal.
• During one of the rotational dinners, passengers eat at "Animators Palate". Before serving your meal, waiters invite each passenger to draw a character that later is animated and comes to life. Come to dinner earlier to make a better drawing and color the character.
• The most exciting mouse-shaped treat is the cappuccino served at Cove Cafe.
• The list of hidden (secret) cabin room-service menu items includes pie of the day, dessert of the day, a cake of the day, Mickey Bar (ice cream bar), Smuckers Uncrustables (peanut butter sandwiches) 
• Passengers in concierge-level staterooms (also suites) are allowed to order dinner from the rotational restaurants during dinner hours. They can also order hot breakfasts during the voyage.
• Depending on cruise ports, some destinations allow passengers to take food when disembarking the ship.
• At the ship's Theater, there are concession stands selling expensive goodies (canned sodas, candy, bagged popcorn). Go to the self-serve drink station (on the pool deck) and get free soda for the evening show. Free cookies are offered at counter-service locations, and also can be room-service ordered. Concierge passengers on Fantasy and Dream get free popcorn, snacks and soda cans from the Concierge Lounge. Theater's snack bar offers refillable popcorn buckets (can be refilled for the rest of the voyage at cheaper price).
• Sign Disney's parent authorization form because the company uses a security system prohibiting kids under 18 yo from getting on or off the ship unless accompanied by an adult booked in the same stateroom. Remember to turn it into Guest Services on embarkation day.
• Bring lanyards for Disney's "Key to the World" cards (allowing embarkation/disembarkation, onboard purchases, cabin access). Silver members (Castaway Club loyalty program)) get free lanyards. Money can be also put on kids cards to use it in ship stores or in the arcade.
• Use Disney's "Navigator App" for family communications on the ship via mobile phones. The app allows free texting and can be used without buying a WiFi package. It has a huge collection of Disney emojis, making it easier to chat. Refresh the app daily to have the latest / updated information.
• While the ship is docked in port, at the Guest Services desk are offered strollers and cribs. They are free of charge (deposit is required). Being subject to availability and available on the first-come basis, it's recommended to reserve them on embarkation day.
• The least busy laundry days are port days and earlier in the morning.
• On a formal night, the best time for taking family photos is before the early dinner seating. Plan ahead and be ready 30 min earlier.

Note: The following Disney cruise information is for children 3-12 years old. Kids-exclusive activities are supervised and free of charge.

• On Dream-Fantasy ships are available the following kids facilities - "It’s A Small World Nursery" (Deck 5, for infants and toddlers 3 months to 3 yo, fees per hour apply, advance reservations required), Oceaneer Club (Deck 5, kids 3-12 yo, with 4 themed playrooms, computers, interactive games, dress-up party plays, storytelling, multiplayer PC games), Oceaneer Lab (Deck 5, kids 3-12 yo, with 5 themed areas for movies, video games, animation studio, recording studio, craft studio, large TV screens).
• On Magic-Wonder ships are available the following kids' facilities - "Flounder’s Reef Nursery" Deck 5, for infants and toddlers 3 months to 3 yo, fees per hour apply, advance reservations required),
• Remember to register for "Kids Club" during online check-in. On embarkation day, visit the “Check-in Desk” for all scheduled kids activities.
• Upon boarding, have the children wear swimsuits under their clothes to be among the first at AquaDuck and other waterslides.
• Take your girl to the "Princess Gathering" event as all "princesses" will be there.
• On all Disney ships, there is the "Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique" - kids beauty salon for "princesses and pirates" with free services ("Pixie Dust") provided by the Fairy Godmother in Training.
• Schedule a Disney character call (recording) before departure. Each stateroom is entitled to 2 calls. Select Disney characters, set date and time, enter cabin's phone number.
• Upon boarding, go to Guest Services desk to pre-book Disney "Meet and Greets". The company offers free tickets (but limited as a number) for some character meetings on the ship.
• Reserve online the free of charge "Disney Junior Character Breakfast" (available at Animator’s Palate restaurant). Each Disney character visits tableside while kids eat there.
• Take younger kids to the Friendship show to be onstage with Mickey and Minnie, and also get free T-shirts.
• On Dream-Fantasy ships, there is a kids-only splash pool (Mickey’s Pool) on Deck 11 (midship). This is the freshwater pool (2 ft / 0,6 m deep) with "Mickey Slide" (yellow waterslide).

Note: The following Disney cruise information is for teenagers (children 14-17 years old). Teen-exclusive activities are supervised and free of charge.

• On Dream-Fantasy ships are available the following teen-only facilities - arcade (Arr-cade, Deck 11), Vibe Teen Club (Deck 5, disco and lounge with indoor-outdoor areas - nonalcoholic bar, dance area, big video wall, Internet, computer games room, DJ spinning classes, karaoke and dance parties, cinema, table games, sundeck with 2 whirlpools and 1 swimming pool), Chill Spa (Deck 11, relaxation room, treatment rooms / massages, teeth whitening).
• On Magic-Wonder ships are available the following teen-only facilities - Chill Spa (Deck 9, relaxation room, treatment rooms/massages, teeth whitening).
• Edge is the “tween” club for 11-14-year-olds, but if your kid is in the overlapping range of Edge and Vibe, they can get access to both. Disney will sometimes be flexible about the age groups for the clubs and will allow a kid that is a little younger into the older teen club when they have space in the club, and especially if they have a sibling or friend there.

VIDEOS (ship tours)

Next YouTube video reviews the Disney ships Dream and Fantasy (CruiseMapper deckplan links).

Next YouTube video reviews the Disney ships Magic and Wonder (CruiseMapper deckplan links).

Like CruiseMapper's other "tips and tricks" articles, our Disney-related survey is a "wiki" work in progress - constantly updated with new additions and changes. Expect to find here more useful information and more Disney cruise secrets revealed the next time you visit this page. Enjoy your Disney vacations, and good luck!

Tiny Hands, Tidy Home

Creating a kid-friendly home with style, parenting tips, and more

17 Top Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks to Know Before You Go

From picking the best shore excursions to getting the best reservations, these expert tips will help you make the most of your magical Disney Cruise vacation. Don’t set sail without them!

Can you feel the cool sea breeze on your face? Hear the laughter of kids echoing across the pool deck? Smell those Mickey-shaped waffles drifting from the buffet? If you do, you must be planning a Disney cruise!

A few weeks back, my family and I embarked aboard the Disney Dream on one of the holiday cruises. 

And boy, did we learn a few things! 

From the second we stepped onto the ship, all decked out with festive decorations, to the moment we waved goodbye to our favorite Disney characters, every moment was so much fun.

I wanted to share all our experiences and insights, not just as a recap of our journey but as a treasure trove of tips and tricks just for you. 

Because let’s be real – isn’t it nice to have someone who’s been there, done that, and can’t wait to spill all the details?

So why did I decide to write this post? 

It’s simple – to help you navigate the planning and enjoyment of a Disney Cruise vacation.

Can you picture the sheer delight on your kids’ faces as they meet their favorite characters, enjoy amazing shows and entertainment, and explore stunning destinations? 

Well, with these helpful tips, you won’t have to just imagine – you can make it a reality!

Whether this is your first cruise or you’re a seasoned cruiser, this post is full of expert knowledge to help you make the most out of your Disney Cruise line vacation.

Let’s sail the high seas together on this awesome journey!

This post is all about our best Disney Cruise tips. 

17 Top Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks

1) take advantage of room service breakfast.

One of the highlights of our family’s Disney cruise was definitely the room service breakfast. 

There’s something special about waking up slowly in the morning and enjoying a quiet breakfast with beautiful ocean views right from your verandah room.

While the breakfast menu may not have a wide range of options compared to the buffet, you can still choose from breakfast staples like cereal, bagels, pastries, juices, and English muffins. 

Ordering breakfast is simple – just fill out the door hanger provided with your choices and preferred delivery time the night before and hang it outside your door. 

We always chose a 7-7:30 am time slot and our breakfast was delivered promptly at 7 am every time. (Though I’m sure this could vary depending on the number of people ordering at the time you selected) 

Pro tip: If you can’t locate the door hanger, check the desk drawer! 

We had trouble finding it the first day and called guest services for assistance. 

And here’s the best part: room service on Disney cruise ships is completely free – no extra charge. 

However, we highly recommend tipping the kind, friendly staff member who delivers your breakfast. Typically, about $1 per item is recommended. 

Eating breakfast in your room is a simple pleasure that can add a little extra luxury to your cruise experience. 

2) Find hidden objects under the sea at Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, and it’s exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. 

It’s one of the most beloved stops on Caribbean cruise itineraries and definitely our favorite port in the Bahamas! 

As you’d expect from Disney, it’s the perfect family destination brimming with adventures for everyone to enjoy. 

One of our favorite activities on Castaway Cay is snorkeling in the Snorkel Lagoon.

This is because just beneath the ocean’s surface, there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

You can easily explore them by renting snorkel gear (or bringing your own). 

Swim amongst marine life and uncover sunken treasures, like statues, a shipwreck, and more. 

You might even find some of your favorite characters!

As an extra tip, keep an eye out for buoys marking the sunken treasures in the snorkel area. Some are farther out, so be prepared for a swim, but don’t worry; life jackets are provided and required while snorkeling. 

Besides the snorkeling, we also highly recommend the Pelican’s Plunge slide that lets you glide straight into the refreshing ocean, and be sure to indulge in the delicious beach-side lunch buffet at Cookies Barbeque.

Check out the Disney Cruise Line website for more information about all the fun activities available at Castaway Cay.

3) Bring a waterproof phone case

Between navigating new destinations, capturing memories, and staying connected with friends and family, your smartphone is likely an essential travel companion, and you probably don’t want to leave it back in your stateroom or sitting on a lounge chair somewhere where it could be lost or stolen.

With a waterproof phone case , you can enjoy all the fun water activities on your cruise without worrying about damaging your phone. 

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, snorkeling, taking a dip in the ocean, or participating in water sports, you can have your phone on you and still take pictures and videos.

​This is an absolute Disney cruise must-have for us. 

4) Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app

If you’re going on a Disney cruise, it’s a good idea for everyone in your group to download the  Disney Cruise Navigator app  onto your smartphone prior to setting sail. (Obviously, if you have small children who don’t have a smartphone they won’t need an app downloaded for themselves).

While the app might not offer much use before your cruise, it will quickly become your go-to tool for navigating your entire trip once you’re on board. 

It will be your personal navigator, filled with detailed information about all of the activities available on your cruise.

It also allows you to choose activities you are interested in so you get a reminder notification sent to your phone and don’t miss a thing! 

Plus, it even provides a way for you to communicate with family members without having to purchase a pricey wifi package. 

Downloading the Disney Cruise Navigator app ahead of time is a small task that will ensure everyone is ready to go when your embarkation day arrives.

5) Attend the Kids club open house

The amazing kid’s clubs aboard Disney ships are one of the highlights of a Disney cruise for families. 

They offer many exciting activities for children, ensuring they have a blast while you can enjoy some much-needed adult time during your cruise.

On the Disney Dream, kids aged 3-10 could enjoy the  Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab . It’s technically two different spaces, but they are connected, and most times, kids can move freely between the two spaces. 

Teens and preteens also have their own dedicated spaces with Vibe and Edge. Truly, there is something for everyone on board.

I highly recommend visiting the kids club during the open house on embarkation day if you have young children. 

This allows you and your little ones to explore and play in the club’s facilities. 

It’s a fun opportunity to see where your little ones will spend time and talk with the counselors if you have any concerns. 

I was so impressed with the counselors for their exceptional knowledge, understanding, and care. 

They were especially accommodating when it came to our daughter, who is autistic, and made sure to ask us questions about her needs and how to help her in case she became upset.

During the open house hours, kids under three can also join in the fun with their older siblings. However, parents must supervise and stay with their children during these times.

Outside of the open house hours, the kids’ clubs are secure and only accessible to those within the designated age ranges. 

If you aren’t able to make it on embarkation day, additional open house times will be provided throughout the cruise, so be sure to check the schedule on your Disney Navigator app if you’re interested.

6) Splurge on the Bibbity Bobbity Boutique

If you’re considering whether or not to splurge for the Bibbity Bobbity Boutique on your next Disney cruise, I highly recommend it. 

Sure, you can participate in this experience at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, but there’s something truly special about doing it aboard the cruise. 

It is more comfortable for your child than wearing a heavy dress in the parks all day and allows you to easily change their outfit if they get tired of wearing it.

We were lucky enough to snag a timeslot before the Royal Princess Gathering, which made for an even more magical experience for our daughter. 

She got to have her royal makeover and then meet four Disney princesses in the beautiful lobby of the Disney Dream. 

This splurge is worth every penny if you have a princess-loving little girl like us.

7) Search for ducks

Yes, ducks! You read that right.

If you’re looking for a fun way to keep yourself entertained while onboard, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for rubber ducks hidden throughout the ship. 

It’s a popular activity among fellow cruisers (not just on Disney Cruise Line), and if you’re lucky, you might just stumble upon a few. 

Our daughter had a blast hiding some ducks during our cruise, but unfortunately, we didn’t manage to find any ourselves. 

Don’t worry though, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. 

Please note that Disney does not sponsor this activity, and shortly after writing this post, I started to see rumors that Disney Cruise Line may be actively discouraging this activity.

Apparently, people were getting a little too out of control with it, entering restricted areas and messing up decorations.

However, there has not been an official notice from Disney.

For this reason, I will probably avoid hiding ducks on future cruises, but I will still keep my eyes open for any someone else may have hidden.

PSA: If you look for ducks, please follow the rules, use common sense, and don’t mess up the ship or destroy any property so fun activities like this don’t get banned.

Alright, rant over.

Check out the Disney Cruising Ducks Facebook group , where you can find more information about this fun and unofficial activity. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this is one fun activity everyone in the family will enjoy. 

8) Get tickets for the Royal Princess Gathering character meet

The Royal Princess Gathering is such a fun event on Disney Cruise Line ships, where you can meet multiple Disney princesses all in one place! 

From Cinderella and Belle to Rapunzel and Tiana, your little ones can chat, take photos, and even get autographs. The actual princesses you will meet during this special event will vary. 

Although the event is free, reservations are required and can be difficult to secure, so you’ll want to be on top of this one. 

Typically, you can book reservations for this experience 30 days before your sail date at midnight Eastern Time. 

However, please check the Disney Cruise app for your specific reservation date, which may change or vary. 

Keep in mind that reservations often sell out within minutes of opening. It’s a great event so be sure to check your daily cruise itinerary for the days it will be offered and try to snag your spot. 

We reserved a time immediately following our daughter’s Bibbity Bobbity Boutique makeover. She had the best time and felt like true royalty. 

8) Join your cruise Facebook group

If you’re new to cruising, you might not be aware that most cruise sailings have unique Facebook groups. 

These groups are an excellent way to connect with fellow cruisers who will be joining you on the same sailing. 

To find the Facebook group for your specific sailing date, search for your ship’s name followed by your sail date. 

For example, if you’re sailing on the Disney Dream from November 30th to December 4th, search for “Disney Dream November 30-December 4” to locate it.

By joining the Facebook group, you’ll have the chance to discover new experiences, ask questions, participate in a fish extender group, and connect with other guests. 

9) Participate in a fish extender group

Once you join a Disney Cruise Facebook group, you might come across the term “fish extenders.” 

This activity offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with other families, make new friends, and sprinkle some extra magic onto your trip. 

Essentially, fish extenders are pocket organizers hung outside cabin doors, where participating cruisers leave small gifts for one another as part of a gift exchange. 

Our daughter loved participating and finding surprises upon returning to our room throughout the cruise.

If you want to learn more about this, check out our post to learn everything you need to know before participating in a Fish Extender group . 

[RELATED: The Perfect Fish Extender Gift Ideas | Gifts for a Very Merrytime Disney Cruise ]

10) Decorate your stateroom door

Many people like decorating their doors on Disney cruises, and adding some personal touches to your stateroom door is a great way to have a little extra family fun. 

Our family enjoyed decorating our door for Christmas on our Very Merrytime Cruise, and our daughter loved being able to find our room with ease. 

It was also great to check out everyone else’s creative decorations. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that theft of magnets has occasionally been reported, so it’s best not to go overboard with the cost of your decorations.

Personalized magnets may offer greater security against theft and we use a zip tie to secure our fish extender outside our door. 

It’s also important to remember that all decorations have to be magnetic. Taping anything to your door or walls is not allowed. 

Above all, have fun and be creative with your decorations.

11) Bring noise-cancelling headphones for sensitive ears

With all the hustle and bustle of cruise, there are definitely some areas that can get quite loud – like the dining rooms, lobby area, shows, and kids clubs. 

And let’s not forget the mandatory muster drill on the first day where they play a loud emergency signal. 

If you have a child who is sensitive to loud noises like our daughter, it’s important to be prepared. 

That’s why we always made sure to keep our ear defenders on hand. 

She would not have been able to enjoy the cruise as much without them so they were an absolute necessity for us! 

12) Complete online check-in ASAP

Be sure to complete your online check-in as soon as you can.

This will allow you to snag an earlier port arrival time and boarding group. 

The sooner you can board, the more time you’ll have to explore the ship, indulge in delicious dining options, and soak up all the fun activities and entertainment that awaits. 

But keep in mind that everyone’s online check-in date will vary depending on whether you’re a concierge guest or your Castaway Club status. 

So, be sure to check your reservation on the Disney Cruise Line website to know when check-in will open for you. 

13) Dress up for Pirate Night

One thing that makes a Disney Cruise such a unique experience is Pirate Night. 

It’s a night on your cruise where both kids and adults get to dress up in their favorite pirate outfits and join in the fun. 

People go all out for this night, and we highly recommend bringing some pirate gear of your own. 

The main dining rooms on board the ship are also in on the fun; the dining staff will be dressed in pirate gear, and the menu is also pirate-themed. 

With all the amazing food, drinks, and festivities happening, you’ll quickly see why Pirate Night is one of the reasons so many people love Disney cruises. 

[RELATED: What to Wear on a Disney Cruise: 6 Easy Outfit Ideas for Moms and Families ]

14) Consider staying onboard at port stops

One of the best parts of taking a cruise is getting to explore all the amazing ports of call. 

Excursions can be a great way to see the sights and experience new cultures, but sometimes you just don’t feel like getting off the ship. 

Whether it’s because you’ve already been to the port before or you just need a break from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing, staying on board can be a fantastic alternative. 

You’ll have the opportunity to check out all the activities the ship has to offer without the crowds, making it the perfect time to go down the water slides or lounge on the pool deck. 

So, if you’re not feeling up for a busy port day, don’t worry! You will still have an amazing time on board the ship during port stops.

15) Book port adventures through DCL for peace of mind

If you value peace of mind while on vacation, booking your port adventures through Disney Cruise Line (DCL) might be the way to go. 

Yes, it may cost a little extra, but the level of service and stress-free experience is unmatched. 

Disney takes care of everything, so you can sit back and enjoy your excursion without worrying about logistics or transportation. 

And perhaps the best part?

The reassurance that the ship won’t leave without you if anything goes wrong during your Disney-sponsored excursion. 

Considering these things, a little extra cost for peace of mind can be a worthy investment.

16) Be Kind to the Cast Members

​When you step aboard your Disney cruise, you immediately feel the magic surrounding you. 

However, what truly brings that magic to life are the amazing cast members who work tirelessly to create a wonderful experience for each and every guest.

From your room host to the dining staff, each cast member is dedicated to making your vacation unforgettable. 

You’ll find that a kind word or gesture goes a long way in making their day, and in turn, they will go above and beyond to make your cruise truly special. 

Some cast members even leave such an impression that you may eagerly look for them on your next Disney cruise. 

The cast members are awesome, so take a moment to show your appreciation and thank the cast for all that they do to make your Disney cruise extra special.

17) Bring Cash for Extra Tips

There is one thing that is often overlooked: tipping. 

While there is a set gratuity amount you can prepay, it’s always nice to have a little extra cash on hand for the excellent staff who make your vacation unforgettable. 

From your room host to the porters who help with your luggage and even your excursion guides, these individuals work hard to ensure you have the best experience possible. 

At the end of your cruise, you’ll receive envelopes to leave additional tips for your wait staff and room host, but don’t forget about the many other people who also deserve recognition!

A little extra tip here and there goes a long way in showing your appreciation for their hard work. 

Concluding thoughts

As we wrap up this post about our top Disney Cruise tips, I hope you feel more prepared and excited for your upcoming trip. 

Remember, while planning and researching are important, don’t forget to leave room for spontaneous adventures and magical moments on board. 

From packing smartly and checking in on time to making the most of onboard activities and dining options, these tips will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable cruise experience. 

As you embark on your Disney Cruise adventure, remember to cherish every moment with your loved ones, from watching fireworks at sea to meeting your favorite characters in person. 

And when you return home with a suitcase full of unforgettable memories, don’t forget to share these tips with others! 

Bon Voyage!

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This post was all about Disney Cruise tips. 

Other posts you might like:.

• Disney Cruise Fish Extender Gifts: 5 Things to Know Be Participating
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45 Disney Cruise Tips and Hacks That You Must Know

Nowadays, it’s a common misconception that Disney cruise is just for kids or more suitable for kids. 

Well, no! That’s not the case.

An adult or even a senior person could still get the best Disney cruise experience ; all you need is proper guidelines.

And this ultimate checklist of Disney cruising, with all the hidden tips and tricks we learned in our cruising journey, will help you get the most out of the moment. 

Even though you are a child, adult, senior, beginner, or expert cruiser.

Table of Contents

Disney Cruise Tips & Hacks That You Should Know

#1 Check for The Disney Cruise Line Discounts

Disney cruising experience is often considered expensive as compared to the Royal Caribbean.

However, specific discount hacks can help you in reducing the cost.

For example, booking a cruise as soon as possible is one of the best hacks for a Disney cruise.

However, sometimes if certain room types don’t perform well, you will find special discounts on Disney near the sailing. It is an exquisite way to save money.

#2 Book One-way Sailing

On Disney Cruise, you will get two types of sailing options.

The one that sails and ends at the same point is generally expensive. The other is selecting a cruise package that sails at one point and ends at another.

Among both, you must pick the package that starts at one port and ends at another. 

This way, you could save lots of your bucks. 

#3 Disney Cruise Booking Tips

There are lots of onboard experiences to enjoy at Disney Cruise. However, you must make a prior booking to get the most out of them. 

Furthermore, they are all included in your cruising experience without additional cost. 

So, book your frozen gathering, Disney junior breakfast, or princess meet-up at the cruising cost. But you must ensure to book in advance.

#4 Prepare Yourself For Embarkation

Since covid-19, Disney Cruise has evolved its policies. They have introduced an exquisite PAT policy under which you can select your Port arrival time. 

Although this policy was not strictly enforced, now, Disney is focusing on it to make the boarding process much more accessible, more transparent, and hassle-free. 

For example, if your selected port arrival time is 12:30 AM, you can’t enter the terminal before 12:30 AM.

#5 Book a Room Instead of a Suit

Yet another tip while sailing for the Disney cruise line is to book a room instead of a suit, especially if you are cruising with family.

It’s because generally, 2 rooms are cheaper than a suit.

For example, if you have a family of 4, you can expect to have connected cabins instead of a suit that will save you 50% of the cost.

Meanwhile, to book a suit, you must check the stateroom size. However, it also depends on the budget, but you can still get a better choice with some analysis. 

Disney Cruise Stateroom Hack:

• Don’t use a door shoe organiser as it can damage the door, and Disney Cruise also prohibits doing so.
• Keep your Luggage under the bed as the stateroom might be small enough to not be compatible with the suitcase lying around.
• To get the best experience – get to know about the stateroom host.

#6 Pick Your Disney Cruise Sailing Carefully

Disney Cruise sailing has different itinerary packages; few are cheaper than others. 

However, to initiate the prices, you must know a general rule of economic work here – the higher the demand, the more the costs.

For example, holiday cruises, especially Christmas cruises, are more expensive but generally worth it. 

That’s why, while sailing, remember to look for these sailing factors that can cause to increase or decrease in prices. 

#7 First-Day Dining Tips

The first-day dining experience at the Disney cruise was fantastic, as we enjoyed it. 

We were unaware of one thing, but you should know that Disney Cruise has two options: the buffet and sit-down lunch in the main dining.

You may experience both, but we highly encourage you to choose the sit-down option; you must check availability first. However, we enjoyed an exquisite animator palate on our first day of dining that was completely worth it.

#8 Try Ultimate Food

Disney Cruise Line has different and more exciting dinner opportunities than other cruise lines. 

For example, the rotation policy includes 3 restaurants. 

So, you can also try the ultimate food options or request items not on the menu. If you struggle to decide between two things, you must taste both.

Regarding the dessert, Micky-shaped waffles, secret stash, Mickey ice cream or a customized platter is also worth trying.  

#9 Enjoy the Movie at the Disney Cruise Theatre

Whenever a new Disney movie gets premiered on land, at the same time, it will be on air on the ship. 

So, why spend some extra money on land? 

Enjoy the next Disney movie, just like Marvel, Pixar, and star wars on the 3d Disney theatres.

Remember, you will enjoy the same Movie without extra charges and with eye-opening effects on the high seas. 

#10 Pool Hack to Avoid Crowd

Before you sail, getting this pool hack from us is best.

We recommend visiting the pool in early morning or during sunset, especially if you want to avoid swimming in a crowded place. This will also save you from waiting in a long line. 

On the contrary, I highly encourage you to avoid the mid-day pool until or unless you are about to swim with lots of friends or want to swim in the crowd. 

#11 Enjoy Free Soda

We all know getting a can of Coke in the dining room will cost you a few dollars. However, what about getting the free soda wherever and whenever you want?

Yes, you can quickly get free soda at the Disney cruise fountain. 

After that, get a refillable bottle and bring it all around the ship. 

#12 Try Adult Restaurants

The adult-only restaurant is the ultimate option for adults to enjoy fancy dinners on the cruise. 

For example, Remy and Enchante are the two restaurants reserved for adults. On the contrary, each ship will have different adult restaurants but must be one or two.

You must know that adult restaurants will cost you an extra $45 per person menu.

#13 Let the Disney Cruise pick up your Luggage

Your Luggage on Disney cruise ships is no more your responsibility. 

All you need is to check your Luggage at the airport, which the Disney cruise workers will send to your room. 

Meanwhile, it doesn’t matter whether you are at embarkation or disembarkation. The cruise line will carry your Luggage , and you will see your bags once back home or in the stateroom.

This will ultimately lead to a better and hassle-free vacation experience.

#14 Carry your Bag By Yourself At Debarkation

As the Disney cruise line offers you to carry your Bag, we still recommend taking the Bag on your own. Especially if you can bring it, there is no need to hand over the Luggage to the stateroom team one night before disembarking with thousands of other guests.

It is also known as “express walk off”.

However, if you are handing over your luggage bag to the stateroom, you must carry a small 24 bag. In it, we recommend bringing the essentials like toiletries, pyjamas, medicine and next-day clothing.

#15 Get the Onboard Currency Exchange

One of the best things about cruising at Disney is that they don’t charge any commission for exchanging money. Even though, if you have any leftover money, you can still trade it in your preferred currency.

All you need is to present your receipt for exchange, and they will exchange it in your priorities currency and with the exact exchange rate.

Remember, this policy applies to the bills only.

#16 Bring your wine or water

The good news is bringing your bottle of wine or water is allowed on the Disney cruise. And the tip is only in limited quantity.

For example, according to Disney cruise line policies, you can only bring two bottles of wine or champagne onboard. However, the weight should be at most 750 ml or 12 ounces.

Another tip is to carry these wine bottles in the carry-on luggage, not check. 

#17 The Last Minute Reservation

We all know that while cruising, all types of reservations must be made in advance, from the restaurants to the sailing.

However, the duration of the pre-reservation will vary depending on what type of cruise vacation you want.

For example, for a Disneyland vacation, you must complete the reservation at least two months or 60 days before.

On the contrary, if you cannot make your reservations, here is a hack.

Palo and Remy are just lifesavers in terms of last-minute reservations. With that, they always have several tables reserved for onboard reservations. 

#18 Use Child Care Service

Disney cruise line is often considered for kids, especially if you have kids with yourself. You don’t have to worry anymore.

Use the Disney cruise child care service. 

This service is just fantastic, which includes nurses and even the supervised clubs. 

In this way, you can have some time with your partner.

#19 Request for the Best Seat in the House

Getting your favourite spot to sit at Tiana’s Place or anywhere else is no more a dream.

You can request the reservation of your desired table or seat at a perfect place. They will indeed find no hesitation in doing so.

All you need is to make an extra phone call for the request, which will be worth it. 

#20 Dining Tips and Tricks

• You will not be charged for room service. So, order late-night snacks and meals at the cost of your cruise and enjoy this opportunity. 
• There will be two different dining seatings to choose from. Families with kids prefer earlier dining seating, and families with adults are recommended to book late dining.
• The dinner seating can also be changed later by connecting with the guest service and due to any reason.
• You are free to order more than one item.

#21 Capture Each Moment and Grab the Photo

The best tip we can give you while Disney is cruising is to take advantage of every moment and capture your memories and favourite characters.

In case you missed it, you still have the opportunity to enjoy last night’s show, “till we meet again.” 

It shows where your favourite Disney characters, theatre performers, and princes will get out. 

So you can pose with them and capture your memory based on first come and first serve.

Fact: the most photographed moment view on the Disney cruise is the walls of the bathroom and the fancy minnie mouse statue.

#22 Disney Cruise Menu Hack

Fortunately, the Disney cruise has one of the best dining experiences. The rotating restaurant itinerary policy will let you enjoy and experience the food of each onboard restaurant. 

So, the buffet is one of many to try more foods as the hack is that you can order as much food as you want.

For example, you will get a printed menu with all the necessary details, but it’s a formality. The reality is all of your cruise meal is prepaid. So, you can order as many food, dessert, or appetizers as you want.

Sounds weird?

Don’t worry; this is how the Disney menu works. Even if you need help deciding between two dishes – order both.

#23 Enjoy Onboard Activities

Disney Cruise has plenty of onboard activity options.

For example, shows, movies, workshops, pool, theatre, and most importantly, character greets and meets.

We recommend taking advantage of your cruise onboard activities. 

#24 Book the Port Adventure in Advance

Port adventure is fascinating that you must try it.

However, you have two options to book port adventures in advance – using Disney or independently.

Choose whatever you want. 

But you must be assured that Adventure Disney will wait for you if you get late from the port. On the contrary, you may have to say goodbye from the dock for independent port adventure booking.

So the hack and tip lie in always booking the port adventure from Disney.

#25 Disney Cruise Packing hack

Although you are not bound in your packing list for cruising , you can pack as much as you want. On the other hand, if you are arriving by plane, you may have to face fewer plane restrictions.

You must know Disney Cruise won’t let you access your Luggage before 6:00 PM. 

In case you must carry a bag with all the essentials. Adding a jacket to your Disney cruise packing list is also recommended, as the weather can get cool, breezy, or chill at any time on the cruise or Caribbean. 

The pro tip is to get packing cubes, an exquisite way to keep your Luggage organized and accessible anytime. 

#26 Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode

Does using your phone on board give you a hefty amount of bills?

Yes, you will suffer a massive cost if you forget to check your phone coverage or use your mobile for calls, texts and data.

We recommend always putting your phone in the room or staying unconnected by keeping it in airplane mode.

However, the navigator app can still be used even in airplane mode.

#27 Disney Cruise WiFi Hack

Disney WiFi packages are usually expensive as you purchase in megabytes that can go quickly. 

We recommend keeping your phone on airplane mode and enjoying the shore of the seas and the company of people around instead of looking down at your mobile. Still, if WiFi is your necessity, then here is a hack.

Wait for the port day and go for touristy areas or internet coffee to enjoy the benefit of WiFi for free with exquisite food.

Well, the Disney cruise will also offer you 50 free megabytes on the first day of your cruise. In our experience, uploading pictures on social media or loading some apps was fair enough. 

#28 Laundry Hack

Royal Caribbean doesn’t offer you self-laundry service . Comparatively, Disney Cruise does, which is quite remarkable.

Whether you want to give your laundry for a fee or want to have self-laundry service – Disney cruise will serve you either way.

So, the hack lies in getting a vacuum bag that has served us a lot in our laundry timings. 

#29 Go for 18-plus Areas

18-plus areas are exquisite to try for any adult, especially if you are with your child. Take a break from your child care, hand over them to the Disney cruise child care service, and explore 18+ areas.

It involves spa centers, bars or fitness centers. 

With that, the premium restaurants (like Palo – Italian inspired) of 18+ also have some of our favourite dishes. 

#30 Get Sort of Free Drinks

The Royal caribbean drink packages are expensive, ultimately increasing the cruising cost. However, Disney cruising doesn’t generally require any additional beverage package.

Do you know why? Because most of the drinks are free.

Yes, they are not entirely free, but a large number of them are free. You only need to know which one is free, how and where to get it.

For example, in the main dining room, many drinks like tea, iced tea, milk, and coffee are free.

#31 The Disney Cruise Ice-cream Hack

One of the finest ice creams of the Disney cruise, “mike mouse,” is not on the menu.  

Almost in all of our cruising journeys, we had tried this exquisite ice cream, and yes, it was truly worth it. 

So, we must recommend ordering at least one as it’s not on the menu. With that, you must know Disney Cruise also has a self-service ice cream to enjoy.

You can quickly get it from any pool deck of almost all Disney ships. 

#32 Enjoy Breakfast With a Character

Many of you novice cruisers might not know that Disney cruise will let you enjoy a special breakfast with a character. 

And to do all you need is a cruise plan longer than 7 days.

You will enjoy a special breakfast with a character if you have it. Additionally, what makes it fascinating is that the cost of it is included in your cruise cost.

Remember, a character dinner on land costs around $45 per person.

So, remember to take the benefit of this opportunity.

#33 Don’t Miss Themed Events

Various types of themed events are being organized at Disney Cruise. For example, “Pirates in the Caribbean.”

And missing these theme events will never be a good idea as they are the ultimate source of joy. 

We recommend going out for these events and taking part in activities. It will be great fun. However, if you wish to wait, seeing others will get you in action. 

#34 Order Your Coffee Before Bed

If you are a coffee enthusiast, we recommend ordering your coffee before bed. 

Many coffee addicts love to enjoy coffee once they wake up. So, ordering carafe of coffee at night means it still will be hot and fresh enough to sip in the morning. 

This way, you will not disturb the room service early in the morning and can get your doze. 

#35 Make Souvenirs

We all love taking souvenirs of moments. Don’t we?

And getting an autograph from characters while cruising on Disney is one of the best ways. For this, all you need is a surface for a signature. 

For example, we tried pillowcases for autographs, and our experience was quite fantastic.

One worth starting point is that you must get something sturdy for yourself so the characters can put the pillow on it and won’t worry about signing. On the contrary, you can also try the disney theme autograph book. 

#36 Disney Cruise Pool Deck Tricks

• On a pool deck, you will be provided with the towels. So you don’t need to bring it with you.
• Only a few people can enter the pool deck at a time. Once they get out, the lifeguard will let the next group in.
• Remember to enjoy the pool deck dining before you get out. Various options will be available, including pizza, shawarma, burger, bbq, etc.
• Pick only between two options – go to the pool deck late or earlier to avoid the crowd.

#37 Download The Disney Cruise Ship App

Before starting the journey on Disney Cruise, I recommend you to download the Disney cruise line navigator app.

This app will save you time and serve you in many ways. 

For example, making reservations, payments, booking cruise activities, and getting details of transportation or flights is now a lot easier.

We also used this app to plan our days on the ship and add some favourite events to the list so we could take advantage of it. It will also send you the notification just 15 minutes before.

We also sent messages to another person on the ship using the app throughout the cruise. 

#38 Use Bars as an Adult Gateway

You might miss adult activities on the Disney cruise if you are an adult.

But no more worries; you can use the bars as an adult gateway. These bars are an excellent source, especially if you need a break from the ship’s environment, crowd, or commotion.

The one that I love is “Ooh La La.” It is a French-themed champagne bar that is my favorite due to its calming atmosphere.

#39 Decorate your Door

On our first Disney cruise experience, we were not aware that decorating doors on Disney is common. 

People get excited to decorate their doors which is a way to celebrate their love for Disney. 

I decorated my door with mouse cruise magnets on our next Disney cruise. It looked fantastic. 

However, to add more space and make our room more manageable, I also added magnetic hooks . These were quite useful in organizing our little essentials. 

#40 Dress up as your Favorite Disney Characters

We often saw kids dressing up like their favorite characters on Disney Cruise. 

Wait, we are about to tell you that you can also. 

For example, on princes’ night, you can wear your favourite princess dress and can achieve a theme of it.

Ultimately, it depends on whether you wear it, but you must know dressing up as your favorite character is not only for kids. 

#41 Resolve all your concerns with guest service

Do you want to save time on the day of disembarkation and get a hassle-free experience? 

We recommend resolving your concerns with the guest service at least one night before.  

All you need is a copy of your bills to the guest service. So, instead of waiting in long queues, spend your last minutes on the cruise enjoying amenities.

#42 Disney Cruise Luggage Hack

• Make sure to place the luggage tags sent by Disney so that they can know where your Bag is going. 
• Pack a separate carry-on bag at embarkation, including a swimsuit, essential documents, medications, etc., as you will not get your Luggage at least before night.
• You don’t need to pack shower essentials like shampoo, body wash, conditional etc., as Disney will let you experience high-quality products.
• A quality sun-screen with a spf protected hair care product must be in your Luggage.

Check Out 24 Must Have Items To Pack For Cruise Journe y.

#43 Get the Kids Meal

The kid’s menu of Disney Cruise is as great as the dining service for the adults.

However, just like the seniors, kids are not bound to eat or drink from the menu only.

You can order anything you wish for your child, from full appetizers to meals and desserts. On the contrary, if your kid wants to have even french fries, that’s also okay. They will serve it.

With that, you must know Disney Cruise is only responsible for serving, not whether the child has eaten. 

So, you must keep checking that your kid ate something and didn’t leave playing. 

#44 Disney Cruise Beverage Hack

Many beverages and drinks on Disney cruises are complimentary, but you can still get charged for them under certain circumstances.

For example; 

• Bottled water, soda, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, mocktails, shakes and espresso will also cost you money – no matter where you order.
• Although castaway cay offers many drinks like fountain soda, lemonade, milk, juice, iced tea, and plain water free of cost – still if you want to order any other beverage, you can, but at an additional cost.
• Disney Cruise also has a self-service drink station at the pool deck where you can serve a wide range of drinks 24 hours and free of cost.
• Whiskey, Rum, and Vodka – in short, spirits are also not allowed to bring and will be confiscated if caught.

#45 Miscellaneous Tips

Irons are not allowed to bring on Disney cruises. However, you will find it during self-laundry service and can use it to press your clothes.

Remember, the Disney cruise does not offer salon and spa centers. They are third-party vendors, and in case you have any complaints – do contact them directly.

Bringing extension cords or power cords is no longer needed. We found multiple plugs in each stateroom.

Book your next Disney cruise line while onboard and get the 10% discount. However, the sailing must be done in between 2 years. 

Lastly, at the end of the cruise, remember to experience the magical framework before disembarking your Disney cruise.

Bottom Line: 

Disney cruise line is comparatively a small cruise line. But, the unique experience, enthusiasm, and approach hit differently. That’s why it’s also getting popular day by day.

And the above-mentioned list of Disney cruise tips and hacks has all the ways to save money and how to do fun, whether you’re an adult or a kid. 

So, whether you are a novice cruiser or cruising for the 20th time, we are sure that those little tricks will save you lots of bucks and time that we have experienced and learned over time.

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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15 Essential First Time Disney Cruise Tips – For Stress Free Travel

Hi all! Are you a new Disney cruiser? Wondering what to expect on board? Then you’re in the right place! Welcome to your cruising guide, complete with 15 first time Disney Cruise tips! 

In this post you’ll find everything you need to know to have an amazing first Disney Cruise! 

15 First Time Disney Cruise Tips

1: download the disney cruise app.

This app is definitely a necessity for your cruise. It allows you to message other cruise-goers while on board – which is so helpful. It also has lists of your dinner locations and all of the day’s activities and shows!

Before your cruise departs, you can also use the app to browse menus, port excursions, and reserve activities. 

2: Pack first-day essentials in a shoulder bag

When you first arrive at the cruise terminal, your suitcases will be taken from you. This is great, so you don’t have to carry them on board yourself. 

However, although you will board the ship in the early afternoon, and probably get access to your stateroom around 1:00/1:30, your luggage may not be delivered to your room until the early evening (sometimes as late as 6:00/6:30.) 

Because of this, it is necessary to pack important items in a shoulder bag to carry onto the ship with you. Be sure to have your bathing suits, camera, medicine, electronics and a change of clothes for dinner (if you’re going to the early seating.) Often your bags will arrive earlier than expected, but don’t rely on it.

3: Go to the late dinner seating

If you aren’t traveling with young kids then I highly recommend the 8:00 seating. If you’re cruising in Europe, the late seating is at 8:30. The early seating, 5:00/5:30, is packed with young children (of course). Therefore may be less enjoyable for families with older/no children. You’ll also be so busy on the cruise that 5:30pm will feel like the middle of the afternoon and way too early for dinner.

4: Arrive to dinner 5 minutes late

People will start lining up for dinner outside of the dining room about 15 minutes before the doors open. There is no reason to do this. Instead, go to dinner five minutes late to avoid the rush! Your waiter will still meet you at the door and it will be a much more relaxed process. One of my favorite parts of a Disney Cruise is the rotational dining. There are three main restaurants on board, and throughout the cruise you’ll dine at each one. The best part is, your waiters come with you! You get the same waiters every night, and they are always so kind and accommodating.

5: Alert cruise staff in advance if you don’t want to dine with other families

Sometimes on a Disney Cruise you’ll be assigned a dining table with another group of travelers. This happens most often if your group is small and there is space to seat another small family with you. Since your waiter moves with you from restaurant to restaurant, this means the other family will move with you as well. While some people really enjoy this, and find that it’s a great way to make friends, it’s definitely not ideal for everyone. Personally, when we travel we prefer to sit with just our own family.

If you do not want to dine with other travelers, be sure to alert customer service in advance! If you forget, and are seated with another family the first night, you can always talk to the concierge or the dining room staff and they can (most often) arrange another table for you.

6: Order room service – it’s free!

Although there is always food available on the ship during the day (in the dining rooms, the pool deck and at the upstairs buffet, Cabanas), room service is another convenient option. It’s especially great at night when all of the restaurants and snack bars are closed. 

Unlike on some other popular cruise lines, on Disney Cruises, room service is free. The menu is pretty extensive and you can get anything from a full meal to dessert to snacks. Room service is available 24 hours a day. This is fantastic for when it’s 2am and you realize you need a pizza and some cookies!

7: Dine at the adult-only restaurants

Cruise guests who are over the age of 18 have the opportunity to make reservations for the ship’s adult-only restaurant. This is either Palo or Remy, depending on the ship. These meals are not included in the cruise fare, but they are delicious and definitely worth the extra cost once (or twice) during the cruise. 

You can dine at Palo and Remy for brunch or dinner, and I highly recommend both. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get dressed up, enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the restaurants, and have dinner with no kids. I recommend dining at Palo or Remy on a day that you are not excited about the dinner menu on your restaurant rotation. Be sure to make your reservations before the cruise begins, or as soon as you arrive on board. These restaurants have limited seating and the reservation slots are often taken quickly.

8: Pack your own alcohol

Disney allows each adult (21+) to bring up to two bottles of wine/champagne or six beers on board on embarkation day and at each port. To note: Alcohol has to be in your carry on . Do not pack alcohol in your checked suitcase or it will be confiscated.  

Being able to bring your own alcohol is extremely helpful as Disney Cruises do not have an all inclusive alcohol package. There are often many ports of call on each cruise itinerary. Therefore, you will be able to restock your alcohol supply regularly.

Be advised that the drinking age on board is 21. This is true no matter what the drinking age is in the country/port you are visiting. On some cruises parents can sign a drinking waiver, if you have kids over 18 but under 21. This waiver will allow 18-20 year olds to drink with their family, but never alone.

Your ‘ Key to the World Card ‘ will not allow you to purchase alcohol, or be served alcohol, on board if you are underage and don’t have the alcohol waiver. Read Disney’s alcohol policy here .

9: Take advantage of the Kids Clubs

Parents, definitely let your kids go to the kids clubs! Bring them on the first day so they’ll meet other kids and make friends for the entire cruise. The kids clubs are great, and they’ll be having so much fun that they’ll be entertained for hours on end. The ships are very safe, so you really have nothing to worry about – even if your kids are out late.

Disney has clubs for all ages, even teens, and it’s a really great way to make sure your kids are having a great vacation. It’s also a great way to ensure that you can have some time to yourself to enjoy the ship and adult-only areas!

10: Go to the 18-21 club!

If you’re between the ages of 18 to 21 (really like 25) then there’s a ‘club’ for you too! Disney organizes meet-ups for young adults so that making friends and having fun on the ship is easy. I’ve been going to these for the past few years and I’ve always made fast friends to hangout with for the rest of the cruise. Definitely go to the first meet-up, because after that a lot of people will break off into groups and not go to the meet-ups on other nights . 

11: You can book your own Port Adventures outside of Disney

On our first cruise we signed up for a port adventure through Disney Cruise Line. Unfortunately, it wasn’t exactly what we were looking for. It’s not that it wasn’t fun, it’s more that we’re not huge fans of large group, tour bus activities. Often, the Disney port adventures are crowded. You’ll likely be packed onto a bus with tons of other families while wearing a Disney Cruise tag around your neck. These adventures can also be pretty pricey. However, although they aren’t necessarily for me, they are convenient. Especially if you don’t mind the ‘typical’ cruise tour format. There are also tons of adventure options to choose from, so for many families Disney port adventures are preferred.

Besides the one Disney Cruise Line port adventure, we’ve always booked our own private tours/excursions at each port. So far, they have all been fantastic! 

12: Use Tours by Locals and other sites for port tours + activities

I recommend booking private drivers/tour guides though Tours by Locals (or other websites like AirBnb Experiences). With these tours, a driver will meet you at the port and take you to all of the tourist sites, restaurants, shops, museums, etc. that you want to visit. You won’t be stuck with tons of other families, and you’ll plan your time around exactly what you want to do. These tours are much more flexible. If you’re looking to be able to customize your experience then I highly recommend them. Additionally, I love that these private tours allow you to connect with a local and learn about their favorite parts of their city! We’ve used Tours by Local on tons of Disney Cruises, and they’ve been great every time. 

13: You don’t have to get off at the ports

Of course, on a cruise, most everyone will want to get off and explore the ports, but keep in mind that it’s not required. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with older or younger family members/friends who may prefer not to leave the ship for extended periods of time. We took a cruise with our grandparents and it was wonderful for them to be able to stay on the ship. They enjoyed the quiet, relaxed, and almost empty ship while we went on a day long tour.

14: Book spa treatments onboard

If you want to get a  spa treatment on the ship, and are flexible with the date and time, then book it on board! There are daily spa specials offered at non-peak times that are totally worth taking advantage of. Normally, these treatments will be offered while the ship is docked at a port. Head to the spa on the first day of the cruise to see the daily specials and spa treatment offers.

15: Ask for sea-sick medication

You do not need to bring your own sea-sick medication, especially if you aren’t sure if you’ll get sea-sick. Medicine is available on board, and it is free if you need it. The medicine works great, but it may make you drowsy.

So there you have it! I hope you found these 15 first time Disney Cruise tips to be helpful! Disney Cruises are so much fun, and there are so many different itineraries to choose from! Additionally, depending on the length of the cruise and the type of stateroom you choose, they can be very affordable for families. We highly recommend booking a Disney Cruise for your next vacation, it will definitely be unforgettable!

If you enjoyed these first time Disney Cruise tips, please share this post on social media!

Pin this Guide: First Time Disney Cruise Tips

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27 comments.

These tips are so helpful! So glad to have this info. Great post!

This is extremely helpful as I am planning our trip on Disney—Thank You

Thank you so much, I’m so glad you found it helpful! If you have any questions please let know. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Sounds like such a fun family vacay! Thanks for sharing!

These are great cruise tips! I’ve only been on 2 cruises but can relate to all of these as well even though they weren’t disney cruises (especially packing your own alcohol!) I didn’t know that room service was free though that’s something great to keep in mind

This actually sounds really fun. I’ve never done a cruise, even though I’ve done heaps of them. I think I should give it a go one day.

I’ve been waiting to go on a Disney cruise for a while and I love these tips! I think the one about excursions is especially helpful. I like the idea of taking a step back from all the people and taking a tour yourself.

Nice tips. I’ve never been on a cruise so I’ll have to keep these in mind! Bringing your own alcohol is a must 🙂 🙂

I’ve never been on a cruise, but these are some great tips! I’ll keep them in mind in case I ever go on one!

This looks like so much fun! Thank you for the tips!

Fantastic tips! Love the use the Tours by Locals tip, that’s a great one! Definitely saving this for later

These are so helpful! I’d love to do a Disney cruise one day, so I’m definitely pinning this for later. It seems like a lot of fun!

Sounds like a nice trip and you had a lot of fun!

Such a happy adventure! Thanks for the learning! I’m greatly inspired!

I’ve never been on a cruise but you’ve totally sold me on them! These are great tips, thanks for sharing them.

These are great tips! I have only been on Carnival Cruises but I think I’d enjoy a Disney cruise, too! Also, I had never heard of an alcohol waiver. Good to know for future trips.

I was so ill when my family went on a disney cruise – from sea sickness and a cold I’d got beforehand. It’s nice to see that it can actually be fun when you aren’t a rashy disaster!

Thanks for the great guide! I’ve never been on a cruise so I wouldn’t really know what to expect from one. I’m saving this guide because a Disney one sounds fantastic!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Awesome post! I found it to be super informative. I seriously want to get into a cruise ship now!!!

I have been dying to go on a Disney cruise! This looked so fun!!

This is a very comprehensive list. Great for anyone thinking of a Disney cruise!

I’d love to go on a Disney cruise – it’s my ultimate cruise bucket list!

Francesca x // glutenfreehorizons.com

I haven’t been on a cruise for so so long but these are super helpful! The Disney ones especially look insanely fun! Love this.

Great advice! Esp about the free room service- I had no idea! We’re planning for a 2024 Disney cruise 😉

So exciting! If you have any questions please let me know 🙂

Hi! I’m a huge disney frantic, so I really enjoy reading up on your post. I’m planning a disney cruise right now, so I’m super excited and pumped up thanks to your post! (:

That’s fantastic news! I hope you love your Disney Cruise. If you have any questions, please let us know 🙂

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Travel and Fun Things To Do

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks

Updated February 22, 2024

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

Learn More About Your Ship

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

Join Your Facebook Group

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

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

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

Check Out Your Stateroom

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

Cruise Essentials

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

Book Your Activities, Excursions, and Character Meets

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

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

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

Learn about Castaway Cay if your ship is stopping there. 

Explore Food and Dining Options

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

See what the dessert experience at Remy is like.

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

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

Getting to the Port

Learn about taking Disney transfers to the port.

Prepare for Boarding Day

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

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

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

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

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

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Disney Magic review: What it's like to sail the original Disney ship 25 years later

If cars are often considered classics after 25 years, how does that translate to a popular cruise ship that is sailing toward its 25th birthday?

Having sailed on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Wish , which is still in its first year of operations, along with both Disney Dream and Disney Wonder , I was curious how my family would find things on the oldest ship in Disney's fleet: Disney Magic.

Believe it or not, it's been almost 25 years since Magic first set sail in 1998, so it truly is an older ship by U.S. cruise line standards.

However, age is just a number, as they say, so I was excited to experience the Disney ship that started it all. After more than two decades of service, would it be a timeless classic or a less-impressive version of the younger and bigger Disney ships?

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

On a chilly January morning, my family and I packed our Mickey ears and made the two-hour drive to the ship's winter home port of Galveston, Texas, ready to find out how Disney Magic stands up to the other ships in the fleet.

How old is Disney Magic?

Disney Magic set sail on its maiden voyage July 30, 1998, from Florida to the Bahamas. However, the ship has had work done over the years, and not every piece of it is rapidly approaching 25 years old.

For example, some elements of the ship are just 5 years old because they were added or revamped during Magic's last dry dock, when the cruise line took the opportunity to make some upgrades.

Updated attractions include the teen club Vibe, the adults-only coffee shop Cove Cave and the only "Tangled-" themed restaurant on the ocean: Rapunzel's Royal Table.

Dry-dock refurbishments are a pretty routine occurrence, taking place every five years or so. That means the ship isn't stuck in a 1998 time warp.

Instead, it's quite similar in many ways to all its fleetmates except Disney Wish, which is really a part of the next generation of Disney ships rather than a continuation of the look and feel of the first four.

In other words, don't let the age of Disney Magic scare you.

Related: 26 tips and tricks for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

The size of Disney Magic

Disney Magic may be the oldest (and tied with Disney Wonder for the fleet's smallest ship), but it's still a large ship at 11 decks high and 984 feet long. The 875-cabin vessel holds 3,658 passengers — 2,713 cruisers and about 945 crew members.

The ship features two theaters, five kids clubs, a spa, four restaurants (plus a buffet and quick-service food stalls) and three pools. In other words, you'll stay busy exploring and enjoying the ship for at least several days.

Restaurants and food on Disney Magic

Disney Magic debuted the cruise line's rotational dining system, which is unique in the cruise industry.

Throughout the cruise, passengers rotate through three complimentary dining venues, and your serving team joins you in the different restaurants each night. Other dining options include the extra-fee, adults-only restaurant, Disney Cruise Line's dedicated Italian restaurant. There are also casual grab-and-go venues on the pool deck.

Rapunzel's Royal Table

My favorite of the three included rotational restaurants is Rapunzel's Royal Table, found only on Disney Magic. Here, you get the unique experience of attending Rapunzel's birthday celebration.

Floating lanterns dot the ceiling, and some of the stars of "Tangled" perform a musical show on a central stage while you dine. Eventually, many of the characters work their way around the room, so you can say hi to the movie's villains and heroes. This dinner show was most similar to the Tiana-themed restaurant on Disney Wonder, which is also excellent.

Pro tip: Get the shrimp appetizer if you enjoy seafood — get two if you really enjoy seafood.

Lumiere's

The most non-descript of the three main dining rooms on Disney Magic is Lumiere's, which is "Beauty and the Beast" inspired. However, you'll only know that from the roses on the ceiling and the painting on one wall.

Otherwise, it's just a large restaurant that gives off major art deco vibes. If you need to miss a restaurant in favor of a meal at Palo or relaxing in your room, I'd pick this one as it's the most generic of the three.

Animator's Palate

All original four Disney ships have a version of Animator's Palate, though it varies a bit on each ship.

The one on Disney Magic starts in black and white, but the room and the wait staff gain colorful adornments throughout the course of the meal. A special guest makes an appearance during the grand finale, which is when things really transform into full color, accompanied with exciting music and special effects.

The special guest (spoiler alert: Mickey in his rarely worn Sorcerer's Apprentice outfit) dances his way all around the room, so have your camera ready.

Our turn in Animator's Palate happened on the final night of our cruise, so the entire wait staff came out for a round of well-deserved applause with Mickey, and it was honestly pretty emotional.

You do not want to leave early from this meal, so order extra dessert if you must and stay put until the end.

The most popular dish here may be the black truffle pasta purseittes appetizer, as it has quite the following, though it wasn't my personal favorite. The smoked salmon tartar and vegetarian black bean chipotle cakes were the hits at our table.

The best $45 you can spend onboard a Disney cruise , to me, is unquestionably a meal at Palo.

This adults-only restaurant is open for brunch and dinner, and you can't go wrong with either. There are sometimes last-minute openings. However, this is one meal you'll want to book as far out as possible as it's popular and has limited seating.

This is the only restaurant on Disney Magic where food costs extra, but the cost is reasonable for what you get. The essentially all-you-want-to-enjoy brunch costs $45 with can't-miss items such as chicken Parmesan, wild mushroom ravioli, a seafood antipasti plate and chocolate souffle, along with flatbreads, omelets, waffles and more.

Favorite grab-and-go spots

Out on deck, you'll also find many grab-and-go outlets, which are also included in your cruise fare. These venues serve up such basics as soft serve ice cream, pizza, fries and chicken tenders, but two of these fast-food stations were surprise hits.

Daisy's De Lites mainly offers fruits, salads and cookies, but it also has a build-your-own chicken and rice bowl that was absolutely fantastic. Load your bowl up with everything on offer for the best results.

Another nice surprise was the Duck-In Diner counter that served pita, hummus and gyros — a welcome change from the admittedly also-delicious kid staples of tenders and fries.

Related: 7 ways Disney Wish surprised me

Waterslide on Disney Magic

If you want a thrilling ride on a Disney ship, by far, the winner in that category is found on Disney Magic with its mildly terrifying AquaDunk.

Where the new AquaMouse on Disney Wish is cute and family-friendly, the AquaDunk is something else entirely, making it an alluring attraction for the tween and teen crew.

On this waterslide, you stand in a booth at the highest point on the ship. When it's your turn, the floor drops out beneath you, and you fall 40 feet only to be shot about 18 feet out over the side of the ship.

For this slide, not only do you have to be at least 4 feet tall, but you have to be OK with climbing into an enclosed capsule, having the door shut, hearing that countdown and then dropping and getting soaked.

I tried it once, and that was enough for me to say I've done it. If that's too intense for you or your kids, don't worry. There's a more traditional waterslide on Disney Magic, too. The Twist 'n' Spout slide by the AquaLab was the favorite spot for my 7-year-old.

Related: The best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

Pools on Disney Magic

Disney Magic has a lot of strengths, but the pools are pretty basic.

Options include the AquaLab pool, Goofy's main pool between the two funnels, a small splash area and the adult pool area. If you go during off hours, such as early or late in the day, it's a great experience. However, the pools aren't nearly large enough for the popularity of a midday swim.

The adult pool area was my personal favorite of the three pools, though it's not nearly as cool looking as the infinity pool on Disney Wish.

In the interest of setting realistic expectations, expect pools to look much more like this (or worse) during the heat of the day.

Kid clubs on Disney Magic

Small world nursery.

While most of the kid clubs on Disney cruises are included, the one exception across all the ships is for the Small World Nursery. It's available for little ones from 6 months to 3 years old at a rate of $4.50 per half hour. This was a relatively basic space compared to the other kid clubs, but this age range is the easiest to impress.

Pro tip: There is a one-way mirror so you can check on your little one without them seeing you.

Oceaneer's Club and Lab

The heart of Disney Cruise Line's kid clubs are the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, which are connected and available to kids from ages 3 to 12 who are potty trained. Here, you'll find a "Toy Story-" themed slide, crafts, video games, organized activities, competitions, an Avenger's area and more.

Kids can enjoy free play or color, play video games or go on the slide at their own pace, but the youth staff also lead frequent group activities throughout the day. These may be a better fit for kids who need a little more support and structure to their fun.

My 7-year-old would consistently eat her dinner as fast as possible to head here and keep playing.

There's no fee and no reservations required to come and play in these clubs. However, you will need to get a Magic Band from the kids club that is used to track the kiddos while they are in the clubs. If you return it on the last night of the cruise, you won't be charged for its use.

Once your kiddo turns 11 (or 10 with parent permission and enough space), they can start visiting Edge, which has a submarine-under-the-sea look on Disney Magic.

It's nearly identical to the Edge club on Disney Wonder. Youth staff lead organized activities and games in Edge at certain times during the day, but it also serves as a casual tween hangout spot the rest of the time.

The teen club, Vibe, is open for to those ages 14 to 17, though you can get in a year early with parent permission, which is what my 13-year-old chose. Both Vibe and Edge are come-and-go clubs that don't scan your kids in and out or track them with any sort of band.

The youth staff offer some structured games and activities, but Vibe is largely a place to hang out, play video games and get to know other teens.

Pro tip: If your teen wants to make friends on the ship, have them be active and present in the teen club on the first day when there are ice-breaker activities. Lots of unofficial cruise packs of friends form on day one, and then the teens roam the ship together, not necessarily hanging out in the club.

Related: These are the best cruises for teens

Rooms on Disney Magic

I'm sure there are some differences among the cabins on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy, but they all look the same to me.

The decor is heavy on navy, white, stripes and wood. Below is our cabin on Magic, which slept the three of us comfortably with the couch converting to a single bed. Unlike in some cabins we've had, this one did not have a bed that came down from the ceiling.

It did feature the split bathroom design Disney Cruise Line is known for. One small bathroom contains the sink and toilet, and a separate little room has another sink and a tub/shower combo. The layout is ideal for getting multiple people ready for the day or for bed at the same time.

Here's a look at our most recent cabin on Disney Dream, as a contrast to Disney Magic (or lack of contrast, as the case may be).

Related: Inside a $10,000 suite on Disney Wish

Adult areas on Disney Magic

In keeping with the approach on the other original Disney ships, the adult bars and lounges on Disney Magic are largely clustered in the same area dubbed After Hours.

Here you'll find Keys, a piano bar and lounge with some top-notch whiskey; O'Gills Pub, which is a great place for a pint or to watch sports; and Fathoms, which is a mixed-use lounge that often serves as a meeting point for excursions or family-friendly activities during the day and as a club at night.

I enjoyed listening to a few songs in Keys after dinner a few nights. However, none of these spaces were fully my cup of tea, mainly because they were dark and not super inviting.

Also, the lounges' layouts were not conducive to social interaction among the guests due to an emphasis on clustered seating rather than communal bar space. Or, maybe it's just the luck of the draw, and the cruisers on Disney Magic were less interested in chatting with their shipmates than on my previous cruise on Disney Wish.

The unexpected upside of this was that I did not feel like I was missing out by ditching the bars for my room, where I could enjoy a glass of wine on my balcony.

Pro tip: This adult area of the ship is where you will find the most comfortable port holes for photos, reading a book or relaxing and enjoying the ride at sea.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Shows on Disney Magic

If you ever get the chance to sail on Disney Magic — or any of the Disney ships — don't miss the Sail Away party that takes place shortly after the muster drill as the ship pulls out to sea. It's the most fun way to kick your vacation into high gear. Arrive a few minutes early to get a spot by the stage, especially if you have little kids.

Disney Magic, like the other Disney ships, has a movie theater where you can see first-run Disney movies. Since there is only one movie theater on Magic, it offers a smaller choice of movies than on the ships with two theaters, but it's still a nice selection.

The evening Broadway-caliber shows currently on Disney Magic are:

• "Tangled: The Musical."
• "Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic."
• "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story."

We skipped "Disney Dreams," as it was a repeat of what we'd seen on Disney Wonder. However, all of these shows are worth seeing, with "Tangled" the strongest of the three offerings. "Tangled" and "Twice Charmed" are unique to Disney Magic, in case you need to prioritize.

Fewer temptations to spend money on Disney Magic

On the new Disney Wish, I found an abundance of temptations to spend money around every turn.

These included alcoholic popsicle drinks, the ice cream shop the kids passed multiple times per day (with see-through glass walls, naturally), the Star Wars-themed bar that jumps through hyperspace , the Bayou with pay-to-eat beignets, Nightingale's next to the kid's club with the cocktails served in balls of ice, the coffee and cocktails in the ship's version of a buffet, Marceline Market and so many other fun and enticing ways to part with your dollars.

While Disney Magic does not lack places to buy a cocktail, it does not have a sweet shop, Untangled hair salon, Hook's Barbery with the "hidden" drink cabinet or specialty snacks like beignets that aren't included in your cruise fare.

I found it easier than on Wish to simply enjoy what comes with the experience instead of feeling like you need to spend $10, $20, $50 or more several times a day to get the full experience.

Related: How to save money on a Disney cruise

How I wish they'd make Magic more magical

I'd love for Disney Magic to add a slide into the kids club, a brighter and airier spa and some other elements of Disney Wish that we liked, but that's easier said than done. I do have a shorter list of more realistic upgrades I'd love to see on Disney Magic in the coming years.

This original Disney ship would benefit from at least one brighter bar or lounge, as the ship can feel cavernous at times. As I mentioned, for me, the bars weren't inviting spaces when compared to my own cabin's balcony. This is in stark contrast to all the beautiful bars and lounges on Wish I was excited to spend time in.

It would also be a real plus if Disney Magic integrated a magical scavenger hunt type of activity that you see on other Disney ships. This would layer in one more thing for the kids to do on a sea day or between other activities.

Also, this is personal preference, but while I enjoy and appreciate the bold nautical theme of the classic Disney ships, I do think there's a way to pull that off without the striped decor in the staterooms that may have sailed a touch passed its prime.

Here's a view of a Disney Wish cabin, showing the updated decor I'd love to see on Disney Magic. It retains the deep blue but steps away from the dated stripes.

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

Overall impressions

Disney Magic was a fun and thoroughly enjoyable ship. It doesn't feel old, but it is smaller and a touch more quaint than the line's newest ships.

The ship's smaller footprint with fewer onboard temptations to spend money can be a benefit in that it's easier to get around and just enjoy — not only the ship but also where it's going.

Without all the pay-to-enjoy distractions, my family went to more of the gameshows, spent more time at the pools or reading on the balcony and even watched the baby crawling races, which sound bizarre but are very entertaining.

I would not hesitate to sail on Disney Magic again in its 25th year or in the future — no matter how many newer and bigger Disney cruise ships make their debuts.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
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Best Disney Cruise Tips for an Unforgettable Voyage (2023)

Embarking on a Disney cruise promises a magical journey filled with enchanting experiences, delightful entertainment, and the whimsical charm only Disney can deliver. Whether you find yourself aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Wish, or any of the illustrious Disney cruise ships, a treasure trove of adventures awaits, from immersive Disney movies to thrilling pool deck activities. If you’ve ever wondered whether a Disney cruise is worth it , consider this: the all-inclusive nature of the cruise, combined with unparalleled Disney service, offers a compelling value proposition. However, the secret to unlocking an unforgettable voyage lies in meticulous planning and arming yourself with essential Disney cruise tips .

By diving into the magical world of Disney Cruise Line and soaking up every sprinkle of pixie dust knowledge, you significantly elevate your cruise experience, ensuring every moment is steeped in Disney wonder. So, buckle up as we navigate through crucial tips, insightful suggestions, and hidden gems to optimize your journey in the enchanting realms of Disney!

Tips and Tricks for Booking Your Disney Cruise

Money-saving strategies.

First-time cruisers should also consider money-saving strategies to optimize their Disney cruise experience. Using Disney gift cards can help manage your budget efficiently. Keep an eye on cruise fare fluctuations and book when the prices dip, allowing for considerable savings.

Another smart strategy is to utilize onboard credit , which can be used for various services and purchases onboard. These savings can then be allocated to other fun activities, room service, or fine dining experiences, enhancing your cruise experience without breaking the bank.

Best Time To Book

Want the best deal for your Disney Cruise? Strike the moment it’s released! Typically, new cruises are announced about 18 months in advance. Booking right away ensures you get the most favorable price, regardless of your sailing date. The early bird truly gets the best stateroom at the best rate!

Choosing Your Stateroom

When selecting a stateroom, consider factors such as location, view, and amenities provided. A well-chosen stateroom enhances your cruise experience by offering easy access to the ship’s amenities and attractions, providing breathtaking views, and ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Whether you prefer a room with a veranda to enjoy the ocean views or one close to the pool deck for a quick swim, understanding your preferences and needs is key to making the right choice. A thoughtful selection of your stateroom means every moment in your private space is as enchanting as the adventures waiting for you on board and ashore.

Boarding the Disney Cruise Hacks

Importance of the disney cruise navigator app.

Navigating your Disney cruise is a breeze when you utilize the Disney Cruise Navigator App , a digital companion designed to enhance your voyage aboard the wondrous Disney cruise ships. It’s not just about setting sail; it’s about immersing yourself in a world where every moment is a brushstroke in your Disney masterpiece of memories.

It’s crucial to download the Disney Cruise Navigator app before you step into Disney’s floating kingdoms. This practice ensures a harmonious blend of excitement and effortless navigation from the onset. Accessibility is your wand, waving a seamless and interactive Disney experience into existence, connecting you instantly with essential guest services, and unfolding a treasure chest of Disney Cruise Line tips and secrets.

Installing the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app on your devices is quite simple. The app has an iOS version available on the App Store, and an Android version on Google Play . However, note that the app may be unavailable in some regions, such as Japan.

Disney Navigator App Features

This app is your key to unlocking experiences ; from scouting scrumptious dining options to unfolding a myriad of onboard activities, ensuring every heartbeat is in sync with Disney’s magical rhythm. Whether you’re lounging on the pool deck or sharing giggles with Disney characters, the app acts as your personal fairy godmother, transforming wishes into reality. It’s a beacon, illuminating pathways to unseen pleasures and untold stories, enveloping your senses in a cascade of Disney wonders.

Sailing with Disney is a magical experience, but with the Disney Cruise Navigator App, the magic is at your fingertips! Here’s why this app is your ultimate cruise companion:

• Bookings: No more manual reservations! Book Port Adventures, spa treatments, nursery slots, and even those exclusive adult-only dining experiences, all within the app.
• Payments: Seamlessly make payments and track your payment summaries without any hassle.
• Online Check-In: Begin your magical journey early with the “My Online Check-In” feature.
• Dining Seating: Curious about where you’ll be dining? View or modify your seating arrangements anytime.
• Vacation Protection Plan: Add or make changes to your protection plan details directly.
• Transportation Management: Easily view or modify details about your ground and air transportation.
• Special Requests: Whether you want extra pillows or a surprise for a special occasion, add or modify specific requests to personalize your experience.
• Activities Galore: Don’t miss out! Gain access to detailed schedules for live shows, movies, deck parties, character experiences, nightclubs, and even youth club events.
• Dip and Dive: Get all the information you need about pools and splash zones, including their locations and timings.
• Ports of Call: Stay informed about every magical stop on your cruise journey.
• Daily Calendar: Stay updated with an onboard daily calendar that lists events and activities, ensuring you never miss a beat.
• Personal Itinerary: Keep track of all your booked activities in one consolidated view.
• Personal Planner: Organize your schedule and bookmark your favorite activities for quick access.
• Rotational Dining: Know exactly where you’re dining, when, and even your table number, taking the guesswork out of meal times.
• Deck Plan: Navigate the ship effortlessly with a comprehensive deck plan at your disposal.
• Onboard Chat: Stay connected! Send messages and fun Disney emoticons to your friends and family onboard.

In essence, the Disney Cruise Navigator App isn’t just an app; it’s your personalized cruise assistant. With its extensive features, it ensures that your Disney cruise experience is not just magical but also hassle-free. So, before you set sail, make sure this trusty companion is with you!

Internet Packages Tips

While sailing with Disney Cruise, it’s essential to know your internet options. Everyone receives a complimentary 50MB on the first day. For more data, consider the packages: Pay As You Go ($0.25/MB), Small ($0.19/MB for 100MB), Medium ($0.13/MB for 300MB), or Large ($0.09/MB for 1,000MB).

Concierge guests in Category S, T, and V Staterooms enjoy a bonus of 100MB, but the real treat is for those in Category R Staterooms—they get free Wi-Fi for the entire cruise. Remember, the only way to enjoy continuous free internet is by booking a Category R Stateroom. However, you can try preserving your free MB’s by turning off background internet usage for nonessential apps.

Embarkation Day Essentials

Embarkation day can be both thrilling and chaotic, so knowing what to expect is crucial. To ensure a smooth start to your Disney Cruise, pack essentials such as documentation, medication, and swimwear in your carry-on bag, as you might not have immediate access to your checked luggage . Exploring the ship’s array of activities, from the inviting Disney Cruise pool deck to the expansive kid’s clubs, can make the first day of your cruise an unforgettable adventure.

Familiarizing yourself with the Disney Cruise app is also a good strategy as it offers schedules and important updates to keep you informed throughout your journey. By preparing adequately and embracing the vast array of activities available, you can kick start your cruise on a high note, setting the tone for an enchanting experience aboard.

Maximizing Dining Experience

Disney Cruises offers a culinary journey that matches the enchantment of the voyage itself. The expansive dining options available will allow you to indulge in a variety of gastronomical delights.

Rotational Dining and Fine Dining Options

Disney cruises introduce you to rotational dining , a unique concept where guests rotate through different dining venues, experiencing a variety of atmospheres and menus, including places like the charming Enchanted Garden. This approach to dining ensures that your culinary experience is ever-changing, exciting, and full of surprises.

Variety in Culinary Delights

Beyond rotational dining, there are numerous specialty dining experiences available on board, each designed to tantalize your taste buds with exquisite flavors and culinary craftsmanship. Whether you are a fan of gourmet dishes or crave homely comfort food, Disney cruises cater to every palate, making every meal a gastronomical adventure.

Dining Room Insights

Choosing between early and late seating is essential for optimizing your dining experience. Venues like Rapunzel’s Royal Table offer more than just food; they deliver a themed dining experience that blends storytelling with culinary artistry. To fully savor the exceptional fine dining on the cruise, understanding the nuances of each dining room and its offerings is crucial.

Your dining experience on Disney Cruises is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about embarking on a culinary journey that weaves together flavors, ambiance, and Disney magic, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Bars and Drinks

Disney Cruise Line offers a plethora of options for those looking to unwind with a drink. If you’re planning to enjoy some alcoholic beverages aboard, remember to pack wisely. Disney allows each passenger (21+) to bring two wine bottles or six beers in their carry-on. However, it’s advisable to pack your own corkscrew and bottle opener to avoid a $25 USD uncorking fee in the dining rooms.

For beer enthusiasts, a one-time purchase of a 21-ounce beer mug ensures you get an extra five ounces more with every refill. Don’t fancy carrying the mug around? Simply swap it for a card and redeem it for a fresh mug whenever you’re in the mood. On embarkation day, look out for beer packages offering discounts and unique bundles, like a six-pack paired with an insulated bag—perfect for beachside relaxation.

Wine lovers, before committing to the wine packages offered at dinner, weigh their value. Sometimes buying a bottle separately or even bringing one from home might offer better quality and value. And everyone should stay alert to the ship’s happy hours, typically announced via the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. These can offer up to 50% off drinks, which you’re free to enjoy anywhere on the ship.

Every day, a specially priced “drink of the day” is available for around $5, offering a delightful twist to your beverage experience. And if you’re looking to delve deeper into the world of spirits, consider a Mixology class or a beverage-tasting seminar. These activities might be an additional expense, but they present a unique chance to learn, taste, and mingle.

Concierge Guests Benefit

Opting for concierge-level rooms unlocks a world of exclusive benefits and privileges. Concierge guests gain access to private sun decks and receive personalized guest services, making every aspect of the cruise experience more luxurious and tailored.

From priority bookings for shore excursions to exclusive meet-and-greets with Disney characters, the perks of being a concierge guest add a sprinkle of extra magic to your Disney cruise, ensuring your journey is wrapped in comfort, convenience, and exclusive Disney enchantment.

Meeting the Disney Characters

Meeting Disney characters and embracing the Pirate Night spirit are some of the unmissable experiences that a Disney Cruise offers.

Interaction with Disney Characters

On a Disney Cruise, guests have the golden opportunity to meet a variety of Disney characters. These encounters can be a highlight of your Disney trip, bringing smiles to both young and older faces. Here’s a Disney cruise tip to make these interactions even more magical: check the Disney Cruise app regularly for times and locations of character greetings and be ready with your room key for swift access.

Whether you’re looking to snap a photo with Mickey or get an autograph from Cinderella, these moments add a sprinkle of extra magic to your journey. Maximizing these opportunities can turn your cruise into a series of unforgettable moments filled with joy, laughter, and Disney magic.

Embracing the Pirate Night Spirit

Pirate Night on a Disney Cruise is a thrilling experience where guests can unleash their inner pirates. This themed evening is the perfect time to do pirate costumes and partake in the swashbuckling festivities.

Whether you choose to enjoy fine dining with a pirate twist or attend special events brimming with buccaneer spirit, embracing the Pirate Night spirit adds an adventurous flavor to your cruise. Join the revelry, let your pirate flag fly high, and make memories that will be cherished long after the cruise ship has docked.

Must See Entertainment and Engaging Activities on Disney Cruise

A Disney cruise line offers a vast array of entertainment and activities, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Diverse Entertainment Options

The entertainment options on a Disney ship are diverse and captivating. Walt Disney Theatre hosts a range of spectacular shows , allowing guests to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Disney storytelling. For movie enthusiasts, the selection of Disney movies available is extensive, providing entertainment for every taste. Plus, for those wondering about casinos on Disney cruises.

Whether it’s enjoying a classic Disney movie or partaking in the myriad of onboard activities, the opportunities for fun and entertainment are boundless. Exploring these entertainment options can add a dash of excitement and wonder to every sea day, turning your entire cruise into a magical adventure.

Engaging Kids and Teens

For younger cruisers, the Kids Clubs and Teen Club on Disney cruises are hubs of fun and creativity. These spaces offer a safe environment where kids and teens can engage in a variety of activities while making new friends.

A visit to the Small World Nursery or the Cove Cafe can also be a delightful experience for families with young children. Ensuring that your children enjoy these clubs safely is crucial, so don’t hesitate to visit guest services for any inquiries or assistance. By leveraging these facilities, you can ensure that your youngsters have an equally enchanting time, filled with laughter, learning, and lots of Disney magic.

Best Shore Excursions and Castaway Cay

Exploring Disney ships and their distinctive destinations can be the highlight of your cruise adventure, and meticulous planning can optimize your experience.

Island Paradise: Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island , is a secluded paradise offering unique experiences and excursions. This island oasis is packed with activities ranging from serene beaches to adventurous trails.

Exploring the island’s pristine landscapes and participating in the unique activities available, like snorkeling and bike riding, can make your visit to Castaway Cay a memorable adventure. A stopover at this island paradise lets you experience Disney magic in a whole new light, where every moment is filled with enchantment and the vibrant spirit of the island.

Planning Your Shore and Port Adventures

Effective planning for shore and port adventures is key to making the most out of each port of call. By researching each destination and booking excursions that suit your interests and budget, you can ensure a richer and more enjoyable experience at every port. Delving into the culture, cuisine, and attractions of each destination can provide a more rounded and fulfilling cruise experience.

It’s also wise to consider the duration and timing of each excursion to avoid clashes with other planned activities and to ensure you’re back on the ship in good time. Through thoughtful planning and a spirit of adventure, each port visit can become a unique journey, adding diverse and enriching layers to your overall Disney cruise experience.

More Essential Tips and Tricks for Disney Cruisers

What to pack on your disney cruise.

On your boarding day, luggage might take some time to arrive at your stateroom. So, keep these handy in a day bag:

• Medication (in original containers)
• Passport and necessary documentation
• Camera and accessories
• Extra glasses or contacts
• Sunscreen and hat
• Swimsuit and cover-up

Weather-Adapted Attire:

• Layered clothing for variable climates, especially in places like Canada.
• Winter essentials such as gloves, hats, and boots for colder regions.
• Waterproof and windproof coat, sturdy footwear, and binoculars for exploring.

Remember, Disney Cruises also offers themed nights and character meet-and-greets, so packing a few Disney-themed outfits or accessories can make those moments extra special for the family.

What Not to Pack on Your Disney Cruise

• Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, and even items like bullwhips.
• Homemade or precooked perishable items.
• Irons, bottle warmers, balloons, candles, and musical instruments.
• All illegal drugs, inclusive of medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana.
• Coolers, unless for medications, baby food, or dietary needs.

Disney Wear Recommendations

Engage fully with the Disney spirit and ensure your cruise experience is magical:

• Character Attire : From classic Mickey and Minnie ears to Goofy hats, show off your Disney pride.
• Themed Nights : For those themed evenings or special character breakfasts, have outfits ready for your little princesses or pirates.
• Casual Wear : T-shirts, pajamas, or even socks featuring your favorite Disney characters can add an extra touch of fun to your voyage.

Dining Wear

Main Dining: Stick to cruise casual – no swimwear or tank tops. Dressing up is optional yet common.

Adult Exclusive Dining: Aim for polished, from formal to semi-formal wear. Avoid casual t-shirts, swimwear, and sportswear.

Themed Nights: Participate in themed or formal nights if your cruise is 7 nights or longer. The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App provides attire guidance for each evening.

Exchanging Currency On Board

When traveling with Disney Cruise Line in Europe, euros can be exchanged at Guest Services, typically located on Deck 3, midship. However, note that these euros are available in limited amounts. For domestic journeys, all transactions are in US dollars.

The best part? Disney Cruise Line provides this currency exchange service free of charge. But remember, exchange rates can shift even while you’re sailing. It’s wise to monitor these rates as your cruise date nears to ensure you get the best deal.

Spas and Fitness Center

While cruising with Disney, don’t miss the Senses Spa & Salon, an oasis of luxury available on every ship. Dive into an array of spa treatments from massages to haircare. The Spa booking needs to be made in advance.

• It’s an adults-only space, welcoming guests 18 and up.
• Treatments are extra and not covered in your cruise fare.
• To secure your pampering session, book online via the Planning Center or onboard after 1:00 PM on day one of your cruise. Enjoy the tranquility!

Best Time to Shop

Considering a magical journey with Disney Cruise? Aim to book during January, February, or March, commonly referred to as “wave season.” This is when dreamy deals are aplenty! Another golden opportunity is Black Friday or Cyber Monday. However, a heads-up: prices tend to soar for cruises around Christmas and New Year’s. Plan wisely and save!

Embarking on a voyage with Disney Cruise Line promises a cascade of enchanting experiences, swirling in a symphony of magical moments. Integrating our carefully curated Disney Cruise tips ensures that every wave of the journey is sprinkled with delight, and every horizon is draped in wonder. From the whimsical charm of Disney Dream and the grandeur of Disney Fantasy to the innovative allure of Disney Wish, exploring the diverse fleet unlocks a treasure trove of distinctive pleasures.

So, embrace the magic, weave through the wonders of each Disney cruise ship, and let the waves of excitement guide you through a labyrinth of unforgettable adventures, unfolding a tapestry of memories that will linger in the heart’s gallery forever.

Which side of the Disney cruise ship is best?

The best side of a Disney cruise ship often hinges on the itinerary and personal preferences. However, for cruises stopping at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, the starboard side staterooms offer a better view of the guest-accessible parts of the island, making it a top choice for those keen on picturesque views. This positioning is especially beneficial for photography enthusiasts who want to capture stunning shots of the island’s attractions.

How much are tips per person on Disney cruise?

Typically, tips on a Disney Cruise are around $13.50 to $14.50 per person, per day, depending on the stateroom category. This daily rate is distributed among your dining team and stateroom host. Kids are also expected to pay the same rate, so keep this in mind when budgeting for your Disney cruise expenses.

How do I leave tips on Disney cruise?

To leave tips on a Disney cruise, you can pre-pay them before your sailing date, or they will be automatically added to your onboard account. However, you can adjust the amounts at Guest Services if needed. Additionally, tipping for exceptional service is always welcomed and can even be offered directly.

What do adults do on a Disney cruise?

For adults on a Disney cruise, there’s a wealth of activities, from enjoying exclusive adult-only dining at Palo or Remy to relaxing at the adult-exclusive Quiet Cove Pool. Adult guests can also indulge in the Senses Spa & Salon services and partake in themed entertainment and activities. Additionally, adults can explore lounges and nightclubs on board, each offering a unique ambiance, specialty cocktails, and entertainment, ensuring a good time.

What not to miss on a Disney cruise?

When on a Disney cruise, do not miss the themed deck parties like Pirate Night, the Broadway-style shows at Walt Disney Theatre, and the fireworks at sea. Exploring the Disney cruise ship’s unique offerings, enjoying the diverse dining options, and engaging in Castaway Cay activities are also must-do experiences.

Digital Marketer

I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

About FunkyCruise

Disney Cruise Line – 14 tips and tricks

.disney cruise line – tips and tricks.

GUEST POST: EMILY

Taking your first Disney cruise?

Sailing on Disney Cruise Line is as exciting as it is expensive. It really can be the experience of a lifetime for Disney nerds and people who enjoy the calibre of service Disney is notorious for. I have been on 2 cruises on the Disney Magic (my first two cruises ever) and more recently, once on the Disney Fantasy. The following are things that I found useful or interesting about sailing with Disney Cruise Line. If you’re sailing with them for the first time, you might enjoy this post!

Disney Cruise Line Tip #1:

Room number decorations help you figure out what side of the ship you are on.

The plaque that displays room numbers in the hallways are decorated with an ocean-themed “statue”. If your stateroom is on the starboard side you will see a seahorse above your room number. For a port side room, you will see a fish above your room number. If you are one of the lucky ones that have a starfish above your room number, you are a concierge-level guest.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #2 :

The world map on the carpet in the hallway distinguishes which direction you are walking.

There are prints of the globe on the carpet in the hallways on the Disney ships. If you happen to notice which direction they are facing when you are walking, you can easily tell if you are walking forward or aft. Walking towards the North of the globe? You are heading forward. Walking South of the globe means aft.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #3 :

Hidden mickeys everywhere.

On one of our first Disney cruises, it was pointed out to us that throughout the whole ship there are hidden Mickeys to be found. One of the many inventive touches by the Disney brand. If you look at the staircase railings in the atrium, you might notice some in the metalwork, or around the glass elevators. There are plenty more around the ship, but I won’t give their whereabouts away.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #4 :

Popular characters will require tickets for meet and greets.

On my sailing on the Fantasy, Anna and Elsa from Frozen were virtually brand new still in the Disney world. Their popularity led Disney to require the distribution of special event tickets for meet and greets with these characters. Do not fret as it is not an extra charge. When we were onboard we needed to pick a time and get tickets from Guest Services during certain hours on embarkation day. According to the Disney Cruise website, depending on your loyalty status, you can make meet and greet reservations after your cruise is paid in full, through your online reservation. If you wait until embarkation day, there is a chance there will no longer be any tickets available so I would suggest reserving this in advance.

How do you meet and greet a character?

There are regularly scheduled character greetings throughout the day which do not require tickets or reservation. These are on a first-come-first-serve basis based on the scheduled time. You can check your paper Personal Navigator or digital copy on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for characters and times on the days of your sailing. Due to storage limitations onboard cruise ships (I’m talking about storing character costumes). There will not be a large group of characters onboard the ships, and characters rotate out every so often. I was a bit disappointed as Rapunzel left the Fantasy several sailings before mine, but they had plenty of other characters to meet.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #5 :

Castaway cay.

All Bahamian and Caribbean Disney cruises include a stop at the private island of Castaway Cay. There are kids areas, family areas, and adult-only areas. There is also a post office right off the pier so you can send postcards to friends and family and make them so jealous! Also, you can take part in the Castaway Cay 5k run, or enjoy an encounter with stingrays. Like all private islands, enjoy the complimentary island BBQ for lunch! It’s a nice private cruise line destination as the pier negates the need to tender ashore, as opposed to most of the other cruise line private destinations. I went to the adults only beach when I was there last time and there was a cool sandbar to swim to. It had fish swimming around and some starfish on the sandy floor.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #6 :

The buena vista theater.

See new Disney movies before they are released to the movie theaters on land, and see current and old classics in the onboard movie theater. There is a snack shop outside called Preludes where you can purchase concessions for the movie but I’ve heard of people bringing their own snacks from home onto the ship and taking them to the theater for the show, much like going to the movie theaters at home. “McFarland, USA” was the pre-release movie showing on my sailing (I sailed in February 2015).

Disney Cruise Line Tip #7 :

Nemo’s reef and aqua lab for water fun.

The Aqua Lab (available on Disney Magic, Wonder and Fantasy) and Nemo’s Reef (available on Disney Dream and Fantasy) are fun, splashy areas for the kiddos. The Aqua Lab lives up to its scientific name with all sorts of animated water pipes that spout water, buckets that dump water, interactive wheels to control the water, and more. Nemo’s Reef is a small splash area for the little squirts, complete with a small slide down Mr. Ray’s back into the splash pad, and numerous fountains and a water “curtain” that mimics the East Australian Current that is referenced in the movie.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #8 :

Dining room rotations.

Disney pioneered the idea of rotational dining, and it is so much fun. There are three main dining rooms that guests rotate between throughout a sailing, and your waiters follow you so you get to keep the same dining room staff in every restaurant.

What are the Disney Cruise Line restaurant themes?

The restaurants are all themed, and the dining room staff change uniform based on the dining room they are in. The Disney Magic used to have a fun Key West-themed dining room called Parrot Cay, which then changed its name to Carioca’s, which now has become a Tangled-themed restaurant called Rapunzel’s Royal Table (I have to go – she’s my favorite!!). Other restaurants include Animator’s Palate (all ships), Lumiere’s (Disney Magic), Triton’s (Disney Wonder), the new Tiana’s Place (Disney Wonder), Enchanted Garden (Disney Fantasy and Dream), and Royal Palace/Royal Court (Disney Dream/Disney Fantasy). Bonus tip: If you order “nothing” for dessert, you will literally get a plate of “nothing”.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #9 :

Speciality dining.

Disney is also known for their food, and they offer a couple of premium dining options in addition to their included dining. The speciality restaurants are adult-only. All of the ships have the restaurant called Palo, which specializes in Northern Italian cuisine. The Dream and Fantasy also have Remy, which like its animated namesake, serves French cuisine. Both restaurants serve brunch and dinner, and reservations are required.

Disney Cruise Line: How much do the speciality restaurants cost?

There is a charge to eat in both of these restaurants and a dress code is enforced. Palo is $30 per person for both brunch and dinner, and Remy comes in at the top at $60 per person for brunch. (Excluding a champagne add-on charge) or $95 per person for dinner (holy moly). I did have brunch at Palo on my Disney Fantasy cruise and it was definitely worth it. They had the best chicken parmigiana as well as some super tasty and creative pizzas, and the service was top notch.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #10 :

Aquaduck coaster.

Another result of Disney’s super water-works Imagineering is the AquaDuck coaster. It is a water slide/coaster combo that takes you around the sides of the ship. Available on the Disney Dream and Fantasy, you can climb to the top of the non-functional funnel to the slide start. A conveyor belt of inflatable inner-tubes means you don’t have to carry one with you on the trek up. When the ride begins, you loop around off the side of the ship and there are a couple of dips and straightaways until you pass through the other funnel and turn around, take another few dips. Down a straightaway to the rides’ end. It’s kind of a lazy-river-meets-waterslide. There are some POV videos going through the ride on YouTube if you want to “experience” it for yourself.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #11 :

Places for all ages.

In addition to the adults-only specialty dining venues. Disney provides other lounges and activities reserved for those aged 21+. There is an adult-only pool area, bars and lounges, and adults-only trivia, mixology classes, music challenges, and fitness classes, among other things. Much of the ship is for all ages. Then there are the kids-only areas, like the Oceaneer Lab, Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe, reserved for different age groups from tots to teens. The kids clubs have special activities like dress-up, Super Sloppy Science, ice cream socials, and arts and crafts. If the grown-ups are treating themselves to a specialty restaurant or just want a quiet night at one of the main dining rooms, the kids and teens crew will take the kids to dinner at the buffet. Most of the time, the kids won’t want to leave the kids clubs.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #12 :

Pirate deck party.

On Caribbean sailings, Disney holds a pirate-themed party on the lido deck after sail away. Complete with their own fireworks display! Everyone gets a special pirate bandana left in their stateroom, and many families and couples bring their own pirate costumes with them just to dress up for this special night. Pirates of the Caribbean music blasts on deck, there’s dancing and swashbuckling. Mickey and the gang even come in their own pirate outfits. I would say it’s the best deck party on the high seas.

Disney Cruise Line Tip #13 :

Star wars and marvel days at sea.

Disney offers special sailings for Marvel comic lovers and Star Wars fanatics! At the moment, you can find Marvel sailings on select 5-night sailings onboard the Disney Magic from Miami. Star Wars sailings are offered on select 7-night sailings onboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral. These sailings give you one day at sea full of characters and activities from the Marvel universe, s well as the Star Wars franchise. But these are limited throughout the year. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny for these sailings. Since they are both limited sailings and in high demand, you will pay a little more than the standard Disney Cruise fare (which is already costly).

Disney Cruise Line Tip #14 :

Holiday cruises are offered too.

If you enjoy the Halloween and Christmas parties from the Disney Parks. You can experience them at sea too!  Disney offers Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime cruises fleet-wide during those times of the year. Halloween on the High Seas runs from mid-September until the end of October.  Very Merrytime beings in early- to mid-November all the way through the end of December. Both themes include special deck parties and characters, and holiday themed entertainment. It’s a great dream of mine to afford a Very Merrytime cruise one day and go! These sailings are also priced higher than normal (as any holiday cruise on any cruise line is).

Is Disney Cruise Line worth the money?

There is truly so much to discover with Disney Cruise Line, and this is just skimming the surface. If you can afford to go – even once – I highly recommend it, just to have that experience. Personally, I would still cruise on other lines before picking Disney just based on price alone. But if you can treat yourself to one, it’s worth the money for sure. The service from the crew is terrific, and having that touch of Disney magic at sea with all the characters and special events is surreal. A major bonus is all the Disney tunes that the ship horn can blast. It’s so much fun to be out on deck when they sound the horn!

Disney’s new ships

If I haven’t convinced you to try Disney Cruise Line, or haven’t pulled at your heartstrings to book another Disney cruise, all I have to say is: What is wrong with you?! Kidding, of course. But in all seriousness, if you’re lucky enough to have gone, or to give it a try for the first time, it is a real treat to sail with Disney. With Captain Mickey at the helm, you can’t go wrong. Keep a lookout for three new sets of the iconic red smokestacks on the horizon, too! Disney has three new ships on the way starting 2021 through 2023.

Thank you so much for this Emily! I love getting guest posts from you. They’re so easy to read and I learn so much. I had no idea you’d have to book meet and  greets to meet characters or that you could, literally, get a plate of nothing for dinner. I’ve got two nieces and I’m sure they’d both love Disney! Hopefully, I can take them one day. 

About Emily:

Emily Knab has just graduated from college, woohoo! Go Emily !! She’s a hotel desk agent and full-time cruise enthusiast from New York State. She loves to plan cruises for her friends and family and herself. She has cruised with Disney, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Holland America Line. You can find Emily on Twitter here and Instagram here.

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

Here’s everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club, including membership tiers and exclusive perks.

Jacqueline Dole is a freelance food and travel journalist based in Maine. A lifelong New Englander, her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure , Food & Wine, TimeOut, Insider, Thrillist, Eater, and more. With a background as a pastry chef, she’s always on the lookout for the next best snack. She is a theme park enthusiast and expert, and embroidered hotel robes, amazing pools, and hot dogs are some of her favorite things.

Castaway Club Membership Tiers

Tips for making the most of your status.

• Disney Cruise Line Tips and Tricks

Amy Smith/Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has gained a huge following since the Disney Magic first set sail in 1998, and for good reason. With Broadway-quality shows, some of the best food on the open seas, and unparalleled customer service, travelers of all ages are loyal to the line. Disney Cruise Line rewards this loyalty with the Castaway Club, a program with tiered categories based on how many voyages you’ve completed. Each of the different tiers holds unique perks, from free meals at Palo, an adult-exclusive restaurant on board, to discounts on merchandise and even free gifts each time you sail.

Here’s everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club, starting with the status tiers. 

Steven Diaz/Disney Cruise Line

Guests are awarded Silver status after completing one voyage with Disney Cruise Line. “Silver Castaway Club Members receive their membership perks as soon as they complete their first sailing. This means that when it’s time to book your second sailing, you have early access to both reserving new itineraries and planning your cruise activities for your upcoming sailing online. To make the most of your benefits, be sure to keep up with Disney Cruise Line’s itinerary releases,” says Adrianna H., a PlanDisney Specialist . Silver status allows guests to book new itineraries at least one day before the general public can. This is a huge advantage for some of the more popular routes and even new ships, like the upcoming Disney Treasure . 

Silver Castaway Club members can book onboard cruise activities like spa treatments and specialty dining as well as Port Adventures, Disney’s lingo for shore excursions, 90 days before sailing. Some of the more popular activities and restaurants fill up fast, like reservations for the private cabanas at Disney’s island, Castaway Cay , and brunch at Palo, the adults-only Italian restaurant on board, so this extra time can help ensure that you get to spend your vacation exactly as you’d like. 

Silver Members can complete online check-in, select their port arrival time, and register children for youth clubs 33 days before sailing. By securing an early port arrival time, you’re able to board the ship early and start your vacation right away. 

Some ports also have exclusive cruise terminal check-in for different tiered members, allowing you to access a shorter line for day-of check-in protocols. Silver members are also given an exclusive phone number to call for any questions or requests before their sailing. 

All Silver members receive a “Welcome Back Aboard” gift during their sailings. Castaway Club members of every tier receive a Castaway Club lanyard for easy access to their Key to the World card, which allows you to charge purchases to your room, open your stateroom door, and enter and exit the ship while at port. “My favorite Castaway Club perk is the Welcome Back Aboard gift.  The lanyards are a great conversation starter with fellow passengers. I love to hear about everyone’s favorite ship and itinerary. It’s these connections with other guests that make cruising with Disney special,” according to Tracie M., a PlanDisney Specialist . In addition to the lanyards, Silver members currently receive a complimentary tote bag, which is great for carrying towels to the perfect beach lounger at Castaway Cay.

Guests are awarded Gold status after completing five sailings with Disney Cruise Line, and they receive all the same perks as Silver members, plus some new ones. With this status, members can book new itineraries at least two days before the general public. As some itineraries sell out quickly and prices generally only go up as the sail date gets closer, it’s a good idea to book your trip as soon as possible.

Gold Castaway Club members can add onboard activities and Port Adventures 105 days before sailing, and they can complete online check-in, select port arrival time, and register any children for youth clubs 35 days before sailing. These extra two days might not seem like much, but on crowded sailings, it can be the equivalent of additional hours on board as the early time slots fill up quickly. 

Gold members are also invited to a private reception for higher-tier Castaway Club members on sailings that are eight nights and longer, featuring special entertainment, refreshments, and a chance to meet the ship’s captain and officers. And that’s not all — sometimes Gold sailors can get exclusive access to other members-only experiences on the ship. “On a transatlantic itinerary I experienced last year, we were treated to a behind-the-scenes look at one of the musicals in the Walt Disney Theatre,” says Adrianna H.

Once you reach Gold, you receive a small discount on select experiences and merchandise on board, generally about 10 percent. “To make the most of your status, I recommend visiting the Disney Cruise Line website to see your exclusive perks because sometimes they can change. My son’s favorite perk is the discount in the gift shop. He recently added the towel animal plush elephant to his collection. He even used his Platinum discount to purchase it himself,” says Tracie M. from PlanDisney. Gold members also receive a Castaway Club lanyard denoting their tiered status, the tote bag gifted to Silver members, and a wet/dry bag.

Guests are awarded Platinum status after completing 10 sailings. This tier allows you all the same benefits as the Gold tier, with some additional perks. Platinum Castaway Club members can book new itineraries at least three days earlier than the general public and add onboard activities and Port Adventures 120 days before sailing. Platinum-level members can also complete online check-in and select their port arrival time 38 days before sailing. 

Platinum members receive a Castaway Club lanyard denoting their tiered status, the tote bag gifted to Silver members, the wet/dry bag gifted to Gold members, and a beach towel. “One benefit that Platinum guests sometimes forget is the Platinum Member Gift. Once on board, they can call room service and ask what the gift options are — for example, a cheese and fruit platter, a truffle chocolate box, or a bottle of Prosecco,” says Chris Konecny, owner of DCL Cruising Dad .

Finally, one of the most exciting benefits of being a loyal passenger aboard Disney Cruise Line is a complimentary dinner at Palo or Palo Steakhouse, an adults-only restaurant aboard the fleet of ships. The Northern Italian-inspired menu is a fan favorite, offering a four-course prix-fixe menu for $45 per person or the option to order à la carte. If you opt to order à la carte, you will receive a $45 credit per guest to apply to the final bill. Only guests 18 years and older can dine at Palo, and reservations are subject to availability, so be sure to book as soon as possible. 

The newest Castaway Club tier, Pearl, debuted last May. To qualify for this level, guests must have completed 25 sailings, and members of this elite tier are granted all the benefits from the Platinum level, as well as some additional advantages. 

Pearl Castaway Club members can book new itineraries at least four days before the public, and they can add onboard activities and Port Adventures 123 days before sailing. Pearl Members can complete online check-in and register children for youth clubs 40 days before sailing. Plus, Pearl Castaway Club members are not required to select a port arrival time when checking in for an upcoming sailing. They are automatically placed in the first boarding group for their cruise, a perk they share only with guests traveling in concierge staterooms. 

Additionally, Pearl members are given a complimentary unlimited digital photo package which allows guests to download all the photos from their journey. Pearl members also receive a Castaway Club lanyard denoting their tiered status, a tote bag, a wet/dry bag, and the beach towel and room service offerings provided to lower tiers, plus a pair of insulated stemless flute tumblers. 

Finally, the highest honor of all: Once you have completed 50 cruises with Disney Cruise Line, you will have the opportunity to display your family’s last name on a commemorative display at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.  

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

• Utilize your Castaway Club status to book itineraries as soon as they are released as prices will generally only go up as room availability goes down. “Use your early cruise booking window for best pricing and room availability. The prices for Disney cruises typically only go up after opening day, and room types become more limited on special sailings,” advises Brian Flock and Samantha Kanner, hosts of the DCL Duo Podcast . 
• Figure out which popular activities you want to do and prioritize these as soon as your booking window opens. This includes Palo reservations — especially brunch and seatings on Pirate Night — private cabanas on Castaway Cay, and any popular Port Adventures you may want to experience, such as the Glacier Explorer onboard Alaska itineraries. 
• Be sure to use your status to your advantage and check in for your sailing as soon as you can. Select the earliest possible port arrival time, and if you’re a fan of swimming, either wear or pack your swimsuit. One great way to spend these first few hours is to hop in the pools before everyone else does; in the past, I’ve had the whole pool deck to myself on the first day, something that rarely happens for the rest of the voyage. 

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

Disney Cruise Line Tips and Tricks 

• Fans of DCL: Don’t wait too long to book your next trip. As of December 2023, Disney Cruise Line changed the eligibility requirements for Castaway Club membership effective immediately. In order to maintain their status, Castaway Club members must book or sail on at least one eligible cruise within five years of their last voyage. 
• If you find yourself plotting your next Disney Cruise Line vacation before you even disembark, take advantage of the placeholder deal before you leave the ship. “For a small deposit, you can make a placeholder reservation for a future Disney Cruise. It’s a great way to save some money on your next Disney vacation at sea,” says Tracie M. This placeholder includes a 10 percent discount on your next voyage, as long as it’s within 24 months after the placeholder reservation is booked.
• If you see something you want in the gift store, don’t wait. Adrianna H. explains, “If you see something in the onboard stores that you can’t live without, it’s a good idea to purchase it sooner rather than later. Some popular items sell out and do not get restocked during your voyage.”
• And don’t be afraid to try something new on your next trip. While the onboard restaurants are all fantastic, sometimes the best days are the most spontaneous ones, and you might as well take full advantage of Disney Cruise Line’s unique complimentary room service policy. “If you’ve never skipped your dinner seating to enjoy room service in your stateroom while watching a Disney movie, the next cruise you take is the perfect opportunity to do so. Don’t forget to order a Mickey Bar!” says Adrianna.

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40 Tips And Tricks To Get The Most Out Of Your Disney Cruise

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

Make Your Cruise Truly Magical

Disney Cruise Line may be one of the smallest in the business but it’s also  one the best . 

Whether you’re a newbie or a pro when it comes to traveling on the high seas, these tips will help you enhance the magic of your next cruise with Mickey and the gang.

Booking your Disney cruise early guarantees great savings through their dynamic pricing system and helps you snag your preferred cabin. 

And don't worry about sudden changes in plans—your booking is fully refundable.

Let Them Pick Your Room

If you're flexible about cabin location, let Disney to assign your room and enjoy significant savings. 

Simply choose the type of room you want, like an inside cabin, and your specific room will be assigned closer to your sail date.

Book A Themed Sailing

Disney Cruise Line offers exciting themed sailings like Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea, featuring special shows and appearances by beloved characters like Captain America and Buzz Lightyear. 

Don't miss out on the holiday cruises during Halloween and Christmas, where you'll see characters in festive clothes and enjoy themed food. 

Upgrade Your Room At The Port

Consider upgrading your cabin at the port just before boarding to potentially save on a higher-tier room. 

While availability isn't guaranteed, it never hurts to inquire during check-in. This could translate to incredible savings.

Download Disney’s Navigator App

Make sure to download Disney Cruise Line’s Navigator app —it's essential for maximizing your time at sea. 

From managing payments and online check-ins to pre-registering for activities, this app has you covered. It also facilitates free communication with your family and fellow cruisers.

Pay With Points Or Gift Cards

To save some money, consider using discounted Disney gift cards for payment. 

You can find these at retailers like Sam's Club or Target, often with around 5% off. You can also use certain credit card points and miles to help pay for your cruise. 

Exchange Currency Onboard

Take advantage of Disney Cruise Line's free currency exchange service onboard. They'll even honor the original exchange rate for any leftover money at the end of your cruise, so you get the most value.

Just remember this service applies to bills only, and be sure to present your receipt before disembarking.

Book Two Rooms Instead Of A Suite

If you're considering a suite for more space but find the price steep, booking two staterooms can be a budget-friendly alternative. 

Typically, a family of four can expect to pay almost half the price  for two cabins compared to a single suite.

Bring A Water Bottle

While water stations are available onboard, they might not be conveniently located, and purchasing disposable bottles can add up.

Consider bringing refillable bottles or tumblers to stay hydrated without the hassle.

Use The Carpet As A Map

Navigating a cruise ship can be daunting, but Disney makes it easier with a simple trick: look at the carpet design in the hallways. 

An upside-down pattern indicates you're heading toward the back of the ship, while a right-side-up pattern means you're heading to the front.

See Characters In Their Cruise Clothes

Be on the lookout for your favorite Disney characters dressed in exclusive clothes for special occasions onboard. 

From Pirate Night ensembles to location-specific outfits, like Mickey's fisherman overalls on Alaska cruises, these unique wardrobe choices add an extra touch of magic to your cruise experience.

Don’t Miss The Royal Gathering

Check out the Royal Gathering, where you can meet Disney royalty like Tiana and Cinderella all in one place. 

While tickets are free, you'll need them to get in, so be sure to book at least 30 days before  your cruise sets sail to secure your spot.

Go To The Pools Early Or Late

For a more relaxed pool experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak times. 

If you want to check out the waterslides, you should do so right after boarding, so you can enjoy them when they're least crowded.

Decorate Your Door

Add a touch of personality to your cabin door with themed magnets. As well as looking cool, door decorations can help you identify your cabin from all the others.

You Can Skip The Meet-And-Greets

While formal meet-and-greets are available, keep an eye out for characters like Daisy Duck walking around the decks, providing fun, unexpected encounters.

You can even join in on character dance parties where you can dance with Goofy and Donald Duck.

Order As Much Food As You Want

On a Disney cruise, indulge in as much food as you want—it's all included in your dining experience.

If you're torn between options, why not try both? Don't forget to create your own dessert sampler to try a variety of tasty treats.

Change Your Dining Plan

If your assigned dining rotation or table arrangements aren't to your liking, just reach out to guest services for a switch. 

They'll gladly help you find a solution that suits your preferences.

Indulge In Specialty Dining

While standard dining is great, consider indulging in adults-only restaurants like Remy or Palo for an extra-special culinary experience. 

Make reservations early to secure your spot, or check for waitlist availability for last-minute openings.

The Ship Is Cash-Free

Your "Key to the World" room key is your payment method and identification onboard, so you won't need much cash during your cruise. 

However, consider bringing cash for tipping your service team or concierge-level staff. It's a thoughtful gesture appreciated by the crew.

Join The Sailing Facebook Group

Joining a Facebook group for your cruise can enhance your experience with opportunities for gift exchanges, pre-cruise networking, and valuable tips from seasoned cruisers. 

Simply search for your sailing name (e.g., Disney Wonder Alaska June 12 - 19) on Facebook and join the private group.

Get A Magical Coffee

Visit Cove Cafe for a truly enchanting coffee experience. Order a "Mickeyccino" with Mickey's face artfully crafted on your cappuccino. It's the perfect way to add an extra touch of Disney magic to your coffee. 

Get Free Unlimited Soda

Save on beverage costs and get soda from the fountai n , conveniently located on the pool deck and in the buffet area. 

Instead of purchasing individual cans, bring a refillable bottle to enjoy your favorite sodas throughout the ship without extra charges.

Check For Happy Hours

While alcohol isn't complimentary onboard, keep an eye out for discounted drinks during happy hour. Just check the Navigator App and you can can get all your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. 

Ask About The Sommelier Bin

Take advantage of discounted wine options from the sommelier bin, where opened bottles are served by the glass at reduced rates. 

This presents an excellent opportunity to enjoy high-quality wines at a fraction of the usual cost, adding a touch of luxury to your dining experience without overspending.

While Disney ships offer an array of specialty cocktails, guests can bring limited drinks onboard. Each adult aged 21 and up is permitted two bottles of wine or six-packs of beer. 

Just remember, there's a corkage fee if you plan to enjoy your wine with dinner, and sealed bottles of water are also allowed.

Buy Merch Quick

If you spot a must-have item like a hat or sweatshirt, don't hesitate to purchase it right away.  

The onboard gift shops are only open while the ship is at sea, and popular items tend to sell out quickly without restocking.

Not Just For Families

While families are Disney's biggest customers base, these cruises cater to adults as well. Each ship features adults-only areas, including lounges , nightclubs, and sun decks.

Take Advantage Of Free Room Service

Unlike other cruise lines, Disney Cruise Line offers complimentary 24/7 room service. 

Treat yourself to iconic Disney snacks like the Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar delivered directly to your room at no extra charge.

Book Early For The Nursery

For parents seeking a bit of relaxation or adult time onboard, early booking is essential for the It’s a Small World 

The nursery is the perfect places for kids six months to three years, providing peace of mind while you enjoy some downtime.

The Coolest Place For Teens

Each Disney ship has a Vibe, an exclusive youth club catering to teens aged 14 to 17.

With supervision and a bunch of fun activities, it's like having their own private resort onboard—perfect for teens to relax and have fun away from parents.

Get Free Motion Sickness Pills

If the motion of the ocean has you feeling queasy, visit guest services for complimentary motion sickness pills. You can get as many as you need to ensure a smoother sailing experience.

Enjoy The Concierge Lounge

Upgrade to a concierge-level cabin for access to a private lounge offering evening drinks, a private sun deck, and the option to order meals from onboard restaurants to your room.

Plus, enjoy a special evening with a Disney character in the lounge during your cruise.

Indulge In A Cheap Spa Visit

Unwind in the Rainforest Room at the Senses Spa without booking a treatment. 

Depending on availability, opt for a one-day pass or a pass for the duration of your cruise at a fraction of the cost of a spa treatment. It's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the ship.

Visit The Star Wars Bar

Visit the Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge on the Disney Wish for an out-of-this-world experience. 

While reservations are no longer required, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially when the ship is in port. During the day, guests of all ages are welcome to explore this unique bar.

Don’t Skip The Musicals

Don't miss out on your ship's spectacular musical performances, like Broadway-quality productions of “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin.” 

These shows are a highlight of any Disney cruise experience and shouldn't be skipped.

Use Adventures By Disney

Elevate your Disney Cruise Line adventure with pre- or post-sailing escapes through Adventures by Disney. 

Explore iconic cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Rome through itineraries designed to immerse you in the local culture.

See A New Movie At Sea

Experience the latest Disney releases at the onboard theater, no advance tickets required. Many films are offered in 3-D, and the theatre includes titles from Disney, Marvel, Pixar. 

Check Out The Kids Clubs During Open House

While places like the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Millennium Falcon play zones are usually kids-only,  that all changes during open houses. 

Take advantage of the open house to explore areas like Vibe's arcade games and Andy's Room from  Toy Story .

See All The Characters On The Last Night

Don't miss your chance to take  photos with Disney characters on the last night of your cruise. 

Around 10 or 10:30 p.m., characters gather in the atrium for a short period, allowing guests to bid farewell and snap memorable pictures. 

Carry Your Bags To Skip The Line

Avoid the crowds during disembarkation by managing your own luggage on the final morning of your cruise. 

By skipping the luggage drop-off the night before, you can disembark earlier, sometimes before the regular disembarkation process even begins. This makes for a smoother exit from the ship and a stress-free end to your cruise.

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Tips and tricks for Disney Cruise Line

If you’re planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll cover some essential tips and tricks to ensure that you have the best experience possible. From early boarding to accessing amenities like the pool and library, we’ll guide you through the process. We’ll also discuss dining options, hidden gems, and how to conserve energy in your room. Additionally, we’ll provide recommendations for must-visit locations on the ship, such as the Hyperspace Lounge and the Worlds of Marvel restaurant. Don’t forget to watch out for hidden Mickeys and make reservations for premium dining options. And of course, we’ll let you in on the best spots to catch the fireworks and enjoy the pirate night festivities. So get ready for an extraordinary adventure on the Disney Cruise Line!

There you have it! A sneak peek into our article, “Tips and tricks for Disney Cruise Line.” We’ve compiled 24 helpful suggestions to make your Disney vacation unforgettable. From boarding early to savoring mouthwatering dishes, we have you covered. So buckle up and get ready to embark on this exciting journey!

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Table of Contents

Early Boarding

Check-in early.

To make the most of your time on the Disney Wish and other Disney Cruise Line ships, it is highly recommended to check in early for your cruise. By checking in as early as possible, you have the chance to secure an earlier boarding time . Boarding typically starts around 11 a.m. and can extend until 3 p.m. By getting an earlier boarding time, you gain more hours of enjoyment on the ship, allowing for a soft start to your vacation.

Continuous check-in

If you initially receive a late boarding time, don’t worry! There’s still a chance to secure an earlier boarding time. Throughout the day, people may cancel their cruises or change their plans, which opens up the opportunity for you to bump up your boarding time. Keep checking the Disney Cruise Line website and be on the lookout for any cancellations or changes. By staying proactive and continuously checking, you may be able to secure an earlier boarding time, giving you more time to enjoy all the amenities and activities on board.

Benefits of early boarding

Early boarding provides several benefits for your cruise experience . By getting on the ship as early as possible, you have the chance to have a soft start to your vacation. You can take advantage of the pool, explore the ship’s amenities, and get settled into your stateroom before the crowds arrive. Early boarding also allows for quick access to on-ship amenities, such as the pool and library, without having to wait for long lines or crowded spaces. This sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience from the moment you step on board.

On-Ship Amenities

Quick access to amenities.

When you board the Disney Wish, one of the advantages of early boarding is quick and easy access to the ship’s amenities. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the pool or relax with a good book in the library, being one of the first on board allows you to get the most out of these amenities before they get crowded. You can enjoy a swim without worrying about finding a lounge chair or have a peaceful reading session in the library without distractions. Early boarding sets the stage for a stress-free and enjoyable experience with the ship’s amenities.

Pool and library

The Disney Wish offers a fantastic pool area for guests to unwind and have fun. Whether you prefer lounging by the poolside or taking a dip, the early boarding advantage ensures that you have ample time to enjoy the pool area before it gets busy. Take a refreshing swim, relax in the sun, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the pool deck.

For book lovers, the ship’s library is a hidden gem. You can find a variety of books to suit your taste and spend quality time reading in a tranquil setting. Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter or the newest Star Wars novel, Dark Disciple, there’s something for everyone. The library offers a cozy sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in a good book and embrace a moment of relaxation during your cruise.

Soft start to the vacation

One of the major advantages of early boarding is that it provides a soft start to your vacation. Instead of rushing to explore the ship and settle into your stateroom, early boarding allows you to take your time and ease into the vacation mindset. You can navigate the ship at a leisurely pace, familiarize yourself with the layout, and start indulging in the fantastic amenities and activities on board. By giving yourself this soft start, you set the tone for a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation experience from the very beginning.

Reservations for Hyperspace Lounge

If you’re sailing on the Disney Wish, making reservations for the Hyperspace Lounge is strongly recommended. This small and popular lounge is in high demand, and without a reservation, it’s challenging to secure a spot. To ensure you don’t miss out on this unique experience, make your reservation as soon as you board the ship. Check with a cast member or refer to the ship’s app for information on how to make a reservation. By planning ahead, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Hyperspace Lounge and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience.

Separate sit-down lunch option

While many guests head to the buffet for lunch, it’s worth knowing that there is a separate sit-down lunch option available on the ship. If you prefer to enjoy a more relaxed and air-conditioned dining experience, check the ship’s app for the location of the sit-down lunch. By opting for this option, you can savor a delicious meal while taking a break from the bustling activities on the ship. It’s a fantastic opportunity to sit back, refuel, and prepare for more adventures during your cruise.

Experience at Worlds of Marvel restaurant

One of the restaurants on the Disney Wish that you don’t want to miss is the Worlds of Marvel restaurant. Though the food isn’t Marvel-themed, the atmosphere and ambiance are truly captivating. Step into the world of Marvel as the restaurant immerses you in its unique atmosphere, complete with Marvel music and decor. During our lunch experience at the Worlds of Marvel restaurant, we were highly impressed with the quality of the food. The server recommended the beef empanadas as an appetizer, and they were fantastic. The empanadas were flavorful and the crust was delightfully flaky. For my entree, I opted for the sliced roasted beef tenderloin, and it surpassed my expectations. The tenderloin was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were exceptional. Overall, it was a surprising and delightful lunch experience at Worlds of Marvel.

Recommendations for desserts

When it comes to desserts on the Disney Wish, indulging in a variety of options is highly recommended. During our dining experience, we ordered three desserts and were not disappointed. While all the desserts were fantastic, a couple stood out as personal favorites. The cookies and cream cheesecake was a standout treat, especially for those who love Oreos. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s a dessert that deserves a 5 out of 5 rating. Another highly recommended dessert is the carrot cake. Moist and flavorful, the carrot cake became a personal favorite after a recommendation from a fellow cruiser. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these delightful desserts and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Welcome aboard sundae

Upon boarding the Disney Wish, a time-honored tradition awaits you: the welcome aboard sundae. After settling into your stateroom, make your way to one of the ship’s ice cream stations and indulge in a classic ice cream sundae. This sweet treat marks the start of your cruise experience and sets the tone for a fun-filled vacation. Enjoy the ice cream, toppings, and the joy of being on board a Disney cruise.

Ship Navigation

Finding hidden mickeys.

Exploring the ship is an adventure in itself, as there are hidden Mickeys scattered throughout. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk through the hallways and common areas, as you may stumble upon a hidden Mickey. These subtle nods to Disney’s iconic character are a delight to find and make your ship navigation even more exciting. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture these hidden gems!

Navigating using carpet colors

Navigating the Disney Wish can be a breeze once you learn how to use the carpet colors as a guide. As you walk through the ship, pay attention to the colors of the carpets. Certain colors indicate whether you’re heading towards the front (forward) or the back (aft) of the ship. For example, if you see starfish on the carpet, it means you’re heading towards the front. Take advantage of this handy navigation tip to easily find your way around the ship without getting turned around.

Color schemes for navigation

In addition to the carpet colors, the Disney Wish utilizes distinct color schemes to aid in navigation. Each area of the ship has its own color scheme, making it easier to identify where you are and find your way around. Take note of these color schemes as you explore the ship. They serve as visual cues, ensuring you never feel lost and allowing you to navigate with confidence. Being familiar with the color schemes enhances your overall cruise experience and helps you make the most of your time on board.

Drink of the day

One of the must-try experiences on a Disney cruise is ordering the drink of the day. Available at various bars on the ship, the drink of the day is a special cocktail that offers exceptional value compared to other cocktails on the menu. It’s a fantastic way to try new flavors and enjoy a refreshing beverage. Don’t miss the opportunity to sip on the delicious drink of the day and embrace the cruise atmosphere.

Comparison with other cocktails

While there are plenty of cocktails available on the ship, the drink of the day stands out as a great deal. Compared to other cocktails on the menu, the drink of the day offers excellent value for your money. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a cocktail and experience new flavors. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply want to try something different, the drink of the day is a fantastic option.

Experience with the drink of the day

During our cruise, we had the pleasure of trying the drink of the day, which happened to be a mai tai. The flavor was exceptional, and it provided a perfect balance between sweetness and tartness. It’s one of those drinks that screams vacation and puts you in the perfect mood to relax and enjoy all the ship has to offer. We highly recommend giving the drink of the day a try and savoring the unique flavors it has to offer.

Conserving energy with key card slot

To conserve energy in your stateroom, make use of the key card slot conveniently located near the door. By placing a card in the slot, you ensure that the lights and air conditioning turn off when you leave the room. It’s a small tip that can make a big difference in saving energy during your cruise. Plus, it’s an effortless way to be more environmentally conscious while enjoying your vacation.

Disney Wish beer mug

If you’re a beer enthusiast, be on the lookout for the Disney Wish beer mug. This special mug provides an extra pour of beer at the ship’s bars. It’s a unique souvenir and a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite brews on board. Keep an eye out for this exclusive beer mug and enhance your drinking experience during your cruise.

Laundry and Cleaning

Availability of 24-hour laundromat.

For your convenience, the Disney Wish provides a 24-hour laundromat on board. If you find yourself in need of clean clothes or simply want to freshen up your garments during your cruise, the laundromat is there for you. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer doing their laundry themselves or for unexpected laundry emergencies. The availability of a 24-hour laundromat ensures that you have access to clean clothes whenever you need them.

First-time experience doing laundry

If it’s your first time doing laundry on a cruise, don’t worry! The laundry facilities on the Disney Wish are easy to use and have everything you need. The machines are user-friendly, and there are clear instructions provided for anyone who may be unsure of the process. Remember to bring your own detergent or purchase it at the ship’s store. Doing laundry on the ship can be a convenient way to keep your clothes fresh during your vacation.

Friends of Bill W meetings

For guests who are members of Alcoholics Anonymous or those seeking support during their cruise, the Disney Wish offers Friends of Bill W meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity to connect with other attendees facing similar challenges and offer support in a safe and understanding environment. You can find information about the Friends of Bill W meetings in the ship’s daily schedule or by speaking with a cast member. Attending these meetings can be a valuable source of support and encouragement during your cruise journey.

Navigating the ship using color schemes

In addition to using carpet colors, you can also navigate the ship using the color schemes found throughout. Each floor and area of the ship has its own distinct color scheme, making it easier to locate different amenities and areas. By familiarizing yourself with the color schemes, you can effortlessly move around the ship and find your desired destinations. This navigation tip simplifies your cruise experience and ensures that you never feel lost or overwhelmed.

Premium coffee options

For coffee enthusiasts, the Disney Wish offers premium coffee options at the coffee bars on decks three and four. If you appreciate a high-quality cup of joe, be sure to visit these coffee bars during your cruise. Treat yourself to a delicious cappuccino, latte, or espresso and start your day off right. The premium coffee options provide a fantastic caffeine fix and are a must-try for coffee lovers on board.

Room Service

Availability and menu.

Room service is a convenient and enjoyable option for dining during your Disney cruise. The Disney Wish offers room service with a menu that caters to a variety of preferences and dietary needs. From breakfast classics to delicious late-night snacks, you can satisfy your cravings without leaving the comfort of your stateroom. Simply refer to the room service menu provided in your stateroom or check the ship’s app for the available options.

Complementary room service

One of the best things about room service on the Disney Wish is that it’s complementary. You can order a variety of items without incurring an additional cost. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a full meal, room service allows you to indulge in the convenience of dining in your own space. While it’s customary to tip the delivery person, the complementary nature of room service makes it even more appealing.

Recommendations and tips

When ordering room service on the Disney Wish, there are a few recommendations and tips to keep in mind. First, take advantage of the delicious breakfast options available. Whether you prefer a classic continental breakfast or something heartier, room service provides a convenient and enjoyable way to start your day. Additionally, be sure to try some of the Disney-themed desserts available through room service. They are decadent and add an extra touch of magic to your dining experience. Before placing your order, check the app for any specials or limited-time offerings to enhance your room service indulgence. Finally, don’t forget to tip your delivery person as a token of appreciation for their service.

Disney art for purchase

In addition to enjoying the onboard atmosphere and activities, the Disney Wish offers an opportunity to purchase Disney art. Throughout the ship, you’ll find art stations on deck five, allowing you to peruse and purchase pieces that capture the magic of Disney. From classic characters to stunning landscapes, the Disney art collection offers a wide range of options to suit various tastes. Consider adding a piece of Disney art to your collection and bring a touch of Disney magic into your home.

Kiss good night ceremonies

To end each day on a magical note, the Disney Wish offers kiss good night ceremonies in the Grand Hall. These enchanting ceremonies are a beloved tradition on Disney cruises and provide a magical send-off to each evening. Check with a cast member for the schedule of the kiss good night ceremonies to ensure you don’t miss out on this delightful experience. It’s a charming way to end your day and create lasting memories.

Premium Dining

Reservations for apollo or enchante.

For an elevated dining experience, making reservations for Apollo or Enchante is highly recommended. These premium dining options on the Disney Wish offer exquisite menus and an elegant ambiance. To secure a table at either restaurant, it’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time. By planning ahead, you can ensure you have a memorable dining experience at one of these exceptional venues. Enjoy a delectable meal and immerse yourself in the sophisticated atmosphere of premium dining on board.

Changing reservations

Sometimes plans change, and you may find yourself needing to modify your dining reservations. If you have already made reservations for Apollo or Enchante but need to change them, it’s possible to do so. Contact guest services or check the ship’s app for information on how to modify your reservations. By being proactive and flexible, you can make adjustments that suit your schedule and preferences. It’s a way to ensure you get the dining experience you desire during your cruise.

Requesting items from other restaurants

One of the hidden gems of the Disney Wish dining experience is the ability to request items from other restaurants during your main dining experience. If there’s a particular menu item you’ve been eyeing from another restaurant on the ship, don’t hesitate to ask your server. In many cases, the staff will be more than happy to accommodate your request and bring you the desired dish. This flexibility allows you to curate your dining experience and taste a broader range of culinary delights.

Hidden menu items

Speaking of customization, the Disney Wish often has hidden menu items available to adventurous diners. These items are not listed on the regular menu but can be requested if you know what to ask for. For example, adult guests can order Mickey premium ice cream bars, typically reserved for children, as a secret indulgence. Embrace the spirit of discovery and try exploring these hidden menu options by asking your server. You never know what delicious surprises await.

Pirate kiss good night ceremony

One of the highlights of Pirate Night on the Disney Wish is the pirate kiss good night ceremony. This special event takes place in the Grand Hall and features a lively celebration complete with pirate coins and themed activities. To make the most of this unique experience, find a good spot early and secure it for the ceremonies. Enjoy the spirited atmosphere, the fun-filled activities, and the chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Don’t miss out on the pirate kiss good night ceremony and embrace the excitement of Pirate Night on the ship.

Best viewing area

When it’s time for the fireworks on the Disney Wish, securing the best viewing area can make a significant difference in your experience. On deck 12, to the right of the stage, is considered one of the prime spots for watching the fireworks. Position yourself in this area for an unobstructed view and a front-row seat to the dazzling display of lights. Take advantage of this tip to enhance your fireworks experience and create magical memories.

Obstruction by Aquamouse

Keep in mind that certain areas on deck 11 may have obstructed views of the fireworks due to the presence of the Aquamouse attraction. While the Aquamouse is an exciting and popular feature of the ship, it’s important to be aware of its position in relation to the fireworks. To ensure an unobstructed view, consider finding an alternative viewing spot away from the Aquamouse area. By planning ahead, you can enjoy the fireworks without any obstructions.

Arrival time for a good spot

Arriving early is key to securing a good spot for the fireworks on the Disney Wish. To make the most of your viewing experience, it’s advisable to arrive around 9:30 p.m. or earlier. This allows you to claim a prime viewing area, get settled, and enjoy the pre-fireworks atmosphere. By arriving early, you can avoid the last-minute rush and ensure you have an excellent vantage point for the show.

Live band during fireworks

To elevate the fireworks experience, the Disney Wish features a live band performance during the show. This unique addition adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the already stunning fireworks display. You can sing, dance, and create memories with your loved ones as you enjoy the synchronized spectacle of live music and fireworks. Embrace the magical atmosphere and immerse yourself in the joy of this unforgettable experience.

Correct show start time

To ensure you don’t miss a moment of the fireworks show, it’s essential to have the correct show start time. On the Disney Wish, the fireworks show begins at 10:15 p.m., not 10:30 p.m. While it may seem like a slight difference, being aware of the accurate start time allows you to plan your evening accordingly and ensure you don’t miss one of the highlights of your cruise. Check the ship’s daily schedule or consult with a cast member for confirmation of the show start time.

Pirate night and activities

Alongside the fireworks, the Disney Wish hosts a Pirate Night, complete with pirate-themed activities and entertainment. Take part in the festivities by dressing up in your pirate best and enjoy the exciting events planned for the evening. From games and shows to a pirate buffet, Pirate Night offers a unique opportunity to embrace the swashbuckling spirit and create lasting memories. Join in the fun, take part in the activities, and make the most of this thrilling theme night on the ship.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Comments section.

For additional tips and tricks on Disney cruises and the Disney Wish, be sure to check the comments section. Fellow cruisers often share their experiences, recommendations, and insider tips in the comments. You may discover hidden gems and valuable insights from those who have embarked on similar Disney adventures. Take advantage of this community resource and add to your knowledge for the best cruise experience possible.

Separate video for Castaway Key tips

If you’re planning to visit Castaway Key, a destination on Disney cruises, there is a separate video available specifically for Castaway Key tips. Castaway Key is Disney’s private island paradise, and the video offers valuable guidance on making the most of your time there. Refer to the video for insider tips, recommendations, and must-visit spots on the island. Enhance your Castaway Key experience by utilizing the information provided in the separate video dedicated to this tropical paradise.

Acknowledgment to Patreon supporters

Lastly, a heartfelt acknowledgment goes to the Patreon supporters of Ordinary Adventures. Their ongoing support makes it possible to create content and share valuable tips and tricks for Disney cruises. Without their generosity, the comprehensive video and article you’re currently enjoying would not be possible. Express your gratitude to these supporters, whose contributions help enrich the Disney cruise experience for everyone.

In conclusion, by following these tips and tricks, you can make the most of your Disney Cruise Line vacation. From early boarding to enjoying the ship’s amenities, dining at premium restaurants, navigating the ship, and embracing the magical experiences, these insights ensure an unforgettable adventure on the Disney Wish or any other Disney Cruise Line ship. Bon voyage and may your Disney cruise be filled with magic, joy, and memories to last a lifetime.

When you’re going on the new Disney Wish or one of the other four Disney Cruise Line ships, there are a lot of tips, tricks and hacks to learn to get the best out of your Disney vacation. Here is a collection of 24 things you should know about to have the best cruise ever!

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June 7, 2023

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Vacation & Tips

We recently sailed the new Disney Wish cruise ship and I’m excited to share all about it!

We originally booked our cruise vacation back in 2020 on the Disney Dream ship. However, over the next few years, it would get rescheduled, rescheduled, and rescheduled again! During our last re-booking, our planner informed us that Disney’s NEW ship would be available for our new cruise date so we switched over to the Wish…and it was totally worth the wait.

Before I dive into everything, I first and foremost need to give a non-sponsored shout-out to our incredible Disney planner, Kim Ellison of Marvelous Mouse Travels . We had such an amazing experience working with her on our Disney park vacation that it was a no-brainer to use her again for our cruise. And my goodness — she was unbelievably helpful. The planning process was overwhelming to me and there are SO many steps, instructions, deadlines, and tricks you just wouldn’t know as a first-time Disney cruiser. We absolutely could not have pulled this vacation off without her help and guidance and I would highly recommend her to anyone who is planning a Disney cruise or park visit.

Alright, let’s get down to it…

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Overview

The Disney Wish is the fifth ship (and the largest) in Disney’s Cruise Line fleet and what we found most exciting was the inclusion of Marvel and Star Wars themes throughout the ship. Disney did an incredible job bringing these themes to life too and we were definitely impressed.

We took the 4-night cruise out of Port Canaveral (stopping in Nassau, Bahamas and Disney Castaway Cay) and that felt like the right amount of time for us. We probably could have made a 3-night cruise work, but there was so much to learn and navigate as first-time cruisers that we didn’t feel like we knew what we were doing until day 2 — and even then, there is an overwhelming amount of activities and experiences happening around the clock.

As I mentioned, this was our first family cruise so I cannot compare this ship to any others in the fleet. Additionally, there were a LOT of things we wish we could have done that we ran out of time for — mainly the adult things (spa, beverage tastings, excursions, dinner, etc.). If we were to do this again, I would definitely tackle our time on the ship a bit differently. I’ll elaborate on that in a sec.

Disney Wish Staterooms & service

We decided to spring for the Verandah stateroom which includes a private verandah, a queen-size bed, a pull-down bunk bed (the kids thought this was the most amazing thing ever), a sitting area with a convertible couch, and a split bathroom (hugely helpful). The verandah made this room worth every single penny. There is nothing more spectacular than waking up to a gorgeous ocean view.

I also want to mention how impeccable the service was throughout the entire ship. I mean WOW in every.single.area. Matt and I kept calling it a Ritz on water. The ship was well staffed with the happiest employees I’ve ever encountered. And all of them were available and happy to answer any question, point us in the right direction and provide helpful tips along the way.

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Dining

There are three rotational restaurants on the ship (you receive your restaurant rotation upon arrival), two adult-only restaurants, a buffet-style restaurant, a food court, and a dessert store.

At the time of booking, Kim secured the first seating of the night for us which happened at 5:30 pm each day. The second seating was around 8:30 pm. We decided on the first seating (which is the more popular seating) because we weren’t sure how exhausted the kids would be by dinnertime and it still allowed us time to see a show or do something after dinner if there was any energy left.

The Arendelle’s Frozen Dining Adventure and the Worlds of Marvel dining experiences were our favorite. Both were interactive and magical. I may or may not have shed some tears into my pasta during our Arendelle dinner. Seeing Caroline all dolled up in her princess gown and glued to the magic happening all around us was a moment I’ll remember forever. Her princess phase is quickly slipping away and I am so happy we squeezed this cruise in when we did.

The food at all of the restaurants was great and of course the service was truly exceptional. And if you want to order multiple entrees or desserts, no one is going to judge you.

I will say that not knowing our dining rotation until boarding made booking an adults-only dinner at Palo tricky. We were really lucky to get a dinner reservation at Palo when the booking window opened and had heard great things about it, so we decided to make our reservation for the last night on the ship. However, upon boarding we learned that our Marvel dinner was scheduled for our last night on the ship. We attempted to move things around but dining changes are pretty difficult to pull off due to wait lists, so we ended up canceling our Palo dinner so we didn’t miss the Marvel experience (which is really, really cool).

Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge

Before I move on from food and beverage, I wanted to share that visiting the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge was absolutely a ship highlight for me. I am not a Star Wars fan at all, but this virtually-enhanced lounge is definitely something you will want to check out for the experience. With the push of a button, you magically enter through a “space door” into a galaxy far, far away. There is a short list of specialty cocktails which are all fascinating to watch come together. The drinks are served in unique cups (of course Matt ended up purchasing his glass because he absolutely cannot pass up a novelty cup) and most have some sort of interactive element (smoke, multiple colors, interesting garnishes, etc.). There is even a $5,000 cocktail on the menu (I confirmed that someone ordered it while we were on the ship too) and that it comes with high-end liquors, a private stateroom experience, tickets for a tour of George Lucas’s Skywalker Vineyard in California and a few other things. Wild.

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Activities & Experiences

In my opinion, there was an overwhelming amount of activities and experiences happening every 42 seconds around the clock. Each morning we browsed all the activities within the app and tried to map out our day based on what the kids wanted to do. Of course, Caroline and Thomas wanted to do different things throughout the day which made it challenging to get to everything and relax. In fact, I don’t think I would use the word “relaxing” at ALL when it came to this vacation.

In hindsight, I wish we would have let the kids pick 1-2 activities each day, carved out more time for kids club so Matt and I could spend time together, and skipped everything else. But no, I’m someone who must do ALL the fun things…and then pay for it later with cranky kids and exhausted parents.

But were the activities fun? Absolutely. And there really is something for everyone happening at all times — deck parties, live performances/music/entertainment everywhere, games and competitions, crafts, movie theaters (offering first-run films), the list goes on. Oh, and of course, the pool deck offers TONS of fun too with 10 pools, lots of water play areas, and two slides.

The Aqua Mouse Water Slide

Hands down, the AquaMouse slide was our kids’ favorite attraction on the ship. This high-speed water coaster wraps around the upper deck and features lots of fun twists and turns. And it is an absolute blast.

However…be prepared to wait 30-45 minutes for the 60-second ride.

Our kids found the slide to be worth the wait, however, I’ve got a few tips for you if you don’t want to spend a full day waiting in line to ride it again and again.

• Tip 1: Board the ship wearing your bathing suits under your clothes and head immediately to deck 11 to get in line. Most people will head straight to the buffets for lunch, and this was the shortest amount of time we stood in line the entire trip.
• Tip 2: Ride the water coaster at NIGHT! We planned to do this every single night after dinner and never ended up doing it because got distracted by other activities. However, we were told by the ride operators that the slide is open until 10 pm and has NO wait in the evening. You can experience more of the waterslide features (like fun lighting) at nighttime.
• Tip 3: Don’t get off the boat in Nassau and instead use this day to slide while it’s less crowded.

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Oceaneer Club

The Oceaneer Club is truly an amazing place for a wide age range of kids.

First, there are two ways to get into the club, with the most fun way being the SLIDE from deck 3. This was seriously SO cool and our kids were obsessed with checking in and then sliding down to the club. Once inside, there is no shortage of things to do — literally, there are a million themed rooms, all with different activities, experiences, character visits, special shows, and more.

And no surprise, the staff working in the club is amazing. They are so engaged with the kiddos from crafting, to games, to costumes, and more. Never a dull moment.

However, we definitely made a rookie mistake. The kids can request to be picked up at any time by asking a Counselor to send us a text. What we should have done was tell the kids we were dropping them off for “x amount of time” and headed straight to an adults-only activity to sit down and recharge. Instead, we took turns heading down to the kids club every 14 minutes to grab whichever kiddo was requesting to leave due to FOMO over activities happening outside of the club (usually the water slide). Next time we’ll definitely plan this out a lot better.

Disney’s Castaway Cay

Saved my favorite part for last — Castaway Cay (pronounced Castaway “Key”). OH MY GOSH, I could live here. From the moment we got off the boat I was completely blown away by Disney’s private island. The turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, colorful umbrellas and pristine landscaping…it is truly paradise.

While on the island, we took the kids snorkeling and it was seriously a BLAST. Disney has a dedicated “Snorkeling Lagoon” where you can spot lots of tropical fish, buried treasure and sunken statutes of some of your favorite characters. It was really, really cool. Thomas and Matt saw a ginormous stingray while Caroline and I made a scavenger hunt out of all the sunken statutes.

They served a BBQ lunch on the island which was great.

And of course, the 2,400-square-foot floating water playground was also awesome. This attraction offers two water slides – one is an enclosed corkscrew slide and the other is a 140-foot-long open slide into the ocean. Both are extremely FAST and FUN. Highly recommend!

This day went by way too fast and before we knew it we were being handed ice-cold towels as we boarded the ship.

And that was a wrap on our cruise highlights.

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Tips

My dear friend Lindsey who has recently been on two Disney cruises shared SO much helpful information with us throughout our planning process. With her permission, I’m sharing Lindsey’s incredible tips that for sure will help you if you’re planning a Disney cruise. Even though we weren’t able to use all the tips, I’m including them in the list!

Night before and arrival day

• We stayed at the Homewood Suites (like one mile or so from the port) the night before. It’s a nice hotel, full fitness center, zero entry pool with poolside bar. Has a shuttle to the port if you want to leave your car. Priced out, it’s cheaper to park at the port and pay for parking by the day.
• Get the earliest available boarding time they will give you when you register! The earlier you get on the boat, the faster you can get in line for things your kids will want to do right away, like the Aqua Duck and pools. You can also eat at the buffet-type restaurants right when you get on, which will save you from buying another meal in FL before you board.
• Print your boarding pass and carry it everywhere until you get on the ship. You will show it one million times. I recommend packing one folder with all these documents and carrying it around and guarding it with your life until you get in the stateroom, then lock it up in the safe.
• Pack a “day bag” to take on the ship with you since you’ll drop off your luggage when you arrive and it will take a few hours for you to be able to access your stateroom. I filled ours with all the swim supplies, change of clothes, etc. I would recommend boarding in your bathing suits with regular clothes over them to save time and avoid having to change on the ship.
• Once on the ship, visit Guest Services immediately to see if you can go ahead and sign up for any special character meet and greets, 5k on the island, any additional beverage tastings, etc. 

Activities (stuff you book ahead of time)

• Nassau Day : I highly recommend staying on the ship and scheduling activities and having free play this day. The ship will be WAY less crowded when people get off, and the kids will want to explore all of the fun stuff on the ship. 
• Castaway Cay : The best day!!! There is a TON of other stuff to do/see/rent – bikes, cabanas, all kinds of water equipment, etc. I have found that the time on CC absolutely flies by, so I wouldn’t overschedule. Snorkeling and maybe one other excursion if you want to try something new would be plenty. We’ve done the 5k twice, a guided fishing trip, and rented snorkel equipment for the family. They have sunken statues and fun Disney stuff at the bottom of the ocean over there and you can snorkel around with the kids to see it – so fun. They serve lunch on the island as well, and there is a Kids Club there. 
• Bibbidy Bobbidy Boutique : A must for little girls. Order a new princess dress off Amazon and bring it with you to open on the ship and get dressed in for hair/makeup at BBB. This will save you approximately one million dollars and then you’ll only pay for the makeover. I would recommend making the appointment in the late afternoon so she gets to enjoy her look for dinner and doesn’t immediately jump right back into the pool afterward.
• Beverage Tastings : Super fun. We’ve done a bourbon, tequila, margarita, and a beer tasting. Highly recommend.
• Adults-Only Dinner : There will be nice adults-only restaurants on board – and you will pay extra for those. We preferred to do this on our last night on the ship, but it doesn’t matter. You will skip your regular dining assignment on whichever night you pick. 
• Dining Rotation : Regular dinner is on a rotation – they’ll assign that when you get on the boat – so you’ll know where you’re going every night. If you choose to do beverage tastings, I would just try to avoid scheduling them during your dinner seating because that will get tricky with having to feed the kids, too. 
• Spa : Book a hot stone massage and a facial for yourself. The massage is the best I have ever had and will change your life. I recommend booking on Nassau day or on the last day which is “at sea.” 
• Shows : You don’t have to sign up for these, but make sure you get the early dinner seating assignment so you can see the later shows. That means you eat around 5:30 or so and see the shows around 8:15 pm, and they can last until 9:45 or so. It gets late and the kids get tired. 

Ship stuff:

• Kids Club: No reservations required. Drop those kiddos off whenever you want and go live your best life on the adult side. They will love it! I would recommend hitting the Kids Club pretty shortly after you board the ship in order to introduce the kids to it and get them super hyped about it. One level of the ship is mostly all adult stuff – champagne bar, private pools, etc. Must do for when the kids are in Kids Club.
• Pirate Night: There is always a pirate night! Bring pirate-themed stuff for y’all to dress in – everyone does it and it’s fun. They will give you bandanas on the ship but lots of families dress up and bring fake swords, eye patches, etc. 
• Cash & Gratuities : Opt to pre-pay your gratuities as part of the final payment. So much easier. You do not need money on the ship at all. Everything gets charged to your room. 
• Last Day Luggage : DO pack your luggage the night before and let them take it rather than having to lug it to breakfast and then off the ship the next morning at the crack of dawn – so much easier on everyone. 

Packing stuff:

• Princess Dresses : Pack a princess dress for every day of the trip. Most of the little girls wear them around, especially to dinner, and the crew makes a HUGE fuss over them when they walk into restaurants dressed up. It’s adorable. 
• Pack a Sweater: There isn’t a formal night on the cruise, but people do generally dress more nicely for dinner. Bring a sweater or two, as it gets cold at night with the wind, especially if the kids want to do a night swim and watch movies on the big screen outside on the pool deck. 
• Backpack: Bring a small backpack to carry around the ship. Much easier than a purse or anything else.
• Water Bottles: Bring your own water bottles for poolside – so much easier than going back and forth to get cups of water all the time (especially on Castaway Cay).
• Beer/Wine: You can pack one bottle of wine/etc. and one six-pack of beer, or mix that up. Definitely do this and keep it in the room for when you’re getting ready, etc. If you plan to drink beer, I recommend going ahead and buying the beer/cooler package too. It’s cheaper across the board and you receive a cooler bag to carry around the ship to drink from at the shows, poolside, etc. 
• Fitness Center: The fitness center is super nice, if y’all want to pack workout clothes. 

Super comprehensive list of tips, right?! The ONLY thing I would add from our experience is to bring magnets for your room door which is magnetic! I had no idea EVERYONE decorates their door with themed magnets ! It was really fun to walk by all the rooms and check out everyone’s decorations.

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Cathy Carroll

Saturday 11th of November 2023

Thanks for this! Super helpful tips. It will be our first Disney cruise too. Lots to think about and plan. So Nassau is a bust? Nothing to do really on that island? Thanks again, and cheers 🥂

Monday 13th of November 2023

YAY! Make sure to get door magnets!!!!

As for Nassau, it's not that it's necessarily a bust (although I think some would say it's not worth getting off the boat), it's more about having less people on the boat so lines are shorter and you can tackle way more things that day!

John Schurz

Saturday 17th of June 2023

Great info. Thanks for sharing. Very helpful as we plan our DCL cruise.

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

We are first time cruisers ever and are super excited. Thank you for all your helpful tips! We truly appreciate it. Love all your outfits and dresses.

YAY!!! Have the BEST TIME!!!

Sarah Brooks

Wednesday 11th of January 2023

Would you mind sharing who your planner is?

Wednesday 31st of August 2022

Next time plan for brunch at Palo! That is our pick because then there is no worry about missing out on a dining room experience! And yes definitely plan for more time in the kids club. Thankfully our son loves it and we pretty much have to pry him out of there so we are able to have plenty of adult time as well. We love dropping him off after dinner and heading to one of the adult bars for a drink. It also enables us to spend time at the adult pool. Disney really does do a wonderful job with the adult only areas and experiences!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

THIS IS BRILLIANT!!!!

10 Tips & Tricks for Packing for Your Walt Disney World Vacation

Packing is a vital part of your Disney vacation.  You will want to find that balance between ensuring you have everything you need for your vacation, what you can buy when you get there and what is completely unnecessary.  It can be difficult to make that call, but here are ten tips and tricks that I hope will help you make sure you have it all covered:

10 – Pack comfortable shoes for the whole family.

This is extremely important.  Everyone will need comfortable shoes that they can spend hours standing and walking in each day.  These shoes should be broken in so that you know they are comfortable and won’t be as likely to cause blisters.  It may even be good to have a backup pair of shoes just in case you do have blister problems and consider bringing blister supplies since they can be expensive at the resort.

9 – Don’t forget the sunscreen and ponchos.

In Florida, you can pretty much guarantee two things:  the sun is very hot, and it is extremely likely to rain, at least for a little while during your stay.  It is a good idea to pack your sunscreen and ponchos since they are much more expensive once you get to Walt Disney World.  This will also help make sure you are ready and get to having fun as soon as you arrive.

8 – You will want a bathing suit.

I know we all hate the idea of being in a bathing suit in front of tons of total strangers, but don’t let that be a reason why you fail to pack one.  You will definitely want one, especially when you see how amazing the pools are!  Make sure the whole family is prepared for a pool day and packs for it!  Don’t worry about being self-conscious; just focus on having a fun, relaxing time!

7 – Check the weather, and plan for rain.

Check the weather before your trip.  Depending on the time of the year, you may actually find that you will want a light hoodie or even pants for after the sun goes down.  Unless you are visiting in the summer, you may want to plan a mix of clothing options so you can adapt based on any weather changes.  Don’t underestimate how hot it can be in Florida and definitely wear shorts and light tops.  You will be miserable in the middle of summer in blue jeans and heavy clothing!

6 – Always consider comfort first.

When making clothing selections, don’t worry about dressing to impress!  Pick clothing that is light, breathable, and extremely comfortable.  You will be doing a lot of walking and likely in the heat, so you won’t want to be miserable in your clothing.  If you plan to dress up for a few meals, pack those clothes, but consider going back to change before your meal, rather than wearing them all day long.

5 – Don’t overpack.

This should go without saying, but I think that we all need a good reminder.  Don’t overpack and go crazy packing way too many outfits or things that you are unlikely to need.  It is just more that you have to haul around and unpack when you get home.  It takes up room in your suitcase that could be used to bring home souvenirs from your vacation!

4 – Bring a park bag to carry what you need.

Don’t forget a comfortable bag to carry around your sunscreen, water bottle, wallet, etc. while you are in the park.  I don’t recommend carrying a ton of items with you, and I totally recommend going bag-less if you can.  I know that isn’t feasible for some of you, especially if you have small children, so be sure you remember to bring a bag that will hold your supplies.  It should be comfortable to carry around, too!

3 – Pack an extra bag for souvenirs.

If you are a shopper and plan to buy a lot of souvenirs during your trip, then you should pack an extra bag that you can use to carry everything back.  You don’t want to risk it not all fitting in your suitcases.  We like to pack an empty duffle bag in our suitcase so that we can put all of the souvenirs in there.  Depending on the airline and what souvenirs we buy, we decide whether to check the bag or carry it on.  It can save you a lot of stress and help ensure you get everything home!

2 – Determine if Amazon or grocery delivery services are more efficient than bringing your own items.

If you know that you will need snacks, water, etc., for your trip, then check all your options.  It may be more costly in baggage fees to bring these items with you.  You may also have difficulty finding room to bring it all with you.  Amazon can be a great, affordable option to ship these items to the resort, and the resort can hold it for you to pick up at the front desk.  You can even utilize one of the various grocery delivery services.  Compare all of your options so you know which would be the best bet before you immediately try to pack it all.

1 – Have a plan for if you get separated.

I list this in the packing tips because, depending on your plan, you may need to buy supplies to pack on your trip.  Many families do brightly colored matching shirts.  You could also try brightly colored ball caps, ribbons, etc.  You may want to make identification bracelets, necklaces, etc., for your kids in case they get separated so that a cast member has all of the necessary information to help them get back to you.  These plans should be planned out before you get there so that you can be sure that everyone knows the plan and everything is packed.

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

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