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Disney Cruise Line ships have water slides for people of all ages. All water slides are included in the price of your Disney cruise, so you can enjoy them as many times as you want. They are a good way to cool off on a hot day and have fun with your family and friends.

List of Disney Cruise Line Water Slides:

• AquaDuck (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
• AquaDunk (Disney Magic)
• AquaMouse (Disney Wish)
• Mickey’s Slide (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
• Slide-a-saurus Rex (Disney Wish)
• Mr. Ray Slide (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
• Toy Story Toddler Slides (Disney Wish)
• Twist ‘n’ Spout (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder)

AquaDuck Water Slide

AquaDuck is the most thrilling water slide on Disney Cruise Line ships. It is a high-speed water slide with 4-deck drop and 765-foot track. Riders sit in two-person rafts and are pushed by water jets.

AquaDuck is a water coaster on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy cruise ships on Deck 16. While sliding you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and ship.

AquaDuck is a great way to cool off and have fun on your Disney Cruise. If you are looking for a thrilling water slide experience, AquaDuck is a great option.

Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride AquaDuck.

AquaMouse Water Slide

AquaMouse is a water coaster on a Disney Wish cruise ship. It is the first water coaster at sea and based on Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts.

The AquaMouse has two tracks that intertwine and twist around each other, taking riders on a wild adventure through 760 feet of winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks of the ship.

The AquaMouse is divided into two stories, each with its own set of animatronic scenes and special effects.

• The first story is called "Swiss Meltdown" and features Mickey and friends trying to stop a cheese fondue from melting and flooding the ship.
• The second story is called "Scuba Scramble" and features Mickey and friends scuba diving through a sunken ship.

The AquaMouse is a family-friendly attraction that is suitable for guests of all ages. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride the AquaMouse.

AquaDunk Water Slide

AquaDunk is a 3-story body slide located on the Disney Magic cruise ship. It is a surprise launch slide, which means that the floor beneath riders opens like a trap door, sending them on a near-vertical drop.

The slide is 212 feet long and extends 20 feet over the side of the ship. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride the AquaDunk.

The AquaDunk is located on Deck 11, near the AquaLab splash area. It is open from 9am to 5pm daily.

Mickey's Slide

Mickey's Slide is a water slide for families on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy cruise ships. It is a single-person slide that is shaped like Mickey Mouse's head. Riders sit in a raft and are launched down the slide, making a big splash at the bottom.

Mickey's Slide is on Deck 12, near the AquaDuck water coaster on the Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy ships.

It is a shorter and less exciting slide than the AquaDuck, but it is still fun for people of all ages.

Rides are open from 9am to 5pm every day and riders must be at least 38 inches tall and no more than 64 inches tall to ride Mickey's Slide.

Twist 'n' Spout Slide

Twist 'n' Spout is a family-friendly water slide located on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder cruise ship. It is a twin-lane water slide that features a series of twists and turns. Riders sit in a single-person raft and race each other to the bottom.

The Twist 'n' Spout is located on Deck 11, near the AquaLab splash area. Rides are open from 9am to 5pm daily.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How many water slides are there on Disney Wish Cruise?

A: Disney Wish Cruise Ship has a total of three Water slides. The names of those water slides are AquaMouse, Slide-a-saurus Rex and Toy Story Toddler Slides. At all these water slides you can enjoy rides with kids and family together.

Q: How many water slides are there on Disney Fantasy Cruise?

A: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are sisters Ship. Both the ships has a total of three Water slides and the names of those water slides are AquaDuck, Mickey’s Slide and Mr. Ray Slide.

Q: How many water slides are there on Disney Wonder Cruise?

A: Disney Wonder has only one water slide named Twist ‘n’ Spout.

Q: How many water slides are there on Disney Magic Cruise?

A: Disney Magic Cruise has two water slides, AquaDunk and Twist ‘n’ Spout.

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The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

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Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long "water coaster" to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It's one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn't have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That's the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it's now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today's biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival's ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line's 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you'll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you'll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world's largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you'll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line's relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line's big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you'll find it: Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn't just one giant waterslide; it's a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you'll find anywhere on the world's oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean's massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there's also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It'll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you "down the drain" into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you'll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it's completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you'll find it: Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it's the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it's a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it's what's known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship's basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you'll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you'll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney's two Dream-class ships. But don't expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it's designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you're lounging up top, it's hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey's Pool. Dubbed Mickey's Slide, it's held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo's Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney's newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you'll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there's now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there's now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You'll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you'll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic's Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian's Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you'll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that's packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children's play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There's also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

Two MSC Cruises ships — MSC Seashore and MSC World Europa — even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises' 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

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AquaDuck Water Coaster on the Disney Dream

Handout/Handout/Getty Images

Water slides are a dime a dozen on cruise ships, but the AquaDuck is the only water coaster on a cruise ship with the kind of drops and g-forces you would experience on a roller coaster. It is located on the top decks of the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy , which are two sister ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

Circle the Top Deck

The 765-foot-long AquaDuck is elevated high above Deck 11 on tall stilts. The water coaster circles the ship in a transparent acrylic tube, with water jets propelling riders through uphill sections. The majority of the ride takes place in a clear tube, but a section of the ride is enclosed as it travels through the ship's forward funnel.

Ride Solo or With a Friend

Riders sit on rubber rafts that hold up to two people. Most of the ride takes place in a transparent acrylic tube, so riders can see outside. Riders must adhere to these rules:

• Kids must be at least 42 inches tall to ride the AquaDuck.
• Kids who meet the height requirement but are not yet seven years old must ride with another rider who is at least 14 years old.
• Kids must be at least 54 inches tall to ride alone.

Zoom Over the Ship's Edge

After leaving the loading area, the raft zooms 12 feet out over the edge of the ship and 150 feet above the water.

Take in the View

Because the AquaDuck's tube is clear, riders can see the ship's top deck and out over the ocean.

Sit Back and Enjoy the Ride

The AquaDuck's gentle slope lets riders enjoy a leisurely trip around the ship. After boarding, the ride takes just over a minute to complete.

Check out the Fun Below

While on the AquaDuck, riders can survey the top deck of the Disney Dream , with its two family pools, yellow slide at the Mickey Pool, shaded water splash area for little ones, and Disney movies on the big screen.

Wave at Family and Friends

 More fun facts:

• The AquaDuck uses about 10,000 gallons of water per minute.
• In the Edge, the tweens' lounge, several windows let kids catch a glimpse of AquaDuck riders as they zoom by.
• At night, the AquaDuck's lights are turned on for a colorful and different ride experience.

Come in for a Gentle Splashdown

At the end of the ride, the AquaDuck emerges from the tube and splashes down gently into a landing pool. You'll be nearly dry when you emerge from the raft.

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Disney Fantasy Pools: Make a Splash On Your Disney Cruise

by Eric Freilich | Oct 20, 2021 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Fantasy

Are you practically a fish? Then you’ll love all the Disney Fantasy pools aboard your next Disney Cruise.

With so much to see and do on a Disney Cruise, sometimes you need a break from the almost endless activities that the Disney Fantasy has to offer. In addition to the entertainment , restaurants, and meet and greets, the Disney Fantasy also features several unique pools for you and your family to enjoy.

So just how many pools are on the Disney Fantasy?  There are eight pools on the Disney Fantasy, including options with water slides and even an adults-only swimmin’ hole.

The AquaDuck. Photo courtesy of Disney

The AquaDuck is unique to the Disney Fantasy and her sister the Disney Dream . Dubbed as a “water coaster,” the AquaDuck, located on Deck 12, takes riders on a journey through 765 feet of a partially enclosed/partially open waterslide .

Riders board a two-person raft for a thrilling ride around the ship, including through the Forward Funnel, before gently splashing down and exiting your raft. For added fun, ride at night to see multicolored lights along your journey.

Satellite Falls

Satellite Falls. Photo courtesy of Disney

Satellite Falls on the Disney Fantasy is the perfect spot to relax and cool off during your Disney Cruise .

Wade in the water while enjoying a gentle rain curtain , then soak up some sun (or moon) on the Satellite Sun Deck just a few steps away. Whether you’re enjoying the water or relaxing in a lounge chair, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views on the top deck.

Nemo’s Reef

Nemo’s Reef. Photo courtesy of Disney

Nemo’s Reef on Deck 11 is made exclusively for young children to enjoy. The enclosed 1,500-foot play area features fountains and splash pads surrounded by colorful figures of Nemo and his friends.

Little minnows even have their own water slide, so they won’t feel like they’re missing out on riding one of the larger slides.

Quiet Cove Pool

Quiet Cove Pool. Photo courtesy of Disney

The Quiet Cove Pool is an adult’s only spot on Deck 11 where cruises can relax sans children. There are plush lounge chairs surrounding the pool and additional seating built into the pool itself.

Enjoy live music poolside or indulge in complimentary snacks at the nearby Cove Café throughout the day and night (until they close).

Mickey’s Pool

Mickey’s Pool. Photo courtesy of Disney

M-I-C yourself enjoying this family-friendly pool on Deck 11 featuring Mickey’s iconic face and a one-deck-high slide for kids ages 4 to 14.

Lounge chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and they can quickly fill-up as the day progresses as this is among hte most popular Disney Fantasy pools. Children younger than 16 must have adult supervision at Mickey’s Pool.

Donald’s Pool

Donald’s Pool. Photo courtesy of Disney

The “ Number One Duck ” (at least according to him) has his own pool on Deck 11. It’s a great alternative if you can’t find a spot at Mickey’s Pool.

Cast Members lead activities throughout the day for children—and children at heart—to enjoy. As with Mickey’s Pool, seating may be limited, and children younger than 16 must have adult supervision.

The AquaLab. Photo courtesy of Disney

Huey, Dewey, and Louie are in charge of the mischief at the AquaLab on Deck 12 of the Disney Fantasy near the entrance to the AquaDuck.

The play zone features paint cans, showerheads, and geysers for little ones, randomly leaking pipes to plug, wheels and levers that pretend to control the AquaDuck, and Donald’s leaky boat, the Ducky Dinghy .

There’s also a wading pool where kids can cool off.

Funnel Puddle

Funnel Puddle. Photo courtesy of Disney

According to Disney, the Funnel Puddle pool on the Disney Fantasy proves “ a little water goes a long way.”

Guests can pass the time sitting or splashing in the pool’s central fountain . Soak up some sun and enjoy the ocean breeze in this pool on Deck 12.

As with the other pools, you’ll want to check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for operating hours.

Disney Fantasy Pools: Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your time in the pools aboard the Disney Fantasy.

• Try to visit the pools while in port as they tend to be less crowded than on sea days.
• Remember to protect yourself from the sun by wearing, and reapplying, sunscreen throughout the day . Please choose a reef-safe option!
• Pack several bathing suits for your cruise so you aren’t waiting for one to dry to return to the pools.
• Review the “Know Before You Go” guidelines on each of the pool’s pages to make sure you know the rules.

Now that you know more about the pools on the Disney Fantasy, which one will you dive into first?

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Know your dates? Just need advice for now?

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Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pools and Picture Tour

Are you looking for pictures of the Disney Magic cruise ship pool deck?

No matter on which of the Disney ships you are sailing, the pool deck is always one of the most fun places to be!

With activities like pools, splash pads, and water slides, kids of all ages have so fun things to do.

In this post, I will provide a picture tour of Deck 9 of the Disney Magic cruise ship, including tips for using the pools and restaurants.

Disney Magic Swimming Pools

Splash zones on disney magic cruise ship, disney magic water slides, pool deck restaurants, tips and tricks.

The pool deck is located on Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, which you can see on this deck plan . It is FULL of activities and entertainment for the whole family, including some really fun Disney themed pools!

If you are wondering if the Disney cruise ship pools are heated, you will be happy to learn that they are! Below, I will discuss each of the swimming pools on the Disney Magic, including some important information you will want to know.

Goofy’s Pool

Goofy’s Pool is located in the middle of Deck 9 and is the larger of the two kid-friendly swimming pools. Two hot tubs, which also allow children inside, are situated near this pool as well. 

You are permitted to sit directly on the deck surrounding the pool to watch your child swim. Lounge chairs are also available surrounding this pool, and we never have a problem finding a seat. My six year old was able to stand in Goofy’s Pool, so it isn’t super deep.

We love Goofy’s Pool because it’s near Funnel Vision, which is the giant screen that shows Disney movies while you swim or sunbathe!

Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool

The smaller pool on the Disney Magic features Donald Duck’s nephews: Huey, Dewey, and Louie. This pool is really shallow and looks like it is made for babies and toddlers; however, this is not the case. 

Like Goofy’s Pool, this swim area is for those children who are at least three years old AND potty trained. I would like to note that this pool was closed about once per day on our most recent cruise. 

I did not ask a lifeguard, but I am guessing that a child had an “accident” in the pool, which required Disney to drain and sanitize the swimming area. 

Quiet Cove Pool

The Quiet Cove Pool is located toward the front of the ship and is for adults only. Like the name implies, this pool is a quiet place for grown ups to relax in a child free zone. 

The Quiet Cove Pool includes two hot tub areas and a bar. This pool was never crowded, and it always seemed like a really peaceful place to spend time.

The pool hours can vary depending on the activities scheduled. You will be able to see the hours for each swimming pool on the Disney Navigator App . You can also check the Personal Navigator each day to see the available swimming times.

Goofy’s Pool is typically opened from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.  Disney Cruise Line will close the pool for deck parties like the Sail-A-Wave Party. This is because they cover the pool and use it as a dance floor/ stage during the show.

You will see the pool rules posted near each swimming pool area. In short, children must be 3 years old or older to use the pools. In addition, they MUST be potty trained.

You will see lifeguards monitoring each of the swimming pools to make sure the rules are being followed.

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler under the age of 3, the Disney cruise ships provide splash pad areas perfect for little ones. These water play areas really set Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines .

Nephews’ Splash Zone

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler, you will more than likely spend a lot of your pool deck time at Nephews’ Splash Zone.  This splash pad area is the ONLY swimming place that kids under the age of three may play.  

Nephews’ Splash Zone is located at the back of Deck 9 and features Huey, Dewey, and Louie spraying out water. It also has tiny fountains that spray water from the ground. 

If you are planning a Disney cruise with a baby or a toddler, you may be interested in our post on why Disney Cruise Line is the best for toddlers . In that post, I compare the different cruise lines and their swimming areas for toddlers.

The AquaLab is another splash zone on the Disney Magic, but it is for kids who are potty trained AND over the age of three. This play area provides fun water features that spray and pour water. 

The AquaLab overlooks the Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool, and it is near the Twist ‘n’ Spout water slide. 

Disney Cruise Line features elaborate water slides on ALL of their ships. The Disney Magic provides two slides that are appropriate for both adults and kids, depending on height.

Twist ‘n’ Spout

The Twist ‘n’ Spout slide is the yellow, twisting slide you see in many of the photos of the Disney Magic. The height requirement for this slide is 42” or taller. 

Cruisers can slide one at a time, and a lifeguard is stationed at the bottom to supervise and help if needed. 

The AquaDunk is the other water slide on the Disney Magic, but it comes with a minimum height requirement of 48”. 

This slide starts with a platform on which you stand before it suddenly slides out from under you. You then plunge down the slide super fast until you reach the end. 

The pool deck on the Disney Magic offers numerous dining options for cruisers, and they are all really kid-friendly!

Located in the back of the ship, Cabanas is the popular buffet that is open to guests for breakfast and lunch each day. Cabanas is also available for dinner except on the first ( embarkation day ) and the final day of your cruise. 

We love eating at Cabanas because the buffet provides such diverse options that every family member can find something they like to eat.

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria is open for lunch and dinner and offers pizzas, which are a huge hit with my kids!  

I enjoyed a couple slices of their Margherita pizza for dinner one night, and it was excellent!

Daisy’s De-lites

Daisy’s De-lites is another counter service option on the pool deck. I frequented this dining venue on our last cruise because it opens really early in the morning before many of the other restaurants. 

I strolled my one year old up to the pool deck most mornings at 6:30 to grab fresh fruit and muffins from Daisy’s De-Lites

Duck-In Diner

Duck-In Diner is another counter service option near the pools on the Disney Magic. Here, you will find kid favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken fingers. They also have fries available as a side. 

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Duck-In Diner had a sign on their counter advertising that they provided vegetarian and vegan friendly options as well.

Fro-Zone Treats

Near Duck-In Diner, you will find Fro-Zone Treats. This snack stand serves smoothies made from fresh fruit and vegetables. The smoothies are free of charge, but you can add protein powder and other items for an additional price. 

Eye Scream is a snack counter with soft serve ice cream. Cruisers can grab a cone or a bowl and serve themselves beginning at around 11:30 each day. This is a really popular snack stand as you can imagine. Cruisers were usually standing around the counter and eagerly waiting for it to open, especially on sea days.

Beverage Station

Located near the Aft entrance to the pool deck, you will find the beverage station. Here, you can use one of the available cups or your own container to fill drinks. 

The beverage station offers water, juice, tea, coffee, sodas, and hot chocolate. All of these are included in the price of the cruise too! Notice the sanitizing wipes at the drink station in the photo above. Disney Cruise Line provides these in areas all over the ship.

Pool Deck Plan on the Disney Magic

If you look at the deck plan for Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, you will notice some additional spaces on the pool deck.

Cove Cafe is an adult only area of the ship where you can purchase cocktails and specialty coffee. 

Edge is the kids club area that is for tweens. 

Signals Bar

Signals Bar is the counter service area by the Quiet Cove Adult Pool where you can grab cocktails and refreshments.

Senses Spa and Salon  

Senses Spa and Salon is located on Deck 9 forward. This is also where you can find the fitness center. 

Below, I will include some important tips and tricks you may find useful for the pool deck!

Crowded Pools

The pools on the Disney cruise ships can get crowded. If you visit the pools during non-peak hours, it will help with the crowd levels. We like to use the pools in the morning or on port days.

That being said, we don’t really have an issue with the crowded pools. I find that if you EXPECT them to be super crowded, then you won’t be as shocked when they actually are!

Pool Floats

Pool floats are not permitted in the pools on Disney Cruise Line. However, DCL does provide swimming vests free of charge. (See photo below.)

Pool Towels

Don’t worry about packing pool towels for your cruise. Towels are readily available right on the pool deck. You do not need to sign for a towel; instead, you just grab one from a nearby stand.

Final Review of the Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pool Deck

The pool deck on each of the Disney ships is a really fun place to spend time. The entertainment, dining, and activity options on Deck 9 make it really enjoyable for the whole family! Plus, you get amazing views of the sea!

For more ideas on things to do on the Disney cruise ships, check out our post on the most fun kids activities on DCL .

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Does anyone know if there are steps in the pools. The photos show ladders everywhere but hoping there are steps as well.

I believe the really shallow pools have steps into them, but the deeper pools use ladders. Maybe another reader will be able to chime in with a more certain answer though.

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Call Toll-Free 866-972-6244

Aquaduck Water Slide

AquaDuck is an exciting “water coaster” located on Deck 12, Aft aboard the Disney Dream. Developed by Disney Imagineers, this elevated water coaster is the first of its kind at sea.

During the ride, you will:

• Travel 765 feet through an acrylic tube
• Go on a thrilling journey up, down, around and off the side of the ship, through the Forward Funnel—down a span of 4 decks!
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and ship below—assuming you’re brave enough to keep your eyes open during the ride
• Get a bird’s-eye view of the new pools available to family, kids and adults aboard the Disney Dream
• Splash into a lazy river at the end of the plunge

Riders should note that:

• AquaDuck is designed for adults and children at least 42″ or taller
• Single riders must be at least 54″ or taller
• Children under 7 must ride with someone 14 years of age or older, provided the child is at least 42″ tall
• No snorkel equipment or swim goggles are allowed in the pool

Operating hours are likely to vary, so once you’re onboard check the Personal Navigator—the Disney Cruise Line daily newsletter detailing all there is to see and do—for the most accurate times.

AquaDuck is an exciting “water coaster” located on Deck 12, Aft aboard the Disney Dream . Developed by Disney Imagineers, this elevated water coaster is the first of its kind at sea.

• Get a bird’s-eye view of the new pools available to family, kids and adults aboard the Disney Fantasy

Important Information About Swim Diapers The United States Public Health Service requires that only children who are toilet trained are permitted to enter swimming pools and spas aboard cruise ships.

Children who are not toilet trained are welcome to enjoy Nemo’s Reef and Mickey’s Splash Zone, where they must wear swim diapers. Please note, swim diapers are not permitted in the pools, the hot tubs or spas, the AquaDuck and the AquaLab.

Please note that snorkel equipment and swim goggles are not permitted in pools, hot tubs or water-play areas.

The United States Public Health Service requires that only children who are toilet trained are permitted to enter swimming pools and spas aboard cruise ships.

Call 866-972-6244

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No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

T he launch of Disney Cruise Line in 1998 was a game changer for family cruises. Now in its third decade of operation, Disney Cruise Line consistently tops the list of best cruise lines for families. And its newest ship (for now), Disney Wish , is unquestionably one of the best cruise ships for kids ever made. But Disney isn't the only major player in the family cruising space. 

A host of other cruise lines, including Carnival Cruises , Princess , Norwegian , MSC , and Royal Caribbean , have helped usher in a new era of family vacations on cruise ships with amenities like kids clubs, water parks, stage shows, theatrical dining experiences, reduced fares for young children, and even kids sail free deals . And because the best cruise ships for kids are also great for grownups , you have plenty of options when it comes to the best family cruises. 

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world

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1. Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line

The sheer volume of onboard entertainment options for families on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Wish , takes things to a whole new level. From action-packed dinner-and-a-show experiences like Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure to the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge , and Incredibles-themed inflatable obstacle course , you'll never run out of things to do. 

BIG SAVINGS: Kids sail free: 7 cruise lines with kids cruise free deals this year

Sailings on the Disney Wish also include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , which is always a highlight of any family cruise. Castaway Cay’s family beach is a great place for swimming, and you can rent bikes, kayaks, and snorkeling gear to see colorful tropical fish and perhaps even a sea turtle munching on seagrass.

2. Disney Magic

While every ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet has a claim to be among the best family cruises, the original DCL family cruise ship deserves a special mention: Disney Magic is the ship that launched Disney Cruise Line in 1998, and with DCL's constant improvements and upkeep, the ship doesn’t feel outdated at all. Pirates, princesses, superheroes, and a thrilling water slide with a three-story drop are just a few of the fun features that make this a kid-favorite ship on one of the best cruise lines for families. In 2013, Disney added the AquaDunk high-speed thrill slide and Marvel Avengers Academy kids club. In 2018, a Tangled dinner theater restaurant made its debut. 

WATER WORLDS: 50 best cruise ship water parks for kids and tweens

As one of the smaller ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, Disney Magic can be a less overwhelming experience for younger kids and first-time cruisers, especially given the trend among family cruises to be bigger and louder with every new ship. (The fabulous Disney Wonder is similarly sized.) But there's more than one reason to consider a Disney Magic voyage in 2024. This year, the ship will be the first to sail to Disney Cruise Line’s newest private island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , in the Bahamas.

3. Disney Treasure

Making its debut in December 2024, Disney Cruise Line's sixth ship will be called Disney Treasure and it will be the ship for fans of the Disney theme parks. Venues inspired by classic attractions such as the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea are among the highlights to look forward to when the ship sets sail. The sister ship of Disney Wish will also have a high-tech Worlds of Marvel dinner show and a theater-in-the-round dining experience, this time themed to Pixar’s Coco. 

CAPTAIN MICKEY: 7 best Disney cruises for families in 2024  

Disney Treasure will also feature a brand-new original Broadway-style production called "Disney The Tale of Moana" in the Walt Disney Theatre. Other shows performed on board will include "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney Seas the Adventure." Best of all, Disney Treasure will sail seven-night itineraries to both the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. That means you can enjoy two distinct dinner shows in the Worlds of Marvel and Plaza de Coco restaurants, and all of the Broadway-style shows on stage during one family cruise. 

4. Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean

A brand-new class of ship is heading to North America in 2024, and it starts with Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas in January. Among the many firsts for Icon of the Seas is the AquaDome, the largest glass and steel structure on any cruise ship, seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides, eight separate neighborhoods, 40 ways to drink and dine, four stages, and a three-level ultimate family townhouse. The innovative AquaDome is a peaceful oasis during the day and a vibrant hotspot at night with a 55-foot-tall water curtain and AquaTheater that debuts performances with divers, skateboarders, and robots. 

FAMILY CRUISES: 5 best cruise ships to entertain your teen  

Thrill-seekers will love Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides. There's also the Crown’s Edge, which is part skywalk, part ropes course, and 100 percent thrill ride where you can dangle 154 feet above the ocean. And, of course, you'll also find the Royal Caribbean staple FlowRider surf simulator and the Lost Dunes mini golf course. Those looking to take it easy should head to Chill Island, which features four pools spread over three decks with sweeping ocean views.

Fans of Royal Caribbean will enjoy the Royal Promenade with 15 restaurants, bars, and lounges; Central Park's open-air neighborhood filled with live plants and trees; and Surfside, the first neighborhood designed specifically for young families. The ship's seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean family cruises all stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay , the line’s award-winning private island. Families will find an array of activities on Perfect Day at CocoCay, such as its beaches and freshwater pool (included) and an expansive water park and zip line (available for an extra charge).

5. Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships debuted in early 2022 and instantly ignited buzz that they might be the most kid-friendly cruise ships in the entire world. At 1,188 feet long and 18 decks tall, there's plenty of room for families to spread out and find entertainment onboard the Wonder of the Seas . Two dedicated private teen spaces onboard make vacationing with teenagers a little easier. In fact, teens aged 16 and up can even enjoy a massive teens-only hot tub that literally protrudes over the edge of the ship on Wonder of the Seas' deck 15. 

SCENIC VOYAGES: Everything you need to know about river cruises in the USA

Grade school kids and even the littlest ones have it pretty great, too. For big kids, there’s an enormous multiple-deck play area called Wonder Playscape . For the youngest passengers, there's the Adventure Ocean play area full of soft toys and games for toddlers. And a playground with climbing equipment gives them a space to work off their energy. Wonder of the Seas also has the most amazing family suites around. They come complete with two levels of space, an in-suite slide, table tennis, and plenty of room for the whole family.

6. Oasis of the Seas

When it launched in 2009, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas was the largest ship in the world, accommodating more than 5,500 passengers per voyage and cementing the line's place among the best cruise lines for families. After a reimagining 10 years later, Oasis of the Seas is still a popular option for family cruises in 2024 with its Caribbean-inspired pool deck, rock climbing walls, and Perfect Storm trio of multistory waterslides. Among the many reasons that make Royal Caribbean one of the best cruise lines for families is that its Symphony of the Seas builds upon the strengths of the line’s other Oasis Class ships. 

7. Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Cruise Line

What makes Norwegian one of the best cruise lines for families? For one thing, you’ll never hear "I’m bored" from kids. And with its three-story race track, two escape rooms, The Rush and The Drop dry slides, The Wave waterslide, immersive virtual reality games, Topgolf simulator, mini golf, waterpark, splash ground, and kids’ clubs, your family’s biggest problem on the Norwegian Viva might just be deciding how to balance all the activities with quiet relaxation. 

GO ALL IN: These 6 cruise lines offer the best themed cruises

The Norwegian Viva arrived in North America in December 2023 and offers Caribbean cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico, in early 2024 before heading to Europe through November. The ship's Observation Lounge has panoramic 180-degree views to soak in the scenery or take Insta-worthy photos on Oceanwalk’s glass walkway. After playing the day away in port or on the ship, your family can enjoy dinner followed by a live performance of Beetlejuice: The Musical, based on the cult-classic Tim Burton film.

8. Carnival Panorama

Carnival Cruise Line

One of Carnival Cruise Line ’s newer ships, the Carnival Panorama 's many kid-friendly features have already made it one of the best cruises for families. The Panorama has supervised kids programs in three different age categories, a massive aqua park, the popular SkyRide aerial attraction, SkyCourse ropes course, and the first SkyZone trampoline park at sea. 

DON'T OVERPAY: How to save money on a Carnival Cruise (with or without kids)

In addition, Carnival's exclusive partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises provides "Seuss at Sea" experiences on family cruise vacations, such as Dr. Seuss Bookville, Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, and the Seuss-a-palooza Parade. Based in Los Angeles, Carnival Panorama sails week-long round-trip cruises to the Mexican Riviera in 2024.

9. Caribbean Princess

Princess Cruises

Made famous by the classic '80s TV series "The Love Boat," Princess Cruises now hosts more than two million passengers each year. Kid-friendly Caribbean Princess underwent an extensive renovation in 2017 that boosted its family offerings to include Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Center, HD Movies Under the Stars, and the Reef Family Splash Zone (the line's first splash zone at sea). 

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: 11 best outdoor movie screens for your backyard staycation

Caribbean Princess will be 20 years old in 2024, but another extensive drydock refurbishment in 2022 has kept the ship from feeling dated. Other features that earn the Caribbean Princess a spot on my list of best family cruises include its partnership with Discovery Inc. for "Discovery at SEA" activities, which feature Animal Planet and Discovery Channel programming, the Stanley the Bear experience, and JrChef@Sea cooking classes. In summer 2024, Caribbean Princess heads to Southampton for a series of European cruises before heading back to Florida.

10. MSC Meraviglia

Unless you're a hardcore cruise family, MSC Cruises might be the largest cruise line you’ve never heard of. One of the leading cruise lines in Europe, South America, and other parts of the world, MSC is working hard to get a foothold in North America by offering great deals on family cruises. These include kids ages 18 and under sailing free on select departures , and young children ages two and under always sailing free. 

FIRST-TIMERS: 19 things to know before your first cruise with kids  

Family-friendly MSC Meraviglia launched in 2017 and it features seven different kids’ clubs for children from babies to age 17. Teens have their own space with a cinema, game room, and live stage. And Meraviglia’s Polar Aquapark has three different waterslides, including a high-speed “champagne flute,” that easily make it one of the best cruises for families. Families can play together in the vast entertainment area that includes an MSC Formula One Racing Simulator, a full-sized bowling alley with two lanes, an interactive XD cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade. There’s also a Sportsplex facility for basketball, tennis, squash, volleyball, pickleball, mini golf, and five-a-side soccer.

11. MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises

The U.S. flagship of the MSC Cruises brand, MSC Seascape was designed with families in mind and offers plenty of options for onboard entertainment. The cruise line's partnership with LEGO includes a DUPLO room for children ages three to six and a second LEGO room for kids ages seven to 11 with the opportunity to earn a LEGO Master Builder certificate. Teens have three different themed areas to engage with their peers. 

BRING THE LITTLE ONES: 10 toddler-friendly vacations that are just as much fun for parents  

You have to check out Robotron on these family cruises. Robotron is a robotic arm ride that sends you 173 feet above the sea, giving you a unique 360-degree view as you're moved in different directions and flipped upside down. At night, Robotron offers a personalized DJ experience where you can curate your musical journey with colors and music preferences. 

MSC Seascape sails from Miami on the Bahamas and Caribbean family cruises, including a visit to MSC Cruises' private Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Ocean Cay features two miles of white sand beaches and a variety of family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. Some family cruises dock overnight at Ocean Cay, allowing you to watch the spectacular Lighthouse light show.

12. Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Cruises

An upscale cruise line with prices to match, Celebrity Cruises appeals to families with older children or multigenerational groups looking for luxurious family cruises. Celebrity Equinox is not the newest ship in the line (its inaugural sailing was in 2009), but this kid-friendly cruise ship received an extensive overhaul as part of the "Celebrity Revolution" in 2019 and continues to impress with its family cruises in 2024. 

COUPLES CRUISES: 7 best cruise lines for couples (and their most romantic voyages)  

Celebrity's Camp at Sea kids' program offers a diverse and constantly changing series of activities so that it’s "never the same camp twice." And Celebrity Equinox partners with Miami’s Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to offer STEM programming on topics such as the importance of plankton to the Earth’s oceans. Other kid-friendly activities on Celebrity’s family cruises include hot glass blowing classes and demonstrations, as well as lawn games such as croquet and bocce on the real grass of the Lawn Club.

7 great cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships) originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 13 cheap family vacations that are super fun
• 50 best family vacation ideas for all ages
• 25 best family vacation spots in the U.S.

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. FamilyVacationist covers family vacation ideas ; family vacation spots ; all-inclusive family resorts ; and must-have travel accessories for families. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024