Disney - Luxury Cruising

34 Insider Secrets About Disney’s Private Island

July 7, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Cruise Tips Disney

Disney’s private island is pure paradise – think soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and surprise visits from your favourite characters. But if you want to make the most of your day, there are a few things you need to know first…

I’ve rounded up 34 insider tips that’ll help you skip the queues, save money, and unlock hidden gems on the island. Trust me – you’ll thank yourself later!

1. The Only Way To Get To Castaway Cay Is By Cruise Ship

Castaway Cay is a Disney private island. It’s not technically owned by the cruise line, but it is leased exclusively to Disney for the long term, so for now, it’s a Disney island. The only way to visit Castaway Cay is to take a Disney cruise. Not all Disney cruise itineraries call at Castaway Cay, so look out for one that does if you have your heart set on visiting this paradise island.

Castaway Cay is located in the Bahamas, near Great Abaco Island. It’s 73 miles north of Nassau and 248 miles east of Port Canaveral, Florida.

2. Entrance To Castaway Cay Is Included In Your Cruise Fare

Many people wonder how much it costs to visit Disney Castaway Cay. The truth is that admission to the island doesn’t cost anything extra. Once you’ve paid for your cruise, you can visit Castaway Cay at no additional cost and there are lots of included attractions to enjoy on the island.

However, if you want to take part in an excursion on the island, such as a snorkelling trip, a glass bottom boat ride or a walking tour, then you can do those for an extra cost.

3. The Food Is Free, Don’t Miss It

Meals and ice cream are free on Castaway Cay for Disney cruise guests. A buffet-style lunch is served between 11.30 am and 2 pm, so you can help yourself to barbecue food like burgers, hot dogs, ribs, salad, fruit and cookies.

Places you can grab food include Cookie’s BBQ, Cookies Too BBQ and Serenity Bay BBQ. They all serve pretty much the same dishes, but be sure to arrive before 2 pm. After that, your only option to eat on Castaway Cay will be to grab snacks from the bar.

4. There Once Was a Pirate Ship At Castaway Cay

The Flying Dutchman ghost ship from the movie Pirate of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest was displayed at Castaway Cay between June 2006 and November 2010. This movie prop was a spectacular sight to behold until it was removed due to its deterioration.

While the pirate ship was certainly impressive, with its intricate details, it was only meant to be a movie prop and not to withstand the weather for years on end. So, in 2012, the Flying Dutchman was taken to another location on Castaway Cay, where it was dismantled.

5. Some Disney Cast Members Live On Castaway Cay

Around 100 Disney Cast Members live on Castaway Cay all year round, while more commute by boat from the nearby island of Abaco. Cast Members who live on the island include landscapers and maintenance workers.

The people who live on Castaway Cay live in prefabricated dormitory-style houses. They have their own crew beach, a football pitch, a gym and an indoor recreation area.

6. The Water At Castaway Cay Is Warm All Year Round

The sea temperature at Castaway Cay ranges from 70°F (21°C) in January to 88°F (31°C) in July and August. Even in the winter, the sea is warm enough to swim and in the height of summer, the shallow waters will feel very warm indeed.

I visited in July and the sea was a little too warm to provide much respite from the sweltering heat. In this situation, the best option is to get wet and then relax in the shade!

7. You Can’t Stay Overnight On The Island

It’s not possible to stay overnight on Castaway Cay. Your ship will dock at the island at around 9 am and leave at around 4 pm. So the longest you can stay on the island is around seven hours.

Listen out for the ship’s horn in the afternoon. That will signal the last tram back to the dock. If you miss that, you’d better run back to the ship quickly to avoid being stranded on the island!

If one day just isn’t enough for you, there are some cruises that call at Castaway Cay twice. So, look out for those activities for maximum island time.

8. You Don’t Need To Take Towels With You

As you get off the ship at Castaway Cay, you’ll be handed towels to use on the island. The towels are large beach towels, so they’re big enough to lie on. You’re welcome to take two per person, so you have one to sit on and one to dry off with.

If you forget to grab towels as you leave the ship, don’t worry. There are towel stations across the island where you can collect some or exchange your wet ones for dry ones.

When you head back to the ship, there will be a bin to throw your used towels in. Nobody checks to make sure that you returned your towels, but it’s polite to do so and not leave them on the island.

9. 95% of Castaway Cay Is Wild

Castaway Cay is 1,000 acres in size, but only 55 acres of the island are developed. Although the island is 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide, 95% of the island is untouched. It’s mostly made up of lush, natural forests.

10. You Can Run A 5K Race On Castaway Cay

Each morning, there’s a 5K race on Castaway Cay. It’s free to enter and all participants receive a medal. You don’t need to run to enter; you can walk if you prefer. As well as seeing some interesting parts of the island that most people miss, if you take part in the Castaway Cay 5K, you’re guaranteed to be one of the first people off the ship in the morning.

You can register for the Castaway Cay 5K by signing up on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app or at guest services once on board. It is weather permitting, though, so there’s a chance that it may be cancelled if the weather is bad.

11. You Can Snorkel For Free At Castaway Cay

When looking at Castaway Cay excursions, you’ll see several options for snorkelling for an additional fee. However, you can snorkel for free at Castaway Cay if you bring your own snorkelling gear.

The Snorkelling Lagoon has two snorkelling trails – one for beginners and one for more experienced snorkelers. You can rent snorkels, masks and flippers if you don’t have your own. But life vests are complimentary for everyone and really help you to float, so I’d recommend that you grab one.

12. There Are Sharks At Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay has shark nets around the family beach and snorkelling area, but none at the adults’ beach, Serenity Bay. If you swim at Serenity Bay, you may sometimes see sharks up to six feet in length. You don’t need to worry, though, because the sharks at Castaway Cay are nurse sharks that are harmless to humans.

You can swim with nurse sharks without any problems. They will only bite if you step on them or otherwise provoke them. While they do have thousands of teeth, nobody has ever died from a bite from a nurse shark, and any injuries have been minor and very rare. There are no reports of shark attacks at Castaway Cay.

Suggested read: Do Sharks Swim Around Cruise Ships?

Other dangerous creatures to be on the lookout for include jellyfish, barracuda, sea lice, stingrays, sea urchins, anemones and fire coral. There are also lots of harmless and pretty sea creatures like starfish and all kinds of pretty tropical fish.

13. It’s Almost Impossible To Get A Cabana

Castaway Cay cabanas cost between $399 and $949 to rent for the day. But despite the large price tag, they are always in demand and so it can be virtually impossible to reserve one, unless you’re a Concierge or Platinum guest. This is because there are only 24 cabanas on Castaway Cay and thousands of guests on the ship.

During my visit, I was lucky enough to snag a Castaway Cay cabana in the Serenity Bay area. Check out my guide to Castaway Cay cabanas for details of how to get your hands on one and what to expect when you do.

To reserve a Castaway Cay cabana, you’ll want to book it on the Port Adventures section of the Disney Cruise Line website as soon as bookings open. Guests staying in Concierge-level staterooms and suites can book 125 days ahead and guests with Platinum Castaway Club Member status can book 120 days ahead.

After that, guests with Gold or Silver Castaway Club Member status can book cabanas 90 days before the cruise sets sail. If you’ve never cruised with Disney before, you’re very unlikely to be able to book a cabana. But, people do cancel sometimes, so if you keep checking online every day, then you might get lucky.

Failing that, you can check with guest services as soon as you board the ship, in case anyone with a cabana has cancelled their cruise at the very last minute. This is rare, but it does happen sometimes.

14. You’ve Probably Been Pronouncing Castaway Cay Wrong

Castaway Cay is actually pronounced as ‘key’. The word ‘cay’ comes from the Spanish word ‘cayo’, which means ‘key’ – a small, low island. Although the correct way to pronounce Cay is ‘key’, many people do pronounce it as ‘kay’ and it’s okay to do so if you wish.

15. You Can Get Married On The Beach

Wedding ceremonies at Castaway Cay are available with up to 100 guests. The price starts at $4,500 for 16 guests, with extra guests costing $20 each. As well as a morning ceremony on the beach with live music, you’ll enjoy an intimate celebration back on the ship afterwards.

Suggested read: Can Ship Captains Marry People?

16. There Are No Rides On Castaway Cay

Despite being owned by Disney, there are no rides on Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Popular activities in this idyllic location include snorkelling, cycling, relaxing on the beach, basketball, ping pong and dance parties. There are waterslides for kids at the Pelican Plunge area, but no rides as such.

The waterslides are great, though. The one on the left is really fast, but I preferred the slide on the right, which is much more relaxing. The landing area is too deep to stand, but don’t worry if you’re not a strong swimmer, life jackets are available for you to use.

17. There’s Limited WiFi But Plenty Of Phone Signal

Many areas of Castaway Cay don’t have wifi, but you can access it in some of the bars, particularly the ones closest to the ship. However, the island does have a cell tower so you can use your mobile phone data. Roaming charges are the same as anywhere else in the Bahamas.

Suggested read: How to Avoid Roaming Charges on a Cruise

18. Castaway Cay Has A Secret Observation Tower

It’s something of a hidden gem, but Castaway Cay has a 40-foot-high observation tower where you can enjoy stunning views over the island. To get there, take the tram to Serenity Bay, then follow the cycle path to it. You’ll also pass it if you do the Castaway Cay 5K, so be sure to take a few minutes to stop to climb it.

19. Book A Room On The Starboard Side For The Best Views

Disney cruise ships typically back into the port when they dock at Castaway Cay, so if you choose a room with a balcony on the starboard side of the ship, you’ll have great views of the island from your stateroom.

We watched the early-morning arrival into Castaway Cay from our balcony on the starboard side of the Disney Wish.

The view as the ship arrives at Castaway Cay

20. Eat Breakfast In The Buffet For Morning Island Views

While Disney Cruise Line’s Dining Room breakfasts are incredible, I would advise eating in the buffet on the morning of your day ashore at Castaway Cay. Not only is this much quicker, so you’ll have more time to explore the island, but you’ll also enjoy the best views of the island.

Most ships have an outdoor area at the back of the buffet. Head here and you can enjoy spectacular views of Castaway Cay while you eat.

View od Castaway Cay from the aft of the Disney Wish

21. Those With Special Diets Should Pre-Order Their Food

If you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or have another dietary requirement, then pre-ordering your food is a must. You can do this with your waiter in the main dining room on the evening before your visit.

There is a choice of vegan options, including the Impossible burger and plant-based chicken tenders. You can also get fries, which aren’t available to everyone else.

Plant based chciken tenders - pre-ordered vegan meal at Castaway Cay

Pre-ordered food will be delivered to Cookies BBQ, so you’ll need to head there to collect it, rather than to Cookies Too or the Serenity Bay BBQ. When you arrive, there’s a special counter to the left of the buffet. Let them know when you. arrive and they’ll cook the food especially for you.

If you haven’t pre-ordered, then the special options may still be available, but you might have a long wait if the crew need to head back to the ship to collect the ingredients!

22. There’s A Kids’ Club On Castaway Cay

Parents who want to enjoy some relaxing time in the adults-only area can drop their kids off at Scuttle’s Cove, Castaway Cay’s kids’ club. Here, youngsters will enjoy all kinds of activities such as scavenger hunts, volleyball and sandcastle competitions.

At Monstro Point, kids can become palaeontologists for the day and dig for fossils and dinosaur bones in the sand. If you prefer to stay with your children, you can do, and enjoy the dinosaur dig as a family.

23. There Are Plenty Of Loungers For Everyone

You never need to worry about getting a sunbed on Castaway Cay, as there are thousands of them across the various beaches. Sun loungers and umbrellas are all available free of charge and there’s no shortage, no matter how busy the ship is.

24. You Can Enjoy All Kinds Of Games

It’s truly impossible to be bored on Castaway Cay. When you’ve had enough of the beach, head to the shaded games area where you can play all kinds of games, including ping pong, table football, basketball shooting, pool, and giant versions of Connect Four, chess and checkers.

25. There’s A Pier Where You Can Jump Into The Sea

Located off the shore of the family beach, there’s a structure that older kids and teenagers will love. It has ropes to swing from and platforms where you can throw yourself into the sea. It’s closed at low tide, though, so you’ll want to time your visit well to take advantage of the fun that this platform offers.

26. Castaway Cay Has Lots Of Lifeguards

Disney Cruise Line always puts safety as its number one priority, so on Castaway Cay, there are so many lifeguards that you’d never be able to count them all. Many of the lifeguard stations are located very far out to sea, so you can be sure that you’re safe, even if you go for a swim in the ocean.

27. You Can Hire Bikes On The Island

Castaway Cay is pretty big, and so one of the best ways to explore is on a bicycle. You can follow the 5K race route, or just use your bike to get from A to B instead of the tram. Bike hire is free for cabana guests, but for everyone else, it costs $13 per hour.

There are lots of different sizes of bikes and helmets to choose from. There are adult bikes with child seats on the back, and small kids’ bikes for those as young as five. So the whole family can cycle together, no matter the age of your kids.

28. Spring-A-Leak Is A Great Place To Cool Off

Kids too hot? Then don’t miss the Spring-A-Leak water play area. It has jets of water that shoot up from the ground – the perfect place for kids of all ages to run around while cooling down. Tots in swim diapers are allowed, so even the youngest of babies can cool down in the shade in this fun, family area.

29. Soft Drinks Are Free On Castaway Cay

If you order a drink from any of the bars on Castaway Cay you’ll be charged. However, you can enjoy soft drinks and iced water for free at any of the three barbecue areas, even when the food service is closed.

The free drinks include water, Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Minute Maid Lemonade, Blue Powerade, Ginger Ale and Vitamin Water. Paper cups are provided, but I recommend bringing your own refillable drinks bottle so you can stay hydrated on the move.

You can also refill your water bottle at water fountains that are located outside of most of the restrooms. There are also stations where you can help yourself to lemon-infused ice water at most of the bars, so you really don’t need to waste money by ordering bottled water.

30. You Can Save With A Getaway Package

If you want to try a little bit of everything, you can book the Castaway Cay Getaway Package for discounted rentals. It includes all-day rental of snorkel gear and floats for the ocean, as well as one hour of bike rental.

It’s a good way to enjoy lots of experiences while keeping costs down.

31. You Can Snorkel With Stingrays

For the best snorkelling experience on Castaway Cay, head over to Castaway Ray’s stingray adventure. This activity costs $56 for adults and $45 for kids, but you’ll get to see stingrays up close and even touch these friendly creatures.

Snorkels, masks and lifejackets are provided and you’re given a training session on how to interact with these friendly creatures without upsetting them.

32. Ice Cream Is Free On Castaway Cay

On Castaway Cay, you can enjoy free ice cream from self-service machines that are located at the three barbecue buffet areas. It’s available all day long and comes with a choice of different flavours.

33. Mickey And Minnie Love To Visit Castaway Cay

If you’re lucky, you may spot Disney characters Mickey and Minnie during your visit to Castaway Cay. The delightful duo wear special beachwear when they step off the ship and visit the island.

34. There Are Rare Sea Lice Occurrences Around Castaway Cay

This isn’t the most pleasant one to talk about, but some people have reported being stung by sea lice while on Castaway Cay in the past. It’s very rare, and most people say that they’ve visited countless times without any problems, but it’s good to be aware just in case.

Sea lice aren’t actually lice, but they do give some nasty stings if you get caught by them in the water. It’s treatable with lotion, which you should be able to buy in the stores, or use the freshwater showers to rinse the area.

Again, you don’t need to worry about it, but on the rare chance you are stung, then you can at least deal with it while on the island.

To Conclude

Castaway Cay is such a wonderful private island that’s loved by everyone, whether you want to relax on the adults-only beach with a cocktail, snorkel in the sea or do something more energetic like go cycling or running.

I hope that this guide has helped you to plan your trip, but if you have anything else to add, please do so in the comments below.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Why Disney Cruise Fans Are Obsessed With Fish Extenders

May 12, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney Packing

A lot of people believe that the best parts of a Disney cruise have nothing to do with the entertainment or the crew, but instead are down to one little accessory they bring from home: the fish extender.

If you’ve never heard of a DCL fish extender, or you don’t know what they mean for a cruise, then I don’t blame you, as the name alone is very strange.

But they’re super popular, and there’s a huge community, and maybe you’ll be as addicted as some other cruisers are?

Fish Extenders Explained

Fish extenders are hanging gift bags that you display outside your cabin door, normally hanging from the small metal fish that indicates your cabin number. You use these to exchange gifts with other people on the cruise taking part in a fish extender gift exchange.

These are pre-organised events that are wholly organised by guests and are not officially endorsed by the cruise line. You need to join in advance and then you’ll be added to the list to take part, where you’ll normally be assigned a small group to swap gifts with.

The Name is Self-Explanatory…

The reason the gift bags are called fish extenders (often abbreviated to FEs on forums and message boards) is that the gift bags are an extension of the metal fish on the wall next to your cabin door. However, you might actually have a seahorse instead of a fish if your stateroom is starboard side.

Don’t worry, there aren’t even more complications added in by having fish extenders and seahorse extenders – they’re all called fish extenders and work in the same way.

How Fish Extenders Work

If you agree to take part in a fish extender gift exchange, you’ll need to hang a fish extender outside your room and then deliver gifts to other cabins based on your assigned list. You leave these gifts in the fish extenders and wait for gifts to be left in yours.

To take part in gift swaps with fish extenders, you’ll need to find an online group for your sailing. You can sometimes find these on popular messenger boards such as Cruise Critic or DISBoards, or on Facebook groups. Once you find a group and sign up, you’ll be given a list of everyone taking part.

If the group is small, then you might be expected to deliver gifts to everyone. If a lot of people are taking part then you’ll be assigned a smaller group within that, so that you aren’t spending a fortune. Often it’s done on a one-to-one basis, so you only need to buy one gift.

Then you’ll need a fish extender of your own. A lot of people make them, but some people prefer something a little more professional-looking than they’re capable of putting together, so will order a custom-made one from Etsy.

The bags are usually embroidered with your family name, but this is up to you.

The last step before your cruise is to buy the gifts that you’re going to deliver to others taking part.

Then when you’re on the ship, you need to hang your fish extender on the fish or seahorse, and then find time to go deliver your gifts.

Disney’s Position

Fish extenders are not an official Disney cruise activity and are not endorsed by the cruise line. For a time during the COVID pandemic and aftermath, they were banned for health and safety reasons, but that is no longer the case.

Just remember that if there is a good reason for them to temporarily restrict fish extenders then the cruise line is entitled to. You can’t complain to DCL if something goes wrong with your fish extender exchange as nothing is official at all.

The Newer Ships Don’t Have Fish…

Disney Wish and Disney Treasure don’t have metal fish or seahorses but instead have themed plaques next to the room. These are just as good for hanging gift bags and so yes, you can use a fish extender on Disney Wish or Disney Treasure even though it is not a fish.

Where To Buy Fish Extenders

If you want to buy a tailored fish extender that is customised with your name, your best bet is a site like Etsy, although this will be more expensive than making your own or buying a generic one.

There are some good storage hangers on Amazon that will do just the job and are relatively cheap. The best one I have found is this one…

How To Make a Fish Extender

To make a fish extender of your own, you’ll need some flat cloth to serve as the backing, and some other material to use as pockets. Stitch the pockets onto the flat hanger, and then attach string to the top so that you can hang it over the fish.

If you are good with embroidery then this is a lovely way to make a custom fish extender that is unique to you and your family.

Joining a Fish Extender Group

You can find fish extender groups either on online message boards or on Facebook. Once you’ve found one for your sailing, join the group and post a message asking to take part. They will have rules listed, so make sure you read those first to avoid asking unnecessary questions.

Once you’re in the group, the owner will confirm your place and send you a list of the staterooms you need to deliver a gift to.

Disney Fish Extender Gifts

How much you spend on fish extender gifts is your choice – the motto is “give what you would like to receive”. A lot of people stick to Disney magnets as they are suitably themed but quite cheap. Others may choose ornaments, but transporting them without breakage is difficult.

A lot of this will depend on who you are buying for. Some fish extender gifts are aimed at different age groups and some are for adults. Others are ‘by cabin’ where you only deliver one gift for the entire cabin to share – this might make you want to increase your budget.

Ultimately, the choice is yours but bear in mind that if there are a lot of people to buy for, you could end up spending a lot – or receiving gifts worth a lot less than you chose to spend.

The Bottom Line

Disney fish extenders are some of the strangest named items you’ll get on a cruise but they are actually quite wonderful once you know about the community involved.

They can be really magical if you’re travelling with kids – they’ll love the surprise of receiving a gift when it does appear.

There are other ways that people like to liven up their stateroom too, including cabin door decorations – where permitted, anyway. It certainly can liven up an otherwise pretty basic corridor.

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Disney Wish Restaurants Guide (With Menu Photos)

February 27, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney

If there’s one thing that I loved about my cruise on the Disney Wish, it was the food. Disney cruises are known for amazing cuisine and immersive dining experiences, but the Disney Wish was a step above anything I’d experienced before.

In this guide, I’ll show you all of the restaurants on the Disney Wish as well as some photos of the menus, for the complete Disney Wish dining guide.

Enjoying a mimosa at breakfast onboard Disney Wish

If you happen to be vegan, then you should also check out my guide to Disney cruise vegan dining, which has some more details on that.

The Restaurants On The Disney Wish

The Disney Wish has three rotational dining restaurants, two adult-only speciality restaurants, a buffet-style restaurant, a food court with five different outlets 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.

List of dining options on the Disney Wish:

1923 – Rotational Main Dining
Worlds of Marvel – Rotational Main Dining
Arendelle – Rotational Main Dining
Enchante – Specialty Restaurant
Palo – Specialty Restaurant
Marcelline Market – Buffet
Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods – Poolside Eats
Keg & Compass – Pub
Joyful Sweets – Desserts
Room Service

Disney Wish Rotational Dining

Like all Disney cruise ships, the Disney Wish has rotational dining. This means that you eat in a different restaurant each night and your waiters come with you.

As Disney Wish only does three- and four-night cruises, this gives guests the opportunity to sample all of the main dining rooms on board.

Here’s some more information about each of the rotational dining restaurants on the Disney Wish…

1923

Named after the year that The Walt Disney Company was founded, this elegant 20s-style restaurant serves dishes inspired by California’s varied heritage.

I love the decor of this restaurant, which reminded me of my Grandma’s house. Kids are given an activity booklet to keep them busy. But, if you’re thinking of skipping one of the rotational dining restaurants to eat in a speciality restaurant while the kids are in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, then I would say that this is the one to miss.

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

Worlds of Marvel

Worlds of Marvel is more than just a restaurant on the Disney Wish. It’s a cinematic dining adventure where guests will play an interactive role in an Avengers mission while enjoying world cuisine.

If you plan to sail on the Disney Wish, I suggest that you go and watch the movie Ant-Man before your trip. It will give much more context to what happens in this restaurant.

Arendelle

Frozen fans of all ages will love Disney’s Frozen-themed restaurant, Arendelle. At the centre of the room is Ana and Kristoff’s engagement party. While the characters do a tour of the room, some tables do get a much better view than others.

If you’re a Concierge-level guest, then I definitely recommend speaking to your Concierge host in advance to ask if they might be able to secure you a table at the front for this one.

Disney Wish Speciality Restaurants

Enchanté

Enchanté offers French-inspired cuisine from a fine dining menu crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement. You can enjoy an evening meal, a Champagne brunch or if you have a sweet tooth there’s a five-course ‘Just Desserts’ experience.

As you enter, look out for Lumiere, he’s hiding amongst the candelabras on the wall!

Palo Steakhouse

The ever-popular Palo restaurant on Disney cruise ships has had a slight name tweak on the Disney Wish and it is now called Palo Steakhouse.

In a beautiful setting inspired by Cogsworth, from Beauty and the Beast, the show-stopping menu includes a selection of Italian dishes as well as the world’s best steaks. For dessert, you won’t want to miss the signature Palo chocolate souffle.

Disney Wish Casual Dining Options

As well as the main dining restaurants, Disney Wish has a host of other casual eateries that are open around the clock.

Marcelline Market

Disney’s buffet restaurant on the Disney Wish is called Marceline Market. It features lots of little outlets that are inspired by street food markets from around the world.

The menu changes all the time – don’t miss the extra couple of options around the back! There’s a choice of indoor and outdoor seating, all with spectacular ocean views.

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

This open-air food court on the Disney Wish features five different eateries:

Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue
Donald’s Cantina
Daisy’s Pizza Pies
Goofy’s Grill
Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream

It’s open for lunch, dinner and any time in between with tasty fast food options that the whole family will love. Food is made fresh to order and you can eat it poolside on the outdoor tables that are shaded from the sun.

Keg & Compass

The pub on Disney Wish, The Keg & Compass, offers a ‘pub grub’ menu with classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash and steak and ale pie. These are all available for an extra charge. There are some good vegan and vegetarian options here too, with fishless fish and plant-based chicken tenders.

Joyful Sweets

Joyful Sweets is a dessert store that’s inspired by the Pixar movie, Inside Out. Here, you can enjoy ice cream, gelato, candy and novelty treats that are based around the emotions of Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust.

Everything costs a little extra here, but it’s definitely worth a visit, even if just for a look around.

Room Service

Your final dining option onboard Disney Wish is to order room service via your stateroom telephone. Room service is free on Disney cruises, but it’s polite to tip the person who brings it a couple of dollars to show your appreciation.

Disney Wish Menus

When I cruised on the Disney Wish I took photos of all of the menus so you can see what’s on offer. Please note that these may be subject to change.

If you have a food allergy or intolerance such as gluten-free or nut-free, then you will be given a special allergy-friendly menu.

1923 Menus

1923 Drinks Menu and Wine List — 1923 Drinks Menu

1923 allergy friendly menu Disney Wish — 1923 Allergy-Friendly Menu

Disney Wish 1923 kids menu — 1923 Kids’ menu

Arendelle Menus

Worlds of Marvel Menus

Worlds of Marvel Kids Menu Disney Wish — Worlds of Marvel Kids Menu

Mickey’s Festival of Foods Menus

Mickey's Smokestack BBQ menu — Mickey’s Smokestack BBQ Menu

Daisy's Pizza Pies Menu — Daisy’s Pizza Pies Menu

Donald's Cantina Menu — Donald’s Cantina Menu

Breakfast Menus

Disney Wish breakfast menu — Breakfast Menu

Disney Wish room service breakfast menu — Disney Wish Room Service Menu – Breakfast

Speciality Dining Menus

Keg & Compass Menu Disney Wish — Keg & Compass Menu

Disney Wish Joyful Sweets Price List — Joyful Sweets Price List

Castaway Cay Menu

Castaway Cay Allergy-Friendly Menu — Castaway Cay Allergy-Friendly Pre-Order Menu

Drinks Menus

Poolside drinks menu Disney Wish — Quiet Cove Drinks Menu

Nightingales Drinks Menu Disney Wish — Nightingales Bar Menu

To Conclude

I found the amazing selection of delicious Disney Wish food to be one of the many highlights of my cruise. You can learn more about this incredible new ship with my Disney Wish guide.

Now that you’re up to speed on the DIsney Wish cruise restaurants, you might also want to take a look at my guide to Staterooms and Suites on Disney Wish so that you can choose the best room for your cruise.

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Disney Cruise Line Staterooms & Suites for Big Families (Sleeping 5, 6 or 7)

February 27, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Disney Kids

Setting sail on a magical voyage with Disney Cruise Line is undeniably a dream come true for many families. But I understand that as a larger family, you might be wondering about the accommodation options on board these enchanting ships.

Do they have space for everyone in your party? Will you all be comfortable?

In this blog post, we’ll be journeying through the spacious staterooms and lavish suites of Disney Cruise Line that comfortably sleep five or more guests.

Whether you are a family of five or seven, there is a perfect stateroom or suite waiting for you aboard one of Disney’s majestic ships. Let’s dive into the details…

How Many People Can Sleep in a Room on a Disney Cruise?

On a Disney Cruise, the number of guests a stateroom can sleep varies by ship and cabin type. For larger families, the Concierge Royal Suite on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ships can accommodate up to 7 guests. However, on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish and Disney Treasure ships, the maximum occupancy ranges from 5 to 6 guests, depending on the suite or stateroom selected.

Rooms for Large Families on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure

The Disney Wish sails with a host of room options that are perfect for larger families. On this grand vessel, you’ll discover a variety of suites and staterooms designed to accommodate 5 or 6 guests, ensuring everyone has enough space to stretch out and relax.

Disney Treasure is a sister of Disney Wish, and the accommodation options will likely be very similar

Concierge Tower Suite

Sleeps 8 – Category 1A

The unique Wish Tower Suite offers a Moana-inspired décor located high above the upper decks. It sleeps 8, making it perfect for larger families.

Features include a double-height living room with expansive ocean views, two main bedrooms, a children’s room, and a convertible library/bedroom. It boasts 4.5 bathrooms, a two-story living space, a grand spiral staircase, and a dining salon. The suite spans 1,966 sq. ft. with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Concierge guests receive exclusive amenities and services, both pre-arrival and onboard, and have access to dedicated ship areas like the Concierge Lounge.

Concierge 2 Story Royal Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 6 – Category 1B

Princess Aurora Royal Suite on Disney Wish

Let’s start with the crown jewel of the Disney Wish, the Concierge 2 Story Royal Suite. This luxurious suite offers an elegant, spacious haven for families of up to 6.

Inspired by Sleeping Beauty, these suites offer 2 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a large living area, dining room, and a private verandah with a whirlpool tub. At 1,759 sq. ft., it features premium amenities such as plush Euro-top mattresses, Frette® cotton linens, luxury robes, a Sub-Zero wine cooler, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Guests also enjoy access to the Concierge Lounge, a private sun deck, and personalized pre-arrival and onboard concierge services, ensuring an unforgettable, luxurious cruise experience.

Concierge 1 Story Royal Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 6 – Category 1C

Concierge 1 Story Royal Suite w/Verandah

The 1-story Concierge Royal Suite offers similar luxury for families of 5 or 6. The suite features 2 main bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a spacious living area, and an open dining salon. The private verandah comes with a whirlpool and magnificent ocean views.

The suite also offers exclusive concierge amenities and services, including an expanded range of offerings like down duvets and complimentary WiFi. As Concierge guests, families also enjoy access to exclusive areas on the ship for enhanced comfort and relaxation.

Concierge 1-Bed Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 2B

The main difference between the Royal Suites and the Concierge 1-Bedroom suite is that you only get one bedroom – but it still has plenty of space for a family of 5. That’s because you get a king bed and then a living area with a double convertible sofa, and a single pull-down bed from the wall for a fifth member of the family.

The suite is still spacious at 608 square feet, including the verandah, and you get two bathrooms, so it won’t take an age for everyone to get ready. You also get the same suite benefits as the Royal Suites, including the down duvets and WiFi.

Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 3A

Comparing it to the opulence of the Royal Suites and the 1-Bedroom Suite, the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is a slightly more compact choice, yet wonderfully accommodating for a family of 5. With its 296 sq. ft. layout, families can enjoy the cosiness of one king bed, a single convertible sofa, and two pull-down beds.

Though the size might be humbler, the offerings remain luxurious. Boasting a private verandah for morning coffee or evening relaxation, families also delight in the superior comfort of Frette® cotton linens and plush Euro-top mattresses. You also get the split bathroom that’s common with Disney’s staterooms – one main bathroom, with the toilet in a secondary half-bathroom.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom

Sleeps 4-5 – Category 3B

Unlike the Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah, this room category doesn’t have any kind of balcony, but instead has floor-to-ceiling windows. You also get more floorspace – up to 357 square feet, which is nice and roomy when the stateroom is at full capacity.

Only some of these staterooms sleep five guests (others are limited to four). The ones that sleep five still have the same bed layout – a king-size bed, convertible single sofa, and two pull-down beds. This is also the last of the Disney Wish staterooms sleeping five or more guests that has the Concierge amenities included.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Sleeps 4-5 – Category 4A, 4B, 4C, 4E

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom w/Verandah on Disney Wish

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah offers a blend of comfort and value. While it doesn’t match up to the luxury of the Concierge staterooms, it doesn’t skimp on space or features either. These rooms, found on various decks, provide up to 284 square feet of space, which is quite ample.

Only some staterooms in this category can accommodate up to five guests. When they do, the bed configuration is a queen bed, a single convertible sofa, and two pull-down beds. It’s a practical setup, ensuring a good night’s sleep for everyone.

You won’t find all the high-end amenities that come with the Concierge level, like the 1,000-thread-count linens. However, the room does boast a comfy Euro-top mattress with 300-thread-count Frette® linens and a range of other conveniences. Plus, there’s that bonus of the split bath design, which makes getting ready a breeze for families.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

Sleeps 4-5 – Category 8B, 8C

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom gives families a touch more room than its non-Family counterpart, offering a decent 237 square feet. Located on decks 6 through 9, these spaces can comfortably house up to five guests using a queen bed, convertible sofa, and two pull-down beds.

Instead of a balcony or verandah, a grand porthole window brings in the ocean views. With top-notch amenities like a Euro-top mattress, 300-thread-count linens, and that handy split bath design, it’s a space crafted for comfort. The room’s design, with a cosy sitting area and privacy curtain, ensures relaxation after a day of Disney-fueled fun.

Rooms for Large Families on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

If you’re travelling with a slightly larger family, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder could be the perfect choices for your ship. Some of the suites can accommodate up to seven guests, meaning you don’t have to split your family between multiple staterooms.

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 7 – Category 1A

While not as big as the two-storey Royal Suites on Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, the Royal Suites on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are still exceptional choices. With over 1,000 square feet of space, they’re capable of sleeping up to seven guests, with a master bedroom, a second bedroom with twin beds and two pull-down beds, and a final pull-down bed in the lounge.

With it being a Concierge-class room, you get the upgraded amenities including the down duvets, complimentary Wi-Fi and personal robe and slippers. However, unlike the Royal Suites on Disney Wish, you don’t get the very finest linens, but instead the same 300-thread count linens as in the lower Concierge-class rooms.

Concierge 2-Bed Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 7 – Category 1B

Similar to the Royal Suite, the Concierge 2-Bed Suite is capable of accommodating larger families of up to seven guests. The layout is a little different though – the second bedroom only has one pull-down bed, with the living room having a double sleeper sofa instead.

These rooms are still incredibly spacious, at 945 square feet, and you get two full bathrooms and a half bathroom to make it much easier for everyone to get ready for their day of adventure.

Concierge 1-Bed Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 7 – Category 2B

The Concierge 1-Bed Suite is a comfortable space for families of up to five guests. The main bedroom has a queen bed, with the rest of the sleeping arrangements handled by the living area, with a double sofa bed and a single pull-down.

You get Disney’s split bathrooms too, with the main bathroom including a whirlpool tub, which the kids will love (or the grown-ups can enjoy when they need to rest after an action-packed day!). At 614 square feet including the verandah, there’s plenty of space for everyone to unwind.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 4A, 4B, 4E

On Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the only non-Concierge level family room is this one – sleeping 5 guests, it’s around half the size of the 1-Bed Suite option with 304 square feet of space. It’s cleverly used though, with the living area including one single sofa bed, a wall pull-down bed, and an upper pull-down bed. So during the day, when the beds are all tucked away, the room still feels spacious.

While you don’t get the Concierge-level amenities in this room, you can at least still enjoy your own verandah, along with the convenience of the split bathroom.

Rooms for Large Families on the Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

In terms of accommodating larger families, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the most limited ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. The biggest staterooms and suites have a maximum occupancy of five – still enough for many families, but if you’re a group of six or seven, you’ll need to look at the other ships in the fleet.

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 1A

The Royal Suite on the Dream and Fantasy is comparable to the two-storey Royal Suite on Disney Wish, at least in size. While it only sleeps five guests, it has a huge 1,781 square feet of space (with the verandah included), with an open dining salon and a pantry.

The solo bedroom has a queen bed, while the living room has two beds that pull down from the wall, one of which is a double. There are two full bathrooms, one of which has a whirlpool tub, while there’s a second whirlpool tub on the verandah itself.

Concierge 1-Bed Suite with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 2B

The Concierge 1-Bed Suites are around a third of the size of the Royal Suites, and instead of a double pull-down bed in the living area they have a double sofa bed. They still have plenty of space for five guests, although the verandah is a lot smaller and doesn’t have a whirlpool bath. You do still get one in the primary bathroom, though.

You also get the upgraded Concierge amenities in this suite and the Royal Suite – it’s the same amenities you get in Concierge suites on other ships in the fleet, such as free WiFi, a pillow menu, and a feather duvet.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Sleeps 5 – Category 3A

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom measures 306 square feet, so around half the size of the Concierge 1-Bed Suite and a sixth of the size of the Royal Suite. And yet it’s not cramped – that’s just a testament to how big the Royal Suite truly is.

In the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom you’ll get a queen bed and a double sofa bed, with an upper pull-down bed to allow for five guests in total. You don’t get the full two bathrooms, but you do get the signature split bathrooms, so the toilet is still private while someone is using the bathtub in the primary bathroom.

This still comes with the Concierge amenities, too.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Sleeps 4 to 5 – Category 4A, 4B, 4C, 4E

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs are almost the same size as the Concierge equivalents – at 299 square feet, they’re very close. There are two main differences – firstly, instead of a double sofa bed, you get a single sofa bed and a second pull-down bed in the rooms that sleep five (some only sleep four).

And secondly, you miss out on the Concierge-level amenities, so no free WiFi, pillow menu, or luxury duvet. You do still get the split bathroom, with a tub in the main bathroom, and a comfortable verandah with patio furniture.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

Sleeps 3 to 5 – Category 8A, 8B, 8C

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are the smallest in the entire fleet when you are looking at rooms that sleep up to five guests. They measure 241 square feet, which isn’t tiny, but don’t expect to have a lot of personal space if you’re filling the queen bed, the single sofa and both pull-down beds.

Otherwise, the room has similar amenities to the Verandah version – only, instead of the verandah itself, you get porthole windows – either one large or two smaller ones, depending on the specific stateroom you get.

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The Bottom Line

There are a lot of room options for families of five, six or seven on Disney’s cruise ships, but a lot of them are Concierge-level rooms. While it’s great to have the additional amenities, it does mean you’re paying more for the stateroom or suite too.

Suggested read: Disney Cruise Concierge Perks: Is It Worth It?

It’s always worth checking whether paying for two smaller connecting rooms would be better than one larger family room, though. These are limited on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, though, so you need to book early to secure them.

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Disney Cruise Vegan Guide (with secret options!)

February 24, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney Food and drink

As a vegan, I found dining on a Disney cruise ship to be very different from any other cruise I’ve experienced.

Disney is one of the best cruise lines for vegans. but things work differently on a Disney ship. You may like this, you may not. But, if you’re planning to take a Disney cruise and you’re vegan, there are some things to know before you go that will make your experience 10x better.

You can read more about my cruise on the Disney Magic here and on the Disney Wish here. Otherwise, read on for the things you need to know when taking a Disney cruise as a vegan, vegetarian or plant-based person.

Knowing these things in advance will make sure that you have a great dining experience. As long as you plan ahead, you’re sure to enjoy vegan friendly cruises with Disney.

Disney Cruise Ships do not offer vegan menus. However, there is usually one vegan starter and main in each menu, and these are labelled as plant-based.

Despite the lack of menus, vegans certainly won’t go hungry on a Disney cruise. The helpful team will always be able to offer you something. And if you don’t like the single option that’s on offer, they will make you something else.

Currently, all Disney Cruise Line food and drink menus are available to view via Disney’s Navigator app, but only during your cruise. You can also request a disposable paper menu in each venue and you’ll also find a menu outside the door of each restaurant on the ship.

Disney Cruise Menus

Each of the five Disney cruise ships has different restaurants on board, and the menu is different in each restaurant.

Here is an example of some of the menus from my most recent cruise, so that you can take a look at the vegan offerings in the restaurants on the Disney Wish.

1923

Worlds of Marvel

Arendelle

Breakfast Menu

The photo below shows the breakfast menu, which was identical on board the Wish and the Magic.

As you can see, nothing is labelled as vegan. Most of the things that are suitable for vegetarians are not labelled as vegetarian either. However, there are a whole host of secret vegan menu items that you can request, if you know to ask! Read on for more about those…

Are Disney Cruises Vegan-Friendly?

Despite the lack of vegan menus and inconsistent labelling, Disney cruises are very vegan-friendly. Chefs are happy to adjust almost any of the dishes on the standard menu to make them suitable for vegans.

Sometimes, I barely looked at the menu, as before I had a chance to, our waiter was there chatting about what the chef would like to make specially for me.

As you have the same waiter looking after you, they will remember your dietary requirements after the first night. However, at the very beginning, it can be tricky.

Not Every Crew Member Is Trained About Vegan Diets

When I first sat down in the 1923 restaurant, I advised the waiter that I was vegan. He brought me a special ‘allergy menu’ which was similar to the main menu, but it didn’t have any vegan options on it. In fact, the whole vegetarian section was missing.

I explained that I didn’t have an allergy but that I didn’t eat meat, fish, dairy or eggs. He then gave me the regular menu, but brought me gluten-free bread, instead of the regular bread that my vegan friend on another table was told was fine to eat.

At lunch, I ordered the Impossible burger from the poolside cafe. I asked if any other side dishes were vegan and was told that they all were – potato salad, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. Even when I questioned this, the server was adamant that they were. They weren’t though, although they did appear to be vegetarian.

vegetarian side dishes on Disney Wish — vegetarian side dishes

I do feel that this problem could be easily solved if Disney Cruise Line opted to label foods as vegan and vegetarian, rather than relying on the knowledge of each crew member.

In the buffet, it’s impossible to wander around choosing what you’d like to eat. If you ask whether something is vegan, the servers don’t know, so they send you to the manager, who asks what you would like to eat.

I had this pasta freshly made for me, and while I did really appreciate the effort and it’s delicious, I do sometimes like to have a few different things on my plate.

When I have the kids to sort out, I’d rather just grab a few things for myself rather than have to speak to find the right person, ask for something special and then wait for it to be made.

How To Eat Vegan on a Disney Cruise

If you plan to eat a plant-based, dairy-free or vegan diet on a Disney cruise, there are four things that you must do…

1. Tell Disney Cruise Line About Your Dietary Requirements When You Book The Cruise

When you book your cruise, you must inform Disney Cruise Line of any special dietary needs or food allergies.

You’ll be prompted to do this when you book online. If you book over the phone or with a travel agent, don’t forget to mention that you’re vegan.

If you’ve already booked your cruise and haven’t told Disney that you’re vegan, you should do it as soon as possible. Ideally, you should give at least four weeks notice, but late is always better than never.

2. Tell Your Server That You Are Vegan

The first time you sit down to eat, you should let your server know that you’re vegan. While they will have a record of this on your booking, telling them straight away means that you can skip the bit where they recommend various steaks and things that you’re not interested in.

It also gives them a prompt to help you with the menu and to check what else might be available for you.

On a Disney cruise, the menu labelling can be very hit and miss. It’s rare to find anything labelled as vegan, even though some of the items may actually be free of animal-derived ingredients.

You can ask your server which items on the menu are suitable for vegans. They will advise you and may suggest some things that can easily be adjusted e.g. cooked in oil instead of butter.

Don’t be afraid to ask for things that aren’t on the menu. If you fancy a bowl of pasta, for example, they will almost certainly be able to make that for you. Disney Cruise Line has amazing service and they make you feel like nothing is too much trouble for the waiters and chefs.

Some secret options you can ask for include avocado on toast at breakfast, vegan omelette (these are incredible), vegan sausage, vegan chicken-style tenders and vegan Mickey waffles.

4. Pre-Order Your Food For The Next Day

The great thing about Disney cruises is that you eat in all of the restaurants on rotation, and your servers will move with you. Because you have the same waiter every day, it’s easy to order your food for the next night at the end of your meal.

If you plan to eat in the main restaurants at breakfast or lunch, you can also pre-order either the day before or the meal before.

The advantage of pre-ordering your vegan food is that you’ll get a wider choice of options. You’ll also have less of a wait, as some things like vegan sausages can take a while to cook.

If your cruise calls as Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, then you should definitely pre-order your food for on the island in the dining room the night before.

Disney Cruise Vegan Food Photos

On my Disney cruises, I ate in all of the main dining rooms, the buffet, the poolside snack bars, and the speciality dining restaurants. Here are some photos of my food to help you to know what to expect…

Animator’s Palate

On the first night of our cruise, we dined in Animator’s Palate. This colourful restaurant can be found on the Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy as well as the Disney Magic.

While we studied the menu, we tucked into freshly baked bread with vegan butter.

For starters, I ordered the arugula leaves with red beets, orange segments and marinated white beans with mustard dressing. It was delicious and a lovely healthy start to the meal.

(Disney Cruise Line’s menus are all in American English, but for us Brits, arugula is rocket and beets is beetroot!)

For the main, I again ordered off the standard menu. The vegan-friendly option was black bean chipotle cakes over corn kernels and brown rice topped with tomato and cilantro salsa.

None of the desserts on the menu were suitable for vegans so the waiter cheerfully offered to bring me a surprise. It was a poached pear with raspberry sorbet.

I had never tried a poached pear before and it’s not something I would ever think to order. It wasn’t to my liking, but the sorbet was absolutely delicious.

After dinner, I enjoyed a lovely coffee with almond milk.

Rapunzel’s Royal Table

For breakfast, we ate at Rapunzel’s Royal Table. This themed restaurant on the Disney Magic offers the same menu as the other main restaurant that was open for breakfast – Lumiere’s. Alternatively, you can eat breakfast at the buffet restaurant, Cabanas.

Disney Cruise Line’s breakfast menu was a little odd as only a couple of items (fruit and crepes) were marked as vegetarian, even though most of the other items like pancakes, waffles, cereals and yoghurts appeared to be vegetarian too. The fruit was also marked as ‘dairy-free’, but nothing else was.

It didn’t matter, because our waiter suggested a whole host of vegan options including egg-free omelettes, vegan sausage, mushrooms and avocado, none of which were on the menu!

I said yes to everything.

The vegan omelette was incredible! It looked so realistic that I had to check that it was definitely vegan. I asked what it was made of and was told ‘it’s a secret’.

My vegan sausages arrived a couple of minutes later. To be honest, I’d forgotten that I’d ordered them as I was so impressed by the omelette!

Accompanying my breakfast, I enjoyed a delicious vegan cappuccino made with almond milk.

We didn’t eat dinner at Rapunzel’s Royal Table because we had a booking at the speciality restaurant, Palo, that evening (more on that later in this review). However, we did attend Rapunzel’s to watch the show and so that the kids could eat there before we dropped them off at the kid’s club.

It was tricky not to eat at Rapunzels, but there’s no way that I could avoid the bread. The pretzel bread was probably the best bread I’ve ever had. You have to try it!

I took a good look at the menu at Rapunzel’s Royal Table and spotted a couple of things that appeared to be vegan-friendly or that they could easily be adjusted to be so.

For starters, there was a salad with cucumber, potato and carrot topped with baby oakleaf and Lolla Rosa.

One of the mains was marked as both vegetarian and dairy-free. That was a chilli-spiced tofu ramen with soy-vegetable stock, strands of rice noodles, shiitake mushrooms, baby bok choi, red onion, red bell pepper and cilantro.

Lumiere’s

On the final day of our cruise, we ate lunch and dinner at Disney’s Beauty and the Beast-themed restaurant, Lumiere’s. Our waiter had encouraged us to pre-order our lunch the night before, and he strongly recommended a pasta dish.

When we arrived and looked at the menu, we were shocked to discover that it also featured an Impossible Cheeseburger! This was labelled as ‘Does not contain Animal Meat, Dairy, Eggs or Honey’. The first time I’d seen a vegan or plant-based label on anything on the Disney Magic, although there was better labelling on my subsequent cruise on the Disney Wish.

The pasta was on its way, but our waiter said not to worry, he would bring both! I was a little worried that we didn’t have long to eat as we had a matinee performance of the show booked, but he assured us that he would make sure that we had enough time. The food arrived really quickly, so we didn’t have to rush.

The Impossible burger tasted amazing, and I loved the vegan roasted garlic aioli.

I know that some strict vegans avoid Impossible burgers as this new meat alternative had to be tested on animals to be approved by the FDA. They also taste a lot like meat. But, if you can accept both of those, then this is something that you’ll definitely want to look out for on the lunch menu in Disney Cruise Line’s main dining rooms.

We returned to Lumiere’s that evening for another fantastic dinner…

Our waiter suggested a tomato soup that was nowhere to be seen on the menu. It was delicious with the warm French country bread that was on offer.

For main, I ordered the grilled marinated tofu with roasted zucchini, eggplant, red peppers, Israeli couscous and lime-cilantro drop. This was in the vegetarian section of the menu and was accidentally vegan. It tasted as good as it looked.

For dessert, I again opted for the ‘vegan surprise’. The raspberry sorbet appeared again, which I didn’t mind at all as it tasted so good. This time I also got some kind of dark chocolate and raspberry pudding which was incredible. This wasn’t on the menu, but I’m sure it would have been very popular if it were!

Eating Vegan at Cabanas (Disney Cruise Line’s Buffet)

We only ate at Cabana’s once on our Disney cruise. It was okay, but not as good for vegans as most other cruise ship buffets that I’d experienced.

Firstly, there’s not a whole lot of choice. The buffet is much smaller than you’ll get with other cruise lines. I expect that this is because Disney’s main dining rooms are so good that a lot of people tend to skip the buffet for anything other than snacks.

Nothing was labelled as vegan-friendly in Cabanas, so I asked the server behind the counter whether some pasta was suitable for vegans. I expected a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, but instead, the lady said that she would fetch the head chef!

The chef came out of the kitchen and talked me through everything on the buffet. The only vegan items were French fries and salad, as even the vegetables were cooked in butter. However, he kindly offered to make me a fresh vegan version of anything that was there. I opted for some orzo pasta and he made up a batch without cream that was delivered to my table ten minutes later.

I’ll be honest with you – I wasn’t hugely impressed by Cabanas. However, it would be unfair of me to judge it off only one meal.

I usually like cruise ship buffets because they’re quick and have lots of choices. Cabanas was, unfortunately, neither of these things for me. If you have to wait for food to be cooked specially for you, the rest of your party could have finished before you start.

If you’re dining with kids at Cabanas, you can order your food, help the kids get theirs, then yours should be ready and you’ll all finish together. That could work.

Eating Vegan at Palo (Disney Cruise Line’s Speciality Restaurant)

Although I paid for this cruise myself, Disney Cruise Line very kindly offered us a complimentary meal at Palo. I was a little hesitant to try this adults-only Italian restaurant as I’d checked out the menu and nothing appeared to be vegan at all. I’d also searched for Palo vegan reviews online and not found anything reassuring.

However, we decided to go along for dinner and I’m so glad that I did!

If you’re vegan, you can ignore Disney Cruise Line’s Palo menu completely and trust that the chef will conjure up some amazing vegan dishes just for you. The vegan food at Palo is incredible.

Here’s what I ate…

Eating Vegan at Disney Cruise Line’s Outdoor Venues

The Disney Magic has a couple of poolside casual eateries. The Duck-In Diner serves classic American fast food like burgers and hot dogs, while Pinocchio’s Pizzeria is the place to go for pizza slices fresh from the oven.

At The Duck-In Diner, the vegan offering was different each day and was advertised very clearly with a sign…

I tried the plant-based chili dog and it was great, as were the fries. It seemed to be missing the vegan cheese, but I didn’t mind enough to go back for it.

The vegan hot dogs are made fresh to order so they take around ten minutes to cook. I didn’t have to stand around waiting for it, though. I was advised to sit down and they would deliver it to my table when it was ready.

We didn’t get time to try the pizza, but I enquired and was told that vegan pizza could be made to order, which was great to know!

By the pool, you can also get lots of fresh fruit like melon and grapes, as well as a good selection of salad items.

On the Disney Wish, the poolside vegan options were even better with lots of items on the main menu including Impossible burgers, vegan hot dogs, vegan pizzas with plant-based pepperoni and vegan tacos and burritos!

Disney Cruise Vegan Room Service

Room service is free of charge on Disney cruises, although it’s nice to tip the person who delivers it a couple of dollars.

We didn’t order room service, but I had a look at the Disney cruise room service menu on the app. Nothing was labelled as vegan, but I took note of the items that appeared to be. You should definitely check before you order though as they may well suggest some more things when you call to place your order!

Disney Cruise Line Room Service Vegan Options:

Mixed Garden Salad
Fresh Fruit Bowl
Salted Peanuts (additional cost)
Salted Cashews (additional cost)

Vegan Dining for Kids on Disney Cruises

My kids are both vegetarian and very fussy eaters. While my daughter would like to be vegan, I won’t allow her to be until she adds more variety to her already-limited diet.

As long as your kids are happy to eat the kind of food that adults eat, including vegetables, salads and sauces, they will have no problems eating vegan on a Disney cruise.

Breakfast

Disney cruise ships have some great vegan breakfast options for kids. The fresh fruit comes in the shape of a boat! There should be no problems swapping the strawberry yoghurt for a dairy-free alternative.

Disney’s famous Mickey waffles are also available as a vegan option, along with a vegan sausage and whatever other sides you care to ask for.

Lunch and Dinner

On the Disney cruise kids’ menus, there was always pasta, pizza, vegetables, salad, fries and mashed potatoes as well as the meat options.

I would imagine that it would be very easy for the chef to make vegan tomato pasta and vegan mashed potatoes for kids to go with the already vegan-friendly items like fries, bread and salad.

The Disney Cruise Line chefs will basically make anything that your child asks for, within reason. When my son couldn’t decide between pizza and pasta, the waiter straight away offered to bring both.

When he was asked what vegetables he would like with it, he said ‘apple’. The waiter just smiled, but sure enough, there was a sliced apple on the side!

Disney Cruise Vegan Food FAQs

Here are answers to some of the commonly-asked questions about vegan food on Disney cruises. If you’d like to know anything else, please ask in the comments section below.

Do Disney cruises have dairy-free milk?

On Disney cruises, vegans and those who avoid cows’ milk can request almond milk or soya milk. You can even get a cappuccino made with plant-based milk.

Do Disney cruises have vegan butter?

On Disney cruises, vegan butter or margarine is available on request. Alternatively, you can request balsamic oil and vinegar to dip your bread roll into.

Do Disney cruises offer meat alternatives?

Disney cruises offer a variety of meat alternatives including Impossible Burgers, Beyond Sausage, plant-based chilli dogs and egg-free omelettes.

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To Conclude

I really enjoyed the food on my Disney cruises, but I’m glad that I did my research before I went. The key to eating well as a vegan on a Disney cruise is to communicate your needs and wishes with the crew on board.

In my experience, Disney Cruise Line will go above and beyond to make sure that you’re happy and well-catered for, whatever your dietary requirements may be. And however fussy your kids are! So a vegan Disney cruise is certainly possible, and enjoyable.

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Disney Cruise Concierge Perks: Is It Worth It?

February 11, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney

If you want to experience something a little more special on a Disney cruise, then you might want to try Disney Cruise Line’s Concierge level.

Booking a Concierge stateroom or suite gets you some luxurious benefits that make your whole cruise feel a lot more special. Those benefits don’t come cheap though – Concierge is often a pretty hefty upgrade.

So, let’s take a look at everything you get with DCL Concierge, and how much it costs, so you can decide whether it’s worth it for your next cruise…

What is Concierge on a Disney Cruise?

Concierge on a Disney cruise is essentially a premium category of accommodation. Concierge-level staterooms and suites are the best on the ship and they come with a number of additional benefits, as well as access to the Concierge lounge.

Every Suite on a Disney cruise is considered part of the Concierge class, while there are also some Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs that have the benefits.

Disney Cruise concierge rooms — Signposting for Concierge staterooms

Not many though – so don’t expect hundreds of Concierge guests on every voyage. Numbers are kept lower because these rooms do cost a lot more, and guests expect not to be crowded when they’re taking advantage of the Concierge-level services.

How Much is Concierge on a Disney Cruise?

The price for Concierge on a Disney cruise will vary. All suites are Concierge-level, so the suite price that you see is inclusive of Concierge services. A typical 7-night cruise will cost around $2,500 per person for a deluxe Verandah stateroom, and $5,000 per person for a similar room with Concierge.

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That’s quite the extra price jump since it essentially doubles the price of your room. And with two guests that’s a pretty huge difference of $10,000 compared to $5,000.

Adding a child to a room costs less but still almost doubles when you look at a Disney Concierge cruise. Instead of $6,000 for a typical Family room with Verandah, you’ll pay around $12,000.

As I say, these prices will vary depending on the time of year, the destination, and the length of the cruise. But it just proves that Concierge isn’t some low-cost addition, and you’ll definitely want to weigh up the benefits to see if it’s worth the extra cost.

You could easily get two cruises for the price of one if you opt out of a Disney Cruise Concierge room!

So is DCL’s Concierge-level worth it? Let’s take a look…

What Does Concierge Get You on a Disney Cruise?

Concierge-level on a Disney cruise lets you access a private lounge during your voyage, and gives you a number of extra benefits including a Concierge Host to attend to any needs you have, early boarding, and more.

The idea is that you’ll experience a more luxurious cruise than passengers who’ve chosen not to book a Concierge class stateroom. It’s an even more special experience.

As to whether it’s worth it – that depends on how much you’ll use each of the perks.

List of Disney Cruise Concierge Perks

Here are the Disney Cruise Concierge benefits you can enjoy:

Priority boarding and disembarkation
Various extra benefits in your stateroom
Access to the Concierge Lounge with free food and drinks
Access to the Concierge Sundeck
Priority booking for dining and excursions
Support from the Concierge Hosts to manage anything you need
Free wifi
Free gifts throughout the cruise

Sounds good? Let’s explore these in a little more detail…

1. Priority Boarding and Disembarkation

On the first day of your cruise, guests who’ve booked a Concierge stateroom have a priority line for check-in, and a separate waiting area once they’ve made it through the terminal.

The Concierge Hosts will then come to escort these guests onto the ship first, before anyone else is permitted to board.

DCL boarding — The first glimpse of Mickey and Minnie

Guests are taken straight to the Concierge Lounge on the ship, where they’ll be able to enjoy a special embarkation lunch with selected free alcoholic drinks. The menu isn’t really different from anywhere else serving an a la carte lunch on the ship, but you’ll be able to enjoy it earlier and in a quieter location.

The Concierge Hosts will also use this time to run through your itinerary so far, and ask if there’s anything you want to change or book. This is good as there can often be a scramble to book activities as soon as you board and some things get booked up right away.

Your room is also one of the first prepared, and it’s often ready for you by midday. Other guests typically have to wait until mid-afternoon before they can access their stateroom. And they can’t even dump their bag of wine outside as the whole corridor will be roped off.

You’ll get a similar treatment on the final day of your cruise too. Instead of having to wait in line to disembark, you’ll be escorted from the ship quickly and efficiently, beating the crowds and overall enjoying a much smoother experience.

2. In-Room Perks

There are a number of extra benefits to improve your stateroom if you book a Concierge option. These include down duvets in the main bedrooms, and a pillow menu – guests can choose from feather, hypoallergenic and memory foam.

Disney cruise pillow menu — Pillow Menu in a Concierge stateroom

There’s also a personal robe and slippers provided for use during the cruise – but don’t take them home. All of the robes are super soft, but if you stay in one of the top suites then you get an upgraded luxury robe…

You also get nicer sofas and chairs in Concierge class, which are generally more comfortable, along with a fridge that will be regularly topped up with bottles of water and cans of soda thanks to your host.

In the bathroom, you can enjoy upgraded toiletries. All of the toiletries are nice on Disney ships, but at Concierge level, you only get the best.

Disney Cruise concierge toiletries — Concierge-level toiletries

And on top of that, Disney’s Concierge guests also benefit from improved in-room dining options. As well as normal room service, you can get dinner delivered to your stateroom from the main dining room. Guests in a Royal Suite can also get dinner sent to their room from Palo, the popular speciality dining restaurant.

Disney Concierge Room Service Menu — Some great options on the room service menu

And one last sweetener – Concierge guests can enjoy room service breakfast on disembarkation day. For other guests, room service ends at 1.30 am on the last night, so this is just a little extra time to enjoy a bite in your stateroom before you depart.

3. Concierge Lounge

The Concierge Lounge is available on all Disney ships – Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Wish. It’s located on Deck 10 for the Magic and Wonder, and Deck 12 for the Dream, Fantasy and Wish.

Guests are escorted here on embarkation day to enjoy lunch away from the crowds (though guests are free to wander off and explore if they prefer). And then the lounge is open daily from early morning to around 10 pm at night, offering a comfortable and luxurious place to relax.

Breakfast, light lunch items and snacks are available throughout the day, along with soft drinks in a help-yourself fridge that’s always kept stocked up.

In the evenings, bartenders will serve alcoholic drinks too, most of which are free (any with a charge will be made clear so you aren’t stung).

There are special events held in the lounge for guests too, including special character meet-and-greets that again are much less crowded and mean that you don’t have to wait in lines to have your photo taken with a popular Disney character.

And one last little treat – as well as the cookies and marshmallow snacks that are available for free throughout the day, look out for bags of popcorn that you can pick up to take with you to the shows or the movies on board.

4. Concierge Sun Area

As well as a Concierge Lounge, there’s also a private Concierge sundeck where you can relax and enjoy a more peaceful time than you would by the side of the busier pools.

The sun decks are situated one deck higher than the lounge – so that’s Deck 11 for most of the ships, except for Disney Wish where it’s on deck 13. The facilities and size vary depending on the ship too – the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are missing private hot tubs, but it’s still a nice place to relax.

What really helps to make it feel more luxurious is the small added extras, including suncream – no need to remember to bring your own, it’s all there ready for you.

There are towels on-hand as well and they even have Evian facial sprays that you can use to cool off, which is definitely extravagant.

5. Priority Activity Booking

A lot of the experiences on a typical Disney cruise – including speciality dining restaurants and excursions – are in high demand. So having the advantage of being able to book earlier is definitely not something to be ignored.

Concierge guests are able to make bookings at the same time as Platinum Castaway Club guests on the ship, but they’re actually permitted to send in their requests five days earlier than that. And when the booking window does open, Concierge guests are given priority.

In most cases, this priority treatment isn’t too detrimental to everyone else’s experience. On most cruises, there is plenty of time for guests to enjoy speciality dining at Palo, and most of the excursions have a lot of space – there aren’t that many Concierge guests on each sailing.

Where this tends to really matter is with the cabanas on Castaway Cay. If your cruise visits Disney’s private island, then booking a Concierge stateroom or suite is the only way to guarantee you’ll get a cabana for the day. They are limited, and they do book up fast.

Cabana entry Castaway Cay — I was lucky enough to get to use a cabana on Castaway Cay

Suggested read: 33 Secrets To Know About Castaway Cay

Special activities are also offered to Concierge guests too, such as the Palo Be Our Guest cooking experience. While technically open to all passengers, Concierge guests often book up this limited eight-person event, so most of the time guests in standard rooms don’t even stand a chance.

6. Concierge Hosts

The Concierge Hosts are the people who make sure that everyone in a Concierge stateroom or suite has the best cruise experience possible.

Rather than one host to a room, there’s usually a small team covering all the Concierge guests, but there are more than enough to make sure you never have to wait for anything onboard.

Concierge Hosts are essentially your own butler and booking agent rolled into one. They are able to manage a lot of different services on your behalf, including booking excursions, adding money to your onboard account, securing or moving a dining reservation, and booking a placeholder stateroom or suite for your next cruise.

And they don’t just book anything. If you use your host to book a table at a restaurant with entertainment, expect one of the better seats with the best views. Their only job is to make Concierge guests happy, so they go above and beyond.

best seat for show — Enjoying the show from the best seat

And they’ll take the time to learn about you as you go through your cruise. Enjoying one type of soda more than the others in your fridge? They’ll make sure you don’t run out. Particular taste for the dessert snacks on board? Don’t be surprised to find one waiting for you in your room at the end of the day!

If you want to feel like you’re a VIP on your cruise, the Concierge Hosts will definitely give you that impression.

7. Free WiFi

One of the smaller perks of Concierge rooms, but one that’s still worth having. All guests on a Disney cruise will get 50Mb of internet access free at the start of their voyage, provided they sign up for an internet package on the first day.

But book a Concierge room, and pay for the internet package, and you’ll get 100Mb free instead.

That’s not a huge amount if you plan on spending time uploading photos or watching videos, but if you’re only sending emails and keeping friends and family up to date, it’ll mean that your internet allowance stretches a lot further before you have to pay.

Of course, if you do intend to use the internet a lot, you could pay for a Royal Suite on-board, where you get completely unlimited WiFi access throughout your entire cruise.

8. Gifts

Throughout your cruise, you’ll be given little extra gifts to make your cruise that bit more special. These gifts vary and aren’t guaranteed, but I’ve looked through many stories of people who’ve booked a Concierge stateroom or suite and pulled together some examples of what you can expect.

Guests often enjoy a free fruit basket on their first day, which is handy if you’re looking for some healthier snacks for you or the kids. However it’s not all healthy – don’t be surprised if some Mickey-shaped sweet treats make it into your room at some point over your cruise, especially if you have younger travellers with you. Concierge Hosts love to make a cruise as special as possible for kids.

And on the last evening, you’ll often receive a more substantial leaving present for the end of your cruise – guests have often received special sketches drawn by a Disney expert to take home with them, showing some of the famous characters.

It’s a lovely memento of your voyage and something you could frame and hang at home to remind you of your special cruise – or to nudge you to book your next one.

So, Is Disney Cruise Line Concierge Worth It?

Honestly, there’s no single answer here on whether Disney’s Concierge service is worth it. If you’re on a budget then I’d probably suggest it’s not something to book, since you can put the extra money aside for potentially an entirely new cruise holiday instead. And a ‘standard’ Disney cruise is still a really special experience.

But if you have the money available, then Concierge is a really nice upgrade overall. The Concierge Hosts really make the difference – from the private escort onto the ship and from the ship on disembarkation day, to their willingness to run any little errand you need – they leave you to fully focus on relaxing.

It’s worth factoring in the extra tipping cost though – you’re likely going to want to leave a sizeable thank-you for your Concierge Hosts, which isn’t covered in the extra fare you’ve already paid. So, be sure to bear that in mind when you’re costing it all up.

A lot of people say that Concierge is worth it more on shorter cruises, where you need the extra help to secure the bookings that you want. On a longer cruise, you won’t have as much competition.

Ultimately, it comes down to how much of a VIP you want to feel like, and the budget you’ve got planned for your cruise.

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Disney Cruise Concierge FAQs

Is alcohol included on Disney Cruise Concierge?

Some alcohol is included with Disney’s Cruise Concierge service. Guests that attend the embarkation lunch can have some alcoholic drinks for no fee, while guests can also enjoy a selection of free beers, wines and spirits in the evenings at the Concierge Lounge.

How much do you tip Disney Concierge?

There’s no set amount to tip a Disney Concierge, it is left to the guests’ discretion. The suggested tip is $8 per guest, per day. Most people leave a generous tip considering how much work the Concierge do during the cruise.

When can Concierge board a Disney cruise?

Concierge guests are the first to board a Disney cruise, sometimes as early as 10 am. They get a separate queue and waiting area, from which they are escorted on board before other guests. Guests can arrive later if they prefer. Concierge rooms are also ready earlier – typically from noon, compared to 2 pm for other guests.

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6 Disney Cruise Misconceptions That Almost Made Me Miss Out

January 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney

Disney Cruise Line is probably one of the most misunderstood of all of the cruise companies that exist.

So many people assume that a Disney Cruise “isn’t for them”, when in fact, I’m sure they would love it if they gave it a try.

After taking four Disney cruises, I’ve discovered there’s much more to this cruise line than mouse ears and princesses meet-and-greets.

I used to believe all sorts of things about Disney cruises that turned out to be completely wrong. From worrying about constant cartoon characters in my face to assuming I’d need a second mortgage to afford it, these misconceptions nearly stopped me from discovering what’s now become my favourite way to holiday…

1. Disney Cruises Are Over-Disneyfied

Here’s something that really surprised me about Disney cruises – they’re actually very classy! I was worried I’d be walking into a floating theme park, but it’s nothing like that at all.

When I first stepped onto the ship, I noticed how elegant everything looked. The grand entrance hall reminded me of a luxury hotel, with beautiful art deco touches and subtle Mickey Mouse designs that won’t even spot at first glance.

Yes, there are Disney characters around, but they’re not in your face all the time. I love how they pop up for scheduled meet-and-greets or special shows, but then they leave you to enjoy your holiday in peace. It’s perfect – you get those magical Disney moments when you want them, but you can also have a grown-up dinner without Goofy doing the cha-cha next to your table!

The ships themselves are gorgeous, with lots of little nods to maritime history and classic cruise design. The restaurants are particularly lovely – places like Palo and Remy feel just like fancy restaurants you’d find in Paris.

Cruise Mummy seated at a table in the Palo restaurant aboard the Disney Magic cruise ship. The restaurant's interior features large arched windows offering a panoramic ocean view, contributing to a bright and airy atmosphere. The table is elegantly set with multiple wine glasses and a floral centerpiece, reflecting the upscale dining experience Palo is known for. Cruise Mummy is dressed casually with a floral top, complementing the relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance of the venue. — Palo restaurant on Disney Magic

I think Disney’s got it just right. There’s enough magic to make it special, but it’s all done with such style that you never feel like you’re trapped in a cartoon.

2. Disney Cruises Are Too Expensive

I used to think a Disney cruise would break the bank, but doing some in-depth analysis, I’ve found they’re actually quite reasonable when you consider what you get. Let me explain why.

There’s a lot included in your fare – all your meals (and believe me, there’s lots of them!), soft drinks, and tons of fun activities. When I compare this to paying separately for hotels, restaurants, and entertainment at Disney World, the cruise often works out cheaper.

You can make it even more affordable if you’re a bit clever about it. Sailing during school term times, especially in January and September, can save you loads. And if you’re not fussy about your exact room location, you can let Disney pick it for you – they call it a “guaranteed stateroom,” and it’s usually cheaper.

You don’t have to worry about constantly reaching for your wallet once you’re on board. It’s so nice knowing most things are already paid for, and you can just focus on having fun!

3. Disney Cruises Are Just for Families

I used to think Disney cruises were all about kids running around and non-stop cartoon characters. But after taking a few trips myself, I can tell you that’s not true at all!

The ships have brilliant adult-only spaces where you won’t see a single child. I love spending afternoons at the quiet pool area, where I can read my book in peace or have a little snooze in the sun. And when we stop at Disney’s private islands, there are lovely beaches that are just for grown-ups.

The nightlife’s fantastic too! In the adult district you can enjoy live music, comedy shows and dancing – all without any little ones around.

The food’s amazing as well, especially if you book into one of the speciality restaurants which are exclusively for adults. There are various alcohol tasting events too that are always popular.

So while Disney cruises are brilliant for families, they’re just as good for adults who want a bit of magic in their holiday. You can join in with all the Disney fun when you want to, but there’s always somewhere quiet to escape to when you need it.

4. You’ll Get Bored

Before my first Disney cruise in 2021, I was a little worried that there wouldn’t be enough to do onboard. But oh my goodness, was I wrong! There’s so much happening that my biggest problem now is fitting everything in.

The ship has these brilliant shows – Broadway-style productions that’ll knock your socks off. Plus, there are several cinemas showing all the latest Disney movies as well as your favourite classics.

If you fancy a bit of fun and games, there’s always something on at the D Lounge with trivia, gameshows, arts and crafts and animation classes. The schedule is packed!

doing arts and crafts on a Disney cruise

My kids and I love Disney’s waterslides too. Instead of one big pool, there are lots of little ones, which kids love!

The really handy thing is the Navigator app. It tells you exactly what’s happening and when, so you won’t miss out on anything you fancy doing. Trust me, by bedtime, you’ll be wondering how to squeeze in everything you want to try!

5. Disney Cruises Are Too Scheduled

Our first Disney cruise was on the Disney Magic and as it was just after the pandemic, everything was pretty scheduled. We were required to book everything on the app, even if we just wanted to say hello to Mickey!

Things have changed a lot since then though, and there’s very little that you need to book in advance – you can just turn up. Apart from a few must-do bits like the safety drill when you first get on board, you’re free to do whatever you fancy.

Take mealtimes, for instance. While there are set dining rooms for dinner, you’ve got loads of choices. If you don’t fancy going to the main dining room at your scheduled time, you can grab something from the poolside food court instead, or order room service.

In fact, I often decide to avoid the crowds by planning my day to be the opposite of everyone else on board. That means going to the pub at noon and riding the water slides in the dark! Read more about my backwards cruise schedule here.

I really love how different it feels from a Disney park holiday. In the parks, you’re always checking your watch for FastPass times or restaurant bookings. But on the ship, everything’s more laid-back. If you miss a show, there’s usually another one later. If you fancy a swim at 10pm, go for it! The pools are open super late.

You get a handy app that shows you everything that’s happening each day, but there’s no pressure to do it all. Some days I’ll pack in loads of activities, and others I’ll just chill out with a book.

6. You’ll Feel Out of Place as a Solo Traveller

Nobody wants to feel like a weirdo taking a cruise full of kids by themselves. But I promise, you won’t feel odd at all. Lots of people cruise solo with Disney.

The adult-only areas are perfect for solo travellers. You can spend many happy hours at the Quiet Cove Pool, chatting with other grown-ups over coffee at Cove Café or in the jacuzzi.

Dining’s really well sorted too. You’ll be seated at a shared table so you can meet people. If you prefer quiet time, you can grab something from the poolside food court or order room service and watch the sunset from your balcony.

Some of my favourite moments were just wandering around the ship on my own schedule, popping into activities whenever I fancied. No compromising, no rushing – just me doing exactly what I wanted, when I wanted. Isn’t that what holidays are all about?

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Final Thoughts

It’s funny how wrong I was about Disney cruises, before I took one. They’re not the over-the-top, budget-busting, kid-crazy experiences many people imagine. Instead, they’re thoughtfully designed holidays that somehow manage to please everyone – from solo travellers to foodies, and from peace-seekers to party-lovers.

If you’ve been putting off a Disney cruise because of any of these myths, I’d say give it a chance. You might just find yourself wondering why you waited so long to experience the magic at sea.

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18 Things Disney Does Better Than Every Other Cruise Line

January 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Disney

People ask me all the time what my favourite cruise line is. And while it’s a close call, I have to say Disney.

This may come as a surprise, as I’m not your typical Disney fan. I wouldn’t recognise most of the Princesses and I’ve never seen a Marvel movie. But I do love Disney cruises!

While many people book Disney cruises for the character experiences, there are a large portion of people book them just because Disney Cruise Line offers really great cruises.

They’re not cheap, though. You might pay double or even triple what you would with another cruise line. But I think they’re worth it, and I’m looking forward to my fifth Disney cruise next year.

So, what is it that makes Disney cruise so special? Let me show you…

1. Enchanting Entertainment

When it comes to entertainment at sea, I’ve got to say that Disney Cruise Line absolutely knocks it out of the park.

Every time I watch one of their musicals, I’m blown away by the sheer spectacle of it all. The shows are absolutely incredible – we’re talking proper Broadway-level productions that bring beloved Disney stories to life with stunning costumes, amazing sets and the world’s most talented performers.

One show might end with Mickey-shaped confetti raining from the ceiling, during another ther theatre might fill with bubbles. There’s no way that even the youngest kids could find them boring. I also love that there are enough seats for everyone, so you never have to book ahead or arrive too early to get a seat.

2. Deck Parties

On a Disney cruise, the entertainment doesn’t just happen in the theatre. You can join the most fun parties up on the the deck. The swimming pools convert into deck space and there’s a roped off area at the front for the kids to guarantee that they get a good view.

I love the sailiaway parties. but the Pirate Night is my favourite. Many people bring full pirate costumes, but if you haven’t got space in your luggage then don’t worry – Disney will provide you with a pirate bandana to wear.

Cruise Mummy dressed as a pirate on a Disney Cruise

Pirate Night ends with a spectacular fireworks show. Imagine standing on deck, watching fireworks explode over the ocean – it’s proper goosebump material!

3. Character Appearances

If you want to meet your favourite characters, a Disney cruise is a much better way to do it than the parks. In the parks, you might queueue for an hour or more to see Mickey and his friends. On the ships, you’ll rarely wait for more than ten minutes.

Me with Mickey and Minnie on a Disney cruise

What makes Disney’s entertainment really special is how they weave those little magical moments throughout your entire cruise. You might be grabbing a coffee when suddenly there’s an impromptu character appearance, or you could be heading to dinner and stumble upon a mini-show in the atrium.

One of our favourite moments on the Disney Dream was when we were queing for a photo with all of the main characters in their Halloween costumes while Stitch was running around causing mischeif and distracting people in the line while his chaperone tried to control him.

4. Movies Galore

While other cruise lines might show the odd film here and there, Disney screens their latest releases in proper cinema settings. Each ship has two cinemas indoors, an outdoor movie screen in the funnel and endless Disney movies on TV.

During our transatlantic cruise, we watched more Disney movies than I have in my whole life! The kids rarely watch TV or movies at home, so it really brough the characters to life.

We particularly loved the outdoor movies. On a hot day, we would watch from the pool, and when it was colder we would snuggle under blankets on the deck chairs.

5. The Best Kids Clubs At Sea

My kids have been lucky enough to take around 20 cruises and they will tell you that Disney Cruise Line has the best kids clubs by far. (They’ll also tell you that Celestyal Cruises has the worst!)

The kids clubs on Disney cruises are huge, with several different spaces themed around different movies and offering different activities. So rather than being told what the activity is at that moment, kids always have a choice of different activities or free play.

Kids are free to move between the different themed areas of the kids club. Younger kids will love the Toy Story area which feels just like you’re stepping into Andy’s room!

The Oceaneer Club accepts kids aged 3 to 12, so siblings can stay together. This is unique to Disney as almost every other cruise line splits kids into different age groups.

The teen clubs are split by age though, and there are three different areas for those aged 11 to 14, 14 to 17 and 18 to 20. That means that teens will only be with those their own age. 11-, 12- and 14-year-olds can choose if they want to be with older or younger friends. No other cruise line offers that flexibility.

Vibrant teens club room on Disney Cruise Line, featuring a large curved yellow sofa, modern stools and tables, and a colorful wall mural with the word "Vibe" prominently displayed. The room also includes a beverage station and a large screen, creating a trendy and comfortable hangout space for teenagers.

The kids clubs are open from about 9 am until midnight. Unlike most others, they don’t close for lunch and you never need to book – your kids can just turn up when they want to.

There are open house sessions too so that the whole family can enjoy the facilities together. Even if you don’t have kids, you can just turn up and play Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch!

Dad and kids playing games in the kids club on a Disney cruise

What I love most is how the counsellors really get to know each child. They’re not just minding the kids; they’re creating genuine connections and ensuring everyone feels special.

6. The Rotational Dining System

The rotational dining system is one of my favourite things about sailing with Disney. Instead of being stuck in the same restaurant every night, you get to move between three completely different themed venues. But here’s the clever bit – your serving team moves with you!

A Disney cruise crew member is serving a family at a beautifully set dining table on the ship. The waiter is placing a bread basket on the table as the family, including a young girl, looks on with smiles. The elegant dining room features other guests enjoying their meals, with polished decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Before long, our servers knew what drinks we usually wanted and that the kids wanted a bowl of cucumber slices for a starter every day!

The food quality is consistently fantastic, and I love how each restaurant has its own unique personality. One night you might be dining in an elegant, Enchanted Garden with twinkling lights and fountains, and the next you’re in an animated dining room where the walls come alive with Disney magic. It’s a theatrical dining experience that you just don’t get on other cruise lines.

7. Casual Dining Options

On Disney cruises, I always love the poolside food court. Here you can get so many different things like tacos, burritos, pizza, hot dogs, burgers, fries, grilled meats and salads.

There’s also a fantastic buffet called Marceline Market. Sadly, this isn’t open in the evening, which is a shame. However, if you fancy something more casual than the Main Dining Room for dinner, you can head to the poolside eatery.

Disney also offers really great room service, which is included in your cruise fare. I highly recommend the plant based chicken tenders. You can even order a plat of Babybel cheeses!

8. Self-Service Ice Cream

Most cruise lines charge extra for ice cream, so of course when you have kids it’s great when it’s free of charge and you never have to say no!

What’s even better than free ice cream, is that on Disney ships you can serve it yourself. There are cones and soft serve machines with all different flavours like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and banana. It’s so much fun to make your own ice cream cone!

9. Vegan Food

I made a list of the best cruise lines for vegans and Disney is number two. Number 1 is SeaDream Yacht Club and their ships only have around 100 guests, so it’s a bit easier to cater at that scale than on the much larger ships.

If you have a dietary requirement, then each evening the waiter will go through the menu for the next day with you and together you can plan what you’ll have and how you might like to adapt any dishes to make them suitable.

Vegan breakfast on Disney cruise — Yes, this is all vegan!

There are also some fantastic meat alternatives onbaord like Beyond burgers, plant-based hot dogs, vegan pepperoni pizzas and omelettes made with Just Egg. For the best vegan breakfasts, head to the 1923 restaurant. Let your server know that you plan to visit the night before, and your breakfast will be fast and fresh for you.

10. Included Drinks

On a Disney Cruise the soft drinks are free. By the pool and in the buffet there are machines so you can help yourselves to all kinds of fizzy drinks. You’ll also get free soft drinks and juices in the restaurants. My kids love the chocolate milk.

A row of drink dispensing machines on a Disney cruise ship, providing a variety of beverage options. These machines are labeled with popular soft drink brands such as Sprite, Coca-Cola, and Fanta, along with selections for ice and water. The area features a stainless steel counter and a reminder sign advising guests to "USE FRESH GLASS FOR REFILL", promoting hygiene and cleanliness. This setup is typical for cruise ships, offering guests convenient access to self-service beverages throughout their journey.

Alcohol is pretty pricey, but if you usually go for soft drinks you can save a fortune. If you do prefer beer or wine, the Disney drink packages can save you some money.

You’re also allowed to bring two bottles of wine or six beers per person when you board. Unlike other cruise lines, Disney also allows you to bring on extra drinks in each port of call. You can drink these in your room or on your balcony.

A sign showing how much alcohol you can bring on a Disney cruise

Another nice touch is that you get free pre-dinner cocktails or mocktails on formal night. I’ve seen other cruise lines like P&O Cruises offer a glass of sparkling wine, but Disney is the only cruise line I have known to offer cocktails. And I love that.

11. The Crew Members

From the moment you step aboard, you’re treated like royalty – but in this wonderfully warm, friendly way that feels genuinely personal rather than stuffy or forced.

Disney Cruise Line’s crew members go above and beyond to make sure every guest is happy. If you request something, they never say no. They always say ‘let me see if we can make that happen’. And they almost always will.

In the dining room, if you want something that isn’t on the menu, with 12 hours notice, they can do that for you. My kids asked if it would be possible to have a jacket potato with baked beans, so for the next evening our waiter arranged for the potatoes to be ready and the beans to be brought down from the buffet.

And the wait staff don’t just serve the food. They keep the kids entertained with jokes, magic tricls and even origami!

Doing origami at dinner on a Disney cruise

The housekeeping team goes above and beyond too. They don’t just make up your room – they create adorable towel animals and leave little chocolates on your pillow.

The guest-to-crew ratio on Disney cruises is perfect. There always seems to be someone nearby when you need them, but they’re never hovering or making you feel uncomfortable. I love how they manage to strike that perfect balance between attentiveness and giving you space to enjoy your holiday.

12. Stateroom Comforts

I absolutely love how Disney’s thought about every little detail in their staterooms.

My favourite feature has to be the split bathroom setup – it’s an absolute game-changer when you’re travelling with family. While one person’s having a shower, someone else can be using the toilet in the other half. It’s these practical touches that make mornings so much smoother.

The beds are super comfy too – it feels like you’re sleeping on a cloud. There’s a curtain to seperate the double bed from the kids beds to offer some privacy.

The pull-down bunk has a lovely starry sky painted on the ceiling. And as a surprise, mid way through your cruise the kids bedding will be changed from plain duvets to character themed bedding.

There are too many little touches to mention, from the gorgeous toiletries to the little cable tidy that your stateroom attendant might add to keep your wires neat, everything is spot on.

13. Private Islands

Disney has two private resorts in the Bahamas – Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. They each have their own unique charm, but a day spent at one of these destinations will be the highlight of your cruise.

The island resorts have something for everyone. Whether you want to chill on the adults only beach or splash around with the kids in one of the splash parks, or even get active with a hike or a 5K run, you can do.

14. Adults Only Spaces

Disney cruises are just as popular with adults as they are with kids. If you cruise outside of the school holidays, you can expect to see very few kids on board.

To cater for people who prefer a more sophisticated break, there are large sections of each ship where kids aren’t allowed. There are several bars which are adults-only in the evenings and the speciality restaurants don’t allow children either.

The Quiet Cove Pool is my little sanctuary – no splashing or squealing, just peaceful swimming and sunbathing. It’s also the only place where you’ll find a hot tub.

The Senses Spa features the ‘Rainforest Room’ which is the nicest thermal suite I’ve ever seen. I love the outdoor space on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure which is absolutely huge with two massive hot tubs.

15. Waterslides

My family and I love the waterslides on Disney cruises. Each ship has several different slides so there’s something for everyone.

The AquaDunk slides on the Disney Magic are actually pretty terrifying, but on most ships the slides are more tame! The Disney Wish and the Disney Treasure have ‘water coasters’ which include short movies as part of the experience. And all ships have a yellow slide that kids aged 4 to 14 will love, as well as some smaller slides for toddlers.

If you want to know more about the slides on each ship, I have a complete Guide to Disney Cruise Waterslides for you.

16. Magic Bands

The only thing that comes close to Disney’s Magic Bands is Princess Cruises’ Medallion. The magic bands work to open your door, sign kids in and out of kids club and to make purchases onboard – basically everything your cruise card does.

They’re totally optional, but a nice touch for people like me who usually don’t have pockets and constantly misplace their cruise card. The kids love them too, especially when they light up during the shows.

17. Loyalty Benefits

I find that on most cruise ships, the loyalty program never really gives you much. At least that’s the case until you get to the top tiers where you may get free drinks and spa visits.

But on a Disney cruise, your loyalty perks start at the end of your first cruise. While onboard, you’ll have the opportunity to buy a placeholder which will give you a whopping 10% off your next cruise. You can use it for almost any sailing in the next two years. Or if you decide you don’t want to cruise with Disney again, it’s fully refundable.

As a Castaway Club member, you’ll also get a welcome gift on your second cruise and each one after that. Last year I got a lovely beach bag.

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18. The Sense of Community

Disney Cruise Line allows Whatsapp to work on the ship so that guests can message each other for free, without needing a wifi package.

When I took a transatlantic cruise on the Disney Dream, I was part of a WhatsApp community for the cruise that had thousands of other guests in it! Within the community were many different groups, each discussing different things such as seasickness, specialty dining, pin trading, and there was even a group for Ozempic users!

People on Disney cruises love to be kind to each other. Many people hang fish extenders outside their door so that others surprise them with gifts.

There’s also something called ‘pixie dusting’ which involves giving out random gifts to strangers for no reason. My daughter was pixie dusted with this cute little TY toy, which made her so happy!

I found the WhatsApp community to be SO helpful. And I loved that I could choose which group chats I was interested in and join those. The community helped guests to organise activities such as fish extender gifting, LBGTQ+ meetups and an unofficial 5K run around the promenade deck.

I discovered the WhatsApp community via the Facebook group for my cruise. So if you have a Disney cruise booked, I would definitely recommend that you search Facebook for your sailing and see if there’s a WhatsApp group you can join.

18. The Bathroom Amenities

I love the toiletries that you get in your bathroom on a Disney ship. For some reason, most cruise ships don’t provide conditioner, but of course, Disney does, so that’s one less thing to pack.

There’s also shower gel, hand wash and cute soap which has Mickey’s face on it!

You never have to worry about running out of clean towels and you even get a black flannel to take your make-up off with to avoid staining the white ones. Smart.

I also love that in the public restrooms there are machines where you can get tampons and sanitary towels for free!

Disney cruise ladies vending machine for tampons and towels

Most cruise ships don’t offer any vending machines for sanitary protection at all and I’ve heard horrow stories of when people have been caught short at sea and found that the shop doesn’t even sell them! No such worries on a Disney cruise.

Why Disney Is Different

Before I took my first Disney cruise, I imagined them to be loud, brash and busy. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Disney cruises are elegant and luxurious, warm and welcoming and above all, a lot of fun.

The food is better than most ships, the soft drinks are included, and the service is the very best. There are no casinos onboard and no unlimited drinks packages – two things which most cruise lines rely on for a large portion of their income.

So yes, they do a cost more than most family cruises. But in my opinion, a Disney cruise is worth every penny.

To find out how much you need to budget for a Disney cruise, read this guide next: How Much is a Disney Cruise Compared to Other Cruises?

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What You Need To Know Before You Sail

January 16, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney Food and drink

When you book a cruise, there’s a lot that’s included with a standard fare but most of the time you need to pay for your drinks separately.

Which makes sense, since everyone is different. Charging everyone the same rate when someone might only drink a couple of coffees a day, while someone else enjoys a couple of bottles of wine, would either be costly for the cruise line or unfair to passengers paying for other people’s drinks.

Bartender preparing Disney cruise drinks

So instead, most cruise lines offer a drinks package – where you can choose to pay a set fee and then enjoy unlimited drinks, within reason. But Disney Cruise Line is a little different…

Let’s take a look at Disney Cruise Line’s stance on drinks packages…

Disney does things differently

Disney Cruise Line is one of the few cruise lines to not offer an unlimited drinks package. Instead, you can pay for a drinks package that includes a set number of drinks. You’ll enjoy a small discount compared to paying for each drink separately.

Me, enjoying a mimosa at breakfast on the Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line is very much family-centric, and so it likely doesn’t want to offer guests the chance to drink as many alcoholic beverages as they want. The house (or ship) of mouse is not a place for people to be getting as drunk as they want – that could spoil the Disney magic.

Not that it’s impossible to get drunk on a Disney cruise – just that they would rather not give you completely unlimited access.

So instead, your options are to either pay for drinks individually, or buy one of the Disney cruise alcohol package options that gives you a set number of drinks. There are a lot of these available, so it’s worth checking them out.

DCL Wine Packages

There are two wine packages available on a Disney cruise, with each offering a different number of bottles as well, so there are plenty of options to suit.

The Classic Wine Package includes the following wines:

Santa Margherita Rose Trentino, Italy
Santa Elvira Prosecco Veneto, Italy
The Federalist Chardonnay California, USA
Pinot Grigio Zonin Veneto, Italy
Castello del Poggio Moscato Lombardy, Italy
Beringer White Zinfandel California, USA
Kendall Jackson Chardonnay Vintner’s Reserve California, USA
Honig Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley, USA
Zolo Torrontes Mendoza, Argentina
Murphy-Goode Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma County, USA
Selbach Riesling Kabinett Mosel, Germany
Hess Chardonnay Monterey California, USA
The Crusher Pinot Noir California, USA
Centine Rosso Di Toscana Banfi, Italy
Zolo Malbec Mendoza, Argentina
Robert Mondavi Merlot Coastal California, USA
Castle Rock Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles California, USA
Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon South Australia, Australia
Cune Crianza Rioja, Spain
Layer Cake Shiraz South Australia, Australia

The Premium Wine Package includes all of the above, and the following premium wines:

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand
Domaine Chandon California, USA
Pinot Grigio Santa Margherita Trentino-Aldige, Italy
Brachetto d’Acqui Banfi Rosa Regale Piedmont, Italy
Selbach-Oster Riesling Spätlese, Germany
Sofia Rose Sonoma, USA
La Crema Chardonnay Sonoma Coast California, USA
Pouilly-Fuissé Louis Jadot, France
Craggy Range Te Muna Road Vineyard Martinborough, New Zealand
Conundrum California, USA
La Crema Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast California, USA
Château Bardoulet Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Bordeaux, France
Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile
Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Merlot California, USA
Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Mendocino, Argentina
Chianti Classico Riserva Banfi Tuscany, Italy
Simi Landslide Cabernet Sauvignon California, USA

Here’s the cost of the packages:

Number of bottles	Classic Wine Package	Premium Wine Package
3	$100	$150
4	$130	$199
5	$156	$244
7	$210	$320

The bottles of wine can be redeemed in the restaurant at dinner. You aren’t limited to one bottle of wine per night, so don’t worry if you want to split a couple of bottles. You’re also allowed to take any unfinished wine back to your stateroom with you.

Disney Cruise Line has rotational dining, which means that you dine in a different themed restaurant each night, in a set order. Your waiters will move restaurants with you, and so will your wine! So if you leave any in the bottle, it will be there in the next restaurant for you the following evening!

If you don’t manage to complete your Disney cruise wine package by the end of the cruise, don’t worry. You can take up to two bottles with you when you disembark the ship. So if you’re on a 5-night cruise, you could buy a 7-bottle package, have a bottle every evening and then take two with you at the end of your cruise to drown your sorrows about your cruise being over.

DCL Beer Packages

The Disney cruise beer package options are a little more straightforward – the flat price is $30 for 6, which is essentially 6 beers for the price of 5.

The beers included are:

Pub ale
Corona
Heineken
Guinness
Miller Light
Michelob Ultra
Bud Light
Bud Light Lime
Budweiser
Coors Light

Drink prices on Disney ships

Despite Disney’s reputation for being expensive on land, drinks aren’t too expensive on a Disney cruise. Glasses of wine range from around $8 to $17, while beers generally cost between $6.50 and $9. Soft drinks are free in restaurants or at select beverage stations.

Disney also offers a drink of the day, which changes every day during your sailing. These are discounted drinks, with both an alcoholic and non-alcoholic option each day.

If you want to save money then trying the drink of the day is a good start. Generally, they cost around $6.25 for the alcoholic cocktail of the day or $5.50 for the non-alcoholic drink. These prices include gratuity.

Here are some example prices of drinks onboard a Disney cruise. Bear in mind there are many more drinks options available, but these give you a guide on what sort of prices to expect.

Disney Cruise beer prices:

Bud Light – $6.50
Sam Adams – $6.50
Kentucky Bourbon Ale – $9
Guinness – $9
Angry Orchard Cider – $7.50

Disney Cruise wine prices (by the glass):

Castello del Poggio (white) – $8.25
Selbach Riesling Kabinett Mosel (white) – $8.25
Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc (white) – $11
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc (white) – $13.50
ZD Chardonnay (white) – $14.5
Pouilly Fume Baron de L’Loire Valley (white) – $37
Robert Mondavi Merlot Private Selection (red) – $8.75
Kendall Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon (red) – $9.50
Craggy Range Te Kahu Hawkes Bay (red) – $13.75
Gevrey-Chambertin Louis Jadot (red) – $17.75
Chateau Rauzan-Segla (red) – $42
Domaine Chandon (sparkling) – $9.75
Moet & Chandon Ice (sparkling) – $15.25
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label (sparkling) – $26
Dom Perignon (sparkling) – $52

There are also bottles of Champagne you can order, the most expensive on-board being the Armand de Brignac Gold for $520 per bottle.

Disney Cruise cocktail prices:

Mai-Tai – $10
Blue Hawaiian – $10
Smoky Melon – $12
Berry Mojito – $15

Many of the cocktails offered on-board a Disney cruise are themed to the venue, so listing some of the less well-known options may not help. But generally, you can expect to pay around $10 to $16 for a cocktail in most venues.

Some drinks are included!

Soft drinks, including water and select hot drinks, are included in your cruise fare with Disney provided you order them with your meal or use one of the designated beverage stations. If you order soft drinks from the bar then there will be a charge.

There’s a free soft drinks station on every ship in the Disney fleet. Head to the pool area and you’ll find lots of soft drinks that you can help yourself to for free. There’s another one in the buffet too.

Most pool bars will also have a self-service ice water dispenser…

The teens-only club Vibe also has a selection of complimentary soft drinks and a fancy coffee machine for teens only.

The full list of drinks you can enjoy for free in the restaurants or at the beverage stations includes:

Coca-Cola
Diet Coke
Coke Zero
Water
HiC Fruit Punch
HiC Pink Lemonade
Fuse Ice Tea
Sprite
Sprite Zero
Coffee*
Hot Chocolate
Assorted Teas

*Regular coffee is included. Speciality coffees will incur a charge.

Suggested read: What’s Included in a Disney Cruise

Bringing your own drinks (take advantage of this!)

All guests aged 21 or older are allowed to bring either two bottles of wine or Champagne on-board (maximum size of 750ml each), or 6 beers (no bigger than 12 ounces). They must be packed in carry-on luggage, not stored in checked bags.

You can enjoy these drinks in your stateroom, but if you want to drink your own wine in the restaurants, you’ll be charged a corkage fee of $26 per bottle.

These rules don’t only apply at embarkation – you can bring more drinks on in each port of call. So if you link to drink beer or wine in your cabin, then definitely take advantage of this.

You’re also welcome to bring any soft drinks on board that you would like to, but again they must be in your carry-on luggage.

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My recommendation

While there may not be an unlimited drinks package available, the drinks packages Disney does offer are pretty good value, and worth looking into if you do plan on enjoying a few wines or beers on your cruise.

If you do enjoy wine, make sure you take two bottles onto the ship with you, since it will be cheaper to buy them before you set sail. But my main recommendation is to take advantage of the free drinks where you can and to sample the drink of the day if you’re looking for a cheap alcoholic drink to try.

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Disney Treasure Restaurants Guide

January 13, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Disney

If there’s one thing that I loved about my cruise on the Disney Treasure, it was the food. Disney cruises are known for amazing cuisine and immersive dining experiences, and Disney’s new ship did not disappoint

In this guide, I’ll show you all of the restaurants on the Disney Treasure.

The photo above is of a vegan breakdfast that I enjoyed onbord, so if you happen to be vegan, then you should also check out my guide to Disney cruise vegan dining, which has some more details on that.

The Restaurants On The Disney Treasure

The Disney Treasure has three rotational dining restaurants, two adult-only speciality restaurants, a buffet-style restaurant, a food court with five different outlets 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.

List of Dining Options on the Disney Treasure:

Rotational Main Dining:

1923
Worlds of Marvel
Plaza de Coco

Specialty Restaurants (Adult-Exclusive):

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement
Palo Steakhouse

Casual Dining:

Marceline Market
Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods

Room Service

Disney Treasure Rotational Dining

Like all Disney cruise ships, the Disney Treasure has rotational dining. This means that you eat in a different restaurant each night and your waiters come with you.

As Disney Treasure only does three- and four-night cruises, this gives guests the opportunity to sample all of the main dining rooms on board.

Here’s some more information about each of the rotational dining restaurants on the Disney Treasure…

1923

Named after the year that The Walt Disney Company was founded, this elegant 20s-style restaurant serves dishes inspired by California’s varied heritage.

Worlds of Marvel

Worlds of Marvel is more than just a restaurant on the Disney Treasure. It’s a cinematic dining adventure where guests will play an interactive role in an Avengers mission while enjoying world cuisine.

Guests can enjoy two distinct interactive shows during their voyage:

Avengers: Quantum Encounter – This experience features Ant-Man and The Wasp demonstrating advanced technology, with appearances by other Avengers, including Spider-Man.

Marvel Celebration of Heroes: Groot Remix – Exclusive to the Disney Treasure, this show stars Rocket and Groot from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films.

Plaza De Coco

Exclusive to the Disney Treasure, this is the world’s first theatrical dining experience themed to Disney and Pixar’s “Coco.” Guests are transported to Santa Cecilia, enjoying live entertainment and modern twists on traditional Mexican fare.

While the characters do a tour of the room, some tables do get a much better view than others.

If you’re a Concierge-level guest, then I definitely recommend speaking to your Concierge host in advance to ask if they might be able to secure you a table at the front for this one.

Disney Treasure Speciality Restaurants

Enchanté

As you enter, look out for Lumiere, he’s hiding amongst the candelabras on the wall!

Palo Steakhouse

The ever-popular Palo restaurant on Disney cruise ships has had a slight name tweak on the Disney Treasure and it is now called Palo Steakhouse.

Disney Treasure Casual Dining Options

As well as the main dining restaurants, Disney Treasure has a host of other casual eateries that are open around the clock.

Marcelline Market

Disney’s buffet restaurant on the Disney Treasure is called Marceline Market. It features lots of little outlets that are inspired by street food markets from around the world.

The menu changes all the time – don’t miss the extra couple of options around the back! There’s a choice of indoor and outdoor seating, all with spectacular ocean views.

My tip is to sit outside and enjoy the most stunning views on the ship.

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

This open-air food court on the Disney Treasure features five different eateries:

Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue
Donald’s Cantina
Daisy’s Pizza Pies
Goofy’s Grill
Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream

Periscope Pub

The pub on Disney Treasure, The Keg & Compass, offers a ‘pub grub’ menu with classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash and steak and ale pie.

These are all available for an extra charge. There are some good vegan and vegetarian options here too, with fishless fish and plant-based chicken tenders.

Jumbeaux’s Sweets

Jumbeaux’s Sweets is a dessert store that’s inspired by the movie Zootopia. Themed after the ice cream parlour run by Jumbeaux the elephant in the movie, it offers a selection of frozen treats like gelato and ice cream, as well as other sweet delights

Everything costs a little extra here, but it’s definitely worth a visit, even if just for a look around.

Room Service

Your final dining option onboard Disney Treasure is to order room service via your stateroom telephone. You can see the menu on your Disney Cruise Line app once you’re onbaord.

Room service is free on Disney cruises, but it’s polite to tip the person who brings it a couple of dollars to show your appreciation.

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To Conclude

I found the amazing selection of delicious Disney Treasure food to be one of the many highlights of my cruise. You can learn more about this incredible new ship with my Disney Treasure guide.

Now that you’re up to speed on the D-sney Treasure cruise restaurants, you might also want to take a look at my guide to Staterooms and Suites on Disney Treasure so that you can choose the best room for your cruise.

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Luxury Cruising

1. The Only Way To Get To Castaway Cay Is By Cruise Ship

2. Entrance To Castaway Cay Is Included In Your Cruise Fare

3. The Food Is Free, Don’t Miss It

4. There Once Was a Pirate Ship At Castaway Cay

5. Some Disney Cast Members Live On Castaway Cay

6. The Water At Castaway Cay Is Warm All Year Round

7. You Can’t Stay Overnight On The Island

8. You Don’t Need To Take Towels With You

9. 95% of Castaway Cay Is Wild

10. You Can Run A 5K Race On Castaway Cay

11. You Can Snorkel For Free At Castaway Cay

12. There Are Sharks At Castaway Cay

13. It’s Almost Impossible To Get A Cabana

14. You’ve Probably Been Pronouncing Castaway Cay Wrong

15. You Can Get Married On The Beach

16. There Are No Rides On Castaway Cay

17. There’s Limited WiFi But Plenty Of Phone Signal

18. Castaway Cay Has A Secret Observation Tower

19. Book A Room On The Starboard Side For The Best Views

20. Eat Breakfast In The Buffet For Morning Island Views

21. Those With Special Diets Should Pre-Order Their Food

22. There’s A Kids’ Club On Castaway Cay

23. There Are Plenty Of Loungers For Everyone

24. You Can Enjoy All Kinds Of Games

25. There’s A Pier Where You Can Jump Into The Sea

26. Castaway Cay Has Lots Of Lifeguards

27. You Can Hire Bikes On The Island

28. Spring-A-Leak Is A Great Place To Cool Off

29. Soft Drinks Are Free On Castaway Cay

30. You Can Save With A Getaway Package

31. You Can Snorkel With Stingrays

32. Ice Cream Is Free On Castaway Cay

33. Mickey And Minnie Love To Visit Castaway Cay

34. There Are Rare Sea Lice Occurrences Around Castaway Cay

To Conclude

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Fish Extenders Explained

The Name is Self-Explanatory…

How Fish Extenders Work

Disney’s Position

The Newer Ships Don’t Have Fish…

Where To Buy Fish Extenders

How To Make a Fish Extender

Joining a Fish Extender Group

Disney Fish Extender Gifts

The Bottom Line

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The Restaurants On The Disney Wish

Disney Wish Rotational Dining

1923

Worlds of Marvel

Arendelle

Disney Wish Speciality Restaurants

Enchanté

Palo Steakhouse

Disney Wish Casual Dining Options

Marcelline Market

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

Keg & Compass

Joyful Sweets

Room Service

Disney Wish Menus

1923 Menus

Arendelle Menus

Worlds of Marvel Menus

Mickey’s Festival of Foods Menus

Breakfast Menus

Speciality Dining Menus

Castaway Cay Menu

Drinks Menus

To Conclude

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How Many People Can Sleep in a Room on a Disney Cruise?