disney cruise ship for adults

Is a Disney cruise for adults? Here are 5 reasons why I say yes

Gourmet French dinners, $5,000 cocktail experiences , serene infinity pools and penthouse suites that cost thousands of dollars a night might not be the first thing you think of when someone mentions a Disney cruise. But you'll find it all on Disney ships.

I sailed with the line for the first time more than a decade ago, and I didn't want to take the assignment. I'm a child-free adult, I'm not a particularly over-the-top Disney fan, and all I could imagine was a theme park at sea — characters everywhere, souvenir shops galore and, of course, tons of kids.

Simply, I was wrong.

What I found was an absolutely wonderful experience on an elegant ship with superb service, phenomenal entertainment, delicious food and just enough subtle magic to instill a bit of childlike wonder without making me feel immature.

Disney Cruise Line has maintained its four older ships exceptionally well, and its newest vessel, Disney Wish — its first new-build in 10 years — is also pretty great. Across the board, my opinion still stands: Disney cruises aren't just for kids. So, if you're trying to find a Disney cruise for adults, don't worry — they all fit the bill. Here are five reasons why you'll love the experience, even as a grownup.

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You control how 'Disney' you want it to be

Let me allay your fears: When you sail with Disney, you won't be overwhelmed by Mickey and friends the way you might be at the brand's land-based amusement parks. However, that experience is available should you choose to seek it.

The subtlety with which Disney manages to incorporate branded touches on its ships is commendable and classy. You'll find nods to various Disney animated movie classics as you move between decks — a pumpkin on the carpet here, a snowflake on the wall there — but you're likely to find it more tasteful than obnoxious.

If you'd like to avoid a largely Disney-fied ambience, it's easy to do. If, instead, you prefer a more immersive cruise, you're also in luck, as the ships host scheduled character meet-and-greets, themed dining experiences and more.

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

There are tons of adults-only spaces

Grownups who wish to keep strictly to an older crowd will love the adults-only venues on all Disney ships.

On Disney's four older vessels — Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy (which is my pick for the best Disney cruise ship for adults ), Disney Wonder and Disney Magic — adults-only bars and nightclubs are clustered into one area, known as The District. After 9 p.m., nobody younger than 18 is permitted inside, allowing the more mature set to let its hair down sans kids.

On Disney Wish, the age-limited spaces are more spread out, a purposeful layout designed to help alleviate crowding and improve traffic flow. Personally, I prefer The District's setup, but the watering holes on the new ship are, frankly, the most impressive in the fleet to date.

What's impressive about these offerings is that most other ships don't have them. Apart from Virgin Voyages , Viking , P&O Cruises and Saga Cruises, all of which sail adults-only vessels , the most other lines offer is an adults-only sun deck or pool here and there. Even where those areas exist, age limits aren't always strictly enforced, and sometimes you have to pay for access, none of which is the case on Disney ships.

Related: Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Even the least expensive accommodations are elevated

Disney cruises are a cut above the sailings you'll find with most other mainstream lines. When it comes to accommodations, even the most basic feel elevated. All have two bathrooms; one has a shower with a tub (rare on cruise ships) and a sink, and the other has a toilet and a sink.

Disney provides its own brand of toiletries in cabin bathrooms. The products are so popular — they smell divine — that the line sells them in its onboard gift shops.

All rooms also offer a dividing curtain that creates two separate areas. Although these features were designed with families in mind, they're also convenient for friends traveling together, adding to the argument that a Disney cruise could make for a perfect girlfriends getaway.

On the high end, the line sells a variety of suite accommodations. New on Disney Wish, the Tower Suite is the most coveted and most expensive, carrying a price tag of several thousand dollars per night.

Located in the ship's fake funnel, the suite is two decks high and includes three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and a large living room area. Its understated nautical decor pays subtle tribute to "Moana." Unfortunately, because of the layout, there's no balcony, but you'll still be spoiled beyond belief if you book a stay there.

You can also choose to book concierge-level staterooms , which offer perks like priority boarding and disembarkation, access to a dedicated lounge with free drinks in the evenings and dibs on booking the best spa appointments and shore excursions.

Related: Smooth sailing on a family Disney cruise: Review of concierge level on Disney Wonder

Delicious dining options range from basic to gourmet

Disney Cruise Line's dining options allow you to either join the masses (where there will be children, so take heed) in the free dining rooms, head to the buffet or open-air food court, or opt for an adults-only added-fee option.

On all of the fleet's ships, standard dining is rotational, which means you'll move to a different main dining room each night but with the same table number, tablemates and waitstaff.

In my experience, dining across the board on Disney ships has been absolutely scrumptious and well prepared, regardless of where I chose to eat and how much extra I paid.

On Disney Wish, 1923 is a throwback to the golden age of animation. Split into two parts, it offers a more intimate setting than what you'd find at Royal Court, the more understated free dining venue on the line's other vessels.

For more immersive and somewhat gimmicky meals that are fun but often loud, adult passengers on Disney Wish will want to check out Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . The former brings Ant-Man and The Wasp tableside (via prerecorded broadcast) to show off their new discovery — a Quantum Core, with which Ant-Man unwittingly shrinks the ship down to the size of a toy boat. During the latter, you'll find much singing and dancing to celebrate the engagement of Anna and Kristoff, two of the main characters from "Frozen." In line with the theme, the menu is largely Norwegian.

On the four original ships, immersive options include Animator's Palate, where "Finding Nemo" characters talk with you as you eat; Enchanted Garden, which feels a bit like a scene from "Alice in Wonderland," where you can watch as the scenery slowly turns from day to night; and Rapunzel's Royal Table, where characters from "Tangled" make an appearance.

Also on the original vessels, Palo is an adults-only Italian eatery . On Disney Wish, it has been transformed into an elegantly styled steakhouse that exudes "Beauty and the Beast" vibes. This is the perfect option for anyone who wants something less casual than the buffet but also wants to avoid crowds and noise in the main dining rooms without paying a fortune.

Before you go in, stop at The Rose bar, which is perfect for tasty pre-dinner cocktails.

Enchante and Remy are two of the most expensive alternative dining options at sea for any cruise line. Both feature French cuisine and are reserved exclusively for adult diners. The latter appears on older DCL ships and was inspired by (and named after the main character in) "Ratatouille."

Enchante is new as of the debut of Disney Wish. It offers a completely revamped menu by chef Arnaud Lallement, who's also the mastermind behind the menu at Remy. Enchante allows for a la carte dining, or you can choose from one of two experiences: Passion, a seven-course meal for $125, or Collection, a selection of surprise courses curated by the chef for $195. (Wine and Champagne pairings cost extra.)

The kids clubs are fantastic

"But, wait," you're thinking. "I thought this was an article about why Disney Cruises are great for adults." You're exactly right, and that's why this one is so important.

The Oceaneer Club offerings on Disney ships are so fun, engaging and technologically advanced that kids often don't want to leave. So, whether you're a parent looking for some downtime or a child-free adult who doesn't appreciate little ones pushing all the elevator buttons or teens clogging up stairwells, you won't have to worry about a barrage of younger passengers.

From babysitting for infants, kids and tweens to phenomenal play areas (think: themes like princesses, Marvel superheroes and "Star Wars"), the line's childcare services are a cut above those provided by all other cruise brands. In fact, they're so cool you'll wish you could spend time there yourself — and you can during designated hours on each voyage.

Bottom line

Although you won't be able to completely avoid children on Disney ships, you can still enjoy the magic of The Mouse in several adults-only spaces found on all of the line's ships. The onboard experience will make you feel like a kid again but in luxurious surroundings and with the excellent service and attention to detail that have become hallmarks of the Disney brand.

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A Disney cruise isn't just for kids — here are 8 things adults will love onboard each ship

• Disney Cruise Line voyages are some of the most popular cruises available.
• With Star Wars-themed sailings, fine dining, and spas, Disney cruises are hardly just for kids.
• I've been on most ships and these are the best bars, dining, excursions, and perks on each cruise.

If when you think of Disney Cruise Line all you imagine are rabid Disney fans and rambunctious children, you're dead wrong.

Sure, Mickey himself will make an appearance, but Disney Cruise Line sailings are designed for every age group and level of Disney fandom, or lack thereof. 

I've been on many Disney sailings and onboard you'll find honeymooning couples, girls' trips, and adults who left their kids at home —  as I've done.

Bars and lounges onboard are upscale or themed.

Disney storytelling is vivid on every ship, especially within signature bars. Each cruise has a variety of drinking establishments that become adult-only spaces after 9 p.m. but these are the best ones.

Skyline on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream

The cosmopolitan Skyline lounge delivers a transportive experience from the comfort of your bar stool with windows to the world that offer a virtual aerial view over cities such as London, New York City, Hong Kong, and Barcelona.

Meridian on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream

The Meridian is an upscale travel-themed lounge with sophisticated decor alongside craft cocktails, wine, beer, aperitifs, and digestifs, as well as a cigar selection to be enjoyed in an outside area.

Hyperspace Lounge on the Disney Wish

It's not open yet, but it's pretty much a given that the "Star Wars" themed Hyperspace Lounge will be the most popular bar on the high seas with an immersive, out-of-this-world design.

Separate restaurants offer elegant alternatives to regular dining.

Disney Cruise Line dining features rotating themes every night, but for a more elegant affair, each ship also has separate adult-only restaurants, including these favorites.

Palo on Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy. 

Palo pays homage to Venice, Italy with Italian fare. Order from a prix fixe menu for dinner or brunch inspired by Northern Italy for a $45 surcharge, which is a great value.

Remy on Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy

The most luxurious experience on a Disney ship is at Remy, a French fine-dining restaurant, available at a $125 surcharge per person for dinner.

Palo Steakhouse/ Enchanté on Disney Wish

The Disney Wish will debut two adult-only upscale gourmet restaurants — Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté — both inspired by "Beauty and the Beast." The price has yet to be revealed.

Each ship has a Quiet Cove for adults with its own pool area, bar, and cafe.

In addition to the main pool, each Disney ship has an aptly named Quiet Cove, which is an adult-only deck with its own pool, whirlpool spa, lounge areas, open-air bars, and the Cove Café.

The Disney Wish will be unique in that its Quiet Cove will have an adults-only infinity pool overlooking the ocean. 

Every ship has a Senses Spa for adults.

Each Walt Disney Cruise Line vessel houses the adults-only Senses Spa where you may book a massage, facial, mani-pedis, or even a session of cold sculpting.

All ships offer hair styling as well, but the Disney Wish will debut themed services at their Untangled Salon and Hook as well as a "Peter Pan" inspired barbershop with a hidden bar serving vintage bourbon, whisky, port, and more.

On Castaway Cay, a stretch of sand is reserved for 18 and up.

One of the highlights of Disney's Caribbean cruises is a port stop at the cruise line's private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas. I love the white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, biking, BBQ, and there is even a 5k race awarding medals at the end.

The main beach welcomes families, and as such, teems with children. However, the secluded Serenity Bay is reserved just for those over 18. My advice? Book an open-air Cabana Swedish Massage under swaying palm trees followed by a margarita from the Castaway Air Bar. 

Many of the best port excursions cater specifically to adults.

Disney Cruise Line offers all kinds of excursions when you disembark at various ports. There are hundreds to choose from but these notable choices stand out as well-suited for grown-ups.

Bacardi Rum and Distillery Tour in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Disney Fantasy

While docked in Puerto Rico, take a guided tour through the Bacardi Rum Distillery where you'll learn about the company's history, how they make their liquor, and taste some, of course.

ATV Adventure available on select sailings

For a dose of adventure alongside nature, several destinations such as Bonaire, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic offer ATV tours for adults, which are often paired with perks like lunch or a beach break. 

Temezcal Ritual in Mexico on Disney Wonder

Recharge your spirit in this experience akin to a sweat lodge. A ceremonial leader will guide guests on a rejuvenating 90-minute purification ritual. 

Select sailings offer special programming geared to grown-ups.

Disney is known to offer extra ways to celebrate throughout the year, with select cruises that are themed after holidays or fandoms, including the following standout sailings.

Star Wars Day at Sea on Disney Fantasy

Star Wars Day at Sea takes place on one day of a 7-night voyage with iconic characters like Chewbacca, R2-D2, C-3PO, and Darth Vader. A "Star Wars" themed fireworks show, movie marathon, costume celebrations, trivia sessions, and scavenger hunts also take place.

Marvel Day at Sea on select Caribbean sailings

Marvel Day at Sea honors superheroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the Black Panther on select 5-night Caribbean cruises with a day of meet-and-greets (at a safe distance due to COVID protocols), a stage show, movies, costumes, and special entertainment and treats.

New Year's Eve on select sailings

Disney offers special programming on cruises for Christmas and Halloween, but there is something extra romantic about spending New Year's Eve at sea with a festive dinner menu, a New Year's Eve dock party, and the Disney characters dolled up in their finest. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Complete Guide to a Disney Cruise For Adults

This article is your complete guide to vacationing on a  Disney cruise for adults ! The first thing people think of when they hear a Disney Cruise Line vacation is a bunch of little ones running around and screaming. And we won’t lie, there is a small percentage of that, but there are ways to tailor your cruise to be more adult Disney cruise friendly. Knowing where to stay and how to navigate the ship is a large part of making your cruise feel like an adult-only Disney cruise. I have been on multiple Disney Cruise Line vacations and have had successful relaxing and enjoyable sailing.

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip to Disney World 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!

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How to Vacation on a Disney Cruise for Adults

There is no vacation quite like a Disney Cruise Line vacation. While I haven’t sailed on every Disney ship, I have been on multiple Disney Cruise vacations and pride myself on navigating the ship with minimal family interaction. This may not be for everyone, but it comes in handy when you’re trying to have a relaxing Disney adult cruise. While there is no way to eliminate the interactions you will have with other guests under 18, you can plan to minimize it. This is key to having a Disney cruise adults-only feel to your vacation. Before we dive too far into details, let’s cover some basic information about Disney cruises for adults.

How Much is a Disney Cruise for 2 Adults?

• Two adults can expect to pay an average of $3,000 to set sail with Disney. The cost of 2  D isney cruise adult tickets can vary dramatically though depending on how you want to sail. On average, you can spend anywhere between $1,500 – $2,000 per person for an average 4-day cruise. If you want a longer cruise with a nicer room, you should plan on spending around $4,500 – $7,000 per person. Disney Cruises can be pricey but if you look around, you can find great deals on Disney Cruise Line vacations.

What is the Best Disney Cruise for Adults?

• I would recommend sailing on the Disney Wish if you’re looking for the best Disney Cruise for adults. Currently the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, it has the most Disney adult-only cruise ship locations to enjoy out of any ship. The Wish also is home to the first-ever Disney Wish adults-only infinity pool!

There are a lot of variables that go into determining the best  D isney adult cruises . This article is geared to help you better understand how to plan and what to look for when booking an adults-only Disney Cruise. But where you go and how many nights you sail will be up to you as the type of vacation you want to experience. So let’s get started with the details that will help you have the best Disney Cruise for adults!

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

Adult-only Areas to Know About on a Disney  Adult Cruise

A Disney Cruise ship is designed with everyone in mind. With that being said, some ships are better for certain age groups and types of people. To help eliminate some of your research, if you’re looking for the best ship for a D isney adults-only cruise  I would recommend the Disney Wish or the Disney Wonder . Thankfully, any ship you sail on within the Disney fleet will have adult-only areas. It’s important to know that anyone can access these areas. But from what I’ve seen, the Crew Members are great about keeping the areas 18 years and up.

Adult Pool Deck

Every ship will have a Disney Cruise adult-only pool. On each vessel, it’s called the Quiet Cove Pool. The Disney Wish for Adults pool is located on Deck 13 in the back of the ship. This is to take full advantage of the infinity pool for the area. Every other Disney Cruise adult-only pool is located in the front of the ship on Deck 9 or Deck 13. My biggest tip for a kid-free cruise is to stay 2 decks below the adult pool on your ship. The most important reason is that you won’t have to walk across the entire ship to access the adult-only areas. Therefore limiting the interactions you’ll have to anyone under 18.

Senses Spa & Salon

The premier  D isney Cruises adults-only experience is the onboard spa, Senses Spa & Salon. This spa offers an array of services from full body massages, to facials, light cosmetic procedures, and salon services. One of the greatest things about booking an appointment is that the spa is only open to guests 18 and up. We recommend booking online as soon as you can . If the service you’re looking for is booked, don’t lose hope! You can usually still book on board the ship on your first day of sailing after 1 pm at your ship’s Planning Center.

Bars, Clubs, & Lounges

Adult-only locations on Disney Cruise ships span more than just the pools and spas. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and lounges that cater to adults. And some locations even have an age requirement to enter! Each ship has a variety of lounges that are open to all ages but cater to guests 21+. But there is also at least one designated club/bar for guests 21 and up on each ship. Out of every ship in the fleet, the Disney Wish has the most adult-centered lounges, bars, and clubs. One of my favorite D isney Cruises adult-only experiences on my last cruise was having a drink and listening to a pianist in the Cinderella-themed bar, Nightingales, on the Disney Wish.

Adult-Only Dining

The D isney Cruises adults-only restaurants are also next level! Kitchens belonging to Remi, Paulo, and Enchante are led by Michelin Star chefs and offer some of the most unique dining experiences in the world! Whether you’re looking to book a dinner to celebrate something special or just want to have a meal to remember, the exclusive adult Disney Cruises  restaurants do not disappoint. It’s important to note that booking a reservation in one of the restaurants is similar to the spa. They go fast so we recommend booking as soon as your booking window opens. If you are unable to book online, you can generally snag a reservation once you’re on board the ship!

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

Serenity Bay

On Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, there is an entire section of the island specifically dedicated to guests 18 and over. This section of the beach is called Serenity Bay and is located on the far left side of the island from the ship. The only downside of this adult-only Disney Cruise beach is the double-edged sword that is the location. The proximity from the ship is quite far and requires about a 2-mile walk. However, some trams take you there but they can be infrequent and hard to grab especially if it starts to rain! There is also a chance you could miss out on grabbing a chair since they are all first come first serve.  I have always found a pretty secluded spot on the family beach if you don’t want to walk or take the tram!

Adult-Only Excursions

There are  adult Disney Cruise  port adventures and excursions on almost every cruise itinerary. Adults-only activities range from snorkeling tropical reefs to touring historic sites to dining under the stars to an open-air cabana massage on the beach at Castaway Cay . You can find what specific adult-only excursions your port of call offers in the Port Adventures listings for each cruise. I have never been on any port excursion! I like to take the opportunity of a docked ship to explore and enjoy a very empty ship.

Disney’s New Lighthouse Point

Disney has purchased and will open its second private island in the Bahamas in 2024! This new destination will offer an adult-only beach, dining area, exclusive bars, and beachside cabanas.

Related Post: How Much is a Disney Cruise Per Person?

Is there a Disney Cruise for Adults Too?

If you’re still wondering  are Disney C ruises fun for adults , the answer is yes! Having been on multiple Disney Cruises without children myself, I would recommend going on a Disney Cruise to anyone. They’re great for any stage or walk of life. While they are more expensive than other cruise lines out there, the one thing that keeps me going back is the service. The Disney Cruise Line has the “old school” above-and-beyond service Disney was built on. Do you want a Mickey ice cream bar at 1 am? No problem. If you want a meal you had at another restaurant three nights ago? No worries! The Crew Members on the Disney ships truly cater to your every need and are there to make your vacation one to remember! 

Are Disney Cruises Worth it for Couples?

• Yes! If you plan out your cruise ahead of time you can have the greatest adult-only Disney Cruise vacation. The number one thing to plan is where your stateroom is. If you’re able to stay anywhere on the ship, the best spot to stay is about 2 decks below the adult-only areas. This way, not only do you not have to walk across the ship to get there, but you can take the stairway up only two flights of stairs instead of waiting for the busy elevators.

Depending on where your stateroom is can have an impact on your experience. If you’re staying at one end of the ship but the adult-only areas are at the other, you’ll have to walk through common areas more often. This means that you’ll have greater exposure to families and guests under 18 and will break the adults-only Disney Cruise experience. You can stay one deck below but usually that’s where the ship’s buffet is. I haven’t experienced this, but other guests have stated you can hear the chairs scraping on the floor in the early hours as the restaurant prepares to open.

Related Post: Every Disney Ship from Oldest to Newest

Disney Cruise for Adults FAQ

Q: Are there adult-only  Disney Cruises?

A: There are no cruises that are exclusively for adults only. However, there are adult-only areas on every Disney Cruise ship! You can enjoy adult-only dining, swimming, bars, nightclubs and so much more! Every ship’s itinerary will also include adult-only excursions at different ports of call throughout the sailing.

Q: Can you enjoy a Disney Cruise as an Adult?

A: If you plan and know where to stay when to book, and what to do, yes! My biggest piece of advice is to plan! Just like you would for a Disney World vacation. The good thing is that most cruise line bookings open a year in advance so there is plenty of time to plan your trip to make it as adult-friendly as possible.

Q: What are the Disney Cruise Booking windows?

A: Your advanced booking windows are determined by your Castaway Club Membership status. For first-time sailors, you can book your experiences 75 days before your sail date. Once you sail once on Disney Cruise you will automatically become a Silver Castaway Club Member. This allows you to book at the 90-day mark. From there, Gold level can book 105 days in advance, Platinum 120 days, Pearl 150 days, and Concierge guests can book 190 days before sailing.

Q: How long does it take to walk to Serenity Bay?

A: This depends on how fast you walk! It’s a two-mile walk each way from the ship to the adults-only beach on Castaway Cay, Serenity Bay. On average, it can take about 40 min each way. But if walking 2 miles isn’t part of your vacation itinerary you can take the tram from the pier!

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Kurt Gillman

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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Disney Wish Cruise for Adults: A Guide to Grown-Up Magic at Sea

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When we think about Disney cruises, images of family-friendly adventures and Disney characters usually spring to mind. And that a Disney Cruise is really for kids.

Whilst there is no question that a Disney cruise is a great option for families, increasingly over the years, it has become a wonderful choice for adults sailing without kids.

Arguably, Disney Wish is perhaps the most geared towards the adult guest in this rapidly expanding fleet.

As you will see when we begin to explore Disney Wish, there are plenty of features and experiences to keep the adult cruisers happy.

Overview of Disney Wish

Disney Wish is the newest addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, offering a unique experience for adult guests.

She will soon be joined by her sister ship Disney Treasure , who will start sailing 7 night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral.

Vessel Specifications

Theming and design.

Disney Wish is simply stunning.

The theme of the the ship is Enchantment. And to use a cliche Disney word yet again, there really is something very magical about Disney Wish.

From the moment that you step into the Grand Hall you know that you are going to be experiencing the very best that the Disney Imagineers have created at sea.

Make sure that you take some time to explore all the finer details of the design.

Classic Disney storytelling is combined  with luxurious amenities to create a sophisticated environment. 

• Grand Hall : A fairytale-inspired atrium with a bronze statue of Cinderella.
• Adult-exclusive Areas : The Rose lounge, Quiet Cove Pool, and specialty dining experiences like Enchanté and Palo
• Staterooms : Elegant accommodations with attention to detail, ensuring a cozy retreat for adult guests.

The Imagineers have intertwined Disney narratives throughout the ship, ensuring adults are immersed in the magic of Disney in an upscale setting. This really isn’t just for the kids!

Disney Wish Adult Pool

One of the most important features of any cruise is the pool deck. On Disney Wish, as with all the ships in the fleet, there is an adult only pool deck.

A first for Disney Cruise Lines is the infinity pool in the adult section of the Disney Wish pool deck right at the aft of the ship.

On each side of the infinity pool, there are two wading pools, each with a waterfall feature at the sides.

This is a nice place to sit and cool off with a drink – although be careful to not spend too long in the sun as there is no shade here.

You will also find the Cove Bar here, just steps away from the infinity pool.

The pool deck on Disney Wish is somewhat contraversial, with some people feeling that the area at the aft of the ship, with the adult pool, really isn’t big enough.

Disney Wish Pool Deck – Hit or Miss?

If you are looking for a relaxing place to enjoy a coffee, a handcrafted cocktail or a glass of wine, then head to Cove Cafe on Deck 13, just behind the infinity pool.

Adult-Focused Amenities

The Disney Wish cruise ship ensures that adult guests can enjoy exclusive experiences tailored to their preferences, from tranquil spa retreats to gourmet dining options.

Exclusive Restaurants

Disney Cruise Line has become known for its fine dining at sea with restaurants exclusively for those aged 18 and over.

The original classic ships introduced Palo, which is a feature of all the Disney fleet. Then Disney Dream and Fantasy introduced the fine dining experience Remy.

Disney Wish has Palo, but with a different menu to the other ships, and the notable change in name to Palo Steakhouse. It combines the sophistication of an authentic Italian dining experience with the excellence of a classic American steakhouse.

Palo Steakhouse on Disney Wish Dinner Review

Having experienced both Palo Brunch and Dinner on Disney Wish I would say that this takes the experience up a notch.

Disney Wish also introduced a new fine dining restaurant, Enchante. If you are looking for the ultimate dining experience on the ship, this gourmet restaurant curated by Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement, provides a more intimate and upscale dining affair.

There are three dining experiences available in Enchante:

• Enchante Brunch
• Enchante Just Desserts
• Enchante Dinner

Even if you don’t plan to dine at one of the restaurants, make sure that you take a look at the Deck 12 adult exclusive area. It is one of the most beautiful on the ship.

Themed after Beauty and the Beast, you enter by way of a long corridor, lined with portraits of the beloved characters from the movie. The corridor leads to the enchanted rose and then ultimately to The Rose Bar.

This is one bar in the ship that many people miss. However, it is one of my favourites. From the incredibly talented and friendly bar staff, to the wonderful hand crafted cocktails, this is the place to be if you want to relax in an exclusively adult space.

This may sound strange, but even make sure you visit the bathroom while you are here! They are just beautiful.

If these adult exclusive, extra charge restaurants are not for you, then you are sure to enjoy the main dining restaurants on Disney Wish:

• Arendelle – A Frozen Dining Experience
• Worlds of Marvel

Spa and Wellness Facilities

All of the Disney ships have Senses Spa, which offers a variety of treatments such as facials, massages, and body wraps.

Disney Wish also has the Untangled Salon, inspired by Princess Rapunzel. The salon offers a full range of hair and nail treatments.

The men also have their own salon, Hook’s Barbery, inspired by Captain Hook’s private quarters aboard the Jolly Roger. Here you will find a range of treatments for hair, nails and skin.

A unique feature is that at certain times, adults 21 and over can enjoy a hidden bar featuring the finest whiskies, bourbon and rum for tasting during treatments and at special events. Certainly an interesting addition to a shave and a haircut!

For those looking to stay active, the  Fitness Center  provides modern exercise equipment and a selection of fitness classes catering to all levels of experience.

The Rainforest Room

All of the Disney ships have a Rainforest Room, but Disney Wish takes it to a whole new level.

The Rainforest Room on Disney Wish is located on Deck 5 in Senses Spa.

It is the only Rainforest on any Disney ship that has both an inside and an outdoor area.

In the Rainforest Room inside area you will find eight hot stone chairs, a sauna, steam room, showers and a cold room.

The part that I think really elevates the experience is the outdoor area. Here you will find two hot tubs and plenty of luxurious outdoor seating.

Disney Wish Rainforest Review

Entertainment and Activities

Whilst there are many activities that families can enjoy on Disney Wish there are plenty of things to entertain the grown ups too.

Disney Cruise Line is known for its Broadway style production shows. On Disney Wish you will see:

• Disney The Little Mermaid
• Disney Seas the Adventure

You can also enjoy Disney movies in the Wonderland Cinema and Never Land Cinema.

Nightlife and Bars

You are spoiled for choice with a fabulous selection of bars to choose from on Disney Wish – all with different themes and atmospheres:

Disney Wish Bayou Bar

This stunning space is inspired by Disney’s Princess and the Frog Movie. This beautiful design evokes the magical marsh where Tiana and Naveen take refuge in the movie.

Here you can listen to live jazz, or take part in one of the many trivia events.

Keg & Compass

This Nordic inspired pub offers traditional craft beers and televised sports.

There is a fabulous view of the ocean from the large portholes. Look at the detail around the portholes. There are intricate carvings of compasses, barnacles, and tentacles around the portholes.

Luna Lounge

This is a unique space on Disney Wish, that was inspired by the Pixar short La Luna. It is on two levels, with a stage area on the lower level.

Luna Lounge is used for a lot of the adult entertainment in the evenings, as well as trivia and other family events. There is a bar at the back of the lounge on the first level.

Each venue boasts a unique vibe, ensuring there’s a perfect spot for every taste.

Nightingale’s Bar

This is one of my favorite bars on Disney Wish. The atmosphere in this piano lounge is just very relaxing and welcoming. Don’t miss the live piano playing every evening.

Hyperspace Lounge

This was certainly the most highly anticipated Disney Wish bar. And in the early sailing days you used to have the equivalent of a fast pass to even get in!

Fortunately the hype of Hyperspace has now died down and you can usually get a table – although the space is surprisingly small.

The bar is of course Star Wars themed. With some fabulous themed cocktails including the infamous $5,000 Kaiburr Crystal , this may be the bar that you have been looking for.

The Rose Bar

Another one of my favourites, The Rose Bar is located on Deck 12 as part of the space with Enchante and Palo Steakhouse.

This is a great place to enjoy a pre dinner drink, or just take in the views from the floor to ceiling windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve gathered some of the most common inquiries about the Disney Wish to help you plan your adult-only adventure at sea.

What onboard activities are available for adults on the Disney Wish?

The Disney Wish boasts a variety of adult-centric activities, such as themed bars and lounges, live shows, and the Senses Spa. Adults can also engage in tasting sessions for wine, whiskey, and other beverages, and participate in cooking classes or mixology courses.

Does the Disney Wish have exclusive adult-only pool areas?

Yes, the Disney Wish features the Quiet Cove, an exclusive retreat for guests 18 and older, complete with a tranquil infinity pool, a whirlpool spa, and a dedicated bar.

This area is designed for adults looking to relax away from the family-centric areas.

How can adults book onboard activities on the Disney Wish Cruise?

Adults can book onboard activities through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app, the website, or by visiting the Guest Services desk once aboard the Disney Wish. It’s recommended to book as early as possible, as some activities may fill up quickly.

What are the itineraries for the Disney Wish that appeal to an adults

Disney Wish sails on 3 and 4 night itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida. Each sailing has port stops in Nassau and Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay.

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.

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

We compare and rank to find the best disney cruise ship.

When you combine  cruises  with  Disney , something magical happens! Below we compare the five Disney Cruise Line ships to help you decide which one is best for your next getaway. So, what is the best Disney Cruise ship? Without further ado, here is our list of the top 5!

Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet

The latest industry numbers indicate that Disney Cruise Lines have a 2.3 percent share of the worldwide cruise ship market. With additional ships soon to be added to the roster, we should only expect Disney will increase its market share over the coming years.

Disney Cruise Line has 5 active ships, with three additional Disney cruise ships expected to be added by 2025.

Here is the current DCL fleet:

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

A sixth ship, Disney Treasure, is expected to join the fleet in 2024. Disney has also announced the purchase  of the partially-constructed  Global Dream  for conversion to a new Disney ship, the Disney Adventure (launching in 2025). Finally, another custom-built ship, the Disney Destiny, is expected to also launch sometime in 2025. Once all is said and done, there will be eight ships in the fleet.

Castaway Cay  is a tropical paradise located in the Bahamas and is an  exclusive port-of-call for Disney cruise guests. Disney owns the island, so you won’t compete with non-Disney guests for reservations. In addition,  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is under construction on Eleuthera as another exclusive port-of-call.

There are lots of similarities between these Disney ships. Each one has its advantages and its magical experiences. That said, some of the entertainment, dining, amenities, activities, and destinations vary from ship to ship.

Want personalized advice on which ship is best for your vacation?

Best Disney Cruise Ships

Each of Disney’s cruise ships has its own unique history and defining characteristics. Here is our list of the best Disney cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Wish Overview

Disney Wish  is the newest Disney Cruise ship, launched in the summer of 2022. For its inaugural season, the ship focuses on 3- and 4-night Bahamian itineraries sailing from Port Canaveral (FL), with visits to Disney’s Castaway Cay and Nassau.

This ship has a length of 1,119 ft and a gross tonnage of about 144,000. The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms and boasts an onboard Guest capacity of 2,508 (at double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy). In addition, 1,555 Crew Members keep the ship running. Disney Wish currently has no sister ships – it is the first in a series of three so-called “Triton Class” Disney ships (the two sister ships are expected to be introduced in 2024 and 2025).

While we admit that the newest isn’t always the best, that’s certainly  not  the case here. Instead, the Disney Wish has quite simply  changed the game  when it comes to cruising.

Disney Wish Dining

Disney Wish offers three rotational dining restaurants, two of which offer a sort of “dinner and a show” experience.

At  Arendelle – a Frozen Dining Adventure , you’re an honored guest of Queen Anna and Kristoff as they celebrate their engagement with Norwegian-inspired cuisine and live musical performances from Elsa and Olaf.

On another night, you’ll experience  Worlds of Marvel , which offers a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, along with a little adventure in the form of Ant-Man and the Wasp demonstrating Super Hero technologies.

Finally,  1923  offers a dining experience steeped in the golden age of Hollywood. Named after the year the Disney brothers founded their first studio, you’ll enjoy the flavors of California while surrounded by relics of the early days of animation.

For those seeking an elegant (upcharged) experience, try  Palo Steakhouse  for dinner — or drop into  Hyperspace Lounge  for an intergalactic drink. And with casual dining options such as  Marceline Market  and even places to grab a Taco or some BBQ, you’ll never go hungry onboard the Disney Wish!

Disney Wish Entertainment

Disney Wish onboard activities include Disney’s first-ever “attraction at sea” called the “ AquaMouse ,” a sort of waterslide meets raft ride meets roller coaster. Live shows include Disney’s  The Little Mermaid  and  Disney’s Aladdin . And, of course, there’s a vast array of movie, nightclubs, pools, pubs, a Walt Disney theatre, and more!

Disney Wish Activities for Kids

Disney Wish offers plenty to keep the kids entertained. Train at  Marvel Super Hero Academy , visit  Star Wars Cargo Bay  or build your own coaster at the  Walt Disney Imagineering Lab .  Edge  and  Vibe  cater to tweens and teens, while  it’s a small world nursery!, Toy Story Splash Zone  and  Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck  is waiting for the tiniest travelers.

Set Sail on the Disney Wish with The Vacationeer !

2. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney Fantasy Overview

Disney Fantasy  – the sister ship of Disney Dream – was launched in 2012 as Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship. Guests can choose between a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise. This ship has a length of 1,114.8 ft and a gross tonnage is 129,750. Like Disney Dream, the Fantasy has an onboard guest capacity of 2.500 (double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy) with a crew of over 1,400.

Routes:  Port Canaveral, Florida; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas; US Virgin Islands; Castaway Cay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica.

We love Disney Fantasy , and so do other Guests!

Disney Fantasy Dining

Disney Fantasy offers Rotational dining between the always entertaining dinner show named Animation Magic at its  Animator’s Palate  restaurant. The ship’s other  dining locations  include the magical Enchanted Garden and the fairytale dining room of  Royal Court . In contrast, the casual dining options include  Cabanas , Flo’s  Café , and snacks at  Eye Scream  and  Frozone Treats . The Northern Italian cuisine of  Palo  and French-inspired  Remy provide a few upscale and intimate options for adults.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

Disney Fantasy onboard activities include a “water roller coaster” called the “AquaDuck,” the nightclub district called Europa, several pools, pubs, theatres, and more!

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s Fantasy has plenty of individual and instructor-led activities geared to kids of all ages.

3. The Disney Magic

Disney Magic Overview

Disney Magic was the first Disney cruise ship that had its maiden voyage on July 30, 1998, and has been in service ever since. It boasts a length of 984 ft, a gross tonnage of 83,338, and has 11 public decks, 875  staterooms , a crew of 945, and enough capacity for 2,700 guests.

The interior of Disney Magic is decorated in an Art Deco style, while the ship’s exterior color scheme is black, red, and white with 20 yellow lifeboats (matching the colors of Mickey Mouse). Disney Magic’s horn blasts a tune from Disney’s famous “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The ship’s Godmother is Patricia Disney, the wife of Roy E. Disney.

Routes : 4 Night Caribbean Cruises; 5, 6, 7, and 8 Night Western Caribbean Cruises; 2, 3, 4, and 8 Night Bahamian Cruises; 4, 5, 7, 9, and 12-night Mediterranean Cruises; and Special Cruises

Simply put, Disney Magic is… magical!

Disney Magic Dining

Disney Magic  offers two dining times – early and late. The Disney Cruise Line uses something they call “Rotational Dining” to ensure that guests have a chance to experience each of the ship’s themed restaurants. Regarding dining options, Disney Magic has several restaurants, and all three participate in the Rotational Dining schedule. Disney Magic’s dining locations include Lumiere’s (themed after Beauty and the Beast), Rapunzel’s Royal Table (inspired by Disney animated movie Tangled), and Animator’s Palate. In addition, Disney Magic’s  Palo restaurant  is located on the aft deck. It serves Northern Italian fare at dinnertime (18+, seats 130 guests).

Disney Magic Entertainment

The fun never stops on  Disney Magic .  There are live Broadway-style shows with your favorite Disney characters, fireworks, character meets, and movie theaters with first-run and Disney movies. The Walt Disney Theater and the Buena Vista Theater, karaoke, games, several pools, and a variety of Disney-themed deck parties, including Pirates Night and Sail-Away Celebration. The ship also boasts a massive LED screen called “Funnel Vision” and numerous lounges and bars (including  O’Gills Pub ). Keys piano bar, the Promenade Lounge, D-Lounge, and the adults-only Fathoms.

Disney Magic Activities for Kids

Disney Magic hosts a variety of  kids’ clubs  to keep the youngsters entertained, including:

-It’s a Small World Nursery is a play area for infants .

– Oceaneer Club  and the Oceaneer Lab are geared towards kids ages 3 to 12 years old. Activities include themed activities, computer games, experiments, costume dress, and more.

-The Edge is an interactive area where younger guests play (ages 11-14).

-The Vibe club is strictly for teens and offers video games, Internet, TV, music, Internet access, and social activities.

Need Help Deciding Which Ship to Pick?

4. Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Disney Dream Overview

Disney Dream  is the 3rd  Disney Cruise Line  ship operated by The Walt Disney Company and has been active since 2011. The ship currently sails three-day, four-day, and sometimes five-day cruises to the  Bahamas . It has a capacity of 2,500 (double occupancy) or 4,000 passengers maximum and has a crew of 1,458. Disney Dream is 1,114 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : With the arrival of the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream is no longer primarily based at  Port Canaveral, Florida.  It now offers 3, 4, and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Port Miami , along with multiple European itineraries of 4-11 nights departing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, and Southampton.

Overall, the Disney Dream is fantastic. It’s not our absolute favorite, but there’s really not much to complain about.

Disney Dream Dining

Disney Dream has Rotational dining where you will get to experience 3 different restaurants each night of your cruise. The ship is home to a “state-of-the-art” dinner show at  Animator’s Palate , a classic Disney fairytale feast at  Royal Palace , and  Enchanted Garden  set in a serene conservatory setting. For a more casual dining experience, head to  Cabanas  for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Or check out the pizza, chicken, burgers, and salads at  Flo’s Café . For a delicious icy treat, head to  Frozone Treats , or  Eye Scream  (an ice cream shop). The Italian-inspired Palo and the French-inspired  Remy  are both high-end, adult-only dining options. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day.

Disney Dream Entertainment

Disney Dream onboard activities include digital sports simulators, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, a volleyball court, a pitch, and a walking track.

Disney Wonder is also home to a “water roller coaster” called the AquaDuck, Mickey’s Slide, and has three pools, including the quiet cove pool. The ship also boasts two theaters: the Walt Disney Theater (live Broadway-style performances) and the Buena Vista Theater (first-run Disney movies).

Disney Dream Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, Goofy’s Sports Deck, and Vibe are geared to kids of all ages.

5. Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Disney Wonder Overview

Disney Wonder  is the second ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and made its maiden voyage in August 1999. She is constructed in a nearly identical fashion to Disney Magic. However, the ship’s interior is decorated in the Art Nouveau style rather than Art Deco. Disney Wonder has 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, a crew of roughly 950, and can accommodate 2,400 passengers. This Disney cruise ship has a length of 974 ft and a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : The routes include Alaska , Hawaii , Australia/New Zealand, and the USA’s West Coast

Still an excellent cruise ship (despite our ranking).

Disney Wonder Dining

Disney Cruise Line uses a dining rotation where guests rotate to a different restaurant each night. Guests are seated at the same table number – with the same table guests and wait staff – for every night they are on board. This creates less confusion and a friendly commodore among the guests.

Disney Wonder has three main restaurants:  Triton’s ,  Tiana’s Place,  and  Animator’s Palate .  Triton’s  features French cuisine in an Art Deco dining room,  Tiana’s Place  serves southern cooking with live jazz music, and  Animator’s Palate  is a dining show offering contemporary cuisine and Disney characters. The other main dining rooms and food options include  Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast and lunch and a casual eatery for dinner, a sandwich and salad shop called  Daisy’s de-Lites ,  Pinocchio’s Pizza , and the adult-oriented Palo, where Italian-inspired food and décor are complimented with live music.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Some of the entertainment and lifestyle highlights of Disney Wonder include Crown & Fin Pub, an adults-only British-style pub, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and the relaxing and rejuvenating Senses Spa and Salon. Check  here  for a list of all onboard activities.

Disney Wonder Activities for Kids

Like Disney Magic, Disney Wonder offers the Oceaneers Club and the Oceaneers Lab for children ages 3-10. The Club provides several TVs, costumes to play dress-up, a slide, and some counselor-led activities. The Lab is geared towards the older age ranges and offers video games, TVs, computers, cooking classes, and more.

How to Book your Disney Cruise and Receive Onboard Credit

Ready to book your Disney Cruise? Do you have any questions?  The Vacationeer  can help!

The Vacationeer offers something called “onboard credit” as a free  bonus/incentive  for booking through their agency. Onboard credit is essentially  free money  – linked to your stateroom account – that can be used to pay for nearly anything on your Disney ship or in Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. This includes drinks, meals, merchandise, activities, spa treatments, gratuity, and more.

Ask your travel agent about onboard credit  before booking a  Disney Cruise line vacation. If they don’t offer it, then hang up and find one that does! We can tell you that The Vacationeer offers the most competitive onboard credit in the business and doesn’t charge you a single penny to use their services!

See  the Vacationeer’s  Onboard Credit promotion  and our  Disney Cruise Onboard Credit  page, then  get a free quote  today!

The Vacationeer can also help you plan and book your Disney cruise on their newest Disney cruise ships – the  Disney Wish .

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

While there are no Disney cruises exclusively for adults, there are plenty of dining options, bars, excursions, and perks geared towards adults on each cruise.

The Disney Dream is our pick for the  best Disney cruise ship for adults . It offers the cosmopolitan Skyline lounge, an upscale travel-themed lounge called The Meridian, the Italian restaurant Palo, the French fine-dining of Remy, a Quiet Cove for adults, the relaxation and rejuvenation of Senses Spa , and port excursions that cater specifically to adults.

Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The best location on a Disney cruise ship for the best views (widest vistas) is the very front or the very back of the ship.

The best location on a Disney cruise ship if you are prone to getting seasick is the center part of the ship because you’ll feel the least movement there. Specifically, try to reserve 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.

What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) have better views, but the ship will sway the most the higher you go. So it’s really just personal preference.

What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

If you sail out of Port Canaveral and stop at Castaway Cay, the  starboard side is the best side of a Disney cruise ship  because it faces the beach of Port Canaveral, where you can wave to everyone on the beach as the ship sets sail. The starboard side is also  usually  the side that faces  Castaway Cay  when the ship is docked there (though this will always depend on conditions at the time of docking). The starboard side is the right-hand side of the vessel, while the port side is on the left.

Enjoy your Disney Cruise!

We hope our Best Disney Cruise Ships RANKED article gives you some suggestions.

For more Disney information, please see our  How Much Do Disney Cruises Cost ,  Last-Minute Disney Cruise ,  What’s Included and What Isn’t , Best Cruise Lines for Kids ,   Disney Cruise Customer Service ,   Why Use a Disney Travel Agent ,  Disney Payment Plans ,  Disney Transportation Map ,  and  Disney World Tips   articles.

Thank you for reading our page, and we hope you have a fantastic vacation out at sea!

Get Free Help Planning Your Cruise

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, contact our friends at   The Vacationeer .

Their services are always helpful and totally  free of charge !

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What’s in the Adults Only Section on the Disney Fantasy?

by Kelly Coffey-Behrens | Oct 27, 2023 | Destinations to Travel , Disney Cruise Line , Disney Fantasy

We’re taking you on a tour of the Disney Fantasy’s adults-only sections you can find onboard the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

When people think “Disney,” they often think that it is meant for families or young children — but that is not always the case. In fact, Disney Cruise Line has many adult-exclusive entertainment offerings onboard the Disney Cruise Line ships – including an entire adults-only section.

Aboard the Disney Fantasy specifically, there is a section on Deck 11 called Quiet Cove, which is for those sailors above the age of 18 only – meaning no kids! Let’s take a walkthrough of Quiet Cove and see what it’s all about and what’s included.

Walking Around Quiet Cove on the Disney Fantasy

On Deck 11, you will find the Quiet Cove section, reserved for those 18 years and older.  The Quiet Cove pool lives up to its name as it allows guests to take a dip in the pool without the worry of being splashed by younger kids or screaming and running around while you are trying to relax. 

Photo by Scott Smith

Around the Quiet Cove pool, there are plenty of lounge chairs and seating areas that allow guests to either soak up the sun or enjoy the peace and quiet while reading a book. There is also a bar near the pool called Signals. Here, you can order a variety of adult beverages, including pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris that you can sip on while enjoying your time away from the little ones. 

One of the best parts about the adults-only section on the Disney Fantasy is the hot tub, which faces the ocean and allows you to relax while taking in the sights and sounds of mother nature. But the glass bottom is what really makes this hot tub stand out from the rest!

Exploring Cove Café On The Disney Fantasy

Calling all Starbucks lovers! Cove Café is located in the adults-only section of the Disney Fantasy and offers guests a selection of specialty coffees and teas (for an additional cost). 

Photo by Danny Shuster

In addition to the specialty drinks, Cove Café also offers a nice seating around to allow you to either read a book while sipping on a coffee or get some work done while enjoying your morning pastry. 

Disney Fantasy’s Deck 13 Offers the Satellite Sun Deck

But the adults-only section is not just found on Deck 11. Head up to Deck 13 for a quiet getaway in the Forward of the ship – Satellite Falls. Satellite Falls is a circular splash pool with benches and a cascading rain curtain, allowing guests to sit inside the fountain pool while tanning or reading a book.

If you aren’t looking to take a dip, you can relax on one of the lounge chairs near the water.

Video Walkthrough

You can check out a full walkthrough of the adults-only section on the Disney Fantasy in our video below.

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new "Encanto" live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Unique to the Magic is the teens-only Chill Spa. When it comes to dining, the ship offers eight eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ;  San Diego ;  Miami ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New Orleans ; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Dream

Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largest ships. Highlights include the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee) and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites – like "Beauty and the Beast" – to life.

While the ship emphasizes family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon. At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult oasis with host of bars and lounges. In terms of dining, the ship offers nine themed venues including two specialty adults-only restaurants.

Staterooms also cater to cruising clans, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85 percent of cabins have ocean views or verandas. Those looking for extra space can opt for Concierge Suites, which range from 622 to 1,781 square feet.

While some recent cruisers commented that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most said it was well worth the price due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.

Disney Dream departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New York ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Southampton, England; and more for sailings in the Bahamas , Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. The cruise line also offers some transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't skip dinner at Animator's Palate and its Undersea Magic dinner show. During the meal, you'll be immersed in the world of Finding Nemo, as Crush the turtle from the movie swims by virtually to chat with families between courses. (This dinner show is also available on the Disney Fantasy ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy launched in 2012 and underwent a dry dock in 2017. The ship features activities such as Pixar Day at Sea, Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular and the 765-foot AquaDuck water ride.

Staterooms are designed with families in mind. Inside cabins can accommodate up to four guests, and over 85% of the ship's cabins have an ocean view or a veranda. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, minifridges and iPod docking stations.

Onboard entertainment is just as family-oriented, with Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee), nightly live performances and 3D movies. While younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs, adults can relax at the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy an evening at an adults-only bar or lounge.

When it comes to dining, the ship offers 10 themed dining venues, including two adults-only specialty venues, three main dining rooms and an ice cream shop: Sweet on You.

Fantasy sails from  Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida , to the Bahamas , Bermuda and a variety of ports in the Caribbean.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Between Palo and Remy is a secluded adults-only bar called Meridian. The bar is known for its martini program, where the bartenders will ask you a few questions and then whip up something off-menu for you to enjoy inside or outside on the exclusive patio. (Meridian can also be found on the Disney Dream ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wish

The fifth Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Wish made its maiden voyage in July 2022. The 4,000-passenger and 1,555-crew-member ship features the first Disney attraction at sea – AquaMouse – which takes thrill-seekers through 760 feet of water tubes high above the cruise deck.

Family-friendly cabin options include Concierge, Verandah, Oceanview and Inside staterooms. Rooms feature a 43-inch flat-screen TV, ample closet space and individual climate control. For fun, kids can head to Hero Zone recreation space (inspired by the movie "The Incredibles"), Vibe (an exclusive teen space) or the onboard nursery. Guests loved the variety of kid-friendly activities.  

For adults, there are retail shops, spas, bars, live entertainment and 10 pools and water play areas – including the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. A welcome escape among older cruisers, some passengers wished the adults-only spaces were bigger.

When it comes to food, travelers can enjoy California cuisine at 1923, French cuisine at the adults-only Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement or steak at the adults-only Palo Steakhouse. The ship also has interactive dining experiences based on several Disney films. Feast at the first Frozen-themed theatrical dining – Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and enjoy Norwegian-inspired cuisine. Or, explore the Worlds of Marvel with the Avengers: Quantum Encounter, featuring international dishes alongside superheroes like Ant-Man, Captain America and more.

Disney Wish sails to the Bahamas  from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wish features Disney's first infinity pool in the Quiet Cove. Unlike Disney's other ships, the Quiet Cove is located on Deck 13 all the way in the back of the ship, so it feels more intimate and doesn't see kids walking through the space throughout the day. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wonder

The 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder debuted in 1999. It was most recently updated in 2019; the refurbishment rolled out new family-oriented amenities and entertainment offerings, like Tiana's Place with live music and southern cuisine inspired by the Disney movie, "The Princess and the Frog." 

The ship offers plenty of onboard activities, with 10 designated family areas, five youth clubs and seven adults-only spaces. While younger passengers play at age-appropriate clubs, grown-ups can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. When hunger strikes, Wonder offers six dining options, including one adults-only specialty restaurant.

Like the majority of the ship, staterooms are designed with families in mind. Interior cabins can accommodate up to four passengers, while larger suites can sleep up to seven. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs, seating areas and classic Disney designs. Recent cruisers noted the expensive cost of a trip on the Disney Wonder, but most felt the quality of service was top-notch. 

Disney Wonder departs from a range of ports throughout Australia and New Zealand, as well as  Vancouver , for sailings around the South Pacific, Mexico and Alaska. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wonder features Disney Cruise Line's only Princess and the Frog-inspired rotational dining room. Tiana's Place is themed after a jazz supper club, with a live band, Creole dishes and dancing. – Megan duBois, Contributor

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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!

More Travel Planning

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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5 BIG Changes on the Disney Wish Cruise Ship for Adults

Wishes do come true, even if you're an adult, aboard the brand NEW Disney Wish. The newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wish, sets sail on its inaugural cruise on July 14, 2022. Disney invited a slew of media personnel to sail aboard for the Christening Cruise and we explored everything that's new on the Disney Wish for adults.

If you've sailed with Disney Cruise Line before you've probably scoped out the newest ship a little. As someone who has sailed on every Disney ship, except for the Fantasy, I can say without question that the best ship is the Disney Wish for adults. The adult areas on this ship are smartly designed and reconfigured to make things more convenient than ever before.

Note, we were invited aboard the Disney Wish for a special media event during the Christening Sailing. Our cruise fare was complimentary as was our food, however, specialty drinks and other specialty experiences were not part of the package and were therefore paid for on our own. 

1. Adult Lounges on the Disney Wish

First and foremost, the design and layout of the Disney Wish are brilliant. Finding your way on a cruise ship you've never been on before is sure to be bewildering. Be patient with yourself as you get acquainted.

Most importantly, if you're a parent looking for a way to balance family time with adults only time, Disney's newest ship makes it even easier than before. The Oceaneer Club is a kids club for ages 3 -11. And now on the Disney Wish it is located on Deck 2 – which seemed inconvenient to me at first. And yet it is actually genius.

Kids can enter the Oceaneer Club using a clear, slide themed to Alice in Wonderland. The kids club slide goes from Deck 3 to Deck 2. Parents can check in their kids on Deck 3 and watch them slide down right to the desk at the Oceaneer Club, and then walk a few steps to 3 different adult lounges!

On Deck 3, mere steps from the slide to the Oceaneer Club, are three distinctly different lounges for adults. The Bayou is the main lounge, and one of the largest on the Disney Wish. The gorgeous details inspired by the movie The Princess and The Frog create an immersive atmosphere and there is a stage for live music in the evenings. The signature drink is The Hurricane and it is delectable!

Nightingale's

Nightingale's is also on Deck 3 and is in fact the closest lounge to the Oceaneer Club check in. You can see it from The Grand Hall which is more than the ship's lobby, it is a beautiful space that towers three decks. The Grand Hall serves as a gathering space and entertainment area. It is full of Cinderella details, and Nightingale's Lounge continues that theme. Try one of the Ice Bubbles cocktails which involves pouring the cocktail into an ice orb that you gently break into the glass to enjoy your handcrafted drink.

Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge

The last lounge on Deck 3 is the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge which is the most unique lounge on any cruise ship, anywhere. It is fully Star Wars themed and truly immersive.

Danny Handke is a senior creative director for Walt Disney Imagineering and spoke to us about the design of Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. During a panel discussion, Danny Handke described Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge as a more elegant place within the Star Wars universe as opposed to grungier Star Wars Cargo Bay for the kids on Deck 2. Danny Handke describes the lounge as a place for adults to play within the Star Wars universe.

The drinks are truly creative, something you won't find anywhere else on the Disney Wish ship. There are also specialty beers only available in the Hyperspace Lounge.

Star Wars fans with a keen eye are sure to find details everywhere they look . My husband and I loved watching the large “window” screen behind the bar that would show us going into hyperspace every so often. We spotted several ships from Star Wars movies, TV shows, and even theme park attractions.

The Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge can feel small, but its size makes sense for being on a cruise ship, and being themed as a lounge on a starcruiser. Check the hours of operation and get your name on the list as soon as you can.

Enchanted Sword Cafe and Wishing Star Cafe

Just off The Grand Hall, you'll find two charming cafes that double as an elegant coffee shop and relaxing lounge .

On deck 4 is the Wishing Star Cafe, themed after Pinocchio. And on deck 5 is the Enchanted Sword Cafe themed after the Sword and the Stone animated movie. Both of these cafes / lounges have the same core menu and offer specialty coffees as well as cocktails.

I wanted the best of both worlds and ordered a “Brew Fashioned” cocktail which is essentially an Old Fashioned made with cold brew coffee. It gave me the perfect way to kick off an elegant evening on the ship.

Bonus!  Practically every single bar on the Disney Wish has charging ports, most of them are USB ports. So bring along your charging cable while you recharge yourself, and your device.

Keg and Compass

On Deck 5 forward (towards the front of the ship) awaits a nautical-themed pub. I stumbled on the Keg & Compass on the second day of our media cruise and instantly fell in love. Every Disney cruise ship has a traditional or modern pub, and Keg & Compass represents the next evolution in this concept.

The details in this space are astounding. There are wood carvings around each porthole window , featuring an octopus and a humourous Disney detail. Maps, charts, compasses, and plenty of other details will keep your eyes gazing when you're not gazing lovingly into each other's eyes.

The drinks here are robust. Scrumptious elevated pub grub is also available and is one of the few food items not included in your cruise fare.

Fans of Epcot must visit this spot. There are multiple items that pay homage to Maelstrom , the former boat ride at the Norway Pavilion.

RELATED: Most Romantic Spots at Walt Disney World

The Rose Lounge

As with previous Disney Cruise ships, the best place for adults to relax is deck 12 aft (the back of the ship). You'll find the adults only pools and sundeck on deck 12, and there are two incredible adults-only restaurants on this upper deck too.

And while these special restaurants require reservations, and cost extra, The Rose Lounge is available without reservations and sits just outside the entrance to these two restaurants. It is by far the most elegant and romantic lounge on the Disney Wish.

An impressive wine list and sophisticated cocktails await to be sipped as you gaze out over the sea through panoramic windows . My husband and I had a hard time deciding where to look: the gorgeous rose-themed bar or the sparkling ocean before us.

The one thing that is missing in this area is a selection of beer. The wide array of classy spirits and wine are the focus here. Thankfully our magnificent bartender, Kelvin, kindly acquired some craft beer for my husband to enjoy.

The featured image of this article is of The Rose Lounge.

2. Quiet Cove Infinity Pool

The tradition of an adults-only pool and sundeck area continues on the Disney Wish. This time the adults only pool is a small infinity pool. This marks the first infinity pool ever on a Disney cruise ship. This infinity pool overlooks the back of the ship – a pretty amazing view.

The adults-only pool area feels a lot smaller than the other Disney cruise ships. There are two shallow pools with gentle waterfalls that flank the infinity pool. You can grab a drink from the lovely lounge right by the pools and the Cove Cafe coffee shop just around the corner, with an elegant Moana / Polynesian theme.

Although the pools are smaller than I would have liked, there are lots of lounge chairs throughout the wrap-around sun deck, making deck 12 entirely adults only.

There is another pool on deck 14, forward – at the front of the ship. However, this pool is for everyone and is called Chip N' Dale's pool. I mention it for adults because it is far away from the main family pools and is relatively quiet. It is a wading pool, only 2′ in depth, but it is wide, round, and offers beautiful views from the front of the ship. Plus, there is a lounge right there so you can sip on something cold while wading in the shallow pool.

3. Disney Wish Senses Spa

My favorite way to relax on vacation, especially on a cruise, is to indulge in the spa. I especially love spending time with my husband in plush spa robes soaking up the spa atmosphere. And each Disney Cruise ship has a Senses Spa.

RELATED: The Best Spas in Orlando for Couples

The Senses Spa on the Disney Wish is the biggest yet. Not only is the spa itself bigger, but the signature Rainforest Room is also expanded. What's more, the Rainforest Room extends outside. Put your mind and body at ease with scented showers, heated tile lounge chairs, hot tubs , and more.

Two new salons on the Disney Wish made it possible for the Senses Spa to expand. Untangled Salon and Hook's Barbery are on deck 4 and offer a gorgeously themed space to enjoy services like manicures, pedicures, and more.

4. A Hidden Bourbon Bar on Disney Wish

Speaking of Hook's Barbery , you'll find something surprising here. A “hidden” bar can be found right here. Whether you book a service here or not, stop in for a hand-crafted bourbon Old Fashioned that you get to help design. And if you are receiving a service at Hook's Barbery take it to the top-notch by adding on this bourbon bar experience.

You'll get to hand pick each ingredient, or if you prefer, let the expert bar tender guide you. In our case, we ended up creating the most expensive drink of our cruise. At $25 the “chocolate cherry Old Fashioned” made for the most sophisticated drink to cap off a lovely date night on the ship.

5. Adults Only Restaurants on Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line is known for providing the perfect balance of family experiences and adults only indulgences. As a mom who values quality time with my son and also quality time with my husband, I find a Disney cruise to be the best way to have it all. Sure, it is among the priciest cruises out there, but I can say without question it is one of the few vacations in which I can truly relax.

One way I like to spend quality time with my husband on a Disney cruise is with an elegant dinner at one of the adults only restaurants. On the Disney Wish are two restaurants just for guests 18 and older. You can either purchase a prix fixe dining experience or order a la carte.

Palo Steakhouse

Palo Steakhouse reimagines the classic Palo restaurant on all other Disney cruise ships. Disney invited me and my husband to dine here on the Wish Christening Cruise. After countless meals at the classic Palo over the years, I felt some trepidation at the thought of a new version of Palo. Palo Steakhouse is more modern than the previous iterations and is every bit as relaxing and sophisticated.

The service we experienced at Palo Steakhouse is unmatched. In my many years, I have learned to listen to a server's recommendations. They spend their working hours hearing the opinions of diners of all walks of life, and so their recommendations often lead to hidden gems that flawlessly please.

At our server's recommendation, we selected the Angonotti pasta to share in between our appetizers and our entrees. It tasted like all four seasons of the year put onto one plate with butternut squash, sage brown butter, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and amaretti.

Our server also kindly recommended the Amorone Sartori wine to pair with the Veal Osso Boco. Without exaggeration, it is one of the best wine pairings of my entire life. There are over 200 different labels of wine available at Palo Steakhouse.

We tried two new desserts, Carrot Cake and Tiramisu – both of which are much different than you'd imagine. In the end, when I return to Palo Steakhouse I will stick with the legendary Chocolate Soufflé that's been a staple of Palo for decades.

Palo Steakhouse is available for dinner or brunch, both of which require advance reservations.

Also on the Disney Wish is Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement , who is one of only 137 chefs with three Michelin stars. At this opulent restaurant, you can savor an incredible dinner, brunch, or dessert experience.

With these new spaces for adults only, the Disney Wish is truly a place where wishes come true.

Learn more about Things Only For Adults On Disney Cruise Line .

All images by Dani Meyering

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Disney Cruise For Adults: What to Experience on DCL Without Kids

We're living proof Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is for adults too. All our experiences sailing on their ships have been without children. A Disney cruise without kids is a lot of fun for an over 18 years old aged crowd as much as it is for an under-18 crowd.

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.

What You Can Expect Sailing on a Disney Cruise Without Kids

Are Disney Cruises fun for adults? You better believe it! If you're searching for one of the best cruises for adults, be sure to include DCL in your list if you're a fan of the Disney brand because we're telling you: it's great for adults, not just kids. Read on to find out why.

Over of Adults-Only on a Disney Cruise, Without Kids

★ Click on a menu item below for a detailed read about that particular point, or simply keep scrolling to read the entire article.

We have often heard the same criticism from people who have preconceived notions of Disney Cruise Line (DCL): it's full of kids. Or it's just for kids. That couldn't be further from the truth. As two people who have sailed with Disney Cruise Line many times, each Disney cruise without kids, we can speak to what it's like to cruise on the high seas with Disney sans children.

From adult-only experiences, spaces, and shopping to decor only adults will appreciate, it's a wonderful option for anyone who appreciates superior service, design, and entertainment.

✦ Children…Are Not Everywhere

The best thing about Disney Cruise Line in terms of children — for the sake of the adults and kids on the ship — is they are designed to accommodate kids. This means they have specific areas for kids. Different age groups of kids can spend all day and night in the areas of the ship designed just for them. This means they are confined to the kids' areas that adults cannot visit…and they're happy to be there!

Infants to teens have designated care and clubs. For instance, there's a group for babies that still nap in cribs, another area for toddlers, one for pre-teens, and another for teens.

Unless you're dropping your child off at one of these areas or you're on your way to a meal and standing in line amongst a group of adults with their kids, you don't encounter children any more than on any other cruise. (The exception is if you're on a river cruise or yacht cruise , whose minimum age requirement to be a guest is 18 years of age or older. Then of course there are strictly no kids.)

✦ You Can Bring Your Own Alcohol Onboard

Did you know Disney Cruise Line is one of the only large cruise ship lines that allows adults who are 21+ to bring alcohol onboard on embarkation day? And you can bring more alcohol onboard when you stop at a port! How's that for Disney adulting?!

You can bring beer and/or wine onboard in certain quantities. Check out our Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day post for more information regarding what the alcohol allowance is per guest.

✦ Awe-Inspiring Disney Cruise Line Ship Details Only Adults Appreciate

Though there aren't specifically “adult Disney cruises,” there are many, many elements of Disney cruise ship designs that only adults would appreciate.

Adults are the main audience for whom the splendor was designed. They're the ones who can truly appreciate the ships' aesthetics and architectural plans. When was the last time you heard a child say, “The color palette Disney chose for this atrium is stunning! Look at the geometry of the chandelier. I love this ship's Art Deco design!” Never, that's when!

(Psst: If the term “atrium” is unfamiliar to you, that's okay! Here are some essential cruise ship terms you should know.)

We were particularly struck by the Imagineer Disney Wish design details , which inspired us to sign up for a walking tour of the ship to learn more. We've taken the tour twice, and not a child was to be found on either tour.

The ships are pristine, and the crew is continuously concerned with their upkeep. I've stayed on a DCL ship when it's in port, and most guests are ashore for day excursions; it's during this time I've seen workers repainting signs and doing extra hallway cleaning in the name of ship upkeep. It's really impressive.

The cabins are also very smartly designed and bigger than your average ship cabin on competing cruise lines. (If you need to use your space even more smartly, here are great suggestions on what to pack and how to pack for your cruise.)

The interior design of each stateroom is elegant and chic; Disney touches are subtle and tasteful.

✧ Will You Appreciate the Disney Touches if You're Not a Disney Fan?

Let's face it — if you are not a Disney fan, it's unlikely you'd be interested in a Disney cruise. It's more likely that someone in your life, whether a partner, best friend, or extended family member, is pushing the cruise.

There are plenty of Disney touches around the ship subtle and obvious. For argument's sake, however, say you're going on a DCL cruise with your family, who chose the vacation for you. Perhaps it's a big family reunion or wedding sailing with more than six or ten people. Fret not. Great art is great art, no matter the subject matter, as is great design.

If you appreciate Disney animation prints on the walls, handpainted murals (that may not have to do with Disney at all), or incredible mosaics from artists who worked to create something special, you might fall in love with the ship's attention to detail.

Only adults can appreciate the subtle Mickey Mouse shapes in the railings or the instrumental versions of Disney classics that play in the hallways. Or the beautiful tapestries created for some walls of Disney Wish. Or the custom carpet everywhere. Be open to the wonder of it all and soak up the details only you, dear adult, can appreciate when you are on a Disney Cruise Line vessel.

✦ Superior Disney Cruise Line Crew

The cast and crew members on the ship are 100 times better than those at the parks.

I've noticed the quality of Disney Cast Members at the parks, as a whole, has declined over the years. (Sorry to say that because it's sad but true even though there are plenty of incredible Cast Members.)

We suppose it's a sign of American culture overall and generational changes. But smiles, friendliness, and politeness are at an all-time high on the ships. No request is too great, no matter too small. They're phenomenal. And when you're an adult cruising with Disney, you want to feel well taken care of on vacation by the staff and the brand.

From the moment you check in online for your Disney cruise to port arrival to every day you spend on the ship, you get a little sparkly feeling interacting with Disney Cruise Line. You quickly notice how friendly and extra caring the DCL crew is.

✦ Spaces Exclusive to Adults Aboard Disney Cruise Line (No Kids Allowed)

✧ senses spa and senses fitness.

There's a spa onboard every ship that's just for adults, along with a fitness center. Senses Spa and Fitness is an incredibly quiet, peaceful area.

Disney Cruise Line has realized how important the spa is, especially for an adult-only Disney cruise element, that they have expanded things like the Rainforest Room on new ships. It's quite an impressive area on Disney Wish.

Note that Senses Spa requires paid access for a spa pass or treatment like a massage. Senses Fitness is open to any guest who wants to work out. Some fitness classes are free and some require a payment. You can sign up for classes in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app when you are onboard the ship.

✧ Adult-Only Quiet Cove Pool (and Hot Tub)

There's a pool area on each of the Disney Cruise Line ships strictly for 18 and older guests to enjoy called Quiet Cove Pool. Some cruise lines charge extra for an area like this but on DCL it's included in your cruise fare.

Usually, there are at least two hot tubs on DCL ships. One is for all guests (including teenagers) and the other is in the Quiet Cove Pool area, only for adults.

I've seen Cast Members, first-hand, kindly ask guests in the hot tub their age after realizing they looked younger than 18. As an adult myself, wishing to be kid-free in adult-only areas, I really appreciated that.

Part of Quiet Cove Pool is Cove Cafe. This retreat is a cafe dedicated to adults, where you can relax with gourmet coffee, tea, and specialty drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) throughout the day. I love getting an iced mocha in this area on a hot day in the Caribbean , for example.

✦ Disney Cruise Line Adult-Only Activities

There are plenty of adult-only activities to enjoy, proving that Disney Cruise Line is for adults too but also that the ships' creators cared enough about them to focus on adult-only fun.

There are trivia nights for 18+, nightclubs, and specialty tastings (yes, with alcohol), to name a few. DCL also offers  adult-only excursions at some ports . We've seen a newlywed-type game or two get pretty “suggestive” in narration from the hosts on DCL!

Disney has made adult-only programming a focus as they have added more ships to the fleet. Evidence of this is Hook's Barbery on Disney Wish . It has a bourbon and whiskey bar inside, and they host tastings there. Guests can sign up for a tasting for an additional charge.

Other examples of DCL adult activities like this are martini tastings, chocolate and liquor tastings, stem-to-stern wine tastings, and more. Not every beverage tasting is available on every cruise but there are always some.

✦ Adult Shopping Onboard Disney Ships

One of our favorite things to do on a cruise ship is peruse the watches for sale. There's always an area on the ships for adult-only jewelry, including watches, Pandora charms, designer handbags, and more. Duty-free shopping is a highlight for many on any cruise.

✦ Exclusive Restaurants and Bars for Adults, Without Kids, on Disney Cruises

Disney focuses on culinary excellence, whether in their theme parks or around their Walt Disney World property . Most dining areas aboard Disney cruise ships are for every guest, regardless of age. But there are plenty of dining options for adults only .

Some restaurants and bars are adult-exclusive restaurants all the time, while others become adults-only after a certain hour. After hours, live entertainment, silent discos, and age-appropriate trivia are available in adult-focused venues.

The restaurants Palo (on various Disney Ships), Remy, and Enchanté are guest favorites. You can have Palo Brunch or Dinner , and dinner at the other restaurants. We love to get dressed up a bit nicer than the main rotation dining restaurants, have an alcoholic beverage before dinner, and do a little fine dining while enjoying it all kids-free. These restaurant experiences incur an additional cost, but they are worth every penny!

Additionally, some DCL ships have exclusive areas that are adults-only, which bear a special location name. They are:

• The District on Disney Dream
• Europa on Disney Fantasy
• After Hours on Disney Magic and Disney Magic

Adult Only Restaurants and Bars by Disney Cruise Ship

Disney wish.

• Palo Steakhouse
• Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement
• The Rose bar
• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge* bar
• Keg & Compass
• Nightingale's piano bar
• The Bayou* lounge and live music venue
• Untangled Salon
• Hook's Barbery

Disney Fantasy

• O'Gills Pub

Disney Wonder

• Crown & Fin Pub
• Cadillac Lounge
• French Quarter Lounge*

Disney Dream

• Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar
• District Lounge

Disney Magic

• Soul Cat Lounge*

*Adults-only after a certain hour but multi-purpose family-friendly venue during the day.

What to Expect on Castaway Cay During an Adult-Only Disney Cruise

If you're sailing in the Caribbean with DCL, it's likely that your Disney cruise, kids-free, will make a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

You'll be delighted to know that there's an adult-only beach, called Serenity Bay, area that's so private and quiet you'll forget there were any kids at all on your sailing, let alone the island. For a real indulgence, book a beach massage through Senses Spa.

There's also an area by this beach for an adults-only lunch.

Adults Can Be Kids during a Disney Cruise…If they Want

If you are an adult who wants to feel like a kid on a Disney cruise, it's up to you. There are plenty of opportunities to order Mickey ice cream bars, see characters if you should choose to have a photo taken with Pluto or Tiana, for instance, or stay up to midnight on Disney Wish to see the “Kiss Goodnight” in the Grand Hall.

Want to see Mickey and Minnie dancing on stage? No problem — head to the Sail Away party! But if you don't want to, you can also completely miss the Sail Away party (as in not even hear or see any part of it whatsoever) and relax with a beer or cocktail at one of the many bars on your Disney cruise ship.

✧ Do you See Characters Everywhere You Go on a Disney Cruise?

If you the terminal waiting to embark on your Disney Cruise and happen to be there when Mickey or Minnie pops out for photo opportunities, you may see a character. If you go to the pirate night to see the fireworks from the ship, you may see a character on stage.

But otherwise, you have to look at the daily Navigator schedule to really find characters. There have been cruises I hardly see any characters at all.

You don't see them unless you're specifically on the prowl and in the exact designated location at the exact time the Cruise Navigator says they'll be appearing. Which, if you think about it, is kind of the same way it is at the Disney theme parks .

✦ Get Ship Ready: Secure your Disney Cruise Line Gear!

Another way to feel like a kid while still adulting is to be a Disney Adult and plan your Disney Cruise Line outfits, tumblers, and more before you're even on the ship.

Check out Etsy's awesome DCL gear and also Amazon's cool Disney-themed attire and cruise essentials!

Conclusion of Enjoying a Disney Cruise Without Kids

You'll be wowed by Disney Cruise Line's opportunities to enjoy your cruise experience without kids.

So even if you're just an adult there to have a great time, with a love for the Disney brand, you'll enjoy the adult-only pools and cafe, the adult-only programming and nightclubs, and bars too. You'll even appreciate Castaway Cay from a different perspective!

Interested in a cruise with Disney or others? Also check out:

• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know
• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 
• Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks

Getting married on DCL? Check out Mikkel Paige Photography !

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Best Disney Cruise Rooms for Groups of 5

You know what they say: the more, the merrier! But when you’re planning a Disney Cruise with a large party, it can sometimes be hard to find the right accommodations.

Disney Cruise Line offers some of the largest staterooms in the cruise industry, but you’re still dealing with restricted real estate.

Even though Disney Cruise Line staterooms have been designed with families in mind, it’s still not a one-size, fits-all situation. Since families come in different sizes, luckily, so do Disney Cruise Line staterooms.

We’ve poured through the blueprints and manifolds, the square feet, the beds and bathrooms to find the best staterooms for families of five.

Disney Magic and Wonder

These sister ships offer four main categories of staterooms:

• Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah
• Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah
• Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah
• Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah
• Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Deluxe Inside Stateroom
• Standard Inside Stateroom

For families of five, you’ll book the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah , This stateroom has 304 square-feet of space, a  queen bed, single sleeper sofa, wall pull-down bed, and upper berth pull-down bed. Enough beds to sleep a family of 5! You can book this as a basic stateroom or in the concierge level (for a bit more dough).

The Concierge 1-Bed Suite with Verandah is a luxurious 614 square feet and offers a separate bedroom with a  queen bed; double sleeper sofa in living room; and a wall pull-down single bed in living room. This option also sleeps five, but offers a bit more elbow room.

And, of course, the most lavish of all the Magic and Wonder staterooms, the Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah . If you have a decadent vacation budget, this could be the choice for you! This suite is 1,029 square feet, 2 bedrooms, and sleeps up to 7!

Everything You Need to Know About the Disney Magic Cruise Ship

Disney dream and fantasy.

Like the Wonder and Magic, these sister ships offer four main categories of staterooms:

• Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

The key difference is the addition of the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom.

For families of five, you’ll book the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom. This stateroom has 241 square feet of space, a queen bed, a single sleeper sofa, a wall pull-down bed (in most), or an upper-berth pull-down bed (in some). Enough beds to sleep a family of 5, but not a ton of living-space.

If you’re looking for a bit more space and a private veranda, then the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah might be for you. This stateroom has 299 square feet of space, a queen bed with an open frame, a single sleeper sofa, a single wall pull-down bed (in most), and an upper-berth pull-down bed (in some). Enough beds to sleep a family of 5! You can book this as a basic stateroom or in the concierge level (for a bit more dough and a bit more space at 304 square feet).

The Concierge 1 Bedroom Suite with Verandah is a luxurious 622 square feet and offers a separate bedroom with a queen bed, double sleeper sofa in the living room, and a wall pull-down single bed in the living room. This option also sleeps five, but offers a bit more elbow room.

And, of course, the most lavish of all the Dream and Fantasy staterooms, the Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah . If you have a decadent vacation budget, this could be the choice for you! This suite is 1,781 square feet and sleeps up to 5. It has a bedroom with a queen bed, a wall-pull-down double bed, and a wall-pull-down single bed in the living room.

Everything You Need to Know About the Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney wish, treasure, and destiny.

• Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah
• Concierge 1-Story Royal Suite with Verandah
• Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Extended Verandah
• Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom

Do you see what we see? Yup. A LOT more concierge options! So, if you’re looking to cruise in style, this could be your ship!

Let’s start at the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom. This stateroom has 237 square feet of space and can sleep 4-5 people. It comes with a queen bed, single convertible sofa, upper-berth single pull-down bed and single wall pull-down bed (for rooms that sleep 5).

Next up is the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah . This stateroom has 284 square feet of space (or 296 square feet at the concierge level) and can sleep 4-5 people. It comes with a queen bed, single convertible sofa, upper-berth single pull-down bed, and single wall pull-down bed (for rooms that sleep 5)

The Concierge 1 Bedroom Suite with Verandah is a luxurious 608 square feet and offers a separate bedroom with a king bed; living area with double convertible sofa and single wall pull-down bed. This option also sleeps five, but offers a bit more elbow room. You can also get the option with an Extended Verandah for some more space for private sunbathing.

Looking to cruise in the style of Sleeping Beauty ? Then check out the Concierge 1-Story Royal Suite with Verandah . The suite has 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a private verandah complete with a whirlpool, and enough beds to sleep up six! At 1,507 square feet (practically a house!), you’ve got a ton of space for everyone in the family.

Continue your journey into family luxury cruising and take a look at the Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah . With 1,759 square feet, 2 main bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and equipped with 2 king beds and a large living area with a queen convertible sofa, you’ve got enough space here for a family of six.

And last but not least, the Concierge Tower Suite.  The Wish, Treasure, and Destiny each host these Tower Suites, but each has a different theme and decor. The Tower Suites offer 2 main bedrooms with 1 king bed in each room, a children’s bedroom with unique bunk beds, and a library/bedroom with queen size wall bed. You’ll also have access to 4.5 bathrooms a living room, dining room and a grand spiral staircase! All in 1,966 square feet to sleep up 8 individuals.

The Wish and the Treasure definitely stack up quite a few more options for larger families, so if you want the most stateroom options, these should probably be your first stop.

Everything You Need to Know About the Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Cruise Line offers a number of staterooms that can accommodate families of five. If you have a little wiggle room in your budget and desire a bit more living space, you can also consider booking two staterooms. They don’t offer adjoining or connecting staterooms, but you can get them side by side for if you’re traveling with teens or young adults who can stay on their own.

Keep following AllEars for all of the latest Disney Cruise Line news and tips! To keep planning, check out these other posts!

• Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Line Ships
• I Had No Idea This Is What Happens On a 7-Night Disney Cruise
• What’s Included on a Disney Cruise

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to get the free list of 50 tips for going on a Disney Cruise! Click here to get started!

Are you planning a Disney Cruise? Let us know in the comments below!

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How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Vacation Cost?

Wondering how much a Disney Cruise Line vacation cost? We break down the specifics to help guide you through what you need to know.

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation can be a bit overwhelming. Whether it’s choosing your ship or the time of year you want to sail, you’ll find no lack of choices with Disney cruises. 

In this guide, we will break down how much an average Disney Cruise Line vacation can cost. Additionally, we’ll look at how the price can differentiate depending on which ship and time you sail, and other amenities and add-ons. 

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Sailing Cost?

While this is a simple question, it is not so simple to answer.  When considering a Disney Cruise Line vacation you can book on one of five different ships: Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , and Disney Wish . (A sixth ship, Disney Treasure , will be joining the fleet in 2024 .)

Within each Disney Cruise Line ship, you will have the option of various types of rooms. These include an inside stateroom, a stateroom with a porthole, a stateroom with a verandah, and a concierge room. Or, on the ships where they are available, a specialty suite stateroom. 

Below is an outline of what each stateroom offers:

• Inside Stateroom : This type of stateroom is perfect for two to four Guests and includes all the necessities, such as a closet, drawers for your clothes, a bed, etc. There are no windows or ocean views with an inside stateroom.
• Oceanview Stateroom : This stateroom is the next level up from an inside stateroom and is also perfect for parties with two to four Guests. While you won’t be able to step out and feel the fresh breeze on your face, you will still be able to see the stunning ocean view through the in-room porthole.
• Oceanview with Verandah : Now, for those who want to get a bit more boujee, I recommend the Oceanview with a Verandah. Not only are these staterooms spacious, but they are perfect for parties between two and five people and offer a private verandah (also known as a balcony) so that you and your party can enjoy the fresh breeze and ocean smells all in your own private space.
• Concierge : Now we are getting into the royalty of Disney Cruise Line staterooms. A Concierge Suite is the biggest onboard accommodation and is perfect for parties of five to seven Guests. There are a number of different suite options, but all of them include a verandah. All Concierge-level staterooms offer personal attention from Concierge Services, making you feel like a King or Queen. 

But one of the most important factors in a Disney Cruise Line vacation is where the cruise ship leaves from, what the itinerary consists of, and the duration of the entire cruise. 

What we mean by that is – each of the Disney Cruise Line ships offers a different duration of sailing and a different itinerary. For example, the Disney Wish typically sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida on three- to five-night cruises to the Bahamas while the Disney Wonder offers longer cruises to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Coast, and has departure ports in Canada, Australia, and other locations. 

Photo by Bill Ryan

With all of this being said, the baseline of a Disney Cruise Line vacation can range anywhere from $1,300 (for a three-night sailing with an inside stateroom) to nearly $30,000 (for a 10-night sailing with a concierge-level room.) 

Cost of Booking a Disney Cruise

While that range is huge , what’s nice about the baseline pricing is that your room, and dining options are included in the base price. That includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the quick-service locations and main dining rooms, select snacks, entertainment, and activities on board.

For example, each night you will be assigned dinner in one of the three main dining rooms on your Disney Cruise Line ship . Anything you order (besides alcohol or specialty drinks) is included in the price of your cruise. This is in addition to any room service or quick-service locations on board that you may utilize for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack. 

Arendelle on the Disney Wish. Photo by Danny Shuster

In addition to food, Disney Cruise Line offers state-of-the-art entertainment options every night during your sailing. This includes Broadway-style shows and live music in select lounges and bars. Movies will also be playing periodically throughout the day on both the Tunnel Vision (the outside screen by the pools) and in the Walt Disney movie theater. All of these entertainment options are included with the price of your cruise (plus, what’s a movie without popcorn? And yes, the popcorn is free, too!)

When you have decided on which ship and which itinerary you want to set sail on, you will be required to put down a deposit, and then you can make payments on your vacation until the full amount is due (typically a few months before your sailing.). After your cruise is paid in full, you can then begin booking extras aboard Disney Cruise Line, such as massages at the Senses Spa, wine and beer tastings, adult dining options, and more – which brings us to our next question. 

What is NOT Included in the Cost of Booking

While, for the most part, everything is included with the price of your cruise, some offerings come at an extra cost. Let’s break down some of what that entails.

Transportation and Parking at the Port

Parking fees at the departure ports can vary, depending on what state or country you are sailing out of. But, to give you an idea, parking at Port Canaveral, which is driving distance from Walt Disney World, is $17 per day plus tax.

If you are not looking to park your car at a cruise terminal, and are looking for a transfer, Disney Cruise Line does offer transfers to and from most airports and departure ports. For example, from Vancouver airport to the Vancouver cruise port, Disney offers transfers for $25 per person each way. Meanwhile, transfers from Disney World to Port Canaveral cost $39 per person each way. 

Specialty Dining, Non-Included Food and Drinks

While most food and soft drinks are included with the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation, some options are not included, such as alcoholic beverages. On average, alcoholic drinks can range in price from $6 to over $20, depending on what you order.

While Disney does not offer an alcoholic drink package for the duration of your cruise, they do offer a Beer Mug special, Happy Hour specials, and a Sommelier Bin. Be sure to ask a Crew Member for the most updated information regarding these special offers once you are on board as they may vary from ship to ship or cruise to cruise. 

Disney Cruise Line also offers specialty dining, which is not part of the three main dining rooms that we mentioned before. These specialty dining options are for adults only, and while they cost extra money, it may be worth the price for an intimate night alone with your other half. Palo and Remy are the two adults-only restaurants on Disney Cruise Line. 

Palo on the Disney Wonder. Photo by Bill Wood.

Palo dining prices are set at $50 per person for either an all-you-can-eat brunch or a prix fixe dinner, while Remy dining prices are as follows:

• Dinner is $125 per person. 
• Brunch is $75 per person. 
• The Remy Dessert Experience is $60 per person.

When on a Disney Cruise Line, you can opt to pre-pay for gratuities for a carefree, all-inclusive experience. Pre-paid gratuities are for the following Crew Members who take care of you for the duration of your cruise:

• Dining room server
• Dining room assistant server
• Dining room head server
• Stateroom host

To pre-pay for gratuities, visit the My Reservations section in your Disney account and follow the prompts for Pre-Paid Gratuities. If you do not want to Pre-Pay Gratuities, Disney will automatically charge your onboard account the suggested gratuity amount of $14.50 per night, per stateroom Guest.

In addition to your dining staff and stateroom hosts, an 18% gratuity is automatically added to any bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs, and spa services. If you order room service, add extras to your rotational dining, or visit one of the adults-only restaurants, gratuities are not automatically included.

Cost of Excursions

When sailing on Disney Cruise Line, you can book extras on board such as beer and wine seminars, spa services, and more. Additionally, off-board excursions such as kayaking, sightseeing, beach days, and more are offered. Each of these “extras” will cost you extra money, but the prices will vary depending on the type of offering or excursion. Be sure to check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app when looking at these offerings. 

Cost of Spa Services

Each Disney Cruise Line ship features a Senses Spa. Guests can choose from a multitude of spa and beauty treatments, including manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and more. Each of these services is not included in the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation. For the most updated pricing, be sure to check on your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. 

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Meet the Panelist: Tracie, Florida

Ahoy! Just like Moana, I feel the irresistible call of the sea. I think the best vacation is aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship – thankfully, my family agrees. Whether savoring gelato in Italy, snorkeling in Mexico, or basking in the sea breeze on deck, each destination fills us with memories to last a lifetime. I look forward to helping your family plan a Disney Cruise Line adventure brimming with cherished moments!

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