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Everything You Need to Know about Disney’s Cruise Ships Before You Book a Disney Cruise Vacation

Which disney cruise ship is right for you use this in-depth guide to help you decide.

A pioneer in family vacation ideas at sea, Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is known for its family cruises that set sail to destinations around the world, including the Caribbean , Alaska , Europe , and Australia . With themed kids clubs and hangout spaces, Broadway-caliber productions, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences, all of the Disney cruise ships offer a fully immersive storytelling experience from ship to shore.

After cruising onboard all five Disney cruise line ships ( Disney Magic ,  Disney Wonder ,  Disney Dream ,  Disney Fantasy , and  Disney Wish ), I’ve learned that each Disney cruise ship is unique and offers a different experience for families ( and couples ). So if you’re thinking about setting sail on the high seas with Captain Mickey but haven’t quite decided on which ship yet, I can help.

Use this in-depth guide to every Disney cruise ship to learn what’s different (and what’s the same) about Disney’s cruise ships, including which one is the best choice for your family.

Editor’s note : Disney’s sixth ship, called Disney Treasure , will set sail in 2024; its seventh ship, Disney Adventure , will sail around Southeast Asia beginning in 2025.

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1. Disney Magic

It may be ship that launched it all in 1998, but the Disney Magic doesn’t feel old or outdated in any way. With a 2,713-passenger capacity, it’s one of the smallest and most charming in Disney’s fleet. In fact, if you’re booking your first cruise vacation , this Disney ship’s relatively small size works to its advantage because it’s less likely to feel overwhelming to those who are new to cruising.

Staterooms on the Disney Magic

Disney Magic has 613 outside staterooms (229 with an ocean view and 384 with a verandah) and 262 inside staterooms. Each cabin has nautical decor, with deep blues, reds, and wood tones. Disney Magic ‘s staterooms also feature Disney’s signature bath-and-a-half (one with a toilet and sink and the other with a shower and sink). 

Dining on the Disney Magic

Disney’s rotational dining format on the Disney Magic has cruisers traveling through three different themed restaurants. As you move from restaurant to restaurant, your service staff moves with you so you get to know them (and vice versa) over the length of your Disney cruise vacation.

1) Animator’s Palate

One of the most popular restaurants among the Disney cruise ships is Animator’s Palate . This restaurant is part dinner and part show. Throughout your meal the dining room will change from black-and-white sketches of famous Disney characters to colorful animations. As you dine on California- and Asian-inspired dishes, the room will fill with color. Stick around until the end of the dinner service for a special surprise from a famous mouse. 

2) Lumiere’s

Exclusive to the Disney Magic, Lumiere’s is located in the ship’s atrium and has a subtle Beauty and the Beast theme. The menu leans more French-American, with dishes like escargot, duck confit, and roasted lamb. While there’s no real “show” inside the dining room, be sure to get up and walk around. There’s a large mural of Belle and the Beast near the back of the restaurant that’s great for photos. You can also pop into the restaurant on sea days between meals if you want to take a look, or enjoy a peaceful and less crowded lunch here. 

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3) Rapunzel’s Royal Table

A major highlight of rotational dining on the Disney Magic is Rapunzel’s Royal Table . The Tangled -themed restaurant brings guests in to celebrate Rapunzel’s birthday with characters from the movie. The dinner-and-a-show concept applies here, and if you’re lucky you may even get to meet some of the ruffians from the Snuggly Duckling as they come to your table. 

4) Casual Dining Options for Everyone

The main buffet on the Disney Magic is Cabanas , which serves breakfast and lunch. The dishes vary by day, but mainstays for kids include chicken strips, macaroni and cheese, and fries. The Disney Magic has three other quick-service options: Duck-In Diner , Pinocchio’s Pizzeria , and Daisy’s De-Lites . This is where you can find quick options like burgers, cold sandwiches, pre-made salads, and pizza.

5) Palo (Adults Only)

The only adult-exclusive restaurant on the Disney Magic is Palo , which serves an Italian-inspired brunch and dinner. Brunch is a more casual affair compared to dinner, though both meals are excellent. Dinner is served every night and brunch is available only on sea days. Advanced reservations for both meal services are required.

What to Do on the Disney Magic

There’s so much to do on the Disney Magic that you’ll never find yourself bored. Each night there’s live music in the Atrium Lobby. The Walt Disney Theatre is where you can find live original productions like Tangled: The Musical . Over at the Buena Vista Theatre , you’ll be able to catch a Disney movie, including films that are currently playing in theaters at home. 

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Kids will enjoy splashing around at the family pool or the AquaLab on the outside decks and playing with new friends at Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab . Teens have a dedicated space just for them with Vibe teen club. 

Adults looking for a place to get away have spaces built just for them, like After Hours, an adults-only area where there are three bars and lounges to enjoy. The spa and Rainforest Room are good places to relax. There’s also a beautiful pool and coffee bar where you can just enjoy being on vacation. 

Who Will Love the Disney Magic

Families looking for a smaller ship with fewer guests, or those who really love the movie Tangled are the perfect audience for a cruise on the Disney Magic . 

2. Disney Wonder

Disney Magic ‘s sister ship is the Disney Wonder , which sails to Alaska and Australia. Like the Disney Magic , this Disney Cruise Line ship fits just 2,713 passengers, so it feels intimate and exclusive compared to the larger cruise ships in Disney’s fleet. 

Staterooms on the Disney Wonder

Staterooms on the Disney Wonder have the same nautical flair as those on the Disney Magic . Families traveling with kids will find that there’s plenty of space to unpack and store clothes and empty suitcases. When the day is done, everyone can climb into a cozy bed, whether it’s a traditional bed, a couch that transforms into a bed, or a bunk that pulls down from the ceiling. 

Dining on the Disney Wonder

Disney’s signature rotational dining service continues on the Disney Wonder with three highly themed restaurants that you can experience throughout your sailing. 

1) Animator’s Palate

The Disney Wonder version of Animator’s Palate is one of the highlights of any sailing. While the menu is similar to the same restaurant on the Disney Magic , the overall experience here is slightly elevated. On cruises that are seven nights or longer, guests will get to be part of the show. At the beginning of dinner, everyone is given a piece of paper and told to draw a self-portrait. At the end of dinner, your drawings are magically animated and dance across the screens of the restaurant. 

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2) Tiana’s Place

Tiana from the Disney animated movie The Princess and the Frog has her own New Orleans-themed restaurant on the Disney Wonder called Tiana’s Place . The restaurant serves creole and cajun cuisine while Princess Tiana and a live band known as the Crawfish Crooners keep guests entertained throughout their meal. 

3) Triton’s

Though it’s named after the Little Mermaid’s father, kids may find Triton’s on the Disney Wonder less exciting than the other two main dining rooms because there’s no show or interactive elements. The menu in Triton’s is French-inspired, but for kids (or picky adults) there’s always an old standby like chicken tenders. Triton’s is also open for lunch service for those who wish to be waited on rather than stand in the buffet line. 

The main buffet on the Disney Wonder is Cabanas , which hosts breakfast and lunch every day. For quick meals that are not buffet-style head to deck nine, where you can find Pete’s Boiler Bites , Pinocchio’s Pizzeria , and Daisy’s De-Lites , which serves hot dogs, burgers, pizza, and deli-style sandwiches. 

The only adults-only restaurant on the Disney Wonder is Palo , an Italian-themed restaurant that overlooks the ocean. Palo is known for its decadent brunch and date-night-worthy dinner. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made before stepping aboard the Disney Wonder on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App . 

What to Do on the Disney Wonder

Families traveling together on the Disney Wonder can enjoy entertainment like trivia and games in the D Lounge, or step outside to play together in the family pool or the Wide World of Sports deck. After dinner, enjoy an original production inside the Walt Disney Theatre or a movie inside the Buena Vista Theatre . 

Kids will find endless fun inside the two main kids clubs, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab . Older tweens and teens have a club of their own to hang out at as well. Adults looking for some alone time without kids can explore the After Hours area, which has three lounges, each of which hosts games and dance parties well into the night. 

Who Will Love the Disney Wonder

Those looking to explore Alaska will want to book a cruise on the Disney Wonder . And families who want a taste of Disney Cruise Line without being overwhelmed by the size of the ship will enjoy the Wonder too.

3. Disney Dream

The third ship to join the DCL fleet was the Disney Dream in 2011. The Dream is a beautiful ship that can hold up to 4,000 passengers and will begin sailing the Mediterranean in 2023. 

Staterooms on the Disney Dream

The staterooms on the Disney Dream are spacious and well thought out for families, with ample storage space and the same split bathroom concept that’s featured on the other DCL ships. There are just over 900 verandah staterooms, along with 199 ocean-view staterooms, and just 150 inside staterooms. 

Dining on the Disney Dream

Three beautiful main dining rooms, two adult-exclusive restaurants, and a plethora of casual dining options are waiting to be experienced on the Disney Dream. Like all Disney cruise ships, Disney Dream employs a rotational dining model for dinners.

While the same drawing theme as DCL’s other Animator’s Palate restaurants is evident on the Disney Dream , the show element is very different. On the first night dining in this version of the restaurant guests are greeted by Crush from the Pixar movie Finding Nemo as he teaches everyone how to speak like a turtle. 

2) Enchanted Garden

Themed after the gardens of France, Enchanted Garden is an elegant restaurant that transforms from afternoon to evening in the course of the meal. At its center is a pretty fountain with a cute Mickey on top that adds to the charm of the space. Dishes here are contemporary American with items like tuna and avocado tower, roasted pork tenderloin, and chocolate torte. 

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3) Royal Palace

Step into the opulent Royal Palace , where French fare is served alongside portraits of classic Disney princesses. This main dining restaurant features dishes like escargot, cheese-topped French onion soup, and herb-crusted lamb. Royal Palace is open for lunch, with a menu that rotates daily so you can enjoy something other than Cabanas (one of the cruise ship’s casual dining options) if desired. 

Serving breakfast and lunch, Cabanas is the main buffet on the Disney Dream . Near the back of the buffet, guests will find an omelet station for breakfast and a carving station for lunch. Other quick service options can be found at Flo’s Cafe , which is themed after the Cars franchise. Here there are three walk-up windows (Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, and Fillmore’s Favorites), where guests can get a quick lunch of pizza, sandwiches, and salads. There’s also a Monsters Inc. -inspired ice cream station on deck 11. 

5) Remy (Adults Only)

Luxurious Remy is one of the two adults-only restaurants on the Disney Dream . The French restaurant is inspired by the Pixar movie Ratatouille, and you may even see a glass sculpture of Remy as you walk into the intimate dining space. The menu is divided into three parts, two different tasting menus, and one a la carte menu.

6) Palo (Adults Only)

The version of Palo on the Disney Dream is an Italian escape where adults can indulge in everything from parmesan chicken at lunch to perfectly cooked steaks at dinner. The restaurant boasts panoramic views of the ocean paired with impeccable service. 

What to Do on the Disney Dream

This Disney cruise ship has many spaces for everyone in the family to enjoy. Together, families can see live shows in the Walt Disney Theatre or movies in the Buena Vista Theatre . The D Lounge is a great spot to play a round of trivia, and Goofy’s Sports Deck is where you can find a mini-golf course. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the AquaDuck water coaster where part of the track hangs over the side of the ship. 

Kids have their own spaces with the it’s a small world nursery, Disney’s Oceaneer Club , and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab . Teens can hang out in Vibe and tweens will enjoy Edge . 

Adults looking to get away from youngsters will want to go to the District, where five different lounges and bars are ready to welcome you with a drink and plenty of fun. Between Palo and Remy there’s another lesser-known bar called Meridian where bartenders whip up everything from classic martinis to smoked old fashioneds. 

Who Will Love the Disney Dream

Adults traveling together will enjoy the ample amount of space dedicated to those over 18 on the Disney Dream .

4. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream . While both Disney cruise line ships have a passenger capacity of 4,000 and many of the venues are the same, they have a completely different feel.

Staterooms on the Disney Fantasy

Of the Disney Fantasy ‘s staterooms, 1,100 are considered outside staterooms with an ocean view or verandah and 150 are inside staterooms. The rooms have a classic nautical feel with a split bathroom and plenty of places to store clothes and other cruise necessities. 

Dining on the Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy has plenty of dining options to please everyone in your traveling party. Like the other ships in the DCL fleet, Disney Fantasy has rotational dining for dinners.

1) Enchanted Garden

Similar to the Disney Dream , Enchanted Garden on the Disney Fantasy is themed after a French garden with effects that make it seem like the sun is setting over the garden while you dine. 

2) Animator’s Palate

A fixture on four out of the five DCL cruise ships, Animator’s Palate is one of the restaurants on Disney Fantasy as well. Here guests are able to animate their own characters and watch them come to life on the screens around the restaurant. No matter which version of the restaurant you experience on the different Disney cruise ships, the menu is basically the same, and a must-try dish is the truffle pasta appetizer. 

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3) Royal Court

Like Royal Palace on the Disney Dream , Royal Court serves a French-inspired menu in a castle-like setting. The restaurant features dishes like a rack of lamb, spinach soufflé, and a rich French onion soup. For a more relaxed afternoon, the restaurant is open for lunch where you can sit and enjoy a meal that’s outside of the hustle and bustle of the casual dining experience at Cabanas. 

Cabanas buffet welcomes everyone for a casual breakfast and lunch, while Flo’s Cafe is ready to serve up burgers, pizza, and sandwiches at lunchtime. And don’t forget the all-you-can-eat soft-serve ice cream from Eye Scream. 

On the Disney Fantasy , Remy is a small French restaurant where the food is just part of the experience. The dining team is there to ensure your adult-exclusive meal is perfect. From a welcome cocktail to a cheese course that’s plated right in front of you, no detail is overlooked. 

The other adult-exclusive restaurant on the Disney Fantasy is Palo . The stunning dining room is modeled after the gondolas of Venice, though the menu at the restaurant features dishes from multiple regions of Italy. 

What to Do on the Disney Fantasy

Like the other Disney cruise ships, the Disney Fantasy has a movie theater and a live production theater . Outside on the pool decks, families can enjoy the AquaDuck water coaster or AquaLab play area.

The kid’s clubs are an exciting place that children won’t want to leave, though adults can get in on the fun during open houses that take place throughout the sailing. 

Adults looking for some entertainment just for them will want to venture into Europa, an adults-only district with five themed bars and lounges for guests over 18. And while there is an adult pool on deck 11, if you journey up to deck 13, you’ll find another adults-only sundeck that is rarely busy. 

Who Will Love the Disney Fantasy 

Families with young children who love Pixar characters will want to book a Pixar Day at Sea sailing. Otherwise, multigenerational families will enjoy the ship and all that it has to offer for families to do together. 

5. Disney Wish

The Disney Wish joined the fleet in 2022, marking a new chapter for DCL in which the overall Disney cruise ship design and layout is a big departure from the original four ships.

Staterooms on the Disney Wish

Staterooms on the Disney Wish are elevated compared to the four original Disney cruise line ships. Each room is themed after a Disney princess movie, like The Little Mermaid , Moana , or The Princess and the Frog . Cabins still have the split bathroom concept, though the shower and sink bathroom has a sliding glass door for the shower instead of a curtain. 

There are 1,254 staterooms, of which 1,133 are outside staterooms and 121 are inside staterooms. The Disney Wish has a 4,000 passenger capacity. 

Dining on the Disney Wish

Rotational dining on the Disney Wish brings three new restaurants to the DCL experience and takes the dinner-and-a-show model to new and fully immersive heights.

1) Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

The Frozen -themed main dining room, called Ardendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , is part dinner and part theater-in-the-round. The menu features dishes inspired by the cuisine of Norway, though the real star is the show itself, which follows Queen Anna and Kristoff’s engagement party with plenty of dancing, singing, character interactions, and some spectacular special effects.

2) Worlds of Marvel

The Wish ‘s Worlds of Marvel restaurant is an interactive dinner-and-a-show experience unlike anything on the other Disney cruise line ships. Here the menu is filled with dishes inspired by locations in the Marvel Cinematic Universe such as New York and Wakanda. Marvel super heroes Ant-Man and the Wasp (and a few surprise characters) appear on screens around the dining room throughout dinner as the storyline progresses. Be sure to stay until dessert so you don’t miss the live in-person finale. 

The more elegant of the three main dining rooms is 1923 , which is divided into two smaller dining areas dedicated to Walt and Roy Disney, respectively. Both feature sketches, paintings, and models of animated Disney characters. With fresh California cuisine highlighted, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from perfectly cooked steaks to fresh tuna. 

Marceline Market replaces Cabanas as the breakfast and lunch “buffet option” on the Disney Wish , though it’s more of a fast-casual restaurant than a buffet since you don’t serve yourself. As you walk into Marceline Market you’ll find various food stations where salads, customizable pasta, and of course kid-friendly options are all plated for you by Cast Members. Marceline Market is open for breakfast and lunch as a buffet and a table service restaurant at dinner.

Outside on the upper decks, you can enjoy Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods , which are all quick service options featuring BBQ, Mexican, pizza, burgers, and ice cream. 

5) Enchante (Adults Only)

Enchante is one of two adults-only restaurant on the Disney Wish . The restaurant’s menu was crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement, while the decor is inspired by Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast . 

6) Palo Steakhouse (Adults Only)

Palo Steakhouse is a departure from the Palo restaurants on the first four DCL cruise ships. This adults-only restaurant is inspired by Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast and features a delicious menu of steakhouse favorites and fan-favorite Palo dishes like the potato gnocchi. 

What to Do on the Disney Wish

There’s a lot to see and do onboard the Disney Wish , including activities that can’t be found on any of the other Disney cruise ships. Families can enjoy a ride on the AquaMouse , the first “Disney attraction at sea” where guests ride on a raft and pass by scenes inspired by Mickey Mouse’s adventures as they make their way around the ship on a water coaster.

For some inside fun, get everyone together to play Disney Uncharted Adventure , an interactive game played through the DCL app, where you have to go on missions with different Disney characters to save the wishing star. 

Relax inside the Walt Disney Theatre , where you can see original performances like The Little Mermaid and Disney Seas the Adventure. There are also two movie theaters onboard where you can watch your favorite Disney movies. 

Adults have plenty of spaces that are all their own after dark, like Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge and Nightingale’s, the latter of which is inspired by Cinderella . What’s different about the adult spaces on the Disney Wish is that they are spread throughout the ship rather than clustered together in an adults-only district. 

Who Will Love the Disney Wish

Those looking for an all-new Disney Cruise Line experience or those who have never sailed with Disney Cruise Line before will love the Disney Wish , but avid DCL fans may miss some familiar features of the other Disney cruise ships. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Disney Cruise Ships

1) does disney cruise line offer any themed cruises.

Disney is all about storytelling, so it’s only natural that DCL offers themed cruises and special days at sea. All of the Disney cruise ships have themed cruises, with dates and themes varying between the different ships. Disney’s themed cruises and themed days at sea are Halloween on the High Seas , Very Merrytime , Marvel Day at Sea , and Pixar Day at Sea .

2) Does Disney Cruise Line have a private island?

Yes, Disney Cruise Line has a private island in the Bahamas called Castaway Cay . On most Disney cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean, Disney’s cruise ships will stop for a day at Castaway Cay. Here you can snorkel, swim, lounge on the beach, zip down water slides, sip cocktails, enjoy a BBQ, and even participate in a special 5K road race if you are so inclined.

In early 2023, Disney announced plans for opening of a second private island experience in the Caribbean. Lighthouse Point on Eleuthera in the Bahamas will open in 2024 and will be a sort of sister destination to Castaway Cay. The new private Disney port-of-call destination will include three beaches (two family beaches plus one adults-only beach), a water play area, a local crafts pavilion, watercraft and bicycle rentals, hiking and biking trails, and more.

3) What’s included on a Disney cruise?

While DCL is not an all-inclusive cruise line , the base price of your Disney cruise covers almost everything: accommodations, meals, room service, non-alcoholic beverages, unlimited soft-serve ice cream, live productions, movies, pools and water slides, character meet-and-greets, and kids clubs.

So, what’s not included on a Disney cruise? Airfare and airport transfers, specialty restaurants (generally the adult-only dining spots on Disney’s cruise ships), gratuities, alcoholic and bottled beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments. Some snacks are also available for purchase, though most food is free.

4) Will DCL be adding even more new Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line is not done adding to its fleet! The Disney Treasure is scheduled to set sail in 2024. Disney is also planning a second private destination in the Bahamas. Called Lighthouse Point , it will be located on the island of Eleuthera.

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Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation? Here's what you need to know about the five Disney cruise ships, including the new Disney Wish.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Disney Magic

Disney wonder, disney dream, disney fantasy, disney wish.

There's plenty that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from its competitors — and not just the endless soft-serve ice cream, family-friendly staterooms, or being able to hug Mickey Mouse on your way to a Disney princess-themed restaurant. All five Disney cruise ships are elegantly designed and provide high-end services. With the best activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day, along with relaxing escapes for adults, Disney cruises offer plenty for the entire family.

Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program, Castaway Club, offers members exclusive benefits before and during their sailings.

From immersive dining adventures to Disney's first-ever attraction at sea, these ships present truly magical vacations that visit a number of exciting destinations. Disney Cruise Line's ports of call include places in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and, of course, 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. Here's what you need to know about Disney cruise ships, including the newest vessel, the Disney Wish .

Meet the Expert

As  Travel + Leisure' s on-staff Disney expert, I visit Disney theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships several times every year. I most recently experienced the magic of Disney Cruise Line on the inaugural sailing for the Disney Wish in 2022.

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Magic Class

Number of Staterooms: 875

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. This ship established Disney as the best cruise line for families , read on to see why.

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 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 design 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, while 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, as well as 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’s channels the elegance of "Beauty and the Beast ."

Casual meals can be had at Cabanas or ordered 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.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Castaway Cay, Disney's Private Island

Inaugural Year: 1999

A trip aboard the Disney Wonder can lead to familiar tropical escapes as well as 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.

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’s Pixar Pals Party, a fun-filled celebration with characters from "Toy Story," "Up," and more, exclusively offered on Alaskan sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

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 building their own Mickey Roadster Racers in a Disney Junior games area on board the Disney cruise ship, as older kids enjoy their own 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.)

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 ship’s After Hours section. There are also 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.

Related: Disney Cruise Secrets and Tips You Should Know Before You Go

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Class: Dream Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,250

This Disney cruise ship boasts variety shows like "The Golden Mickeys," an onboard spectacle celebrating Disney’s famed films and songs with plenty of character appearances, but 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 to be had on this Disney cruise liner as well, 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.

Packed 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.

Unwind at Senses Spa or indulge in upscale dining at Palo and Remy , both of 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.

Inaugural Year: 2012

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.

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.

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’s 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. Plus 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 means 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. (Cove Cafe, with its Mickey cappuccinos, is also a must.)

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Triton Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,254

The first ship in Disney Cruise Line's Triton class, the Wish will be joined by the new Disney Treasure , set to debut in late 2024.

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 own 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 multi-course dinner that we think is totally worth the splurge. The Disney Cruise Line favorite Senses Spa is also on this ship.

Disney Wish Dining

In addition to the truly exceptional adults-only restaurants, the 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 Frozen Dining 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.

Related: T+L's Review of the Disney Wish

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Disney Cruise Line Ships

When Disney Cruise Line entered the cruise business in 1998, they made cruising a genuine “family” experience. Until that point, most cruise lines focused mostly on adults, with very little consideration (in services or offerings) given to younger family members. The Disney Magic launched in July of 1998 and redefined the cruise industry and its impact over the years has been evident.

For example, DCL was the first cruise line to offer a majority of balcony  staterooms  – something that has now become commonplace on new ships. Disney’s staterooms were also substantially larger than on most ships at that time – also a trend the industry has adopted. They were the first cruise line to include a bathtub in almost every stateroom (a necessity when traveling with young children).

And while we’re on the subject of children, Disney built its cruise ships with kids in mind  – from the “it’s a small world” Nurseries (for toddlers) to the Oceaneer Club (for kids 3-7), Oceaneer Lab (kids 8-12), Edge (tweens 11-14) and Vibe – the ‘teens only’ hangouts, a Disney cruise has the younger set fully covered. The industry followed suit with newer ships on cruise lines such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean, trying to ‘up the ante’ regarding kid-specific areas. The fact is that in the family market, anyone else is simply vying for second place.

Your favorite Disney Characters will appear throughout the entire cruise; even the ship’s horn gets in the spirit. Almost everything is included on the Disney Cruise Line: meals, entertainment, snacks, and room service. They’ve thought of everything when it comes to experiencing a cruise with those special Disney touches.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE’S NEW SHIPS

In 2017, Disney Cruise Line announced that they were adding three new ships to their fleet. The new vessels will be the same size, roughly 135,000 gross tons, hosting around 1,250 guest staterooms. These new ships are powered by “clean-burning liquefied natural gas,” but size and fuel are where the similarities end. Each vessel will have individual one-of-a-kind experiences.

The first of the new “Wish” class of ships was the Disney Wish. The second will be the Disney Treasure , which will welcome guests in December 2024. The third is the Disney Destiny , which will launch in 2025. The Disney Adventure is being redone to serve the Singapore market and will launch in 2025.

Disney Cruise Line announced an additional four ships that will join the award-winning fleet, giving families more opportunities to experience the world-class dining, exceptional entertainment, and signature hospitality that Disney Cruise Line is known for.

With five ships in the current fleet and four others already in the works, the additional four ships will bring the fleet to a total of 13. These new ships, which will debut between 2027 and 2031, will be constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, and the ship names, designs, and itineraries are still in development.

DISNEY DESTINY

The Disney Destiny will be approximately 144,000 gross tons and powered by liquefied natural gas. Its delivery is part of a multi-year expansion of the Disney Cruise Line fleet that includes the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure; the Disney Adventure that will homeport in Singapore; the recently announced agreement with Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (OLC) to bring Disney cruise vacations to Japan in 2029; and a new island destination in The Bahamas: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Click here for more information on the Disney Destiny

DISNEY DREAM

The Disney Dream set sail on her maiden voyage on January 26, 2011. The Disney Dream is 40% larger than the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, with two additional decks and 1,250 staterooms. Each Inside stateroom has a “virtual” porthole showing rolling waves and Disney characters swimming by all in HD. One of the most popular features is the first-ever water roller coaster at sea – the Aqua Duck is 250 yards of transparent tubing that sends guests soaring over the top decks and at one point – over the ocean!

The Disney Dream offers the latest designs in contemporary staterooms, elegant restaurants, and fabulous entertainment. In addition to the kids’ clubs, there are nightclubs and lounges, as well as theaters for movies and live shows.

Set sail aboard the Disney Dream for ports of call in the Bahamas and Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island). The Dream’s shorter Disney cruises are a particularly good choice for those cruising for the first time. Many guests are concerned about how well they will fare at sea. These shorter cruises give them a chance to experience a Disney Cruise vacation and often lead to a “repeat” cruise on a longer itinerary. Click here for more information on the Disney Dream

Disney Dream Ship Details:

• Maiden Voyage: January 26, 2011
• Passenger Capacity: 4,000 | Gross Tonnage: 128,000 tons
• Number of Staterooms: 1,250
• Length: 1,115 feet | Beam: 125 feet | Draft: 26 feet

DISNEY FANTASY

The Disney Fantasy is the fourth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and sailed her maiden voyage on March 31, 2012. A sister ship to the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy features an AquaDuck water coaster, magical children’s areas, world-class entertainment, delightful dining, retreats for adults, and immersive experiences for guests of all ages with beloved Disney stories and characters. This massive ship features 14 decks and has 1,250 staterooms. As guests have come to expect from Disney Cruise Line, the newest ship combines state-of-the-art technology with the elegance and grandeur of old-time ocean liners. Every Disney Cruise Line ship has a signature character; the Fantasy is no different. The ship’s atrium is home to a bronze statue of Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse. Keeping in line with the vintage travel theme seen around the ship, Minnie is dressed in fashions from the 1920s and 30s, complete with a parasol and steamer trunk.

Click here for more information on the Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy Ship Details:

• Maiden Voyage: March 31, 2012

DISNEY MAGIC

Known as one of the “classic” ships, the Disney Magic is similar to its sister ship, the Disney Wonder. The Disney Magic offers a wide variety of itineraries, mainly sailing to the Caribbean, but the Magic also heads off to ports in the Bahamas, Canada, New York, and Europe!

Click here for more information on the Disney Magic

Disney Magic Ship Details:

• Maiden Voyage: July 30, 1998
• Passenger Capacity: 2,400 | Gross Tonnage: 83,000 tons
• Number of Staterooms: 875
• Length: 964 feet | Beam: 106 feet | Draft: 25.26 feet
• Cruising Speed: 23 knots

DISNEY TREASURE

Setting sail in December 2024, the Disney Treasure is the sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, joining the Disney Magic (maiden voyage in 1998), the Disney Wonder (maiden voyage in 1999), the Disney Dream (maiden voyage in 2011), the Disney Fantasy (maiden voyage in 2012) and the Disney Wish (maiden voyage in 2022).

Click here for more information on the Disney Treasure

Disney Treasure Ship Details

• Birthplace: Meyer Werft shipyard – Papenburg, Germany
• Maiden voyage: December 21, 2024
• Passenger Capacity: 4,000 | Gross Tonnage: estimated 144,000 tons (confirmed at delivery)
• Number of Staterooms: 1,256 (includes 53 concierge staterooms and 23 concierge suites)
• Length: 1,119 feet | Beam: 128 feet | Height: 221 feet

DISNEY WISH

The Disney Wish is the fifth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and sailed her maiden voyage on July 14, 2022. Families onboard the Wish can discover a mesmerizing new world created especially for them: a celebration of Disney’s rich legacy of enchanting storytelling that brings to life the fantastical worlds and beloved characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and  Star Wars  adventures like never before.

Families can embark on a splashtacular adventure with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse aboard the first-ever Disney attraction at sea; revel in a royal celebration during a theatrical dining experience with Frozen friends; team up with the Avengers on a Marvel cinematic dining adventure; and travel to a galaxy far, far away in a first-of-its-kind  Star Wars  experience on board a Disney ship.

Click here for more information on the Disney Wish

Disney Wish Ship Details

• Birthplace: Meyer Werft – Papenburg, Germany
• Maiden Voyage: July 14, 2022
• Passenger Capacity: 4,000 | Gross Tonnage: 144,000 (estimated) tons
• Number of Staterooms: 1,254 (includes 53 concierge staterooms and 23 concierge suites)

DISNEY WONDER

Another “classic” ship, the Disney Wonder is every bit as elegant as its newer counterparts. Guests on the Disney Wonder will enjoy great food, entertainment, and recreational activities. Kids will keep busy in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, while tweens can hang out in Edge and teens will find their own space at Vibe!

The Disney Wonder sails to a wide variety of destinations, such as Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, Alaska and the Pacific Coast, Hawaii, and even the Panama Canal! In addition to these destinations, the Wonder will set sail on 7-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera, visiting such ports of call as Puerta Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas!

Click here for more information on the Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder Ship Details:

• Maiden Voyage: August 15, 1999
• Passenger Capacity: 2,400 | Gross Tonnage: 85,000 tons
• Length: 964 feet | Beam: 106 feet | Draft: 25.26 feet
• Cruising Speed: 22.3 knots

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Disney Cruise Ships

The Best Disney Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise Ships    |    New Disney Cruise Ships    |    Disney Cruise Overview     Disney Wish    |    Disney Fantasy    |    Disney Wonder    |    Disney Magic    |    Disney Dream |    Disney Treasure

Introducing my detailed guide to each Disney Cruise Line ship!

In one place, I have brought together everything there is to know about each Disney Cruise ship.

In this complete Disney Cruise Ship guide, you’ll learn about different stateroom categories, dining options, all the entertainment and fun, and so much more.

The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of five ships: Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , Disney Dream,   Disney Fantasy, and the newest addition, the Disney Wish .

Additionally, a sixth ship, Disney Treasure , has been announced and is expected to be seaworthy some time in 2024.

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships, as are the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.  Both pairs of sister ships are similar in size as well as some features but they are definitely not twins.

Even though the sister’s have similarities, each of Disney’s five ships features different designs, deck plans , restaurants, entertainment, and activities onboard to make every voyage unique.

Disney Cruise Line is now well-established as a leader in the highly competitive cruise industry, having set itself apart by providing the most unique sailing experience on the seas.

Now...let's meet the ships!

The Disney Cruise Line Fleet of Ships

Use the following Disney Cruise ships comparison chart to help learn which is the best Disney Cruise ship for your vacation.

How to Use this Disney Cruise Ships Comparison Chart

You can use this handy information sheet to compare Disney ships by size, capacity, tonnage, staff, and age.

While this is all useful information to have, I highly recommend you click through the button on each ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet to get a fully-detailed guide that goes way beyond the sizes of the ships.

Compare Disney Cruise Ships

Disney magic.

Image: Flickr

• Passenger Capacity: 2700
• Staterooms : 877
• Entered Service : July 1998
• Sister Ship : Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder

Img: Flickr

• Passenger Capacity : 2700
• Staterooms : 875
• Entered Service : August 1999
• Sister Ship : Disney Magic

Disney Dream

• Passenger Capacity : 4,000
• Crew : 1,400
• Staterooms : 1,250
• Entered Service : January 2011
• Sister Ship : Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy

• Entered Service : March 2012
• Sister Ship : Disney Dream

Disney Wish

• Staterooms : 1,254
• Entered Service : July 2022

Disney Treasure

• Estimated Passenger Capacity : ~4,000
• Estimated Crew : ~1,400
• Estimated Staterooms : ~1,250
• Expected Maiden Voyage : 2024

Three New Disney Cruise Ships

Disney cruise line has announced three new ships.

I nspiring speculation and excitement amongst crazed DCL fans like us, Disney Cruise Line has announced they are building three new cruise ships .

Image: Disney Parks

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Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023

Disney cruises are popular for many reasons – for their family-friendly amenities, attention to detail, and commitment to providing family magic.

If you are a regular reader here, you know that I’m an avid cruiser on the Disney Cruise Line. After three sailings on the Disney Fantasy , one on the Disney Wonder , seven on the Disney Dream , and one on the Disney Magic , I’ve had the chance to experience Disney’s newest ship – the Disney Wish , twice. If you are considering a trip on the Disney Cruise Line, you may be wondering what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship for your family vacation.

It’s difficult to answer that without looking at the various itineraries as well as comparing the sizes, restaurants, amenities, and more on the Disney Cruise ships. Here are our comparisons.

Disclosure: I’ve been on one complimentary media preview cruise as well as two cruises as part of Disney Social Media Moms. The rest of my cruises were at my own cost. All opinions are my own.

Check prices of Disney Cruise Line Sailings here .

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Ships

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you’ll definitely want to look at the various itineraries offered. After all, a Mediterranean cruise is much, much different than an Alaskan cruise. Itinerary and ports of call really should be your first consideration when deciding which ship on the Disney Cruise Line fleet you’ll want to sail on.

The Disney Fantasy always leaves from the Port Canaveral cruise port and sails on seven-day itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay .

The Fantasy’s sister ship, the Disney Dream, used to leave from Port Canaveral but now departs from Miami for part of the year. The Dream also has sailings from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan, New York, and Europe.

The other two ships, the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have typically traveled around a bit more. Itineraries (especially in the winter) change year by year, but the Wonder typically goes to Alaska, while the Magic has itineraries departing from San Diego, Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan.

Miami cruise port to Castaway Cay and Key West . That itinerary was so much fun, and the four-day trip was the perfect amount of time for our girls’ trip.

Once you look at the itineraries, you’ll definitely have a good idea of which Disney Cruise Line ship you’ll want to be on, especially if you plan to travel on an itinerary that only one ship offers.

Size of the Disney Cruise Ships

There are currently three different classes of Disney Cruise Ships. The original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are called the Magic class and are smaller. These ships accommodate a maximum of 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the Dream class ships, which accommodate a maximum of 4,000 passengers. The new Triton Class ships (the Disney Wish) also accommodate 4,000 but are a bit bigger in Gross Tonnage.

The smaller ships definitely do feel more intimate but don’t have as many amenities.

Restaurants on the Disney Cruise Ships

While all of the dining rooms on the Disney Cruise Line are fun and offer lots of delicious food options, they do vary by ship. Animator’s Palate, as well as the premium, adult-only Palo, are offered on all original four ships.

Each of the original four ships has a French-themed restaurant, although the names and themes are different. There are also three incredibly fun-themed restaurants – Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder , Arendelle on the Disney Wish, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. In addition to dinner, you’ll also be entertained while eating at these three restaurants. 

Each of the ships offers free ice cream, as well as a premium coffee bar. They all have various snack options available throughout the day, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The Disney Dream also offers a premium ice cream/dessert spot, called Vanellope’s. Everything in Vanellope’s is offered at an additional fee.

In addition to Palo, there are other adult-only restaurants on some of the ships. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream offer Remy, while the Disney Wish has Enchante.

For breakfast and lunch, each of the four original ships has the Cabanas buffet, with both indoor and outdoor seating. On the Wish, there’s Marceline Market, which is similar to a buffet but with servers plating the food.

Bars and Lounges on the Disney Cruise Ships

While most people travel with kids on the Disney Cruise Line, there are still bars and lounges that adults can enjoy. Since many kids will likely spend much of their time in the phenomenal kids’ clubs on board, adults will have lots of opportunities to visit the adult-only areas.

The Disney Fantasy offers a whole area of the ship called Europa, filled with European-themed bars and lounges. Ooh La La, a champagne bar, is my personal favorite.

The Disney Dream ship features the District, which is similar to Europa. It’s located in the same area of the ship, and has similar bars. Instead of Ooh La La, their champagne bar is called Pink. My favorite bar of all the ships is the Meridian Lounge, which is located between Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic also have bars and lounges. The Wonder has the After Hours adult area with several lounges. In most cases, the bars and lounges are open to kids during the day, but are adult only in the evenings.

On the Wish, two of my favorite bars are the Bayou, and Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. These two themed, unique lounges are great for a drink before or after dinner.

Programming at these bars, including games and entertainment, is sometimes offered – check your Disney Cruise Line app for details.

Staterooms on the Disney Cruise Ships

While there are some differences between the staterooms on the ships, for the most part, they are very much alike. They offer similar features, and while they are small, they are also comfortable.

My family of four regularly stays in a Deluxe Family Stateroom with Verandah, and we find it to be enough room. We don’t spend too much time in the room because there’s so much to do on the ship.

The Disney Wish, Disney’s newest ship, offers even more concierge rooms than any of the other Disney cruise ships.

Amenities on the Disney Cruise Ships

All of the ships offer a number of amenities that families will love. These ships were clearly built with families in mind.

Each ship offers a pool deck with splash areas and the Funnel Vision signature television screen showing Disney movies throughout the day. On the Disney Fantasy and Dream, you’ll also be able to go on the Aquaduck water coaster. It’s so much fun, and you’ll want to go more than once.

While the Disney Magic and Wonder don’t have the AquaDuck, the Disney Magic does have the AquaDunk, a high-speed water slide tube. The Disney Wish has a new coaster, called the AquaMouse.

There are also sports decks with various amenities, depending on the ship. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have sports simulators, but you’ll need to make reservations for that in advance.

The ships also all have kids’ clubs, Senses spas , hot tubs, shops, and much more. I also recommend walking around the ship when you first arrive so you can learn about everything that is available to you.

Activities on the Disney Cruise Ships

Each of the ships offers lots of activities, including first-run Disney movies in the movie theater (the Wish has two theaters) and Broadway-style stage live shows in the Walt Disney Theater. The shows do vary by ship, but I’ve seen all of them and everyone is fantastic.

My favorite show is currently Frozen, which plays on the Wonder.  A close runner-up to that is a new Beauty and the Beast show that runs on the Disney Dream. Other newer shows are Aladdin on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish, the Little Mermaid on the Disney Wish, and Tangled on the Disney Magic. 

Other activities include family and adult game shows, beverage-tasting seminars, Bingo, and animation classes. There are also Disney character greetings on every ship. Check the Navigatornapp to see the full schedule of events.

Ships typically have a pirate night during one night of the cruise. It’s so much fun – definitely go to the fireworks if there’s a pirate night during your cruise. 

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream, kids will love the Midship Detective Agency. This free game lets you become a detective while finding clues throughout the midship section of the boat. When my kids were younger, we’d accompany them on their quest. Once they were a bit older, they loved the freedom of doing it on their own.  

The Disney Wish has a new augmented reality experience, called Disney Uncharted Adventure. It works with the app, and ends with a live event.

So, what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?

My personal favorite is the Disney Fantasy, the second-newest ship in the fleet (for now). However, that was the first Disney ship that I traveled on, so I’m not sure if that’s why it’s my favorite.

Others really love the Magic. As a smaller ship, it’s definitely more quaint and it’s easier to walk around. I do love the shows on the Magic, as well as the restaurants.

It’s really hard to say which is the best Disney cruise ship because they are all great!

What is your favorite Disney Cruise ship?

See our Disney Cruise Line comparison story here .

Frequently Asked Questions

All of the ships have teen clubs and other great amenities. My teens loved the Disney Wish, which also has the Hero Zone which is where you can play basketball, ping pong, and other sports indoors. But when choosing a ship for teens, I’d focus on the itinerary first.

As someone who sometimes cruises without my kids, I appreciate the adult-only sections. My favorite adult-only area is Satellite Falls, an outdoor sun deck area that is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. I also really love the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa on the Disney Wish. While all of the ships have Rainforest Rooms (for an additional fee), the one on the Wish is the largest and has a great outdoor area.

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

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Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Disney Cruise Line has an active fleet of four cruise ships with a further three ships on order ( Disney Wish and two currently unnamed ships).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Disney Cruise Line

Before Disney Cruise Line became its own entity, Disney actually tried to work with both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. However, nothing really came of this and so in 1994 Disney had their first cruise ship plans drawn up.

Disney announced their first cruises would start in 1998 and commissioned familiar cruise shipbuilder, Fincantieri in Italy to build their first two cruise ships ( Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ).

In July 1998, Disney Magic performed the first maiden voyage for the cruise line – sailing from their homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida.

By 2005, Disney was using Los Angeles as their summer homeport for their ships and the gaining popularity of them was outstripping their capacity.

In 2007, they announced the building of two new cruise ships – Disney Dream , which launched in January 2011 and Disney Fantasy which started operations in 2012.

More recently, in 2016 Disney announced a new class of cruise ship – the Triton-class, which would be used for two new upcoming cruise ships. A third ship was added to the order book in 2017 and the first ship of the class, Disney Wis h is expected to join the Disney fleet in July 2022.

Disney Cruise Ships Frequently Asked Questions

What is disney’s largest cruise ship.

The  Disney Fantasy  and  Disney Dream  are the largest cruise ships in the Disney fleet currently.

What is Disney’s smallest cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the smallest cruise ship in the Disney fleet, carrying 2,700 passengers.

Which is the oldest Disney cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the oldest ship in the Disney fleet. It started service in 1998.

Which is the newest Disney cruise ship?

The newest Disney ship is  Disney Wish  which is due to enter service in July 2022.

What is the cheapest month to take a Disney cruise?

Generally, Jan-Mar or Nov-Dec are the off-peak season cruises with Disney and therefore cheaper to cruise!

Do you pay for dining on a Disney cruise?

No. Disney cruises are all-inclusive with no surcharges for dining. However, popcorn is extra!

Can you smoke on a Disney cruise?

You have never been allowed to smoke in the Disney staterooms. But they do have designated areas onboard each of their ships.

What Disney cruise ship is the best?

The best Disney cruise is usually the one your kids will beg you to go on! In all seriousness,  Disney Fantasy  has the highest review scores – probably because it is one of the newest with the latest facilities and technologies onboard too!

Are Disney cruise pools heated?

Yes! For your comfort, they are kept at a heat of around 75f.

Why is Disney Cruise Line so expensive?

Disney itself is quite expensive (parks and hotels) – but this is because you are paying for very high-quality experiences with exceptional guest satisfaction.

Their cruises are also more expensive because of the inclusive dining.

Disney Cruise Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Disney Cruise Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all disney cruise ships new builds.

Yes, all Disney cruise ships are brand new builds and purpose-built for Disney Cruise Line.

As Disney has exceptionally high standards you can guess that they would not be happy with taking on an older ship and converting it to their standard.

Therefore, they build each ship to their exact specification. However, they do use the same cruise shipbuilder as other lines such as Carnival and MSC Cruises use, which is Fincantieri in Italy.

Disney Cruise Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

Final thoughts.

For many, taking a Disney Cruise is an absolute bucket-list item – whether you are a seasoned cruiser or not. Who wouldn’t want to experience the magic of Disney, but at sea?

From their colorful ships to the very high customer service standards that Disney offers, a Disney cruise is perfect for kids (and adults too).

The cruise line has been slower than others to add extra ships, but with three new ships on order, they will be nearly doubling their fleet by late 2025!

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With four new ships already on the way, Disney Cruise Line announces four more

• Disney Cruise Line just announced four new ships.
• The new ships will double the size of the cruise line’s fleet over the next decade.
• The additional ships will connect with even wider audiences.

Disney Cruise Line just announced four new ships. 

No, not the ones you’re thinking of.  

We already knew the Disney Treasure is launching this December, the Disney Adventure and Disney Destiny will set sail next year, and that Disney is partnering with Oriental Land Company, which owns Tokyo Disney Resort , on a new OLC-owned ship inspired by the Disney Wish . 

Four additional ships were announced Saturday night at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The new ships will launch between 2027 and 2031. Together, with the four previously announces ships, they will double the size of Disney Cruise Line's fleet in less than a decade.

D23’s biggest parks announcements: New lands, experiences announced for Disney World and beyond

“The demand on our existing cruise fleet is very, very high, so we know there's a big opportunity here to invest aggressively in incremental cruise ships,” Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro told USA TODAY. There are currently five ships in the fleet.

Disney Cruise Line is very popular among Disney fans, particularly families. 

“We know that when guests get on one of our ships, 40, 50% of them are saying the only reason I'm cruising today is because Disney is here, so we've essentially created this space,” he said. “We also know that those guests are having exceptional experiences with us. They rate us very, very highly, and they tend to want to come back.” 

He said the additional ships will connect with even wider audiences.  

Citing Disney Adventure, which will be Disney’s first to sail Southeast Asia, he said,  “Now we're going to have a fleet that can go meet our fans where they are and tell all these amazing stories that we have.” 

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

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

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

Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet

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

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

Here is the current DCL fleet:

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

A sixth ship, Disney Treasure, joins the fleet in late 2024. The Disney Destiny is expected to launch in November 2025. Disney has also announced the purchase  of the partially-constructed  Global Dream  for conversion to a new Disney ship, the Disney Adventure (launching in 2025). And still another five ships are due between 2027 and 2031, bringing the fleet size to 13.

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

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

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

Best Disney Cruise Ships

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

1. Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Wish Overview

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

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

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

Disney Wish Dining

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

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

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

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

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

Disney Wish Entertainment

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

Disney Wish Activities for Kids

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

Set Sail on the Disney Wish with The Vacationeer !

2. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney Fantasy Overview

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

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

We love Disney Fantasy , and so do other Guests!

Disney Fantasy Dining

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

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

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

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

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

3. The Disney Magic

Disney Magic Overview

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

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

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

Simply put, Disney Magic is… magical!

Disney Magic Dining

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

Disney Magic Entertainment

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

Disney Magic Activities for Kids

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

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

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

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

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

Need Help Deciding Which Ship to Pick?

4. Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Disney Dream Overview

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

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

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

Disney Dream Dining

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

Disney Dream Entertainment

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

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

Disney Dream Activities for Kids

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

5. Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Disney Wonder Overview

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

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

Still an excellent cruise ship (despite our ranking).

Disney Wonder Dining

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

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

Disney Wonder Entertainment

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

Disney Wonder Activities for Kids

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

How to Book your Disney Cruise and Receive Onboard Credit

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

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

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

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

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

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

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

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

Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

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

The best location on a Disney cruise ship if you are prone to getting seasick is the center part of the ship because you’ll feel the least movement there. Specifically, try to reserve Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

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

What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

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

Enjoy your Disney Cruise!

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

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

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

Get Free Help Planning Your Cruise

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

Their services are always helpful and totally  free of charge !

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Disney Ships

Embark on a magical voyage onboard our Disney cruise ships, packed with fun and memories.

Disney wish.

Disney Wish is the newest ship to join the Disney Cruise Line family having first set sail in Summer 2022. Combining inventive design, cutting-edge technology and classic storytelling, the Disney Wish seamlessly brings Disney magic to life in new and unexpected ways, while creating the next generation in family entertainment.

There are multiple themed spaces bursting with Disney storytelling and packed with fun-filled activities for the kids.

Adults can dine, relax and immerse themselves in magical settings designed just for them.

Discover more about the Disney Wish

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

Our next sister ships share one majestic design, with 14 decks, 1,250 luxurious staterooms and 1,500 friendly Disney Crew Members.

There are fun-filled places for kids to play, swim, dress up or just hang out, and delightful dining experiences in the many restaurants.

Adults can enjoy quality time with exclusive dining and leisure facilities, and everyone's invited to enjoy spectacular stage shows, movies and fun-filled deck parties .

Find out more about the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

The first Disney cruise ships each have their own 20th century charm, with 11 decks to explore, 877 welcoming staterooms to stay in and 950 Crew Members ready to welcome you.

Children will love the wide range of play activities , splashing in the pool or simply hanging out.

Meanwhile adults can enjoy the grown-ups-only restaurants and leisure facilities. There are live shows, movies and deck parties for the whole family, too.

Discover more about the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

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Disney adventure, disney destiny, disney treasure, disney wish, disney fantasy, disney dream, disney wonder, disney magic, review of disney cruise line.

DCL-Disney Cruise Line (disneycruise.disney.go.com) is a passenger shipping company, subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company. Incorporated in 1996 as Magical Cruise Company Ltd, the company is headquartered in London City (England UK), with operational headquarters in Celebration (Florida USA).

Currently, DCL owns and operates six ships ( Treasure , Wish , Fantasy , Dream , Wonder , Magic ), plus the private island Castaway Cay Bahamas (exclusive port for Disney-owned vessels).

Actually, Disney Cruise Line (DCL) was created in 1995 when The Walt Disney Company commissioned the liners Magic (1998) and Wonder (1999) from Fincantieri Italy . With the newbuilds DCL ended the ship charter arrangement with Premier Cruise Line (1983-founded/2000- defunct ). In the 1980s, Disney contracted Premier Cruises to provide passenger shipping services, with voyages leaving roundtrip from Florida ( Port Canaveral/Orlando City ). Back then, Disney's travel packages were marketed as "family cruise vacations" and featured costumed Disney Characters. The fleet project (building two new liners by Meyer Werft Papenburg Germany ) was announced in 2007. Disney Dream was introduced in 2011, Disney Fantasy - in 2012, Disney Wish - in 2022.

DCL's current President is Jeff Vahle.

In July 2022, DCL increased the recommended onboard gratuities (by US$1 per day per passenger) to US$14.50 pp (most staterooms) and US$15,50 pp (concierge suites).

In July 2023, DCL increased the cost of dining at the ships' optional adults-only restaurants (Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Enchante, Remy). Specialty restaurants' charges are per person.

• (fleetwide) Palo now costs $50 for both brunch and dinner.
• (ship Wish) Palo Steakhouse costs $50.
• (ships Fantasy and Dream) Remy costs $80, dinner costs $135, dessert costs $65.
• (ship Wish) Enchante costs $80 for brunch, $65 for dessert, Passion costs $125, Collection costs $195.
• Tasting seminars' charge pp (including Mixology Class) was raised in April from $25 to $45 pp.

DisneyBand+

In 2022, on Disney Wish ship DCL introduced the "DisneyBand+" - a water-resistant wristband similar to Walt Disney World's MagicBand+. In 2023, the device was implemented fleetwide.

Before the voyage, passengers can utilize the technology for a smoother embarkation. Upon arrival at the cruise port, they can use the band for check-in (by scanning the device) which expedites the ship boarding process.

Once on the ship, the DisneyBand+ serves as a stateroom key, eliminating DCL's old key cards.

The device can be also used for paying for food and beverages (at dining venues) as well as merchandise (at the onboard shops) which eliminates the need for credit cards. On Castaway Cay, just like on the ship, the DisneyBand+ can be used for shopping or purchasing drinks.

DisneyBand+ is sold in several designs and 50+ different styles. Prices start at US$35 (solid colors), while themed bands cost US$45 (plus tax). To ensure timely delivery, DCL recommends purchasing the wristbands at least 45 days prior to the voyage's departure date.

Customers who already have MagicBand+ (from Walt Disney World) can use it as a substitute for the DisneyBand+.

New ships 2022-2031 (DISNEY TRITON-Class)

In October 2022, the German broadcaster NDR aired an interview with Christoph Morgen (GHK's MV Werften's insolvency administrator) stating that the unfinished (~75% completed) 9000-passenger liner Global Dream/Disney Adventure (originally ordered by Genting Hong Kong for Dream Cruises ) could be acquired by DCL and delivered/inaugurated in 2024-Q4.

• Global Dream's construction was suspended in January 2022 when MV Werften filed for bankruptcy.
• While the possible purchase price was not mentioned, the previously stated shipbuilding cost was EUR 1,6 billion.
• DCL's purchase interest was not officially announced, but on October 4th, Reinhard Meyer (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Minister of Economics, Infrastructure, Tourism and Labor) mentioned "confidential negotiations" with a possible byer and that completing Global Dream will secure the employment of MV Werften Wismar 's ~950 former employees.
• Industry experts commented that with Global Dream Disney might enter the Asian market.
• On November 16, 2022, DCL officially confirmed Global Dream's acquisition.
•  The ship's new name (Disney Adventure) was revealed on September 9, 2023. Disney Adventure is planned to start revenue operations for DCL in 2025, with homeporting in Singapore and voyages in Southeast Asia (year-round deployment).

In early March 2016, DCL announced plans to build three new liners (the company's ever-largest) and signed a shipbuilding agreement with Meyer Werft Gmbh (Germany's largest shipbuilding company). The new vessels are slightly bigger than Fantasy and Dream .

Disney's three newbuilds were scheduled for deliveries in 2022 ( Wish ), 2024 ( Treasure ) and 2025 ( Destiny ).

DCL officially announced the plans to build 3 new vessels on July 15, 2017. When launched/operational, with them Walt Disney will nearly double its current fleet. The boats' builder is Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Shipyard ). The announcement was made by Bob Chapek (Walt Disney Parks and Resorts company's Chairman).

The new vessel's interior design, facilities and itineraries are still in development. What is known so far is that they will be LNG-powered (by liquefied natural gas) and from one series (same-designed), with GT-tonnage 144,000 tons (larger than the originally announced 135,000 GT) and max passenger capacity 2500 (1250 staterooms). This design is slightly larger than Disney's previous largest units (Dream-Fantasy). The first liner will be named Disney Wish (2022-Q2). The names for the second and third units are yet to be announced.

On the March 9th/2018-released exterior rendering was shown Disney's traditional black-white-red hull color scheme. New is the superstructure's golden flair. Between the funnels is the top-deck waterpark with slides. Balcony cabins are located midship, which provides larger accommodations for passengers.

DCL also revealed that the new liners will be all homeported in Florida - in Miami (Destiny) and Port Canaveral (Wish, Treasure).

On August 10, 2024, during D23 2024 (Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase), Josh D’Amaro ( Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences & Products) announced that DCL's fleet will be expanded to 13 vessels. The 4 new ships (ordered from Meyer Werft Papenburg) will be larger/newly designed/modified and are planned for deliveries between 2027 and 2031 .

New Disney ship in Japan

On July 9, 2024, DCL-Disney signed an agreement with Oriental Land Co Ltd (OLC) for year-round Disney cruises in Japan. Oriental Land Company Ltd (aka Oriental Land/1960-founded, subsidiary of Keisei Electric Railway Company) owns and manages the Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu (Chiba Prefecture, Honshu Island).

Under the agreement, OLC will build and operate a Disney-branded cruise shipping business in Japan, planned to start in 2029-Q1.

The introduction of a Japan-based Disney ship will provide Japanese Disney fans with the unique opportunity to enjoy Disney-themed voyages, featuring signature entertainment, dining, and services, the whole year round.

Constructed by Meyer Werft Papenburg, the vessel will be similar/sistership to Disney Wish, with volume ~140,000 GT-tons, LNG-powered, with ~1250 passenger staterooms.

"Adventures by Disney" cruises to Antarctica

For 2021, DCL planned to introduce its first cruises to Antarctica and for 2023 its first Galapagos voyages, all via chartered ships. Both "expedition ship travel" options are offered by DCL's tour subsidiary "Adventures by Disney", and are Disney's ever-first expedition voyages.

Disney's Antarctica program is via a ship charter deal with the French premium travel brand Ponant Cruises .

Eventually postponed to 2023 (due to the COVID crisis), DCL's Antarctic program offers sailings visiting the Antarctic Peninsula (12-day/11-night itineraries via Drake Passage ) and with an overnight in Buenos Aires Argentina before the charter flight to Ushuaia Argentina (homeport).

In Ushuaia start and end the Antarctic voyages on the Ponant vessel Le Boreal ( max passenger capacity 264). Before boarding, tourists spend 2 days touring the area around Ushuaia (Patagonia). A sightseeing tour visits Tierra del Fuego NP and includes a train ride on the Southern Fuegian Railway (aka "Train of the End of the World"/the world's southernmost functioning railway) in Argentina's Tierra del Fuego Province.

DCL cruises to Antarctica include several days of exploration - landings and coastal cruising by Zodiacs (large-capacity rigid inflatable speedboats) that all Ponant ships carry onboard. An optional premium kayaking tour is also available for booking, as well as the 3-night hotel/4-day Buenos Aires guided tour package "Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise" (pre-cruise stay in Argentina's capital city).

Adventures by Disney recommends on Antarctic voyages children to be at least 12 years old and restricts bookings to minimum age 10 years due to "the duration of the trip, potential for extreme weather or sea conditions and the amount of physical activity involved".

Fares for Disney's first Antarctic cruises (2023) started at USD 12800 (EUR 10740/GBP 9180) for adults and USD 11500 (EUR 9560/GBP 8247) for children, with double occupancy. Deals are inclusive of two domestic flights (Buenos Aires-Ushuaia-Buenos Aires), 5-star hotel stay (at Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta Hotel), 31 meals total (11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners). DCL's Antarctic expedition experience features professional services by a team of naturalists, Disney-trained tour guides, Special Guests, Zodiac excursions and landings, shipboard activities (for adults and kids). International flights (to/from Ezeiza International Airport) are not included in cruise fares.

Bookings opened on November 12, 2021.

"Adventures by Disney" cruises in the Galapagos Islands

Adventures by Disney's Galapagos cruise program was inaugurated in 2022, with prices from USD 6300 (EUR 5290/GBP 4518) for adults and USD 5600 (EUR 4700/GBP 4016) for children, with double occupancy.

Disney's Galapagos Islands program is based on the chartered boat Galapagos Legend (1963-built, max passengers 110). Adventures by Disney limits Galapagos bookings with a min age 12-years-old.

DCL's Galapagos deals are inclusive of a 9-day/8-night package (roundtrip cruise itinerary with two domestic flights Quito-Baltra-Quito), 23 meals (8 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 7 Dinners), 1-night Quito hotel stay (pre-cruise). International flights (to/from Wyndham Quito Airport) are not included in cruise fares.

Disney Galapagos cruise itinerary includes Quito City (hotel/Day1), Baltra Island (ship embarkation/Day2), South Plaza Island (Day3/morning guided Wildlife Walk), North Seymour Island (Day3/guided hiking tour and snorkeling), San Cristobal Island (Day4/Pitt Point debarkation, guide Coastline Tour-hiking-sea kayaking-snorkeling, Cerro Brujo Beach), San Cristobal Island (Day5/visit to Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve's breeding center, hiking to Cerro Tijeretas Hill, visit to Organic Farm & Restaurant), Espanola Island (Day6/Gardner Bay debarkation, guided hiking-swimming-snorkeling, hiking Suarez Point), Floreana Island (Day7/morning Walk Tour, guided swimming-snorkeling, visit to Post Office Bay, playing soccer with the cruise ship's crew, guided tour to Cormorant Point, Devil's Crown nad Champion Islet), Santa Cruz Island (Day8/visits to Charles Darwin Research Station, Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, Centro de Educacion Basica Oswaldo Guayasamin, Quiman Valle Coffee Farm, guided boat tour to Ballena Bay and Eden Islet), Baltra Island (ship debarkation, flight to Quito).

"Adventures by Disney" cruises in the Mediterranean/Adriatic

In October 2022 were announced DCL's first Adriatic Sea voyages (two 8-day itineraries on PONANT's ship Le Bougainville ) scheduled for 2024.

Disney's "Adriatic Expedition Cruise" itinerary is roundtrip from Venice City (Italy) visiting 7 Adriatic ports - in Croatia (Korcula, Primosten/Krka National Park, Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar, Rovinj) and Montenegro (Kotor).

From Croatia (Rovinj) are organized bus tours to Slovenia for visiting Postojna Cave Park's Postojna Cave. Other excursion options include kayaking along Pakleni Islands (off Hvar Island's coast), bicycling in Hvar City's Stari Grad, and catamaran touring Montenegro's Boka Bay.

Up to 6 professional tour guides accompany Disney's cruise tourists and lead all activities (shipboard and ashore). Onboard adults-only activities feature cocktail workshops and fitness classes. 

Junior Adventurers (12 years old and under) can enjoy their own special programs that are led by the adventure guides, such as navigation lessons, a pizza party, a "Pirates of the Adriatic" swim party, and a "Dalmatian Dash" scavenger hunt.

Departures were scheduled for June 25 and July 2, 2024.

General public bookings opened on October 27, 2022. Priority bookings opened on Oct 24th.

"Adventures by Disney" river cruises

In Europe, Adventures by Disney partnered with one of the world's largest river cruise companies - AmaWaterways - offering its loyal customers river cruisetour deals on voyage-chartered boats.

A "voyage charter" is when the vessel (and its crew) are hired for a specific voyage (departure date and custom itinerary). The charterer (Disney) pays the shipowner (AmaWaterways) on a lump-sum basis (single payment) while the shipowner is responsible for paying port taxes, fuel costs and crew costs. The cruise charter specifies a laytime (period) for loading and unloading the Disney-provided (exclusive) passengers.

On the chartered from AmaWaterways riverboat, Disney provides its passengers with all-inclusive deals (accommodation, meals, entertainment, shore excursions) including an immersive and pro-active onboard and ashore program curated by Disney's family travel experts. A team of Disney Adventure Guides includes English-speaking professional storytellers who review the visited destinations (port cities, towns, land tour sites and attractions).

For season 2021, the mainly family-themed "Adventures by Disney" were part of Disney's ever-largest river cruise program - a total of 30 departures/itineraries on Danube and also in France (Seine, Rhine, Rhone). Traditionally, select voyages were exclusively reserved for families without kids, being themed on Food and Wine and Oktoberfest (with German beer tastings). New in 2021 was Disney's Rhine River program that included Papenburg where was offered an exclusive tour to the MEYER WERFT shipyard where MS Disney Wish was under construction at the time.

For April 2025, Adventures by Disney scheduled the launch of two new routes in Holland and Belgium. Both voyages are 7-day-long, roundtrips from Amsterdam and feature visits to windmills, famous museums, canal cruising, and beer and food tastings.

Disney ship cruising experience

Among the best family lines, with the most family-friendly cruise ships, and some of the most attractive cheap all-inclusive family cruise packages, The company is the world's leader in family cruising. "Disney World land and sea" packages are industry's best kids cruise deals for the Caribbean, operated with signature land resorts and large and modern liners.

Disney Cruise Line is a unique enterprise designed to provide the industry's best family ship travel vacation experiences. Disney offers regular departures from Florida USA to Eastern Caribbean (mostly to the Bahamas) from its own cruise terminal at Port Canaveral - just a few minutes away from Disney's capital city Orlando and world's best Disneyland Park. Among the special voyages are the Alaskan itineraries (leaving from Seattle and Vancouver Canada) during the Disney summer and the Panama Canal transition cruises on repositioning between Alaska and Caribbean.

All Disney ships are family-friendly. Each boat features a Walt Disney Theater (resembling Broadway house) and Buena Vista Cinema (for Disney movies). Studio Sea (TV sound stage and forum for G-rated live shows) is available on Magic and Wonder. Similar venue (named "D Lounge") is on Fantasy and Dream. "Disney Digital 3-D" (on Magic and Wonder) is a cinema experience with lasers, streamers, fog and lighting effects.

The main swimming pool areas on all Disney boats are geared toward families. There is a pool for kids (with 200-ft Mickey waterslide) and small sprinkler tub for toddlers. Adult-only pools are also fleetwide feature, though on the larger ships they encompass several decks.

The AquaDuck water park (Fantasy and Dream) is one of the first-ever watercoasters on a cruise ship. Located on top-deck, the slide has a transparent, acrylic tube propelling riders (on rafts) up and down 4 decks of the ship. At one point, the slide swings out 13 ft off the ship's side, 150 ft above sea level.

Palo restaurant is a boutique eatery on every Disney ship, offering Italian traditional cuisine. The Remy restaurant serves premium French dishes (on Fantasy and Dream) and comes with the highest at sea surcharge for dining - USD 85 pp.

The adults-only spa features rain forest steam room. The adults-only nightclubs on board are named "Route 66" (on Wonder), "Europa" (on Fantasy), "The District" (on Dream), "Beat Street" (on Magic). Another popular for adults venues are sports pub and dance club. The following link is to CruiseMapper's Disney secrets, tips, and tricks .

Disney ships' kids and teen programming

Company's kids' program is professionally organized and run by highly-trained and certified youth counselors. On each cruise liner are offered pre-scheduled daily character meetings, themed breakfasts, animation workshops, parades, firework shows. Onboard nurseries are named "It's a Small World" (on Fantasy and Dream) and "Flounder's Reef Nursery" (on Magic and Wonder). The ship nursery provides complimentary childcare for infants (ages 12 weeks-3 years) with toys and supervised fun activities. Nurseries feature indoor porthole windows (semi-transparent one-way mirrors) allowing parents to peek without being seen. For a fee is available online pre-ordering of baby supplies (via the brand partnership with "Babies Travel Lite").

Ship's "Oceaneer Club" spans nearly an entire deck. It is a supervised program for kids aged 3-7 yo (split into age groups 3-4 and 5-7). "Oceaneer Lab" (for kids split into age groups 8-9 and 10-12) offers hands-on science experiments, ship-wide scavenger hunts, themed deck parties (with Disney costumes provided), high-tech interactive programs. Children ages 11-12 can compete in marine biology game show and send to friends digital postcards.

Teens (aged 13-17) have private clubs (named "Stack" and "Aloft") fitted with plenty of chairs and couches, and offering MP3 listening stations, latest video games, popular board games, and magazines, teen bars (dispenser-served smoothies and soft drinks). On Fantasy and Dream teen are in 2 age groups - 11 to 13 (at "Edge") and 14 to 17 (at "Vibe", with an outdoor sundeck with hot tubs).

After boarding, kids are automatically enrolled in children's programs on Castaway Cay, which feature bike riding and supervised games by age group, private island experiences (Disney characters appearances are scheduled several times daily).

Most Disney cabins have bath-and-a-half - the second bathroom has a sink, toilet, vanity, the full bathroom has a sink, tub/shower, and toilet.

Shipboard facilities

Spa and Fitness Facilities

• Senses Spa & Salon (Dream and Fantasy)
• Vista Spa & Salon (Magic and Wonder)
• Fitness Center (all ships)
• Goofy's Sports Deck: (Dream and Fantasy) - an open-air centre with golf course, sports simulators, basketball-volleyball court
• Wide World of Sports (Magic and Wonder) - an open-air centre with basketball court, ping-pong tables.

Onboard Theatres (all ships)

• Buena Vista Theater - first-run movies, 3D cinema, top-notch equipment, plush seats
• Walt Disney Theater - live performances, Broadway-style themed Disney shows, movies.

Youth Clubs

• Disney's Oceaneer Club (all ships) - supervised themed activities ages 3-7
• Disney's Oceaneer Lab (all ships) - themed activities ages 8-12
• Edge (all ships) - teens-only, video games, TV, Internet
• Vibe (all ships) - teens-only, with a sundeck and a pool
• D Lounge (Dream and Fantasy) - family lounge and nightclub
• Studio Sea (Magic and Wonder) - family activities center
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (Fantasy) - a kids make-up salon
• Arr-cade (Dream and Fantasy) - arcade (all ages)
• Quarter Masters (Magic and Wonder) - arcade (all ages)
• Flounder's Reef Nursery (Magic and Wonder) - themed after "The Little Mermaid" (ages 3 months to 3yo)
• It's A Small World Nursery (Dream and Fantasy) - 3 months to 3 years.

Shipboard Nightclubs and Lounges

• 687 - sports bar (Dream)
• Bon Voyage - family bar (Dream and Fantasy)
• Cadillac Lounge - piano bar (Wonder)
• Cove Cafe - adults-only (all ships)
• Currents - cocktail bar (Dream and Fantasy)
• District Lounge - nightclub (Dream)
• Diversions - sports pub, karaoke (Magic and Wonder)
• Evolution - disco club (Dream) - family during the day, adults-only at night
• O'Gills Pub - Irish themed sports bar (Fantasy)
• La Piazza - adults-only (Fantasy)
• Meridian - adults-only (Dream and Fantasy)
• Outlook Cafe - adults-only (Wonder)
• Pink - adults-only (Dream)
• Promenade Lounge (Magic and Wonder)
• Rockin' Bar D - music club (Magic), family (dailyy), adults-only (nightly)
• Sessions - piano bar (Magic)
• Signals - adults-only (Magic and Wonder)
• Skyline - adults-only (Dream and Fantasy)
• The Tube - adults-only nightclub (Fantasy)
• Vista Cafe - family (Dream and Fantasy)
• WaveBands club - family (day), a dance club at night (Wonder)
• Waves - family (Dream and Fantasy)
• Ooh La La - adults-only, Victorian furniture (Fantasy)

The FUN Pools (swimming pools)

• AquaDuck - 4 decks high water coaster (Dream and Fantasy)
• Donald's Pool - family (Dream and Fantasy)
• Goofy's Pool - family, incl 2 whirlpool spas, a toddler pool with splash zones, 7,3x4,3m LED screen on the forward funnel overlooking the pool (Magic and Wonder)
• Mickey's Pool - kids-only, 1 deck high slide (all ships)
• Nemo's Reef - kids area (Dream and Fantasy)
• Quiet Cove Pool - adults-only (all ships).

In March 2015, Disney Cruise Line introduced the "Mickey Check" meals fleetwide.

• Disney's "Mickey Check" is used throughout Disneyland Resorts and Walt Disney World at various locations. The mark is also on Disney-licensed food products. It is a part of "Disney Magic of Healthy Living" commitment (launched 2006) to make healthy eating simpler and more fun for families. These meals are offered in the onboard rotational (main dining room) restaurants.
• To receive "Mickey Check", food must be nutritious and meet the Walt Disney company's Nutrition Guidelines (created by leading child health experts) for levels of saturated fat, calories, sugar, and sodium. A "Mickey Check" kids' meal includes 3 or more nutritious food groups (vegetables, lean protein, whole grains), has zero trans fats and limited added sugar.

Since November 2019, on all Disney ships provide to their crew complimentary texting (sending and receiving unlimited text messages) on devices with iOS and Android operating systems.

Disney private island Castaway Cay (Bahamas)

Castaway Cay is a Bahamian private island leased by Disney Cruises. It serves as an exclusive port of call for Disney ships. Castaway Cay (formerly Gorda Cay) is located close to Great Abaco Island. In 1997, Walt Disney Company bought a 99-year island lease from the Bahamian Government (set to expire 2096), giving the company substantial control over the cruise ship passenger experience on the island.

In early August 2017 was announced that Disney is looking to buy a second Caribbean private island to be developed as an exclusive port of call for the company's new cruise ships. The reason for a new private island destination is that Castaway Cay has the capacity to handle ships with capacity up to 875 cabins, otherwise it becomes too crowded. Such a "private island" option emerged in 2016 with Egg Island (Bahamas). However, those plans were abolished after some environmental studies showing that the island's ecosystem would not sustain the planned development.

New Disney private island in the Bahamas (Eleuthera)

On October 19, 2018, The Bahamas officially issued a tentative preliminary approval of Disney Cruise Line's plan to build and exclusively operate a private cruise port ( Lighthouse Point ) on Eleuthera Island's southern tip. Project's developer will be the Walt Disney Company subsidiary Disney Parks and Resorts. The plan is for developing a land sized 746 acres (302 hectares / 3 km2) that Disney agreed to purchase. The new Disney ships-only port will have a dedicated pier (capacity 1 vessel), boat marina, shops, restaurants, passenger walkways through forests and around salt ponds.

Disney's new port project will create around 150 permanent local jobs plus various entrepreneurial opportunities for Bahamian residents. However, The Bahamas Parliament must officially agree to the plan once all terms and conditions are agreed and proper environmental testing is conducted.

In early-March 9, 2019, Bahamas allowed Walt Disney to acquire (purchase) the resort property Lighthouse Pointe (at Grand Lucayan, Freeport) from Meritage Hospitality Group Inc (US company / restaurant operator). The property will serve as Disney's new cruise port (land area 190 acres / 77 hectares / 0,77 km2) that also doubles as "entertainment facility" (during no-ship days). By this project, Disney will invest between USD 250-400 million to develop the property as Castaway Cay. As part of the deal, Disney agreed to donate property's southernmost point (land value USD 6,3 million) to the Bahamas Government for a national park.

Core elements of Disney's new Bahamas port project include low-density development, sustainable design, free public access, economic opportunities for Bahamians, overall workers ratio 80-20% (Bahamian-other workers) during project's construction phase, creating 150 permanent jobs (with health benefits) for Bahamians after project's completion. Construction will start after the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan are reviewed and Gov approved.

Currently, on Eleuthera island is located the Carnival Corporation -owned (via ist subsidiary Princess Cruises ) private island resort Princess Cays .

New Disney cruise cancellation policy

Since September 2018, Disney has a new final payment and cruise cancellation policy.

• Final payments for passengers booked in standard staterooms on itineraries with lengths 1- to 5-nights is due 90 days prior departure. The old policy required 75 days prior to departure. By the new policy, cancellation fees start at 89 days (customers also lose their cruise deposits). At 44 days, customers lose 50% of their payment, at 29 days - 75%, at 14 or fewer days - 100%.
• For passengers booked in standard staterooms on itineraries with lengths 6-nights or more, payment is due 120 days prior departure. The old policy required 90 days for itineraries between 5 and 9 nights. By the new policy, customers cancelling 56+ days prior departure lose their cruise deposit. Customers cancelling between 55-30 days - lose 50%, those cancelling between 29-15 days - 75%; those cancelling 14-days/less - 100%.
• For customers booked in concierge cabins and suites on itineraries 1 to 5 nights, final payment due date remains 120 days prior departure. On itineraries 6+ nights, final payment is due 150 days prior departure.

The company also eliminated final payments and cancellation fees for holiday cruises - voyages that include July 4th, Christmas, New Year's Eve or Thanksgiving Day.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, DCL-Disney suspended its entire fleet's passenger shipping operations (all 4 liners) by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through June 30, 2021.

DCL cruise operations resumed in 2021 with the ships Disney MAGIC (July 15/UK cruises to nowhere from Southampton/Oct 28 starts Caribbean from Miami), Disney DREAM (Aug 9/Bahamas from Port Canaveral), Disney FANTASY (Sept 11/Bahamas from Port Canaveral), Disney WONDER (Nov 5/Panama Canal from San Diego to Galveston), Disney Wish (June 17, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Bahamas from Port Canaveral).

• DCL's Alaska 2021 program (Disney Wonder from Vancouver) was canceled. DCL's Europe 2021 program (Disney Magic) was canceled.
• Disney Magic's mini-season in Europe-UK (Around Britain itineraries) was for UK residents only.

All affected bookings received full monetary refunds, including on prepurchased through Walt Disney packages and services. With rebooking is offered 125% refund in FCC (future cruise credit) transferred to the new booking which must be made within 15 months of the canceled voyage's departure date. Without rebooking is provided full (100%) monetary refund.

Itinerary of Disney Cruise Line

By 2025, DCL-Disney Cruise Line's fleet will double its size following the introduction of two newbuilds (now on order/under construction) . To be deployed mainly in the USA-Caribbean, the new boats will be homeported in Miami ( Disney Destiny ) and Port Canaveral ( Disney Wish , Disney Treasure ).

DCL operates "Disney Cruise Line Terminal" in Port Canaveral Florida - the homeport for the liners Fantasy and Dream. Disney Magic is homeported in Miami Florida , Disney Wonder is homeported in Galveston Texas and San Diego California plus Vancouver BC Canada (to Alaska).

DCL offers various destinations, including Europe, the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Panama Canal , Canada, and New England, Alaska, Pacific Coast USA, as well as Transatlantic crossings on repositioning. Most itineraries are roundtrips to The Bahamas, Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. During summer, Disney Wonder operates on Alaskan cruises from Vancouver. All DCL cruise itineraries to The Bahamas visit DCL's private Caribbean island CASTAWAY CAY (located north of Nassau ) as an exclusive port of call.

Since November 2023, Disney Dream is homeported (for the first time) in Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida USA) . The new homeporting follows the ship's European deployment (Mediterranean from Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome, and UK-Baltic from Southampton). The 4- and 5-night itineraries visit ports in The Bahamas (Castaway Cay, Nassau) and Western Caribbean (Cozumel Mexico, Grand Cayman).

In 2023 (February 18th thru April 10th) Disney Magic was homeported in NOLA/New Orleans Louisiana . The program was based on 4-5-6-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itineraries visiting Cozumel (4-day), Cozumel plus Costa Maya (5-day) and Cozumel plus Grand Cayman/George Town Harbour (6-day).

"Adventures by Disney" expedition voyages

DCL's subsidiary "Adventures by Disney" offers expedition-type cruise vacations via chartered ships.

The program started in 2022 and currently offers sailings in the Galapagos Islands (chartering Galapagos Legend ), Antarctica , and Europe/Mediterranean (chartering two PONANT ships - Le Boreal and Le Bougainville).

Adventures by Disney's 2024 schedule currently lists the following itineraries/departure dates:

• "Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruise" departures in 2024 - March 17-25, June 9-17, July 14-22, August 7-15, December 18-26.
• "Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise" - departures in 2023 (December 17-28) and 2024 (February 17-28)
• "Arctic Expedition Cruise" departure in 2024 (July 1-10)

All "Adventures by Disney" cruises are English-speaking and served by professional tour guides.

(NEW) "Adventures by Disney" river voyages in 2025

On January 19, 2023, Adventures by Disney opened for booking two new river routes (scheduled for launch in April 2025) visiting popular port cities in Holland and Belgium.

Both voyages are 7-day-long, roundtrips from Amsterdam and feature visits to windmills, famous museums, canal cruising, and beer and food tastings (chocolate, cheese, waffles).

The "Discover Holland and Belgium Tour" itinerary's ports are Amsterdam, Utrecht , Rotterdam , Ghent , Brussels , Antwerp , Kinderdijk , Gouda , and Bruges . It includes a Rotterdam Pilgrim walking tour, a visit to Utrecht's Museum Speelklok and Castle de Haar, and an exploration of Brussels' influence on comic books. There's an adult-exclusive departure for this itinerary.

The "Tulip Tour" (inaugural departure on April 13, 2025, ship AmaLucia) visits Amsterdam, Hoorn , Middelburg , Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam , Kinderdijk, and Schoonhoven . Highlights include a visit to Keukenhof Gardens/Lisse and the Floralia Brussels (flower show at the Grand Bigard Castle).

The "Discover Holland and Belgium Tour" is scheduled for AmaStella ship (chartered in the summer) and AmaViola (chartered for the holidays), starting from June 28, 2025.

Prices for children started at US$4900, for adults at US$5500.

DCL cruise itineraries 2024-2025-2026

DCL has two year-round homeports in Florida USA (including its first full season out of Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ) and also operates voyages leaving roundtrip from California, Louisiana, and Texas.

Disney Dream commences in early 2024 with sailings to the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean. Passengers can choose from 3- and 4-night getaways to the Bahamas and 5-night vacations to the western Caribbean, featuring classic Disney experiences like Broadway-style shows, character encounters, fireworks at sea, and innovative dining. All sailings from Florida include a stop at Castaway Cay , a private island oasis reserved exclusively for DCL guests. Located in the Bahamas' turquoise waters, Castaway Cay offers the ultimate escape for everyone, with relaxation, adventure, and quality time with the whole family.

Disney Wish is kicking off 2024 with 3- and 4-night journeys to Nassau (Bahamas) and Castaway Cay departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida) , Disney's homeport located just 1 hour from Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Voyages aboard Disney Wish combine numerous Disney firsts and enchanting entertainment, bringing to life Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars stories.

Also from Port Canaveral, Disney Fantasy continues 7-night sailings to the beaches of the eastern/western Caribbean. Disney guests on eastern Caribbean voyages visit Tortola BVI and St. Thomas , while western Caribbean itineraries feature the ports of Grand Cayman , Falmouth (Jamaica) , and Cozumel (Mexico) . Every Disney Fantasy sailing also features a stop at Castaway Cay, as well as several days at sea.

Disney Magic has 2 limited-time engagements in Galveston Texas early 2024. After ringing in the New Year , the ship is expected to embark on Caribbean adventures ranging from 4 to 6 nights through the end of January. Upon returning for a month-long stint in March-April, the Magic ship will sail voyages ranging from 4 to 7 nights to the western Caribbean during the spring break period. New Orleans (Port NOLA) welcomes Disney Magic back for a 2nd consecutive year in February 2024 with 4-, 5- and 7-night cruises to the Caribbean. Families have the opportunity to arrive early/extend their vacation to enjoy jazz & jambalaya in the city that inspired "The Princess and the Frog."

After her return from an inaugural season in Australia & New Zealand, Disney Wonder is due to arrive in San Diego California in March 2024 for 3- to 7-night cruises to Mexico, including Baja peninsula. Popular for its vibrant culture, saltwater adventures, and stunning beaches, families are able to visit some of the most prized destinations in Mexico, including Cabo San Lucas , Ensenada , Puerto Vallarta , and Mazatlan along with stops on the shores of Catalina Island (Dominicana) off the California coast.

In March 2023, DCL-Disney Cruise Line announced the inaugural dates/select itineraries for its brand-new island destination in The Bahamas, headlining a season full of new and passenger-favorite itineraries around the world in the summer of 2024. Along with the first voyages to Lighthouse Point , families are able to choose cruise vacations to bucket-list destinations including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, northern Europe, and Alaska.

In June 2024, Disney debuts its newest Bahamian destination on Eleuthera Island at Lighthouse Point. Passengers sailing aboard Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) can discover a vibrant beach retreat infused with the energy of Bahamian artistry and a commitment to conservation.

A 7-night inaugural voyage aboard Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida) on June 8th allows passengers to be among the first to see the crystal-clear waters of the new destination at Lighthouse Point. The ultimate Disney island destination itinerary features 2 stops at Lighthouse Point and a day at Castaway Cay . On June 6th, a 3-night preview voyage on Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale offers a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point.

After the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point is to be a featured port of call on select 3-, 4- and 5-night sailings to The Bahamas and the Caribbean on Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale. The itineraries vary stops between Lighthouse Point/Castaway Cay, with 5 special departures including both Disney island destinations.

In the summer of 2024, Disney Dream returns to premier European destinations in the Greek Isles, British Isles, the Mediterranean, and popular locales in Iceland and the Norwegian Fjords.

The sailings feature a number of new ports of call (Valencia, Haugesund, and Hamburg), along with 3 Mediterranean destinations that return for the first time since 2014: Catania, Kusadasi, and Valletta.

Mediterranean and Greek Isles voyages from Barcelona (Spain) and Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy) range from 5 to 11 nights, while northern Europe and the British Isles cruises offer itineraries anywhere from 3 nights to one 12-night journey that includes the Norwegian fjords, 3 days in Iceland and an overnight in Reykjavik (Iceland) .

Cruises to Alaska from Vancouver BC Canada return on Disney Wonder from May through to September 2024, with 5-, 7- and 9-night sailings.

Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish are due to sail to islands throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean in the summer of 2024. All voyages on the Port Canaveral-based liners feature a visit to Castaway Cay.

Disney Wish features 3- and 4-night Bahamian vacations, while Disney Fantasy sails to popular ports in the eastern & western Caribbean on 7-night cruises. One 5-night Disney Fantasy cruise in July takes families to Nassau with 2 stops in Castaway Cay, while a 10-night southern Caribbean journey gives families another chance to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to Antigua, Castaway Cay, Dominica, St. Lucia, and Tortola.

Disney Adventure ship starts revenue operations for DCL in 2025, with homeporting in Singapore and voyages in Southeast Asia (year-round deployment).

In June 2024, DCL unveiled two exciting seasons of itineraries, covering voyages from fall 2025 to spring 2026.

The fleet, including  Disney Fantasy ,  Disney Wish ,  Disney Treasure , and  Disney Dream , is due to visit Disney Cruise Line's signature island destinations,  Disney Castaway Cay  and  Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , ensuring voyages filled with quintessential Disney magic.

The itineraries feature tropical sailings from the Pacific Coast and Gulf of Mexico in late 2025 and early 2026. Additionally, the  Disney Wonder embarks on a 3rd season of voyages across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific from October 2025 to February 2026.

As part of Disney Cruise Line's themed sailings, families can look forward to creating memories on beloved holiday cruises, including Halloween on the High Seas and  Very Merrytime sailings  in September, October, November, and December 2025.

Summer 2025 itineraries (Europe & Caribbean)

In its debut summer season in Europe, Disney Fantasy sets sail from Barcelona Spain and Civitavecchia-Rome Italy , from May to late July. Itineraries (ranging from 5 to 12 nights) explore picturesque Mediterranean ports, including a special 12-night voyage to the Greek Isles.

From late July to September, Disney Fantasy is homeported in the UK  (Southampton England)  visiting popular destinations in Spain, Norway, and the British Isles.

Disney Wonder's Alaskan program is based on roundtrips from Vancouver BC Canada , and scheduled for May through September. Passengers can marvel at Alaska's stunning natural beauty and explore destinations such as Juneau ,  Skagway , and  Ketchikan .

In summer 2025, four Disney ships operate from Florida, with three departing from  Port Canaveral  and one from  Fort Lauderdale .

Disney Treasure ship offers 7-night Caribbean itineraries to Castaway Cay ,  Tortola BVI ,  St Thomas USVI ,  Falmouth Jamaica ,  Grand Cayman , and  Cozumel .

Disney Magic ship from Port Canaveral offers 4- and 5-night sailings to The Bahamas and DCL's private islands.

Disney Dream ship from Fort Lauderdale offers 3- to 5-night voyages to  Nassau , Castaway Cay, and Cozumel.

Both Disney Magic and Disney Dream visit  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point  (Disney's new Bahamian private resort,) in summer 2025. Some itineraries group both exclusive ports (Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay).

Disney Wish ship from Port Canaveral has scheduled 3- and 4-night roundtrips to Nassau and Castaway Cay, while the Disney Dream will operate from Fort Lauderdale on similar routes.

(animal cruelty) The Faroe Islands cruise boycott

In 2014, Disney was the first of all three (for now) cruise ship companies (followed in 2016 by AIDA and Hapag-Lloyd) that banned Faroe Islands (a Danish territory) as destination part of their North European itineraries.

The boycott is due to the island nation's traditional mass slaughter of pilot whales each year. The protected by Denmark gruesome practice of killing whales is called "Grindadrap Grind". Locals use motorboats to drive a pod of whales into a harbor. The defenseless animals are dragged to the shallow water and brutally slaughtered by locals armed with knives (16-19 cm / 6-8 inches long) while their families cheer them on. The killing party even rip out baby whales from their mothers.

The Faroe Islands have a population of ~50,000 and kill each year 1000+ pilot whales. You can see the cruise ship schedule of Torshavn - Faroe's most visited port. All cruise lines with scheduled visits to the Faroes are accused of supporting the brutal whaling practices. Whaling is still officially approved and carried out by the "civilized" countries Japan, Norway, and Iceland, killing over 2000 whales each year and trading in whale products.

Disney's response was to the "Faroese Pilot Whaling Act" by the local government, which continues to allow pilot whales to be culled or massacred. It also empowers local authorities to imprison (for up to 2 years) people found guilty of impeding these whaling activities - despite all the international condemnations.

Sea Shepherd and Greenpeace are among the largest organizations taking direct actions against the "Faroese Pilot Whaling Act". Most of the available online haunting images of slaughtered whales lying in a sea of blood are released by these organizations.

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Disney Details Vast Theme Park Expansion Projects

The company, which has recently seen softening visitor demand, will spend billions to build new rides and expand its cruise ship fleet to 13 from nine.

By Brooks Barnes

Reporting from Anaheim, Calif.

When Disney announced last year that it planned to spend $60 billion over the next decade to expand its theme park and cruise businesses, double the amount spent over the previous decade, the company’s stock price instantly dropped.

Wall Street wanted specifics that the company wasn’t prepared to give. Disney fans were excited for a hot second — and then they too started to demand answers, venting on social media about feeling baited. Was Disney being hypothetical about the expansion (as it has been on occasion in the past), or was this for real?

On Saturday, Disney finally showed its hand.

The company is building four new cruise ships — on top of four others it had previously announced — almost trebling the size of its current fleet by 2031. The Magic Kingdom, Disney’s flagship theme park in Florida, will undergo the largest expansion in its 53-year history, with one new “land” devoted to classic Disney villains and another focused on Pixar’s “Cars” movies. The Disneyland Resort in California will add two superhero-themed rides, a water-based “Avatar” attraction, the company’s first “Coco” ride and a Main Street, U.S.A., show starring an animatronic Walt Disney.

“We’re dreaming big,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, which includes theme parks, Disney Cruise Line, video games and consumer products. “We’re investing in every part of our portfolio and pushing boundaries as we turn what-ifs into reality.”

Disney is also working on a “Monsters, Inc.”-themed suspended roller coaster (with cars that hang under the tracks), a ride-through “Encanto” experience, a “Lion King” water ride and a major “Spider-Man” roller coaster. The project list, which includes new nighttime parades and elaborate outdoor pageants that Disney calls “spectaculars,” goes on and on.

Mr. D’Amaro detailed the projects — they’re all happening, he insisted, nothing conceptual — during a three-hour evening presentation at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, a three-day gathering in Southern California. (D23 is a reference to 1923, the year Walt Disney arrived in Hollywood.)

One important caveat: The ships and expansions detailed on Saturday, while vastly expensive, do not add up to $60 billion. That sum also covers still-secret rides, resort hotels and shopping and dining areas that Disney is planning for the longer term, along with technology and infrastructure investments.

Mr. D’Amaro’s presentation, in the works for months, came three days after Disney reported weaker-than-expected theme park results for the quarter that ended on June 29. Operating profit declined 3 percent, to $2.2 billion. Disney blamed a “moderation of consumer demand” that “exceeded our previous expectations,” along with higher operating costs. The post-pandemic surge in travel has worn off, Disney said, and lower-income Americans, battered by years of high inflation, have cut back on discretionary spending .

Disney, of course, is in the theme park business for the long haul, and many of the projects that Mr. D’Amaro unveiled will not open for two or more years. Disney’s parks have a long history of bouncing back quickly from economic downturns, in part because many parents view a trip to Disney World or Disneyland as a rite of passage for their children.

Laurent Yoon, a media analyst at Bernstein, a research firm, said in a report on Wednesday that, despite near-term challenges for Disney Experiences, “we’re not concerned.”

The biennial D23 event amounts to a giant corporate pep rally, with roughly 140,000 people paying anywhere from $79 to $2,600 for the opportunity to be marketed to. Disney trots out dozens of stars, previews upcoming movies, and hypes Disney television shows like “Bluey” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.” Many fans come dressed as their favorite Disney character. Disney being Disney, there are confetti cannons and booths selling $30 glow wands.

It is also a spotlight moment for Disney executives. In 2022, Bob Chapek, Disney’s chief executive at the time, tried to use the event to polish his image and turn a page on what had been a tumultuous early tenure. (It didn’t work: He was fired two months later.) This year, Disney gave media credentials to roughly 1,000 reporters and online writers. Dozens came from overseas.

Mr. D’Amaro, 53, is a candidate to succeed Robert A. Iger as Disney’s chief executive when his contract expires at the end of 2026. (Mr. Iger came out of retirement to retake the helm at Disney when Mr. Chapek departed.) On Saturday, Mr. D’Amaro came across very much like a Mouseketeer in chief, striding onto the D23 stage — where a 70-piece orchestra awaited — in a zip-up sweater and jeans and effortlessly commanding the 12,000-person arena.

His presentation included a cameo by a member of the royal family (Roy P. Disney, who is Walt’s grandnephew); comedic banter between Mr. D’Amaro and stars like Ke Huy Quan and Billy Crystal; and musical performances (Meghan Trainor, Shaboozey) replete with fire, fake fog and, of course, confetti.

More than 1.2 million people watched a segment of the presentation that was live-streamed inside the Fortnite online game. In February, Disney announced a multiyear partnership with Epic Games to create a Disney universe connected to Fortnite. Mr. D’Amaro has been working with the creative chiefs of Disney’s movie studios, including Kevin Feige of Marvel and Pete Docter of Pixar, on the project.

“A lot of people learn about our characters for the first time through Fortnite,” Mr. Feige said from the stage as part of an announcement about Disney characters (Doctor Doom, the Mandalorian, Cruella de Vil) coming to Fortnite for the first time in the weeks ahead.

Stoking the fan base and refocusing attention on the “magic” has been a renewed priority for the company as it tries to move beyond “Woke Disney” attacks by conservative politicians and pundits. Disney Experiences has in many ways been at the center of that cultural battlefield, with Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida and Disney World locked in lawsuits (they made peace in June) and a reimagining of Splash Mountain , the popular log flume ride tied to a racist film, infuriating some Disney traditionalists.

From a business perspective, two areas of Mr. D’Amaro’s presentation stood out: cruise ships and Florida.

Disney Cruise Line, which introduced its first ship in 1998, has been an overlooked part of Mr. D’Amaro’s portfolio, in part because it is still relatively small. Although its cruise industry market share has doubled in recent years — the current Disney fleet operates at more than 90 percent occupancy — Disney still has only a 5 percent piece. As such, the company sees cruises as a crucial long-term growth business.

Part of the opportunity involves areas of the world where Disney cannot (yet) justify building a theme park, Mr. D’Amaro has said. India, for example, does not have enough consumer wealth to support a park. But it has more than enough for a Disney cruise ship, a floating mini-park that can act as a brand engine in the region.

In Florida, Disney is facing increased competition from the Universal Orlando Resort, which is pouring billions of dollars into a major expansion that includes a 750-acre fourth park and three new hotels. Disney has publicly downplayed the threat by saying that new attractions in Orlando tend to help the whole market, but the company is clearly taking it seriously: On Saturday, Mr. D’Amaro announced at least eight new Disney World rides.

An earlier version of this article misidentified a member of the Disney family who attended the presentation at D23. It was Roy P. Disney, not Roy O. Disney.

How we handle corrections

Brooks Barnes covers all things Hollywood. He joined The New York Times in 2007 and previously worked at The Wall Street Journal. More about Brooks Barnes

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Disney unveils plans for four new cruise ships to nearly treble its fleet by 2031

Disney has unveiled plans to add four new ships to their cruise lines , almost trebling its fleet by 2031.

The announcement was made at D23, the Disney annual convention event in Anaheim, California, by Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences. At the event it was also revealed that six new themed lands and areas dedicated to some of the company’s most-loved characters will be developed in Disney parks across the world.

The fleet will be expanded between 2027 and 2031, and once these vessels are built, Disney fans will be able to choose from 13 different experiences, all delivering entertainment, dining and guest services in even more areas of the globe.

The Walt Disney Company already has five ships in its fleet , and four more were already in development before the announcement.

“Disney Cruise Line is consistently the top-rated cruise line for families because it offers something for everyone. Expanding our fleet gives more people, in more parts of the world, the opportunity to experience a vacation at sea like only Disney can provide,” D’Amaro said at D23.

The Disney Cruise Line is regarded by the company as one of their strongest growing businesses, having produced strong returns on capital investment, having a high level of guest satisfaction ratings and also being subject to constant demand, the Walt Disney Company said.

Thomas Mazloum, president of the New Experiences Portfolio and Disney Signature Experiences, said: “Our growing fleet will further strengthen Disney Cruise Line’s position as a leader in family cruising.”

The news of expansion comes only weeks after other major Disney Cruise news was announced, including Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd entering an agreement in July to deliver a year-round Disney cruise to Japan expected to start in 2029.

Disney also announced some of their ships will make their maiden voyages in 2025, such as the Disney Adventure ship and Disney Destiny, which will feature the all-new Broadway-style stage show, ‘Disney Hercules’ which will debut onboard the Destiny.

At D23, fans also got a glimpse of a new rendering of ‘Disney The Tale of Moana,’ a new stage show which will premiere on the Disney Treasure later this year.

The show will include a fifteen-foot-tall puppet of Te Kā, Moana’s lava-wielding foe, the largest ever produced for a Disney Cruise Line show.

Disney Adventure will be the seventh launch by Disney Cruises , after Disney Treasure later this year, and the largest by far, with space for 6,700 guests and 2,500 crew.

With a gross tonnage of 208,000, Disney Adventure will be about 44 per cent larger than the line’s current biggest cruise ship, Disney Wish.

Setting sail from Singapore in 2025, the new super liner marks Disney Cruise’s first foray into Asia , calling Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre its home port.

While Dinsey aficionados wait to hear what the ship names, designs, and itineraries will be for the four newly announced ships, they can also look forward to the major extensions to the Disney parks, with areas and attractions dedicated to The Avengers, The Lion King and Frozen to name a few.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast

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If you can believe it, we just wrapped up almost 50 announcements during the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at the Honda Center during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event for 2024. And these aren’t just blue sky announcements for some time , somewhere down the road. No, these are things we’re building right now, and for many, you’ll start to see them come to life over the next five years. The sky’s the limit, and we’re only just getting started. And Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro said it best:

“At Disney Experiences, Imagineers dream, create, design and build these stories into real places. And we have Imagineers in place right now all around the world because everything we’re going to share with you is in active development. Plans are drawn. Dirt is moving. I just want to be clear about this: We are doing everything you’ve heard here tonight.”

Want to catch up on all the action? Here’s everything revealed during D23 Event 2024.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE TO LAUNCH FOUR NEW SHIPS

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NEW MARVEL SEASON PREMIERES NEXT WEEK — Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel are coming to Fortnite, and soon! Play an all-new season featuring Doctor Doom starting next week, with so much more to come.

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CONSTRUCTION BEGINS 2319 2025 — It’s laughter they’re after when Sulley, Mike, and the rest of the crew from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Monsters, Inc.” move into Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and let humans inside the factory for the first time.

KA-CHOW! CARS AT MAGIC KINGDOM

ZOOMING TO CONSTRUCTION IN 2025 – Start your engines, fan favorite stories and characters from Pixar’s “Cars” race into Magic Kingdom Park with two new attractions and fun for the whole family.

VILLAINS LAND AT MAGIC KINGDOM

SOMETHING WICKED BEGINS CONSTRUCTION SOON — This is no happily ever after. Get ready to see a darker side of your favorite fairytales when the Villains cast a spell over Magic Kingdom.

TROPICAL AMERICAS AT ANIMAL KINGDOM

SPROUTING TO LIFE IN 2027 — Lions, and tigers, and Indiana Jones, and the Madrigal family – oh my! Tropical Americas will come to Disney’s Animal Kingdom featuring everyone’s favorite archeologist and the magical casita from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Oscar-winning film “Encanto.”

AVATAR-THEMED DESTINATION AT CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

EXPLORE MORE OF PANDORA – Sivako! Announced for Disney California Adventure, travel to a whole new corner of Pandora, inspired by “Avatar: The Way of Water” and future Avatar films.

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AVENGERS EXPERIENCES AROUND THE GLOBE

ASSEMBLING SOON — Ready to save the world and galaxy? Well, suit up, because new Avengers experiences are coming to Shanghai Disneyland Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland. At Disney California Adventure, Avengers Campus will double in size with the addition of two new attractions – Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab.

THE LION KING ROARS INTO DISNEYLAND PARIS

IT IS TIME — Journey with Simba from cub to King in the first-ever ride-through attraction themed to the classic Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Lion King.”

COCO ATTRACTION AT DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS 2026 — Seize your moment! Travel to the Land of the Dead with Miguel and his skeletal family from Pixar’s “Coco” in this all-new attraction coming to Disney California Adventure.

TIANA’S BAYOU ADVENTURE AT DISNEYLAND

OPENING NOVEMBER 15, 2024 — Blue skies and sunshine up ahead! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure inspired by Disney Animation’s “The Princess and the Frog,” at Disneyland opens at the start of this holiday season.

TWO NEW LOUNGES COMING DISNEY WORLD

COMING 2025 — Relax with friends and family at two themed lounges coming to Disney World inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean and Spaceship Earth. Cheers!

TEST TRACK REIMAGINED AT EPCOT

RACING INTO 2025 — Explore the past, present, and future of automation with a newly-rethemed Test Track presented by Chevrolet. Buckle up, it might get bumpy!

NEW ADVENTURES IN STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE

JUMP TO LIGHTSPEED IN 2026 — Mando and Grogu have a new adventure on the horizon coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Join the Mandalorian and his youngling on brand-new adventures coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in celebration of the new Star Wars film “The Mandalorian and Grogu” coming to theaters in 2026.

WORLD OF FROZEN COMING TO DISNEY ADVENTURE WORLD

DEFROSTING IN 2026 — Queens Anna and Elsa, Olaf, and everyone else in Arendelle will welcome visitors to the latest land inspired by the beloved Disney Animation film. This new location is sure to melt your heart

NEW NIGHTTIME PARADE TO DEBUT AT MAGIC KINGDOM

ARRIVING ON MAIN STREET, U.S.A. IN 2025 — When the sun sets in the Magic Kingdom, a new parade will waltz down Main Street! Get ready to witness “Disney Starlight.” Disney parks around the world also have new spectaculars on the horizon.

Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Disney cruises are the stuff of magic, but they're also magically expensive. Before you shell out thousands per day on a vacation, you likely want to know: What's the best Disney ship for fans? What's the best Disney ship for adults? Which ship, if any, will work for me if I'm traveling by myself or with babies, kids or teens?

Disney Cruise Line is a brand that excels at providing both fun and luxurious experiences. With a fleet that has just three classes and five ships, Disney can focus on making sure that each vessel lives up to The Mouse's high standards for many types of cruisers. In other words, whichever vessel you choose, you'll likely have a great time.

However, there are subtle nuances that determine the best Disney ships for certain travelers. I'll help you figure out which Disney cruise ship is best so you can get the most out of a voyage in the happiest place on the high seas.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Disney Fantasy: Best Disney cruise ship for adults

Because the line excels at providing family-friendly and kid-focused amenities, when it comes to a Disney cruise, adults often wonder whether they would enjoy themselves if they were to sail. Fortunately, the answer is almost always yes — Disney cruise ships are great for adults .

Disney Cruise Line does the little things well. Travelers of all ages can enjoy character interactions and appreciate thoughtfully laid-out cabins.

If you're worried you'll be outnumbered by kids or elicit weird looks for sailing as a Disney adult, never fear. Bring your mouse ears, and prepare for some fun. Or, if you want, avoid the kitschy Disney stuff, and enjoy the terrific entertainment and superb food offerings mixed with stellar service.

All Disney ships have adults-only sun decks and pool areas that are closed to kids, as well as bars and clubs that are off-limits to anyone younger than 18.

With that in mind, one vessel stands out for the older set: Disney Fantasy.

The ship boasts a dozen bars, including three exclusive to the vessel. In addition to bars in the atrium, by the pool and sun deck, and in the theater, you'll also find the Europa area, which is only for adults after 9 p.m.

It's got five watering holes; among them are an Irish pub and a lounge that offers views of major European cities via LED screens that change every 15 minutes. But the standouts are French Champagne bar Ooh La La; La Piazza, which is carousel themed and gives off Italian vibes; and The Tube, a club with a London Underground theme that hosts trivia by day.

What's also great about the ship for adults is that it's a mid-sized vessel. It's big enough to offer plenty of activities but smaller than the new behemoth Disney Wish, which features grown-up areas that are spread out instead of conveniently clustered like they are on Disney Fantasy.

Finally, if you're an adult who's hoping to steer as clear of children as possible while still enjoying your own Disney experience, know that Disney Fantasy has a tremendous kids club. It features Andy's room from "Toy Story," as well as a Tinkerbell-themed play area and the Marvel Superhero Academy, where little ones can learn to fight crime. It's so impressive that kids likely won't want to leave, meaning fewer little ones will be running wild around the ship.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for families

Disney cruises are, hands down, the best in the industry when it comes to sailings for families with children . From thoughtful cabin design that allows for more privacy and bathroom space to character interactions, free soda, complimentary first-run movie screenings and special menus in the restaurants, the brand understands and delivers on what appeals to the youngest cruisers.

Parents will love the line's infant and toddler babysitting offerings and little — but significant — touches like the availability of kid-size life jackets by the pools.

However, the true standout is the children's programming in the onboard youth centers. Disney's sizeable kids clubs are supervised and designed to include immersive experiences that tie in with Disney's franchises and characters. (Think "Toy Story," Marvel, "Star Wars" and more.)

The best Disney ship for families is Disney Wish ; it earns high marks whether you're traveling with babies, toddlers, school-age kids or teens.

Below, I'll explain why the line's newest, largest vessel is ideal.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for kids

Disney Cruise Line's kids club, the Oceaneer Club (for ages 3-12), is cavernous. It has five separate sections on Disney Wish, including Mickey and Minnie's Captain's Deck and Fairytale Hall, which offer climbing structures and princess play for younger children. Kids will also be able to walk into a scene from "Star Wars" in Star Wars Cargo Bay, learn how to save the world at the Marvel Superhero Academy and participate in STEM projects at the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab.

The spaces are so fun that you're likely to see very little of your children during a sailing on Disney Wish. You might even be disappointed that you can't spend time there yourself.

The best part? It's all free, and there is dedicated youth staff that oversees each day's activities, as well as nighttime movie-watching and dance parties while parents enjoy some time out and about. Oh, and did I mention there's a slide that takes kids from the ship's stunning atrium down one deck to the entrance?

Outside the Oceaneer Club, kids will love Disney Wish's top-deck activities, which include mini-golf, an obstacle course, pools and waterslides. Don't miss the AquaMouse, a raft-based attraction with digital elements and see-through tubing.

The whole family can also enjoy Pirate Night, offered once per sailing. On the agenda are fireworks and appearances by Captain Jack Sparrow. Passengers are wholeheartedly encouraged to dress up.

Regarding dining, children will enjoy not only special kids' menus but also the themed, interactive atmosphere in two of the ship's three main dining rooms: Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . The former amuses passengers with Ant-Man's antics after he accidentally shrinks Disney Wish with a Quantum Core. The latter is an engagement celebration for Anna and Kristoff, featuring live characters.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for teens and tweens

For teens and tweens, Disney Wish's dedicated lounges are the feature that's likely to be most enticing, offering a more relaxed "come and go" atmosphere that's supervised but less structured. Both clubs have areas for foosball and mocktails, and they offer a general meeting place for kids in the following age groups to find their friends and hang out.

Edge is the vessel's tween club, which offers video and board games and brightly colored decor for the 11- to 14-year-old set.

Vibe is the teen club for 14- to 17-year-olds. It's a slightly more muted space with giant TVs for movie watching and video game play, plus a high-top bar area for teens needing a place to plug in their laptops and tablets. A second room can be sealed off for use by 18- to 20-year-olds on voyages with enough young adults to warrant it.

And for older kids into "Star Wars," the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge is an immersive way to enjoy some themed fun in a more adult setting. The bar — open to all ages until 9 p.m., when it becomes an adults-only venue — takes visitors on a trip through the galaxy. A screen behind the bar changes every few minutes, with the room making noises and jumping to "hyperspace" to reach the next destination.

For anyone younger than the legal drinking age, the venue's menu offers some nonalcoholic options, including the Cloud City (oat milk with blue raspberry and ice cream) and the Temple Twist (apple, mint, pineapple, ginger beer and kiwi).

When they aren't busy lounging, teens might also enjoy Uncharted Adventure, a digital scavenger hunt that will take them around the ship to find interactive clues using their mobile phones. A bit of magic is involved, but it's the kind even a skeptical teenager might find interesting.

For more sporty fun, teens can check out the ship's waterslides or the indoor sports court, where they can play basketball or foosball.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for babies and toddlers

Returning on Disney Wish is parent favorite It's a Small World Nursery. The expanded space caters to children from 6 months to 3 years old. It has a nap room with cribs, a changing area and an activity room with floormats, age-appropriate toys and a TV.

Dedicated counselors offer group babysitting in the nursery for the littlest cruisers on a first come, first served basis for $9 per hour for the first child and $8 per hour for any additional children in the same family. Counselors will feed and change, as necessary, any infants or toddlers in their care.

Disney Magic: Best Disney cruise ship for singles

Built in 1998, Disney Magic is the oldest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. That means it's also one of the least expensive, which is important if you're sailing alone and stuck paying a single supplement. (Disney ships do not have cabins for one.)

Additionally, it's one of the two smallest Disney Cruise Line ships. Its size creates a more intimate experience, particularly in the adult areas, where you can meet other cruisers traveling alone.

Disney Magic retains a nautical feel that's more mature than what you'll find on Disney Wish, which feels more like a mainstream megaship. However, Magic retains the "wow" factor, featuring well-appointed cabins, excellent dining options and jaw-dropping entertainment that rivals what you'd find on Broadway.

Disney Cruise Line also does a great job of seating solo cruisers together during meals so they don't have to dine alone. If you prefer a table by yourself, ask the dining staff. You can also take meals at the buffet, order room service, or check out one of the ship's alternative eateries, including adults-only Italian restaurant Palo , O'Gill's pub or several poolside venues.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Disney Wonder: Best Disney ship for West Coast cruisers

With Florida serving as the undisputed cruise capital of the world, travelers living on the West Coast are often out of luck. Not so with Disney Cruise Line.

The best Disney ship for people wishing to set sail from California or Vancouver is Disney Wonder. One of the line's two oldest vessels, it runs three- and four-night springtime voyages from San Diego to Baja California with calls on Ensenada, Mexico, and five- to nine-night Alaska sailings departing from Vancouver in the summer and fall.

Don't let the ship's age fool you. The line does a tremendous job of maintaining it, so it looks nearly new. Service, food and entertainment live up to Disney's high standards.

If you're looking for something different than Disney's standard West Coast offerings, you can also snag one-way repositioning voyages when the ship changes locations seasonally. Examples include sailings from San Diego to Vancouver or from Vancouver to Honolulu.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

Disney Dream: Best Disney cruise ship for longer voyages

Most of Disney's sailings are short, whisking passengers away for three to five days. The itineraries are fairly standard, featuring port calls in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including the line's private island, Castaway Cay .

If you're craving something a bit longer or want to visit a far-flung destination, Disney Dream is the ship you'll want to book.

Offering 10-, 11- and 12-night voyages in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, Disney Dream takes passengers to ports like Rome (Civitavecchia), Florence (Livorno), Barcelona, Athens, Santorini, Southampton, Reykjavik and Copenhagen.

Remember that all of Disney Dream's Europe cruises depart from within Europe, so you'll need to factor flights — potentially costly open-jaw ones — into your budget.

Bottom line

Disney has something for every cruiser, regardless of age, whether you're a parent or a Disney adult, and whether you choose to cruise alone or with friends or family.

The sailings can be expensive, so you'll want to book the best ship for you before you make such a sizeable investment. Luckily, Disney Cruise Line's five ships offer a variety of experiences for all sorts of travelers.

Want more information on cruising with Disney? Check out our Disney Cruise Line tips and tricks .

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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