disney cruise norway reviews

Disney Cruise Line Norway Full Review

by Steve Griswold | Jul 6, 2015 | Disney Cruise Line Planning , Disney Podcast | 18 comments

Disney Norway Cruise Review

All ten of us are back from out Disney Norway cruise and on this weeks Mouse Chat show we cover everything you nee to know before taking a Disney Norway cruise of your own.  Well if you are taking any Disney cruise this review will be very helpful.

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Disney’s inaugural Cruise to Norway

We have been on all four Disney ships and to many ports, but when Disney said we are heading to Norway this Summer, we had to go.  We booked three staterooms on the Disney Magic and had ten people in our party.  So when you listen to the show we had six kids ranging from ages 5 – 12 and four adults.  This cruise was perfect for all ages and everyone from 5 – 50 loved it.

The Disney Cruise Difference

Price and Quality

If you have not been on a Disney Cruise I want to explain what you get at a high level over some other cruise lines.  First a Disney cruise is not cheap.  But we all agreed that what you get for the price is well worth it.  You get a quality vacation experience that far exceeded our expectations.  You also are getting many things in the cruise price that other cruise lines charge you extra for.  Sodas, Ice Cream, affordable drink prices for alcoholic beverages, a kids club that is open almost 24/7, etc.  We have cruise many other cruise lines and you are always being charged extra for food, sodas, kid activities, etc.  In the end you have a massive bill of charges.  It was very nice to cruise on Disney Cruise Line and not have people always trying to up-sell you.

Food and Service

The food and service was stellar.  We had the best wait staff and room attendant in over 20 years of cruising.  Disney service it top notch and we were literally treated like royalty.  We took a week vacation in Paris after our Disney Norway cruise and I have to say we all kept wishing we had booked a second Disney cruise instead of heading to Paris.  It was that good.  The food is also fantastic.  I love to explore different foods and my wife does not.  There was always several choices for both of us.  Palo, the only up charge restaurant on the Disney Magic was fantastic also and we requested the same waiter we had two years earlier on a Thanksgiving Disney Cruise.  Again, a wonderful meal (lobster ravioli and the filet are excellent choices).  And the up charge is only $30 per person.

The Disney shows each night are Broadway caliber.  If you love Disney you will love these shows.  There are also speckeled in with different variety acts, like a magician, comedian, dance group etc.  So it was a nice variety of acts.  If you have already seen Disney Dreams on the Disney Magic, you need to see it again.  They have added Frozen to this show and also some amazing special effects.  Don’t miss Disney Dreams on the Disney Magic.

The only show that I was not impressed by was “Frozen – Freezing the Night Away” on Deck 9 by the pool.  This show replaces the Pirates in the Caribbean show on other Disney Cruises.  The show is dance party for 30 mins or so.  It’s cold, it’s Norway.  And you are literally FREEZING the night away at 11 PM outside.  There are no fireworks (it’s day light at 11 PM still) and there is no food or dessert party which was disappointing for a cruise of this caliber.  But this was the only thing I though could have been done better on our full seven day Disney Norway Cruise.

Getting the Best Prices on Disney Cruise Line

You can always find the best rates on Disney Cruise Line, including the Disney Norway Cruise, at Pixie Vacations, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  They will help you book the perfect stateroom for your Disney Cruise and will let you know about everything.  Everyone is very helpful at Pixie Vacations and they have been on the Norway Disney Cruise as well as all four Disney ships.  So you are in good hands and they excel at finding great value for your hard earned vacation dollars.  You can call Pixie Vacations at 678-815-1584 or fill out their quick Disney Cruise quote online.

 Disney Cruise Line Excursions

When you listen to the show we cover the excursions, but I also wanted to cover some Disney Cruise Line excursion tips here in the show notes.

Chris’s son on our Norway farm excursion.

1. We booked Disney Cruise Line Excursions very early and both of these were fantastic.  We did the Norweign Farm with our kids and also Kayaking.  Kayaking can be very cold, wet and difficult for some.  But when else are you going to be able to kayak in Norway.

The views from our Norway Disney Cruise Kayak excursion. I dropped a new GoPro camera into the water here. 🙁

2. We also made our own tours at two ports and that was very successful and affordable.  So don’t feel like you have to book every excursion at the Disney Port Adventures on the cruise ship. The On and Off Buses are very easy to use and an affordable alternative.  Also we found an incline railway for $8 and a castle for $10 a person that both were hidden gems in Norway.

 Taking a Disney Cruise and Disney Cruise Questions

If you have taken a Disney Cruise or have any Disney Cruise Line questions you would like us to answer, please post a comment below.  We would love to hear from you with your Disney Cruise Line questions.

How to contact us at Mouse Chat:

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Please join us by listening to our show at MouseChat.net or by downloading and subscribing to Mouse Chat on iTunes . If you subscribe to our Disney Podcast on iTunes you can schedule it to update your player so you will never miss a show.

18 Comments

Thanks for this review, and all of your insights. We booked this cruise for 2016 (taking the kids/6 and 10), and have been going back and forth on whether to do it for sure, but your thoughts and experiences convinced us we made the right choice. . We’re a West Coast, Disneyland, Aulani family, and we thought this would be a great way to take the kids to Europe for the first time. Thanks again for all of the insights and humor you guys provide with your podcasts!

You are going to have a wonderful time on your Disney Cruise to Norway. We all LOVED it. Please send us photos and let us know how you liked your Disney cruise when you return in 2016.

Will do. We’re actually headed to Alaska on the Wonder in August (I guess we’re the cold weather cruisers), so I’ll get you some pics and a trip report then as well. Thanks again for all the insights and humor in your podcasts!

Have a great time. 🙂

How much was the cost of the cruise?

I don’t remember but there were some great deals and I know we booked one of those. We love to travel and get our moneys worth so we booked a deck 2 inside stateroom and got a port hole stateroom upgrade on deck 2. If you decide to take a Disney Cruise or any other vacation for that matter, go to http://www.PixieVacations.com (phone 678-815-1584) and get a quote. You really can get on some cruise ship for an amazing price and always spend more to upgrade the experience depending on what room and extras you are looking for in a cruise. The Norway Disney cruise was worth every penny we spent.

Thank you for all your many suggestions and stories, I really enjoyed your podcast. We are thinking of going on this Disney itinerary in 2016 as well. A few questions: would you recommend a cabin with a veranda (ie, was it too cold to really need a balcony)? What was the name of the Castle which you visited close to port? It sounded wonderful for the whole family, and I wish to know its name and the port in which it was located. Lastly, how was the sailing conditions? I’m a little worried about getting seasick. Thank you again, your page and podcast was so very helpful.

Hi, Sandy, Norway was amazing. The temperatures were in the low 60’s a and sometimes down into the 50’s early morning and at night. A balcony would have been nice but you go into the fjords really early in the morning, like 5:30 AM and leave them at maybe 6 PM. So we would go out on deck at 5:30 AM. You could see this from a balcony too if you want to relax more and keep warmer close to your stateroom. Chris Wood was also on our journey with her family and she can actually book this vacation for you and get you all the details on Norway and what hidden gems to see at the ports. Send her an email at [email protected] Please post photos if you go, I would love to see them.

Thanks Steve

Great article Steve. I just booked the Norwegian Cruise for my family on 5/29. This is our 6th DCL cruise but first in Europe. I have one concern right now. I have a boy (8) and a girl (5) at cruise time. Will the “Frozen” atmosphere make my son feel like he’s on a “girly cruise”? That may sound silly but the kids really like the Pirate Night in the Caribbean and I fear he may feel like this is a girl party….

You are going to love your Disney cruise to Norway. I was just looking at the photos from our Disney cruise a few moments ago. So the Frozen theme is really not over done. There is a Frozen Meet n Greet and it was in Artist Palette one afternoon. You have to sign up for a time to do this meet n greet so please do that if you want to attend. If you don’t sign up you would not even know it was going on. Olaf is also there for the boys. There is also a Freezing the night away Disney deck party. Yes it is literally freezing so dress warm. It’s basically a Disney dance party at 9 or 10 PM and it’s very sunny out. Not fantastic but my two girls (5 / 10) enjoyed it. I thought it was ok, but it was not spectacular. But other than a few things you are not going to be swimming in Frozen stuff for seven days.

If you would like you can contact Chris Wood ([email protected]), she was on the Norway Cruise with three boys and a girl. She might be able to help you plan your Disney Cruise still even though you are already booked. Disney might still be able to add her to your reservation as an agent and it’s no cost and there are no fees. I only tell you this because she has been on the same cruise and has kids the same age and it’s literally no cost.

Again the cruise is a once in a lifetime trip. Loved every minute. Please post some photos when you return and let us know what you all did on the trip.

Have a great cruise.

Thanks Steve. Sorry for the late response. I think your note got SPAM blocked or something. Do you know if the Frozen excursion in Alesund is enjoyable for young boys? It’s not cheap and I don’t want to take my son if he’s going to be bored to tears…

We have two girls that were the perfect age, but I just could not bring myself to go all the way to the real Norway and then pay a ton of money to take them to Airendale. You can see Anna, Elsa and Olaf on the Disney Cruise Line ship at a meet n greet and also and the Freezing the Night Away party on deck. Also at EPCOT you could take them to Norway and see the new Frozen ride. I would think it will open this Summer, 2016. We just got an update today and it looks like it still needs a bunch of work so I would thing Spring 2016 for an opening might be difficult.

But I know Disney does an amazing job and the Disney Cruise Lines Norway Trip is AMAZING and the Norway Airendale excursion is probably worth every penny.

I think we went to the Norway long house and shot a bow an arrow, and saw some of the local landmarks and vistas on that day of our Disney Norway Cruise. It worked out well and was more friendly on the checkbook.

Post some photos when you go please and bundle up, it’s cold even in the Summer time.

I just booked myself and my sister on the 2016 Norway cruise (and the 4 day pre-cruise Copenhagen stay) and came across your site looking for reviews from their first sailing. Your podcast is great! We are both huge Disney fans and I really appreciated another fans perspective. You mentioned the Castle you found at one port but I couldn’t find the show notes or where you posted which port that was at. We will definitely now be ready for the cold! We are both native Floridians and we will bring many layers!! I look forward to exploring more of your site and podcast! Thanks again!

Hi, Jennifer, The Castle was in Bergen Norway. What a deal! It’s right at the port. The photo below I took from inside the castle looking out at the Disney Cruise Ship. It’s just a few minute walk from the Bergen Norway port.

Also Copenhagen we did a pre stay too and enjoyed that.

Very informative and well written article! Thank you for sharing your adventure as we are very interested in exploring a non-Caribbean itinerary with Disney Cruise Lines. We just returned from our first Disney Cruise on the Disney Dream, and we are definitely hooked!

I thought it was interesting when lady said twice they got her steak order wrong yet she raved about the head waiter and staff, she commented they never did get it right, I have been on Disney cruises and they do make it right! They would not have wanted her to settle for well done when she wanted medium rare!

I am looking at booking the Norway cruise with a ocean view verandah Room. I’m just wondering if the balcony would be worth it or not? We have a baby so we would spend a lot of time in our room in the evening. I was wondering if it would be too chilly to sit out on the balcony in the evening?

Hi, Michelle,

Please send an email to [email protected] also. She went on the Disney Norway cruise with her kids and can also book this for you and make sure you are getting the best applied discounts, etc. There is no charge to book this with a Pixie at Pixie Vacations and you get all the insider travel advice, can ask questions anytime, will hunt down the best offers etc.

We did not have a balcony. We were in Norway in June and it was still chilly, especially when you are entering the fjords. The ship enters them around 4-5 AM and everyone, well those that are awake, go to the top deck and watch. It’s amazing. Disney Cruise Line has towels up there to wrap yourself in and coffee, hot chocolate. It’s pretty darn cold at that time of night. Now I guess you could see part of that from your room too, but really you should go on deck to see everything surrounding you.

Also get with Chris about dining at Palo, and the different excursions in Norway and the extras you can do on your own in the cute towns.

Have a fantastic cruise.

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I am a mom who loves all things Disney, but especially Disney Cruises! I enjoy sharing everything I have learned and hope that it will help others plan their own vacations.

Guest Trip Report: 10 Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland on the Disney Magic

October 15, 2018 by Disney Cruise Mom 2 Comments

I have yet another guest trip report to share with you guys!  This one is one of the more unique itineraries that DCL does so I am so excited to share it with you.

Carol and her family sailed on the most recent 10 night cruise to the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland on the Disney Magic on August 16, 2018 .  (FYI, you can see all of my previous trip reports and guest trip reports by clicking here .)

Here is an introduction to Carol and her family:

My name is Carol and I am a mom of 2 amazing children and have the joy of being married to a wonderful man who shares my joy of traveling.  When I am not traveling I work as a pediatrician and love spending time with my family, 2 cats and dog in upstate NY.   In addition to blogging and traveling, I enjoy singing, baking, reading and just about anything Disney.  We are a Disney loving family and have been blessed to have taken many trips to both Disney World and Disneyland.  We also love to cruise on Disney Cruise Line, and now have been on more than 10 cruises.  We enjoy traveling and seeing the world, and have traveled to such places as San Diego, Boston, NYC, Washington DC and many more.  We look forward to expanding our travels to see much more of the world, as we firmly believe we learn about different places, people and cultures when we travel.  I hope I can share some of what I have seen and learned with you.  

You can visit Carol’s blog by clicking here .

Copenhagen: Day 1

We had been planning a trip on the Disney Magic to the Norwegian Fjords for over a year.  This cruise left from Copenhagen and went to 3 different cities in Norway, then to Reykjavik and to Scotland, and finally ended in England.  We decided to start our trip with 3 days in Copenhagen to make the most of our time.  We flew out of Boston with a layover in Amsterdam and then to Copenhagen.  Our flights were relatively uneventful, just overnight, so we were tired upon arriving to Copenhagen.  However, we decided to just stay awake and sight see to try and get on Copenhagen time.  We were able to go to directly to our AirBnB, which was nice, so we could put down our luggage and change to clean clothes.  We were very pleased with our AirBnB, since it was our first time staying in one.  It was a good layout with close proximity to everything.

We then began a very busy day in Copenhagen.  There are so many things to see, it was difficult to know where to start.  So we started with Christiansborg Palace, which is where the Royal Family used to live, and is now used for the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and some official events by the Royal Family.  There are Royal Reception Rooms, Ruins, the Royal Kitchen and the Royal Stables.  We visited the Royal Reception Rooms and the Ruins.

Christiansborg Palace:

A dining room table for royalty that can seat 50 people!

A royal fireplace:

The palace has been built and rebuilt many times, the latest being less than 100 years old, but the ruins date back to the 1100’s.  It was very interesting to see all the ruins and different layers of building.

Ruins under the castle:

We then went to Stroget, which is a famous street with many shops and restaurants, including high-end and famous shops like Prada, Louis Vuitton and many others.  We, of course, visited the Disney Store, and because my son is a HUGE Lego fan, we had to visit the Lego store as well, since, of course, Legos originated here in Denmark.  It was fun, but pretty much just like all other Lego stores!

After that we went on a canal tour, in which you take a tour on the canals of Copenhagen.  This was a nice way to see many things in the city easily, and was very informative and fun.  We also realized how many bridges there are in Copenhagen!

Houses on the canal:

The famous Little Mermaid statue (from behind):

One of the many, many bridges:

After the canal tour, we went to the Round Tower.  This is a tower attached to a church.  You can walk up this tower to the top, and there are amazing views of Copenhagen from there.  It is unbelievable to me how they could have built such a thing in the 17th century!

The church connected to the Round Tower:

The view walking up (or down) the Round Tower:

The view from the top:

After this very busy day, we treated ourselves to a very delicious dinner, and then a well-deserved night of sleep.  We enjoyed our first day in Copenhagen very much, and found the people delightful, and very helpful.  The city is beautiful and clean, and most everyone kind and generous.  It was a day well spent!

Up next: Copenhagen, Day 2

October 17, 2018 at 11:53 am

Really looking forward to this guest trip report. We’re going on a similar trip in July 2019, ( but in reverse– starts in Dover and ends up in Copenhagen), and really looking forward to it. Not much information on this type of trip on Disney Magic so will be hanging on every word as it comes.

October 24, 2018 at 6:53 am

Deann – I hope you enjoy my report – we really enjoyed our trip it was a great time!! I am so glad Diana has let me partner with her to share my experiences!! Thank you!! Carol

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Norwegian Fjords Disney Cruise Line Report — Day 5

Day 5 of our Norwegian Fjords cruise aboard the Disney Magic was supposed to be our port day in Geiranger, Norway. However, as you might’ve read at the end of our Day 4 cruise report , we were unable to dock there due to high winds. Due to Geiranger’s small size, a floating “Sea Walk” dock is used there, and the captain deemed it too windy to dock.

This was pretty controversial among guests aboard our cruise. We heard a lot of second-guessing of this decision, particularly after we cruised past the port area, and a Holland America ship was there. That was exacerbated by the fact that a couple of the excursion outfitters initially indicated to some other guests they might deny refunds on the technicality that we were not “unable” to dock, but rather, our captain “chose” not to dock. Supposedly, it was a judgment call of the captain, and authorities in Geiranger would’ve been willing to use the Sea Walk.

At this point, I probably should make a disclosure: I am not, nor have I ever been, a cruise ship captain. I know, you might find this unfathomable. Surely in my free time between blog posts, I could’ve taken up the hobby. I just haven’t gotten around to it yet…

I know the internet is the place where everyone is an expert about everything, and baseless opinions should be offered without restraint (and I certainly do plenty of that!). However, it takes me a mnemonic device just to remember which side is port and starboard, so I’m really out of my element here.

Part of the frustration among guests probably stems from the fact that the announcement we wouldn’t be stopping in Geiranger was made at ~10 p.m. the night before, and on the basis of wind. Now, I’m no meteorologist (you’re learning so much about me today), but I’d assume wind forecasts are just like any other weather: subject to uncertainty and change. It did turn out to be very windy the following morning, but still.

It stinks that we were unable to stop in Geiranger, but I have a difficult time getting upset at the captain (or anyone else) for the judgment call not to stop. The Holland America ship (supposedly) brought its own tender boats, which we did not have.

The officials in Geiranger are likely going to be less risk-averse when it comes to allowing use of the Sea Walk–their city is highly dependent upon tourism. Moreover, if the worst were to happen, the media is not going to make it a story about negligence of some port authority in Norway–it’s going to be about Disney ‘s mistake.

I also don’t think there are any nefarious motives on the part of Disney Cruise Line. Guest satisfaction likely dropped by virtue of failing to stop in Geiranger–irrespective of the reason–and I suspect Disney does not have any profit motivations for keeping guests on the boat. If anything, it seems like they’d lose out on Port Adventure markup, going through more food, and impromptu entertainment.

There are some scenarios in which I think Disney pays face to the importance of its “Four Keys” philosophy (Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency), but in this situation, I’m inclined to believe the captain was erring on the side of safety in making the decision.

Perhaps I’m giving Disney Cruise Line too much deference, but sometimes, a bad situation is just a bad situation, and there’s no one to “blame” for it.

Before we get into the anecdotal portion of the day’s report, I’ll share some planning info for Geiranger. Based upon our research, the main thing to do in Geiranger was get back out on the water to get up close to waterfalls and go into narrower areas of the fjord.

The two main options, from what we saw, were kayak tours/rentals or RIB tours. We planned upon doing a kayak rental because that looked like the cheapest option, but had not booked this in advance for a couple of reasons. First, a lot of the reviews indicated the rental companies would just cancel on you if they were able to fill their slots with official excursions booked through the cruise companies. Second, our top (morning) priority was hiking, and we weren’t sure when we’d be done with that.

The hike we planned on doing was the Storsæterfossen waterfall hike , which takes you past the “backside of water.” If you’re thinking of doing the hike, here’s a detailed report on it . Some other reports indicate this takes you past a cool farm and (potentially) goats, making it a must-do as far as I’m concerned.

There were a handful of museums and other options in Geiranger, but nothing else that really piqued our interest. From our research, the highlight of Geiranger was the fjord, not the quaint village/town. To be perfectly honest, this was probably the port I was least enthused about before the trip.

I was really looking forward to the hike, and also eating some Norwegian waffles, but the most exciting aspect of this day was the cruise through Geirangerfjord. Pretty much everything I read about Geiranger highlighted the fjord, not the port.

The good news was that in lieu of stopping in Geiranger, we were going to due an extended cruise through Geirangerfjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, that morning. The cruise director had informed us that we’d start passing Geirangerfjord’s famed waterfalls at around 8:30 a.m.

Based on previous reports I had read, Geiranger day is normally when everyone gets up early to watch the ship navigate through the narrow fjord before arriving into port.

These seemed to indicate 5 a.m. was a good time to get up to start watching, and that it would be crowded even then.

So, I was up on the deck at 5 a.m…along with maybe 5 other guests?

I suspect the captain’s announcement of the highlights occurring much later, coupled with the general disappointment that we were not stopping, had led to most people sleeping in.

When I got up there, the wind was absolutely brutal (nearly my entire coffee “jumped” out of my cup before I put the lid on it). The wind had been/was so bad that everything was tied down.

I was really glad to have my suitcase back at this point, because I had packed for a veritable arctic expedition. I bundled up, and sat at the rail on the forward side of the ship, watching for a while. In a couple of hours, this same spot (below) would be elbow to elbow with people, so it was nice to enjoy it in relative solitude.

I think I mentioned it before, but packing a waterproof & windproof outer layer, an insulating layer (think a down jacket), and a moisture-wicking base layer is essential for a cruise like this.

My recommendation for the outer layer is something GORE-TEX. It can be very expensive, but it’s made to last, and most brands that use GORE-TEX have generous repair policies. (I had my last GORE-TEX jacket for ~10 years and sent it in to have holes repaired twice…before I was finally “advised” that it looked “very 1990s.”)

Presumably, the same outerwear recommendations apply to Alaskan cruises and other European itineraries.

Even if the weather report does not dictate all of those layers, remember that the ship is moving and you’ll potentially be up early/late to watch port arrivals.

At some point (fairly early), the crew brought out pastries, hot chocolate, and coffee.

Despite the circumstances, most guests we encountered that morning seemed to be in a pretty good mood. Even with the disappointment of not docking in Geiranger, I think the landscape we were passing was enough to lift our collective spirits.

Sarah joined me an hour or so later, and the deck was starting to get more crowded. It was also getting progressively better. The folks who opted to sleep in definitely made the right decision, as things didn’t start getting really good until about 7 a.m.

This scenic cruise was exceptional. We passed all of the famous waterfalls, De syv søstrene (“the Seven Sisters”), Friaren (“the Suitor”), and Brudesløret (“the Bridal Veil”), and had some exceptional weather as we did.

Aside from the luck we had for a fleeting period up at the Path of Trolls, the entire trip had been overcast up until this point. We weren’t exactly disappointed as we knew there was a high probability of overcast weather and drizzle in Norway.

Really, the biggest negative of overcast weather is in terms of photos. In person, this still looks (mostly) spectacular; I think it’s easier for your eyes for focus on the elements that are stunning regardless, or maybe you just mentally block out the sky (or maybe I’m the only one who feels this way and you’re scratching your heads at what on earth I’m talking about).

In any case, the conditions were perfectly photogenic this particular morning, and the cruise through Geirangerfjord was one stunning sight after another. I don’t want to say that we were not disappointed that we didn’t dock in Geiranger (I definitely would’ve preferred that), but the extended cruise was a nice consolation prize. It also reinforced our desire to do the Alaska cruise, as others around us kept comparing the fjord to Tracy Arm. On Page 2 , we’ll share more from our Geirangerfjord cruise/impromptu day at sea, I’ll share thoughts on Frozen’s Norwegian roots, our Alaskan cruise decision, and more!

Written by Tom Bricker

I guess the pilot at the port has a big influence on whether a ship can dock or not as well. Maybe there were differences in the ships that did/didn’t dock or maybe different pilots advising the captains.

Regarding your Alaska decision, I’m researching a trip there and heard that you can really see more by booking a land package and taking small boat day cruises, rather than booking a cruise ship with land excursions. Especially given your interest in landscape photography/national parks and hiking. I think that’s the way I’m going to do it next summer.

Tangled the Musical is the reason I want to sail on the Disney Cruise Line so bad… Is that bad? I don’t think so. Tangled is my absolute favorite newer Disney movie. Better than Frozen, duh. I haven’t seen Moana, I’ll be honest.

Definitely not bad. Tangled is the the BEST Disney movie EVER!!

Tangled is best by far!

There is a creepy face in the waterfall photo at the bottom of page 1?

I agree with your assesment on not Docking. We had it happen on our First Disney Cruise at Castaway Cay. It was a December cruise, and the sea and wind was a bit rough the whole trip. The Captain made every attempt to dock but it just wasn’t in the cards that day. Of course I was a bit disappointed about not docking- part of the reason we took the cruise was to see Castaway Cay. But I was really impressed at how quickly and seamlessly new entertianment options were added and food options were put out, and how the crew responded to help make up for the disappointment. Besides- i wouldn’t have been a very nice beach day anyway, and it gave me an excuse to go on another cruise!

I’ve been to Geiranger (on the Hurtigruten) and really the best part is the cruise through the fjord. We have family in Norway, and needed to get from Torvik (the port before Alesund) to Andalsnes to catch the train up north so we took the ferry to Geiranger in order to see the fjord and caught a bus from there – it’s called the Golden Route and if you like hairpin turns you’ll love it! If you had clear skies to see all the waterfalls and the gorgeous countryside then in my opinion you got the best bit.

Love the photos in this installment, especially the one on top of page 2. The last photo of Mickey creeps me out. Looks like a photo of one of those posable dolls. Realistic miniature versions of things are nightmare fuel. Too bad I’m reading this at midnight.

Ha, the weird thing is: I don’t even remember taking that photo. I usually take photos of the characters after the character attendant takes our pic, but that one is poorly-framed and really close-up. So, either Mickey snuck into our room and took a selfie, or my autofocus wasn’t working for a more straightforward photo, and I only got pics as he creeped towards the camera (which seems to happen a lot, and is usually fun for photos).

Loved the trip report series! Having these super detailed trip reports/travel guides are really what set your blog apart from the rest. And Alaska will always be there! Missing a port would be disappointing but at least there is good food and entertainment and spa and gym and just relaxing in your room to be had (I.e. Not stuck in an airport!). Keep up the excellent reporting, eagerly look forward to your installments and posts!

Thanks! Hopefully, what I put together at the end will be useful for others planning this cruise in the future.

We are planning the Norway cruise for 2019. Love your blogs.

“While I really don’t want any animated films having a presence in World Showcase, about the only one I could (potentially) get behind is Ratatouille. ” How about Mulan?

I’ll second the recommendation for GORE-TEX and it’s longevity. Last winter, I finally replaced my GORE ski jacket that was purchased in 1991.

I hadn’t even considered Mulan because I don’t think any changes are on the table for the China pavilion, but…maybe? I could see a show in the courtyard area that incorporated Mulan into it, and I’d be fine with that.

I kind of like the Three Caballeros in the Mexico pavilion since the film was made at the request of the Mexican government because they wanted a movie about Mexico after they saw the success of Saludos Amigos for South America. The film’s outdated, so maybe a completely different, more modern ride plot would be better, but I enjoy what’s there now and don’t think it’s disrespectful.

I love the pictures and your positive attitude. I think too many people let something like not being able to make it into a port ruin their day and possibly the rest of their vacation. When we were on the Fantasy, we got up really early to meet for our excursion in Jamaica only to sit in the theater for about an hour and a half because captain Fabian was doing his best to try to dock the ship in very windy conditions. He did manage it, but if our day in port had been cancelled, I would not have let it ruin my trip. Quite a few people were complaining about having to wait so long though.

Part of it is human nature, but I think many Disney fans are predisposed (so to speak) to such complaints. Walt Disney World conditions people to both plan extensively, and also expect a vacation scenario where everything goes (more or less) according to plan.

The more you travel, the more you see such extensive pre-planning and everything working out as planned is not so much the norm.

You really made out with the towel animal/monsters on this trip! Your maid was TALENTED! Jealousss

I think the whole lost luggage snafu made her feel sorry for me, so she brought out her towel animal A-game. It was awesome.

Well keep those towel animal pics coming, because for everyone great one I show my husband, brings me one step closer to convincing him we NEED to do DCL. Following me showing him that last one, his response “haha that’s great, maybe we should check it out, you know how much I love towel animals.” Score!

Gorgeous pictures. You may be neither a meteorologist nor a cruise ship captain, but you’re a heck of a photographer. And a terrific writer on top of that.

“You may be neither a meteorologist nor a cruise ship captain…”

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The Disney Cruise Line Blog

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Tag Archives: Norway

Personal Navigators: Disney Dream 7-Night Northern Europe and Norwegian Fjords from Southampton – September 3, 2023

Personal Navigators, and other details from the Silver Anniversary at Sea 7-Night Northern Europe and Norwegian Fjords from Southampton. The Disney Dream set sail from Southampton on September 3, 2023.  At the end of February 2023, Continue Reading →

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Personal Navigators: 7-Night Norwegian Fjords Cruise from Dover – September 4, 2022

Personal Navigators, and other details from the  7-Night Norwegian Fjords Cruise from Dover. The Disney Magic set sail from Dover, England on September 4, 2022. During this cruise, the ship was under the control of Continue Reading →

Personal Navigators: 11-Night Norway, Iceland and Scotland Cruise from Copenhagen ending in Dover – August 17, 2022

Personal Navigators, and other details from the 11-Night Norway, Iceland and Scotland Cruise from Copenhagen ending in Dover. The Disney Magic set sail from Copenhagen, Denmark on August 17, 2022. During this cruise, the ship was Continue Reading →

Disney Magic’s 2022 Iceland, Norway, and Scotland Cruise Itinerary Modified Again – Overnight Stay in Reykjavik Returns

Disney Cruise Line is once again altering the Disney Magic’s August 17, 2022 11-Night Norway, Iceland, and Scotland Cruise from Copenhagen to Dover. The Disney Magic’s scheduled stop in Isafjordur, Continue Reading →

Disney Magic’s 2022 Iceland, Norway, and Scotland Cruise Itinerary Modified

Disney Cruise Line is altering the Disney Magic’s August 17, 2022 11-Night Norway, Iceland, and Scotland Cruise from Copenhagen to Dover. The Disney Magic’s originally scheduled visit to Olden, Norway, Continue Reading →

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Disney Magic: A Frozen Cruise to Norway’s Fjords

Author: [email protected]

Published on: 05 May 2019

Updated on: 11 May 2022

Who said Disney was just for kids? A Frozen-themed cruise to Norway’s fjords aboard Disney Magic is the perfect chill-out for grown-ups, too

Sipping a glass of Moët, I’m about to embark on a champagne brunch, even though it’s only 10am. I’m surrounded by marble, Venetian glass and panoramic views of the ocean.

All I have to do is stroll out of my private dining room to explore the buffet, which is piled high with all manner of foodie temptations including cheeses, seafood and caviar. But I mustn’t overdo it. Next stop is a dash to the ship’s atrium to meet Mickey Mouse himself (well, this is a Disney cruise, after all).

I’m on Disney Magic – one of the fleet’s four ships – heading to Norway’s fjords on a seven-night Frozen cruise from Dover. Naturally, there are activities galore for babies, toddlers, kids and teens – but let me tell you, this is no childish adventure and the ship is definitely not just for children .

The House of Mouse has grown up (Disney is 96 in October) and while it’s still first class at entertaining children with its diverse range of characters, movies, theme parks and cruise ships, the brand has got its recipe for adults just right, too.

As well as the five-star Senses Spa & Salon, with its range of luxurious treatments including a couples’ room for massages and Elemis facials à deux, Disney Magic also offers the serene, adults-only Quiet Cove Pool and café, plus late-night dancing at Fathoms nightclub and live piano and cocktails at Keys.

To enjoy these very grown-up attractions, all we need to do is (whisper it!) get rid of our kids. And that turns out to be easier than we’d thought. After rushing to wave at Mickey in a mobbed daily meet-and-greet, our 10-year-old daughter is drawn like a magnet to the cookie-making class in Oceaneer Lab – one of two kids’ clubs for her age group – while our 16-year-old son can’t wait to dump his embarrassing parents and decamp to the Vibe teen club.

Although he has his own keycard to our shared stateroom, he only returns there to go for dinner with the family (‘as long as my friends don’t see me’) and then again at 3am to ‘crash’. Our daughter’s clubs supply never-ending activities, including ga-ga ball, parachute games and ‘Super Sloppy Science’, so my husband Alexio and I are left blissfully alone to explore.

With her striking black hull, decorated with gold and topped with two red funnels, the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic harks back to the great age of ocean liners. And her interiors, with their glamorous, Art Deco-inspired design, are a stunning combination of nostalgia and modernity.

There’s a dazzling choice of entertainment venues, too, and we head to Keys, a bar inspired by the Sunset Boulevard piano joints of Hollywood’s heyday. Here the music is as lively as the super-strong cosmopolitans; the decor is retro-cool and the service is flawless. But after a second cocktail (we don’t get out much without the kids) it’s time to collect the family for dinner.

There are three main restaurants on Disney Magic , and thanks to the line’s ‘rotational dining’ policy, guests get to savour each one twice during a week-long cruise. Alexio and I are impressed by Lumiere’s, with its deliciously Gallic menu (the French onion soup is amazing), while the kids both love Rapunzel’s Royal Table, where we get to meet characters from the Disney movie, Tangled.

Rapunzel, who celebrates her birthday here every night, becomes instant BFFs with my daughter – they bond over their long hair – while my son thinks the giant (and frankly quite scary) Snuggly Duckling Thugs are hilarious. But nothing is as magical as Animator’s Palate, where the restaurant and the waiters are all part of a show in which Disney’s iconic characters come to life.

It’s a jaw-dropping spectacle when the black-and-white restaurant explodes into colour, with plenty of surprises along the way (I won’t spoil them for you, but sharpen up your drawing skills before you go). The food is pretty magical, too, and my pasta parcels, filled with truffle-scented cheese, are a melt-in-the-mouth delight.

The gastronomic highlight, however, is Palo – the Venetian restaurant named after the long poles used by gondoliers – where my Italian husband enjoys a feast of prawns, crab, tuna and scallops, all so perfectly cooked that he declares it buonissimo.

Arriving at our first port of call, we’re up early to walk the cobbled lanes of the Danish capital, Copenhagen , and visit the famous Tivoli Gardens. One of the world’s oldest leisure parks, this charming attraction inspired Walt Disney to create the first Disneyland in California (he visited several times, and no doubt rode the 1914 wooden ‘Roller Coaster’, which was among the first of its kind and is still in service today).

Leaving the boys to sample this vintage thrill-ride, my daughter and I wander through the delightful gardens. The day rushes by in a riot of screaming and laughing on more rides, including the world’s largest carousel, before we head back to the ship.

There’s no time to relax, however. Before dinner we catch a show in the Walt Disney Theatre, and then the children vanish and we head to After Hours, the adults-only entertainment zone. Meanwhile, the ship sails on towards Norway, where tomorrow we will enjoy a Frozen adventure of our own.

Oslo looks a picture as we stroll through the pretty streets towards the Ice Bar, a cocktail venue with a difference. Here, everything is carved out of the frozen stuff, including the bar and even some of the customers (life-size human statues, dotted here and there). It’s breathtakingly beautiful and we stay for as long as we can, only leaving when my nose turns red and my husband’s teeth begin to chatter. (For more on what to see and do in Oslo, read our guide ).

The following day brings more Norwegian fun . The boys head off for a high-octane RIB boat adventure in Kristiansand – a compact city dubbed the Pearl of the South because of its warmer climate and palm-fringed beach – while my daughter and I choose a more sedate ride on the Setesdalsbanen vintage railway.

Over a five-mile stretch of narrow-gauge track, its steam loco and wooden carriages offer an enchanting ride back through history. Docked at Stavanger next morning, we take a boat trip to Bakers’ Paradise, a seaside inn and trading post on a rugged island.

Here we feast on giant Norwegian waffles with fruit and sour cream – delicious – before embarking on a two-hour cruise through spectacular Lysefjord, where we stop to feed the nimble goats that magically cling to the sheer cliff face, easily catching the bread we throw to them.

At Pulpit Rock, one of the most famous spots in Norway , we gaze skywards to see where Tom Cruise performed one of his famously dangerous stunts while filming Mission: Impossible – Fallout . It was all in a day’s work for the Hollywood star, who clambered 2,000ft above the chilly waters of Lysefjord. Tourists can do the same, if they’re fit and brave enough, but don’t attempt it if you suffer from vertigo.

That night the ship turns back towards Dover, but another sea day lies ahead before we arrive home. That means we have time to visit the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to give our very own Princess a makeover (she emerges suitably sparkly and wearing a crown).

As we sip our cocktails that evening, gazing through giant portholes while the sun slides over the horizon, it’s the perfect ending to our Frozen adventure. If you’re looking for a magical family holiday that’s cool for discerning grown-ups too, Mickey and friends have just the thing.

For more information, visit disneycruise.disney.go.com .

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Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise: Which Cruise Line Is Better?

Choosing the right cruise line is one of the most important aspects of planning a cruise vacation. Two popular options, Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line, provide a range of entertainment, dining, and activities tailored to various preferences and budgets. This article will explore the Disney cruise vs. Norwegian cruise experience, examining the fleet, pricing, itineraries, destinations, onboard activities, dining options, and suitability for different age groups. We aim to inform you about the distinctions between Disney and Norwegian cruises, ensuring you make the best choice, whether traveling with young kids, adults, or your entire family.

About Disney Cruise Line

Fireworks at Sea on a Disney Cruise Ship | Image © Disney

The following are some of the key features of a Disney Cruise Line vacation:

• Disney Cruise Line, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company, expertly merges the magic of Disney with thrilling cruise experiences.
• Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with high-quality entertainment and a wide array of activities for all ages.
• Specially designed ships cater to guests of all ages, offering engaging children’s programs and peaceful adult-only spaces.
• There are character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style productions, movie screenings, themed deck parties, swimming pools, and exciting water slides.
• Embark on memorable journeys to sought-after destinations, including the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe.
• Gain exclusive access to charming Disney destinations like Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
• Explore unique local attractions, experiences, and excursions through the Port Adventures program.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Prima | Image © Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd

Here are some of the highlights of a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation:

• Norwegian Cruise Line, part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings family, offers an energetic and versatile vacation experience.
• A wide selection of entertainment, dining, and activities is available to guests.
• Travel in style aboard modern ships, complete with children’s programs, enriching activities, thrilling water sports, and tranquil adult-only retreats.
• Sail to captivating Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and Europe destinations.
• Enjoy dazzling live performances, as well as engaging educational programs.
• Select from various shore excursions tailored to different interests and age groups.

Are you interested in learning more about Disney Cruise Line vs. Norwegian Cruise Line vacations? Want to know how much each option will cost? Connect with The Vacationeer for a free, no-obligation price quote and free help booking your cruise!

In-Depth Comparison: Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise

Choosing the perfect cruise line for your vacation can be challenging. To assist you in making the best choice, we present an extensive comparison of Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line. This analysis will examine key factors such as fleet size, pricing, itineraries, destinations, onboard activities, culinary experiences, and overall suitability for children, adults, and families.

Fleet Size and Design

Disney Wonder | Image © Disney

Disney Cruise Line operates a fleet of five ships: Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , and Disney Wish . These ships are designed with a magical atmosphere in mind, featuring Disney-themed décor, spacious staterooms, and a wide array of amenities.

Norwegian Cruise Line has a more extensive fleet of 19 ships , offering various sizes and experiences. Their vessels are designed to provide a modern, stylish, and comfortable atmosphere, focusing on flexibility and personalization.

The Disney Cruise Line is known for its premium experiences and exceptional service, which come at a higher price . It also offers unique Disney entertainment and access to exclusive destinations, such as Disney’s Castaway Cay.

On the other hand, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a budget-friendly vacation experience, emphasizing flexibility, diverse entertainment, and an extensive range of dining options. Their pricing structure accommodates a range of budgets, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

Evaluating prices between Disney and Norwegian can be tricky, given their distinct offerings and cruise experiences. Consequently, direct comparisons aren’t as straightforward. Disney Cruise Line might feature higher initial fares, yet it encompasses more onboard entertainment and premium experiences. In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line’s lower pricing may appeal to travelers looking for a more flexible and modern cruise experience without Disney themes and exclusive experiences.

When choosing a cruise, you should consider your preferences, budget, desired destinations, onboard activities, entertainment, and dining options. Working with a knowledgeable travel agent can be invaluable in making an informed choice and finding the best deals, as they can help you navigate the various options and promotions.

Both cruise lines offer opportunities for savings , such as Norwegian Cruise Line’s frequent promotions or Disney’s Last Minute cruises , onboard credit, or Florida resident discounts on Disney cruises from Florida . By taking advantage of these options, you can ensure you select the cruise line and itinerary that best suits your needs and budget.

Get A Free, No-Obligation Price Quote.

For unbeatable pricing on Disney and Norwegian cruises, rely on The Vacationeer , a top travel agency with expertise in both cruise lines. The Vacationeer can address questions on various topics, such as tipping and alcohol policies on Disney cruises , dining experiences on Norwegian cruises, the best cruise line for kids , and more. They can help you find the perfect itinerary that suits your preferences, budget, and schedule.

As one of the highest-rated Disney travel agencies and a Diamond-Level Disney Authorized Vacation Planner, The Vacationeer has extensive knowledge of Disney Cruise Line. They can offer up to $1000 in Disney cruise onboard credit , which can be used as free money for extras not included in the Disney cruise fare .

Furthermore, as a Norwegian Cruise Line specialist, they provide exceptional service at competitive rates if you choose Norwegian. Their expertise will help you make an informed decision between various cruise lines. Whether it’s your first cruise or your 50th, with guidance from The Vacationeer , you can embark on your dream cruise vacation, confident that you’ve made the best choice for your preferences and budget .

Contact The Vacationeer today for more information – their expert advice is free !

Itineraries

Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line offer a variety of experiences catering to diverse preferences. Disney cruises typically span three to eleven days , with some extended cruises available. Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line features a broader range of lengths, typically from 3 to 15 days, with most cruises falling within the 7-15 day range.

Cruises from both lines often include multiple stops at different destinations, along with some days at sea. However, there are shorter Disney cruises that exclusively travel to Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.

When selecting a cruise, it’s essential to consider your preferred destinations, especially on longer voyages. Both cruise lines present unique routes and ports of call, so carefully evaluating your options will help you make the right choice.

The itinerary you choose also affects the travel documents you need. Depending on your cruise’s location, you’ll need the appropriate paperwork, such as a visa, immunization record, and passport for a Disney cruise or a Norwegian cruise.

Reach out to The Vacationeer to help you plan your cruise, whether it’s a shorter Disney Cruise or an extended Norwegian Cruise. Their expertise ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Destinations

Disney Cruise Line offers family-friendly cruises to popular destinations such as the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Hawaii , Alaska , and Europe . Recently, Disney has ventured into faraway places like Australia and New Zealand. Disney Cruise Line passengers also enjoy access to exclusive destinations like Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island , where they can experience a tropical oasis infused with Disney magic.

Conversely, Norwegian Cruise Line presents a broader array of destinations , encompassing the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, Alaska, Europe, Asia, and even world cruises. There’s also a private destination, Great Stirrup Cay.

Norwegian’s extensive selection ensures travelers can easily discover a cruise that aligns with their interests and desires.

For more information about all the ports of call you can visit, contact The Vacationeer .

Onboard Activities

Disney Cruise Line is renowned for its family-centric activities and enchanting Disney-themed experiences. Guests onboard can enjoy character meet-and-greets, themed deck parties, Broadway-style shows like Frozen and Aladdin, and interactive experiences such as trivia, animation workshops, and scavenger hunts. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line offers state-of-the-art health clubs and luxurious spas for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Conversely, the Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide range of activities for all ages . Guests can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including ThrillPlex activity zones, live music, comedy acts, casinos, educational programs, themed parties, and interactive game shows. Furthermore, Norwegian Cruise Line boasts luxurious spas, advanced fitness centers, and engaging activities like art classes, wine tastings, and cooking demonstrations.

Dining Options

Disney Cruise Line presents a variety of inclusive dining options to suit the tastes and preferences of all its guests. Utilizing a unique rotational dining system, passengers can savor diverse themed restaurants with distinct atmospheres and menus, such as the enchanting Lumiere’s, ocean-themed Triton’s, or vibrant Tiana’s Place . From upscale fine dining venues to laid-back buffet-style eateries like Cabanas, there is something for every palate.

Additionally, Disney Cruise Line offers character dining experiences at Animator’s Palate and adult-only specialty restaurants , such as Palo and Remy, which boast exquisite culinary masterpieces and a refined ambiance (for an additional fee).

Norwegian Cruise Line also delivers an extensive array of included dining options. The main dining rooms provide both conventional and flexible dining schedules, catering to varying mealtime preferences. Travelers can opt for casual dining choices, including buffets, poolside grills, and pizzerias like La Cucina.

For those interested in a specialty dining package (extra fee), Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of restaurants featuring diverse cuisines, such as steakhouses like Cagney’s , sushi bars including Wasabi, and Italian trattorias such as La Trattoria.

Best for Kids: Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise

Disney Cruise Line excels in providing a magical environment for children, complete with a wide range of activities and entertainment options. Kids can interact with beloved Disney characters, be captivated by Broadway-caliber shows and movies, participate in themed parties, and enjoy water play areas featuring pools and slides.

Kids love Disney Cruise Line’s Oceaneer Club | Image © Disney-Pixar

Age-specific kids’ clubs like the Oceaneer Club (ages 3-10), Edge (ages 11-14), and Vibe (ages 14-17) ensure safe and engaging spaces for children to socialize and take part in exciting and interesting activities. Disney’s ships also provide group babysitting and playtime at It’s a Small World Nursery for children under three.

In comparison, Norwegian Cruise Line presents an assortment of activities and youth programs that will keep them entertained. The Splash Academy (ages 3-12) encompasses arts and crafts, movies, video games, themed nights, and water-based activities like pools and splash zones. The Entourage program (ages 13-17) offers a dedicated area for teens to mingle, engage in activities, and attend exclusive parties.

Overall, Disney Cruise Line is the best choice for kids due to its unmatched Disney-themed entertainment, tailor-made experiences for younger guests, and age-specific kids clubs. The enchanting atmosphere amplifies the appeal for children, making it an unforgettable experience.

Though a worthy alternative, Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t fully capture Disney’s immersive magic and doesn’t match up. However, Norwegian Cruise Line still accommodates families by offering a diverse array of enjoyable activities and dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, ensuring a fun vacation for everyone.

Best for Adults: Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise

Despite being known for its family-oriented atmosphere, Disney Cruise Line also offers a variety of adult-exclusive activities. Guests can relax in serene retreats like the Quiet Cove Pool and luxurious Senses Spa & Salon or explore adult-only dining and lounges like Remy, Palo, Skyline, and Cove Café.

My wife and I recently sailed on the Disney Wish, where we particularly loved the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge . This immersive, adults-only bar serves themed cocktails and provides panoramic views of iconic Star Wars locations.

No wretched hive of scum and villainy here! Hyperspace Lounge offers amazing views.

We also enjoyed the adult areas of Castaway Cay , dining at Palo, and attending fitness classes.

While we appreciate the family-centric ambiance and Disney theming, it was easy to slip away to the adult-only areas whenever we wanted.

Conversely, Norwegian Cruise Line is recognized for its diverse adult-centric amenities and sophisticated atmosphere. The Spice H2O, an adults-only retreat, offers a serene space for relaxation, while the Mandara Spa provides indulgent treatments. Norwegian also presents gourmet dining experiences like Le Bistro and Cagney’s Steakhouse and unique bars and lounges like the Ice Bar and Sugarcane Mojito Bar.

Evening entertainment options include Broadway-style shows, live music, and a vibrant casino.

Both Disney and Norwegian offer a great cruise experience for adults . Focused on relaxation, refined entertainment, and diverse dining, Norwegian targets an older audience. Disney blends family charm with exclusive adult spaces, creating a unique experience.

Bottom Line : Choose Norwegian Cruise Line for sophistication and its diversity of amenities; opt for Disney Cruise Line for a magical adventure with adult-only escapes.

Best for Families: Disney Cruises vs. Norwegian Cruises

When comparing family-friendly cruise experiences, Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line both offer exceptional vacations tailored for guests of all ages. Each cruise line provides unique activities, entertainment, and dining options that cater to families. However, one stands out as the ultimate choice for an unforgettable family cruise vacation.

Disney Cruise Line excels in creating a magical atmosphere for families , with enchanting character encounters, captivating Broadway-style shows, and engaging activities for all ages. The cruise line features family-friendly dining options, such as Animator’s Palate, where interactive elements bring the dining experience to life. Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, serves as a tropical haven with activities for everyone, including water play areas, snorkeling, bike rentals, and character meet-and-greets.

On the other hand, Norwegian Cruise Line accommodates families through its youth programs and family-oriented activities. While it may not deliver the same immersive magic as Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian offers unique experiences like the Splash Academy and Entourage, dedicated youth and teen spaces, and family-friendly entertainment options such as live shows and interactive game shows.

Ultimately, Disney Cruise Line is the best cruise line for families seeking a magical, all-inclusive experience. With its unique blend of Disney-themed entertainment, character interactions, and family-focused activities, Disney Cruise Line solidifies its position as the premier cruise line for family vacations.

Though Norwegian Cruise Line provides commendable options, it does not quite achieve the same level of enchantment that Disney Cruise Line offers, making Disney the top choice for families.

Best Overall: Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise

Choosing between Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line depends on individual preferences, as both cruise lines provide unique and memorable experiences tailored to different types of guests.

Disney excels in catering to families with children and Disney fans, offering a magical and immersive adventure complete with character meet-and-greets, Disney-themed activities, and exceptional service. Disney Cruise Line is the top choice for families and kids , ensuring delightful experiences and lasting memories for everyone.

However, Disney cruises can be more expensive than other cruise lines , and their itineraries often focus on popular and family-friendly destinations. Consequently, Norwegian Cruise Line might appeal more to budget-conscious travelers, couples, and adults seeking a versatile cruise experience without Disney theming. Norwegian boasts a wide range of destinations, onboard activities, and dining choices, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable vacation without compromising quality and service.

That said, adults can still find plenty to enjoy on a Disney cruise , especially if they appreciate the charm of Disney vacations. Disney Cruise Line features exclusive adults-only spaces, premium dining options, and various entertainment options catering to an older audience.

Ultimately, the best choice between Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line depends on your preferences, travel companions, and budget. Both cruise lines offer exceptional vacation experiences, each with its unique attractions.

Overall, we lean towards Disney Cruise Line due to its distinct charm that creates unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages . However, your choice may differ.

Please consult a cruise line expert such as The Vacationeer before finalizing plans.

Start Planning Your Dream Cruise Today!

If you’re considering booking your Disney cruise or Norwegian Cruise, look no further than a reputable and experienced travel agency like The Vacationeer . They have the expertise to answer your questions, assist you in selecting the perfect itinerary, and ensure you receive the best pricing available for either cruise line. As a Diamond-Level Disney Authorized Vacation Planner, they offer unparalleled service and competitive prices, including up to $1000 in Disney cruise onboard credit.

Are you interested in exploring other cruise options? The Vacationeer will help you compare pricing and discover the best itineraries at the lowest price. As cruise specialists, they can answer all your questions and advise you on Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian, Disney Cruise vs. Royal Caribbean , Disney Cruise vs. Carnival , Disney Cruise vs. Princess Cruise , and more. They can also assist you in planning a Disney World vacation or finding the best Sandals Resort or best Beaches Resort .

Regardless of your preference, reach out to The Vacationeer today and begin planning the cruise vacation of your dreams. With their expert advice, you’ll confidently navigate the Disney Cruise vs. Norwegian Cruise decision and find the perfect match for your unforgettable adventure. Contact The Vacationeer for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your dream cruise can be!

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Disney Cruise Line vs Norwegian Cruise Line

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• Best for families and kids at heart of all ages
• Six ships in the fleet
• Sails primarily in the Caribbean, with summer destinations in Alaska and Europe
• Very clean and family-friendly atmosphere: no casino, entertainment prior to 10PM kept very "PG"
• Exceptional clubs for children, pre-teens, and teenagers
• Two private islands in the Bahamas: Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point
• Broadway-caliber entertainment
• Excellent themed dining
• Marvel and Star Wars-themed cruising on some sailings
• Sterling safety record

It's no surprise that Disney cruises are the #1 pick for families traveling with children, but it's an excellent choice for the young at heart too. The attention to detail and service provided onboard are legendary, from the rotational themed dining and Broadway-caliber shows to the pirate deck party complete with fireworks. Whether you want to relax on Disney's private islands or catch the world premiere of the latest Marvel movie while at sea, there's no shortage of magic when you sail with DCL. This is one of our favorite cruise lines, with or without kids in the travel party.

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Best for large-ship sailing, especially in Alaska
• 18 ships in the fleet
• Ships accommodate anywhere from 1,900 to 4,000+ passengers
• Private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay
• Exciting amenities on board, like go-kart tracks and climbing walls
• No required or recommended gratuities
• Freestyle cruising plus "Free at Sea" promos can make your cruise flexible and affordable

Norwegian Cruise Line, or NCL, offers sailings to destinations around the world plus exciting entertainment and flexible amenities. NCL is suitable for cruisers of all ages and adventure levels, and it's one of the only non-luxury class cruise lines that doesn't require gratuities (or even recommend them at any particular amount). While being on a ship with 2,000-4,000 other passengers might not appeal to some vacationers, NCL's large ships make it easy to eat, play, and relax in any way you want.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

• Carnival Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Already applied?

Imagine working side-by-side with industry leaders in your field of study. Imagine building upon the skills you've learned in the classroom within a family of legendary brands passionate about creating world-class experiences on a global scale. Now, imagine yourself in a paid Disney Internship.

Sensitive Information Protection Operations, Media & Licensing Intern, Summer/Fall 2024

Job summary:, about the role & program.

Help protect The Magic of Disney by joining the Media & Licensing Sensitive Information Protection (SIP) team! Our business is home to world-class teams of product, licensing and retail experts, artists and storytellers, and technologies who inspire imaginations around the world! This role will dual report into the Senior Managers for both SIP Media & Licensing based in Glendale, CA and be a key contributor of the Disney Media & Licensing SIP Core teams – the group responsible for developing and maintaining the SIP portfolio of products and services for both Television and Streaming Media (Disney+) and Disney Consumer Product services globally. This is a full time role from June 2024 - January 2025.

What You Will Do

In this role, you will be immersed in a culture of collaboration, creativity, and inclusion. You will work directly with the various SIP Managers and Security Teams, both regional and global, to support the day-to-day management of the Marketing & Licensing SIP vendors, third parties and production companies’ assessment program and to support all related initiatives – including but not limited to training and awareness management, and KPI reporting.

• Collate new production related data. validate and output into tracker.
• Assist in the creation of presentation materials used for quarterly updates with key collaborators.
• Engage with various managers to review existing methodologies and create efficiencies where possible.
• Ensure third parties are processed and tracked using tracking platform and ensure training for vendors.
• Maintain incident tracker using online service.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Interests in organizational management, communications, or similar fields
• Excellent written, verbal, editorial and presentation communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
• Ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external partners
• Ability to deal with ambiguity and fast-paced change, driven by growth and client expectations
• Experience in presentation development and delivery
• Ability to adapt to new technologies while learning new tools or skills
• Comfortable working both autonomously and in a collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to build Web content through platforms such as WordPress, Confluence, SharePoint
• Knowledge and understanding of Licensing and/or Media Production
• Passion for the Disney brands, especially TV, Streaming and/or Licensing
• Comfortable interacting credibly and representing the Disney brand with external business clients at all levels
• Proven project/time management skills, with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Graphic design experience, specifically for internal newsletters, branding, style guides, presentations
• A junior, senior or recent graduate pursuing a bachelor's degree in Communication, Business, English, Media or related area

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements:

• Be enrolled in an accredited college/university taking at least one class in the semester/quarter (spring/fall) prior to participation in the internship program OR must have graduated from a college/university within 6 months OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Professional Internship
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Not have completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or program
• Possess unrestricted work authorization

Additional Information

• The approximate dates of this internship are June 2024 - January 2025
• Candidate must be available to work full time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) for the duration of the internship
• This internship is a primarily on-site position -- student will provide own housing and reliable transportation for work in the Glendale, CA area. Also requires a working, reliable internet connection as well as a quiet, dedicated workspace.

About The Walt Disney Company (Corporate):

At Disney Corporate you can see how the businesses behind the Company’s powerful brands come together to create the most innovative, far-reaching and admired entertainment company in the world. As a member of a corporate team, you’ll work with world-class leaders driving the strategies that keep The Walt Disney Company at the leading edge of entertainment. See and be seen by other innovative thinkers as you enable the greatest storytellers in the world to create memories for millions of families around the globe.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Disney Parks, and Experiences and Products. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with Disney Worldwide Services, Inc. , which is part of a business we call The Walt Disney Company (Corporate) .

Disney Worldwide Services, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

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