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Live Stage Shows

List of Past and Present Disney Cruise Line’s Broadway-caliber, Disney-themed live shows.  These shows are performed aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, and the Disney Fantasy in the Walt Disney Theatre.  Some live stage shows are available on multiple ships.  If you cannot make the show, check your stateroom TV guide for viewing in your stateroom.

During longer itineraries the Walt Disney Theatre will play host to guest performers or screen one of Disney’s latest theatrical release movies .

Current Disney Cruise Line Shows

Retired disney cruise line shows.

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56 Replies to “Live Stage Shows”

I wonder if they would ever consider re-running a retired show? We saw Hercules: The Muse-ical on our first two sailings and loved it!

I only saw Hercules once, but a revised Muppet show would be a great idea for an opening night variety show. It would be easy to plug in the special guests such as Knight Magic.

Remember the Magic also plays on the Wonder on some itineraries.

How often do the live show itineraries change? We are thinking of booking our second cruise on the fantasy but are hesitant only because the live show schedule appears to be the same as it was almost 2 years ago? Does it ever change? Thanks so much for your input!

They do change, but not very often. Pending any drastic shakeup your cruise will have the same shows.

We’ve cruised on the Disney Fantasy 3 times (2012 & 2014 & 2016) and have seen the same shows everytime. We are cruising on the Fantasy again in 2020 and would love to see something new but expect to see the same.

The Fantasy has the new Aladdin musical! It’s great 😀

It does change from time to time, but they add new segments and it normally takes the shows to the next level.

Do you have to reserve seats at the shows on the Dream? Is there a charge? Do you have to get there like an hour early and stand in line?

Cindy, You do not need to reserve seats or a showtime. The live shows are included in the price of the cruise. Lines do form prior to the show as seats are first come first serve and saving of seats is discouraged.

I was just on the fantasy january 25-1 and loved aladdin and wishes but I can’t find a cast list anywhere I would love to know who the actors are.

Is Walt Disney: The Dream Goes On only on longer cruises? If so which length of cruise.

Does anyone know what order the shows play in on a 4 night cruise? We’re trying to schedule Remy, but I really want to see the Villains show.

Jen, Check out a set of Personal Navigators from the Disney Dream.

The Villians show on the Dream was the BEST show we saw on our cruise! The cast member who played Hades when we were there was so amazing!

I hear that they have special shows during the Holidays. Is this true or is it just the movie selection?

They have special events in the Atrium such as King Triton’s Tree lighting .

Any idea how often they replace the shows? I have friends who were on the Wonder in 10/13 and want to do an Alaskan cruise this summer, but are afraid the shows will be exactly the same..

Mindy, the shows, as a whole, do not change that much.

Do You have an estimate of how large the total cast of a play would be?

I believe the number is about 20.

thanks. Is that per play or does the same crew work on every play?

Same cast for all the shows.

33 where on the wonder in april according to the peter cruise director

We are sailing for the 3rd time on the Disney Fantasy summer 2016. Do you think there will be any new shows by then? We saw the same ones summer 2014 that we saw summer 2012. They are great but would like to see something new.

I would not expect any new shows on the Fantasy for next summer.

I agree, it’s time for something new. We skipped all the shows this past November. 3 times on the Fantasy and no new shows. The only way to see something new is to switch ships but then the problem for me is that the the spas are outdated and I love and need the Rainforest….uggg So I am going to bite the bullet and go on the Magic next to see Tangled. Thankfully I love to hang out in Keys.

Since the ships are usually running 7 days a week, the turn around in the home port is too short to uninstall an old show and install a new one. As a result if the ship has not entered a dry dock situation since your last cruise, it is highly unlikely for the shows to have changed.

Any chance the Tangled show will ever be brought to a different ship? We are hoping to go late Spring 2017 but so far it looks like the Magic is only sailing out of San Juan! 🙁 We were hoping to do Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral.

It was said during the DCL Parks Blog event that they are attempting to keep things varied across the fleet rather than duplicating shows on each ship, to help keep things fresh for repeat guests.

Any chance I can find out the time and schedule of each show? so far my search turned up nothing? I need to know the times to schedule dinner on Fantasy cruise 7 night East carib.

There are two show times each night opposite Main and Late dinning times. On some sailings there are even matinee showings.

Anyone know the running time of the shows? I mean the actual start to finish each evening?

The shows vary, but they are about 45 minutes to an hour in length.

On the Dream, 3-night cruise, do you get all 3 shows? {Believe, Golden Mickey’s, Villains Tonight}

Does the Wonder ship has more than one show as well? We are currently on a waiting list for early dining and we are hoping we don’t miss the shows. We sail Friday after Thanksgiving 2016. Thank you!

Fara, there are two dinner seatings. If you have main dining your show time will be after dinner. If you have late dinner, you will go to a show then eat. You will not miss them due to the dinner seating time.

Thank you! I can stop worrying now,?

One more question (you hope). Do we have to make reservations on any particular activity like character breakfast or pictures with the different characters?

There are a few meet and greet experiences and possibly a character breakfast depending on your ship/itinerary. DCL recently added online reservations for some of these, but as of now still offer onboard reservations on embarkation day. Check your Navigator if you do not pre-book online.

Thank you!?

Scott, any thoughts on which shows will be on the 3-night Fantasy sailing 5/17/17? Has anything been published as to any show changes during the dry dock?

Mark, I would guess the 3 main shows will play; Aladdin, Wishes and Believe.

I’m so upset that they will be replacing ‘Villains Tonight’ with ‘Beauty and The Beast’. Nothing against the latter but ‘Villains Tonight’ is so good and funny! Thankfully, we’ll be going on Halloween on the High Seas this year to see it one last time. (Rather they had replaced the Golden Mickey’s, lol).

Scott, I know that Villains Tonight! has already ended but what is now showing in place of it till the new Beauty and the Beast show debuts? Haven’t seen any current Navigators. Thanks!

On the last 3-night the film, Disney’s Newsies The Broadway Musical was shown in place of Villains Tonight!

We are just trying to book a few things and want to be available for the shows. What times are the shows normally at? Is there anywhere that I can find a schedule. We are going Jan 6, 2018 on Fantasy !!

You can find links to previous Personal Navigators for your sailing on this page . Based on the latest navigators, showtimes on the Fantasy have been 6:15 and 8:30.

Hello, it’s Marcus again, I just want to say that my 2008 navigators have the show: “Remember the Magic: A Final Farewell”, and I was wondering if that show is still playing on the Magic/Wonder. Could you please help me on this one?

Are there any rumors on the dreamvine of the Wonder being pixie dusted with a new show? Dreams is already 15 years old, and the Golden Mickeys is nearly 20. My wife and I will be on the Wonder next Spring for an Alaskan cruise. When or how long in advance would they announce upcoming changes? It seems that quite a few were changed out after just 5 to 8 years.

DCL went through a period of making a unique, single franchise production for each ship. Tangled, Frozen, Beauty & the Beast, and to a lesser extent Aladdin. I recently heard some rumblings of a Toy Story something, but nothing that points directly to a stage production.

Hey Scott, if you have any connections pass on this idea to the imagineers. Replace the Dreams stage show onboard the Wonder and the Twice Charmed show on the Magic with a Star Wars and Marvel stage shows (different show on each). But let each one come with a twist where the World of Disney Magic (characters) help save the day in their respective universes. This could give a continual draw of Marvel and Star Wars fans to the cruise line beyond the special sailings, and at the same time let the fans of all three Worlds (Disney, Marvel, Star Wars) enjoy a crossover event. I love crossover tv episodes; why not stage shows.

With the extended shutdown due to Covid, are there any rumors about new stage shows, the same ones, or will they be put on hiatus like the parks? My wife and I have a sailing coming up in February, and we’re just curious as to what to expect.

There’s a show missing, I believe fully retired and only shown a few times. “When Mickey Dreams”, debuted for the EBTA in 2007 and shown on Med cruises, then again on the WBPC in 2008. Can’t find any reference to it existing outside of that.

I did find a reference in an old press release. I added a page for When Mickey Dreams .

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The Ultimate Guide to Shows on Disney Cruise Line

By Kayleigh Henniger Leave a Comment

If setting sail with Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is one of your favorite things to do, or if you’re hoping to experience it for the first time, this post is for you! 

Disney Wish

For a first-timer, it might seem that the Disney Cruises would have less to do and experience compared to the parks. While, no, you won’t be soaring at nearly 60 miles per hour on a roller coaster, or taking photos in front of a castle, there are plenty of shows, snacks, character meet and greets, and activities — so many, in fact, that you’ll find that there simply isn’t enough time to complete everything! A fan-favorite experience on these ships is watching the shows that take place aboard. If your idea of fun includes sitting in a crowd and watching a themed show or spectacular be performed in front of you, then keep reading.

This post is going to serve as your ultimate guide to shows on DCL. Typically, there are two different showings of each show or musical per day — one that accommodates guests from each of the two dining times. However, for a brand-new, popular musical, there might also be an additional showing earlier in the day. (Back in the pandemic days, DCL actually limited the number of specific shows playing, with more times added to allow for distancing!)

Schedules are always subject to change, so it’s important to check the Daily Navigator or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for specifics on available shows, dates, and times. Shows are typically around an hour long, so you’ll still have plenty of time to fit in other activities and experiences throughout the evening. Now, without further ado, let’s first talk about the different theaters available aboard DCL.

Walt Disney Theatre

The Walt Disney Theatre is aboard the Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, and Wish ships. The theatre decor resembles that of vintage movie houses, yet the shows on stage include modern technology.

Walt Disney Theater

The theatre is adorned with Art Deco and Art Nouveau flourishes from the 1930s and 1940s. This luxurious theatre was designed to handle complex, modern productions.

Buena Vista Theatre

The Buena Vista Theatre is inspired by the golden age of cinema — boasting Art Deco-inspired decor throughout. You’ll find it aboard the Magic, Wonder, Dream, and Fantasy.

The theatre showcases first-run films as well as popular motion-picture releases and classic Disney films!

Wonderland and Neverland Cinema

Specific to the Disney Wish, these cinemas are themed to popular classic Disney films. Wonderland is a woodland-themed theater themed to  Alice in Wonderland, while Neverland is inspired by Peter Pan’s flight from London to Neverland.

Wonderland Cinema

Combined, these cinemas seat 170 guests and are more intimate theatres. Here, visitors can catch glimpses of modern films.

Now that we’ve gotten to take a look at the theatres aboard Disney Cruise Line, it’s time for the fun part! The shows! Below, you’ll find a list of some of the live shows you can see on your cruise.

Shows Aboard the Disney Magic

Disney Magic

Tangled: The Musical

Tangled: The Musical features three new songs not in the original film and includes a beautiful set and costumes. There are even some puppets that help bring the characters to life!

Disney Dreams

Disney Dreams  is about a young girl who learns to believe in herself as she is visited by beloved characters like Peter Pan, Mickey, and Minnie. This is a really cute story and it can be fun to see scenes from so many popular musicals in one show.

Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story

Twice Charmed  is a version of Cinderella  that takes place in an alternate world where the glass slipper is destroyed before Cinderella can try it on.

Shows Aboard the Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wonder

Frozen: A Musical Spectacular

Frozen: A Musical Spectacular  utilizes projectors, puppets, costumes, and more to showcase the kingdom of Arendelle. The musical includes popular songs from the first  Frozen  movie, including “Let It Go,” as well as snow falling down on the theatre!

The Golden Mickeys

The Golden Mickeys  starts out with a shy stage manager having to fill in for a non-show host, so it follows the “believe in yourself” theme woven into many Disney movies and shows. There are awards given for various categories and the show includes performances from popular Disney movies including  The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Tarzan, and Mulan. 

Disney Dreams  is about a young girl who learns to believe in herself as she is visited by beloved characters like Peter Pan, Mickey, and Minnie. This is a really cute story and it can be fun to see scenes from so many popular musicals in one show. Yep, this is the same one that appears aboard the Disney Magic!

Shows Aboard the Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy

Disney’s Believe

Believe Is about a botanist dad who doesn’t believe in magic, while his young daughter does. When he forgets her birthday because he’s focused on growing his plants, she makes a birthday wish for him to believe.

Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular

This musical showing of  Aladdin  showcases the music, characters, and theming of the original Aladdin  movie, while also showcasing some newer technology.

Shows Aboard The Disney Dream

Disney Dream

Beauty and the Beast

This take on the classic film includes giant LED walls and projections that help set up the stage. The images on the screen work as the set design and background — helping you to feel as though you’re transformed into the show.

Shows Aboard the Disney Wish

Disney Wish docked at Castaway Cay

Disney Seas the Adventure

This live stage show features a procession of characters from some all-time favorite Disney adventurous classics!

The Little Mermaid

This theatrical production of  The Little Mermaid  includes innovative design and immersive special effects that will transport you into the story.

Well, there you have it! Those are all the theaters and shows that you can check out while aboard your Disney cruise. Don’t forget to also check the Disney Navigator for the times of the Deck Shows during your cruise — which feature some fan-favorite characters as well. Make sure to follow along for more Disney news, reviews, and updates — DCL things included.

What characters can you spot on Disney’s private island? Click here!

What you need to know about disney cruise line, learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Have you ever been on a Disney cruise? Let us know in the comments!

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Stage Show Entertainment on the Disney Wish – What You Need to Know

The Disney Wish, like all Disney Cruise Line ships, presents a lineup of world-class entertainment experiences that immerse families in their favorite Disney stories like never before. The combination of innovative new venue concepts and evolutionary storytelling techniques sets the stage for original productions, guest-favorite shows, and brand-new experiences for the entire family to enjoy.

The fifth ship in Disney’s fleet debuts two original stage spectaculars in its state-of-the-art Walt Disney Theatre: an innovative, Broadway-style take on Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid” and an embarkation day celebration helmed by Captain Minnie, Goofy, and an all-star cast of Disney and Pixar characters. Learn more about stage show entertainment on the Disney Wish below.

1 – Stunning Stage Shows at the Walt Disney Theatre

A hallmark of the Disney Cruise Line experience is the unparalleled live entertainment performed in the Walt Disney Theatre. On the Disney Wish, this elegant 1,274-seat show palace evokes an enchanted forest inspired by scenes from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Fantasia,” with orchestra and balcony seating spanning three decks. The theater is equipped with state-of-the-art production equipment, including the most robust projection mapping capabilities of any Disney ship and a Dolby Atmos 3D audio system — a first for the cruise industry — to create a transformative theatrical experience rivaling anything on land or at sea.

2 – An Embarkation Celebration — ‘Disney Seas the Adventure’

On their first night aboard this enchanted ship, Disney Wish guests embark on a musical voyage into some of their favorite stories during an original musical spectacular, “Disney Seas the Adventure.” When Captain Minnie hands over the helm to her dear friend Goofy, he sets sail into uncharted waters on a journey to discover his own inner captain.

Along the way, Goofy encounters a bevy of bold, brave, brilliant Disney and Pixar friends who encourage him to lead with his heart through rousing renditions of iconic Disney songs.

• Tiana teaches Goofy the power of hard work to make a dream come true during a lively performance of “Almost There” from Disney Animation’s “The Princess and the Frog.”
• Goofy navigates the big ocean blue, where Crush and Squirt — the tubular turtles from Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” — show him how to “Go with the Flow.”
• In an original arrangement exclusive to this show, heroines Elsa, Moana and Merida perform a powerful medley of “Into the Unknown,” “How Far I’ll Go” and “Touch the Sky.”
• When Goofy loses his way and self-doubt takes hold once again, he gains the courage to “Go the Distance” with the help of Hercules and a host of heroes from a variety of Disney films.

The adventure culminates in a cavalcade of characters joining Captain Minnie and Goofy on stage during a fond farewell before leading guests out of the theater and into the Grand Hall for an unforgettable sendoff experience — the ultimate “kiss goodnight” to close guests’ first day on board.

We got a sneak peek at this show during our cruise, and we all loved it. The cast’s talent was incredible, and we were all so blown away. I’m always amazed at the level of talent of the cast on Disney Cruise Line. The broadway-style shows are one of my favorite things about cruising on Disney Cruise Line, and on the Disney Wish, Disney does not disappoint. The cast and the inspiring story are a fantastic way to start your cruise. Don’t miss this show!

3 – A Treasure Retold — ‘Disney The Little Mermaid’

“Disney The Little Mermaid” is an original Broadway-style stage adaptation of the renowned 1989 Disney Animation film, developed exclusively for the Disney Wish. During this one-of-a-kind theatrical production, audiences rediscover the iconic scenes, acclaimed music and indelible characters of “The Little Mermaid” while experiencing the story like never before.

In this modern-day retelling, the curtain rises on an enchanted treasure chest at the moment it is discovered by a group of storytellers, led by a special young woman who has the power to unlock its magic. As they uncover the whozits and whatzits galore hidden within the trunk, the storytellers take on the roles of Ariel, Ursula, Prince Eric, Sebastian, Flounder and more, bringing to life the immersive undersea world right before guests’ eyes. These exemplary performers put their own contemporary spin on the timeless story of a young woman’s search for independence, love and a place in the world.

The creative minds at Disney Cruise Line joined forces with a team of top Broadway talent to bring this treasured tale to life through an elaborate, whimsical and resonant storytelling experience offering audiences a brand-new way to be part of Ariel’s world.

“Disney The Little Mermaid” features innovative theatrical design, dazzling special effects, artistic choreography, and a reimagined script and score full of surprises for guests of all ages.

• New orchestrations of favorite songs like “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Under the Sea” enchant audiences with moving ensemble pieces and production numbers.
• Unexpectedly playful scenic designs and state-of-the-art video projections transform the Walt Disney Theatre into a 360-degree undersea environment.
• Contemporary, interpretive costuming reflects the show’s special blend of modern setting and mystical story.
• Cutting-edge puppetry animates fantastical sea creatures and characters such as Sebastian, Flounder, Scuttle, and Flotsam and Jetsam in never-before-seen ways.

“‘The Little Mermaid’ is a timeless story, one that transcends generations,” said Shelby Jiggetts-Tivony, vice president, creative and advanced development, Disney Live Entertainment. “Our hope is that this new stage adaptation aboard the Disney Wish continues that incredible legacy, not by simply reenacting the elements that make the original film so powerful, but by reinterpreting it in a way that resonates with the audience sitting in the theater each night.”

We were also fortunate to get a sneak peek at this show during our cruise and saw a few numbers performed. Once again, we were blown away by the talent. The puppetry is very similar to what you see with “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The way the puppets and the cast perform really adds to the story. The updated songs are familiar, yet the updated arrangements help make this a new and memorable experience for the audience. While we didn’t see the entire show, we were super impressed with what we did see. We hope to see the entire show on another cruise on the Disney Wish!

4 – A Reimagined Favorite: ‘Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular’

The Disney Wish will also feature a reimagined adaptation of “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular,” a guest- favorite show from across the fleet. This fast-paced musical comedy is based on the classic Disney Animation tale of Aladdin meeting the Genie, battling the evil Jafar and falling in love with Princess Jasmine.

Iconic scenes and songs from the movie are being re-created on stage with brand-new sets and theater-filling projection design developed exclusively for the Disney Wish. Highlights include a lively, Las Vegas-style rendition of “Friend Like Me,” a heartfelt performance of “A Whole New World” atop a flying magic carpet; and a solo performance for Jasmine titled “To Be Free,” created for Disney Cruise Line by Grammy Award-winning composer Alan Menken.

5 – The Disney Wish

The Disney Wish offers three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Florida.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, call our travel partners, Magical Vacation Planners, at (407) 442-0227. You can also get a no-obligation, FREE vacation quote by clicking here .  Their services are free to you, and they can answer any questions you may have.

Editor’s Note: Disney Cruise Line provided a complimentary Disney Christening Cruise with special media-specific events and tours during the cruise. However, as always, the thoughts and opinions contained in this article are entirely our own.

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

Chad & Cindy Nykamp

Your Guide to the Entertainment on the Disney Wish

by Kelly Coffey-Behrens | Nov 29, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Wish

We’re sharing your guide to all of the Disney Wish entertainment available onboard, including Broadway-style shows, movies, and more.

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide variety of experiences for those onboard. From Broadway-style shows to fun-filled deck parties, there is always something for Guests of all ages. On Disney’s newest ship, the Disney Wish , voyagers can experience some entertainment offerings that cannot be found on any other Disney Cruise Line ship.

Disney Wish Entertainment

In this guide, we will touch base on every entertainment offering on the Disney Wish, and what Guests should expect before embarking on your Disney Cruise Line vacation.

The Sail Away Party

Every Disney Cruise Line ship has a Sail Away party that marks the moment your vacation begins! As the ship prepares to leave the port, join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, and the rest of the gang as they put on a fun-filled show. The Fairy Godmother then encourages everyone to wave their magic wands before counting down for the ship’s horn playing the notes from “When You Wish Upon a Star” and leaving your Port of Call.

Photo by Danny Shuster

This is the perfect way to start your Disney Cruise Line vacation. The party does get busy as it is the only Sail Away party offered during your cruise, so make sure to get onto the pool decks as early as possible. (Pro tip: Instead of watching the Sail Away party from the pool deck, go up one more level and watch from the balcony. It usually does not get as crowded up top, plus you can see everything from a bird’s eye view rather than trying to watch over other people’s heads.)

Seas the Adventure

Taking place in the Walt Disney Theatre, this original Broadway-style show takes Guests on a magical journey as Captain Minnie puts Goofy in charge so that he can find his own inner captain. Sail in uncharted waters as Goofy finds beloved Disney characters to help him learn about all the characteristics that make for a great captain.

First, Goofy visits Tiana from The Princess and the Frog , who teaches him the power of making dreams come true through hard work. Of course, the lesson would not be complete without a performance of Tiana’s hit, “Almost There.” Next, it’s time to “Go with the Flow” with Crush and Squirt – the tubular turtles from Finding Nemo .

But what makes this show so special is that it includes an original arrangement exclusive to ‘Seas the Adventure.’, Watch Elsa, Moana, and Merida come together to perform a powerful medley of “Into the Unknown,” “How Far I’ll Go” and “Touch the Sky” from their respective films.

Photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Goofy ends up losing his way as he goes “Into the Unknown,” where self-doubt starts to take over. Luckily, he runs into Hercules and other Disney heroes who help Goofy gain the courage to “Go the Distance.”  

Of course, a Disney show wouldn’t be complete without a powerful finale. Disney characters will come out and join Captain Minnie and Goofy on stage before they lead Guests out of the Walt Disney Theatre and into the Grand Hall for an unforgettable experience—the ultimate “kiss goodnight” (exclusive to the Disney Wish.)

Kiss Goodnight

Occurring every evening at 10 PM, 11 PM, and 12 AM, Guests can gather in the lobby atrium where they will hear Cinderella’s classic song, “So This Is Love,” beautifully sung by Ilene Woods. 

Lights will then illuminate the ceiling along with the music. The iconic chandelier will twinkle overhead as Guests watch up in amazement. The entire atrium brings in shades of blue and white, fit perfectly for Cinderella, which also provides a soothing atmosphere as they change to the music.

But when the clock strikes “midnight,” Guests will hear the chimes to bring the feeling that the night has come to an end. Cinderella’s voice then comes over the speakers and says it is almost midnight. The lights continue to light up the walls and ceiling, as the music then fades out. Although this version of the Kiss Goodnight is a very short experience, it is one of the most magical experiences aboard the Disney Wish.

The Little Mermaid

Another one of the Broadway-style shows will take Guests under the sea as they watch a stunning performance of Disney’s animated classic  The Little Mermaid . Get ready to rediscover the adventure, music, and magic of the classic 1989 film thanks to this Broadway-style production, which was developed exclusively for the Disney Wish!

Dive under the sea for a one-of-a-kind adaptation of the Disney animated classic The Little Mermaid , featuring everyone’s favorite mermaid, Ariel. The retelling of this Disney classic begins after a group of storytellers finds an enchanted treasure chest. They look through the chest and discover the whozits and whatzits within, which is when the story of The Little Mermaid comes to life.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

The red-headed mermaid will take Guests along as she explores the forbidden shore above. Of course, she falls in love with a human prince, Prince Eric. Just like in the movie, Ariel gives up her voice to the sea witch, Ursula, as she makes a deal to get human legs. But, unless she and the prince can share a true love’s kiss before the sun sets in 3 days, Ariel will have to serve the sea witch forever. 

Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular

The last Broadway-style show offered on the Disney Wish is Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Just like the Little Mermaid  show, Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular takes Guests into the animated classic for a retelling of the story of Disney’s “Aladdin.”

The show opens in the iconic Cave of Wonders as the audience sees Jafar thinking of a plan in order to get his hands on the magic lamp that lies within. He must find the “diamond in the rough” – Aladdin, a so-called street rat who has fallen for Princess Jasmine.

Jafar tricks Aladdin into entering the Cave of Wonders to obtain the magic lamp, which is where he meets Genie, who grants him three wishes since he is the one who rubbed the lamp. This show-stopping rendition of Aladdin will have the audience clapping and singing along to some of the iconic songs from the film before leaving the Walt Disney Theater smiling from ear to ear.

Book Your Trip on Disney Cruise Line

If you’re looking to book a vacation on one of the many Disney Cruise Line ships, we recommend doing so through our partners at Destinations to Travel. They’ll provide you with a free quote and help plan out your trip to make it as magical as possible.

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What to Expect on a Disney Cruise: A First-Timer’s Guide

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

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What’s it like to go on a Disney cruise? I’ll tell you. But first I should disclose that I’m not indifferent about Disney. As you might gather from some of my previous pieces ( here , here , and here ), I’m kind of a fangirl nerd about most of what Disney produces.

I grew up in Southern California, so my parents took me to Disneyland often. The night before we’d leave, there was always that delicious, uncontainable feeling that made sleep impossible. I suspect I’m not alone in having felt that as a kid. (I might be more alone in still feeling that way now as an adult.)

So when my husband and I decided to burn vacation days by taking our three-year-old daughter on a Disney cruise for four nights, I was kid-on-Christmas-Eve excited. And I thought I had a sense of what to expect on a Disney cruise. Once onboard, though, I realized I wasn’t quite prepared for the full spectrum of what it’s like to travel via Disney Cruise Line.

Before our cruise, I’d scrolled blogs upon blogs devoted to Disney Cruise tips and hacks. But I found that most of these sites assume that their readers are repeat Disney cruisers looking to refine their travel skills. It wasn’t easy to find a primer on the basics for those uninitiated to cruising with Disney. So here you go.

Disney Cruise Ships and Itineraries

We sailed on the Disney Wonder, but if you book a Disney cruise, you may well end up on the Disney Magic, Disney Dream, or Disney Fantasy. (A fifth Disney Cruise Line ship will be added in 2021; a sixth in 2023.)

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships, having debuted in 1998 and 1999, respectively—although the Disney Wonder is fresh from an intensive 55-day dry-dock renovation, which transformed many of its spaces and made everything aboard feel brand-new. These 83,000-tonners are Disney Cruise Line’s “classic,” smaller boats, with 10 floors and 875 rooms. Each carries 2,713 passengers, though during our four-nighter in mid-November, there were about 2,600, a third of which were kids. Also onboard: 950 Disney Cruise Line employees seeing to it that everybody gets their money’s worth.

Disney’s newer cruise ships, the Disney Dream (2011) and Disney Fantasy (2012) are 130,000-ton vessels with 1,250 rooms that hold up to 4,000 travelers.

The Disney Cruise fleet’s four ships all offer themed family restaurants, live shows, deck parties, elaborate kids’ spaces, character appearances, at-sea fireworks, and more that feels familiar from Disney cruise ship to Disney cruise ship.

“However,” says Jennifer Haile-Tinn, a Disney spokesperson, “each ship is like a new adventure for our guests. Only on the Disney Wonder can kids train alongside their favorite superheroes in the Marvel Super Hero Academy. There are also special entertainment offerings that can only be found on certain ships, such as Frozen, A Musical Spectacular , which is exclusive to the Disney Wonder. ” Other one-ship Disney Cruise Line exclusives include the Aladdin show on the Disney Fantasy, a villain-themed show on the Disney Dream, and “Tangled: The Musical” on the Disney Magic.

There are also stylistic differences from cruise ship to cruise ship—the Disney Fantasy, for example, incorporates Art Nouveau details throughout, while the Disney Dream is more Art Deco.

When choosing your Disney voyage, though, the port stops will likely be your main variables. As Haile-Tinn points out, “Each ship has unique itineraries that allow guests to explore iconic destinations like Norway and Alaska.” The Disney Wonder traverses the Pacific coast—Mexico, California, and Alaska, as well as the Panama Canal. (Our trip made a single stop in Cozumel).

View this post on Instagram Today @disneycruiseline's Wonder ship is docked in the azure waters of sunny Cozumel, Mexico. A post shared by SmarterTravel (@smartertravel) on Nov 12, 2016 at 1:13pm PST

The Disney Magic makes transatlantic crossings and goes into Canada and Europe, including through fjords to see the northern lights. All four Disney cruise ships buzz around the Caribbean, with some itineraries stopping at Castaway Cay, Disney’s Bahamian private island. The Europe and Alaska itineraries have more adults aboard, while the Caribbean jaunts attract more families with kids. Each port stop comes with a big menu of shore excursions (starting around $50 per person), which should be reserved well in advance.

Disney Cruises: Onboard Activities

There’s enough to do aboard a Disney cruise to keep everyone entertained from early in the morning until late at night. So much to do, in fact, that you’ll have to make choices about what to attend and what to give up.

Laid upon your bed each evening, beside the chocolates, is a TV Guide -style sheet called the “ Personal Navigator ,” which lets you plan the following day in detail. (The same timeline is also available on the Disney Cruise Line official app .)

First up is the “Adventures Away” party—after you check out your stateroom and attend a mandatory assembly drill, you head up to the top deck for a high-energy bon voyage celebration, starring Mickey, Minnie, and friends.  Then, for the remainder of the cruise, you’re constantly choosing from a long list of activities.

There are character greetings around the boat (wait time in line: about 30 minutes). There are free, first-run movie screenings at the theaters. There’s an outdoor splash zone and swimming pool (Disney movies play on the huge screen above), plus a huge waterslide—worth it especially for the exhilarating view from the top—and a top-floor gym, which also affords a wide-ocean view. You can get a spa treatment, play Bingo, or make crafts. You can take your kids to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where they get transformed into princesses and pirates (princess packages start at $65). Or you can send them off to the kids’ clubs while you enjoy the nightlife at After Hours, the stylish and boozy adult district.

You can also, of course, eat.

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Food on Disney Cruises

All meals are included in your Disney cruise fare, unless you choose to dine at Palo or Remy, adults-only restaurants where a dress code is enforced, reservations are a must, servers are experts, and food is a step up.

At the other Disney cruise restaurants, the attire and cuisine are more casual. There are more than enough menu options for kids, and vegetarians won’t have a hard time either. As is the case throughout this experience, there really is something for everyone on a Disney cruise. You won’t have strangers at your table, just your own party, but you do tend to be seated near the same people each time you dine, so conversation with neighbors becomes inevitable.

Our first restaurant experience on the Disney Wonder was at a new restaurant called Tiana’s Place, based on The Princess and the Frog, a movie in which Tiana dreams of opening a restaurant in Louisiana. “Tiana’s Place transports guests to New Orleans,” says Ozer Balli, the cruise line’s Vice President of Hotel Operations. “We have a grand tradition of transforming our stories into real life.”

Indeed. Princess Tiana herself visits each table to greet her guests as they enjoy Cajun and Creole entrees (for dessert: pillowy beignets) while a talented quartet jazzes up familiar tunes. The rollicking finale is a joyful parade during which kids and staff march through the dining room as they clap, don Mardi Gras beads, play toy instruments, spin umbrellas, and belt out Disney songs.

Another impressive restaurant, called Animator’s Palate, is a tech-driven shrine to Disney’s drawn history. Screens all around the dining room bring to life how pencil sketches turned into movie gold. You’re assigned to draw a character on your placemat, then hand it to your server. Soon thereafter, your drawing, alongside those of your fellow diners, gets animated into a truly magical on-screen mashup.

For breakfast and lunch, there are big buffets available, as well as specialty stands that serve pizza, gyros, ice cream, and whatnot. It’s all you can eat, all day long. And yes, it’s all included.

There are two dinnertime options: 5:45 p.m. or 8:00 p.m.—you pick before you get on the boat. Then it’s the same each night, and you’re expected to be punctual.

If you’d rather skip the dining room, though, or if you get hungry in the middle of the night, room service is included, too, and you can order as much as you want without being charged extra. This was one of my favorite onboard luxuries.

The Rooms on Disney Cruise Ships

Our accommodations were bigger than expected, with an extraordinarily comfortable platform bed. Seriously, I haven’t slept that well in ages. It may have been the ship’s gentle rocking that lulled me to sleep so quickly, or maybe it was the melty-soft bedding, but whatever the trick, man, I want that at home.

The best part of our room, though, was our glassed-in balcony, where we sat with drinks and watched the ocean go by. We saw dolphins, tugboats, oil rigs, rain, birds, Mexico, clouds, and sunsets. Our hours on the balcony were beautiful—by far the most tranquil part of our Disney cruise.

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Our room had enough space for all three of us to hang out, sleep, bathe, and store our luggage. Though not huge, we never felt cramped, thanks to the clever layout and a few key features: While you have dinner, your room attendant turns the couch into a comfy kid’s bed and adds a guard rail.

We kind of fell in love with our room attendant, actually. Every night he’d leave little gifts on our bed—Mickey bandannas for the pirate party one night, Ghirardelli squares the next—and every night, he’d fold our towels into amusing figures. But more than the stuff he left and the diligent care he took of our room, he was genuinely kind, sincere, and a very hard worker. My daughter still talks about “Mr. Bhong”—he became as cherished to her as the Disney characters.

(Side note: Bhong is Filipino, and it’s hard not to notice that the onboard staff makes for a real-life version of Disney’s “It’s a Small World” ride. Unless you visit U.N. headquarters, you’ll never meet so many people from so many different countries in one place. All of them wear their country of origin on their name tag, and they’re very likely to talk about where they’re from. When I asked Balli whether it’s intentional that the crew members are so international, he replied, simply: “We have the opportunity to go around the world and find the best talent with the most passion for our product.”)

The onboard Wi-Fi in the room is not free—more on that later—but there is a nice-sized TV that runs a 24-hour Disney movie marathon on nearly every channel.

In the hallway, many of your neighbors will have decorated their doors with their favorite Disney characters. (There are printables online , and a cottage industry that deals in door decorations for Disney cruises.) We didn’t come prepared for this onboard tradition, but it was cute to watch my daughter develop the belief that behind each decorated door lived the characters on it.

Disney Cruise Shows

Twice nightly in the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre, performers on the verge of Broadway put on fantastic stage extravaganzas, and there’s a new show to see each night. You don’t need to reserve a ticket or pay anything extra—just show up and grab a seat at any of the Disney cruise shows.

In November, “Frozen, a Musical Spectacular” debuted on the Disney Wonder. It really is a spectacular interpretation of the smash-hit movie, with plenty of wow moments and special effects that inspire the audience to break into applause mid-song. The most notable one is during Elsa’s rendition of “Let It Go,” when she transforms, right onstage, from the reined-in princess to the glittery-blue queen while reclaiming her own power. It’s hard not to get swept up while watching—my little one’s mouth was open the entire time.

We also saw “Disney Dreams,” a heartfelt Disney cruise show that uses special effects—and its singers’ prodigious talents—to whisk us into favorite Disney scenes and songs. At one point, there’s the theater-wide illusion that Tinkerbell has covered the entire boat in pixie dust.

And during “The Golden Mickeys,” the loose plot is that a clumsy stage manager learns to believe in herself to become the star of the show—a positive message packed, again, with Disney friends, plus an on-screen appearance by Disney CEO Bob Iger.

Note that Disney cruise shows aren’t necessarily the same across boats, so if there’s one you have your heart set on seeing, make sure you’re choosing the right ship .

Kids’ Areas on Disney Cruise Ships

Whichever Disney cruise ship you’re on, there will be several places where you can drop your children off to be supervised by attentive camp-counselor types while they (and you) have fun.

Aboard the Disney Wonder, we left our three-year-old at the Oceaneer Club ($9 per hour) while we dined at Palo. I worried about her during our meal but when I picked her up, she was absorbed in an art project and wouldn’t leave until she was finished. After that, she kept asking us to take her back to the kids’ area.

There’s no mystery as to why children love these spaces: Disney Cruise Line’s creative professionals invested many months of thought and work into making each room magical. As Theron Skees, the project’s lead Imagineer, put it, “We created the spaces to immerse kids in stories. The idea that we can add story into everything we do is really exciting.”

This means that popular characters like Elsa, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, and Black Widow interact with the kids in settings inspired by those characters’ films and shows. On the Disney Wonder, there’s the Wandering Oaken trading post from Frozen, Andy’s colorful playroom from Toy Story , a Marvel-themed Super Hero Academy, and a “navigation center” where kids can feel like they’re steering the ship. Basically, kids playing on Disney cruises will feel as though they’ve melted into a movie.

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Disney Cruise Costs

So what about the cost? Well, this isn’t a budget vacation—but it won’t necessarily zap your savings, either. Fares on the Disney Wonder start at $978 per adult and $360 per kid for a three-night Bahamian cruise in a room with no balcony. So for a family of four, the minimum price to get onboard is around $2,700, though that number could go way up depending on the type of stateroom you choose, where your itinerary goes, and for how many nights.

While that might sound like a lot for a short vacation, a Disney cruise doesn’t turn out to be as expensive at it seems at first glance. For all its upfront inclusions—all food, shows, and activities—a four-night Disney cruise can actually end up being less expensive than a four-night Disney World vacation, as this handy comparison chart demonstrates. Plus, you can book early to save money.

And if you live close enough to drive, instead of fly, to your embarkation port, taking a home port cruise  will cut your overall cost, which explains why our sailing out of Galveston was packed with Texans. Onboard, the best way to keep your tab small is to forgo add-ons—especially onboard Wi-Fi and alcohol. Keep in mind that you can bring your own alcohol as long as you comply with Disney Cruise Line’s fairly reasonable rules on the matter.

The Overall Disney Cruise Experience

If you’re trying to figure out what type of trip a Disney cruise ends up being, I’ll be honest: There’s so much to do onboard that it can’t really be called a relaxing vacation, unless you’re absolutely determined to make it that way. With all that goes on—all the time—it’s easy to fall prey to some serious FOMO.

But that’s not a bad thing. You come off the Disney cruise with so many new memories that having made the effort to show up to a majority of activities ends up having been worth it.

One strategy to avoid coming home exhausted: Tack on a couple of relaxing beach days after your cruise. We stayed along Galveston’s seawall for a couple of nights afterward, at the beautiful Hilton in the San Luis Resort . This proved to be a good way to unwind, a worthy quiet counterpoint to the exuberance of the Disney cruise experience.

From another perspective, though, taking a Disney cruise is an unexpectedly good option if you’re looking for a vacation that offers a detox from mainstream and social media, and the constant rush of emails and texts—the perfect way to kick off a digital cleanse. This is mostly because it’s very expensive to be connected: $20 buys just a few minutes online.

If you purchase enough megabytes to be as plugged in as you are at home, you’ll spend a small fortune. So, unless money is of no concern, you stay disconnected for the vast majority of the cruise, which is sometimes frustrating but mostly serene. No matter what’s going on in the world, a Disney cruise is basically Disneyland on the boat: unapologetically happy, removed from reality, and with no trace of the morose or glum.

As for that signature excitement that Disney is so expert at generating, it’s vividly a Disney cruise from start to finish. A week before we got on the boat, Mickey and Minnie “called” my daughter to tell her how excited they were to see her onboard. I received a beautiful packet in the mail with my itinerary, luggage tags, and instructions about how to get the most out of our Disney cruise experience.

View this post on Instagram Embarking next week! Follow my coverage over at @smartertravel (Insta, Twitter, and Periscope) as @disneycruiseline debuts its redone Wonder ship. #disneycruise #disneywonder #travel #disney #wanderlust #lovemyjob A post shared by Avital Andrews (@avitalb) on Nov 4, 2016 at 2:38pm PDT

Our last night aboard, at 10:15 p.m., all the main characters gathered in the lobby atrium to give guests a final chance to interact with them, take photos, and give hugs. The cruise director delivered a farewell speech, and each child was handed a battery-run candle and invited onstage to partake in a moving rendition of “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” followed by an avalanche of Mickey-shaped confetti. I let my little one stay up late for this, and it was worth it. In true Disney form, it was the perfect ending.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 6 Cruise Ship Myths You Shouldn’t Believe
• 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before My First Disney World Vacation
• Disneyland vs. Disney World: Which Is Cheaper?

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Live Shows on the Disney Wish: A Full Review

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Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of activities , unlike what guests will find on any other cruise line. The Disney Wish, DCL’s newest ship , offers some fresh & unique offerings not found on the other four ships. Let’s review the live, Broadway-style, shows on the Disney Wish.

The Walt Disney Theatre

Disney Cruise Line features awarding winning stage productions across its entire fleet. The Disney Wish is no different, featuring three incredible shows inside the Walt Disney Theatre. Spanning three decks, this 1,274-seat theatre is inspired by scenes from Fantasia , with an enchanted forest theme. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including projection mapping and a Dolby Atmos 3D audio system, which is a first of its kind at sea! Just outside the theatre, on Deck 3, guests can purchase refreshments including popcorn, candy, soda, and alcoholic beverages, at Preludes.

While the theatre is capable of hosting movie viewings and onboard acts like comedians and musicians, it will primarily be used to feature three stage shows: Disney Seas the Adventure , Disney The Little Mermaid , and Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular . The Walt Disney Theatre features an amazing cast of live performers. You’ll be in awe of the acting, singing, and dancing. Not to mention some amazing puppetry, lighting, and sound effects.

Each show is performed twice on its given evening. Once around 6pm for guest with Second Dining, and again around 8:30pm for guests with Main Dining. This allows all guests the opportunity to view the show before or after their assigned dining time. Guest can see shows times in the DCLNavigator app, or on boards right outside the theatre. While the theatre is big enough to hold everyone who wishes to view the shows, guests wanting to seat front and center should plan to arrive around 30 minutes early.

Disney Seas the Adventure

During the first evening of your sailing, the Walt Disney Theatre welcomes you to enjoy Disney Seas the Adventure . This brand-new show debuted with the Disney Wish and should not be missed! Grab a seat and be prepared for a journey through some of your favorite Disney stories! While Captain Minnie is busy setting up a surprise for the ship’s guests, Goofy takes over the helm and steers the Wish into waters unknown!

Does Goofy have what it takes to keep the ship on the right course, or will he wander off? This show is filled with so many of the most beloved Disney songs and characters. Goofy travels down the Eastern Australian Current where Crush & Squirt demonstrate how to go with the flow. Elsa, Merida, & Moana show him that he can command his own journey by remaining brave. Tiana teaches him that hard work is what it takes to get to where he wants to go. And Hercules is there to remind him that he has the strength to take on any challenge. By the time confetti is raining down during the finale, you’ll be ready to dance and sing along.

Disney Seas the Adventure is the type of show that brings people back to Disney Cruise Line over and over. It is the perfect blend of amazing live performances, Disney storytelling, and nostalgia from your favorite Disney movies. Some of the other ‘jukebox’ musicals featured on the other ships can feel like a hodgepodge of random songs thrown together. This one though has a clear story with a powerful message, blended with amazing music.

Who should watch

Everyone! This is a show that everyone in your sailing party will love. Whether your sailing with your whole family, or enjoying an adults-only getaway – guests of all ages will enjoy the upbeat music and seeing their favorite characters. It is a perfect way to kick off your sailing. You could watch this show every time you sail on the Wish and it would never grow old!

Disney The Little Mermaid

Another brand-new show for Disney Cruise Line is Disney The Little Mermaid . This modern-telling of a Disney classic opens on a group of travelling storytellers who have stumbled upon a treasure-chest. Full of human trinkets of course – whozits & whatzits included! The storytellers are so inspired by the chest’s belongings, they bring the story of The Little Mermaid to life. While the story has been modernized, guests will recognize all their favorite songs and characters from the original film.

New arrangements of beloved songs “Part of Your World”, “Under the Sea”, and “Poor Unfortunate Souls” are stand-outs. The set design and use of projection mapping transform the theatre into an enchanting underwater world.

While the show features some impressive puppetry and incredible vocal performances, it does fall a little flat in some areas. The story is so familiar that it can feel stale at times and some of the “reimagination” doesn’t seem to be fully conceived. The transition from storytellers to Little Mermaid characters and back is a little unclear and may leave younger guests confused. During one scene, Ursula is lifted up by a large robotic arm in an attempt to show her growing into a large monster. This is a call back to a similar scene in the movie. But it comes off as clunky, and well robotic. The show has a lot of promise and with a few minor tweaks, we think it could be a stand-out show for DCL.

Everyone who has never seen it before. Considering this show is new to the Wish, even the most seasoned DCL sailors have likely not seen The Little Mermaid in the Walt Disney Theatre.  It still has all the wonderful qualities Disney Cruise Line shows are known for – powerful signing, fantastic choreography, amazing sets, and Broadway-level production value. After seeing it you’ll can judge  if you’ll want to watch it again or not.

Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular 

Looking to go on an adventure to a whole new world ? Well then Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular is just for you! Based on the 1992 animated film, the show opens at the entrance of the cave of wonders. Here we meet Jafar and Iago who are struggling to find a diamond-in-the-rough capable of retrieving the magic lamp. From there guests are taken on a familiar magic carpet ride through Agrabah.

Aladdin needs help from the Genie to get Jasmine to fall in love with him but to also defeat the Jafar. Even more so than The Little Mermaid , Aladdin feels very similar to the original, just in a condensed format. The show does feature an original song “To Be Free”. This a solo performed by Jasmine that was introduced in the Disney California Adventure’s Hyperion Theater production of Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular.

Musical numbers are great but some of the design and special effects feel very outdated. During “One Jump”, Aladdin exits the stage only to come back from up high on a visible cable moving in slow-motion across the stage. This is meant to replicate his big jump from the movie, but it does not translate well to the stage. And while it’s more comedic than the other DCL shows, the Genie character feels forced and over-the-top.

While it is a decent show, we think it would be better reimagined based on the live action Aladdin starring Will Smith, Mena Massoud, and Naomi Scott to give it a fresh spin. Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular is also featured on the Disney Fantasy, though minor updates were made before it debuted on the Wish. We also missed our favorite monkey – Abu – who is not featured in the show at all.

DCL First-timers & musical theatre lovers. If this is your first time sailing with Disney, and you want to get the full experience – you should make an effort to see all the performances in the. Likewise, if you are someone who appreciates musicals, particularly Disney ones, you’ll enjoy this re-telling. However, considering the shorter itineraries (3- & 4-nights) that the Wish is currently sailing, it may be hard for you to find the time to do everything. If you want to skip one of the shows – in order to participate in other activities – this is the one to miss.

Final Thoughts

Disney Cruise Line gathers some of the most talented performers from across the world. Their performances alone are worth the time to check out a show in the Walt Disney World Theatre. The shows presented on Disney ships are also so unique when compared to the rest of the cruise industry. The wonderful Disney story-teller and power-house music that the company is known and loved for is never more present than in the Walt Disney Theatre. Guests of all ages and cruising experience levels are sure to enjoy these magnificent productions. However, your time onboard is limited and you may have to make some sacrifices. We hope this review was helpful in guiding you towards setting your cruise entertainment priority!

Have you seen any of these shows onboard the Disney Wish? Leave a comment and let us know what you thought!

Contact me today to start planning your next Disney Cruise Line vacation!

Similar Posts:

• 5 “Don’t Miss” Things to Do On The Disney Wish!
• Meeting Disney Characters on the Disney Wish
• Top 5 Adult Activities on the Disney Wish
• Sailing Solo on a Disney Cruise
• How The Wish is Different From Disney’s Other Ships

Published by Daniel Hamm

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These tips will make your Disney cruise vacation even more magical.

Cruise vacations are a great way to unwind and relax in some of the most beautiful locales in the world, and a Disney cruise takes the traditional experience up a notch with unique, familiar touches and a little bit of magic. With so much to know before you set sail with Disney Cruise Line, it's easy to miss out on the most interesting facts and features.

Even if you think you know all about the ships and activities on board, you can still return to port without ever knowing about the secret sundecks, unannounced character greetings, and unexpected Mickey-shaped foods. Whether you're planning for this year or the next, prepare yourself for a hefty dose of Disney knowledge, because for you, these Disney cruise tips and secrets are no longer under wraps.

Meet the Expert

Adrianna Hwang is a planDisney panelist specializing in Disney Cruise Line.

Heather Peggs is a Disney travel expert with Castle Bound Travel Company.

Book your cruise early to get the best deal.

Disney uses a dynamic pricing system, meaning the earlier you book, the more you’ll save. Early bookings also ensure that you get your desired cabin. You can even book your next cruise while on board to save even more. The best part? This placeholder is fully refundable if plans change.

Consider booking a themed sailing. 

Disney Cruise Line offers a limited number of themed sailings, including Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea itineraries. These cruises up the ante with specialty shows and character appearances from beloved franchises, including Captain America , Toy Story , and more. You’ll also want to check out the special holiday cruises surrounding Halloween and Christmas. During these sailings, you’ll spot characters in special outfits and can enjoy themed food and beverage options, specialty entertainment, and much more. Disney Cruise Line guests love to bring themed attire to celebrate the occasion, so plan ahead if you want to partake in the fun.

Save big and let the mouse pick your room.

If you’re not picky about where your cabin is located on the ship, you can save a substantial amount of money by letting Disney pick your cabin. Just select your room type, like an inside cabin, and your specific cabin number will be assigned closer to your sail date.

See if cabin upgrades are available when you arrive at the port.

When available, cruisers may be able to snag an affordable last-minute room upgrade at the port, saving hundreds on a higher-tier room. 

Download the app before you go. 

Disney Cruise Line’s exclusive Navigator app is an absolute must-have to make the most of your time at sea. It adds convenience while taking care of practical vacation elements, like payment, online check-in, and trip modifications. This is also your go-to for pre-registering for Disney Cruise Line’s wide range of activities and keeping tabs on the daily schedule, which includes showtimes and deck parties. You can also communicate with your family and other cruise-goers for free using the app.

And don’t miss out on this convenient notification feature: “Scroll through the daily activity schedule to look for entertainment options that interest you, and be sure to click the heart icon next to any listings you don't want to miss,” planDisney panelist Adrianna Hwang tells Travel + Leisure . “If you've enabled notifications for the app, you'll receive a reminder about 15 minutes before the activity will begin. It's a really helpful feature when you lose track of time relaxing by the pool!” 

This is especially important if character meet-and-greets are a priority for you. “The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app will list character appearance times and locations so that you can be sure to catch your favorite Disney characters on board,” Hwang adds. “If you select the specific character listed in the Daily Activity Schedule within the app, you'll even see the full schedule of times to meet them throughout the cruise so that you can plan accordingly.” Hwang suggests arriving at the greet locations at least five to 10 minutes early.

Use your Castaway Club perks to book extras early. 

If you’re looking to book extras, like shore excursions and elevated dining experiences, your booking window depends on your loyalty to Disney Cruise Line. The Castaway Club is Disney’s version of a frequent cruiser program, and sailors earn status based on the number of sailings they’ve been on. Higher status translates to earlier booking windows, so Disney Cruise Line loyalists can score their desired bookings first. 

Related: What to Know About Castaway Club, Disney Cruise Line's Loyalty Program

Plan to exchange your currency onboard.

Not only does Disney Cruise Line take no commission for exchanging bills , but they'll actually honor the transaction's rate of exchange for any leftover money. Simply present your receipt prior to the end of the cruise, and they'll convert your foreign currency back to your preferred denomination at the same rate, even if the exchange rate has since changed. (Note: This only applies to bills, not coins, and there is no ATM on board.)

Bring a reusable water bottle. 

While there are water fountains and bottle refill stations on board, they can be far away from your room — and disposable bottles (not included in the fare) can add up. The tap water in each room is drinkable, but sinks are often too small to accommodate big bottles. You can bring packs of bottled water, but you'll have to carry it through embarkation — it cannot be packed with luggage — so consider bringing refillable bottles or tumblers.

See characters in their special cruise wardrobe.

Thought you knew everything there was to know about the Fab Five? Wait until you see them in their exclusive Disney Cruise Line wardrobe. Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Mickey, and Minnie wear special outfits for Pirate Night, and they also tailor their outfits to where the ship is headed that day. On Alaska sailings, expect to meet Mickey in fisherman's overalls and Minnie in a fur-lined coat; on trips through the Mediterranean Sea, Goofy dons an Italy-inspired suit. Specialty characters are also known to show up from time to time, like Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle appearing as the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus during the spooky season.

Aspiring princesses won’t want to miss the Royal Gathering.

The Royal Gathering is your chance to meet and greet with Disney royalty, like Tiana and Cinderella, all at one time and place. It’s offered on most cruise itineraries but there is a catch: while tickets are free, they are required to attend. “Complimentary tickets to the Royal Gathering are available to be booked online or through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app or Disneycruise.com 30 days before your sail date,” Hwang adds. “Take this experience to the next level for your little one by reserving a Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeover an hour or two before the Royal Gathering begins.” 

And know that the most memorable character experiences won’t be at meet-and-greets.

The lines to meet Mickey and Minnie are (amazingly!) short on Disney Cruise Line, but favorites like Daisy Duck are known to freely wander the pool and jogging track decks, playfully surprising guests and often sharing elevator rides for a once-in-a-lifetime interaction. Don't miss the character dance parties either, which allow kids and adults to line dance with Goofy and shake it off with Donald Duck for an experience that goes beyond a hug and photograph.

Order whatever you’d like to eat — and as much as you’d like. 

Disney Cruise Line’s dinnertime meal service operates on a rotating restaurant schedule, so you'll get to enjoy each restaurant the ship offers — and some more than once on longer sailings. These highly themed restaurants, like Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure on the Disney Wish , offer pre-fixe dinner menus. Torn between two entrees? Order them both. Each of your ship’s included rotational dining restaurants comes with a fixed three-course option that is all-you-care-to-enjoy.

Splurge on specialty dining. 

Standard dining is fantastic, but Disney ships also have adults-only restaurants available at an extra charge. Depending on your ship, this could include the French-focused Remy or fan-favorite Palo. While Remy and Enchante can be pricey, you can enjoy Palo for as little as $50. 

And on the Disney Wish , you won’t want to miss its newest iteration, Palo Steakhouse. “If you've sailed with Disney before, you may be familiar with Palo, but on the Wish , Palo Steakhouse is even better,” Heather Peggs, a Disney travel expert with Castle Bound Travel Company, shares with T+L. “I highly recommend trying the A5 wagyu steak, which is about a fifth of the price it would be off the ship, and it's absolutely phenomenal!”

These upgraded dining experiences are known to book up well in advance, but there is occasionally a waitlist available for canceled and missed reservations. “If you can't snag a reservation before the cruise, inquire in person on the day you embark,” Hwang adds. “Look for the activity listed as ‘Dining Reservation Changes’ to speak with a crew member about reservation availability.” 

Request the best seat in the house at dinner. 

Always dreamed of sitting by the stage at Tiana's Place on the Disney Wonder or enjoying dinner in those gorgeous Enchanted Garden booths on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy ? Well, it's not entirely luck of the draw. Nothing is guaranteed, but requests for a certain table can always be added to your Disney Cruise Line reservation, and they are worth the extra phone call. Concierge guests can make seating requests to their Concierge Service Specialist before boarding as well. You never know when Disney will sprinkle a little extra magic onto your vacation.

And don’t miss the best dinner entertainment.

The dinner show at Animator's Palate is a highlight if you’re sailing on the Magic, Wonder, Dream, or Fantasy, but it's the second visit to that dining room that can't be skipped. It's called Animation Magic, and guests get to draw their own characters and see them come to life on the screens mid-meal. The incredible display is only offered on longer sailings on the Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy, so make sure you don’t skip it. Even better? Request that your rotation allows two visits to Animator's Palate that don't overlap with Pirate Night to ensure you enjoy the show.

Grab a free soda at this spot.

Soda is included during sit-down meals, but if you’re craving a thirst quencher outside of those times, go to the free-flowing beverage stations near the pools on each Disney ship.

Sip cocktails at this favorite bar. 

There are plenty of themed watering holes in the adults-only areas of the ships, but on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy , Meridian is the place to be. The upscale bar and lounge is located next door to Palo and Remy, but it is open to all adults adhering to its business casual dress code. Though known for its martinis, Meridian also offers a cigar bar, custom craft cocktails, and a gin and tonic cart, as well as a private deck hosting a picture-perfect view of nightly sunsets.

Check out the Star Wars -themed bar on the Disney Wish .

Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge is a bar exclusively found on the Disney Wish . “Whether you’re an avid Star Wars fan or just want to explore the galaxy, you will be able to enjoy delicious alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages that are simply out of this world,” adds Peggs. Reservations are no longer required, but there might be a wait, especially during peak hours; visit when the ship is in port to avoid the crowds. During the day, guests of all ages are allowed in.

It’s a multi-sensory experience in this immersive, interactive venue, and you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled in case anyone orders the $5,000 Kaiburr Crystal cocktail.  

Save on drinks during happy hour at sea. 

Be sure to check the Navigator app for daily happy hours at different bars and lounges. The exact offers vary, but they can include deals like half-off draft beer and discounts on specialty cocktails. And if you’re looking to take your cocktail knowledge to the next level, cruises also offer add-on mixology classes and tasting experiences.

Ask about the Sommelier Bin for discounted wine. 

Once a bottle of wine is opened, Disney must serve it (in its entirety) that day. Because of this, Disney ships have a sommelier bin, with opened bottles of wine served by the glass at highly discounted rates. This is your chance to sip on otherwise pricey pours at a bargain price. Now that’s Disney magic.

Or B.Y.O.B. to save money.

Looking to save a few bucks? While Disney ships offer a bevy of specialty cocktails, you can bring your own drinks — with some limitations. Hard liquor is a no-go, but each cruiser 21 years of age and up can bring two bottles of wine (or six-packs of beer) on board with them. If you’re thinking of bringing that bottle of wine with you to dinner, be aware that Disney does charge a corkage fee. You can also bring sealed bottles of water on board with you.

Take a second look at that barbershop on the Disney Wish .

Hook’s Barbery may look like any old upscale barbershop when walking by — but it’s hiding one of the best-kept secrets aboard any Disney ship. Tucked away within the salon is a hidden speakeasy-style bar serving expertly crafted cocktails, including a smoked old fashioned. Its liquor selection is extensive and surprising with rare and vintage pours.

Snack on soft serve on and off the ship.

If you’re a frequent Disney cruiser, you’re probably familiar with the line’s free-flowing soft-serve ice cream. And if the craving strikes when visiting Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, you’ll be glad to know it’s also available on the island for the ultimate sugar rush in the sun.

Get an extra-magical coffee. 

Few can resist a Mickey-shaped treat while visiting any Disney property, but the best mouse-themed treat on the ships can be found at Cove Cafe . Order a cappuccino, ask for Mickey's face on it, and prepare to enjoy your jolt of caffeine with some extra magic. It'll cost a few bucks, but the joy of sipping a “Mickeyccino” will always outshine the complimentary coffee served on board. 

Order a Mickey bar — and more — with free room service. 

You’ll be glad to know that, unlike other cruise lines, Disney Cruise Line’s room service is completely free and offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The best part? You can have an iconic Disney treat, the Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar, delivered directly to your room.

Book early if you plan to use the ship’s nursery.

Bookings open early for guests looking to take advantage of the onboard nursery. Available for an extra charge, the It’s a Small World Nursery is available to supervise your child ages six months to three years old, ideal if you’d like a quiet dinner or time to explore one of the ship’s many themed lounges without the little one in tow. And don’t forget — the other youth clubs for kids, tweens, and teens are absolutely free.

Teens can hang out in the coolest part of the ship.

Every Disney ship has a Vibe , an onboard youth club that is exclusively available for teens ages 14 to 17. There is supervision, of course, and Disney Cruise Line's famously fun activities, but it's practically a private resort for high schoolers to chill in all day and night — no parents allowed.

Explore the kids clubs during the open house. 

Activities at the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Millennium Falcon play areas are reserved for young ones, but all kids club spaces empty out for the open house, when anyone can wander in and check out Vibe's arcade games or Oceaneer Lab's high-tech designs. Don't skip out on Andy's Room, which brings Toy Story to life while making for incredible Instagram snaps. And you won’t want to miss a multi-level slide on the Disney Wish which takes you from floor to floor in the ship’s soaring lobby. “Little ones can get comfortable with and excited about areas where they will play without their grownups,” shares Hwang.

Join a secret community of friends — hiding in plain sight.

Ever seen those homemade decorations hanging beside neighbors' doors? They're called fish extenders, and they're used by a network of families who have packed small gifts, treats, and trinkets to exchange with each other throughout their trip. To get in on the fun for your next sailing, visit the DisBoards Cruise Meets forum or CruiseCritic's Roll Calls . Many times, there are Facebook groups for your exact sailing as well. This can be particularly helpful with shy kids as they can get acquainted with other cruise-goers their age ahead of their journey.

Add an Adventures by Disney trip to your vacation.

You can enhance your Disney Cruise Line experience with Adventures by Disney Escapes before or after your sailing. Experience global cities through expertly curated itineraries in Barcelona, Paris, Rome, and beyond. 

Spring for a concierge-level room and relax on a private sun deck.

There are plenty of perks that come with booking a concierge-level room — namely early access to onboard bookings, personalized service, and in-room amenities. And perhaps the best part, concierge guests have access to their own private sun and lounge deck outfitted with upscale lounge chairs, complimentary sunscreen, and chilled face towels, as well as a pool deck host who can fulfill any requests for full relaxation.

See the latest Disney movies. 

Enjoy the latest Disney releases at the on-board theater without having to buy tickets in advance. Even better? Many new Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films have 3-D showings, allowing guests to experience eye-popping effects on the high seas. Movie times are available on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. And during the holidays, classics are featured, like “Hocus Pocus” during Halloween sailings.

Skip the ports to enjoy fewer crowds at the pool.

It may be tempting to disembark and explore Jamaica or relax on Castaway Cay, but if you stay behind, you can enjoy fewer crowds at the pools. This could be your prime chance to experience the AquaMouse water coaster, the cruise line’s first attraction at sea on the Disney Wish , with little to no line.

There are also lots of activities to take advantage of on board. “I must say I'm a huge fan of staying on board even on port days to explore the array of classes, Broadway-caliber shows, and, of course, the games,” adds Peggs. “If you're looking for family-friendly options, a couple of my favorites are Bingo, which they have every day during your sailing, napkin and towel folding, bar trivia, and so much more!”

Don’t miss the musicals.

While it may be tempting to take advantage of quieter swim times in the evening, you won’t want to miss your ship’s musical offerings. Broadway-quality productions including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin” (exact offerings depend on the ship) are a must-see. “These are beautifully done and are wonderful for the entire family,” Peggs adds. “Plus, if you purchase a popcorn bucket at the beginning of the cruise, you will be able to enjoy $1.50 refills for the remainder of your cruise!”

There’s an under-the-radar design tour.

Adults 18 and up can enjoy one of the cruise line’s best walking tours. “The Art of The Theme Show Tour gives adults an insightful look into the detailed and thoughtful design of several spaces throughout the ship,” adds Hwang. “It's usually offered in the mornings and provides some fun trivia to share with anyone in your party.” 

Unwind at the spa.

You’re on vacation — it’s time to pamper yourself in the state-of-the-art spa. “If you are interested in booking a spa treatment, attend the open house before the ship sets sail,” Peggs shares. “You might get lucky and win a voucher for 10% off or possibly a facial or massage during the raffle. Speaking of savings, the more spa services you get while on board, the better the price will be. If you want to secure a spa day/week pass, be sure to book them sooner rather than later as they sell out pretty quickly!”

There’s a totally free fan-favorite activity.

If your itinerary takes you to Disney’s Castaway Cay, then you can partake in one of Disney Cruise Line’s most beloved activities, the Castaway Cay 5k — and it’s completely free to all guests. Suitable for runners and walkers alike, this on-your-own race invites you to discover Disney’s private island from a different vantage point as you travel through its stunning tropical paths. All participants receive an exclusive medal when they finish.

Not feeling well during your sailing? Disney can help.

There’s nothing worse than feeling sick on vacation. But have no fear, the mouse is here to help. Each ship is equipped with on-site medical help, and if you experience seasickness, complimentary medicine is available.

Grab every photo before the clock runs out.

Even if you skipped every character meet-and-greet, you'll still be able to cram in a week's worth of photos at "Til' We Meet Again," the goodbye show on the final night of each sailing. After a short heartwarming performance, loads of Disney characters, princesses, and theater performers will disperse throughout the crowd, posing for photos on a first-come, first-served basis. The onboard photographers will have already shut down, so you can snap as many iPhone pictures as you'd like, making for a full album in one fell swoop. This experience only lasts for around 20 minutes; you can find the exact time in the Navigator app.

Want to disembark first? Carry your own bag.

You don’t want to sour a wonderful vacation with a never-ending line simply to exit the ship. Instead of leaving your luggage out the night before, carry it off the ship yourself and arrive at your final destination without having to wait in lengthy port queues.

Specialty Cruises

Fireworks cruise.

Fun for all ages, nighttime cruises provide the perfect opportunity to watch Luminous The Symphony of Us or Happily Ever After  right from the water. These brilliant fireworks spectaculars add an amazing "wow" factor to your cruise!

From the comfort of a chartered boat, your party can set sail for International Gateway near World Showcase Lagoon to watch the skies light up over EPCOT . Or, embark on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake near  Magic Kingdom park —with synchronized audio onboard to fully immerse you in the moment. It’s an incredible finale to the festivities!

Departure Locations Depart from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts to experience Luminous The Symphony of Us or sail from the following marinas to view Happily Ever After:

• Contemporary Marina
• Polynesian Marina
• Grand Floridian Marina
• Fort Wilderness Marina
• Wilderness Lodge Marina

What’s Included Each cruise is accompanied by a captain and includes assorted snacks and soft drinks. Festive banners and balloons are also included in the cost and can be requested at the time of booking.

Pricing Prices start at $449—plus tax. Prices vary by date. Boats seat up to 10 Guests.

Reservations To reserve a cruise, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. Learn when advance reservations can be made .

Please note—in rare instances, fireworks shows may be rescheduled or canceled. Please refer to the entertainment schedule to confirm showtimes 2 weeks prior to your reservation and check again the day of your reservation.

Important Details Before you book, please be aware of the following information:

• Please arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to fireworks start time.
• Boats are not equipped with full-size dining tables. A cocktail table is provided.
• For Guests with limited mobility, wheelchair/ECV transfer is necessary.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.

Related Activities

Celebration at the top – sip, savor, sparkle, custom-designed celebrations & gatherings, disney private vip tours, safety, accessibility and guest policies.

Pros and Cons of Disney Cruise Line Dinner Seating Times: Early vs. Late

For dinner on Disney Cruise Line, guests are assigned to one of two seating times, which they will have for the entirety of their sailing — you’ll eat dinner at the same time every night. For sailings originating from U.S. and Canadian ports, seatings are typically at 5:45 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. For sailings originating in Europe, seatings are typically at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Every sailing offers counter-programming that corresponds to the dinner times – shows in the theater that match the dinner hours. So if you have the 5:45 early dinner, you’ll be able to watch the 8:00 stage show, and vice versa.

When you book your cruise, you’ll be asked to select your preference for earlier or later dinner seating. Many folks new to cruising are intimidated by this choice. Which is better? How will it impact the rest of the cruise? How do you decide?

There are some factors to think about as you make your decision. Some of the considerations that are Pros for one guest may be strong Cons for another guest. So rather than present a pure Pro/Con list, I’m listing things to think about – and you can decide if these items feel Pro or Con to you.

• Are you coming from a culture where dining early or late is particularly important to you? It’s worth noting that on U.S. cruises, the early seating tends to “sell out” more quickly and on European cruises, the late seating fills more quickly. Many Europeans think that even 8:30 is too early and consider 6:00 to be basically late lunch.
• Are you coming from a time zone where it will be more or less challenging to have a particular dining time? Guests who live on the U.S. west coast sailing from Port Canaveral or Miami may also find that the early seating feels like lunch rather than dinner. East coast guests sailing out of San Diego or Vancouver may find the late seating challenging.
• Do you have any medical issues that will impact the time you eat? For example: Do you have acid reflux or other issues that mean you need to eat your last meal of the day several hours before bedtime? Do you consume a medication that must be taken on a full, or empty, stomach at a particular time.
• Do you have a child who will be asleep during the later dinner seating? Many young children simply cannot stay awake past 7:30 or 8:00 p.m. If you want them to eat dinner with you in the main dining rooms, then the late seating may be untenable. On the other hand, if you really want them to see the theatrical performances, then you have option to feed the kiddos room service or pool deck quick service rather than a full sit-down meal.
• Are you picky about where you sit in the main theater? Early diners will be able to see the second staging of the mainstage show, but may not get there quickly enough to snag a particular seating area. If you’re particular about your location, opt for late dinner so that you can be first to line up for the early show.
• Are you OK with your family members consuming a substantial snack during the late afternoon? Folks who are used to eating early at home may be fine adapting to the late seating if they have a substantial snack in the late afternoon to stave off the hangriness. ( Hello room service cheese plate. ) But if you have rules about between meal eating or are trying to limit overall calories, this may be less of an option for you.
• Do you have any long port adventures (on-shore excursions) planned that will get you back to the ship close to, or after, the early dinner time? If you have land-based plans that will get you back to the ship late, you may want to opt for the later dinner seating.
• Will you want to shower/change prior to dinner? If you’re staying on the ship you may want to be able to spend every possible moment at the pool. If you want to do this, and shower, and change before dinner, the later seating might better suit you. Even if you just like to dress up for dinner in general, you want more time to do this.
• Do you want a slightly quieter dinner atmosphere? While there are young kids at both seatings, there are likely to be more kiddos at the earlier seating, making the late seating a bit quieter.
• Will you be enjoying Palo, Remy, or Enchante brunch? Brunch at these venues are substantial, multi-course meals. If you’re have late mid-day adult meals, you might want more ample time to digest than the early seating would allow.
• How long is your sailing? You may be able to easily cope with a slightly sub-optimal dining time if you’re on a quick 3-night sailing. Or, if you’re on a 12-night voyage, you may feel that you have ample time to adapt to either option,
• Will you actually be dining in the rotational restaurants? Some guests on 3-night sailings may be able to book dinners at both Palo and Remy or Enchante and will opt for room service or poolside dining on their third night on board, making moot the question of which main dining room seating to select.
• Do you care when you eat breakfast during disembarkation day? The time of your last breakfast is related to your dinner seating assignment. Early dinner eats early breakfast and late dinner eats a later breakfast. If you want to sleep a bit more on your last day and won’t be running to catch a plane, then selecting late dinner may help your situation.
• Do you eat slowly? Some guests find that they’re less rushed during the second seating because the servers don’t have to immediately turn over their table.

Depending on how far out you book, one or the other seating time may not be available. If your seating preference is not open, you can request an alternate seating time by joining the waitlist on the My Reservations section of the DCL website. I’ve gotten off the waitlist for my preferred seating a few times.

If you don’t make it off the waitlist before you sail, stop by guest services when you’re on the ship and they may be able to help you. There may be another party who wants the opposite assignment and Guest Services may be able to swap you.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

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The Best Ways To Book a Disney Cruise in 2024 [With Expert Tips]

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Sailing on a Disney cruise is a dream vacation for many families. Beautiful ships, incredible destinations, and Disney-themed, family-friendly activities are a huge draw. But planning such an extraordinary — and expensive — vacation can be daunting, and every question seems to turn into a dozen more.

What are the best ways to book a Disney cruise to save money and get extra perks? When can you book shore excursions? What stateroom is the best for your family?

We get it, and we’ve been there. In this post, we’re going to detail the best ways to book a Disney cruise — some offer simplicity, while others include extra perks. Plus, we’ll show you how to earn points and miles on your cruise and how to use them to pay for your cruise. Finally, we’ll go over important predeparture details to remember once you’re booked.

Let’s set sail and explore Disney Cruise Line bookings!

The Best Ways To Book a Disney Cruise

Before booking your Disney Cruise Line cruise, gather the following important information to ensure a smooth booking process:

• The itinerary you want to book
• The number of people, including ages at the time of embarkation, in each stateroom
• The names, addresses, phone numbers, and birthdates of each guest on the reservation
• Payment information (a credit card, Disney gift card, or Disney Rewards Redemption Card)
• Castaway Club member ID, if you have one

The Disney Cruise Line website is often the simplest way to book your cruise. It’s a one-stop shop that lets you quickly and easily book the best cruise for you.

You can filter the options by travel dates, destinations, departure port, and cruise length. This booking method is especially easy if you already know where you want to go or what ship you’d like to sail on.

If you’re not sure what room to book, Disney Cruise Line offers detailed looks at each ship’s stateroom options in the Our Ships tab online.

If you’re still not sure, just ask. According to Disney Cruise expert and planDisney panelist Tracie M., you shouldn’t hesitate to call Disney Cruise Line if you need guidance. She knows from personal experience what a great resource that can be.

“During my first voyage on the Disney Fantasy, the agent told me about a few staterooms on board that had extra-large windows. I never would have discovered this cabin on my own,” she told us.

You can reach Disney Cruises at 800-951-3532 or 888-325-2500 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.

When you book your cruise directly through Disney, you can hold your reservation for up to 3 days without a deposit. Then you can confirm your reservation with a payment of (usually) just 20% of your cruise cost. The length of the cruise determines the date that your final payment is due — sailings up to 5 nights long require a final payment 90 days before the sail date, while cruises 6 nights or longer need to be paid in full 120 days before sailing.

Cancellation policies vary based on the specific itinerary.

Many people prefer to book Disney cruises through traditional travel agents. Finding an agent who specializes in Disney cruises is a great way to get personalized guidance when planning your vacation.

Even seasoned travelers love using travel agents to book Disney vacations since there can be many moving parts to keep track of. While booking a Disney cruise is more straightforward than booking a trip to a Disney park, many people still love using a travel agent to make things easy.

There are so many websites for booking cruises that it can be confusing to know which offers the best deals. We have found that most online travel agencies offer the same basic prices on cruises. The difference comes in the extras, like shipboard credit or bonus miles , that come with a booking. Here’s a quick look at some of the best places to book Disney cruises.

Costco Travel

Booking a Disney cruise through Costco Travel is great for Costco members. That’s because cruise bookings through Costco often come with a digital Costco Shop card as a bonus. The cruise price dictates the amount of the Shop card. For example, we found a 7-night Caribbean cruise on Disney Treasure (set to debut in December 2024) for 3 people in an oceanview stateroom with a verandah that cost $7,411.94 and came with a $590 Shop card.

Bookings made through Costco Travel can be confirmed with a deposit or can be paid in full at the time of booking. Cancellation policies vary by cruise itinerary.

Cruise.com is one of the only online travel agents that allows you to book Disney cruises online. Most other websites require you to book over the phone. We did multiple searches for different itineraries and found Disney cruises booked through Cruise.com were about $200 cheaper than booking directly through Disney Cruise Line. While this won’t always be the case, Cruise.com could be good for those looking to save money on a Disney cruise.

Bookings made through Cruise.com must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Cancellation policies vary by itinerary.

CruiseDirect

CruiseDirect also allows online bookings for Disney cruises. We found the prices to be identical to those found directly through Disney. However, there were often small extras included, like a $100 Visa gift card and a Walt Disney World official autograph book . These bonuses vary by itinerary and sometimes require a bit of work to receive (for example, you need to fill out a request form after your cruise to get the Visa gift card).

Be sure to read the details of these bonuses carefully. You can see a bonus offering 10% off shore excursions in this example, but that discount only applies to shore excursions booked through CruiseDirect, not ones booked through Disney Cruise Line.

Bookings through CruiseDirect can be confirmed with a deposit, and cancellation policies vary by itinerary.

If you want to earn a big chunk of airline miles or hotel points with your cruise booking , you may want to look to an airline or hotel cruise booking site.

The good news is that you have the opportunity to earn lots of miles by booking a cruise this way. The bad news is that each of these websites charges a $24.99 booking fee on each reservation, and you need to call to make a reservation. While we usually don’t recommend sites that charge a booking fee, sometimes the miles you earn outweigh the booking fee.

• American Airlines Cruises : AAdvantage members earn 1x American Airlines miles (plus 1x Loyalty Points ), and AAdvantage credit cardholders earn an additional 1x miles on every cruise booked, with occasional additional bonuses offered. Call AA Cruises at 800-259-5642 to book.
• Delta Cruises : SkyMiles members earn 2x miles on cruises booked through Delta, plus bonus miles on select itineraries. Call Delta Cruises at 800-820-3244 to book.
• United Cruises: MileagePlus members can earn 3x miles on interior and oceanview staterooms or 4x miles on balcony staterooms and suites. United credit cardholders can earn up to 7x miles! Call United Cruises at 800-211-2039 to book.
• Marriott Cruise With Points : Earn 3x Marriott Bonvoy points (including taxes, fees, and other charges) on a cruise.

If you’ve ever cruised before, you know that there’s always an incentive to put a deposit down on your next cruise before you disembark. It can’t hurt to do this because if you end up taking the cruise, you get a discount. If not, the deposit is refundable.

If you’ve never been on a Disney cruise but have friends who will be on one and are planning to put a deposit down on their next cruise, they can secure a second room using the onboard-only offer . Then they can transfer that second reservation to you, and you get the onboard booking benefit (both parties must travel on the same sailing.)

I took advantage of this trick for an upcoming Disney cruise, and it saved me 10% (which was about $700 for a 7-night cruise!) Our friends put a deposit down on a second room while they were on their last Disney cruise, and then they transferred that second reservation to us. We ended up with a Disney Cruise Line booking with a 10% discount .

Onboard-only offers generally just require a $250 deposit, which is fully refundable until you choose a date for your cruise (then the cancellation policy for your specific cruise applies), so there’s not much downside.

To insure or not to insure, that is the question. But seriously, is insurance really necessary, and which policy is best? We answer these questions in our guide to cruise travel insurance .

How To Book a Disney Cruise With Points and Miles

If you want to save money, you may be wondering if you can book a Disney Cruise with points. The answer is yes, but your options are limited. Plus, unlike using points to book hotels and flights, there’s no opportunity to get outsized value when using points for a cruise.

One of the easiest and best ways to book a Disney cruise with points is by using Capital One miles . Simply book your cruise (through any method) using a card such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , or Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card . Then use the miles in your account to redeem against your cruise purchase (within 90 days) at a rate of 1 cent per mile.

Capital One miles are easy to earn (many cards earn 2x miles on all purchases), so they are great for a wide variety of travelers.

Since this method doesn’t require booking through Capital One Travel , you can take advantage of any available sale or promotion, whether it’s directly through Disney or a traditional or online travel agency.

Disney cruises can’t be booked through AmexTravel.com , Chase Travel , or Citi Travel .

There are additional ways to book Disney cruises with points and miles, although these don’t offer tremendous value. If you’re flush with points and really just want to go on a Disney cruise, then by all means, go for it. However, if your goal is to use your points and miles for the highest cents-per-point value, you may want to skip these.

You could book a Disney cruise with points through Marriott Cruises . This site allows you to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for a discount on your cruise. While that’s great news, the not-so-great part is that you’d only get 0.4 cents per point , significantly less than the 0.7 cents we value Marriott Bonvoy points at.

Another option is to use United MileagePlus Miles via United Cruises . You’d only get about 0.7 cents per mile in value instead of the 1.2 or so cents per mile you could get using them for flights. While the value isn’t great, if you’d rather go on a cruise than fly somewhere, it could be worth considering.

What About the Disney ® Premier Visa ® Card?

Is the Disney Premier card the best option for booking a Disney cruise? Let’s take a look at it:

Disney ®  Premier Visa ® Card

2% back Disney Rewards Dollars at Disney, gas stations, grocery stories, and restaurants means more rewards dollars for Disney fans.

Mickey and his friends are like part of the family. Your kids can recite the words to everything from Aladdin to Toy Story. And there’s no question where you’re going on Spring Break (Space Mountain, anyone?).

As a premier Disney fan, you always have the Disney ® Premier Visa ® Card on hand. It earns you cash back and discounts at Walt Disney World , Disneyland, and more.

• Save 10% on select purchases at shopDisney.com when you use your card
• Earn 5% in Disney Rewards Dollars on purchases at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or ESPNPlus.com
• Earn 2% in Disney Rewards Dollars on card purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and most Disney U.S. locations
• Earn 1% on all other card purchases
• Redeem Rewards Dollars for a statement credit towards airline travel
• Get a one-year complimentary DashPass if activated by 12/31/24
• Does not earn transferrable rewards
• Has a foreign transaction fee
• Earn a $400 Statement Credit after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Earn 5% in Disney Rewards Dollars on card purchases made directly at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com or ESPNPlus.com. Earn 2% in Disney Rewards Dollars on card purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants and most Disney U.S. locations. Earn 1% on all your other card purchases. There are no limits to the number of Rewards Dollars you can earn.
• Redeem Rewards Dollars for a statement credit toward airline purchases.
• 0% promo APR for 6 months on select Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 19.24% - 28.24%
• 10% off select merchandise purchases at select locations and 10% off select dining locations most days at the Disneyland ® Resort and Walt Disney World ® Resort.
• Save 10% on select purchases at DisneyStore.com
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.24% - 28.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

• Credit Card Reviews
• Cash Back Credit Cards

Rewards Center

Disney Rewards

This card comes with the following benefits :

• 5% in Disney Rewards Dollars at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com or ESPNPlus.com
• 2% in Disney Rewards Dollars from purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and most Disney locations
• 1% in Disney Rewards Dollars on all other purchases
• 10% off select merchandise purchases on Disney Cruise Line
• 10% off a Castaway Cay Getaway Package
• Special vacation financing when purchasing through Disney Cruise Line

While those earning rates aren’t bad, there are plenty of other cards that can match or exceed them. Consider the Capital One Venture card , which earns 5x miles on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2x miles on all other purchases . Plus, Capital One miles aren’t limited to Disney trips — they can be redeemed for any type of travel or transferred to hotels and airline partners .

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
• Access to Capital One transfer partners
• $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Limited elite benefits
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
• Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Best Sign Up Bonuses

Capital One Miles

• How To Find the 75k or 100k Bonus for the Capital One Venture
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• Capital One Venture Card vs. Capital One VentureOne Card [Detailed Comparison]
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• Recommended Minimum Requirements for Capital One Credit Cards

Other good options would be cash-back credit cards . These cards earn cash-back rewards on all purchases, which can be used toward a Disney cruise, a trip to a Disney park, Disney gifts, or anything else. Multiple cards earn 2% cash-back or even 5% cash-back on everyday purchases, which could end up being more lucrative than using the Disney Premier card.

The Disney Premier card could be good for those who would rather save money for Disney trips than other types of travel, or it could make sense for those who want special financing arrangements. However, there are lots of alternatives that earn flexible points or cash-back that may offer a better return on everyday purchases.

How To Earn Points on a Disney Cruise

If you’d like to earn lots of points by booking a Disney cruise (and who wouldn’t want that?), there are plenty of options.

Of course, you could pay with the Disney Premier card to earn 2% back in Disney Dollars. Alternatively, you could use a card that rewards travel purchases. These cards all earn 3x points on all travel, including cruises:

• American Express ® Green Card : 3x Membership Rewards points on travel
• Chase Sapphire Reserve ® : 3x Ultimate Rewards points on travel
• Ink Business Preferred ® Credit Card : 3x Ultimate Rewards points on travel

A fantastic option that earns a lot of points is paying for your Disney cruise with Disney gift cards . These can be purchased at office supply stores or grocery stores — categories where you can easily earn 5x points or 5% cash-back.

Here are a few great options for purchasing Disney gift cards:

• Ink Business Cash ® Credit Card : Earns 5% cash-back at office supply stores (up to $25,000 in purchases per year)
• Chase Freedom Flex℠ : Earns 5% cash-back in rotating categories (up to $1,500 in spend per quarter); we frequently see supermarkets and office supply stores count as 5% categories with this card
• Citi Custom Cash ® Card : Earns 5% cash-back on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle (up to $500 spent)

You can easily apply Disney gift cards to your online account as payment for a Disney cruise.

What To Do Once You’re Booked

If you’re a first-time Disney cruiser, you’re probably wondering what to do before your cruise begins. Here are a few important things to remember before embarkation day.

Complete your paperwork and check in for your cruise to get your boarding time. Check-in for first-time cruisers opens 30 days before setting sail. If you’ve sailed with Disney Cruise Line previously, you’re automatically a Castaway Club member and can check in earlier than first-time cruisers (you climb tiers based on how many Disney cruises you’ve been on, from 1 to 25 or more):

• Castaway Club Silver : Check-in 33 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Gold : Check-in 35 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Platinum : Check-in 38 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Pearl : Check-in 40 days before sailing.

Double-check your specific itinerary’s document requirements. Some cruises require a passport, while others may not.

Be sure to book dining reservations, shore excursions, and any extras like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique reservations early. The activity booking window for first-time Disney cruisers opens 75 days before sailing, while Castaway Club members get early access:

• Castaway Club Silver : Book activities 90 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Gold : Book activities 105 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Platinum : Book activities 120 days before sailing
• Castaway Club Pearl : Book activities 123 days before sailing

We asked Disney Cruise Line for advice for first-time Disney cruisers, and their experts pointed us to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app ( iOS or Android ).

“You will want to make sure you have the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app downloaded to your phone. From the comfort of your home, you can explore your ship, reserve cruise activities, and countdown to your vacation. Once on board, you can quickly access the daily activities, rotational dining details, and entertainment schedules. Consider it your ultimate guide to the magic!” Tracie M, planDisney panelist for Disney Cruises

Be sure to look out for your Disney Cruise Line luggage tags, which will be mailed to you about 60 days before your sailing. If you don’t receive them or forget them, the porters at the dock will have plenty of extras.

When packing for your cruise, don’t forget to include fun extras like costumes for onboard celebrations (like Pirate Night). Leave your rubber ducks at home, however. Disney Cruise Line recently banned the tradition of hiding them around the ships.

Check out planDisney for answers to any additional questions about booking a Disney Cruise.

Booking a Disney cruise can be intimidating if you’re not sure where to get the best deal. As we’ve detailed, there are lots of options that provide simplicity, while others offer extra perks — you can even use points to pay for your Disney cruise. On top of that, you can earn lots of points or cash-back by using a great travel rewards credit card.

Whether you’re booking your first Disney cruise or your fifth, we hope you enjoy the magic at sea!

The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the American Express ® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you book a disney cruise through costco.

Yes, Disney cruises are bookable through Costco Travel. The prices tend to be about the same as those offered through Disney Cruise Line, but bookings through Costco often come with a Costco Shop card as a bonus.

When is the cheapest time to book a Disney cruise?

The lowest prices on Disney cruises (not to mention the best availability) are usually found when booking as soon as an itinerary opens for sale.

Can you book a Disney cruise with points?

Yes! The easiest way to book a Disney cruise with points is through Capital One. You need to use a card like the Capital One Venture card to pay for your cruise. Then you can redeem your Capital One miles against your cruise purchase (within 90 days) at a rate of 1 cent per mile. You can also book Disney cruises with Marriott Bonvoy points or United miles at a rate that’s less than desirable.

When can you book excursions on Disney cruise?

First-time Disney cruisers can book excursions starting 75 days before sailing. Castaway Club members (anyone who has sailed on Disney Cruise Line previously) can book excursions 90 to 123 days before sailing.

How far in advance can you book Disney cruise?

New Disney Cruise Line itineraries are usually released about 15 to 18 months in advance.

Do Disney Cruises get cheaper closer to sail date?

Generally, no, Disney cruises don’t get cheaper closer to the sail date. In fact, prices tend to increase as the sailing date gets closer. While you may occasionally find a last-minute deal, it’s better to book as far ahead of time as possible.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Disney cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

One of the best things about a cruise is the food, especially if you're sailing on Disney Cruise Line .

From the oldest Disney ship, Disney Magic , to the newest, Disney Wish , the cruise line has continued to raise the bar when it comes to dining on a cruise ship. One thing that makes Disney cruise dining stand out among its competitors is the line's rotational dining program. Throughout a sailing, guests rotate dinners through three main Disney cruise restaurants, and their service team moves with them.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Along with the three main dining rooms across each ship, each Disney Cruise Line vessel also has an abundance of complimentary casual dining spots, at least one adults-only specialty restaurant and some lounges that offer food at an extra cost. With so many choices across the fleet, it can be confusing to know which restaurants are on which Disney ships.

Our Disney cruise food guide has all you need to know about dining options across the cruise line's fleet, including where to find them and whether they cost extra or are included in your fare. We also answer some of the most popular questions about dining and food on Disney Cruise Line.

Disney's rotational dining restaurants

Enchanted garden.

Included and a la carte; rotational dining; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Imagine stepping into a restaurant that's bright with light from the sun and is inspired by the gardens of Versailles. That's exactly what Enchanted Garden is. The venue is one of the rotational dining restaurants on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream .

Dinner at Enchanted Garden is three courses, with appetizers like lobster ravioli or a curried carrot and apple soup. The sea bass on the entree menu is a favorite of mine and is always cooked to perfection. Polish off the meal with a piece of chocolate torte or a banana sundae.

On every ship fleetwide, sit-down breakfast and lunch are served in one of the rotational dining restaurants daily. Which restaurant hosts breakfast and which hosts lunch varies by itinerary, and they can be the same venue for each meal or different for breakfast and lunch.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

The menus are typically set menus and do not change based on the host venue. On disembarkation day, your family will dine in the final restaurant of your set rotation, whether you ate dinner there or not. All breakfast menus on the final morning are the same across the ship's rotational dining options.

For breakfast, try one of the made-to-order omelets or Mickey-shaped waffles, all served by a team of helpful waiters and waitresses. Then, for lunch, menus feature soups, sandwiches, full entrees and desserts over three courses. Breakfast and lunch are both open seating, so you don't have to wait for a certain time or your assigned dinner table to be open to enjoy a meal.

Available on : Disney Fantasy and Dream

Animator's Palate

Disney Cruise Line's signature rotational dining restaurant is Animator's Palate, which can be found on the four oldest Disney ships. On Disney Magic and Disney Wonder , the restaurant is covered in black-and-white sketches of popular Disney and Pixar characters. On Disney's larger ships, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, the space is themed after an animator's studio, complete with maquettes, light boxes and computer workstations.

While enjoying the ambience, you can indulge in a menu filled with Asian and California fusion dishes. One of the most popular, and my favorite dish on the menu, is the black truffle pasta purseittes tossed in a creamy Champagne sauce. For something sweet after dinner, try the creme brulee or opt for a classic Mickey ice cream bar, which can be ordered at any of the rotational dining options fleetwide even though it's not listed on the menu.

Depending on which ship you're on, you have the chance to see three different shows inside Animator's Palate. On Disney Magic (on seven-night sailings or longer) and Disney Fantasy, you can draw your own character and, just before dessert, everyone's drawings are animated and come to life on screens near your seat.

On Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, "Drawn to Magic" shows off characters going from rough sketches to full-color animations. At the end of the show, Sorcerer Mickey stops by to say hello. If you're sailing on Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy, you'll also be able to join in the fun of "Undersea Magic," where Crush, from the Pixar movie "Finding Nemo," swims through the video screens around the room and stops to have conversations with various diners.

Available on : Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

Get ready to belt out "Let It Go" for the millionth time at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . This rotational dining restaurant on Disney Wish highlights Norwegian-inspired dishes. One highlight of the menu is Elsa's Royal Baked Scallops, which is scallops in a tarragon bisque loaded into a crock that's topped with puff pastry and baked to golden brown perfection. If your sweet tooth is as big as Anna and Elsa's, you can indulge in desserts like butter cake, apple cake or a mint chocolate chip sundae.

The dinner experience also includes a mealtime show. Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf make their way around the restaurant to meet guests and perform songs from "Frozen" on stage. A highlight is when Elsa's "ice magic" from the movie lights up the dining room through fiber optics in the ceiling. Kids can join in the final celebration and march around the restaurant conga line-style as they wave flags and sing along to "Love is an Open Door" with the dining room service team.

Available on : Disney Wish

Lumiere's

"Beauty and the Beast" fans will love dining in the restaurant named after the candelabra in the film. When you walk into Lumiere's, you'll notice more nods to the animated classic, including glass domes covering red roses and a large mural that shows the iconic ballroom scene from the fan-favorite movie.

This restaurant is part of the rotational dining program on Disney Magic, and a four-course, French-inspired meal is waiting for you. Highlights of the menu include a bacon and mushroom tart, French onion soup, roasted duck breast and creme brulee.

Additionally, breakfast and dinner are served here for those who want a more relaxing meal. Breakfast is fairly basic, with options like made-to-order omelets and pancakes. The lunch menu rotates daily and is a three-course meal.

Available on : Disney Magic

Disney Wish's 1923 is one of the best rotational dining options across Disney Cruise Line. The restaurant is named after the year that The Walt Disney Company was founded and celebrates animation through glass-encased shadow boxes of sketches and maquettes of Disney characters.

The restaurant is divided into two dining rooms named after Walt and his brother Roy, though both serve the same menu, which celebrates California cuisine. My favorite dishes include the seared tuna appetizer, grilled filet entree and the churros with caramel dipping sauce. This is a great spot for a steakhouse date night, too, so if you have kids, drop them off in the kids club and enjoy a meal to yourself without having to pay extra for Palo Steakhouse.

Related: Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Located just off the Grand Hall, 1923 also offers a waiter-served breakfast and lunch every sailing day. Menus for both can be seen on the Disney Cruise Line app or by asking a crew member at the restaurant. Be sure to ask for a seat near a window because the views are usually incredible.

Rapunzel's Royal Table

My favorite rotational dining restaurant on Disney Magic is Rapunzel's Royal Table, which is themed after the Disney movie "Tangled." The restaurant features dinner and a show. Enjoy a meal while being entertained by Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, the thugs and ruffians from The Snuggly Duckling and a live band, who are all celebrating Rapunzel's birthday.

Dinner here is one of the best on the ship, with dishes like beef and portobello mushroom ravioli, sea bass with Champagne-truffle vinaigrette, and pesto pasta with seared scallops. Of course, no birthday party is complete without dessert, and the menu is filled with options like creme brulee cheesecake and chocolate cake.

Royal Court

The fine dining option for rotational dining on Disney Fantasy is Royal Court. The restaurant serves a French-inspired menu for dinner with dishes like lobster and shrimp cocktail, wild boar tenderloin and peanut butter mousse — which just happens to be my favorite combination of courses to order here.

The dining room is also open for breakfast and lunch for table service meals in a beautiful atmosphere. The breakfast menu is the standard fare, though do look out for the pastry plate that is walked around by a server and try one of the sweet cinnamon rolls. Lunch is a three-course meal with a rotating menu throughout the cruise.

Available on : Disney Fantasy

Royal Palace

Cruisers looking for a spot to enjoy a meal at a leisurely pace will love Royal Palace. The restaurant is part of Disney's rotational dining service for dinner but is also open for breakfast and lunch. Dinner is a four-course meal inspired by French cuisine with dishes like spinach souffle, rack of lamb and creme brulee.

Breakfast is fairly basic with traditional morning options, but it's always nice to be served rather than fight others at the buffet line. Lunch is a three-course meal where the menu changes daily, so be sure to check the cruise line app for the most up-to-date menus once you board the ship.

Available on : Disney Dream

Tiana's Place

Exclusive to Disney Wonder is Tiana's Place, part of the rotational dining roster on the ship. The restaurant is themed after the Disney animated movie "The Princess and the Frog," with a menu that highlights Creole and Cajun cooking. While enjoying your dinner, you'll also be entertained by a live jazz band playing songs from the movie and other instrumental melodies.

Of course, no dinner at a New Orleans-themed restaurant on a Disney ship is complete without seeing the Bayou princess herself, Tiana. She swings by nightly and gets everyone out of their seats to parade around the restaurant with servers just like a parade through the French Quarter.

Available on : Disney Wonder

Triton's

The last of the rotational dining options on Disney Wonder is Triton's, which is the ship's fine dining option among the rotational dining restaurants. The art deco-style restaurant is themed after "The Little Mermaid," with a mural of Ariel and King Triton, plus a bronze statue of Ariel just outside the restaurant.

Breakfast here is fairly basic but more relaxing than hitting the buffet line. Menu options include omelets, French toast and fruit. The three-course lunch menu is a nice alternative if you're looking for a table-service lunch.

Related: How much does a Disney cruise really cost?

Dinner features French and American fare with dishes like duck confit and escargot for starters, then roasted lamb shank or lobster macaroni and cheese for entrees. One thing not to miss when it's on the menu is the Grand Marnier souffle, which is my favorite dessert across the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet.

Worlds of Marvel

Fans of the Avengers and other Marvel characters will love dining in Worlds of Marvel . The meal starts with your hosts, Ant-Man and the Wasp, explaining what the interactive quantum core on your table is for. Then, throughout the meal, you'll work with Marvel superheroes to save the ship from an impending villain.

The menu at Worlds of Marvel is themed after the different fictional and real locations featured in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, like Wakanda, New York and Sokovia. Highlights of the menu include a pork belly bao bun, chicken schnitzel and a lamb shawarma salad. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, the ricotta gnocchi with fontina cheese and pesto sauces is a delightful plate.

Extra-fee specialty dining on Disney Cruise Line

Enchante by chef arnaud lallement.

Extra cost; adults-only; brunch, dinner and dessert

Adults looking for a culinary wonderland on Disney Wish will want to make reservations for the French-inspired dining experience, Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement , whose restaurant L'Assiette Champenoise in Reims, France, has three Michelin stars.

For all three meal services — brunch, dinner and dessert — ingredients are sourced from around the world, and no two menus are ever the same. Dinner is a fine dining experience that can take upward of three hours, so you might miss the evening show in the Walt Disney Theater. Schedule your dinner with care if there's a show you don't want to miss.

The Champagne brunch at Enchante is a prix-fixe meal paired with a glass of Champagne, while Just Desserts is a five-course dessert menu served with some of the best coffee on the ship.

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Pricing for brunch, dinner and dessert starts at $80, $135 and $60, respectively, for a prix-fixe meal. There is also an a la carte menu for brunch and dinner.

Extra cost; adults-only; brunch and dinner

Drop your kids off at the Oceaneer Club or Oceaneer Lab and head to Palo, an adults-only Italian restaurant on four Disney ships. The restaurant is named after the poles used by gondoliers in Venice. Walking into Palo, you'll notice the panoramic windows looking to the ocean that offer spectacular sunset views.

Dinner at the restaurant can be done as an a la carte meal where you pay for each item or a set cost prix-fixe menu for $50. I prefer to do the a la carte menu because it has more options. Plus, most of the dishes are shared among family or friends, so choosing this option makes it so I can try more things. The a la carte menu is also the only way to try the restaurant's iconic potato gnocchi, which is tossed in a fresh basil pesto sauce.

Related: The best $50 you can spend on a Disney cruise

No matter which you choose, be sure to get the signature Palo chocolate souffle with vanilla bean gelato for dessert.

Brunch is a more casual affair than dinner but no less delicious at $50. Brunch at Palo is one of my favorite things to do on Disney Cruise Line, and the meal service is offered on all ships on most sea days. If you don't have a sea day on your itinerary, brunch might be served on a port day. On a recent cruise, I made a reservation for brunch at Palo when the ship was docked in Nassau, Bahamas.

Brunch starts with a glass of prosecco or a mimosa, then your choice of antipasti plates. I suggest taking a few people with you to brunch so you can try a few of the dishes on the menu, though one not to miss is the chicken Parmesan that's served with risotto. Another favorite is the lasagna, which is the perfect size for everyone to get a few bites before moving on to something else. The almond croissants are heavenly. If you eat your first almond croissant in a hurry, just ask your server if they can bring you another one.

Additionally, Platinum- and Pearl-level Castaway Club members get one free dinner at Palo per sailing for everyone sharing their cabin.

Available on : Disney Wonder, Magic, Fantasy and Dream

Palo Steakhouse

While the four older Disney Cruise Line ships have Palo, Disney Wish has a new variation of the popular adults-only restaurant called Palo Steakhouse. The ocean-facing restaurant serves dinner nightly and brunch on most sea days and the occasional port day.

The dinner menu is similar to that of Palo on the other Disney ships, with a prix-fixe dinner starting at $50 and an a la carte option. The a la carte menu emphasizes steaks, with American prime cuts, Australian wagyu and Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef you can pair with one of five sauces. If you ask, you can also get a sauce flight to try all of the options with your steak.

Do not overlook the dessert menu. While the classic chocolate souffle is available, the carrot cake with lemon cream cheese frosting is an exquisite end to a meal.

Brunch, which is also $50, is the same menu across the fleet, so you can get your favorite items here while overlooking the ocean in an elegant setting.

Additionally, Platinum- and Pearl-level Castaway Club members get one free dinner at Palo Steakhouse per sailing to share with everyone in their cabin.

Adults looking for an upscale meal without kids will want to book Remy on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. The adults-only French restaurant is themed after the Pixar movie "Ratatouille," and eagle-eyed diners will even spot the little chef made of glass perched in the dining room. The menus here are curated by chef Scott Hunnel from Walt Disney World's Victoria & Albert's and chef Arnaud Lallement.

The dinner service starts with a complimentary Champagne cocktail called "Collette" after the female chef in "Ratatouille." The tasting menu does change seasonally, so no matter when you go, you'll find something new to try. After your meal, a cheese trolley comes around to serve a selection of cheeses from France along with accompaniments. Finish off your meal with coffee and dessert. The prix-fixe menu at Remy is $135, and there's also an a la carte menu.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

On four-night or longer sailings, Remy also offers brunch and a dessert event, which are $80 and $65, respectively. Brunch at Remy is prix fixe with dishes like lobster cannelloni and sea bass, plus a glass of Champagne and a dessert. Those with a sweet tooth will want to try the dessert service where a five-course dessert menu is served with coffee. During the sweet meal, Remy's executive chef and pastry chef will talk about the history of each dessert and how it's made.

Available on : Disney Dream and Fantasy

Olaf's Royal Picnic

Extra cost; character experience

For even more "Frozen" fun on Disney Wish, kids can spend time with their favorite characters from the movie at Olaf's Royal Picnic, an extra-cost lunch and character experience. The event, which isn't a true picnic, takes place inside Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and features a two-course meal, one savory and one sweet. While enjoying lunch at one of the restaurant tables, kids and their accompanying adults can sing along to "Frozen" songs and meet Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf.

For kids ages 3 to 12, pricing for the event is $220 and includes lunch and a goodie bag filled with gifts like an Olaf hat, a mandolin and a plush troll doll. Adult meals are $69.

Royal Court Royal Tea

Extra cost; character experience; tea party

If your kids love tea parties and Disney princesses, you might want to book one of the Royal Court Royal Tea experiences on a Disney cruise. The tea party is for young cruisers ages 3 to 12, though a parent will have to accompany their children.

During the tea party, kids can choose from a selection of teas and pair their drinks with one sweet and one savory course. A Royal hostess and pastry chef tell stories, dance and sing with the group before welcoming in a few Disney princesses. Each child will receive an assortment of gifts as a keepsake after the event.

Pricing is $220 for kids ages 3 to 12 and $69 for adults. Kids ages 13 to 17 years old who attend with a younger sibling will be charged the adult price.

Available on : Disney Magic, Wonder, Fantasy and Dream

Casual Disney cruise dining options and snacks

Included; buffet; breakfast and lunch

Cabanas is Disney's buffet on its older ships, with 10 food stations in a beach-themed space. For breakfast, you can get everything from eggs and hash browns to Mickey-shaped waffles and fruit. Typically, once per cruise, the buffet will also offer churro Mickey waffles, which are a sweet take on the traditional breakfast dish.

For lunch, you can try out a variety of salads, sandwiches and pizzas. If you're looking for something heartier, try the carving station near the back of the buffet. The classic kids menu options of macaroni and cheese and chicken strips are readily available as well. Be sure to find the towering piles of crab legs and poached shrimp that grace the buffet line as well.

Marceline Market

Marceline Market is named after Walt Disney's hometown of Marceline, Missouri. The food hall-style buffet serves breakfast and lunch.

The casual eatery has a variety of breakfast options, including an omelet station, Asian favorites like congee and fried rice, and a kids station with pancakes and Mickey-shaped waffles. Lunch is a bigger deal here with a carving station, a salad bar, an international station where I've had great Indian food and a dessert bar.

One thing to note about Marceline Market versus Cabanas on the other Disney ships is that at Marceline Market, crew members often fill up your plate for you and then pass it over the glass food guards. This process makes the buffet a little easier and healthier than the self-serve option.

The buffet has both inside and outside seating, so on warm sea days, take your plate outside to enjoy the view of the ship's wake.

Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods

Included; lunch, dinner and snacks

Near Disney Wish's main pool is Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. This outdoor open-air concept is made up of five smaller quick-service windows dishing out barbecue, pizza, burgers, tacos and ice cream. My favorite is Donald's Cantina, which is a make-your-own Tex-Mex spot with plenty of base, protein and topping options, along with a nearby salsa and hot sauce bar.

One big bonus to this location is that it's open until 6 p.m., so if you don't want to deal with one of the main dining rooms for dinner, you can come here early for a casual meal.

Flo's Cafe

Included; lunch and snacks

If you're out by the pool and in need of a quick lunch or a snack, stop by Flo's Cafe, which is made up of three different "Cars"-themed windows serving cruise classics like burgers, pizza, salad and chicken tenders.

Pinocchio's Pizzeria

Included; casual dining; snacks and lunch

If you're looking for a hot slice of pizza, look no further than Pinocchio's Pizzeria. The menu is small, with only a few pie choices, including cheese, pepperoni and vegetarian. That said, the pizza is always hot and fresh, making this a great poolside snack while watching a movie on the funnel TV.

Available on : Disney Wonder and Magic

Pete's Broiler Bites

Included; casual dining; lunch, dinner and snacks

If Cabanas is too busy or you just want a quick meal, head to Pete's Broiler Bites. The outdoor grill has a menu filled with American classics like burgers, hot dogs, brats and chicken tenders, all of which can be served with crispy fries. This is a hot spot on sea days for quick snacks and meals at lunchtime, so go during off times for a shorter wait.

Daisy's De-Lites

Included; casual dining; snacks

You'll find Daisy's De-Lites near the pool on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. The casual counter-service spot has a nice selection of salads, sandwiches, wraps and fruit. I like to grab a wrap and some fruit to take with me to watch a movie on the funnel or in the cinemas on the ship.

Duck-In Diner

Outside on the pool deck of Disney Magic, Duck-In Diner dishes out lunch and snacks to hungry cruisers. The menu here is a fun mix of American favorites like burgers and dogs, plus Middle Eastern-inspired shawarma wrapped in a warm pita. I love the shawarma because you can see it rotating on a vertical spit right behind the counter and load up your sandwich with your favorite toppings.

Eye Scream Treats

Included; snacks

One of my favorite things about a cruise is the unlimited soft serve ice cream. At Eye Scream Treats, you can get as many ice cream cones or cups as you want throughout your sailing. The flavors do change daily, so check out what's mixing in the machines each day.

Extra-fee snacks

Extra cost; snacks

Just outside the Walt Disney Theater is a snack bar where you can get candy, popcorn and drinks before a show or movie. Before you even get to Preludes, you will smell the freshly popped popcorn, which can be served in a souvenir popcorn bucket. If you bring your bucket back to Preludes, you can enjoy discounted popcorn refills throughout your cruise. Buckets that are brought on board from other cruises or from a Disney Park are not available for refills at the discounted price.

Available : Fleetwide

Frozone Treats

While most food and snacks on Disney Cruise Line are included, some options are not, including Frozone Treats. This small snack stand whips up poolside smoothies for an extra cost that can be charged to your onboard bill.

Available on : Disney Magic, Fantasy and Dream

Sweet on You

Sweet on You is the adorable ice cream shop on Disney Fantasy. The snack shop has a variety of ice cream and gelatos that can be paired with 32 different toppings. There's also a whole case of baked goods, including cookies and cupcakes, and confections like truffles and candy. Each of the treats is an additional cost that can be charged to your cabin with your room key.

Senses Juice Bar

After a hard workout or time in the steam room, nothing is more refreshing than a fresh juice or smoothie. At Senses Juice Bar, you can get blended drinks made with fruit and veggies, then take them over to a small cafe table to look out onto the ocean or port of call while you enjoy your drink.

Vanellope's Sweets & Treats

Get a sugar rush at Vanellope's Sweets & Treats, which is themed after the movie "Wreck-It Ralph." The extra-cost snack shop has everything from gelato in crispy waffle cones to baked goodies and candy.

Inside Out: Joyful Sweets

Even though there are plenty of snacks and sweets available as part of your cruise fare, you might want to pop into Inside Out: Joyful Sweets to treat yourself to a sugary splurge. The sweet shop is where you can find hand-scooped gelato and ice cream in a variety of flavors. The shop is also known for its "Memory Orbs" cupcakes that pay tribute to the main characters in the Pixar movie "Inside Out."

Wheezy's Freezies

Wheezy's Freezies is the onboard smoothie shop on Disney Wish. Indulge in fruity drinks for an extra fee.

Room Service

Included and a la carte; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Unlike many other cruise lines that charge for room service, Disney Cruise Line still includes room service in its fares. In the morning, continental breakfast offerings can be delivered to your room from 7 to 10 a.m. To get breakfast, you will need to fill out one of the request cards in your room and leave it hanging on the door the night before your meal. Alternatively, you can call room service from your cabin phone to order in the morning.

For lunch and dinner, the menu is filled with sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts. If there are chicken wings listed on the menu, I implore you to get them. I always get an order after a day at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island, and the wings consistently arrive hot and crispy.

Don't forget that you can order Mickey's Premium Ice Cream Bars from room service even though the sweet treat is not on the menu. I love ordering one of these on a sea day to enjoy while taking in the view of the ocean from the balcony of my room.

Frequently asked Disney Cruise Line questions

How does rotational dining work?

You will be assigned a rotational dining restaurant for each night of your cruise. You will move through all three main dining rooms throughout your cruise and more than once on sailings longer than three nights. Your service team will move with you, and your table number will remain the same each night. At booking, you will select either main dining (5:45 p.m.) or late dining (8:15 p.m.) for your dining time. Your selected time will always be the opposite of the time you are slated to see the show inside the Walt Disney Theater.

Do I need reservations for specialty restaurants?

Yes, reservations are highlight recommended for all of the adults-only specialty restaurants fleetwide. Reservations can be made online as early as 123 days prior to your embarkation day, depending on your level within Disney's loyalty program called Castaway Club.

It's best to make reservations as early as possible so you know you have a guaranteed table at the time slot that you want. Some reservations for Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Remy and Enchante might be available to book once you're on board, but it's not guaranteed.

What drinks are included with my cruise fare?

Most drinks are included with your overall Disney cruise cost. These include drip coffee, juice, soda from soda machines, tap water, milk, tea and lemonade. The exceptions are alcoholic drinks, canned sodas from bars, bottled water and smoothies, which are purchased individually and charged to your folio.

Related: Disney cruise drink packages: How to save on beer, wine, cocktails and coffee

Bottom line

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide variety of dining options to please everyone from picky kids to epicurean adults. With treats like unlimited ice cream available near the pool, chicken tenders and fries to munch on while watching a movie and build-your-own taco bowls available on various ships, you'll always find something tasty.

Families enjoy rotational dining because they can try out different restaurants each night while sticking with the waiters who quickly get to know everyone and learn their preferences. Adults will find that the restaurants reserved just for them dish out some of the best meals on the ship in an inviting atmosphere.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Breathtaking video shows pregnant Disney cruise passenger dangling over the ocean in Coast Guard rescue

Dramatic video captured the moment a pregnant woman suffering medical complications was airlifted from a Disney cruise ship.

Footage posted by the US Coast Guard shows a rescuer being lowered onto the Disney Fantasy on Monday in the Atlantic Ocean, about 180 miles northwest of Puerto Rico.

The 35-year-old woman, whose identity was not released, is then seen being raised by a Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk chopper to be flown to a hospital.

“Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan received a communication from the Disney Fantasy Monday morning requesting medevac assistance as the cruise ship was transiting 260 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico,” the agency said.

The Coast Guard also deployed an HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft from Air Station Miami to rendezvous with the cruise ship.

“Once on scene, the Coast Guard Jayhawk aircrew deployed their rescue swimmer aboard the cruise ship, who prepared a rescue basket and litter to safely hoist the patient and cruise ship doctor aboard the aircraft,” the Coast Guard said.

The woman was transported to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she was treated at Centro Medico Hospital, officials said.

“Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,” Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens said in a statement. “This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

Ensign Michael Riccio, Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader, said his crew was “glad everything came together to help this passenger.

“The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference,” he said.

The Post has reached out to Disney Cruise Line for comment.

Coast Guard rescues pregnant passenger from Disney cruise off Puerto Rico

By nbc6 • published april 18, 2024 • updated on april 18, 2024 at 6:43 pm.

Video from the U.S. Coast Guard shows a pregnant woman being rescued from a Disney Fantasy cruise ship Monday off the coast of Puerto Rico.

Coast Guard officials said the cruise requested medevac assistance after the 35-year-old passenger from the United States was experiencing unspecified health complications and needed advanced medical care.

The video, shared Tuesday, showed a Coast Guard aircrew deploy a rescue swimmer aboard the cruise ship, which was 180 miles northwest of Aguadilla.

The woman was transported to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, then to Centro Medico Hospital for care.

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“Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,” said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens. “This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

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See Four Seasons' upcoming ultra-luxury cruise with a $350,000-a-week suite bigger than most homes

• Four Seasons says it will begin sailing an  ultra-luxury yacht cruise in January 2026.
• The 222-guest vessel would have 95 spacious suites and 11 dining options — but food wouldn't be free.
• The largest suite would have four floors and bedrooms, a spa, and a price of $350,000 per sailing.

Four Seasons plans to expand its high-end hotels and resorts portfolio with a luxury 222-guest cruise ship.

The company says the 95-suite vessel will debut in January 2026 and cost a minimum of $20,000 per weeklong sailing.

For that price, the luxury hospitality giant says travelers would enjoy a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio and massive suites spanning as many as four floors. If all goes as planned, the 679-foot-long Four Seasons I could become one of the most expensive and opulent options in the cruise industry.

The ultra-plush 14-deck Four Seasons I is scheduled for 19 voyages in 2026 to more than 130 Caribbean and Mediterranean ports.

Reservations opened two weeks ago. Those interested can register to join a waitlist or book through a travel agent.

So far, "sales have been very encouraging, and the demand is exciting to see," Thatcher Brown, chief commercial officer and head of joint operations for Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, told Business Insider in a statement. The company is a joint owner and operator of Four Seasons Yachts.

Renderings make the Four Seasons I look as opulent as the brand's land-based properties.

Four Seasons says its vessel will have 95 suites ranging from 537 to 9,975 square feet, some with three bedrooms.

The smallest suite starts at $19,700 for a five-night roundtrip voyage to Athens, Greece.

No windowless interior cabins here: Like other ultra-luxe cruises, the suites would all have terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Customers could expect upscale amenities like a walk-in closet, down-filled duvets and pillows, and marble dual vanity bathrooms, per Four Seasons.

The most premium suites would also feature additional accommodations for "personal assistants," such as au pairs or security personnel.

Some options, like the 7,952-square-foot Loft Suite, could be adjoined with seven other cabins to accommodate up to 20 people.

Without connecting cabins, the Loft Suite would already have three bedrooms and bathrooms, a powder room, and a sauna.

Others, like the largest Funnel Suite, would have its own spa and kitchen.

Four Seasons says the 9,975-square-foot mansion, partially perched in the ship's glass-lined funnel , will span four floors, four bathrooms, three bedrooms, and three powder rooms.

Not to mention the private elevator, pool, and $350,000-a-voyage price tag.

Accommodations of this price and size are generally unheard of in the cruise industry.

Luxury operator Silversea says the largest suite on its upcoming 728-guest Silver Ray will be 1,324 square feet. Competitor Regent Seven Seas' new Seven Seas Grandeur debuted in 2023 with a more expansive six-guest 4,443-square-foot option.

Both suites' sizes and prices — Regent's starts at $42,000 per person for a total of $252,000 at maximum occupancy — would be stunted by Four Seasons' promise of a 9,975-square-foot, $350,000 floating mansion.

But cabins with six-digit prices aren't unheard of.

While not a luxury cruise line, Royal Caribbean's popular three-floor townhouse on the new Icon of the Seas is being booked at an average of $100,000 a week — although it's about four times smaller than Four Seasons' largest.

Royal Caribbean and other mass-market cruise lines are beloved, in part, for their unlimited complimentary food options.

Regent Seven Seas' all-inclusive fare also covers caviar, foie gras, and Champagne.

But don't expect any of these to be free on the Four Seasons I.

Breakfast would be complimentary. Lunch, dinner, and booze would not.

The vessel's 11 restaurants and lounges would be priced similarly to Four Seasons' on-land properties. (A dinner entrée at its resort on the Caribbean island of Nevis — also one of the ship's destinations — ranges from $34 to $163.)

The pricing structure may sound odd to most cruise traditionalists. (Hey, at least WiFi would be "free.")

But some of the ship's amenities could look familiar: Like most cruise liners, the Four Seasons I would have a pool, spa, and clubs for children and teens.

The company also promises a lounge and marina that will open onto the water, giving guests direct access to activities like snorkeling or windsurfing.

Four Seasons Yachts plans to take delivery of its $399 million vessel, now being built by famed Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, in late 2025.

A second Fincantieri-built ship would join the hospitality company's fleet the following year. The next vessel would cost more than 400 million euros, about $429.2 million, Four Seasons says.

This isn’t Four Seasons' first foray into itinerary-based vacations.

The company has also found "tremendous success" in its private jet-based "cruises," Alejandro Reynal, the president and CEO of Four Seasons, told BI in a statement.

Its 2024 vacation-by-air itineraries started at $135,000 for a 16-day Asia tour. Demand has been growing, he said, "signaling that luxury travelers are looking for immersive, exclusive, end-to-end travel journeys that allow them to explore the world with their favorite brands."

But its new ultra-luxe cruise arm would be entering an increasingly crowded luxury market, soon to be dominated by like-minded hospitality giants.

High-end Aman Resorts and Orient Express plan to launch their own luxury cruises in 2027 and 2026, respectively.

Staying ahead of the competition, Ritz-Carlton debuted its first 149-suite Evrima yacht cruise in 2021, with a second 224-cabin ship scheduled to begin sailing later this year. Its least expensive itinerary is currently $5,100 per person for a six-night voyage from Barbados to Puerto Rico in early 2025.

Interested in a hotelier-owned vacation at sea but don't want to pay the luxury price tag? Margaritaville's cruise is an affordable $75 for two nights.

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Watch: u.s. coast guard airlifts pregnant woman off disney cruise after 'health complications'.

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A pregnant woman was taken off a Disney cruise ship on Monday via medevac after she experienced health complications.

According to the United States Coast Guard, a Jayhawk helicopter aircrew left a station in Miami to conduct a medevac for a Disney Fantasy cruise ship passenger who was traveling 180 miles northwest of Puerto Rico.

The 35-year-old pregnant woman was having health complications and required a higher level of medical care ashore, the Coast Guard said.

On the scene, the aircrew deployed their rescue swimmer who prepared a rescue basket and litter once they were aboard the ship. The woman and the cruise ship doctor were then hoisted onto the aircraft.

The woman was transported to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, then emergency personnel transported the woman to the local "Centro Medico" Hospital.

“We are glad everything came together to help this passenger,” said Ensign Michael Riccio, Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader for the case. “The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference.”

The woman's current condition is not immediately known.

Pregnant Woman Airlifted From Disney Cruise Ship in Harrowing Video

When it comes to traveling during pregnancy , whether it's by airplane or via a cruise ship, there are policies in place to help prevent emergencies when medical care isn't easily accessible. However, the unexpected can (and does) still happen. Expectant moms deliver babies on airplanes and medical issues arise on cruise ships, and crew members are forced to assess the situation and make smart calls.

This is exactly what happened to a 35-year-old pregnant woman on a Disney cruise ship. An expectant mom was recently airlifted while onboard Disney Fantasy , and the harrowing rescue was captured on video.

More from CafeMom: Dramatic Video Shows Moment Woman Unexpectedly Gives Birth on Airplane

#Breaking @USCG MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Borinquen medevaced a pregnant woman needing higher level of care on land from #Disney Fantasy cruise ship approx. 180 miles off Puerto Rico, Monday. #SAR Read more and imagery: https://t.co/jryXk3cEx2 pic.twitter.com/p201g8Rtx3 — USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) April 16, 2024

Video footage shows the pregnant woman being airlifted from the Disney cruise ship.

The US Coast Guard shared video footage via X of a rescuer being lowered onto the Disney Fantasy on Monday, April 15. A pregnant woman on a stretcher was then airlifted from the cruise ship onto a Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk chopper, per a news release . The rescue happened in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 180 miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.

The Coast Guard offered further details of the rescue.

“Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan received a communication from the Disney Fantasy Monday morning requesting medevac assistance as the cruise ship was transiting 260 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico,” the news release detailed. Additionally, the Coast Guard deployed an HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft from Air Station Miami to "rendezvous with the cruise ship."

More from CafeMom: Shark Seen in Extended Video of HS Graduate Who Disappeared Jumping From Bahamas Ship

Ultimately, the woman was transported to a hospital.

After successfully airlifting the pregnant patient, the Coast Guard aircrew transported her to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She was then transported by local EMS to a hospital.

“Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,” Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens said in a statement in the news release. “This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

The Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader also praised those who made the rescue a success.

Ensign Michael Riccio, the Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader, praised the combined efforts of the agency and the Disney cruise crew. Riccio said his team was “glad everything came together to help this passenger."

“The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference,” he added.

More from CafeMom: Mom Leaves 6- & 8-Year-Old Kids Home Alone so She Can Go on Weeklong Cruise

What is Disney Cruise Lines' pregnancy policy?

It's unclear if the woman's medical emergency was pregnancy-related. However, per Disney Cruise Lines' FAQ , women must be no further along than 23 weeks in order to sail. Additionally, women cannot enter week 24 during the cruise, or else they will "be refused passage due to safety concerns."

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National News | Pregnant Disney cruise passenger airlifted by Coast Guard after medical emergency

Stunning video shows a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter airlifting a pregnant passenger from a Disney cruise ship near Puerto Rico.

The chopper was dispatched from Miami on Monday after the 35-year-old woman experienced unspecified health complications and required more advanced care than what was available onboard the Disney Fantasy ship .

The vessel was about 180 miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico when the rescue call was made by the ship’s crew.

The woman and the ship’s doctor were hoisted aboard the aircraft and flew to Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan before she was taken to a hospital.

“We are glad everything came together to help this passenger,” Ensign Michael Riccio, Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader, said in a news release Tuesday. “The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference.”

“Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,” Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens added in the news release. “This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

The woman’s condition is not currently known.

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