Disney Cruise First Time Tips: A Magical Guide for Families
Planning your first Disney cruise can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with all the tips and tricks you need to make your trip smooth, fun, and budget-friendly. Here’s your Disney Cruise first time tips for a magical experience.
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Book Early for the Best Deals
Book your cruise as early as possible to snag the best prices and cabin choices. There are always new offers and discounts that come out, especially for Florida residents, military families, and teachers. You can use Booking.com, my favorite website for travel deals.
Tips:
- Disney cruises fill up fast, especially during school holidays. Plan ahead!
- Keep an eye on Disney’s official website for promotions.
- Consider using a travel agent who specializes in Disney cruises. They can find hidden deals and perks.
Choose the Right Stateroom
The Disney cruise offers different types of staterooms. Pick a stateroom that fits your family’s needs and budget. These the different types: inside, oceanview, and verandah rooms.
- Inside staterooms are the most budget-friendly but don’t have windows.
- Oceanview rooms have a porthole, giving you a view of the sea.
- Verandah rooms come with a private balcony, perfect for some relaxing family time.
- Concierge suites are the most spacious and all have balconies. They also have exclusive areas and are able to check in and book activities a couple of days before.
If you’re prone to seasickness, choose a mid-ship room on a lower deck.
Get to Know the Ship
Among the top Disney cruise first time tips is familiarizing yourself with the ship’s layout before boarding. Each ship has unique features and attractions. Get to know where the pools, theaters, and kids’ clubs are located. There is so much to do and so many different places to explore, it saves a lot of time if you pre-plan and look at the map ahead of time.
Tips:
- Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for maps and daily schedules.
- Use the app to plan your days and make the most of onboard activities.
Pack Smart
Packing for a Disney Cruise doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little planning, you can make sure you have everything your family needs for a magical adventure. Here are some tips to help you pack smart:
Don’t Forget the Costumes!
Disney cruises are all about the fun, and your kids will love meeting their favorite characters in costume. Pack a princess dress, superhero outfit, or whatever your little ones dream of wearing. And for Pirate Night, make sure to bring pirate costumes for the whole family. It’s one of the most exciting events onboard, and dressing up makes it even better!
Pack for Pool and Beach Days
You’ll definitely need plenty of swimsuits. Whether you’re splashing in the pool, racing down the waterslides, or relaxing on the beach at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, a few suits per family member is a good idea. Don’t forget cover-ups, too, for easy transitions back to your cabin or dining areas.
Sun Safety
Sun protection is a must! Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to keep everyone safe from the sun, especially during those fun-filled days outdoors. Trust me, a sunburn is no way to spend your vacation.
Comfort is Key
You’ll be walking around the ship, playing at the kids’ clubs, and exploring ports, so pack comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind wearing all day. Think breathable fabrics and supportive sneakers or sandals. I can’t tell you how many times I pack heels and barely wear them.
Don’t Forget the Small Stuff
Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference. Pack:
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- A small day bag for excursions.
- Toiletries and medications your family might need.
- Workout gear if you’re planning to hit the gym or join a fitness class.
- Camera
- Water proof phone case
Pro-tip:
You can’t get into your cabin until 1:30pm or so so pack a backpack or small carryon with swim suits if you know your kids are going to want to jump straight into the pool.
Check-In Online
Getting ready to set sail on your Disney Cruise starts with online check-in. It’s quick and easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process smooth.
First, the day you can check in depends on your Castaway Club status:
- Pearl Members: Check in 40 days before sailing
- Platinum Members: Check in 38 days before sailing
- Gold Members: Check in 35 days before sailing
- Silver Members: Check in 33 days before sailing
- First-Time Guests: Check in 30 days before sailing
Mark your calendar so you don’t miss it! Checking in early helps you secure your preferred port arrival time, which determines when you’ll board the ship. Trust me, getting on the ship earlier means more time for fun!
When it’s time to check in, make sure you have your passport ready because you’ll need to enter that information. You’ll also need details like your travel plans to and from the port and a credit card for any onboard expenses.
Once you’re done, you’ll receive a QR code for your Port Arrival Form, which you’ll show at the terminal. You’re one step closer to your magical Disney Cruise!
Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to check in. The best port arrival times fill up fast, and it’s worth setting a reminder so you can snag the time that works best for your family.
Embarkation Day
Embarkation day is exciting and surprisingly easy. We waited less than 10 minutes in line before we were checked in and ready to go. Disney makes the process smooth so you can start enjoying your vacation right away.
Check-In Process
Before your trip, you’ll get an assigned check-in time. Make sure to have your passports and the barcode emailed to you. When you arrive, you’ll show your barcode, go through security, and head upstairs. That’s where you can take photos before boarding the ship.
What to Do Before Your Room is Ready
Rooms aren’t usually ready until around 1:30 PM. This is the perfect time to check out the kids’ clubs during open house. It’s the only time parents can go inside and explore with their kids. We had so much fun checking out all the cool spaces and activities they offer.
Embarkation day is a great chance to get familiar with the ship, grab lunch, and start enjoying all the fun onboard.
Explore the Kids’ Clubs
Head to the kids club and let your kids enjoy! The Disney Cruise has age-specific clubs like Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe. They are supervised and offer fun activities all day. Best part is parents can have some alone time in the “adults only” areas while kids are having a blast. On the Wish, my husband and I were able to check out the Rose bar and the Hyperspace lounge. On the Treasure, we are super excited to check out the Haunted Mansion bar!
Disney Cruise Dining
Disney Cruise Line does dining a little differently with something called rotational dining. It’s a unique way to experience all the amazing Disney cruiseline restaurants onboard while keeping the same friendly servers each night.
Here’s how it works:
Each night, you and your family will “rotate” to a different themed restaurant. One night you might be enjoying a fun, music-filled dinner with Miguel from Coco, and the next, you’re stepping into the golden age of Disney animation at 1923. The best part? Your serving team rotates with you! They get to know your family’s preferences, allergies, and favorite drinks, making meals even more magical.
You don’t have to worry about choosing where to eat each night—Disney takes care of that for you. When you check in, you’ll receive your personalized dining schedule. It tells you which restaurant you’ll visit each night and at what time. There are two dining times available: early seating (perfect for families with little ones) and late seating.
Rotational dining makes every meal an adventure while giving you a chance to try different cuisines and experiences without missing a thing. And don’t worry if you fall in love with one restaurant—there are plenty of other dining options onboard to enjoy throughout the day!
Tips:
Some restaurants do require a reservation. Make sure to book a reservation at Palo or Enchente for a special adults-only dining experience. Kids are going to love the kids club so you’ll have time for a special evening.
Plan Your Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are a great way to explore new places and add extra fun to your cruise. But here’s the thing—excursions fill up fast! If there’s something you really want to do, make sure to book early for the best options.
A great piece of advice when considering Disney cruise first time tips is to be sure to check the age restrictions. Many excursions are for kids 5 and up, which can be tricky if you have younger ones. My daughter is 4, so we had to get creative and look for activities we could do on our own.
If you’re looking to save money, consider exploring the ports without booking an official excursion. For example, in Grand Cayman, we took a shuttle to Seven Mile Beach for just $6 per person each way. It was a budget-friendly way to enjoy a beautiful beach without spending a fortune. Most excursions offered through Disney range from $75 per person and up, so finding your own fun can really help keep costs down.
Planning ahead and knowing your options can make your shore days stress-free and fun for the whole family.
Enjoy the Onboard Entertainment
Disney cruises are packed with amazing entertainment for the whole family. One of the best parts is the Broadway-style shows. On the Disney Treasure, we got to see “Beauty and the Beast” and “Moana.” The performances were incredible, with beautiful costumes, music, and special effects. My 4-year-old was completely enthralled and sat through the entire show!
Every night, there’s something fun to watch, whether it’s a live show, movie screenings, or themed deck parties. At the Pirate Night deck party there were fireworks at sea and dancing with Mickey and friends.
For some active fun, we loved the IncrediCourse at the Hero Zone. It’s a huge inflatable obstacle course inspired by The Incredibles. The whole family got to challenge each other and race through tunnels, climb walls, and slide to the finish. It was a blast and a great way to burn off some energy but its not available everyday so check the Navigator app for dates and times.
There are also plenty of activities during the day, like character meet-and-greets, trivia games, and family-friendly games in the lounges. No matter what your family loves, there’s always something fun happening onboard.
Take Advantage of Onboard Activities
There’s never a dull moment on a Disney cruise with so many fun activities for the whole family. Whether you want to relax by the pool, take on thrilling water slides, or enjoy some adult-only time, there’s something for everyone.
Pools and Water Fun
The Disney Treasure has several pools to choose from, perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun. The themed water slides are a must-try, offering exciting twists and turns for kids and adults alike. My little one loved the splash pad, designed just for younger kids to enjoy safe water play. It’s a great spot for toddlers to splash around while parents relax nearby.
Hero Zone
For indoor fun, the Hero Zone is a fantastic space for active families. We had so much fun taking on the IncrediCourse, a massive inflatable obstacle course inspired by The Incredibles. It was a great way to burn off energy and challenge each other in a friendly competition. There are also sports courts, ping-pong tables, and other fun games to enjoy together.
Spa and Gym
If you’re looking for relaxation, the spa is the perfect escape. You can book a massage, facial, or even a hot stone treatment for the ultimate pampering. The gym is also well-equipped with cardio machines, weights, and fitness classes, so you don’t have to miss your workout routine while on vacation.
Schedule
One of the best things about a Disney cruise is the variety of activities offered every day. Using the Disney Cruise Line app, you can check the daily schedule to find fun things to do, like mixology classes, wine tastings, and even cooking demonstrations.
Whether you want to try something new or just enjoy a quiet drink, there’s always an activity to fit your mood.There’s never a dull moment on a Disney cruise with so many fun activities for the whole family. Whether you want to relax by the pool, take on thrilling water slides, or enjoy some adult-only time, there’s something for everyone.
Adults-Only Activities on a Disney Cruise
A Disney cruise isn’t just for kids—there are plenty of ways for adults to relax and enjoy some downtime. While the kids are having fun in the kids’ club, parents can take advantage of the adult-only spaces and activities on board.
Quiet Cove Pool
The Quiet Cove Pool is an adults-only area where you can take a break, enjoy a drink, and swim without the excitement of little ones nearby. It’s a nice spot to unwind and enjoy the ocean views.
Spa and Gym
The onboard spa offers massages, facials, and other treatments to help you relax. It’s a great way to recharge while the kids are busy. The gym has cardio machines, weights, and fitness classes if you want to stay active during the trip. It’s a good way to balance all the food on board.
Dining at Palo and Enchanté
For a special meal, Palo and Enchanté offer adult-only dining. Palo Steakhouse, inspired by Beauty and the Beast’s Cogsworth, serves steak and Italian dishes. Enchanté offers a 7-course meal focused on seafood. The chandelier in the dining area is inspired by champagne bubbles. Both restaurants require reservations and have an extra cost.
The Rose Bar
The Rose bar, inspired by Beauty and the Beast, offers drinks with a view of the ocean. It’s a quiet place to relax before or after dinner.
Having adult-only spaces made it easy to enjoy quiet moments while the kids were busy. Whether it’s swimming, visiting the spa, or enjoying a meal, there are plenty of ways to have a relaxing time on a Disney cruise.
Capturing the Memories
A Disney cruise is full of magical moments you’ll want to remember forever. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and videos throughout your trip. Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture all the fun.
Wearing Disney merch can make your photos even more special. Matching shirts or themed outfits add a fun touch and make for great family pictures. Take time to snap photos with your favorite Disney characters. On the Disney Treasure, we met Moana, Belle, Jasmine, and Rapunzel. One of the best moments was when my kids played hide and seek with Rapunzel and Flynn in the Grand Hall.
Buy the photo package
Disney also offers a professional photo package. It’s a great way to get high-quality pictures of your family without having to worry about taking them yourself. Photographers are always around to capture special moments, from character meet-and-greets to dinner photos.
Make sure to save time to review your photos and pick your favorites before the cruise ends. Whether you take your own or purchase the photo package, you’ll have memories to look back on for years to come.
Budget Tips
A Disney cruise can be magical without breaking the bank if you plan ahead. Start by setting a budget for souvenirs and onboard spending—and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in all the fun, so having a plan helps keep things under control.
Take advantage of all the free activities onboard. There are so many things to do without spending extra money. We watched Inside Out 2 and Moana 2 in the theater for free. It was a great way to relax and enjoy some family time. While popcorn isn’t free, we bought a popcorn bucket and got discounted refills throughout the trip, which saved us money in the long run.
Consider bringing your own refillable water bottles to avoid buying drinks. Soft drinks are included with meals, and there are beverage stations on the pool deck where you can refill for free.
When it comes to souvenirs, it helps to set expectations with your kids early. Let them know how much they can spend and look for items that fit within your budget. Sometimes, small items like keychains or magnets make great keepsakes without costing too much.
Staying connected with WiFi…. Is it worth it?
Staying connected while on a Disney cruise can be pricey. WiFi packages start at around $16 per day for basic messaging and go up to $42 per day for full internet access, including streaming. If you think you’ll need it, it’s best to purchase it before boarding to get a discounted rate.
We decided to go without WiFi for most of the trip, and honestly, my kids did better than I expected. Before we left, we downloaded their favorite shows from Netflix, and they were perfectly happy watching them offline. They were so busy with all the fun activities onboard that they didn’t even ask for the internet much.
If you need to check in with work or family, consider buying the package for just one device and sharing it when necessary. There are also free options for staying connected, like using the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to chat with other guests on the ship.
Overall, whether or not WiFi is worth it depends on your needs. If you can unplug for a few days, you might be surprised at how much fun you can have without it!
Debarkation Day
Debarkation day is the last step of your Disney cruise adventure. The night before, you can leave your luggage outside your room. This makes it easier in the morning so you don’t have to carry everything yourself.
In the morning, you’ll be assigned a color and character. This tells you when it’s your turn to leave the ship. Make sure to check your group so you’re ready when it’s time to go.
Breakfast options are available before you leave. Marceline Market is open until 9:30 AM if you prefer a quick bite. You can also enjoy a sit-down breakfast at one of the restaurants for a relaxing meal before heading out.
Be sure to have your travel documents and room keys handy. You’ll need them for a smooth check-out process.
Once you leave the ship, you’ll pick up your luggage in the terminal and head through customs. There are porters available to help carry your luggage all the way to your car. We had lots of luggage, and the man who helped us was so nice. He loaded everything up and even took a family photo for us.
Then it’s time to say goodbye to your magical vacation and start planning the next one!
Planning your next Disney Cruise (and how to save money doing it!)
One of the easiest ways to save on your next Disney cruise is by booking while you’re still onboard. We pre-booked our next cruise and scored a 10% discount with just a $250 deposit. It’s a great way to lock in savings and have something exciting to look forward to.
If you’re looking for other ways to save, check out Booking.com—it’s my go-to site for travel deals. You can often find discounted hotel stays before or after your cruise, helping you stick to your budget.
Another great way to save is by using points and miles to pay for your cruise. With Chase Ultimate Rewards, you’ll need to call to book, while Capital One Venture Miles can be used directly to cover travel expenses.
If you have a Disney Visa card, booking your cruise with it can earn you Disney Dream Dollars, which you can use to pay for souvenirs, excursions, and even onboard treats. It’s an easy way to stretch your budget and enjoy a little extra magic during your trip.
Final Thoughts
Disney cruises are a magical way to create unforgettable family memories. With these Disney cruise first time tips, you’ll be well-prepared for an amazing adventure. Remember to book early, pack smart, and make the most of the onboard activities and entertainment.
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