by Heather | Dec 30, 2022 | Blog Posts, Disney Cruise Line News, Vacation Planning
We are starting a new “Did You Know” series at Theme Park Professor! Each post will focus on essential facts and details about subjects like Disney destinations, Universal Orlando Resort Hotels, Universal Parks information, and Disney Cruise Line.
I am happy to present the first of our series, “Did You Know: Disney Cruise Line.”
Disney Cruise Line is comprised of five ships, with the newest just launched in mid-2022. All five ships were designed to bring about a whimsical yet elegant experience on the high seas. From immersive dining adventures to Disney’s first-ever attraction at sea, these ships present magical vacations that visit several exciting destinations. Disney Cruise Line’s ports of call include places in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and Disney’s private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay. And depending on when you cruise, you may be able to pick from themed itineraries for Halloween and Christmas. Or, choose from a Pixar, Marvel, or Star Wars adventure at sea! The best part is that you sail with your favorite Disney pals and even meet and hug them around the ship and on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay!
Here’s what you need to know about all five of the Disney cruise ships, including the newest vessel, the Disney Wish.
Disney Dream
Onboard Entertainment
This Disney Dream boasts variety shows like “The Golden Mickeys,” an onboard spectacle celebrating Disney’s notable films and songs with plenty of character appearances. Still, its live rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” remains a signature show of Disney Cruise Line with its unfathomable sets, costumes, and performances.
Families can take in a round of outdoor mini golf on Goofy’s Sports Deck or stay inside to play Midship Detective Agency, a trio of interactive games featuring Muppets, Mickey Mouse, or Cruella de Vil. There’s plenty of aquatic fun on this Disney cruise liner, with Nemo’s Reef for littles, an array of pools, and the AquaDuck, an onboard “water coaster” with views of the surrounding ocean, which is a Disney Cruise family favorite.
Exclusively For Kids
With interactive features and themed spaces, Disney’s Oceaneer Club allows kids ages 3-12 to play in a “Toy Story”-themed room, explore Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell, and take a simulated flight on the Millennium Falcon. There are also activities with characters, like Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, which lets young children play games alongside their favorite Disney characters, and more experiences within Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, tween hangs in Edge, and Vibe, a teen club with its own private pool.
Experiences For Adults
Unwind at Senses Spa or indulge in upscale dining at Palo and Remy, which are exclusive to adults on board. (Be sure to make a reservation in advance.) Grab an after-dinner drink at Meridian, or head to The District for a bottle at Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar or drinks at Skyline, Pub 687, District Lounge, or Evolution.
Disney Dream Dining
Passengers on the Disney Dream will rotate between three different dinner eateries: elegant French fare at Enchanted Garden; storybook fine dining at Royal Palace; and a fully-immersive Animator’s Palate, bringing together the animated film libraries of Disney and Pixar for a meal filled with intrigue and surprise.
Order room service hit Cabanas or Flo’s Cafe, a trio of Cars-themed eateries with chicken fingers and cheeseburgers, or grab a healthy smoothie at Senses Juice Bar or a special dessert at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats for an additional fee.
Photo Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Disney Fantasy
Onboard Entertainment
Flex that vacation muscle at Disney Fantasy’s pools, including Nemo’s Reef for children and rides on the AquaDuck, a hybrid water slide and roller coaster with 765 feet of tubes above the top deck.
Uncover a hidden world of fun with Midship Detective Agency, an all-ages interactive game utilizing screens and props hidden throughout the ship. Watch current releases in the on-board Buena Vista Theatre or play basketball or experience VR sports simulators at sea on Goofy’s Sports Deck. At night, Disney Fantasy offers live shows, including “Disney’s Believe,” a narrative with visits from “Cinderella,” “Mary Poppins” and “Peter Pan;” “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular;” and “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular,” the Disney ship’s headlining show.
Exclusively For Kids
Kids ages 3-12 can learn mystic arts from Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” in the Marvel Super Hero Academy, sing and dance with “Toy Story’s” Woody in Andy’s Room, encounter real Stormtroopers at the Star Wars: Command Post or enjoy kid-friendly activities with Mickey Mouse and friends. There’s endless inventive fun across Disney’s Oceaneer Lab and Club, and for older kids, at Edge and Vibe clubs.
Experiences For Adults
Whether you’re shopping around the ship, grabbing a gin and tonic at Meridian — or taking a beverage-tasting seminar to learn more about them — there are loads for adults to do. The Disney cruise ship offers two adults-only restaurants: Palo, which serves elegant Italian dishes, and Remy, a French-coursed menu experience. Enjoy Europa, a collection of stylized bars, including Ooh La La champagne bar and La Piazza, an Italian bar reminiscent of a carousel.
Disney Fantasy Dining
Three restaurants aboard this Disney cruise ship mean something different every night, whether it’s the fairytale-inspired Royal Court, beautiful Enchanted Garden, or Animator’s Palate, which utilizes real-time interaction with a popular “Finding Nemo” character. Quick eats can be found at Cabanas restaurant and Flo’s Cafe, while fanciful sundaes at Sweet on You and shakes at Senses Juice Bar are worthwhile upgrades. (With its Mickey cappuccinos, Cove Cafe is also a must.)
Photo Courtesy Disney
Disney Wonder
A trip aboard the Disney Wonder can lead to familiar tropical escapes and a memory-making Alaskan vacation, with all the Disney cruise goodies included on board. Repeat cruisers love this vessel for its smaller size, which makes for a more intimate trip.
Onboard Entertainment
Disney cruise ships are famous for their nightly shows. “Disney Dreams — an Enchanted Classic” and “The Golden Mickeys” feature best-of-the-best Disney characters and music, but “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” which brings Anna and Elsa’s story to life with Broadway-style costuming and design, is a Disney Cruise Line favorite.
When you’re not enjoying Disney cruise activities like viewing Star Wars and Marvel films currently in theatres or playing ping pong and basketball at Wide World of Sports, there are plenty of pools, hot tubs, and AquaLab water play areas to enjoy on the outer decks. There’s even Disney Wonder’sPixar Pals Party, a fun-filled celebration with characters from “Toy Story,” “Up,” and more, exclusively offered on Alaskan sailings with Disney Cruise Line.
Exclusively For Kids
Kids ages 3 to 12 can get up close to characters they love, dancing with Woody in a “Toy Story”-themed area, taking hero training with Captain America within Marvel Super Hero Academy, or build their own Mickey Roadster Racers in a Disney Junior games area on board the Disney cruise ship, as older kids enjoy their slate of activities in Vibe teen club and tween hang The Edge. (There is also babysitting available for small children within the “It’s a Small World” nursery at a small fee.)
Experiences For Adults
Make a reservation for Palo, an adults-only restaurant serving dinner each night and brunch on most sea days, or break for a pint at Crown & Fin Pub or a cocktail at Cadillac Lounge, housed within the Disney cruise ships After Hours section. There are also an adults-only pool and outdoor areas on the Disney Wonder cruise ship, beverage seminars, and the Senses Spa’s “rainforest room.”
Disney Wonder Dining
Grab a slice at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria by Goofy’s Pool, a snack at Pete’s Boiler Bites, or some healthy fare at Daisy’s De-Lites — or hit the buffet at Cabanas, located on four Disney cruise ships. Dinner rotations bring diners to a new restaurant each night: Enjoy the flavor and fun of New Orleans at “The Princess & The Frog”-themed Tiana’s Place; the elegant “The Little Mermaid”-inspired Triton’s; or Animator’s Palate, which begins black-and-white and grows to be surrounded by color with a surprise at the meal’s end.
Photo Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Disney Magic
As the original Disney Cruise Line vessel, the Disney Magic retains its charm while embracing a collection of modernizations and upgrades to feel good as new.
Onboard Entertainment
Three Broadway-style shows are performed on the Disney Magic: “Twice Charmed,” a twist on the Cinderella story; “Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic,” an original show with cameos by characters like Peter Pan and Aladdin; and “Tangled: The Musical,” Disney Magic’s signature show featuring stunning sets and beloved songs from the film.
In addition to the nightly live entertainment throughout the ship, families can take in Marvel, Pixar, Disney, and Star Wars films currently in movie theaters at the full-size Buena Vista Theatre. On the outdoor upper decks, the Wide World of Sports offers basketball and ping pong, a selection of pools and hot tubs, and the famed AquaDunk water slide.
Exclusively For Kids
Whisk down a Slinky Dog slide in the “Toy Story”-themed Andy’s Room area, join the Lion Guard, or learn hero-worthy lessons from Thor within a Marvel Super Hero Academy — it’s all part of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, open to children ages 3 through 12. There are even more exciting Disney experiences throughout Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, Vibe teen club, and Edge tween club, all included with Disney Cruise ship sailings. (“It’s a Small World” nursery, which charges a nominal hourly rate, is also available for younger children.)
Experiences For Adults
Disney cruise ships are covered in high-end decor and thoughtful designs that feel more classy and less kid-focused, but select adults-only experiences, including exclusive lounges and pools, still thrive. A collection of bars called After Hours has live music nightly at Keys, a ‘50s piano bar, and an opportunity to catch up on sports at O’Gills Pub. At the same time, Palo, a higher-end restaurant that requires a surcharge and reservation, is the ultimate date night. Don’t miss the “rainforest room” in the Disney Magic’s Senses Spa and adult beverage tasting seminars.
Disney Magic Dining
Guests on the Disney Magic cruise ship will rotate between three restaurants nightly. Rapunzel’s Royal Table provides a themed night of lively music, revelry from some Snuggly Duckling denizens, and an appearance by Rapunzel and Flynn Rider within a lantern-lined ballroom. Animator’s Palate is surrounded by mementos from Disney and Pixar animated films that “come to life” throughout dinner, and Lumiere’schannels the elegance of “Beauty and the Beast.”
Casual meals can be ordered at Cabanas or via 24-hour room service on board the Disney Magic. Otherwise, stop by Duck-In Diner for hot dogs, chicken fingers, or a shawarma sandwich or enjoy a quick lunch at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria.
Photo Courtesy Disney
Disney Wish
Onboard Entertainment
Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Wish, is packed with brand-new entertainment for all ages. The AquaMouse — Disney’s first-ever attraction at sea — and Toy Story Splash Zone provide aquatic fun; two cozy theaters show new and favorite Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films; and the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-style shows, including a retelling of “The Little Mermaid,” “Disney Seas the Adventure,” and “Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular.”
Exclusively for Kids
At Disney’s Oceaneer Club on the Wish, kids ages three to 12 can live out their Marvel and Star Wars adventures in the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars: Cargo Bay and join their favorite princesses in Fairytale Hall. In the new Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, they can discover Imagineer secrets and design their coaster. Edge and Vibe offer organized fun for older kids.
Experiences for Adults
The Disney Wish pulls out all the stops for adults, with lots of magical experiences just for them. Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge offers intergalactic sips inspired by galaxies far, far away, The Bayou has a “Princess and the Frog”-themed menu in a beautiful setting, and The Cove includes an adults-only pool and bar. The ship also has a Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by chef Arnaud Lallement, a stunning restaurant offering a multicourse dinner. The Disney Cruise Line favorite Senses Spa is also on this ship.
Disney Wish Dining
In addition to the truly exceptional adults-only restaurants, Disney Wish offers some delightful onboard dining for the whole family. 1923 serves California flavors in a space inspired by Old Hollywood; Worlds of Marvel features the escapades of Ant-Man and the Wasp; and Arendelle: A FrozenDining Adventure is an immersive experience with singing, dancing, and visits from everyone’s favorite Frozen characters. Casual dining is available at several venues throughout the ship, including Marceline Market and Mickey and Friends Festival of Food.
If you’re ready to book your next Disney Cruise make sure you contact a travel advisor today and check our Current Offers page to see if there is an incentive to book today! Stay tuned for even more “Did You Know” articles to be released from Theme Park Professor!
Are you considering a trip? This is a great time to plan your perfect vacation! Having a travel advisor means someone there to have your back in any occurrence. There is no additional cost to you and you have peace of mind knowing that your vacation is in good hands.
by Heather | Dec 18, 2022 | Blog Posts, Disney Cruise Line News, Vacation Planning
Taking the plunge(get it) and booking a Disney Cruise for your whole family is exciting! There is so much to do and see. You will never be bored when you’re sailing with Disney. Beautiful memories are made aboard a Disney Cruise. But, if you have little ones in tow for your cruise, those memories might be a little jaded if you don’t do the right planning.
You might question whether it is a good idea to cruise with a toddler or preschool-age child. Is there enough to do? Will I have any time to relax? Will there be food my child will eat? These are all very valid questions every parent has before looking into a vacation. Luckily we have a lot of experience cruising and have this awesome guide for you to plan every moment of your Disney Cruise!
Step 1:(we can have lots of fun) Book with A Travel Agent!
There are many reasons to use a travel advisor, but the biggest reason to use one now is the ever-changing cruising requirements around the world. Some cruises may have restrictions or requirements you may not be aware of. Using a Travel Agent specializing in Disney Cruise Line is the best way to ensure you have all the information you need to be prepared.
Step 2: Choose Stateroom to Fit Your Family and Budget!
If you need some room for little ones and all their “things,” it is worth the money to save up and spend a little bit more for the Verandah or Oceanview Deluxe Family Stateroom. There are several different categories of rooms when you book your Disney Cruise. You will be able to look at a floor plan of the ship, or you can ask your travel agent to choose a room for you based on your needs. With the Verandah or Oceanview Deluxe Family Stateroom, you have a slightly larger room and a murphy bed available if you need it! There is also room for a pack n’ play in this room!
But if you’re a family of 5, the Deluxe Family Stateroom is a great choice! You’ll have a lot of room with a Queen-size bed, a single convertible sofa, and a wall pull-down single!
**Pack n Plays are available to request (or you can bring your own).
Step 3: Choose Your Dining/Show Schedule Carefully
Disney has rotational dining and offers two different seatings nightly. The dining is opposite the Broadway shows they offer on the ship. The times for dining are 5:30 and 8:00 PM. The shows run twice a night at about the same schedule. So, if you have a little one that wants to see the show, you may want to opt for a late dining time and see an early show. Or, if you want to have a family meal and get the kids to bed early, the 5:30 PM dining slot will be the best bet for you!
Either way, if things don’t work out the way you planned(cranky kids/parents), order room service or stop at the buffet and grab something quick.
Step 4: Take Advantage of Kid’s Clubs and Childcare
I know parents don’t like to admit that they want time away from their kids on a family vacation… But let’s be honest, it’s your vacation too! Sometimes parents need to have some kid-free fun! Luckily, Disney Cruises offer special childcare options for children of all ages. Toddlers or Preschoolers can spend time in either the Small World Nursery or the Oceaneer Club. Teens can take advantage of the VIBE and EDGE Clubs on the ship!
Take a look at the options below:
Disney Cruise Small World Nursery *6 months – 3 years old
The Small World nursery is available for children aged six months – 3 years old. You can reserve the nursery for an additional fee, and reservations can be made on the same day (if available). Keep checking during your cruise if you see times booked up in advance. We noticed many people canceled or changed their plans the day of their reservation.
There isn’t an in-room babysitting option on the ship, so this is the best bet for a little baby-free time! And it is safe. If you’re nervous, visit the nursery when you arrive on the ship and check it out yourself. You can cancel your reservation with at least 4 hours’ notice to avoid a penalty.
Inside the nursery, the theming is inspired by the Disneyland Resort version of the “it’s a small world” attraction and features original artwork by Mary Blair. There is a quiet room for nap time but the rest of the nursery has so much to keep little ones busy! There is everything from interactive toys that encourage brain stimulation to age-appropriate crafts, books, and games.
Because space is limited, we recommend you make reservations before embarkation. You may make reservations online through “My Cruise Activities” within your advanced booking window or visit or call the Nursery once on board.
Advance booking windows are determined by your Castaway Club membership level:
- First-Time Guests: 75 days prior to sail date
- Silver Castaway Club Member: 90 days prior to sail date
- Gold Castaway Club Member: 105 days prior to sail date
- Concierge Guests and Platinum Castaway Club Members: 120 days prior to sail date
Rates are as follows: *reservations are a one hour minimum
- $4.50 per half hour for the first child
- $4.00 per half hour for any additional children in your family
Disney Cruise Oceaneer Club & Disney’s Oceaneer Lab *3 – 12 that are fully potty trained.
Kids 3 to 12 will find lots to enjoy in Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab play areas located aboard every ship. There is no additional cost to utilize the Oceaneer Club or Lab. The main difference between the two youth centers is the themed spaces and activities they offer. While each activity has an age-range recommendation, there are no restrictions on which ones the children may participate in. And since the areas are connected, children can explore both venues to find the activities they enjoy most. These interactive play areas are safe, self-contained environments where kids can let their imaginations run free while under the supervision of trained Disney youth counselors.
I will let you in on a little tip, if you want to spend a lot of time with your kids on your family vacation, don’t take them to the Club or Lab! I am not kidding… They will not want to leave.
Vibe
Built for those between the ages of 14 – 17, the Vibe offers amenities and activities with teens in mind. Teens can connect with others while being chaperoned by Disney Cruise Line counselors. Activities include dance parties, karaoke, and activities designed with teens in mind.
Edge
This activity center allows kids ages 11-14 to participate in various activities and meet other kids their age from around the world! Since it was designed specifically for tweens, rest assured that your tween will find plenty to do and stay engaged throughout your cruise.
Step 5: To Swim or Not to Swim (All About the Pools & Potty Training Rules)
If you have really, little ones, keep in mind that swim diapers are not permitted in the pools on the ship. So, you have to be potty trained to swim. Children not toilet trained are welcome to enjoy Nemo’s Reef and Dory’s Reef, where they must wear swim diapers.
Make sure you take a look at the age and height requirements for all the pools on board:
- AquaDuck (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy) – height 42 inches or taller
- AquaDunk (Disney Magic) – height 48 inches or taller
- AquaLab (Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic) – ages 3 and older
- Donald’s Pool / Goofy’s Pool (all ships) – adults and children ages 3 and older
- Mickey’s Pool (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wonder) – ages 3 and older
- Whirlpool Spa tubs (all ships) – adult supervision required for Guests under age 16
- Mickey’s Slide – ages 4 to 14; height at least 38 and no more than 64 inches tall
- Nephews’ Splash Zone / Dory’s Reef / Nemo’s Reef (all ships) – ages 3 and younger (swim diapers required)
- Quiet Cove Pool – ages 18 and older only
- Twist ‘n’ Spout Slide (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder) – height at least 38 inches or taller
Policies About Swim Accessories and Equipment Please note the following policies about pool toys and swim accessories:
- Swim goggles that fit only over the eyes are permitted at all pools, hot tubs and waterslides, except AquaDunk aboard the Disney Magic, where goggles are not allowed.
- Swim masks that cover the eyes and nose are permitted at all pools. They are not allowed on any slides, including AquaDuck.
- Snorkel tubes are not permitted at any pools, hot tubs or waterslides.
- Coast Guard personal flotation devices (PFDs), water wings and flotation sewn into bathing suits can be brought on board and are permitted in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
- Complimentary flotation vests are provided and may be used in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
- Floats, rafts and fun noodles cannot be brought on board and are not permitted in the pools.
Step 6: Have Fun in the Sun at Castaway Cay
If you are taking one of the cruises that visit Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, there are many options for little ones on the island! If you want to enjoy a beach day as a family, this is the perfect place! You don’t have to worry about towels; they give them to you when you arrive on the island. There are a limited number of strollers and wagons available on the island. They’re first come, first serve, so grab one early if that would be useful to you. A tram also runs on the island so you aren’t dragging the whole family by foot.
Scuttle’s Cove is also available at Castaway Cay for children aged 3-12 and potty trained. It’s essentially the Oceaneer Club option on the island. Scuttle’s Cove is the dedicated secured space for kids at Castaway Cay. There is no limit on how long your child can stay in the kid’s club. However, there is no food served in the club. You will need to check out your children and feed them, but then they can return to the club again. Currently, Scuttle’s Cove is open from the island opening until 4 p.m. Similarly, on your Castaway Cay day, secured programming on the ship is not opening until 4 p.m. So the kids must attend the island’s club if interested.
Step 7: Check Your Navigator App for Characters & Fun!
There will be a lot of activities going on while you are at sea onboard the ship. You can meet characters, play fun games, do some trivia, and much more! The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app has all of the information you need. There will be a schedule for the whole itinerary. You can check it out to pan your character meet and greets, activities, and more! We met many princesses, pirates, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Marvel characters, Star Wars characters, and more! These interactions and photos will stay with me for a lifetime!
Step 8: Decide if You Want Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or The Pirates League?
Depending on the age of your little one, you may have the option to have a princess or pirate makeover onboard your cruise! The packages are very pricey and might not be within your budget. However, if you can fit it into your budget, it is worth every penny! The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League is available on all the Disney Cruise Line ships and offer the following options:
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: Storybook fantasies come to life with a wave of a magic wand—and a few hands-on trade tricks like hairstyling, costumes, makeup, and more. Watch Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices transform your child into an elegant princess, a valiant knight or an adventurous sea captain. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique packages offer themed costumes, styling, and accessories that prepare kids for a royal ball or a daring adventure. With a sensational new look and a dash of imagination, it’s an experience they’ll remember happily ever after!
The Pirates League: Those with a saltier side, fear ye not: Channel your inner outlaw with your own timber-shivering transformation. All packages take approximately 30 minutes to apply and are designed for Guests ages 3 and older. Please also note that all Pirates League packages are available on Pirate Party Nights only.
Guests with fully paid cruise reservations may schedule appointments online for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League Packages through the Planning Center according to the following schedule:
- First-Time Guests: 75 days prior to sail date
- Silver Castaway Club Members: 90 days prior to sail date
- Gold Castaway Club Members: 105 days prior to sail date
- Concierge Guests and Platinum Castaway Club Members: 120 days prior to sail date
*You can make, change or cancel appointments online up to 3 days prior to embarkation. Once onboard the ship, visit Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for assistance:
*Cancellation policy: Reservations must be canceled at least 24 hours prior to the appointment time. A $10 charge will be added to the folio of Guests who fail to arrive for a reservation.
Going on a Disney Cruise is so much fun! I would do it over and over again with kids. I hope this post helped you plan for your first time on the high seas with kids.
Once you experience a Disney cruise, you will be ready for another one! Luckily, there are itineraries available right now through 2024! The best thing is, you can book your next cruise while you are still on the ship! Whether you already know what cruise you want or you are still deciding, you can return soon! A placeholder allows you to secure a booking in advance at a discounted rate but choose the specific cruise later. You may be sad to disembark but it’s great to have something else to look forward to!
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by Heather | Dec 15, 2022 | Blog Posts, Disney Cruise Line News, Vacation Planning
Disney Cruise Line offers incredible entertainment, memorable moments, and lots of food options! Take a look at the dining options available onboard all Disney Cruise Line ships!
There are several different dining options to choose from when you sail with Disney Cruise Line. Many of these options are included with your cruise fare. You have choices for each meal, whether you want something quick or a full breakfast. While there are many options at the ports of call you visit, there are many options included on the ship or for an additional fee.
This guide will break down all your dining options aboard each Disney Cruise Line ship!
Disney Cruise Line Dining – Main Dining
- Adult Exclusive Dining – Looking for a more romantic or upscale dining experience? The Adult Exclusive Dining options are for adults aged 18 and older. *additional charge
- Casual Dining – Disney Cruise Line Dining offers casual dining for a more laid-back dining option. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner feature buffet or made-to-order items to satisfy most palates. Casual Dining may be either in an air-conditioned setting or on the deck.
- Quick Service – Quick Service with Disney Cruise Line Dining is similar to Quick Service at Walt Disney World: burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, pizza, pastries, cereal, etc. Quick Service is available at various times throughout the day and night.
- Room Service – How about breakfast on the veranda or a late-night snack in the room? Room Service is available 24 hours a day and is included in Disney Cruise Line Dining. Most items on the menu are not charged; beverages will incur a cost. Remember to tip your room service cast members.
Rotational Dining
You may be wondering – what is rotational dining? Rotational dining is the Disney Cruise Line’s way of ensuring that all guests enjoy each of the three themed dining venues while on board. There are three main dining rooms onboard a Disney cruise ship. Each night, guests rotate between these dining rooms. Your servers rotate with you, meaning you have the same serving team each night. This is a great feature because this allows the wait staff to get to know you and your preferences. It feels like a very personalized experience!
There are also two options for your dinner time – main dining and late dining. Typically, the main dining option is around 5:30 pm during the late dining is around 8:00 pm.
Upon arrival, you will receive your restaurant schedule and table number by checking your Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. Then, each evening, you, your tablemates, and your servers will rotate to a different restaurant. As you rotate, the same wait staff—who know your preferences—will serve you each night while you get to experience the unique atmosphere of each dining venue. Families with young children often choose the earlier mealtime, while adults or families with older children may opt for the later meal. You do not need to make reservations for any of the main dining rooms.
Children’s menus are available in all the restaurants in your rotation.
Dress Code for Dining
The Main Dining restaurants that are part of the Rotational Dining serve dinner at two seatings in the evening, but the other restaurants may have varying hours throughout the voyage. Make sure to consult your Navigator for days and times that each restaurant is open. The dress code also varies and will be listed on each day’s Personal Navigator. You might even sail during a holiday event where they encourage you to dress up! We went in costume for one night during Halloween on the High Seas. And then, Pirate Night, we dressed up as well!
However, there are a few dress codes that don’t change:
- Tank tops, swimwear, or shorts should not be worn to dinner for Main Dining, Adult Exclusive Dining, or Casual Dining locations.
- For Palo brunch, a casual cruise dress is suggested. For Palo dinner, formal or semi-formal attire is recommended; however, Guests may be permitted to dine as long as they wear casual attire with a polished look. This includes dress pants, jeans in good condition, blouses, collared shirts, and lifestyle shoes. No T-shirts, swimwear, tank tops, or sportswear are allowed.
- For Remy, formal or semi-formal attire is also recommended. Guests, however, may dine as long as they wear casual attire with a polished look. This includes dress pants, jeans in good condition, blouses, collared shirts, and lifestyle shoes. No T-shirts, tank tops, swimwear, or sportswear are permitted.
Dining Options by Ship
While there are some similarities in the dining options between the cruise ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, there are also some differences. Here, we detail the choices that are available on board each ship.
Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy
Main Dining
- Animator’s Palate– (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Animator’s Palate mimics a real animator’s studio. It starts in black and white, but the color is added as the meal progresses. Serves Contemporary Pacific Rim cuisine with an American flair. Open for dinner only as part of Rotational Dining.
- Enchanted Garden – (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) Enchanted Garden is open seating when serving breakfast and lunch, but it is part of the Rotational Dining for dinner. This restaurant was inspired by the gardens of Versailles and featured Market-inspired Continental cuisine.
- Royal Palace or Royal Court – (Disney Dream – Royal Palace, Disney Fantasy – Royal Court) The Royal Palace and the Royal Court are inspired by classic Disney princess films. Dine like a prince or princess for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in these dining rooms filled with rich and ornate details. Breakfast and lunch are available on select days, and for dinner, these restaurants are part of the Rotational Dining.
- Palo – (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Palo is open for dinner nightly on all cruises and offers a Champagne Brunch while the ship is at sea on cruises that are four nights or longer. Dine on Italian delicacies while watching the sea go by outside the wall of windows. What a perfect spot for a romantic dinner! Dining at Palo is $45 per person (PLUS an additional charge for specialty and alcoholic beverages), and reservations are required.
- Remy – (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) Remy is the most upscale dining experience on a Disney Cruise Line ship! It is open for dinner every night and a Champagne Brunch on sea days during cruises that are four nights or longer. Remy features French cuisine. Guests who have a reservation for dinner at Remy are invited to meet with the sommelier to preselect the wines for their dinner. For a more intimate experience, Remy also offers a private dining room called the Gusteau Room. There is a charge to dine at Remy: $125 per person for dinner and $75 per person for brunch. There is also a Remy Dessert Experience which is $60 per person, and Petites Assiettes de Remy, $50 per person (includes a wine pairing with each course). Finally, the Remy Wine Pairing Experience is $105 per person. There is also an additional charge for other wine and alcoholic beverage options.
Casual Dining/Snacks
- Cabanas – (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) Cabanas is an indoor/outdoor Casual Dining restaurant with a California beach theme. Cabanas serves “made-to-order” for breakfast and lunch, but it is changed to a “table-service” restaurant for dinner.
- Preludes – (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Preludes is a Quick Service restaurant located just outside the Walt Disney Theatre. Preludes is open before, during, and after live performances and movies. They also provide wait-staff service, so guests don’t even have to leave their seats to get a beverage or snack. Some items have an additional charge.
- Eye Scream Treats and Frozone Treats – (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) These are two Quick Service eateries serving up frozen treats. Eye Scream Treats has soft-serve ice cream with various sundae toppings, and Frozone Treats whips up yummy fruit smoothies.
- Flo’s Café – (Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) Flo’s Café is a Quick Service restaurant with three food stations: Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, and Fillmore’s Favorites.
- Sweet on You/Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats – (Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream) An ice cream parlor/confectionery that sells treats.
- Senses Juice Bar – (Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream) Enjoy a cool down after working out at the gym or indulging in a luxury massage at Senses Spa. This quick-service restaurant offers fresh juices and smoothies infused with probiotics (optional).
Photo Disney Cruise
Disney Magic or Disney Wonder
Main Dining
- Animator’s Palate – (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Animator’s Palate mimics a real animator’s studio. It starts in black and white, but the color is added as the meal progresses. Serves Contemporary Pacific Rim cuisine with an American flair. Open for dinner only as part of Rotational Dining.
- Lumiere’s – (Disney Magic) is inspired by Beauty and the Beast and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch are open seating and are comprised of American favorites. For dinner, Lumiere’s is part of the Rotational Dining with French-inspired food.
- Tiana’s Place – (Disney Wonder) Tiana and her friends will treat you to a New Orleans-style dinner with jazz, Cajun festivities, and deliciously prepared entrees & desserts. Guests 21 years and older can indulge in specially selected wines paired with their meals. Vegetarian and kids menu items are available as well.
- Triton’s – (Disney Wonder) Triton’s is inspired by The Little Mermaid and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch are open seating and are comprised of American favorites. For dinner, Triton’s is part of the Rotational Dining with French-inspired food.
- Rapunzel’s Royal Table – (Disney Magic) Join Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, and the Snuggly Duckling gang for dinner celebrating Rapunzel’s homecoming anniversary. Enjoy menu items such as sea bass, smoked pork loin, and even braided Angel hair pasta in a creamy pesto sauce. Vegetarian and kids menu options are available, and afterward, continue the fun with a Tangled-inspired parade!
- Palo – (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Palo is open for dinner nightly on all cruises and offers a Champagne Brunch while the ship is at sea on cruises that are four nights or longer. Dine on Italian delicacies while watching the sea go by outside the wall of windows. What a perfect spot for a romantic dinner! Dining at Palo is $45 per person (PLUS an additional charge for specialty and alcoholic beverages), and reservations are required.
Casual Dining/Snacks
- Daisy’s De-Lites – (Disney Wonder) While poolside, there’s no need to go far for a snack. Daisy’s De-Lites I great for in-between meals and offers a variety of healthy and delicious options. Choose from special sandwiches, salads, fresh fruits, and more.
- Duck in Diner – (Disney Magic) Donald Duck’s quick-service burger joint offers classic burgers, hot dogs, and specialty middle eastern inspired shawarma.
- Frozone Treats – (Disney Magic) A Quick service stop where you can grab a bite while exploring the ship.
- Pete’s Boiler Bites– (Disney Wonder) Pete’s Boiler Bites is perfect for snacking and/or meal time. Here you can order anything from burgers (veggie burgers well) to tacos, chicken tenders, and French fries. There is something here to satisfy everyone.
- Cabanas – (Disney Magic) Cabanas is an indoor/outdoor Casual Dining restaurant inspired by the Australian setting of the classic “Finding Nemo.” Cabanas serves “made-to-order” items for breakfast and lunch, but it is changed to a “table-service” restaurant for dinner.
- Preludes – (All 4 Disney Cruise Line Ships) Preludes is a Quick Service restaurant outside the Walt Disney Theatre. Preludes is open before, during, and after live performances and movies. They also provide wait-staff service, so guests don’t even have to leave their seats to get a beverage or snack. Some items have an additional charge.
- Pinocchio’s Pizzeria – (Disney Magic, Disney Wonder) Pinocchio’s Pizzeria is an outside eatery that serves pizza throughout the day.
Disney Wish
Main Dining
- Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure- A restaurant featuring the smash hit Frozen where guests attend the engagement party for Princess Anna and Kristoff. This interactive experience will feature technology that allows Olaf to visit every table and all your favorite Frozen characters, including Oaken. Various places, including Norway, Germany, and Estonia, will inspire the food. Guests can expect various fish and seafood options, game choices, unique liqueurs, and more. The menu will also represent the seasons, with lighter dishes representing summer and heavier dishes representing winter.
- Worlds of Marvel: Avengers Quantum Encounter- Disney described Avengers Quantum Encounter as a “Cinematic Dining Experience” and “most ambitious dining experience ever.” Guests will be joined by Ant-Man and The Wasp, who host a special presentation on superhero technology, including holographic models of Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s arc reactor, and Ant-Man’s Pym Particles. Each table has a “Quantum Core,” the latest piece of Pym technology that can shrink and grow things remotely — in other words, the ability to shrink or supersize food. Menus are inspired by “African Wakanda, Eastern European Sokovia, and the Avengers’ home base of New York City.”
- 1923- Named for the year the Walt Disney Company was founded, this restaurant displays the full history of Disney animation. It features two different dining spaces named Walt and Roy Disney. Guests can see props for Disney’s animated films, original artwork, and more. Regarding food, 1923 offers dishes inspired by California and its blend of Asian, European, and South American cuisines. Fresh produce, like honey and pistachios, will be featured, along with Napa Valley wines.
Casual Dining/Snacks
- Marceline Market- Marceline Market is an up-scale “Cabanas” (if you have ever been on other Disney Cruises, you know what we mean) and the closest thing to a buffet-style restaurant found on the Disney Wish. For breakfast and lunch, guests can order freshly-made food at ten different stations. At dinner, the restaurant becomes table service.
- Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods- The Festival of Foods contains several dining options, including Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue, Donald’s Cantina, Daisy’s Pizza Pies, Goofy’s Grill, and Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream*unlike other ships, this is all in one long marketplace areas on the pool deck.
- Inside Out: Joyful Sweets- Inside Out: Joyful Sweets is themed to Pixar’s Inside Out.
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