Ultimate Guide to your Disney Treasure Cruise
Planning a Disney Treasure cruise and wondering what to do once you’re onboard? We had a great time on our 7-day Disney Treasure Cruise, and celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks at sea made it even more special. There’s so much to see and do, making it a perfect trip for families.
From exciting entertainment and character meet-and-greets to family-friendly dining and relaxing pool days, the Disney Treasure Cruise offers plenty of activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you’re sailing for the first time or are a repeat cruiser, knowing what to do onboard will help you make the most of your trip.
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Pre-Cruise Planning
Booking your Disney Treasure Cruise early can help you get good prices and choose a stateroom that fits your family. The best time to book is 6-12 months in advance. Verandah rooms provide extra space and a private outdoor area, while inside cabins are a more affordable option with Disney-themed touches.
There are always new offers and discounts that come out, especially for Florida residents, military families, and teachers. You can also use Booking.com, my favorite website for travel deals.
Choosing the Right Stateroom
The Disney treasure cruise offers different types of staterooms. Pick a stateroom that fits your family’s needs and budget. These are the different types: inside, oceanview, verandah, and concierge 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
One of my top Disney treasure cruise 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.
Packing for your Disney Treasure Cruise
Packing for a Disney cruise can be simple with a little planning. Making sure you have everything your family needs will help you enjoy your trip without stress. Here are a few helpful tips to pack smart and be ready for all the fun onboard.
Bring Costumes
Disney cruises are full of fun moments, and kids love dressing up to meet their favorite characters. Pack a princess dress, superhero costume, or anything your little ones enjoy wearing. Pirate Night is one of the most exciting events onboard, so bringing pirate costumes for the whole family will make it even more fun.
Pack for Pool and Beach Days
Swimsuits are a must for this cruise. Whether you’re enjoying the pool, trying out the waterslides, or relaxing on the beach at Castaway Cay, having a few swimsuits per person is a good idea. Cover-ups are also useful for easy transitions between the pool and other areas of the ship.
Stay Sun Safe
Sun protection is important while spending time outdoors. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to keep everyone protected. The sun can be strong, and having the right protection will help you avoid sunburn and enjoy your time outside.
Comfort Matters
You’ll be walking a lot onboard and during port days, so comfortable clothes and shoes are important. Choose breathable fabrics and supportive footwear like sneakers or sandals. Packing heels might seem like a good idea, but you may not wear them as much as you think.
Remember the Essentials
Small items can make a big difference on your trip. Be sure to pack:
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- A small bag for excursions and port days.
- Toiletries and any medications your family might need.
- Workout clothes if you plan to visit the gym or join a fitness class.
- A camera to capture special moments.
- A waterproof phone case for beach and pool days.
Pro Tip:
Your cabin won’t be ready until around 1:30 PM, so pack a small carry-on or backpack with swimsuits if your kids will want to jump into the pool right away.
Online Check-In
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. During check-in, you’ll receive your Key to the World card, which serves as your room key, payment method, and ID. We waited less than 10 minutes in line before we were checked in and ready to go.
Once on the ship, take time to explore different areas. Booking onboard activities, such as character meet-and-greets and dining experiences, should be done early. Exploring the pool areas and play spaces can also help kids feel more comfortable and you get to experience the fun they’ll have in the kids club later on.
Kids Clubs on the Disney Treasure Cruise
Disney Treasure has amazing kids’ clubs that make the cruise extra fun for kids of all ages. These clubs offer exciting activities, cool themes, and a safe place for kids to play while parents take a break.
Oceaneer Club & Oceaneer Lab (Ages 3-10)
The Oceaneer Club is packed with fun things for younger kids. To enter, there’s a super cool slide that my daughter loved! It’s the perfect way to start the adventure. Inside, there are different themed areas with something for every interest.
In the Disney Imagineering Lab, kids can build and test their own roller coasters. They loved designing wild tracks and seeing them come to life on the screen.
Fairytale Hall is a dream spot for kids who love crafts and coloring. It’s a quiet place to relax and get creative. Sometimes, a Disney princess stops by to make it even more special.
The Star Wars: Cargo Bay feels just like stepping into a spaceship. Kids can interact with creatures and explore the ship’s control panels. Star Wars fans will love it.
At the Super Hero Academy, kids can choose a virtual superhero suit and test it out in different challenges. We got to try this with the kids during the open house hours, and it was so much fun. Sometimes, they even let adults try the slide during open house!
Edge (Ages 11-14)
Edge is the hangout spot for tweens. It’s designed just for them with video games, movies, and fun group activities. The space has a cool vibe, and it’s the perfect place for older kids to make friends and enjoy some independence.
Vibe (Ages 14-17)
Teens have their own space at Vibe. This club has comfy lounges, music, and fun events like dance parties and game nights. It’s a great place for teens to relax, meet new people, and have fun without younger siblings around.
It’s a Small World Nursery (Ages 6 months-3 years)
For the youngest cruisers, the It’s a Small World Nursery is a safe and fun place to stay. The staff takes great care of the little ones with toys, crafts, and nap spaces. Parents can enjoy some kid-free time knowing their babies are well cared for.
Open House Hours
Throughout the cruise, there are open house hours when parents can explore the clubs with their kids. This is a great chance to check out all the fun activities and even try a few yourself.
The kids’ clubs on the Disney Treasure cruise are packed with fun and adventure. Whether your child loves superheroes, princesses, or space adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Kid-Friendly Activities Onboard
Oceaneer Club & Lab
One of the best places for kids is the Oceaneer Club & Lab. It’s packed with themed activities, arts and crafts, and games. My kids loved training like a Jedi at the Star Wars Cargo Bay. They got to play hide and seek with Donald, played with Minnie Mouse, had dance parties, and played lots of different games.
Pools and Splash Areas
If your kids love water, they’ll have a blast at the pools and splash areas. Mickey & Minnie’s Pool is perfect for younger kids since it’s only 2 feet deep. Older kids will enjoy the AquaMouse water slide, which is a fun adventure with cool Disney animations. One of our favorite things was watching Encanto by the pool while we swam. They have movies all day long by the pool.
The Toy Story Splash Pad is perfect for younger kids who aren’t quite ready for the bigger water rides. It’s the same as the one on the Disney Wish, and my kids loved it when they were younger. There’s a tiny slide that’s just right for toddlers, plus a bigger slide for slightly older kids who are too little for the AquaMouse. It’s a fun and safe place for little ones to cool off and play.
Broadway-Style Shows and Movies
Evenings are packed with entertainment. The Broadway-style shows are a must-see. “Beauty and the Beast” brought classic songs to life, and “Moana” was amazing with a giant puppet of Te Kā. We also loved catching the latest Disney movies at the Buena Vista Theatre. We watched Moana 2 and Inside Out 2, and they were also showing Mufasa, but we ran out of time to see it. They have showtimes all day, so it’s easy to fit in a movie.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
One of the most magical experiences onboard was visiting the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. My daughter chose Princess Jasmine and was completely transformed. They did her hair, nails, and even a little bit of make up. After her makeover, we took photos with Jasmine, which made the experience even more special.
Character Meet-and-Greets
The meet-and-greets are so much fun. We met Mickey, Rapunzel, and Jasmine, among others. There are meet-and-greets scheduled throughout the cruise, and it’s always exciting to see who’s coming next.
Deck Parties
The deck parties are a highlight for kids. They can dance with their favorite characters and watch a fun stage show. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Trivia and Arts and Crafts at Skipper’s Lounge
For a more relaxed activity, we enjoyed trivia and arts and crafts at Skipper’s Lounge. My daughter loved coloring and using the scissors to cut out different shapes. I loved thinking about all the through back movies from my childhood that the trivia questions were about. It was a win win.
Fireworks at Sea
Nothing beats the fireworks at sea. Celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks made our trip even more memorable. We were lucky to celebrate New Year’s Eve onboard and watched fireworks light up the sky at midnight. It was an unforgettable way to ring in the new year.
Disney also puts on a fireworks show during Pirate Night. After a fun-filled evening of dressing up and dancing with pirates, the night ends with an impressive fireworks display over the ocean. Disney is the only cruise line allowed to do fireworks at sea, and they make it a special experience for families.
There’s something happening all day long, so whether your kids love action-packed adventures or quiet creative time, the Disney Treasure has it all!
Dining on the Disney Treasure Cruise
One of the things that makes dining on a Disney Treasure cruise unique is the rotational dining system. Instead of eating at the same restaurant every night, guests rotate through three themed dining experiences, Plaza de Coco, 1923, and Worlds of Marvel. You get a new atmosphere and menu each evening.
What makes it even better is that your serving team follows you to each restaurant. They get to know your preferences, remember your favorite drinks, and even accommodate any food allergies, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable. My son has a tree nut allergy, and every night the servers took our order in advance so his meal could be cooked separately and be ready for us when we arrived.
This personalized service adds a special touch, ensuring that every meal feels familiar yet exciting. Rotational dining makes planning easy since everything is scheduled for you, and the variety keeps things fun for the whole family.
Plaza de Coco Restaurant
Step into the world of Coco, where vibrant colors and festive music set the tone. On night one Miguel takes the stage with the town Mariachis to sing songs from the movie. It’s like having your own private concert!
Night two is based on Dia de Los Muertos with Abuelita, Mama Coco and the Rivera family singing beautiful ballads that tug at your heartstrings.
Remember to bring your camera! These performances are unforgettable, and your kids will love watching their favorite characters come to life.
1923 Restaurant
This elegant dining spot is a tribute to Walt Disney and the year the Walt Disney Studios was founded. It really takes you back to the golden age of Hollywood. It’s a tribute to the creativity, imagination, and unstoppable spirit that built the original Disney studio.
The decor is timeless, with vintage artwork and memorabilia that celebrate Disney’s early days. It felt nostalgic seeing early drawings from my favorite animated movies. The menu features upscale dishes, perfect for a quieter evening with the family.
Worlds of Marvel
Calling all superhero fans! This is where dining meets adventure. On night one you’ll watch Ant-Man and Wasp on the screens as they interact with diners. Kids love the interactive elements. They’ll be pressing buttons on the Quantum Core and helping save the day right from their seats.
On night two, Groot takes center stage, putting together a playlist for Rocket’s surprise party. While Groot works on his mix, kids and adults use the Quantum Core at their tables to answer trivia questions.
This was a surprise hit! My husband loved this even more than the kids. Watching him enthusiastically compete in the trivia was almost as entertaining as the show itself!
Snack Stands and Grab-and-Go Options
Sometimes you need a quick bite between meals. Disney Treasure offers plenty of snack options:
- Goofy’s Grill or how I call it – the Chicken Tender Stand: Also serves burgers and hot dogs. Perfect for picky eaters.
- Donald’s Cantina Mexican Food Stand: My personal favorite. Try the carnitas bowl with rice—it’s like Chipotle at sea!
- Mickey’s BBQ Stand: Offers ribs, mac and cheese, brisket, and BBQ chicken. Not my top pick, but nice for variety.
- Daisy’s Pizza Stand: Open until 9 PM. A lifesaver for late-night cravings.
- Minnie’s Delights Ice Cream Stand: Endless soft-serve in all your favorite flavors.
- Marceline Market: Open for breakfast and lunch with tons of options, including giant crab legs. This is a buffet style offering food from around the world. They also had classic Mac and cheese and chicken tenders and fries.
- Hei Hei Cafe and Jade Cafe: features specialty coffees and teas. They put characters on the coffee and its sooooo cute! I got a different character every day. Make sure to ask for a punch card to get a free specialty coffee after your 5th purchase
Room Service:
Room service on the Disney Treasure is a game changer. It’s included in your cruise price, so don’t hesitate to use it. It’s available 24/7 for late-night snacks or breakfast in bed. Just don’t forget to tip your server!
One night, after all the restaurants had closed, my youngest wanted milk. We called room service, and within minutes, a fresh glass of milk arrived at our door. It was quick, easy, and stress-free.
Adult Dining and Lounges on the Disney Treasure
If you’re looking for a little luxury and some adult-only time, Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté are two must-visit dining experiences on the Disney Treasure. These upscale restaurants are perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration, but you’ll need to plan ahead—reservations are required, and both come with an additional fee.
Palo Steakhouse
Inspired by Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast, Palo combines timeless elegance with delicious steakhouse fare.
• The Atmosphere: Think classic sophistication with subtle nods to Cogsworth.
• The Menu: High-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and an incredible wine list.
• Why It’s Worth It: Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just want a quiet evening, Palo delivers a refined dining experience that feels truly special.
Enchanté
Enchanté is a dream come true for fans of Beauty and the Beast (like me!). This French-inspired restaurant is all about elegance and indulgence.
• The Ambiance: Located near The Rose bar, Enchanté features a stunning chandelier inspired by champagne bubbles—a nod to the magic of Beauty and the Beast.
• The Menu: Primarily seafood, this is where I had the best scallops of my life. It’s a seven-course meal that takes your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
• Why It’s Magical: The atmosphere, the food, and the service all combine to create an experience that feels like dining in a fairy tale.
Pro Tip: Both restaurants are located in The Rose bar, making it easy to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in a setting as stunning as the dining rooms themselves.
Haunted Mansion Parlor
The Haunted Mansion Parlor brings the classic Disney attraction to life. Moving portraits and flashes of lightning create an eerie atmosphere that feels like you’ve stepped into the ride. It’s the perfect spot for Haunted Mansion fans to enjoy a drink in a spooky setting.
Skipper Society
The Skipper Society is a playful tribute to the Jungle Cruise. The decor captures the adventurous spirit of the ride, making it an ideal spot for a casual drink. The relaxed vibe feels like you’re part of an Amazon expedition.
Periscope Pub
The Periscope Pub immerses you in the world of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The ceiling, inspired by the Seas exhibit in EPCOT, gives the lounge a unique underwater feel. They also serve a great burger, making it a standout option for a casual meal.
Scat Cat Lounge
The Scat Cat Lounge is inspired by The Aristocats and brings a jazz theme to life. It’s a great place to enjoy live music or a drink in a Parisian-style setting.
The Rose
The Rose is inspired by Beauty and the Beast and overlooks the water. It’s where Enchanté and Palo Steakhouse located, it’s an ideal spot for a drink before dinner or to enjoy some peaceful views.
Port Days: Excursions for Young Families
Port days are some of the best parts of a cruise! You get to explore new places, enjoy the beach, and experience local culture. But with young kids, choosing the right activities is key.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel has plenty of family-friendly options. Beach clubs like Playa Mia and Mr. Sanchos offer pools, water slides, and shallow ocean areas, perfect for little swimmers. If you want a break from the beach, the Cozumel Aquarium and chocolate factory are fun, interactive experiences. Many families also enjoy taking a short ferry ride to the mainland for a visit to Xcaret Park, though it can be a long day with young kids.
Grand Cayman
In Grand Cayman, we skipped the pricey excursions and found a local shuttle to the beach for just $6 per person each way. It was an easy, affordable way to enjoy the island at our own pace. The beaches here have calm, crystal-clear water, making them great for kids. Seven Mile Beach is a popular spot, with plenty of soft sand and shallow water. If your kids love animals, you can visit the Cayman Turtle Centre, where they can see sea turtles up close.
Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Some families opt for excursions to Dunn’s River Falls, but for little ones, a relaxing beach day at Bamboo Beach Club is a great choice. The port area also has plenty of shops and restaurants within walking distance, making it easy to explore without needing transportation. Don’t forget to grab a Jamaican patty before heading back to the ship. They are delicious!
Castaway Cay
Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is designed with families in mind. The beaches are shallow, making them safe for little swimmers. There are splash pads, bike rentals, and even a kids’ club on the island. We loved relaxing while the kids played in the sand and met Disney characters. Everything is close by, so you don’t have to worry about long walks or transportation.
Pro-Tip: When planning port days, think about travel time, how long kids can handle being out, and whether activities fit their energy levels. Sometimes, a simple beach day is the best choice!
Budget Tips for a Disney Treasure Cruise
A Disney Treasure Cruise can be magical without breaking the bank if you plan ahead. Setting a budget for souvenirs and onboard spending is key. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, so having a plan helps keep costs under control.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
Disney cruises offer plenty of free entertainment. We watched Inside Out 2 and Moana 2 in the theater at no extra cost, which was a great way to relax as a family. While popcorn isn’t free, buying a refillable popcorn bucket saved us money with discounted refills throughout the cruise.
Bring Your Own Water Bottles
Soft drinks are included with meals, and there are free beverage stations on the pool deck. Bringing refillable water bottles helps avoid buying extra drinks and keeps everyone hydrated throughout the day.
Be Smart About Souvenirs
Setting expectations with kids ahead of time makes souvenir shopping easier. Giving them a set spending limit helps avoid impulse buys. Small keepsakes like keychains or magnets can be great souvenirs without costing too much.
More Disney Cruise First-Time tips
Using the Disney Cruise Line app can help with planning schedules and making reservations. I made all my plans on the app on the first day so that I could have everything I wanted to do on my personal itinerary.
Bringing a small stroller makes it easier to move around with young kids. For this cruise, we didn’t one but on every other cruise we took travel strollers to get the kids around. We opted for 2 single strollers so we could get them through the door. We’ve tried side by side doubles and they didn’t work for us.
For character meet-and-greets, getting there early can help avoid waiting in long lines. We tried to get to characters at least 15 minutes early. While in line, we played I spy and other games to keep my kids entertained. I also asked them what they wanted to say to the characters and what kind of pictures they wanted to take.
Staying Connected with WiFi – Is It Worth It?
WiFi on a Disney cruise can be expensive. 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 plan to use it, purchasing before boarding can save you some money.
We decided to skip WiFi for most of the trip, and surprisingly, the kids didn’t mind. Before sailing, we downloaded their favorite Netflix shows, which kept them entertained offline. With so many onboard activities, they were too busy to ask for the internet.
If you need to check in with work or family, consider getting one WiFi package and sharing it among devices when needed. You can also use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to message other guests for free.
Debarkation Day: What to Expect
The last morning of your Disney Treasure cruise comes fast, so it helps to be prepared. The night before, you can leave your luggage outside your stateroom if you don’t want to carry it off yourself. This makes the morning much easier, especially with kids in tow.
In the morning, you’ll be assigned a color and character, which tells you when it’s time to leave the ship. Keep an eye on the schedule so you’re ready when your group is called.
Breakfast is available before you disembark. Marceline Market stays open until 9:30 AM for a quick bite, or you can enjoy a sit-down breakfast at your assigned restaurant for a more relaxed meal.
Make sure to have your travel documents and room keys handy for check-out. Once off the ship, you’ll pick up your luggage in the terminal and go through customs. If you have a lot of bags, porters are available to help. We had a super helpful porter who not only loaded up our luggage but even took a family photo for us!
Final Thoughts
Our time on the Disney Treasure Cruise was so fun, and celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks made it even more special. If you’re thinking about a family trip with activities, entertainment, and dining, this cruise is a good option.
