Disney Cruise Blog

Expert tips, detailed guides, and insider secrets to help you plan the perfect Disney Cruise vacation

All Articles

Characters

Characters Without the Lines: The Secret to Finding Mickey and Friends Quickly

Don't spend your whole vacation in line! Learn the best times to meet the 'Big Five,' how to snag a Princess Gathering reservation, and where to find surprise appearances.

Planning

The 2025 Castaway Club Guide: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Pearl Perks

Are you a loyal Disney cruiser? Explore the updated benefits for every tier of the Castaway Club, from early booking windows to the exclusive Pearl stateroom gifts.

Community

Pin Trading on Disney Cruise Line: Where to Find the Best Traders in 2025

Pin trading isn't just for the parks! Learn how to find the 'hidden' pin boards on your ship, what to look for on the mystery boards, and how to trade with the crew.

Planning

Best (and Worst) Stateroom Locations: How to Avoid Noise and Seasickness

The ultimate room selection guide! From exact room numbers to avoid on the Dream to 'secret' verandah hacks on the Magic, learn how to pick the perfect cabin.

Technology

DisneyBand+ Guide: Is it Worth the $45 Price Tag?

Disney has brought Magic Bands to the high seas! Learn about the features of the DisneyBand+ and whether you should buy one for your next cruise.

Destinations

Nassau Port Guide: Is it Safe to Leave the Ship? (Plus Best Family Excursions)

Nassau is one of the most common ports for 3 and 4-night cruises. Learn how to stay safe, avoid tourist traps, and find the best hidden gems in the capital of the Bahamas.

Community

The Art of the Door Magnet: How to Decorate Your Cabin (Legally)

The most visible community tradition on a Disney cruise! Learn the rules for decorating your door, where to get custom magnets, and how to spot your room in a hallway of blue doors.

Dining

Palo vs. Remy vs. Enchante: Which Adult-Only Restaurant is Best?

A battle of the upcharges! We compare Disney's three premier adult-only dining experiences to help you decide which one is worth your time and money.

Dining

The Secret Room Service Menu: 5 Items You Can Order for Free

Most guests only look at the printed menu. Learn the 'secret' items you can order 24/7 for free, including the famous Mickey Ice Cream Bar!

Planning

Disney Cruise Alcohol Policy 2025: Pro Tips for Bringing Your Own Wine

Don't pay bar prices for every drink! Learn the updated 2025 rules for bringing your own wine and beer onboard a Disney cruise.

Dining

Where to Find Free Unlimited Soda 24/7 (And Where You'll Be Charged)

Stop paying for soda! Learn how to navigate the 24/7 beverage stations on Deck 9/11 and which locations will charge you for a Coke.

Planning

Disney Cruise Placeholder Booking: How to Save 10% on Your Next Trip

The best-kept secret of frequent Disney cruisers! Learn how to book a placeholder onboard to save 10% and get a reduced deposit on your future voyage.

Planning

Does Disney Cruise Have Last-Minute Deals? (The VGT/OGT/IGT Trick)

Looking for a deal? Learn how to find restricted 'Guarantee' fares that can save you up to 35% on a Disney cruise if you're flexible with your room location.

Planning

The Hidden Costs of a Disney Cruise: 12 Things That AREN'T Included

Don't get sticker shock at the end of your cruise! Learn about gratuities, port adventures, adult dining, and other costs that aren't in your base fare.

Ship Guides

Disney Treasure vs. Disney Wish: Which New Disney Ship is Best?

Comparing Disney's newest ships! From Plaza de Coco vs. Arendelle to the Haunted Mansion Lounge vs. Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, find out which ship fits your family.

Ship Guides

Disney Destiny: Everything We Know About the Heroes and Villains ship

Launching in late 2025, the Disney Destiny celebrates the epic duality of Disney legends. Explore the Lion King dining, Hercules lounges, and Marvel suites.

Destinations

Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point: First-Timer's Survival Guide

Disney's newest island destination is here! Learn how to navigate the 'long walk,' where to find the best BBQ, and how to snag a family cabana.

Ship Guides

Disney Adventure: Everything About Disney’s First Ship in Singapore

Disney is heading to Southeast Asia! Discover the first-of-its-kind 'Disney Imagination Garden' and the 7 themed areas on the massive Disney Adventure.

Packing

What to Pack for an Alaska Disney Cruise: The Ultimate 2025 Checklist

Packing for Alaska is different! Learn the 3-layer system, essential gear for the Disney Wonder, and the 10 things you'll regret forgetting on your glacier-viewing voyage.

Ship Guides

Disney Cruise Ship Deck Themes: A Complete Guide to Stateroom Design

Discover the magical deck themes on Disney cruise ships! Learn which Disney movies inspire each deck's stateroom design on the Wish, Treasure, Destiny, and classic ships. Find your perfect themed cabin!

Getting Started

First-Time Disney Cruise Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Planning your first Disney Cruise? This comprehensive guide covers everything from booking to boarding, with insider tips to make your maiden voyage magical.

Dining

Palo vs EnchantΓ©: Which Premium Dining Experience is Worth It?

Comparing Disney Cruise Line's two signature fine dining experiences. Which one should you book for your special celebration?

Ship Guides

10 Hidden Secrets on the Disney Wish You Didn't Know

Discover secret spots, hidden Mickeys, and insider tips that most guests miss on Disney's newest ship.

Booking & Planning

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Really Cost? Complete 2025 Price Guide

Breaking down Disney Cruise prices for 2025: stateroom costs, hidden fees, what's included, and money-saving tips. Get the real numbers before you book.

Ship Guides

Disney Treasure 2024: Complete Guide to Disney's Newest Ship

Everything you need to know about Disney Treasure, launching December 2024. Explore restaurants, staterooms, entertainment, and what makes this adventure-themed ship unique.

Practical Tips

What to Pack for a Disney Cruise: Ultimate Packing Checklist 2025

The complete Disney Cruise packing list with essentials, pro tips, and items you didn't know you needed. Includes Caribbean w hot-weather and Alaska cold-weather guides.

Ship Guides

Disney Wish vs Disney Dream: Which Ship Should You Choose?

A detailed comparison of Disney Wish and Disney Dream. Discover the differences in dining, entertainment, staterooms, and amenities to pick the perfect ship for your family.

Ports & Destinations

Castaway Cay Ultimate Guide: Disney's Private Island Secrets

Everything you need to know about Castaway Cay - Disney's private island paradise. Discover hidden beaches, the best activities, food locations, and insider tips.

Dining

Complete Disney Cruise Dining Guide: From Room Service to Remy

Everything you need to know about dining on Disney Cruise Line. Rotational dining explained, premium restaurants reviewed, and tips for the best food experiences.

Dining

Disney Cruise Room Service Menu: What's Free and What's Worth It

Complete guide to Disney Cruise room service including the full menu, ordering tips, and late-night snack recommendations.

Dining

Best Drinks on Disney Cruise Line: Cocktail Guide & Bar Tour

Explore the bars and signature cocktails on Disney Cruise ships. From Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge to Cove Cafe, discover the best drinks at sea.

Dining

Disney Cruise Food Allergies & Special Diets: The Complete Guide

How Disney Cruise Line accommodates food allergies, gluten-free, vegan, kosher, and other dietary needs. Tips for a worry-free cruise.

Ship Guides

Complete Guide to Disney Fantasy: Deck-by-Deck Tour and Review

Everything you need to know about Disney Fantasy including restaurants, entertainment, pools, kids clubs, and staterooms. A comprehensive ship review.

Ship Guides

Disney Magic: Is the Original Ship Still Worth Booking in 2025?

An honest review of Disney's oldest cruise ship. Discover what makes Disney Magic special, its limitations, and whether it's right for your family.

Getting Started

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Toddlers and Young Families

Which Disney ship is best for families with babies and toddlers? Compare kids clubs, splash areas, strollers, and family-friendly features across the fleet.

Ports & Destinations

Nassau Bahamas on a Disney Cruise: Best Things to Do

Planning your Nassau port day? Discover the best excursions, beaches, and activities for Disney Cruise guests visiting the Bahamas capital.

Ports & Destinations

Disney Cruise to Alaska: Complete Planning Guide for 2025

Everything you need to plan a Disney Alaska cruise including best months to sail, excursion recommendations, what to pack, and wildlife viewing tips.

Practical Tips

Disney Cruise Gratuities & Tipping Guide: Who to Tip and How Much

Understanding Disney Cruise gratuities: automatic charges, who to tip extra, cash vs prepay, and tipping etiquette for specialty dining and room service.

Booking & Planning

Disney Cruise Discounts: How to Save Money on Your DCL Vacation

Find the best Disney Cruise deals with these money-saving strategies. Learn about last-minute offers, military discounts, and insider booking tips.

Booking & Planning

Castaway Club Explained: Disney Cruise Loyalty Program Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about Disney's Castaway Club. Learn about membership levels, booking windows, and exclusive perks for repeat cruisers.

Practical Tips

First Day on Disney Cruise: Embarkation Day Complete Timeline

Hour-by-hour guide to embarkation day on Disney Cruise Line. From port arrival to sailaway party, maximize your first day at sea.

Ports & Destinations

Disney Cruise Caribbean vs Mediterranean: Which Itinerary is Better?

Comparing Disney's most popular cruise destinations. Discover the best itinerary for your family based on ports, weather, pricing, and experiences.

Practical Tips

Disney Cruise Wi-Fi & Internet Guide 2025: Cost, Speed, and Tips

Everything you need to know about staying connected at sea. Pricing for internet packages, free iMessage hacks, and connection speeds.

Booking & Planning

Is Disney Cruise Concierge Worth It? Complete Review

An honest look at the perks of sailing Concierge Level. From the private lounge to priority boarding, find out if the luxury upgrade is worth the price.

Practical Tips

Fish Extenders 101: The Ultimate Beginners Guide

Demystifying Disney Cruise Line's unique gift exchange tradition. Learn exactly what a Fish Extender is, how to join a group, and gift ideas.

Ship Guides

Halloween on the High Seas vs Very Merrytime Cruises

Debating between a spooky October sailing or a festive December holiday cruise? We compare the parties, decor, and characters of Disney's two biggest seasonal celebrations.

Practical Tips

Disney Cruise Dress Code: What to Wear to Dinner

Stop stressing about what to pack! A complete breakdown of nightly dress codes, from Pirate Night to optional formal nights and adult-exclusive dining rules.

Planning

Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean 2025: The Ultimate Family Comparison

Making the big decision? We break down Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean for families, comparing kids clubs, entertainment, dining, pricing, and what's really included in 2025.