Disney Cruise Ship Reviews: Your Guide to a Magical Voyage

Embarking on a Disney cruise is more than just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience filled with enchantment, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Choosing the right ship within the Disney Cruise Line fleet can significantly impact your overall experience. This comprehensive guide provides detailed reviews of each Disney cruise ship, offering insights into staterooms, dining options, entertainment, activities, and overall atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first Disney voyage, this information will help you make an informed decision and create the perfect magical getaway for you and your family.

The Disney Cruise Line Fleet: A Ship for Every Dream

Disney Cruise Line boasts a fleet of magnificent ships, each designed with distinctive features and a unique charm. From classic elegance to modern marvels, there’s a ship to cater to every taste and preference. Understanding the nuances of each ship is crucial to ensuring your cruise aligns with your desires and expectations.

Disney Magic: The Classic Charm

The Disney Magic, the first ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, embodies classic cruising elegance with a touch of Disney magic. Launched in 1998, it underwent significant renovations in 2013, enhancing its amenities and adding new experiences while retaining its timeless appeal. The Disney Magic offers a traditional cruising experience with a focus on family-friendly entertainment and exceptional service.

Staterooms on the Disney Magic

The Disney Magic offers a variety of stateroom options to suit different budgets and family sizes. From cozy inside staterooms to luxurious suites with private verandahs, there’s a space for everyone. All staterooms are designed with comfort and functionality in mind, featuring ample storage space, comfortable beds, and split bathrooms (with a separate toilet and shower/tub area), a hallmark of Disney Cruise Line designed to maximize convenience for families.

Inside Staterooms: These are the most budget-friendly options, offering a comfortable and cozy space without a window. They are ideal for guests who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship and participating in activities.

Oceanview Staterooms: Oceanview staterooms feature a porthole window offering natural light and a glimpse of the sea. They provide a more spacious feel compared to inside staterooms and are a good value for families looking for a view without the premium price of a verandah.

Verandah Staterooms: Verandah staterooms are a popular choice, offering a private balcony where guests can relax, enjoy the ocean breeze, and admire the stunning views. These staterooms offer a sense of spaciousness and privacy.

Suites: The Disney Magic offers a range of suites, from one-bedroom suites to the luxurious Royal Suites. Suites provide ample space, enhanced amenities, and personalized service, making them ideal for families or guests seeking a more indulgent experience. Some suites include concierge service.

Dining on the Disney Magic

The Disney Magic features a variety of dining options, from casual quick-service restaurants to elegant rotational dining experiences. The rotational dining system allows guests to experience three different themed restaurants throughout their cruise, with their same waitstaff accompanying them each night.

Rotational Dining:

Rapunzel’s Royal Table: Immerse yourself in the world of Tangled at Rapunzel’s Royal Table. This lively restaurant features live entertainment, delicious German-inspired cuisine, and appearances from Rapunzel and Flynn Rider.

Lumiere’s: A tribute to Beauty and the Beast, Lumiere’s offers a classic French dining experience in an elegant setting. The menu features traditional French dishes with a modern twist.

Animator’s Palate: This unique restaurant comes to life throughout the meal. As you dine, the black and white decor transforms into a vibrant display of color and animation, creating a magical and interactive dining experience.

Casual Dining:

Cabanas: A casual buffet-style restaurant offering a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Cabanas is a great option for families looking for a quick and easy meal.

Palo: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant serving Northern Italian cuisine. Palo offers stunning ocean views and an intimate dining experience.

Pinocchio’s Pizzeria: Serving classic pizzas.

Duck-In Diner: For burgers, fries, and other American favorites.

Frozone Treats: For frozen treats.

Entertainment and Activities on the Disney Magic

The Disney Magic is packed with entertainment and activities for guests of all ages. From Broadway-style shows to deck parties and character meet-and-greets, there’s always something to see and do.

Live Shows: The Walt Disney Theatre hosts spectacular Broadway-style shows featuring Disney characters and classic stories. Enjoy elaborate costumes, stunning sets, and captivating performances.

Deck Parties: The Disney Magic is known for its lively deck parties, including the popular “Sail Away” party and “Pirates in the Caribbean” night. Dance, sing, and celebrate with Disney characters and fellow cruisers.

Pools and Recreation: The Disney Magic features multiple pools, including the AquaLab, a fun-filled water play area for kids. There’s also a Goofy’s Sports Deck with basketball and other recreational activities.

Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer supervised activities for children ages 3-12. These clubs feature themed play areas, games, and engaging activities led by trained counselors.

Edge and Vibe: These are designated hangout areas for teens and tweens, providing a safe and fun environment for socializing and participating in age-appropriate activities.

Senses Spa & Salon: For adults seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Senses Spa & Salon offers a variety of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and salon services.

Nightlife: The Disney Magic offers a variety of nightlife options, including lounges, bars, and nightclubs. Enjoy live music, karaoke, and themed parties.

Disney Wonder: Adventure Awaits

Sister ship to the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder offers a similar classic cruising experience with its own unique charm and itineraries. Launched in 1999, it underwent a significant refurbishment in 2016, adding new features and enhancing its overall appeal. The Disney Wonder is particularly popular for its cruises to Alaska and the Mexican Riviera.

Staterooms on the Disney Wonder

Like the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder features a variety of stateroom options to accommodate different budgets and family sizes. The stateroom categories are similar, including inside, oceanview, verandah, and suite options, all designed with Disney’s signature attention to detail and family-friendly functionality. The split bathrooms remain a popular feature.

Inside Staterooms: The most economical option, offering a comfortable space without a window.

Oceanview Staterooms: Feature a porthole window providing natural light and a sea view.

Verandah Staterooms: Offer a private balcony for relaxing and enjoying the ocean views.

Suites: Provide ample space, enhanced amenities, and personalized service. Some suites feature concierge service.

Dining on the Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder also features the rotational dining system, allowing guests to experience three different themed restaurants with their same waitstaff each night.

Rotational Dining:

Tiana’s Place: This restaurant is inspired by the Disney film “The Princess and the Frog.” It offers a lively atmosphere with live jazz music and delicious New Orleans-style cuisine.

Animator’s Palate: Similar to the Disney Magic, this restaurant transforms throughout the meal, showcasing the magic of Disney animation.

Triton’s: Inspired by “The Little Mermaid”, Triton’s offers elegant American and seafood dishes in a sophisticated setting.

Casual Dining:

Cabanas: A buffet-style restaurant offering a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Palo: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant serving Northern Italian cuisine.

Pinocchio’s Pizzeria: Classic pizzas available.

Pete’s Boiler Bites: Quick service for burgers and other American fare.

Eye Scream Treats: Serving soft serve ice cream.

Entertainment and Activities on the Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder is packed with entertainment and activities for guests of all ages.

Live Shows: The Walt Disney Theatre hosts Broadway-style shows featuring Disney characters and stories.

Deck Parties: The Disney Wonder offers lively deck parties, including the “Sail Away” party and “Pirates in the Caribbean” night.

Pools and Recreation: The Disney Wonder features multiple pools, including the AquaLab water play area and the Twist n’ Spout slide.

Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer supervised activities for children ages 3-12.

Edge and Vibe: These are designated hangout areas for teens and tweens.

Senses Spa & Salon: Offers a variety of treatments and services for adults seeking relaxation.

Nightlife: A variety of lounges, bars, and nightclubs offer live music and themed parties.

Disney Dream: Modern Elegance and Innovation

The Disney Dream, launched in 2011, represents a new generation of Disney cruise ships, boasting modern elegance, innovative features, and enhanced amenities. This ship is known for its AquaDuck, a thrilling water coaster that wraps around the upper deck, and its Enchanted Art, interactive paintings that come to life as you pass by.

Staterooms on the Disney Dream

The Disney Dream features spacious and well-appointed staterooms, offering a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. The split bathrooms are present in most staterooms, and innovative design elements maximize space and comfort.

Inside Staterooms: Comfortable and economical option without a window, but some feature a “virtual porthole” showing a live feed from outside the ship.

Oceanview Staterooms: Feature a porthole window for natural light and ocean views.

Verandah Staterooms: Offer a private balcony for enjoying the sea breeze and stunning scenery.

Concierge Staterooms and Suites: Offer enhanced amenities, personalized service, and access to a private concierge lounge. These provide the most luxurious experience on the ship.

Dining on the Disney Dream

The Disney Dream features a diverse array of dining options, from casual quick-service restaurants to sophisticated rotational dining experiences.

Rotational Dining:

Enchanted Garden: A whimsical restaurant inspired by the gardens of Versailles. The restaurant transforms from day to night, with illuminated flowers blooming throughout the meal.

Animator’s Palate: The same interactive dining experience as on other Disney ships, with the restaurant coming to life through animation.

Royal Palace: Inspired by classic Disney princess films, Royal Palace offers elegant French-inspired cuisine in a regal setting.

Casual Dining:

Cabanas: A buffet-style restaurant with a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Remy: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant offering fine French cuisine.

Palo: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant serving Northern Italian cuisine.

Flo’s V8 Cafe: Features multiple quick service locations with options like burgers, pizza, and chicken.

Eye Scream Treats: Soft serve ice cream station.

Frozone Treats: For frozen smoothies and other treats.

Entertainment and Activities on the Disney Dream

The Disney Dream offers a wide range of entertainment and activities for guests of all ages.

Live Shows: The Walt Disney Theatre hosts Broadway-quality productions featuring Disney characters and stories.

Deck Parties: Lively deck parties, including the “Sail Away” party and “Pirates in the Caribbean” night, are a highlight.

AquaDuck: A thrilling water coaster that wraps around the upper deck of the ship.

AquaLab: A fun-filled water play area for kids.

Pools: Several pools are available for relaxing and swimming.

Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer supervised activities for children ages 3-12.

Edge and Vibe: Designated hangout areas for teens and tweens.

Senses Spa & Salon: Offers a variety of treatments and services for adults.

Nightlife: A variety of lounges, bars, and nightclubs provide entertainment.

Disney Fantasy: A Symphony of Enchantment

The Disney Fantasy, launched in 2012, is the sister ship to the Disney Dream, sharing many of its innovative features and amenities but with its own distinctive theme and experiences. The Disney Fantasy is known for its elegant art deco design, its interactive experiences, and its popular itineraries to the Caribbean.

Staterooms on the Disney Fantasy

The staterooms on the Disney Fantasy are similar to those on the Disney Dream, offering spacious and well-appointed accommodations with a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. The split bathroom design continues to be a popular feature.

Inside Staterooms: Comfortable and economical, some feature virtual portholes.

Oceanview Staterooms: Feature a porthole window for natural light and ocean views.

Verandah Staterooms: Offer a private balcony.

Concierge Staterooms and Suites: Provide enhanced amenities, personalized service, and access to the concierge lounge.

Dining on the Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy offers a wide range of dining options, including rotational dining and specialty restaurants.

Rotational Dining:

Enchanted Garden: Similar to the Disney Dream, a whimsical restaurant inspired by the gardens of Versailles.

Animator’s Palate: The interactive dining experience showcasing the magic of Disney animation.

Royal Court: Inspired by classic Disney princess films, Royal Court offers elegant American cuisine in a regal setting.

Casual Dining:

Cabanas: A buffet-style restaurant with a variety of options.

Remy: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant offering fine French cuisine.

Palo: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant serving Northern Italian cuisine.

Flo’s V8 Cafe: Features multiple quick service locations with options like burgers, pizza, and chicken.

Eye Scream Treats: Soft serve ice cream station.

Frozone Treats: For frozen smoothies and other treats.

Entertainment and Activities on the Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy offers a wide range of entertainment and activities for guests of all ages.

Live Shows: The Walt Disney Theatre hosts Broadway-quality productions.

Deck Parties: Lively deck parties, including the “Sail Away” party and “Pirates in the Caribbean” night.

AquaDuck: The thrilling water coaster wrapping around the upper deck.

AquaLab: A fun-filled water play area for kids.

Pools: Several pools for relaxing and swimming.

Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer supervised activities for children ages 3-12.

Edge and Vibe: Designated hangout areas for teens and tweens.

Senses Spa & Salon: Offers a variety of treatments and services for adults.

Nightlife: A variety of lounges, bars, and nightclubs provide entertainment.

Disney Wish: A Fairytale Come to Life

The Disney Wish, launched in 2022, is the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, representing a significant leap forward in design, technology, and immersive experiences. This ship is known for its elegant Grand Hall, its innovative dining concepts, and its focus on storytelling and enchantment. It is the first of the Triton-class ships.

Staterooms on the Disney Wish

The Disney Wish features beautifully designed staterooms with a focus on comfort, luxury, and storytelling. Many staterooms feature themes from popular Disney films and characters. The split bathroom design continues, and thoughtful touches enhance the overall experience.

Inside Staterooms: Still economical, but with enhanced theming and design. Some offer virtual portholes.

Oceanview Staterooms: Feature a porthole window for natural light and ocean views.

Verandah Staterooms: Offer a private balcony with stunning views.

Concierge Staterooms and Suites: Provide the ultimate in luxury and personalized service, with access to a private concierge lounge and dedicated concierge team. Some suites are themed to specific characters and offer unique amenities.

Tower Suite: Located in the forward funnel, this two-story suite offers unparalleled views and luxurious amenities.

Dining on the Disney Wish

The Disney Wish features innovative and immersive dining experiences that go beyond traditional cruise dining.

Rotational Dining:

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure: An immersive theatrical dining experience featuring characters from the movie “Frozen.” Guests enjoy a Norwegian-inspired menu while being entertained by Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf.

Worlds of Marvel: An interactive dining experience where guests participate in an Avengers mission while enjoying a menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

1923: A restaurant celebrating the golden age of animation and the founding of the Walt Disney Studios. The menu features Californian cuisine.

Casual Dining:

Marceline Market: A food hall-style dining venue with a variety of options.

Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods: Quick-service restaurants offering a range of options.

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant offering Michelin-starred dining.

Palo Steakhouse: An adults-only (for an extra charge) specialty restaurant serving Italian cuisine and steak.

Inside Out: Joyful Sweets: Inspired by the Pixar movie “Inside Out,” this shop offers a variety of colorful and creative desserts.

Entertainment and Activities on the Disney Wish

The Disney Wish offers a wide range of innovative entertainment and activities for guests of all ages.

Live Shows: The Walt Disney Theatre hosts Broadway-quality productions.

AquaMouse: A brand-new water coaster-style attraction featuring a Disney story.

Hero Zone: A sports arena offering a variety of activities.

Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer supervised activities for children ages 3-12. The Oceaneer Club features a slide that takes children directly into the club from the Grand Hall.

Edge and Vibe: Designated hangout areas for teens and tweens.

The Hideaway: A dedicated space for young adults.

Senses Spa & Salon: Offers a variety of treatments and services for adults.

Nightlife: A variety of lounges, bars, and nightclubs provide entertainment.

Grand Hall: The ship’s stunning central atrium, featuring entertainment and character appearances.

Choosing the Right Disney Cruise Ship for You

With a fleet of exceptional ships, selecting the ideal Disney cruise ship can feel overwhelming. Consider these factors to narrow down your options and create the perfect vacation:

Itinerary

The itinerary is a crucial factor in determining the right ship. Each ship offers different itineraries, ranging from Caribbean cruises to Alaskan adventures and European explorations. Choose a ship that sails to your desired destinations and offers the length of cruise you prefer.

Budget

Disney cruises can vary in price depending on the ship, itinerary, stateroom category, and time of year. Determine your budget and look for ships and itineraries that fit within your price range. Inside staterooms are generally the most affordable, while suites offer the most luxurious experience.

Family Needs

Consider the ages and interests of your family members. Some ships may be better suited for younger children, while others offer more activities and entertainment for teens and adults. Research the kids’ clubs, pools, and entertainment options to ensure there’s something for everyone in your family.

Ship Size and Atmosphere

Each Disney cruise ship has its own unique atmosphere and feel. The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder offer a more classic cruising experience, while the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy boast modern elegance and innovation. The Disney Wish represents a new generation of Disney cruising with a focus on storytelling and enchantment. Consider what type of atmosphere you prefer and choose a ship that aligns with your preferences.

Special Interests

If you have specific interests, such as fine dining or spa treatments, consider which ship offers the best options for those interests. The Disney Wish, for example, features Michelin-starred dining at Enchanté, while all ships offer a variety of spa treatments at the Senses Spa & Salon.

Tips for Planning Your Disney Cruise

Planning a Disney cruise can be an exciting but also complex process. Here are some tips to help you plan a magical and stress-free vacation:

Book Early

Disney cruises are popular and tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Book your cruise as early as possible to secure your preferred stateroom, itinerary, and dining reservations. Booking early can also often result in better prices.

Take advantage of special offers

Watch out for special offers from Disney Cruise Line such as discounts for military personnel, Florida residents or early booking discounts. These can sometimes offer considerable savings.

Consider Travel Insurance

Protect your investment by purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.

Make Dining Reservations

Once you’ve booked your cruise, make dining reservations for the rotational dining restaurants and any specialty restaurants you’d like to try. Popular dining times and specialty restaurants can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.

Plan Your Activities

Take some time to review the ship’s schedule of activities and plan which activities you’d like to participate in. You can book some activities in advance, such as character meet-and-greets and spa treatments.

Pack Accordingly

Pack clothing appropriate for the weather and activities you’ll be participating in. Remember to bring swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes. You may also want to pack themed costumes for deck parties and special events.

Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is a valuable resource for planning and managing your cruise. The app allows you to view the ship’s schedule of activities, make dining reservations, communicate with other guests, and access important information about your cruise.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at your departure port at least a day before your cruise. This will give you time to relax and adjust to the time zone before embarking on your voyage.

Take Advantage of Onboard Services

The Disney cruise ships offer a variety of onboard services, such as laundry, dry cleaning, and babysitting. Take advantage of these services to make your cruise more comfortable and convenient.

Relax and Enjoy the Magic

Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the magic of your Disney cruise. Let the cast members take care of the details and focus on creating unforgettable memories with your family and friends.

Disney Cruise Ship Comparison Table

This table provides a quick overview of the key features of each Disney cruise ship:

Ship	Launch Year	Capacity (Guests)	Notable Features	Best For
Disney Magic	1998	2,700	Classic design, Rapunzel’s Royal Table	Families with younger children, classic cruise experience
Disney Wonder	1999	2,700	Tiana’s Place, Alaska and Mexican Riviera itineraries	Families with younger children, those interested in Alaska or Mexican Riviera cruises
Disney Dream	2011	4,000	AquaDuck, Enchanted Art	Families with older children and teens, modern cruise experience
Disney Fantasy	2012	4,000	AquaDuck, Royal Court	Families with older children and teens, Caribbean cruises
Disney Wish	2022	5,555	Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Worlds of Marvel, AquaMouse	Families looking for the latest Disney cruise experience, immersive dining and entertainment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Disney Cruises

Here are some frequently asked questions about Disney Cruises to help you plan your trip:

What is included in a Disney cruise fare?

A Disney cruise fare typically includes stateroom accommodations, most meals (excluding specialty dining), entertainment, activities, kids’ clubs, and port charges. It does not include airfare, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, or personal expenses.

Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?

Gratuities are not automatically included in the cruise fare. Disney Cruise Line recommends a certain amount per person per day for dining room servers, stateroom hosts, and other service staff. You can prepay gratuities before your cruise or have them automatically charged to your onboard account.

What are the dining options on a Disney cruise?

Disney cruises offer a variety of dining options, including rotational dining, casual dining, and specialty restaurants. Rotational dining allows you to experience three different themed restaurants with your same waitstaff each night. Casual dining options include buffet-style restaurants, quick-service locations, and room service. Specialty restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience for an additional fee.

What are the kids’ clubs on a Disney cruise?

Disney cruises offer supervised kids’ clubs for children ages 3-12. These clubs feature themed play areas, games, and engaging activities led by trained counselors. There are also designated hangout areas for teens and tweens, providing a safe and fun environment for socializing.

What are the activities and entertainment options on a Disney cruise?

Disney cruises offer a wide range of activities and entertainment options for guests of all ages, including Broadway-style shows, deck parties, pools, water slides, sports activities, character meet-and-greets, and movies. There are also a variety of lounges, bars, and nightclubs for adults.

What is the dress code on a Disney cruise?

The dress code on a Disney cruise is generally casual. During the day, comfortable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear is appropriate. For dinner, the dress code is typically cruise casual, which means collared shirts and slacks for men and dresses, skirts, or pantsuits for women. Some specialty restaurants may have a more formal dress code.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a Disney cruise?

Guests 21 years of age and older are permitted to bring a maximum of 2 bottles of unopened wine or champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or 6 beers (no larger than 12 oz) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. Hard liquor and spirits are not allowed.

What is the policy on smoking on a Disney cruise?

Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas on the ship. Smoking is not allowed in staterooms, on stateroom verandahs, or in any indoor public areas.

What is the best time to take a Disney cruise?

The best time to take a Disney cruise depends on your preferences and budget. The summer months and school holidays are the most popular times to cruise, but they are also the most expensive. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer milder weather and lower prices. Consider your priorities and choose a time that works best for you.

How can I save money on a Disney cruise?

There are several ways to save money on a Disney cruise:
* Book early to secure the best prices and availability.
* Travel during the off-season or shoulder seasons.
* Consider an inside stateroom or oceanview stateroom instead of a verandah stateroom.
* Look for special offers and discounts.
* Prepay gratuities and purchase a beverage package to save money on onboard expenses.
* Limit shore excursions and take advantage of free activities and entertainment on the ship.

Conclusion: Creating Your Disney Cruise Fairytale

A Disney cruise offers a unique and unforgettable vacation experience filled with magic, adventure, and cherished memories. By carefully considering your needs, preferences, and budget, you can choose the perfect ship and itinerary to create your own Disney cruise fairytale. From spacious staterooms and delicious dining to world-class entertainment and engaging activities, a Disney cruise has something for everyone in the family. So, set sail on a magical voyage and experience the enchantment of Disney at sea!