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Best Disney Cruise Ship (Ranked for 2024)

Last updated on Jan 1, 2024 by Adam Bryan . This post may contain affiliate links.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the high seas on a Disney Cruise but didn’t know which ship to sail on, then this article is for you!

After sailing on all 5 Disney Cruise ships, I’ll compare every ship’s amenities, itineraries, staterooms, entertainment, kids clubs, and dining, in order to help you decide which one will be the best for your next vacation.

So with that said, let’s jump straight to my rankings of the best Disney Cruise ships!

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

Best disney cruise ships.

• What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

What Disney Cruise Ship has the Best Food?

Best disney cruise ship for toddlers, best disney cruise ship for adults.

• What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

What is the most luxurious Disney Cruise ship?

What ship has the best concierge staterooms and lounges, what is the most expensive cruise ship, what are the best disney cruise destinations, how many disney cruise ships are there, does port (left) or starboard (right) have the best views, should i go on a disney cruise before or after disney world, final thoughts.

Here are the Disney Cruise Ships ranked from best to worst, based on amenities, staterooms, dining options, and itineraries.

• Disney Wish
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Although there are a lot of similarities between these ships, each one has its own advantages and disadvantages that make them unique in their own ways. I’ll go into more detail about that in the next section.

Here is my list of Disney Cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish

As Disney Cruise Lines’ newest ship, The Disney Wish is the undisputed goat at this moment.

Yes, the layout is wonky, but the overall aesthetics, stateroom quality, immersive restaurant options, and youth clubs take this boat to the next level.

If you’re looking for the nicest staterooms, this is the ship for you.

Disney Wish Entertainment

The entertainment onboard the Disney Wish is fantastic. The two highlights are the Hero Zone and Luna, which is the main hub for all daily/nightly entertainment including bingo, game shows, and some trivia.

There are two movie theaters onboard where you can view first run Disney movies as well as some older releases.

The Walt Disney Theater is home two three Broadway-style shows – Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Disney Seas the Adventure.

You can find daily activities at Luna and Keg Compass, just to name a few.

Lastly, you can’t forget about the fireworks at sea.

Disney Wish Dining

The restaurant and food quality onboard the Disney Wish is the best of the entire fleet.

For counter service, you can grab some quick bites from the Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods which fathers fan-favorite options like pizza, burgers, chicken strips, fries, barbecue, tacos and burrito bowls, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream.

I couldn’t believe that they had all you can eat barbecue and build your own burrito bowls on board.

The Main Dining rotation is by far the most immersive thanks to World of Marvel (where Ant Man, The Wasp, and Spider-Man an appearance), Arendelle (a Frozen dining adventure), and 1923 (a glizy steakhouse). Not to mention the adults-only options are top notch at Palo Steakhouse and Enchante.

And let’s not forget about Marceline Market, which is a buffet open for breakfast and lunch. My only complaint about Marceline Market is that the seafood selection is lacking compared to Cabanas onboard the Dream and Fantasy.

In terms of bars and lounges, the Wish is home to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, which is so cool. It reminds me of a microscopic version of the Galactic Starcruiser . The Bayou is also a great place to listen to live music and snack on some beignets. There are numerous other bars located throughout the ship, but these are the two most popular.

Disney Wish for Kids

The kids clubs aboard the Disney Wish are by far the most immersive of the fleet thanks in part to Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The clubs for teens and tweens are just as cool too!

But the highlight of the boat is definitely the AquaMouse waterslide which is the first ever Disney attraction at sea.

2. Disney Dream

Prepare to be dazzled by the Disney Dream, a magnificent vessel that takes guests on an extraordinary voyage filled with imagination and luxury. With its iconic Art Deco design, innovative features, and world-class entertainment, this ship offers an enchanting experience that combines Disney storytelling with the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.

It by far has the best layout of any of the other cruise ships and is well-loved by many guests.

Disney Dream Entertainment

The signature show onboard the Disney Dream is Beauty and Beast, which is great! You can also watch Disney’s Believe which lets you relive some of Disney’s greatest movie moments onstage as well as the iconic Golden Mickeys.

You can view first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theater or even watch some movies under the stars via FunnelVision.

The Dream is also home to Marvel Day at Sea during select sailings!

Throughout the day, you can find daily activities at the D Lounge or some fun adult-only games shows at Evolution.

The best part of the Dream for adults is that there is an exclusive area filled with bars, lounges, and a nightclub in the back of the ship.

Disney Dream Dining

Food-wise, the Dream has three great rotational dining spots – Animator’s Palate (with Crush), Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden. Animators Palate is by far the most interactive dining experience onboard. And for adults, there is a Palo and Remy, which are both fantastic in their own ways.

For counter-service food, you can find pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and all you can eat ice cream.

Cabanas is probably my favorite Disney Cruise buffet due in part to it’s stone crab selection.

Disney Dream for Kids

Onboard the Disney Dream, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Goofy’s sports deck with mini-golf and an AquaDuck waterslide that’s fun for all ages (adults included).

3. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is a majestic ship combines sophisticated design, immersive entertainment, and unparalleled service to create an extraordinary vacation experience.

The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Dream as they share almost the same layout and amenities, with a few minor changes in the hard and soft product. The Fantasy currently sails 7-night western and eastern caribbean routes out of Port Canaveral, FL.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

The Disney Fantasy is home to three Broadway style shows – Aladdin, Frozen, and Disney’s Believe.

Onboard the ship, you’ll also find a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies as well as D Lounge for daily activities and game shows and a nightclub district called Europe which features several bars, lounges, and a British-mode nightclub called The Tube.

Disney Fantasy Dining

The Fantasy has identical dining locations to the Dream. The main dining restaurants are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, and Royal Court. There is also two adults-only restaurants called Remy and Palo.

For casual, quick service options, you’ll find a buffet called Cabanas, Flo’s Cafe for burgers, chicken, pizza, and salad, as well as Eye Scream Treats for unlimited ice cream.

Disney Fantasy for Kids

Onboard the Disney Fantasy, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

You’ll also find a Goofy’s Sports deck for some mini-golf

There is also a water roller coaster called the AquaDuck!

4. Disney Magic

The Disney Magic cruise ship embodies timeless Disney charm and elegance, offering a captivating experience for guests of all ages. From its classic design to its immersive entertainment and dining options, this vessel showcases the perfect blend of enchantment, adventure, and relaxation on the high seas.

The Magic can be found on Caribbean itineraries as well as those found in northern Europe.

Disney Magic Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Magic, you’ll can watch Broadway-style live shows in the Walt Disney Theater like Tangled the Musical, Disney Dreams, and Twice Charmed An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story.

There is also a Buena Vista Theater that shows first-run Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars movies.

Not to mention you’ll be able to participate in daily actives in the D Lounge or Premade Lounge during your sailing.

The adult’s only nightclub on the Magic is called Fathoms which is home to disco dance parties and adults-only game shows. You’ll also find bars and lounges scattered throughout each deck.

Disney Magic Dining

The best part about the Disney Magic is the Duck-In Diner, if you love schwarma!

Besides that, you can find three main dining restaurants – Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table, which is a Tangled-themed immersive dining experience. There is also only one adults-only restaurant called Palo.

Quick eats include Cabanas buffet, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Duck-In Diner, and Eye Scream Treats.

Disney Magic for Kids

On the Disney Magic, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Wide World of Sports which has basketball court!

5. Disney Wonder

With its classic charm and impeccable attention to detail, the Disney Wonder offers a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages. From its elegant design to its captivating entertainment and dining options, the Disney Wonder invites guests to embark on a journey filled with enchantment, imagination, and cherished memories.

The Wonder was the second ever Disney Cruise ship and currently sails the west coast of the US on itineraries for Alaska, Hawaii, Cabo, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Wonder, you’ll find a nightclub for adults called Azure, a D Lounge for daily activities, a movie theater for first run movies, and a main theater that has nightly performances of Frozen A Musical Spectacular and the Golden Mickeys.

Disney Wonder Dining

The dining options are plentiful onboard the Disney Wonder. The main dining rooms include Animator’s Palate, Tritons, and the fun and musical Tiana’s Place. If you love the Princess and the Frog, you’ll love this spot!

Adults can also dine at Palo, the only adult exclusive restaurant on board available for brunch and dinner.

For counter service, you will find burgers, pizza, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream. Unlike the Magic, there is not a place to get schwarma.

Disney Wonder for Kids

Onboard the Disney Wonder, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

There are a handful of things that you’ll find on ever Disney Cruise:

• Service – regardless of what ship you’re on, you’ll immediately notice that the world class service is consistent on all of the ships
• Movie Theater – every ship has a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies
• Pool – every ship will have a pool but the number of pools vary depending on the ship
• Room Service – regardless of stateroom or ship, you have access to complimentary room service 24/7
• Unlimited Ice Cream – you can enjoy all you can eat soft serve ice cream
• Pirate Night – you can participate in Pirate Night on every ship
• Adults-only areas – every ship has a Quiet Cove pool, bars, lounges, as well as an exclusive adults-only restaurant like Palo
• Spa – every ship has a Senses Spa, salon, and gym
• Rotational Dining – every ship has three rotating main dining rooms
• Buffet – you’ll find a buffet on ever Disney Cruise ship
• Character Meet and Greets – you can meet characters on every sailing
• Shopping – every ship has their own stores
• Key to the World Card – every guest will receive a Key to the World Card to access their stateroom and make purchase without cash
• Sail Away Deck Party – you’ll find a sail away deck party on every ship
• Youth Club – you’ll find youth clubs including a nursery onboard every ship
• Alcohol – every ship serves alcohol and each guest over the age of 21 has an alcohol allowance that they can bring onboard
• Concierge Lounge – every ship has a Concierge Lounge available exclusively for guests staying in Concierge staterooms

The Disney Wish has the best food on any Disney Cruise Ship.

Although it’s a tight race between the Magic, Wonder, and Wish, the food options on the Wish are slightly better.

From a counter service perceptive, the Wish has a taco spot and a barbecue spot, both of which can’t be found on any of their other ships.

Plus, it’s the only ship currently to have a Palo Steakhouse which I believe is far better than the normal Palo.

And in case you were wondering, the second best ship in regards to food options is the Disney Magic mainly due to one thing I love so much – schwarma.

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for toddlers (or kids in general) is the Disney Wish .

The Wish is jam packed with amazing Youth Clubs as well as some exciting areas such as the Star Wars: Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie’s Captain Deck, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Fairytale Hall, and Imagineering Lab.

Not to mention, the AquaMouse is the best waterslide on any Disney ship!

But, regardless of what ship you sail on, your kids will have so much fun thanks to the countless character meet and greet opportunities, fun Broadway-style shows, all you can eat ice cream, and fun pools.

Hands down, the best Disney Cruise Ship for adults is the Disney Dream .

The Disney Dream is home to several lounges and bars like Skyline, Pub 687, the Meridian, and Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar. The Dream also has a nightclub called Evolution which is home to adults-only live shows, dance parties, and so much more.

Although the Wish is the best ship in the fleet, it lacks a separate area for adults in the evening, similar to what you’ll find in The District. There’s just something nicer about having a separate area to drink and lounge that’s not located directly in the middle of the ship where everyone needs to pass by.

The Disney Dream also has a nice Quiet Cove area for adults as well as a very scenic Senses Spa, Salon, and gym area.

And when it comes to food, adults can dine at both Palo and Remy (no kids allowed).

What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

If you’re looking to cruise on a budget , the cheapest ship with the lowest priced itineraries can be found on the Disney Magic .

Although prices will vary depending on the time of year you choose to sail, most itineraries on the Disney Magic appear to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the ones on the Dream and Wish.

Honestly, you can use these strategies to make any Disney Cruise affordable.

The most luxurious Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wish . The sheer quality of suites (including the Wish Tower Suite), high-end shopping, superior Concierge Lounge and sundeck, as well as the dining options, and makes it a true masterpiece.

In terms of luxury, nothing else comes close, at the moment.

The best Concierge Lounge and stateroom options can be found on the Disney Wish .

The Wish’s Concierge Lounge and private sundeck is massive and completely blows the other ships’ out of the water.

Not to mention the quality, size, and style of Concierge Suites found on the Wish is significantly nicer and larger than the ones found on any of the other ships.

That said, the perks , benefits, and service you receive as a Concierge guest are completely identical on every ship.

Technically speaking, the most expensive cruise ship has nothing to do with the ship itself but instead the itineraries it follows, as well as the stateroom that you stay in .

Generally speaking, the most expensive destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe (Mediterranean, Greece, and Norway).

If you sail decide to book a Concierge Stateroom, you’ll notice the significant price different between the next highest room category (Verandah).

That said, The Wish appears to cost more for sailings to the Bahamas cruises compared to the Dream when it previously sailed the same route from Port Canaveral.

Everyone’s opinion will be very different, but based on my own personal sailing experience, these are my favorite destinations ranked:

• Mediterranean (out of Barcelona)
• Western Caribbean

My bucket list includes sailings to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Norway, and Cabo.

There are currently 5 Disney Cruise Ships sailing with two more on the way. The next ship that’s going to start sailing in 2024 is named The Treasure.

The names are:

This strictly depends on what destinations your ship is sailing to. But from personal experience, the Starboard side always seems to have the better views. Not to mention, you can see the fireworks at sea from your stateroom balcony if you are on the Starboard side.

When leaving out of Port Canaveral, the best side will be the Starboard (right) side because it faces the beach in Castaway Cay , as well as the beach when leaving Port Canaveral. When in Nassau, Bahamas, the best side of the boat is Port (left) because gives you the best view of the island.

If it were up to me, I would 100% go on a Disney Cruise after a Disney World vacation .

As fun as Disney World is, it can be pretty stressful and tiring with all of the planning, itinerary-building , walking, heat exhaustion, etc.

Disney Cruises, on the other hand, are the exact opposite . Cruising is more peaceful, there’s less walking involved, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

That’s why I recommend that you always start with Disney World and then end with a Disney Cruise.

And there you have it!

We’ve sailed through the rankings and comparisons of all five magnificent Disney cruise ships. From the timeless elegance of the Disney Magic to the dazzling innovation of the Disney Dream, the enchanting Disney Fantasy, the classic charm of the Disney Wonder, and the majestic nature of the Disney Wish, each ship offers a unique and unforgettable voyage.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, luxurious indulgence, or the perfect blend of Disney magic and relaxation, there’s a ship waiting to fulfill your dreams on the high seas.

So, set your course, plan your voyage , pack your bags , and embark on a Disney cruise experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

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About Adam Bryan

Hey what's up, I'm Adam, founder of Urban Tastebud Disney and I spend most of my days eating (and researching, but mostly eating) around Disney Parks to create useful travel planning content that will help you maximize your time and money at Disney.

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Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023

Disney cruises are popular for many reasons – for their family-friendly amenities, attention to detail, and commitment to providing family magic.

If you are a regular reader here, you know that I’m an avid cruiser on the Disney Cruise Line. After three sailings on the Disney Fantasy , one on the Disney Wonder , seven on the Disney Dream , and one on the Disney Magic , I’ve had the chance to experience Disney’s newest ship – the Disney Wish , twice. If you are considering a trip on the Disney Cruise Line, you may be wondering what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship for your family vacation.

It’s difficult to answer that without looking at the various itineraries as well as comparing the sizes, restaurants, amenities, and more on the Disney Cruise ships. Here are our comparisons.

Disclosure: I’ve been on one complimentary media preview cruise as well as two cruises as part of Disney Social Media Moms. The rest of my cruises were at my own cost. All opinions are my own.

Check prices of Disney Cruise Line Sailings here .

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Ships

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you’ll definitely want to look at the various itineraries offered. After all, a Mediterranean cruise is much, much different than an Alaskan cruise. Itinerary and ports of call really should be your first consideration when deciding which ship on the Disney Cruise Line fleet you’ll want to sail on.

The Disney Fantasy always leaves from the Port Canaveral cruise port and sails on seven-day itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay .

The Fantasy’s sister ship, the Disney Dream, used to leave from Port Canaveral but now departs from Miami for part of the year. The Dream also has sailings from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan, New York, and Europe.

The other two ships, the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have typically traveled around a bit more. Itineraries (especially in the winter) change year by year, but the Wonder typically goes to Alaska, while the Magic has itineraries departing from San Diego, Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan.

Miami cruise port to Castaway Cay and Key West . That itinerary was so much fun, and the four-day trip was the perfect amount of time for our girls’ trip.

Once you look at the itineraries, you’ll definitely have a good idea of which Disney Cruise Line ship you’ll want to be on, especially if you plan to travel on an itinerary that only one ship offers.

Size of the Disney Cruise Ships

There are currently three different classes of Disney Cruise Ships. The original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are called the Magic class and are smaller. These ships accommodate a maximum of 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the Dream class ships, which accommodate a maximum of 4,000 passengers. The new Triton Class ships (the Disney Wish) also accommodate 4,000 but are a bit bigger in Gross Tonnage.

The smaller ships definitely do feel more intimate but don’t have as many amenities.

Restaurants on the Disney Cruise Ships

While all of the dining rooms on the Disney Cruise Line are fun and offer lots of delicious food options, they do vary by ship. Animator’s Palate, as well as the premium, adult-only Palo, are offered on all original four ships.

Each of the original four ships has a French-themed restaurant, although the names and themes are different. There are also three incredibly fun-themed restaurants – Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder , Arendelle on the Disney Wish, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. In addition to dinner, you’ll also be entertained while eating at these three restaurants. 

Each of the ships offers free ice cream, as well as a premium coffee bar. They all have various snack options available throughout the day, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The Disney Dream also offers a premium ice cream/dessert spot, called Vanellope’s. Everything in Vanellope’s is offered at an additional fee.

In addition to Palo, there are other adult-only restaurants on some of the ships. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream offer Remy, while the Disney Wish has Enchante.

For breakfast and lunch, each of the four original ships has the Cabanas buffet, with both indoor and outdoor seating. On the Wish, there’s Marceline Market, which is similar to a buffet but with servers plating the food.

Bars and Lounges on the Disney Cruise Ships

While most people travel with kids on the Disney Cruise Line, there are still bars and lounges that adults can enjoy. Since many kids will likely spend much of their time in the phenomenal kids’ clubs on board, adults will have lots of opportunities to visit the adult-only areas.

The Disney Fantasy offers a whole area of the ship called Europa, filled with European-themed bars and lounges. Ooh La La, a champagne bar, is my personal favorite.

The Disney Dream ship features the District, which is similar to Europa. It’s located in the same area of the ship, and has similar bars. Instead of Ooh La La, their champagne bar is called Pink. My favorite bar of all the ships is the Meridian Lounge, which is located between Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic also have bars and lounges. The Wonder has the After Hours adult area with several lounges. In most cases, the bars and lounges are open to kids during the day, but are adult only in the evenings.

On the Wish, two of my favorite bars are the Bayou, and Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. These two themed, unique lounges are great for a drink before or after dinner.

Programming at these bars, including games and entertainment, is sometimes offered – check your Disney Cruise Line app for details.

Staterooms on the Disney Cruise Ships

While there are some differences between the staterooms on the ships, for the most part, they are very much alike. They offer similar features, and while they are small, they are also comfortable.

My family of four regularly stays in a Deluxe Family Stateroom with Verandah, and we find it to be enough room. We don’t spend too much time in the room because there’s so much to do on the ship.

The Disney Wish, Disney’s newest ship, offers even more concierge rooms than any of the other Disney cruise ships.

Amenities on the Disney Cruise Ships

All of the ships offer a number of amenities that families will love. These ships were clearly built with families in mind.

Each ship offers a pool deck with splash areas and the Funnel Vision signature television screen showing Disney movies throughout the day. On the Disney Fantasy and Dream, you’ll also be able to go on the Aquaduck water coaster. It’s so much fun, and you’ll want to go more than once.

While the Disney Magic and Wonder don’t have the AquaDuck, the Disney Magic does have the AquaDunk, a high-speed water slide tube. The Disney Wish has a new coaster, called the AquaMouse.

There are also sports decks with various amenities, depending on the ship. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have sports simulators, but you’ll need to make reservations for that in advance.

The ships also all have kids’ clubs, Senses spas , hot tubs, shops, and much more. I also recommend walking around the ship when you first arrive so you can learn about everything that is available to you.

Activities on the Disney Cruise Ships

Each of the ships offers lots of activities, including first-run Disney movies in the movie theater (the Wish has two theaters) and Broadway-style stage live shows in the Walt Disney Theater. The shows do vary by ship, but I’ve seen all of them and everyone is fantastic.

My favorite show is currently Frozen, which plays on the Wonder.  A close runner-up to that is a new Beauty and the Beast show that runs on the Disney Dream. Other newer shows are Aladdin on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish, the Little Mermaid on the Disney Wish, and Tangled on the Disney Magic. 

Other activities include family and adult game shows, beverage-tasting seminars, Bingo, and animation classes. There are also Disney character greetings on every ship. Check the Navigatornapp to see the full schedule of events.

Ships typically have a pirate night during one night of the cruise. It’s so much fun – definitely go to the fireworks if there’s a pirate night during your cruise. 

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream, kids will love the Midship Detective Agency. This free game lets you become a detective while finding clues throughout the midship section of the boat. When my kids were younger, we’d accompany them on their quest. Once they were a bit older, they loved the freedom of doing it on their own.  

The Disney Wish has a new augmented reality experience, called Disney Uncharted Adventure. It works with the app, and ends with a live event.

So, what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?

My personal favorite is the Disney Fantasy, the second-newest ship in the fleet (for now). However, that was the first Disney ship that I traveled on, so I’m not sure if that’s why it’s my favorite.

Others really love the Magic. As a smaller ship, it’s definitely more quaint and it’s easier to walk around. I do love the shows on the Magic, as well as the restaurants.

It’s really hard to say which is the best Disney cruise ship because they are all great!

What is your favorite Disney Cruise ship?

See our Disney Cruise Line comparison story here .

Frequently Asked Questions

All of the ships have teen clubs and other great amenities. My teens loved the Disney Wish, which also has the Hero Zone which is where you can play basketball, ping pong, and other sports indoors. But when choosing a ship for teens, I’d focus on the itinerary first.

As someone who sometimes cruises without my kids, I appreciate the adult-only sections. My favorite adult-only area is Satellite Falls, an outdoor sun deck area that is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. I also really love the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa on the Disney Wish. While all of the ships have Rainforest Rooms (for an additional fee), the one on the Wish is the largest and has a great outdoor area.

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

This article is your complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise ship for your Disney Cruise Line (DCL) vacation! Disney has been bringing magic to the high seas since 1998 by giving guests new ways to enjoy a Disney vacation. Since the inaugural ship, the Disney Magic set sail, there have been 4 additional ships added to the DCL fleet for a total of 5 ships. But that garners the question, which Disney Cruise ship is the best? And while no Disney ship is a bad Disney ship, some ships offer experiences that are catered to different groups of people. This means that depending on what ship you book your next cruise on, you could have more or less to do depending on how you want to vacation!

In this complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise, we are going to break down each ship and give you our list of Disney Cruise ships ranked. DCL has already announced three new ships on the docket with one in the process of being made. This new ship, the Disney Treasure, is scheduled to set sail in the summer of 2024. So be sure to check back here as we may have a new answer to what is the best Disney Cruise ship .

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip to Disney World for your Discounted Disney Cruise Line vacation , be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the cheapest Walt Disney World vacation packages!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

Best Disney Cruise Ships Overview

From enjoying an almost all-inclusive vacation, to taking in the sights of open water mixed with the magic of Disney. There is no other vacation like a Disney Cruise Line vacation . Currently, there are 5 ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. From oldest to newest there the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Drea, & Disney Wish. But which ship is the best Disney ship? As a current member of the Disney Castaway Club, I can confidently tell you that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . And not just because it’s the newest!

What is the B est Disney Cruise Ship?

• The Disney Wish gets the Golden Mickey Award for being the best Disney Cruise ship. With its ample adult-only spaces, unique kids clubs, weather-controlled recreation area, and one-of-a-kind Funnel Suite , this ship is hands down the best Disney Cruise .

All 5 Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

• Disney Magic
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Wish

Let it be known that while this is an article on all 5 of the D isney ships ranked , it was almost impossible to do so. Each ship is carefully crafted to fit an ideal vacation. So no matter if you want to relax, explore, sleep in, or celebrate a milestone with or without kids, there will be a ship that’s better for you. I’ll break down the reasons why each ship landed where it did and what you can expect out of the best Disney cruises.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

All 5 Disney Ships Ranked – Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Best?

#5 – disney magic.

Destinations:   Caribbean, Bahamian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:   2 – 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  875

Dining Options:   On Disney Magic, the main rotational dining locations include Lumiere’s, Rapunzel’s Royal Table, & Animator’s Palate. For quick bites throughout the day, you can enjoy food from Duck-In Diner, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Preludes, & Frozone Treats. Additional add-on dining includes the 18+ restaurant Palo and the character dining experience Royal Court Royal Tea. Other dining options include the ship’s everyday buffet located on Deck 9 called Cabanas, as well as 24-hour room service. 

Entertainment Options:  Broadway-style shows including Tangled: The Musical, Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, and Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic. Other live entertainment venues are the Buena Vista Theater, Soul Cat Lounge, Fathoms, Keys, & D Lounge.

Activities for Kids: Kiddos  6 months – 3 years, kids can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:   While the Disney Magic comes in last place on our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked , we highly recommend this ship if it’s your first time cruising or you prefer to have a consolidated vacation experience. Since this is the first ship in the Disney fleet, it is the smallest. Everything on this ship is easy to access which makes for a stress-free, low-planned vacation. This ship can be a great option and should be in consideration for the best Disney Cruise ship for families . While there is another ship that I’ve given that title to, the Disney Magic comes in a close second! 

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#4 – Disney Fantasy

Destinations:  Caribbean & Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  5, 6, 7, & 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1,250

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Sweet on You, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, & Senses Juice Bar. Like the Disney Magic, the all-day buffet is Cabanas located on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the adult-only restaurants Remy & Palo as well as the all-ages character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Fantasy’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s Believe, & Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Vista Cafe, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater.

Activities for Kids: Little ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  When I mentioned earlier that  ranking Disney Cruise ships was like splitting hairs and this is the perfect example. The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream meaning it is nearly identical. The second newest DCL ship falls in 4th place because of the entertainment and destination options. However, this ship is still one of the best Disney Ships for visiting Disney’s private island. While its destinations offer a relaxing cruise experience, the ship docks at limited ports. The downfall of Frozen being the main show on the Fantasy is that it is now outdone by the Arendelle dining experience on the new Disney Wish.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Disney World for Adults

#3 – Disney Wonder

Destinations:  Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, & South Pacific Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, & 10 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Tiana’s Palace, Triton’s, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Daisy De-Lites, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Pete’s Boiler Bites, & Preludes. Cabanas, the all-day buffet is located on Deck 8. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the 18+ restaurants Palo as well as the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wonder’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, & The Golden Mickey’s. Other locations with entertainment include Azure, D Lounge, the Buena Vista Theater, & Cadillac Lounge.

Activities for Kids:  On the Disney Wonder, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  For a while, the Disney Wonder held the number 2 spot on our list of  D isney Cruise ranking  solely for its magnificent destinations. This ship hands down gets the award for the best Disney Cruise ship with the best views. An Alaskan Cruise is regarded as one of the most breathtaking cruises anyone can take. And with the route the Disney Wonder takes, it’s no wonder it’s the oldest ship this high on the list which is the best Disney Cruise ship. To make ranking Disney Cruise ships even more difficult, the Wonder will be the first in the DCL fleet to travel the South Pacific!

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#2 – Disney Dream

Destinations:  Bahamian, European, Norwegian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, & 13 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining includes Venellope’s Sweets & Treats, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, Senses Juice Bar, & Preludes. Being the Disney Fantasy’s sister ship there is also the Cabanas buffet on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ restaurants Remy & Palo and the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  The Broadway-style shows include The Golden Mickey’s, Disney’s Believe, & Beauty and the Beast. Other entertainment includes Vista Cafe, District Lounge, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater, & Evolution.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Dream, l ittle ones aged 6 months – 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview: I am partial to the Disney Dream since it was my  first ever Disney Cruise. The only reason it is now number 2 on the list to discover  which Disney ship is the best is for its newly added destinations. Until 2022, the Dream sailed the Bahamas stopping at Nassau and Castaway Cay. With Disney Wish now taking that sailing location, the Dream has taken on many European and Mediterranean destinations. But the prized possession of this ship is the Beauty and the Beast show. In 2018, the show was named the Best Theatrical Performance by the esteemed International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). It became the first cruise ship production to ever secure this honor.

Related Post: Tips and Tricks for Saving Money on a Disney Cruise

#1 – Disney Wish – The B est Disney Cruise Ship

Destinations: Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3 & 4 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1.254

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include 1923, Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , & Worlds of Marvel. Quick Service dining options are Inside Out: Joyful Sweets, Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods, Wheezy’s Freezies, Keg & Compass, & Cove Cafe. The buffet on the Disney Wish is named Marceline Market. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ Enchante & Palo Steakhouse and the character dining option Olaf’s Royal Picnic. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wish’s Broadway-style shows include Disney Seas the Adventure, The Little Mermaid, & Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Nightingale’s, Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, The Bayou, & Luna.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Wish, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe and The Hideaway areas to enjoy. 

Overview:  I can say with confidence that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . It has an almost endless amount of options to keep guests of all ages busy on its sailings. But it is also by far the most beautifully designed ship in the entire fleet. This is the first ship Disney has veered from the classic “golden age” of cruise liners theme and went with a more mid-century modern interior design. This easily also makes it the nicest Disney cruise ship . It also has many firsts for the cruise line industry. Most notably being the first Disney attraction at sea and the first ever Funnel Suite. That’s right, there is a 2-story almost 2,000-square-foot room in the forward funnel.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship Categories 

If our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked  shows us anything is that each Disney Cruise Line vacation has something for everyone. But if you’re looking for a specific type of vacation, I’ve taken some popular vacation experiences and assigned which ship I think is the best Disney Cruise ship for that experience. I enjoy taking Disney Cruise Line vacations for the food and the relaxing experiences a cruise can offer. It all comes down to personal preference! Below you’ll find which Disney Cruise is the best for food, families, adults, & for visiting Castaway Cay!

What is the Best Disney Cruise for Food?

• The Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise Line ship for foodies. Not only does it have the most restaurants of any Disney ship, but it also has the largest variety of food options to enjoy! The ship has 17 dining options and that doesn’t include lounges that serve snacks! Of those 17 options, you can enjoy almost every type of cuisine you can think of! But I would be remiss to mention that you can enjoy unlimited Premium Mickey Bars on every Disney Cruise ship! That alone makes every ship the best Disney Cruise ship.

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Families?

• Families will find the  best Disney ship  for their vacation to be the Disney Magic. While it’s important to note that every DCL ship is designed with families in mind, this ship is easier to navigate, sails close to the continental US, and has the benefits of every other ship in the fleet. One of the other main reasons this is the best Disney Cruise ship for families is for the ship-specific locations of  Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Tangled: The Musical, and Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story. 

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

• By far the  best Disney Cruise ship for adults is the Disney Wish. It has the most adult-only areas and the most adult-designed areas of any Disney ship! I will say that if you’re an adult wishing to enjoy the best spa on a Disney Cruise ship, look into sailing on the Dream of Fantasy. I enjoyed their Senses Spa more than the Wish simply due to the fact the spa on the Wish is located indoors. With the amount of adult-only locations coupled with a more secluded adults-only section of the ship, the Disney Wish takes the cake for the best Disney Cruise ship for adults.

Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Castaway Cay?

• Once again, we have the say the  best Disney Cruise ship for Castaway Cay  is the Disney Wish. With an extremely close second place to the Disney Fantasy. While about 97% of Disney Fantasy cruises stop at Castaway Cay, 100% of the Disney Wish cruises will dock at Disney’s private island. There will be more options to visit Disney’s private islands with the opening of its new port Lighthouse Point in 2024.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship FAQ

Q: Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: For the best views on a Disney cruise ship, you should aim for the very front or the very back of the ship. But if you’re sailing on the Disney Wonder, you will have no bad view since it is the D isney Cruise’s best ship  for views. However, if you are prone to getting seasick and want to minimize movement, the center part of the ship is the best location. For instance, consider reserving Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Being in these midship areas will help reduce the feeling of motion and potential seasickness during your cruise.

Q: What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: The best deck on a Disney ship is going to be two floors below the buffet. There is no doubt you will be heading to the buffet on your cruise. Make life easier by staying closer to the one thing you know you will use every day other than your room! We recommend staying two floors below and getting a stateroom near the stairwell. The elevators will be crowded and usually have a line during peak dining times. So having access to the stairwell will make getting to the buffet easier. It’s also better to not stay right under the restaurant because of the heavy foot traffic and early morning cleaning/set up of the buffet.

Q: What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: This comes down to preference on what you want to look at when you’re docked at port. If you stay on the Starboard side or the right side of the ship, you will face away from the dock. If you stay on the left or Port Side of the ship, you will face whatever port you’re at. I enjoy staying on the port side of the ship. This way I’m able to watch the vessel pull in and out of port and also watch people disembark or embark the ship.

Q: Are all Disney Cruises the same?

A: No, all Disney cruises are not the same. While the ships have been released in classes and the classes of ships are built similarly, they are not the same. The Disney Magic and Wonder are one class, the Disney Dream and Fantasy are another, and the Disney Wish and soon-to-be Disney Treasure are one class. The themes of the ships are completely different as well as the restaurants, shows, ports of call, and even themed nights can vary by vessel.

Q: Is the Disney Dream bigger than Disney Magic?

A: Yes, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are larger than the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic. Being the first ships in the DCL fleet, the Wonder and Magic are smaller than the newer ships. The Magic and Wonder come in at a total length of 965 feet while the Dream and Fantasy measure a whopping 1,115 feet long. But all dwarf in comparison to the newest ship, the Disney Wish. The newest ship to the fleet measures a staggering 1,119 feet in length.

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Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

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Which Of The Five Disney Cruises Is The Best? Here's The Definitive Ranking

There's just something special about Disney. Whether we're talking about the theme park's most iconic rides , its long list of highly-rated resort hotels around the world , or the brand's penchant for captivating storytelling and unforgettable experiences, it's safe to say that pretty much everything that Disney touches quickly turns to gold. Their top-ranked cruise line is no different .

The first iteration of Disney's Cruise Line set sail in 1998 under the name Disney Magic. One year later, the Disney Wonder took to the sea. Today, at the time of writing, the current Disney fleet includes a list of five enchanting ships: the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, Disney Wish, and Disney Wonder. Coming in December 2024, a new vessel is set to join the crew: the Disney Treasure.

For travelers planning their own sea-bound adventure, it can be difficult to differentiate and ultimately choose between the five. After analyzing reviews, the cost-to-value ratio, unique amenities, each ship's design, and onboard entertainment options, we finally settled on our definitive ranking of Disney's cruise ships — all so you can choose which Disney cruise might be right for you .

5. Disney Wish

Although there aren't any necessarily "bad" Disney cruises, the Disney Wish has come under fire from travelers and Disney fans since its official launch in 2022. Specifically, most reviews believe the ship has some pretty glaring issues in terms of spacing and overall layout — both of which make it incredibly difficult to get around. According to previous travelers, the ship — one of the largest of the Disney Cruise Line fleet — surprisingly only has two sets of stairs and elevators for everyone onboard. This, in turn, means there's always a crowd. It also means that adult activities, like nightclubs and lounges, are scattered around, so there is no dedicated adult-only zone, which ultimately muddles the experience.

When it comes to entertainment, however, the Disney Wish does a slightly better job at redeeming itself with four theaters, the kid-favored Oceaneer Club, three main restaurants (assigned on a rotational basis to passengers), adult-friendly bars, and more. As for the pools, some travelers say that these feel more like hot tubs because of their small size. And the water slides? Per online blogs, they're mediocre at best.

It's worth noting that Disney Wish is one of the highest priced of the Disney Cruises for not that much more value, aside from being a more modern vessel — according to reviews on Cruise Critic and Tripadvisor . As an example, Disney Wish offers three- and four-day itineraries from Florida to the Bahamas, with the ship's most affordable route — a three-night cruise from Port Canaveral — priced at $1,925 for two guests.

4. Disney Dream

Operating since 2011, the Disney Dream cruise ship is a strong contender in terms of amenities. Throughout its 14 decks, the ship boasts five main restaurants (including two that are adults only), theaters, bars and lounges, adult-only and kid-friendly pools, sun decks, and plenty more to keep travelers entertained. Nonetheless, some online reviews have expressed disappointment that the ship's dining experiences feel fragmented — leaving plenty to be desired in terms of themed dining.

Considered one of the most kid-friendly cruise lines, the Disney Dream is brimming with kid-focused activities — including daily princess meet-and-greets, movie-themed shows, character cameos, and a bustling kid's club. However, according to a recent discussion on the r/DCL subreddit , the ship's history of shorter itineraries typically makes it less desirable than its counterparts, since there's only so much you can enjoy with so little time — although it's important to note it has expanded itinerary options to include week-long and 12-night trips in Europe.

Lastly, in terms of pricing, the Disney Dream's rates vary depending on length and route. For example, a three-day trip to the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale will set you back around $1,700 for two people. Meanwhile, on the farther and pricier end of the spectrum, the Disney Dream's 12-night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland cruise carries a higher price tag at $8,565 for two.

3. Disney Wonder

Even though it's a smaller ship, one of Disney Wonder's main selling points is that — out of the five vessels currently sailing today — it's the only ship that offers Alaska-bound cruises, as well as trips along New Zealand and Australia. Given this, it's no surprise that the Disney Wonder often ranks in the top-half of fan-favorite Disney ships — especially for first-timers who want to get a feel of the experience before moving up to a larger ship.

Beyond the ship's unique destinations, some of the Disney Wonder's most notable amenities include three main restaurants (with rotational dining), three heated pools for when you're traveling to cooler destinations, nightly entertainment options, a prim and proper "Royal Court Royal Tea" for the little princesses and princes to enjoy, and even a nightclub for the adults who crave a party. As for dining, one of the highlights of the ship is the New Orleans-inspired restaurant, Tiana's Place. Not only does the restaurant serves some pretty delicious meals, but it also hosts nightly entertainment and its own mini-version of a Mardi Gras parade.

Tickets for the Disney Wonder start from $1,104 for a two-night cruise from Sydney to Brisbane for two passengers. Longer trips are also available — like a seven-night Vancouver to Alaska cruise for $3,424 for two, or a 10-night Hawaiian adventure for $4,013.

2. Disney Magic

The second-best ship on our list is the Disney Magic. After debuting in 1998, the ship has undergone plenty of updates and renovations to keep it modern and appealing — all while staying true to its original charm. Another one of the fleet's smaller vessels — with capacity for just over 2,700 passengers, compared to the others' ability to accommodate up to 4,000 (except Disney Wonder) — the Disney Magic isn't struggling to keep up with any of the larger (or newer) ships.

One of the ship's highlights is the AquaDunk — a top-rated water slide within the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet — which features a straight-down, three-story drop into the pool. Other amenities that make the ship worth your bucks include daily character meet-and-greets, nighttime entertainment (the ship's Cinderella-themed show is a must-see), and delicious dining options. Traveling with an adults-only crew? Disney Magic is ready to cater with bars and lounges, couples' games nights, and adult-themed trivia nights.

Price-wise, the Disney Magic offers trips that range from roughly $1,500 to just over $7,000 for two guests to either the Bahamas or other must-visit destinations in the Caribbean , including Mexico and Antigua. Specifically, a 4-night Caribbean cruise to Mexico will cost two travelers $1,534. On the pricier side, a 10-night cruise through the Eastern Caribbean will set you and a travel partner back about $7,359.

1. Disney Fantasy

Topping off the list, and coming in as the top-ranked Disney cruise, is the Disney Fantasy. After setting sail for the first time in 2012, the ship has quickly cemented itself a go-to for Disney fans and cruise lovers looking for a longer getaway. With six, seven, and 10-night cruise routes available through the Caribbean, the Disney Fantasy ticks all the boxes in terms of entertainment, comfort, and adventure.

Much like the other ships that belong to the Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Fantasy is equipped with plenty of onboard entertainment and amenities that'll make any trip unforgettable. From kid clubs to Broadway-style stage performances, meet-and-greets with beloved Disney characters, and both kid-friendly and adult-only pools, the ship is anything but boring. Plus, as an added bonus, the Disney Fantasy is also home to one of the best adults-only districts, Europa. With bars and eateries inspired by European destinations, it's a great escape for adult travelers who want some respite from kid-centric spaces.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that — similar to the Disney Wish — the Disney Fantasy is pricier than other ships, with 3-night trips to the Bahamas starting from $1,996 for two people. However, the destinations more than make up for the cost. For example, the Disney Fantasy is the only ship to offer transatlantic journeys — like their 13-night cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Barcelona in Spain starting at $4,859.

Our ranking methodology

There's a lot that goes into each Disney cruise ship. From themed restaurants to activities, entertainment, and accommodations, each of the Disney Cruise Line's vessels are designed with pretty much the same intention: to provide guests with a Disney-themed experience where, in Disney's own words, "magic meets the sea," no matter the route or destination. Nonetheless — and in spite of these shared goals — there are certain things that some ships do better than others.

In order to come up with our ranking, our primary focus was on the relationship between guest experience and value aboard each ship. Scouring through online reviews and fan forums, as well as the official Disney Cruise Line website, we created a list of each of the ship's pros and cons. From there, we compared these factors against the price of a ticket for two travelers for an inside cabin (typically the most affordable rate). This ultimately helped us find a correlation between how much guests were paying to travel on the ship and what they were getting in return.

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Table of Contents

About Disney Cruise Line cruises

Disney cruise line prices, disney cruise line loyalty program: castaway club, what is the best disney cruise line ship.

Disney has a massive global footprint across its theme parks, films and merchandise. And it doesn’t stop there. Among its many offerings is the Disney Cruise Line, whose fleet of five ships sails all over the world.

Family-friendly but with adults-only areas, Disney cruises offer some of the most comprehensive cruise options around. Let’s break down everything there is to know about the Disney Cruise Line, including pricing, destinations and its loyalty program.

You can always expect some magic from Disney, and there is no exception when sailing on Disney Cruise Line. Although its fleet is small, it offers a high-end, family-friendly experience for guests. Here’s a quick overview of Disney Cruise Line’s key features.

Cabin types: Disney Cruise Line offers all the usual cabin types, including inside, oceanview, verandah and concierge-level rooms . Disney Cruise Line’s cabins are larger than average and designed for families, with split bathrooms and privacy curtains. Their largest rooms can accommodate up to seven guests. 

Main U.S. routes: Disney has several departure points from within the United States, including options from San Diego, New York City, Miami, and Galveston, Texas. However, its most frequent departures are from Port Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida, to the Bahamas and the Caribbean or from Vancouver, British Columbia to Alaska.

Loyalty program: Disney Cruise Line offers the Castaway Club to repeat guests. It has four membership levels — Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl. The first level is earned by completing a single cruise. 

» Learn more: Disney Cruise Review — Mickey at Sea Gets an A+

Disney Cruise Line destinations

Although Disney currently operates only five ships, the cruise line still manages to cover most of the world. Here are the locations you can currently sail on a Disney cruise:

New Zealand.

Pacific Coast. 

Panama Canal.

South Pacific. 

Transatlantic. 

Cruises are available in a variety of lengths, from three nights up to 15 nights.

Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than the average cruise. Currently, for example, the cheapest cruise departing from Port Canaveral is a three-night trip to the Bahamas, which costs $1,958 for two guests.

And you’ll pay more to take a "special occasion" Disney cruise. The same three-night Bahamas cruise sailing during Disney's Silver Anniversary at Sea starts at $2,345 for two guests.

When it comes to timing, standard logic applies. The high season will cost more, especially during holidays and the summer break.

The cheapest rate we found — the previously-mentioned $1,958 — is for a cruise in late January, a time when those with school-aged children might have trouble getting away. Meanwhile, the most expensive period for this cruise takes place over the Christmas holiday and rings in at $3,737 for an inside stateroom.

For all destinations, if you’d like to save money, avoid peak periods and search all available dates to find the lowest rates . This is true even on less popular cruises, such as those sailing up to Alaska .

The cheapest cost for two guests to Alaska from Vancouver is $2,983 in mid-September, while the same cruise will cost you $4,607 if you sail over the Fourth of July holiday.

One-way positioning cruises — that is, those that end in a different location from where they started — are often much cheaper per night than standard round-trip cruises.

What’s included in a Disney cruise

Disney cruises are more inclusive than most cruises. You don’t, for example, need to pay extra for soft drinks on a Disney cruise like you would on Norwegian Cruise Line . You’re also entitled to complimentary room service 24/7, unlike on Virgin Voyages, where you'll be charged a $5 fee for each delivery.

Here are more inclusions you can expect.

Live, high-quality entertainment.

Large staterooms (designed for parties of up to three guests).

Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay (on most Bahamas and Caribbean cruises).

Upscale restaurants, quick-service dining, poolside snacks and room service.

Adults-only lounges and pool areas.

Waterslides (on some ships).

» Learn more: How much does a Disney cruise cost?

What’s not included in a Disney cruise

While Disney is fairly generous in terms of what's included relative to competitors, there are a few expenses where you might need to make additional space in your vacation budget. Things that require an additional fee include Disney Port Adventures, spa services, adult-exclusive restaurants , Wi-Fi and specialty drinks.

Specialty drinks can range from hand-crafted lattes at the cafe to mocktails and cocktails at the bars. Sure, the extra charge is annoying, but take solace in knowing that sometimes the cruise line bar ranks among the coolest part of a voyage.

Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge. (Photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

The company has increasingly leaned into over-the-top, themed bars, often based on Disney's movies or theme park rides. For example, the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge on the Disney Wish allows you to sip on mixed drinks like "Spire Sunset" and "Cloud City" while you admire iconic locales in the “Star Wars” universe — including Tatooine, Mustafar and Coruscant — through a virtual window into the galaxy.

And when Disney’s newest ship, Disney Treasure, sets sail on its maiden voyage in December 2024, it’ll feature multiple adult-exclusive themed bars including the world’s first Haunted Mansion-inspired bar, as well as a Jungle Cruise-themed bar called Skipper Society.

Disney isn’t known for its loyalty programs. For example, there is no frequent traveler program associated with staying at one of its resorts or frequenting its parks. However, Disney Cruise Line rewards repeat customers with various benefits, including a complimentary specialty dinner, free photo downloads and an exclusive terminal check-in area.

Castaway Club levels

The Castaway Club levels are Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl.

How to earn : Sail on one cruise.

Best benefits : Book cruises one day before the general public, online activity planning 90 days before sailing, check in 33 days early, exclusive terminal check-in.

How to earn : Sail on five to nine cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises two days before the general public, online activity planning 105 days before sailing, check in 35 days early, onboard reception, special discounts. 

How to earn : Sail on 10 to 24 cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises three days before the general public, online activity planning 120 days before sailing, check in 38 days early, complimentary specialty dinner.

How to earn : Sail on 25+ cruises. 

Best benefits : Book cruises four days before the general public, online activity planning 123 days before sailing, check in 40 days early, complimentary unlimited digital photo package. 

» Learn more: Which is cheaper, Disney World or a Disney cruise?

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and certainly its best. It just launched in the summer of 2022. Among its many amenities, guests can find the first-ever Disney attraction at sea. It’s a 760-foot water slide filled with show scenes, lighting, music and more that touches down into a lazy river.

The Disney Wish also has dedicated areas themed for "Frozen," the Marvel Universe and "Star Wars."

In addition, the Disney Wish has all the regular amenities you’d expect on a Disney cruise, including live entertainment, pools and spacious staterooms.

Disney Cruise Line does not offer free Wi-Fi. Instead, it has three levels of packages from which to choose:

Stay Connected: $10 per day for the entire cruise or $12 per day for a 24-hour period.

Basic Surf: $20 per day for the entire cruise or $24 per day for a 24-hour period.

Premium Surf: $30 per day for the entire cruise or $36 per day for a 24-hour period.

These packages are available on the Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream. The Disney Wonder still operates on the old data-usage Wi-Fi packages.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer the standard drink package other cruise lines offer. Drink packages allow you to pay a flat-rate price and drink as much alcohol as you’d like.

Instead, you’ll either pay per drink or purchase bundled quantities onboard. It’s also possible to purchase a specialty beer mug at the pub onboard, which can then be refilled across the ship. Much like Disney’s popcorn buckets, your beer mugs entitle you to cheaper refills on all your beer.

In the past, Disney Cruise Line required that you be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 before sailing, but this is no longer the case. Guests departing from the United States are not required to do either, though the cruise line highly encourages you to get vaccinated before sailing.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and

Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip

is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

(Top photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

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50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Everything You Need to Know about Disney’s Cruise Ships Before You Book a Disney Cruise Vacation

Which disney cruise ship is right for you use this in-depth guide to help you decide.

A pioneer in family vacation ideas at sea, Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is known for its family cruises that set sail to destinations around the world, including the Caribbean , Alaska , Europe , and Australia . With themed kids clubs and hangout spaces, Broadway-caliber productions, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences, all of the Disney cruise ships offer a fully immersive storytelling experience from ship to shore.

After cruising onboard all five Disney cruise line ships ( Disney Magic ,  Disney Wonder ,  Disney Dream ,  Disney Fantasy , and  Disney Wish ), I’ve learned that each Disney cruise ship is unique and offers a different experience for families ( and couples ). So if you’re thinking about setting sail on the high seas with Captain Mickey but haven’t quite decided on which ship yet, I can help.

Use this in-depth guide to every Disney cruise ship to learn what’s different (and what’s the same) about Disney’s cruise ships, including which one is the best choice for your family.

Editor’s note : Disney’s sixth ship, called Disney Treasure , will set sail in 2024; its seventh ship, Disney Adventure , will sail around Southeast Asia beginning in 2025.

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1. Disney Magic

It may be ship that launched it all in 1998, but the Disney Magic doesn’t feel old or outdated in any way. With a 2,713-passenger capacity, it’s one of the smallest and most charming in Disney’s fleet. In fact, if you’re booking your first cruise vacation , this Disney ship’s relatively small size works to its advantage because it’s less likely to feel overwhelming to those who are new to cruising.

Staterooms on the Disney Magic

Disney Magic has 613 outside staterooms (229 with an ocean view and 384 with a verandah) and 262 inside staterooms. Each cabin has nautical decor, with deep blues, reds, and wood tones. Disney Magic ‘s staterooms also feature Disney’s signature bath-and-a-half (one with a toilet and sink and the other with a shower and sink). 

Dining on the Disney Magic

Disney’s rotational dining format on the Disney Magic has cruisers traveling through three different themed restaurants. As you move from restaurant to restaurant, your service staff moves with you so you get to know them (and vice versa) over the length of your Disney cruise vacation.

1) Animator’s Palate

One of the most popular restaurants among the Disney cruise ships is Animator’s Palate . This restaurant is part dinner and part show. Throughout your meal the dining room will change from black-and-white sketches of famous Disney characters to colorful animations. As you dine on California- and Asian-inspired dishes, the room will fill with color. Stick around until the end of the dinner service for a special surprise from a famous mouse. 

2) Lumiere’s

Exclusive to the Disney Magic, Lumiere’s is located in the ship’s atrium and has a subtle Beauty and the Beast theme. The menu leans more French-American, with dishes like escargot, duck confit, and roasted lamb. While there’s no real “show” inside the dining room, be sure to get up and walk around. There’s a large mural of Belle and the Beast near the back of the restaurant that’s great for photos. You can also pop into the restaurant on sea days between meals if you want to take a look, or enjoy a peaceful and less crowded lunch here. 

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3) Rapunzel’s Royal Table

A major highlight of rotational dining on the Disney Magic is Rapunzel’s Royal Table . The Tangled -themed restaurant brings guests in to celebrate Rapunzel’s birthday with characters from the movie. The dinner-and-a-show concept applies here, and if you’re lucky you may even get to meet some of the ruffians from the Snuggly Duckling as they come to your table. 

4) Casual Dining Options for Everyone

The main buffet on the Disney Magic is Cabanas , which serves breakfast and lunch. The dishes vary by day, but mainstays for kids include chicken strips, macaroni and cheese, and fries. The Disney Magic has three other quick-service options: Duck-In Diner , Pinocchio’s Pizzeria , and Daisy’s De-Lites . This is where you can find quick options like burgers, cold sandwiches, pre-made salads, and pizza.

5) Palo (Adults Only)

The only adult-exclusive restaurant on the Disney Magic is Palo , which serves an Italian-inspired brunch and dinner. Brunch is a more casual affair compared to dinner, though both meals are excellent. Dinner is served every night and brunch is available only on sea days. Advanced reservations for both meal services are required.

What to Do on the Disney Magic

There’s so much to do on the Disney Magic that you’ll never find yourself bored. Each night there’s live music in the Atrium Lobby. The Walt Disney Theatre is where you can find live original productions like Tangled: The Musical . Over at the Buena Vista Theatre , you’ll be able to catch a Disney movie, including films that are currently playing in theaters at home. 

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Kids will enjoy splashing around at the family pool or the AquaLab on the outside decks and playing with new friends at Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab . Teens have a dedicated space just for them with Vibe teen club. 

Adults looking for a place to get away have spaces built just for them, like After Hours, an adults-only area where there are three bars and lounges to enjoy. The spa and Rainforest Room are good places to relax. There’s also a beautiful pool and coffee bar where you can just enjoy being on vacation. 

Who Will Love the Disney Magic

Families looking for a smaller ship with fewer guests, or those who really love the movie Tangled are the perfect audience for a cruise on the Disney Magic . 

2. Disney Wonder

Disney Magic ‘s sister ship is the Disney Wonder , which sails to Alaska and Australia. Like the Disney Magic , this Disney Cruise Line ship fits just 2,713 passengers, so it feels intimate and exclusive compared to the larger cruise ships in Disney’s fleet. 

Staterooms on the Disney Wonder

Staterooms on the Disney Wonder have the same nautical flair as those on the Disney Magic . Families traveling with kids will find that there’s plenty of space to unpack and store clothes and empty suitcases. When the day is done, everyone can climb into a cozy bed, whether it’s a traditional bed, a couch that transforms into a bed, or a bunk that pulls down from the ceiling. 

Dining on the Disney Wonder

Disney’s signature rotational dining service continues on the Disney Wonder with three highly themed restaurants that you can experience throughout your sailing. 

1) Animator’s Palate

The Disney Wonder version of Animator’s Palate is one of the highlights of any sailing. While the menu is similar to the same restaurant on the Disney Magic , the overall experience here is slightly elevated. On cruises that are seven nights or longer, guests will get to be part of the show. At the beginning of dinner, everyone is given a piece of paper and told to draw a self-portrait. At the end of dinner, your drawings are magically animated and dance across the screens of the restaurant. 

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2) Tiana’s Place

Tiana from the Disney animated movie The Princess and the Frog has her own New Orleans-themed restaurant on the Disney Wonder called Tiana’s Place . The restaurant serves creole and cajun cuisine while Princess Tiana and a live band known as the Crawfish Crooners keep guests entertained throughout their meal. 

3) Triton’s

Though it’s named after the Little Mermaid’s father, kids may find Triton’s on the Disney Wonder less exciting than the other two main dining rooms because there’s no show or interactive elements. The menu in Triton’s is French-inspired, but for kids (or picky adults) there’s always an old standby like chicken tenders. Triton’s is also open for lunch service for those who wish to be waited on rather than stand in the buffet line. 

The main buffet on the Disney Wonder is Cabanas , which hosts breakfast and lunch every day. For quick meals that are not buffet-style head to deck nine, where you can find Pete’s Boiler Bites , Pinocchio’s Pizzeria , and Daisy’s De-Lites , which serves hot dogs, burgers, pizza, and deli-style sandwiches. 

The only adults-only restaurant on the Disney Wonder is Palo , an Italian-themed restaurant that overlooks the ocean. Palo is known for its decadent brunch and date-night-worthy dinner. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made before stepping aboard the Disney Wonder on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App . 

What to Do on the Disney Wonder

Families traveling together on the Disney Wonder can enjoy entertainment like trivia and games in the D Lounge, or step outside to play together in the family pool or the Wide World of Sports deck. After dinner, enjoy an original production inside the Walt Disney Theatre or a movie inside the Buena Vista Theatre . 

Kids will find endless fun inside the two main kids clubs, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab . Older tweens and teens have a club of their own to hang out at as well. Adults looking for some alone time without kids can explore the After Hours area, which has three lounges, each of which hosts games and dance parties well into the night. 

Who Will Love the Disney Wonder

Those looking to explore Alaska will want to book a cruise on the Disney Wonder . And families who want a taste of Disney Cruise Line without being overwhelmed by the size of the ship will enjoy the Wonder too.

3. Disney Dream

The third ship to join the DCL fleet was the Disney Dream in 2011. The Dream is a beautiful ship that can hold up to 4,000 passengers and will begin sailing the Mediterranean in 2023. 

Staterooms on the Disney Dream

The staterooms on the Disney Dream are spacious and well thought out for families, with ample storage space and the same split bathroom concept that’s featured on the other DCL ships. There are just over 900 verandah staterooms, along with 199 ocean-view staterooms, and just 150 inside staterooms. 

Dining on the Disney Dream

Three beautiful main dining rooms, two adult-exclusive restaurants, and a plethora of casual dining options are waiting to be experienced on the Disney Dream. Like all Disney cruise ships, Disney Dream employs a rotational dining model for dinners.

While the same drawing theme as DCL’s other Animator’s Palate restaurants is evident on the Disney Dream , the show element is very different. On the first night dining in this version of the restaurant guests are greeted by Crush from the Pixar movie Finding Nemo as he teaches everyone how to speak like a turtle. 

2) Enchanted Garden

Themed after the gardens of France, Enchanted Garden is an elegant restaurant that transforms from afternoon to evening in the course of the meal. At its center is a pretty fountain with a cute Mickey on top that adds to the charm of the space. Dishes here are contemporary American with items like tuna and avocado tower, roasted pork tenderloin, and chocolate torte. 

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3) Royal Palace

Step into the opulent Royal Palace , where French fare is served alongside portraits of classic Disney princesses. This main dining restaurant features dishes like escargot, cheese-topped French onion soup, and herb-crusted lamb. Royal Palace is open for lunch, with a menu that rotates daily so you can enjoy something other than Cabanas (one of the cruise ship’s casual dining options) if desired. 

Serving breakfast and lunch, Cabanas is the main buffet on the Disney Dream . Near the back of the buffet, guests will find an omelet station for breakfast and a carving station for lunch. Other quick service options can be found at Flo’s Cafe , which is themed after the Cars franchise. Here there are three walk-up windows (Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, and Fillmore’s Favorites), where guests can get a quick lunch of pizza, sandwiches, and salads. There’s also a Monsters Inc. -inspired ice cream station on deck 11. 

5) Remy (Adults Only)

Luxurious Remy is one of the two adults-only restaurants on the Disney Dream . The French restaurant is inspired by the Pixar movie Ratatouille, and you may even see a glass sculpture of Remy as you walk into the intimate dining space. The menu is divided into three parts, two different tasting menus, and one a la carte menu.

6) Palo (Adults Only)

The version of Palo on the Disney Dream is an Italian escape where adults can indulge in everything from parmesan chicken at lunch to perfectly cooked steaks at dinner. The restaurant boasts panoramic views of the ocean paired with impeccable service. 

What to Do on the Disney Dream

This Disney cruise ship has many spaces for everyone in the family to enjoy. Together, families can see live shows in the Walt Disney Theatre or movies in the Buena Vista Theatre . The D Lounge is a great spot to play a round of trivia, and Goofy’s Sports Deck is where you can find a mini-golf course. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the AquaDuck water coaster where part of the track hangs over the side of the ship. 

Kids have their own spaces with the it’s a small world nursery, Disney’s Oceaneer Club , and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab . Teens can hang out in Vibe and tweens will enjoy Edge . 

Adults looking to get away from youngsters will want to go to the District, where five different lounges and bars are ready to welcome you with a drink and plenty of fun. Between Palo and Remy there’s another lesser-known bar called Meridian where bartenders whip up everything from classic martinis to smoked old fashioneds. 

Who Will Love the Disney Dream

Adults traveling together will enjoy the ample amount of space dedicated to those over 18 on the Disney Dream .

4. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream . While both Disney cruise line ships have a passenger capacity of 4,000 and many of the venues are the same, they have a completely different feel.

Staterooms on the Disney Fantasy

Of the Disney Fantasy ‘s staterooms, 1,100 are considered outside staterooms with an ocean view or verandah and 150 are inside staterooms. The rooms have a classic nautical feel with a split bathroom and plenty of places to store clothes and other cruise necessities. 

Dining on the Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy has plenty of dining options to please everyone in your traveling party. Like the other ships in the DCL fleet, Disney Fantasy has rotational dining for dinners.

1) Enchanted Garden

Similar to the Disney Dream , Enchanted Garden on the Disney Fantasy is themed after a French garden with effects that make it seem like the sun is setting over the garden while you dine. 

2) Animator’s Palate

A fixture on four out of the five DCL cruise ships, Animator’s Palate is one of the restaurants on Disney Fantasy as well. Here guests are able to animate their own characters and watch them come to life on the screens around the restaurant. No matter which version of the restaurant you experience on the different Disney cruise ships, the menu is basically the same, and a must-try dish is the truffle pasta appetizer. 

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3) Royal Court

Like Royal Palace on the Disney Dream , Royal Court serves a French-inspired menu in a castle-like setting. The restaurant features dishes like a rack of lamb, spinach soufflé, and a rich French onion soup. For a more relaxed afternoon, the restaurant is open for lunch where you can sit and enjoy a meal that’s outside of the hustle and bustle of the casual dining experience at Cabanas. 

Cabanas buffet welcomes everyone for a casual breakfast and lunch, while Flo’s Cafe is ready to serve up burgers, pizza, and sandwiches at lunchtime. And don’t forget the all-you-can-eat soft-serve ice cream from Eye Scream. 

On the Disney Fantasy , Remy is a small French restaurant where the food is just part of the experience. The dining team is there to ensure your adult-exclusive meal is perfect. From a welcome cocktail to a cheese course that’s plated right in front of you, no detail is overlooked. 

The other adult-exclusive restaurant on the Disney Fantasy is Palo . The stunning dining room is modeled after the gondolas of Venice, though the menu at the restaurant features dishes from multiple regions of Italy. 

What to Do on the Disney Fantasy

Like the other Disney cruise ships, the Disney Fantasy has a movie theater and a live production theater . Outside on the pool decks, families can enjoy the AquaDuck water coaster or AquaLab play area.

The kid’s clubs are an exciting place that children won’t want to leave, though adults can get in on the fun during open houses that take place throughout the sailing. 

Adults looking for some entertainment just for them will want to venture into Europa, an adults-only district with five themed bars and lounges for guests over 18. And while there is an adult pool on deck 11, if you journey up to deck 13, you’ll find another adults-only sundeck that is rarely busy. 

Who Will Love the Disney Fantasy 

Families with young children who love Pixar characters will want to book a Pixar Day at Sea sailing. Otherwise, multigenerational families will enjoy the ship and all that it has to offer for families to do together. 

5. Disney Wish

The Disney Wish joined the fleet in 2022, marking a new chapter for DCL in which the overall Disney cruise ship design and layout is a big departure from the original four ships.

Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Staterooms on the Disney Wish are elevated compared to the four original Disney cruise line ships. Each room is themed after a Disney princess movie, like The Little Mermaid , Moana , or The Princess and the Frog . Cabins still have the split bathroom concept, though the shower and sink bathroom has a sliding glass door for the shower instead of a curtain. 

There are 1,254 staterooms, of which 1,133 are outside staterooms and 121 are inside staterooms. The Disney Wish has a 4,000 passenger capacity. 

Dining on the Disney Wish

Rotational dining on the Disney Wish brings three new restaurants to the DCL experience and takes the dinner-and-a-show model to new and fully immersive heights.

1) Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

The Frozen -themed main dining room, called Ardendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , is part dinner and part theater-in-the-round. The menu features dishes inspired by the cuisine of Norway, though the real star is the show itself, which follows Queen Anna and Kristoff’s engagement party with plenty of dancing, singing, character interactions, and some spectacular special effects.

2) Worlds of Marvel

The Wish ‘s Worlds of Marvel restaurant is an interactive dinner-and-a-show experience unlike anything on the other Disney cruise line ships. Here the menu is filled with dishes inspired by locations in the Marvel Cinematic Universe such as New York and Wakanda. Marvel super heroes Ant-Man and the Wasp (and a few surprise characters) appear on screens around the dining room throughout dinner as the storyline progresses. Be sure to stay until dessert so you don’t miss the live in-person finale. 

The more elegant of the three main dining rooms is 1923 , which is divided into two smaller dining areas dedicated to Walt and Roy Disney, respectively. Both feature sketches, paintings, and models of animated Disney characters. With fresh California cuisine highlighted, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from perfectly cooked steaks to fresh tuna. 

Marceline Market replaces Cabanas as the breakfast and lunch “buffet option” on the Disney Wish , though it’s more of a fast-casual restaurant than a buffet since you don’t serve yourself. As you walk into Marceline Market you’ll find various food stations where salads, customizable pasta, and of course kid-friendly options are all plated for you by Cast Members. Marceline Market is open for breakfast and lunch as a buffet and a table service restaurant at dinner.

Outside on the upper decks, you can enjoy Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods , which are all quick service options featuring BBQ, Mexican, pizza, burgers, and ice cream. 

5) Enchante (Adults Only)

Enchante is one of two adults-only restaurant on the Disney Wish . The restaurant’s menu was crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement, while the decor is inspired by Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast . 

6) Palo Steakhouse (Adults Only)

Palo Steakhouse is a departure from the Palo restaurants on the first four DCL cruise ships. This adults-only restaurant is inspired by Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast and features a delicious menu of steakhouse favorites and fan-favorite Palo dishes like the potato gnocchi. 

What to Do on the Disney Wish

There’s a lot to see and do onboard the Disney Wish , including activities that can’t be found on any of the other Disney cruise ships. Families can enjoy a ride on the AquaMouse , the first “Disney attraction at sea” where guests ride on a raft and pass by scenes inspired by Mickey Mouse’s adventures as they make their way around the ship on a water coaster.

For some inside fun, get everyone together to play Disney Uncharted Adventure , an interactive game played through the DCL app, where you have to go on missions with different Disney characters to save the wishing star. 

Relax inside the Walt Disney Theatre , where you can see original performances like The Little Mermaid and Disney Seas the Adventure. There are also two movie theaters onboard where you can watch your favorite Disney movies. 

Adults have plenty of spaces that are all their own after dark, like Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge and Nightingale’s, the latter of which is inspired by Cinderella . What’s different about the adult spaces on the Disney Wish is that they are spread throughout the ship rather than clustered together in an adults-only district. 

Who Will Love the Disney Wish

Those looking for an all-new Disney Cruise Line experience or those who have never sailed with Disney Cruise Line before will love the Disney Wish , but avid DCL fans may miss some familiar features of the other Disney cruise ships. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Disney Cruise Ships

1) does disney cruise line offer any themed cruises.

Disney is all about storytelling, so it’s only natural that DCL offers themed cruises and special days at sea. All of the Disney cruise ships have themed cruises, with dates and themes varying between the different ships. Disney’s themed cruises and themed days at sea are Halloween on the High Seas , Very Merrytime , Marvel Day at Sea , and Pixar Day at Sea .

2) Does Disney Cruise Line have a private island?

Yes, Disney Cruise Line has a private island in the Bahamas called Castaway Cay . On most Disney cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean, Disney’s cruise ships will stop for a day at Castaway Cay. Here you can snorkel, swim, lounge on the beach, zip down water slides, sip cocktails, enjoy a BBQ, and even participate in a special 5K road race if you are so inclined.

In early 2023, Disney announced plans for opening of a second private island experience in the Caribbean. Lighthouse Point on Eleuthera in the Bahamas will open in 2024 and will be a sort of sister destination to Castaway Cay. The new private Disney port-of-call destination will include three beaches (two family beaches plus one adults-only beach), a water play area, a local crafts pavilion, watercraft and bicycle rentals, hiking and biking trails, and more.

3) What’s included on a Disney cruise?

While DCL is not an all-inclusive cruise line , the base price of your Disney cruise covers almost everything: accommodations, meals, room service, non-alcoholic beverages, unlimited soft-serve ice cream, live productions, movies, pools and water slides, character meet-and-greets, and kids clubs.

So, what’s not included on a Disney cruise? Airfare and airport transfers, specialty restaurants (generally the adult-only dining spots on Disney’s cruise ships), gratuities, alcoholic and bottled beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments. Some snacks are also available for purchase, though most food is free.

4) Will DCL be adding even more new Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line is not done adding to its fleet! The Disney Treasure is scheduled to set sail in 2024. Disney is also planning a second private destination in the Bahamas. Called Lighthouse Point , it will be located on the island of Eleuthera.

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Ranking The Best Disney Cruise Ships For 2023

By Lisa Gilmore Leave a Comment

You’ve resolved to travel more, to get out of your home, your neighborhood, and even your town. You may have even resolved to travel beyond the Disney Parks and see more of the world beyond EPCOT’s World Showcase. That’s right — you’re taking a Disney Cruise !

The Disney Wish

But how do you choose which ship to cruise on? Now that Disney’s fleet has expanded to five ships ( soon to be six !), you might be struggling to decide which ship is right for you and your family. And since Disney Cruises are quite the investment of your family vacation dollars, that is an important decision. So, we’re here to help you break it down!

The  Disney Cruise Line  fleet is comprised of  five world-class ships : the  Disney Magic , the  Disney Wonder , the  Disney Dream , the  Disney Fantasy,  and the newest ship in the fleet: the  Disney Wish .   The fleet will be joined by the  Disney Treasure in 2024! They all sail to different ports and in different areas of the world, so just your itinerary of WHERE you want to travel will narrow down your selection quite a bit.

And if you’re also restricted on cruising dates, well, that will also help narrow down your options. For example, if your travel plans have you cruisin’ around Europe, then you’ll be sailing on the Disney Dream — because that’s the only ship that currently sails in Europe.

Not a bad view

But we’re gonna take travel dates and travel destinations off of the table and JUST look at the ships and what the ships have to offer. We’re gonna rank all five ships based off of some standard criteria so YOU know which ship will best fit your needs and the needs of your family.

Best Cruise for Food

Best cruise for adults, best cruise for kids, best cruise for teens.

• Best Cruise for Recreation 
• Best Cruise for Entertainment 

Mickey and Minnie on the Disney Wish!

So, now that you have an idea of what this is all about, let’s dig into these ships! We have a full overview of everything the ships have to offer , and now we’re highlight the ships that top each category of fun, food, and frivolity!

Sometimes evaluating food, restaurants, and dining experiences on Disney Cruise ships can be difficult because many of them offer the same options. All of the ships have a sort of food court-style quick service options on the top deck, near the pools. You can find fine dining options like Palo or Remy (or both) on most of the ships. And Animator’s Palate has become a Disney Cruise dining icon on the ships. So, how do you distinguish “best food” on the ships when so many options are so similar on most of the ships?

Animator’s Palate restaurant

Now, consider this a good thing! It’s difficult to decide the best and that means that when selecting your cruise, you don’t have to worry about FOMO! If your cruise destination has you sailing on the Disney Wonder instead of the Disney Dream because so many experiences are similar across the fleet, that means that you won’t be missing much (if anything).

Now we know that makes us sound like we’re teasing you. “Hey DFB, you said you’d give the Best Cruise for Food, and now you’re saying it’s all good. What’s the deal?” Ok, ok, we hear you! There IS a Best Cruise for Food — the standout in this category is the Disney Wish .

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise and it has SO many dining options, some are similar to experiences on other ships, and some are completely unique to the Wish! And there’s just MORE to choose from!

Food on the Disney Wish

The Wish has the traditional Disney Cruise Line three dining room rotational dining service which rotates among three brand new dining stories: Worlds of Marvel , 1923 , and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure .  These new dining experiences are unique, fun, engaging and let’s face it, delicious! You’ll also find the poolside quick service options that you’ve come to expect on a Disney Cruise, but the quality of these locations on the Wish just stands apart from the other ships.

Who knew Ant-Man was such a good cook?

The Wish just also goes above and beyond in some other categories, like having some great spots to snag specialty coffee orders, for those who need a latte while they cruise, you can pick up your caffeine fix at Wishing Star Cafe and also in Marceline Market (the top deck buffet service), both in addition to the Cove Bar & Café you can find on all of the Disney ships. The same can be said of the bars and lounges, the Wish has NINE (well, TEN if you include Hook’s Barbery , which will serve up some rum while you get your beard trimmed)! There’s even a $5,000 cocktail you can get at the exclusive Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge .

Awesome Cast Members!

The Disney Wish wins the food category, but that doesn’t mean that the other ships are losers. You’ll still have amazing and memorable meals aboard any of Disney’s ships. But, if you’re going to pick a cruise just based on the food alone, and you don’t care where or when you cruise, then you’ll want the Disney Wish.

All of the Disney Wish Restaurants

Disney Cruises are great for families and kids, but they make amazing vacations and retreats for adults, as well. Whether you’re traveling solo, with some pals, on your honeymoon or anniversary, or with your family but just getting a break from the younger members of your crew, the Disney Cruise ships offer fun, relaxation, and luxury for grown-ups.

You just read all about which cruise wins for food and you’re thinking, with ten bars and lounges, that the Wish has to top the Adults category, too, don’t you? Well, SURPRISE, it’s up there but didn’t win this round.

Who edged out their sister ships on this category? The  Disney Fantasy .

Disney Fantasy

As mentioned above, many of the ships offer overlapping experiences and offerings, so you’ll find adult-only areas, pools, lounges, spas, and decks on all of the ships. But what sets the Fantasy apart from her sisters is that her over-18 options are conveniently located in the same general section of the ship. The adult dining options of Palo,  Meridian , and Remy are snuggled together at the aft of Deck 12, but Deck 4 seems to be created with adults in mind with seven variously themed bars and lounges ( Vista Cafe, D Lounge, Ooh La La, La Piazza, O’Gills Pub, Skyline, and The Tube ), not to mention Tiffany & Co gift shop for those looking for some duty-free jewelry purchases.

Ooh Laa Laa

Again, you’ll find adult-only sections on every Disney Cruise. However, if your cruise plans are centered around a grown-up adventure, then you might want to see where the Fantasy will take you!

Disney Fantasy Cruising: 2023 Restaurant Guide

Well, this is all Disney Cruises, isn’t it? If Disney is known for anything, it’s quality entertainment for kids, so you know you’re kids are gonna have a good time on a Disney Cruise. But is any one ship a little better at this than the others?

Oceaneer Club

All of the ships have kids-only areas that are age specific with activities and entertainment tailored to that age-range. These Disney Oceaneer Clubs and Oceaneer Labs are on all of the cruise ships, but there are different themes and Disney stories utilized on each ship. But one ship pulls ahead of its peers in this category: The Disney Wish .

The Wish is really a benefactor of its older siblings. The Wish started her cruising career in 2022, nearly 24 years after the first official Disney Cruise ship, The Disney Magic. That’s 24 years for Imagineers, technology, and research to optimize the best possible experience and space for little cruisers to enjoy. And they’ve really done their homework and it begins before they even enter the Oceaneer space — at the entrance, which is A SLIDE! Parents check their kiddos into the Club on Deck 3, and then they SLIDE DOWN to Deck 2, where the club is located (sorry, it’s a kids-only slide, no adults allowed).

You can enter the Disney Wish kids’ area through a SLIDE!

The Oceaneer Club has multiple spaces where kids can choose to hang out and participate in different activities. There’s a stage in the hub of the club where there will be special shows and character appearances. And then it breaks off into different themed areas like  Fairytale Hall for fans of Disney royalty; Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids participate in hands-on activities;  Marvel Super Hero Academy for those Avengers-in-training; Star Wars Cargo Bay for those force-sensitive in the family; and Mickey & Minnie’s Captain’s Deck with an indoor playground set for getting some of that youthful energy out.

Oceaneer Lab

And while it’s not located in the Oceaneer Club, but you can’t forget about Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where kids can get transformed into their favorite Disney characters! And other kid-loved spaces like pools, waterslides….er water-coasters, the Hero Zone , and well, you know, the whole rest of the ship.

The Disney Wish includes an Imagineering Lab for kids!

So the Wish is the best cruise for kids, but another thing to consider is the best cruise ship for adults with kids and we’d consider the Magic or the Wonder would fit that role as those ships are smaller, easier to navigate, and overall just a bit less complicated. So, this is kind of a “yes, but” answer, but still something worth considering!

Explore the Kids Clubs on the New Disney Cruise Ship — The Wish

Let’s look at that teen stereotype of kinda moody, a little sassy, too “grown up” for cartoons, but still a little goofy and definitely not shouldering the burden of student-loan debt or a mortgage, but dealing with the nuances of maintaining their cool in a virtual universe of social media. Can Disney find something to appeal to the complex creatures that are human teenagers? Is there anything on a Disney Cruise ship that might entice a teen to put down their phone (or adults too for that matter, you know who you are), and have dinner with their family, watch a show, participate in a game, or even make some new friends and actually talk to them IRL (that’s “in real life” for you grown-ups out there) rather than just communicating through text?

Disney had their work cut out for them to find new and engaging ways to reach the ever-evolving interests or teenagers. And as technology, culture, and trends seems to change every five years, that is a daunting task to remain relevant for this dynamic group of cruisers. Yet, they managed to do it! (Disney, you are really a place where dreams come true!) But which ship did it best?

We’re starting to sound like a bit of a broken record, but we like the Disney Wish and Disney’s Dream and Fantasy (since they have the same options).

Disney Wish’s indoor or weather-controlled Hero Zone  is a multi-use space for so many activities. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it’s especially great for teens. It’s not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Hero Zone ©Disney

The Wish is the only ship to have The Hideaway for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill , a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

Learn All of the Disney Wish Secrets

Best cruise for recreation (pools & spa).

For all of these categories, we can honestly say, “all of the ships are great, but this one just squeaks out ahead”, but not for this category. When it comes to the best Disney Cruise ship for Recreation (we’re talking pools and spas), The  Disney Wish is the clear front runner.

Aaaaahh….

Now, yes, you will find plenty of pools and a luxurious spa on each and every one of the Disney Cruise ships, but the Wish just does them bigger, better, and more! The AquaMouse   is not your average poolside, or even your cruise-specific “over the edge of boat” slide, it’s a complete water attraction! You’ll get in a 2-seater ride vehicle and go up into a tunnel that will take you into the world of Disney animated shorts, either “Scuba Scramble” or “Swiss Meltdown” as your story, and you’ll see the story playing out on the screens around you!

Beyond the epic water coaster, there are a total of  10 pools and water play areas , in fact — each named after a Disney character! And for the little ones, there’s a  Toy Story Splash Zone , which has  Toy Story characters that squirt water!  Quiet Cove  is an  adults-only area of the deck , where you’ll find an infinity pool, whirlpool spa, and bar.

Toy Story Splash Zone

And the Spa?! The Senses Spa is on all of the Cruise Ships, but on the Disney Wish, there are all of the luxurious indoor treatment areas and an outdoor rainforest relaxation space. Unique to the ship is Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever ice lounge for thermal therapies, plus other treatments like  heated ergonomic loungers.  There are also multiple different rooms to use like the  sauna , steam room , and frigidarium, or the cold room.

Other Cruises have the Bibbidi Bobbiti Boutiques for little ones to get the royal treatment, but only the Wish has Hook’s Barbery, where dapper folks can get spiffed up in a setting reminiscent of a cigar room, and could also sip on a nice cognac or rum in the process. It’s a BARber shop, get it?

Hook’s Barbery

Will you get the chance to pamper yourself and relax on other Disney cruises? Yes. But if your final destination is relaxation decadence, then you want the Wish.

The Most Relaxing Spots on Disney’s New Cruise Ship

Best cruise for entertainment (clubs, shows, and characters).

Disney Cruise Line also offers  free movies in multiple spots – out on the funnel vision screen near the pools, as well as in the movie theater on the ship. The movie theater even offers runs of new movies that are currently out in theaters. There are also  Broadway-style shows in the theater onboard the ship. Typically these large productions are offered more than once a night. Each ship has its own unique performances.

Walt Disney Theatre

In the ship’s Atriums, Disney Characters meet and interact with guests throughout the day, and the ships all set off evening fireworks. And there are spaces onboard for quizzes, trivia, and games for families or just adults to enjoy. The ships are all floating entertainment centers! But a few of them offer a bit more in this category.

The Disney Dream and Fantasy both host the Midship Detective Agency, an interactive game taking guests all around the ship to solve a mystery. There are three different mystery options involving Mickey and friends, characters from Disney’s 101 Dalmations, or the Muppets. And we do love a good Muppet Caper!

Disney Cruise Line Atrium

The Disney Wish  has learned from its older siblings and created a unique Atrium Stage which hosts unique character shows throughout the cruise and character meet-and-greet opportunities. It also has its own interactive game aboard, Disney Unchartered Adventure.  Disney Unchartered Adventure is its own interactive game using the Play Disney Parks app and AR technology on your mobile device to play games and interact with your favorite Disney characters.

So, which ship comes out on top? We lean toward the Dream and Fantasy . We love the Midship Detective Agency and how families can play it together or individuals can play it solo. Plus, Muppets. ‘Nough said.

SNEAK PEEK at Pixar Characters Coming to Disney Cruise Line Soon

Like we’ve said about a hundred times already, there’s no such thing as a  bad Disney Cruise. Your ship will provide you with impeccable service, special memories, amazing food, fun activities, and relaxation galore, no matter when or where you cruise. But if you’re looking for some very specific onboard experiences, these categories may help you find the right ship for you and your family.

Disney Dream

And remember, in 2024, the new Disney Treasure will launch and may upset this whole list! Disney also recently acquired another ship which will receive a Disney makeover and debut sometime in 2025 . Looking to cruise to Alaska? Get all the details here. 

We’ll keep you posted on how these new additions to the Disney fleet stack up, so make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to keep up with all of the Disney Cruise Line and Disney Parks information!

Join the DFB Newsletter  to get all the breaking news right in your inbox!  Click here to Subscribe!

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.

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Disney Cruise Ships Ranked, According to DCL Experts

If you are interested in Disney Cruise Line, you have likely wondered: how are Disney cruise ships ranked by experts? What Disney cruise ship is the best? When you are interested in going on a Disney Cruise Line (DCL) trip, you want to book the best ship for your vacation, after all.

We spoke to six Disney Cruise Line experts to find out the answers. Our experts are all Platinum Castaway Club members who have been on 10+ Disney Cruises. (That is a lot!) They're also all in the DCL arena as either podcasters, bloggers, travel agents specializing in DCL, or a combination of those jobs.

Be sure to read to the end because we link to some fun Disney Cruise Line merchandise to gear up and get excited for your cruises!

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Disney Cruise Ships Ranked Overview

“Best” Disney cruise ship and Disney cruise ships ranked are subjective, of course. Answers vary according to what you're most interested in during your cruises. For instance, what's the best Disney cruise ship for entertainment venues? How are Disney cruise ships ranked if you're traveling with little kids versus teenagers?

Skip Ahead per category Disney cruise ships ranked Winners:

• Best Disney Cruise Ship, Overall
• Best Food on a Disney Cruise Ship
• Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids

Best of Disney cruise Line in additional Categories:

• Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs
• Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions

Disney Cruise Line Experts weigh in on:

• Adventures by Disney River Cruises
• Fun DCL Questions for the Experts
• Who are the Experts? Meet them here!

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Ship, Overall Winner ⭐️

The winner(s) may surprise you! We expected the clear winner to be Disney Wish, the fleet's newest, “shiniest” ship. However, it wasn't!

Disney Wish received 4 votes of 6, while Disney Magic and Fantasy received 1 vote each. Many of our DCL experts' selections for Best Disney Cruise Line Ship were tied to the onboard offerings and the itineraries.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, & FANTASY ✨

Onboard offerings (like venues and restaurants) rarely change unless the ship is dry-docked and undergo interior redesigns. The itineraries often (but not always) change yearly depending on where the ship is based.

Scott (from DCL Blog) has been on all of Disney's cruise ships multiple times (including Disney Wish), but Disney Magic remains his favorite. The size of the ship is a winner for him, along with the memories he and his family have made on 11 sailings on Magic, encompassing wonderful destinations.

Brian and Sam (from DCL Duo) like Wish best. While they admit the adult areas need some work and currently itineraries are limited, they like the number of new experiences onboard, high quality of cuisine offerings, and overall quality of the ship.

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders Blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) agree with this notion. They like Disney Wish because of its experiences that you won't find on other ships in the fleet.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel) enjoys Disney Fantasy's AquaDuck waterslide. She also likes the longer itineraries offered, preferring longer cruises over short ones. She loves the ability to stay at Walt Disney World before or after the cruise. The Fantasy adult dining and lounge areas take the cake for her!

Please read to the end of the post for further bio information on all of our DCL experts!

⭐️ Best Food on a Disney Cruise Line Ship ⭐️

The choice is unanimous: Disney Wish wins!

Our DCL experts agree on the winner. They have all sailed on Disney Wish, some numerous times. Not only does the Wish have the best dining venues — including Enchanté — but also the best quality of cuisine.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH ✨

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) add, “The quick service options at Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on the pool deck really sets the Disney Wish apart. There are so many options. We especially love the barbecue and cantina, both things you can't find on any of the other ships!”

💫 DCL Experts Best Disney Cruise Line Food Experience

We also asked our DCL experts to reminisce about their favorite Disney Cruise Line dining experience to date. Here's what they had to say:

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo):

Remy dinner on our very first Disney cruise aboard the Fantasy was our most memorable meal. We were traveling with two other couples and were able to eat dinner in the Remy wine room. The food was excellent, the wine was plentiful, and the evening was all the more magical because we shared it with friends.

Scott (Disney Cruise Line Blog):

It's impossible to single out one aspect that made dining at Remy (Dream/Fantasy) outstanding. From service to the dishes, each aspect of our numerous Remy dinner experiences has been excellent.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel):

Palo Steakhouse on the Disney Wish served course by course in our Wish Tower Suite!

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel):

Arendelle on the Disney Wish became an immediate favorite for us! We were so impressed with the musical performances and the entertainment. The food was outstanding as well. This is a great meal the whole family will enjoy!

⬇︎ Download our Freebie: A PDF to Help You Decide What Ship is Best for Your Disney Cruise Vacation!

Download our Free “Best of Disney Cruise Line” PDF to Help You Vacation Plan

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⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids ⭐️

Here are the blocks of ages for each category:

• Adults: 18+
• Teenagers: 14 to 17
• Tweens: 11 to 14
• Children: ages 3 to 12
• Infants and toddlers: 6 months to 3 years

💫 Best DCL Ship for Adults

We know firsthand that you don't have to have kids (or travel with them) to enjoy Disney Cruise Line. In fact, we share why Disney Cruise Line is great for adults traveling without kids . As such, we asked our DCL experts which Disney cruise ship is the best for adults.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY FANTASY ✨

Three of our four experts agree that Disney Fantasy is the clear winner, whether you're traveling as adults-only for a “regular” vacation or your honeymoon.

The adult spaces are superb. And to make things extra convenient, the adult dining restaurants and adult district are located in the same general area of the ship. This includes its clubs, lounges, and bars.

The upper deck's adults-only areas on Disney Fantasy also come out on top, with the Quiet Cove's hot tubs nearby and a swim-up bar in the pool. (What adult craving a drink doesn't love that convenience?)

The longer itineraries offered on Disney Fantasy make it ideal for adults looking for a longer getaway. It's hard for traveling parents to take their kids out of school for an extended period of time if it's not a holiday.

If you're looking for a great Rainforest Room to hang out at the spa for a few hours, the Fantasy has one a cut above the classic ships but not as good as the Wish.

If you are cruising with kids and want a happy medium, consider Disney Wish, which offers the best of both worlds: there's a lot to keep kids occupied and checked into childcare while adults break off to have some fun. However, keep in mind that the adult areas on Disney Wish are more spread out, and the pool is smaller and with only one hot tub.

That being said, the Wish also has a great concierge sundeck and lounge if you're interested in booking Concierge-level stateroom, and these perks are an important consideration for you.

💫 DCL Winner for Teenagers

Teenagers love to hang out in groups, make new friends while cruising, and find teenager-centric spots on Disney ships. There wasn't a clear winner here from our Disney Cruise Line experts; they appreciate what Disney Wish, Fantasy, and Dream have to offer this age group.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, FANTASY & DREAM ✨

Disney Wish's air-conditioned “Hero Zone” is great for its indoor games. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it's especially great for teens. It's not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Vibe, a teen-exclusive youth club for ages 14 to 17, is on every Disney ship though its design differs across the fleet.

The Wish exclusively has “The Hideaway” for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill, a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

💫 Best DCL Ship for Children

If you're sailing with children ages 3 to 14, which is the best Disney ship? Two of our experts agree that Disney Wish is the winner, while two others agree that other ships have something to offer too.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH (BUT OTHER SHIPS HAVE GREAT PERKS) ✨

Scott (DCL Blog) shares that Disney's Oceaneer Club for ages 3 to 12 are similar across the fleet, though each ship has its own unique twist on a franchise theme: Princess/Fairytale, Marvel, and Star Wars. The Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3 to 12, is currently an option on every ship except Wish.

He shares that two ships have an added feature that's a bonus for children if you sail on Dream or Fantasy: Midship Detective Agency is a game that takes you around to various decks to solve mysteries.

The new Augmented Reality (AR) experience on Wish might change Scott's opinion once it is rolled out, but it's currently unavailable.

Josh and Brittany (Fairtyale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) take Scott's notion of The Oceaneer Club and raise it a level to Disney Wish's offering.

They share that the creators of Disney Wish took two decades of Disney Cruise Line experience and guest feedback to create the ultimate onboard Oceaneer Club on Deck 2. There's an entrance for kids to literally slide into the club from the Grand Hall. (So cool! Can adults use the slide too? The answer is yes !)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) confirm that they couldn't pry their son away from the new kids club on Disney Wish.

The Edge is available for kids aged 11 through 14. This tween-exclusive is available across the Disney fleet.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Infants and Toddlers

The nice thing about little ones from ages 6 months to 3 years is they're not too hard to please. Understandably, parents are likely harder to satisfy! (Infants need to be at least one year old to be checked into “it's a small world” nursery! on Transatlantic, Hawaii, and Panama Canal itineraries.)

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, WONDER & MAGIC ✨

As our DCL experts point out, there's a bit of yin and yang here, with smaller and bigger ships having their own advantages.

That is to say that the smaller ships' sizes (Wonder and Magic) make sailing with little ones a bit more manageable. Getting to and from “it's a small world” nursery! (available on all ships) and the adults-only areas after you drop them off at daycare take less time.

Yet a big ship like Wish has a bigger nursery space (the cruise arguably will have more kids needing daycare on it too). Wish also has a Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck play area for kids ages 3 to 6, with a Pixar-themed bathroom with smaller toilets and hand driers designed specifically for them.

⭐️ Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs ⭐️

💫 best disney cruise line ship entertainment venues.

We all know that Disney does entertainment best. But which DCL ships come out on top? According to our experts, Fantasy, Dream, and Wonder win.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY FANTASY, DREAM & WONDER ✨

Fantasy and Dream group all of the lounge venues in one area on Deck 4 Aft, which is adults-only come night time. There's a good variety of lounges to boot.

They also have the best entertainment venues, with a balcony inside the Walt Disney Theater, adding to its feeling of grandeur. “The Buena Vista Theater has a classic art deco style and feels big compared to the movie theaters on the other ships,” says Josh and Brittany.

Karen shares some of those sentiments, adding, “Europa or the District on the Fantasy or Dream are great adults-only areas in the evening. I love the atmosphere at Skyline. It feels like having a cocktail with my friends in my own living room.”

Brian and Sam are partial to the Azure lounge, unique to Disney Wonder. They enjoy its great views and atmosphere, which they like better than The Tube (Disney Fantasy) and Evolution (Disney Wonder) lounges on Dream-Class ships.

💫 Best Shows and Recurring Special Events on Disney Cruise Line

The results vary here! To us, this is great news because it means that the huge team of creatives that come together to produce a live stage show are appreciated across the board.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, DREAM & FANTASY ✨

Favorites shows from our DCL experts include:

• Seas the Adventure (musical on Disney Wish)
• Tangled: The Musical (Disney Magic)
• Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream)
• Frozen (Disney Wonder and Fantasy)

Some of our experts also noted they particularly enjoy Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Magic and the Pirate Parlay Deck Party onboard Disney Wish.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Shops and Senses Spa

Five of our six DCL experts agree that Disney Wish has the best spa. (Senses Spa is for guests 18 and older.) It's also the only ship with an outdoor area of the rainforest space, while the Rainforest Room on other ships is indoors only.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH (SPA) ✨

Additionally, Disney Wish's spa features an ice lounge for some cold treatment therapy (which reminds us of the unique rooms Celebrity Cruises has in its spa on their Edge class ships, like a Crystallarium) and has treatment rooms replete with personal whirlpools.

You can also sign up for any number of treatments, from a fire and ice manicure to a bamboo massage. (We had a bamboo massage in the Princess Cruises Lotus Spa and had never heard of it before then – they're awesome if you like a lot of pressure on your muscles!)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) note that shopping is best on the Dream Class ships (Dream and Fantasy) but admit that Disney Wish has the most high-end retail.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY DREAM & FANTASY (SHOPPING) ✨

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions ⭐️

💫 best activities on castaway cay.

Thousands of people sail on Disney Cruise Line each year, excited to experience Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay.

There is plenty to do there, including sailing, laying out on the beach, some shopping, and recreating at the Pelican Plunge water-playground area. What do our DCL experts enjoy most about this fabulous little island?

✨ WINNERS: BBQ at COOKIE'S, CABANA RELAXATION, & SNORKELING ✨

Brittany and Josh love to have BBQ at Cookie's! The barbecue lunch is always a highlight of their Castaway Cay day.

Karen looks forward to relaxing in a cabana. Otherwise, she enjoys indulging in a Konk Kooler on Serenity Bay, an adult beverage made with rum and fruit juice. Cheers to that! (Don't forget to bring your reusable straw to the island to be an eco-conscious cruiser and leave no trace.)

Brian and Sam concur: they love hanging out in a Castaway Cay cabana!

Scott likes to snorkel in the Castaway Cay lagoon. From 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea memorabilia to Mickey and Minnie statuettes, you can find all sorts of Disney treasures underneath the water. You can either rent gear from Gil's Fins and Boats on Castaway Cay to snorkel or bring your own .

💫 Best Excursions Offered by Disney Cruise Line

Speaking of Castaway Cay and snorkeling, three of our DCL experts weighed in on the best excursions offered by Disney Cruise Line.

✨ STANDOUTS: CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES & ACTIVITIES ✨

Scott expanded on his favorite Castaway Cay activity, adding that snorkeling, biking, and tube rentals at Castaway Cay, though not really a port adventure, are great for exploring all aspects of the island in one trip.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around the island and reach the observation tower (because otherwise, it's a long walk to get there) while still having time to relax.

Sam and Brian enjoy parasailing on Castaway Cay. Some of their other favorite excursions during their many DCL cruises include Magan’s Bay Beach Break at St. Thomas and the dolphin encounter in Cabo San Lucas.

They are hoping a well-known favorite of other DCL cruisers, the hike to Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, Norway, lives up to the hype when they go this summer!

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Itinerary

Largely influenced by the itineraries our DCL experts have experienced, we asked what their favorite DCL itinerary has been. Naturally, more time on the ship is better, so it's no surprise all our experts' answers included longer itineraries!

✨ WINNER: 11-DAY+ ITINERARIES, VARIOUS LOCATIONS ✨

Karen, Brian, and Sam loved the 11-night Southern Caribbean cruise on Disney Fantasy. Karen sailed in June 2017, while Brian and Sam went in 2019. Scott enjoyed his 11-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise on Disney Magic in June 2015.

Brittany and Josh love the Transatlantic sailings. They have done this itinerary several times and love stopping at the unique ports and spending much more time on the ship with plenty of Days at Sea!

The ports on a Transatlantic vary year to year, but most recently, the itinerary included ports in Portugal and Spain. Up until 2022, all of Disney's Transatlantic cruises were on Disney Magic, but the Disney Dream took over the European summer sailing, including Transatlantics, in 2023.

⭐️ Our DCL Experts Weigh in on Adventures by Disney River Cruises ⭐️

Here at Sometimes Sailing, we adore small ship adventures. River cruises are a favorite of Mikkel and Dan's. We couldn't resist asking our six DCL experts to give us their thoughts on Adventures by Disney River Cruises, a partnership between Disney and AmaWaterways.

➜ We discussed river cruise experiences on DCL Duo, episode 178 , if you want to give it a listen.

Josh and Brittany took an Adventures by Disney river cruise on the Danube River this summer and were wowed.

They admit river cruises are very different from ocean cruises ; while Disney Cruise Line is about the ships and the onboard experiences, a river cruise is about the destinations. The two experiences are completely different.

Karen admits she could write a whole essay on Adventures by Disney cruises. (Luckily, our website has a category for river cruises !) She agrees they are incredible yet very different than DCL. She says they are a fantastic way to see Europe up close.

Perhaps you're like Scott and have thought about booking a river cruise. He says they're very intriguing, and it's a vacation he'll eventually take!

Sam and Brian took the plunge and secured their first river cruise adventure; they go on their first river cruise with their son Nathan next Christmas. (We are SO excited for them to see the incredible Christmas markets in Europe on a river cruise !)

⭐️ Fun Questions for our DCL Experts ⭐️

Our last questions for our DCL experts were more playful in nature. We asked them about their most memorable DCL Special Event experience and their opinion about what would make Disney Cruise Line even  better .

💫 Most Memorable Disney Cruise Line Special Event

Though the special events tend to be once-in-a-lifetime, we asked our DCL experts what their favorite special events have been with DCL. If you're like us, you'll surely have DCL envy reading their answers.

✨ DISNEY WISH PREVIEW, CHRISTENING, & MAIDEN VOYAGE PERFORMANCE FROM JODI BENSON (VOICE OF ARIEL), & DISNEY DREAM INAUGURAL CRUISE ✨

Josh and Brittany have attended some truly memorable Disney Cruise Line firsts. They were able to sail on the Disney Wish Enchanted Showcase Preview Cruise before the ship's Maiden Voyage. As two of the first people to sail on the ship, they said it was amazing to experience a decade of changes that Disney Cruise Line brought to their latest ship.

They toured all the different staterooms (including Wish's Tower Suite and one of its stunning Royal Suites) and were some of the first to preview everything Wish offers. Josh was also on the Disney Dream christening cruise in 2011.

Scott fondly looks back on the Disney Wish Christening in Port Canaveral. Captain Minnie was in attendance, of course!

Brian and Sam loved seeing Jodi Benson perform in the main theater on the Wish Maiden Voyage. She's the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid.

Mikkel met Ms. Benson years ago on a DVC cruise (Roy E. Disney was on that cruise, too); she's a sweetheart!

💫 What Would Make Disney Cruise Line Even Better?

No matter how amazing we all think Disney Cruise Line is, there is always room for improvement. Who better to ask than those who know DCL ships best?

✨ BIGGER HOT TUBS, IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY/INTERNET, A SPECIALTY RESTAURANT FOR FAMILIES, ADDITIONAL SMALLER SHIPS (LIKE MAGIC & WONDER) ✨

Sentiments include simple things like accounting for larger hot tubs and improved technology implementation into the cruise experience.

(We couldn't agree more – we never understand why a major company, like Disney, is plagued with tech issues, from the DCL and Walt Disney World websites crashing to interruptions during the Disney Cruise Line Check-in process . It's not uncommon for cruise lines to have buggy apps (like Princess Cruises' MedallionClass app ), and Disney's app is no exception; it doesn't always work onboard.)

Other dreams from our DCL experts to improve Disney Cruise Line are loftier yet not unachievable. A specialty restaurant for families would be wonderful. And another hope is for additional smaller ships, around the size of the Magic and Wonder, to be in DCL's future.

Meet the DCL Experts

We spoke to the best of the best when it comes to DCL cruising. We're so grateful for their expert opinions on our Best Disney Cruise Ship categories above.

Collectively, our DCL expert panelists have been on 100 Disney cruises. We'll repeat that: NINETY-NINE CRUISES ! WHOA.

When you add Dan and me in the mix, the DCL number breaks 100+! (We're in the Gold Castaway Club category for 5+ cruises, not Platinum…yet!)

Our panel of experts mentioned above, includes:

• Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders & Wish Upon a Star With Us travel
• Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo
• Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding
• Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

Find out what makes them Disney Cruises Line experts below.

🪄 Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us

This Disney-loving couple is the blogger team behind the website Fairytale Wonders . They have incredible knowledge of Disney theme parks, resorts, and of course, Disney Cruise Line.

What's more, is that they don't just love DCL – they fell in love on a Disney Cruise too, where they met years ago while sailing with their families. They even got engaged at Disney's Aulani resort in Hawaii!

A personal gush here: I adore them, and we originally met after they contacted me to photograph their DCL wedding in 2019. I've often gone to them for my own Disney questions and advice. And, like the sweethearts they are, they always thoroughly answer and provide valuable insight into things we hadn't thought of.

Josh is also a Disney travel agent at Wish Upon a Star With Us , so be sure to reach out if you need to book a DCL vacation! Josh has been on 25 Disney Cruises (which puts him at the elite and newly created “Pearl” Castaway Club level, higher than Platinum), and Brittany has been on 19.

🪄 Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo

The “duo” behind the podcast is Brian and Sam, who have been podcasting about Disney Cruise Line for years.

We've been fortunate enough to be their podcast guests on several episodes, broadening the horizons of their Disney Cruise Line listeners to educate them on river cruises and even Mikkel's time at Imagineering.

Brian, Sam, and their son, Nathan, have been on 16 cruises, which will quickly reach 25 by next November. (As we write this…they're on a Disney Cruise!)

You'll find their Disney podcast episode archives on their website or your favorite podcast app, as well as links to their DCL vlog entries, blog posts, and even a link to their DCL Duo Etsy shop . They are also to thank for introducing us to Paul Thornton, who writes the Joy of Cruising books .

🪄 Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding

Karen came into our lives in a wonderful Disney way: through Brian and Sam's DCL Duo podcast!

We loved listening to her Disney Wish review while on Wish's inaugural voyage with DCL Duo. We were in awe when we listened to episode 227, where she describes what it was like to be the first family to stay in the Tower Suite on Disney Wish after winning a travel agent lottery onboard. HOW COOL?!

From how Karen talked about Disney Cruise Line ships, we instantly knew she was an expert. This was confirmed when we reached out, and she shared she's been on 13 DCL cruises.

Karen is another great resource for booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation over at My Path Unwinding Travel ; don't hesitate to reach out!

🪄 Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

This DCL expert has his own podcast, where he talks about his experience on over 31 cruises (that's a whopping 162 nights across DCL's five ships – wow) and interviews others who have Disney experiences of their own.

He also runs the well-known website Disney Cruise Line Blog . Scott was first mentioned on our site back when we put together a list of the best Cruise Podcasts . We've been following along ever since. He doesn't podcast as frequently as DCL Duo, however, his info is always valuable.

His blog is always up to date with the latest DCL news, including casting calls, DCL itinerary news, restaurant reviews, Castaway Cay info, and more. Scott has been interviewed as a DCL expert for countless newspapers and is in the Joy of Cruising as well.

Disney Cruise Line Blog puts together an annual DCL Blog Group Cruise, which is a fantastic vacation to consider if you want to travel with other passionate DCL cruisers.

⭐️ DCL Merchandise & Products for Your Cruise ⭐️

Sure, you can get merch on the ship…but did you know you can get Disney Cruise Line shirts, tumblers, Mickey ears, and such before you sail?

Here are a few places to shop:

• Click here to see the searches for Disney Cruise Line on Etsy . (Artists sell super cute nautical-themed Mickey ears, custom Disney cruise totes, and DCL shirts.)
• We put together this special list of fun Disney Cruise Line items that we recommend, which includes some essentials like the handheld pocket fan we swear by. Also check out our Cruise Essentials list.

If you're not already a member of Amazon Prime, we highly recommend it! Here's a link for a FREE 30-day Amazon Prime trial , where you can enjoy free two-day shipping, free Kindle books, special discounts on products, and more.

Also, just a note that we bring along a pocket hotspot when we cruise to connect in ports. It won't work if you're in the middle of the ocean, but it works in most major ports and costs way less than Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi packages .

We travel with a Solis hotspot we travel with, and this explains why we love it . Use code “SOMETIMESHOME” to save 10%!

⭐️ In Conclusion: Disney Cruise Ships Ranked and The Best DCL Has to Offer ⭐️

It was so much fun to ask experts who have made careers out of their passion for Disney Cruise Line these questions and get their input on what makes all aspects of Disney Cruise Line “the best.”

Whether you're watching Disney's amazing Broadway-quality shows, riding the AquaDuck at night or relaxing in the spa Rainforest Room (some of their favorite things to do) there is no doubt you'll have a blast on your Disney Cruise Line vacation no matter what ship or itinerary you choose.

Do you have a favorite Disney Cruise Line ship or experience? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Don't forget to sign up for our free printable to help you choose what Disney Cruise Line ship is best for you based on the winners in this post.

Love Disney Cruises? Read this next:

• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know
• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 
• Disney Wish Design Details Guests Will Gush Over on DCL

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• Disney Cruises

Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation? Here's what you need to know about the five Disney cruise ships, including the new Disney Wish.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Disney Magic

Disney wonder, disney dream, disney fantasy, disney wish.

There's plenty that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from its competitors — and not just the endless soft-serve ice cream, family-friendly staterooms, or being able to hug Mickey Mouse on your way to a Disney princess-themed restaurant. All five Disney cruise ships are elegantly designed and provide high-end services. With the best activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day, along with relaxing escapes for adults, Disney cruises offer plenty for the entire family.

Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program, Castaway Club, offers members exclusive benefits before and during their sailings.

From immersive dining adventures to Disney's first-ever attraction at sea, these ships present truly magical vacations that visit a number of exciting destinations. Disney Cruise Line's ports of call include places in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and, of course, Disney's private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay. And depending on when you cruise, you may be able to pick from themed itineraries for Halloween and Christmas. Here's what you need to know about Disney cruise ships, including the newest vessel, the Disney Wish .

Meet the Expert

As  Travel + Leisure' s on-staff Disney expert, I visit Disney theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships several times every year. I most recently experienced the magic of Disney Cruise Line on the inaugural sailing for the Disney Wish in 2022.

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Magic Class

Number of Staterooms: 875

As the original Disney Cruise Line vessel, the Disney Magic retains its charm while embracing a collection of modernizations and upgrades to feel good as new. This ship established Disney as the best cruise line for families , read on to see why.

Onboard Entertainment

Three Broadway-style shows are performed on the Disney Magic : "Twice Charmed," a twist on the Cinderella story; "Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic," an original show with cameos by characters like Peter Pan and Aladdin; and "Tangled: The Musical," Disney Magic’s signature show featuring stunning sets and beloved songs from the film.

In addition to nightly live entertainment throughout the ship, families can take in Marvel, Pixar, Disney, and Star Wars films currently in movie theaters at the full-size Buena Vista Theatre. On the outdoor upper decks, the Wide World of Sports offers basketball and ping pong, a selection of pools and hot tubs, and the famed AquaDunk water slide.

Exclusively For Kids

Whisk down a Slinky Dog slide in the "Toy Story"-themed Andy’s Room area, join the Lion Guard, or learn hero-worthy lessons from Thor within a Marvel Super Hero Academy — it’s all part of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, open to children ages 3 through 12. There are even more exciting Disney experiences throughout Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, Vibe teen club, and Edge tween club, all included with Disney Cruise ship sailings. (“It’s a Small World” nursery, which charges a nominal hourly rate, is also available for younger children.)

Experiences For Adults

Disney cruise ships are covered in high-end decor and thoughtful design that feel more classy and less kid-focused, but select adults-only experiences, including exclusive lounges and pools, still thrive. A collection of bars called After Hours has live music nightly at Keys, a ‘50s piano bar, and an opportunity to catch up on sports at O’Gills Pub, while Palo, a higher-end restaurant that requires a surcharge and reservation, is the ultimate date night. Don’t miss the “rainforest room” in the Disney Magic ’s Senses Spa, as well as adult beverage tasting seminars.

Disney Magic Dining

Guests on the Disney Magic cruise ship will rotate between three restaurants nightly. Rapunzel’s Royal Table provides a themed night of lively music, revelry from some Snuggly Duckling denizens, and an appearance by Rapunzel and Flynn Rider within a lantern-lined ballroom. Animator’s Palate is surrounded by mementos from Disney and Pixar animated films that “come to life” throughout dinner, and Lumiere’s channels the elegance of "Beauty and the Beast ."

Casual meals can be had at Cabanas or ordered via 24-hour room service on board the Disney Magic . Otherwise, stop by Duck-In Diner for hot dogs, chicken fingers, or a shawarma sandwich or enjoy a quick lunch at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Castaway Cay, Disney's Private Island

Inaugural Year: 1999

A trip aboard the Disney Wonder can lead to familiar tropical escapes as well as a memory-making Alaskan vacation, with all the Disney cruise goodies included on board. Repeat cruisers love this vessel for its smaller size, which makes for a more intimate trip.

Disney cruise ships are famous for their nightly shows. "Disney Dreams — an Enchanted Classic" and "The Golden Mickeys" feature best-of-the-best Disney characters and music, but "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular," which brings Anna and Elsa's story to life with Broadway-style costuming and design, is a Disney Cruise Line favorite.

When you’re not enjoying Disney cruise activities like viewing Star Wars and Marvel films currently in theatres or playing ping pong and basketball at Wide World of Sports, there are plenty of pools, hot tubs, and AquaLab water play areas to enjoy on the outer decks. There’s even Disney Wonder’s Pixar Pals Party, a fun-filled celebration with characters from "Toy Story," "Up," and more, exclusively offered on Alaskan sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

Kids ages 3 to 12 can get up close to characters they love, dancing with Woody in a "Toy Story"-themed area, taking hero training with Captain America within Marvel Super Hero Academy, or building their own Mickey Roadster Racers in a Disney Junior games area on board the Disney cruise ship, as older kids enjoy their own slate of activities in Vibe teen club and tween hang The Edge. (There is also babysitting available for small children within the “It’s a Small World” nursery at a small fee.)

Make a reservation for Palo , an adults-only restaurant serving dinner each night and brunch on most sea days, or break for a pint at Crown & Fin Pub or a cocktail at Cadillac Lounge, housed within the Disney cruise ship’s After Hours section. There are also adults-only pool and outdoor areas on the Disney Wonder cruise ship, beverage seminars, and the Senses Spa’s “rainforest room”.

Disney Wonder Dining

Grab a slice at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria by Goofy’s Pool, a snack at Pete’s Boiler Bites, or some healthy fare at Daisy’s De-Lites — or hit the buffet at Cabanas, located on four Disney cruise ships. Dinner rotations bring diners to a new restaurant each night: Enjoy the flavor and fun of New Orleans at "The Princess & The Frog"-themed Tiana’s Place ; the elegant "The Little Mermaid" - inspired Triton’s ; or Animator’s Palate, which begins black-and-white and grows to be surrounded by color with a surprise at the meal’s end.

Related: Disney Cruise Secrets and Tips You Should Know Before You Go

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Class: Dream Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,250

This Disney cruise ship boasts variety shows like "The Golden Mickeys," an onboard spectacle celebrating Disney’s famed films and songs with plenty of character appearances, but its live rendition of "Beauty and the Beast" remains a signature show of Disney Cruise Line with its unfathomable sets, costumes, and performances.

Families can take in a round of outdoor mini golf on Goofy’s Sports Deck or stay inside to play Midship Detective Agency, a trio of interactive games featuring Muppets, Mickey Mouse, or Cruella de Vil. There’s plenty of aquatic fun to be had on this Disney cruise liner as well, with Nemo’s Reef for littles, an array of pools, and the AquaDuck, an onboard “water coaster” with views of the surrounding ocean, which is a Disney Cruise family favorite.

Packed with interactive features and themed spaces, Disney’s Oceaneer Club allows kids ages 3-12 to play in a "Toy Story"-themed room, explore Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell, and take a simulated flight on the Millennium Falcon. There are also activities with characters, like Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, which lets young children play games alongside their favorite Disney characters, and more experiences within Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, tween hangs in Edge, and Vibe, a teen club with its own private pool.

Unwind at Senses Spa or indulge in upscale dining at Palo and Remy , both of which are exclusive to adults on board. (Be sure to make a reservation in advance.) Grab an after-dinner drink at Meridian, or head to The District for a bottle at Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar or drinks at Skyline, Pub 687, District Lounge, or Evolution.

Disney Dream Dining

Passengers on the Disney Dream will rotate between three different dinner eateries: elegant French fare at Enchanted Garden ; storybook fine dining at Royal Palace ; and a fully-immersive Animator’s Palate, bringing together the animated film libraries of Disney and Pixar for a meal filled with intrigue and surprise.

Order room service, hit Cabanas or Flo’s Cafe, a trio of Cars -themed eateries with chicken fingers and cheeseburgers, or grab a healthy smoothie at Senses Juice Bar or a special dessert at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats for an additional fee.

Inaugural Year: 2012

Flex that vacation muscle at Disney Fantasy’s pools, including Nemo’s Reef for children and rides on the AquaDuck, a hybrid water slide and roller coaster with 765 feet of tubes above the top deck.

Uncover a hidden world of fun with Midship Detective Agency, an all-ages interactive game utilizing screens and props hidden throughout the ship. Watch current releases in the on-board Buena Vista Theatre or play basketball or experience VR sports simulators at sea on Goofy’s Sports Deck. At night, Disney Fantasy offers live shows including "Disney’s Believe," a narrative with visits from "Cinderella," "Mary Poppins" and " Peter Pan;" "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular;" and "Disney’s Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular," the Disney ship’s headlining show.

Kids ages 3-12 can learn mystic arts from Marvel’s "Doctor Strange" in the Marvel Super Hero Academy, sing and dance with "Toy Story’s" Woody in Andy’s Room, encounter real Stormtroopers at the Star Wars : Command Post, or enjoy kid-friendly activities with Mickey Mouse and friends. There’s endless inventive fun across Disney’s Oceaneer Lab and Club, and for older kids, at Edge and Vibe clubs.

Whether you’re shopping around the ship, grabbing a gin and tonic at Meridian — or taking a beverage tasting seminar to learn more about them — there’s loads for adults to do. The Disney cruise ship offers two adults-only restaurants: Palo, which serves elegant Italian dishes, and Remy, a French coursed menu experience. Plus enjoy Europa, a collection of stylized bars including Ooh La La champagne bar and La Piazza, an Italian bar reminiscent of a carousel.

Disney Fantasy Dining

Three restaurants aboard this Disney cruise ship means something different every night, whether it’s the fairytale-inspired Royal Court , beautiful Enchanted Garden, or Animator’s Palate, which utilizes real-time interaction with a popular "Finding Nemo" character. Quick eats can be found at Cabanas restaurant and Flo’s Cafe, while fanciful sundaes at Sweet on You and shakes at Senses Juice Bar are worthwhile upgrades. (Cove Cafe, with its Mickey cappuccinos, is also a must.)

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Triton Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,254

The first ship in Disney Cruise Line's Triton class, the Wish will be joined by the new Disney Treasure , set to debut in late 2024.

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Wish , is packed with brand-new entertainment for all ages. The AquaMouse — Disney's first-ever attraction at sea — and Toy Story Splash Zone provide aquatic fun; two cozy theaters show new and favorite Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films; and the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-style shows, including a retelling of "The Little Mermaid," "Disney Seas the Adventure," and "Disney's Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular."

Exclusively for Kids

At Disney's Oceaneer Club on the Wish , kids ages three to 12 can live out their Marvel and Star Wars adventures in the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Cargo Bay, and join their favorite princesses in Fairytale Hall. In the new Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, they can discover Imagineer secrets and design their own coaster. Edge and Vibe offer organized fun for older kids.

Experiences for Adults

The Disney Wish pulls out all the stops for adults, with lots of magical experiences just for them. Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge offers intergalactic sips inspired by galaxies far, far away, The Bayou has a "Princess and the Frog"-themed menu in a beautiful setting, and The Cove includes an adults-only pool and bar. The ship also has a Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, a stunning restaurant offering a multi-course dinner that we think is totally worth the splurge. The Disney Cruise Line favorite Senses Spa is also on this ship.

Disney Wish Dining

In addition to the truly exceptional adults-only restaurants, the Disney Wish offers some delightful onboard dining for the whole family. 1923 serves California flavors in a space inspired by Old Hollywood; Worlds of Marvel features the escapades of Ant-Man and the Wasp; and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is an immersive experience with singing, dancing, and visits from everyone's favorite Frozen characters. Casual dining is available at several venues throughout the ship, including Marceline Market and Mickey and Friends Festival of Food.

Related: T+L's Review of the Disney Wish

Related Articles

After sailing with all 5 Disney cruise ships, there's only one I'd consider traveling on again

• My family and I have sailed on all five Disney Cruise Line ships, but Disney Fantasy is my favorite.
• I love the Fantasy-exclusive venues, including a vintage-themed ice cream shop .
• Disney Fantasy also has five European-inspired nightclubs, lounges, and bars.

My family and I have sailed on all five Disney Cruise Line (DCL) ships. Although each ship offers a unique experience, there's only one I'd consider traveling on again: Disney Fantasy.

The ship, which debuted in 2012, has 14 decks and some of my favorite onboard activities, including the AquaDuck water coaster and five adults-only lounges.

Here are some of the reasons I'd travel on Disney Fantasy again.

Disney Fantasy's size is just right.

The 1,115-foot-long Fantasy is larger than the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, which are both 984 feet long and have 11 decks.

However, Disney Fantasy's separate family and adult areas make it easy to be entertained in a sea of up to 4,000 people. I love relaxing with a handful of guests in the cozy cafés and nooks or sunbathing in solitude.

I love the Fantasy-exclusive venues.

Each DCL ship has exclusives you won't find on other ships in its fleet, including restaurants and adults-only lounges.

For example, Disney Fantasy has Sweet on You, a vintage-themed ice-cream shop and confectionery inspired by classic Mickey Mouse shorts.

Other exclusives on Disney Fantasy include a Bvlgari shop and a trio of nightlife spots: Italian-style La Piazza bar, British nightclub The Tube, and French Champagne bar Ooh La La.

There's more aquatic fun on Disney Fantasy than most DLC ships.

Disney Fantasy has seven freshwater pools and water-play areas, including three family pools, two adult pools, and two splash areas. The only ship with more pools and water-play areas is Disney Wish, which has 10.

One of my favorite activities is the AquaDuck water coaster.

The AquaDuck, which is only found on this ship and Disney Dream, is a 765-foot water coaster that propels passengers in two-person rafts through a massive transparent tube.

The ride includes open-air portions that offer views of the ocean and a stomach-dropping four-deck drop.

The adults-only lounges have unique European themes.

Disney Fantasy has five European-inspired nightclubs, lounges, and bars located in one area called Europa. The Tube is a London Underground-themed venue, Ooh La La is themed around Champagne, O'Gill's is an Irish pub, and La Piazza has an Italian feel.

I also love the quiet but mesmerizing Skyline bar, which features changing "windows" of famous city skylines.

The Europa theme seamlessly flows from one venue to the next, and I love having the ability to barhop in one specific area of the ship.

I'm a fan of the ship's more subdued dining experiences.

Some Disney fans may prefer entertaining dining experiences, but I appreciate the more subdued dinners on Disney Fantasy.

I don't have children , so I appreciate being able to enjoy the Disney vibes without sitting through the over-the-top dinner dramas found on other ships.

I love visiting restaurants like the princess-themed Royal Court and the French-garden-themed Enchanted Garden. My favorite, however, is Animator's Palate, which celebrates Disney animation and is on every ship except Disney Wish.

I love relaxing in the Rainforest inside Senses Spa.

I always purchase a pass to the Rainforest within Senses Spa, which features aromatherapy showers, a steam room, and a sauna.

However, the Rainforests on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are the best because they each have two whirlpools set on a secluded ocean-view verandah. It's arguably the quietest, most relaxing part of the ship.

Overall, Disney Fantasy is my favorite ship — for now.

Right now, Disney Fantasy is my favorite ship because it has the most appealing adults-only options. From one of the best Rainforest set-ups to Europa's quintet of bars and lounges, I love spending time on this ship.

However, this could change with Disney's newest ships , Treasure and Destiny, set to embark on their maiden voyages in December 2024 and November 2025, respectively.

• Main content

Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Best? Everything You Need to Know.

by Kelly Coffey-Behrens | Jan 11, 2024 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic , Disney Treasure , Disney Wish , Disney Wonder

Wondering which Disney Cruise ship is the best? We’re breaking down all your options when sailing on Disney Cruise Line.

With so many different Disney Cruise Line ships to choose from, how do you know which is best for you and your travel party?  We’ve got you covered! In this guide we will break down what is offered on each ship, what amenities are special to any particular Disney Cruise Line ship, and more.

Which Disney Cruise Line Ship is Best?

Choosing a ship all boils down to personal preference, but let’s start by giving some basic background on each of the five (soon to be six) Disney Cruise Line ships. First is the Disney Magic , which had its maiden voyage in 1998. Next is the Magic’s sister ship, the Disney Wonder which first set sail in 1999. Over 10 years later, Disney Cruise Line debuted its third ship – the Disney Dream , in 2011.

The sister ship to the Disney Dream is the Disney Fantasy , which set sail one year later in 2012. The newest Disney Cruise Line ship is the Disney Wish , which had its maiden voyage in 2022. And the sixth ship, the Disney Treasure , is set to sail for its first time in 2024.

Different Options on Each

Now, each ship is unique in its way, offering different amenities, entertainment options, sit-down restaurants, and more. But, we do want to note that every Disney ship includes character meet and greets, activities such as trivia, drawing classes, alcohol seminars, cooking seminars, and more. And that’s not even mentioning pools, an adults-only section, adults-only restaurants, and Senses Spa.

They all also host “Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Party!… A Bon Voyage Celebration” which is performed on deck on the first day of your voyage, and every Disney Cruise Line ship has a Pirate Night featuring a deck stage show and fireworks presentation. With that being said, let’s dive into each ship and try to figure out which one is best for you and your party. 

Disney Magic

With a capacity of just over 2,700 passengers and 875 staterooms, this Disney Cruise Line ship is a bit on the smaller side compared to other ships in the fleet, but that doesn’t mean it is short of offering entertainment, food, and other amenities. Its decor is considered an Art Deco design.

Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog

The Disney Magic holds nightly entertainment in the Walt Disney Theater, which includes Broadway-style shows – but there are some shows that you won’t find on any other cruise ship, and only on the Disney Magic, including Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story  and Tangled, the Musical .

Rotational Dining Restaurants

The three main dining halls on the Disney Magic are:

• Rapunzel’s Royal Table: Celebrate Rapunzel’s birthday with a German-inspired feast.
• Animator’s Palate: A version of Animator’s Palate is offered on every ship.
• Lumiere’s: Themed to Beauty and the Beast , which means it, of course, features French cuisine.

The Disney Magic typically sails to the Caribbean, but during certain times of the year also sails to the Bahamas, Canada, New York, and Europe.

Who Is It Best For?

This comes down to personal preference. This ship is a bit on the smaller side, so the atrium and the pools may feel a bit more packed compared to other ships, such as the Disney Wish or the Disney Fantasy, so that is something to take into consideration. Plus, if you are looking for a shorter, tropical vacation, we recommend going on the Disney Magic for a four-night voyage to the Bahamas. 

Disney Wonder

Next on the list is the Disney Wonder. While this is the sister ship to the Disney Magic, there are both similarities and differences offered on board. 

Screenshot from video by Kathleen Lee

For starters, the capacity is the same as the Magic – just over 2,700 passengers and 875 staterooms, however, the design is a bit different than the Magic. While the Magic has an art deco design, the Wonder has an ​​Art Nouveau design. Regarding entertainment offerings, the Broadway-style shows offered include The Golden Mickeys , Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic , and Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.

The three main dining halls on the Disney Wonder are:

• Tiana’s Place: Dine with Tiana and listen to live jazz music, while enjoying a classic southern Louisiana-inspired menu.
• Animator’s Palate: On the Wonder, Animator’s Palate teaches voyagers about the evolution of animation while enjoying their meal. The experience here is different than on other ships.
• Triton’s: The Little Mermaid -inspired restaurant serving French cuisine.

The Disney Wonder offers a variety of itineraries which include stops in Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and passages through the Panama Canal. On Alaskan voyages specifically, the Disney Wonder also hosts a Frozen -themed evening, where there’s a special Frozen stage show and voyagers dress up as their favorite character from the animated movie.

Again, this all comes down to personal preference but we say that The Disney Wonder is best for those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Sailing to Alaska is like nothing else you have ever experienced, (I know because I was lucky enough to have done it). 

Plus, for those “Frozen” fans, having an entire night dedicated to the animated film is pure magic. 

Disney Dream

With a capacity of 4,000 passengers and 1,250 staterooms, this Disney Cruise Line ship is almost double the size of the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Its decor is considered golden art deco but one of the best parts about the Dream is that in the atrium, a stunning chandelier made up of Swarovski crystals dangles from the ceiling, which is covered with 24-karat gold plating!

Photo by Brett Svenson

Regarding entertainment offerings, the Broadway-style shows offered include “The Golden Mickeys” (like on the Disney Wonder), “Beauty and the Beast,” inspired by the live-action remake of the classic animated film, and “Disney’s Believe.” The Disney Dream also offers Marvel Day at Sea on select sailings.

The three main dining halls on the Disney Dream are:

• Animator’s Palate: What makes Animator’s Palate on the Dream different than the Magic or the Wonder is that the entertainment offered during your meal features Crush from “Finding Nemo” who will speak to Guests at their tables.
• Enchanted Garden: This restaurant is inspired by the gardens of Versailles.
• Royal Palace: This is considered the upscale restaurant on the Disney Dream, and is themed to the Disney Princess films and features a French and American-inspired menu.

One thing to note is that the restaurants on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy are nearly identical.  The Disney Dream currently offers three, four, and five-night sailings to the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean stopping in Cozumel and Grand Cayman – plus it sails to Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.

If you are looking specifically to sail to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, we recommend either the Disney Dream or the Disney Fantasy. The main difference between the two is that the Disney Dream offers shorter sailings, while the Disney Fantasy offers longer sailings (such as seven nights.)

Disney Fantasy

With a capacity of 4,000 passengers and 1,250 staterooms, this Disney Cruise Line ship is the same size as its sister, the Dream, and almost double the size of the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Similar to the Dream, the Fantasy also has a stunning chandelier in the atrium, but what makes this one different from the one on its sister ship is that this chandelier features a stained-glass peacock-inspired design. The overall design is considered art nouveau.

Photo by Rich Ramos

The Broadway-style stage shows offered on Disney Fantasy are Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s Believe (just like on the Dream), and Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Plus, Disney Fantasy offers Pixar Day at Sea, which is exclusive to this ship.

The only difference between the dining halls on the Dream and the Fantasy is that the Royal Palace on the Dream is called the Royal Court on the Fantasy. Otherwise, the restaurants offer the same menus and the same sit-down restaurant designs/styles. 

• Animator’s Palate 
• Enchanted Garden 
• Royal Court

While the Disney Dream offers a Western Caribbean itinerary, the Fantasy offers an Eastern Caribbean itinerary, with stops at Mexico, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. The Fantasy also sails to Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.

As mentioned above, if you are looking specifically to sail to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, we recommend either the Disney Dream or the Disney Fantasy. Again, the main difference between the two is that the Disney Dream offers shorter sailings, while the Disney Fantasy offers longer sailings (such as seven nights.)

My personal preference is the Disney Fantasy. I enjoy the longer sailings as you get to know your Crew Members on a more personal level, and you have more time to explore and enjoy everything that is offered on the ship.

Disney Wish

The Disney Wish is not only the newest ship, but also the biggest in the fleet. It holds 5,000 passengers and has 1,254 staterooms, including a 2-story Royal Suite with a Verandah! Plus, the Wish is the first Disney Cruise Line ship not to feature Mickey as Captain. Instead, you are led by Ms. Minnie Mouse! The entire ship is themed to being the “castle on the sea” meaning everything is inspired by the Disney Princesses, specifically to Cinderella. The atrium is called the “Grand Hall” and it features a stunning chandler, complete with little Disney Easter Eggs.

The Disney Wish offers a sail-away party, however, it has a different name and the premise is slightly different than the one on the other ships. The “Set Sail on a Wish” is offered on the first day of each sailing. The Broadway-style stage shows on the Disney Wish are Disney Seas the Adventure starring Minnie and Goofy, The Little Mermaid , which is brand new to the ship, and Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular”  similar to the show on the Dream and the Fantasy.

Arendelle on the Disney Wish. Photo by Danny Shuster

One of the offerings aboard the Disney Wish that is not offered on any other ship is the Kiss Goodnight.  The Disney Wish also has Disney’s first-ever at-sea coaster called the AquaMouse. All three main dining halls on the Wish are different than the other four ships.

On the Wish you will dine at:

• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure with Norwegian-inspired dishes.
• Worlds of Marvel – “Avengers: Quantum Encounter”: A restaurant experience with food inspired by the different locations and organizations of the Marvel universe.
• 1923: This restaurant has two dining rooms, the Walt Disney Room or the Roy Disney Room, which both feature sketches, props, and other items representing animated Disney films.

In addition to the unique restaurants, the Disney Wish also offers the first-ever “Star Wars”-themed bar. The Disney Wish offers three- and four-night voyages to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

The Disney Wish is perfect for those who are looking for a more upscale theme and a unique experience, as this ship offers a variety of amenities and restaurants that cannot be found on any other ship. Plus, with shorter sailings, this ship is good for those who are looking for a long weekend away or to have a split stay with Walt Disney World. 

Disney Treasure

And last, but certainly not least, is the soon-to-be Disney Treasure. Slightly smaller than the Disney Wish, the Disney Treasure holds 4,000 passengers but still has 1,254 staterooms. The theming to the Disney Treasure will give off an ”adventure” vibe, with blue and gold color scheme inspired by Agrabah.

Haunted Mansion Parlor concept art. Photo Courtesy of Disney

The Broadway-style show that is only offered on the Treasure will be a brand-new production called Disney The Tale of Moana. The Treasure will also have the pre-existing Beauty and the Beast and Disney Seas the Adventure show.  The Disney Treasure will also have its own version of the AquaMouse.

The Disney Treasure will have two of the same restaurants as the Wish once it sets sail, but it will have one unique restaurant as well.

• Plaza de Coco: A Coco-themed  restaurant exclusive to the Treasure and features a Mexican-style menu.
• Worlds of Marvel: Similar to the restaurant offered on the Wish.
• 1923: Just like on the Wish, you may dine in either the Walt Disney room or Roy Disney room.

Special to the Treasure, there will be a Jungle Cruise-inspired bar and a Haunted Mansion-inspired bar – which you won’t find on any other ship.

The Treasure will offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings.

For those looking for a unique Disney Cruise Line experience and a full-week vacation, the Disney Treasure will be a great cruise ship to choose.

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

Is a voyage on a Disney Cruise Line ship on your bucket list? You'll find a growing number of options when it comes time to pick an itinerary.

While the cruising arm of Disney has long focused mostly on voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with year-round sailings to those destinations out of Florida, it also now offers a relatively wide range of seasonal sailings to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Bermuda, Europe and Canada.

The family-friendly cruise brand, notably, is expanding its footprint worldwide as it adds four new vessels in quick succession.

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Already, the first of those ships, the 2,508-passenger Disney Wish , has arrived, boosting the size of the Disney fleet from four ships to five and allowing for more departures to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe.

Two more sister vessels to Disney Wish are due to begin sailing in 2024 and 2025, respectively, allowing for further expansion in Disney cruise itineraries. In addition, the line has yet another new vessel coming in 2025 that isn't related to the other three. Called Disney Adventure, it's a one-off vessel originally designed for an Asian line , and it'll sail in Asia (perhaps catering mostly to Asian travelers; Disney has been mum so far on the target audience for it).

All these new ships arriving in quick succession will likely mean not just more departures to destinations where Disney Cruise Line is established but also sailings in new regions. For example, Disney has never before offered Asia sailings.

Here are our picks for the five best Disney cruise destinations you can visit with your family.

Caribbean and Bahamas

Disney Cruise Line's top destination has always been the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Since its founding more than two decades ago, the brand has based the bulk of its fleet in Florida to offer sailings to the islands. Port Canaveral, which is just an hour away from Disney's Orlando-area theme parks, has always been its biggest hub.

The line is particularly known for three- and four-night cruises out of Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau in the Bahamas. These short getaways let families get a taste of Disney cruising that some Disney fans pair with a stay at Disney World.

The cruise line also regularly offers seven-night sailings out of Port Canaveral that visit Caribbean islands like St. Thomas and Tortola.

Related: First look at Disney Wish in photos

In recent years, Disney has also built up its Caribbean and Bahamas cruise offerings from other ports in Florida — initially Miami and, more recently, Fort Lauderdale. The ships the line has based in these ports typically offer four- and five-night sailings to Castaway Cay and one other port, such as Cozumel or Grand Cayman.

In addition, Disney is offering a growing number of Caribbean sailings out of Galveston, Texas, and New Orleans.

For 2024, the line will have four of its five ships — Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy — sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of one of the above ports, with their home bases often shifting between them.

Disney Wish, which is Disney's newest ship, will be based in Port Canaveral year-round to operate the line's classic three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas. These voyages are designed to be paired with a visit to nearby Disney World for a longer Disney vacation.

Disney Fantasy will also sail out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean year-round, offering longer voyages.

Disney Dream will spend the start and the end of the year sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale, with a stint in the middle of the year (from May to October) sailing in Europe.

Disney Magic will take Disney Dream's place sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale from May to October. During the early and late months of the year, it'll sail out of Galveston.

Come 2025, Disney will have four ships — Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Magic — sailing three- to five-night getaways from Florida to the line's Bahamian destinations, including its new private beach destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and its long-open private island Disney Castaway Cay. Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will operate the trips from Port Canaveral, while Disney Dream and Disney Magic will sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Before taking up residence in Florida in April 2025, Disney Magic will also offer three months' worth of sailings out of Galveston, Texas, to Progreso and Cozumel in Mexico and Grand Cayman.

All of the 2025 sailings are already open for bookings.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Disney has cut back on voyages out of San Diego for 2024, after increasing its San Diego departures sharply in 2023. But it still offers several trips to Mexico out of the city on Disney Wonder.

For 2024, the 1,754-passenger vessel will offer a mix of three- to seven-night sailings to Mexico during March and April. Shorter three- and four-night sailings typically feature calls at Ensenada, Mexico, and California's Catalina Island. Seven-night sailings include calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

The big factor driving Disney's cutbacks on sailings out of San Diego in 2024 is its new focus on voyages out of Australian ports. Disney Wonder will spend much of January and February sailing out of Australian ports and then return to the region in October for another season of Australia trips.

Disney offers a wide variety of itineraries in Europe every summer, from Mediterranean voyages out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), to Northern Europe sailings out of Southampton, England.

Ranging from seven to 11 nights, Disney's Europe voyages each year typically take place on a single ship that sails from multiple home ports throughout the season. For 2024, that ship will be the 2,500-passenger Disney Dream. The line has yet to announce which of its ships will go to Europe in 2025.

Typical for the shorter itineraries the line offers in Europe are seven-night sailings out of Civitavecchia to the Greek Islands. These sailings stop in Mykonos, Santorini and Crete in Greece, as well as Naples, Italy.

Related: 17 tips for sailing on Disney Cruise Line

A longer, 11-night itinerary starting in Civitavecchia and ending in Barcelona includes calls at Piraeus (the port for Athens), Santorini and Mykonos in Greece; Messina (on the island of Sicily), Naples and Livorno in Italy; and Toulon, France.

Among Northern Europe itineraries, Disney offers focused, weeklong sailings to Norway with calls at the Norwegian ports of Alesund, Nordfjordeid, Eidfjord and Stavanger.

Disney does not have a large presence in Alaska. The line sends just one ship to Alaska each year. Family-friendly cruise rivals Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, by contrast, each send three ships to Alaska each year, and Norwegian Cruise Line sends five vessels to the destination.

Still, Disney fans won't feel like they're missing out. The one vessel Disney sends to Alaska each year, the 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder, stays for nearly the entire summer season, from late June to mid-September and offers a distinctly Disney take on The Last Frontier.

Always beginning and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, and lasting seven nights, Disney's Alaska sailings typically include stops at three of these four Alaska ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point (which three vary by departure date). Itineraries also include a visit to Stikine Icecap, which is south of Juneau.

Related: 5 reasons Disney cruises aren't just for kids

These are fairly typical ports for an Alaska cruise. But the (extra-charge) activities that Disney has organized for the ports aren't always the same as what other lines offer.

As one might expect for Disney, the line has crafted some of its shore excursions in Alaska ports with special Disney touches, such as Disney character appearances at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake tour in Ketchikan. (Having done this one myself, I will say, for the record, that it's a little hokey; but it does get you a Disney character fix if that's your aim.)

Another shore excursion with a Disney touch is the outdoor Family Scavenger Hunt at Icy Strait Point, where participants join a local guide on a hunt for items such as clam shells and native plants, as well as a "special surprise" with a Disney theme.

Unlike many lines, Disney does not offer one-way sailings to Alaska from Vancouver or Seattle that can be paired with add-on land tours to create an extended sea-and-land Alaska vacation — something known as a "cruisetour." If that's what you're looking for, and you want to stick with a family-friendly line, you might want to consider the one-way cruisetour offerings from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

Disney typically offers at least one and sometimes several cruises to Bermuda each fall, ranging from quick, five-night trips to longer, eight-night sailings.

For the year just ending (2023), the line offered four such sailings, and it's offered even more than that in certain years. Alas, for the coming year (2024), Disney currently does not have a single Bermuda sailing scheduled — a bit of an anomaly.

That said, we would expect Disney to bring back its Bermuda sailings for 2025 or 2026. It's been such a mainstay of the brand.

So ... stay tuned.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Bottom line

Family-friend Disney Cruise Line is a relatively small cruise brand, with just five ships (one of its biggest rivals in the family cruise market, Royal Caribbean, has 26 vessels). But that doesn't mean its itinerary choices are limited. The line offers regular sailings to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Bermuda and Europe.

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Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line |

Find a Cruise on Disney Cruise Line

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Cruising with Disney

Disney Cruise Line's ships –  Disney Magic ,  Disney Wonder ,  Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy  and the Disney Wish – receive kudos from families and critics alike for their family-friendly atmospheres, whimsical amenities and well-equipped staterooms. Disney cruises have something for everyone in the family, from epic kids clubs and adults-only spaces to character meet-and-greets and fantastical dining venues.  Although Disney's ships vary in size, each vessel carries approximately one crew member for every three passengers.

Disney Cruise Line's itineraries depart from a variety of ports – including  Fort Lauderdale, Florida ; San Diego  and Galveston, Texas – for sailings in the United States , Mexico , Canada , Europe , Australia and the Pacific and the Caribbean . Voyages last between two and 15 nights, with cruise lengths varying by itinerary and destination. Shore excursions, known as Port Adventures, also change depending on the itinerary and include everything from monkey encounters in Barbados  to wine tasting in Corsica, France. Guests on Caribbean and Bahamian sailings also visit Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas .

Back on board, you'll find plenty of family-oriented facilities, including themed pools, youth clubs and movie theaters. You'll also have the opportunity to eat in the cruise line's Disney-themed main dining rooms and enjoy a variety of Disney-inspired entertainment, such as live shows, dance parties and character meet-and-greets.   

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is a necessity for a Disney cruise. Not only can you see the schedule of events, but you can text your family and friends for free through the app. – Megan duBois, Contributor    

Pros & Cons

Meals, nonalcoholic drinks and onboard entertainment covered in cruise fare

Special cruise rates are available for United States Military members as well as Florida and Canadian residents

Spacious cabins

Alcoholic beverages are not included in cruise cost; traditional drink packages are not available

Shore excursions incur additional fees

Typically more expensive than other family-friendly cruise lines

• Expert Rating » 4.2
• Traveler Rating » 4.4
• Health Rating » 4.9

Disney Cruise Line has been ranked based on an expert evaluation of the line's level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

• # 1 in Best Cruise Lines for Families
• # 1 in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Explore Photos

Disney Cruise Line Ships

Disney Magic

Disney Dream

Disney Fantasy

Disney Wish

Disney Wonder

Before You Book

• Typically, a 20% deposit is due at the time of booking, though this may vary depending on the time of booking. The deadline for your full cruise payment depends on your cruise length, stateroom category and embarkation and disembarkation ports.
• Cancellation fees vary depending on your cruise duration and type of accommodation. For more information on the cancellation policy, visit Disney Cruise Line's terms and conditions  page .
• Disney offers a Vacation Protection Plan that covers trip cancellations/interruptions, emergency medical services, baggage loss or delay and emergency medical transportation. The insurance plan also includes another advantage: If you cancel your cruise for any reason not listed above, you'll receive a cruise credit of up to 75% of the cancellation fee to apply toward a future Disney voyage.
• For most sailings, Disney Cruise Line requires passengers to be at least 6 months old, though some itineraries require guests to be 1 year or older. Pregnant women who will hit 24 weeks by their embarkation date or during the cruise may not take the voyage due to safety concerns.
• Guests who require special services must fill out a special request form 30 days before U.S. sailings.  This form can be used for requesting a wheelchair-accessible room, requesting a sign language interpreter or indicating if someone is traveling with oxygen or with a service animal. Disney also lists what European cruises offer American Sign Language interpreters on its website . If an interpreter is needed by a guest on one of the listed sailings, the same special request form should be filled out no later than 120 days before the cruise.

Before You Board

• Visa and vaccinations may be required to travel to select ports of call. For current visa and vaccine regulations for each country, check the  U.S. Department of State , the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  and the  World Health Organization  websites.
• Along with a passport or other proof of citizenship, you will need to bring a completed Online Check-In Port Arrival Form.
• Online check-in is available, and the timeframe for check-in is determined by your status within Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program called Castaway Club, ranging from 30 days for first-time cruisers to 40 days for top-level Pearl members. Disney Cruise Line requires you submit passport information at least 75 days before your trip starts.
• Cruise terminals generally open for embarkation at 11:15 a.m. Travelers will be checked in during their designated Port Arrival Time, which should be selected in advance online. Cruisers who arrive after the Guest Onboard Time listed on their cruise confirmation may not be permitted to board.
• You can pre-book shore excursions, some childcare, spa services and activities, such as Character Greetings, as well as dinner reservations at the adults-only restaurants, Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté or Remy online 75 days prior to your departure date (if you're a first-time passenger) to 123 days before sailing for Pearl Castaway Club members and Concierge guests. If you are a Concierge Stateroom or Concierge Suite guest, you can call the Shoreside Concierge Associate team 130 days in advance to make bookings over the phone before online bookings open. Dining reservations, character meet-and-greets, some spa services, and some excursions are also available on a first-come, first-served basis once on board.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

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If you are thinking of sailing on a Disney cruise you may be asking which is the best Disney cruise ship?

There are four Disney cruise ships at sea right now – with another three being built.

However, is one Disney cruise ship better than the others? How do you compare Disney cruise ships?

Which Is The Best Disney Cruise Ship?

First, let’s take a look at the different Disney cruise ships.

The Classic Disney Cruise Ships

The Disney Magic was the first ship to be launched in 1998. The Magic’s sister ship, the Disney Wonder was launched a year later in 1999.

The two “classic Disney ships” are basically the same design. The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder are the smallest cruise ships in the fleet.

Huge List of Disney Cruise Tips

The Disney Dream Class Ships

The newest Disney cruise ships are 40% larger than the Disney classic ships. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are 1,147 feet long. They can carry a maximum of 4,000 passengers at full capacity and have 1458 crew members.

These are known as the Disney Dream Class Ships.

To put this in perspective it is often quoted that these ships are longer (or taller) than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The Disney Dream was launched in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy followed in 2012.

Disney Triton Class Ships

There are 3 more Disney ships on the horizon. The Disney Wish is due to be launched in 2022. The next two ships don’t yet have scheduled launch dates.

These are known as the Triton Class ships.

We now know some things about the new Disney Wish. You can follow the Disney Wish Construction with us. WE constantly update all the information about the details of the new Disney Ship as they are announced.

The Disney Fantasy-class ships are 130,000 gross tons and the new ships will be 140,000.

However, we know that the new Disney ships will only have the same amount of staterooms at 1,250 as the Fantasy and Dream. Therefore it seems that there will be more room for the entertainment spaces on the Triton Class ships.

We would guess that the majority will be balcony staterooms on the new Disney cruise ships.

It’s a pretty good bet that the new Disney ships will have the virtual portholes in the inside staterooms as well. Another highly likely feature of the new Disney cruise ships is that there will be an expanded concierge class.

Disney Cruise Ship Staterooms To Avoid

Photo by Disney – Artist Concept

This is a very exciting time for Disney cruise lines. Not only will there soon be 3 new ships, but there will also be a brand new Disney private island location.

Will the new ships be the best Disney cruise ships? Anything which we say now will of course just be speculation. However, we are sure that the new Disney cruise ships will be amazing!

If you want to know more about the new Disney cruise ships we have all the information you need here .

What is the Difference Between the Classic and the Newer Disney Dream Ships?

The really obvious answer to this is their size. There is a lot of difference if you compare the Disney Cruise Ships.

If you want a smaller Disney cruise ship which is easier to get around and also to get to know, you will be happier on the classic ships.

If you want more facilities and don’t mind the fact that there are more people, the newer Disney ships are the best.

However, it really isn’t that simple. There are many other things to consider when you ask yourself which is the best Disney cruise ship.

What is Basically the Same About All of the Disney Ships?

Before going into what is different about each of the Disney cruise ships, let’s think about what really is the same.

The level of service is exceptional on all of the Disney ships. It is always very difficult to explain just how above and beyond most of the Disney crew go to give exceptional service to their guests.

You have to experience the Disney difference to believe it. I have witnessed this first hand so many times. The Cast Members go the extra mile and welcome you like family.

Most recently I was on the Disney Wonder and was in Triton’s, one of the main rotational dining restaurants, having lunch.

I heard a shout of pure joy as a server recognized a family from a previous cruise. She ran over and greeted that family as if they were long-lost cousins.

That’s the Disney difference that you just can’t explain unless you see it. That kind of experience is genuine and is what Disney is all about.

There are other things that are just the same on all of the Disney ships. The large staterooms, most of which have the split bath. The excellent children’s programs. The adult spaces. The Disney rotational dining . Broadway-quality entertainment.

However, there are very distinct differences between each ship. Which Disney cruise ship that you think is the best for you and your family, will depend on other factors.

If you have children of a certain age you will want to look at our Best Disney Cruise Ship for Toddlers Guide. 

Let’s think about the things which are going to influence your choice of Disney cruise ship. When you are deciding which is the best Disney cruise ship you are going to look at a number of factors.

Disney Cruise Ship Itinerary

This really is going to be a big deciding factor when you look at which Disney cruise ship is the best for your vacation.

All of the Disney cruise ships sail very distinct itineraries from different home cruise ports.

If you want to sail the Caribbean on a Disney cruise ship you will find that the most convenient itineraries are on the Disney Fantasy. She sails mostly 7 night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries – all out of Port Canaveral Florida .

However, if you want a 3 or 4 night sailing on a Disney cruise then the Disney Dream is going to be your best choice. The Disney Dream sails mostly 3 and 4-night itineraries to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral Florida.

The Disney Dream can be an excellent first Disney cruise. The prices are obviously going to be lower than a full 7 night on the Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Dream also has a big advantage that all sailings will make a port stop a Disney’s private island Castaway Cay. For many Disney cruisers, the day at Castaway Cay is the highlight of their vacation. Here you can get a  complete guide to Disney’s Castaway Cay.

Both the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have more varied itineraries than the larger Disney ships. This might be the decider for you when you are thinking about which is the best Disney cruise ship. Itinerary may be the most important thing.

The Disney Wonder sails from Port Canaveral, Galveston, San Diego , and Vancouver. If you are looking for a more diverse itinerary then you really should consider the Disney Wonder.

One of the most spectacular of the Disney Wonder itineraries are the cruises to Alaska. Here you can browse the Disney Cruises to Alaska .

The Disney Wonder also sails through the Panama Canal twice a year. If we had to pick our very favorite Disney cruise it would be the Panama Canal cruises. Each cruise is for at least 14 nights, so is ideal for people who have more time to spare on a vacation.

There is nothing quite like the sight of the Disney Wonder sailing through the Panama Canal. The 14-night break gives you so much time to relax.

These cruises also tend to include extra features such as chances to look behind the scenes at the galley and the theater. There are usually not so many children on these cruises either.

The Disney Wonder now sails from San Diego on cruises to the Mexican Riviera. They range from 2,3,4,5 and 7-night cruises so there really is something for everyone. If you are based on the West Coast these Disney San Diego cruises are a great idea.

The Disney Wonder will sail from New Orleans for the first time in 2020.

The Disney Magic also has a number of different itineraries. You are sure to be able to find a Disney Magic sailing that suits you. In the summer months the Disney Magic sails in Europe.

These cruises vary from Southern European cruises from Barcelona to Northern European cruises as well as cruises around the British Isles from Dover England .

The Disney Magic has a Transatlantic sailing twice a year. This cruise offers great value for money for people with some flexibility and time to spend on this longer cruise.

The Disney Magic also has some sailings from New York and Miami. This is perfect for cruisers for whom Port Canaveral is not their first choice. Most of these cruises also have a port stop in Castaway Cay.

Disney Cruise Theme Sailings

Disney Cruise lines also offer a number of differently themed sailings.

One of the most popular is the Star Wars Days at Sea. If you are a Star Wars fan you really should think about booking one of the Star Wars special cruises.

For more details about what to expect you can see our guide here .

The Disney Magic has Marvel Days at Sea on select dates.

If Star Wars or Marvel is not your thing then you may want to enjoy one of the seasonal cruises such as the Halloween on the High Seas Cruises or a Very Merrytime Cruise.

Other Differences on The Disney Cruise Ships

Which is the best Disney cruise ship is always going to depend on so many factors which only you can answer. However, there are some other things which may help you make up your mind about which Disney cruise is best for you and your family.

Each Disney ship has different entertainment. All of the Disney cruise ships have amazing nighttime entertainment. However, all have different shows.

If your Disney Princess is a particular fan of Princess Anna and Queen Elsa then you may want to pick the Disney Wonder.

All the cruise ships will have personal appearances by the Anna and Elsa, but only Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy (from Fall 2019) has Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.

The Disney Wonder also has Tiana’s restaurant.

If your favorite movie is Tangled then you may want to consider the Disney Magic. They are the only ship to have Tangled the Musical on board. The Disney Magic is also the only ship to have Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant.

If I had to choose a ship that has the best entertainment I would always say the Disney Wonder as it has Frozen and The Golden Mickeys.

I do also enjoy Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular on the Disney Fantasy. However, for me, the Disney Wonder wins on the stage show entertainment right now.

If you want to ride the AqauDuck then you have to sail on the newest ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. The classic Disney Wonder and Magic really do not have anything to compare with this.

The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk but this is not really a comparison. The Disney Wonder had a fabulous re-imagination recently but if you want an AquaDuck equivalent you just don’t get it here.

If the finest dining at sea is important to you then you need to choose the Disney Fantasy or the Disney Dream as they are the only ships to have Remy. This is one of the finest dining experiences at sea.

Palo is on all of the ships and is our preference, but if you want to experience what many think is the best of the best then you have to sail on one of the larger ships.

If you are thinking of booking Disney Cruise Concierge we would also say that the better choices are the newer ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy.

The classic Disney Wonder and Magic ships have been re-imagined to accommodate a new concierge lounge. However, the Fantasy and Dream were purpose-built with concierge guests in mind. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream have a fabulous outside pool deck.

All the ships have the concierge lounge now but we think that the very best are on the Disney Dream and Fantasy. The only benefit of the Wonder and the Magic is that there are fewer concierge staterooms so it seems to be more of an exclusive benefit. You will get more individual attention, but it is pretty amazing on all the ships.

If you want an inside stateroom with the Virtual Porthole you do have to sail on the Disney Dream or the Fantasy.

Apparently, it was too much of a technological difficulty to refit the Magic and Wonder with the virtual portholes. We think they are a nice touch, but this really should be a minor reason to sail on the newer ships.

As you will see the answer to the question about which is the best Disney cruise ship really is going to vary according to what you and your family want.

We love all the Disney cruise ships, but if we had to decide we would say the Disney Wonder.

Is this because the Disney Wonder was our first Disney cruise and we have spent more time sailing on her than any other ships? Possibly. But you have to decide what is best for your family.

All of the Disney cruise ships offer an amazing experience which really doesn’t have any comparison.

Our advice? Look at the itinerary first and then choose the ship. Whichever of the Disney ships you choose you will have an amazing time. There really isn’t an answer as to which is the best Disney cruise ship. They are all amazing.

Whichever you sail on you will probably think is the best Disney cruise ship!

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Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing The Best Disney Cruise Ship

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Which Disney cruise ship is the best for you?

I struggled whether or not cruising was for us, and I convinced my husband that we should try it.  We have a few cruises under our belts now, and we are still trying to figure out if we are “cruise” people. Given the industry awards they win and the age of my youngest, Disney Cruise Line was the obvious choice to try first.

The cruising market continues to expand so much— and so many parents now consider it one the easiest and relaxing ways for families to travel. It’s a big moving resort where you only unpack once.

Only one close friend of mine had been on a Disney cruise before I took one. She’s the least Disney person I know, and yet she said it was a fabulous, relaxing vacation that was ideal for grandparents, parents, and kids to take together.

But one of the most impressive endorsements I heard was from very glamorous Italian food and wine writer I met by a resort pool who lived in Costa Smeralda. She said the food on the Disney cruises impressed her. That is a strong endorsement.

I have asked several travel experts to ask to help my over planning, over researching brain. Enjoy their excellent advice.

Disney Cruise Reviews: the good and the meh

Eric Stoen, of Travel Babbo , has wonderful taste in luxury hotels he visits on his world travels with his kids, and he took his family on three Disney Cruises.

“Our cruises were all about the European ports, and we liked pretty much all of our stops, from Italy to Greece to Norway to Iceland. If you want to see a lot of great destinations and not have to pack/unpack in between, cruises work well.

Having said that, the Disney Magic was designed for warm weather cruising and our northern European cruise wasn’t great — it was too cold for people to be outside or use the pool deck, so the ship felt crowded and chaotic — especially at breakfast and when trying to see movies/shows. 



The major knock against cruising is that you’re only seeing a small (touristy) area, and you don’t have time to explore or interact with the local culture. I enjoy seeing a little of some new places with the kids and then deciding where we want to return.

So really our cruises have been previews of future vacations. Now we spend two weeks on a Greek island every other summer rather than seeing a crowded island for a day off of a ship.

For us, after three 12-night cruises, the Disney elements got repetitive – the soundtracks, menus, character signings, etc. But no regrets – it was those cruise days that led us to making Greece a standard vacation destination.”

Which is the best Disney ship?

The best Disney ships really depend on when and where you want to cruise. The cruise can serve as a replacement for a relaxing resort vacation or facilitate touring a new area like Europe, Canada, and Alaska.

Since I like to do slower, live-like-a-local travel when I visit Europe, I knew we wanted a cruise that was more of a beach resort vacation.

The Disney Wish, the newest ship to launch will sail three and four night Bahamas cruises stating in June 2022. The Disney Fantasy generally sails seven nights alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. These ships remain at Port Canaveral near Orlando year round, though the Disney Wish hasn’t yet posted itineraries after September 2022.

The Disney Dream has moved to the port of Miami.

In the summer months, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder sail in Europe and Alaska, respectively. The Wonder then sails some West coast and Baja Mexico itineraries before crossing the Panama Canal. It then sails out of Galveston, Texas.

The Magic returns from Europe to sail out of New York in the fall, then heads down to Miami for the winter months with a brief side trip for a San Juan sailing.

What about the new Disney cruise ships?

The Disney Wish is the newest ship in the fleet, entering service in 2022. And before that. the Dismey Fantasy is the newest. It is also the most recently refurbished, having undergone an extensive dry dock in May 2017 that added a Tiffany Jewelry Store, a Star Wars play station, and ice cream parlor.

The Wonder has been in service since 1999 and was recently reimagined with extensive updates at the end of 2016.

There are two more Disney ships announced that will join the fleet in 2023 and beyond.

The Dream and Fantasy have about fifty percent more the staterooms as the Magic and Wonder, 1,250 to 875, respectively.

The new Disney cruise ships coming are larger in size but capped at 1,250 staterooms according to existing reports. Two of these new ships will start at Port Canaveral alongside the Fantasy. The third ship has not been announced, but rumors say it may be docked in Asia.

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How long are disney cruises.

The right cruise length for you depends on the itinerary, your budget, where and when you want to go.

Cruises range from two-night (West Coast only) to 14 nights, with most three, four, five, and seven nights.

First time cruisers can easily add a three or four night Bahamian cruise from Orlando’s closest port, Port Canaveral, to try it out.

Disney’s three-day cruises on the Dream typically fall over a weekend, while the four-day cruises embark on Mondays from Port Canaveral. Most parents enjoy visiting the theme parks first and relaxing on the cruise afterwards.

Read our planning guide with the most important Disney Cruise Tips prior to Embarkation Day.

Disney cruise itineraries.

Bahamas cruises are Disney’s most common and run year round. Three, four, and five night cruises from Port Canaveral and Miami stop in Nassau and Castaway Cay. Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island near Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas.

This destination is so popular that some cruises stop at Castaway Cay twice, and this is called a “double dip” cruise.

Marvel Day at Sea & Star Wars Day at Sea

Marvel and Star Wars theme cruises are on specific sailings. They are not themed for the entire cruise but have special days with activities, shows, and character greets geared toward the theme. Passengers sport their hero and Star Wars t-shirts or costumes on the designated day.

Halloween on the High Seas, and Very Merrytime Cruises

Holiday themed cruises offer special events like gingerbread making, holiday carols, and the Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party. Disney’s characters dress in the appropriate seasonal theme and host Halloween or Christmas parties . Trick or treating, costume contests, and Santa Claus are included.

Some of Halloween and Christmas themed cruises overlap with the Marvel Day at Sea cruises, so you can get two different enhanced character and seasonal experiences on the same cruise.

What if you don’t care at all about Disney characters?

Characters are just one part of Disney Cruise Line. If you don’t seek them out, you rarely see any unless you hang out in the main atrium. They sometimes show up unannounced in various locations like the kids’ clubs.

Disney has great service, staterooms, food, family activities and entertainment that contribute to the numerous awards they have earned.

What’s so great about Disney’s kids programming?

The Oceaneers Club and Lab are for potty trained 3 year olds to 12 year olds. There are tween and teen clubs, nurseries for the diaper wearing crowd, and a huge adult-only section on the boats to enjoy while your kids are in said spaces.

Most kids don’t want to leave when parents pick them up for the night. We once tried to collect my son at 8:45PM, and he shooed us away. My husband went back to get him at 9:30PM, and when he returned to our stateroom, he had an energy about him that he had just attended either a rave or a motivational sales conference. He was pumped and had had the time of his life.

Children between the ages of 10 and 12 may not be as enamored with the clubs when the group entertainment is geared for younger children. The tween and teen clubs are better suited, but the tween club starts at age 11.

What about families with food allergies on Disney Cruises?

We’ve been very impressed with how well the staff of accommodated our food allergies and dietary restrictions on our cruise. In addition to notifying cast members in advance of specific allergies, we found that our rotational dining servers got to know our restrictions, but even when we ventured away from the dining rooms, cast members told us what we could have at the Castaway Cay lunch buffet in advance. And when we dined in the adult-only restaurants, the chefs made custom dishes when the menu could not be easily modified.

All four ships have Disney’s unique rotational dining concept where guests have dinner in three uniquely themed restaurants throughout the cruise, and the dining room staff rotates with them so they stay in tuned to the guest’s needs and requests.

Choosing the best stateroom category on your Disney ship

Selecting a stateroom depends on budget, number of passengers, and how you wish to cruise. Some inside cabins offer a unique “virtual porthole” with real time views of the ocean. Some staterooms have expanded verandahs.

If you’ve never cruised before, many recommend a midship cabin that is on a lower deck to feel less motion of the ship. On the larger ships, there is not usually a significant difference in how you experience the motion from area to area. Cabins to avoid for light sleepers include those immediately under the pool decks where cast members move deck chairs at awkward hours.

Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine is a regular cruiser with Disney, so I asked for her advice on staterooms.

“When we go on a Disney Cruise, we like to stay in a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah. It includes a queen bed, a sofa bed, and a pull down bed (creating bunk beds). If you have three kids, the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah has a wall pull-down bed, too.

We love having the verandah – it’s such a nice place to sit, have a cup of coffee, and enjoy the ocean.

Our stateroom attendants have been so helpful during our cruises. In addition to cleaning and preparing our rooms, our attendants also talk to us about what is going on during the day and things we can’t miss. I’m always so impressed with how quickly they learn our names.”

Is the Disney Cruise concierge level worth it?

Concierge staterooms provide an extra level of service before and during your cruise as well as private areas and amenities onboard. Concierge guests receive priority for reserving Port Adventures and onboard experiences before any other passengers.

The most popular perk besides the Concierge Lounges is that Concierge level guests get first access to reserve cabanas at Castaway Cay, and very few remain for non-concierge passengers. Read about sailing concierge and see if the price is worth it to you.

Priority boarding and disembarkation means concierge guests can do both more on their own schedule compared to other guests who are assigned check-in times. They essentially never have to stand in the Disney Cruise lines at customer service because the concierge hosts will address virtually all questions and needs.

Concierge cabins have extra amenities and a different décor. The suites have a few additional privileges like in-room dining from the main restaurants. This perk matters because the in-room dining menu is least impressive part of the food experience on the Disney Cruise ships.

The Magic and Wonder did not have designated concierge lounges or sundecks until recently. Now all four ships have updated concierge areas.

Read our complete guide to whether or not the concierge level is worth it.

Are there any Disney Cruise deals?

Disney Cruise Line prices are lowest when Disney announces the cruises and itineraries well before a year in advance. Prices creep up slowly until embarkation. If there are empty rooms, Disney cruise discounts are for to members of the military and Florida residents.

Booking with a travel advisor (Luxe Recess can book your entire cruise) offer onboard credits that can add up for free money to spend on spa treatments, drinks, and shore excursions.

Occasionally there are promotions to encourage bookings on sail dates open to the public.

And Disney offers passengers a discount an onboard credit if you book a cruise or a “placeholder” on a future cruise while on board. Unfortunately, concierge level rooms do not qualify for this discount.

Repositioning cruises are always the best deal based on one’s daily rate. These are one-way cruises to get the ship from one port to another. They can be long, and they are typically during the school year, so they are bests for families with young children.

Why Disney Cruise Line?

Amber Mamian of Global Munchkins has taken her five children on several cruises and tried all of the major lines.

“Disney Cruise Line has the best family entertainment and kids clubs for children 9 & under. Their Broadway style shows, onboard activities, and kids club counselors are far better (and much more organized) than any other cruise line we have sailed with. That said if you have older children or enjoy adult time at the casino than you might want to consider Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean.”

Ready to try something new?

Luxe Recess is a full service travel agency , and I can walk you through every decision and help plan every detail from pre-cruise nights and transportation to onboard experiences. I love sending my client families pre-cruise surprises for your kids. The anticipation is nearly as good as the cruise!

This guide on Disney Cruise tips will walk you through all of the choices you need to make before booking and planning your cruise. Where do you stay the night before, how do you get to the port, and what are fish extenders? We’ll tell you.

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A five-star new york weekend at the mark hotel and the guide to central park with kids, the omni orlando at championsgate: the best kept secret near disney world, 6 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to choosing the best disney cruise ship”.

Great tips. I had no idea deals could be had. Do you think there’s much in the way of teen programming?

Teens really love the cruises as much as the little kids. The longer cruises allow teens and tweens to make real friendships in their group activities.

Jody, my teens love Disney cruises! We recently sailed on the Disney Fantasy for 11 nights. My 14 year old son was quite busy with other teens in a wide range of organized and independent activities both in and out of Vibe (the teen club). They swam (Vibe has it’s own pool!), rode the AquaDuck, watched movies (the newest Pirates movie even Prem”eared” on the ship), went to shows, played foosball, scavenger hunts, hung out talking, took photos with characters, on and on….! My daughter just turned 18 before the cruise. She missed being part of Vibe but also had a blast with the 18-20 year old group and getting to enjoy the adult areas for the first time.

I’ve only heard great things about Disney cruises from friends. I’m not a huge fan of cruising but if I went, I’d give them a try although now convincing my teen to do a Disney cruise might be a tough sell as she thinks she is too old for Disney.

Amazing info here! I haven’t been on a Disney Cruise but know a lot of people who have and they loved it!

Thank you so much for including us. Disney Cruise Line is one of our kids all time favorite vacations. I love their world-class service, incredible kids program (that kids actually want to go to, in fact never leave) and their broadway style shows are the perfect way to end the day. Oh, and awesome fireworks too! Thanks for putting together such an awesome resource.

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3-Night Disney Cruise: Your Guide for 2025 and 2026

Are you dreaming of a magical getaway at sea but short on time or looking for a more affordable option? A 3-night Disney Cruise might be the perfect solution. These compact voyages offer a taste of Disney’s legendary service and entertainment without requiring an extended vacation. Let’s dive into what you can expect from these short Disney cruises , including a full list of dates for 2025 and 2026.

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Is a 3-Night Disney Cruise Right for You?

A 3-night Disney Cruise can be an excellent choice for:

• First-time cruisers
• Families with limited vacation time
• Those on a tighter budget
• Disney fans looking for a quick getaway
• Anyone wanting to combine a cruise with a Walt Disney World vacation

However, if you’re looking for a more immersive experience or want to visit multiple ports, you might prefer longer Disney cruise options .

Is a 3-Night Disney Cruise Too Short?

One of the most common questions about 3-night/4-day cruises is whether they’re too brief. The answer largely depends on your expectations and travel style.

First, you should understand how much time you’ll actually have onboard:

• Day 1 — afternoon/evening only : You’ll typically be allowed to board the ship sometime between 11 AM and 3PM. Once you’re onboard, you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy the ship.
• Days 2 & 3 — full days onboard: Spend two entire days onboard the ship (with the option to go ashore for part of the day if the ship is visiting a port).
• Day 4 — early morning only: Your cruise ends very early on debarkation day. There are no onboard activities; it’s simply wake up, eat breakfast, and leave. You’ll likely be back ashore by 8AM, if not earlier.

With that in mind, here are some pros and cons to consider:

Advantages of a 3-Night Cruise:

• Perfect for First-Timers : If you’re new to cruising or Disney Cruise Line , a 3-night trip is an excellent way to test the waters.
• Budget-Friendly : Shorter cruises are generally the cheapest Disney Cruise experience , making them an excellent way to save money .
• Less Time Off Work : You can enjoy a cruise without using too many vacation days.
• Ideal for Long Weekends : These cruises often depart on Fridays, making them perfect for a quick getaway.
• Easy to Combine With Disney World : One week of vacation time and a round trip plane ticket to Orlando International Airport (MCO) gets you a few days at Disney World plus a short Disney cruise from Port Canaveral.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited Time to Explore : With only three nights on board, you might feel rushed trying to experience everything the ship offers.
• Less Time for Relaxation : The shorter duration means you have fewer days to fully unwind and settle into the cruise rhythm.
• Limited Port Visits : Most 3-night cruises typically visit only one or two ports, which may limit your exploration opportunities compared to longer itineraries.
• Shorter Entertainment Schedule : You might miss out on some shows or activities that are spread out over longer cruises.
• Less Time to Build Relationships : Shorter cruises provide less opportunity to form connections with crew members or other guests.

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Popular 3-Night Disney Cruise Itineraries

Disney offers several 3-night cruise options, with the most common being Bahamian cruises. Let’s explore the typical itineraries:

3 Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Nassau | Image © Disney

This popular itinerary usually includes:

• Day 1: Departure from Port Canaveral, Florida (afternoon)
• Day 2: Nassau, Bahamas
• Day 3: Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island)
• Day 4: Return to Port Canaveral (early morning)

The recent opening of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point means that some 3-night cruise itineraries now include this exclusive destination as part of the trip. In fact, some itineraries only visit Lookout Cay, while others only go to Castaway Cay. Additionally, there are 3-night trips that visit both locations, depending on the schedule.

3 Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Itineraries for Disney’s 3-night/4-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale are similar to those from Port Canaveral, but they are more convenient for travelers coming from Miami or other South Florida locations.

Additionally, Fort Lauderdale may appeal to those who prefer a more relaxed and low-key port experience.

Is There a Difference Between Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale Departures?

While the itineraries are similar, there are a few key differences between Port Canaveral and Port Everglades :

• Location : Port Canaveral is closer to Orlando and the Disney World parks, making it easier to combine a cruise with a theme park visit. Fort Lauderdale is more convenient for those in South Florida.
• Ship Options : Port Canaveral typically hosts more Disney cruise ships , potentially offering more sailing dates and ship choices.
• Pre-Cruise /Post-Cruise Activities : The areas around each port offer different experiences. Orlando has theme parks, while Fort Lauderdale has beaches.
• Review our articles about Port Canaveral Disney Cruises and Fort Lauderdale Disney Cruises to help you decide which option is best for you.

“Magic at Sea” Cruises

These special cruises, often departing from Australia or New Zealand, typically don’t stop at any ports. Instead, they focus on providing a full Disney cruise experience while remaining at sea. They’re an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the ship’s amenities without the hassle of disembarking at ports.

3 Night (4 Day) Disney Cruise Dates for 2025 and 2026

Now, let’s look at the extensive schedule of 3-night cruises for 2025 and early 2026. Remember, it’s always best to check with The Vacationeer for the most up-to-date information on dates, pricing, and itineraries.

2025 Cruises

Total 3-night cruises planned for 2025: 83.

Most common routes:

• Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral ( Disney Wish ) – 52 sailings
• Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ( Disney Dream ) – 14 sailings
• Disney Magic at Sea Cruise from various Australian/New Zealand ports – 9 sailings

Full list of dates:

January 2025

• January 3: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Sydney ( Disney Wonder )
• January 10, 17, 24, 31: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)

February 2025

• February 7, 14, 21, 28: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• March 7, 14, 21, 28: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• March 28: San Diego (Disney Wonder)
• April 4, 11, 18, 25: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale ( Disney Magic ), San Diego (Disney Wonder)
• May 1: Port Canaveral (Disney Fantasy)
• May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• May 2: San Diego (Disney Wonder)
• May 9, 16, 23, 30: Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)
• June 6, 13, 20, 27: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• July 4, 11, 18, 25: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)

August 2025

• August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• August 22: Southampton ( Disney Fantasy )
• August 29: Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream), Southampton (Disney Fantasy)

September 2025

• September 5, 12, 19, 26: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• September 5, 12, 19: Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)

October 2025

• October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• October 24, 27, 30: Sydney/Melbourne (Disney Wonder)

November 2025

• November 6, 13: Melbourne (Disney Wonder)
• November 7, 14, 21, 28: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)

December 2025

• December 4: Auckland (Disney Wonder)
• December 5, 12, 19, 26: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)

2026 Cruises (Released so far)

• Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)
• Baja Cruise from San Diego (Disney Wonder)

January 2026

• January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)
• January 20, 23, 30: Sydney (Disney Wonder)

February 2026

• February 6, 13, 20, 27: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream)
• March 6, 13, 20, 27: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream), San Diego (Disney Wonder)
• April 3, 10, 17, 24: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish), Fort Lauderdale (Disney Dream), San Diego (Disney Wonder)
• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Port Canaveral (Disney Wish)
• May 1: San Diego (Disney Wonder)

For the complete list of updated itineraries, contact The Vacationeer or see our 2025 Disney Cruises and 2026 Disney Cruises pages.

Find the Perfect Cruise at the Best Possible Price

Tips for Making the Most of Your 3-Night Disney Cruise

To maximize your short cruise experience, consider these tips:

• Plan Ahead : Research the ship’s offerings and schedule your must-do activities in advance.
• Arrive Early on Embarkation Day : Do online check-in as soon as you’re allowed, so you can pick the earliest possible port arrival time. This gives you more time to explore the ship and start your vacation sooner.
• Consider Skipping Port : If you’ve been to Nassau before, staying on the ship when it’s less crowded can be a great experience.
• Don’t Miss Castaway Cay : Disney’s private island is a highlight for many cruisers. See our Castaway Cay Tips and Castaway Cay vs. Lookout Cay articles for more.
• Try Different Dining Options : Even on a short cruise, you can experience rotational dining and perhaps a specialty restaurant.

Choosing the Right Stateroom for Your 3-Night Cruise

Even on a short cruise, your stateroom choice can significantly impact your experience. Disney offers various options to suit different preferences and budgets. For a comprehensive guide, check out our article on the best staterooms on Disney Cruise Line .

FAQs About 3-Night (4-Day) Disney Cruises

What’s included in a 3-night disney cruise  .

Your Disney cruise fare includes accommodations, meals (except for specialty dining), entertainment, and most onboard activities. Alcohol , spa treatments , and shore excursions are typically extra.

Are 3-night cruises good for families with kids?

Yes! Disney Cruise Line is known for being one of the best cruise lines for kids . Even on a short cruise, children can enjoy youth clubs, character meet-and-greets , and family-friendly entertainment. If you’re thinking about a longer trip, check out our articles on the 4-Night Disney Cruise and 7-Night Disney Cruise for comparison.

How does the food compare to longer Disney Cruises? 

The food on Disney Cruises is consistently high-quality regardless of cruise length. You can still experience all three rotational dining restaurants and have access to various other dining options.

What’s the best time to go on a 3-night Disney Cruise? 

The best time to go on a Disney Cruise often depends on your schedule and budget. For the most affordable options, consider sailing during the cheapest month to go on a Disney Cruise, typically in the off-season.

How do 3-night Disney Cruises compare to other cruise lines? 

While shorter than many cruises, Disney’s 3-night options still offer a premium experience. For comparisons, you might want to research Disney Cruises vs. Norwegian Cruise , Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean Cruise , or Disney Cruise vs. Carnival Cruise to see how they stack up.

Book Your 3-Night Disney Cruise with The Vacationeer

Ready to embark on your magical 3-night Disney Cruise but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Let The Vacationeer be your compass! As Disney travel planning experts , they can help you navigate the vast sea of choices to find the best value for your budget and preferences.

The Vacationeer , a Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, offers a wealth of services at no extra cost to you:

• Expert Advice : Get insider Disney cruise tips to make the most of your short voyage.
• Itinerary Selection : Help choosing the right 3-night cruise option for your family.
• Stateroom Recommendations : Guidance on selecting the best accommodations for your needs and budget.
• Booking Assistance : Hassle-free reservation process and support.
• Ongoing Price Monitoring : They’ll watch for price drops even after you’ve booked.
• Onboard Savings : Tips for minimizing additional expenses during your cruise, plus up to $1000 in onboard credit for your Disney cruise !

Remember, The Vacationeer’s services come at no additional cost to you . Their compensation comes from Disney, so you benefit from their expertise without any extra expense.

Don’t let the challenge of planning keep you from experiencing the magic of a three-night Disney Cruise. Book your Disney cruise with The Vacationeer, and let them do the hard work while you look forward to your three-night Disney cruise! Click below for a free, no-obligation quote right now!

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Disney Destiny Cruise Ship Guide

R eady to set sail on a whole new Disney Cruise? Featuring a slew of Marvel characters, Lion King, and even Cruella DeVil, this Disney Destiny Cruise ship is all about Heroes and Villains. Sailing late 2025, you can look forward to award winning shows onboard, restaurants, fun games, and fireworks at sea! With a port at Fort Lauderdale, The Disney Destiny sails to the Western Caribbean and Bahamas on a 4 and 5 night cruises. Here is everything know about what’s onboard the ship! 

Disney Destiny Ship Details

When does the Disney Destiny Set Sail? The Disney Destiny sails year round from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL, starting November 20, 2025. Offering 4 and 5 night cruises, the Disney Destiny Cruise Ship sails to the Bahamas, Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point , depending on itinerary chosen. 

Disney Destiny Cruise Packages 

Bookings for Castaway Club Members open Sept. 6, 2024, and the inaugural season goes on sale to the general public Sept. 12, 2024! Head to the website, to purchase your Disney Destiny Cruise Vacation Package. 

What Character is on the Stern of Disney Destiny Cruise Ship?

The Disney Destiny is all about heroes and villains, so it makes sense that the Marvel Superheroes take center stage across the ship. Featured on the stern of the ship, is Spiderman and his Spider Bots decorating the ship. 

Disney Destiny Ship Deck Map

The Disney Destiny has two sister ships, the Disney Wish and the Disney Treasure. As such, all of these ships are laid out the same. You can check out the interactive Disney Destiny Deck plan on the Disney Website. 

Disney Destiny Grand Hall

The Grand Hall onboard the Disney Destiny features accents of gold and frosted glass, with a focus on the angular Wakandan architecture we’ve seen in the film Black Panther. Elements in the lobby include metalwork on the pillars inspired by banded armor, stacked jewelry, and a light fixture, inspired by Vibranium. If you remember, vibranium is the rare metallic ore we learn about in Black Panther. The decorative elements of this space are made to catch light, causing a variety of colorful effects. 

What Character Statue is in the Grand Hall on the Disney Destiny?

Featured in the Grand Hall, the statue on the Disney Destiny is of T’Challa, the Black Panther: King of Wakanda.

Disney Destiny Staterooms

Onboard the Disney Destiny, you can find a variety of Disney Cruise Rooms to try out on your next sail. Featuring a split bath concept, each stateroom includes a shower/sink room, and a toilet/sink room, allowing for multiple people to get ready at once. Always a perks. The Disney Destiny also boasts a large selection of “connecting door” rooms, allowing larger families  to share spaces. Rooms on the Disney Destiny are themed to Heroes and Villains.

The Disney Destiny includes 5 Room Types. Standard Rooms are Inside, Oceanview and Verandah . And there are also Concierge , and Royal Suites to choose from. A big question to consider on any Disney Cruise is what kind of Disney Cruise stateroom you need. And since prices vary across all of these room types, it’s good to get an idea of what they each offer so you can make your best choice. Mind you, we’re not including concierge, or suites simply because we haven’t yet stayed in either. And it pays to consider that you may need one kind of room for a warm-weather cruise while choosing another for a cold-weather cruise. Similarly, your room preference may change depending on the length of your cruise. What may be okay for a 4-night cruise, may not work for a 14-day Transatlantic cruise. 

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms on Disney Cruise ships are the cheapest onboard, while still offering all the amenities of the outside staterooms. They do not have a window, or port hole, but still feature a television, and sleeping room for four people.  

Oceanview Staterooms

Oceanview Staterooms come with a variety of porthole options; Obstructed, Two Small Portholes, or One Large Porthole. The obstructed porthole room just means that there may be a pole or part of the ship in front of your oceanview window. If you’re not in your room a lot, or during daylight hours, this may not be an issue for you. Rooms with two small portholes offer views of the water, however, the windows are definitely quite small.  Rooms with one large porthole often have a window seat built-in and give you a great view of the scenery. Perfect for gazing out the window. 

Verandah Staterooms

Verandah Rooms include a balcony with seating that overlooks the water and are a dream on cruises with a view but do cost significantly more. And may not be the best bet for families with small children. We have had a verandah room on several of the ships, and they are lovely, but so much of what you see from your room is dependent upon which side of the boat your room is on, and which side of the port is prettiest. If you’re sailing to Disney’s Castaway Cay, Starboard Side is the best side to be on. 

Concierge Staterooms

Concierge Level Rooms are themed to Fantasia and get access to a concierge lounge and private sun deck. Also on the Disney Destiny are seven Oceanview Rooms, positioned directly above the bridge, for panoramic views. These rooms feature an Incredibles theme.

Concierge Lounge

As part of the amenities available to you, if you’re staying at the concierge level, there is a private lounge and deck available to concierge guests. This space is themed to the Avengers, and inspired by their Manhattan headquarters. 

Royal Suites

You can also book a Disney Destiny Royal Suite, which includes the Hero Suites ( themed to Hercules ) and the IncrediSuites ( themed to the Incredibles )

Tower Suite

This Marvel inspired penthouse, has a sleek and industrial design, inspired by Tony Stark, aka Iron Man himself. Featuring 2,000 square feet of living space, the Destiny Tower Suite sleeps eight with dining, living and playing spaces. It also features a full kitchen and private ensuite elevator.

Disney Destiny Kids Clubs

Just like any Disney Cruise, the Disney Destiny has an array of Youth Clubs onboard serving babies at 6 mos. up to young adults, aged 21. 

it’s a Small World Nursery | Ages 6 months – 3 yrs

If you need childcare on your cruise you can reserve time at the “It’s a small world” nursery. This care place is filled with activities and fun to keep your little one occupied and safe while you enjoy other things onboard. Read More about the Disney Cruise Nursery.

Disney Oceaneer Club and Lab | Ages 3-12

The Oceaneer Club offers up play areas with slides, games, crafts, and more. On the Disney Treasure the Oceaneer Club includes magical “lands” to explore that inform the activities throughout the cruise.

Marvel Super Hero Academy: The Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” are trained to be the next generation of Super Heroes alongside some of their favorite Avengers. Marvel superheroes include Spider-Man, Black Panther, Ant-Man and The Wasp. 

Edge | Ages 11- 13

Inspired by a New York City loft, on the Disney Destiny, Edge offers up a place to watch movies, play games, get creative, and make new friends. Equipped with all the tech, TVs, and video games you need to have fun if your tween wants to take part.

Vibe | Ages 14- 17

This teen club is a great place for teens to connect, watch movies, play games and participate in group activities created just for them. Vibe features a coffee bar, and a wide selection of nonalcoholic beverages to keep them going all day and offers counselors on hand to oversee the fun. 

Disney Destiny Entertainment

Exclusive to the Disney Destiny, this water coaster takes you on a splashy ride through the winding tube, featuring a storyline with Chernabog, the Evil Queen, and Scar! You can sing along to animated scenes as you follow Mickey and Minnie in this silly and spooky ride. And then revel in surprise views of the ocean beyond, from your place high above the ship. 

Just like Luna on the Disney Wish and Sarabi on the Disney Treasure, Saga is a two story interactive space for games, trivia, performance, and more. Just off the Grand Hall on decks 4 and five, this is the central hub for daytime family activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment. Featuring an architectural style inspired by Wakanda.

Featured also on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure , you can head to the hero zone for recreational fun throughout your cruise. Including bouncy house like obstacle courses, a basketball court, ping pong, foosball and more, this space, is themed to the Incredibles. 

Character Visits

Character Meet and Greets onboard the Disney Destiny will include Heroes and Villains you can’t see anywhere else. In addition to Mickey Mouse and Friends , and all the Disney Princesses you can see at the Disney Cruise Royal Gathering , you can also plan to see Loki, Cruella De Vil, Dr. Facilier, Maleficent, Black Panther, Spider-Man and more. 

Uncharted Adventure Game

Offered  throughout the ship as a way to interact with the spaces, via yoru phone, the Disney Destiny features the game Uncharted Adventure. This is also available on the Disney Wish, and Treasure, and gives you an excellent way to explore the ship, while on your missions. This is one of our favorite things for kids and teens on a Disney Cruises . 

Walt Disney Theatre

The main theater is Walt Disney Theater featuring Disney Destiny Broadway Shows which include Seas the Adventure, Frozen, and Hercules. Showtimes are opposite your rotational dining dinner time. 

Wonderland and Neverland Movie Theaters

With exquisite attention to detail, these theaters take on a character of their own. The Wonderland Theater features Cheshire Cat inspiration, while the Neverland theater is all about Tinkerbell. These theaters provide you with more options than ever to watch classic and first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and more. We always love the movie theaters onboard Disney Cruise, and these promise to be top-notch. 

FunnelVision

Another mainstay of any Disney Cruise is the ability to watch Disney movies ALL DAY LONG up on deck on the FunnelVision screen. On the Disney Destiny FunnelVision can be found on Deck 11, alongside Mickey’s Festival of Foods, and drink stations. Disney films like Sleeping Beauty, Wreck-it Ralph, and Pirates of the Caribbean are all part of the lineup on the big screen. Simply grab a chair, and settle in. For the most part, films run all day, with the exception of party or event times, and are a great reason to take a break and relax

Disney Destiny Shows

Shows on a Disney Cruise are opposite your dinner times, and happen at  at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m .  Be sure to keep an eye on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for scheduled showtimes once you arrive onboard. The Disney Destiny has 3 Shows.

Disney Seas the Adventure

• Frozen: A Musical Spectacular
• Hercules: The Musical

Frozen, A Musical Spectacular

Also available on the Disney Fantasy , Frozen- A Musical Spectacular is one of the shows you can see while onboard the Disney Destiny Cruise Ship. Complete with magical costume changes, and familiar songs, this show incorporated stunning visual effects and set design to make it feel like Broadway. Worth the watch simply for the extremely talented performers, these cast members headline all three shows onboard. 

This musical spectacular on the Disney Destiny features Captain Minnie Mouse handing over the helm to Goofy, ready to take on the responsibility of captain! A musical story featuring Disney and Pixar friends and familiar soundtracks, ready to set sail, and help you bring out your own inner captain. This show takes place the first evening of your cruise and is located in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Hercules The Musical 

New to the Disney Cruise Fleet lineup of entertainment, the Hercules show is a Disney Broadway style musical. Featuring our favorite zero to hero- Hercules takes the stage on this heroes and villains themed ship. Featuring Hades, Hercules, and Megara, you can count on a herculean show featuring fun and mythology. 

Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party

The Disney Destiny hosts Pirate Night for one night during your cruise. And it’s basically, it’s a reason to dress up, sing some sea shanties, and catch Mickey and Friends in their pirate costumes. This is also the evening event where Disney Cruise sets off their famous Fireworks at Sea ! So, if you’re looking for extra fun, be sure to take the time and head to Deck 11 for the Pirate Night party on the FunnelVision deck. This evening event takes place close to 10 or 10:30 pm so definitely late for the little ones. But never fear, there are other pirate events happening a little earlier if you need to skip this late-night party. 

Disney Destiny Restaurants & Bars

Disney Cruise Line is known for its amazing dining experiences. Here’s we’re sharing all the places to get food onboard the Disney Destiny. 

Marceline Market

The Disney Destiny features the Marceline Market quick service buffet for meals throughout the day. The style of dining will remain the same, with food stations available for breakfast and lunch and table service for dinner. Themed after Main Street U.S.A. this dining option pays tribute to Walt’s small-town life as a child. 

Mickey’s Festival of Foods

Located on the pool deck, you can grab ice cream, tacos, burgers, pizzas, and more at any of the quick service counters available on the Disney Destiny. 

Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King

Exclusive to the Disney Destiny, this Disney Cruise Lion King Restaurant is one of a kind. Combining the traditional dinner and a show, this restaurant is filled with colorful African inspired decor, and features a center stage for performances. Similar to the layout of the Arendelle Restaurant on the Disney Wish , you can plan on listening to stories, and hearing songs, both new and familiar.

Circle of Life , and Hakuna Matata are both on the list, as well as musical mashups of I Just Can’t Wait to Be King and Be Prepared . The addition of He Lives in You , from the Broadway Musical and Can You Feel the Love Tonight close out an evening filled with African inspired cuisine to match the theme. The Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King Restaurant is part of your Disney Rotational Dining Experience , and is included in your Disney Cruise package.

Worlds of Marvel Restaurant – Guardians of the Galaxy 

For our fellow Marvel fans, finally, a Marvel-themed restaurant! Worlds of Marvel on the Disney Galaxy is a restaurant featuring none other than the Guardians of the Galaxy! This dining experience will transport you to an interactive world where a mission unfolds around you. Here you can see the new show, Marvel Celebration of Heroes: Groot Remix.  This dinner and a show includes a story told on the screens across the restaurants. Groot needs your help to throw a birthday bash for Rocket. This restaurant is also on the Disney Treasure.

Featuring tales of heroes and villains, this 1923 restaurant aboard the Disney Destiny showcases Hercules, sleeping Beauty, Big Hero 6, Wreck it Ralph and more. 

Palo Steakhouse

Offering a 270-degree oven view Palo Steakhouse on the Disney Destiny has the best views on the ship. Featuring Northern Italian cuisine, this restaurant is considered a must-do for Disney Adult Cruisers at least once. Serving up a multi-course dinner, dessert, and champagne event, as well as a specialty brunch. Dinner at Palo is typically $70 per person for the prix fixe menu and $45 for brunch. Given the spectacular views, we recommend aiming for brunch or an early dinner hour so you can see all there is to see. Check out our Palo Brunch Review for an idea of what’s included. Palo is an adult-only signature restaurant and has an 18+ age requirement to enter. 

Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement

This Bauty and the Beast-themed adult-only restaurant is an elegant experience with a menu created by 3 Michelin-star chefs, Arnaud Lallement. Ocean views and international cuisine are all part of this upscale dining experience. In addition to dinner, Enchante also offers brunch and dessert seating. To book, Check out the Signature Dining Reservation Window based on your   Castaway Club Status.

Champagne Brunch

This Champagne brunch features a glass of bubbly and a French-inspired prix fixe meal—plus a decadent dessert.

Just Desserts

Indulge in a 5-course dessert menu served with coffee. This adults-only event features an in-depth discussion with Enchanté’s Executive Chef and Pastry Chef, who will discuss the history and evolution of each sweet selection.

For those who love a tale as old as time, the Disney Destiny’s Rose Lounge has Beauty and the Beast-themed areas for adults. This champagne bar and lounge is at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse, which is a perfect place for a before or after-dinner cocktail. Elegance at its best, this lounge is perfect for the Beauty and the Beast fan. Or if you’re looking to get away for views of the ocean through the windows that surround this space. 

De Vil’s Lounge

Calling all 101 Dalmatians fans! This Disney Lounge on the Disney Destiny is all about Cruella. Featuring a piano bar setup you can guess which song will be playing on repeat as you sip along with your favorite cocktail. This adult-exclusive lounge features Cruella approved decor in a red, white and black color scheme, with a spotted baby grand piano. In the same location as Nightingales on the Disney Wish, the De Vil Cocktail Lounge is adjacent to the Grand Hall. It also features a themed menu filled with martinis, cocktails, champagne, and everything you could imagine Cruella would have nearby on her bar cart. 

Haunted Mansion Parlor Bar

Also available on the Disney Treasure , the Haunted Mansion Parlor features a haunting good time, in a space filled with spirits. With specially crafted cocktails, this small bar is sure to be a popular spot, if you’re looking for something haunting and macabre. 

Cask and Cannon Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge

Exclusive to the Disney Destiny, you can set sail with the OG swashbucklers of the day. This bar and pub features treasures, rum, and all the decor you’d imagine in a pirate hideaway. Offering an extensive selection of spirits and brews, you’ll also get to enjoy drinks straight from the barrel. Yo Ho, Yo Ho. 

The Sanctum Doctor Strange Lounge

Featuring everyone favorite multiverse marvel hero, Doctor Strange gets some time in the sun with a new sanctum lounge. Featuring “mystical items” that aid sorcerers of all kinds, you can find entertainment, magical cocktails, and coffees here as well. Inspired by Doctor Strange’s New York Sanctum, this lounge features a circular mirror behind the bar that evokes the building’s iconic window.

Cafe Megara

Every Disney Cruise ship has coffee shops, thank goodness, and this one, is inspired by Hercules sweetheart, Megara. This walk up counter serves coffees, teas and specialty drinks, near the Grand Hall. And is decorated in a Greco disco design. 

Cafe Merida

Honoring everyone favorite princess, you can expect drinks with a little bit of bravery and whole lotta destiny at this coffee bar. At this coffee counter you order up a variety of specialty beverages, and revel in a Brave theme, featuring Celtic centered design. 

Disney Destiny Shops

In addition to shops like Mickey’s Mainsail, where you can grab Disney Cruise souvenirs , there are also a number of specialty shops onboard. From luxury goods, to pool essentials and a sweet shop. 

Edna a La Mode Sweets

All of the triton class Disney Cruise Ships ( Disney Wish, Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny) have a sweets shop onboard. Filled with fancy treats, ice creams, and even seasonal, and specialty snacks during special sailing, the Disney Destiny features Edna Mode’s Fashion Lab turned Candy Shop. Treats here do cost extra and are not included in your Disney Cruise Package. But the life-size character statues of Edna Mode and Jack Jack make posing for photos extra fun. You can be sure to find Jack Jack’s Num Num Cookies here, as well as a variety of incredible treats. 

Disney Destiny Spa & Fitness

Featuring treadmills, ellipticals, weights, and even classes, the gym on the Disney Destiny offers a way for you to stay in shape on board. In addition to the complimentary access to the gym and yoga classes, you can also add spa services to your cruise. Everything from acupuncture to a new hairstyle are all available, though not included with your Disney Cruise package. 

Senses Spa offers up a selection of cosmetic body and facial treatments, available for an extra charge. Check out all the services offered at the Senses Spa and Salon on the Disney Wish. And if you’re bringing your teen, you can let them experience Chill Spa , catering to those kids 13- 17 and offering services they’d enjoy like massages, wraps, hair care, and more.

Untangled Salon

Decorated in a style worthy of Rapunzel, this spa includes royal treatments like haircuts pedicures and manicures. Located on Deck 4, this salon offers treatments for both kids and adults, making it a great mom and me activity during Disney Cruise Day at Sea.

Hook’s Barbery

You can head to this old fashioned spa, themed to Captain Hook, and the Jolly Roger pirate ship. Geared towards men, you can stop in for a shave and a haircut. Then stick around for prohibition style drinks, and old fashioned speak easy at sea. Reservations are required for Hooks Barbery for grooming services, but ANYONE can walk in for drinks. Filled with leather chairs, the bartender comes around, “knowing” why you’ve shown up. Hook’s Barbery is open for drinks from 5pm-9pm daily. Drinks include scotch, whiskey, bourbon, and many impressive prohibition spirits.

Disney Destiny Pools

No cruise would be complete without a plethora of pools aboard the ship! Consisting of multiple “pool districts” the Disney Destiny boasts several pools throughout the boat for kids and adults. 

Toy Story Pool

This pool for toddlers and small children includes a splash zone, a wading pool, and Slide a Saurus Rex Family Waterslide. 

Toy Story Splash Zone

Quiet cove pool.

Part of the Disney Adult Only Area, this pool is located at the back of the ship, alongside Cove Cafe and features an infinity pool with spectacular views. 

Disney Destiny Cruise Planning

There you have it. Everything you can find on Disney’s newest ship, the Disney Destiny. From amazing dining to entertainment and new spaces, there is tons of fun to be had on this boat. Be sure to check out our Disney Cruise Vacation Planning page for tips on embarkation day, packing lists, and booking port excursions. Want a Disney Travel Professional to help you plan a Disney Destiny Cruise trip? You can grab our Disney Travel Agent Services for FREE, just get in touch. 

Best Cruise Line for Celiac: Navigating Gluten-Free Paradise at Sea

Are you tired of worrying about gluten-free options while cruising the high seas? Picture this: you’re on a luxurious cruise ship, surrounded by stunning ocean views, but unsure if the next meal will be safe for your gluten-free diet. Fret not, as we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to finding the best cruise line for celiac passengers.

Imagine savoring delectable dishes without the fear of cross-contamination or hidden gluten. In this article, we’ll navigate the sea of cruise options to help you discover the perfect gluten-free paradise on the water. Say goodbye to mealtime stress and hello to a relaxing vacation where your dietary needs are not just met but exceeded.

Ready to set sail on a worry-free culinary adventure? Join us as we explore the top cruise lines that cater to celiac guests, ensuring a delightful and safe dining experience throughout your voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding celiac disease is essential for travelers to navigate vacation dining challenges and communicate effectively with cruise staff.
• Criteria for choosing the best cruise line for celiac passengers include checking for gluten-free certification, varied gluten-free menus, and cross-contamination prevention measures.
• Top cruise lines like Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line excel in providing safe and delicious gluten-free options with personalized service and attention to detail.
• Onboard dining experiences for celiac guests include culinary demonstrations and cooking classes that enhance the dining experience and empower travelers to enjoy diverse gluten-free options confidently.
• Real experiences and testimonials from the celiac community highlight the reliability and excellence of cruise lines in catering to individuals with celiac disease.
• Tips for smooth sailing on a gluten-free cruise adventure include notifying the cruise line in advance, communicating dietary needs effectively with staff, and taking advantage of pre-cruise planning resources.

Understanding Celiac Disease and Travel Challenges

The importance of gluten-free dining options.

When you have celiac disease, finding safe gluten-free dining options is crucial. This autoimmune disorder affects how your body reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an immune response that can damage the lining of the small intestine. Therefore, it’s essential to have access to gluten-free food to avoid health complications while enjoying your cruise vacation.

Navigating Vacation Dining: A Celiac Perspective

As a traveler with celiac disease, navigating vacation dining can present unique challenges. You must carefully consider where and what to eat to prevent gluten exposure. When planning a cruise, it’s vital to communicate your dietary needs to the cruise line in advance. Most reputable cruise lines offer gluten-free options and are willing to accommodate guests with celiac disease.

Remember to inform the cruise staff about your condition when making dining reservations, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about food preparation to ensure it meets your dietary requirements. By being proactive and communicating effectively, you can have a safe and enjoyable dining experience while on board.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Cruise Line for Celiac Passengers

Gluten-free certification and training.

When selecting the best cruise line for celiac passengers, look for ships that have gluten-free certification and staff with proper training in handling dietary needs. You’ll want to ensure that the cruise line’s commitment to providing safe gluten-free options is validated by recognized certifications. This certification guarantees that the ship meets strict standards for preparing gluten-free meals, giving you peace of mind during your voyage.

Variety and Availability of Gluten-Free Menus

A crucial factor in choosing a cruise line as a celiac passenger is the variety and availability of gluten-free menus onboard. Opt for cruise lines that offer a wide range of gluten-free options across their dining venues. This ensures that you have ample choices for every meal and dining experience while at sea. From breakfast to dinner and even snacks, having diverse gluten-free menus enhances your cruise vacation.

Cross-Contamination Prevention Measures

Another essential aspect to consider when picking a cruise line for celiac individuals is the implementation of cross-contamination prevention measures. Confirm that the cruise line has strict protocols in place to prevent cross-contact between gluten-free foods and those containing gluten. By prioritizing cruise lines that take rigorous measures to avoid cross-contamination, you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about unintentional exposure to gluten.

Ensure a worry-free dining experience by selecting a cruise line that excels in gluten-free certification, provides a wide variety of gluten-free menu options, and implements robust measures to prevent cross-contamination. By considering these criteria, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a safe and satisfying cruise vacation as a celiac passenger.

Top Cruise Lines for Celiac-Friendly Vacations

Royal caribbean international: a commitment to inclusivity.

When it comes to catering to celiac guests, Royal Caribbean International stands out for its dedication to inclusivity. They offer a wide range of gluten-free options and have received recognition for their efforts to accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions on their cruises. By prioritizing staff training on handling special dietary needs and ensuring clear communication between guests and the kitchen team, Royal Caribbean provides a worry-free dining experience for individuals with celiac disease.

Celebrity Cruises: Gourmet Gluten-Free Experiences

Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its gourmet gluten-free experiences that elevate the dining opportunities for celiac passengers. With a focus on menu variety and culinary creativity, Celebrity Cruises offers a luxurious dining experience to guests with gluten sensitivities. Through partnerships with accredited gluten-free certification programs and a commitment to stringent food preparation protocols, Celebrity Cruises ensures that celiac guests can indulge in delicious meals without compromising on taste or quality.

Disney Cruise Line: Magical and Safe Dining for All

Disney Cruise Line goes above and beyond to provide magical and safe dining experiences for all passengers, including those with celiac disease. With a reputation for exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Disney Cruise Line offers a wide array of gluten-free options across its diverse dining venues. By integrating allergen-friendly menus, dedicated kitchen protocols, and knowledgeable staff members trained in handling special dietary requests, Disney Cruise Line guarantees a memorable and worry-free dining experience for celiac guests of all ages.

Onboard Dining Experiences for Celiac Guests

Personalized service and attention to detail.

When sailing with the best cruise line for celiac guests, you’ll notice a strong emphasis on personalized service and meticulous attention to detail. From the moment you step on board, the staff is well-trained to cater to your specific dietary needs. They understand the importance of avoiding gluten cross-contamination and take every measure to ensure your peace of mind.

Throughout your cruise, you’ll experience a level of care and consideration that goes beyond typical dining expectations. The onboard dining team will work closely with you to create customized gluten-free meals that not only meet your dietary requirements but also delight your taste buds. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can rest assured that each dish is prepared with your health and enjoyment in mind.

Moreover, the cruise staff are proactive in addressing any concerns you may have regarding gluten-free options. They are ready to accommodate your needs in various dining venues, including formal restaurants, casual eateries, and even room service. This unwavering commitment to personalized service ensures that you can relax and savor your culinary experience without worry.

Culinary Demonstrations and Gluten-Free Cooking Classes

Imagine immersing yourself in a world of culinary delights tailored specifically for celiac guests. The best cruise line for gluten-free travelers offers a range of culinary demonstrations and gluten-free cooking classes that cater to your dietary requirements while expanding your gastronomic horizons.

During these engaging sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with talented chefs who specialize in creating delectable gluten-free dishes. From learning about gluten-free ingredient substitutions to mastering the art of gluten-free baking, these classes provide valuable insights and practical tips that you can apply both on board and at home.

Participating in culinary demonstrations and cooking classes not only enhances your dining experience but also empowers you to take charge of your gluten-free lifestyle. You’ll discover new flavors, techniques, and recipes that elevate your culinary skills and allow you to enjoy a diverse array of gluten-free options with confidence.

Embark on a culinary journey like no other, where personalized service, attention to detail, and culinary expertise converge to offer you an unforgettable gluten-free dining experience on the high seas.

Traveler Reviews and Testimonials

Real experiences from the celiac community.

If you’re wondering how others with celiac disease have fared on these cruises, rest assured, the celiac community has shared glowing reviews. Passengers commend the cruise lines for their unwavering commitment to providing safe and delicious gluten-free options. For instance, you’ll find numerous testimonials praising Royal Caribbean International for their extensive gluten-free menu and exceptional staff awareness. Likewise, Celebrity Cruises receives rave reviews for its delectable gourmet gluten-free offerings that surpass expectations. Disney Cruise Line shines for its thorough dedication to ensuring a worry-free dining experience for celiac guests of all ages. These firsthand accounts attest to the reliability and excellence of these cruise lines in catering to individuals with celiac disease.

Tips and Recommendations for Smooth Sailing

Embarking on a gluten-free cruise can be a stress-free experience with some handy tips. Firstly, it’s advisable to notify the cruise line about your dietary requirements well in advance to allow them ample time to prepare. Once onboard, don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to the dining staff who are more than willing to assist you. Additionally, take advantage of the pre-cruise planning resources provided by the cruise lines to familiarize yourself with the gluten-free options available. If you have any concerns or questions regarding cross-contamination or food preparation, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the staff. By staying proactive, communicative, and informed, you can navigate your gluten-free cruise smoothly and savor a memorable vacation without compromising your dietary needs.

Planning Your Gluten-Free Cruise Adventure

What to look for when booking.

When booking a cruise as a traveler with celiac disease, there are crucial factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable gluten-free experience. Here are some key aspects to pay attention to:

• Dedicated Gluten-Free Menu: Look for cruise lines that offer a dedicated gluten-free menu with a variety of options for each meal. This signifies a commitment to catering to dietary needs.
• Cross-Contamination Protocols: Check if the cruise line has strict protocols in place to prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen. Ask about their handling procedures for gluten-free meals.
• Allergy-Friendly Accommodations: Ensure the cruise ship can accommodate various dietary restrictions beyond gluten-free, such as dairy-free or nut-free options. This versatility indicates a higher level of understanding of diverse dietary needs.
• Pre-Booking Communication: Consider reaching out to the cruise line before your trip to communicate your dietary requirements. This proactive approach can help the staff prepare in advance for your gluten-free meals.

Communicating Your Needs with Cruise Staff

Effective communication with the cruise staff is paramount to guaranteeing a seamless gluten-free dining experience during your cruise. Here’s how you can communicate your needs effectively:

• Inform in Advance: Upon booking your cruise, inform the cruise line about your celiac disease and gluten-free dietary needs. This allows them to make necessary arrangements before your voyage.
• Reiterate Upon Boarding: When you board the ship, remind the dining staff about your gluten-free requirements. Confirm that your dietary needs are noted in their system to avoid any oversights during meal service.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the ingredients or preparation methods of the dishes. The more you understand about the food being served, the better you can assess its gluten-free suitability.
• Express Gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of the staff when they successfully provide you with safe and delicious gluten-free options. Positive reinforcement can encourage consistent adherence to your dietary needs.

By proactively considering these aspects and effectively communicating your gluten-free requirements, you can set the stage for a worry-free and enjoyable cruise adventure tailored to your specific dietary needs.

Choosing the best cruise line for celiac needs is vital for a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line stand out for their exceptional gluten-free offerings, creating a gluten-free paradise at sea. By prioritizing communication with staff, proactive planning, and awareness of key factors like dedicated menus and allergy-friendly accommodations, you can embark on a worry-free gluten-free cruise adventure. Your dietary needs shouldn’t limit your enjoyment, and with the right cruise line, you can savor safe and delicious gluten-free options while exploring the high seas. Bon voyage to a memorable and fulfilling gluten-free cruise experience tailored just for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top cruise lines known for their gluten-free offerings.

Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line are renowned for their safe and delicious gluten-free options.

What tips can help ensure a smooth gluten-free cruise experience?

Proactive communication with staff and thorough pre-cruise planning are essential for a seamless gluten-free cruise experience.

What factors should one consider when booking a gluten-free cruise?

Dedicated gluten-free menus, cross-contamination protocols, and allergy-friendly accommodations are crucial factors to consider when booking a gluten-free cruise.

How can one effectively communicate dietary needs to cruise staff?

Informing the staff in advance, reiterating needs upon boarding, asking questions about dishes, and showing appreciation for safe gluten-free options are effective communication strategies with cruise staff.

What is the aim of the outlined steps for a worry-free gluten-free cruise adventure?

The outlined steps aim to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable cruise adventure tailored to specific dietary needs.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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