Disney Cruise Line: What You Need to Know Before Embarking on Your Magical Voyage
Are you planning a holiday with Disney Cruise and not sure where to start?
If you’re considering taking a Disney Cruise, then you’re in for a treat! With a range of activities, shows and character experiences, there’s something for everyone on board. But before you set sail, it’s important to know what to expect. In this blog post, we’ll cover some of the essential things you need to know before embarking on a Disney Cruise.
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Listen to our podcast all about everything you need to know about your first Disney Cruise.
Here are our top tips everyone sailing with Disney Cruise Line should know.
You Need To Plan Ahead On Your Disney Cruise
First up, it’s all about planning ahead. As Ben mentioned in the podcast, there’s a lot to do onboard a Disney cruise, from shows and meals to activities for kids and character meet-and-greets. Booking and securing activities fill up fast, so it’s important to plan ahead and be aware of cut-off dates for when you can start booking. As a first-time cruise guest, this might be 70 days before sailing day. With a bit of planning and knowledge of the booking deadline, you’ll have plenty of time to ensure that your trip is unforgettable!
Next up, make sure to download the Disney Cruise Line app. Almost everything onboard is handled digitally, and the app is the best way to stay informed and maximise your experience. From booking activities and viewing restaurant menus to tracking excursions and monitoring bills, the app has got you covered.
Travelling with Disney Cruise Line can be an incredible experience, but it pays to be prepared. As a newbie traveller, you’re probably unaware that booking and securing activities fill up fast – in some cases minutes after they go on sale. This is especially true for things like dining options, special events, and shore excursions. To maximise your chances of getting the activities you want, it’s important to understand the cut-off dates for when you can start booking; as a first-time cruise guest this might be 70 days before sailing day. With a bit of planning and knowledge of the booking deadline, you’ll have plenty of time to ensure that your trip is unforgettable!
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Download the Disney Cruise Line App
If you’re planning a Disney Cruise, it’s important to know that everything is handled digitally onboard. There’s no paper on board, so the best way to stay informed and maximise your experience is to download the app. From booking activities, viewing restaurant menus (via QR codes), and tracking excursions, to viewing daily programs and monitoring bills – almost everything can be done through the app. Make sure you have a good smartphone so you don’t miss out on any of the fun!
Chill Out In The Spa
One of the many luxurious amenities onboard a Disney cruise is the spa. Before your cruise, take some time to research and book spa services. There are many options available, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and salon services. You can even purchase packages with multiple treatments or just get one or two treatments at a time. Relax and rejuvenate while enjoying your magical voyage.
Navigating Around The Disney Ships
Some people worry about getting lost on the ship. You’ll find that navigating the decks on board a Disney cruise ship is remarkably easy and straightforward. Many eager cruisers choose to decorate their stateroom doors to make it easier for them to locate. On the port side of the vessel, you’ll find helpful metal fish sculptures near each door pointing you in the direction of the rear of the ship. The starboard side features seahorse sculptures instead and carpets featuring star-shaped compasses, with their points leading towards the front of the ship.
How Is Entertainment Different?
If you’ve been on another cruise before, certain entertainment and activities can be different than other typical cruises. You won’t find a casino onboard due to the family-friendly values of the company, though they do offer bingo which kids may even join with an accompanying adult. Additionally, the drinks packages found on many boats are absent in this situation as well. However, what may surprise some who have sailed with the likes of Cunard and Princess Cruises is that there are no enrichment programs offered, such as talks about the area being visited; something especially noteworthy when exploring sights such as Alaska.
Make Sure You Pick The Right Cabin
When it comes to choosing a cruise cabin, there are many things to consider. Firstly, Disney ships tend to have larger cabins compared to other premium ships – perfect for romantic getaways or family trips. Secondly, many of the cabins come with interconnecting doors, which can be great for families but can make it noisy if you’re travelling without kids. You may want to choose a cabin without this feature. Thirdly, most of the cabins have split bathrooms – one with a toilet and basin and another with a bathtub with shower and basin – an ideal setup for larger groups. However, due to the smaller size of these bathrooms, they can feel a bit cramped.
When you’re travelling with friends, remember that the queen beds can’t be split into two singles like they can on other cruise lines. Also, keep in mind that some cabins are built for multiple occupants and can sleep up to four people. As you pick your cabin, it might be wise to avoid those located on decks that have Kids’ Clubs; they could get quite noisy during the day and at night.
Meeting Disney Characters
One of the highlights of any Disney Cruise is the opportunity to meet your favourite characters. From Mickey Mouse and Goofy to Donald Duck, you’ll find characters all around the ship. Plus, there are now characters from Marvel & Star Wars too.
The Classic Disney characters make appearances at sail away and end of cruise parties, as well as at deck parties. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for interactions with them and to take photos. You can use your own camera or phone, or alternatively, purchase professional photograph packages. While these packages can be costly, up to $20 per photo, many cruisers have said they are great value.
Escape to Adult-Only Areas
While meeting the characters is a highlight for many, some guests may prefer to have some time away from the kids. Disney Cruise ships offer adult-only areas, with plenty to offer. These areas include a pool deck with Signals bar and Cove Café, a gym, spa and specialty restaurant. After 9 PM, you can take advantage of activities such as Fathoms cabaret lounge, Keys cocktail piano bar and O’Gills Irish themed pub. There are also exclusive mixology sessions, champagne tastings, and adult cabaret entertainment. So, if you’re looking for a break from the full-on Disney experience, you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of options for adults to enjoy.
Tips & Gratuities
One of the downsides of a Disney Cruise that some guests may encounter is the issue of tipping. It can be tricky to know how much to tip, and some crew members may keep pushing for good ratings and tips. While there is an auto-gratuity of $14.50 per day, this is just a starting point. If you feel that someone deserves more, then of course, you can give them an extra tip.
However, it’s important to remember that tipping should never be expected, and it should always be voluntary. Some guests may not wish to tip at all, which is their right.
Soft Drinks – Where To Get Them
Another downside to Disney Cruise is how drinks are handled. While soft drinks such as Coke, Sprite and juices are all included in the restaurants and on deck throughout the day, at the bar, you have to pay extra for your drinks. Some guests may assume that all drinks are included in the fare, but they are not. However, you can go up to the top deck to get free soft drinks and refill your cup throughout the day.
How To Book A Disney Cruise
The easiest way to book a Disney Cruise is to speak with one our Disney Cruise Gurus. They’ll make everything easy as possible. From finding the perfect cruise and cabin to the moment you get home – they’re here to help you have the most magical voyage possible.
