A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Plans
A Disney cruise is a wonderful way for your family to experience the magic of Disney in a wonderfully fun and unique way. I recommend that every family go on at least one Disney cruise. Because the cost is on the higher side, many families feel that one and done is enough for their family. That’s why many families wonder what is the right timing for their family to book that special experience. I suggest that the family wait until their youngest child is potty trained so that they can freely go in all of the pools and not have to worry about diaper changes while in the kid’s club. And, unfortunately, at some point your kids might get a little bit too old to fully appreciate all of the fun that a Disney cruise offers. I would recommend that a family go on a Disney cruise before the eldest child turns 10. Of course, all of this depends on the family, and there is always the couple or sailor who remains young at heart and so therefore always appreciates the magic of Disney.
Why You Should Book Early
The first thing you should know about Disney Cruises is that the earlier you book, the better. Not only will you have a wider selection of staterooms to choose from, but you’re also more likely to lock in a better price. Like most travel options, Disney Cruise prices can rise as the sailing date approaches and as more rooms are filled.
Booking early also means you’ll have more time to take advantage of Disney Cruise Line’s flexible payment plan. This way, you can break up the cost of your trip into smaller, more manageable payments, making the entire process less stressful.
Pro Tip: Book your cruise as soon as your family has decided on dates, destinations, and the ship. The best staterooms and prices tend to go quickly, so it’s always better to be ahead of the game!
Choosing the Perfect Disney Cruise
One of the most exciting parts of planning a Disney Cruise is deciding on the itinerary that suits your family’s needs. Disney Cruise Line offers sailings to various destinations around the world, from the sparkling Caribbean islands to the breathtaking Norwegian fjords.
Here are some questions to ask yourself before booking:
How long do you want to cruise for? Disney offers cruises that last anywhere from 3 nights to over a week.
Which destinations are on your bucket list? Do you want a tropical escape to the Bahamas or a cultural adventure in Europe?
Do you have specific dates in mind? If you’re flexible, you might find better prices during off-peak seasons.
Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll have a clearer idea of the perfect cruise for you.
Understanding Stateroom Options
When booking your Disney Cruise, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting your stateroom. Disney Cruise Line offers four main types of staterooms, each catering to different preferences and budgets.
Inside Staterooms
These are the most budget-friendly options and are located inside the ship with no window. However, Disney adds a touch of magic with a “virtual porthole,” allowing you to view the outside world through a live video feed.
Oceanview Staterooms
For those who want a real window to the outside world, Oceanview staterooms feature large portholes to let in natural light and give you a view of the sea.
Verandah Staterooms
If you’d like your own private balcony to relax on, these are the ideal staterooms. They’re perfect for a morning coffee with a sea view or an evening sunset.
Concierge Staterooms
The most luxurious option, concierge staterooms provide the ultimate Disney Cruise Line experience. You’ll enjoy extra space, exclusive services, and early access to booking premium activities and dining.
Each stateroom is designed with Disney’s family-friendly touch, offering comfort, ample storage, and often, split bathrooms (perfect for families getting ready at the same time).
Booking Premium Activities and Dining
Once you’ve booked your stateroom, the next step is to start thinking about premium activities and dining experiences. These reservations open up for different guests at different times depending on your Castaway Club status. For first-time cruisers, you’ll be able to book your activities about 30 days before departure.
Key activities to book in advance include:
• Adults-only dining experiences such as Palo or Remy
• Spa treatments at Senses Spa
• Beverage seminars or cooking classes
• Character meet-and-greets or exclusive events
• Nursery reservations for children under 3 years old
If you’re a seasoned cruiser or staying in a concierge stateroom, you’ll have the advantage of booking these experiences earlier, giving you the best chance of snagging the most popular reservations.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until you’re onboard to book! Popular activities fill up quickly, so be sure to log into the Disney Cruise Line website or app as soon as your booking window opens.
Make the Most of Your Embarkation Day
Embarkation day is when the magic truly begins! But before you start exploring the ship, there are a few things you’ll want to take care of:
Arrive a Day Early
If you’re flying to the port, it’s always a good idea to arrive the day before. Flight delays can happen, and you definitely don’t want to miss your cruise departure.
Pack a Carry-On Bag
Your checked luggage may take a few hours to arrive at your stateroom, so be sure to pack a carry-on with any essentials you’ll need for the afternoon—like swimwear if you plan to hit the pool right away.
Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App
This app will be your best friend throughout the cruise. You can use it to check the daily schedule of activities, make reservations, and even chat with other guests.
Explore the Ship
Once you’ve boarded, take some time to explore the ship and get your bearings. Disney ships are full of magical surprises, and you’ll want to know where everything is!
Please let me know if and when you are ready to book that Disney cruise for you and your family. I would love to help make your wishes come true.
The majority of this article is taken from the following website:
https://magical-traveller.com/disney-cruise-planning-guide
