Disney Cruise Line Overview

Introduction

• Brief, informative guide to prepare for a Disney Cruise.
• Free PDF available for packing tips.

Disney Cruise Ships

• Current Fleet: Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, Wish.
• Upcoming Ships: Disney Treasure (2024), another new ship in 2025.

Pricing Factors

• Ship Choice: Different ships have different prices.
• Stateroom Choice:
  • Inside staterooms (most affordable)
  • Ocean view rooms
  • Ocean view with Veranda rooms (most popular)
  • Concierge staterooms (most expensive)
• Timing of Trip:
  • Most expensive: Summer, holidays.
  • Least expensive: Early fall, early winter (beware hurricane season in late August, September).
  • Weather Considerations: Cooler temps in January and February.
• Trip Length: 2 nights to 11-15 nights.
• Travel Destinations: Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, Castaway Key (Disney's private island), Lighthouse Point from June 2024.

Specialty Days and Deck Party Nights

• Themed Days: Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, Pirate Night, Frozen Deck Party.
• Holiday Themes: Halloween, Christmas, New Year's Eve celebrations.

Food and Dining

• Included Dining Options:
  • Casual dining (food halls like Cabanas, Marceline Market).
  • Pool deck quick services (hot dogs, hamburgers, pizzas, unlimited soft serve ice cream).
  • Rotational dining (3 themed restaurants, same server each night).
  • In-room dining (24/7, free).
• Specialty Dining (Extra Cost): Adult-only fancy restaurants, reservations needed.
• Lounges and Bars: Themed places for drinks and snacks (some with extra cost).

Activities and Entertainment

• Included Activities:
  • Character meet and greets, deck parties, fireworks, water slides, pools.
  • Broadway-style entertainment, Disney films, pre-scheduled activities (sketch classes, trivia, quiz shows).
• Age-Specific Areas:
  • Ocean Ear Club (ages 3-12).
  • Tween and Teen areas (Edge, Vibe).
  • Adults-only areas (Quiet Cove pools).
• Extra Cost Activities: Spa treatments, drink seminars, Castaway Key excursions, premium dining, nursery services.
• Booking Activities: Pre-booking available 75 days before for first-timers but earlier for frequent cruisers.

Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

• Essential for tracking all activities, schedules, and dining menus.
• Onboard chat feature to keep in touch with group members.

Cancellation Policies

• Policy Varies by Cruise Length and Room Type: Partial refunds possible up to a certain number of days before the cruise for standard rooms. Strict policies for concierge and suite levels.
• Travel Insurance: Recommended, especially during hurricane season.
• Disney Cruise Line Vacation Protection Plan: Available for added security.

Additional Tips

• Professional Travel Agents (e.g., Small World Vacations): Free services, assist with bookings, special accommodations, deals, and travel insurance options.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to try a Disney Cruise.
• Check out the free packing guide and other cruise videos available from Disney Food Blog.