Cruising – Seconds to Go https://secondstogo.net/wordpress Mother-Daughter Travel Adventurers/Travel Agents, covering the U.S. coast to coast Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:18:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://secondstogo.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/cropped-S2G-logo-web-2-32x32.png Cruising – Seconds to Go https://secondstogo.net/wordpress 32 32 Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Answers and Comprehensive Tips and Tricks for the Best Adventure https://secondstogo.net/wordpress/disney-cruise-worth-it-tips/ Wed, 19 Feb 2025 21:12:42 +0000 https://secondstogo.net/wordpress/?p=25092 There are few better ways to sail the ocean blue than on a Disney cruise. The masters of theme park entertainment know how to have a good time and have figured out how to bring the magic of the Disney parks onto the high seas. Here’s what’s included in a Disney cruise, why you’d want ... Read more

The post Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Answers and Comprehensive Tips and Tricks for the Best Adventure appeared first on Seconds to Go.

]]>
There are few better ways to sail the ocean blue than on a Disney cruise. The masters of theme park entertainment know how to have a good time and have figured out how to bring the magic of the Disney parks onto the high seas.

Here’s what’s included in a Disney cruise, why you’d want to book Disney over another line, and the Disney Cruise tips and tricks you’ll need to make the most of your voyage.

Sailing a Disney Cruise, What’s Included

Disney Wish Cruise ship as seen from the shores of Castaway Cay.

To determine whether a Disney cruise is worth it, you need to understand that Disney includes some magical extras in the cost of every fare.

Water, Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks are Included

If you have a passion for soda or just enjoy some bubbly refreshment with meals, then you’ll love sailing on a Disney cruise. Unlike other lines who offer only water, coffee and tea with your cruise fare, Disney allows for unlimited soda throughout the day and night, as well as water, coffee, tea and juices.

This perk is included at mealtimes in onboard restaurants and is also offered self serve. Locations vary by ship, but you’re sure to find at least one drink station serving Coke products onboard. 

Magical Entertainment

Entertainment options are plentiful across a Disney cruise ship, from arts and crafts to trivia, bingo, karaoke, sports and game shows. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy, and most activities are included in your fare.

All guests may also enjoy Disney Cruise Line’s Broadway style shows, featuring some of Disney’s most beloved characters. When you’re done with the stage performance, cross on over to the theater and catch a movie. Stage performances run nightly, opposite your dinner schedule, while movie showings run throughout the day and night. It’s the perfect escape when it rains or when the ship is out to sea.

7AD439B1 3FC1 4749 B7C0 D5914AA6FF89

Character Meet and Greets

One thing that makes a Disney cruise worth it for many passengers is the opportunity to meet with Disney characters. If you’ve ever waited in line at Disney parks to be greeted by Mickey and pals, you’re in for a treat onboard a Disney cruise ship. You’ll find ample opportunities to meet with Mickey, Minnie, princesses and more. Best of all, lines are usually much shorter than those you’ll encounter within the parks, and the visit is included in the price of your fare.

If posing for photos with Disney stars isn’t your idea of a relaxing time, it’s easy to abstain from the festivities. Most meeting locations occur on the main deck of the ship while guests are commonly off enjoying other areas and activities. If you aren’t looking for a character meeting, odds are, you won’t even know it’s happening.

Soft Serve Galore

Unlimited soft serve ice cream is another stated perk of a Disney cruise. However, if this conjures images of waltzing up to a self-serve machine day or night, let me provide you with some Disney cruise tips and tricks that will serve you well on this score. While you may request as many ice cream cones as you want during a day, you may not find them offered in a self-serve format. Generally, cast members serve up cones and dishes at a specified location onboard the ship. This keeps things hygienic, but you won’t be grabbing your sweet frozen snack in the middle of the night. Each soft serve venue does observe certain hours. However, you are free to order Mickey Ice Cream bars from room service at any time.  

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks #1: Self-serve ice cream machines are available at Serenity Bay on Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) but are only open when lunch is being served. 

Fireworks at Sea

One of the most magical moments onboard a Disney Cruise ship is watching the fireworks erupt in splendid colors over the black expanse of sea. It’s a spectacle that easily sets Disney apart from other cruise lines. 

Unlike land-based fireworks shows, fireworks on a Disney cruise are launched using an environmentally friendly system designed to be safe for marine life. The experience of standing on deck, surrounded by the vastness of the sea, as brilliant colors illuminate the night sky set to an unforgettable soundtrack, creates an unforgettable moment for guests of all ages.

Red and white fireworks erupting over the open ocean as seen from the deck of a disney cruise ship.

Amenities Included in a Disney Cruise

When you book a Disney cruise, your base fare includes:

  • All taxes and port fees
  • Your stateroom
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Various snacks throughout the day
  • Disney character meet and greets
  • Screenings of first-run Disney films
  • Access to highly imaginative youth clubs
  • Themed Nightclubs and lounges for adults
  • Soft drinks at meals and onboard drink locations
  • Pools and waterslides, including Aqua Mouse and Aquadunk
  • Luggage tags mailed to your address (no need to print tags at home)

Amenities not included in your Disney cruise fare:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Port excursions
  • Purchases at onboard stores
  • Spa and salon services
  • Onboard photography services
  • Nursery babysitting for children under age 3
  • Specialty dining (more on this later)
  • Services at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

What It’s Like to Sail with Disney: Understanding the Logistics

The magic of a Disney cruise lies in several important logistical details that help make your trip more pleasant from start to finish. The Disney Cruise tips and tricks below will help you understand why so many families find a Disney Cruise worth it and even superior to other lines.

The All-Essential Disney Cruise Navigator App

The magic of a Disney cruise can start almost as soon as you book your adventure if you download the Disney Navigator app. This handy pocket tool provides essential details such as deck plans and other information related to your cruise. Later, you’ll use it to book shore adventures and to check-in for your cruise. Once onboard, you’ll find information on your dining schedule, onboard activities and other information.

After you download the app, you’ll be asked to sync your reservation. Keep in mind, that you will need a Disney account to access the app, so if you haven’t created one when visiting the parks or accessing other Disney services, you’ll be asked to do so before linking your reservation.

Approximately 30 days prior to your sailing departure, you will be asked to check in using the Disney Cruise Navigator app. If you have status as a Castaway Club member, you will be allowed to do this sooner.

Pre-Sailing Magic from Disney in the Form of Luggage Tags

If you’ve ever sailed another line, you may be familiar with electronic luggage tags. These paper marvels are emailed to you 30-60 days prior to your cruise departure. It is then your responsibility to print them out and secure them to your luggage before heading out to the cruise port.

If this doesn’t sound like a big deal, consider the fact that you’ll likely be doing this from a hotel room, since it’s advisable to arrive the day prior to your cruise. You’ll need a stapler or at least some dependable tape to complete this task.

To simplify things, cruisers often purchase special luggage tag holders. These vinyl sleeves protect the paper tags and make them easier to attach but are an added expense. 

On a Disney cruise, sturdy luggage tags are included in your fare. They arrive in the mail several months before you set sail. Best of all, they’re simple to affix to your luggage, attaching in the same way as an airline luggage tag. It’s another perk that makes a Disney cruise worth it in our estimation.

Checking in for Your Cruise on the Disney Navigator App

Checking in for your cruise is a fairly simple process, one the app will walk you through seamlessly. However, it can take time if you aren’t prepared when you enter the app. 

Here are some Disney cruise tips and tricks for navigating online check-in like a veteran cruiser. Be sure to have the following on hand before opening your Disney cruise Navigator app and starting the online check-in process:

  • A picture of each passport for anyone you are checking in. Be sure there is no glare on the image or your passport picture may be rejected.
  • A picture of each person you are checking in. You can use a selfie, but the person checking in must be the only person in the frame, be facing the camera and be in front of a plain background, like a wall.
  • Credit card number for charging onboard purchases. If you have multiple adults in your room be sure to have the credit card number they want to use, or all charges will go to your account.
  • The name and phone number of an emergency contact for each person in your stateroom. You will also be asked to specify their relationship to the individual.

Once you’ve submitted these items and all required information, it may seem like you’ve fallen into a black hole. My check-in status remained under “pending review” until right before I left for my cruise. Rest assured, Disney cast members are busy in the background vetting your documents and ensuring you’ll be able to enter the ship without disruption at the port.

DisneyBand+ or Disney Cruise Key to the World Card

When sailing on a Disney Cruise, your Key to the World Card is your ticket to the ship. You’ll use it to to unlock your stateroom, charge purchases and access some of the onboard activities. For instance, I was asked to leave my Key to the World Card at the desk when taking advantage of Spa services.

One thing that sets a Disney cruise apart for many sailors and makes it worth it compared to other lines, is DisneyBand+. If you’ve ever been to a Disney park and used a MagicBand, then you’re familiar with the technology.

This wrist worn device holds all of the details of your cruise and provides you with some very convenient functionalities. The first is the tap to pay feature. When making onboard purchases, you have only to tap the DisneyBand+ to have charges applied to your room. 

DisneyBand+ also offers a convenient way to enter your stateroom. Simply tap the band to the specified spot on your stateroom door, and the lock is released. Guests prefer DisneyBand+ because they don’t have to wear a lanyard to hold their card or pull it out of a pocket every time they need to enter their stateroom or make a purchase.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Guests who have already purchased a MagicBand+ for use at Disney parks, may also use it on the cruise. Simply ask to have it activated while checking in at the port.

Disney Cruise Embarkation Day: Tips and Tricks for an Amazing Voyage

Embarkation day on a Disney cruise, like any other line, can be the start to an exciting adventure or a day fraught with anxiety and trouble. It all depends on how well you prepare and whether you heed the Disney cruise tips and tricks that will ensure smooth sailing.

Pluot sports sailor attire on a sign leading guests through the embarkation procession a Disney Cruise

When to Arrive at the Port

If you will need to hop a flight to reach your cruise port, it’s important that you give yourself ample time for doing so. That means arriving the day before your cruise departs.

While most Disney cruises do not embark until late afternoon, you could risk missing the ship if you fly in the day of and your flight gets delayed. Cruise lines and travel agents alike will always recommend that you fly in the day before embarkation day. That can mean arriving late the day before, staying near the airport and heading to the port the next morning or staying in a hotel near the port.

If you plan to drive to the port, be sure to arrive about 30 minutes prior to your assigned boarding time. This will allow you to park your car and take care of your luggage before boarding the ship. Just keep in mind that Disney Cruise Line does hold firm to the time you choose to board during online check in. If you arrive too early, you will be asked to wait until your boarding time arrives. 

Disney Cruise Ground Transportation

Unless you live in close proximity and plan to drive to the port, you will need to arrange for ground transportation from the airport to the cruise port and back again. Fortunately, there are a number of options.

One reason that many travelers find a Disney Cruise worth it compared to other lines is the excellent shuttle service provided both from Orlando International Airport, as well as Disney World hotels. When you book a Disney cruise line shuttle, online check in is simplified. You won’t have to worry about selecting a boarding time. You’re automatically cleared for the time your shuttle will arrive.

On our most recent voyage on Disney Wish, our shuttle picked us up from Disney’s Beach Club in the morning. Our luggage had been collected around 7:30 am and already delivered to the port. All we had to do was bring a small bag with a bathing suit, medications and other items we wanted with us.

When we arrived at the port, we were escorted through security. The process was quick and seamless. Check-in to board was completed in record time, including an extra stop to add a few alternative payment methods to different travelers in the room. All told, it took us about 15 minutes from arriving at the port to walking onboard.

If your cruise embarks from a point other than Port Canaveral, you will need to find an alternative mode of transportation. Depending on the distance from the airport to the cruise port, ride sharing may be an alternative. Other travelers will book a one-way rental car. You should also find ample shuttle services that also transport passengers from airport to cruise terminal.

Disney Cruise Activities: Fun for All Ages

If you’re still wondering if a Disney cruise is worth it, the staggering array of activities for young and old alike might convince you. From kids’ clubs and adult-exclusive retreats to the excitement of Disney’s private island, a Disney cruise delivers magic at every turn. 

Here’s what you can expect onboard, along with some Disney Cruise tips and tricks to make the most of your voyage.

Disney Cruise for Kids: Endless Fun on the High Seas

For young sailors, a Disney cruise is packed with immersive experiences at the Disney Cruise Oceaneer Club. Here, children aged 3 through 12 engage in age-appropriate interactive activities, designed to foster imagination and entertain kids of every interest. They can explore themed spaces inspired by their favorite Disney movies, engage in hands-on activities, and even meet Disney characters. Whether they’re piloting the Millennium Falcon, playing in Andy’s Room, or training with Marvel superheroes, there’s so much to do, they may not want to leave.

Parents of the youngest cruisers may opt to utilize the Disney cruise nursery, It’s a Small World! Accomodating children aged 6 months to 3 years, trained caregivers offer interactive play and quiet nap spaces so adults can enjoy their own adventures.

Disney Cruise Line also ensures older kids and teens have dedicated spaces designed just for them:

  • Edge (Tweens 11-14): A trendy, high-tech hangout where tweens can watch movies, play video games, participate in creative workshops, and join in themed activities with new friends.
  • Vibe (Teens 14-17): A sleek, stylish lounge for teens to relax, listen to music, enjoy smoothie tastings, and even access an exclusive sundeck and splash pool on select ships.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Be sure to sign up in advance if your children would like to engage in activities at the Oceaneer Club. Spots can fill up quickly.

On select ships, parents along with their princes and princesses aged 3-12, can enjoy a royal tea party with some of Disney’s own princesses. It’s a dining celebration held in your honor, featuring 2 delicious courses and a selection of herbal teas.

Disney Cruise Adults Only: Relaxation, Fitness and Exclusive Experiences

While Disney Cruises are family-friendly, adults can enjoy their own relaxing experiences onboard.

For those looking to stay active at sea, the Disney Cruise fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment, ocean views, and instructor-led classes like yoga and cycling. If relaxation is your goal, the Senses Spa & Salon provides massages, facials, and other luxury treatments. On board the Wish, you will even find medical grade services, such as Coolsculpting and Thermage.


Disney cruise quote block

Receive a no obligation quote from Kathleen Hesketh at Mickey World Travel. Click here to be taken to our quote form.


Disney Cruise Line also offers adult-exclusive spaces, including refined lounges, cocktail bars, and signature dining experiences, such as Palo and Remy, where you can indulge in gourmet meals. For a peaceful retreat, head to Quiet Cove Pool, a serene, adults-only pool area with a cafe and plush loungers.

When nighttime falls, adults will find an entertainment scene all their own, with adult only trivia competitions, themed game shows and comedy performances that will offer more of an adult take on Disney’s signature family entertainment. Many ships also feature interactive game nights, such as Match Your Mate, where couples test their knowledge of each other in a fun and often hilarious setting. 

Themed lounges and nightclubs, like The Skyline Lounge, O’Gills Pub, and The Tube, offer a mix of live music, beverage tastings, and mixology classes where guests can learn to craft their own cocktails. On the Wish, adults can launch into space at Hyperspace Lounge, an upscale Star Wars themed experience with cocktails and libations that appeal to all.

Onboard the Disney Treasure, join the 999 happy haunts from the Haunted Mansion ride. The Haunted Mansion Parlor welcomes guests for specialty drinks, beer and wine in a spooky setting. If you ever wanted to bail out of your doom buggy on the ride and explore the mansion, this is the place for you.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, adults can unwind with a handcrafted drink while enjoying piano performances, jazz bands, or even dueling pianos in select venues. 

Disney Castaway Cay: Paradise Awaits on Disney’s Own Private Island

Disney Wish Cruise ship as seen from the shores of Castaway Cay.

One of the highlights of any Disney Cruise is a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. You’ll find a variety of activities for families, adults and even solo cruisers.

For families, Castaway Family Beach offers calm, turquoise waters, shaded loungers, and plenty of opportunities to play in the sun. Adventurers can snorkel through an underwater trail featuring Disney surprises, rent bikes to explore the island’s scenic trails, or try paddleboarding and kayaking.

Adults seeking a quiet retreat can head to Serenity Bay, an exclusive, adults-only beach featuring private cabanas, a full-service bar, and even oceanside massages.

CBE69BE6 901E 42E2 B69B E62E26B06692
Serenity Bay offers adults a place to relax on Castaway Cay, Disney’s Private island, in exclusive splendor.

For a unique experience, consider signing up for the Castaway Cay 5K, a scenic fun run around the island. Other excursions include stingray encounters, guided nature walks, and glass-bottom boat tours are available for an additional fee.

Disney Cruise tips and tricks: To secure the best spots on Castaway Cay, disembark early and head straight to your desired beach. If you’re interested in renting a cabana, book it as soon as your cruise activities open, as they can sell out fast!

With exclusive experiences for all ages, beautiful destinations, and top-tier Disney service, it’s easy to see why so many travelers say a Disney Cruise is worth it. Whether you’re setting sail on a family cruise or looking for a more adult-focused getaway, a Disney voyage offers plenty of relaxation and adventure on the high seas.

Dining on a Disney Cruise: What to Expect

Scallops with saffron pasta, an excellent dish that makes DISNEY CRUISE LINE worth it for many passengers.

Enjoying the exceptional dining experiences onboard is one of the highlights of a Disney cruise. From gourmet meals to quick-service options, Disney Cruise Line ensures guests have plenty of delicious choices to enjoy throughout their voyage. 

Does a Disney Cruise Include Food and What Is Rotational Dining?

Yes! All Disney Cruises include meals at a variety of dining venues. However, instead of eating each night in the main dining hall or buffet restaurant, as you do on other lines, guests rotate through three themed table-service venues. 

One thing that makes this experience truly unique is the fact that your serving team rotates with you. By working with the same servers every night, you’re assure personalized service throughout your cruise. Our head server, Ronald, learned our food allergies and always steered us away from menu items we could not eat. 

264D17EF 88ED 4527 81D7 F66923E99217

Depending on the ship, the 3 main restaurants may include favorites like Animator’s Palate, where Disney animation comes to life; Tiana’s Place, a lively New Orleans-inspired venue with live jazz music; or Royal Court, which immerses guests in the grandeur of a fairy tale palace.

During our sailing on the Wish, we joined Anna, Elsa and the cast of Frozen for an engagement party, helped keep Ant Man from destroying the ship and enjoyed a quiet evening with Disney animation art at 1923.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: 1923 doubles as a museum. Unlike other restaurants across the ship, it is never locked outside of dining times, allowing passengers to enter and enjoy the displays of animation art.

Other Dining Venues Included in Your Disney Cruise Fare

In addition to the rotational dining restaurants, guests can enjoy unlimited meals during breakfast and lunch from an included buffet restaurant. Depending on the ship you sail, that could be either Cabanas or Marceline Market.

Quick-service locations are also available for lunch or dinner, and guests can enjoy onboard beverage stations 24/7. Another thing that sets a Disney cruise apart and may make it worth it for some guests, is the fact that soda is included in the cost of your fare. You’ll find Coke products in all restaurants and at self-service drink stations.

For an additional charge, guests may enjoy specialty dining options, such as Palo, Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallementand Remy. These upscale restaurants offer elevated, adult-exclusive culinary experiences.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: If you have a favorite dish, don’t hesitate to ask for extra portions, or order more than one appetizer or dessert. Your servers are happy to accommodate!

Disney Cruise Attire: What to Wear for Dinner

Disney Cruise Line has a flexible dress code depending on the length of your sailing. On three- and four-night cruises, dining attire is mostly cruise casual. On 5-night cruises, guests can expect the same, with one optional dress-up night. On longer cruises, such as seven-night sailings, guests can expect both a formal night and a semi-formal night.

If you’re wondering how formal a formal night is, you’ll find a wide variety of opinions. Some cruisers believe a formal night should be long gowns and tuxedos. Others find that dictate to be too costly for a single night of your cruise. 

Most people tend to agree that cruisers should dress how they feel most comfortable. You can expect to see some cruisers dressed to the nines, while others enjoy more business casual attire.

On normal nights, rotational dining restaurants allow relaxed dress like polos, sundresses, and nice jeans, but adult-exclusive dining at Palo and Remy requires more formal attire, such as dress shirts and slacks for men and elegant dresses or pantsuits for women. Disney Cruise Line also hosts themed dinner nights, like Pirate Night, where guests can dress up in costumes for a night of swashbuckling fun!

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: If you prefer to skip formal night, quick-service meals are always available.

Disney Cruise Room Service: 24/7 Dining at Your Door

A lesser-known perk that makes a Disney Cruise worth it is the complimentary 24-hour room service. Guests can order a variety of meals and snacks to their stateroom, including sandwiches, salads, and the famous Mickey ice cream bars. While most items are included in your fare, certain specialty snacks and alcoholic beverages come at an extra charge.

If you enjoy sipping coffee on your balcony in the morning, or like to enjoy a meal in your room, this is one perk that will make Disney Cruise worth it for you. However, there are a few things to note about room service. First, if you wish to enjoy room service for breakfast, be sure to fill out your menu card and place it on the outside of your stateroom door before 3:00 am. Next, room service is not available on disembarkation day. We had planned to take advantage of room service on the last day of our cruise to make for a more relaxing disembarkation, but the cruise director informed everyone by ship board announcement that room service was not available on Disney cruise on the last day.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Gratuities aren’t automatically added to room service, so it’s a good idea to keep a few small bills handy or add a tip to your onboard account.

Disney Cruise Gluten-Free and Special Dietary Concerns

Disney Cruise Line is known for accommodating dietary restrictions, including gluten-free meals. Guests can request special accommodations when booking their cruise and speak with their servers each night to ensure their meals meet their needs. Most restaurants offer gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts, and buffets provide allergy-friendly options.

If you need special dietary meals or suffer from food allergies, be sure to note this through the Disney cruise Navigator app. Doing so before sailing will allow the crew to prepare for your arrival and have ingredients on hand to make your dining experience tasty and enjoyable.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: If you have severe food allergies, notify the cruise line in advance and ask to speak directly with the chef at each meal.

Can You Find Alcohol Onboard a Disney Ship?

While Disney Cruises are family-friendly, there are plenty of bars, lounges, and specialty drinks for adults to enjoy. Guests can find a variety of alcoholic beverages, from tropical cocktails and fine wines to craft beers.

One of the best perks for beer lovers is the Disney Cruise Beer Mug program. When you purchase a 21-ounce Disney Cruise beer mug, you’ll receive an extra 5 ounces with each paid refill—a great deal for those who enjoy beer throughout their cruise.

Many guests ask, “Does Disney Cruise have drink packages?” Unlike other cruise lines, Disney does not offer unlimited alcohol packages. However, guests can pre-purchase bottled wine and beer packages to be delivered to your rotational dining venue, and there are daily drink specials available onboard. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line allows guests to bring a limited amount of wine or beer onboard, helping to reduce drink costs.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Guests aged 21 and over may bring 2 bottles of unopened wine or champagne (max 750ml) or 6 beers (no larger than 12 ounces) inside their checked luggage to enjoy while onboard.

Where to Find Coffee Onboard a Disney Cruise

Coffee lovers will find plenty of ways to get their caffeine fix onboard Disney Cruise Line, with specialty coffee shops and complimentary options available across all ships. 

For premium espresso-based drinks, lattes, and cold brews, head to Cove Café, an adults-only coffee lounge found on all Disney ships, offering a relaxing atmosphere with ocean views. Guests can also enjoy specialty coffee at Wishing Star Café and Enchanted Sword Cafe on the Disney Wish. Other ships have additional venues.

If you’re looking for complimentary coffee, you’ll find brewed coffee available at the buffet and 24-hour beverage stations located on the pool deck. For added convenience, guests can order coffee via room service, though specialty drinks come at an additional charge. 

If you plan to drink a lot of specialty coffees, ask for a Cove Café punch card. After several specialty coffee purchases, you’ll receive a free drink!

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: When enjoying specialty coffees, such as lattes, you can choose a Disney character for the top of your drink.

34CE06FB C839 492A 9AB6 94C62D1CDDFF

Disney Cruise, What to Pack

When sailing away with Disney Cruise Line, you’ll want to pack more than a swimsuit and sunscreen. You’ll need comfortable clothing for any shore excursions you’ve planned as well as suitable dinner attire, toiletries and other necessities.

While these basics are essential, there are some lesser-known items that can make your cruise experience more enjoyable. Here are some commonly forgotten, yet incredibly useful items, cruisers often overlook:

  • Magnetic Hooks & Clips – Disney Cruise stateroom walls and doors are metal, making magnetic hooks perfect for hanging hats, bags, or wet swimsuits. Clips are great for keeping daily itineraries or excursion tickets easily accessible.
  • USB Charging Hub – Staterooms have limited outlets, so a USB charging hub can keep all your devices powered up.
  • Reusable Water Bottle or Tumbler – While free soft drink stations are available onboard, the cups are small. Bringing your own insulated tumbler or water bottle allows you to fill up and stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Towel Clips – Windy sea breezes can send your pool or beach towel flying. Bring towel clips or bands to keep them in place when lounging on the pool deck or at Castaway Cay.
  • Small Fan – If you prefer white noise while sleeping or better airflow in the stateroom, a small portable fan can make a big difference.
  • Over-the-Door Organizer – Space is limited in staterooms, and an over-the-door organizer can be a great way to store toiletries, small accessories, and sunscreen without cluttering the counters.
  • Over the Counter Medications – If you get a headache while onboard or start to come down with a cold, you’ll be glad you have a small stash of over the counter items on hand, as purchasing these essentials onboard can be quite costly. Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, you may also want to bring Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ginger chews just in case.
  • Disney Gift Cards – Many people don’t realize that Disney gift cards can be used to pay for onboard expenses, including gratuities, excursions, and souvenirs. If you stock up on them at a discount from retailers like Target or Sam’s Club, you can even save a little money on your cruise.
  • Pirate Night Accessories – Most Disney Cruises feature a Pirate Night, and while Disney provides bandanas, many guests like to bring their own pirate costumes or accessories to fully participate in the fun.
  • Ziploc Bags or Wet Bag – Useful for keeping wet swimsuits separate from the rest of your clothing when packing for disembarkation.
  • Disney Cruise Door Decorations: Cruisers are always in a festive mood, and many like to show their enthusiasm by decorating stateroom doors with special cruise magnets.
Disney merch multi

Packing these small but essential items can make a Disney Cruise even more enjoyable and help you avoid unnecessary onboard expenses. Whether it’s staying organized, maximizing comfort, or being prepared for special events, a little planning goes a long way!

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? The Magic Behind the Experience

42DFC1E1 F1E0 47D7 91AE 65C2A156B9C1

If you’re still wondering, “Is a Disney Cruise worth it?”, the answer depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Disney Cruise Line is known for exceptional service, immersive entertainment, and unique onboard experiences that set it apart from other cruise lines.

One of the most iconic and unique features of a Disney Cruise is the Disney Cruise horn. Unlike standard cruise ships that use a single deep blast to signal departures and arrivals, Disney Cruise ships play musical tunes from classic Disney songs using a specially designed multi-tone horn system. 

Each Disney ship has its own repertoire of melodies, with the original ships—Disney Magic and Disney Wonder—playing the beloved “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy expanded the tradition by adding a collection of other tunes, including “Be Our Guest,” “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me),” and “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.” The Disney Wish introduced even more magic by incorporating tunes from Frozen.

The experience of hearing the Disney Cruise horn echoing across the ocean is a cherished memory for many guests, reinforcing that a Disney Cruise is unlike any other vacation at sea.

Another reason guests rave about Disney Cruises is Disney Cruise Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. With white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive activities, it’s one of the most beloved cruise destinations. Families can enjoy the Castaway Family Beach, while adults seeking a tranquil escape can relax at Serenity Bay, a secluded, adults-only beach with cabanas, hammocks, and an open-air bar. Adventurers can snorkel, bike, paddleboard, or even participate in the Castaway Cay 5K, making this island a highlight of any Disney sailing.

745E9C3D 80F6 4915 9F73 92E5A21F56C8

Beyond the destinations, Disney Cruises provide top-tier entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, themed deck parties, and first-run Disney movies in the ship’s theaters. Families with kids love the youth clubs, which are among the best at sea, while adults appreciate the luxurious spa, upscale dining at Palo and Remy, and adults-only lounges offering craft cocktails and live music.

Is a Disney Cruise worth it? If you love immersive entertainment, exceptional service, exclusive destinations like Castaway Cay, and dining experiences that go beyond the ordinary, then yes—it’s absolutely worth it. While Disney Cruises can be more expensive than other cruise lines, the quality, attention to detail, and all-inclusive magic make it a truly unforgettable vacation.

The post Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Answers and Comprehensive Tips and Tricks for the Best Adventure appeared first on Seconds to Go.

]]>