is disney fantasy cruise worth it

Disney Fantasy

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line |

Find a Cruise on Disney Fantasy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros & Cons

More than 85% of rooms offer ocean views or verandas

Some onboard activities cost extra

• Expert Rating » 4.0
• Traveler Rating » 4.5
• Health Rating » 5.0

Disney Fantasy ranks # 2 out of 5 Disney Cruise Line Cruise Ships based on an analysis of expert and user ratings, as well as health ratings.

• # 2 in Best Disney Cruise Line
• # 3 in Best Cruises for Groups
• # 4 in Best Cruises for Families
• # 11 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean
• # 12 in Best Luxury Cruises

Disney Fantasy offers a wide range of accomodation options. Browse cabins to find the stateroom that suits your needs.

Disney Fantasy contains 14 decks. Find out which features are available on each Disney Fantasy deck.

Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 462 guests have reviewed Disney Fantasy , giving it a rating of 4.5 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type.

Ship Photos

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

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Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship: Complete Guide

The Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship joined the fleet in 2012, becoming the fourth Disney Cruise Line ship. It had a ten-year reign as the newest ship in the fleet until the arrival of the Disney Wish in 2022. So what do you need to know if you’re considering taking a cruise on the Disney Fantasy? Here’s an in-depth look at guest staterooms, activities, restaurants, entertainment, and more onboard this fantastic ship.

Prefer to Speak to Someone? Get Free Help From Our Favorite Disney Travel Agency!

In This Guide:

• Ship Overview
• Rotational Dining
• Adult-Exclusive Dining
• Casual Dining
• Lounges, Bars & Snacks
• Room Service
• Pools & Splash Pads
• Oceaneer Club
• Oceaneer Lab
• Broadway-Style Shows
• Pirate Night / Fireworks

Midship Detective Agency

• Spa & Salons
• Itineraries & Ports
• Deck-By-Deck Guide
• How To Book

Disney Fantasy Ship Overview

Image © Disney

The arrival of the Disney Fantasy in 2012 marked what many saw (at the time) as the “completion” of Disney’s fleet, bringing the total number of ships to four. Disney Magic and Disney Wonder had launched more than a decade earlier in the late 1990s, followed by the Disney Dream in 2011.

While the launch of the Dream one year earlier had consumed some of the pent-up demand for a new Disney Cruise ship, the Fantasy’s arrival was still a source of excitement for avid cruisers. Like the Dream, Imagineers planning the Fantasy were able to take advantage of all the experience and technological advances they’d perfected since the launch of the first ships. Innovations such as the AquaDuck water coaster and an onboard mystery game featuring interactive artwork, the Fantasy offers lots to keep its Guests occupied.

As you arrive at the port and approach the Disney Fantasy, you might notice Dumbo and Timothy on the ship’s stern. Dumbo’s 7-foot ear span and 2,300 weight — contrasted against their apparent size compared to the rest of the ship — help drive home the true size of this amazing floating city.

Inside, the three-decks-tall grand atrium lobby of the ship pays homage to the golden age of steamliner travel. A statue of Minnie Mouse — in period-appropriate garb and with luggage in tow — greets passengers embarking on their seafaring adventure.

This central hub of activity is decorated in an Art Nouveau motif, with designs reminiscent of peacock feathers repeated throughout.

From the atrium, take gleaming glass elevators to your stateroom or to any of the restaurants, theatres, pools, and activities scattered about the ship’s 14 passenger decks.

How Does Disney Fantasy Compare to Other Disney Cruise Ships?

The Disney Fantasy is a sister ship to the Disney Dream ; the two ships, which launched within roughly a year of one another, are generally the same in terms of construction. That said, some similar areas on each ship are themed slightly differently from one another — the nightclub district, for example, offers entirely different venues on each ship. The Fantasy (and Dream) are significantly larger than the two original ships ( Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ) but remain slightly smaller than the Disney Wish .

The Disney Fantasy is one of the “mid-sized” ships in the Disney Cruise fleet, at least based on what we now about the remaining Disney Cruise ships currently being built . It is larger than the classic ships, but will be well below the gargantuan size of the ship Disney is planning to launch in Singapore in 2025.

Disney Fantasy is one of only two ships in the fleet to offer the AquaDuck water coaster, the Remy adult-exclusive fine dining restaurant, and virtual portholes (with live camera views of the outside) for its inside staterooms.

Should I Pick the Fantasy or a Smaller/Larger Ship?

Ship size is usually a matter of personal preference depending on how importantly you rank the various pros and cons.

Smaller ships such as the Magic and Wonder are generally easier to navigate on foot – indeed, you’re just a short walk away from the restaurants or virtually anything else onboard. My wife and I tend to prefer the smaller ships for this very reason — but I can honestly say we’ve never found the difference compelling enough to steer us toward solely booking the smaller ships. Interestingly enough, Katie and I have sailed onboard the larger ships more than the smaller ones, even though we prefer the smaller ones.

We at MagicGuides also tend to recommend smaller ships for first-time cruisers as they might feel a bit less overwhelming — but again, it’s not a major consideration. My first Disney Cruise (and my first cruise ever, for that matter) was on the Disney Fantasy’s sister ship the Disney Dream; I never felt overwhelmed during my maiden voyage and you likely won’t either.

On the other hand, some repeat cruisers love larger ships such as the Disney Fantasy because the larger size is simply just a bit more impressive and immersive. There’s no doubt that the larger size fully envelops you in the action. That first glimpse of the ship in port as you arrive for your cruise — and its looming presence at every port along the way, almost become a point of pride for cruisers.

Larger ships such as the Fantasy are at a disadvantage in smaller ports where they might simply not fit, but this usually is not a concern. Disney wisely plans its itineraries to avoid this issue wherever possible, though some ports are so small that virtually every cruise ship has to rely on tsmaller boats to ferry you to shore (known as tendering ).

A bigger ship means more passengers, so onboard venues are larger as a result. Luckily, the larger restaurants, theaters, and pools do a great job of handling the additional passengers so it rarely feels crowded. Those larger venues also give you more options; you can pick a lower or upper balcony seat at a movie theatre, for example, or you might simply have more shops/lounges to choose from. But don’t worry that it’s too big — the Imagineers who designed the ship pulled out their bag of design tricks such as forced perspective, which means you can still find cozy spots onboard that almost make it feel like you have the ship to yourself. Sailing during slower times can also help.

Jump To: Overview   |  Staterooms   |  Dining   |  Water Fun   |  Kids Clubs   |  Entertainment   |  Spa & Salons   |  Itineraries & Ports   |  Deck-by-Deck   |  Fact Sheet   |  How To Book

Disney Fantasy Staterooms

Choosing your own private room onboard the ship is a major part of planning your Disney Cruise. Your stateroom (AKA your passenger cabin) serves as your hotel room at sea. It’s where you’ll spend a decent portion of your waking hours — and where you’ll sleep each night.

The Disney Fantasy boasts 1,250 staterooms, most of which offer outside views through a porthole window or a private verandah (balcony). There are four primary types of staterooms on the ship; each of those four types is further divided into multiple categories and subcategories. Your choice of stateroom is one of the biggest factors in the how much a Disney Cruise costs , because the per-person cost can increase depending on the stateroom category.

Here is a brief list of the room types offered onboard. They’re listed here generally from least expensive to most expensive, though there may be some price overlap. For a more in-depth look at each of these room types, including complete descriptions and photos, check out our Disney Cruise Staterooms article.

Inside Staterooms on Disney Fantasy

Inside Staterooms are the smallest Guest rooms on the ship, but are still larger than those found on some other cruise lines. Luckily they’re wisely designed to offer plenty of room for everyone and their luggage.

These staterooms have no porthole window and no balcony, but on the Disney Fantasy they do feature something called a “magical porthole.” That’s a circular video screen which provides live video from the outside, along with occasional character sightings.

Inside staterooms are offered in standard and deluxe variants, with standard being the smaller of the two. The standard version is also the only regular stateroom category on the ship which does not feature a split bathroom configuration. A split bathroom has a toilet & sink in one section, with a shower & sink in the other; this provides the handy benefit of allowing two people to get ready at the same time.

• 11C:   Deck 2
• 11B:   Decks 5, 6, 7
• 11A:   Decks 8, 9, 10
• 10A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Oceanview Staterooms on Disney Fantasy

Oceanview staterooms offer an outside view through a porthole window. Note that the window does not open.

There are two major choices within this category: a  Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom which is similar in layout to many other staterooms on the ship, and a  Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom  which is larger and offers many additional features geared toward larger families. Family staterooms generally hold more people than other staterooms onboard.

• 9D (obstructed porthole with limited ocean view) :   Decks 6, 7, 8
• 9C (obstructed porthole) :   Decks 7, 8
• 9B:   Deck 2
• 9A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8
• 8C: Decks 5, 6
• 8B: Decks 7, 8, 9
• 8A: Decks 5, 6

A giant porthole with padded cushion, found in some Family Staterooms | Image © Disney

Verandah Staterooms on Disney Fantasy

A typical stateroom verandah layout | Image © Disney

Verandah staterooms offer a private outside balcony which can be accessed through glass doors in your room. Most verandahs have see-through metal railings, but don’t fret if you have a toddler cruising with you — they also have clear plexiglass sheets on them for safety. Note that a few verandah category staterooms have solid metal partitions or are otherwise somewhat obstructed.

• 7A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
• 6B: Decks 5, 6, 7
• 6A:   Decks 8, 9
• 5C:   Decks 6
• 5B:   Decks 7, 8
• 5A:   Decks 9, 10
• 4E (oversized verandah, some with whitewall) :   Deck 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
• 4C:   Deck 6
• 4B: Decks 7, 8
• 4A:   Decks 9, 10

Category 7A Enclosed Navigator’s Verandah | Image © Disney

Concierge Staterooms on Disney Fantasy

Concierge Family Stateroom | Image © Disney

Concierge staterooms offer additional personalized services , concierge staff, and access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge and sun deck. Concierge offerings range from the typical stateroom layout to one-bedroom suites and the frankly mind-blowing Royal Suites (which take up an entire corner of Deck 12!).

• 3A:   Decks 11, 12
• 2B:   Decks 11, 12
• 2A:   Deck 12
• 1A:   Deck 12

Concierge One-Bedroom Suite | Image © Disney

Concierge Royal Suite | Image © Disney

Need Help Picking a Stateroom?

For free, personalized guidance on the different stateroom options offered on the Disney Fantasy, trust the Disney Cruise experts at The Vacationeer ! As an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner ,  The Vacationeer has helped thousands of families just like yours make their Disney Cruise plans.

When you contact The Vacationeer , you’ll be connected with a single, dedicated travel planner — no waiting on hold to speak to someone at a gigantic call center! Your Vacationeer will take the time to get to know your family’s needs to make sure you get your money’s worth by finding the perfect stateroom at the best possible price .

Your Vacationeer will walk you through all the options, answer your questions, make your reservations, and share the best ways to save money on your Disney Cruise . They can even help you set up a zero-interest payment plan ; you’ll often be able to book with just a preliminary deposit, then pay over time .

They even offer a generous onboard credit that can be used toward your purchases on the ship. And best of all, their planning services are free !

So take advantage of free booking help from a Disney Cruise expert — contact The Vacationeer today for a free, no-obligation quote on your dream Disney Cruise!

Disney Fantasy Dining and Lounges

It’s common knowledge that dining is an important part of the cruise experience , and the Disney Fantasy certainly lives up to those expectations. Onboard, you’ll find three main dining restaurants, two elegant adult-exclusive specialty dining options, a nightclub district and several lounges, plus plenty of places to grab a quick meal or a snack.

Rotational Dining Restaurants on Disney Fantasy

Like all Disney Cruise Ships, the Disney Fantasy offers rotational dining during the nightly dinner service. This concept is a Disney Cruise Line dining innovation; you’re pre-scheduled to visit a different restaurant on each night of the cruise with no need to make individual reservations. And you’ll have the same servers each night, so they’ll get to know you and your food preferences.

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

Animator’s Palate

Animator’s Palate is the flagship dining experience on the Disney Fantasy. It offers a fan-favorite menu along with a taste of the magic of animation.

The menu is inspired by the cuisines of Asia, California, and the Pacific. Be sure to try the black truffle pasta purseittes, a personal favorite of mine (and of many other repeat cruisers). You’ll also find butternut squash soup, wild mushroom risotto, polenta cake with tomatoes and mushroom, a lemon-thyme marinated chicken dish, beef tenderloin, and much more.

Your dinner also includes one of several shows which focus on the art of animation.

In one version of the show — known as Undersea Magic — interactive digital animation of the Finding Nemo characters allows you to talk with Crush! It’s very similar to EPCOT’s Turtle Talk with Crush.

In another version of the show — known as Animation Magic — you get a chance to become an animator! Start out by drawing your own character on a special paper placemat, then watch in awe as Sorcerer Mickey brings them to life at the end of your meal! I had a chance to do this on another Disney ship… it really does feel like magic!

• Enchanted Garden

The atmosphere of this French countryside conservatory truly does feel enchanted; it magically changes from daytime to sunset to nighttime, all during the course of your dinner! Light fixtures transform and flowers “bloom” as your meal proceeds.

Enchanted Garden offers a farm-fresh continental cuisine menu; My wife loves the lobster ravioli, while I’m always impressed by the unique curried carrot & apple soup. You an also enjoy the Ahi tuna and avocado tower, a lovely sea bass, marjoram-scented chicken, or pork tenderloin. Round out the meal with a tempting dessert of steamed lemon buttermilk pudding, banana sundaes, chocolate tortes, and almond meringue cake. Don’t be shy — order more than one!

Enchanted Garden sometimes serves as an alternate breakfast and lunch option (versus the primary onboard buffet Cabanas ).

• Royal Court

You’re invited to a royal feast at this elegant restaurant inspired by the greatest animated princess tales Disney has ever made. You’ll see nods to Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and many more classics.

Your four-course royal feast includes French- and American-inspired options. I love anything with pomegranate so I always order the pomegranate-glazed duck breast. There’s also spinach soufflé, and iced lobster and jumbo shrimp cocktail, avocado citrus salad, French onion soup, beef tenderloin with lobster medallions, and many more tempting choices. For dessert, indulge in a crunchy and creamy crème brûlée or enjoy a peanut butter mousse.

Royal Court may also serve an alternate breakfast or lunch service on some days.

Adult-Exclusive Dining on the Disney Fantasy

Disney cruises are certainly family-friendly, but there are still options which cater solely to adults because everyone needs a little time to themselves. One of the best adult-exclusive offerings on the Disney Fantasy is its duo of elegant specialty restaurants . So send the kids off to the Oceaneer Club, put on some nice clothes, and enjoy a date night at Palo or Remy!

Palo is the home of memorable Italian cuisine during your cruise. This gorgeous venue includes giant windows overlooking the ocean, providing a perfect backdrop for your meal. Dinner menu items include seared sea scallops, tableside-fileted dover sole, butternut agnolotti, tiramisu, and a signature chocolate soufflé that’s considered one of the most popular items across the entire Disney Cruise fleet. On sea days, a tremendously-popular brunch service is typically offered.

Dining here requires an upcharge and space is usually in high demand; book as early as your onboard booking window allows.

The most upscale onboard dining experience onboard the Disney Fantasy is Remy. The restaurant, named in honor of the diminutive chef in Ratatouille , transports you to France for a gourmet experience like no other. Dine in the main room, the 900-bottle wine room, or splurge for the luxurious private Gusteau room (complete with a custom multi-course menu).

Dinner at Remy begins with a signature champagne cocktail prepared at your table. Then, it’s a gastronomic adventure designed in part by Chef Scott Hunnel (of Disney World’s Victoria & Albert’s) and Chef Arnaud Lallement (recipient of three Michelin stars and voted by  other Michelin-starred chefs as one of the 10 best chefs in the entire world). A gourmet cheese trolley and selections such as duck, elk, Kobe beef, langoustine, and sablefish are hallmarks of the menu.

On certain cruises, there’s also a highly-demanded champagne brunch as well as a multi-course dessert experience.

Dining here requires a fairly significant upcharge. You’ll want to book as early as possible to have the best chance of securing a spot.

Casual Dining on the Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Cabanas | Image © Disney

Breakfast and lunch are casual meals onboard the Disney Fantasy. So come as you are (just cover up any swimsuits) and grab a quick meal at Cabanas.

This buffet-style restaurant has nearly a dozen food stations offering a mix of American, Asian, and European favorites in an all-you-care-to-eat breakfast and lunch.

Décor-wise, you’re clearly “on the beach” here. You’ll find palm trees, “sand castle” artwork, and a Caribbean soundtrack. There’s also an impressive set of mosaic walls, with roughly 194,500 tiny Venetian enamel tiles making up scenes inspired by  Finding Nemo and the Great Barrier Reef.

As to the food, those seeking traditional American Breakfast favorites won’t be disappointed here. You’ll find all the usual morning offerings — custom-made omelets, bacon & sausage, Mickey Waffles, hash browns, and so on. But I always suggest making an effort to also try some of the international offerings that we normally don’t have for breakfast here in the states — perhaps an Asian offering such as rice and miso soup, or a European breakfast of fresh muesli with dried fruits and nuts. Because everything’s included, you can still pile on the Mickey Waffles alongside your more-adventurous choices.

Lunch at Cabanas is a daily-changing mix of chilled and hot choices. Jumbo iced shrimp & crab claws are longtime cruise favorites here, along with hamburgers, sandwiches, pizza, freshly-grilled meats, veggies, and much more.

Cabanas also offers an alternative dinner service most nights. It’s not buffet style at night; a server will present you with a menu and bring your food to you, and it’s usually a rather quiet meal. My spouse and I will sometimes plan to have dinner here on formal night if we don’t feel like packing dress clothes for the cruise.

Lounges, Bars, and Snacks on the Disney Fantasy

There’s always a place to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink onboard. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a soda, or are seeking something a little stronger , you’ll easily find it on the ship. Here are just a few highlights:

• Beverage Station

There’s no need to purchase a separate drink package on a Disney Cruise, as most non-alcoholic drinks are included at no additional cost (a rarity in the cruise industry). This self-service beverage station located near the pool offers unlimited refills of sodas, teas, coffees, and other non-specialty beverages.

An adults-only retreat that focuses on specialty coffees and teas during the day, with cocktails in the evening.

A compelling open-air bar on Deck 13 offering expansive views and delightful cocktails. Adults only.

Eye Scream Treats and Frozone Treats

Cool down with all-you-can eat soft-serve ice cream cones (included in the cost of your cruise!), or spend a bit extra to enjoy a specialty smoothie.

Flo’s Cafe: Fillmore’s Favorites, Luigi’s Pizza, and Tow Mater’s Grill

For a quick grab-and-go snack poolside, check out these quick service windows. You’ll find pizza, chicken tenders, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and more.

Part of the Europa nightclub district, this lounge features highlights of Italy. Gather ’round the Carosello bar or settle into an intimate booth to enjoy live music and Italian-inspired cocktails. Adults only.

Meridian Lounge

Supplement your elegant meal at Remy or Palo by having cocktails at this upscale travel-themed lounge conveniently located directly between those two fine dining establishments. Cigars are also offered for purchase.

Minnie’s Sweet on You

Purchase hand-scooped ice cream, baked goods, and candy in this shop. Fees apply.

O’Gill’s Pub

Polish of a pint or two at this Irish pub, featuring live sport on-screen and some of the best American, Irish, and international beer on tap. Adults only.

A whimsical atmosphere and a custom private-label Taittinger Champagne are the hallmarks of this lush lounge. Adults only.

A serene lounge on Deck 14 in the forward funnel (red smokestack). This spot is often overlooked due to its secluded location, so it’s a quiet retreat with compelling views (and a great wedding venue, too!).

• Senses Juice Bar

Enjoy a healthy drink at this retreat near Senses Spa and Salon. Fresh fruit and vegetables give their all for these nutritious protein- and vitamin-packed beverages.

This adults-only bar provides scenic views of iconic city skylines around the world. Thanks to a little Disney magic, the view out the “window” changes to a different city every fifteen minutes.

It’s always London’s swinging ’70s at this mojo-bolstering nightclub. Pick a proper British cocktail or have a cuppa — it’s up to you! Adults only.

Room Service on Disney Fantasy

Most items on the Disney Fantasy’s Room Service menu are offered at no additional charge – you’ll only have to pay for a few specialty items and to tip the crew member who delivers the food to your room.

The standard room service menu usually includes soups & salads, chicken tenders, burgers & dogs, sandwiches & wraps, and hot wings.  You’ll also typically find a few flatbreads or pizzas and perhaps some pasta. Dessert is also offered — usually cookies, cake, or pie.

A favorite among repeat cruisers is the All Hands on Deck , a cheese, fruit, and crackers plate. Kids of all ages will be pleased to know you can also request a Mickey’s Premium ice cream bar – the same kind found at Disney World.

If you don’t mind coming out of pocket, you can add on specialty items such as beer, wine, canned soft drinks, deluxe coffees, juices, and pre-packaged snacks such as candies.

I personally usually skip the upcharge items and just go for the buffalo wings and perhaps a burger.

Best Bets for Each Meal on Disney Fantasy

Below are my personal picks for the best onboard dining options for each meal.

• Primary option: Cabanas is the number one breakfast spot onboard thanks to its long hours, expansive options, and all-you-care-to-eat service style. Mornings can be rather hectic here, but there’s rarely difficulty in finding a seat.
• Secondary option: One of the three rotational restaurants usually offers a table-service breakfast, complete with a server who will bring your food and keep your drinks refilled. The menu is a bit more limited than at Cabanas so I usually don’t go this route, but it’s definitely a much quieter option to start your day.
• Other options: Room service is available, but I tend to steer clear of it for breakfast. Why? First, you need to order in advance via a menu card that you hang on your doorknob the night before and I usually don’t know in advance what will sound good tomorrow morning. Second and more importantly, the room service breakfast menu is extremely limited. It’s a continental sort of menu with juices, coffees, pastries, and cold cereals. All well and good, but no bacon, eggs, sausage, or oatmeal? No thank you. Though I will admit that it’s nice to be able to order coffee and a light pastry to enjoy while watching sunrise from my verandah.
• Primary option: Like at breakfast, Cabanas is the best lunch option thanks to its wide selection. Iced jumbo shrimp and crab claws are a signature menu item most days and I usually eat my fill of them at least once during the cruise; you’ll also find freshly grilled meats, a wide variety of side items, some interesting international selections, and lots of tempting desserts.
• Secondary option: The food service windows at Flo’s Café offer an endless supply of burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and ice cream cones. These windows are great for folks who want to spend the day by the pool without having to stray too far for a nosh. Even if you’re elsewhere on the ship, heading here is a good option due to their extended hours. More than once we’ve missed lunch hours at Cabanas and had to grab a bite here. They’re also a good choice when you have a late dinner seating but need something to hold you over.
• Other options : ne of the three main restaurants typically serves lunch with open seating, no reservation required. Room Service is another good option, though there’s sometimes a lunch rush which can delay your food’s arrival a bit. One minor complaint, though: the cloche-covered dishes sometimes mean that my hot wings don’t arrive quite as crispy as I’d like.
• Primary option: Your assigned rotational dining restaurant is the heart of Disney Cruise dining and shouldn’t be missed. Your dedicated service team follows you all voyage long and will likely become your favorite Crew Members onboard the ship (my wife and I made such a connection with our servers on a 2019 cruise that we still remember their names!). Add in special themed menus and other thoughtful touches, and you’ll quickly see why this is a highlight of each day onboard. We rarely skip it.
• Secondary option: As an alternative to your pre-scheduled rotational dining restaurant, you might opt to experience Cabanas in a totally new way. Dinner at Cabanas is an entirely different experience than the free-for-all buffet-style offerings that are the mainstay of breakfast and lunch. A host seats you at your table, and a server presents you a menu featuring some of the most popular selections onboard. As I mentioned earlier, my wife and I sometimes go this route when it’s formal night at the main restaurants.
• Other options: Many cruisers enjoy dedicating at least one night of their cruise to an adult-exclusive meal at Palo or Remy. I personally prefer the idea of going the brunch route there rather than dinner, but that’s just a personal preference. On he other end of the spectrum, you can always grab something from the quick-service windows on the pool deck, or order room service.

Off-Hours Eating and Snacking

• Primary option: For cravings outside the main meal periods, your best bet is Flo’s Café on the pool deck. Their generous hours and snack-friendly offerings make them a great choice to tide you over between meals. Individual portions tend to be “snack sized” (perhaps 2 or 3 chicken tenders and a few fries), so you won’t spoil your dinner unless you want to.
• Secondary option: Room Service is available 24/7, up until about 1:30 AM on the last morning of your cruise. It’s the only option for overnight snacking. I’ll occasionally order a few warm cookies and some milk at bedtime, but you can also order 4:00 AM buffalo wings with no judgement.

Book Through The Vacationeer and Get Free Spending Money To Use Onboard

Disney Fantasy Pools and Water Slides

The AquaDuck is the premier water attraction onboard the Disney Fantasy. This first-of-its kind (water coaster on a cruise ship) attraction takes its guests on a wild adventure high above the upper decks of the ship.

Guests board a raft and are propelled by jets of water through 765 feet of tubes and open-air slide segments; along the way, you’ll experience a 4-deck drop, a careening curve over the edge of the ship, and a journey through one of the iconic red smokestack funnels.

You don’t have to pay extra to ride the AquaDuck, but you will have to wait in line (sorry, no FastPass, Lightning Lane, or Genie+ here). Lines tend to be longest on Sea Days and shorter when the ship is in port. You might have the best luck if you’re willing to ride while everyone’s ashore at Castaway Cay . Riding earlier or later in the day can also help avoid crowds – just don’t forget to check the operating hours each day in the Navigator app.

To ride solo, Guests must be at least 54″ tall and at least 7 years of age. Children under the age of 7 who are at least 42″ tall and toilet-trained may ride with a companion who is at least 14 years of age.

Pools and Splash Pads

An interactive water play zone on Deck 12. Paint cans, shower heads, pop jets, and more make up the splashy atmosphere of this experimental area concocted by Huey, Dewey, and Louie. Kids can patch leaky pipes, “control” water flow to the AquaDuck, and dodge spills from the Ducky Dinghy. Ages 3+; supervision required for those under age 16.

• Donald’s Pool

This pool offers a shallow wading area with a deeper center. This is a perfect place to enjoy Disney movies on the giant 24′ x 14′ FunnelVision screen nearby. This pool is sometimes closed during special on-deck events, covered with a retractable floor to offer more deck space.

Donald’s Pool | Image © Disney

Funnel Puddle

A shallow (approximately 1-foot deep) family friendly pool that’s far removed from the raucousness of the Donald’s and Mickey’s pools. This is the closest thing the Disney Fantasy has to a “quiet pool” that’s still open to all ages; but there’s still a small water fountain feature in the middle that kids love to splash in.

• Mickey’s Pool & Slide

The shape alone clearly communicates this is designed for kids; The deeper zones of this still-shallow pool are shaped like the friendly face of everyone’s favorite pal, Mickey Mouse. Meanwhile, one of Mickey’s signature white gloves supports a bright yellow waterslide for kids aged 4 to 14 / height 38″ to 64″. May be closed during deck parties.

Mickey’s Pool | Image © Disney

• Nemo’s Reef

This toddler-friendly splash zone features PIXAR characters spraying water, a child-sized Mr. Ray waterslide, and more — all in a shaded, enclosed, soft-surfaced area. Ages 3 years or younger; swim diapers are required.

• Quiet Cove Pool

A serene oasis for those 18 and up to get away from the kids for some quiet time. There’s a three-circled pool of varying depths, lounge-style seating in the shallowest segment, a whirlpool spa, and of course plenty of adult beverages nearby.

Satellite Falls Pool

One of the most unique water spaces onboard the Disney Fantasy, Satellite Falls is an adults-only wading pool that features drizzling water directly underneath one of the giant satellite domes on the ship’s upper deck.

Satellite Falls | Image © Disney

Disney Fantasy Kids Clubs and Teen Clubs

Much of Deck 5 on the Disney Fantasy is dedicated to spaces especially designed for younger passengers (thanks in part to space saved by not having casinos onboard the ship ). Here’s a preview of the kids clubs and other youth-friendly spaces onboard the ship.

• Disney’s Oceaneer Club

The Oceaneer Club is the primary kids activity onboard the Disney Fantasy. It’s the place where your kids will probably spend most of their time onboard.

This secure facility is accessible only to kids aged 3-10 and trained youth activities staff — but there are pre-scheduled open houses to allow parents and children to tour the location together. Inside there are tons of kid-friendly spaces and activities, and it’s all included in the cost of your Disney cruise! This amazing kids club is one of the reasons we consider Disney to be the best cruise line for children .

Andy’s Room

Kids are immersed in the world of Disney·Pixar’s Toy Story movies in this play area.

Doctor Strange: Defy the Dark Dimension

Learn the mystic arts from Doctor Strange himself.

Marvel Super Hero Academy

Immersive games and interactive portals let you become an Avenger!

Pixie Hollow

This forest-themed area is the perfect place for storytelling, playing dress-up, and arts & crafts.

Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends

Mickey and pals drop in for fun and games.

Star Wars: Command Post

Undergo Jedi training and face off with Storm Troopers!

Woody’s Round Up

Fun and Games, Storytelling, Singing, and Dancing make for a full-fledged jamboree!

• Disney’s Oceaneer Lab

A partner facility to the Oceaneer Club, the Oceaneer Lab offers lots of hands-on activities and experiences for kids ages 3-10.

Animator’s Studio

Learn how to draw your favorite Disney characters – or just entertain your own creative instincts.

Craft Studio

A spot perfectly prepared to indulge creative urges with hands-on creations.

Get the Hook!

A 3-day search through multiple crime scenes to find Captain Hook’s… well, you know.

Disney movies, video games, and occasional structured activities are the order of the day here.

Piston Cup Challenge

Bars of soap form the chassis of your custom-made race car in this fun, hands-on race.

Super Sloppy Science with Professor Make-O-Mess

Meet a world-famous scientist with a penchant for unashamedly messy experiments.

What Goes Up

Learn what makes birds and planes airborne, thanks to a bit of help from the stars of Disney-PIXAR’s  Up .

The Wheelhouse

Pilot your own Disney ship through the Caribbean Sea via video simulation.

Tweens and young teens (ages 11 to 14) have a space all to themselves onboard the Disney Fantasy, and it’s in one of the most exclusive spots on the entire ship: inside the iconic red smokestack funnel on Deck 13! Edge is the perfect place to relax as tweens see fit — a huge video wall, a dance floor, karaoke machines, a game room, and photo booths. The furniture can even be moved around so Guests can make the space their own. A mix of planned activities and unstructured free time keeps things interesting.

Those aged 14 to 17 have a unique indoor/outdoor space made just for them, complete with a super secret entrance! Indoors, teens will find plenty of TVs, video games, and tablets, plus dance parties, karaoke sessions, and group activities. Outside, there’s a private sundeck at the bow of the ship that’s perfect for games, splashing in one of two small pools, and sunbathing.

Vibe outdoor sundeck

it’s a small world nursery!

Tiny cruisers are well cared for in it’s a small world nursery! , an onboard babysitting service for infants and toddlers aged three and younger.

Disney youth counselors watch over the tykes, playing with them, feeding them, and handling diaper changes.

Nominal fees apply, charged by the half-hour (one-hour minimum). Discounts are offered for multiple children in the same family. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended. There are no in-room babysitting services onboard.

Need Answers But Don’t Want To Wait On Hold?

Disney Fantasy Entertainment and Activities

Given Disney’s reputation as an entertainment powerhouse, it’s no surprise that the shows and experiences onboard the Disney Fantasy are of the highest quality.

Broadway-Style Shows in the Walt Disney Theatre

Each night of your cruise, you’ll be treated to a live show in the beautiful Walt Disney Theatre. This includes at least three Broadway-style shows during your cruise, along with other additions (such as family-friendly comedians, ventriloquists, magicians, or even hypnotists) on longer voyages.

Shows are typically offered twice nightly, with times are opposite your dinner time onboard. Those with early dining will see the late show, while later diners will see the early show.

Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular

Spectacular special effects and just a little magic from the lamp bring this timeless tale to the stage with music and comedy. Marvel at the Magic Carpet and just try to figure out how Jafar transforms! You’ll also enjoy beloved songs from the film as well as a new one written just for this production.

Disney’s Believe

A true stage spectacular, featuring 300+ costumes, 200+ scenic elements, and a cast of characters assembled to help a daughter provide her hard-working father a bit of perspective on what’s truly important in life.

Frozen – A Musical Spectacular

A lively musical retelling of Anna and Elsa’s journey. Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf are all here to join in the adventure, and of course all the familiar songs are there, too.

Pirate Night / Pirates in the Caribbean Deck Party with Fireworks

Pirate night starts with the delivery of pirate bandanas to your stateroom – then the party moves to your scheduled dining location for the evening, where a special themed menu awaits. Then, head up to the pool deck for a raucous show with high-flying pirates including favorite Disney characters. Finally, the grand finale (and another Disney innovation) – fireworks at sea!

Note: not every itinerary offers a pirate night, and fireworks may be canceled due to weather.

Sailing Away Deck Party

The official start to your cruise on the Disney Fantasy. Your vacation begins when the ship’s horn plays those familiar notes and confetti rains down from the upper decks. Captain Mickey and all his pals are there to join the fun to ensure your trip gets off to a great, high-energy start.

Disney Movies in the Buena Vista Theatre

First-run and classic Disney, LucasFilm, Marvel, and PIXAR films are shown all day long inside the Buena Vista Theatre. Every show is completely free — you don’t even need a ticket! Just check the Navigator app or signs outside the theatre for showtimes, then head inside to find a seat.

This is honestly one of my wife’s favorite things to do onboard the ship. It’s a great way to catch up with films she might have missed throughout the year, or to re-watch one that we haven’t ever seen on a true big screen.

If you find yourself sailing during the premiere of a highly-anticipated Disney film, you don’t have to worry missing out. It’ll be shown practically non-stop in the Buena Vista Theatre, likely following a huge “PremEAR at Sea” showing in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Goofy Golf and Sports Deck

If you prefer your entertainment to be a bit more active, there’s plenty of great recreation to be had on Goofy’s Sports Deck , located on Deck 13 aft.

One of my absolute favorite things to do onboard the Disney Fantasy is to play a round of Goofy Golf. The nine-hole course features plenty of terrible puns, which is right on par (see?) with my terrible sense of humor. It’s completely free to play and you don’t need to reserve a tee time. Just grab a putter and a goofball, er, golf ball — and perhaps a scorecard/pencil if you insist on keeping things official. More hard-core mini-golfers will appreciate that each hole offers two tee locations — one just for fun and one for a slightly more challenging experience.

Elsewhere on the sports deck, you’ll find other, more mainstream pursuits, such as a basketball court and even a digital sports simulator (fees apply).

Down on deck 4, you’ll also find shuffleboard courts — a classic cruise activity.

If it’s your first time on the Disney Fantasy, I highly suggest setting aside some time on the first few days of your cruise to play the Midship Detective Agency activity that’s offered onboard. Not only is it tons of fun, but it’ll also send you all over the ship — a great way to get your bearings and discover things you might have missed otherwise.

Your adventure starts on Deck 5, where you’ll visit a kiosk to pick up a “badge,” a deck plan / casebook, and instructions on where to find your first clue.

This extensive activity has you seeking out more than 20 interactive artwork displays to find clues and stolen items. Thanks to random gameplay events and “choose your own adventure” dilemmas, it’s easy to play this over and over without getting bored.

Depending on the agency’s caseload, you might help Mickey and pals recover some stolen paintings, try to find 99 missing Dalmatians, or follow Pepe the King Prawn’s clues to solve a zany Muppet mystery. The Muppet case is my favorite! See if you can find Pepe the King Prawn’s stateroom door on Deck 5.

Don’t have a ton of time to commit? No worries. Your detective badge tracks your progress, so you can play at your own pace, starting and stopping as you like.

Disney Fantasy Spas and Salons

Disney Fantasy offers a full-service spa onboard the ship, featuring many other health and wellness services.

Senses Spa and Salon

Pamper yourself with spa treatments, salon services, and rejuvenation procedures at this restful retreat onboard Disney Fantasy. Some of the services offered at the spa include Swedish massages, aroma stone therapy, deep tissue massage, acupuncture, facials, teeth whitening, shampoo/cut/style, manicures, pedicures, and more. Even those who aren’t into spa treatments might still be interested in enjoying the Rainforest Room with its various themed shower settings. Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, showers, lockers, sandals, and robes round out the offerings. While prices are higher than at spas on land, many repeat cruisers feel that Senses Spa is worth the added expense .

Exclusively for guests aged 13-17, this special area of Senses offers treatments to teens. A parent or guardian must accompany the teen for the duration of the treatment ( solo and combined treatments are offered as an option).

• Fitness Center

Perhaps you’re a regular exerciser, or maybe you just want to offset several days of all-you-can-eat meals. Either way, you can stay in shape with the offerings at the Disney Fantasy’s onboard fitness center. Whatever your preferred equipment — weight machines, cardio equipment, ellipticals, treadmills, and others — you’re likely to find it here. If you prefer a group experience you can join a yoga, Pilates, or aerobics class. Or, opt for personalized one-on-one training and analysis with a professional trainer.

• Walking/Jogging Track

I enjoy a nice walk after dinner, so I appreciate that the Disney Fantasy offers an open-air covered walking/jogging track on Deck 4. I like that it’s low enough on the ship to offer some close-up ocean views — especially handy if you’re lucky enough to see wildlife such as dolphins playing alongside the ship. A leisurely stroll is perfectly fine, but jogging is also fair game here if you don’t want to miss your daily run while onboard. You might even recognize off-duty Crew Members getting a bit of exercise.

Get Free Credit Toward Spa Treatments When You Book With The Vacationeer

Disney Fantasy Itineraries and Home Ports

Here’s what’s currently scheduled for the Disney Fantasy:

Disney Fantasy continues its straightforward schedule of cruises in 2024 .

• January through end of year: Primarily Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruises from Port Canaveral , along with a few Bahamian cruises visiting Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Here’s what the schedule of 2025 Disney Cruises on the Fantasy looks like so far:

• January through early May: Bahamian Cruises from Port Canaveral
• Early May: Transatlantic Cruise from Port Canaveral to Barcelona
• Mid-May through early September: European Cruises from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, and Southampton
• Mid-September and beyond: Not yet released

Find a Cruise Near You and Secure the Best Possible Rate

Disney Fantasy Deck-by-Deck

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

• Health Center
• Tender Lobbies (ship exit at ports of call)
• Public Restrooms
• Self-Service Laundry
• Vista Gallery
• Category 9B
• Category 11C
• Walt Disney Theatre (main level)
• Animator’s Palate
• Guest Services
• Mickey’s Mainsail
• Sea Treasures
• Lobby Atrium
• Buena Vista Theatre (main level)
• Walt Disney Theatre (balcony level)
• Europa (nightclub district)
• O’Gills Pub
• Port Shopping Desk
• Shutters Photo
• Shutters Portrait Studio
• Tiffany & Co.
• Vacation Planning Desk
• Atrium (overlook)
• Buena Vista Theatre (balcony level)
• “it’s a small world” nursery
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
• Port Adventures Desk
• Category 4E
• Category 6B
• Category 7A
• Category 8A
• Category 8C
• Category 9A
• Category 10A
• Category 11B
• Category 4C
• Category 5C
• Category 9D
• Category 4B
• Category 5B
• Category 8B
• Category 9C
• Category 6A
• Category 11A
• Category 4A
• Category 5A
• Funnel Vision
• Eye Scream Treats
• Filmore’s Favorites
• Luigi’s Pizza
• Tow Mater’s Grill
• Frozone Treats
• Sweet on You
• Rainforest Room
• Treatment Salons & Villas
• Whozits & Whatzits
• Category 2B
• Category 3A
• AquaDuck Entrance
• Funnel Puddle Pool
• Concierge Lounge
• Senses Spa (additional treatment rooms)
• Category 1A
• Category 2A
• Sports Courts
• Sports Simulator
• Satellite Falls
• Currents Bar
• Concierge Private Sun Deck

Disney Fantasy Fact Sheet

Shipyard (ship’s birthplace).

Meyer Werft – Papenburg, Germany

Maiden voyage

March 31, 2012

May vary — see Itineraries & Ports above

Ship’s Registry

Approximately 130,000 gross tons

22 knots cruising speed

23.5 knots maximum speed

Diesel-based electric

Crew Members

Maximum capacity.

4,000 passengers

1,250 staterooms

• 901 verandah staterooms (includes 21 suites)
• 199 oceanview staterooms
• 150 inside staterooms (12%)

How To Book a Cruise on the Disney Fantasy

While there are many ways to book Disney Cruise Line vacations , we believe the best way to secure your spot on the Disney Fantasy (or any other Disney Cruise ship ) is to work with one of the Disney Cruise experts at our official travel agency partner The Vacationeer .

This Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , offers absolutely free help planning and booking your cruise . Their group of Disney fanatic travel agents can help you make all the right choices, picking the right ship for your family and helping you choose between a Disney Cruise and other cruise lines such as Princess , Carnival , Norwegian , and Royal Caribbean (they book them all!).

Your cruise won’t cost more than if you’d booked it yourself — it might even cost less ! Their genius-level knowledge of money-saving discounts is one of the many reasons to book with a Disney travel agent .

Another reason? The Vacationeer offers Onboard Credit — free spending money that you can use toward purchases you make while you’re onboard the ship! Use it towards specialty dining, souvenirs, spa treatments, shore excursions , gratuities , and more! Booking through The Vacationeer can earn you up to $1,000 in onboard credit .

And finally, there’s The Vacationeer’s personalized service . You’ll be assigned a single, dedicated agent who’ll handle your cruise arrangements from start to finish . Imagine — never having to wait on hold to speak to yet another agent in a giant call center! Good luck finding that level of service with a nationwide wholesaler !

So what’re you waiting for? It’s time to take a Disney Cruise — and  Vacationeers are ready to help!

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Disney Fantasy Deck Plans & Reviews

Disney Fantasy

Activities & entertainment

• ConnectATSea *
• Its A Small World Nursery *
• Disneys Oceaneer Club
• Disneys Oceaneer Lab
• Edge _ Tweens Club
• Vibe _ Teens Club
• Senses Spa and Salon *
• Senses Treatment Salons *
• Senses Rainforest Room *
• Couples Villa *
• Senses Fitness Center
• Jogging Track
• Satellite Falls
• Funnel Puddle
• Goofys Sports Deck
• Sports Simulator
• Character Events
• Fitness Classes
• Arts and Crafts Classes
• Deck Parties
• Scavenger Hunts
• Dance Parties
• Extensive Kids Programs
• Pin Trading
• Sing_Alongs
• Video Game Competitions
• Adults_Only Events
• Europa _ Adults_Only Area
• Whirlpools (4)
• Waterslides (2)
• Mickeys Slide
• Shutters Portrait Studio *
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique *
• Retail Shops *
• Vista Gallery *
• Guest Services
• Port Adventures *
• Disney Vacation Planning *
• Port Shopping Desk *
• Concierge Lounge _ Suite Guests
• Medical Center
• Walt Disney Theatre
• Buena Vista Theatre
• Disney Movies Onboard
• Funnel Vision
• Nightly Live Music
• Stage Shows
• Enchanted Garden - Rotational Main
• Animators Palate - Rotational Main
• Royal Court - Rotational Main
• Cabanas - Buffet
• Preludes - Theater Snacks *
• La Piazza - Italian Cocktails *
• Vista Cafe - Coffee Bar *
• Skyline - Cocktail Bar *
• Ooh La La - Champagne Bar *
• OGills Pub - Pub *
• Eye Scream_Frozone Treats - Ice Cream
• Beverage Station - Soft Drinks
• Sweet On You - Sweets *
• Flos Cafe_Luigis Pizza_Tow_Maters Grill_Fillmores Favorites - Fast Food
• Cove Cafe - Coffee Bar *
• Senses Juice Bar - Juice Bar
• Cove Bar - Pool Bar *
• Meridian - Nautical Bar *
• Remy - French *
• Palo - Italian *
• Waves Bar - Pool Bar *
• Currents Bar - Pool Bar *
• Bon Voyage - Atrium Bar *
• Room Service
• Excellent 98
• Very Good 10
• All languages ( 130 )
• English ( 127 )
• Spanish ( 2 )
• French ( 1 )

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Disney Fantasy

Fantasy becomes reality., onboard fun.

There’s never a dull moment aboard the Disney Fantasy! With a near endless number of activities, eateries and experiences for the entire family, it’s easy to not ever want to leave the ship.

View All Onboard Activities on the Disney Fantasy

Entertainment

Disney knows a thing or two about keeping Guests engaged—and it’s no exception on a Disney cruise. View More

Fun comes in every form on the Disney Fantasy—with clubs for tweens to teens, adults-only areas and pools for everybody! View More

Savor distinctive choices onboard—from menus inspired by romantic destinations to restaurants with magical themes. View More

FIREWORKS AT SEA

Character appearances, first-run movies, daily activities.

View all Entertainment on the Disney Fantasy

FOR THE ADULTS

Youth activities, sports and fitness.

View all Recreation on the Disney Fantasy

MAIN DINING

Casual dining, adult-exclusive dining.

View all Dining on the Disney Fantasy

SPOTLIGHT AT SEA

With everything to do on the Disney Fantasy, how do you choose? Here are just a few of the must-see experiences worth a lifetime of memories.

Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular

Enjoy a live musical comedy based on the Disney classic complete with flying carpet, magic lamp and wise-cracking genie.

Seasonal Days at Sea

Delight in holiday magic at sea between mid-September and the end of the year as Disney Cruise Line celebrates Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmastime and New Year’s Eve.

Experience the AquaDuck, an exhilarating sky-high wild water ride—the first-of-its-kind water coaster at sea!

Indulge in tantalizing French-gourmet fare at this adult-exclusive restaurant boasting sweeping sea views and a chic ambience.

Sweet On You

Treat yourself to a decadent indulgence—these delightful frozen desserts are delicious fun for the whole family!

Designed especially for families, Disney Cruise Line staterooms aboard the Disney Fantasy are equipped with innovations that ensure the ultimate in comfort and relaxation for Guests of all ages.

Indulge in our most luxurious accommodations on the Disney Fantasy with large private verandahs, separate bedrooms, premium amenities and services.

Breathe in the ocean air from these richly appointed accommodations designed for families of 3 to 5—featuring a private balcony and sweeping sea views.

Relax in roomy, quarters bedecked in a charming nautical motif with Art Deco flourishes—plus one or 2 portholes for admiring the scenery.

Sleep soundly in spacious accommodations, each with a Magical Porthole showing real-time ocean views and animated Disney characters.

PORTS OF CALL

The Caribbean boasts some of the most breathtaking locales in the world—from sparkling sugary white shores to amazing underwater wonders.

Eastern Caribbean

White-sand beaches, rocky mountain landscapes and a European flair make this region a favorite of jetsetters and vacationers alike.

Western Caribbean

Embark on a scenic journey awash with historic sites and natural wonders in destinations that include Mexico, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

Castaway Cay

Reserved for Guests on Disney Cruise Line Caribbean and Bahamian cruise vacations, Castaway Cay is Disney's private island paradise.

Is A Disney Cruise Worth It? (What You Need to Know)

Posted on Published: 12/31/2023

A family cruise vacation can be so much for kids. A floating hotel, full of flashy activities, delicious foods, and impeccable service can be an appealing vacation option. However, when you start looking at prices, you may wonder if a Disney cruise is worth it. It can be more money than other cruise lines, but can also be worth it.

The answer to this question depends a lot on your budget and your plans for your vacation. It will also depend upon what you are considering for alternatives. For instance, if you are deciding between a cruise and visiting the theme parks, you’ll need to decide what activities you’d rather do while on your vacation. These are very different vacations.

You may also be choosing between several different cruise lines. Many of them have similar itineraries, with different price points.

Be sure you are comparing similar-length cruises to the same ports and are not just looking at the lower price. You’ll also want to consider what is included We have a comparison of Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line here .

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to me at no cost to you. I’ve been on several media cruises at a lower/discounted price, but have also paid my own way for many cruises.

When booking a Disney Cruise, I recommend booking with Get Away Today. Plus, when you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 onboard credit! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929. They can also help with Disney Land and Sea vacations .

Is A Disney Cruise Worth It?

First, you’ll want to look at what’s included and what isn’t included on a Disney cruise. That way, you’ll understand what the full price is going to be.

Check prices and itineraries here .

What’s Included on The Disney Cruise Line

While a cruise isn’t exactly an all-inclusive vacation, you will find that much of your family vacation is covered at one rate. Here’s what you’ll get with your fare on the Disney Cruise Line in addition to their amazing service compared to what you may expect on other lines.

Entertainment – the live shows on the Disney Cruise Line are kid-friendly and amazing. Depending on the ship, you’ll get to see popular Disney stories like Frozen , Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast, along with original shows.

There are usually three big Broadway-style shows per sailing. For longer cruises, additional evening entertainment is offered including magic shows. These are fun for the whole family and vary by sailing.

There is additional entertainment on the ship, which you’ll find throughout the ship. These include individual singers, guitarists, etc. There are also game shows, dance parties, and so much more. You’ll never be bored. Just keep an eye on the app and you’ll see everything offered during your sailing.

Other cruise lines also offer entertainment for free. But, you’ll want to look at the different types of shows, which may appeal more to children.

Kids’ Clubs – when my kids were younger, they loved the kids’ clubs on the Disney Cruise Line. These kids’ clubs are completely unparalleled and include themes like Star Wars, Marvel, and Toy Story.

There are many activities offered in the clubs. My kids always loved the art and science projects offered. Guests can typically tour the kids’ clubs on the first day of their sailing, and I always love looking at them.

Other cruise lines offer kids’ clubs as well but are usually not as themed with as many “bells and whistles”.

Movies – unlike other cruise lines, you’ll get first-run Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars movies on the Disney Cruise Line, at no additional cost. These play in the onboard movie theater (theaters – in the case of the Disney Wish which offers two theaters). In addition, classic Disney movies play throughout the day on the FunnelVision screen on the pool deck.

Rotational Dining – on the Disney Cruise Line, you’ll be assigned different dining rooms every day. Your servers travel with you, which means you’ll get to know them throughout your trip.

There are three main dining rooms, so you’ll repeat locations on cruises longer than three nights. My daughter has food allergies so it’s always nice for her to have the same servers who get to know us.

In addition to your assigned dinners, there’s plenty of other food on the ships. Free room service is available, and there are more casual dining locations located throughout the ship offering free food. Of course, you’ll have to get as much free ice cream as you want!

Soft drinks, standard coffee, juice, and tea are also included. Many cruise lines charge extra for soda, so this is something that may be important to you if you drink soda.

Character Meet and Greets – Small children will love meeting their favorite characters on board the ships. These meet and greets are offered throughout the cruise, so there is ample opportunity. This is something that really is unique to the Disney Cruise Line. Lines for these characters do form but are typically shorter than those in the parks.

Amenities – there are many other free amenities on the ship, including pools (family and adult only), splash pads, water slides, the Aquaduck (on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy), the AquaMouse (on the Disney Wish) hot tubs, a sports deck, and much more. My kids are never bored on a Disney Cruise!

Fireworks at Sea – on the Caribbean and Bahamian cruises, there is typically a fireworks show during Pirate Night . This is such a fun, unique experience and is often the highlight of our cruise. No other cruise line offers this.

Castaway Cay – on Bahamian and Caribbean cruises, you’ll stop for one day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. There, you can enjoy water sports, beach time, a kids’ club, sports, activities, and a BBQ lunch. Castaway Cay is one of my favorite places in the world – it’s so beautiful.

What’s Extra on the Disney Cruise Line

Gratuities – while you can pre-pay your gratuities with your fare, they aren’t included in the quoted price. Typically, you’ll tip your servers (three different servers) and stateroom attendants. I prefer to pre-pay because then I don’t have to worry about it when I’m on the cruise (although you can always add more for great service).

Transportation to the Port – transportation from Disney World or the airport is not included. If you are traveling from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral, you can add on bus transportation for an extra charge or take your rental car or private transportation.

Alcoholic Beverages – Alcoholic beverages are offered at an extra cost. Be sure to keep an eye on your tab because it can start to add up. There is no all-you-can-drink drink package, however, drink packages are available , including wine and beer packages.

You’ll get information about these on the first day on the ship and can decide if they are worth it. There’s also a drink special of the day offered at a lower price.

Premium Restaurants – in addition to the complimentary dining options, there is at least one fine dining, premium restaurant (Palo on all cruise ships, Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, and Enchante and Palo on the Disney Wish). These are adult-only restaurants and you will pay an additional fee to dine there.

You’ll also be able to purchase premium coffees at the Cove Cafe, located in the adult sections of the cruise ships. Regular drip coffee is complimentary.

WiFi – While you’ll probably want to unplug during your family cruise, there are times when you can’t be completely disconnected. The ships do offer WiFi, but there is an extra charge.

Shore Excursions – You can stay on the ship during each port of call. However, you can have a great time on various shore excursions offered at each destination. These cost extra, and you’ll probably want to have cash on hand to tip the guides. This is typical of all of the cruise lines.

On-Board Activities – there are loads of activities on the ship each day, and most of them are free and included in your fare. However, there are several that do cost extra. These include BINGO (which is so much fun), and beverage seminars.

Spa Treatments – The Senses Spa is a wonderful treat, but you will need to pay extra money for these treatments. We love visiting the Rainforest room, which does cost extra but is a nice relaxing option.

Nursery – The regular kids’ clubs are included in the price of your Disney Cruise. However, if you need to reserve the nursery for infants, there’s an additional, hourly charge.

Why Choose Disney Cruise Line Over Other Lines

If you want to take a cruise and are comparing cruise lines, you are probably wondering why to choose Disney Cruise Line over other lines. In my opinion, it’s best to look at the included amenities. The shows, kids’ clubs, and other kid-friendly activities and amenities make Disney Cruise Line an appealing option for families – especially for those who already love the Disney characters.

Consider how you plan to use these amenities and activities. Do you think you’ll want to see the shows and movies? Will your kids visit the clubs? If so, a Disney Cruise is worth it. If you aren’t going to take advantage of these things, you may be better off finding a less expensive cruise option.

In my opinion, yes. I’ve been on over a dozen Disney Cruises and have loved every one of them. Even though my kids are teens now, they still really enjoy all of the activities on the ship.

If you aren’t sure or don’t want to commit to a long cruise, there are some wonderful three-night cruise options on the Disney Wish. These short cruises go to Castaway Cay and Nassau, Bahamas, and can be a great way for families to test out the cruise line as a first cruise. These can also be combined with a trip to Walt Disney World for a Disney Land and Sea adventure .

Read our reviews of the Disney Magic , the Disney Wonder , the Disney Wish , the Disney Dream, and the Disney Fantasy .

Frequently Asked Questions

They do include most things, except for alcohol, premium dining, some activities, WiFi, and gratuity, among other things.

We love all of the ships – the best option for you is the one with the itinerary that best matches your interests. Some families like the larger ships while others prefer the smaller ones.

Most dining is, but there are premium, adult-only restaurants on all of the ships that cost extra. The included restaurants are fantastic, however, with great themes and delicious food.

They can be. But you have to look at everything that is included when comparing.

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3 Day Disney Cruise Review (Is it worth it?)

Are you considering booking a Disney Cruise vacation with a 3-day itinerary? Maybe you’re afraid 3-night cruises are too short.

Is a 3-day Disney cruise even worth it? Some experienced Disney cruisers will tell you that they would never cruise for less than 7 days and that a longer cruise is always the way to go. That may be true for some, but not everyone has the budget for an extensive Disney cruise vacation.

Maybe you aren’t able to take off work for a long enough period of time to enjoy a week-long cruise. Or perhaps you are worried a cruise isn’t the right type of vacation for your family, and you don’t want to commit to a long itinerary. Regardless of your reasoning for choosing a 3 day Disney cruise, it’s important to note that you will still receive the same amazing service, experience, and activities as those families sailing on Disney Cruise Line’s longer itineraries.

The post below will review my family’s time on a 3 day Disney cruise so that you can see all the reasons why we think a 3-night cruise is totally worth it! We’ll compare prices for short cruises vs long itineraries, and we will discuss the family-friendly entertainment that you’ll enjoy while cruising with Disney .

Disney 3 Day Cruise Price

Let’s be honest, a trip with Disney Cruise Line isn’t the cheapest way to travel. But like many things in travel, you get what you pay for. And the quality Disney provides makes up for the cost. If you are looking for a budget friendly way to sail on Disney cruise ships, the three-day cruises are typically cheaper than those with longer itineraries.

You can really trim down the extra costs by traveling on one of these shorter itineraries, especially if your sail dates aren’t during peak season. For example, my family’s 3-night Disney cruise on the Disney Fantasy was much more budget friendly than the longer cruises we have taken with Disney and other cruise lines.

When you calculate excursions, tips, and items you buy onboard, this statement becomes even more accurate. There are several factors that go into the total price of a Disney cruise. Once you are aware of all the costs, you can possibly tweak your budget to save in some areas while maybe even splurging in others!

So, how much does a 3 day Disney cruise cost? In addition to the price you pay for booking your Disney Cruise stateroom, you will want to budget for some additional costs. We will cover these in more detail below, so you can better determine how much a 3 day Disney cruise vacation will cost you.

Port Adventures

Port Adventures (also known as shore excursions ) are those activities that you experience while you’re off the ship and while visiting ports of call. Many of Disney Cruise Line’s 3 day cruises are Bahamian cruises that visit Nassau and Castaway Cay. So, your port adventures would include the experiences you booked for those port stops.

For example, if you chose to book tickets to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas, you would include this activity in your budget for port adventures . The total cost of a Disney cruise can largely depend on the shore excursions you book. If you’re looking to save money, Castaway Cay is a great place to stop on your Disney cruise.

Since Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, you can enjoy the beaches and many activities at no additional charge to your cruise fare. In fact, this is how my family and I saved on one of our 3-night Disney cruises. We booked a 3 day cruise that was classified as a double dip to Castaway Cay . This means we visited the private island twice on our cruise!

Since we chose to spend our two days on Castaway Cay just hanging out at the beach, this port didn’t cost us any additional money. Even if you aren’t able to find a double dip cruise, a 3 day Disney cruise only has time to visit a couple of ports. Therefore, you shouldn’t need to budget a ton of more money to pay for excursions on the islands you are visiting.

Another additional cost you will want to consider when budgeting for your 3 night Disney cruise is gratuities. Guests vacationing with DCL are charged $14.50 a day per person for gratuities. So, if you are traveling as a family of four, you would spend $58 per day on gratuities alone. This means that the total amount of gratuities at the end of a 3 night cruise would be $174 for a family of four.

When you compare this to the gratuity amount after a 7-night cruise, you can really see how much money you save on shorter itineraries. The gratuities for a family of four on a seven-night cruise totals $406, which is quite a bit more than the Disney 3-day cruise tip amount. As you can see, if you extend your cruise length, that tip money can add up quickly!

Additional Purchases

The more days and nights you spend on the Disney ship, the more you may feel enticed to make additional purchases. For example, when my family and I travel with Disney Cruise Line, we often spend extra money on things like popcorn for the live shows, adult beverages, and keepsakes from the gift shops.

These little items can add up, but the final bill for them typically isn’t that extravagant after only 3 days. On the contrary, if you make these little purchases each day for seven days, your final bill may end up coming with a bit of sticker shock.

If you’re someone who likes to plan and stay organized with your vacations, you’ll love this printable Disney cruise planner I created. While planning my family’s last cruise, I designed graphic organizers and spreadsheets for each step of the planning process.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Originally, I created this printable cruise planner for my own personal use. However, I ended up making it “pretty” and deciding to share it with my readers. The 30+ page cruise planner includes organized sheets for the following:

• hotel, flight, and transportation price comparisons
• list of essentials for packing plus blank packing list
• trip budget including many of the items discussed above
• fish extender planner
• planning timeline so you know what to do when

This planner also includes my daily itinerary complete with outfit planners. This REALLY helps in the packing process!

3 Day Cruise (but 4 Night Vacation)

As we discuss whether or not a 3 day Disney cruise is worth it, it’s important to point out that your vacation will (more than likely) be longer than three nights. If you are flying into the port for your cruise, I HIGHLY recommend getting there at least the day before embarkation day . Even if your travel party ends up making it to the ship, you will want to know your luggage has plenty of time to get there as well.

Flying into your departure port (at least) a day early allows for delayed flights, lost luggage, etc. This extra time allowance also extends your three-night cruise into a 4-night vacation! Similarly, you can extend your cruise vacation by adding an extra day to the end of your cruise.

Sometimes flight times and prices don’t work out to fly home immediately after you leave the ship. Instead, you may consider booking a hotel room for the day you disembark the cruise ship. This way you have more flexibility with flight times on the following day. This is an especially appealing idea if your Disney cruise sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Since Port Canaveral is less than an hour’s drive to Walt Disney World, you could get off the cruise ship and arrive at a Disney resort by late morning. It is much easier to say goodbye to your Disney cruise vacation when you know you have Disney World to look forward to!

3 Day Disney Cruise Activities

One of the reasons many families are nervous to book a 3 day cruise is that they are afraid they won’t have time to enjoy the Disney ship. From personal experience, I have to share that even though a 3-night Disney cruise is a shorter itinerary, you will still have plenty of time to experience the activities available on board. Now, don’t get me wrong. You definitely won’t get to see and do all the things that are offered on your cruise.

BUT cruisers say that very same thing about 7-night cruises! No matter how long you choose to sail, you will always feel like you missed some sort of activity or entertainment option. However, you spend so much time enjoying the activities you do get to experience that those options you missed really don’t matter in the end.

Our advice when planning a 3 day cruise is to go in super prepared. I like to look at personal navigators from prior cruises to see which activities are offered on a 3 day itinerary. From there, you can decide which activities are the most important to your family. More than likely, you won’t have a problem making time for each one.

As an example of what your schedule may look like and how much time you need for activities, I’m going to share my family’s first few hours onboard the ship for our 3-night cruise to the Bahamas. Once we embarked on the first day at around 11:30, we had time to complete all of the following activities before we even set sail:

• meet Disney characters
• buffet lunch at Cabanas
• swim in ship pools
• unpack and organize stateroom
• visit guest services to request a stroller
• order snacks from room service

Additionally, I want to include that Disney 3 day cruises feature the same magical experiences as longer cruises, including Pirate Night, Broadway style shows, character meet and greets, fireworks, swimming pools, and more!

Ways to Save Money

As mentioned above, many of the 3 day cruise itineraries visit the Bahamas. This means that you more than likely would be making a stop at Castaway Cay during your cruise. Being able to experience this beautiful private island in the Bahamas is reason enough to book a Disney cruise.

Since guests do not have to pay an additional fee to use the beaches and many of the activities on Castaway Cay, this island is the perfect port of call for budget conscious travelers. The buffet lunch on Castaway Cay is even included in your cruise fare!

If you’re looking for an additional way to save money on a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you can book a future cruise onboard for a discount. This way your next Disney cruise vacation can be a longer, pricier one with possibly a less expensive price tag. Disney Cruise Line offers 10% off the price of your next cruise if booked onboard, which can add up to a significant discount.

I like to scope out the upcoming cruise itineraries before sailing so I have an idea of what I would like to book once onboard. If you decide not to take the cruise you booked onboard, you can cancel it and get a refund on your deposit as long as you are inside the cancellation window. So, it’s really a win-win situation!

There are a few restrictions on this deal, including that you must sail within 24 months of the onboard booking. If you aren’t sure which cruise to book on board, you can purchase a “placeholder” for $250. This holds the onboard booking deal until you choose the cruise to apply it to.

Also, you may receive a discount on TWO staterooms as long as you put down a deposit on each. (These two staterooms must be booked on the same future cruise.) So, you can entice your family or friends to join you the next time around, and everyone can save money!

Final Review of 3 Day Disney Cruise

We hope you can tell just how much we love sailing with Disney Cruise Line. The cost and time commitments associated with longer cruises aren’t always feasible for every family. So, if you have been holding back booking a Disney 3 day cruise because you weren’t sure if it was worth it, we totally think it is!

Although we prefer a 5 night cruise or longer, my family and I would never hesitate to take a 3-night cruise with DCL. No matter which of the Disney ships you choose to book (Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, or Disney Fantasy), you will truly have the time of your lives!

After your trip, come back and give us your feedback! Do you think a 3 day Disney cruise is worth it or not? Comment below to share with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Hey, great read. I’m looking at the 2 or 3 night cruise from Sydney or Melbourne. On the 2 night cruise would it be worth it?

I’m so glad you enjoyed the article. A Disney cruise out of Australia sounds like an amazing experience! Personally, I think a 2 night cruise would be worth it for the same reasons mentioned above. Even though it’s not a long trip, you still get to enjoy the pools, shows, dining, and activities. Once onboard, you can book a second cruise for a discount and try a longer one then!

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Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024 Categories Disney Travel

By: Author Kate

My Ultimate Guide to the Pros and Cons of a Disney Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links.

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We recently returned from a 3-night Bahamas cruise aboard the Disney Dream. Our family had a blast, and it is a trip we will remember for a long time! Coming back though, I was reflecting on my Disney cruise experience and wondered, are Disney Cruises really worth the cost?

Let’s not kid ourselves, these trips are expensive! There seems to be no such thing as a discounted Disney cruise or a Disney cruise deal. I found that our trip cost easily 2-3x the cost of other cruises! I’m not sure if all the Disney extras were really worth the inflated price.

At the end of the day, my Disney Cruise advice to others is to wait until your kids are older to splurge on Disney! It seems the best age for a Disney cruise is likely between ages 5-12 when Disney mania is prime, and kids are more independent!

Although we did REALLY enjoy the awesome infant babysitting service on our cruise, I’m not sure we got out as much as we put in.

Every family is different though and every family values different things on vacation. When I was researching Disney dream cruise reviews I read a lot of blogs and I hope this review of the pros and cons will be helpful to others.  

Here is my list of the pros and cons of a Disney Cruise:

Disney Cruise on Your Horizon? Get a Quote from a Disney Travel Agent now!

My Disney Cruise Experience

Pros of a disney cruise:, your kids will have a good time.

The kids will have a blast. ESPECIALLY if they like Disney Characters . My two sons were 10 months and 3 years old when we went on our cruise.

My eldest son does like Star Wars and Mickey but he wasn’t very interested in Princesses or other characters. In fact, he was mostly petrified of them.

R2D2 in the kids club was the highlight for him. He still talks about it months later! Pirate night was also great fun! (Don’t forget to bring a pirate costume!)  I don’t think it’s possible for a kid to have a bad time on the Disney cruise.

The staff will certainly bend over backward to put a smile on your child’s face. Oh, and did I mention? Unlimited ice cream = guaranteed good time.

Disney Cruise Child Care

HUGE pro: They have child minding for children under age 3! This one is HUGE. This is basically the entire reason I booked the cruise and it is something we took advantage of.

Of note, this service does cost extra (for under age 3), but given the price of the cruise, it was small in comparison. The ladies at the Small World Nursery were experienced with babies and infants. I never worried at all when I dropped off my son.

When I picked up our 8-month old I got detailed reports on how he had done. The sitters were able to detail what he ate, if he slept, and what he enjoyed playing with. I felt comfortable knowing that the sitters were attentive to all of the babies needs.

My older son who was 3 was also allowed to attend the small world nursery and I much preferred the individualized attention he got there.

One nice feature is that you can use your portable cruise phone to contact the Nursery while you are away to check up on your kids. I really loved this feature and it came in handy one day when my son was grumpy!

We left our infant son at the nursery by himself when we went to Castaway Cay. Babies who like to crawl + Sand are generally a tough combo! It was nice to have some one-on-one time with our older son who loved the beach at this age!

We also booked one night at Remy and it was great to be able to have a mommy-daddy date on board.

Check out all my tips for bringing a baby on a Disney cruise here!

The staff love kids!

The staff are wonderful and cater to children. Every single staff on the Disney cruise, right down to the housekeepers are good with kids. Clearly, it’s in the job requirement.

The servers in the restaurants go out of their way to win over your little ones. Our server had jokes, paper airplanes , and other games ready for my three-year-old at every meal. This extra mile service was definitely appreciated when my son was a bit grumpy and the servers worked hard to cheer him up.

Thinking of heading to Disney World instead? Check out my ultimate guide to doing Disney for the first time!

Disney’s Remy Restaurant is the best!

The adults-only restaurants are amazing, seriously AMAZING! We booked one night at Remy and it was literally the best meal I have ever had in my entire life. We are not novice diners either. The service was exceptional, the food delicious and the wine pairings were great as well.

Again, this was another (significant) added cost, although it was worth every penny! It did make me think twice about the whole cost of the cruise.

If you have one ‘treat’ on the cruise I would absolutely recommend dinner reservations at Remy! You won’t’ be disappointed!

Wondering what to pack on vacation with little ones? Check out my ultimate packing guide for a beach vacation with a baby.

We always use a travel agent when we book a Disney vacation. A certified Disney vacation planner does not cost extra and they often know insider deals and tips! Get a Quote Now!

Cons of a Disney Cruise:

They aren’t cheap.

This is obviously the biggest drawback to the cruise. I spent more on this 3-night vacation than I would normally spend on 7 nights at an all-inclusive resort.

I have only been on one other cruise line, NCL, and I went on it without kids, so I don’t have a great comparison to other cruises. It’s worth saying that I found my NCL cruise to be of similar quality in terms of service, food, and amenities. The only thing missing was the “Disney-ness”

I haven’t been on a Royal Carribean cruise , but I’ve heard from many friends that they compare to Disney for a fraction of the cost. We may just have to try this cruise line next.

Thinking of a family cruise? Read our review of the best cruises for kids!

There are lines everywhere.

If you want to meet a character on a Disney cruise expect to get in line. This drove me CRAZY. I do not understand why they don’t have at least one meal where the characters walk around freely and come to your table. Update: As per the comments below this does happen on longer cruises, which is great!

Although getting on and off the cruise at the various ports went better than expected, I still can’t shake that feeling of being herded on a cruise.

I’m not the only one who has had concerns about lines on the Disney cruise either. This is a definite drawback of cruising in general and is probably not specific to Disney.

The food at the main restaurants is ok.

I really wasn’t that impressed with the Disney cruise dining options . The breakfast buffet was quite good, but I found the dinners at the sit-down restaurants to be only ok.

The food felt a bit like cafeteria food. It was clearly pre-made for mass serving, as evidenced by the fact it took over 20 minutes for them to actually make the pureed food for my infant son.

Perhaps it was related to my expectations because everyone I knew RAVED about the food on the Disney cruise. It was definitely not anything special to me.  I prefer a nice buffet at an all-inclusive any day!

One thing I will note, that I have heard from several of my mom friends, is that Disney does a great job with food allergies. Certainly, this attention to detail is paramount when you have a child with an allergy, so that’s a huge plus.

Check out Smart Mouse Travel’s Disney Cruise Food Allergy Guide. She has some great tips!

For the best food, I prefer a trip to Disney World itself. There are so many great options and the food at Disney World is delicious! Check out my guide to the hardest disney dining reservations for more tips.

The pool is RIDICULOUSLY crowded.

There are two small Mickey Shaped pools on the main deck. The kids are crammed into these pools like sardines. Literally. Kids who could normally swim had to wear lifejackets in the deep pool because there was no room to hold onto the edge.

Of course, the kids really didn’t seem to care. They were all having a blast!

I found it less pleasant for the adults trying to watch their little ones though. I’ve heard from some others who have read this blog that the crowds are much less on longer cruises.

So if you are looking for a quieter cruise, choose a longer cruise, and consider a destination less popular with young families like Alaska or the Panama canal.

The adults-only pool, which we lounged at when the kids were at the kids club was much more relaxing. I at least appreciated that there was a quieter place to sneak off to and escape the chaos of the main pool area.

Don’t forget your floatie! Check out our guide to the best baby and toddler floaties for your next vacation

So, are they worth it?

Overall, Disney Cruises are a nice splurge, especially if your kids (and you) LOVE Disney. We are just starting to get into the Disney Movies, Walt Disney, and all the Disney Magic in our house.

When my kids are older, and will really enjoy the kids club more I may book again and take advantage of the R&R for me and my hubby. For now, I think that Disney doesn’t offer quite enough to make me convinced it’s worth the $$$ again.

Wondering how to book your next cruise vacation? Whether you want to book Disney or another cruise line, we recommend an experienced travel agent. Travel agents book your vacation at no cost to you and can help you plan a magical vacation for the entire family! Get a Quote Now!

What do you think? What did you love about your cruise? Do you have a Disney Dream review? I welcome all your comments below!

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Sunday 3rd of September 2017

We leave for our 5th cruise on Friday and our first one was when my kids were 10 months and 3 years and we have gone every year since. As they get older they are mush more enjoyable, but we have done 2 Carnival cruises and they just don't have the same feel as Disney. With Carnival I felt like they were better for either college kids or retired aged people that like to gamble. Disney cruises are worth the money to me because I know my kids will have fun at the kids camps while we can do adult stuff around the ship. As far as lines, the longer cruises have characters that just walk around the ship and there aren't usually lines for them. Also, when your kids are in the camps, the characters go in and play with them which makes it much more personal than Disney World. Helping Peter Pan find his shadow, hula dancing with Stitch, or learning to be a super hero with Captain America. We have also been to Disney World 5 times and it is so much fun but not half as relaxing as the cruise.

Wednesday 6th of September 2017

Wow! Thanks for the detailed response! I think a longer cruise sounds great!!! I've heard that really helps with the lines. Glad you enjoyed your ???? cruise!!!

Thursday 31st of August 2017

Hi! Loved reading you post! We have been on 3 Disney cruises and one Carvial cruise. We have a 10 year old boy and an 11 year old girl. We purposely waited until they were 7 and 8 to try a Disney Cruise. I'm so glad we did because if not, my feelings would be identical to yours. Seriously, you'll be back in a few years and you'll enjoy it SO much more (and your kids will too)! Also, you get a little more value with the longer cruises and it's even more relaxing.

Thanks Sara! Yes I definitely think I will go back when my kids are older and can really take advantage of all things Disney! I've heard that the repositioning cruises are actually the best value, might consider that in a few years! Thanks for dropping by :)

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Is Disney Cruise Line concierge level worth it? We tested it to find out.

When you sail on a Disney cruise, everyone gets access to included food, good service and great entertainment. But there's a class of cabins and guests that get a little bit of extra pixie dust — Disney Cruise Line concierge guests.

Disney Cruise Line sits toward the pricier end of the cruising spectrum, even in the most basic of staterooms. But let's assume you've already decided that the cost to cruise with Disney — with the Disney characters, access to an included rotating dining room schedule and evening Broadway-caliber Disney shows — is worth it for you.

Looking at the cabin and amenity options available on Disney cruise ships, you may eventually go further down the rabbit (er, mouse) hole and wonder if Disney Cruise Line's concierge-level rooms and service are worth an additional premium.

To answer this question, we've sailed in a concierge-level room (twice) to see what exactly all that extra cash gets you on Disney Wonder and, more recently, on the new Disney Wish . Here's what we found out about Disney Cruise Line concierge-level rooms, benefits, service and lounge, and whether or not the perks are worth the additional cost.

What is Disney Cruise Line's concierge level?

Disney Cruise Line's concierge level is similar in some ways to a club-level room at a Disney World or Disneyland resort hotel. You pay more for this type of accommodation in exchange for access to a lounge, more attentive service and additional benefits. But the extras for concierge service on a Disney cruise ship actually go much further than the added benefits of a club room at the Disney parks.

Those who decide to spend the extra cash for a concierge-level room will be spoiled with earlier booking dates for excursions and activities, special onboard meals and offerings, the ability to book cabanas at Disney's Castaway Cay private island before others, early access to the theater in the evening to nab the best seats and a private lounge to utilize on the ship.

To access the concierge level on a Disney cruise, you have to book a concierge room type, and the benefits and upgraded service then convey with that cabin type. It's not an add-on you can tack onto an otherwise non-concierge stateroom.

Stateroom types within that concierge class of rooms start at the verandah-level room (i.e., a cabin with a private balcony) and go up in price and size to include a variety of suites. If you're already thinking you want to book a suite, you don't also have to decide about concierge level; you will automatically get Disney Cruise Line's concierge service included with your premium accommodations.

However, if you plan to book a cabin with a balcony, you will need to decide whether you want a room with the standard inclusions or if you want to upgrade to a concierge room with a balcony and all the extra Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits. The difference can be thousands of dollars.

When I priced out Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms, cruise fares started at just over $3,000 for a short sailing for two people. Prices go up to tens of thousands of dollars for concierge level for the larger suites or on longer sailings.

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

Related: Best credit cards for cruises

Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits

Booking a concierge-level room on a Disney cruise brings many perks beyond access to the physical concierge lounge. Here's a quick summary of some of the Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits.

• Priority booking of activities and excursions 120 days before sailing.
• Priority boarding — be among the first on the ship.
• Access to the concierge lounge with included food and drinks.
• Complimentary wine, beer and spirits in the concierge lounge in the evenings.
• Free popcorn in the movie theaters.
• Priority seating for the evening shows.
• Priority walk-off on debarkation day.
• Room service ordering of hot breakfast or dinner from the main restaurants.
• Access to knowledgeable and helpful concierge hosts.

To appreciate the value of these perks, you have to understand how activity bookings work on a Disney cruise. Most cruise lines, including Disney, have an elite status pecking order in terms of when you can board, book premium onboard restaurants, make spa appointments, secure shore excursions and schedule onboard activities.

On Disney Cruise Line, first-time cruisers can make those bookings starting 75 days before sailing. That sounds like plenty of time, but unfortunately, those who have sailed with Disney before can make the bookings 90 to 120 days before setting sail, depending on their Castaway Club status .

However, if you book concierge level, the concierge team asks for your activity preferences via email 125 days before your sail date. They put in your requests precisely when the 120-day booking window opens, so essentially no one can book anything before you. This jump-start increases the odds that you get the spa times, onboard tastings, adults-only restaurant reservations and excursions you want.

Notably, if you want to book a private cabana at Castaway Cay, you basically have to sail in concierge level or have a high tier of status within the Disney Cruise Line program to snag one, as they book up quickly. This strategy works better on Disney's smaller ships; Disney Wish has so many concierge rooms that there's no guarantee you'll get a private cabana if everyone else is vying for the opportunity, as well.

Those in a concierge-level suite can also order from an expanded room service menu that includes meals from a main dining room on the ship. This is the only way to get a hot breakfast delivered to your stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line concierge guests also get priority tendering to ports, when required. Thanks to priority boarding times on embarkation day, we were the third family to come aboard when we sailed on Disney Wonder, which meant we got several more hours on the ship than we did on our first cruise. Boarding first also meant we had the pools and slides to ourselves for a long time.

Port Canaveral, the departure port for several Disney cruise ships, offers an entire lounge with a stocked fridge where concierge guests can wait before boarding starts for that group. Your special treatment starts before you even walk on board.

Once onboard, plan on stopping by the exclusive embarkation-day lunch for concierge-level guests, so you can avoid the lunchtime crowds and get to know your concierge host team. While it's not mandatory to attend, the lunch is a good way to kick off your cruise (before or after you've gotten in any early swimming you want to do).

Pro tip: Get the welcome-aboard sundae if it's on offer.

For me, the best part of the concierge magic is the final thing the concierge staff can do for you on the last morning of your sailing.

On our first cruise, getting off the ship literally took hours. We burned off our "vacation high" in a hurry. But when you cruise in the concierge level, you can enjoy a light breakfast in the lounge, and then the staff can take you and your luggage down a private elevator and straight to the walkway off the ship. Debarkation takes mere minutes.

This may not sound impressive until you've done it the other way, battling thousands of cruisers also ready to disembark. I'm here to tell you that experiencing no lines, no stress and no regrets as the concierge staff escorted us off the ship made for an easier transition back into the real world.

Inside the Disney concierge lounge

The physical concierge lounge is a tangible hallmark of Disney Cruise Line's concierge-level service.

On Disney Wonder, the lounge is located midship on Deck 10, which is almost as high as you can go on the ship. On Disney Wish, the concierge lounge is on decks 12 and 13, which was also one of the topmost decks on that ship.

You must use your keycard to get into the lounge. Near the entrance, concierge staff are waiting to assist you; they will quickly get to know you over the course of the cruise. The staff are basically your cruise fairy godparents. (On the flip side, they'd totally know if you tried to bring in a non-concierge guest, so don't do that.)

The lounges themselves each have a food and beverage area (with a great coffee machine!), along with various seating areas. On Disney Wish, the lounge had a good-sized bar, plus hot tubs and a small pool deck just for concierge guests.

Except on debarkation day and for a private Disney character meet-and-greet when we sailed on Disney Wonder in early 2020, the lounge was rarely crowded during our visits.

In the concierge lounge, you'll find light snacks and small plates that rotate throughout the day with some treats you can only get in this lounge.

On Disney Wish, we enjoyed the lunchtime sushi rolls that we only found in the concierge lounge. We loved to pop in for a snack or dessert for the kids. Since the lounge was so close to the concierge rooms on Wish, it was logistically simpler to grab a quick breakfast or snack there rather than heading over to the main onboard restaurants.

Related: How we made our second cruise better than the first

But what I truly loved about Disney's concierge lounge was the help-yourself-fridge. We stocked the mini-fridge in our stateroom from this main fridge, as well as loaded our backpack before shore excursions.

Each evening, complimentary beer, wine and spirits are served in the lounge by bartenders who seemed to know everyone's names by the second evening. Don't worry if you don't drink or you want something for your kids, mocktails and alcohol-free "daiquiris" were available upon request.

Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms

Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms generally start at the oceanview with verandah level, and they will be clearly labeled as concierge rooms when booking. Disney Wish also offers a few 357-square-foot family oceanview rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows without verandahs within the concierge class, too.

If you're looking for more space, the ships have one-bedroom, two-bedroom and specialty suites (like the insane 1,966-square-foot Tower Suite on Disney Wish). As previously mentioned, all Disney Cruise Line suites come with included concierge access and services.

On Disney Wish, we qualified for concierge access by sailing in a 608-square-foot one-bedroom suite that was just a few doors down from the concierge lounge. It had a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, gorgeous bathroom with a Tangled-inspired mosaic over the bathtub, living room with a couch that converted to a bed and a dining area with a table for four. The divider between the living and dining spaces contained a Murphy bed that pulled down into an additional single bed. The suite more than comfortably slept my two kids, my mom and me.

On Disney Wonder, we had a slightly larger 614-square-foot one-bedroom suite that also conveyed concierge benefits. This suite actually felt more spacious than the one on Wish, though clearly has a more classical look. In both cases, we were royally spoiled with space and service compared to a more standard cruise cabin.

Related: How to choose a cruise cabin

How much do Disney Cruise concierge rooms cost?

Cruise prices vary dramatically, and that's especially true when you start layering in concierge benefits with Disney Cruise Line.

Looking about a year out on a short three-night Disney cruise from Florida to the Bahamas (including a stop at Disney's Castaway Cay), prices for an interior stateroom start at $1,554 for double occupancy or $2,555 for a family of four. On the same cruise, a non-concierge verandah room starts at $1,950 for two or $3,051 for four.

The lowest-level concierge stateroom (with verandah) starts at $3,180 for two or $4,411 for a family of four.

For that extra $1,500 to go up to concierge level, you get access to a little more time on the ship, are likely able to book exactly what you want with no stress, enjoy included evening drinks in the lounge, have snacks at the ready, get free popcorn at the movies, order hot room service breakfast (if you book a suite) and more.

Will almost doubling the cost of the cruise for those extras be worth it to everyone? Absolutely not.

In fact, I recommend against it for your first sailing on Disney Wish unless money is no object. That's because you'll feel compelled to spend your leisure and meal times in the concierge lounge when you should be out exploring all the ship has to offer and experiencing the food and entertainment at Disney's included restaurants.

For travelers who really enjoy lounges, streamlining all the processes, having access to free-flowing drinks and want the highest level of service, I'd argue that a concierge-level cabin can be worth it for a special occasion or once-in-a-lifetime Disney cruise.

On the other hand, for a seven-night Alaska cruise for a family of four, prices start around $7,000 for an interior stateroom, a verandah room is more than $11,000, and a concierge room currently starts at a staggering minimum of over $30,000. In that case, you'll probably never find me in a concierge room simply due to the cost.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Is Disney Cruise concierge level worth it?

You don't need to spend the extra money to book a concierge room to have a great cruise with Disney. It's already a premium cruise experience. But if you are debating whether concierge level is worth it, I'll try and help you decide.

For us, the biggest perks were the advance booking for meals and activities that wouldn't have been easy for a regular Disney cruiser to secure. The evening lounge drinks, free popcorn at the movies, available sunscreen and help from the concierge staff when our plans would change at the last minute (which happened a few times) were also pretty great.

The private deck on Disney Wish was nice, too.

I'd 100% book Disney concierge level again and would say it can be worth it — mostly on the shorter cruises where every minute matters more than it would on a seven- to 10-day cruise. Additionally, on those shorter cruises, you are more likely to have the stamina to not miss the evening lounge happy hours and to drop in a few times to try some of the snacks.

Those shorter cruises are also when there are fewer opportunities to fit in the adults-only restaurants, spa treatments, drink tastings and onshore activities, making the booking window advantage more important. I'd seriously consider buying up to Disney's concierge level on a three- or four-night sailing where I care about accessing specific restaurants and activities.

If you do get the chance to book a Disney Cruise with all the concierge perks, you're in for a treat. Start packing your cruise bag and planning those excursions and don't look back.

Related reading:

• 11 ways to save money on a Disney Cruise
• Why Disney cruises aren't just for kids
• 9 things you can only do on Disney Wish
• Disney's next ship to be named Treasure
• Comparing Disney, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines

I've stayed in 3 types of rooms on cruises, and the cheapest was never worth it. Here's what to book instead.

• I'm a frequent cruise traveler who's stayed in a variety of onboard accommodations.
• The least expensive rooms have no view and are usually cramped, especially if shared by a family.
• Splurging on a higher-category cabin on my last cruise was the best decision I made.

Automatically booking the cheapest room on a cruise ship without doing proper research first can ruin a trip. 

As someone who's been going on cruises for over 10 years, I've learned that the price tag for these vacations can vary based on a number of factors — from cruise line to trip duration to room category.

Staying in the most standard-level cabin seems like an obvious way to keep costs down. But after trying out three different room categories, both with and without my kids, I've found that a ship's least expensive option is almost never worth it.

Based on my experience in three different cruise-room categories, here are the ones I recommend skipping and the ones I recommend splurging on.

Interior staterooms are limited in space and privacy

The standard (and least expensive) room on any cruise ship is typically called an inside or interior stateroom.

These cabins often sleep three to four people and are located in the middle of the ship, with no exterior view of the vessel's surroundings. 

I've stayed in interior staterooms on a Carnival Cruise Line ship and a Disney Cruise Line ship . Aside from different decor styles and a few small touches, this room category is fairly standard across the board. 

When I'm on a cruise, I like to wake up and open my curtains to look at the ocean or the port where the ship is docked , which isn't an option in these inward-looking cabins.

Apart from having no view, interior staterooms are very small. The exact square footage varies but, for reference, the Disn ey Fantasy cruise ship's interior stateroom is 169 square feet and a Royal Caribbean ship's version is around the same size at 164 square feet .

To put those numbers into perspective, standard hotel rooms in the US are, on average, around 330 square feet , almost double the size of the entry-level cruise accommodation.

I want to be able to maneuver around without tripping over luggage, accent furniture, or my own family members. And because of the lack of space in interior staterooms, that's a challenge.

This category is definitely the most economical option, making it ideal for travelers on a budget .

However, if families, especially ones traveling with teens, can swing an alternative, they should steer clear of cramming into an interior stateroom and opt for a category with more space and privacy.

Ocean-view staterooms provide slightly more space but can still feel cramped

The next category up is usually an ocean-view stateroom.

With an outward-facing window, ocean-view staterooms are a solid mid-tier option for travelers who want more space than an interior stateroom offers but don't want to spend extra for a balcony room.

Their exact size and capacity range from ship to ship, but Disney Fantasy's ocean-view staterooms are 204 square feet , and Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas' version is 179 square feet .

Many of these accommodations fit up to five people. If you have more than four family members (yes, infants who are six months and older are part of the headcount), making the jump from an interior stateroom to an ocean-view stateroom is absolutely worth the extra money.

Some cruise lines sell ocean-view rooms as the entry-level category for families of five or more travelers , simply because many interior staterooms can only accommodate a maximum of four guests.

My top pick is balcony staterooms, which offer privacy and plenty of space 

Balcony staterooms, also known as veranda staterooms, are usually the largest accommodation option you can get without concierge service or extras.

I recommend this category to all travelers setting sail in the future for one reason: the private balcony.

You can open your curtains and enjoy the sights outside, similar to the experience of staying in an ocean-view stateroom. But in this room type, you can step out onto a balcony and take in the sounds and smells, too. 

The rooms' sizes and capacities depend on the ship, but balcony staterooms are usually larger than ocean-view staterooms and tend to sleep up to five guests . Even if the rooms' living spaces aren't substantially bigger, they have the added space of the veranda. 

Including the terrace, balcony staterooms on the Disney Fantasy are 246 square feet and are between 214 square feet to 279 square feet on Princess Cruises' fleet.

When my family stayed in a balcony stateroom on a seven-night cruise, we made great use of the outdoor space. On a shorter cruise, where the balcony itself might not get as much use, I would still book this category for my family.

The upgrade was completely worth the price increase, especially because we were traveling with two sets of grandparents .

To make the most of the balcony staterooms, we even turned our individual verandas into one large terrace by having our steward remove the partitions between rooms. 

This story was originally published on May 25, 2022, and most recently updated on February 5, 2024.

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? An In-Depth Look

Disney cruises have sailed their way into the hearts of families, couples, and Disney aficionados worldwide. With their fleet of magical ships such as the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wonder, Disney Cruise Line offers a unique cruising experience filled with enchantment and adventure. From the captivating Disney characters roaming the decks to the top-notch entertainment options, a Disney cruise is often seen as more than just a vacation—it’s a voyage into a floating piece of Disney magic.

However, with the allure also comes a hefty price tag, leaving many potential travelers pondering one crucial question: “ Is a Disney cruise worth it? ” This blog aims to delve deep into that question, comparing Disney cruises to other cruise lines, discussing amenities like the kid’s clubs and private island Castaway Cay, and breaking down the overall Disney cruise experience, and offering valuable tips on making the most of your Disney cruise adventure. Join us as we navigate through the ins and outs of a Disney cruise to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your next family vacation.

What Makes a Disney Cruise Unique?

What sets a Disney cruise apart from other cruise lines are the one-of-a-kind experiences that can only be described as having the Disney Magic Touch . This goes far beyond just having Mickey and Minnie wandering the ship—though they do, and kids absolutely love it.

Character interactions are a staple of the Disney cruise experience. Imagine the joy on your child’s face when they embrace Elsa or give Woody a high-five. These are moments that can’t be replicated on most other cruise lines. Themed activities, such as pirate nights and princess teas, provide immersive experiences that engage the entire family.

Another unique feature of Disney cruises is the exclusive entertainment options . You won’t just be watching reruns of Disney movies—although that is an option. Guests can enjoy Broadway-caliber shows, fireworks at sea, and even special deck parties that bring Disney stories to life.

But what would a magical journey be without food? Disney cruises offer dining experiences designed for all ages . Rotational dining allows you to experience multiple dining rooms, each with its unique theme and menu. For adults, there are gourmet options and adult-only restaurants, while kids can enjoy character-themed meals and a variety of options that cater to even the pickiest of eaters.

In short, a Disney cruise offers a meticulously crafted experience that aims to make every moment onboard special. Many people believe that a Disney cruise is priceless for this reason alone.

Disney Cruise Line: Variety in Duration and Destinations

One of the standout features of Disney Cruise Line is its variety in both the duration of its cruises and the destinations it covers . If you’re wondering whether a Disney Cruise is worth it, this flexibility might tip the scales for you.

Disney Cruise Line began its journey with Disney Magic back in 1998 and has since expanded to five extraordinary ships: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream , and the latest addition, Disney Wish . Each ship is meticulously designed to offer top-notch comfort, latest technology, and a myriad of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Concerned about the time commitment? Disney Cruise Line has you covered with a range of options. For those looking for a quick getaway, there are short Disney cruises lasting a minimum of three to four nights, often onboard the Disney Wonder. On the flip side, if you’re in for the long haul, you can opt for extended cruises that last up to 14 nights or more . For instance, one could fulfill a lifelong dream by embarking on a 14-Day Panama Canal cruise, with multiple ports of call along the way.

Disney cruises sail to an array of breathtaking destinations around the globe. From tropical paradises to scenic European locales , the choice is extensive. One of the most popular departure ports is Port Canaveral, Florida , but that’s just the beginning. You have the freedom to choose a voyage that aligns with your dream vacation spot. Whether it’s sailing through the Caribbean, exploring the Norwegian Fjords, or sunbathing at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , the possibilities are nearly endless.

The price is determined by the length of the voyage and the kind of stateroom you select. However, remember that most Disney cruises are all-inclusive, which offers a kind of value that’s hard to quantify but easy to appreciate.

In conclusion, when it comes to answering the big question, “Is a Disney Cruise worth it?”, the variety in duration and destinations alone makes a compelling case. You may customize your vacation thanks to this flexibility, making each voyage as special as your family.

Specialized Kid-Friendly Amenities

When it comes to cruising with family, Disney Cruise Line takes the cake with its specialized kid-friendly amenities. Imagine clubs so engaging that your children won’t want to leave! The Oceaneer Club offers younger kids an array of activities from arts and crafts to character meet-ups. For teens, lounges like Vibe and Edge provide the perfect hangout spot, complete with video games and even a private sundeck.

But what sets Disney apart is its tailored entertainment for younger guests. Your kids won’t just watch shows; they’ll become part of them. From interactive scavenger hunts to Broadway-style performances featuring Disney favorites, entertainment onboard is a step above the rest. What does this mean for you? It means that while your kids are having the time of their lives in a safe, supervised environment, you get to enjoy your own kind of magic too. In summary, when considering if a Disney Cruise is worth it, these unique amenities for kids make a compelling case for “Absolutely.”

Cost vs. Value: Breaking Down the Investment

Embarking on a Disney cruise can be quite an investment, especially when compared to other cruise lines . An oceanview suite for two people on a 7-night Disney cruise typically costs roughly $3,400. While this might initially sound steep, understanding what goes into this price can provide some perspective.

Comparing it to other cruise lines , a similar journey might cost significantly less upfront. However, when you factor in what is actually included in your Disney cruise fare versus the a-la-carte pricing structures of many other cruise lines, the gap starts to narrow.

What’s Included in the Price?

Unlike most other cruise lines, your Disney cruise fare is highly inclusive. The fare covers:

• Accommodations : Your stateroom or cabin suite onboard the Disney cruise ship is included.
• All-you-can-eat meals : From breakfast to dinner, plus unlimited snacks, are covered.
• Live Entertainment : Each night, you get to enjoy Broadway-style shows or other high-quality performances.
• Unlimited movie theater usage : Yes, you can watch as many Disney movies as you like!
• Activities : This includes pools, waterslides, and fitness centers.
• Youth Activity Clubs : These are perfect for keeping the young ones entertained.
• Transportation to a different port each day : No need to worry about how you’ll get from one magical location to the next.

The inclusion of special events and stops at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , adds even more value to your experience.

To put this into perspective, a land vacation covering similar offerings—like hotel accommodations, dining, and entertainment—can rack up to comparable costs. But remember, a land vacation would require additional transportation costs and lacks the convenience of an all-inclusive experience.

So when you break down the numbers, the question of “Is a Disney cruise worth it?” begins to look different. The value proposition of a Disney cruise becomes much clearer, especially if you’re looking for an all-inclusive, hassle-free vacation.

Additional Features Offered by Disney Cruise Line

When it comes to cruising, Disney Cruise Line stands in a league of its own, providing more than just a vacation—it delivers an immersive experience adorned with unique features. One of the most enchanting offerings is Castaway Cay , Disney’s private island in the Bahamas . Here, guests can escape into their own slice of paradise, enjoying snorkeling, bike rentals, or simply basking on adult-only beaches. But the uniqueness doesn’t end at the shore; it extends to the onboard experience as well.

Imagine having a rotating dining schedule where each night transports you into a different Disney world, complete with thematic menus and settings. One evening you’re dining under an enchanted sky inspired by “Beauty and the Beast,” and the next you’re at a lively Polynesian luau. This rotational dining system is something you won’t find on most other cruise lines. The entertainment also goes beyond the conventional. Disney movies come to life in a dedicated onboard theater, where families can come together to watch both classic and new releases.

But what sets Disney Cruise Line further apart is its inclusion of specialized themes like “Star Wars Day at Sea,” and the unique Disney Vacation Club program . This timeshare program allows guests to purchase a real estate interest in a DVC resort using a flexible points-based membership system, offering another level of exclusivity to the Disney experience. With about 220,000 club members and counting, it’s clear that this program has found its audience. So whether you’re a family looking for interactive kids clubs or a couple seeking adult-only spaces, Disney Cruise Line has meticulously crafted its offerings to exceed expectations, making every voyage a magical journey.

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It for Couples or Adults?

One common misconception about Disney Cruises is that they’re solely for families with kids. However, Disney Cruise Line has thoughtfully carved out adult-only zones and experiences that are equally enticing. The ship features adult-only pools that are serene oases away from the family hustle and bustle. Looking for a fancy evening or a romantic dinner? Explore adult-only bars and dining options like Palo and Remy , where the atmosphere is both elegant and intimate. Plus, it’s worth noting that unlike some other cruise lines, Disney Cruises do not have onboard casinos.

But there’s more than just places to relax; there are activities tailored exclusively for adults. Ever wanted to attend a wine tasting while sailing through the Caribbean? Now you can! Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a group of friends aiming to reconnect, the cruise offers enriching activities such as wine tastings , cooking classes, and behind-the-scenes ship tours.

So, is a Disney Cruise worth it for adults or couples? With specialized amenities and activities designed with adults in mind, the answer leans strongly towards a resounding “Yes.”

How Does It Compare to Other Cruise Lines?

While Disney Cruise Line excels in delivering a magical experience, how does it stack up against other cruise lines? Let’s delve into a comparison to see where Disney truly shines or falls short.

Similarities and Differences

When you’re weighing the options for your next vacation at sea, it’s natural to wonder how Disney Cruise Line stacks up against competitors like Royal Caribbean or Carnival. At first glance, you’ll find familiar features—luxurious staterooms, multiple dining options, and a plethora of activities. Yet, it’s the Disney Magic Touch that sets it apart. Where else can you dine with Cinderella, go on a Marvel-themed treasure hunt, or watch a Broadway-caliber rendition of “The Lion King?” Disney brings its iconic characters and stories onboard, transforming your cruise into a fantastical journey.

Cost Comparison

Budget is often a deciding factor, and Disney Cruises typically comes with a higher price tag. However, consider the value proposition . Disney Cruise fares include all-you-can-eat meals, a plethora of character experiences, exclusive live shows, and many more activities that would incur additional costs on other cruise lines. When breaking down the expenses, you might find that Disney offers a more all-inclusive experience , making the price difference justifiable for many.

A 7-night Disney Cruise vacation for an oceanview stateroom could cost around $3,400 for two passengers. Compared to other cruise lines, where a similar 7-night package might cost around $2,000 to $2,500, it’s clear that Disney comes at a premium.

However, it’s essential to factor in what you’re getting for that price. With all meals, high-end entertainment, and unique character experiences included, many guests find the extra cost to be a worthy investment for the unique Disney experience. So, while the initial price might cause some sticker shock, the overall value could very well justify the expense.

So, whether you’re a Disney aficionado or new to the magic, comparing Disney Cruise Line with other options showcases its unique offerings. Cost-wise, it may be higher, but the value and distinctive experiences could make it worth every penny.

Real Reviews: What Past Guests Are Saying

Before diving into the particulars, it’s essential to hear from those who’ve actually set sail on a Disney cruise ship. Below, we’ve gathered some firsthand accounts on Tripadvisor to provide diverse perspectives on whether a Disney cruise is worth the investment.

Andrew Thompson500 on TripAdvisor, says,

“This was our first ever Cruise and we genuinely loved every moment. The Disney Dream is a beautiful ship and immaculately maintained by a hardworking team of staff. We sailed from Southampton to Belgium, Denmark and Norway in early September 2023. We were very fortunate with the weather and had lovely sunny days in which to enjoy all of the outdoor amenities on deck 11. Our stateroom on deck 7 was a great location with a balcony for amazing sea views, we also had an adjoining room for a family member in the room next door. There were opportunities to meet characters throughout the day every day (usually had to queue, but rarely for more than 10-15 mins). Characters also appear in random locations and during shows across the ship so there are plenty of photo opportunities.”

Lscue777 on Tripadvisor wrote,

“Absolutely brilliant cruise. No idea what some of the other reviewers are talking about – the food on the Dream was 10/10, the cleanliness was 10/10, the shows were Broadway quality. The staff made you feel like royalty. Absolutely brilliant and cannot wait to return. Only thing I’d change is the price! Cheaper for UK residents please !”

Both reviews attest to the enchanting experiences that seem unique to Disney cruise lines, from the quality of shows to the memorable encounters with beloved characters. While the price tag is frequently mentioned as a concern, the general consensus seems to be that what you get in return—a blend of Disney magic, exceptional service, and unparalleled entertainment—makes a strong case for why a Disney cruise is worth it.

So, is a Disney cruise worth it? The feedback from those who’ve actually experienced it suggests that if you’re looking for something more than just a conventional cruise experience and are willing to invest, then a Disney cruise may very well be a voyage worth embarking on.

ScaryMaryMuffin on TripAdvisor wrote,

“ This was a great trip if you enjoy small, over-crowded swimming pools, packed food venues, surprise charges and noise, noise, noise!!! And I would think that with the prices Disney charges, free wi-fi would be nice. I wouldn’t pay $30 a day. However, the staff was amazing. I don’t know how they can keep on smiling. (By the way, Disney automatically charges gratuities.) The magician, John Cassidy, was terrific. Too bad he won’t be appearing on any more cruises. The Oceaneers Club was well organized. One of our granddaughters (8) loved it. The 6 year old did not. The food was good, especially in the restaurants. But the options for children were limited. No PBJ sandwiches any where. One granddaughter ate macaroni and cheese every night.”

Tamika M on TripAdvisor says,

“ Disney Alaska Cruise My family and I haven’t even taken the cruise and I already want to cancel. 1. They open up the excursion booking at midnight. No one told us it opens at midnight, you need to go in make your excursion bookings. Otherwise they won’t be available. 2. If your family has more than 4 people, you will have to toggle back and forth between staterooms. Causing confusion, delays, and possible missed bookings. Basically- so in efficient and so infuriating! 3. People that pay more money get to book their excurions 120 days before anyone else. One I find this unfair. However, if this is your policy then tell us. We would have paid more. They told us that it was given to people that have sailed with them before, but this is not true. We are going with family who does Disney stuff every year. Even they are frustrated.”

Despite these concerns, both reviewers did also note some positives. ScaryMaryMuffin found the staff to be amazing and enjoyed specific entertainment options like the magician John Cassidy, while mentioning that the Oceaneers Club was hit or miss depending on the child’s preferences.

These more critical reviews suggest that while Disney cruises offer a unique, magical experience, they are not without their drawbacks, especially when it comes to costs—both expected and unexpected—and the logistical challenges that can come with excursion bookings and family accommodations. The diversity of opinions underlines the need to carefully consider your own family’s needs and preferences when deciding whether a Disney cruise is worth the investment.

So, is a Disney cruise worth it? Based on what you’re hunting for, the answer could change. If you’re willing to overlook some logistical hurdles and are prepared for the extra expenses, you might find that the Disney magic, exceptional service, and unique offerings make for a vacation experience that is, in fact, worth the cost. On the other hand, if these issues are deal-breakers for you, exploring options with other cruise lines might be the better route.

In summary, a Disney Cruise offers a one-of-a-kind vacation experience that blends the magic of Disney with the allure of cruising. From exclusive entertainment options and themed activities to dining experiences tailored for all ages , it’s no wonder these cruises have amassed a legion of devoted fans. Financially, while Disney Cruises do tend to be more expensive—with an average cost of $3,400 for a 7-night voyage for two—the value you receive in return can make it a worthwhile investment. The fare includes not just your accommodation and meals, but also top-notch entertainment and an array of special activities and amenities.

When it comes to specialized experiences, both children and adults have something to look forward to, whether it’s the kid clubs and teen lounges or adult-only pools and wine tastings . Furthermore, with a variety of durations and destinations available, there’s something to suit almost every travel palate.

So, is a Disney Cruise worth it? If you’re looking for a vacation that promises to be magical for each member of your family, and you’re willing to pay a premium for those special Disney touches, then the answer could very well be a resounding “Yes.”

Are Disney cruises worth it for adults?

Disney cruises aren’t just for kids; many adults find them enjoyable as well. With adult-only zones, including pools, bars, and fine-dining options, there’s plenty for adults to do. The theatrical shows and entertainment are top-notch, making the experience worthwhile even for those traveling without children.

Is it cheaper to book a Disney Cruise while on a Disney Cruise?

Yes, it is frequently less expensive to reserve a future Disney Cruise while you are currently at the cruise. This is known as a “placeholder” and typically offers a discounted rate and onboard credit for a future cruise, but it’s always best to check current promotions for the most accurate information.

How much is the average Disney Cruise per person?

A Disney Cruise has a wide range of prices depending on the location, duration, and kind of cabin. Prices per person can often range from $800 to several thousand dollars. For the most recent pricing, it is advisable to visit the Disney Cruise Line website or speak with travel agents.

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.

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Disney Cruise Photo Package – What You Need to Know

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If you’re about to, or thinking about going on a Disney cruise, you may be wondering which is the right photo option for you! 

Disney cruises offer several different photo package options, and to help you out, I have put together this handy guide to tell you everything you need to know, including;

• An overview of Disney cruise photographers
• How to find your Disney cruise photos
• Whether the Disney cruise photos are any good
• How to buy Disney cruise photos 
• How much the packages cost
• The Disney cruise photo book
• How to get the most out of your Disney cruise photo package.

Let’s get into it!

Disney Cruise Photo Package Overview

Here is our complete guide to all the options of the Disney Cruise Photo Package to help you decide if it is worth it.

Learn some things along the way which will help you make the most out of your Disney Cruise Photo Package.

Disney Cruise Photographers

Even in the Disney cruise port terminal, you will have your first chance to have a picture for your Disney cruise photo package.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be there for you while you are waiting to board.

When you board a Disney cruise the first thing you do is hand your Key To The World Card to be swiped to show you have entered the ship.

I have to confess I am not the most enthusiastic person about stopping for that embarkation photo.

However, it is often the very best one we have taken for the cruise. I know that feeling of just wanting to get on board the ship as soon as possible, but take a couple of minutes to stop for a photo and you will be glad that you did.

Photographers are everywhere on the ship.

Every character greeting you go to you will find a photographer. You can always use your own camera. However, there will also be a professional on hand.

They also set up lots of photo backgrounds around the ship.

You can even have your photo taken with the captain on certain sailings!

You can see which backgrounds they are setting up so you can choose which one you like.

The lines for photography on a formal night on a Disney cruise are always the longest.

If you want a formal night photo be aware that you may be standing in line for quite a while.

101 Disney Cruise Tips You Need To Know

How Do You Find Your Disney Cruise Photos?

Disney Cruise Line makes it very easy for you to see your photos.

On every ship (exepct Disney Wish) on Deck 4, there is a Shutters photo area.

There you will find digital kiosks where you can view your photos.

All you need to do is swipe your Key To The World and all the photos which are in their system will be displayed.

How do they know who you are?

They have a digital facial recognition system which in theory puts all of your photos in your account so that you can view them on the kiosk.

I say in theory because it doesn’t always work.

If you think that photos are missing the Shutters staff can help you find them. Just inquire at the desk.

Another way to make sure that your photos definitely make it into your account is to hand the photographer your Key To The World Card.

This then links the photos with your account.

All of your Disney cruise photos used to be printed out.

This is not the case anymore.

They have gone fully digital and your photos are all available to view on the Shutters kiosk.

This is located on Deck 4 of all of the Disney ships (except Disney Wish).

Join my Disney Cruise Group for Tips and Free Giveaways!

Are The Disney Cruise Photos Any Good?

Photos are of course an amazing way to capture the memories of your Disney Cruise. My house is filled with photos from past cruises.

The photographers are generally good. Not outstanding.

However, given that they are working quickly and often with very large parties, they do a good job. They have the advantage over you in that they have worked out the lighting and the best angles.

You really should have as many photos taken as you can just so you can see which ones you like.

Having said that I am not a big fan of the backgrounds that Shutters use sometimes.

The borders around the photos are often just not to my taste.

Unfortunately, you do not have the option to choose to remove or change the borders. I am not sure why in the age of digital ease but you get what you are given with the borders.

I am sure that one day soon that will change but at the moment there is no option to choose a different one.

It’s great also that you actually get a complete family or group photo.

I know that there are such things as selfie sticks but nothing beats a great photo of the whole family having fun on a Disney cruise.

If Minnie Mouse is with you then that’s even better!

How Do You Buy Disney Cruise Photos?

There are a number of ways that you can buy Disney cruise photos.

If you know you are going to want a Disney cruise photo package then the best way is to purchase it online before you sail on your cruise.

You can do this up to 48 hours before you sail. See below for prices and the Shutters website.

You can also buy a package or individual photo at any time that the Shutters desk is open. Just like anything on a Disney cruise, the amount will be charged automatically to your onboard stateroom account.

What you absolutely must do is purchase the photos that you want whilst you are still onboard your Disney cruise.

Once you have left the ship it is too late.

There is no going back to reorder!

My advice is to choose whatever photos you want prior to the last evening on the ship.

If you try and buy on the last evening of your cruise you are going to be with crowds of people and wait in a long line.

Just really try and avoid it.

That is not how you want to spend the last evening on your cruise.

Disney Cruise Line Photo Package For More Than One Stateroom

This is where people get very confused.

However, it’s simple if you break it down!

Often families or groups stay in more than one stateroom on a Disney cruise

They want to know how to make the Disney cruise line photo package work most economically for them.

The general rule is that it is one package per stateroom. Say you have one stateroom with your kids and the grandparents have a separate stateroom.

This is a pretty common setup on a Disney cruise.

However, you can’t combine a Disney Cruise Photo Package with two staterooms (with certain exceptions I will explain below).

Say for your embarkation photo you have a group photo with all the family. Parents, kids, and grandparents. Just the parents get the package.

The picture will show up in the parent’s and the grandparent’s accounts on the Shutters kiosk.

Facial recognition or the swiping of the Key To The World will make sure they know who you are.

However, if the parents have bought a package they can get it for their account. The grandparents can’t.

If the grandparents decide to get a photo of just the two of them it will not be on the account if just the parents bought it for their stateroom.

Remember. It’s about the stateroom – if you don’t have someone in the photo who has a package it will not be included in the package.

However, if the grandparents decide to get a photo with the kids, that photo will be included on the parent’s stateroom account.

It’s all about who is in the photo.

The package is exclusive to the stateroom but just so long as someone from that stateroom is in the picture and you have bought a package, it will be available as part of what you bought.

There is an exception.

A lot of families travel with parents in one stateroom and kids in another. Just so long as there is one person over 18 in each stateroom this is allowed.

The exception for kids being in another stateroom is for any “children” aged under 21. This is a great exception if you are traveling with older offspring as well!

If you have 2 or more staterooms and your children aged 17 or under are in a stateroom they will be included in the package. That’s easy.

How does this work?

Let’s say Dad is in one room with the 5-year-old and Mom is in the other stateroom with the 12-year-old. If Mom or Dad had a Disney cruise photo package linked to their stateroom, pictures from both staterooms would be included.

To make sure this works you do have to visit Shutters on the first day of your Disney cruise. They can explain what the position is.

There is another way to get a discount if your family is traveling in 2 staterooms. The first stateroom can buy the Disney cruise photo package online.

Then once you get on board the second stateroom family can buy the package at a 50% discount.

However, this isn’t quite as good as it sounds.

This is 50% of the onboard price. Therefore you do not get 50% off the online discounted rate. You get 50% off the higher price onboard. It is still a discount. Just perhaps not as great as it seems at first.

How Much Do Disney Cruise Photo Packages Cost?

When it comes to the price of the Disney cruise photo packages, there are several different options. 

The first option is to buy individual prints. This is where Disney will print your selected photos for you, which you can take as a keepsake from your magical cruise. 

Alternatively, rather than receiving hard copies of the photos, you can opt for the digital option. This means you choose which photos you would like to buy, but they are sent to you digitally for you to print how you wish. 

Typically, both the digital and photo prints are billed similarly. The prices for the different options are as follows; 

Furthermore, if you do not wish to select just a few photos from your cruise, you can opt for a length of sailing Disney Cruise Photo Package!

This package gives you access to every single photo you take while on board on a USB, which can be exceptional value for money if you end up taking many photos. 

If you pay for your package before your sailing, you can expect the following prices:

However, if you pay onboard, the prices will be slightly higher: 

Disney Cruise Photo Book

Another great option is the Disney Cruise Photo Book.

The price if you buy it online at Our Cruise Photos is $139.95.

If you purchase it onboard it is $149.95

There is also a Shipping Charge of $10 for the Continental United States, Alaska & Hawaii.

All other countries are $15.

You can add up to 34 photos to your Disney Cruise Photo Book.

This is a really good way to make sure that you get a good selection of your Disney cruise photos to keep.

It’s a lot of fun putting together your Disney Cruise Photo Book. You can do this at the Shutters kiosk.

It’s easy to change photos in and out of your Disney Cruise Photo Album and arrange them on the page as you want to. Don’t leave this until the last moment.

The Shutters area on the Disney ships is very crowded on the last evening. Don’t leave it that late.

I suggest that you keep looking at your photos every day so you know what is there and start arranging them in the Disney Cruise Photo Book. You do not want to be leaving all of this to the last evening of the cruise.

Shutters will be crammed full of people on the final evening and you may feel pressured to get it done. It’s a lot easier to do it a bit at a time. You can always rearrange things if you get photos that you prefer.

I actually think that the Photo Book is a reasonable option as you do get to have a lot of printed memories for a reasonable price. However, if you prefer to put your pictures on display this is obviously not the best option as they are all in a book.

How To Get The Most Out of Your Disney Cruise Photo Package

A Disney Cruise Photo Package is pricey. There is no denying that. Some people think it is an amazing value. Others think it is a huge expense. Only you can decide which view is your view.

However, if you do decide to get the Disney Cruise Photo Package there are ways to make it more valuable.

By getting more photos taken.

It is one thing to pay $349.95 for 10 photos on a USB but quite another if you get 100 photos!

How can you maximize the number of photos in your Disney Cruise Package? There are so many photo ops you really can go all out and maximize it.

We have heard of guests having 800 photos on a 14-night cruise.

Not sure if you would actually get a chance to sleep if you were having your photo taken that many times. However, it definitely is possible.

The secret is planning.

You know that every day on the cruise there will be photographers out setting up backgrounds.

Go and take a walk before the first seating of dinner and see what your options are.

Arrive early so you minimize the time spent in line.

Sometimes the photographers will be in your rotational dining room .

They always suggest what pictures they take.

For instance, they may say a photo of you as a couple, as a family, and then separate photos of the children.

Ask for what you want. If you want extra ones tell the photographer.

It is not going to take much extra time, but it will mean that you get more photos in your account.

Disney photographers are even found on Disney Castaway Cay . 

You may be floating along in your inner tube in the ocean and see a photographer approach. Go and seek them out.

If you want a family photo then set one up.

Photo of you and your significant other? Ask for one.

The photographers want to sell as many photographs as possible so they are happy to oblige.

In my experience, a lot of people ignore them on Castaway Cay. So go for it. You may get a great Castaway Cay picture for your Disney Cruise Photo Package.

Character greetings are often the best chance you have to get a really great photo for your Disney Cruise Package.

Every day the character greetings are posted on the Navigators App.

If you want to be even more organized and plan further in advance use the Disney Cruise Navigator App so that you can see where the characters will be more than one day in advance.

Mickey and Minnie appear most often in lots of different costumes. I love the Golden Mickeys costumes for Mickey and Minnie.

However, if you want to have your photograph taken with one of the more minor characters, say Peter Pan or Captain Hook this takes a little more planning as they don’t appear as often.

If you have your heart set on a photo with Captain Jack Sparrow he appears on Castaway Cay as well as on Pirate Night.

You do need to plan ahead to seek out the Disney characters which appear less often.

It is so much easier to get a picture with a Disney character on a cruise than at Disney parks.

You can wait for less time.

In air-conditioned comfort.

Make the most of it and get as many photos as you can.

Then the value of the Disney Cruise Photo Package really kicks in.

Will you be buying a Disney cruise photo package? Let me know in the comments below.

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

Monday 22nd of April 2024

I just inquired about the photo book. I was told that they no longer offer it pre cruise price of $139. We love the photo book. We have purchased the photo books on our last 4 cruises.

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

You forgot to mention the "Magic Photos" I did several on my Disney Cruise & loved them. You night feel a bit silly holding your hands out but you never know what or who will be in them later. And the multi pic is cool too

Monday 1st of January 2024

Thank you for all the information! Do you know if you have a Disney Annual Pass with the photo package, does it apply to photos taken on the Disney ships? Or will I have to buy a totally a separate photo package for on board?

Tuesday 2nd of January 2024

Glad that you enjoyed the information! The parks and cruises are separate so even as an Annual Pass Holder you will have to purchase a separate package for the cruise. You may like to join my Disney Cruise Facebook Group for lots more information about all aspects of your cruise https://www.facebook.com/groups/309675872918213

Friday 27th of October 2023

I am confused - do you have to buy the package before the cruise, or can you pose for photos, see if you like any of them, and then buy a 10-photo package?

You can buy the package up to 3 days before the cruise to get a discount. If you buy it on the cruise the price is higher. However way you buy it if you see the photos and you don't want a package any more, and you haven't downloaded any photos , you can go to Shutters on the ship and ask to cancel the package.

Tonya Moctezuma

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

Single mom, so I’m never in any pictures. So I will be buying the unlimited package, so I can have lots of photos of me and my kids.

I stayed at Disney World's most expensive hotel that costs $900 a night. Here's what it was like and why it was worth every penny.

• I stayed at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where rooms cost $900 a night on average.
• I'd definitely stay again for its deluxe amenities, fireworks view, and proximity to Magic Kingdom.
• The "Mary Poppins"-themed rooms were beautiful and the most spacious I've seen at Disney World.

Even though I only live a couple of minutes from Disney World , I still enjoy a staycation. I was very excited to reserve a stay at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. 

My first and only other stay at this resort was more than 10 years ago on a family vacation, so I was looking forward to seeing the recently refurbished guest rooms that were part of the company's property-wide renovations tied to its 50th-anniversary celebration in 2023.

I booked a one-night stay in a standard room that typically costs about $900 a night. But the resort also has larger suites and villas that range over $4,000 a night. 

When we arrived, we had to pass through security.

Luckily passing through the gate didn't take long.

A member of the security team just asked to verify the name on the reservation and to see our IDs.

Once we were dropped off, we took some photos outside of the resort.

It was a beautiful day and I wanted to snap some photos outside of the resort before heading inside. 

A kind employee driving by in a club car offered to take our photos when he noticed me and my sister posing for a couple of selfies.

We took him up on his offer and grabbed a photo together.

Once we arrived at the front of the resort, we were greeted by a very personable employee.

Randy was one of the nicest employees we met. When we told him we were checking in, he walked us inside while telling us some fun facts about the resort along the way.

I enjoyed listening to what he had to share about the hotel. The fun fact that stood out most to me is that the huge chandeliers in the lobby are supposed to resemble pineapples.

The check-in process was seamless.

There was no line to check in, which I was grateful for.

Though the official check-in time was 3:00 p.m., our room was ready when we arrived about 20 minutes prior.

As I checked in, I received a map of the resort illustrating the building with our room.

Before leaving the desk, the employee handed me a map of the resort and circled the building we'd be staying in. 

I took some time to admire the beauty of the lobby.

I was impressed by the lobby's theming.

I loved the Victorian-inspired decor with its beautiful sofas and hanging chandeliers.

I noticed a lot of characters decorating the floors, but my favorites were Prince Charming and Cinderella.

Not many people look down when walking through a hotel lobby , but in this instance, I was glad I did.

I saw a lot of characters on the floor including Chip from "Beauty and the Beast," Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy.

I also spotted Prince Charming and Cinderella.

The resort assigned us to room 8314 in the Boca Chica building located near the quiet pool.

I was very happy with our room location since it wasn't too far from the main lobby building, which houses various shops and dining locations including the Grand Floridian Cafe, Cítricos, Enchanted Rose, Victoria & Albert's , and Gasparilla Grill. 

It only took us about three minutes to walk to our building, Boca Chica, from the lobby.

When I've stayed at other resorts in the past, I sometimes had to walk nearly a mile to get to the main building from my room or take an internal bus, which I find bothersome.

The resort is on the smaller side, but employees were still driving golf carts to drop off guests' luggage.

Even though an employee offered to drive me to my building in a club car, I declined as I didn't have any cash to tip and wouldn't have wanted to ride without doing so. 

I think it's a nice touch for guests though, the staff truly provides the utmost "princess treatment."

I've stayed at almost all of the resorts at Disney World and the Grand Floridian is the only one where I was ever offered a ride around the property.

Our building resembled a mini version of the lobby.

Upon walking into the Boca Chica building, one of the first things I noticed was that it looked like a miniature version of the main building with the lobby. 

It served as a wonderful spot for taking some more photos before heading up to our room.

The size of our room pleasantly surprised me.

For a standard room with two queen-sized beds, I couldn't believe how spacious it was.

It had two televisions which I'd never seen in a standard-size room at Disney before.

Although it was just me and my sister staying in the room, I'd say it was large enough to comfortably fit at least four people.

It even had a second area I wasn't expecting.

I liked that there was a living area nestled in the back near the patio. It had a television, couch, chairs, and a coffee table.  

The room also had so much natural lighting, especially in this back section. 

I took full advantage to take some in-room photos and get some vitamin D.

The television was personalized, which made the room extra magical.

When I walked into the room, I was happy to see my last name written on the television screen.

It was a nice personal touch and made the room feel even more homelike.

One of the first things I do when I walk into a hotel room is test the bed and pillows.

I'm quite specific when it comes to mattresses and pillows. But the bed was the most comfortable I've ever experienced at a Disney resort. 

Even when taking photos, I immediately noticed how soft the mattress was. My head sunk right into the pillows, which I loved.

The room decor was practically perfect.

One of the things I was most looking forward to during my stay was seeing the resort's newly-refurbished "Mary Poppins"-themed guest rooms.

From the ambient music played on the televisions to the artwork hung throughout the room, everything was practically perfect.  

I especially loved the chandelier in the room.

My favorite piece of decor was the chandelier ornamented with glass birds.

The room also had a nice bathroom.

The room's bathroom was also spacious, with a beautiful shower and a double-sink vanity area.

I appreciated the complimentary toiletries in the bathroom.

What really impressed me about the bathroom was the complimentary products.

I love the scent of the H2O products, especially the sea salt ones, so it was lovely to use them during my stay.

Although I am not a coffee drinker, my room featured a coffee bar.

I don't drink coffee, so I didn't take advantage of the in-room coffee bar with a Keurig machine. 

But if I knew about it ahead of time, I would've brought some hot-cocoa K-Cups .

When I looked inside the closet, I noticed two pairs of Grand Floridian slippers and robes.

This is the only Disney World hotel I've stayed at where I've seen complimentary slippers.

Although they were just lightweight spa slippers, they were comfortable to wear when walking around the room and after taking a shower. 

I decided not to try on the matching robe, but it was super beautiful to look at.

The patio offered beautiful views of the resort and the quiet pool area.

I don't think I could've asked for a better patio view, overlooking the quiet pool.

It offered a beautiful vantage point for the sunset.

After spending some time in the room, we went to explore the resort and came across a beautiful fountain.

Naturally, I wanted to take some photos in front of the fountain because it was so beautiful. 

I think it might be one of my new favorite photo spots. I liked that I was able to really capture the resort's ambiance.

The beach area had several games guests could play.

I didn't get too close because I didn't want to get all full of sand before dinner. But I noticed the resort had games available by the beach, including foosball, chess, and cornhole.

I decided to spend some more time in the lobby and watch the piano player.

One of my favorite parts of my stay was watching and listening to the pianist play Disney classics for the guests in the lobby. 

I liked that he played a lot of songs from "Alice in Wonderland" since the movie is present in the resort's theming. 

When it was time for dinner, we headed up to the Enchanted Rose on the second floor of the main building.

I couldn't stay at the Grand Floridian and not go to the Enchanted Rose .

It's themed after "Beauty and the Beast," which is my favorite Disney film.

The lounge surpasses many others on the property when it comes to theming.

I requested to be seated at a table in the library room since I prefer the aesthetic.

I don't like bar environments as someone who doesn't drink alcohol, so I appreciate the different themed rooms. 

Enchanted Rose is home to one of the best nonalcoholic drinks on the property.

Whenever I visit Enchanted Rose, I always get the rosemary cooler ($7).

It's a delicious blend of lemonade, vanilla, and rosemary — the perfect mix of bitter and sweet flavors.

We shared three small plates, but the seasonal flatbread was the best thing I tried.

Since Enchanted Rose is a lounge and not a full-service restaurant, we shared three small plates: house-made truffle fries ($14), hummus ($12), and a seasonal flatbread ($18). 

The seasonal flatbread was my favorite. I loved how well the flavors from the artichoke, fig, and ricotta paired.

Sharing everything was enough food to make a meal, and I left satisfied. 

We wrapped up our meal just in time to head back outside for the fireworks.

The Grand Floridian offers a great view of Magic Kingdom's nighttime fireworks show.

I prefer to watch the show outside of Gasparilla Grill. The music is played in the area and there's a great view of Cinderella Castle .

After the fireworks ended, the hotel employees were making magical moments for guests.

When all of the guests were leaving the area, a group of hotel employees put on Mickey Mouse gloves and encouraged everyone to shake their hands while heading back inside.

It was such a magical moment that left everyone smiling on their way out.

We decided to hop on the monorail and go over to Magic Kingdom for some extended theme-park hours.

One of the best parts about staying at the Grand Floridian is its easy access to Magic Kingdom via the monorail, boat, or walkway. 

Since we were already near the main building, we decided to take the monorail. It was only one stop away from the theme park. 

The monorail got us to Magic Kingdom in just about three minutes, which was amazing.

Since the Grand Floridian is a deluxe resort, we had the option to spend an extra two hours at Magic Kingdom.

Normally, the extended hours at Magic Kingdom for Disney resort guests are on Wednesdays. But they fell on a Tuesday during my stay, and I wanted to take advantage of the benefit.

We hit up the ice-cream parlor on Main Street for a late-night treat. 

I was tired, so we decided to leave early and take the boat back to the resort.

The boat ride was fairly quick — less than 10 minutes — which was great when I was tired.

It was beautiful looking at the scenery and other resorts around the Seven Seas Lagoon while traveling back to the Grand Floridian. 

The next morning, we checked out and took our luggage to bell services.

Check-out time is 11 a.m., but we were planning to eat breakfast around 10:30 a.m., so we had to store our bags. 

Since Disney hotels have automatic check-out, we just left the room without stopping at the front desk, which I found very convenient. 

Luckily, the bell-service employees were able to store our luggage for us until we were ready to leave later that day.

We headed over to the Grand Floridian Cafe to see if the breakfast lived up to the hype.

I'd always heard about how good the breakfast is at Grand Floridian Cafe, and I decided there was no better time to try it out for myself.

I added my party to the walk-up list and we were seated within 30 minutes, which was very convenient considering we didn't have a reservation.

I ordered the chicken and waffles, which were delicious.

I appreciated that the meal was served with a gigantic Mickey-shaped waffle as opposed to a regular waffle. It added to the magic of dining at Disney. 

I ordered the sriracha on the side because I thought it was going to be spicy. But I ended up not being spicy at all, which I liked. 

After breakfast, I spent some time relaxing in the main pool area.

It was very fortunate that the weather was about 80 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny because I wanted to go swimming and enjoy the pool. 

Since this was the family pool, there was music playing, children having fun, and adults taking advantage of the poolside bar. 

There were some private cabanas that could be rented. I didn't opt to do that, but it's good to know that's an option if you're looking for something more private. 

Overall, it was a fun place to be. I especially liked the throwback Disney Channel tunes that were playing. 

Before heading into the water, I spent some time soaking in the sun.

I found the pool chairs to be very comfortable — I liked that they were padded. 

Since water cups are free, I got a couple to make sure I stayed hydrated while sitting outside.

When I had enough fun in the sun, I went back to collect my bags and came across these beautiful cars.

The vintage cars were interesting to look at while I waited for the employee to retrieve my bags.

My stay at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa was nothing short of magical.

My stay at the Grand Floridian was one of my favorites on the property to date. 

It was expensive, but the beautiful rooms and amenities along with the high-quality guest service made it worth it. I definitely want to come back. 

A lot of magic happens at the theme parks, but it also comes from the resorts. Grand Floridian definitely left me with some magical memories.

Business Insider paid a media rate of $480 for this hotel stay. The full rate was about $900.

This story was originally published in February 2023 and most recently updated on April 18, 2024. 

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more .

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With 67% institutional ownership, the walt disney company (nyse:dis) is a favorite amongst the big guns, key insights.

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Walt Disney's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

A total of 25 investors have a majority stake in the company with 39% ownership

Insiders have sold recently

A look at the shareholders of The Walt Disney Company ( NYSE:DIS ) can tell us which group is most powerful. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 67% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company.

Given the vast amount of money and research capacities at their disposal, institutional ownership tends to carry a lot of weight, especially with individual investors. Hence, having a considerable amount of institutional money invested in a company is often regarded as a desirable trait.

In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Walt Disney.

See our latest analysis for Walt Disney

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Walt Disney?

Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index.

Walt Disney already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Walt Disney, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. Walt Disney is not owned by hedge funds. The Vanguard Group, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 8.3% of shares outstanding. With 6.6% and 4.1% of the shares outstanding respectively, BlackRock, Inc. and State Street Global Advisors, Inc. are the second and third largest shareholders.

Our studies suggest that the top 25 shareholders collectively control less than half of the company's shares, meaning that the company's shares are widely disseminated and there is no dominant shareholder.

While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of Walt Disney

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. The company management answer to the board and the latter should represent the interests of shareholders. Notably, sometimes top-level managers are on the board themselves.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Our data suggests that insiders own under 1% of The Walt Disney Company in their own names. Being so large, we would not expect insiders to own a large proportion of the stock. Collectively, they own US$59m of stock. It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 32% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Walt Disney , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

Ultimately the future is most important . You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company .

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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