Planning a Disney Cruise without the stress!
If you’ve been following along on my Instagram, you would see that we’ve really enjoyed a few Disney cruises. But for some people, planning a Disney cruise seems overwhelming. However, it’s really not that complicated! And it’s a lot easier with the help of a travel planner. With the right travel agent, you can get a free, no obligation quote and someone to help guide you through the whole process. Since we’ve always used a travel planner, and I can’t imagine doing it alone!
How to Plan a Cruise in 10 Steps
Planning a Disney cruise can be a fun and exciting process! Here are some steps to get started:
- Choose your cruise dates: Look at the Disney Cruise Line website to see which dates and itineraries are available. Then keep in mind that prices and availability can vary depending on the time of year and the specific cruise you choose.
- Determine your budget: Disney cruises can be pricey. So it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Consider the cost of the cruise itself, airfare, hotel accommodations (if needed), transportation to and from the port, and any additional activities or excursions you plan to do.
- Select your stateroom: Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of stateroom categories, including inside staterooms, oceanview staterooms, balcony staterooms, and suites. Then think about what type of room you want and how much space you need.
- Decide on your itinerary: Disney Cruise Line offers several different itineraries, including cruises to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, Alaska, and more. Research each itinerary and choose the one that best fits your interests and schedule.
- Book your cruise: Once you’ve decided on your dates, budget, stateroom, and itinerary, it’s time to book your Disney cruise. You can do this online or by calling Disney Cruise Line directly.
- Plan your activities and excursions: Disney Cruise Line offers a wide range of onboard activities and excursions at each port of call. Consider booking popular experiences like character meet and greets, spa treatments, and shore excursions in advance to ensure availability.
- Prepare for your trip: Before you depart, make sure to pack everything you need for your cruise, including appropriate clothing, travel documents, and any medications or personal items. You may also want to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.
- Join a Facebook group for your sailing: On our most recent sailing, we did our first FE (fish extender) and Pixie Dust gifting. And it was so amazing to come back to our room and have gifts at our door from complete strangers!
- Plan your outfits: There are specially themed nights on each sailing. There’s often Pirate Night or Formal Night. If you want to join in, plan ahead.
- Make a countdown: If you have kids, and even if you don’t, it’s so fun to count down the days!
By following these steps, planning a Disney cruise that you and your family will never forget!
All about Disney Cruise Lines
Disney Cruise Line is a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company and operates a fleet of five ships. This includes the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and the newest ship, the Disney Wish.
Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of itineraries, including Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, and European cruises. The ships are designed with a distinct Disney theme, featuring character experiences, Broadway-style shows, and immersive dining experiences.
Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a popular destination on many of the itineraries. The island features white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. There’s also a variety of activities for guests of all ages, including snorkeling, kayaking, and bike rentals. And you have to see the water feature! And in 2024, Disney will debut it’s newest private island, Lighthouse Point!
Onboard, Disney Cruise Line offers activities and entertainment for all ages. This includes kids’ clubs and character experiences, as well as adult-only areas and spas. The ships also offer a variety of dining options. This includes their signature rotational dining, where guests rotate through three different themed restaurants during their cruise.
Disney Cruise Line has received numerous awards for its family-friendly cruises and exceptional service. One of these is being named the “Best Cruise Line for Families” by Travel + Leisure magazine for 14 consecutive years.
Activities for Kids
Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of activities and experiences for kids of all ages. This makes it an excellent option for families with children. Here are some of the things that kids can do on a Disney Cruise:
- Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab: These are play areas specifically designed for kids aged 3-12. They have themed play areas, interactive games, and character experiences.
- Edge: A club for tweens aged 11-14, featuring a dance floor, video games, and other activities.
- Vibe: A club for teens aged 14-17, featuring a lounge area, dance floor, and other activities.
- Character experiences: Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters onboard, take photos, and even attend character breakfasts and other events.
- Movies: Disney Cruise Line offers movies for kids of all ages, including first-run Disney films and classic favorites.
- Pools and waterslides: The ships feature multiple pools and waterslides, including a “Mickey pool” for younger kids.
- Sports activities: The ships offer a variety of sports activities, including basketball, mini-golf, and shuffleboard.
- Arts and crafts: Kids can participate in arts and crafts activities, including creating their own Disney-themed souvenirs.
- Live shows and performances: Disney Cruise Line offers Broadway-style shows, live music, and other performances that are appropriate for kids of all ages.
Overall, Disney Cruise Line offers a wide variety of activities and experiences for kids, making it an excellent option for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation.
Disney Travel Agent
A Disney travel agent is a professional who specializes in helping clients plan and book Disney vacations. Specifically, a Disney travel agent can provide the following services:
- Trip planning: A Disney travel agent can help you plan all aspects of your Disney vacation, including selecting the best dates to travel, choosing the right resort, and selecting the best dining options.
- Ticketing: A Disney travel agent can help you purchase tickets for Disney parks and attractions, as well as any special events or experiences that you may be interested in.
- Itinerary planning: A Disney travel agent can help you plan your daily itinerary, including park hopping, dining reservations, and FastPass+ selections.
- Special requests: If you have any special requests or needs, such as dietary restrictions or mobility issues, a Disney travel agent can help you make the necessary arrangements.
- Concierge services: Many Disney travel agents offer concierge services, which can include things like private transportation, special tours, and personal recommendations.
- Cost-saving strategies: A Disney travel agent can help you find ways to save money on your Disney vacation, such as finding the best deals and discounts, and helping you take advantage of promotions and special offers.
Overall, a Disney travel agent can help make your Disney vacation planning process easier and less stressful, while also ensuring that you have the best possible experience while on your trip. Ours, Jamie at the Love of the Magic, has saved us thousands of dollars by helping us get the best deals.
Trust me. Babies don’t keep. My oldest is 18 in just a few weeks. He can’t go to the kids clubs anymore. The time went by so fast. Book your trip today. You won’t regret it!
You may also like:
Dry Tortugas National Park Guide for Families