Disney

For a lot of families, a Disney trip is considered a dream holiday. But should you go for a Disney parks visit, or would a Disney cruise be more fun for your family?

I’ve done plenty of both, so let’s compare them side by side..

If, like me, you live in UK, the two easiest options are a hop over the Channel to immerse yourself in Disneyland Paris, or a Disney cruise from Southampton.

But how do they compare, and crucially, which is more expensive? You might be surprised.

Disney Cruises Offer Better Value

In the rest of this guide, I’ll explain in detail why a Disney cruise offers better value than a trip to Disneyland Paris. But if you just want the quick and easy answer, here’s a comparison table:

Costs & Inclusions	Disneyland Paris	Disney Dream cruise
Family of 4 total cost	4* Newport Bay Club – £5,508	Oceanview Stateroom – £4,778
Meals	✅	✅
Snacks	✅ 1 Per Day	✅ Unlimited
Non-Alcoholic Drinks	✅ 1 Per Meal (Lunch & Dinner) ✅ 1 Extra Per Day (Non-alcoholic or alcoholic)	✅ Unlimited fountain sodas
Alcoholic Drinks	✅ 1 Per Day (Non-alcoholic or alcoholic)	✖️
Live Shows	✅	✅
Gratuities	N/A	✅ Included In The Price Above
WiFi	✅	✖️
Premier Access (Queue Skip)	✖️	N/A
Excursions	N/A	✖️

Disneyland Paris Vs. a Disney Cruise – Costs Explained

In order to compare the cost of a trip to Disneyland Paris against a Disney cruise, I needed to find comparable options.

Here’s a big caveat – prices vary hugely depending on how you choose to do each trip.

You could do Disneyland Paris much cheaper by staying off-site, skipping the dining plan, and keeping food costs down with quick-service meals or snacks. Equally, you could spend far more by upgrading hotels or adding extras.

The same applies to cruises, although there’s generally less flexibility once you’ve booked.

For this comparison, I’ve tried to keep things as fair and like-for-like as possible – factoring in a similar level of comfort, convenience, and overall experience.

Because ultimately, you’re not just comparing the cheapest possible version of each trip – you’re comparing what most families would realistically book.

So, Disneyland Paris is actually cheaper? Well not exactly…

What’s Included with Each

To really understand the costs involved, you need to know what’s included in the price you’re paying. Your base price only gets you so far…

Disneyland Paris

So what do you actually get for that starting price?

For £3,028, your package includes Eurostar travel from London, four nights in a Disney hotel, and park tickets for the duration of your stay. That means transport, accommodation, and entry into both Disneyland Park and Disney Adventure World are all covered – the essentials are taken care of.

However, this price is based on one of the more budget-friendly on-site options – Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe, a two-star hotel.

It’s perfectly fine for families and keeps you within the Disney “bubble,” but it’s very much the entry-level experience.

To make this a fair comparison with a Disney cruise, it’s also worth looking at the mid-range and higher-end Disney hotels.

(And yes, you could go cheaper by staying off-site, but for a fair comparison, and to avoid extra transport costs and hassle, it makes sense to stick with Disney hotels).

For the dates I’ve chosen, here are the prices for each Disney property – and remember, this is just hotel, theme park tickets and Eurostar for a family of 4:

• Hotel Santa Fe (2*) – £3,028
• Disney Sequoia Lodge (3*) – £3,280
• Disney Hotel Cheyenne (3*) – £3,355
• Disney Newport Bay Club (4*) – £3,876
• Disney Hotel New York – Art of Marvel (4*) – £4,024
• Disneyland Hotel (5*) – £5,418

In terms of overall standard, a Disney cruise stateroom is much closer to the 4* hotel options at Disneyland Paris.

That’s why I’ve used Newport Bay Club in the comparison table at the top – as it’s the closest like-for-like match.

So while Disneyland Paris can be done for around £3,000, a more comparable experience comes in closer to £3,800–£4,000 before food.

And food is where things really start to add up.

Unlike a cruise, meals aren’t included in your base price. You can either pay as you go – which can get expensive quickly – or add a dining plan. The closest equivalent to the cruise experience is the Extra Plus Meal Plan, which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus one snack and one drink per person per day.

For a family of four over four nights, that comes in at £1,632 – a significant extra on top of your initial cost.

It’s even more expensive if you book the 5* Disneyland Hotel, which has the Full Board Premium dining plan for £2,704 for 4 people for 4 nights…

Disney Cruise

Now let’s look at what you get for that higher upfront cruise price.

For £4,647, your fare includes your accommodation onboard, all main meals, snacks throughout the day, and a huge amount of onboard entertainment. From the moment you step on the ship, almost everything is taken care of – no extra planning required.

Food is a big part of this. You’ll have breakfast, lunch, dinner, soft drinks, and snacks all included, whether that’s quick bites by the pool or full sit-down meals in themed restaurants.

There’s no need to budget separately for meals in the way you do at Disneyland Paris.

You’re also paying for the experience beyond just a place to stay. That includes Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, kids clubs, pools, cinemas, and activities running throughout the day. For families, especially, a lot of what you’d normally pay extra for elsewhere is already built into the price.

It’s worth noting there are some extras, but we’ll get to those. To be clear though, the £4,647 price includes gratuities. I wanted to bundle those into the price because you’ll be expected to pay them, and so they count as part of the base fare.

Read more: What’s Included in a Disney Cruise (And How Much is Everything Else)

What You Actually Do on Each Trip

One of the biggest differences between these two options isn’t just cost – it’s what your days actually look like.

At Disneyland Paris, the focus is very much on rides and attractions. Your time is spent moving around the parks, queueing, and trying to fit in as much as possible – from thrill rides to parades and fireworks. It’s busy, high-energy, and very much the classic Disney theme park experience.

A Disney cruise is a different type of holiday.

There are still plenty of things to do – including pools, waterslides, kids clubs, character meet-and-greets, and activities running throughout the day – but the experience is less about rushing from one attraction to the next.

Instead of rides, the highlight is often the live shows, which are genuinely on par with West End productions, along with the overall onboard atmosphere.

That difference is important.

If your priority is rides, Disneyland Paris will always come out ahead. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience with plenty to do without the queues, the cruise offers something very different.

Read more: Disney Cruise Water Slides: The Ultimate Guide

Other costs to consider

🍿 Snacks

At Disneyland Paris, snacks aren’t included in your base fare. If you add the Extra Plus Meal Plan, you’ll get one snack per person per day – which is probably enough for most people, but anything beyond that is extra.

On a Disney cruise, it’s a different story.

You can snack pretty much whenever you like, with quick-service food available throughout the day, unlimited soft-serve ice cream, and even 24-hour room service included. If you fancy a cheeseburger or a Mickey ice cream bar late at night, you just need to pick up the phone.

🥤 Non-alcoholic drinks

At Disneyland Paris, you’ll be paying for most drinks. The dining plan includes one soft drink per meal, plus one additional alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, but anything additional comes at an extra cost.

On a Disney cruise, fountain soft drinks are included at all times, which can make a noticeable difference over a few days. That said, specialty coffees and fresh juices are still extra.

Both options do offer free water stations, so you can refill bottles throughout your trip.

🍹 Alcoholic drinks

Alcohol isn’t included at either destination, beyond the one free drink per day you get with the Disneyland Extra Plus dining plan.

Disney Cruise Line also doesn’t offer drinks packages like many other cruise lines, so you’ll be paying per drink – just as you would at Disneyland Paris. In general, prices are fairly similar between the two.

Read more: Complete Guide To Disney Cruise Drink Packages

📶 WiFi

This is one area where Disneyland Paris has the edge.

WiFi is included at the hotels and in the parks, so you can stay connected without any extra cost.

On a Disney cruise, WiFi isn’t included and can be expensive. Packages start at around £12 per device per day for basic access, rising to around £26 per day for premium. The onboard app is free to use, but anything beyond that requires a paid plan.

Realistically though, this might be the perfect excuse to switch off for a few days.

🧳 Travel to departure point

This is one area where it’s hard to make a direct comparison – because it really depends on where you live.

For some, getting to London for the Eurostar will be quick and inexpensive. For others, Southampton will be closer and easier. Costs could include train fares, fuel, overnight stays, or parking at the port.

The key takeaway is that both options are likely to have an added “getting there” cost – but which one is cheaper or simpler will vary from person to person.

🎟️ Queue skipping / Premier Access

This is one of the biggest potential extra costs at Disneyland Paris.

If you want to avoid long queues, you may end up paying for Premier Access, which allows you to skip the line on popular rides. Costs vary, but over a few days, this can add up quickly – especially for a family.

On a Disney cruise, there’s no equivalent cost. Entertainment, shows, and character experiences are all included, without needing to pay extra to access them. You’re not going to be queuing for a long time for any activities either.

🌍 Port days / excursions

If your cruise includes port stops, it’s worth factoring in the cost of shore excursions.

These are optional, but can be expensive depending on what you choose. On the 4-night cruise I used for this comparison, you’re only getting one port of call, and that’ll often be the case on shorter itineraries – most of your time will be spent at sea.

That said, you don’t have to book them – you can explore independently or stay onboard and enjoy a quieter ship.

It’s not a guaranteed extra cost, but it’s something to keep in mind when budgeting.

Read more: The Real Cost of a Disney Cruise Compared to Other Cruise Lines

Effort vs. Ease

Cost is one thing – but how much effort it takes to actually have the holiday is another.

A trip to Disneyland Paris, even on a package, still involves a fair bit of planning. You’ll need to think about travel timings, park strategy, where and when to eat, and whether it’s worth paying extra to skip queues.

Once you’re there, it can feel quite full-on – early starts, long days, and a lot of walking.

A Disney cruise is almost the opposite experience.

Once you arrive at the port and step onboard, everything is taken care of. There’s no need to plan your days in advance, no rushing between locations, and no pressure to “fit everything in.”

Food, entertainment, and activities are all in one place, and you can take things at your own pace.

That difference in effort doesn’t show up in the price – but it can make a big difference to how the holiday actually feels.

Age Suitability

Both options are fantastic for families – but they shine in slightly different ways depending on your children’s ages.

For younger kids, a Disney cruise can be hard to beat.

Character interactions are everywhere, there’s plenty of space to explore, and the kids clubs are included – giving them freedom to play while adults get some downtime. The pace is also much more relaxed, which can make a big difference with younger children.

Disneyland Paris, on the other hand, tends to appeal more as kids get older.

If your children are excited by rides, shows, and the classic theme park experience, Paris delivers that in a way a cruise simply can’t. For older kids and teens, the independence of exploring the parks and the thrill rides are a big part of the appeal.

Of course, there’s overlap – both trips will feel special at any age. But if you’re choosing between the two, it’s worth thinking about what kind of experience your children will enjoy most right now.

Final Word

So, which one should you choose?

If your priority is keeping costs as low as possible, then Disneyland Paris will usually come out ahead. You can scale it up or down depending on your budget – from staying off-site and eating cheaply, to going all-in with dining plans and premium hotels.

If you’re focused on rides and that classic theme park experience, Disneyland Paris is the clear winner. It’s busy, energetic, and packed with attractions – especially for older kids and teens.

But if what you want is a stress-free, all-inclusive-style holiday, that’s where the Disney cruise really stands out.

Once you’re onboard, almost everything is taken care of. Food, entertainment, activities – it’s all included, and there’s no pressure to plan your days or spend extra just to enjoy yourself. You’re not constantly weighing up costs or deciding whether something is “worth it” – you can just get on with enjoying the holiday.

For families in particular, that ease can make a huge difference.

So while Disneyland Paris might look cheaper at first glance, a Disney cruise often delivers better overall value for the experience you actually get.

Related Posts

Disney Adventure is the biggest Disney Cruise Line ship by far, with 2,111 staterooms onboard. To put that into perspective, that’s 67% more cabins that Disney’s next biggest cruise ships, the Wish-class ships Disney Wish, Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny. Wow.

But Disney Adventure also has an unusual history – which may have had an impact on some of the staterooms offered on this ship.

And there are plenty of categories to choose from, so where do you even start?

I’ve looked at everything I can find on Disney Adventure’s staterooms – floorplans, deck plans for the ship, early reviews and more – to put together this ultimate guide to your options – including some cabins you might prefer to avoid booking.

You’ll definitely want to read this before you commit to a stateroom…

Disney Adventure History

Before we get into the stateroom categories, a quick bit of info on the ship’s history, because it seems to have had an impact on some of the accommodation options.

Originally, the ship was being built for the company Genting Hong Kong, with plans to sail under originally the Star Cruises brand and later the Dream Cruises brand as Global Dream. And construction was well underway by the time Genting Hong Kong went bankrupt, and the ship was ultimately sold to Disney Cruise Line in November 2022.

Since then, Disney Cruise Line has been finishing construction and modifying the ship to give it that Disney flair. And she looks stunning, so they’ve done a great job overall.

But there are some basic stateroom categories that seem to have resulted from the bumpy construction journey, which may not have that typical Disney signature feel. They’re definitely good options for some cruisers, though, but as we get into the detail you’ll see what I mean and then can make your own mind up on which is right for you.

Disney Adventure Stateroom Categories

Each stateroom or suite on the Disney Adventure is assigned a category number. These start at 1A for the Concierge Royal Suite, the most luxurious accommodation on the ship, and go all the way down to 11A for the most affordable Inside Staterooms.

The table below shows the different room categories on the Disney Adventure, along with how many people each one sleeps and the approximate size of the cabin, including any balcony where applicable.

Room	Categories	Sleeps	Size in square feet (square metres)
Concierge Royal Suite with Oceanview Verandah	1A	6	2,461 (229)
Concierge 1-Bedroom Oceanview Suite	1B, 1C	5-6	822-1,156 (76-107)
Concierge Suite with Oceanview Verandah	2A	6	1,059 (98)
Concierge Oceanview Suites	2B, 2C	6	794-1,053 (74-98)
Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah	3A, 3B	6	730-1,292 (68-120)
Concierge Family Oceanview Suite	3C	5	419 (39)
Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Garden View Verandah	4A, 4B	6	507 (47)
Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Oceanview Verandah	4C	5	507 (47)
Concierge Inside Family Stateroom	4D	6	419 (39)
Deluxe Garden View Stateroom with Verandah	5A, 5B	4	253 (24)
Deluxe Reef View Stateroom with Verandah	5C	4	253 (24)
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah	6A, 6B, 6C, 6D	5	253 (24)
Stateroom with Verandah	7A	4	209 (19)
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom	8A	4	209 (19)
Oceanview Stateroom	9A	4	165 (15)
Deluxe Inside Stateroom with Reef View	10A	4	209 (19)
Deluxe Inside Stateroom	10B, 10C, 10D	3-4	209 (19)
Inside Stateroom	11A	4	165 (15)

On any cruise ship, some rooms are more desirable than others. If you’re choosing a stateroom on the Disney Adventure, make sure you grab a copy of my free checklist that will help you avoid cabins in the worst locations:

And if you’re travelling with a bigger group, you might also want to check out my guide to the Disney Cruise Line staterooms and suites for big families.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the different rooms on the Disney Adventure and what you can expect from each category.

Concierge Royal Suite with Oceanview Verandah

Category 1A

The most luxurious accommodation on the Disney Adventure is the Concierge Royal Suite with Oceanview Verandah. There are two of these incredible suites on the ship – the Elsa Royal Suite and the Anna Royal Suite – both inspired by the world of Disney’s Frozen.

These suites are designed to feel more like a high-end apartment than a cruise cabin. They feature a large living space, a separate dining area and beautifully themed décor that reflects the characters they’re named after.

The Elsa Royal Suite has a cool, elegant look with icy light fixtures, snowflake patterns and a palette of soft blues, greys and purples. Meanwhile, the Anna Royal Suite leans into warmer tones, with deep greens, rich wood and signature purple accents inspired by the character’s adventurous spirit.

One of the real highlights of these suites is the outdoor space. Each Royal Suite has two private verandahs, one of which includes a private whirlpool tub along with seating where you can relax and enjoy the ocean views.

The living area is designed for entertaining as well as relaxing, with a large lounge space, an open dining room and a wet bar stocked with water and sodas. There’s even a Sub-Zero wine cooler, which definitely helps reinforce that luxury suite feel.

As you’d expect, the Royal Suites also include a long list of premium amenities, such as Frette Egyptian cotton linens, BVLGARI bath products, a 65-inch TV, motorised blackout curtains, a coffee and tea setup, and plenty of charging ports.

If you want the absolute best accommodation available on the Disney Adventure, this is it.

Concierge 1-Bedroom Oceanview Suite

Category 1B, 1C

The Concierge 1-Bedroom Suites on the Disney Adventure offer a huge amount of space, along with some impressive themed design inspired by Disney and Marvel stories.

These suites come in two categories. Category 1B suites are the largest, with up to 1,156 square feet of space, while Category 1C suites are slightly smaller at around 822 square feet. Either way, they’re much larger than a standard cruise ship cabin.

The design theme depends on which suite you’re staying in. Some are inspired by the Royal Palace of Valaskjalf from the Thor films, while others take their cues from the Sultan’s Palace in Disney’s Aladdin, with rich colours and ornate details.

Each suite includes a main bedroom with a king bed, along with a separate living area that provides additional sleeping space. In the 1B suites, the living area includes a sofa bed and a lower wall pull-down bed, while the 1C suites include a sofa bed and two pull-down beds.

Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in plenty of natural light and give you wide ocean views, although these suites do not include a balcony.

Suggested read: Disney Cruise Concierge Perks

Concierge Suite with Oceanview Verandah

Category 2A

The Concierge Suites with Oceanview Verandah on the Disney Adventure offer plenty of space along with beautiful Frozen-inspired theming. These suites are designed to make you feel like royalty during your cruise.

There are two versions of this suite, themed around Anna and Elsa. The Elsa Suite features icy light fixtures, snowflake patterns and a palette of soft blues and greys with touches of periwinkle and purple. The Anna Suite has a warmer look, with deep greens, rich wood tones and signature purple accents.

Each suite measures around 1,059 square feet, including the private balcony, so there’s lots of room to spread out. The layout includes a main bedroom with a king bed, a secondary bedroom with a full bed and a living area with a sofa bed, allowing the suite to sleep up to six guests.

One interesting feature is that these suites can connect directly to the Concierge Royal Suites next door. This makes them a great option for larger families or groups travelling together who want plenty of space while still staying close.

The suites also include a private balcony where you can enjoy the ocean views through the forward-facing floor-to-ceiling windows.

Concierge Oceanview Suites

Category 2B, 2C

The Concierge Oceanview Suites on the Disney Adventure are spacious suites designed for families who want plenty of room to spread out, along with large ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

These suites come in two categories. Category 2B suites are the larger option at around 1,053 square feet, while Category 2C suites are slightly smaller at around 794 square feet. Both layouts can sleep up to six guests.

Each suite includes a main bedroom with a king bed, a secondary bedroom with a full bed and a separate living area with a sofa bed. There are also two bathrooms, which is always helpful when several people are sharing a cabin.

The living space includes a dining area and minibar, along with large windows that bring in plenty of natural light and give you great ocean views.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Category 3A, 3B

The Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah staterooms in categories 3A and 3B are some of the largest non-suite rooms on the Disney Adventure. They offer a lot of space along with large wrap-around balconies that give you fantastic ocean views.

Category 3A is the largest option at around 1,292 square feet including the balcony, while category 3B rooms range from about 729 to 1,037 square feet depending on their position on the ship.

These staterooms are themed around Moana and have a bright, adventurous feel inspired by the film. Inside, you’ll find a king bed, a sofa bed and a wall pull-down bed, allowing the room to sleep up to five guests.

There’s also a living area with a dining table and an oversized bathroom with a double sink and shower, which makes getting ready much easier when several people are sharing the space.

One of the highlights is the large wrap-around verandah. These balconies offer plenty of outdoor space with seating so you can relax and enjoy the sea views. The category 3A stateroom also includes a private whirlpool tub on the balcony, which is a pretty special feature.

Concierge Family Oceanview Suite

Category 3C

It’s a little confusing, but this 3C category is still a suite, despite the ‘higher’ 3A and 3B categories being considered as staterooms.

The Concierge Family Oceanview Suites are a good option if you want more space than a standard stateroom but don’t necessarily need a balcony.

These suites measure around 419 square feet and can sleep up to five guests. The layout includes a main bedroom with a king bed, along with a separate living area that features a sofa bed and a lower pull-down bed.

Large windows bring in plenty of natural light and give you great ocean views, while the living area also includes a window bench where you can sit and watch the sea go by.

There’s an oversized bathroom, along with a small dining area and a minibar in the living space.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Garden View Verandah

Category 4A, 4B

The Concierge Family Garden View with Verandah staterooms offer a spacious layout along with a unique view overlooking the Disney Imagination Garden area on the ship.

These rooms measure around 507 square feet including the balcony and can sleep up to six guests. The layout includes a main bedroom with a king bed, a secondary bedroom with a full bed and a living area with a sofa bed.

There are also two bathrooms, which is always useful when several people are sharing a cabin. The extra space and separate sleeping areas make these staterooms a good option for families travelling together.

The private balcony includes seating where you can relax and enjoy the view over the Imagination Garden below, which is a little different from the usual ocean-facing verandah – ideal for watching the entertainment in comfort.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Oceanview Verandah

Category 4C

Category 4C staterooms technically sit in the same Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah group, but they’re quite different in terms of layout and design.

These cabins are smaller at up to around 507 square feet including the balcony, although they’re still spacious compared with standard cruise cabins.

Instead of a single open layout, the 4C rooms are designed more like a compact suite. They include a main bedroom with a king bed, a secondary bedroom with a full bed and a living area with a sofa bed, allowing the room to sleep up to six guests.

The theming in these staterooms is inspired by either Thor or Aladdin, depending on the specific cabin. Each one also includes a private balcony with seating where you can enjoy the ocean views during your cruise.

They share a floorplan with the Garden View Concierge Staterooms above.

Concierge Inside Family Stateroom

Category 4D

The Concierge Inside Family Staterooms on the Disney Adventure are a good option for larger families who want plenty of space but don’t mind skipping the ocean view.

These cabins measure around 420 square feet and can sleep up to six guests. The layout includes a main bedroom with a king bed, a secondary bedroom with a full bed and a living area with a sofa bed. There are also two bathrooms, which makes getting ready much easier when several people are sharing the space.

The design is inspired by Thor, with subtle nods to the Marvel universe throughout the room.

Although these are inside staterooms with no exterior view, the layout feels much more like a small suite thanks to the separate bedrooms and extra space.

A couple of cabins in this category have a slightly different setup, with a twin bed and chair bed instead of the standard secondary bedroom arrangement.

Deluxe Garden View Stateroom with Verandah

Category 5A, 5B

The Deluxe Garden View with Verandah staterooms let you enjoy views over the Disney Imagination Garden from your own private balcony. Similar to the Concierge Garden View suites mentioned earlier, these rooms overlook the central entertainment area of the ship rather than the open ocean.

At around 253 square feet including the balcony, these cabins are slightly larger than a standard verandah stateroom and can sleep up to four guests. The layout includes a queen bed and a sofa bed, along with a sitting area and desk.

Like most Disney Cruise Line staterooms, these rooms feature the clever split bathroom design. One side includes a shower and sink, while the other has a sink and toilet, which makes it much easier for families to get ready.

Deluxe Reef View Stateroom with Verandah

Category 5C

The Deluxe Reef View Staterooms with Verandah have the same layout and features as the Garden View rooms. They measure around 253 square feet including the balcony and sleep up to four guests, with a queen bed and a sofa bed along with a sitting area and the usual split bathroom design that Disney Cruise Line is known for.

The difference is the view. Instead of overlooking the Imagination Garden, these cabins face the Discovery Reef area at the rear of the ship. This open-air space is themed around underwater worlds from films like The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Lilo & Stitch and Luca.

By day you’ll see the lively restaurants, cafés and bars in this area, and by night the space transforms with colourful lighting designed to create a bioluminescent reef effect.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Category 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D

The Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah have the same layout as the Garden View and Reef View rooms mentioned above.

They measure around 253 square feet including the balcony and sleep up to four guests, with a queen bed, sofa bed, sitting area and Disney’s signature split bathroom design.

The key difference here is the view. Instead of overlooking one of the ship’s themed open-air areas, these cabins face the open ocean.

If you’d rather enjoy uninterrupted sea views from your private balcony, this is the version of the room to go for.

Stateroom with Verandah

Category 7A

The Staterooms with Verandah are the most affordable way to get a private balcony on the Disney Adventure. If having outdoor space is a priority but you’re trying to keep costs down, these cabins can be an appealing option.

At around 209 square feet including the balcony, they’re smaller than the Deluxe Verandah rooms. They can sleep up to four guests and feature two bench-style beds that convert for sleeping, along with two upper pull-down beds.

The main difference compared with other Disney Cruise Line Verandah cabins is that these rooms don’t include a traditional bed or sofa bed setup. Instead, the bench seating converts into single beds at night.

That works perfectly well for some guests, but they may not feel quite as comfortable as the proper beds found in the Deluxe categories.

That said, if you mainly want somewhere to shower, change and step out onto your balcony to enjoy the ocean air, these cabins could still be a good value choice.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

Category 8A

The Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms are a step up from the standard Oceanview cabins, offering more space and a more traditional bed setup.

These rooms measure up to around 209 square feet and can sleep up to four guests. The layout includes a queen bed and a sofa bed, along with a small sitting area and desk. A privacy curtain can be drawn between the sleeping and living areas, which is helpful if some guests want to go to bed earlier than others.

A large window lets in plenty of natural light and gives you great ocean views, while Disney’s split bathroom design makes getting ready much easier for families. One side includes a shower and sink, with a second sink and toilet on the other.

Overall, these are a comfortable option if you want sea views and a proper bed without paying for a verandah.

Oceanview Stateroom

Category 9A

The Oceanview Staterooms measure around 165 square feet and can sleep up to four guests. Like the entry-level verandah rooms, they feature two bench-style beds that convert for sleeping, along with two upper pull-down beds.

During the day, the benches create a small sitting area, and you’ll also find a vanity desk and Disney Cruise Line’s usual split bathroom layout. That includes a shower and sink on one side, with a second sink and toilet on the other.

While the bench bed setup isn’t quite the same as the traditional bed found in the Deluxe categories, these rooms are still a solid option if you want a sea view and some natural light without paying for a balcony.

Deluxe Inside Stateroom with Reef View

Category 10A

The Deluxe Inside Staterooms measure around 209 square feet and can sleep up to four guests, with a queen bed and a sofa bed along with a sitting area and desk. A privacy curtain separates the sleeping and living areas, and you’ll also find Disney Cruise Line’s usual split bathroom design.

Although these are technically inside cabins, they do have a window that overlooks the Discovery Reef area of the ship rather than the open ocean. That means you may be able to enjoy views of this lively open-air space, and you’ll get some natural sunlight.

Deluxe Inside Stateroom

Category 10B, 10C, 10D

The Deluxe Inside Staterooms have the same layout and size as the Deluxe Inside Staterooms with Reef View mentioned above.

They measure around 209 square feet and can sleep up to four guests, with a queen bed, a sofa bed, a sitting area and desk, along with a privacy curtain separating the sleeping and living areas. You’ll also find Disney Cruise Line’s usual split bathroom design, which makes getting ready much easier when more than one person is sharing the cabin.

The main difference is that these rooms don’t have any sort of view. Instead, they’re fully interior cabins, which is the more typical setup for an inside stateroom on a cruise ship. They’re usually among the most affordable options on board, making them a good choice if you’re planning to spend most of your time enjoying the ship rather than relaxing in your room.

Inside Stateroom

Category 1A

The Inside Staterooms are the most affordable accommodation options on the Disney Adventure. Like most inside cabins on cruise ships, they have no window or outside view, but they still include everything you need for a comfortable stay.

These rooms measure up to around 165 square feet and can sleep up to four guests. The layout features two bench-style beds that convert for sleeping, along with two upper pull-down beds.

During the day, the benches create a small seating area, and you’ll also find a vanity desk and TV. The cabins also include Disney Cruise Line’s split bathroom design, with a shower and sink on one side and a separate sink and toilet on the other.

If you’re trying to keep the price of your cruise down and don’t mind skipping the view, these rooms can be a perfectly practical option. But don’t expect incredible comfort – early reviews haven’t been great.

I DONT EVEN HAVE A DAMN MATTRESS!! They just put a cover and a thin pad on the couch cushion! 🫠 #DisneyAdventure https://t.co/8OEVfRJhiB pic.twitter.com/h6GhFUiyrL

— Theme Park Express (@ThemeParkExpres) March 10, 2026

The Extras You Get With Disney Adventure Concierge Rooms

As you’ll have seen, some of the suites and selected staterooms on the Disney Adventure are classed as Concierge Level. These come with extra in-room amenities, along with a number of additional perks designed to make your cruise feel even more special.

Here are some of the main benefits:

• Access to exclusive areas of the ship, such as the Concierge Lounge and sun deck
• Down duvets and a pillow menu
• Robe and slippers in your stateroom
• Complimentary WiFi (but it’s not unlimited)
• Priority booking for onboard activities and dining
• Dedicated Concierge Hosts to help with reservations and requests
• A few surprise treats during your cruise

For a full breakdown of everything that’s included, and whether upgrading is worth it, take a look at my complete guide to Disney Cruise Concierge perks.

Choosing the Best Deck on Disney Adventure

The best deck to stay on the Disney Adventure will depend on what matters most to you.

Mid-ship decks that are surrounded by other staterooms above and below are often a safe bet if you’re worried about noise. Being sandwiched between cabin decks usually means less disturbance from venues, theatres or busy public areas.

But if you want quick access to the pools, kids clubs or restaurants, you might prefer a higher deck. That can make it much easier to pop back to your room during the day.

As always with cruise ships, it’s worth checking the deck plan carefully before you book so you know exactly what’s above and below your cabin.

Choosing a Room on Disney Adventure

Whichever stateroom you choose on the Disney Adventure, you can expect a range of useful amenities to make your stay comfortable.

These include:

• TV with Disney movies and entertainment
• USB and USB-C charging ports
• Vanity area
• Refrigerator
• Full-length mirror
• Safe
• Hair dryer
• Telephone
• Individual climate control
• Privacy curtain in many rooms
• Queen bed and pull-out sofa beds
• Disney Cruise Line toiletries

If you’re travelling on a tighter budget, the Inside Staterooms will still give you everything you need for a comfortable cruise. Many Disney fans happily sail in inside cabins because you spend so much time enjoying the ship anyway.

If you prefer some fresh air and sea views, a Verandah stateroom is always a popular choice. Having your own private balcony is perfect for relaxing with a coffee in the morning or watching the ocean as the ship sails between destinations.

And if you want the very best accommodation on board, the Concierge Royal Suites are the most luxurious option available on the Disney Adventure, with huge living spaces, premium amenities and all the extra Concierge perks.

Just keep an eye on those non-Deluxe staterooms, the ones with bench beds instead of a full bed. They’ll be a much better price than the Deluxe versions but if you really need a good sleep while cruising, you might not be a fan of the beds.

Final Word

With more than 2,000 staterooms onboard, the Disney Adventure offers a huge range of options for every type of cruiser. Whether you’re looking for a simple inside cabin to keep costs down, a spacious verandah room to enjoy the ocean views, or a luxurious Concierge suite with all the extra perks, there’s something here for every budget.

The key is understanding the different categories and choosing a location that suits the way you like to cruise. Some cabins are definitely better positioned than others, so it’s worth doing a little research before you book.

Hopefully this guide has helped you narrow down the options and feel more confident about picking the right stateroom for your Disney Adventure cruise!

Related Posts

Get ready to eat your way around Disney Destiny! From bold new dining concepts to fan-favourite classics with a twist, Destiny’s new ship serves up some seriously fun food moments you won’t want to miss.

Are you feeling hungry? You will be…

By the way, if you’re vegan or vegetarian, then I’d recommend you check out my guide to Disney cruise vegan dining, which has some more details on that.

The Restaurants on Disney Destiny

The Disney Destiny has three main ‘rotational’ dining restaurants (more on what that means shortly), two adult-only speciality restaurants, a buffet-style restaurant, a food court and a dessert store.

All of these dining options are included in your cruise fare, with the exception of the two speciality restaurants, Enchanté and Palo, and the dessert store.

Disney Destiny Rotational Dining

As with all Disney ships, the Destiny uses rotational dining, meaning you enjoy a different restaurant each night while your serving team follows you from venue to venue. Because the Destiny sails short itineraries, the rotation ensures you experience every main dining room during your cruise.

Here’s a closer look at the three rotational restaurants onboard Disney Destiny…

Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King

Exclusive to Disney Destiny, Pride Lands is a vibrant celebration of The Lion King, blending African-inspired flavours with a full “dinner and a show” experience.

The restaurant surrounds a central stage where singers and performers bring familiar songs to life – “Circle of Life”, “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King”, “He Lives in You”, and more.

The atmosphere reminded me a lot of Arendelle on Disney Wish, but with a completely different (and, honestly, even more energetic) style.

A few tables do have a better view of the stage than others. If you’re sailing Concierge, it’s definitely worth asking your host if they can secure one of the front tables for your family.

Cuisine highlights include:

• Berbere-spiced chicken
• Cape Malay curry
• Jollof rice and fried plantains
• Warm chocolate malva pudding
• Pineapple upside-down cake

1923 Appetisers Menu  |  Entrees & Desserts Menu | Kids Menu | Drinks Menu  

Worlds of Marvel – Guardians of the Galaxy

The “Worlds of Marvel” restaurant debuted on the Disney Wish with an Avengers-themed dinner show, and on the Disney Destiny the concept returns—one night you’ll enjoy the Avengers experience and another night a Guardians of the Galaxy–themed show.

This is not just dinner; it’s an interactive mission featuring hilarious clips, plenty of Groot, and even a birthday celebration for Rocket (depending on the night you dine). If your cruise includes a second night here, you may see the Avengers: Quantum Encounter show instead.

Screens around the room bring the story to life while you enjoy a menu inspired by global cuisine and the Marvel universe.

Menus include:

• Galactic-themed entrees
• Creative kids’ meals
• Signature Marvel-inspired cocktails
• Allergy-friendly options

Marvel fans will absolutely love it – and even if you’re not, it’s a fun, high-energy and interactive dining experience.

Worlds of Marvel Appetisers Menu  |  Entrees & Desserts Menu  |  Kids Menu |  Drinks Menu

1923

Just like on the Wish and the Treasure, 1923 is an elegant celebration of Disney history. On the Destiny, however, the theme leans into heroes and villains, featuring artwork and props from films like Hercules, Sleeping Beauty, Big Hero 6, Wreck-It Ralph and more.

The restaurant is split into the Roy Disney side and the Walt Disney side, and both are packed with details to look at. It’s wonderfully calm compared to the show-based dining rooms, making it a lovely choice if you prefer a quieter meal.

The menu features classic Californian dishes – fresh, flavourful, and stylishly presented. If you’re the kind of cruiser who likes to dress up, a 1920s outfit fits right in here!

Menus include:

• Beef Wellington
• Sea bass
• Tex-Mex tacos
• Crème brûlée
• Kids’ favourites

1923 Dinner Menu | Allergy-Friendly Menu  | Cocktail Menu | Dessert Menu | Kids Menu

Disney Destiny Speciality Restaurants

Enchanté

The Destiny’s most luxurious dining experience, Enchanté, is a French-inspired restaurant created in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement.

Beautifully themed to Beauty and the Beast, this adults-only venue offers:

• Dinner – the main fine-dining experience
• Champagne Brunch – elegant, indulgent, and highly recommended
• Just Desserts – a five-course dessert tasting with insights from the chefs

Look out for the subtle Lumière references throughout the room – they’re easy to miss but beautifully done.

This restaurant carries an additional charge, and reservations are essential.

Palo Steakhouse

Another adults-only favourite, Palo Steakhouse continues the tradition found across the fleet, but the Destiny version has a striking Northern Italian flair. Being a steakhouse, it’s not suitable for vegans, but it does have some vegetarian offerings.

You can dine here for brunch or dinner.

Expect:

• Hand-cut steaks
• Homemade pastas
• A tempting à la carte menu or prix-fixe options
• Signature desserts (yes, the famous chocolate soufflé is back!)

With sweeping ocean views and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, Palo is perfect for date night – or a quiet grown-up brunch while the kids enjoy the clubs.

Disney Destiny Casual Dining Options

Marceline Market

The Destiny’s buffet restaurant takes inspiration from Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, with market-style food counters serving a rotating selection of dishes throughout the day.

Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, while dinner is table-service on select evenings. Whether you want something quick and simple or a full plate of treats, you’ll find loads of variety here.

I love the kids counter, which is lower down so little ones can see the options that are made especially for them.

There’s indoor and outdoor seating, and a small coffee bar just off the main walkway. (Speciality coffees cost extra.)

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

If you want something fast, fresh, and tasty, head straight to the pool deck. Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods includes:

• Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue
• Donald’s Cantina (tacos & bowls)
• Daisy’s Pizza Pies
• Goofy’s Grill (burgers & hot dogs)
• Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream

Everything is included in your cruise fare and made fresh to order. This area is ideal for lunch, snacks, or filling up between activities. There are plenty of delicious vegan options here too.

Cask & Cannon

Cask & Cannon is Disney Destiny’s pub, offering classic “pub grub” with a Disney twist. Items like fish and chips, pies, and plant-based options are available for a small charge. This is also a great spot to watch sports or enjoy a relaxed drink in the evenings.

Edna A La Mode Sweets Shop

Inspired by The Incredibles, this whimsical dessert store sells ice cream, gelato, specialty cakes, cookies, and fun themed treats.

Everything here carries an extra charge, but the theming alone is worth popping in for a look. Kids will love the Jack-Jack touches, and the colourful cakes are extremely photogenic!

Room Service

Disney Destiny offers complimentary room service 24/7 (although it’s polite to tip your server a few dollars on delivery).

You can order via your stateroom phone, and the menu includes sandwiches, salads, snacks, and breakfast items. It’s perfect if you fancy a quiet evening or an early morning coffee on your balcony.

Final Word

The food on Disney Destiny genuinely impressed me – from the spectacular shows in the main dining rooms to the delicious grab-and-go options around the ship.

Destiny has an incredibly strong dining line-up, and it easily ranks among my favourite ships for food.

Now that you’re clued up on all the restaurants on Disney Destiny, you may also want to check out my full guide to Disney Destiny staterooms and suites, so you can choose the perfect room for your cruise.

Or take a look at my YouTube video for a fulll walkaround tour of the ship…

Related Posts

Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Destiny, is packed with surprises – and it’s shaping up to be the most exciting ship yet!

From jaw-dropping entertainment to brand-new dining experiences, the Destiny promises to take Disney cruising to the next level.

The newest ship for Disney Cruise Line is set to launch in November. Yet I was lucky enough to get a preview tour of Disney Destiny from the shipyard where she is under construction!

Even without the finishing touches, it was clear this will be a game-changer for Disney at sea.

There are nine new features already making waves among cruise fans – plus a few returning favourites you’ll be glad to see again.

The best part? The most magical reveal might not be what you’re expecting…

1. Heroes and Villains Theming

Disney Destiny isn’t shy about showing off its “Heroes and Villains” side – it’s built right into the ship’s bones. Step into the Grand Hall and you’ll be greeted by T’Challa, the Black Panther, captured in a stunning bronze statue.

Look closer and you’ll spot silver detailing, a nod to the vibranium woven into his suit, and purple lighting that flickers like it’s powering him up for his next mission. Above it all hangs a dazzling chandelier inspired by the meteorite that brought vibranium to Wakanda.

The whole space is a bit of a chameleon. Clever 360-degree lighting can flip the mood from bright and triumphant when a hero’s in the spotlight, to shadowy and dramatic when a villain takes over.

Speaking of heroes, check the ship’s stern and you’ll find Spider-Man – the first Marvel character ever to get that honour on a Disney cruise ship. He’s joined by a squad of Spider-Bots, some wearing cruise-ready gear like snorkel masks and life rings.

Even your stateroom keeps the theme going. Instead of a regular headboard, you’ll get giant pieces of custom art showing famous Disney and Pixar characters in moments of light and dark – from a Fantasia-inspired scene in the concierge suites to Hercules, Mulan, and Merida in other rooms.

Of course, the “villains” half of the theme isn’t just for show. Loki, Dr. Facilier, and Maleficent will be making appearances around the ship, keeping everyone on their toes.

2. Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King

Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King isn’t just dinner – it’s a full-on stage show with a side of Jollof rice.

Exclusive to Disney Destiny, this is the first musical dining experience of its kind at sea, retelling Simba’s journey from cub to king right at your table. A live cast of singers and musicians bring the Lion King soundtrack to life, while you tuck into a menu bursting with African-inspired flavours.

The setting is pure magic. Windows look out onto a savanna that shifts from sunrise to sunset, while a soundscape of earthy drums and lilting flutes makes it feel like you’ve stepped straight into the Pride Lands.

Even the table settings, cast costumes, and fun little touches – like an Ed the hyena sipper and Timon popcorn bucket – are packed with personality.

The menu is a mix of traditional African dishes and clever twists on Disney Cruise Line favourites.

Starters might include Peri-Peri Shrimp with creamy Gouda pap or a Cape Malay shrimp curry with basmati rice and butter roti.

Mains range from Swahili coconut-tamarind red snapper to Nala’s roasted pork tenderloin, while desserts like pineapple upside-down cake with rooibos mousse or warm chocolate malva pudding make a sweet finale.

Even the drinks get in on the theme, from the mango-and-rum “Can You Feel the Rum Tonight?” to the kid-friendly, jelly-filled “Slimy Yet Satisfying.”

There are playful details hidden everywhere, so keep your eyes open. You might spot carved characters in the walls or silhouettes that light up mid-show.

And if you’re lucky enough to sail on a five-night (or more) itinerary, you’ll get to see it all again with a second themed menu.

3. Edna Á La Mode Sweets

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if the world’s most fabulous superhero fashion designer swapped perfecting masks for perfecting mousses, Edna À La Mode Sweets is your answer – dahling.

On Disney Destiny, Edna Mode has repurposed her high-tech lab into a dessert-lover’s dream, complete with futuristic sewing machines now reimagined as sweet-making contraptions.

Inspired by the Auntie Edna short film, the whole space is sprinkled with Pixar charm, from her fashion sketches and mini suit displays for Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl, to a mischievous Rocky the raccoon peeking out from a bin, hoping for a cookie.

You’ll want your camera ready, because there’s even a sculpture of Edna and Jack-Jack mid–cookie recipe chaos, perfect for striking your best superhero pose.

And the treats? Absolutely incredible. Expect handmade gelato, gourmet popsicles, chocolate bark, and – of course – an endless supply of Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums.

The Incredibles cupcakes are works of art: purple velvet with white chocolate mousse, double chocolate fudge with a truffle centre, orange–almond with raspberry mousse, and more.

It’s playful, over-the-top, and completely delicious – exactly what you’d expect from Edna.

4. Hercules on Stage

Get ready to go from zero to hero in record time – Disney Hercules is making its stage debut exclusively on the Disney Destiny.

This all-new theatrical spectacular takes the larger-than-life characters, comedy, and music from the beloved animated film and gives them a fresh, contemporary twist.

The Muses will lead you through the story in their signature, sass-filled style, blending gospel and pop influences with stunning visuals and projection effects that make the stage feel truly epic.

Fans of the original movie will spot all the iconic songs, but there’s also a treat for Disney deep-cuts lovers: “Shooting Star,” a heartfelt ballad written for the film but never used, will finally take the spotlight for the first time.

Visually, the show mixes modern flair with Grecian elegance. Sleek staircases frame the stage for smooth scene changes, while pillars and a gazebo keep that ancient-myth vibe alive.

Costumes range from runway-worthy gods and goddesses in towering headpieces and dramatic drapes to Grecian townsfolk with just a hint of catwalk swagger.

And then there’s the puppetry. If you’ve seen Disney The Tale of Moana on the Disney Treasure, you’ll know how jaw-dropping Disney’s puppets can be.

This time, they’re going bigger – with Hercules battling a massive hydra, plus appearances from the titans, all brought to life with new technology that’s never been used in the Walt Disney Theatre before.

It’s bold, funny, a little bit glamorous, and completely larger than life – just like Hercules himself.

5. New Character Interactions

On Disney Destiny, the heroes and villains aren’t just on stage or in the décor – they’re walking the decks with you. You’ll be able to meet, greet, and snap photos with an all-star line-up from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel.

That could mean a mischievous chat with Loki, a sly smile from Cruella de Vil, a run-in with Dr. Facilier, or even a regal wave from Maleficent.

On the heroic side, Black Panther and Spider-Man are both ready for action, along with Hero Minnie in her brand-new, ship-exclusive outfit.

These encounters aren’t just quick photo ops either – they’re a chance to get playful banter, autographs, and those spontaneous moments Disney fans treasure.

Whether you’re team hero, team villain, or a bit of both, keep your camera handy – you never know who’s going to round the corner.

6. AquaMouse – Sing a Silly Song

AquaMouse is back! Disney Cruise Line’s signature water coaster – a 760-foot-long, splash-happy thrill ride that winds high above the upper decks – is returning on Disney Destiny with a brand-new story: Sing a Silly Song.

This time, Mickey and Minnie are leading you up the ominous Villain Mountain, where familiar Disney foes lurk around every bend. The Evil Queen, Scar, Chernabog, and other legendary troublemakers make their appearances, but things never stay scary for long.

With a sprinkle of pixie dust and an irresistibly silly sing-along, each villainous encounter takes a hilariously unexpected turn.

You’ll sing along to animated scenes that swing from menacing to ridiculous in seconds, before diving into the real thrills – twists, turns, ocean views you can only get from the ship’s upper decks, and those signature AquaMouse splashes.

Suggested read: Disney Cruise Water Slides Guide

Complete with custom music by Emmy-winner Christopher Willis and lyricist Elyse Willis, plus lighting and special effects, Sing a Silly Song turns a showdown with Disney’s most fearsome villains into pure, laugh-out-loud fun.

7. De Vil’s

De Vil’s is Disney Destiny’s most wickedly stylish lounge for adults only, inspired by the one and only Cruella de Vil. Just steps from the Grand Hall, this glamorous hideaway oozes Hollywood Regency style, bold black-and-white décor, and just the right amount of over-the-top drama.

The centrepiece? A spotted piano that sets the mood with sultry live tunes while you sip something decadent.

The drink menu is as daring as its namesake. Try The Fashionista – strawberry and banana–infused tequila with a fruity kick – or go alcohol-free with the Fearless Sir Galahad, a sweet-and-spicy sip that holds its own.

If you’re feeling peckish, the strawberry shortcake popcorn is the perfect indulgence.

And yes, Cruella herself may drop by, because of course she would. Just be prepared – she’s been known to rope guests into a little musical mischief.

8. The Sanctum

Step through the portal into The Sanctum, another adults-only lounge and this time inspired by Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered straight into the Sorcerer Supreme’s New York lair.

Designers have taken cues from the film’s Chamber of Relics, adding suspended spell books, arcane symbols, and magical Easter eggs tucked into the décor.

The menu is just as enchanting. Cocktails like the smoky, theatrical Vapors of Valtorr or the visually mind-bending Circle of the Cosmos (yes, the glass is meant to be upside down) turn every order into a mini magic trick.

There’s also a full lineup of spirits, wines, and coffee drinks for less mystical moments.

With its moody lighting, intricate details, and interactive touches, The Sanctum is part bar, part immersive experience – and entirely the kind of place you’ll want to linger long after your first spell is cast.

9. Cask & Cannon

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as a pirate, Cask & Cannon is where you’ll want to drop anchor.

This eclectic pub is inspired by the Pirates of the Caribbean attractions at Disney Parks, with every corner crammed full of “liberated” treasures supposedly pilfered by rogues from across the seven seas.

The vibe is part adventure, part cosy hideaway – it’s the perfect spot to swap tall tales with your shipmates.

On the menu you’ll find light bites, hearty snacks, and a drinks list that would make Jack Sparrow proud. There’s vintage rum, “bootlegged” brews crafted just for Cask & Cannon, and yes, some are served straight from the barrel for that extra swashbuckling flair.

Between the clink of glasses and the cheer (or jeer) of live sports on the big screens, it’s the kind of place where the night can run away with you – in true pirate style.

Returning Favourites

That’s the best of the new features that we know about so far, but what about some returning favourites from other cruise ships in the Disney fleet? Well, there are plenty…

Worlds of Marvel: Groot Remix

Worlds of Marvel returns with an exciting Guardians of the Galaxy storyline starring Rocket and Baby Groot, just as on Disney Treasure.

This lively dining experience blends MCU-inspired dishes with interactive fun, from trivia and on-screen activities to a soundtrack worthy of Star-Lord’s playlist.

Things take a turn when Groot decides to hijack the party for Rocket, leading to plenty of laughs – and maybe a few surprises with dessert.

1923

Named for the year The Walt Disney Studios opened, 1923 is an elegant nod to Disney’s golden age.

Surrounded by storyboards, sketches, and props featuring classic heroes and villains, guests enjoy refined California-inspired cuisine in a setting that feels like a walk through animation history.

Frozen, a Musical Spectacular & Disney Seas The Adventure

Two fan-favourite stage shows return to keep the magic going after the sun sets.

Frozen, A Musical Spectacular brings Arendelle to life with dazzling performances of Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and friends, while Disney Seas the Adventure takes Goofy – and a cast of Disney and Pixar favourites – on a high-spirited voyage through uncharted waters.

Hero Zone

Part sports court, part playground, part game floor – Hero Zone is where families can unleash their inner Supers. Tackle physical challenges, compete in friendly games, catch a movie, or just burn off some energy in this action-packed recreation space.

The Haunted Mansion Parlor

Step into a ghostly drawing room where the spirits are as lively as the cocktails.

The Haunted Mansion Parlor channels the eerie charm of the classic attraction, complete with a portrait gallery, phantom characters (old favourites and new seafaring souls), and a backstory involving a vanished sea captain and his mysterious fiancée.

Keep an eye out – clues to their fate are hidden in plain sight.

Kids Clubs

Young cruisers are spoiled for choice on Disney Destiny.

Fairytale Hall lets budding royals meet Disney Princesses, paint floating lanterns at Rapunzel’s Art Studio, act out stories in Belle’s Library, and even conjure ice magic at Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhus.

Marvel Super Hero Academy trains the next generation of heroes, with Spider-Man, Black Panther, Ant-Man, The Wasp, and more guiding kids through missions to stop MCU villains.

In Star Wars: Cargo Bay, recruits team up with Chewbacca and Rey to help the Resistance while wrangling critters like Porgs, Loth-Cats, and even a Dianoga.

There’s also the hands-on Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck play space, “it’s a small world” nursery for little ones, and teen havens Edge and Vibe – each packed with age-appropriate fun.

Final Word

With so many new features, returning favourites, and hidden details to discover, Disney Destiny is shaping up to be one of the most exciting ships Disney Cruise Line has ever launched.

And this is just a taste – there’s still plenty more magic to come when she makes her debut in November 2025.

Cruises are already on sale, with itineraries ranging from 3 to 7 nights out of Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a week-long adventure, this is one maiden season you won’t want to miss.

Related Posts

When Disney Cruise Line invited me to Germany to visit the Meyer Werft shipyard where Disney Destiny was being built, of course I snatched the opportunity with both hands!

Meyer Werft’s shipyard in Papenburg is the largest covered building dock in the world – and it’s shrouded in secrecy.

Usually, nobody except the construction workers are allowed to see inside. And even on the rare occasion that outsiders are allowed through the doors, there’s mega tight security and a strict no cameras policy.

Boarding a cruise ship that was still under construction was a surreal experience. I saw things that most passengers couldn’t even imagine.

As my phone was locked inside a sealed bag, I don’t have photos. But, I am able to share with you the most surprising things I discovered at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg…

The outside was almost ready – the inside was a different story

As we walked around the outside of the ship, kitted up in full PPE of hard hat, steel-toe-capped boots, yellow hi-vis vest and safety glasses, the freshly-painted Disney Destiny looked just like any other Disney ship.

Sure, she was inside a giant metal hall, and floating a little higher in the water than usual, but from the outside, the ship looked finished.

We scanned our security passes, went through the turnstile and up the steep gangway and into the tender boarding area. It’s at that moment that it became clear that this ship was far from complete.

We ducked around wires that hung down from the bare ceilings, dodged pieces of timber and pots of paint scattered across the floor, and navigated all sorts of uneven surfaces. It was like an obstacle course.

With 104 days until the maiden voyage, and just a few hours until the ship would be floated out of the shipyard accompanied by fireworks, there was a lot of work to be done.

German efficiency at its finest

Of course, while the ship was still very much a construction site, that was all part of the perfectly-detailed plan.

We all know the Germans have something of a reputation for being efficient – and the shipyard is a testament to that. Every single task is done at the exact right time to maximise efficiency so that not a moment is wasted.

On the wall, we saw a chart with deadlines for tasks. I can only imagine the number of spreadsheets that are involved in planning the exact date when every single task is set to be completed.

We were told that the Disney Destiny had 1,500 to 2,000 construction workers onboard at any one time during peak periods. With two shifts per day, the longer shift starts early in the morning. When those workers go home, more people come aboard for a shorter shift in the afternoon and evening.

Ships are built from front to back

Our guide, from the Walt Disney Imagineering department, explained how work is completed from bow to stern.

This became apparent as we entered the theatre at the very front of the ship. It had a stage, carpets, all of the seats were in place and even the light fittings were up, albeit covered in plastic.

The restaurant at the aft, however, was a stark contrast. It was an empty shell, with piles of materials covered in tarpaulin. The walls, floor and ceiling were still plain steel – albeit with a lot of colour-coded wiring ready to be connected up.

An emotional experience

Touring the ship was an assault on the senses. Everywhere I looked, tradespeople were busy taking care of wiring, fitting ceilings, adding wall coverings and a million other tasks. Strong chemical smells filled the hot and stuffy air and the constant clatter of construction was jarring.

With no elevators, we climbed many decks of stairs during the tour. This included some crew stairways, which I discovered were actually much, much steeper than the guest stairways we’re used to.

We regularly give praise to the people who work aboard cruise ships while we sail – the bartenders, waiters, cabin stewards and entertainers who work tirelessly to serve their guests.

But nobody thinks about the thousands of men and women who work in shipyards, enduring challenging (and sometimes dangerous) conditions and strict deadlines to make dreams into reality.

As I stepped in to the Grand Hall as one of the first guests to ever enter the space, everything felt suddenly calm. Such is the grandeur and majesty of this space, that even in its half done state, it blew me away.

As one of the design team explained how the colours and materials were chosen to suit the Black Panther theming, I felt a rush of emotion. It was overwhelming to see and hear just how much work goes into creating something as magical as a Disney cruise ship.

Cruise ships are 1000-piece jigsaws

Ships like Disney Destiny are built in blocks. This ship has 100 blocks, and each block is made up of 10 sections. So you could imagine it being like a 1,000 piece jigsaw.

Each section is cut out of steel with a laser, with pieces welded together. They’re constructed upside down, to make it easier to fit the pipes and cables in the ceiling.

Once the ten sections of the block are ready (and turned over to be the right way up), they’re joined together to create a block.

A block is about 5 decks high and weighs around 800 tons (the same as 500 cars). It might be a group of cabins, the bridge or some public spaces. Each is unique and follows a very strict 3D plan, with a tolerance of just 20mm.

The completed blocks are craned into place by a huge crane known as the Golden Eagle. The smaller cranes are also named after birds.

Cabins are constructed off-site

Each of the 1,254 staterooms of the Disney Destiny was built 500 metres away at another location and then transported into the hall to be slotted into place.

I was absolutely stunned to learn just how much of the cabin is completed before being inserted into the ship. This isn’t just an empty steel shell – each cabin is complete with wall coverings, carpets, fully-fitted bathrooms, wardrobes, TVs and fridges!

The beds, mattresses and sofa bed are in place, and even the artwork is hung on the walls before the cabin ever meets the rest of the ship!

Of course, this makes perfect sense. Carrying thousands of sofa beds along the tight corridors just wouldn’t be practical at all, when you think about it.

As we walked along the corridor of cabins, I saw that each of the stateroom numbers was written on the door in marker pen. There were also the names of people, along with the word ‘OK’ to show that the rooms had passed the necessary quality checks.

One in, one out

The Meyer Werft shipyard builds multiple ships at the same time, up to six at once. Two or three ships are completed each year.

With several buildings in which the construction takes place, welders were already working on the next ship that would occupy the ‘big hall’ once the Disney Destiny was floated out.

And Disney Cruise Line is also ramping up production of its cruise ships. Prior to 2022, the cruise line launched two ships every 10 years, and had just four ships in the fleet.

Then, we saw the Wish-class ships, Disney Wish and Disney Treasure launch in 2022 and 2024. Disney Destiny is the third Wish-class ship, and the cruise line is set to launch six more ships over the next six years. This will take the fleet to 13 ships by 2031.

On the day we toured the Disney Destiny before the float out, we also had the privilege of being present at the steel-cutting ceremony for the fourth, as yet unnamed, Wish-class ship.

The cutting of the first piece of steel marks the official start of construction, and is a key moment in the development of a new ship – a process that takes four to five years, from ideation until the maiden voyage.

Related Posts: